The Bulmershe Bulletin – Issue 56
23rd January 2026
Dear Parents and Carers,
While much of our time at Bulmershe is spent focused on the rigours of GCSEs, A-Levels and academic progress, there is an equally important part of school life that happens every day during tutor time: Personal Development (PD).
Being a “Bulmershe student” isn’t just about what you know, but about who you are. Our PD curriculum is where we focus on the “who.” It is our chance to step back from the textbooks and look at the skills needed to be a happy, healthy and resilient adult. By dedicating time in the timetable to these sessions, we ensure that every student has the space to explore big ideas, from British values to emotional wellbeing.
This term, our focus across the school is “Building Healthy Lives.” It is a topic that feels particularly timely. We all know that life can be busy and at times a bit overwhelming, so we are spending time looking at how to look after ourselves both physically and mentally.
The sessions are designed to be straightforward and honest. We aren’t here to lecture; we want to provide the facts and the tools that help our students make informed choices. Whether it is Year 7s learning about the science of a good night’s sleep or Year 11s looking at long-term health, the goal is the same: to help them grow into confident young adults who are ready to improve the world around them.
I hope you enjoy reading about what each year group is up to this term. As always, these sessions work best when they spark a conversation at home, so do feel free to ask your child what they’ve been discussing in tutor time this week.
Amanda Woodfin
Headteacher
Upcoming Events
Mon 26/1 – INSET Day – School Closed
28-30/1 – Year 10 Work Experience
Fri 30/1 – Year 11 Science Live Trip to Oxford
Mon 2/2 – Year 10 mock Interviews
Thu 5/2 – Year 9 Vaccinations – CONSENT HERE using code BK110062
Tue 10/2 – AWE apprenticeship pathways – online webinar (Register here)
Thu 12/2 – Rags2Riches clothing donation drop off deadline
Fri 13/2 – Deadline for chocolate egg donations (For Alexander Devine)
Sat 14/2 – Half Term
Please help keep our school community safe by following these travel guidelines:
• Avoid the entrance: Front reception is for buses and disabled visitors only.
• Respect road markings: Do not park on double yellows or block the zebra crossing.
• Pick up off-site: Please arrange a meeting point a short walk from the gates.
While our road is often congested, we must prioritise the safety of all students, including our neighbours at Addington School who have complex mobility and visual needs. Thank you for your cooperation.
Building healthy lives
This term, our Personal Development (PD) sessions in tutor time are centred around the theme of “Health and Wellbeing.” Across all year groups, we are delivering content that aligns with statutory RSHE guidance. This includes everything from sleep hygiene and nutrition in Year 7 to more complex discussions on substance awareness in Year 8 and emotional resilience in Year 9. Our older students in Years 10 and 11 are focusing on personal safety, peer influence and proactive health prevention, including the importance of self-examination.
The aim of these sessions is to provide “real-world” knowledge that empowers our students to make safe, informed choices. We want to remove the stigma around topics like mental health and provide practical strategies for managing the ups and downs of life.
Take-away actions for parents:
- Start a conversation: Ask your child what their specific year group theme is this term.
- Use the resources: We have compiled a list of trusted UK charities, such as YoungMinds and Talk to FRANK, on our website to help you navigate these topics at home.
- Normalise help-seeking: Remind your child that their form tutor and our pastoral team are always here if they have concerns about any of the topics raised.
For a full breakdown of what your child will be learning this term, please visit our website.
If you have requested an Addams Family keyring, they are now available for collection in the school shop! Payments can be made via ParentMail, once done, please ask children to collect.
Looking after yourself this January
As we move through the middle of January, often dubbed the “longest month,” it is natural to feel the weight of the short days and cold weather. While we spend much of our time at school focusing on the wellbeing of our students, we know that as parents and carers, you are often the ones carrying the emotional load at home. It is a busy, demanding role, and it is vital that you take a moment to look after yourselves, too.
