Students from The Charter School Bermondsey returned inspired and energised after attending the launch of the Southwark Schools’ Learning Partnership (SSLP) Student Leadership Project on Thursday, 13th November at Kingswood Arts. This year’s theme—Digital and AI—brought together 53 students from nine SSLP schools for a day of collaboration and innovation.

Half of our student group teamed up with peers from Dulwich College, while the other half partnered with St Michael’s, laying the groundwork for exciting joint projects. We are thrilled to have @employeevolunteering on board as partners for this year’s AI initiative.

The event opened with three inspiring keynote speakers:

• Christine Foster, GM for AI and Automation at Experian and former Chief Commercial Officer at The Alan Turing Institute, shared powerful insights on the real-world impact of AI.
• Rob Waugh, technology and science journalist for outlets including the Daily Mail, New York Post, and The Telegraph, highlighted ethical concerns around AI-generated “fake experts.”
• Matt Webb, designer, entrepreneur, and co-founder of BERG, now leading Acts Not Facts, encouraged students to think creatively about human-centred technology.

Year 10 student Shakhai reflected:
“It was really good working with boys from Dulwich College… we worked well together and I will get to develop my design skills while learning about AI.”

On Tuesday, 11 November, The Charter School Bermondsey joined millions across the nation in marking Armistice Day. Our school community gathered for a special Remembrance Assembly. Led by Mr Ward and Rodden, students reflected on the meaning of remembrance through our core values: Belong, Believe, Become.

The assembly reminded us that remembrance is not only about honouring those who fought and died in wars, but also about shaping the kind of world we want to live in today.

We explored stories of courage and sacrifice from across the globe — from Khudadad Khan, the first Indian soldier awarded the Victoria Cross, to Caribbean and African regiments who served alongside British forces. We also learned how hope endured even in the darkest times, inspiring the creation of the United Nations, the NHS, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Students were invited to discover personal connections to history through stories shared by staff. These included Jack and Jean Ward, who served during World War II — Jack in the Royal Signals and later as a Captain in the Long-Range Desert Group, and Jean in munitions work during The Blitz. We also remembered Maurice Henry Logan, who served as a gunner in the Royal Navy and was discharged due to injury before his untimely death in 1947. These family stories remind us that the legacy of service and sacrifice lives on in our own community.

At 11 am, the school observed the traditional two-minute silence, echoing the words of Laurence Binyon:
“At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”

This year, Principal Marcus Huntley accompanied two students to represent the school at Southwark’s official borough service at the West Lane Memorial, just off Jamaica Road in Bermondsey. The service, led by Fr Mark Nicholls and joined by other faith leaders, brought together the local community to honour those who gave their lives for peace.

As we remember, we commit to learning from the past and becoming a generation that values unity, hope, and justice. We will remember them.

A group of Year 10 and 11 students from our school were given a remarkable opportunity to attend the prestigious Lady Mayor’s Show, invited by Keith Bottomley, Deputy Sheriff of London. From the balcony at Mansion House, they witnessed one of the City of London’s most iconic traditions and experienced the heart of its civic life.

This year’s event was particularly historic. Dame Susan Langley DBE, the third ever female Lord Mayor, has chosen to adopt the title Lady Mayor, making her the first in the City of London’s long history to do so. The role is to champion London’s businesses and act as a global ambassador for financial and professional services.

In addition to the Mansion House experience, some of our pupils were hosted at Pewterers’ Hall, where they enjoyed the vibrant parade followed by a formal lunch in the historic hall.

During the day, students met influential figures who shape the City of London, including the Lady Mayor herself and Sheriff Keith Bottomley. These interactions left a lasting impression, inspiring students to pursue their ambitions and reinforcing the importance of resilience and aspiration.

Principal Marcus Huntley said:
“Opportunities like these give our students a glimpse into the heart of the City of London. Meeting leaders who shape our city and enjoying hospitality in prestigious historic venues, unlocks ambition and builds that sense of belonging to our capital.”

Students shared their reflections on the day:

“It was a fantastic place to meet interesting people who inspired me to become the best I can be.”

Weibeau, Year 10

“This event emphasised our values (believe, belong, become) and taught me the importance of them, showing me how far these principles can take me, especially post-16.”
Kayla, Year 10

For our students, this experience was not just a fun day out; it was a lesson in aspiration, leadership, and the limitless possibilities of the future.