This term, our students showcased their talents and teamwork across a range of sports. From football to netball, they played with determination and spirit, winning many matches and making Denefield proud. Well done to all the teams!

Football

 

Netball

A huge congratulation to our Year 8 Girls Netball Team, who have won the Reading League after an undefeated season. All the girls performed really well throughout the league.  

Well done to Evie, Abi, Aubrey, Darcey, Chloe, Liv, Darcie, Zoe and Kayla. You have made us all proud! 

Year 8 Girls Netball Team, above, after winning the Reading Schools Netball League with a 14-2 victory against Little Heath.

Here is a look at their match performance and the points they earned:

Denefield Interhouse Competition - Spelling Bee 

The final round of the Spelling Bee ended with Bilal, a Year 8 student, winning and being crowned the Spelling Bee Champion of the Year. The final was between four students, one from each house. Bilal from Kentwood House, Hanisha from Norcot House, Sonia from Langley House, and Nathaniel from Sulham House.
It was an interesting yet tough competition, but Bilal managed to spell almost all the words correctly. The words included humorous, mischievous, onomatopoeia and the final word being anaphylaxis.

Congratulations to Kentwood House for winning this competition.

Premier League Inspires by Reading Football Club Community

Seven of our Year 8 students took part in the Premier League Inspires Programme in collaboration with Reading FC Community Trust this term. They worked hard on an Action Plan for Gender Equality to promote the message that football is everyone’s game.

On 17 March, they presented their ideas at Select Car Leasing Stadium, competing against 16 groups. Speaking with confidence and passion, they secured an impressive third place.

A fantastic effort from our students. We are so proud of them!

 

Year 12 Maths Inspiration visit to The Hexagon

Recently, our Year 12 students attended the Maths Inspiration event at The Hexagon. This engaging show featured talks from leading mathematicians, exploring how Maths shapes the world around us. Some of them are as follows:

• Zoe Griffiths presented 'Numbers in the News,' exploring how mathematical concepts are represented in the media.

• Katie Steckles discussed 'The Mathematics of Life', highlighting the role of maths in understanding biological processes.

• Colin Wright delivered 'Patterns, Predictions and Juggling,' demonstrating mathematical patterns through the art of juggling.

The event was hosted by Matt Parker, known for his ability to make complex mathematical ideas accessible and entertaining.

The event provided a fresh perspective on how Maths extends beyond the classroom, inspiring students to think differently about the subject.

 

Year 9 Mock trial at Reading Crown Court

On Saturday 22 March, our Year 9 students took part in the Young Citizens Mock Trial competition at Reading Crown Court. They took on roles such as lawyers, witnesses, and magistrates, performing with confidence and enthusiasm in a real courtroom.

Although they did not progress to the next round, they showed great skill and teamwork. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and dedication.

Miss E Doyle, who accompanied the students, said, 'The students were amazing and loved the whole experience.'

One of the students who attended the Mock Trial, wrote a detailed report about the whole experience:

'This year’s mock trial tournament has been an incredible adventure for our team, full of challenges, learning, and unforgettable moments. From the very start, our journey was all about immersing ourselves in the new case we had been given and the world of law. We learned of courtroom rules, practiced crafting persuasive arguments, and stepped into the shoes of lawyers and witnesses. It was not just about legal knowledge it was about teamwork, communication, and thinking on our feet.

The build up to the big day was intense but exciting. Our practice sessions were a mix of determination and fun. After school on Fridays were spent refining opening statements, cross-examinations, and witness responses. As the days passed, we grew more confident, not just as individuals but as a cohesive team.

When the day of the tournament arrived, the atmosphere was electric. We stepped into that courtroom ready to give it our all, and we delivered nothing less! Every single team member gave it their all, showcasing their skills and dedication. Our witnesses brought their characters to life, and our lawyers delivered powerful arguments that made an impression.

While we didn’t progress to the next stage, the experience was nothing short of amazing. We left with a deeper understanding of law, new skills we’ll carry forward, and memories that will last a lifetime. The entire team is proud of what we achieved, and all want to continue this journey in the bigger and harder Bar Mock trials. We are all grateful for the support from our amazing teachers who helped us every step of the way to make us be the best we could be!'

