The Ursuline Post

As we come to the end of what has felt like a brief yet incredibly action-packed term, I am grateful to reflect on the many achievements and experiences that have enriched our school community.

A particular highlight was the ski trip to Italy, which provided both students and staff with unforgettable memories and new talents. We got to witness many of our students flourish into brave, intermediate skiers - and all made it back in one piece!

Students have also enjoyed a range of visits, including trips to theatres, churches, museums and banks, each offering invaluable new skills and knowledge. All group visits have represented St Ursula's proudly, and allowed us to demonstrate what intelligent and respectful students we are blessed to have at the school.

This term has been significant in our shared religious journey, as we observed the season of Lent with reflection and purpose, while also extending our warmest wishes to those in our community who celebrated Ramadan and Eid. There has been a real feeling of connection and community within our school.

I would like to congratulate all of our Year 11s for completing their last set of mock exams. You should be incredibly proud of your efforts, and we are sure they will be reflected on the official results day. Keep working hard!

Lastly, we have celebrated many additional internal successes, including our Year 6 VIP Day and the Ursuline Conference. Both of which allowed us to showcase our school, and demonstrate just how far we have come.

I would like to wish all students, staff and families a restful and joyful Easter break. Thank you, as always, for your continued support. I look forward to what the summer term has to offer!

In RE, we aim to nurture thoughtful, curious young people by creating opportunities to encounter faith in real and meaningful ways. Through visiting Our Ladye Star of the Sea, conversations with Fr Tom and Sr Veronica about their lived vocation, and open discussion of ethical questions such as euthanasia in Year 11, students are encouraged to reflect deeply and grow in their own sense of purpose and calling. This is at the heart of what a meaningful RE curriculum looks like in St Ursula's.

- Report by Ms Curzydlo, Head of RE

Our amazing choir competed in the semi final of the Jack Petchey Glee competition 2026 at The Broadway Theatre, Lewisham on Sunday. The children were sensational in their performances but showed such kindness, patience and camaraderie with the other competing teams throughout a very long and tiring day showing our core school values beautifully. Sadly, they missed out on a top three placing to some incredible theatre schools but the experience of performing in a professional theatre will live long in the memory. We are so proud of them.

- Report by Mr Quinn, Head of Drama

GCSE Drama students were treated to a night at the theatre on Wednesday. We went to see ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ at the Duchess Theatre. The children had the best time seeing a comedy masterclass including slapstick, improvisation, clowning and farce. The students were a joy to take out and loved every second of the trip into the west end. Year 9 and 10 should keep their eyes peeled for a theatre trip we have planned in June…I’m not giving anything away but the show might rhyme with Spamilton 🤷🏻‍♂️

- Report by Mr Quinn, Head of Drama

On Thursday 12th February, 19 of our Year 10 students took part in the We Can Be programme, visiting Standard Chartered Bank in the heart of the City of London.

The morning was packed with workshops and a tour of the bank, where the students met a variety of City professionals, including traders and inspiring workers. They were able to see first-hand how people work in different roles and gain insight into the skills and dedication required.

The woman in charge of the programme was thrilled to see such engaged, curious and ambitious young women throughout the day. "They brought fantastic energy to every room, and we are excited to see how much they have gained from the experience when we look through their feedback," she commented. In the afternoon, the students joined other schools at participating in panel discussions and activities. Some of the facilitators were so impressed with our girls that they expressed interest in welcoming them to their businesses and programmes in the city in the future.

Two of our students also had the exciting moment of winning a Stanley Cup during the activities - congratulations to them!

- Report by Ms Navarro, Librarian.

On the 28th February, we hosted nearly 60 Year 6 students from primary schools all over, and welcomed them to our Year 6 VIP Golden Ticket Activity Day.

The day was filled to the brim with activities - from a maths treasure hunt, to a dress-up drama workshop, to a Lego robot competition, and even a flame experiment in science! Throughout the day, students had the chance to win our special St Ursula's Golden Tickets - which entered them into our amazing prize draw.

We celebrated the day with our awards ceremony in the afternoon. Every single student secured a golden ticket for their incredible contributions and enthusiasm, and six of them were lucky enough to win an Amazon voucher!

We would like to say a big thank you to all students and parents who attended, as well as to our staff and student helpers who helped make the day such a memorable success.

- Report by Ms Groves, PA.

Students and staff really got into the spirit with some brilliant costumes for World Book Day. We spotted everything from manga characters to The Wizard of Oz, and even Gru and his minions roaming the corridors! It was wonderful to see so much creativity and enthusiasm for books.

