<![CDATA[Warwick School News Feed - Junior Journals]]> https://www.warwickschool.org%2Fjunior%2Dschool%2Fjunior%2Djournals Juniper Education Content Management System (CMS) Version: 4.5 (junipereducation.org) Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:01:20 GMT Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:01:20 GMT <![CDATA[ Warwickshire Swimming Championship ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/warwickshire-swimming-championship In February, I competed in the Warwickshire Swimming Championships, jumping into a busy splash of races that really tested me.

I raced in 10 individual events and won gold in all of them . I also took part in 3 team relays, where we worked together like a team of gears, winning 1 gold, 1 silver, and finishing 4th in another. It was two long weekends of hard work, with my arms and legs feeling like jelly and the water rushing past me, but I enjoyed every single moment.

]]> Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:01:20 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/warwickshire-swimming-championship <![CDATA[ Competing in the Trampolining National Finals ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/competing-in-the-trampolining-national-finals I competed for Warwick Junior School at the British Schools Trampolining National Finals on Saturday at Derby Arena and finished a fantastic 7th place, which placed me 7th in Great Britain.

I was competing against boys from the year above as the age category for this competition is U11. It was also the first time competing at a national level in an arena this size. I am determined to go back in Year 6 when I am at the top of the age bracket and win the trophy!

It an amazing experience and I enjoyed it very much.

By George

]]> Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:58:53 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/competing-in-the-trampolining-national-finals <![CDATA[ Sporting success! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/sporting-success Over the last couple of months, I have been busy competing in the first two rounds of the British Schools Trampolining competition - I came 1st in the first round against boys from across the region, and 3rd in the second round, which was in Cardiff, against boys from Central England and Wales. I have qualified to the National Schools Final on the 14 March which is very exciting! I hope to do WJS proud!

I have also been swimming in the Warwickshire ASA County Championships over the last few weekends and made the finals in all my events. I got the bronze in the 50m Breaststroke and a new club record for the 50m backstroke for 10 yr-old boys with my club, Stratford Sharks.

I'm having a rest this week!

By George

]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:36:23 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/sporting-success <![CDATA[ Community litter picking ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/community-litter-picking In the half term holidays, I took part in a community litter pick by Asda. The name of the group is “Leam Trash Friends”, and they go to different parts of the town to do litter picking and make it clean. I did this litter pick for two reasons, as part of my Diploma and I have seen lots of rubbish being thrown on the floor in the town and wanted to help clean it up and help protect our environment/animals. Also, I got to wear a cool hi-vis jacket and gloves and use a picker!

By Aarav

]]> Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:06:43 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/community-litter-picking <![CDATA[ My trip to Abu Dhabi ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-trip-to-abu-dhabi Last summer, while returning from India, I did a two-day stop-over in Abu Dhabi. This was a surprise for me by my parents as it was my first trip to Abu Dhabi.

During those two days, I enjoyed swimming in the hotel pool, visiting a beach, Emirates palace and one of the biggest mosques known as Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque center. It was super hot as it was 45 to 50 degrees celsius. I really enjoyed my trip and would recommend my friends to also visit there.

After returning from my holiday, I joined Warwick Junior School and was very happy to join my new school!

By Adhrit, 4B

]]> Fri, 6 Feb 2026 14:30:46 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-trip-to-abu-dhabi <![CDATA[ A trip to Rome ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/a-trip-to-rome Over the October half-term 2025 we went to Rome. It was a very memorable trip and we all enjoyed ourselves. However, our favourite things to see were the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. We learnt a lot about the history, architecture and style.

Firstly, we visited the Colosseum and Roman forum… That was just stunning. They were both very big and there was a lot to see. At the Colosseum, we were all blown away by its presence! Inside, we wandered on. There were tall arches inside and ancient ruins of staircases leading upwards. After strolling around on the ground floor we eventually we reached a small area, just on the perimeter of the main arena. We then went upstairs to the first floor. Interestingly, under some of the arches, eroding statues stood. Another amazing thing there about it, not only were the architecture and arches incredible, there were gaps in the circle in the arena that meant you could see all the tunnels and networks of passages under the floor. From whom gladiators may have walked through to get to the centre of the Colosseum. Absolutely remarkable!

There was a huge hall in the Roman Forum where important decisions and laws were made. One of my favourite bits at the Forum was a large structure with tunnels, that we were allowed to walk through, winding up to the top. At the top of the hill there was a beautiful garden with stunning views over the Roman Forum. A bit further on, another ancient building stood next to a large hole supported with herringbone pattern bricks and arches. Another amazing piece of work made by the Romans!