- Samuel M, Year 9

 

Year 10 and Year 12 Film Studies visit to Warner Bros. Studio

This term, our GCSE and A Level Film and Photography students visited Warner Bros. Studio Tour for a magical experience. Students were able to interact with all aspects of filmmaking, from cinematography to production design. We hope this visit inspired them to consider filmmaking as a career and to continue exploring their creativity and passion for visual storytelling. 

The students were accompanied by Miss L Pavey, Mrs S Tarrant and Mr J Neale who noted how exemplary the students behaved during their visit.

We are excited to see how this experience influences their work and inspires future projects. 

Click the button below to see more photos from the tour.

See more photos

 

Years 9, 10 and 12 Ski Trip to Austria

Our eagerly awaited ski trip to Austria departs on Friday 4 April, and returns on Friday 11 April. Although the trip takes place during the holidays, we encourage parents/carers to keep an eye on our Instagram page, where we will be sharing highlights and photos from the trip.

Simply follow this link: Instagram or scan the QR code given below.

We wish all students and staff an exciting and safe adventure on the slopes!

Kids College

Over the past five weeks, students from local primary schools took part in Kids College, a program designed to give them a taste of secondary school life. Each week, they explored new subjects, from baking delicious treats in Can Cook, Will Cook to experimenting in Secrets of Science. In Silly Clay Creatures, they shaped, baked, and painted their own unique designs.

In their final session, students received certificates to celebrate their achievements. It was a fantastic journey of learning, creativity, and fun.

Kids College is a fantastic program that gives Year 5 and Year 6 students a taste of secondary school life. Each week, they take part in fun, hands-on activities, building skills and confidence for the future. Denefield hosts Kids College every Autumn, Spring and Summer terms for five weeks. For more details please contact Mrs J Jackson, Transition and Careers Lead via jjn@denefield.org.uk
 

See more photos

 

Trustees Day – Trust Board in School

This term, Denefield welcomed members of the Trust Board for a meeting and a tour of the school. The visit provided an opportunity for trustees to see first-hand how our school operates on a daily basis, meet staff and students, and gain insight into the progress we are making.

The visit also included discussions about future developments, ensuring that Denefield continues to provide the best possible education and opportunities for our students.

We appreciate the time and support of our trustees and look forward to working together to build on our successes.

Denefield Futures Fair

This term, students from Years 7 to 13 attended our Denefield Futures Fair, exploring career and education pathways. They connected with employers, universities, apprenticeship providers, and colleges, gaining hands-on experience in various fields.

This was a valuable experience for our students to engage with organisations and start to learn more about the world of work, study and the wider world.  

A huge thank you to all the exhibitors who made this event a success:

Employers and Training Providers
AWE | DHL | KPMG | Virgin Media / O2 | Thames Valley Police | Overbury | Advanced Maintenance UK | Heidelberg Materials | Procision Football Academy | Smart Works Charity | Tigers Training | Healthreach | The School Outreach Company | Choice Care

Universities and Colleges
Denefield Sitxh Form | University of Reading | Oxford Brookes University | University of Gloucestershire | University of Hertfordshire | University of Winchester | Henley Business School | Basingstoke College of Technology | Henley College | Activate Learning | Newbury College / University Centre Newbury

Local Organisations and Services
Berkshire Youth | Purley Park Trust | Royal Berks NHS | West Berk Council | Forbury Group Nurseries | OAS (Apprenticeship Training Provider)

Click the button below to see more photos from the Futures Fair.

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Sixth Form Enrichment - KPMG 

Our Sixth Form students were recently visited by KPMG representatives, who shared valuable insights with students about the diverse career opportunities available at KPMG. 

The session focussed on the wide range of career opportunities and how students can get involved in the company’s various programs. Information shared was about internships, apprenticeships, and graduate schemes, offering valuable advice on how to stand out and succeed in the competitive world of business.

 

Year 8 Spanish Play

This term our Year 8 students watched 'Primera Cita', a Spanish play performed entirely in Spanish by Onatti Productions.

The story followed two teenagers, Carlos and Maria, as they get ready for their first date. It was full of funny and relatable moments, from choosing outfits to dealing with some mishaps. 

Students enjoyed the interactive performance and were excited to see how much Spanish they could understand. Some even took part in the play, making it a fun and memorable experience.

A big thank you to Onatti Productions and our Languages, Business and Travel faculty for organising this play and helping the students learn Spanish in an engaging way. 

