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As well as saying goodbye to our Headteacher this term, we are also saying goodbye to three of our longest serving teachers who are retiring and off to pastures new. 

Two teachers are leaving our Science department. Mr Kerr who has been with St Benedicts since 1999, and also Miss O’Fee who has been with us since 2000. They will both be missed, not only in the Science department, but through the whole school. 

Also, Mrs Longbone our Head of Art & Design is retiring, having worked at St Benedicts since 2007. She has been an integral part of our small Art department and will be a huge miss. 

We wish all three teachers a long & healthy retirement! 

As well as saying goodbye to our Headteacher this term, we are also saying goodbye to three of our longest serving teachers who are retiring and off to pastures new. 

Two teachers are leaving our Science department. Mr Kerr who has been with St Benedicts since 1999, and also Miss O’Fee who has been with us since 2000. They will both be missed, not only in the Science department, but through the whole school. 

Also, Mrs Longbone our Head of Art & Design is retiring, having worked at St Benedicts since 2007. She has been an integral part of our small Art department and will be a huge miss. 

We wish all three teachers a long & healthy retirement! 

This week, we bid a heartfelt farewell to our Headteacher Emma Jackson, who is retiring at the end of this academic year after 34 years of dedicated service to education and the local community.

During her time at St Benedict’s Emma has played a pivotal role in shaping the school’s success, championing the school virtues, nurturing generations of pupils and fostering a strong sense of community.

During her long career, Emma has also held the role of Headteacher at three Primary schools – Derwent Vale Primary, St Patricks Catholic Primary School and also St Gregorys and St Patricks Infants. She has also taught at Orgill Juniors, Silloth Primary, Seaton Juniors and Seascale Primary.

Since joining St Benedict’s in 2019, Emma has overseen numerous achievements and events, including leading the school through COVID and all the challenges that arose from that, and also guiding St Benedict’s through two successful OFSTED inspections.

Reflecting on her time at St Benedict’s Emma said:

“The thing I will miss most about St Benedict’s is the people; students, my amazing colleagues and the wider St Benedict’s family. The school has been part of my life for many years and always will be.”

“There are many memories. Some of my favourite ones are when the students have made me truly belly laugh, they can be so entertaining”

“But big events of course stay with me. The biggest challenge was bringing the school through COVID. Those were extremely challenging days, but I think it is when I saw our school community at its best. The building has been a challenge. None more so that when the roof blew off, but yet again we pulled together and came through it.”

“We have had some immensely sad moments too. We lost two students in distressing circumstances, both shortly after they had left St Benedict’s. Logan and Bailey are in my thoughts every day.”

“We have been through two successful OFSTEDs together and an extremely successful Catholic inspection. I am proud and honoured to have led the team through those. I was a pupil here and to say I then became the headteacher is beyond anything I could have imagined. It has been the proudest achievement of my life.” 

Chair of Governors Kayleigh Daniels paid tribute to Mrs Jackson:

“On behalf of the Governing Body, we thank Emma for her exceptional leadership and dedicated service to St Benedicts.”

“She has led with integrity, always placing the needs of our children first and seeing the dignity and potential in every person within our school community. Through her compassionate stewardship and unwavering commitment, she has shaped not only the school we are today but also laid strong foundations for the future.”

“The virtues Emma has embodied and nurtured across St Benedict’s will be her enduring legacy, one that will continue to inspire and provide a strong platform for future generations to build upon.”

“Thank you for all that you have given to St Benedict’s. We wish you a restful, well-earned retirement and every happiness in the years ahead.”

Speaking about her retirement, Emma added:

“My plans centre around my family. I will be doing some educational consultancy work, but most of my time will be spent with my partner travelling and with my four children and most importantly with my Granddaughter. She will only know me as Gran – who used to be a Head Teacher!!”

Everyone at St Benedict’s wishes Mrs Jackson a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.

Deputy Headteacher Steve Bridgman presenting Emma Jackson with her retirement gifts

Welcome to our Summer Newsletter. Below you will find a round up of the news highlight from this term, as well as upcoming dates for next term. 

We hope you all have a restful Summer break and we will see you in September for the start of our new year! 

This week, we bid a heartfelt farewell to our Headteacher Emma Jackson, who is retiring at the end of this academic year after 34 years of dedicated service to education and the local community.

During her time at St Benedict’s Emma has played a pivotal role in shaping the school’s success, championing the school virtues, nurturing generations of pupils and fostering a strong sense of community.

During her long career, Emma has also held the role of Headteacher at three Primary schools – Derwent Vale Primary, St Patricks Catholic Primary School and also St Gregorys and St Patricks Infants. She has also taught at Orgill Juniors, Silloth Primary, Seaton Juniors and Seascale Primary.

Since joining St Benedict’s in 2019, Emma has overseen numerous achievements and events, including leading the school through COVID and all the challenges that arose from that, and also guiding St Benedict’s through two successful OFSTED inspections.

Reflecting on her time at St Benedict’s Emma said:

“The thing I will miss most about St Benedict’s is the people; students, my amazing colleagues and the wider St Benedict’s family. The school has been part of my life for many years and always will be.”

