Latest News

THE AMAZING LIFE OF MAVERICK THE CAT

By Ghanshyam K, Year

You may have not heard of Maverick the cat, but he is a legend at West Hill Park School! When I joined the school in 2021, I was welcomed by this very cheeky, white cat. He would sit on my Year 1 teacher, Miss Gray's chair. On many occasions, she nearly squashed him by mistake! He would sometimes scratch people when playing with their jumpers, but he was very lovely and I will remember the loving headbutts he would give us all and all of the play sessions.

Sadly in 2023, Maverick passed away. He was buried near the pond alongside Dobi- a guinea pig. It was a sad time at West Hill Park School.

Maverick will forever be remembered by us all, especially his mischievous antics! We are so lucky that we now have the friendliest school dog called Lyla

Summer Events

by Summer G , Year 5

At West Hill Park, in the Summer term, there are lots of amazing activities and events to look forward to. I interviewed lots of children in West Hill Park and found out what they were most excited about.

Here are some of the interesting parts that West Hill Children are looking forward to:

The West Hill Park Colour Run
Sports Day
Price Giving
Summer Fair
The School Raffle
Maybe a open Mike Night
Last day of term
Expeditions

Colour Run

The colour run is a fundraising event, which happens every year. Children do a lap of the field and go into the woods before going through the finish line in front of the school. Each year group does the lap starting from nursery (lead by the Year 8s) to Year 8 and the parents.

Based on talking to students, the favourite was the colour run becaus

Raising money for charity
Everyone loved getting covered in paint
We got to do an obstacle course
There was a raffle
Have fun with your year and friends
Parents got to come and watch
And of course, we got to watch the parents get covered in paint.

The bee skills used are collaboration, kind, leaders and resilience.

Celebrating the 9 Protected Characteristics at West Hill Park School

By Miss Work

At West Hill, we are proud to learn about and respect the 9 protected characteristics as part of our PSHE learning through the Jigsaw PSHE Programme. These help us understand that everyone is different and everyone deserves respect.

The 9 protected characteristics are:

Age
Disability
Gender reassignment
Marriage and civil partnership
Pregnancy and maternity
Race
Religion or belief
Sex/Gender
Sexual orientation (Who you are attracted to)

These characteristics are important because they are protected by law. This means it is never okay for someone to be treated unfairly because of them.

In PSHE, we learn that differences make our school and community stronger. We talk about respect, kindness, and celebrating what makes each person unique. Here are some examples of work:

Dyfi Osprey Project

By LF, Year 5
You might not have heard about Ospreys but I was lucky enough to see them. I first saw them in Wales where I visited them in person and then watched them on the stream DYFI OSPREY PROJECT 2026: Live Streaming in 4K. As a result, now my family and I can`t stop watching it.

Is an Osprey a Hawk or an Eagle?
It is not a Hawk nor an Eagle it is referred to by name “fish hawk”. It is a unique bird of prey that belongs to its own distinct family (Pandionidae).Who are the Osprey parents?The parents for 2026 are Telyn and Idris and they have three chicks.Did you know?Pescatarian = Only eats fish (Humans).Piscivorous = Only eats fish (birds).In the UK & Coastal Europe: Their diet primarily consists of grey mullet, flounder, trout, sea bass, and perch.2026 is the 16th year that Osprey have bred at the D.O.P Telyn and Idris have bred 3 times successively for 3 eggs.Telyn (Blue 3J) is 13 years old, having hatched at Rutland Water on May 22, 2013. [1, 2].Idris is unringed, meaning his exact age and birthplace are unknown. He was first identified when he arrived at the Dyfi nest in Powys, Wales, in the spring of 2020.
I enjoyed going to D.O.P because the staff were very good at answering questions, which we didn`t know

What Is a Ventriloquist?

By Ellie S

A ventriloquist is someone who can talk without moving their mouth. It might sound a bit strange, but it is actually a really cool skill.

