Welcome to our weekly update, where we celebrate the breadth of school life at Westonbirt. Each edition offers a snapshot of the learning, achievements and wider opportunities that define our community. We hope you enjoy reading this week’s highlights.
Vibe Coding has arrived at Westonbirt, with pupils using GitHub Copilot and Visual Studio Code to design and launch fully functioning apps in just two hours alongside Mr Pitman-Jones.
Using AI-assisted coding, pupils transformed ideas into real software projects, including a fashion and outfit builder, personalised routine planner, Truth or Dare game, and productivity app. Along the way, they developed creativity, problem-solving and debugging skills while gaining confidence in coding and digital innovation.
The sessions offered an exciting glimpse into the future of computer science education, where AI tools empower students to bring ideas to life faster than ever before.
Creative Writing Club offers pupils the opportunity to explore their imagination, develop their storytelling skills and bring original ideas to life in a supportive and inspiring environment. Led by Mrs Butterfield, a published HarperCollins author and much-loved member of Westonbirt’s English Department, the club encourages pupils to experiment with character development, world-building and plot creation while growing in confidence as writers.
Pupils are currently working on an exciting range of projects, including original novels, historical fiction and imaginative fantasy worlds inspired by mythology and futuristic societies. Alongside longer writing projects, pupils also take part in creative exercises designed to help them build believable, multi-layered characters and develop their own unique creative voice.
Creative Writing Club is a fantastic opportunity for pupils to express themselves creatively and immerse themselves in the art of storytelling.
This week, our Year 12 Psychology pupils presented the research projects they have been working on throughout the term at their Psychology Conference in the Library.
The event showcased a range of student-led observations and experiments, designed and carried out independently by the pupils as part of their studies. Topics investigated included how entertainment affects time perception, whether younger students are more likely to obey instructions, classroom participation based on seating position, and how effectively students use their free periods.
Visitors to the conference were invited to vote for their favourite project, considering factors such as the strength of evidence, reliability of methods, links to real-life psychology and overall presentation. Over 50 votes were cast, with the winning project awarded to Alex, Holly and Wilfred who were investigating if students sitting closer to the front/teacher will raise their hands more than those at the back. Well done to all!
Our Year 10 Biology pupils recently took part in a heart dissection practical, giving them the opportunity to explore the anatomy of a lamb’s heart first-hand.
Through the investigation, pupils identified the heart’s four chambers, valves, and major blood vessels, helping them to better understand how the structure of the heart supports its vital role within the circulatory system.
The practical session also helped pupils develop essential laboratory skills, including the safe handling of scientific instruments, making careful observations, and carrying out precise investigative work. Experiences such as these bring classroom learning to life and encourage pupils to engage more deeply with biological science!
Friday evening saw our Year 13 pupils come together to mark their journey at Westonbirt and the incredibly special community they have helped shape as they prepare for their next chapters beyond school.
Organised by Sixth Form pupil Willa, the Leavers’ Ball was a wonderful celebration of Westonbirt’s first ever co-educational cohort and all they have achieved together during their time at school.
Head of Sixth Form, Hannah Ash, reflected on the close-knit community our Year 13 pupils have built over the years – one defined by kindness, encouragement and always lifting each other up.
It was a memorable evening honouring a truly special cohort. We wish all of our Year 13 pupils the very best as they embark on their next adventures.
This week, our Year 11 pupils gathered in the Italian Gardens to celebrate the milestone of nearing the end of Year 11.
Pupils enjoyed a picnic together, took part in the annual shirt signing tradition and spent time with the staff who have helped make the last five years at Westonbirt so special.
We wish all of our Year 11 pupils the very best for the exciting chapter ahead!
Westonbirt’s annual Speech Day celebration took place on Friday 22 May, bringing together pupils, staff and families to celebrate the achievements, successes and contributions of our school community across the academic year.
The occasion recognised pupils from every year group through awards for Academic Excellence, Making a Difference and Excellent Attitude to Learning, alongside an annual prize giving ceremony celebrating achievement across a wide range of subjects, skills and personal accomplishments. Some of the prizes awarded included the St John’s Essay Prize, Wishford Award for GCSEs, EPQ Prize, Physics Prize and Most Promising Performer Award, reflecting the breadth of talent, commitment and character demonstrated by pupils throughout the year.
Speeches were delivered by Head Dina Porovic, Sam Antrobus, our Heads of School and special guest speaker Charlotte Butterfield – acclaimed novelist and much-loved member of the English Department. Congratulations to all of this year’s award winners, and well done to every pupil who has contributed so positively to school life throughout the year.
Earlier this year, our Year 8 Design and Technology pupils began the exciting challenge of designing and creating their own ping pong paddles from scratch.
After weeks of planning, crafting and refining their designs, the group have now completed the project – and this week we caught them putting their finished paddles to the test on the table!
The project gave pupils the opportunity to develop their practical design and manufacturing skills while seeing their ideas come to life through a fun and engaging final product.
Darcey has achieved an incredible milestone, qualifying for the Swim England National Championships this summer!
The recently published Swim England invitation list confirmed that Darcey has qualified in both the 50m and 100m Backstroke events in the 15 Years age group. Ranked 30th in the country, Darcey secured her place amongst the nation’s top swimmers, with only the top 40 athletes qualifying for the Championships.
A dream come true, Darcey is absolutely delighted with the achievement and will compete at the prestigious Ponds Forge International Sports Centre in Sheffield at the end of July.
Congratulations, Darcey, and best of luck for the Championships
Our boarders have enjoyed another exciting and activity-filled week, with weekend trips including paddleboarding and a day out at Alton Towers.
Within the school week, pupils have been getting creative with painting and crafts, competing in Sedgwick boarding game face-offs, and making the most of the sunshine with volleyball on the lawn. Meanwhile, Dorchester’s much-loved Food Tuesday took a trip to France, with boarders enjoying a delicious cheeseboard.
It’s been another action-packed week in sport at Westonbirt, with fixtures across a range of teams. You can view the full set of fixtures and results here.
We always love to hear about achievements and moments of teamwork or collaboration. If you would like to share something, please email marketing@westonbirtschool.uk.