When we visited the Trevi Fountain, I thought it was very interesting. It wasn’t like a normal fountain, where there is just a couple of jets of water spraying out into the pool, but several streams of of water running alongside impressive statues, small tumbling waterfalls that reach a marble pool of water. This all takes place in front of a very beautiful, marble building. On the last visit there we tossed a coin into it (on the recommendation of Mrs Shepstone)!

There are many more wonderful things in Rome, like seeing the famous national monument nicknamed the ‘The Typewriter’, or seeing the Spanish Steps at night. However, not only were the sites wonderful, but also the food was delicious! Concluding the trip, we had wonderful and enjoyable time. I would definitely like to visit it again. Thanks for reading.

By Joshua, 6RS

]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:45:17 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/a-trip-to-rome <![CDATA[ Running the Santa Dash for The Myton Hospices ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/running-the-santa-dash-for-the-myton-hospices I ran the Myton Hospices Santa Dash before Christmas with my parents and my brother George (Year 5) and it was amazing. I felt like a real Christmas superhero. As soon as I put on my Santa hat, I felt extra fast, like the real Santa but with super‑powered running shoes. There were loads of people dressed as Santa, elves, and even a reindeer with wobbly antlers. Everyone was laughing and jingling bells.

At the start, I was a bit nervous because the adults looked very serious about running, but then the music started, and we all counted down together. The air was really cold but it made my cheeks feel all tingly and Christmassy. I kept imagining I was delivering presents and had to finish the race before midnight or the magic would run out.

There were people cheering on the sides, and every time someone clapped, I ran a tiny bit faster. I even overtook a man wearing a giant inflatable snowman suit — he was very slow, but it still felt like a victory.

When I finally saw the finish line, my legs were tired, but I finished the whole run in 40 minutes, which felt like winning a gold medal at the North Pole Olympics.

At the end, someone gave me a medal and hot chocolate, and I felt really proud.

By Arthur, Year 3

]]> Thu, 8 Jan 2026 13:17:55 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/running-the-santa-dash-for-the-myton-hospices <![CDATA[ My karate black belt journey ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-karate-black-belt-journey As you can see in the picture, my journey started just after my 6th birthday when my Mum and Dad took me to a karate lesson at a club called EWF Martial Arts in Kenilworth.

At first, I was quite nervous about joining because it was new surroundings and a big group of other children that I had never met before. But because Mum and Dad thought that I had lazy Saturdays, and they wanted me to get some more exercise, as well as wanting me to get a bigger friendship group and increased self-confidence.

I have not had a “lazy” Saturday morning now for nearly 4 years and I do not mind at all since Karate is one of my favourite activities.

Karate teaches me lots of things like respect for the teachers and students. It was hard work at first and some of the moves are complicated, but is also so much fun learning with friends.

At each stage of my journey, I had to take a test or “grading”. All students start as a White belt but if you pass the gradings, you move up to the next belts, and these are: - Red, Yellow, Orange, Green, Blue, Purple, Brown, Brown-Red, Brown-Red-Red, Brown-White, Brown-White-White, Black-Brown, Black-White, Black-Red, and then at last, Black Belt. No wonder that it took me nearly 4 years!

This December, I went to the EWF Centre in Leicester to take my Black Belt grading. It was so nerve racking because I knew that it was going to be tough! The grading assessment lasted for an hour and a half and we had to show that we could do: -
• 50 press ups
• 50 sit ups
• 50 crunches
• 200 drop side kicks
• 100 leg lunges
As well as this, we had to perform 2 “Katas”. These are sequences of kicks and punches.

I passed!!! On 4th January, me and others, received our Black Belts and a red rose of gratitude (which I gave to my lucky Mum). At the graduation ceremony, we had the chance to meet with Mr Khorsan, the Karate Master. I felt so proud of myself!

Achieving the Black Belt is has not only made me more confident, but it has also taught me to be more determined and disciplined. I have also learned more about respect and belonging to a group of people outside of school.

The journey goes on now. My next target in Karate will be to be awarded Black Belt, First Dan. This can take another year, but it will be worth it.

By Benjy, Year 5

]]> Fri, 9 Jan 2026 11:30:17 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-karate-black-belt-journey <![CDATA[ Success at the National Final! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/success-at-the-national-final Last Saturday, we travelled to the international swimming pool in Corby for the Junior League National Final, representing Leamington Swimming Club. Teams from all over the country were there, from Leeds to London.

Each of us was chosen to swim two individual 50m races, plus we all took part in the U10 relays, where we came second in both events. Many of us smashed our personal bests too, which made the day even more exciting.

The whole team swam amazingly well, and we finished 2nd overall!! It was a really fun and successful day in the pool!

