The launch events for mini传媒’s SciTech Centre were not only marked by ceremonial proceedings but also by engaging activities that brought special guests and supporters closer to its purpose. Pupils took the lead in conducting experiments and guiding tours, showcasing the facility’s capabilities and fostering a hands-on learning experience for all attendees. Additionally, cocktail-style events provided a relaxed atmosphere for networking and celebration, allowing donors, Governors and guests to mingle and share in the excitement of the occasion. The personalised touch of seeing supporters’ names represented on signage throughout the building added a sense of pride and recognition, acknowledging their contributions to the project.

Our SciTech building represents a major advancement in science and technology education, featuring cutting-edge laboratories for natural sciences, computer science, robotics, VR, AI and design technology. The modern facility aims to enhance pupil learning by providing access to the latest technology and fostering a culture of scientific exploration. The building also hosts world class provision through our Stan-X programme, focusing on genetics research using fruit flies to combat diseases like diabetes and pancreatic cancer. Moreover, the construction of these innovative spaces prioritises sustainability, with features such as solar panels, green roofs, and eco-friendly materials like cross-laminated timber.

The launch of mini传媒’s SciTech Centre heralds a new era of innovation for current and future Haileyburians. We express our sincere gratitude to all donors, special guests, and contributors who made this vision a reality. Whose support will help foster curiosity and drive discovery at mini传媒.

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Christopher Nolan, known for his groundbreaking work in directing and producing, added another feather to his cap by winning the Academy Award for Best Director for his latest blockbuster, Oppenheimer. With a career spanning decades, Nolan has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling and visual effects in cinema. His unique style and visionary approach have earned him a dedicated global following and critical acclaim. In addition to 翱辫辫别苍丑别颈尘别谤鈥檚 impressive 13 nominations and seven wins last evening, Nolan鈥檚 film has enjoyed an incredibly successful 2024 awards season, earning seven BAFTAs, five Golden Globes, three SAG Awards and a People鈥檚 Choice Award.

Perhaps one of the most unexpected moments from last evening’s Oscars happened at the press conference. Nolan was caught off guard when he fielded a question from fellow alumni and journalist Alison Boshoff nee Fleming (Allenby & Colvin, 1988). In their brief interaction, the OHs reminisced about their mini传媒 history class.

There was another Haileyburian at the star-studded event. Alumna Suzi Battersby, a standout talent in the world of cinematic prosthetics design and makeup, transformed Dame Helen Mirren for the critically acclaimed film Golda, about the 鈥業ron Lady of Israel鈥�, Golda Meir. Suzi鈥檚 attention to detail and ability to bring characters to life through special-effects makeup is what earned her top recognition and the Oscar nod. Suzi is no newcomer, however. As the founder of , she has worked on hits such as Killing Eve, Dr Who, Ted Lasso, Sex Education and Silo, to name a few. Receiving an Oscar nomination is a testament to her skill and passion for her craft.

鈥淎s my peers will perhaps remember, I wore my love of Drama on my sleeve trying to be involved with as many plays as possible in the lovely old Ayckbourn Theatre, taking LAMDA exams up to Gold Medal and even mucking around doing performances in our rooms at Allenby,鈥� Suzi recently told .

The entire mini传媒 community joins in celebrating Christopher Nolan and Suzi Battersby. Their success not only brings pride to their alma mater but also serves as a source of inspiration for future generations of pupils looking to make their mark in the world of film and entertainment. We cannot wait to see what the pair achieve next.

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On March 1 2024, amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the London Olympic Aquatic Centre, our senior girls’ medley relay squad etched their names in the annals of swimming history. Maja, Alice, Ade and Laura, a tenacious and talented quartet, were crowned national champions.

Having secured their berth in the finals with unwavering resolve, our girls unleashed a display of sheer brilliance, propelled by cheers echoing poolside. In a heart-stopping final that left spectators on the edge of their seats, the girls notched a personal best time of 2.07.25 to not only clinch victory, but also secured them the national title for the second consecutive year.

