Newsletters

St Bernard's Preparatory School - Newsletter 20th March 2025

{item_alt_tag}

Dear Parents and Carers

A Week of STEM Inspiration

STEM curiosity was ignited across the school last week, as our pupils embraced a wonderful range of opportunities to explore, investigate and innovate.

Firstly, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of our second annual Science Fair. It was a genuine privilege to walk around the hall and listen to children of all ages eagerly explaining and demonstrating their impressive science-based projects and inventive concoctions. The enthusiasm, curiosity and confidence shown by the children were truly wonderful to see.

Science Fair

{item_alt_tag}
{item_alt_tag}

Lower Trans Volcano's

Meanwhile, in Year 3, learning quite literally erupted into action as pupils created their own volcano models to showcase their understanding of volcanic processes. The classroom was filled with excitement as their experiments culminated in a series of dramatic eruptions. A memorable and engaging way to bring scientific learning to life.

{item_alt_tag}

Abbey Young Mathematicans Challenge

We were also delighted to celebrate further success on Friday at The Abbey School Reading, where a group of our Year 4 and Year 5 girls took part in the Abbey Young Mathematicians Challenge. Competing alongside pupils from a range of schools, they demonstrated excellent mathematical thinking, teamwork and perseverance. Eight girls from Years 4 and 5 recently visited The Abbey in Reading to take part in an exciting maths competition. The event included four different challenges, ranging from problem-solving tasks to coding activities.

Working in teams, the children had to answer a series of tricky questions within a set time limit. The challenges were not easy, and they required a lot of teamwork, concentration and creative thinking. All of the girls represented the school brilliantly, and we are extremely proud of their effort and determination. We are especially delighted to share that St Bernard’s Prep won the competition! 

A special congratulations goes to Zahra, Viyona, Sonia and Sania, who won the best team award. Well done to all the girls for such a fantastic achievement!

{item_alt_tag}

Why STEM Matters

Experiences such as these highlight why STEM education is so important in preparing our children for the future. Through science, technology, engineering and mathematics, pupils develop far more than subject knowledge. They learn to think critically, ask questions, solve problems, collaborate effectively and approach challenges with confidence and creativity.

These are lifelong skills that will support them not only in their future education and careers, but also in navigating an ever-changing world. By encouraging curiosity and innovation from an early age, we aim to nurture resilient learners who are willing to experiment, take risks and persevere. Qualities that will enable them to thrive both academically and personally.

It has been a joy to see our children's curiosity and confidence flourish this week, and we look forward to continuing to nurture their love of discovery in the weeks ahead. Finally, we are really pleased with the publication of our ISI inspection report under the new framework, which you can find on our website. What a joy to be leading a school where the first line of the report says the following...'Leaders promote a school environment where both compassion and ambition are valued. They maintain a community that supports the school's aim for pupils to flourish, academically, personally and spiritually within a caring Catholic ethos.' Enjoy reading and have a great weekend too!

Mrs Asha Verma

Headteacher