E-weekly Issue 280 - 8 November 2024

The Welly Walkers have been enjoying the amazing Autumn colours in the woods this week.

Welcome

It has been wonderful to welcome the students back this week and to hear all about their exciting adventures over the half-term break. From our four residential trips to the USA, Iceland, Venice, and China to the record-breaking success of our equestrian team at the National Schools Championships, our students have returned with stories that inspire us all.

As you’ll see in this week’s newsletter, we’ve started the half term with a full schedule of enrichment activities, and it’s been a joy to see how quickly all the girls have settled back into their studies. I continue to be proud of the engagement I see in lessons and it has been wonderful to hear Year 7 students’ presentations on Cornelia Connelly in my own lessons. These are the culmination of work around deepening understanding about our foundress and the incredible legacy she has left us.

This week we have been focussing on 'remembrance', with a beautiful service in Chapel, where we spent time remembering those in our family and friendship circles who have died, with love and prayer. On Sunday, we’ll join the village for the remembrance service, and on Monday, we will observe the Act of Remembrance with a two-minute silence, followed by a short service.

Looking ahead to next week, I’m excited to begin one-on-one meetings with students over refreshments, starting with Years 11 and 13, our examination cohorts. Through these conversations, I hope to hear about each girl’s experiences, interests, and ideas to ensure she continues to feel supported and inspired. I look forward to meeting students from all years soon and deepening my connection with each one.

Warm regards,

Mrs Deborah Bligh, Headmistress

In the News This Week...

Eight National Titles at Addington!

Mayfield’s Equestrian Team achieved a historic milestone, winning a record-breaking eight national titles at the NSEA National Schools Championships over the half-term break at Addington. With five team titles across Show Jumping, Dressage, and Combined Training – and three individual titles – Mayfield set a new benchmark for school championships.

Riding captain Flo, who won three team titles and two individual honours, reflected on her journey: “Having competed at the National Championships since Year 8, I was determined to finish on a high in my final year. I’m so proud of this team – at Mayfield, we support each other and work together as one, no matter the year group. It was an amazing weekend!”

Issie (Year 10) shared her excitement, saying: “I felt my confidence grow with each ride and was thrilled to win an individual championship alongside three team titles. I can’t wait to return next year!”

Jill Barker, Mayfield’s Director of Riding, praised the team’s effort, saying: “I am immensely proud of our riders, coaches, supporting staff and parents. It takes a huge team effort to win any championship title, and Mayfield’s ethos of ‘work hard, play hard’ truly shone through this week.”

Congratulations to all involved on a fantastic competition!

Mayfield Students Visit Oak Knoll

In a memorable chapter of Mayfield School's Sixth Form exchange program, Mrs Fletcher and five Year 12 students embarked on an exciting journey over half term to our sister school, Oak Knoll, located in Summit, New Jersey. The USA leg of the exchange offered the students an enriching blend of academic, cultural, and extracurricular experiences. 

The girls immersed themselves in the daily routine of Oak Knoll’s Upper School, attending a range of lessons including Latin, Science, Social Studies, English, and Theology. This exposure allowed them to experience the academic atmosphere, offering both similarities and unique differences compared to their education at Mayfield. The experience was not limited to the Upper School, however, as they also had the opportunity to interact with younger students in the Lower School, carving pumpkins in celebration of the Fall season. This delightful activity was a chance to share a beloved American tradition, while the girls also used the opportunity to teach their younger peers about British food, culture, and customs. 

On Thursday, 24^th October, during Oak Knoll’s Service Day, all the girls, alongside their exchange students, volunteered their time to support local initiatives. It was a powerful experience, fostering a sense of community and reinforcing the values of kindness and service that both schools share. 

Outside of school hours, the students were treated to a host of exciting activities, making the trip even more unforgettable. They enjoyed visits to a nearby mall, attended several concerts, and even got the chance to watch an ice hockey game—a true American pastime! A standout excursion was a day trip to the bustling metropolis of New York, where the girls explored the iconic landmarks and soaked up the vibrant energy of the city. 

