U13 advance to North Yorkshire County Finals
Cundall Manor is proud to announce that its U13 girls’ hockey team has successfully progressed to the North Yorkshire County Finals following an exciting preliminary tournament hosted at the school this week. After a challenging start, the girls quickly found their rhythm, combining sharp finishing from short corners with excellent teamwork. Their consistent performance throughout the day saw them build momentum and deliver some thrilling matches. “The team showed real determination and skill in every game,” said [Coach/PE Department Name]. “Their hard work, focus, and team spirit have earned them a well-deserved place in the county finals. We can’t wait to see them continue their success at the next stage.” Cundall congratulates the U13 team on their achievement and wishes them the very best as they prepare to compete at the North Yorkshire County Finals.
Cricket Success as the Season Gets Underway
Cundall U14 Girls delivered an outstanding performance at the Area Round of the National Indoor Schools Cricket Competition, winning all of their matches to secure qualification for the County Round. The team then went on to finish an incredible third overall — a remarkable achievement, particularly as they were playing against teams from older age groups. With most of the squad eligible to compete again next year, the future looks incredibly promising, and they will no doubt return stronger. The U13 team also impressed, winning two of their three matches and narrowly losing the third. Their strong performances ensured they too progressed to the next stage of the competition. Special congratulations go to Esme and Sophie, who stepped up to compete a year above their age group. Representing the U13 side as U12 players, they demonstrated great confidence, maturity and skill throughout.
Welcoming International Pupils
We were delighted to welcome four pupils from Beijing and Shanghai to Cundall as part of a two-week immersion programme in partnership with Global Alliance. During their time with us, the pupils embraced every aspect of school life. Supported by their Cundall buddies, they quickly settled in and became part of the community from day one, participating fully in lessons and experiencing the rhythm of daily school life. Beyond the classroom, our visitors enjoyed exploring some of the UK’s most iconic destinations, including Manchester, York and the Harry Potter Studios, as well as visits to both Cambridge and Oxford before returning home. Boarding life was equally full, with a varied evening programme that included The Traitors, a trip to see We Will Rock You in Northallerton — featuring Cundall pupils in the cast — pizza making, a challenge evening, movie nights, craft sessions and games night. They also joined us for our Winter Concert, experiencing another important part of school life. It was a pleasure to share the Cundall experience with them and to celebrate Chinese New Year together across all year groups. We wish them safe travels as they return home with many happy memories of their time here.
Seb Selected to Represent Great Britain
Seb (Year 8), aged 13, has only been riding for three years but is already making an impressive mark in the dressage arena. Riding with the support of Charlotte Lutener’s under-25 European Championship bronze medallist, Full Fusion BS, Seb has quickly begun to build a strong record. Most recently, he partnered with his new horse, Flo, for their very first outing together. What was intended as a valuable experience turned into an outstanding success, with two major wins: FEI Children on Horses Team Test – 1st (74.8%) FEI Children Individual Test – 1st (81.28%) With an international qualification benchmark of 68%, Seb comfortably exceeded expectations. His riding score of 9.5 (out of 10), alongside a technical score of 70.56%, secured direct qualification for both the European and International Championships, to be held in July in the Czech Republic. This result is particularly remarkable given it was not only their first Premier League competition, but also their first competitive outing together. Seb continued this momentum at the Addington Premier League show, delivering another set of excellent performances: Children on Horses Team Test – 1st (72.7%) Children on Horses Individual Test – 1st (77%) In recognition of his achievements, Seb has now been selected to represent Great Britain at his first international competition —the Hickstead CDI in May. This is an exceptional accomplishment in his first competition season, and we are incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work he has shown.
An Exceptional GCSE Education
Each pupil is Known, Supported and Successful Choosing the right environment for GCSE study is one of the most important decisions a family can make for their child. These are the years that shape academic success, confidence, independence and their future. At Cundall Manor, ranked the top independent school in North Yorkshire for the 2025 Attainment 8 League Tables, the approach is simple but powerful across a broad range of subjects. A whole team fully supports every pupil. They are known and set up to succeed because in this small school environment, no one gets lost in the crowd. Being “known” goes beyond the classroom. Staff understand each pupil’s personality, interests, and ambitions. This creates a strong sense of belonging — something that is essential during the challenging teenage years. Small class sizes for GCSE options allow teachers to understand how each pupil learns best. Lessons are more interactive, feedback is more immediate, and teaching can be adapted in real time with tailored, detailed support. Strengths are nurtured, and confidence grows steadily. The pre exam study programme in the lead up to exams ensures students are guided every step of the way. Unlike many other schools that begin study leave, Cundall’s structured approach removes much of the uncertainty pupils can face during GCSE preparation. Optional Saturday revision sessions and after-school support help consolidate learning and build exam confidence, providing up to 300 additional hours of teaching. Pastoral care is central to the GCSE experience. Adolescence can bring pressure and distraction. Through mutual respect between teachers and peers alike, the school provides a calm, focused environment — and mobile phones are not allowed in school. Pupils are given the space to concentrate, build resilience and maintain a healthy balance between academic work and wellbeing. Sport and competitive fixtures remain an important part of the timetable during Year 11 for all pupils. In addition, a diverse range of after-school enrichment opportunities allows pupils to explore a diverse interests beyond their GCSE subjects. These include activities such as Duke of Edinburgh, ceramics, debating, water polo, golf, fishing, lighting production, Mandarin, astronomy, and more. Cundall’s results reflect the strength of this successful approach. As the top-performing independent school in North Yorkshire for Attainment 8, it consistently delivers excellent academic outcomes. Attainment 