 St. Bede's Catholic College
T: 0117 3772200
E: contact@stbcc.org
W: www.stbedescc.org
Issue 405 20th March 2026
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
This week's theme has been healing. In assemblies we have discussed moving beyond the physical to mental, emotional and spiritual healing that we all need at times in our lives. We have reflected on Pope Francis's message to "heal the wounds", avoiding the temptation to consider whether the hurt person is a friend, but just to offer help unconditionally. This is a challenge for us all as we try to soothe the pain within our communities.
The countdown to GCSE and A Level exams has well and truly begun. Students are working hard with their teachers to ensure they have the best chance of success this summer. Thank you to our families for your love and support through this challenging time for the young people.
Lord Jesus,
We lift up our entire school community to You — students, staff, and families.
We ask You to reach out Your healing hand to comfort our brokenness and bring strength to our weakness.
Please heal the minds that are anxious, the hearts that are discouraged, and the bodies that are weary.
Bring Your peace that surpasses all understanding to those facing academic pressure, social struggles, or illness.
We pray for our school to be a sanctuary of love and safety. Teach us to support and nurture one another, embracing our diversity as one body in Christ.
We place our school in Your hands, trusting in Your mercy.
Amen.
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St. Bede’s Celebrates National Recognition for Student Achievement
We are delighted to share that St Bede’s Catholic College has been recognised nationally for the outstanding achievements of our students.
The school has been awarded an SSAT Educational Outcomes Award, placing St Bede’s in the top 10% of non-selective schools in the country for student attainment in the 2025 end of Key Stage 4 examinations. This prestigious recognition highlights the exceptional academic success achieved by our students and reflects the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our staff and wider school community.
The awards are presented by SSAT (The Schools Network) and are based on detailed national analysis from the SSAT Educational Outcomes database. This database combines information from the Department for Education and Ofsted to assess the performance of state-funded schools across England. As a result, these awards are given only to the highest-performing schools nationally, making this recognition a significant achievement for St Bede’s.
We are extremely proud of our students, whose determination and effort have made this possible, and we would also like to thank our staff, families, and governors for the support and dedication they provide every day.
Congratulations to all members of the St Bede’s community on this wonderful success. It is a proud moment for the school and a testament to the strength of our shared commitment to excellence in education.
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ST BEDE’S WAY SPOTLIGHT
Work Hard, Be Kind and Do the Right Thing 
The St. Bede’s Way Spotlight shines a light on students who live out our guiding principles: Work Hard. Be Kind. Do the Right Thing. These values shape our community and inspire our students to make a positive difference both in school and beyond.
This week, we are proud to recognise Anele in Year 10 for an act of kindness that perfectly reflects what St. Bede’s Way is all about.
While walking in Lawrence Weston, Anele noticed a member of the public whose car had broken down. The driver had asked his child to help push the car out of the way, but the boy was clearly struggling. Without hesitation, Anele stepped forward and offered to help. His willingness to stop and assist a stranger made a difficult moment much easier for the family.
Anele demonstrated two of our core principles: Being Kind and Doing the Right Thing. His actions show how small moments of compassion can have a big impact.
Well done, Anele. We are very proud of you for representing the very best of St. Bede’s Way.
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NEURODIVERSITY CELEBRATION WEEK
We are proud to be celebrating Neurodiversity Celebration Week in school this week. This important initiative challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences, while recognising and valuing the unique strengths individuals bring to our community.
Throughout the week, we have been celebrating the many talents and differences within our school, with the aim of continuing to build a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. A range of lunchtime drop-in sessions have taken place, including opportunities to gather student voice on what helps them learn best and how peers can become better allies. We have also hosted a neurodivergent girls’ meet-up, a session focused on access arrangements for tests and exams, post-16 study skills support, and a dyslexia drop-in session.
Around the school, displays have been sharing advice and experiences from neurodiverse staff, helping to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations. It has been particularly encouraging to hear students discussing neurodiversity in the corridors and engaging thoughtfully with the themes of the week.
The poem below, written by Gabriel A, one of our neurodiverse Year 10 students, beautifully reflects on neurodiversity and the importance of understanding and acceptance.
As always, we remain committed to fostering an inclusive culture where every student feels understood, supported and able to thrive.
