E-weekly Issue 293 - 28 February 2025

Welcome

It has been a busy and exciting start to the second half of term. On Monday morning, we had the pleasure of welcoming representatives from the Cardinal Hume Centre to receive a cheque for £4,066—funds raised through our annual Sleep Out event and Live Crib. Students from our Justice and Peace Group had the opportunity to speak with staff from the charity and learn more about their invaluable work in tackling homelessness.

Tuesday evening’s Year 10 transition event was a fantastic opportunity to welcome parents and discuss the journey ahead. Preparing for GCSEs is a key milestone, and the evening not only highlighted the support in place for this important stage but also provided an introduction to the opportunities available in Mayfield’s Sixth Form.

This week also saw two engaging cross-curricular days for Year 8 and Year 9. These special days are a highlight of our school calendar, offering students the chance to develop important life and workplace skills—such as creative thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving—through immersive learning experiences.

And finally, as we head into the weekend, I wish our Year 11 girls a fantastic time at their Ball with Tonbridge School tonight—an evening to celebrate and enjoy!

Warm regards,

Deborah Bligh, Headmistress

In the News This Week...

The Scholars' Week - Exploring 'Truth'

The scholars started the new half term with a great presentation and discussion led by Year 10s Eve and Olivia (with Issie helping to develop the content), about conspiracy theories focusing on the mysterious min min lights in Australia, Area 51 and the Bermuda Triangle. It led us into all sorts of philosophical debate around the concept of 'truth' and the wider implications of conspiracy theories in relation to geopolitics both current and historical. The ideas that were raised linked back to previous discussions this year about sects, propaganda, AI and fake news, and left everyone feeling that while we may often dismiss the actual theories behind conspiracy theories, it is still important to be aware of them to be informed enough to challenge them and understand other people's ideas.  

Next week, 29 Year 10s will be attending the Thriving Minds conference in London, at which they will listen to discussions around quantum realities, the psychology of unconscious bias and Shakespearean 'humours and appetites' in addition to thinking about some Oxbridge style questions and having the opportunity to participate in a debate about veganism. 

Mrs Kasia Kilvington, Director of Scholars

Year 9 Experience 21^st Century Parenting

Year 9 participated in their ‘21^st Century Parenting’ cross-curricular day on Thursday. We began the day with a fascinating talk about health careers in the NHS led by Julie, a Health Visitor and Sarah, a Midwife and Staff Nurse now re-training to become a Health Visitor. They explained the importance of the first five years of a child's life to their future development and the vital work they do to improve long-term outcomes. After this, the girls were given a practical task in which they had to make a weekly meal plan and prepare a grocery list for a family of 4 – some delicious and cost-effective menus were planned!

Further workshops included: a series of parenting scenarios, in which girls had to devise and respond to different parenting challenges; a focus on parenting in the animal kingdom, with a series of interactive fact-finding missions; and an examination and discussion of different parenting styles. Midwife Belinda rounded off the day with an interactive session on midwifery where the girls had a chance to 'deliver' a baby using her training mannequin. She also described the apprentice route that she took into midwifery. We hope that the girls enjoyed their day, and we would like to thank them for all their interest and enthusiasm.

Mrs Laura Parrett and Mrs Rachel Davies

Year 8 Moon Camp Project

On Tuesday 25^th February, our Year 8 students embarked on a stimulating journey at this year's Moon Camp, diving deep into the realms of STEM. The event was designed to foster teamwork and introduce our students to the complexities of establishing a sustainable base on the Moon.

Throughout the morning, the girls engaged in a series of activities, each tailored to a specific engineering and scientific discipline. Our budding Propulsion Engineers focused on rocket design and testing, aiming to understand the mechanics behind achieving maximum distance. The Design Engineers used CAD technology to conceptualise and model habitats for lunar living. In the Software Engineering segment, students programmed mini moon buggies, enhancing their coding skills to tackle simulated lunar conditions. Meanwhile, the Bio Engineers explored innovative methods to produce vital resources like water, food, and fuel from simple lunar simulants.

The day concluded with the students applying their newfound knowledge by producing video presentations. These videos showcased their collaborative efforts and detailed the practical applications of their theoretical work, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the challenges associated with lunar habitation.

We are immensely proud of the creativity and enthusiasm displayed by all participants. Special commendations go to our dedicated staff who played pivotal roles in facilitating this event: Mr Warren, Mr Smith, Miss Woodfield, Dr Kasina, Mr Marshall, Mr Ferguson, Mrs Lewis, and Mrs Lewis. Their commitment ensured a successful and memorable experience for our students, inspiring them to continue exploring the vast potentials of STEM fields. 