“There are many memories. Some of my favourite ones are when the students have made me truly belly laugh, they can be so entertaining”

“But big events of course stay with me. The biggest challenge was bringing the school through COVID. Those were extremely challenging days, but I think it is when I saw our school community at its best. The building has been a challenge. None more so that when the roof blew off, but yet again we pulled together and came through it.”

“We have had some immensely sad moments too. We lost two students in distressing circumstances, both shortly after they had left St Benedict’s. Logan and Bailey are in my thoughts every day.”

“We have been through two successful OFSTEDs together and an extremely successful Catholic inspection. I am proud and honoured to have led the team through those. I was a pupil here and to say I then became the headteacher is beyond anything I could have imagined. It has been the proudest achievement of my life.” 

Chair of Governors Kayleigh Daniels paid tribute to Mrs Jackson:

“On behalf of the Governing Body, we thank Emma for her exceptional leadership and dedicated service to St Benedicts.”

“She has led with integrity, always placing the needs of our children first and seeing the dignity and potential in every person within our school community. Through her compassionate stewardship and unwavering commitment, she has shaped not only the school we are today but also laid strong foundations for the future.”

“The virtues Emma has embodied and nurtured across St Benedict’s will be her enduring legacy, one that will continue to inspire and provide a strong platform for future generations to build upon.”

“Thank you for all that you have given to St Benedict’s. We wish you a restful, well-earned retirement and every happiness in the years ahead.”

Speaking about her retirement, Emma added:

“My plans centre around my family. I will be doing some educational consultancy work, but most of my time will be spent with my partner travelling and with my four children and most importantly with my Granddaughter. She will only know me as Gran – who used to be a Head Teacher!!”

Everyone at St Benedict’s wishes Mrs Jackson a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.

Deputy Headteacher Steve Bridgman presenting Emma Jackson with her retirement gifts

Achievement Assemblies

During our last week of term, all of our year groups celebrated the terms achievements, well done everyone!

Our Latest Student of the Week Winners

For all the winners click here

Student of the Week – 13th July 2026

Congratulations to our final group of Student of the Week winners for this year.All have received their achievement points and certificates today from Mrs Jackson for her final ever Student of the Week presentation! Student of the Week presentations have been one of the highlights of Mrs Jackson’s time here. It has been lovely for...
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Student of the Week – 6th July 2026

Congratulations to our latest group of Student of the Week winners. All were presented with their certificates today and have all been awarded 99 achievement points – well done everyone! Some students are out on trips this week, but all will receive their points and certificates.
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Student of the Week – 29th June 2026

Congratulations to our latest group of Student of the Week winners. All were presented with their certificates today and have all been awarded 99 achievement points – well done everyone!
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Student of the Week – 22nd June 2026

Congratulations to our latest group of Student of the Week winners. All were presented with their certificates today and have all been awarded 99 achievement points – well done everyone!
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Student of the Week – 15th June 2026

Congratulations to our latest group of Student of the Week winners. All were presented with their certificates today and have all been awarded 99 achievement points – well done everyone!
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Student of the Week – 8th June 2026

Congratulations to our latest group of Student of the Week winners. All were presented with their certificates today and have all been awarded 99 achievement points – well done everyone!
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Important Upcoming Dates

13Aug

A Level Results Day

8:30 am - 11:00 am
20Aug

GCSE Results Day

8:30 am - 11:00 am
01Sep

Staff Inset Day

8:30 am - 4:30 pm

All this week we have been holding our End of Year Achievement Assemblies for each Year Group, awarding students who have impressed their Tutors, Assistant Head of Years and Head of Years this term, as well as handing out Subject Awards and Attendance Awards. 

Well done everyone! Enjoy your Summer! 

Year 7 Achievement Assembly 

Gallery of all our Summer Award winners from Year 7, scroll across to view:

Year 8 Achievement Assembly

Well done to all of our Year 8 winners, scroll below for all of the photos: 

Year 9 Achievement Assembly

Gallery of all our winners for Year 9. Scroll through to see them all: 

Year 10 Achievement Assembly

Some of our Year 10 winners for Tutor Heroes and Assistant Head of Year and Head of Year Awards. Scroll across to see all the photos: 

Sixth Form Achievement Assembly

We would like to congratulate all of our Sixth Form students on their achievements this term. 

Civic Honour: Olivia Siddle 
Academic Honour: Sophia Juson 
Student of the Term: Keisha Parkinson 
 
Scroll below for photo highlights: 

Student of the Week – 13th July 2026

Congratulations to our final group of Student of the Week winners for this year.

All have received their achievement points and certificates today from Mrs Jackson for her final ever Student of the Week presentation!

Student of the Week presentations have been one of the highlights of Mrs Jackson’s time here. It has been lovely for her to recognise the achievements of our wonderful students here at St Benedicts.