The triumph at the Bath & Otter Cup is only one example of our School’s strong swimming programme. In the weeks leading up to this win, our swimmers showcased their drive at the Hertfordshire Schools Swimming League Finals, where Isla, Ade, Laura, and Alice emerged as county champions in backstroke, butterfly, freestyle and breaststroke respectively.

“Our swimmers have navigated this season with unwavering resolve. Through countless early morning training sessions and gruelling workouts, they have honed their technique and power, deservedly defending their crown.” 鈥� Mrs Kate Liddiard Head of Swimming

Beyond the medals and accolades, what we are most proud of is the camaraderie and support that defines the essence of mini传媒 Swimming. From Lower School to Upper Sixth, our swimmers all share a passion and drive for excellence. Congratulations are extended to all of our swimmers who have exemplified dedication throughout the 2023/24 season.

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In a recent interview, Tom Wade, Assistant Head (Digital Strategy and Learning) shared mini传媒’s approach to AI and what led to our School’s decision to promote the guided use of emerging tools in academic investigation. In his conversation with Deputy Master, Simon Heard, he uncovers that while other schools were restricting use, mini传媒 struck a dedicated Digital Strategy Committee to determine how best to integrate AI in the classroom, engage parents and train staff.

“AI features extensively throughout the Computer Science curriculum. We offer a pioneering and highly innovative Advanced AI Removes pathway, examining the sophisticated use of AI in such areas as machine learning, natural language processing, automatic image generation and large language models…GCSE, A level and IB students also use AI tools as part of their course specifications, and the aim at mini传媒 is to teach students how to embrace and navigate through this innovative聽technology, in an ethical and safe manner.”

Mr Stephen Trask, Head of Computer Science & Director of Data and Business Process

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mini传媒鈥檚 Director of Sport, Andy Searson, describes their triumph:

“The girls have done brilliantly well. They have been so impressive throughout their cup run, showing such character and determination throughout. They have had a tough draw, including facing last year’s champions in round 1, Surbiton High School, and then subsequently overcoming St John’s Leatherhead and Kings Bruton. They enjoyed a thrilling 4-3 quarter final victory against St George’s Weybridge. On finals day, they played composed and attractive hockey, winning their semi-final 7-0 and then beating Wellington College 3-2 with an impressive performance. They are thoroughly deserving of the National title and we are all very proud of the way they have handled themselves on and off the pitch.”

As we celebrate this win, it’s important to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our athletes and coaches. Winning the Independent Schools Cup is no small feat, and the team’s triumph reflects their perseverance, grit, and ability to perform under pressure.

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We caught up with Prabhakar and Vittoria to learn about their experiences in the programme. 

Why did you decide to apply for the mini传媒 Leaders programme?

MVB: When I got the email about the programme I was just starting a new job and wanted to improve as a professional, gaining a clearer sense of direction and identifying and achieving career goals. I immediately thought that the mini传媒 Leaders programme would be the perfect solution to this!

Was the experience what you expected?

MVB: This has been my first mentoring experience so I did not have a benchmark, but my experience definitely exceeded expectations. Before starting the programme, I thought that this might develop into regular calls and questions on my progress, with the mentor doing all the work in the relationship. What I soon realised, is that mentorship is a give-and-take journey, a supportive relationship that has challenged me into new stages of development. 

How do you feel you’ve benefited from having Prabhakar as a mentor? Was it a good match?

MVB: I consider myself to be extremely lucky to have started my mentorship journey with Prabhakar. During the application process, I specified I wanted to be matched with a mentor from a different industry than mine to learn from different experiences. I particularly appreciated the diversity Prabhakar brought to the table. Coming from a different industry, his unique perspective added a fresh dimension to our discussions. Moreover, his global experience, having lived and worked internationally, enriched my understanding and broadened my horizons.

Do you feel the programme has helped you progress towards your career goals?

MVB: I am thrilled to share that my mentoring journey with Prabhakar has been incredibly rewarding. With his guidance and support, I not only achieved all my set goals but also secured a promotion at work. This new position aligns with my aspirations and also includes an exciting international opportunity, fulfilling a long-held ambition. The mentorship experience has undeniably played a turning point in my professional growth.