By George, Leon and Theo

]]> Fri, 5 Dec 2025 16:07:34 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/success-at-the-national-final <![CDATA[ Bronze medal winner ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/bronze-medal-winner The Warwick School Badminton Association Tournament was held on 29 November at Kenilworth Leisure Centre. There were 150 players in total, and eight players in the U11 category, split into two groups — Group A and Group B. I played in Group A and won the bronze medal.

I want to be a badminton county player one day. I train at our sports hall after school, and I’m going to keep practising to get even better.

It was such a big journey, and I’m really happy with how I did!

By Ved, 4P

]]> Fri, 5 Dec 2025 16:00:06 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/bronze-medal-winner <![CDATA[ Receiving my Black Belt! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/receving-my-black-belt On Saturday, after the Warwick school entrance exam I travelled up to Leicester with my Dad to take my 1st Dan Black Belt in Karate Tae Kwon-Do.

I was very nervous, I had been waiting for this moment since I started Karate since I was five years old. I have practised the Form, which we call the Tiger Form Part three, for the last six months.

I performed the Form in front of the examiners and passed! I was so happy to receive my Black Belt with my name on and also a certificate and a Rose for my parents to say thank you for supporting me.
It was the best !

]]> Fri, 28 Nov 2025 13:48:05 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/receving-my-black-belt <![CDATA[ Celebrating Guru Nanak's birthday ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/celebrating-guru-nanaks-birthday Last week, we went to the gurdwara to celebrate the first Guru, Guru Nanak’s, birthday. The gurdwara was lit up with bright lights, and we listened to hymns while everyone smiled and felt happy.

I also got to do seva! Seva means helping without expecting anything back. Guru Nanak taught us to be kind and help everyone. My seva job was helping with the dishes after Langar. Langar is the free meal that everyone eats together, no matter who they are. I washed the dishes and felt proud.

I’m glad I got to celebrate Guru Nanak’s birthday and do seva.

By Aveer

]]> Fri, 21 Nov 2025 16:25:34 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/celebrating-guru-nanaks-birthday <![CDATA[ A weekend of sporting success! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/a-weekend-of-sporting-success On Saturday, I took part in the Stratford Sharks Swimming Club Winter Championships. I raced in four events and I won them all! I came first in the 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle, 100m breaststroke and 100m backstroke for the aged 10 boys category.

Then on Sunday, I competed in the West Midlands Trampoline Championships where I finished in first place, becoming the aged 10 boys West Midlands Champion!

By George

]]> Fri, 21 Nov 2025 16:23:43 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/a-weekend-of-sporting-success <![CDATA[ My Trip To Stonehenge ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-trip-to-stonehenge During half term I went to visit Stonehenge. In our history lessons we have been learning about the Stone Age, where people used stones and rocks to make tools and build objects.

Stonehenge was built about 4,500 years ago, by a group of people using giant stones. I walked around the sculpture which was arranged in a circle where some stones were standing up, while others were lying down as they had fallen over.

Nobody knows exactly why it was built, but scientists think it might have been a special place to meet, worship, track the sun and moon, or it might have been a burial ground. The stones are very heavy, and it was amazing how people moved them into place without machinery.

It’s still a mystery and people are still trying to find out how they did it. I had a great experience at Stonehenge, and I would encourage others to go.

]]> Fri, 14 Nov 2025 14:33:14 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-trip-to-stonehenge <![CDATA[ Remembrance Parade at the Cenotaph 2025 ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/remembrance-parade-at-the-cenotaph-2025 On Sunday, 9 November, I went to London with my parents. My Dad had been invited to march past the Cenotaph as a military veteran as part of the Remembrance Sunday Service.

We walked to Horse Guards, where the veterans gathered. I then waited for hours to get a good viewing point to watch the parade. It was very busy, there were 10,000 veterans, including my Dad. There were even 20 veterans from World War II in the parade.

I felt very proud watching him march past. It was a very moving day and one I will never forget!

]]> Fri, 14 Nov 2025 14:32:22 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/remembrance-parade-at-the-cenotaph-2025 <![CDATA[ My trip to India ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-trip-to-india I went to India over half term for a big family trip. I saw all my family who I had never met before and went to my grandfather’s village and saw his old house.

It was Diwali when we were in Punjab and it was amazing! Lots of loud and colourful fireworks and amazing food!

We also celebrated my uncle’s 60th birthday, who had also travelled from England.

After seeing all the family, we went on lots of trips to see famous historical places such as the Golden Temple, Waga Boarder, and Agra. In Agra we saw the Red Fort and my favourite, the Taj Mahal!

]]> Fri, 7 Nov 2025 16:16:02 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-trip-to-india <![CDATA[ My badminton tournament ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-badminton-tournament The Warwick School Badminton Association Tournament was held on 11 October at Kenilworth Leisure Centre. There were 129 players in total, and eight players in the U10 category, split into two groups — Group A and Group B.

