The Bulmershe Bulletin – Issue 73
19th June 2026
Dear Parents and Carers,
Let’s face it, children rarely jump for joy when homework is mentioned. It is usually met with a heavy sigh, a sudden need to tidy their bedroom or an intense interest in doing absolutely anything else. However, the end-of-year impact reports from our Sparx platforms have given us some brilliant reasons to celebrate the collective effort of our Years 7 to 9.
According to Sparx research, regular completion can help students progress by an average of seven marks. By the time they reach Year 11, that can equal a full grade of extra progress at GCSE.
Looking at the data, our students have been incredibly busy:
- Sparx Maths: Students achieved 961,159 correct answers and clocked up 19,290 hours of practice. They also tackled 163,152 knowledge gaps through support videos.
- Sparx Science: An impressive 1,328,025 questions were answered correctly across 12,827 hours of practice, with 280,129 misconceptions addressed.
- Sparx Reader: Our students read a staggering 88,539,202 words, completing 5,010 books and answering over 1.1 million reading checks.
We know that getting these platforms completed each week takes a team effort from both students and parents. Thank you for your continued support at home (and for surviving the weekly homework negotiations). We really are in this together, and these numbers prove just how much that teamwork pays off.
Have a lovely weekend in the forecast sunshine.
Amanda Woodfin
Headteacher
Upcoming Events
22/6 – Year 10 PE GCSE moderation at Palmer Park
23/6 – 26/6 – Year 8 Land and Wave Residential Trip
23/6 – 24/6 – Year 6 Transition Days
25/6 – Year 11 Bulmershe Sixth Form Taster Day
30/6 – Y7 Tellmi Workshops (in school)
30/6 – Pride Party, after school in the Library
2/7 – Y12 Geography Field Trip
3/7 – Y11 Leavers Assembly 8:30am
3/7 – Y11 Prom – Sindlesham Court
Beating the heat next week
With very warm weather forecast for next week, we are making a temporary adjustment to our uniform expectations to ensure our students remain comfortable. From Monday 22nd June to Friday 26th June, students may choose to wear either their full school uniform or their official school PE kit for the entire day. Please ensure PE shorts are an appropriate length, closer to the knee, rather than excessively short.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat-health alert for the South East, and our PE department is adapting lessons so pupils can participate safely. We will be moving activities indoors where possible, avoiding prolonged high-intensity running, providing extra rest breaks, and ensuring regular opportunities to access drinking water.
Please support us by ensuring your child applies sun cream before school, brings an appropriate hat or cap for break times, and carries a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. We have plenty of shaded areas available around the school site to keep everyone safe and comfortable during the warm spell.
Navigating the Social Media Ban
The government’s announcement regarding a UK social media ban has naturally caused a lot of discussion and confusion this week. While it feels like a step forward to some, the reality is that it will not immediately remove the digital risks our children face.
A ban can unfortunately provide a false sense of security, which is why keeping open lines of communication at home is so vital. The most important thing we can do now is talk to the young people in our lives without judgement. The Molly Rose Foundation has produced an excellent, straightforward parent guide to help you navigate these conversations. Click here to find out more and read the full guide.
Sports News
Sports Leaders Shine
Our fantastic Sports Leaders visited several local primary schools this week to help run their annual Sports Days, lending their expertise to events at Alfred Sutton, St John’s, Redlands and Highwood. In a lovely nod to nostalgia, every single session featured at least one leader who was returning to their old primary school.
Our students took complete charge by running activities, measuring distances, timing races and tracking scores. Most importantly, they acted as encouraging mentors. They were treated like absolute celebrities, with the St John’s pupils completely swarming them for a chat during lunch.
Demonstrating incredible versatility, some leaders even helped out in classrooms between active sessions, listening to pupils read and supporting them with Maths and English tasks. Feedback from the host schools praised the maturity of our students and how wonderful they were at boosting confidence. The PE department would like to extend a huge thank you to all the leaders who represented us so brilliantly.
Athletics update
The Year 7 and 8 boys athletics team recently competed at an athletics event held at Palmer Park Stadium. The team produced an outstanding performance throughout the night, showing determination, teamwork and excellent sportsmanship.