“Mentorship is a give-and-take journey, a supportive relationship that challenged me into new stages of development”

鈥� Maria Vittoria Busani (Allenby, 2016)

What has been the best piece of advice you received from Prabhakar? 

MVB: It is very hard to just narrow it down to one, as each piece of advice has been truly eye-opening. One of the first things I remember comes from a phrase Prabhakar told me: “Doing things right vs doing the right things”. This prompted me to consider not only how tasks are accomplished but also whether those tasks align with broader objectives and contribute to overall success. This helped me change my mindset and shifted my attention to focus more on strategic thinking, decision-making, and goal alignment to ensure that my efforts contribute to the overall success of my organisation. 

Why do you think having a mentor is important?

MVB: Having a mentor is important as they provide invaluable guidance, share expertise, and offer constructive feedback. Their support helps you to grow professionally and personally, to build confidence, and to inspire continuous learning. In my case, I sometimes felt that the many complexities and dynamics of the workplace could cloud my perspective. Prabhakar offered me a clear and experienced viewpoint, helping untangle challenges, providing insights that may not be apparent, and offering a steady hand to overcome difficulties. 

What advice would you give to OH鈥檚 considering applying to the programme?聽

MVB: If you’re considering the programme, go for it as it will be an invaluable journey! My keywords for you are: open-mindedness, curiosity, energy, enthusiasm and honesty. 

What made you decide to volunteer as a mentor on the mini传媒 Leaders programme? 

PR: There were two things. I was quite taken by the outreach programme and liked the idea of increased connectivity among the mini传媒 community, providing OHs with wisdom and advice to guide them in their careers. Secondly, I truly enjoy the opportunity to be connected with the young leaders of tomorrow. I think it gives me a better insight into what is going on in the world around me.

Why do you think mentoring is so important?

PR: I believe we are constantly learning and developing. Mentoring is something that helps to clarify your aspirations and goals. It also gives you a sounding board and a safe environment where you can feel confident speaking openly about your doubts and fears. Of course, a mentor also provides the mentee with a voice of experience that can give you both suggestions and advice, as well as asking the right questions enabling you to get the best out of yourself.

Tell me a bit more about your partnership with Vittoria. Do you think it’s been a good match? 

PR: I think it was a brilliant match. I feel what really made it work is that we invested the time to get to know each other before jumping into what she wanted to get out of the programme. This created a rich foundation for developing plans for Vittoria to be able to achieve her goals. Most importantly, it created a sense of trust, which meant we could both be open and ask good questions. I think it is that initial investment that I think ended up paying dividends later.

Did you see any specific changes in your mentee鈥檚 performance? 

PR: I was very impressed by Vittoria鈥檚 self-awareness and energy from the very beginning. I feel she had a real ability to embrace her fears and face challenges head on. I think she grew enormously during the course of the programme. Her progress was also recognised by her own company, with a promotion and increased global responsibility. I was able to help her connect with other marketers around the world as well as other women in senior roles, which broadened her perspective. She really grew as a leader but her own self-awareness was a key part of that journey and success. 

What advice would you give to others thinking about joining the programme?

PR: It’s a free gift right on your doorstep! Having a strong network and good partnerships is so important for building the infrastructure for your life and career. Mentors are just part of the scaffolding helping you build out some capabilities and confidence at a specific point in time.

What do you think are some of the most important qualities that a mentor should have?

PR: A mentor should be a good listener with a strong sense of empathy. They need to be able to create a safe space for the mentee, one where both parties can be open and honest. The other important thing is being able to listen to the mentee as a whole person. You may be doing a certain job at a certain time but you also have a personal life, you have other interests, there’s a whole person on the table. So, respect that whole person and mutual trust will follow.

聽“Mentors are just part of the scaffolding helping you build out some capabilities and confidence at a specific point in time”

– Prabhakar Rajagopal聽
(mini传媒 parent)

Is there anything else that you would like to share about your experience or mentoring?