Tutor groups took part in a book quiz, tested their knowledge with Guess the Teacher, and had a go at Guess Who? with lots of laughs along the way. Students also received their book tokens, encouraging them to pick up their next great read.

A special highlight of the day was author Jim Cokin, who visited to talk about his book Ghost Tide. Students got the chance to listen to his inspiring talk, ask questions in a Q&A, and even purchase signed copies - what an amazing experience!

Thank you to all the students and staff who took part and helped make the day so much fun. Celebrating reading together is always one of the best days of the year!

- Report by Ms Navarro, Librarian.

This Lent, the St Ursula’s community came together in a meaningful and reflective journey of faith, centred on prayer, sacrifice and service. Students were invited to take an active role in their Lenten journey through a specially designed Lenten booklet, which guided them week by week as they documented their personal reflections, commitments and experiences.

Each week of Lent focused on a different theme, encouraging students to grow spiritually and put their faith into action through ten suggested acts linked to that theme.

Week 1: What Will My Lenten Promise Be?
Students began Lent by setting a personal intention. This week encouraged thoughtful reflection on what each individual wanted to commit to during this sacred season, helping them to approach Lent with purpose and sincerity.

Week 2: Prayer
The focus shifted to deepening communication with God. Students explored different forms of prayer and were encouraged to make time for quiet reflection, strengthening their relationship with their faith.

Week 3: Fasting
Students were invited to give up a snack and instead use the money saved to support those in need. Many contributed by purchasing items for the local foodbank, turning personal sacrifice into an act of generosity and solidarity with others.

Week 4: Reconciliation
This week offered students the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We extend our sincere thanks to the priests who generously gave their time to support this important moment of forgiveness and renewal within our school community.

Week 5: Giving
Building on the previous weeks, students focused on acts of kindness and charity, finding ways to give to others through their time, actions and compassion.

Alongside these weekly themes, students were also invited to take part in the Stations of the Cross, held every Friday at lunchtime in the Gethsemane Garden. These prayerful reflections, led by the Chaplaincy Team, provided a peaceful space for the school community to come together and walk with Christ through His journey.

Overall, Lent at St Ursula’s was a powerful reminder of the importance of reflection, faith and service. Through prayer, sacrifice and giving, students engaged deeply with the meaning of Lent and strengthened their sense of community and compassion.

- Report by Ms Murphy, Chaplain

We had 60 students from Years 8 to 11 travel to Prato Nevoso resort in northern Italy, for a week long ski trip at the beginning of March.

Many of the students were complete beginners to the slopes, and showed amazing skills in resilience and bravery throughout the week, we were so impressed with their efforts! Amazingly, some of our new skiers had even tried a black run by the end of the week!

As well as skiing, the girls were able to explore the local area, took part in a quiz and had a disco. Many have asked us about the plans for next year already! It was also lovely to hear the thank yous from parents on our return.

A big thank you to all the staff who helped me to organise this trip, Ms Curzydło, Ms Morrison-Yusuf, Ms Groves, Ms McGachan, Ms Talon-Navarro, Mr Giovanelli & Mr O’Shaughnessy.

- Report by Ms Howard, Head of Year 7

St Ursula’s School recently had the privilege of hosting a truly inspiring Ursuline conference

focused on Artificial Intelligence, bringing together Ursuline schools from across England

and Ireland, alongside Ursuline Sisters and colleagues working within the Ursuline network.

The event was a powerful opportunity to reflect on how emerging technologies intersect

with our shared values, mission, and educational practice.

The conference began at St Ursula’s with an engaging and thought-provoking presentation

from our Year 10 and 11 Computer Science students. Inspired by a talk from Laura Bates,

students explored the relationship between AI and sexism, highlighting both the risks and

responsibilities that come with technological advancement. Their insight set a reflective and

purposeful tone for the days ahead.

This was followed by a beautiful Mass led by Bishop Pat, who shared a moving personal

reflection on his family’s connection to the Ursulines in Ireland in the 1920s. His words

reminded us of the deep-rooted history and enduring mission of Ursuline education.

The conference then continued at the Clarendon Hotel, where the formal programme

began. Our first keynote speaker, Claire Broderick - Head of Computer Science and Digital

Strategy Lead at her school - shared a compelling overview of her school’s five-year AI

strategy. She discussed practical approaches, including policy development, implementation

challenges, and innovative methods such as “green-lighting” homework to clarify how

students can appropriately use AI tools.

Delegates then took part in two workshops led by St Ursula’s staff, focusing on teaching and

learning, and safeguarding in the context of AI. The evening concluded with a conference

dinner, providing a wonderful opportunity to connect and network with colleagues from

across the Ursuline community.