A particular highlight was the team’s success on the track, Reece winning the 75-metre sprint, Ellis winning the 150-metre sprint, and the relay race. These victories reflected the athletes’ hard work and commitment in training. The relay win was especially impressive, with each runner contributing to a superb team performance.
Kick Twist Cheerleaders crowned National Champions
Four of our talented students, Mya S, Mya E, Brooke D and Anya J, attended the ICE National Cheerleading Championships with their team, Kick Twist.
After a spectacular performance, the team won their category and were crowned 2026 National Champions! The celebrations did not stop there, as they were also awarded the title of Grand Champions for being the highest-scoring team of the entire competition day.
The girls have been selected to represent the UK at the World Championships in Florida in 2027. This is an immense accomplishment, reflecting months of dedication, teamwork and grit.
Library News
Celebrating Creative Writing
The library has been a hub of creativity recently, and we are delighted to announce the winners of our summer poetry competition. Judged by Miss Marr and Mrs Woodfin, the challenge asked students to write a poem based on a favourite book.
A huge congratulations to Taylor in Year 7 and Emma in Year 9, who took home the top prizes! Emma wrote a fantastic piece based on the popular series The Hunger Games, while Taylor impressed the judges with a poem inspired by the manga series Demon Slayer. Both students have won a £10 Amazon voucher, and their winning poems will be proudly displayed on the library events board for everyone to enjoy.
We would also like to say a big well done to all the other students who entered the competition. The standard was incredibly high, and every single entrant has been awarded achievement points for their excellent effort.
Coming Soon: The Scholastic Book Fair
We are pleased to announce that the Scholastic Book Fair will be arriving at our school library very soon! From 30th June to 6th July, students will have the opportunity to browse a fantastic selection of 200 books specially chosen for secondary school ages.
The collection includes popular series, brand new titles and a large variety of reading ages to ensure the fair is inclusive for everyone. Even better, there will be exclusive discounts available, and every purchase made helps raise rewards for the school to secure free books for our own library.
The fair will be open for students to explore during breaktime, lunchtime and after school. Please note that because we are a cash-free school, students will need to use a bank card, Google Pay or Apple Pay to make a purchase. Alternatively, they can complete a “wish list” during the day to take home so that parents can easily pay online.
Work Experience: Parents’ Information Evening
It is time to start planning for our current Year 9 students’ work experience placements, which will take place in January 2027 when they are in Year 10. We hope students find placements within their fields of interest, as we know this opportunity builds confidence, raises aspirations and hones transferable skills.
We invite Year 9 families to join us for an online presentation on Tuesday 23rd June at 6pm. On the call, we will cover expectations, what students need to do and the support we provide through our careers offer. A copy of the presentation will be shared on our website afterwards if you cannot make it.
Year 10 Careers Week begins on Monday 25th January 2027, featuring interactive workshops and mock interviews with business volunteers. Students will then be out on their 3-day placements from Wednesday 27th to Friday 29th January. Families are responsible for finding placements, which must be submitted via Unifrog before Monday 30th November 2026.
Mr Whearity’s Ultimate Thames Challenge
Over the summer, our Head of Year 10, Mr Whearity, will be attempting an extraordinary feat: running the entire 184-mile Thames Path in just four days, starting at the source and finishing at the Thames Barrier in London.
Following a serious accident that left him being rebuilt with various bits of metal, this challenge once seemed impossible. Thanks to the incredible skill, dedication and care of the medical team at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Mr Whearity was given the chance to rebuild his life. This run is his way of showing gratitude and demonstrating true resilience.
He is raising vital funds for the Oxford Hospitals charity to give back to the people who helped him get back on his feet. We wish him the absolute best of luck with this grueling challenge. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference to patient care.
Alumni news
We always love hearing from our alumni, and we received a wonderful message this week from Dan W, who attended Bulmershe in 1999. Nearly three decades after first meeting in our classrooms, corridors and football pitches under the guidance of Mr Swatridge, a group of eight former students are embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip together.