PR: I want to give credit to mini传媒 for the organisation of the programme. I am glad that the School didn’t sit back passively and launch a mentoring programme. The tools and resources provided were fantastic. Of course all mentors and mentees are at different stages in their own journeys, so to be able to give them some assets, touch points as well as personalised communications, has been excellent and I would encourage that this to continue. Mentoring is such a great way to build connections within the community and enrich the experience of pupils, OHs and parents alike. 

The application period for the 2024 cycle of The mini传媒 Leaders programme is now closed. If you are an OH and would like to join the waitlist or express interest for next year, please . 

If you would like to learn more about the mini传媒 Leaders Programme and how you can get involved, please email Philanthropy Manager, Marika Ison: m.ison@haileybury.com.

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Sisters Ella (Year 11, Lawrence) and Lyla (Year 9, Lawrence) took on the formidable challenge of Mount Kilimanjaro, not just for the thrill but for a cause close to their hearts.聽Their mission: to help save the endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales, leading them to raise over 拢10,000 for the Environment Society of Oman (ESO).聽

Ella鈥檚 visit to Ras Al Jinz, Oman鈥檚 turtle beach is what sparked her passion for environmental sustainability and led the sisters to initially raise $5,000 USD for the ESO Turtle Research and Conservation efforts. Not only was witnessing an endangered species a catalyst for their sense of social responsibility, but both Haileyburians have long drawn inspiration from their paternal grandmother, who has dedicated her life to social work and welfare causes. This example of service is the reason Lyla has always donated her earnings and gifts to disadvantaged populations and why she received an award from the Near East South Asian Council for Overseas Schools (NESA) in 2022. 

It was their many trips to Tanzania where Mount Kilimanjaro loomed in their sights that inspired the pupils to tackle the climb and seek sponsorship in support of humpback whale conservation. With their mother Jesal by their side, Ella and Lyla meticulously prepared for over two months, packing equipment for all eventualities, and mentally and physically preparing to embark on the 8-day Lemosho trail.聽

“The biggest challenge was summit day. Waking up at 11pm and steep climbing for 6 and a half hours, functioning on a slice of toast, with less than 5 minute breaks every hour was hard. Ultimately, it was very rewarding.聽Though these challenges were difficult to overcome, physically and mentally, I am an explorer at heart and I love to take on challenges. I learned to never give up and that anything is possible if you put your mind to it and if you have a whole community supporting you.” 鈥� Ella

The journey unveiled the stunning terrains of Afromontane forests, glacial valleys, and alpine deserts, however, it was not without challenges. From rapidly changing weather conditions to the mentally testing nature of 鈥榩ole, pole鈥� (meaning 鈥榮lowly, slowly鈥� in Swahili), to ensure proper acclimatisation to altitude. It was hot and wet during the day, and very cold during at night, making sleeping on the mountain especially tough. every step they took was a testament of their determination to make an impact.

Evenings on the mountain brought enlightening talks with fellow trekkers about the impacts of climate change, emphasising their mission’s importance and further fuelling the family’s impressive feat.

“The climb taught me resilience and the value of perseverance. As we eye future challenges, this journey’s lessons stay with us,” Lyla shared. Ella and Lyla鈥檚 journey is far from over as they continue to explore, push themselves and look to climb the next summit for an equally meaningful cause.

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Tabitha鈥檚 (Lawrence, 2023) remarkable experience at mini传媒 led her to Ivy League University, Yale. Joining us in Middles (Year 10), she dominated the Hockey pitch playing for the mini传媒 Girls XI and England Hockey teams. She also thrived academically, achieved outstanding A level and (i)GCSE results, and was one of the 12 Haileyburians who achieved straight 9 and A* grades. In Sixth Form, Tabitha was deservedly named Head of School and was a School Cap recipient at Speech Day for her outstanding achievements.

