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What a fantastic term this has been!
Our newsletter is where we celebrate the achievements of our students, staff, and the school each term.
In this edition, we will reflect on the fantastic events and successes we have seen this term at Denefield. You can find out more about the upcoming events on our website.
If you are not following us on social media yet, make sure to do so. You will get regular updates, news, and reminders.
Learn more about how to protect your children online by visiting our online safety page.
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Important dates for our return - Week A
| Date |
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| Monday 1 June |
BTEC/GCE/GCSE Exams continue all week |
| Tuesday 2 June |
Year 5 Tours - 9.45am to 10.40am |
| Wednesday3 June |
Year 5 Tours - 9.45am to 10.40am |
| Thursday 4 June |
Year 5 Tours - 9.45am to 10.40am |
| Friday 5 June |
Year 5 Tours - 9.45am to 10.40am |
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50 Years of Denefield

This year marks a very special milestone in the life of our school. Denefield is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and we have spent the year looking back at five decades of learning, friendship and achievement, while also looking ahead to the future.
Through our From the Archives series, we have been sharing photographs, newspaper clippings and stories from across Denefield's history.
The response from our community has been heartwarming. Former students have reached out to share memories, identify familiar faces and reflect on what their time at Denefield meant to them. These stories remind us that Denefield has always been more than a school.
To see more from the series, follow us on Instagram and Facebook by clicking the buttons below. New memories are shared regularly, and we would love for you to be part of it.
Alongside our archive series, the Denefield 50 Fundraising campaign has brought our community together throughout the year. From Culture Day to Festive Jumper Day, fundraising events and charitable partnerships, students and staff have taken part with energy and generosity. Together, we have begun working towards our £50,000 anniversary target and have raised £8,686 so far, supporting both enrichment opportunities for our students and our partnership with Launchpad, a local charity supporting people facing homelessness in Reading.
If you want to contribute to our fundraising, click the button below.
Now we are looking ahead to the highlight of our anniversary year.
Save the date: Friday 25 September 2026

