The Bulmershe Bulletin – Issue 20
7th February 2025
Dear Parents and Carers,
This week, we marked Children’s Mental Health Week with a focus on the theme “Know Yourself to Grow Yourself.”
Throughout the week, students have been exploring self-awareness – how understanding themselves better can help them grow. From tutor time discussions to assemblies, they’ve reflected on five key messages:
1️⃣ Self-reflection
2️⃣ Knowing your strengths and weaknesses
3️⃣ Managing your emotions
4️⃣ Considering others
5️⃣ Accepting criticism
On Thursday, we held our annual Wellbeing Day, where students and staff wore whatever made them feel comfortable. It was wonderful to see so much individuality and self-expression across the school!
The canteen was buzzing with music, and the Student Council picked the day’s menu, which included colourful cupcakes and a firm favourite: Kung-Po Chicken.
As always, Wellbeing Day is also about giving back. This year, all money raised will go to Reading Samaritans, supporting their vital work in mental health.
With mental health challenges among young people on the rise, it’s so important we keep encouraging open conversations. If you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Miss Chapman (achapman@bulmershe.wokingham.sch.uk). We’re always here to support.
Amanda Woodfin
Headteacher
Upcoming Events
10th – 14th Feb – National Apprenticeship Week
Wed 12th Feb – Sixth Form Book Club, 6th form café, 3-4pm
Thu 13th Feb – Year 12 Parents’ Evening (online)
w/c 17th Feb – Half Term
Wed 26th Feb – Year 8 “Hooked” presentation
Wed 26th Feb – SEND Drop In
4-6th Mar – GCSE Drama Exams
LGBTQ+ History Month
February is LGBTQ+ History Month, and this week, students have been exploring the theme of Activism and Social Change. This was an opportunity to reflect on how laws and attitudes have changed over time, as well as the contributions LGBTQ+ individuals have made to history, culture and society.
In assemblies, students learned about key moments in British history, from early laws persecuting LGBTQ+ people to the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the 1960s. They also explored the impact of Section 28, a law that prevented schools from discussing LGBTQ+ issues, and how its repeal led to the establishment of LGBTQ+ History Month.
Students were introduced to well-known activists: Alun Turing, who helped crack the enigma code during the second world war, Marsha P. Johnson, a key figure in the 1969 Stonewall riots in the USA, which helped spark the modern Pride movement and Sir Ian McKellen, who co-founded an organisation called Stonewall after the events in America, in response to Britain’s Section 28 which prevented schools, healthcare and libraries from talking to young people about LGBTQ+.
While great progress has been made in the UK, LGBTQ+ people still face challenges around the world. This year, however, has seen positive changes, with Thailand and Liechtenstein both legalising same-sex marriage in January 2025.
At Bulmershe, we believe it’s important for all students to feel safe and supported. Our No Labels club, running every Tuesday after school in the Sixth Form Café, provides a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ students and allies. It’s a place to chat, play games, and connect in a supportive environment.
LGBTQ+ History Month is a reminder that inclusivity and respect matter, and we are proud to celebrate diversity as part of our school community.
National Apprenticeship Week
At The Bulmershe School, we believe that every student’s journey after school should be guided by their individual strengths, ambitions and interests. Whether they choose to go to university, start an apprenticeship, or step straight into the world of work, we want to support them in exploring the full range of opportunities available.
Next week, we’ll be recognising National Apprenticeship Week 2025 (10th – 16th February) — a nationwide celebration of apprenticeships and the exciting career paths they offer. Apprenticeships combine hands-on experience with training, allowing young people to earn while they learn and develop valuable workplace skills.
While university remains a popular choice, apprenticeship opportunities are growing across many industries, from STEM and business to the creative sector. However, recent government data shows that fewer young people are choosing this route. That’s why we’re committed to making sure our students understand all the options available so they can make informed choices about their futures.
Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing resources, subject-specific information and activities to help students explore how apprenticeships can lead to exciting careers. If you’d like to learn more about apprenticeships, check out the National Apprenticeship Week website.
Sixth Form Admissions
The Bulmershe Sixth Form goes from strength to strength, and this year is no exception! We are thrilled to have received an incredible 530 applications for our Year 12 intake in September 2025. Of these, 180 applications come from our current Year 11 students, demonstrating the confidence and trust they have in continuing their education with us. 350 applications have come from external students, who are eager to join our Sixth Form community.
Over the coming months, every applicant will be invited to an interview with the Sixth Form team. These interviews provide a valuable opportunity for students to reflect on their subject choices, discuss future aspirations and ensure they are making the best decisions for their next steps. This experience also serves as excellent preparation for future college, university and job interviews – an essential skill for whatever pathway they choose after Year 13.
With such a high level of interest, we are excited to continue expanding and developing our Sixth Form offer, ensuring that Bulmershe remains a top choice for post-16 education in the local area.
We look forward to welcoming our new cohort in September and can’t wait to see our Sixth Form community continue to grow and thrive!
Exploring Conflict through Science
As part of this term’s whole-school theme of Conflict, students in Science have been exploring how scientific progress is often driven by conflict—whether between different ideas, competing evidence, or ethical debates.
Year 7 students have been learning about the history of the periodic table and how scientific conflict shaped its development. While scientists like Béguyer de Chancourtois (1863) and Odling (1864) had early ideas similar to those of Mendeleev, their work was not widely accepted at the time due to resistance within the scientific community. Even Mendeleev’s own ideas were met with scepticism, and a personal conflict with Svante Arrhenius meant he was blocked from receiving a Nobel Prize.
