Beachborough Newsletter: Friday 25th April 2025
Head’s Blog
“It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognise, accept, and celebrate those differences.” Audre Lorde
Over the holidays, I finally picked up a book that Mrs Sanders recommended to me last year, and Audre Lorde’s words have resonated with me ever since.
The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida is a powerful and moving account of life through the eyes of a thirteen-year-old boy with severe autism. The book is not just a window into the mind of one individual, but a reminder of the importance of genuinely seeing and celebrating the differences in others.
In schools, where every child brings their own unique perspective and way of experiencing the world, this message could not be more relevant. Naoki’s voice challenges us to move beyond assumptions, and to embrace the value of every learner, not in spite of their differences, but because of them.
Written with the help of a letterboard and painstaking patience, Naoki’s words don’t just give an insight into autism, but also highlight aspects about all of us, how we listen, how we assume, and how we make space for different ways of experiencing the world.
Naoki writes with a voice that is heartbreakingly honest. He explains, in vivid detail, why he jumps, why he repeats things, why he finds comfort in patterns or struggles with questions but more than just explanations, his writing shows empathy, the kind that made me pause and reconsider the way neurodiversity is viewed in society.
As teachers, this book challenges us to think more deeply about the children in our care, not just in terms of academic progress, but as individuals with complex inner worlds. It reminds us that just because a child cannot express something in the way that we expect or are used to, it does not mean they are not feeling it deeply. There is so much more to see and understand, if we are willing to look beyond the surface.
Reading The Reason I Jump reminded me why inclusive education matters, not just as policy, but as a daily practice rooted in dignity and respect. For in a world that too often rushes past quiet voices, this book urges us to stop and listen because sometimes, the most powerful things are said without words. If you have time, this is a book that I would thoroughly recommend.
I had the pleasure of accompanying our enthusiastic young equestrians on Sunday at the Beachborough Eventers Challenge. With sunshine from start to finish, the day was thoroughly enjoyable and showcased impressive performances from the entire Beachborough team. It is heart‑warming to see this sport thriving. My sincere thanks go to Mrs Cowley for her superb organisation and to Mrs Garrett‑Sheane for her invaluable support.
After many years of guiding the equestrian team and masterminding the Beachborough Eventer, Mrs Cowley is stepping down and handing the reins to Mrs Garrett‑Sheane. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Cowley for the time, energy, passion, and enthusiasm she has devoted to Beachborough’s equestrian programme over the years.
It has been an absolute joy to welcome the children back this week, and we have begun the summer term with real energy and enthusiasm. Wishing you all a wonderful weekend.
Simone
Our equestrian team have been super busy over the holidays and made the most of their ponies in the beautiful weather!
Sparsholt College Qualifier
On Sunday 20th April, Arabella H-S, Max J, Jack J, Sam H and Kitty G-S all arrived at Dallas Burston Polo Club, to compete at the annual Beachborough Eventers Challenge.
Next representing Beachborough was Harriet, with another super early start for the NSEA Grassroots at Bury Farm. Riding a new pony, Clocktower Tick Tock, they jumped a super clear in the 40cm and were placed 7th out of a strong line up of 23!
Wilf was up bright and early along with his friends and rode a clear round in the 50cm, winning 2nd place and highest placed pony club member, taking home a fabulous trophy! Geordie rode a great round on Cluedo, their maiden voyage, also at this type of event and placed 7th – a great result. Kitty also took part in this event – again, her first Hunter Trials, and teamed up with Katie placing 3rd in the 80cm pairs and managed to take 1st place in the 80cm individual class on Oscar.
Harriet had a great day with her new pony, Clocktower Tick Tock, at the Heythrop Eventer Challenge in the 50cm class. The first time for Harriet jumping at this height. This event is on grass, so plenty of room for ponies to behave like ponies do, but Harriet’s perseverance and training paid off and they had a nice clear in the show jumping and clear in the X-country and were placed 4th.
This weekend, on Sunday 27th April, Mr Blee will be running the Shakespeare Half Marathon, all in aid of raising money for Mary’s Meals!
Over the Easter holidays, Arthur competed in the British Gymnastics Trampoline, Tumbling, and DMT National Qualification Event 2025, also known as “Spring 1”.
We’re excited to announce that Ultimate Activity Camps are returning this summer. With over 40 exciting sports, games, and creative activities each week, children will have the opportunity to try new experiences, stay active, and make new friends. Plus, take advantage of their Early Booking Offer – book by 29th April to save! They’ll also be running their Ultimate Survival programme, offering adventure-filled days for children aged 7 to 14, immersing them in nature with fun survival skills, challenges, and games.