Year 8 Moon Camp 2025
Congratulations to the winners from each pathway, who received freeze-dried astronaut food as their prize:

• Best Bio-Engineers: Aurelie & Alice 
• Best Design Engineers: Trini & Edie 
• Best Propulsion Engineers: Sofia & Alyssa
• Best Software Engineers: Fannie & Hei Bo 

The prize for the best overall team is still being deliberated and will be awarded next week.

Mr Stevie Partington, Director of IT

Celebrating National Pig Day!

Saturday 1^st March signifies National Pig Day! To celebrate, Mary, Ella and Meryl in Year 7 delivered a presentation about these noble, intelligent and clean mammals. They then organised a fun crafty activity in which the Lower School girls made pig-themed badges to wear with pride!

Mr Daniel Smith, Head of Lower School

Wear Pink for a Cause – Friday 7^th March

Join us in celebrating International Women’s Day by wearing pink on Friday7^th March! We’re hosting a fundraiser to support Breast Cancer Now, a charity dedicated to funding ground-breaking research and providing essential support to those affected by breast cancer.

We’re inviting all students and staff to wear pink and bring a £1.50 donation to show their support. Every penny raised will help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.

There will also be a pink bake sale, packed with cupcakes, doughnuts, drinks, and more, with all proceeds going to charity. Plus, we’ll be running activities to highlight the importance of checking yourself, because early detection can save lives.

Let’s come together, turn the school pink, and make a real impact. Every act of kindness brings us closer to a future without breast cancer.

Onnae, Year 12

24 Hour Charity Tennis Marathon

Last Sunday, we took seven girls from Years 8-10 to take part in a 24-Hour Charity Tennis Marathon at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton. The girls played for a total of four hours continuously and had the chance to play against - and with - former and current professional tennis players. These included Jonny O’Mara, Katie O’Brien, Tracy Compton, Harriet Dart, Gordon Reid, Andrew Castle and Danny Sapsford.

The girls also had the opportunity to take part in Wheelchair Tennis, playing against current Paralympics 2024 Gold Medal holder and Doubles World No.1 Gordon Reid. They were also able to experience visually impaired tennis, playing against Tracy Compton who is a current blind tennis player. These were excellent opportunities for the girls to play a different variety of tennis and experience the challenges that come with it, as well as learning from the professional players.

Drama Students Enjoy 'The Play That Goes Wrong'!

On Wednesday the Drama Scholars, GCSE Drama and Year 12 A Level Drama students were treated to British comedy troupe Mischief Theatre's 'The Play That Goes Wrong' in London's Duchess Theatre. This absurd slapstick comedy delivered on so many levels and had the girls chuckling and often belly-laughing in their seats. From collapsing scenery to actors getting stuck in a dialogue loop which replays until one of the actors remembers his line - the brilliance of both physical comedy and wordplay was impeccably timed. 

Ms Victoria Nash, Director of Drama and Media

Sports News

Congratulations!
Emily in Year 8 had a very successful run this week at the Year 7 & 8 Cross Country Championships at Christs Hospital.  With tough competition in a field of nearly 300 runners, she finished 14^th, which qualifies her to compete for Sussex at an Inter-counties event in March. Well done Emily!

Athletics Vests Wanted
The PE Department are missing some Athletics vests. Please can we ask students and parents to have a search at home to see if there are any Athletics vests lurking away.  If you find one please can it be handed in to reception, the PE office or Mrs Jones.

We are also asking if anyone has any pairs of running spikes that are too small or they no longer use that could be donated to the PE department. 

Upcoming Fixtures
Saturday 1^st March - Netball vs Kent College Pembury 1st, 2nd, U15A & B
Tuesday 4^th March - Netball vs Dulwich Prep U14A&b
Wednesday 5^th March - U12&U13 SISNA, U12B & U13B Netball vs Ashford School
Thursday 6^th March - Badminton vs Eastbourne College
Friday 7^th March - Badminton vs Walthamstow Hall

Isla Triumphs at British Eventing Championships

Isla in Year 8 won the British Arena Eventing 90cm Championships last weekend! This Championship saw over 260 qualified riders competing over two days for four coveted titles. Riders having qualified from all over the country over the winter months, with ages ranging from 11 to 71 years old. To win the 90cm title, with much less experience than many of her competitors, is a fantastic achievement. Many congratulations Isla!