Year 10 students have been investigating radioactivity, a topic that continues to spark debate today. While radioactivity has led to life-saving medical advancements and is a key source of nuclear power, it is also associated with the risks of nuclear weapons. When Pierre Curie accepted the Nobel Prize, he acknowledged this conflict, saying: “I am one of those who believe with Nobel that mankind will derive more good than harm from the new discoveries.”
In Biology, students have engaged in ethical discussions around organ donation. After considering different perspectives, they debated the thought-provoking question: Should organ donation be compulsory for under-18s? These discussions encourage students to develop their ability to understand and respect opposing viewpoints.
Scientific conflict is not just a thing of the past—it continues today. Debates over climate change and the future of energy production show how scientific progress often comes through disagreement. By engaging with these discussions, students are learning how conflict can drive change in both science and society.
Sixth form book club
[Reminder] Year 10 WEX Feedback
As shared last week, we would really appreciate it if Year 10 families could take a moment and share their feedback on our Work Experience process. Thank you to those who have already completed the form. Apologies to those who tried last week, but couldn’t gain access… technical issues should now be resolved.
Cucina Main Meals – w/c 10th February
HOT CHOCOLATE INVITATIONS
I like to welcome deserving students to my office to share a cup of hot chocolate with me on a Friday during registration. These students are nominated by staff who have been impressed by progress, achievement or attitude.
This week, I would like to invite Mia K, Brooke P, Saba A, Tayleigh M and Aakanksha Y, all in year 10, to join me for a celebratory cup of hot chocolate on Friday 14th February at 8:35am.
Shout Outs
On a Friday we like to shine a spotlight on those who deserve a thank you or have done well over the past week. If you would like to nominate your child, or a member of staff, please use our nomination email address: HeadsPA@bulmershe.wokingham.sch.uk.
Student Shout Outs
Mrs Whitmarsh would like to give a shout out to Year 12 drama students who are working incredibly hard on their devising work and a special mention to Caitlin B who is supporting year 11 students with their portfolio coursework.
Miss Parker would like to give a shout out to the following students for attending the Reading College trip on Wednesday evening and independently exploring a new place! Emily C, Hajrah A, Owais H, Chloe J, Zaynab K, Tehya S and Karanvir S.
Miss Parker would also like to commend the following Year 10 tutor groups for an excellent start on their first CVs this week: 10YL, 10XM, 10YM and 10XE. She was impressed with the effort and consideration they put in to creating their CVs on Wednesday, all CVs looked professional and well written! Well done! The remaining year 10 tutor group sessions will continue next week. Finally, she would like to thank the following students who have gone above and beyond in preparing for their futures; Abi P, Audrey B, Emily C and Vinethma W
Mrs Woodfin would like to thank Adam S and Aarya R who helped an elderly gentleman who had fallen off his bike. They stayed with him until the ambulance came. It was later discovered that he had broken his femur. Both showed kindness and compassion.
The Admin team would like to give a shout out to Rimas S for being an amazing friend and kind to all those around her! She kept her friend calm in Medical and helped her every way she could.
Staff Shout Outs
Mrs Whitmarsh would like to give a shout out to Mr Wicks and Mr Andrew for their incredible work in increasing the after school offer in music and inspiring so many students to attend our new band and theory clubs. And also to Ms Everleigh who has created two Bulmershe dance teams and is offering our students fantastic extra-curricular dance experiences
What’s On
Meet Mathilda Hodgkins Byrne
The University of Reading will be celebrating Women’s History Month with an Edith Morely Lecture given by Mathilda Hodgkins Byrne: Olympian, mother and Reading University alumni.
Mathilda will share her story and explore advancing rights, promoting equality and fostering empowerment for women and girls everywhere. Mathilda’s journey breaks barriers and challenges stereotypes, from balancing elite rowing with earning a chemistry degree to making her Olympic debut and returning to sport after motherhood. Her resilience and success, including winning bronze at the Paris 2024 Olympics, inspire change and empower future generations.
Doors open at 17:30, and lecture commences at 18:00. Click here to register your attendance.
Inflatable Fun Day
Loddon Valley Leisure Centre in Lower Earley: The inflatable family fun day is taking place in the main sports hall on Friday 21 February and will feature a range of soft play equipment. It costs £8 per child for a session of 90 minutes and these are running from:
- 9am to 10.30am (SEND session)
- 10.45am to 12.15pm
- 12.30pm to 2.00pm
- 2.15pm to 3.45pm
Staff will be supervising all inflatables, but parents and guardians are required to attend with their child.
Shinfield Cinema Showings
The community resource has been provided by Shinfield Studios and is run by Shinfield Parish Council at the School Green Centre. Upcoming films include:
- Beauty and the Beast (Friday 7 February, 4.30pm)
- Deadpool and Wolverine (Friday 7 February, 7.30pm)
- Lady and the Tramp (Friday 14 February, 4.30pm)
- Loving Vincent (Friday 14 February, 7.30pm)
- Moana (Friday 28 February, 4.30pm)
The Crumbs café is currently available for the earlier showings, selling popcorn, snacks and drinks. You are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks. Tickets are £5 for adults, £3 for children under the age of 16 and £4 for concessions