Year 9 – Eliza H Awarded for excellent independent work in Performing Arts! – Mrs Whitaker

Year 9 – Ciara T Awarded for excellent independent work in Performing Arts! – Mrs Whitaker

Year 9 – Lily-Rose W – Awarded for excellent independent work in Performing Arts! – Mrs Whitaker

Year 9 – Iona S Awarded for excellent independent work in Performing Arts! – Mrs Whitaker

Year 9 – Addy S Awarded for always giving out the books in Art, getting quietly on with her work and being a lovely person – Mrs Longbone


Year 10 – Emily GAwarded for excellent and consistent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 10 – Jodie MAwarded for being a Science Star throughout the year in Biology – Mr Kerr

Year 10 – Max H – Awarded for being a Science Star throughout the year in Biology – Mr Kerr

Year 10 – Bradley T – Awarded for being a Science Star throughout the year in Biology – Mr Kerr

Year 10 – Bethany D – Awarded for being a Science Star throughout the year in Biology – Mr Kerr


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Two of our talented Sixth Form students are heading off to Japan this summer after winning a competition through the NDA. 

Ava M and Ace S both in Year 12 were successful, along with only two other students from Cumbria. They will now join a small cohort of students & delegates in Japan in the summer for the NDF International Workshop.

NDF is a Japanese organisation, that was established after the 2011 tsunami, to ensure that appropriate compensation was given to the victims of the Fukushima accident (caused by the tsunami).

The NDF International Forum has been held annually since 2016. It brings together local Fukushima residents, Japanese & international experts, engineers, scientists and decision makers.

The NDF STEAM Workshop Competition was held in May, and involved students submitting a presentation, including an introduction video. The presentation included:

  • What students know about the civil nuclear industry, with a focus on Japan and Fukushima Daiichi
  • What students hope to gain from the experience
  • What students think you could contribute to the workshop
  • Include a 1 minute video introducing themselves, their interests, why they want to take part.

Ava is looking forward to the experience and said:

“The trip focuses on the theme ‘looking back at progress and forward into the future’ and includes community and expert sessions as well as a visit to Fukushima Daiichi. We will explore Fukushima’s recovery and take part in discussions with residents, experts, and international case studies on future challenges and long-term planning.”
 
“I’m really excited to experience Japanese culture firsthand and to visit the Fukushima Daiichii Nuclear Power Plant. I’m especially looking forward to learning more about Fukushima and seeing firsthand how the area has changed, recovered, and adapted over time.  It’s an amazing opportunity to gain new experiences and broaden my perspective.”
 
Ace is also excited for the trip and comments: 
 
“From the information me and Ava have been given so far, it is a sponsored trip with the NDA including a three-day workshop, and a visit to the Fukushima nuclear disaster site.”
 
“The theme is about looking back on progress and forward into the future with discussions with experts about a long-term strategy to helping the nuclear disaster site. For the rest of the time there in Japan, we have been told we can go sight-seeing around Tokyo.”
 
“I personally feel excited. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and look forward to learning a lot about the nuclear industry from experts around the world, which is a sector I would like to pursue a career in.”
Ava & Ace who are heading off to Japan this summer

Student of the Week – 6th July 2026

Congratulations to our latest group of Student of the Week winners. All were presented with their certificates today and have all been awarded 99 achievement points – well done everyone!

Some students are out on trips this week, but all will receive their points and certificates.

Year 7 – Marnie S Awarded for working hard in RE recently and producing some lovely work – Mr Gabuguga

Year 7 – Milo C – Awarded for having a positive attitude, working really hard and making good contributions in RE lessons – Mr Gabuguga

Year 7 – Violet B – Awarded for having a positive attitude, working really hard and making good contributions in RE lessons – Mr Gabuguga

Year 7 – Ahmad A Awarded for not being afraid to answer or ask questions, as well as working really hard in RE lessons – Mrs Best

Year 7 – Miles B Awarded for his consistent excellent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 7 – Shannon O Awarded for being a lovely, helpful and kind individual who always tries her best in DT – Mrs Collins


Year 9 – Callum RAwarded for his commitment and hard work towards the Bridging Horizons sessions. Callum has been part of the team, but couldn’t attend the competition due to other commitments. Showing excellent communication skills at the competition and working brilliantly as a team – Mrs Ennis & Mr Stevenson

Year 9 – Evan C, Joseph O, Oliver G, Bella T, Maya D, Ella-Kay S, Kimberley O, Rylan T, Robbie S, Ciara T – All awarded for their commitment and hard work towards the Bridging Horizons sessions, attending the competition and coming out with a win. Showing excellent communication skills at the competition and working brilliantly as a team – Mrs Ennis & Mr Stevenson


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Over the course the year some of our amazing Year 9 students have been working alongside the Cumbria Youth Alliance completing the Bridging Horizons project. This project is designed to help students realise their future ambitions in Civil Engineering and the different career pathways available to them in this sector.

The students have completed lots of activities including building a Da Vinci bridge, making arches and viaducts and even investigating the leaning tower of Pisa.

All of this culminated in the Inter School Challenge last week. In this competition our students were set an infrastructure challenge and asked them to plan and make a project as well as setting themselves into clear defined roles within the challenge.

