News list
Our Sixth Form pupils were eager to get their hands dirty and wade into the river, when they visited FSC Epping Forest a Special Area of Conservation. Our geographers enjoyed getting thoroughly muddy as they studied Loughton Brook which is a tributary of the River Roding. The purpose of the trip to Epping Forest Field Centre was for the children to investigate the downstream changes in the characteristics of Loughton Brook and also to assess whether it conforms to the Bradshaw Model.
Form 6 recently embarked on a trip to the Imperial War Museum Duxford, immersing themselves in the world of Art and English studies centred around World War One. Nestled in the expansive grounds of the renowned former airfield from the First and Second World Wars, Duxford provided the perfect backdrop for them to explore. The hangars, housing an array of iconic aircraft, offered an opportunity for the children to observe and capture their essence on large sheets of paper.
Our annual festive Service in Preparation for Christmas was once again held over two days in the magnificent Chapel of St John’s College. A range of carols, poems and readings were presented by St John’s children. The carols and readings were interspersed with five congregational hymns, including O come, all ye faithful, Hark! the herald-angels sing, O little town of Bethlehem, Lo!
Our commitment to pupil autonomy builds upon the foundation laid in our Pre-Prep curriculum, which emphasises independent, play-based learning. In Year 1 and KG, children have the freedom to explore both outdoor areas and classrooms, with teachers providing accessible resources, introducing learning opportunities, offering challenges, and actively participating in play alongside the children. Through this guidance, we aim to direct, support, engage, and nurture their interests.
Form 4 put on a captivating production at the start of term with 'A Night of Heroes, Monsters and Pirates', showcasing their incredible talents in not just one, but three extraordinary plays. With their unique spin on classic tales like Robert Louis Stevenson's 'Treasure Island,' Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein,' and Alexandre Dumas' 'The Three Musketeers,' the children left the audience spellbound. As the rehearsal journey progressed, the children were encouraged to add suggestions as to how each character might be portrayed, or how a certain scene might unfold.
'Always find the rainbow. If I can, you can' (Amanda Harrison)
T2W have been thinking about their 'big plans' for this year having been inspired by the picture book 'Mabel and the Mountain' by Kim Hillyard - a story about believing in yourself. In connection with this persevering mindset, Byron House were delighted to welcome adventure pilot Amanda Harrison to talk to them with a truly inspirational message.
We were delighted to welcome Alpha Bah, Director Standards Quality Assurance for The Gambian Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, and John Beer, a Director at Teach the Teacher, to St John's on the first day back to school in January. Our visitors observed a Year 7 lesson led by our Head of Computing and Head of English. Mr Bah was particularly interested in witnessing the application of 21st-century, computer-based teaching and learning in the classroom.
The Choir of St John’s College Cambridge went on tour for the first time since 2019 to Luxembourg and The Netherlands with Director of Music, Chris Gray.
Our youngest cohort took to the stage for the first time at the end of last term to perform 'A Wriggly Nativity'. The Kindergarten children delivered exactly what was promised - a heart-warming tribute to the nativity story full of songs, dancing (including audience participation!) and lots of wriggling!
St John’s Charities Committee children and staff hosted its annual Christmas party for elderly residents living in Care Homes in the Cambridge area to bring on the festive cheer. Committee members from both Byron House and Senior House provided merriment, conversation and entertainment for the guests. The Christmas party is part of a rich and cherished tradition St John’s has of helping the local community.