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CULTURAL WEEK CELEBRATIONS
The Year 12 Art Enrichment group, comprising 26 students, have been busy painting and stitching into their flags in preparation for our annual Cultural Week celebrations at the end of this month. Each flag represents the diverse backgrounds of students across the College, highlighting the richness of our cultural community. 41 were made in all and will be displayed in our blue area this week for all to enjoy!
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Vision for the future: British Science Week Poster Competition
Are you ready to use your creativity to shape the future? As part of British Science Week 2026, we are excited to launch our school-wide Poster Competition!
This year’s theme is incredibly special. We aren’t just looking for posters; we are looking for your visions. The British Science Association is working with the Government Office for Science and researchers at Northumbria University to find out what young people think will make a ‘positive childhood’ in the future.
This is a chance for your voice to be heard at a national level—and to win some serious points for your House!
The Brief
We want you to explore the question: “What will a positive childhood look like in the future for people your age?”
Think about how science, technology, and society might change. Will it be about new ways to connect, sustainable environments, or revolutionary healthcare? Your poster should be a creative, thoughtful, and informative response to this research question.
Calling All Sixth Formers!
We especially want to see entries from our Senior 3 (Years 12-13) students. For the older age categories, judges are looking for a sophisticated approach. Why not take inspiration from how professional research scientists present their work? Use data, diagrams, and sharp visual communication to make your case for what the future should look like. This is a fantastic addition to any UCAS application or CV, demonstrating your ability to engage with national research projects.
What’s at Stake?
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House Points: Every entry earns points for your House!
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School Selection: We will select the top 5 posters from the entire school to be officially entered into the National British Science Week Competition.
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National Prizes: The national winners receive a range of STEM-themed prizes, from tech gadgets and books to unique science experiences.
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Real-World Impact: Anonymised data from the posters will be used in a published research report, meaning your ideas could help inform government thinking on the future of childhood.
The Rules
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Format: A4 or A3 paper only (no 3D models). You can use any materials you like, including digital design.
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Originality: No templates! It must be your own original work.
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Teams: You can work individually or in a small team (prizes are split between team members).
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Judging Criteria: The judges are looking for Content (answering the question), Communication (engaging design), and Creativity (thinking outside the box).
How to Enter
Please submit your physical posters (or high-quality printed digital versions) to Mrs Powers by Monday 30th March 2026.
Don’t miss this chance to represent the school and show the country what the future looks like through your eyes. Get curious, get creative, and let’s win those House points!
For more inspiration, visit: britishscienceweek.org/plan-your-activities/poster-competition/
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UNIVERSITY TASTER DAY
On Monday 9th March, 24 Year 12 Geography students visited the University of Bristol for a Taster Day at the historic Wills Memorial Building. Immersed in the grand setting of the university’s graduation hall, our students gained a true taste of undergraduate life—perhaps even a preview of where they will stand to receive their own degrees in a few years’ time!
The day focused on a Decision-Making Exercise (DME) regarding the Temple Quarter regeneration. Exploring the theme of ‘Changing Places,’ students worked with university experts, urban planners, and artists to evaluate the sustainability and community impact of the project.
Our geographers applied classroom theory to real-world data, using OS maps to build their case studies. The day culminated in professional group pitches, where students presented their visions for the site and assessed whether the project is meeting its ambitious goals. It was an excellent opportunity to develop the analytical and presentation skills vital for their A-Level success.
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From Torpedoes to Teamwork: Our Engineers of the Future
Year 8 students spent a high-octane day at Babcock’s Festival of Engineering, proving that the future of STEM is in very capable hands. Coinciding with UNESCO World Engineering Day, 25 of our students headed to the front lines of innovation to see what a career in engineering really looks like.
The highlights? It was a non-stop rotation of "cool":
Virtual Reality: Mastering the art of welding via VR simulators.
Robotics: Coding LEGO SPIKE kits and operating robotic arms.
The Big Build: Designing rafts for "The Boat Float" and constructing bridges under pressure.
Inside Access: Stepping into the world of torpedo launch simulators and PPE.
The day kicked off with a powerful call to action from Alice Bunn OBE, CEO of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, who challenged our students to smash stereotypes and think big.
To top off an amazing day, one of our very own walked away with a signed Bristol Bears shirt for their outstanding Engagement!
We are so proud of how our pupils represented the school while tackling the engineering challenges of tomorrow.
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Year 9 Boys Gymnastics
Our Year 9 boys are coming to the end of their Key Stage 3 gymnastics programme, bringing together the skills they have developed throughout the last three years.