I played three matches in my group. In my first game, I won 11–0. In my second game, I won again 11–1. Then, in my third game, I won 11–2. I finished top of Group A, which meant I went through to the finals against the top player from Group B.

The player I faced in the final is a Warwick county player, and he’s really good. It was a very hard match, and I lost 6–11 in the final.

This tournament was meant for non-county players, but county players were allowed to take part too.

At the end, during the medal ceremony, I received two medals — a gold medal for being the top non-county player, and a silver medal for finishing second overall in the U10s.

I want to be a badminton county player one day. I train at our sports hall after school, and I’m going to keep practising to get even better.

It was such a big journey, and I’m really happy with how I did!

]]> Fri, 17 Oct 2025 09:27:12 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-badminton-tournament <![CDATA[ Swimming success ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/swimming-success On Saturday, I swam for my club, Stratford Sharks, at the Coventry & District Autumn meet. I competed in 50m Breaststroke and came second, getting a silver medal and a new PB! I was also one of the youngest in the age category, having only just turned 10! I am competing in 100m Individual Medley next weekend and hope to do well in that too.

]]> Thu, 9 Oct 2025 11:33:25 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/swimming-success <![CDATA[ Cricket success! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/cricket-success After a busy season of cricket, I was thrilled to receive the Player of the Year award for both U10s and U11s at Dorridge Cricket Club this weekend. I was also proud to be asked to play for the U12s and had a wicket-taking debut for the U13s this season.

My team, Dorridge U10s, also retained the Warwickshire Cup. I was pleased with my performance in the final with two wickets for seven runs.

Finally, in my first season for Warwickshire, I played nine matches, took seven wickets at an average of 13.1, and captained three times.

I can’t wait for the next cricket season!

]]> Fri, 3 Oct 2025 10:24:42 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/cricket-success <![CDATA[ Buckingham Champions! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/buckingham-champions My hockey team won the Buckingham Hockey Festival tournament at Buckingham School on Sunday, 28 September.

This was a meet for most of the teams in the county, including some teams I have never played before. I played for Banbury Hockey U12s and had to drive for 40 minutes to get there. It was busy getting in as the main U10s had just finished.

We went unbeaten, winning 4 or 5 games, and drawing 1!

]]> Fri, 3 Oct 2025 10:05:20 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/buckingham-champions <![CDATA[ My 5km Walk Challenge for Macmillan! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-5km-walk-challenge-for-macmillan On Sunday, I walked 5km to raise money for Macmillan, to help people who are sick. I walked to Jephson's Gardens, through Leamington Town, past the Bandstand – while admiring the water fountains, and collecting conkers and acorns along the way. In total, I managed to raise £100 for the charity.

]]> Fri, 3 Oct 2025 09:44:25 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-5km-walk-challenge-for-macmillan <![CDATA[ Junior League success ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/junior-league-success On Saturday, 13 September, me and my friends competed in the Junior League Final, after previously doing four rounds to get into the final. We won all of our relays in the age nine category. Our team, Leamington Swimming Club won the overall Junior League, and we’re now going to the nationals in November.

We all also swam at the Nuneaton gala the following day and got medals in the Individual Medley, Breaststroke, Freestyle and Butterfly.

We then have five galas coming up in October.

]]> Wed, 24 Sep 2025 14:42:36 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/junior-league-success <![CDATA[ Racing at Goodwood ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/racing-at-goodwood I went to Goodwood Revival and raced a pedal car and it's called an Austin J40. I raced on the racetrack against loads of other children in pedal cars.

I came in 33rd place out of about 60. It was deafeningly loud because the grown ups were cheering the children on. I was absolutely soaked – I had an umbrella and a poncho and I still had a puddle in my poncho.

I had to wear racing overalls and at the end, as a reward, the children got some yummy sweets. The name of the race was called the Settrington Cup. I really enjoyed it, especially when I had sweets! Ps. Yummy!

If you would like to watch the race, click here for the official Goodwood footage.

]]> Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:03:55 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/racing-at-goodwood <![CDATA[ Swimming League Finals ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/swimming-league-finals On Saturday afternoon, I raced for City of Coventry Swimming Club, at the Nuneaton league finals.

There was a parade of the final eight teams around the pool, there were 24 teams competing in division one and this was the final!

We all dressed up and had face paint and tattoos with the club logo on, there was music and dancing.
And then we did the fast swimming. We came fifth and we were really happy. We got a medal!

I swam the freestyle 50 metres for my age group and then in the relays.

It was a great day!

