Anglo European School

This week, Mr Marshall collected our International School Award 2025-2028 from the British Council at the Houses of Parliament. This award recognises just a small proportion of the international activities that embedded in the taught curriculum, visits and enrichment programme. At a time where the world can feel ever more fractured, it was a real pleasure to hear of the positive impact that projects and work like ours across the UK are making, creating a vital difference in young people's lives through developing students' understanding of different cultures and languages, and encouraging collaboration between students and staff in our partner schools and organisations.

It is only through the support of everyone in our school community; students, families, staff and partners, that we are able to bring internationalism to the fore and unlock the potential for our students to make a significant impact, both in the UK and abroad. Thank you to everyone who has played a part in making Anglo truly special in that regard.

Exchange programmes provide students with invaluable opportunities to experience life in the UK, develop independence, while immersing themselves in a new culture. Lower Sixth students also pair this with the chance to participate in work experience which gives them an insight into the world of work in another country. This broadens their horizons forever and develops skills that will benefit them well beyond their time at school.

During his stay with us, one of our Lower Sixth exchange students, George, undertook a period of work experience at The Lodge in Ingatestone, where he made a very positive impression. Staff at the placement praised his enthusiasm, professionalism, and willingness to learn, noting how well he engaged with both colleagues and residents.

We are delighted that his exchange experience included such a successful placement and are grateful to The Lodge in Ingatestone for providing this valuable opportunity. If you are interesting in supporting with work experience placements or know of someone who could, please email enterprise@aesessex.co.uk

We had the pleasure of welcoming Alex Burghart, MP for Brentwood and Ongar, to the school. He began his visit speaking with Year 11 student, Harriette and Mr Seager, Deputy Headteacher. Harriette is a member of the United Kingdom Youth Parliament and she spoke to Mr Burghart about her recent visit to the Houses of Parliament and her experience of participating in a debate in the chamber. She was also keen to hear his views on the future of the Youth Parliament and on funding for the International Baccalaureate, both of which Mr Burghart discussed and expressed his support for.

After his meeting Mr Burghart joined our Lower and Upper Sixth Politics students with Mrs Nichols and discussed the role of government and global politics in everyday life. Alex also spoke about how laws are made, the importance of civic engagement and international relations, and what it means to represent a community in parliament. Students asked thoughtful questions about current UK and global issues and careers in politics, making the session an engaging and informative experience.

Students have worked through a full programme of study at Slapton Ley during their field study visit. This has involved applying theoretical understanding of the hydrological and carbon cycles to practical fieldwork within Slapton Ley and the National Nature Reserve; learning descriptive statistics and understanding how to use data; and investigating coastal systems and evaluating the effectiveness of coastal defences.

Speakers from the "WizeUp" financial education company visited once again to talk to Lower Sixth students about personal finance. In this session, students learnt about the importance of budgeting and completed activities which showed effective ways to plan a monthly budget. In future sessions, students will learn about savings, investments and debt management. These sessions form part of our Citizenship curriculum, which allow students to learn the life skills required to thrive as a young adult.

In English, three Year 7 classes are studying the ancient Greek classic story of Odysseus' journey from the Trojan War home to Ithaca. His stop on Circe's enchanted isle was marked with a creative homework where students were asked to create a mask for a character from the play. The masks include Circe, her furies, sailors turned into pigs, Hermes, Odysseus and even Polyphemos, a cyclops. The students used the masks to enact sections from the play in the style of the ancient Greek theatre.

Sixty-four Year 7 students have been published in the Young Writers poetry anthology. Our young poets share their visions of change, possibility, hope, justice, and even imaginary worlds. Through vivid imagery, bold ideas, and personal truth, they have brought their dreams to life. A copy is available in the library: come and explore words that will challenge, inspire, and comfort. Well done to everyone who entered.

Romantasy is a genre that combines fantasy and romance, set in magical worlds where adventure and relationships drive the story. These books explore themes of love, loyalty, and courage alongside quests, conflict, and imagination, offering readers both excitement and emotional depth. Check out the display in the Library for some book ideas for half term.