Dan W, Stephen F, Matt C, James L, Anthony B, Joe J, Mark P and Jonathan H are flying out to the United States for two weeks to watch the FIFA World Cup. They will be travelling through Texas and Georgia, and have tickets to see England take on Panama in New Jersey.
The group have even commissioned a special Bulmershe alumni flag to fly in the stadiums, which you might even spot on television! It is a lovely reminder that the friendships formed during school days really can stand the test of time and continue long into adulthood. We wish them a safe and fantastic trip.
ChatHealth: Confidential Support for Families
Do you know about ChatHealth, a brilliant text messaging service available within our community that provides direct access to professional support?
If you are a parent or carer of a child aged 5 to 19 and have worries about sleep, behaviour, bullying, healthy eating or emotional wellbeing, the school nursing team is here to help. You can text them for advice and support on 07312 263194.
Similarly, we encourage students aged 11 to 19 to use the dedicated youth service. It allows young people to text a school nurse in total confidence about anything on their mind, including relationships, anxiety, stress, body changes or low mood. Students can access this confidential line by texting 07312 263266. It is a quick, safe and easy way to get trusted advice when you need it most.
PE Kit and boot Donations
To support our school community, we are running a donation drive! If your family has any outgrown football boots that are still in good condition, athletics spikes or branded Bulmershe PE tops we would be incredibly grateful if you could donate them to the PE department. Your contributions will help ensure every pupil has the chance to fully participate in their lessons. Thank you for your support!
Men’s Health Week
It’s Men’s Health Week and this year it is focussed on “How can we better use pharmacies to improve Men’s physical and mental health?”
- Nearly 50% of men struggle with mental health difficulties, yet fewer than half seek medical advice.
- Men are statistically more likely to ignore the early warning signs of illness, with a significant number of men passing away prematurely from preventable conditions like prostate cancer and cardiovascular issues.
While nine out of ten men in the UK (92%) regularly walk through pharmacy doors, three-quarters of them leave without ever discussing their health with a pharmacist, reports reveal.
Based on original research work and interviews with men and pharmacists, there is a missed golden opportunity to convert men’s regular presence in pharmacies into a triple win: boosting men’s health, improving pharmacy footfall and reducing pressure on the NHS.
The research identified the key reasons why men remain silent, including:
- Discomfort discussing health issues in a public retail space.
- A perception that seeking help is a sign of weakness.
- A common tendency to delay seeking medical advice.
This silence can have serious consequences. Over half of the men surveyed (57%) reported that failing to seek advice led to negative impacts on their lives, including missed work and strained personal relationships. However, the report found that men are willing to engage if the environment is right. Over a quarter of men said they would be more likely to talk to a pharmacist if they knew the conversation was private and that they could be referred to the NHS if needed.
The key message for men is that pharmacy is for you. It is a far better source of health advice and information than, for example, AI. By addressing the specific barriers preventing men from seeking advice, we can unlock the potential of pharmacies to become the front door to the health system for them.
Statistically men account for 76% of death by suicide each year, so it is crucial men open up and talk about their mental and physical health (which are closely linked of course).
Where can I get help?
Samaritans – Tel 116123, www.samaritans.org
Mind – www.mind.org.uk
Andys Man Club – www.andysmanclub.co.uk
Men Who Talk – www.menwhotalk.org
Rags2Riches Clothing Donations
Having a clear out? We have signed up to the Rags2Riches recycling scheme to raise money for our school and help those in need benefit from our good quality unwanted clothes and shoes.
The school receives 40p for every kilo we collect of reusable items, which will go towards improving the school learning environment. Please tell family and friends that anyone can bring donations (in a black bin bag or shopping bag) to the school reception.
You can drop donations off anytime before Wednesday 1st July.
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: a massive well done to Y11 for completing their GCSEs and thank you for your impeccable behaviour, focus and hard work? They can relax now! And thank you to all the parents who have quietly fed, watered, calmed, revised and generally supported them – they also deserve a well-earned rest! It’s not easy being a GCSE parent!