In a recent piece for The Times, psychotherapists suggested that rather than fighting the “January blues,” we should learn to “winter” – to move through the season deliberately rather than just enduring it. There are several evidence-based ways to protect mental health during these darker weeks:
- Treat light as medicine: Try to get outside for 10-15 minutes within the first hour of waking. Daylight is significantly brighter than indoor lighting and helps regulate the hormones that govern your mood and sleep.
- 20-Minute daily movement: Exercise is one of the most effective interventions for low mood. A brisk 20-minute walk is enough to kick-start the neurochemicals that boost your mood.
- Practised attention: Interrupt “worry loops” by giving your brain a focused task. Puzzles, crosswords or even a bit of crafting can quieten internal chatter and provide a sense of accomplishment.
- Social Connection: We are social creatures. Even a quick text or a brief chat with a friend can calm the nervous system and remind us that we aren’t alone.
Fortunately, for students, the structure of the school day provides many of the above “prescriptions” suggested by mental health experts to combat the winter blues. See… school is literally good for them!
New Year 8 STEM Club
Mrs Sahin is inviting Year 8 students to join a brand-new STEM Club, which launched last week. Running until the end of the Spring term, this club offers a blend of science, technology and literacy, all with a focus on a sustainable future.
The project is part of the Government’s National Year of Reading 2026. Students will be exploring “Green Careers,” researching the innovative roles within engineering and maths that are helping to protect our planet. It is a fantastic opportunity for students to see how their classroom learning translates into real-world careers that make a difference.
Students will also have the chance to create their own audiobook! By recording their research on Green Careers, they will be developing their reading fluency and communication skills while celebrating their achievements in a creative way. This is a wonderful project designed to empower our students and build their confidence through reading.
- Who: All Year 8 students are welcome.
- When: Every Wednesday after school, until the end of the Spring term.
- How to Join: If your child would like to take part, please complete the sign-up form here: https://forms.gle/Evmzzbg96yib4sDz7
We look forward to seeing our Year 8s get stuck into this inspiring mix of STEM and storytelling!
The Big Spring Knit: Get Your Eggs In!
We are pleased to announce that Bulmershe is once again taking part in the Alexander Devine “Big Spring Knit” to raise funds for our local children’s hospice. We are supporting this cause in two ways: by asking for chocolate egg donations and by selling knitted chicks and bunnies in our reception.
We are now calling for donations of standard-sized Cadbury Creme Eggs (or similar sized chocolate treats) to fill knitted characters. Donations can be dropped off at reception from now until Monday 9th February.
Spare a thought for poor Julie at Student Reception who has the monumental task of guarding the growing mountain of chocolate for the next few weeks. Please do give generously if you can to support Alexander Devine’s work with children and their families.
Wokingham Youth Parliament Elections
Monday 19th January marked a significant day for local democracy at the Wokingham Borough Council Offices, as students from across the region gathered for the election of two Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs).
Bulmershe was well represented by William H (Year 11), who took time away from his GCSE mock exams to stand against six candidates from neighbouring schools. William was supported at the Shute End Council Chamber by a fantastic group of Year 12 peers: Wojtek B, Laurie A, Alex L and Hannah TC.
The election process was rigorous. After introductions from the Wokingham Borough Mayor, William delivered a 90-second speech based on months of manifesto preparation. He then navigated a series of questions from the floor with confidence and clarity.
While the final vote saw the two seats go to candidates from The Holt and Maiden Erlegh, William’s response was a testament to his character. He was incredibly gracious, immediately applauding his peers and wishing the winners the very best of luck for their 2026–2028 term.
The Bulmershe community is immensely proud of William, not only for his political ambition and eloquence but for the maturity he displayed throughout the proceedings. He has set a brilliant example for us all and we wish him the best of luck with his future pursuit of a career in politics.
Looking Ahead The UK Youth Parliament is a vital platform for young voices. If William’s journey has inspired any of our current Year 10 or 11 students to get involved in debate and democracy, there will be another opportunity to stand for election in 2028. In the meantime, students are encouraged to join the Bulmershe Debate Club; please contact our Head of Politics, Mr Allger, for more information.