Sports were another key part of the exchange. Mrs Fletcher, an avid sports fan, was fortunate enough to spend time with Oak Knoll’s Junior Varsity and Varsity field hockey squads. She observed their training sessions and proudly supported the team during their County Championship finals. In an exciting twist, Siena, one of the Mayfield students, was invited to participate in Junior Varsity football training, showcasing her athleticism and strengthening her bonds with the host students. 

Throughout the trip, the hospitality extended by Oak Knoll’s staff, students, and the families who hosted Mrs Fletcher and the girls was nothing short of extraordinary. The warmth and kindness made everyone feel at home, turning a school trip into a cherished memory. 

The visit to Oak Knoll was not just an educational trip—it was an opportunity to build friendships, explore a different culture, and expand horizons. Mrs Fletcher and the Year 12 girls returned to Mayfield with new perspectives and experiences that will undoubtedly last a lifetime. 

Ceramics Trip to China

Mr Rees-Moorlah led a Ceramics trip to Jingdezhen over half-term. Hosted by OC Amber Lei, our six pupils dove into Chinese culture and ceramics—learning to wheel-throw and decorate pottery, picking tea leaves, visiting museums, exploring an imperial kiln site, and even participating in an archaeological dig! They strolled through Jingdezhen’s vibrant markets, tasted incredible local food, and wrapped up the adventure with a karaoke night. It was an action-packed trip and one that we hope to repeat again in the future.

Geography Trip to Iceland

The Geography department led a brilliant trip to Iceland over the holidays involving 39 girls from Years 10 to 13. Whilst overcast skies stopped us from seeing the Northern Lights, we got to explore a range of places. Iceland offers a fascinating landscape that's very different to the British Isles and the rest of Europe; particular highlights were the dramatic waterfalls, including one which they were able to walk behind, and black beaches with towering columnar basalt cliffs. Another fantastic feature was a guided walk on a glacier, with crampons and safety gear, which showed them visual evidence of recent glacier retreat in the area. They were lucky to see geysers that were unusually active and saw steam rising in the distance from the recent lava flows. We rounded off the trip with some time in Reykjavik followed by a very early flight back to the UK! Hopefully the girls have been recounting many stories back home. Thanks also to Mrs Kilvington, Mrs Maimi, Mrs Turner and Mr Partington for accompanying the girls with me.

Mr Christopher Adams, Head of Geography

History of Art and Art Trip to Venice

Pearl, Year 13 History of Art student commented: "I think the trip helped me to contextualise Renaissance Venice, particularly architectural styles. Being able to explore so many different types of artwork also allowed me to better develop knowledge of recurrent themes and iconography, especially religious iconography."

Jenna, Year 13 Art student found: "It was such an immersive experience to learn about the rich Venetian art and culture! I loved the exhibitions, architecture and food."

Rose, Year 12 Textiles and History of Art student commented: "It was really incredible to be able to see all the amazing landmarks of Venice, especially the Basilica which was gorgeous, and we were lucky enough to experience Sunday Mass inside!"

Justice and Peace 'Sleep Out' Fundraiser

Tonight's the night!

A group of Mayfield girls are sleeping outside the Chapel to experience a glimpse of the reality of what homeless people go through. Without phones, access to creature comforts or the general privileges of our daily lives, they are hoping to create an experience that is as authentic as possible.

The girls have shared a video explaining the importance of the Cardinal Hume Centre's work and why they have organised a sleep out event in support of them.

They are aiming to raise even more money than last year! Please support them if you can.

Donate here

'Dogs of Mayfield' 2025 Calendar

Mayfield Triumph in Partnership Quiz! 

As part of National Partnerships week, Mayfield hosted, in conjunction with Bede's Senior School, the annual Wealden Partnerships General Knowledge quiz. We welcomed pupils from schools across the partnership in Years 7 and 8. Schools that attended included Heathfield Community College, St Catherine’s College Eastbourne, Kings Academy Ringmer, and Skippers Hill, with each team bringing a unique energy and skillset to the event.

Thank you to everyone involved in organising this event and congratulations to all the girls who took part. They were brilliant ambassadors of the school and displayed real teamwork. 