We are delighted to invite our wider Denefield community; alumni, former staff, parents/carers, current families and friends of the school, to join us for a special celebration event marking 50 years of Denefield. It promises to be a warm, joyful day filled with memories, reconnections and a shared sense of pride in everything our school stands for. Whether you joined us in 1976 or 2026, there will be a place for you.
Further details, including timings and tickets, will be shared in the coming weeks. In the meantime, we would love to hear from any alumni or former staff who would like to be part of the day. Please get in touch with us at sal@denefield.org.uk.
Here is to 50 years of Success for Life.
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The summer exam season is well underway, with 200+ exams being run throughout the school between Tuesday 5 May 2026 up to the end of June 2026.
Our students have approached this time with focus and determination, and we commend them for their continued effort. With many exams still to come, it is important that they maintain their momentum and keep working steadily through the weeks ahead.
A huge thank you also goes to our staff, who are working hard behind the scenes to ensure exams run smoothly, and that students are supported every step of the way.
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District Athletics
This term, over 60 Denefield students from Years 8, 9 and 10 took part in the District Athletics at Thames Valley Athletics Centre. Students competed in a range of events, including sprints, long-distance races, jumping events and throws.
Every student gave their best and represented the school with pride. Well done to everyone who took part.
The final results are as follows:
U15 Boys
| Event |
Name |
Scores |
Position |
| 100m |
Subhan Amir |
12.81 |
5 |
| 100m |
Ira Monite |
13.4 |
8 |
| 300m |
T Byfield-Griffith |
44.58 |
5 |
| 800m |
Ben Churchill |
2.35.59 |
8 |
| 4x100m |
Denefield |
53.17 |
4 |
| Triple Jump |
Finley Harman |
9.5m |
4 |
| Triple Jump |
Ben Churchill |
8.07m |
7 |
| Discus |
Ira Monite |
18.98m |
6 |
| Discus |
Oscar Bond |
12.98m |
8 |
| Javelin |
Max Molloy |
21.83m |
6 |
U15 Boys Overall Results
| School |
Scores |
Position |
| St Barts School |
88 |
1 |
| The Downs School |
68 |
2 |
| Kennet School |
59 |
3 |
| Park House School |
36 |
4 |
| Theale Green School |
35 |
5 |
| Denefield School |
29 |
6 |
| Bradfield School |
26 |
7 |
| The Willink School |
26 |
7 |
| Little Heath School |
23 |
9 |
| Trinity School |
20 |
10 |
| St Gabriels School |
14 |
11 |
| Pangbourne School |
10 |
12 |
U17 Boys
| Event |
Name |
Scores |
Position |
| High Jump |
Charlie Okon |
1.5m |
3 |
| Triple Jump |
Luca Reilly Fletcher |
10.06m |
2 |
| Triple Jump |
Jack Little |
9.14m |
5 |
| Discus |
Joe Murefu |
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7 |
| Javelin |
Victor Richard Gutierrez |
25.15m |
7 |
U17 Boys Overall Results
| School |
Scores |
Position |
| Kennet School |
78 |
1 |
| St Barts School |
63 |
2 |
| The Downs School |
49 |
3 |
| Little Heath School |
39 |
4 |
| Bradfield School |
37 |
5 |
| Trinity School |
36 |
6 |
| Theale Green School |
33 |
7 |
| The Willink School |
31 |
8 |
| Park House School |
28 |
9 |
| Denefield School |
21 |
10 |
| Pangbourne School |
12 |
11 |
U15 Girls
| Event |
Name |
Scores |
Position |
| 100m |
Ella Adey |
14.1 |
5 |
| 800m |
Mia Clarke |
2.54.25 |
7 |
| 1500m |
Penelope Pocock |
5.52.91 |
7 |
| 4X100m |
Denefield |
59.29 |
7 |
| High Jump |
Ella Adey |
1.25m |
7 |
| Triple Jump |
Aubreya Jordan |
6.73m |
8 |
| Discus |
Holly Wright |
14.8m |
7 |
| Shot Put |
Tilly Rabot |
6.8m |
8 |
U15 Girls Overall Results
| School |
Scores |
Position |
| Downe House |
112 |
1 |
| St Barts School |
92 |
2 |
| Kennet School |
78 |
3 |
| Park House School |
30 |
4 |
| The Willink School |
27 |
5 |
| Trinity School |
20 |
6 |
| Denefield School |
16 |
7 |
| Bradfield School |
15 |
8 |
| St Gabriels School |
15 |
8 |
| The Downs School |
14 |
10 |
| Theale Green School |
11 |
11 |
| Little Heath School |
5 |
12 |
U17 Girls
| Event |
Name |
Scores |
Position |
| 100m |
Erin-Rose Dunk |
13.55 |
3 |
| 1500m |
Lucia Trisconi Smith |
6.27.73 |
6 |
| 1500m |
Charlotte Williams |
46.79 |
8 |
| 4X100m |
Denefield |
57.51 |
6 |
| High Jump |
Samaria Crerar |
1.25m |
5 |
| High Jump |
Lacey Swift |
1.2m |
7 |
| Long Jump |
Erin-Rose Dunk |
3.74m |
7 |
| Triple Jump |
Grace Treen |
8.72m |
3 |
| Shot Put |
Emily Belcher |
7.65m |
4 |
U17 Girls Overall Results
| School |
Scores |
Position |
| Downe House |
121 |
1 |
| The Downs School |
70 |
2 |
| The Willink School |
44 |
3 |
| Park House School |
34 |
4 |
| Denefield School |
32 |
5 |
| St Barts School |
31 |
6 |
| Theale Green School |
24 |
7 |
| Kennet School |
20 |
8 |
| Bradfield School |
17 |
9 |
| Little Heath School |
12 |
10 |
| Trinity School |
12 |
10 |
| St. Gabriels School |
10 |
12 |
| Pangbourne School |
8 |
13 |
Green Park Reading Mini Marathon
Back in March, five of our students took on the Green Park Reading Mini Marathon, and our U13 girls' team — Erin M., Cora H. and Rebeca R. — claimed first place in the U13 Girls team category. Erin also took second place individually in the F12 age group.
On 20 April, the three girls were presented with their awards by Sir John Madejski, one of Reading's most well-known and celebrated figures. A fantastic moment of recognition for their achievement.
Well done also to Jay G. and Victor R., who represented Denefield with pride and determination throughout the event. A huge congratulations to all five students.


Year 9 and 10 Flag Football
This term, our Year 9 and 10 Girls flag football team enjoyed a fantastic day at Surrey Sports Park. The team finished on a high with a 14-6 win in their final game. Although the other results did not go their way, the girls stayed competitive right to the end and showed great spirit throughout. Mr Hardiman, who accompanied the team, believes that with a little more practice the squad has every chance of reaching the nationals next year.
Well done, girls! We look forward to seeing where this team goes next.