The pathway began in Year 7 with floor gymnastics, where students learnt the fundamental movements of balance, control and body management. In Year 8, they progressed to vaulting and routine construction, developing the confidence to link movements together and perform structured sequences.
The programme culminates in Year 9 with a trampolining competition, where students showcase their routines and apply the knowledge they have built across the key stage. Pupils also take on the role of judges, using the Physical, Thinking, Social and Personal MEs in PE to evaluate performances and ensure a fair and supportive competition.
It has been great to see the boys demonstrate resilience, cooperation and growing technical ability as they complete their KS3 gymnastics journey.
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FREE SCHOOL MEAL VOUCHERS
Free School Meal vouchers for the Easter break will be issued by Thursday 2nd April and will be £30 per student authorised to receive FSM as at that date.
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PERIOD PRODUCTS
Period products are available from Student Support and in the Medical Room.
Students are encouraged to take what they need.
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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
THURSDAY 26TH MARCH
National Theatre Performance at Bristol Old Vic
FRIDAY 27TH MARCH - 5.00PM - 6.30PM
Cultural Showcase - Tickets available on MCAS
MONDAY 30TH MARCH - TUESDAY 31ST MARCH
HE+ Cambridge University Residential Trip - Year 12
1ST APRIL
Ski Trip to Canada departs
Last Day of Term for Students
2ND APRIL
INSET DAY - END OF TERM 4
20TH APRIL
START OF TERM 5
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USE OF THE COLLEGE CANTEEN
Families are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure that their child(ren) has a sufficient balance on their account to purchase food from the canteen and that arrears should be the exception. Emails are regularly sent out to families whose child(ren)'s accounts breach the
Arrears limit.
If your child(ren)'s arrears exceed our £6.00 limit, they will have to seek permission from a member of the Leadership Team, before being allowed to purchase anything for lunch or break.
Please look out for emails in MCAS in regard to canteen overspends and ensure funds are added to cover subsequent days.
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HOLIDAY HUB
Get ready for new adventures this spring with Your Holiday Hub.
Children and young people in Bristol who receive benefits-related free school meals, can book lots of
fun activity sessions taking place during the school holidays from 6 to 17 April.
Your Holiday Hub sessions are fully funded and include a healthy meal as part of the day.
There are lots to choose from with activities ranging from sports to crafts, and drama to baking plus so much more. Join in and stay active with fun new things to see and do.
Please visit
www.yourholidayhubbristol.co.uk to find out more and book your place today.
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INTER-HOUSE BASKETBALL AND FOOTBALL
This fortnight saw the exciting start of our inter-house competition, with Year 8 leading the way in fantastic style. The boys got things underway with some highly competitive basketball matches, while the girls showcased their skills and teamwork on the football pitch.
It was brilliant to see such enthusiasm, effort and house spirit on display from all involved. The standard of play was excellent, and students represented their houses with pride.
We’re now looking forward to the rest of the school taking part next week—good luck to everyone competing!
Scores will be announced in the next newsletter.
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Foundation Governor Vacancy – St Bede’s Catholic College
St Bede’s Catholic College is seeking to appoint a Foundation Governor and would warmly welcome applications from individuals who are passionate about supporting Catholic education.
We are looking for someone with enthusiasm, commitment and a belief in the value of Catholic education, who would like to play a meaningful role in helping St Bede’s continue to flourish.
While applications are welcome from all backgrounds, we would be particularly interested to hear from individuals with financial expertise.
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You do not need to be an education specialist to become a governor. Our governing body benefits from members with a wide range of professional backgrounds and life experiences, and we are keen to further strengthen this diversity. Training and support are provided.
St Bede’s enjoys an excellent reputation locally, within the Diocese and nationally, and has been recognised by the Diocese as an Outstanding Catholic College.
The commitment involves attending Full Governing Body and committee meetings three times a year, which take place during the day.
Further information about the role of a governor in a Catholic school can be found here:
https://schools.cliftondiocese.com/governance
If you are interested in supporting the college by becoming a Foundation Governor, please complete the application form available here:
https://schools.cliftondiocese.com/form-2
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REFLECTION – 19 March
St Joseph, the husband of the Virgin Mary
This week, we celebrate the Feast of St. Joseph. While the Gospels don't record a single word spoken by Joseph, his life speaks volumes through his actions.