Parents, please check your email for a message regarding your child's language choices for next year. Mrs Latimer met with students in assembly this week regarding how to express an interest in studying Italian or Russian (not applicable for students in the MEP). The email includes a link to a form which must be completed by Friday 27th February should your child wish to be considered.

School isn’t just about classes—it’s about discovering what makes you you. Joining an extracurricular activity is your chance to explore new interests, build confidence, make friends, and learn skills that last way beyond the classroom. Whether it’s sports, music, drama, debate, art, coding, or a club you’ve never heard of before, there’s something waiting for you. You don’t have to be an expert—just curious. Take the leap, try something new!

Year 11 and Upper Sixth students: As exams approach, students are strongly encouraged to attend scheduled revision classes. These sessions are a valuable opportunity to strengthen understanding, clarify difficult topics, and build confidence ahead of assessments. Regular attendance, active participation, and consistent revision can make a real difference—make the most of the support available and give yourself the best chance to succeed.

Year 10 student, Jasper and five other young musicians were invited to play at Downing Street this week at an event for representatives of UK professional orchestras and Rachel Reeves. Jasper was honoured to be chosen for this event, having played in the National Children's Orchestra of Great Britain for several years. He had to get there very early to be met and shown through the main black entry gates on Whitehall into Downing Street, and then through the airport style security into the building. He was playing in number 11, the Chancellor of The Exchequor's office and residence. He appreciates how fortunate he is that his music has lead to experiencing things like this, which are very special.

Congratulations to Year 7 students, Bobby and Henry who have been nominated to receive Jack Petchey Awards by their local youth club. They were praised for being outstanding achievers in everything they do at the club and for their kindness to the other members. Both boys have been members for two years and enjoy spending time socialising, playing games such as football and tennis, participating in activities such as raft building at Layer Marney Tower and enjoying lots of fun days out. Congratulations to you both on your well-deserved award.

Raise and Give Week will take place during the week commencing Monday 9th March, and we are kindly asking for donations of chocolate to support our tombola stall. Any chocolate donations, large or small, would be greatly appreciated and will help us raise funds for our chosen school charities. Students, please take donations to Student Services, parents/visitors please leave donations with the Main School Office. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support in helping to make Raise and Give Week a success.

This May, we are planning to run a Grand Prize Draw and we are currently seeking donations of high-value prizes.

If you, or someone you know, would be willing to donate a fantastic prize, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch with us at aesa@aesessex.co.uk.

Thank you for your continued support - every contribution helps make a difference!

To find out more about 2026 Fundraising Events please visit our AESA Events page.

https://www.aesessex.co.uk/home/parents/anglo-european-school-association-aesa/aesa-events/

Parents and students over 16 are warmly invited to join us for Quiz Night—an evening of fun, friendly competition, and community spirit. Come test your knowledge, work as a team, and enjoy plenty of laughs along the way. It’s a great chance for families to connect, support the school, and spend quality time together outside the classroom. We hope to see you there! Get your ticket now!

Anglo European Quiz Night Friday 27th February 2026 7.00pm - 10.00pm – Fill in form

Year 7 students, Taiki, Dexter, Sebastian and Monty been selected to represent the United Kingdom at the prestigious Paris Saint-Germain Academy World Cup, taking place in Paris from 9th–13th May 2026. This is an outstanding achievement and a moment of real pride for these students and everyone who has supported their football journey.

The international tournament will welcome over 500 elite academy players from 18 countries across four continents, competing in 40 teams across the U11 to U15 age groups. To be chosen among such a talented global field is a remarkable honour, and a testament to their dedication, skill, and hard work.

Adding to the excitement, the students will take part in the opening ceremony at the iconic Parc des Princes, the home of Paris Saint-Germain. In an unforgettable experience, players will parade with their national flags ahead of the PSG vs Brest Ligue 1 fixture, stepping onto one of football’s most famous stages.