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Denefield Interhouse DA @ 100 competition
This term, Denefield marked Sir David Attenborough's 100th birthday with our DA @ 100 Inter-House Competition. The celebration recognised the conservation work and environmental awareness Sir David has championed throughout his life.
Students across all four Houses; Kentwood, Sulham, Norcot and Langley, chose an endangered species, habitat or ecosystem, then transformed their classroom doors into informative, eye-catching displays. Recycled and natural materials were used throughout, reflecting the environmental values at the heart of Sir David's legacy.
The standard of work was outstanding. Every corridor told a story, from rainforests and reefs to creatures we must protect for the next generation. A huge well done to every student who took part, and thank you to the staff who supported their Houses throughout the competition.



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Year 9 Careers visit to Royal Berkshire Hospital
This term, a group of Year 9 students were invited to go on a careers visit to Royal Berkshire Hospital to explore roles across the NHS.
The day included workshops on apprenticeships, infection control, and triage, giving students a real insight into how hospital teams work behind the scenes. Students also took part in resuscitation training, learning the basics of life-saving techniques.
For those considering a future as a paramedic, there was a valuable chance to speak with two paramedics who took different routes into the profession: one through the apprenticeship programme and the other through the university pathway. Hearing both perspectives helped students understand that there is more than one way into a healthcare career.
Throughout the visit, students also met radiographers, pharmacy staff, and other healthcare professionals, who shared what their roles involve and the qualifications needed to get there.
It was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 9s to see the breadth of careers within the NHS and to start thinking about the choices that lie ahead.



DofE Silver Expedition
A huge well done to our Silver DofE students, who completed their practice expedition this term. Over two days, the team put their skills to the test in the great outdoors, navigating their planned route, working together as a group and carrying everything they needed on their backs.
From map reading and route planning to teamwork, problem solving and resilience, the students tackled every challenge with determination and great spirit. This practice expedition is an important part of the Silver Award. It gives students the chance to build confidence, refine their skills and prepare for the main qualifying expedition, which takes place in June in the New Forest.



One of our students, Victor R, captured the trip on camera, putting together a brilliant video of the team in action. Take a look below to see the practice expedition through their eyes.
With the practice behind them, the team is more than ready. We wish them the very best of luck and look forward to hearing all about their adventures.
A huge thank you to the staff who supported the students throughout the expedition. Your time, energy and commitment make experiences like this possible.
Year 12 University of Winchester visit:
This term, our Year 12 students visited UCAS, gaining valuable insight into university applications, course options and the journey ahead. Students had the chance to ask big questions, explore different pathways and take an important step towards their futures. It was a brilliant opportunity for them to feel informed and inspired as they begin planning life beyond Sixth Form.


Year 5 Information Evening
Over the past two weeks, we were delighted to welcome Year 5 pupils and their families to our Information Evenings. These events provided a great opportunity for visitors to hear from our students and staff, all the while learning more about life at Denefield.
We hope all who attended gained a clear sense of what makes Denefield such a supportive and ambitious school community. Thank you for coming along and taking the time to explore what we have to offer; we look forward to welcoming you again in the future.
Please note that our Year 5 tours in June are now fully booked. However, we will be offering tours for Year 6 pupils and parents/carers in September 2026, following our Open Evening. We look forward to welcoming you then.




