Friday 21st June 2024 

A Message from Mr Pears

Dear Parents,

We have been delighted to share the results of our May 2024 ISI inspection with the St Michael's community this week which I hope you have had some time to read. I am so proud of St Michael's and thrilled that the inspectors were able to experience, and praise very highly, the excellent opportunities and care our pupils receive during not just three days of inspection, but every day of the year. Please read in today's newsletter a summary of ISI's report including a 'significant strength' which is very rarely awarded to schools. St Michael's really is a special place to grow, learn and work, and I am so grateful to you as parents for your continuous support. 

On Monday, Year 2 returned to school filled with amazing stories to tell about their trip to Stubbers last week. From rock climbing and rowing, to a camp fire sing-along, sleepover and speed boat ride, many fears were conquered and memories made on this unforgettable adventure. Thank you to Mr Davies and the Stubbers staff team for committing their time, care (and courage!) to the children. 

As Year 2 returned, Year 8 set sail to the Isle of Wight on Monday for a week of water activities with the United Kingdom Sailing Academy. From keel boating to kayaking, the opportunities on offer to the children were incredible and an amazing way to mark the final stage of their St Michael's journey together. We are grateful to Mrs Shield, Mrs Andrade and Mr Fuller for their endless enthusiasm on this trip! Meanwhile, Year 4 also enjoyed an action-packed trip to Bowles rocks centre on Monday as they took part in activities including rock climbing and high ropes over the course of the day. Thank you to Mr Orpin and the Year 4 Team for organising this trip and congratulations to the children for demonstrating fantastic teamwork and bravery when tackling some, at first, daunting activities. 

Nursery and Kindergarten children impressed us in their Music Concerts and Sports Day this week as they performed songs and dance moves beautifully with Mrs Crane and their teachers, followed by some determined running and throwing with Mr Davies. Thank you, Pre-School parents for cheering your children on at this event. 

The music theme continued into Wednesday as it was our older pupils' turn to showcase their musical talent when performing in a Breakfast Concert. The talent on display was impressive and it is clear that the children are very committed to their practise and lessons with our Peripatetic Music Team. Thank you to Mr Baird, Miss Balcombe and Mrs Scott for leading this event. 

On Thursday Reception enjoyed an exciting day at Tyland Barn where they explored habitats and learnt lots of interesting facts about wildlife. In school, Years 2 and 3 joined together for a Creative Day of singing, yoga, dance, clay, papier-mâché and a scavenger hunt. They completed the morning tired but filled with excitement, particularly Year 2 who experienced a taste of what awaits them in September. Thursday afternoon saw our U9 Ellis Andrews Memorial Cricket Tournament take place with local schools which was a fantastic event. We are honoured to be able to host this Tournament each year in memory of our former and cherished pupil, Ellis and look forward to welcoming the school community to our Ellis Andrews Adult Cricket Match for a continuation of this spirit this evening.

A celebration of colour also immersed Year 5 pupils in their Religious Studies learning on Thursday afternoon as they combined paint powder and water to re-enact the Hindu festival of Holi. Thank you Mrs MacRae for organising this unqiue hands-on experience for the children. 

Wishing you a brilliant weekend.

Nik Pears

From the Head of Pre-Prep

Dear Parents,

I have watched lots of delightful performances this week. Reception held their Father’s Day assembly on Monday with the addition of dads having their photo taken with their children and their matching portrait. It was a lovely morning showing how the children’s confidence is gradually building. Thank you, Reception staff.

On Tuesday and Wednesday I loved being with our Nursery and Kindergarten children as they performed an outdoor concert followed by their Sports “Day”. The children performed so well in both events and I know their parents must have been delighted. A huge thank you to Mrs Crane and Mr Davies as well as the Nursery and Kindergarten Teams for all of their hard work.

On Thursday Year 2 had a great time with Year 3 completing their Creative Day. It was a lovely opportunity for the Year 2 children to familiarise themselves with the teachers they will be moving up to in September. Reception also went on their trip to Tyland Barn and there were lots of excited stories about pond dipping when they returned.

The Governors joined us on Thursday for their annual Governor’s Day. There was much to celebrate this year with the publication of our inspection report which could not have been better. It is still nice to have confirmation that we are doing everything well!