]]> Fri, 26 Sep 2025 15:10:30 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/swimming-league-finals <![CDATA[ Three mile charity walk for Myton Hospice ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/three-mile-charity-walk-for-myton-hospice On Sunday, my Mum, my dog Kenny and I did a charity walk for Myton Hospices.

We did the three mile walk which started at our school car park! And then went along the canal, into Leamington Victoria Park and then back on ourselves along the river.

It was very fun, I even got to play on the park slide too! We had an ice cream at the end and handed in the money we raised. I really enjoyed it!

]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2025 10:10:45 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/three-mile-charity-walk-for-myton-hospice <![CDATA[ Exploring Pulau Ubin ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/exploring-pulau-ubin On the 14 July 2025, me and my family (including my brother, Arthur, in 3W) went to a place called Pulau Ubin, an island in Singapore. We got a bum boat from Singapore to Pula Ubin. It was so fun on the bum boat because you could trail your hands in the water, and the view was amazing.

When we got to the island, we arrived in a weird village called a Kampong, a rare example of an old Singaporean town. Kampongs are a reminder of Singapore’s past because they are very rustic. Kampongs are nearly extinct because Singapore is more sophisticated now and people stopped building Kampongs so there are very few left in the world. Pulau Ubin only has 25 elderly residents left because only family members of current residents can live on the island.

We wandered around the Kampong and decided that we were going to hire bikes to get around the island. So, we set off to explore the jungle and mangrove forest. About halfway there we encountered a wild otter which swam up to and ran around the beach. There was also a big lizard who lazily hung around on the beach and then swam back into the water. We kept going and found a tribe of wild monkeys. We thought they were so cute until we met a group of other bikers, just like us, on the way back who were surrounded by the same tribe of monkeys. The monkeys stole their bags and ran into the jungle, they took their water and medicine too. I think we had a very narrow escape!

I really enjoyed our adventure on Pulau Ubin, it wasn’t what I was expecting at all!

]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:51:20 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/exploring-pulau-ubin <![CDATA[ Player of the week ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/player-of-the-week I enjoyed my first week back at training in the U8 Old Leamingtonians team. I was awarded player of the week and also managed to knock out one of my (already very wobbly) front teeth during training drills!

]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:44:38 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/player-of-the-week <![CDATA[ U8 football match ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/u8-football-match Last Saturday, my football team played a football match against Balsall Common. We won 13-1 and I scored two goals and was awarded Player of the Match. I am extremely proud and delighted that I received this award. My team, Khalsa FC were amazing and we did really well.

]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2025 15:32:43 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/u8-football-match <![CDATA[ My Van Gogh Adventure! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-van-gogh-adventure During the summer holidays, I went to Holland to visit my family, and when I was there I went to the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam. I was really excited as I wanted to see Sunflowers, a really famous painting.

Vincent van Gogh was one of the greatest artists of all time. He was Dutch, and although he only sold one painting when he was alive, he painted over 2000 pictures in 10 years. I saw hundreds of his paintings in the museum. Most people remember him for cutting off his own ear!

Some of my favourite paintings were Almond Blossom, Haymaking, The Potato Eaters and, of course, The Sunflowers.

When I got back, I painted my own version of Sunflowers – I wish it was worth as much money as the original, and I would really like to see the Mona Lisa next!

]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2025 15:31:18 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-van-gogh-adventure <![CDATA[ Swimming club Respect Award ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/swimming-club-respect-award I was very happy to be awarded the City of Coventry swimming club 'Respect' award at the weekend. Whilst I was not at the annual event to collect my award, my coach presented it to me after my swimming lesson. I was very surprised, particularly as this trophy was for the whole of the U13 age group!

]]> Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:21:28 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/swimming-club-respect-award <![CDATA[ Completing the RYA level 1 sailing course ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/rya-level-1-sailing-course I recently completed the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) level 1 sailing course. I learnt how to steer the boat with the rudder and about different rope knots. I also did the capsize drill (how to fall off the boat and climb back in). I then got to learn how to sail faster and slower, and how to stop the boat. It was very very scary at first, but the more you do it, more fun it gets. And at the end of the course, despite a terrifying experience, I wanted to do more and more, because it is SO much fun.

]]> Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:18:41 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/rya-level-1-sailing-course <![CDATA[ My Blue Peter surprise ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-blue-peter-surprise Over the summer I wrote a story about how an Axolotl got his smile. My mum recorded me reading it, and we sent it in to Blue Peter. One morning last week, a letter arrived in the post with my name on it... I couldn’t believe it when I saw the badge and a really nice letter from Blue Peter! I can’t wait to use my badge, I really like the MAD museum, so I’m hoping to go there soon.