Our talented students walked away with the honour of being crowned winners and a £300 cheque.

To say we are very proud would be a huge understatement. Well done to all involved in the whole project! 

Those who took part were Oliver G, Joseph O, Rylan T, Robbie S, Evan C, Maya D, Bella T, Ciara T, Ella S and Kimberley O. Callum R also took part in the project but didn’t attend the competition day. 

Pictured below are the winning team with their trophy: 

Our group being presented with their prize

Year 7 – Noah J Awarded for his fantastic engagement in ELSA sessions – Mrs Shervinton

Year 7 – Miley T – Awarded for working hard in lesson and pushing herself to understand and build on prior knowledge in RE – Mrs Best

Year 7 – Olivia SAwarded for high-quality work and displaying excellent attitude to learning in RE – Mr Gabuguga

Year 7 – Jorja N – Awarded for high level engagement and high-quality class work in RE – Mr Gabuguga

Year 7 – Matilda P Awarded for diligence and a consistently excellent attitude to learning in English – Miss Thompson


Year 8 – Alejandro C Awarded for consistent hard work and a positive ATL in English – Mrs McKee

Year 8 – Ghofran A Awarded for showing a willingness to take design risks and challenge herself with her design ideas – Mrs Collins

Year 8 – Jessica C Awarded for always being a pleasure to teach and have in the classroom, she takes pride in her work and gives 100% every single lesson – Mrs Collins

Year 8 – Ashton WAwarded for always having an excellent attitude in Science, and trying his best. Ashton always demonstrates excellent investigative skills during practical lessons – Miss O’Fee

Year 8 – Amelia J-S Awarded for excellent effort in Oliver after school session this week! She is helpful, patient and always gives suggestions for the performance – Mrs Whittaker


Year 9 – Brooke H Awarded for diligence in English and for always giving her best in every lesson. Thank you for being consistently engaged, polite and simply a pleasure to teach. Good luck for your exam results! – Miss Thompson

Year 9 – Tilly S Awarded for diligence in English and for always giving her best in every lesson. Thank you for being consistently engaged, polite and simply a pleasure to teach. Good luck for your exam results! – Miss Thompson

Year 9 – Amelia R Awarded for diligence in English and for always giving her best in every lesson. Thank you for being consistently engaged, polite and simply a pleasure to teach. Good luck for your exam results! – Miss Thompson

Year 9 – Lucas K Awarded for diligence in English and for always giving her best in every lesson. Thank you for being consistently engaged, polite and simply a pleasure to teach. Good luck for your exam results! – Miss Thompson

Year 9 – Robbie S Awarded for diligence in English and for always giving her best in every lesson. Thank you for being consistently engaged, polite and simply a pleasure to teach. Good luck for your exam results! – Miss Thompson


Year 10 – Blake R Awarded for his sensible attitude in lessons. Well done! – Mr Merry

Year 10 – Alfie SAwarded for consistently working hard in his new Maths class – Miss Downton

Year 10 – Bethany D Awarded for excellent effort in lessons – always! Mrs Whitaker

Year 10 – Jemima R – Awarded for excellent effort in lessons – always! Mrs Whitaker

Year 10 – Aidan SAwarded for supporting others and acting in a mature manner. Aiden really stepped up with dignity and respect. We are very proud of him – Miss Dinsdale & Mr Williamson


Sixth Form – Emily W Awarded for great engagement with Politics – Mrs Kar

Sixth Form – Robyn I Awarded for working really heard in Politics and Sociology – Mrs Kar


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Recently, three of our students attended the Spellbinding 2026 Book Awards in Penrith.
 
Spellbinding is a county-wide reading initiative that encourages reading for pleasure by introducing students to a range of recently published books and authors.
 
Over the past four months, our students have attended regular Spellbinding Book Club sessions with our Librarian, Miss Smith, where they read all 12 shortlisted titles, discussed and reviewed each book, and cast their vote for their favourite.
 
The awards ceremony brought together students from schools across Cumbria to celebrate reading. During the event, our students had the opportunity to meet several of the shortlisted authors, including Jenny Pearson, whose book Shrapnel Boys was announced as the winner of the 2026 Spellbinding Award. They also met Jack Mackay, author of Gloam, Patrice Lawrence, author of People Like Stars, and Manjeet Mann, author of Roar.
 
The students thoroughly enjoyed hearing from the authors about their inspiration and writing journeys, as well as taking part in Q&A sessions and celebrating the winning title with other readers from across the county.
 
They represented St Benedicts brilliantly throughout the programme and at the awards – well done all!