Next week Year 1 children will be off to Stonepitts Farm to do some strawberry picking on Monday. This is for the morning only and they will be returning to school in time for lunch.

On Tuesday 25^th June everyone will be very excited as the children get to experience what it will be like with their new class teacher in their new classroom, when they return to school in September. Parents, please come and meet your child’s teacher in the evening. Parents of September's Reception children are invited to meet the teachers at 6pm. Parents of September’s Year 1 children will meet their teachers at 6.30pm and parents of children who will be going into Year 2 will meet the teachers at 7pm. The P&F will be providing Pimms in the Dining Room to parents before these gatherings so please come in for a chat first.

Year 3 are invited back to Pre-Prep on Wednesday for Q & As with Year 2. This is a lovely time for the children to have a play together and ask any questions of the current Year 3 who will give frank and honest replies! Yes, children can have salad. No, yellow cards are not given out like confetti!

On Thursday Year 1 parents are welcome to join us in the Pre-Prep Hall at 9am for the end of Year 1 Celebration Concert. Coffee will be served in the Dining Room from 8.45am.

To end next week, the whole school will have their photo taken! This is a huge operation as you can imagine. Please send your child in looking smart in their summer school uniform. Blazers are needed! Parents of Nursery and Kindergarten children who do not normally attend on Friday are welcome to bring their child in for the photo. Please stay with your child and meet us on the field at 9am if you wish to do this.

Overheard in Pre-Prep: "I'm not a person you should mess with, I put toys out in front of my door to trap burglars!"

Have a lovely weekend,

Zerrin Leech

At the end of this term we will be saying goodbye to the following individuals:

Charlotte Prideaux - Gap Student

Our amazing Gap Student Charlotte Prideaux, Miss P, Miss Pringle will be leaving us at the end of this term. We will be so sad to see you go. The children have adored you and the PE Department want to thank you for all your help, support and constant, wonderful smile. We want to wish you the best of luck at Newcastle University in September. Please stay in touch and come back and visit us!

Words by Mrs Denton, Head of Girls' Games

Max Ecclestone - Gap Student

As the school year draws to a close, it's time to bid farewell to the man, the myth and the legend of the St Michael’s PE Department, Max Ecclestone our gapper extraordinaire. Max's energy, humour, farmyard animal impressions and football enthusiasm will all be very missed. 

Max has brought so much joy to St Michael’s, inspiring pupils in all areas of sport including running laps and taking part in practice drills! The pupils adore Max and have been impressed by his dazzling football skills.

Max’s contributions to the PE Department have been invaluable. From his organisational skills and patience when pumping up endless pupils' footballs, to inspiring the next generation of athletes, you've been our MVP! Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and for being the spirit of the Family Ski Trip.

We will all miss you, Max. 

Best of luck and don’t be a stranger!

Words by the Sports Department

No Activities following Prep Sports Day

There are no prep staff-led activities, including prep, taking place following Sports Day on Friday 5^th July 2024. All children will need to be collected and taken home at the end of Sports Day, which will be at approximately 4pm.

The only exceptions to this, which will still run on Sports Day, are LAMDA and Swimming activities. 

Late Room will be strictly for emergencies only.

Thank you.

Open Drama Rehearsals

Next week the pupils will be rehearsing scripted pieces for an “open rehearsal” performance to which you are invited. Please note there will be limited seating available, so you might have to stand for the performance.  

Please note the “open rehearsal” is not a finalised, polished performance, but instead, an opportunity to see your child at work in the rehearsal process. Below are the dates. The rehearsals will take place in the Drama Room. I look forward to seeing some of you there.  

Mr Powell, Head of Drama

Monday 24^th June: 2.30-3.45pm  Year 3    

Tuesday 25^th June: 2.30-3.45pm  Year 4

Wednesday 26^th June: 9.30-10.45am Year 5 

Thursday 27^th June: 9.30-10.45am Year 6

Friday 28^th June: 2.30-3.45pm Year 7 

Returning Prep Library books

A reminder to please ensure that all Prep Library books are returned to the Prep Library in the red bucket by Friday 5^th July 2024. No new loans will be issued after this date. Any borrowed books not returned by Friday 5^th July will be charged on end of term bills.