Teaching & learning update – Year 10 Radioactivity
As part of our whole-school curriculum theme of Conflict, Year 10 students have been exploring radioactivity in Science. Alongside developing their understanding of radioactive decay, half-life and nuclear reactions, lessons have encouraged thoughtful discussion about how science can both solve problems and create new ones.
Students discussed the use of radioactivity in medicine, energy production and industry, while also debating the ethical, environmental and social issues linked to nuclear power and nuclear weapons. These discussions highlighted conflicts between progress and risk, energy demand and environmental impact, and scientific innovation and public perception.
By engaging with real-world case studies and contemporary debates, students have been challenged to think critically, weigh evidence and consider multiple perspectives. This approach not only deepens scientific understanding but also helps students appreciate the complex role science plays in society and the conflicts that can arise from its application.
Every Day Counts: Supporting Your Child’s School Journey
We know that our families hear a lot about attendance statistics, but being part of the Bulmershe community isn’t just about grades and exams; it is about the social connections, the friendships and the sense of belonging that comes from being with peers and staff every day. When students are here, they don’t just learn subjects, they build the social skills and emotional well-being that set them up for a happy future.
We also know that some mornings can be a bit more of a “negotiation” than others! Establishing simple routines, like packing bags the night before, can really help lower the stress levels for everyone.
If your child is ever finding it difficult to attend school, please remember that we are here to help. Whether it is through pastoral care, mentoring or just a quick chat with our attendance team, we want to work with you to find a way forward. Our door is always open, so please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need a bit of extra support.
Year 9 and 10 Girls – Research invitation
The University of Reading is inviting girls in Year 9 or 10 to take part in The INDIE Study, an exciting research project exploring how brain and body changes during adolescence impact cognitive and emotional development.
Why Students should participate?
• Experience cutting-edge psychology and neuroscience research firsthand.
• Engage with scientists and see advanced neuroimaging technology up close.
• Receive an image of your brain and compensation for your time!
What’s Involved?
• Five after-school visits to the University of Reading (the first and last with a parent/guardian).
• Completing questionnaires and brain scans in their MRI scanner.
• Wearing a wrist device for four weeks to track sleep, activity and mood.
If your daughter is interested? To learn more or sign up, please contact the university at: indie.study@reading.ac.uk
Are you Bulmershe Alumni?
We know that many of our current parents were once Bulmershe students themselves, and we would love to hear from you!
Specifically, as we prepare for National Apprenticeship Week (9–13 February), Mrs Sahin is looking for alumni currently working or studying in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). We are inviting STEM graduates and apprentices to join us during National Apprenticeship Week from 9th – 13th February to share your real-life career journeys with our students.
Whether you’d like to speak in an assembly or simply share some practical industry advice, your experience can inspire the next generation to find their own path.
Even if you don’t work in STEM, we still want to hear from you! Please consider following our official school LinkedIn page to stay connected with our latest news and networking opportunities:
Interested in helping with National Apprenticeship Week? Please reach out to us at: alumni@bulmershe.wokingham.sch.uk
Negotiating with Teenagers
Have you ever felt like a simple request to “tidy your room” has turned into a standoff? You aren’t alone. This week, we’ve been inspired by a BBC article by Nicky Perfect, a former international hostage negotiator for the Metropolitan Police. She says that the skills she learnt in that role are surprisingly applicable to her new life as a parent!
Teenagers are expert boundary-pushers, often making a “because I said so” approach feel like an invitation for a debate. Nicky suggests the “No Choice Choice.” Instead of a direct command, try reframing the outcome: “Are you planning to finish your revision before dinner or after we’ve eaten?” The outcome is the same, but children feel a sense of autonomy and respect.
Another golden rule is the 90-Second Pause. When a conversation gets heated, Nicky suggests waiting 90 seconds before responding to ensure you aren’t reacting purely on emotion. It turns out that whether you are dealing with a crisis at the Foreign Office or a disagreement over a 10pm curfew, the goal is the same: stay calm, listen and keep the dialogue moving.
