The Summer Hoc Age magazine, full of pupil achievements, events, trips and good news stories across the whole school, is now available online.
‘I write these words at 3.15pm on a sunny Friday as we break up for summer half term. Reception and Year 1 are gleefully rolling down the slope of the Governor’s Lawn and legging it across the bright, open green space. I can’t help but smile; and also contemplate how quickly the last week has flown by, never mind the school year.
When we lift our sights and take in the breadth of everything going on at BGS, it can be both bewildering and beautiful. We pack a lot of good stuff in. What we do, enjoy and achieve is remarkable and a testament to our young people, the support they receive from home, and my colleagues. Our termly Hoc Age magazines provide a taste of all this laudable activity, and I hope you enjoy reading the articles that follow.
As ever at this time of year, we bid a poignant farewell to those who leave us, whilst concurrently welcoming a new cohort of (young) Old Bradfordians into our alumni community. The annual cycles of life at BGS are age-old and consistent — beginnings and endings, progress and fulfilment. As the summer holiday beckons, I hope our pupils can feel they’ve given a good account of themselves these past months. I am proud of them, and I wish you all a restful break when it comes.’
Simon Hinchliffe, Headmaster
What a Term – and What a Year!
As we look back on the 2024-25 academic year, it’s hard not to do so with a smile. This year has seen remarkable growth and development across the Junior School, from welcoming our very first Reception and Year 1 pupils to unveiling exciting new outdoor facilities that have transformed our approach to outdoor learning and creative play.
Our youngest pupils have brought boundless energy and enthusiasm to the school each day. Their transition into school life has been seamless, thanks in part to whole-school assemblies and the incredible support from our Year 6 reading buddies and play leaders, who have helped foster a strong sense of community across year groups.
Throughout the Junior School, pupils continue to embrace every opportunity, challenging themselves academically, socially, and physically – both in and out of the classroom.
This term, our Eco Council met with Mr Ian Clint, our Estates Manager, to discuss the issue of food waste. Their thoughtful conversations have already led to meaningful action, showing the power of pupil voice in making real change. Meanwhile, our budding mathematicians have shone in the Junior Mathematics Competition, celebrating impressive achievements.
Pupils in Years 2, 3, 5 and 6 took part in residential visits that offered opportunities to build outdoor awareness, strengthen teamwork, and deepen friendships. Year 2 pupils particularly impressed us with their adventurous spirit as they tackled the challenge of ghyll scrambling – a proud moment for all involved.
We hope you enjoy reading more about life in Clock House this term in the Junior Section of Hoc Age.
Richard Ribeiro