Year 7 – Faith P-R Awarded for diligent work in History – Mrs Muncaster

Year 7  – Seth T – Awarded for diligence and a consistently excellent attitude to learning in English – Mrs Thompson

Year 7 – Dorcas L Awarded for showing exceptional talent in the triple jump, demonstrating enthusiasm, excellent coordination and execution – Mrs Murray

Year 7 – Harper T Awarded for thinking as a Scientist when making predictions about what will happen during an experiment – Mrs Clarkson


Year 8 – Ava B Awarded for always working hard in Geography – Mrs McAteer

Year 8 – Sonny M Awarded for a great attitude and work ethic in Personal Development – Mrs Reed

Year 8 – Millie H Awarded for a great attitude and work ethic in Personal Development – Mrs Reed

Year 8 – Lewis W –Awarded for outstanding effort in tough conditions during 300m – Mr Petre and Mr Harrison

Year 8 – Lee P Awarded for always working hard RE in lesson, answering questions and completing all your work on time – Mrs Best

Year 8 – Jessica C Awarded for being polite, hard working and always give 100% to whatever we are doing in RE class – Mrs Best

Year 8 – Sadie H Awarded for her excellent performance in the triple jump, gaining a distance of nearly 10m – Mrs Murray

Year 8 – Lola C Awarded for her accurate technique in the triple jump and confident demonstrations – Mrs Murray


Year 9 – Aiden P Awarded for showing excellent focus and applying himself to this weeks revision for his end of year assessment – Mrs Clarkson

Year 9 – Oliver M Awarded for showing excellent concentration when revising for his assessment and has stayed focused – Mrs Clarkson

Year 9 – Natalie M Awarded for showing excellent technique in our triple jump lesson and was incredibly enthusiastic! – Mrs Murray


Year 10 – Bella C – Awarded for brilliant effort since joining my class in Maths. Confident and considered answers & really trying her best! – Miss Hunter

Year 10 – Darcie JAwarded for self-discipline at all times – excellent effort in Performing Arts – Mrs Whitaker

Year 10 – Bethany D Awarded for self-discipline at all times – excellent effort in Performing Arts – Mrs Whitaker

Year 10 – Lily M Awarded for being an amazing role model when delivering her English presentation. She was well-informed and thoroughly prepared. She should be so proud – Mrs Thompson

Year 10 – Katie C – Awarded for being an amazing role model when delivering her English presentation. She was well-informed and thoroughly prepared. She should be so proud – Mrs Thompson


Sixth Form – Sophia J Awarded for excellent work on Born-Haber cycles in Chemistry – Mrs Kirkup

Sixth Form – Ace S Awarded for being accepted onto the Sellafield trip to Japan in July – Ms Sewell

Sixth Form – Ava M Awarded for being accepted onto the Sellafield trip to Japan in July – Ms Sewell


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Our Year 9 Rugby League team produced a courageous and determined performance in the final before half term, despite ultimately falling short against strong opposition.

The team battled tirelessly throughout the match and showed great resilience, particularly after suffering a number of injuries that disrupted their momentum. Despite these setbacks, every player continued to work hard for one another, demonstrating excellent commitment, character and team spirit.

While the result did not go St Benedict’s way, the players can be incredibly proud of their efforts. Their determination, bravery and refusal to give up until the final whistle reflected everything positive about school sport.

Mr Spires said:

“A huge congratulations to the whole squad on reaching the final and representing St Benedict’s with pride. Although the trophy wasn’t theirs this time, it was a performance full of heart and one that everyone associated with the school can be proud of.”

The squad pictured after the final: Harry M, Carson L, Xavier J, Aiden P, Ajai S, Bobby M, Charlie H, Tyler F, Jenson M, Oliver C, Kenzie J, Louie H, Kian L, Noah D, Joseph O, Ewan S, Calvin C and also Matty L (not pictured)

Year 7 – Noah G Awarded for excellent and consistent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 7 – Maisy SAwarded for working hard in Spanish lessons and answering questions – Mrs Harris

Year 7 – Danny HAwarded for working independently and always stretching himself to write more in Spanish – Mrs Harris 

Year 7 – Oliver BAwarded for working hard and concentrating well in Science – Mr Kerr

Year 7 – Gracie BAwarded for being very helpful in RE lessons and being extremely polite – Mrs Best


Year 8 – Noah R Awarded for his amazing levels of effort in Athletics in PE lessons. He currently tops the class leaderboard! – Mr Harrison

Year 8 – Tamika M Awarded for working really hard in RE. She is always polite and kind & helping others in class. Well done! – Mrs Best

Year 8 – Isabel J Awarded for looking after & welcoming a new student to our school. Well done – Mrs Wells

Year 8 – Ghofran A Awarded for looking after & welcoming a new student to our school. Well done – Mrs Wells

Year 8 – Helan V Awarded for looking after & welcoming a new student to our school. Well done – Miss Percival-Boyton


Year 9 – Casey-Leigh B Awarded for taking her book home to practice PMA skills for her assessment in two weeks. Shout out for hard work and determination – Miss Bradley

Year 9 – Bella T – Awarded with two nominations. Firstly, performing in the Talent Show. I am very proud of her courage & talent – Mrs Whitaker And secondly, for volunteering to help organise and run a reception age athletics afternoon. She worked with a group of students helping support, engage and motivate them. She was an excellent ambassadors for the school – Mrs Grealish


Year 10 – Hollie S Awarded for excellent and consistent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 10 – Mason S Awarded for excellent and consistent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 10 – Ethan L Awarded for excelling at the GCSE Geography fieldwork trip to the river – Mr Gibson