Mrs Georgina Fletcher, Director of Outreach and Partnerships

Remembrance Poems

With remembrance events taking place this weekend and Remembrance Day on Monday, Alice, Emma and Livia in Year 9, who have been studying the First World War in their History lessons, have crafted these beautiful poems which capture the essence of service, respect and memory.

Mr David Warren, Head of History

Year 9 Enjoy a 'Wicked' Drama Trip

On Wednesday Year 9 students travelled to London's West End of see a fabulous piece of musical theatre, 'Wicked'. From the show's opening when Glinda descends from the rafters in her bubble, the girls were transfixed by the spectacle, and as Elphaba defies gravity as she flies over the stage at the end of Act 1, gasps of disbelief could be heard. We were completely swept away in Wicked’s pure theatricality and by the end of the performance we were left with childlike wonder at the magical world of Oz and thinking about the universal message that true beauty lies within.

Ms Victoria Nash, Director of Drama and Media

The Hub Re-Opens

The Hub re-opened on Tuesday and will now be open during A1 every day. Girls will be able to buy hot and cold drinks like Lipton iced tea and hot chocolate, as well as snacks such as popcorn, pretzels and pastries (this week featured yum yums, cinnamon swirls and muffins). Card payment only.

Year 12 students are running The Hub Monday - Friday so all students are welcome to head there in A1 to pick up a delicious treat. There are also some board games available to play with friends, should you so choose!

News from the Science Department

Year 12 Create 3D Display for Biology
Year 12 Biology students have been busy creating their own colourful 3D display about Topic One, 'Cells', which features information about types of cells and cell division. 

STEM Hero - November

Half-Termly Physics Competition
It's time for another Physics competition! Congratulations to Iris for winning the Sixth Form competition from last half-term, and to Ivana and Flora for winning the Middle School competition. This half-term's questions are below. Good luck!

News From the Sixth Form

This Week in UCAS
Many Year 13 students have now excitingly started to receive university offers and as more applications are submitted it will be a busy period as girls await university decisions and start to decide which of them they will eventually make their firm and reserve choice. This is always an exciting moment in the process as dreams and ambitions start to become a  reality.

More girls will have been working on their personal statements over half term and their applications will be sent off next week.

For those girls who have made early applications we have started a process of internal interview practice with staff and with external interviewers which will continue for the next two weeks as well as attending  an mock interview evening  practice at Skinners School long with TOGGS and TWGGS. Specific mock interviews in English and Medicine are underway and in the pipeline

Year 12 are about to begin their UCAS process with a special assembly where they will access UCAS Hub as the first stage in the journey and which is an invaluable resource for starting to think about and research future directions.

Mayfield Fashion Show - Friday 22^nd November

Book your seats

Anti-Bullying Week 11-15 November

The Mayfield Anti-Bullying Ambassadors (ABAs) have been busy “behind the scenes” organising not only the upcoming Anti-Bullying Week 2024 within the Mayfield community, but also working on how they can spread their message further afield in the local surrounding communities. 

Anti-Bullying Week is an annual event that takes place in the UK every November, and this year takes place from Monday 11^th - Friday 15^th November with the aim to raise awareness of bullying in schools and highlighting ways to prevent and respond to it. 

This year's theme from the Anti-Bullying Alliance, 'choose respect', falls in line with one of our Cornelian Principles. Things have kicked off slightly early this year, as on Tuesday 5^th and Friday 8^th November, four of our 13 ABAs (Izzy, Amelia, Sophie and Nana) gave a presentation to our Lower School community before travelling to Granville Primary School to deliver the same assembly to 95 children in Years 3-6. They covered topics including types of bullying behaviour and how to make a stand against it, with the aim of raising awareness and empowering young people to “choose respect”. 