Saturday began with morning prayer, placing our discussions and intentions in God’s hands.

This was followed by three further workshops delivered by St Ursula’s staff. These sessions

explored AI in pastoral care, AI through the lens of Ursuline virtues, and an introduction to

Magisterium AI - demonstrating how it can support the integration of Catholic doctrine into

lessons, policies, and wider school life.

Our second keynote speaker, Dr Susie Alegre, offered a powerful and cautionary perspective

on AI. She highlighted the ethical risks and the importance of using AI thoughtfully and

responsibly, encouraging educators to remain vigilant and values driven.

The conference concluded with a closing liturgy, where delegates reflected and made

commitments to how they will guide students in using AI wisely and ethically.

This was an outstanding conference—rich in insight, collaboration, and shared purpose.

With excellent speakers, meaningful discussions, and the opportunity to strengthen

connections across Ursuline schools, it was a truly memorable and impactful event.

- Report by Ms Murphy, Chaplain

Earlier this term, a group of our Year 9 students proudly attended their graduation

ceremony at City, University of London after successfully completing The Brilliant Club

programme.

Throughout the programme, students worked closely with their PhD tutor, Sam, on an

exciting module titled “Reimagining Reality: Documentary Approaches in Art.” Over several

weeks, they explored how artists and filmmakers represent real events and perspectives,

developing their critical thinking, research, and discussion skills. The programme challenged

students to think about the ways art can shape how we understand the world around us.

The graduation event was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the students’ dedication

and achievements. Two of our students even delivered speeches during the ceremony,

confidently sharing their experiences of the programme and reflecting on what they had

learned. They represented the school brilliantly and spoke with great pride about their

work.

During the visit, students also enjoyed a tour of the university campus, giving them a

glimpse into university life and the many opportunities available in higher education. One

unexpected highlight of the day was discovering a giant chess board on campus, where

students were keen to try out the skills they have been developing in their chess lessons in

school this year.

We are incredibly proud of their commitment throughout the programme and the

enthusiasm they showed during the graduation event. Experiences like these help students

to imagine their future pathways and inspire them to continue striving for academic success.

Congratulations to all of our Brilliant Club graduates!

- Report by Ms Hughes, Assistant Head.

To end the Easter term and lead into Holy Week, St Ursula’s presented a moving Passion Play for parents and students. The production retold the story of Jesus’ final days with sensitivity, creativity, and deep reflection.

Narrated by the Year 10 GCSE drama class, the performance guided the audience through each stage of the Passion with clarity and emotion. Their storytelling helped bring meaning and structure to the powerful scenes unfolding on stage. The Drama Club delivered heartfelt and respectful performances, capturing the intensity and significance of each moment.

A standout element of the production was the choir, whose beautiful and expressive singing added depth and atmosphere throughout. Their music enhanced the emotion of the performance, creating truly memorable moments.

Overall, the Passion Play was an amazing and thought-provoking experience, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

- Report by Ms Murphy, Chaplain

There was much excitement in school as we welcomed Diego to the St Ursula’s community

back in February. Diego will be visiting the school regularly as part of a wellbeing

intervention delivered in partnership with The Dog Mentor.

This programme is designed to support pupils’ emotional wellbeing, confidence and

engagement with learning. Research shows that spending time with trained therapy dogs

can have a positive impact on pupils, making us feel more relaxed, reducing anxiety and

building confidence.

Diego achieved his Bronze Award from the Dog Mentor Programme on the day, certifying

his suitability to work in school alongside a trained handler.

Jennie Duckworth, who is the founder of the Dog Mentor programme, said “Diego was

absolutely amazing throughout the day. He was calm, engaged and clearly so connected to

his team. It was lovely to see how naturally he moves around the school and how warmly he

is received by both staff and students.

The school itself is incredible with such a strong sense of community and purpose. Together

they are going to have such a huge impact and I’m really excited to see how Diego’s journey

continues to grow within this fantastic setting.”

If you would like to learn more about the programme, you can find lots of information at

www.thedogmentor.co.uk, or contact the school office.

Welcome to the team, Diego!

- Report by Ms Hughes, Assistant Head

St Ursula's hosted a Chinese New Year celebration lunch, to welcome in the Year of the Horse. Thank you to our fantastic catering team for their efforts!

Congratulations to Ijeoma in Yr 11 who passed her Step Up to English Gold Award this week. She has worked so hard over the past two years and Ms Villa-Gomez and I are very proud of her!

- Report by Ms Wright, English

A guide for parents and carers on the dangers of vaping, and what parents and educators need to know about Zepeto.