Year 10 – Kaiden D Awarded for excelling at the GCSE Geography fieldwork trip to the river – Mr Gibson

Year 10 – Kylan B Awarded for always asking the right questions. Not being scared of not understanding and taking charge of his own learning in Science – Mr Lindner

Year 10 – Jonah NAwarded for representing the district at the County Athletics Championships in which he finished fourth in both the 100m and 200m inter boys final – Mr Harrison/Mrs Woodcock


Sixth Form – Sam P Awarded for getting involved and representing St Benedicts really well at the Gen 2 taster day – Miss Sewell

Sixth Form – Jamie PAwarded for really good verbal answers in lessons – Mrs Kar


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A group of our talented Sixth Form Students have been successful in their bid for funding towards their very own sustainable project.

The bid was part of the Leading Change programme, which is delivered by the Centre for Leadership Performance Cumbria (CforLP) and funded through Sellafield Ltd’s SIX (Social Impact multiplied), bringing schools, employers and communities together to turn global sustainability goals into local action.

The group of Year 12 Biology students have been working with the Centre for Leadership Programme and their mentors from Sellafield Ltd.  

The students had to design a project based on the sustainable development goals. They chose to design a living wall, made from pollinating plants. This will not only look attractive in the school but will also be good for the environment.

Mrs Reed, Biology teacher at St Benedicts said:

“The group worked so well as a team and got valuable insight into how projects are implemented in the workplace.”

“I was genuinely so impressed with all involved in the event. They were enthusiastic throughout the project, supported each other in their individual roles and they learned lots of useful project management skills.”

Their project idea was presented to a panel of local industry experts recently, who were very impressed and gave great feedback on areas to develop.   

They were successful and got £1000 funding, which we can use towards the project costs and other worthy environmental projects in school.

The students are now going to work as a team to implement the project in school and start the build. The plan is for the wall to be kept in the Chapel at school and will be movable so it can be used in different areas of the school during key events.

We look forward to seeing the finished product! Well done Year 12! 

Mrs Reed with Luke M, Ava M, Rosie W, Evie M, Deborah T, Immy S, Alex P, Shane S and mentor Alana Quinn

Year 7 – Charlie AAwarded for with two nominations. Firstly, being a reliable and hardworking member of the Computer Science class – Mr Merry. And secondly, for an excellent self-portrait homework for Art – Mrs Longbone

Year 7 – Joseph G Awarded for outstanding work in Geography all year – Mr Hamilton

Year 7 – Sophie S Awarded for working hard and concentrating well in Science – Mr Kerr

Year 7 – Harrison TAwarded for his participation in form activities and helping a new student in tutor – Mrs Needham

Year 7 – Ali M Awarded for his participation in form activities and helping a new student in tutor – Mrs Needham


Year 8 Alejandro CAwarded for excellent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 8 Evie BAwarded for excellent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 8Poppy HAwarded for excellent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 8 – Jorgie JAwarded for working really hard in RE lessons, being very helpful in answering questions and handing in work, always polite and happy – Mrs Best

Year 8 – Lillie K Awarded for completing work to a high standard in RE. She is very helpful when asked to do things in class and always polite – Mrs Best

Year 8 – Loe R-E Awarded for maintaining outstanding levels of work in Geography – Mr Hamilton

Year 8 – Alwin P-X Awarded for maintaining outstanding levels of work in Geography – Mr Hamilton


Year 9 – Faith M Awarded for her great attitude and diligence in French lessons – Mrs Needham

Year 9 – Riley S – Awarded for diligently working through tasks in French lessons, and supporting others – Mrs Needham

Year 9 – Tilly S Awarded for demonstrating outstanding diligence in her exam papers in History – Mrs Muncaster

Year 9 – Scarlett D Awarded for her resilience and positive attitude towards learning and extra-curricular which is fabulous. I have been particularly impressed with her asking to help direct the school musical next year and she has already started creating some ideas – Mrs Whitaker


Year 10 – Blake DAwarded for always being on task and doing his best in Science – Mrs Reed

Year 10 – Jacob SAwarded for working really hard in RE. He tries to answer the questions and completes his work to the best of his ability – Mrs Best

Year 10 – Jayden C Awarded for his positive attitude to learning in English – Mrs Thompson

Year 10 – Rosie H Awarded for her positive attitude to learning in English – Mrs Thompson


Sixth Form – Luke M Awarded for always being on task and working hard in every Biology lesson – Mrs Reed

Sixth Form – Corey D – Awarded for excellent work in Politics – Mrs Kar

Sixth Form – Immy C Awarded for being so hard working, meets all deadlines, gets on with her work without complaint or excuse and always ensures her work is of a very high quality. She is never happy with the bare minimum – Ms Penrice


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Following the election for our Head Students earlier this term, our new Sixth Form Council has also been decided.