Ava Shines in Half-Marathon

Ava in Year 12 participated in the Female U20s category of the Tunbridge Wells Hendy Half-Marathon last weekend, finishing in second place! It’s widely acknowledged to be a tricky course, featuring a difficult one-mile uphill slog through Fordcombe village. This is the fifth half-marathon she has taken part in, and with her added interest in obstacle course races she has an impressive history behind her and many more exciting challenges to come in the future.

Commenting on her achievement, Ava added: "The conditions were good and there was a good turnout. The main challenge of the course is the infamous Strawberry Hill which is a straight mile with 200m of elevation, but I was able to complete the course without walking which in itself is an accomplishment.  I was lucky enough to place second of four under 20 girls with a time of 2:10, which isn't the best time but I'm happy with the result."

Congratulations Ava!

Scrumptious Gourmet Pizzas in Culinary Skills

The Year 12 Culinary Skills girls have been busy this week creating their own gourmet pizzas, that all look delicious! Featuring homemade dough, homemade tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella and their choice of toppings.

Mrs Sue Smeaton, Head of Food & Nutrition

A Level Chemists Develop Detective Skills

The Year 12 A Level Chemists have been completing another of their assessed practicals, in which they had to identify the positive and negative ions in a mixture of two unknown compounds. As well as furthering their detective skills, they also learnt how to flute a filter paper (which allowed them to filter the samples much more quickly). 

Dr Phil Taylor, Head of Chemistry

Rose's Exciting Half Term Internships

I was lucky enough to secure two internships over the February half term, the first one at Sloane Street Auctions in Chelsea, and the other was The Maas Gallery in Pall Mall. Being at an auction house was so interesting, seeing a client’s possessions which had been evaluated at his house in Mayfair, and learning how the catalogues are created for each auction, alongside meeting loyal clients. Being at the Maas Gallery was also incredible, and I was lucky enough to curate their upcoming hang through sourcing my favourite paintings from their expansive inventory, whilst learning database management. I also got to experience a sale at Dreweatts Auctioneers on Pall Mall and to see a painting conservationist at work with one of the Maas Gallery’s paintings. I was also lucky enough to visit the Christie’s flagship house on the other side of the road, and view their two newest exhibitions.

I’ve also just recently found out I’ve been shortlisted for the SPOKE Art documentary competition, where I created my own documentary about a chosen painting - pushing a feminist agenda onto Fragonard’s The Swing - and will be attending the awards ceremony in London on Tuesday. 

Rose, Year 12

Easter GCSE Revision Courses

We are delighted to announce that Mayfield is running Easter GCSE revision courses aimed at Year 11 students who are taking GCSEs this summer.  Five courses are available to book, offering a different GCSE core subject on each day. Mrs Parrett will be leading the English course, Mr Taylor the Chemistry course, Mrs Lewis the Biology course, Mr Clark the Maths course and Mr Smith the Physics course. (If there is sufficient demand to run a second course each day, Mrs Staunton, Mr Everitt, Mrs Garcia Claramonte, Mrs Motoc and Dr Kasina will also be providing tuition). 

These courses will take place during the second week of the Easter Holidays (7th April - 11^th April) and are open to Mayfield students, as well as those from local schools.   For more information about dates, content, prices and how to book please see the revision booklet below or visit the school website.

Revision Booklet

Mayfield School  - GCSE Revision Courses

Curry & Quiz Night - Postponed

We are postponing the Friends of Mayfield Quiz & Curry Night, originally scheduled for Saturday 8^th March, as feedback from parents suggests an alternative date would be more popular.

All ticket holders will be contacted directly, and we look forward to announcing a new date soon. Thank you for your support!

Chaplaincy News

At breaktime on Tuesday, students, staff and Mayfield villagers - English and Ukrainian - gathered to mark the third anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Kseniia, Beth, Yasmina and Nataliia led a short, but incredibly poignant prayer service, remembering those who have lost their lives in this senseless conflict, and praying for the more than eight million Ukrainian civilians who have been uprooted and forced from their homes during the past three years. Above all though, their prayers reflected a yearning for peace. These incredible young women then finished their liturgy by thanking the people of the UK for their continued support - particularly the Mayfield school community.

After the time of prayer (and unfortunately having had to send most of our students back to class!), we invited our visitors to the courtyard for a spread of delicious Ukrainian treats, cooked from scratch by our incredibly talented kitchen staff. 