Tournament matches will be held at PSG’s state-of-the-art training complex in Poissy, with the finals returning to the Parc des Princes—making this an experience few young footballers ever get the chance to live.

We couldn’t be prouder of these athletes and look forward to cheering them on as they represent our school and country on the world stage.

The Year 7 boys' Football team won their latest league game 5-2 after a good team display. Bobby scored the goal of the match with an excellent 20 yard free kick which went in off the bar. Great team work boys!

The Year 7b Netball team put in a fantastic performance at their recent rally. They came 3rd out of 8 teams, narrowly missing out on 2nd due to goal difference. An excellent performance in atrack and defence. Miss Whitlock awarded players of the match to Amelie and Lottie. Well done girls!

We invited Year 11 student, Janine, to tell us more about her passion for cheerleading:

“I’ve been doing cheerleading for around seven years, and I am currently part of TopGun Allstars UK. TopGun is a world-renowned cheerleading organisation with elite gyms across the USA, and we are the only official TopGun gym in the United Kingdom. Being part of this programme means training at one of the top facilities in the country.

We usually train two to three times a week for long hours. Beyond the team training sessions, we carry out additional exercises individually at home 4-5 times a week, which we record and share with the whole team, including the coaches. Training can be intense, but I really enjoy it because it focuses a lot on teamwork, fitness and improving our skills as a team.

This season has been really successful for us. At our most recent competition, we were the highest-scoring team across the whole event across all categories, and also won prize money that will go towards competing at The Summit in Florida, which is a global cheerleading competition for Levels 1–5. This is a huge achievement, especially as my team, Mint, carries a legacy of being three-time Summit champions. Maintaining that standard of excellence and perfection maked all the hard work feel worthwhile.

Cheerleading has been an unforgettable experience for me. It has helped me grow in confidence and taught me a lot about commitment, resilience, and working as part of a team.

Our next major competition will be Cheersport Nationals in Atlanta, USA, and we are continuing to train hard and improve together as a team.”

We wish Janine all the very best of luck in Atlanta.

18th January to 14th March - Year 10 Frankfurt Long Term Exchange

Tuesday 10th February - Dinan, Weisbaden and Blanes virtual parents' evening

Thursday 12th February - Themed lunch: Chinese

16th to 20th February - HALF TERM

23rd February to 15th March - Year 10 Avignon Long Term Exchange at AES

Tuesday 24th February at 6.30pm - Year 7 Ebblinghem Parents' Information Evening

Thursday 26th February - Year 10 Parents' Evening (virtual)

Friday 27th February from 7pm - AESA Quiz Night

Monday 9th February - Year 9 Basketball v NewHall @AES/ Year 7 Basketball @Plume

Wednesday 11th February - Year 10 Boys' Essex Plate @AES / Year 8 Boys' Football @Moulsham / Year 10 Netball vSJP @AES / Kurling Inclusion Event

Thursday 12th February - Year 9 Basketball @Shenfield / Year 9 and 10 Girls' Football v Ormiston @AES

Monday 23rd February - Year 7 Boys Futsal @Sandon / Year 8 Girls' Football v Ormiston

Wednesday 25th February - Year 7 Girls' MESSSA Futsal @Sandon / Year 9 Boys' Football @Plume / Year 7 Basketball v New Hall

Thursday 26th February - Year 9 Rugby v Plume @AES / Year 8 Brentwood Netball Rally

Please note fixtures are organised by all schools so can be subject to change and last minute cancellations - the PE staff will keep those involved in fixtures up to date with information.

Term Dates 2025-2027 - https://www.aesessex.co.uk/assets/Documents/Attachments/Term-Dates-2025-2027.pdf

Finance - finance@aesessex.co.uk

Admissions - admissions@aesessex.co.uk

Visits - visits@aesessex.co.uk

Attendance - report this through the Arbor using the orange tab "Quick Actions", click on Attendance and Log Absence

Email: enquiries@aesessex.co.uk
Website: aesessex.co.uk
Location: Anglo European School, CM4 0DJ, Willow Green, Ingatestone, UK
Phone: 01277 354018