Head Students:

Year 7: Anna M 
Year 8: Ava M 
Year 9: Audrey O
Year 10: Ace S

Other Positions: 

Chair: Ollie R 
Events Lead: Luke M
Social Events and Charity Liaison Lead: Alfie G
Charity Lead: Immy S
Publicity Lead: Immy C
Year 12 Liaison Lead: Kendra J
Environment Lead: Robyn I
Local Community Lead: Alex P
Treasurer: Deborah T

Student of the Week – 1st June 2026

Congratulations to our latest group of Student of the Week winners for their work before the half term break. All were presented with their certificates today and have all been awarded 99 achievement points – well done everyone!

Year 7 – Joshua M Awarded for very good effort on his RE homework – Mr Gabuguga

Year 7 – Devon J Awarded for high quality classwork in RE lessons – Mr Gabuguga

Year 7 – Dorcas L Awarded for outstanding effort in Spanish with a fabulous accent and great memory for vocabulary – Mrs Jahromi

Year 7 – Bethan L – Awarded for demonstrating diligence in Computer Science and Textiles lessons – Mr Merry

Year 7 – Bayleigh C – Awarded for demonstrating diligence in Computer Science and Textiles lessons – Mr Merry

Year 7 – Annie S Awarded for demonstrating diligence in Computer Science and Textiles lessons – Mr Merry

Year 7 – Pippa H Awarded for demonstrating grit and determination in PE – Mrs Murray


Year 8 – Maria S Awarded for always being an amazing student and also for going above and beyond and copying down not just her own notes last week but the notes and examples for the student she sits next to who was absent – Mrs Mulrain

Year 8 – Evie E Awarded for excellent participation in Friday’s science lesson – Mrs Burnup

Year 8 – Sophie WAwarded for always been polite & saying hello. She always has a smile on her face and works hard in RE and provides support to fellow pupils – Mrs Best

Year 8 – Luca D – Awarded for always working hard in RE and always eager to help and answer questions within the lesson – Mrs Best

Year 8 – Harry M Awarded for always bringing positivity and enthusiasm to RE. He is willing to help, contributes well to class discussions, and asks thoughtful questions that help the class explore topics more deeply. Well done, Harry – Mr Millar


Year 9 – Lilly P Awarded for her consistent excellent Attitude to Leanring (ATL) in German – Miss Jahromi

Year 9 – Marcus G Awarded for producing some excellent work in Art, even though he struggles with colour. He has listened to feedback and tried really hard, which is a testament to his character – Mrs Jackson

Year 9 – Ciara T Awarded for excellent classwork. She wrote a precise and analytical piece about Iago – Miss Thompson


Year 10 – Sophia SAwarded for excellent classwork and bookwork in Science – always up to date and well presented – Mr Kerr

Year 10 – Phoebe P Awarded for excellent classwork and bookwork in Science – always up to date and well presented – Mr Kerr

Year 10 – Lucas F – Awarded for diligence in History on our recent Renaissance topic – Mrs Muncaster

Year 10 – Olivia H Awarded for diligence in History on our recent Renaissance topic – Mrs Muncaster

Year 10 – Mia S Awarded for diligence in History on our recent Renaissance topic – Mrs Muncaster


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Year 7 – Flora CAwarded for demonstrating kindness towards other students in PE – Mrs Woodcock

Year 7 – Poppy HAwarded for trying really hard in Maths; growing in confidence by volunteering answers – Mr McCully

Year 7 – Jotham A-IAwarded for always being eager to help out in class in RE – Mrs Best

Year 7 – Alfie T – Awarded with two nominations! Firstly, for working incredibly hard in Maths – Mr Walker And secondly, for helping others in Food Technology – Mr Merry

Year 7 – Emmie DAwarded for writing extra Spanish every lesson to stretch her skills – Mrs Harris

Year 7 – Lexi P-B Awarded for excellent effort in Maths intervention sessions – Mrs Walsh


Year 8 – Bobby MAwarded for having a fantastic PD lesson where he diligently created a brilliant CV – Mr Yong

Year 8 – Ashton W – Awarded for demonstrating excellent practical skills during a Science investigation, working as a team and for his use of scientific knowledge to justify his conclusion – Miss O’Fee

Year 8 – Connor SAwarded for always helping in class with answers, helping fellow pupils and not being afraid to ask questions when unsure, but most of all making me smile – Mrs Best

Year 8 – Lucas M – Awarded for always being polite, helpful, joining in all activities in class and trying your best every lesson – Mrs Best


Year 9 – Brooke H – Awarded with two nominations. Firstly, for showing diligence in Dunkirk lesson in History – Mrs Muncaster And secondly, for always helping me in RE class, being polite and very helpful – Mrs Best

Year 9 – Alfie M Awarded for trying his hardest to do the work and never giving up in RE – Mrs Best

Year 9 – Lori C Awarded for her exceptional ATL in Geography since September. Attentive and focussed in lessons – Mrs Lee

Year 9 – Coben B Awarded for her exceptional ATL in Geography since September. Attentive and focussed in lessons, and also asks really great geographical questions – Mrs Lee

Special mention also to Will J, Noah D, Oliver G, Chance W, Addison B, Casey L-B, and Modana M who were all nominated this week for Year 9 


Year 10 – Clarence P Awarded for being hardworking and having good attitude to work in Science – Ms Theaker

Year 10 – Jack SAwarded for reading the play in English class. Thank you for your contribution, it makes all the difference! – Miss Thompson

Year 10 – Bobby DAwarded for showing resilience in Performing Arts & completing written work to the best of his ability – Mrs Whitaker

Year 10 – Bailey MAwarded for showing resilience in Performing Arts & completing written work to the best of her ability – Mrs Whitaker

Year 10 – Madison W Awarded for working really hard in RE, always polite and helpful & completes all her work on time – Mrs Best


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We are very proud to announce our new Head Students for 2026-2027, who have recently been elected after a thorough election process. 