It was a very moving morning, and a privilege to be able to pray with and for some of the families who continue to be affected by the war  in Ukraine. Let us join our prayer with theirs once again, as we ask God to grant us the gift of peace in the world. Amen.

Shrovetide

Tomorrow marks the beginning of Shrovetide, a four-day period of repentance in order to prepare for Lent - a forty-day period of repentance. Hmm. Makes sense...!

In fact it does, actually, make sense. The purpose of Shrovetide is twofold: first, it's an opportunity to get rid of rich foods which wouldn't last until Easter - eggs, butter, milk, fat and meat, as these would be prohibited during Lent. We still observe this custom today, with the celebration of Pancake Tuesday. Secondly, it is a time to contemplate how we will spend Lent. We are called to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation in these days (indeed, to 'shrive' simply means to hear confessions), and receive absolution; this way, Lent would serve as an extended period of penance and renewal of faith.

Having completed Shrovetide, we arrive at Ash Wednesday, the first day of the season of Lent. The word Lent comes from the Anglo-Saxon 'lencten', meaning spring. Like spring, as the earth is renewed and nature comes alive once more, Lent is a time for us to be renewed and reborn.

So perhaps this weekend, we can spend Shrovetide looking forward to Lent, and considering how we might use this time to renew and grow in our faith - as well as looking up pancake recipes for next Tuesday!

Next Week's Daily Prayers

Daily Prayers 3-7 March
Mass on Sunday is at 11:30 with the Parish of St Thomas'. Holy half hour, our time of Adoration, continues on Tuesday evening at 6pm. As ever, all are welcome. Ash Wednesday Mass and distribution of ashes takes place at 9am and 11:30am, with the parish joining us for the 9am Mass. If you wish to join us, we ask that you come to the 9am Mass, as there will be very little space at the 11:30 celebration.

Mr Ronan Lavery, Chaplain

Photo of the Week

This week's photo was provided by Miss Tiernan, of the beautiful daffodils popping up on site as we head towards Spring.

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

Library News

Just one week to go before World Book Day on 6^th March, have you got your book character costume ready?

Everyone is included in the invitation to dress up as a character from a book, please remember to bring your £1 donation for BookTrust. Life Skills tutors will collect your money.

Year 7 & 8 will have a Parade of Costumes during A1 where prizes will be awarded for best individual and best group entry in each year group. Have fun, rummage in closets (with permission) and see how creative you can be!

What else is happening?

ALL WEEK will be the Masked Reader competition. The link to Forms will be sent out on Monday 3^rd March where you can watch film clips of Year 12 girls reading from well known books. But who’s that behind the mask and which book are they reading from?

There will be a prize for the most correct answers submitted before 4.30pm on 6^th March. In the event of a tie, names will be pulled from a hat.

For ONE DAY ONLY,  on World Book Day itself, we have the Literary Pairs Challenge. Can you spot the staff wearing a label with half of a literary pair and match them up? Entry forms will be available from both libraries and available to download from the Library Teams page. Post your entry in the special boxes in the libraries.

There will also be a prize for the most correctly completed entry received by 6pm on 6^th March. In the event of a tie, names will be pulled from a hat.

Enjoy the day and do enter the competitions! Good luck to all participating, and I can't wait to see all of the inventive costumes on display this year.

Ms Jan Blagden, Librarian

From the School Shop

Upcoming Exam Period
During mocks and as we start the run up to exams, we have enhanced the revision materials we have in the school shop. We carry page markers, highlighters, sticky notes, whiteboards and revision cards in various colours and sizes, as well as note pads and jotter books. If you can think of anything else you may need to aid you, please email me your suggestions to sbowles@mayfieldgirls.org.

We also have maths equipment, pens, pencils and clear pencil cases for the exams. We carry calculators too, and we have some batteries for calculators. Please note that often the back must be removed using screw drivers to get to the battery compartment, so if you think your calculator needs a new battery, leave plenty of time if you need these changing.

We are usually open from 7:30am to 3:00pm from Monday to Friday.

Sister Jean's Marmalade
We only have 29 jars of Sister Jean’s Marmalade left and it would be nice to be able to make the final deposit to Mary’s Meals by Easter. If you would like a jar, please come to the school shop. The cost is £2.50 and we can only take cash. All proceeds go to Mary’s Meals.

Lost Property
Please see below found over half term and currently in the school shop, please come and collect anything you think is yours. All un-collected items will be disposed of. Please note that these photographs have also been sent to all students, so some items may now have been claimed.

Mrs Susan Bowles, School Shop Manager