How the Axolotl Got Its Smile – By Bodhi
Long ago, there was an amazing axolotl who forgot how to smile…
The axolotl lived in a murky deep lake filled with thin sloppy pondweed which felt like a wet blanket that wasn’t fluffy. Every day, a school of brightly coloured fish swam past the lonely axolotl and wondered, “Could the axolotl smile?” But today, the fish will try themselves, to make the axolotl smile. “We have to make the axolotl smile”, said one of the fish. “We should lift up his face to make him smile!”, said another. “Yeah!” shouted the crowd of fish in agreement. So a fish wiggled over to the sad squishy axolotl, “Urghhhh!” cried the struggling fish desperately trying to lift up the axolotl’s frown with his short floppy fins, but it didn’t budge. “Maybe tell him a joke?”asked a long whiskered catfish. “What did the egg say to the clown?”, asked one of the fish, “You’re cracking me up! "Haha!” exclaimed the fish, but the axolotl didn’t smile, not even one little bit.

Suddenly, a young boy was walking past with his Dad when he tripped over a rock, dropping his huge swirly rainbow lollipop in the lake. The axolotl saw the lollipop descending into his dark home “Oooh food!” the axolotl shouted excitedly. With this, his huge frown turned upside down and opened into the biggest smile the fish had ever seen. In one smooth gobble, the lollipop was gone into the deep squishy pit of the axolotls tummy. Out from the depth came a thunderous noise, which sent ripples across the lake. “BURPPPPPPPP!” projecting out the axolotls mouth came a lollipop stick. And from that day on the axolotl always smiled just in case a lollipop came raining down into his enormous wide smile.

]]> Fri, 12 Sep 2025 14:05:21 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-blue-peter-surprise <![CDATA[ Year 3 Art trip ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/year-3-art-trip Last Thursday I went to St. Nicholas Park with the rest of my class 3BA for an Art lesson.

We were challenged to draw something we could see and make it bigger. I drew a pigeon's feather which I tried to add as much detail to as possible. The next challenge was to complete a continuous line drawing which means you can't take your pencil off the page. I drew the lake and bushes which was very tricky as it was hard to tell what was what in my drawing!

I really enjoyed being at the park to draw in the fresh air and we know this work will help our artwork in the next few weeks.

By George

]]> Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:12:35 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/year-3-art-trip <![CDATA[ Players’ Player of the Season Award! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/players-player-of-the-season-award I play football for Leek Wootton U10 Vipers and this year I won the Players’ and Parents’ Player of the Season Award! This was voted for by my team mates and their parents. I love playing for my team because we all support and encourage each other and have lots of fun playing every week. We always celebrate together when we do well and learn from any matches that do not go so well, so we can improve.

Our coaches make our training really fun and help us get better all the time. This week we came second in the Tysoe football tournament, which we are improving on each year. I play striker and can’t wait to score more goals for my team next season!

By Ted

]]> Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:13:57 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/players-player-of-the-season-award <![CDATA[ Leamington Spa Competitive Festival ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/leamington-spa-competitive-festival Last Saturday, I took part in the Leamington Spa Competitive Festival. I entered two categories, violin grade 3 and 4, and violin 8 and under.

I had been practicing two pieces for this competition for months, and spent hours perfecting the details. I am so glad that the hard work has paid off. I came first in both categories!

The competition is more competitive than last year, there are a lot of very good players from surrounding areas. I was over the moon when the judge said my name when announcing first place. I was not as nervous as I thought, maybe that is because I had a lot of opportunities to play in front of audiences in school.

I am very happy that I came home with two trophies!

By Ted 4W

]]> Fri, 20 Jun 2025 15:40:52 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/leamington-spa-competitive-festival <![CDATA[ String success ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-journals/string-success I recently played in the Junior Conservatoire Young Strings Project Summer Concert. I had a number of Suzuki based pieces and I was also part of the Grade One Orchestra. 

By Elliott

]]> Thu, 19 Jun 2025 13:13:41 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-journals/string-success <![CDATA[ 5k charity run! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/5k-charity-run I took part in a five kilometre charity run on Sunday. It was a Race for life event in Redditch.
It was hard as I had to run a lot, it made me very tired. I completed this in 30 mins and raised money for charity.

By Nipun

]]> Tue, 10 Jun 2025 14:27:28 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/5k-charity-run <![CDATA[ 'Most promising clarinettist' at the Leamington Competitive Festival! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/most-promising-clarinettist-at-the-leamington-competitive-festival On Sunday, 8 June, I took part in the Leamington Spa Competitive Festival, where I played my clarinet in two different classes.

Before the competition started, I felt quite nervous because I had to go up on stage and play all by myself in front of an audience and two judges!