Each Sixth Form student will work with a particular year group during the next school year. 

Anna M – Year 7
Ava M – Year 8
Audrey O – Year 9
Ace S – Year 10
 
All four students will be working with the rest of the school council, who are still to be elected. All are excited, and eager to start work next year. 
 
Anna“I’m most exited about making the school community as safe and welcoming as it can be.”
 
Ava“I’m excited to inspire participation, teamwork and positivity throughout school.”
Audrey“I am so grateful for this opportunity to be Head Student at school. What I really want to do is create an environment, starting with me, where I can provide some form of guidance for the students in lower years and well as be a friendly face in the halls. Overall, being able to represent the student body is the best thing I could wish for, thank you for letting me represent you.”
 
Ace“I am very excited to be a head student at this school. It fills me with pride to be able to have a voice on developments within the school but also be a spokesperson for others especially Year 10. The part I am most excited for is being able to organise different events for the school like the teachers vs students football match and the sponge throwing event.”
 
We wish them all the best and look forward to seeing their ideas and work next year. 

Year 7 – Livvy O – Awarded for trying really hard and growing in confidence, volunteering answers and aiming high in Maths – Mr McCully

Year 7 – Molly B – Awarded for being a great support to her peers in RE and always eager to help when her peers are struggling – Mrs Best

Year 7 – Ellie A – Awarded for making huge progress in her reading and has a fantastic attitude towards peered reading – Mrs Freestone

Year 7 – David D – Awarded for working incredibly hard in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 7 – Freya OP – Awarded for working really hard on weather phrases in French – Mrs Needham

Year 7 – Chanudi P – Awarded for amazing effort learning about linear gradients in Maths – Miss Downton


Year 8 – Willow McL – Awarded for increased participation in Q and A in French – Mrs Harris

Year 8 – Ted D – Awarded for independent work and participation in French – Mrs Harris

Year 8 – Liam E – Awarded for always working efficiently and completing extra work in French – Mrs Harris

Year 8 – Leila B – Awarded for always volunteering to read aloud in tutor time – Mrs Harris

Year 8 – Oscar T – Awarded for excellent and consistent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 8 – Eadie K – Awarded for excellent and consistent effort in Maths – Mr Walker

Year 8 – Sadie H – Awarded for a fantastic performance in the 200m sprint (34secs) – Mrs Murray

Year 8 – Mia E – Awarded for a fantastic performance in the 200m sprint (35secs) – Mrs Murray

Year 8 – Nancy H – Awarded for working really hard in RE, very helpful with her fellow peers and always eager to answer questions – Mrs Best


Year 9 – Oscar B – Awarded for being very polite, eager to answer questions & eager to help others in class when they are struggling – Mrs Best

Year 9 – Eden I – Awarded for outstanding work in Geography lessons, focusing on the impacts of climate change on our planet – Mr Gibson

Year 9 – Brooke D – Awarded for outstanding work in Geography lessons, focusing on the impacts of climate change on our planet – Mr Gibson

Year 9 – Louie H – Awarded for outstanding work in Geography lessons, focusing on the impacts of climate change on our planet – Mr Gibson

Year 9 – Bella T – Awarded for quiet conscientious work and participating well in Q&A – Mrs Harris

Year 9 – Aaron B – Awarded for quiet conscientious work in French – Mrs Harris

Year 9 – Isabelle O – Awarded for being super supportive to all the Year 7 students in Languages Club – Mrs Harris


Year 10 – Kian G – Awarded for revising well for his GCSE Spanish – Mrs Harris

Year 10 – Niamh McG – Awarded for helping me run a Year 2 Kicky Rounders tournament. She was a brilliant ambassadors for the school and was highly praised by primary school staff – Mrs Grealish

Year 10 – Poppy C – Awarded for helping me run a Year 2 Kicky Rounders tournament. She was a brilliant ambassadors for the school and was highly praised by primary school staff – Mrs Grealish


Year 11 – Lucca G – Awarded for being an absolute superstar in History and showing great diligence – Mrs Muncaster

Year 11 – Ethan S – Awarded for always trying his hardest in French – Mrs Needham

Year 11 – Charlie V – Awarded for keeping his cool during his French speaking exam – Mrs Needham

Year 11 – Lacey C – Awarded for showing amazing resilience in her Art exam – Mrs Longbone


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