Miss Hudson: A huge well done to the Year 10 French and Spanish students for completing their speaking mock exam this week!
Staff Shout Outs
Massive shout-out to Mrs Martin for the utterly amazing job she has done with organising and administering the public exams. Her tireless energy is a sight to behold. Thank you also too Mrs Hudson and Miss Skelton who have offered support throughout and are always willing to step in when required. The Invigilation team have also been brilliant and so supportive of our students
Cucina Main Meals – w/c 22nd June
What’s On
Wokingham Cycle Festival and Bikeathon
The Wokingham Cycle Festival takes place at Cantley Park on Sunday 28th June from 9:00am to 2:00pm. The free event features a stunt demonstration by national BMX team Fusion Extreme. It runs alongside the Wokingham Bikeathon, which offers four cycling routes ranging from 17 to 50 miles. A registration fee applies for the Bikeathon, with proceeds supporting local charities. Click here to find out more
Winnersh Parish Council Summer Fete
The annual Summer Fete will be held at Bearwood Recreation Ground on Saturday 20th June from 1:00pm to 4:30pm, with live music continuing until 8:30pm. Entry and parking are free. The event includes over 60 local stalls, arena displays, children’s activities, food trucks and a licensed bar. All proceeds benefit Wokingham Men’s Shed and Young People with Dementia.
Classic Motor Show
The Wokingham Lions Club Classic Motor Show returns to Elms Field on Saturday 20th June from 10:00am to 3:00pm. This free event showcases classic and contemporary cars, motorcycles and other vintage vehicles. The day will also feature live music, charity stalls, and food and drink vendors.
Summer Reading Challenge
The “Read to the Beat” Summer Reading Challenge begins on Monday 29th June 2026. Children can sign up at any Wokingham Borough library with the aim of reading six books, eBooks or audiobooks over the summer holidays. Participants will earn stickers and rewards as they progress. Click here to find out more
Solstice Sunset Swim
Launchpad is hosting a charity event on Sunday 21 June 2026 from 20:00 to 22:00 at Dinton Activity Centre. The evening features a welcome drink, guided meditation, sound bath, sunset swim and a charity raffle. All proceeds go toward Launchpad’s work supporting individuals facing homelessness in the local area. Click here to book tickets and find out more details.
East Reading Festival 2026
The East Reading Festival takes place on Sunday 21 June 2026 at Palmer Park on Wokingham Road. This community event is free to attend and includes live music, community performances, a funfair and a food court offering a variety of cuisines. Visitors can also browse a wide range of charity, commercial and community stalls throughout the day.
Father’s Day at Dinton Pastures
A family event celebrating Father’s Day is taking place on Sunday 21 June 2026 from 11:00 to 16:00 at Dinton Pastures Country Park, located at the Dinton Event Field Davis Street Entrance. The event features free visits from Spider-Man and Jessie between 12:00 and 14:00, classic cars, games, inflatables, craft stalls and food options. Entry is free, dogs on leads are welcome and standard parking charges apply.
Shinfield Players Theatre 70th Anniversary Celebration
Shinfield Players Theatre is hosting a milestone anniversary evening featuring a selection of short performances, a production of the one-act play Last Tango in Little Grimley and a musical journey through the theatre’s historical archives. Tickets cost £20, which includes a complimentary drink, a souvenir programme and evening snacks, with access to the bar afterwards. Click here to book tickets.
Duncan Weston: Hidden Messages Art Event
Artist Duncan Weston is hosting a participatory art event at 2a Washington Road, Caversham. The single-day event involves the installation of artwork into the fabric of the building, and visitors are invited to add their names to a wall that will be permanently sealed as a time capsule at 22:00. No prior booking is required, and attendees can simply turn up on the day.
Julius Caesar at Reading Abbey Ruins
Secret Shakespeare is staging an open-air, promenade production of Julius Caesar at the Reading Abbey Ruins. The performance begins in the Chapter House, with the audience entering via Chestnut Walk. The site is accessible for wheelchair users via a sloping footpath. General admission tickets cost £15.99 and concessions are £12.99. Click here to book tickets.