Click the button below to see more photos of the play.

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Year 12 will attend the UCAS Discovery Expo at Winchester University. Years 9 and 10 will get a chance to visit and tour around Royal Berkshire Hospital and explore different careers in the NHS. Keep an eye out for more details which will be shared in the next term.

Click the button below to find out more.

Futures Bulletin

It is always fantastic to see members of our school community getting involved in exciting events beyond the classroom. This year, staff and students took on the challenge of the Reading Half Marathon, demonstrating great commitment and perseverance.

Staff members such as Mr M Peacock, Mr A Dawson and Miss J Paxford not only completed the race but also achieved fantastic finishing times. 

A special mention goes to our Sixth Formers, Joey H and Elisha C-F, who ran the half marathon in support of Alzheimer's Society and Mind charity respectively.

Well done Joey and Elisha!

A huge thank you also goes to all the staff, students and parents/carers who came along to support, cheer, and encourage the runners throughout the event.

Miss J Paxford, above, after completing the Reading Half Marathon.

Mr A Dawson, above, after completing the Reading Half Marathon.

Joey H, above, with his friends from Denefield at the finish line.

Production Team

Directors - Mr P Shaw and Mrs M Shaw

Musical Director - Mr P Shaw and YouTube

Choreography - Mrs M Shaw, Hannah C, Phoebe H, Evelyn L

Sound - Miss B Ivory-Castile

Lighting - Adam D and Corey J

Set - Mrs K Lotter and Mrs M Shaw

Costumes - Mrs M Shaw and Mrs K Lotter

Hair and Makeup - Mrs M Shaw, Lilly-Mai B, Lola D, Darcy H, Aimee T

Technical Support - Mr P Hamilton

Stage Hands - Lucia S, Alfie J

Band

Piano/Band Leader - Mrs A Williams

Guitar - Mr Kilgour

Drums - Mr Paice

Keyboard - Mr R Taylor

Bass Guitar - Mr Williams

The Jocks

Troy Bolton - Lewis H

Chad Danforth - Sian O

Zeke Baylor - Darcey B

Jason Cross - Jessica H

Oscar B, Dougie F, Joshua G, Sofia P, Lukas R, Otto S, Taylor S, Daniel S

The Brainiacs

Gabrielle Montez - Allayna W

Taylor McKessie - Mollie H

Martha Cox - Hannah C

Kratnoff - Victor R

MC - Samaria C

Evie B, Maria E, Phoebe F, Chloe F, Naomi J, Rusne P

The Thespians

Sharpay Evans - Megan C

Ryan Evans - Lucas F

Kelsi Nielsen - Lily B

Cyndra - Georgina C

Phoebe C, Sofie C, Alara H, Bella L, Markos S, Amelia T, Nicola T

The Skaters

Ripper - Freddie B

Mongo - Charlie S

Percy B, Tilly C, Toby C, Macy F, Rebecca G, Alex M, Zachery W

Cheerleaders

Summer B, Madeline D, Siann G, Jade H, Felicity J, Isabel J, Jessica L, William L, Gabi M, Emma N, Maya S, Lacey S, Daisy T

East High FM 

Jack - Rosie T

Scott - Daisy B

Teachers

Coach Bolton - Phoebe H

Ms Darbus - Evelyn L

Ms Tenny - Juno H

A huge well done to all the students and staff who worked both on stage and behind the scenes to make this show possible. Thank you to everyone who came to support—we could not have done it without you.

We are pleased to remind you about The Wellbeing Hub, a valuable resource designed to support the mental health and wellbeing of our entire school community. This online platform provides expert guidance, resources, and practical strategies for parents/carers and students.

This week on The Wellbeing Hub

If you are a first time user, then please sign up here: Parents - Teentips Wellbeing Hub

If you are already registered, click the button below to log in and to listen to the podcast.

Log in

Save the dates

TellMi

All Denefield students have access to TellMi, an online support platform for their emotional wellbeing. It's safe, secure and available 24/7. Download the app here: 

• TellMi Google Play
• TellMi Apple Store

Reading Sea Cadets

Spotlight UK

Village Concerts

N3W ANGLE Boxing Camp - Limited spaces available

West Berkshire Council

Purley on Thames Tennis Club

Berkshire Youth Network