In Tabitha鈥檚 own words,

“I love hockey, and it is one of my many passions here at mini传媒. Having played in lots of different hockey teams throughout my life, I have found that the teams I thrive in most are the ones with avid enthusiasm and an intense enjoyment for the sport.” – Speech Day 2022

Tabitha has embarked on another success story at Yale University, studying Molecular Biology and playing for the Field Hockey team as a back/midfielder. She made her debut for Yale against Saint Joseph’s on 3 September, marking the beginning of what would be a fantastic season. It wasn’t long before she was awarded the Senior Award, a distinction bestowed by the senior class and reserved for a team member who embodies a positive contribution to the team’s philosophy and exhibits individual character to drive the team towards excellence.

Tabitha鈥檚 passion for sport has been a constant thread throughout her life, and it is clear that her dedication has led to remarkable achievements both on and off the field. Her journey from mini传媒 to Yale is undoubtedly one filled with triumphs and we look forward to learning of her future accomplishments.

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After making it across the Atlantic, our pupils didn’t wast any time exploring the concrete jungle. The experience began with a guided walking tour through the streets of Manhattan, followed by the first of the group’s inspirational theatre productions. As the sun set on day one, our thespians struck a pose by the Brooklyn Bridge to capture the memories against the backdrop of the city skyline.

The following day, Haileyburians were treated to a masterful workshop led by a a star from the renowned Chicago musical. The School cast practised choreography and the distinct slinky movements from the roaring 20s. After all that excitement, pupils took a stroll through the iconic Central Park which paved the way for spectacular views from the top of the Rockefeller Center鈥攁 spot many stars have graced before them.

The adventure continued with a morning of shopping and cultural exploration in Greenwich Village, Soho and Canal Street. In the evening, pupils dined in Little Italy which fuelled them for an unforgettable night on Broadway, where they were swept away by more dazzling performances. To top it all off, our pupils were treated to a post-show photo with Chicago triple-threat,

Every step of our New York City Drama Trip provided pupils with inspiration for their upcoming roles. Don’t miss your chance to see our actors on stage. Tickets are now available for mini传媒’s Chicago: Teen Edition, running from 7-10 February at the Broxbourne Spotlight Theatre. Book your seats today.

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Eugene is the current Head of Wellington School in Somerset. He was previously Senior Deputy Headmaster at Trinity School, Croydon and Undermaster at St Paul’s School, London. Educated in South Africa, he studied Business Economics at the University of Witwatersrand and went on to complete a Masters in Leadership and an MBA, both at University College London. 

Eugene will join mini传媒 at an exciting stage in the School鈥檚 development. With a wealth of experience and a strong ethos, Eugene is the right person to build upon the exceptional progress of recent years, and to lead the School into the next phase.

Eugene will take over as Master in September 2024.

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Martin said;

“As Chairman, I am committed to ensuring that we continue to invest in our outstanding staff, infrastructure and facilities, so that both current and future generations of Haileyburians may enjoy the opportunities the School has provided to so many during its history.”

Being a current mini传媒 parent, Martin can be regularly seen onsite watching sporting fixtures and enjoying the many musical and theatrical performances.

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mini传媒 was awarded two chairing positions in the Disarmament and International Security Committee, which were represented by Lower Sixth pupils Emily and Lucy (pictured). Proudly, their chairing proved to be some of the strongest at the conference. The pair managed a fruitful debate on the topic of the illicit arms trade. Emily and Lucy will be continuing their chairing roles鈥攁s Head Chairs of the Conference Special Committee and the Ecology and Environment Committee respectfully鈥攁t the .

Special mentions go to Lower School 1 (Year 7) pupil Charlotte, who demonstrated growing confidence in her Human Rights Committee, representing Saudi Arabia on the topic of the Rohingya crisis; along with Oleg, Georgie, and Jemima in the Environment Committee, and Charlie representing Brazil in the Social, Cultural, and Humanitarian Committee.

The Benenden MUN Conference acted as a great warm up for upcoming January debates at Wycombe Abbey School and The Hague International Conference. Preparations are well underway for mini传媒鈥檚 own conference in March, which is the largest and most popular in the United Kingdom with over 800 attendees and staff.聽

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