ISI Inspection Report Summary, May 2024 

We are delighted to share the findings of our May 2024 ISI inspection report following an inspection of St Michael's Prep School from 14th-16th May 2024. 

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI)* introduced a new framework for inspections in 2023 as part of which they no longer provide a formal overall classification of e.g. excellent/good/satisfactory etc. for a school as they did in the past. The report now advises on whether the ISI Standards are met with all feedback provided in the detailed comments.  

We are delighted that St Michael’s Prep School met all the required standards of the May 2024 ISI inspection with the addition of a ‘significant strength’ awarded for St Michael’s ‘strong culture of collaboration and mentorship’ which equips our pupils for life. One example that the inspection team gave of this strength was the St Michael's Challenge ‘which involves pupils from Years 7 and 8 providing useful and valued guidance and mentorship to younger pupils when they carry out research and deliver presentations.’ A significant strength is highlighted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in rare instances that they identify a strength of provision in a school which results in a ‘clear, demonstrable and highly beneficial impact for pupils.’ 

The report described St Michael’s Prep School as ‘a place where the school’s motto perseverantia, sapientia, gratia (perseverance, wisdom and gratitude) is brought to life’ with a community which ‘cherishes individuality and celebrates diversity’. 

Early years at St Michael’s was identified as a stage where ‘children thrive in an encouraging and caring environment’, the foundations of ‘positive relationships’ are built and ‘children are encouraged to be kind to each other.’ The role of St Michael’s early years team in modelling how to behave was also commended, which the children respond to ‘by working and playing happily together’. 

‘High quality teaching and learning resources’ were demonstrated across St Michael’s led by teachers who ‘plan and structure their lessons well’ and have ‘secure subject knowledge’. ISI noted the impact that this has on St Michael’s pupils who are ‘interested in what they are taught’ and ‘readily ask questions to deepen their understanding by capitalising on their teachers’ expertise.’ 

St Michael’s Years 7 and 8 provision was likewise praised by the inspectors who described our senior pupils as having ‘enthusiasm, confidence and proficiency in their leadership of others’, understanding ‘that the help they give is a service to their community,’ 

Growth mindset was recognised as an attribute of pupils across all year groups, empowering them to view mistakes as ‘opportunities to learn’. ISI noted that ‘pupils maintain this positive approach to new challenges’ throughout their St Michael’s journey. They recognised the recent focus on five different learning behaviours: collaboration, independence, resilience, creativity and engagement which were developed with pupil, parent and staff focus groups. 

The inspection team also praised the enjoyment that pupils gain from their learning at St Michael’s, noting that they ‘make rapid progress throughout the school’ and are ‘prepared well for the next stages of their education both within the school and when the time comes for them to move on’. St Michael’s ‘considerable success in local and national competitions in a range of subjects’ was similarly praised. 

Reflecting on the sense of community at St Michael’s, the inspection team acknowledged the ‘ethos of mutual trust and respect for everyone’ which ‘characterises the whole school community’. 

Most pleasingly, St Michael’s pupils were described as knowing ‘that their voices and opinions are heard, valued and acted upon.’ 

To view the full report, please click here.

St Michael's secures Finalist spot in national schools awards 

We are delighted to announce that St Michael's Prep School has been named a Finalist in the Muddy Stilettos' Best Schools Awards 2024 in the Passionate about Sport category. 

The national awards, which are open to independent schools from across the United Kingdom celebrate outstanding pupil experience. This year's Awards received a record number of entries from hundreds of schools across the 13 categories and were judged by professionals from various sectors including MBE recipients.

Writing to St Michael's on Thursday 20th June, Muddy Stilettos said: "It’s clear that you are doing something different and exciting in the education space, and I’m delighted to tell you that you have been selected as a FINALIST in the category of PASSIONATE ABOUT SPORT - PREP in this year’s Awards. Congratulations to you and your team on your achievement – it’s so very well deserved, especially as we have had our most competitive year ever for school entries."

St Michael's entry focused on the lifelong love of sport promoted at our School as well as the opportunities provided to children including the School of Sports programme, Sports Scholarships, GB athlete workshops and community outreach programme. The entry also celebrated St Michael's regional and national sports triumphs, impressive participation in the Knight Frank Schools' Triathlon, pupils' and alumni's extra-curricular achievements and the inclusivity of our sporting curriculum.  