Strategic Empathy is key in negotiations: seeing the world from the other person’s perspective is the most powerful tool you have. This isn’t about agreeing with them; it’s about understanding their “why.” If you can explain the reasons behind a rule, and show that you understand their frustration, they are much more likely to accept the outcome.
Year 9 Media Photos
Our Year 9 Media Students have recently showcased their creativity during a three-hour photography workshop. Spread over three weeks and led by Mrs Howe-Jordan, the sessions focused on product photography, with a particular emphasis on composition and lighting.
It is wonderful to see the students experimenting with a range of professional techniques. They spent time testing how different backgrounds and light sources can completely change the mood of an image, working to find the perfect shot.
Media is part of our Year 9 Leadership and Challenge curriculum, which offers students a taste of what choosing subjects entails as well as teaching them new skills. For our families in Year 8, look out for more information in May when students will be invited to choose their own Leadership and Challenge subject for next year.
Dyslexia Screening Update
We are pleased to confirm that Dyslexia screening for students in Years 7–10, alongside Years 12 and 13, has now been completed.
Screening for Year 11 students will take place from Tuesday 27th January (after the INSET day). This will apply to students who were unable to complete the screener at home beforehand.
Results will be shared with parents and carers via email week commencing Monday 2nd February. This communication will include each student’s Dyslexia Indexing codes and outline any next steps, where appropriate.
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 Penelope C, Imogen H, Isobelle H, Oliver B and Harry F, all in year 7 to join me for a celebratory cup of hot chocolate on Friday 30th January 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 Edwards would like to say a massive well done to all of Y11 for their exemplary behaviour, focus and dedication to their mocks. I know it was incredibly stressful time, so thank you to parents as well for supporting them and we look forward to guiding them through the next part! I am incredibly proud of them.
Staff Shout Outs
Mrs Senthilkumar would like to shout out to Mrs Zalaki for delivering an assembly on Tolerance. Her presentation engaged our students, provoked thoughtful discussion and inspired them. Her message encouraged everyone to reflect on the importance of respecting differences and building a positive, inclusive community.
Cucina Main Meals – w/c 26th January
What’s On
Wokingham Half Marathon
The Wokingham Half Marathon returns next month, with 3,700 runners taking on the challenge. The race starts at 10am on Sunday 22 February. Check out the route map to find the best spots to show your support and plan ahead for road closures that morning.
Limited places are still available for the Children’s Mini Mile with age categories from four to 11 years old. It costs £10 per child (adults who wish to accompany children go free) and all finishers get a medal.
Stand up Comedy at Dinton Pastures
Friday 30 January has a stellar line-up, including award-winning comedian Duncan Adams and Sean Collins from Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow.
The bar opens at 6pm, with the show starting at 7.30pm and running until 10pm. Tickets are £16 and the event is for over 18s only.
Woodley Quiz Night
Test your knowledge at Woodley Town Mayor’s charity quiz night on Friday 27 February at the Oakwood Centre in Woodley.
The event runs from 7pm to 10pm and will raise money for the Mayor’s chosen charity, Promise Inclusion, a local user-led organisation working with people with learning disabilities and autism.
Tickets are £6.50 (plus booking fee), with teams of up to eight people. A cash bar and complimentary nibbles will be available, so don’t forget to bring cash for drinks and raffle tickets on the night. If you can donate a raffle prize, please contact Cllr David Bragg or Woodley Town Council.
Repair Cafe
Woodley Repair Café at Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road – Sunday 1 February, 2pm to 4pm
Skilled volunteers will be on hand to repair small appliances, bikes, clothes, toys, lamps and much more. There is no charge for repairs, though donations are welcome.
Charity Raffle – Win a Week’s break to Butlins
Spotlight are raising money to support local children affected by domestic abuse, children in care, young carers, children affected by loss, children with long term medical conditions or terminal illness and armed forces families and have launched a charity raffle where a family can win a week break to Butlins in May half term. Tickets are £3 each.
Everyone purchasing tickets are asked which school their children – Spotlight will then make a donation of £250 to one primary and one £250 to a secondary school, which can be used towards equipment or an event/activity for their pupils