In my first class (Under 11 Years), I was really happy to be awarded runner-up. By the time my second class (Grade 3–4) started, I was feeling a bit more confident - and I was so excited to win first place!

One of the best parts of the afternoon was getting to listen to other clarinet players. Some of them were all the way up to Grade 8. It was so inspiring, and it made me want to keep practising so I can play like that one day too.

At the end of the session, something amazing happened - I was awarded the Peter Jarvis Trophy for the 'most promising clarinettist'! I couldn’t believe it, especially because there were some amazing players in the Grade 7–8 category. I can keep the trophy until next year and can get my name engraved on it too! It was such a big surprise and made me feel really proud and excited for the future.

By George 5S

]]> Tue, 10 Jun 2025 14:18:59 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/most-promising-clarinettist-at-the-leamington-competitive-festival <![CDATA[ Leamington Spa Competitive Festival success! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/leamington-spa-competitive-festival-success On Sunday, I took part in the Leamington Spa Competitive Festival. This was the first time I have played the trumpet at the festival, so I was very nervous! Although there were not that many brass players, I was thrilled to come joint first in my category. I'm now looking forward to next year, when I hope to enter the competition again and play in more categories.

By Jonas

]]> Tue, 10 Jun 2025 14:05:34 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/leamington-spa-competitive-festival-success <![CDATA[ The Midlands Air Festival ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/the-midlands-air-festival Last Friday I went to the Midlands Air Festival at Ragley Hall. It was a great day out with loads to see, including model aeroplanes, aerobatic displays and the RAF Falcons, a parachute display team.

Some of the best bits were the Typhoon flypast, which was so loud you could feel the ground rumbling; the Battle of Britain memorial flight, where the last flying Lancaster in the UK and two spitfires put on a display; and a helicopter that did aerobatics. The highlight of the day was however, the Red Arrows, who did amazing stunts and formations with the red, white and blue smoke trailing behind.

We all had an amazing time and I really hope I can go again next year!

]]> Thu, 5 Jun 2025 11:46:27 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/the-midlands-air-festival <![CDATA[ Fantastic Farne Islands! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/fantastic-farne-islands I spent May half-term on an exciting trip to the Northumberland coast to visit the Farne Islands. I went on a sailing boat to Inner Farne which is known as “Puffin Island”.

It is the biggest seabird colony and nesting sanctuary in the UK. There are 23 different species of birds and 70,000 puffins! I also saw razorbills, guillemots, eider ducks and got my head pecked by a diving tern! I even saw some grey seals popping their heads out of the crystal clear sea. We got some brilliant close-up pictures of the cute puffins!

2025 is the 100 year anniversary of the National Trust looking after the Farne Islands. They are trying to raise awareness of climate change and that we must protect the quality of the North Sea so it doesn’t impact the birds and their environment.

My favourite facts I found out were:

- Puffins return to the exact same burrow every year to breed.
- After breeding season, the tiny little puffins fly all the way to Iceland for the winter.
- The Farne Islands are David Attenborough’s favourite place in the whole of the UK to watch nature.

It was a really amazing experience and I can’t wait to go again!

By Harrison, 3BP

]]> Thu, 5 Jun 2025 11:40:38 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/fantastic-farne-islands <![CDATA[ Year 4 boys at Adam Peaty Race Clinic ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/year-4-boys-at-adam-peaty-race-clinic On Sunday, Theo, Hugo, Elliott and I took part in the Adam Peaty Backstroke Start and Dive Clinic at the Alan Higgs Pool in Coventry. We were coached by 2 times Olympic Champion, Matt Richards and World Record Holder, Luke Greenbank. We all had a really good day and learnt lots of useful tips to improve our race starts! We are looking forward to swimming extra fast as a team in our next school gala!

]]> Thu, 5 Jun 2025 11:35:14 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/year-4-boys-at-adam-peaty-race-clinic <![CDATA[ What I like the most in football training: Real Madrid vs Liverpool Way ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/what-i-like-the-most-in-football-training-real-madrid-vs-liverpool-way Everyone knows that I live and love football. I learnt to shoot the ball before I was able to balance myself to walk. I belong to a football club, train with them during the week and play with my team almost every Saturday during term time. Last summer, I received the trophy when I was selected as the coaches’ player of the season 2023-24 and received the trophy. I also play at school at the first opportunity.

I watch football games on TV many times a week, and sometimes I go to simple matches or finals in stadiums like Anfield, Aston, or Wembley. I have been playing FIFA on the computer for as long as I can remember. The early set that I have is from 2017. Every day, I watch YouTube videos about tactics, failures, techniques, and I try to apply them when I play.

I have attended formal training with Real Madrid (November 2024) and during several summers with Liverpool at the LFC Academy in Kirkby.