Known as the "Silent Saint," Joseph reminds us that leadership isn't always loud. It is found in the quiet reliability of showing up, the integrity of doing "ordinary" work well, and the courage to protect those who are vulnerable.
For us, Joseph is a powerful model: he didn't seek the spotlight, yet he played a vital role in the greatest story ever told.
His life was defined by a series of courageous "Yeses." Whether it was leading his family to safety in Egypt or teaching Jesus the craft of carpentry, Joseph showed us that faithfulness is found in the daily grind.
Joseph is a reminder that you don’t need a platform or a "following" to make an impact.
As the Patron Saint of Workers, Joseph sanctified the ordinary. He reminds us that our studies and our daily chores are not just "things to get through," but opportunities to serve God. He didn't just build furniture; he built a home for the Son of God.
Reflection: He was a 'just man,' a tireless worker, the upright guardian of those entrusted to his care. St Pope John Paul II
Prayer: Prayer to St Joseph
Saint Joseph, patron of the universal Church, watch over the Church as carefully as you watched over Jesus, help protect it and guide it as you did with your adopted son.
Amen.
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ST BEDE'S DANCE
On Sunday 3rd March, St Bede’s students took to the stage at Stages, a vibrant Bristol schools’ dance showcase, delivering two memorable performances.
The first group featured boys from Years 11, 12 and 13, who demonstrated impressive commitment and skill. They were joined by a second group from Areté, whose achievement was particularly remarkable—having learnt their routine in just three enrichment sessions.
Both performances were met with enthusiastic applause and were clearly enjoyed by audiences and fellow schools alike. The energy, teamwork and creativity on display reflected the dedication of all involved.
Congratulations to everyone who took part—St Bede’s Dance continues to go from strength to strength!
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YEAR 10 REPRESENT BRISTOL SCHOOLS
Four Year 10 students were selected to represent the Bristol Schools Under-15 side in their annual fixture against Stroud Schools. This is a brilliant achievement, earned through all the hard work and some excellent performances during the rugby season earlier this year.
Despite extremely windy conditions, the boys showed great character. Bertie, Matt, and Sam all made excellent attacking and defensive contributions, showcasing their skill and determination throughout the game. Ollie was also selected for the fixture, which is a testament to his performances this season, but unfortunately was unable to play due to injury.
The team secured an impressive 20–15 victory against a strong and physical Stroud side, making the achievement even more special.
All of the boys should be incredibly proud of their selection and the way they represented both the school and Bristol.
Well done!
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Visit to the Relics of St Carlo Acutis
Members of the KS3 Chaplaincy team were honoured to visit St Gregory the Great Parish Church in Cheltenham to see the relics of St Carlo Acutis, which were visiting the Diocese.
Relics are physical remains of a saint or objects that have been in contact with them. They serve as a reminder of the saint’s life, inspire our own journey of faith, and give glory to God.
Some reflections from the Chaplaincy team:
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“I enjoyed the Mass, especially when I got to see the relics really closely.” – Natalie, Year 8
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“I felt closer to God during the Mass and blessed to be there to see the relics.” – Eva, Year 8
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“The trip was amazing. I got to see a relic of a saint and enjoyed it so much.” – Lucy, Year 8
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“It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and something I will never forget.” – Sienna, Year 8
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TEAM PILGRIM
Team Pilgrim’s Year 11 boys football team booked their place in the Bristol Schools Final after a thrilling semi-final encounter. After going 1–0 down, the boys showed great resilience to fight back and level the score at 1–1.
Pilgrim thought they had won it late on with a well-taken goal, only for it to be ruled offside, sending the match to a tense penalty shootout.
The team held their nerve superbly, converting all five penalties to secure a 5–3 victory. Every player showed great composure from the spot under pressure.
Pilgrim of the Match goes to Xavvie M-W, who made two crucial saves in the shootout to send Team Pilgrim through to the final.
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Team Pilgrim’s Year 9 boys football produced their best performance of the season to secure a place in the Bristol Schools Semi-Finals with an impressive 4–1 victory over Orchard.
The team delivered a confident and energetic display, working hard for one another and showing great quality throughout the match. Their effort and teamwork proved too strong for the opposition as they controlled the game and finished their chances well.
Pilgrim of the Match was awarded to Seb R, who ran tirelessly from start to finish and led by example with his determination and work rate.