St Michael's is one of five UK schools to be named a Finalist in this year's Passionate about Sport category, with the winner being announced on Thursday 27th June 2024. 

We are so proud of St Michael's Sports Department and pleased that their hard work and tireless encouragement of our children has been recognised!

To find out more about the Muddy Stilettos' Best Schools awards, please click here. 

Adventures of a lifetime on Year 2 Stubbers trip!

Year 2 embarked on the annual Stubber’s trip last week, full of excitement and anticipation about what was in store at the famous adventure centre.

Waving goodbye to St Michael’s at 7am, there were numerous questions on the coach journey involving adventure activities, tents, food, and of course wearing onesies and taking teddies to the campfire.

The children were absolutely brilliant over the two days and one night stay. They drove power boats, paddled canoes, sledged down grass banks, climbed walls and towers, built dens, started fires and worked really hard to help and support each other during team building activities. There were some tired, but very proud children appearing Friday morning after managing to sleep away from home and families, some for the first time ever. They were super.

A huge thank you to the 16 Pre-Prep staff who attended and looked after the children so well, and well done to those Year 2 parents who trusted us to take care and support their children at what will become one of their major St Michael’s memories. 

Till next year!

Mr Davies, Pre-Prep PE Teacher

Celebrating our Dads!

On Monday morning our Reception children sang beautifully for their dads in our Father's Day assembly.

The children performed wonderful songs rehearsed in their Music lessons with Mrs Crane as well as showcasing their 'daddy portraits' which they have been working hard on. 

St Michael's compete in Kent Athletics Championships

On Friday 14th June, we proudly took a team of 19 St Michael's athletes from Years 5 to 8 to the annual Kent Athletics Championships held at the Julie Rose Stadium in Ashford. For many of our pupils, this was their first time competing in a Kent Athletics Championship, and understandably, there were some nerves as they boarded the minibuses. However, after a few practice laps and settling into the stadium, we could sense a steely determination from them all to perform well.

To secure a spot in the National Athletics Finals, which will be held at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham on Wednesday 3rd July, an athlete must win an event at their county championship or finish second and achieve the qualifying time or distance.

The St Michael’s athletes rose magnificently to the occasion. Every pupil displayed determination, focus and effort, striving to deliver their best performance. Witnessing the camaraderie, support and encouragement amongst the St Michael's pupils was truly heart warming. All of the St Michael's athletes did themselves proud, giving 100% effort and achieving some fantastic results.

The St Michael's PE Team is thrilled to announce that we have four athletes who have qualified for the National Athletics Finals. Matilda M (Year 8) won both the U14 girls' long jump and 75m hurdles titles. Finlay S (Year 6) won the U12 boys' long jump title, setting a new school record of 4.73m. Elizabeth A qualified second in the U12 girls' 1500m, setting a new school record of 5.54.06 and Amelia B qualified second in the U12 girls' 800m.

Everyone at St Michael's Prep School is absolutely delighted by this phenomenal team effort and immensely proud of all the young athletes who participated. The experience served as a significant learning curve and a memorable milestone in their athletic journeys. We extend our best wishes and good luck to each of them as they prepare for the National Finals in July. 

St Michaels athletics team: Charlie W, Andriij Z, Toluwa O, Demi W, Finlay S, Cole D, George W, Hugo M, Amelia M, Erica W, Evie S, Amelia A, Matilda M, Ella M, Elizabeth A, Amelia B, Poppy P, Amelia Rose B and Sophie F. 

Mr Brightman, Director of Sport

Holi Colour Celebration 

Many of you will have seen our Year 5s looking very colourful on Thursday Afternoon. Although we are a little late for the actual festival (it should be held in early spring), the children are learning about the Hindu festival of Holi. In class they have learnt what is involved in the two day festival and why it is celebrated. We have learnt two famous Hindu stories that are closely connected with the traditional celebrations and thought about what the moral or meaning of those stories might be. Holi also gave us (children and teachers!) a great excuse to get very messy and have a lot of fun. 