Someone recently asked me what I prefer, Real Madrid vs Liverpool. Both clubs have very demanding training regimes, but they have different philosophies. Real Madrid emphasises a high-intensity, physical approach, focusing on individual skill and tactical execution. Liverpool integrates sports science, innovative techniques, and a strong emphasis on teamwork and adaptability.

While with Real Madrid, you work with you for you, I prefer “The Liverpool Way”, which emphasises ambition, commitment, dignity, and unity. In a strange way, these values reflect well Warwick Foundation values of responsibility, resilience, and compassion. In my school and my football career, I hope “I will never walk alone” knowing that I am part of different communities with similar values to mine.

By Joseph 6RS

]]> Mon, 9 Jun 2025 08:28:18 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/what-i-like-the-most-in-football-training-real-madrid-vs-liverpool-way <![CDATA[ A very muddy day ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/a-very-muddy-day On Saturday, 17 May 2025, I ran the Pretty Muddy race for Cancer research. I raised £350! I had a lot of fun and my favourite part was Ex-Squeeze Me because when you went over an obstacle, you landed in disgusting dirty brown water!

It is important to help charities to save people who have cancer. The money raised is used to fund new treatments, new medications and new technologies to help detect cancer.

]]> Thu, 5 Jun 2025 10:57:08 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/a-very-muddy-day <![CDATA[ Golden swimming success ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/golden-swimming-success I competed in several events for my club, Stratford Sharks, in the Coventry and District Swimming Gala at the weekend. I swam PB times in the 9 year old boys 100m freestyle, 200m freestyle, 50m breaststroke and got the gold medal in the 50m freestyle.

]]> Thu, 22 May 2025 12:53:51 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/golden-swimming-success <![CDATA[ Swimming medal for 50 Freestyle ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/swimming-medal-for-50-freestyle I swam at the Coventry and District Swimming Gala at the weekend, and I was awarded a medal for my 50 Freestyle in the 10 years old category.

I came 4th, I was very proud as it was a PB time.

I also swam my first 200 Freestyle race, which I really enjoyed and will do again!

]]> Fri, 23 May 2025 15:11:15 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/swimming-medal-for-50-freestyle <![CDATA[ Football league winners! ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/football-league-winners I played in goal for my football team, Coldland Colts, last weekend and they won the Central Warwickshire Youth Football League Spring Cup. I was also awarded man of the match for my goalkeeping efforts.

]]> Thu, 15 May 2025 09:40:32 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/football-league-winners <![CDATA[ Our rugby tour ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/our-rugby-tour Over the bank holiday weekend, me, Arthur and William from 3BA went on a rugby tour to St Peter’s Cardiff with our rugby club, Silhillians.

We enjoyed a day of high rope activities, laser tag and played a three-way tag tournament. A fancy dress theme of cowboys added to the fun. There were great celebrations at the end when the tag belts were taken off and packed away. We are already looking forward to the next season.

]]> Fri, 16 May 2025 14:31:12 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/our-rugby-tour <![CDATA[ My visit to the Imperial War Museum ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-visit-to-the-imperial-war-museum Last weekend I went to the Imperial War Museum in London with my family. It was really interesting and a bit surprising too. The museum is all about wars, like World War I and World War II. My favourite part was seeing the inside of a Lancaster Bomber and a Supermarine Spitfire. There were also big tanks, ration books and gas masks so we could see what life was like during the war.

I learned a lot at the museum and had a really goodtime. I would recommend a visit.

On 8 May, we celebrated 80 years since VE Day. VE Day is when we remember the end of World War II in Europe. There were lots of special events all over the country where we can celebrate the victory and remember how important peace is.

]]> Thu, 15 May 2025 08:41:28 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-visit-to-the-imperial-war-museum <![CDATA[ My walk to raise money for OSCAR’s Paediatric Brain Tumour Charity ]]> https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-walk-to-raise-money-for-oscars-paediatric-brain-tumour-charity On Sunday, 4 May, with my family and some friends, I took part in the Ullswater Way challenge in the Lake District to raise money for OSCAR’s Paediatric Brain Tumour Charity.

This is the fifth family challenge I have undertaken for this charity. We walked 24 miles, and it took 12 and a half hours. It seemed very long and my legs and feet got very tired, but there were lots of fun bits, even an ice cream stop along the way!

We raised a lot of money for this important charity, which helps children with brain tumours and supports their families. I’m really glad I did it. I know it makes a difference!

]]> Fri, 9 May 2025 09:19:26 GMT https://www.warwickschool.org/junior-school/junior-journals/my-walk-to-raise-money-for-oscars-paediatric-brain-tumour-charity