Ventriloquists make it look like the voice is coming from somewhere else, like a puppet.

They have to practise a lot so they can say words without moving their lips, especially tricky sounds like “b” and “p”. Lots of ventriloquists use puppets to make it more fun, and they give them their own personalities so it feels like they are real.

I am a ventriloquist and I have been practising how to do it.

I can talk with my mouth closed or a little bit open without moving it much. I have a puppet called Sokko, and he is a very cheeky sock! He is also really funny and loves telling jokes.

When I perform, I make it seem like Sokko is the one talking, not me. Sometimes he even says silly things to make people laugh. I really enjoy being a ventriloquist and I want to keep getting better at it.

Favourite Subjects Spring 2026

By Freddie M, Year 5

Over the last term, I have asked around 30 children from across the school what their favourite and least favourite subject is. I really appreciate the time that they gave to do my forms.

From the 30 children I asked, the favourite subject is Art because it is creative and your Art can never be incorrect.

The most disliked lessons are Maths, Spanish, PSHE and TPR. We think it is because there are certain rules and you can not always be creative.

Even though there are liked and disliked subjects, I can tell that everybody had a hard time deciding on their favourite subjects. As there are only 30 children in this survey, this might be different if I asked more children.

The school has a very big selection of lessons, so pupils have a great time in every subject that we have in the school. They thrive in every way and teachers support and help in every way.

Cats or Dogs at West Hill Park

By LF, Year 5

I have asked 100 people whether they prefer cats or dogs at West Hill Park School.

The results are in:

30% of people said cats and 70% of people said dogs.

This shows a 40% difference. Owning a dog in the UK is a significant financial commitment, with total costs ranging from approximately £6,200 to over £18,800 over their lifetime, depending on the breed and size. In the first year alone, you can expect to spend between £500 and £3,500 on initial setup costs like adoption fees, vaccinations, and equipment.

The cost of a cat varies significantly depending on whether you adopt or buy from a breeder, with initial costs ranging from as low as £35–£55 for adoption to over £1,000–£2,000+ for popular pedigree breeds like Maine Coons or British Shorthairs. Taking care of a cat in the UK generally costs around £1000- £1,500 per year though costs can be lower for basic care or higher for premium food and insurance.

Therefore, whether you like cats or dogs they are a big commitment and have a lot of benefits and areas to consider.

THE AMAZING LIFE OF LYLA THE DOG

By Rory M, Year 5

Lyla is the school’s dog belonging to Mrs. Bowker, the Head of English. Lyla is a reading dog, this means that she listens to children reading to her. She is a cockapoo, with dark, short fur and large eyes, which sparkle like diamonds glistening in the sun. Her curly, short tail is wagging most of the time, especially when she is being played with by children throwing her ball.

Walking at break times and lunch time, children throw her ball. She gives emotional support, for example, if you are sad, she hugs you. She is always happy and loves when children gently stroke her.

Research shows that having a school dog helps student wellbeing, social and emotional development, improves attendance of children and reduces stress and anxiety.

PlaceU11 Hockey Team Impresses at Canford: Takes Second

By Mr Perry

The day began with a competitive match against a strong Perrot Hill side. It was a closely fought game, but Perrot Hill managed to take the lead just minutes before the final whistle. Our next match was against Castle Court. The team displayed excellent skill and teamwork, scoring some fantastic team goals and securing a well-deserved victory. We then faced Dumpton, another strong opponent. Solid defending, effective teamwork and clinical attacking play helped us earn another win and progress into the semi-finals.

In the semi-final, we played Sandroyd, who had performed strongly in their group. Through hard work and positive attacking play, the team created several opportunities on the counter attack and scored some excellent goals to reach the final. The final was against a strong Port Regis side. Despite continuing to work hard and battle throughout the match, we narrowly missed out on the win, finishing the tournament in an impressive second place.

The team showed excellent teamwork, determination and effort throughout the day, earning a well-deserved runners-up medal.