Next week's events include:

• Odd socks day on Tuesday 12^th November - this marks the start of Anti-Bullying Week and it is designed to simply be fun! The important message behind this is that it gives people the opportunity to encourage each other to express themselves and celebrate their individuality and what makes us all unique. Therefore, the Anti-Bullying Ambassadors would like as many of you to join them on Tuesday by finding your brightest, fluffiest, oddest socks and wearing them to school / work. 
• Special recognition prizes - The ABAs will be keeping their eyes peeled for “exceptional effort” and will be handing out special treats for those that “stand out” in support of the cause. 
• ABAs out in the community - five more ABAs are travelling to Sacred Heart to give an assembly to their community, whilst the other eight are staying within the Mayfield Community to deliver assemblies to Years 9 and 10.
• 'Feel Good Friday' on Friday 15^th November - where the Ambassadors will be spreading the love and joy around the school. 

Year 12 Students Excel in Mathematical Olympiad

The Mathematical Olympiad for Girls is a 2.5-hour competition consisting of five challenging problems aimed at girls and young women across the UK. Each problem requires a full, written solution.

The competition encourages girls to tackle advanced mathematical problems and only girls who have been successful in previous challenges are entered. To recognise the highest performers in the competition, the top scorers are awarded a Certificate of Distinction. This year four of our Year 12 mathematicians took part.

Congratulations to Ava, Iris, Lynn and Onnae for participating in the Olympiad this year and especially to Iris for achieving a Certificate of Distinction and Ava for achieving a Certificate of Merit.

Mrs Sally Howie, Deputy Head of Mathematics

Victory for Mayfield Debaters

In the shadow of last year's controversy, where by most accounts, our Mayfield Debaters were robbed of a place at the National Finals of the English Speaking Union's debating competition, the 2024-2025 team had a score to settle. So on Thursday after lessons had finished, our Debating team made the journey to Benenden School, with only a minor uncalculated detour along the way. The debaters, however, needed no SatNav for their destination of Victoryville, UK! 

Facing off against a very competent Bede's, Sophie opened the evening with a fantastic introduction of the motion 'This house would ban the use of facial recognition technology in public spaces'. Defining the motion with the precision of a highly experienced surgeon, she set out the arguments clearly, for the second speaker, Ava, to deliver her masterclass in rebuttal. At this point, Mayfield definitely seemed the more competent debaters, but Francesca decided not to hold back and delivered an absolutely stunning summation that left no doubt in the minds of the judges. Mayfield sailed smoothly into the next round. The judges commented that this was amongst the strongest heats they had witnessed. A big thank you for the support from Alexa and the rest of the Mayfield Debating Society. Now on to the next round!

Mr Paul Ferguson, Head of Politics

Save the Date - St Cecilia's Day Concert

On Tuesday 19^th November in Gresham, we will celebrate the Feast Day of Saint Cecilia, the Patron saint of Music, and will showcase performances from our scholars and gifted and talented musicians. There will be light refreshments available from 6:30pm and the concert starts at 7:00pm.  If you would like to attend, please send your confirmation and number of seats required to Miss Allen (rallen@mayfieldgirls.org).

Chaplaincy News

November, in the Catholic Church, is a month set aside to remember and pray for our 'Faithful Departed'- those who have died and gone before us. It begins with the Feasts of All Saints and All Souls on the 1^st and 2^nd November, though in a poignant nod to our belief in the resurrection, the month ends with the Feast of Christ the King, before swiftly moving into the season of Advent- a time of prayerful preparation for the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

During this month of remembrance, there are a number of ways in which your family, and our school community, can remember and honour our loved ones who have gone before us:

• You could light a candle in their memory. The candle stand in the school chapel is available for the use of students, staff and families.
• You could write their names in the school book of remembrance. Available in Becket/Reception, names will be transcribed into the memorial book, viewable in the school chapel, throughout the month
• You could attend Mass in their honour. Mass is said twice a week here, usually on a Sunday Morning at 11:30, and a Tuesday evening at 6pm. All members of the Mayfield family are invited.
• Or, you could take a moment and pray the prayer for the repose of souls: Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. Like the seed buried in the ground, you have produced the harvest of eternal life for us; make us always dead to sin and alive to God. Amen.