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Key Stage 3 Pride of Denefield Awards
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This term, we celebrated our Key Stage 3 students at the Pride of Denefield Awards, recognising the achievements, character and contributions of students across Years 7, 8 and 9.
It was a wonderful evening filled with applause, proud smiles and a strong sense of community. Students were recognised across a range of categories, from academic progress and subject excellence to kindness, extracurricular involvement and CHARACTER values. Each award reflected the values we hold dear at Denefield, and every student recognised should feel proud of their achievement.
A heartfelt thank you to the staff who nominated, organised and supported the event, and to the families who joined us to share in the celebration. Your presence made the evening special.
Congratulations to all the award winners. You make us proud.
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Creative and Performing Arts
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Sammy Stonham |
Year 7 Art |
| Victoria Coste |
Year 8 Art |
| Nicola Taplin |
Year 9 Art |
| Louis Page |
Year 7 D&T |
| Leo Rogers |
Year 8 D&T |
| Faith Choules |
Year 9 D&T |
| Evan Looy |
Year 7 Drama |
| Maria Evans |
Year 8 Drama |
| Chloe Freeman |
Year 9 Drama |
| Chloe Tan |
Year 7 Music |
| Syed Ayaz Al Mahmud |
Year 8 Music |
| Isla Dunford |
Year 9 Music |
English and Film
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Beau Lloyd |
Year 7 English |
| Julia Fredy |
Year 8 English |
| Finley Harman |
Year 9 English |
Humanities
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Amelia Taylor-Collins |
Year 7 Geography |
| Hashir ur Rehman |
Year 8 Geography |
| Ella Adey |
Year 9 Geography |
| Sienna Tong |
Year 7 History |
| Livvy Holland |
Year 8 History |
| Innaya Chaudhary |
Year 9 History |
| Dylan Lloyd |
Year 7 Religious Studies |
| Nathaniel Njoroge |
Year 8 Religious Studies |
| Taylor Sherman |
Year 9 Religious Studies |
Language, Business and Travel
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Mayar Mkaouar |
Year 8 French |
| Hanisha Logeswarane |
Year 9 French |
| Jay Ellul |
Year 7 German |
| Oliver Maycock |
Year 8 German |
| Karina Kelly |
Year 9 German |
| Jay Godfrey |
Year 7 Spanish |
| Lily-Marie Preston |
Year 8 Spanish |
| Kiran Shreshta-Martin |
Year 9 Spanish |
Maths, ICT and Computing
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Alfie Claridge |
Year 7 ICT |
| Jasmine Westall |
Year 8 ICT |
| Alex Brewerton |
Year 9 ICT |
| Zayaan Malik |
Year 7 Maths |
| Harry Emmott |
Year 8 Maths |
| Bilal Hussain |
Year 9 Maths |
PE and Health
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Lainey Fedak |
Year 7 PE |
| Jimmy Howroyd |
Year 8 PE |
| Darcey Gregory-Rand |
Year 9 PE |
Science and Social Science
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Alexa Dunbar |
Year 7 Science |
| Amelia Jones |
Year 8 Science |
| Janey Barlow |
Year 9 Science - Biology |
| Phoebe Clayton |
Year 9 Science - Chemistry |
| William Egle |
Year 9 Science - Physics |
Success for Life
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Phoebe Tovey |
Year 7 Success for Life |
| Cameron Woodruff |
Year 8 Success for Life |
| John Eden |
Year 9 Success for Life |
CHARACTER value certificates - Kentwood
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Ruby Brackley-Manley |
Year 7 |
| Amelia Moore |
Year 8 |
| Ivan Mihalciuc |
Year 9 |
CHARACTER value certificates - Langley
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Jay Godfrey |
Year 7 |
| Lily-Marie Preston |
Year 8 |
| Amelia Taplin |
Year 9 |
CHARACTER value certificates - Norcot
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Jay Ellul |
Year 7 |
| Jimmy Howroyd |
Year 8 |
| Karina Kelly |
Year 9 |
CHARACTER value certificates - Sulham
| Name |
Year / Subject |
| Abigail Freeman |
Year 7 |
| Nathaniel Njoroge |
Year 8 |
| Taylor Sherman |
Year 9 |
Extra-curricular Award
Phoebe Clayton
Acts of Kindness Award
Eduard Macsin
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Click the button below to see more photos of the Key Stage 3 Pride of Denefield Awards evening.
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Denefield Head Student Elections 2026
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This term, we began the exciting process of appointing our new team of Head Students for the 2026-2027 academic year. Six Sixth Form students put themselves forward, each presenting their vision for student leadership at Denefield through a short video shown across tutor groups.
The whole school community then had its say, with students and staff casting their votes online. Candidates also took part in an assembly in front of the Sixth Form, followed by interviews with senior leaders.
We are delighted to announce that Lucy C. and Sian O. are our new Head Students, with Nathan, Victoria, Alara and Ava taking on the role of Deputy Head Students. Each candidate gave a fantastic account of themselves throughout the process, and we are very excited to see the impact this team will have across the school.
A huge congratulations to all six students. We look forward to working with our new Student Leadership team as they take on this important role and help shape the year ahead.
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Over the half term holidays, a group of our Year 8, 9 and 10 students will be heading to Lloret de Mar in Spain for our annual sports tour. The trip will combine training sessions, matches against local teams and time to enjoy everything the area has to offer, including a visit to the Espanyol stadium.
We wish all the students and staff a brilliant trip and look forward to sharing highlights on their return.
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Save the Date
  
TellMi
All Denefield students have access to TellMi, an online support platform for their emotional wellbeing. It is safe, secure and available 24/7. Download the app here:

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Reading Rugby

MJS Coaching

The Berkshire Youth Network




Purley Primary School Summer Fete

Madden Swim School

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Thank you for reading and Happy Half Term!
We look forward to welcoming students back to school on Monday 1 June 2026 at 8.28am.
'8.28 at the gate!'
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