Why Year 7 and 8 at West Hill Park is an Unmissable Experience

By Molly K and Annabelle P, Year 7

Sadly, Year 7 & 8 have been depleting in numbers vastly over the past 3 years. So, Molly and I have decided to show you and everybody who reads the West Hill Weekly why Year 7 & 8 are the best years in the entirety of West Hill Park School. In this report, we will dive deep into the exciting things that Year 7s do and have a real-life interview with our very own Head Boy.

The jump to Year 7 from Year 6 is a big but fun one. From 4 preps to 8, Year 7 and 8 are challenged all the way to GCSE. This helps people get into amazing schools and even get scholarships. As part of Year 7, not only do you get your own common room but you also get loads of new experiences to enjoy. Legoland, Red Spider climbing, making your own 3D mouse; these are things you do in the very first term of Year 7.

So, we interviewed Leo Keevil to get his point of view on Year 7. Leo told us that his favourite thing about Year 7 is the extra things we get, like our common room and our expedition up the Brecon Beacons. He also mentioned how the school helped him get into KES and that he really liked that the school trusted us to buy the stuff we wanted for the common room.

Now, if there was one thing that might be able to beat Year 7, it's Year 8. Not only do you get the sensation of completing WHP, but you also get a really cool leavers’ experience where you go to Thorpe Park and ride rollercoasters!

We interviewed the Head Boy and this is what he said about it. He said that it was a big step up from Year 7 and that he loved how grown up he felt having responsibilities like bringing people into assembly and being Head Boy, and the challenges that it brings. He also mentioned that he doesn't really notice that the classes are smaller and that in some ways it's good because you get more one-to-one time with the teacher.

Leo also does some boarding and says that it is super fun and just like a big sleepover with all his friends. He lastly said that WHP was a big help in getting into Harrow and that the teachers were very helpful when teaching him new things

Teacher's Phobias

By Freddie M, Year 5

We talk about phobias all the time but what does the word phobia mean?

The word phobia comes from the ancient Greek word ‘phobos’ which means fear or morbid fear. Let's find out what the teachers' fears or phobias!

Miss Work: Miss Work has Thalassaphobia, a fear of deep water, she has had it since she was a child. Once Miss Work got touched by a jellyfish, she only touched its body, but it was still very scary! Since that moment, she never went in the water again.

Mrs Khan: Mrs Khan has acrophobia, the fear of heights and she has had it since she was a child. Once Mrs Khan climbed up a tree to abseil down, she looked down and the ground was moving!

Miss Cage: Miss Cage has acrophobia, which is the fear of heights and ophidiophobia which is the fear of snakes. Once Miss Cage got stuck under a boat and Miss Cage has had her phobias since she was a child!

Mr Malleson: Mr Malleson has a funny fear of the obstacle in Go Ape that has the hanging hoops and getting your foot stuck in the hoops!

Mrs Erard: Mrs Erard has ophidiophobia, the fear of snakes and arachnophobia, the fear of spiders.

**West Hill Park School Visits The Lion King in London**

By Miss Work

Recently, the cast of West Hill Park School’s upcoming production of The Lion King had the exciting opportunity to see the West End show in London. I was one of the lucky teachers to accompany the children, and I loved every moment of it!

From the moment the curtain rose, the audience was captivated. The costumes were stunning, perfectly capturing the vibrancy of the African savannah and bringing each character to life. The puppetry was truly magical, especially when the characters walked right by us through teh crowd and the moment when the older Simba swung onto the stage as the younger Simba exited. The children’s faces lit up in delight, and you could feel their excitement.

The acting and singing were outstanding, with each performer bringing real emotion and energy to their roles. The sets transported the audience to Pride Rock and beyond, making the production feel immersive and grand. Every element, from the intricate puppets to the spectacular stage design, offered fantastic inspiration for our own show in March.