Well done to the whole squad as they look ahead to the semi-finals.
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LIBRARY NEWS
 Our Year 7s and 8s celebrated World Book Day with a story to begin every lesson. Staff and Year 7s enjoyed the World Book Day story, Skandar and the Secret Element while Year 8s had a ‘taster menu’, starting a story each lesson, with the opportunity to borrow the full book from the Library.
Congratulations to Bernard and Matylda who won last term’s Get Caught Reading. We hope you enjoy your books!
We are currently supporting the Year 7s English Curriculum with their topic on myths and legends and marking International Women’s Day.
The Carnegie shortlists have been revealed! We have started shadowing the Illustration award with Year 7s and the Writing Award with Year 9s. It’s not too late to get involved - anyone interested in taking part should come and see Mrs Nicks or Mrs Hayman in the Library.
Finally, as part of the National Year of Reading we have expanded the selection of magazines we offer in the Library. Whatever you’re into, GO ALL IN!
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ANNUAL SWIMMING GALA
It was time for the annual swimming gala last week. It is always hard to pick a team when there is a maximum of four spaces across two-year groups. Those who swam truly swam their hearts out.
It was a great event, showing real team spirit, full of cheers and high-fives, which made the five hours spent standing at the side of a very warm swimming pool worth it.
Special mentions go to Laurie, who came home in first place in the Year 7 & 8 50m freestyle, and Lauren, who regained her title in the backstroke despite moving up an age group and being one of the youngest competitors. Both won the famous Bristol Schools Swimming gold hats—well done!
Thank you also to the parents who volunteered their time for timekeeping and organising the event.
The intermediate girls are pictured with their bronze medal from the medley relay, along with Lauren and her gold.
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Aon Work Experience Opportunity (Year 12)
Applications are now open for Aon’s Bristol Work Insights Programme (1st–3rd July 2026). This is a great opportunity for Year 12 students interested in business, finance, or apprenticeships to gain real insight into the corporate world.
No CV is required—just complete a short application form. Deadline: 26th April.
Students will benefit from mentoring, group projects, and networking opportunities. Lunch is provided and travel costs are reimbursed. Priority is given to students receiving free school meals or a sixth form bursary.
Apply here by clicking the link.
Find out more: https://www.aon.com/careers/early-careers/uk/workinsight
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EXAM PERIOD - PRACTICAL SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
As the exam period approaches, we understand that this can be a stressful time for both students and their families. To help support your child’s wellbeing and success, please find below a link which provides a helpful guide from Young Minds, offering practical hints and tips.
This resource includes advice on managing stress, maintaining a healthy routine, and encouraging positive study habits. Small steps—such as ensuring your child gets enough sleep, eats well, and takes regular breaks—can make a significant difference to their focus and confidence.
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/parents-a-z-mental-health-guide/exam-time/
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Reminder: Mobile Phone Expectations
We would like to remind all families of the school’s mobile phone 'on site out of sight' policy. Students are not permitted to use their phones during the school day.
Recently, we have seen an increase in students contacting home during school hours. Please be aware that if a student uses their phone to contact home for any reason, this will result in the phone being confiscated and detention.
If a student needs to get in touch with home urgently, they should go through the school office or student support, where staff will be happy to support them.
We appreciate your continued support in reinforcing these expectations and helping us maintain a focused learning environment for all students.
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Medication: Important Reminder
We would like to remind parents and carers that students should not carry any medication in their bags, including items such as paracetamol or antibiotics.
If your child requires medication during the school day, a medication consent form must be completed by a parent or carer. The medication, along with the completed form, should then be handed in to Student Support, where it will be stored and administered appropriately.
These procedures are in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students. We appreciate your cooperation in following this guidance.
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ARETÉ 6TH FORM FOOTBALL
The Areté 6th Form football team have travelled across Bristol competing against other schools and colleges this season.
Losing to Downend but beating Digitech, Bradley Stoke and St Bernard Lovell Academy they topped their respective league to make it through to the quarter finals where we joined the rest of Gloucestershire.
They beat Cheltenham Bournside in the quarter finals before being drawn away to St Peter's in Gloucester. The team fought hard and they showed great resilience and spirit coming from 4-1 down back to 4-3 but it proved too much in the end.
A fantastic effort from the 6th Form team and a big thank you to Mr Curnock for all the organising and refereeing he has done this season.
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