Mrs MacRae, Religious Studies Teacher

Years 2 and 3 Creative Day

On Thursday 20^th June, the Year 2 children and staff spent the morning in the Prep School with Year 3. A fun time was had as the children moved around five activities: a singing session, scavenger hunt, air-drying clay modelling session, vehicle craft workshop, yoga and dance all whilst making the moon out of papier-mâché!

All of the art and craft creations will go towards creating our Year 3 Landing display. The children were a credit to us all; the Year 2 for their confidence and beautiful manners and Year 3 for the pride they took in being the 'big' children looking after the 'little ones'.

A lot of fun was had by all whilst helping to familiarise the Year 2 children with the Prep building which is the next exciting step in their St Michael's journey. This busy morning ran so smoothly due to the care, effort and support of all the staff involved - a huge thanks to everyone! 

Mrs Perkins, Head of Year 3

St Michael's tennis pairs compete in Kent Championships Qualifier

On Tuesday 4th June, 16 pupils from St Michael's competed in the Kent Schools Doubles Championships Qualifier held at Bromley Tennis Centre across the red, orange and green ball doubles competitions. From here, two pairs of St Michael's pupils, the orange ball pair Abigail T and Araya J, and the green ball pair Misha B and Silas C, qualified for the Finals which were held on Friday 14th June. Both pairs performed extremely well but faced some tough competition, finishing in 5th place.

Mr Thomas, Head of Boys' Games

Pre-School Sports Days and Music Concerts

Nursery and Kindergarten children impressed us in their Music Concerts and Sports Day this week as they performed songs and dance moves beautifully with Mrs Crane and their teachers, followed by some determined running and throwing with Mr Davies. Thank you, Pre-School parents for cheering your children on at this event.

U9 Ellis Andrews Memorial Cricket Tournament 

This Thursday we hosted our annual U9 Ellis Andrews Memorial Cricket Tournament on the main field. Participating school teams included Somerhill, Hilden Grange, Sevenoaks Prep and Solefield competing in a fun 10-a-side, shortened format round-robin tournament. Summer had finally arrived, albeit briefly and the grounds looked fabulous.

All of our games were closely contested, with contributions from all players with both bat and ball. Somerhill emerged as the overall winners, winning all of their games and scoring an impressive 371 runs in their four matches. We extend our thanks to all the parents for their support.

The St Michael's team consisted of Monty A, Isaac O, Henry M, Alex C, Samuel S, Arthur N, Edgar B, Arthur S and Oliver A.

Mr Thomas, Head of Boy's Games

Courageous Year 4s tackle Bowles activity centre

On Monday Year 4 travelled to Bowles outdoor activity centre to face fearsome rock faces and Leaps of Faith. Fortunately, we had put in the paperwork for good weather and the sunshine turned up. In the morning the groups sampled a range of activities: rock climbing, high and low ropes, archery and the Leap of Faith. All activities provided different levels of challenge and experience; it was rewarding to see the children face and overcome these challenges, almost physically growing stature as they took each step.

Lunchtime was an opportunity to re-energise and tell each other tall tales of their exploits. In the afternoon the groups faced a series of team building tasks. Thinking, problem solving, communication and encouragement were the order of the day and seen in ‘varying amounts’ between groups. However, progress was made by all and eventually the chasm was bridged and the crocodiles dodged! A weary but bubbly group of children boarded the coach to return to school. Hopefully some of the things they learnt will stay with them and help in everyday life. 

Mr Oprin, Year 4 Teacher

Reception explore our natural world at Tyland Barn

St Michael's musicians impress at Sevenoaks Three Arts Festival

We are delighted to share a fantastic set of results from the Sevenoaks Three Arts Festival which was held at Walthamstow Hall over the last two weekends. The children, who are at different stages of their musical journeys, all benefited from detailed but supportive feedback from the adjudicators.  

Lincoln L from Pre-Prep played violin with Strings for Youth’s First Strings Ensemble in the Junior Orchestra non-competitive 13 years and under class. The children showed composure, professionalism and played their two pieces brilliantly. For Year 5 pupil Annabella S it was her first competitive festival, and it gave her an invaluable opportunity to perform all three of her Grade 2 piano pieces before her exam next month. Year 4 pupil Theia H had a very successful day last Saturday winning two vocal classes which was a great achievement given that she was competing in the vocal recital class against children much older than her. She also came an overall second in the 11 years and under show song class which had so many entrants that the competitors were split into two groups and she won her group. Year 5 pupil Silas C had another great festival winning both his piano classes which included the Romantic piano class where he competed against older pianists.