For anyone looking forward to experiencing the magic for themselves, West Hill Park School will be putting on their own Lion King production with multiple performances.

Tickets will be available to book via TicketSource on Monday 2nd March at 11am. We are very excited to include an extra matinee performance!

To reserve your seats, please click on the links below.

The Lion King Junior Musical - Wednesday 18th March at 1.30pm
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/t-glllyvl
Password: LIONKING2026

The Lion King Junior Musical - Thursday 19th March at 6.30pm
(Doors open at 6pm for drinks in the Old Library)
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/t-qmjrxnq
Password: LIONKING2026

The Lion King Junior Musical - Friday 20th March at 6.30pm
(Doors open at 6pm for drinks in the Old Library)
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/t-oeeevdx
Password: LIONKING2026

Don’t miss the chance to see our talented students bring this beloved story to life on our own stage!

An Interview with the Headteacher of West Hill Park School, Chris Ward

Interview by Ghanshyam K (Year 5) with Mr Ward in October 2025.

Question 1:

Tell me about your first day at West hill park school?

I started as Head Teacher at West Hill Park School on the first day of Autumn term in 2019. I still remember it was a very sunny September day. I had the opportunity to meet a lot of parents and pupils.

I have been at WHP for 6 years. My career as a teacher began in 1999 where I was a classroom teacher and then I progressed to a deputy headteacher and then finally headteacher. I have been headteacher now for 13 years.

Question 2:

What is your favourite thing about being a teacher?

My favourite thing about being a teacher is seeing the difference you can make to every single child. As a headteacher I do not get to teach as much but when I do, it is a real joy. Just being able to have a conversation, to communicate, listen to the children and to see what they think adds so much to my everyday experience here.

Question 3:

What was teaching like during Covid-19?

Oh gosh! It feels like a long time ago now even though it is not that long ago! It was not an easy time but it was an interesting time. I think it showed a sense of community here at WHP even though we were all separated, which was really good. The challenges of teaching behind a screen shows how important it is to have everyone back in one physical space.

Question 4:

What was your school like when you were a child? And what made you become a teacher?

My school was a local primary school, I had the same teacher for all the subjects being taught. I will always remember my year 6 teacher, Mr Bumbridge. He was great! He was always encouraging both inside and outside the classroom. He also was a very good PE teacher! He inspired me to become a teacher.

Question 5:

Now this is my favourite question! How do you think your students would describe you?

Oooh! That is a very good question! Well I think they would describe me as someone who is easy to approach and come talk to. Someone who is very visible and in and around the school. Somebody who knows what the children want and need because every child is unique. I would hope that the one word they would use is approachable!

Thank you very much for your time, Mr Ward!

Expeditions at West Hill Park

By LF and RM, Year 5

What are expeditions?

An expedition is an organised journey or voyage undertaken by a group of people with a specific goal, often involving exploration. Unlike a standard trip, it typically focuses on a "to learn something new" or discovery rather than just leisure. At West Hill Park, every year the group goes on an expedition, with each year it gets more challenging and fun!

A snap from the Year 7 Wales Expedition 2025.

Why are expeditions at West Hill Park so beneficial?

Going on an expedition helps children in so many ways, for example it increases their independence as you spend time away from your parents/guardians.

Also, it is beneficial because every day, children need to go outside to get some fresh air and play as well as learn about nature and survival. Students learn life-long skills, such as building a fire, knife skills and much more. Most importantly, children make life-long memories.

Some memories that student remember:

We have had some interesting interviews:

Ben.T said: The Year 7 expedition because we went to the Brecon Beacons in Wales, which was so cool.
Annabelle.P said: The Year 4 expedition because it got into sailing.
Beth.F said: The Year 3 expedition because Harriet fell in love with a hook. (You may need to ask her about that one!)
Thomas.P said: All of the expeditions because they are amazing and fun!
Max.H said: The year 2 expedition because you camp with your parents. It creates a family memory.