This Wednesday afternoon, a new club - lobbied for and launched by Mayfield Students - had its inaugural meeting. A Bible-study group, they chose the name 'Mustard Seed', to remind us that if we just have faith the size of a mustard seed, nothing will be impossible for us. There was a lot of laughter, and possibly not as much Bible study as there might have been, but I look forward to watching this small group grow and flourish. We extend an invitation to all students to pop in any Wednesday afternoon and find out what Mustard Seed is all about!

Next Week's Daily Prayers

Daily Prayers 11-15 Nov

A quick reminder - on Saturday 30^th November, students and families are invited to join us in the school chapel at 7:30pm for a Taize prayer service. In partnership with the churches in Mayfield, our girls will be offering a prayerful and reflective service based on the music of Taize. The girls are working hard with Mrs Le Riche on their own arrangements of some of the most popular Taize hymns. It will be a moment of calm before the storm of Christmas preparations!

Mass on Sunday is at 11:30am, and on Tuesday at 6pm in the school chapel. All are welcome to attend.

Mr Ronan Lavery, Lay Chaplain

Sports News

Dance Success for McKinley
Congratulations to McKinley, who recently participated in a UK Irish dance competition, where she placed 3^rd in three of her dances and received a medal in her fourth. She also scored an 'A' in her recent exam. Well done!

Photo of the Week

Many thanks to Mrs Hakes, for her wonderfully Autumnal photo taken at the Year 7 parents' coffee morning in October.

We would love to receive submissions for future 'photo of the week' stories. Please send your chosen photos to jtompsett@mayfieldgirls.org.

Library News

We are celebrating National Non-Fiction November in both libraries. Fiction isn’t the only type of book that can be read for pleasure. Non-fiction is often overlooked but anyone who has poured over a Dorling Kindersley book, read the grim, often hilarious facts of a Horrible Histories or enjoyed the personal journeys of a biographer or travel writer, will recognise that non-fiction has a lot to offer. Try something different this November from the lower or main school library.

We will be supporting our wellbeing team during Anti-Bullying Week next week, with books that tackle the impact of bullying within their stories. See the displays in each library, curated by the pupil librarians, and collect an Odd Sock Day bookmark.

Monday is Remembrance Day. Both libraries have a wealth of fiction and non-fiction relating to this topic. Do come and browse - fiction is a powerful way to build understanding and empathy.

Our Book of the Week in Lower School is 'River of Ink' by Helen Dennis, chosen by Helena; in Main School, the Book of the Week is 'Truth or Dare' by Sophie McKenzie, chosen by Nataliia.

Do add your book recommendations to the blackboard in Lower School library, it was very full last half term. Thank you to all those girls who added to it.

Ms Jan Blagden, Librarian

From the School Shop

A warm welcome back after what we hope was a fun and restful half term.

New in the Shop
We are carrying AWDis sport crop tops in the school shop. These are £8 each including VAT and come in white. You are welcome to come in and try them on if you wish. Sizes are from XS to XL.

Charity Corner
There are two items in the school shop that can be purchased for charity.

The first is the 'Dogs of Mayfield' calendar, as mentioned above.

The second is Sister Jean's Marmalade, which is still available (while stocks last) for £2.50 a jar and is raising funds for Mary’s Meals. I will also be doing some marmalade gift baskets for Christmas which include two pots of marmalade, a trinket tray and a basket. Pictures below of the jam baskets – these are £8.00 each and all proceeds are donated to Mary’s Meals. Please note I have a limited stock of these and jam toppers and the trinket tray designs vary. Please also note that these are cash only.

Christmas Shop
The Christmas shop is up and running. Most items are under £5, and you can purchase small gifts for family and friends. There are also festive decorations, Christmas hats, Christmas lights and Christmas cards available. We have a gift wrap service which is free(!) as Sister Jean and Sister Maria donated a large amount of Christmas paper to the shop before they left. The wrap service includes a bow and tag, and you can leave your gifts to be wrapped and collect at the next break. You can also bring your gifts in from home to be wrapped if you have bought them elsewhere. The wrap service is available while stocks last.

You can use cash or cards as well as your shop account to put items on, but please remember to have the bill payer’s permission to put items on account.

Mrs Susan Bowles, School Shop Manager

The Wellbeing Hub - What's On This Week