Year 7 pupil Oliver S entered eight classes playing the recorders, clarinet and singing. He came away with an impressive six first places and two second places. He also won the woodwind duet class with Clara H. Oliver was awarded a rare 'outstanding' grading for one of his recorder classes which means he won the Nannie Jamieson Award. He also won the Festival Rose Bowl for the highest score in any of the age groups’ show song classes. He has been invited to the Festival Concert and Prize Giving ceremony where he’ll play Coffee and Croissants by Alan Bullard on the recorder and sing Close Every Door To Me by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

A full set of results can be found below:

A delightful Breakfast Concert

On Wednesday morning we enjoyed our final Breakfast Concert of the year and were pleased to welcome parents to hear a wonderful selection of pieces prepared by the 15 musicians. The performances were delivered with confidence and covered a breadth of instruments and styles. Many demonstrated impressive technical control, sensitivity and dynamic expression. Congratulations to all of the performers who have earned a Silver Star for their hard work and huge thanks as ever to the team of Peripatetic Music Teachers for encouraging and supporting the children in their musical journey.

Click here to view the full gallery of photographs from the Breakfast Concert. 

Mr Baird, Director of Music

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Could you be a St Michael's Beach Hero?

New no idling sign encourages St Michael's community to make a difference

The Eco Committee were proud to see the new no idling sign displayed in the Prep rolling drop-off area this week. An addition to the school site which the Committee campaigned for as part of their action plan to reduce air pollution and protect our environment, this initiative contributes to the transport topic of the Eco-Schools Green Flag award.

Thank you for playing your part in protecting our school site and planet!

Cricket and Didi-car fun have been enjoyed in the Breakfast Club this week as children have been practising their bowling, batting and steering skills.

While in The Hive, children have had fun cutting out and dressing up pirate paper dolls and making pirate hooks from paper cups. Dot to dot and spot the difference challenges have also been enjoyed. 

Déjà Vu will be open on some days during the summer holidays to allow families to prepare for September. The opening times can be found below:

Déjà Vu Summer Holiday Opening Times

Friday 16th August 10am-12pm

Monday 19th August 10am-12pm

Thursday 29th August 10am-12pm

Tuesday 3rd September 9am-11am

Any new families joining St Michael's, please email Melissa Samworth on melbrand@yahoo.co.uk for a private appointment.

If you have any questions, please also contact Melissa. 

P & F Golf Day at The Darenth

Please click here to book your place on the P & F Golf Day.

St Michael's Umbrellas

Could you be the next P & F Chair?

Players of the Match – week commencing 17th June 2024

Reuben's golden judo victory!

Elizabeth's gymnastics winning streak!

Congratulations to Elizabeth W in Year 5 who has had a busy spring gymnastics season! On Sunday 5th May Elizabeth took part in the London Spring International Championship, winning silver for a ball routine and gold for the hoop routine. This was followed by the Espoir English Championships in Peterborough on Saturday 25th May where Elizabeth won bronze for her hoop routine. Continuing her winning streak, Elizabeth also took part in National Gymnastics Finals on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th June in Newcastle, securing a bronze medal for the hoop routine amongst 11 groups in her category. 

Keep up the incredible gymnastics Elizabeth, we are so proud of you!

Hot off the press

Camp Beaumont is back this summer!

Camp Beaumont is coming back to St Michael's for summer from Monday 15th July to Friday 16th August 2024.

Click here to book your child's place

Use code STMICHAELS24 for 10% off your booking.

Please click the above banner for information including: 

Cranbrook School Open Evening

Sevenoaks School Holiday Activity Programme

State Secondary School Open Events

Tonbridge School Summer Sports Camps

Please click the above banner for notices including:

Dulwich Cranbrook Triathlon 

How to spot an Asian Hornet 

Sevenoaks Vine Cricket Club

Follow us on social media!

Make sure you are following St Michael’s social media channels for important updates and content throughout the year.