8 is calculated by adding together pupils’ highest scores from eight government-approved GCSE subjects. By measuring average academic performance across a range of disciplines, it offers a broader and more balanced picture of GCSE achievement. Success is not defined by grades alone. Pupils leave Cundall as confident, well-rounded individuals, ready for the next stage of their education. Whether progressing to leading sixth form institutions or colleges, they do so with strong academic foundations and the personal skills to make the most of every opportunity. Beyond the classroom, the school offers a wealth of opportunities, including ski trips and international sports tours, French and Spanish exchanges, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and outdoor challenges such as climbing Ben Nevis, sailing in Cowes, and completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Leadership roles, including prefects, Head Boy and Head Girl, encourage pupils to develop confidence and responsibility, while school productions, public performances, events, and enrichment clubs help every pupil discover passions that can last a lifetime. The school takes great pride in celebrating the diverse achievements of its pupils. The Class of 2026 leavers are typically a talented group. Current Head Boy Amos has recently been accepted into the National Youth Theatre. He is also the lead singer in the Year 11 music group, ‘Bangers and Thrash’ who often play at local festivals. James, the bass guitarist, was recently awarded an academic scholarship to Shrewsbury, whilst drummer Olly, looks set for a career in music and has been gigging at the famous Camden Club. Ali who first picked up a hockey stick in Year 3, recently captained the England U16 Hockey team, whilst Imogen (Head Girl) and Mollie are also in the England Talent pathway programme. These accomplishments reflect the ambition, talent, and spirit that define the Cundall community. A Different Kind of GCSE Experience What sets the GCSE programme apart is not just what is offered, but how it is delivered. In a world where many students feel overwhelmed by large classes and constant distractions, the picturesque 28-acre campus 5 minutes off the A1, provides a focused, supportive environment where every pupil is well known and valued and encouraged to aim high. Pupils are polite, happy, and engaged in their learning. Families looking to find out more about Senior School entry for Years 7–9 and the GCSE years are invited to schedule a visit to discover what an exceptional GCSE experience looks like at Cundall Manor. www.cundallmanorschool.com
A Winning Performance: The Other Side of the Net
This year’s Senior School production, featuring pupils from Years 7–11, brought energy, humour, and an important social message to the stage with a performance of The Other Side of the Net. Written by local composer Emily Roberts, the musical followed a season on the women’s professional tennis tour, beginning at the US Open in New York before travelling through Melbourne and Paris. Alongside the excitement of competitive sport, the production explored the darker side of modern fame, offering a thoughtful commentary on the online abuse and cyber-bullying faced by professional athletes through the “other net” — the internet. Mrs Reece first saw the premiere performance by Drip Drop Theatre at Ripon Arts Hub in April 2025 and was inspired to bring the production to Cundall Manor. Emily Roberts kindly granted permission for the school to adapt the show and generously supported changes to suit the cast and production style. The school was delighted to welcome Emily, along with members of the original cast, to attend the performance. Complete with a live acoustic band, stylish sportswear, lively tennis commentators, on-court action, impressive racquet work, and even the occasional bowl of strawberries and cream, the production proved both entertaining and thought-provoking. The story culminated in a powerful finale at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where the female players united to take a stand against online trolls. The production also showcased the teamwork and dedication of pupils behind the scenes, with students taking responsibility for stage management, props, microphones, and technical support throughout the performances. Reflecting on the show, Mrs Reece said: “I was impressed not only with the pupils’ performances, but also with the way they all took ownership of the production, being really proactive about stage management, and taking responsibility for props, microphones and each other. Special mention must go to the Leckby pupils for being a fantastic sound tech team, and to Arya for being a most unflappable and efficient stage manager.” The performances were a wonderful celebration of confidence, highlighting the depth of talent across the Senior School community.
Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards
Congratulations to our thirteen Eldmire (Year 10) students on completing their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Awards! At Cundall Manor School, we are incredibly proud of the positive impact the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has on our students. From learning new skills and volunteering in the community, to taking part in regular physical activity and completing expeditions, the programme helps pupils to grow in confidence, resilience, and independence.
Outstanding LAMDA results
Cundall Manor pupils have achieved outstanding results in their recent LAMDA examinations, with 12 Distinctions and 6 Merits. Through these assessments, they demonstrated performance skills, clear communication, interpretation and confidence—valuable strengths that extend far beyond the stage. Congratulations to all our pupils on their fantastic achievements!
Cundall Pupils Join Thousands for Young Voices Concert
Members of the Cundall Manor School choir travelled to the Utilita Arena Sheffield to take part in Young Voices, the largest children’s choir concert in the world. The event brings together thousands of primary school pupils from across the UK. Performing as part of a massed choir of over 5000, our pupils joined their voices with children from many other schools. It was a rare opportunity to perform in a proper stadium pop concert and a professional arena setting, complete with dazzling lights, a live band, professional singers and an audience of thousands. It gave the children the chance to experience the power of collective music-making and feel part of something truly extraordinary.
Cross Country Championship Success
42 Cundall pupils competed in the Terrington Hall Cross Country Championships 2026, tackling the challenging Howardian Hills course alongside more than 500 runners from 18 schools across the North of England. Our pupils showed strong determination throughout the races, with notable success for the U11 boys, who won their team event. Individual medal winners included Roo (2nd, U11), Harris (3rd, U11), Max (3rd, U13) and Avril (2nd, U13 girls). A strong performance across all age groups and a positive day for everyone representing Cundall.