Somersfield Academy News
![Montessori & Nature](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/1738861438533-HFYJN4UNTPNDYLOL1W29/20250204_132742.jpg)
Montessori & Nature
The Montessori and Nature class at Somersfield Academy had an enriching day, interacting with goats, thanks to Ms. Haycock and Hungry Goat Summer Camp. This experience highlighted the Montessori philosophy, which values nature’s role in childhood development. Dr. Montessori emphasised how outdoor learning fosters curiosity, respect, and responsibility for the environment.
![Cultures in Focus: International Day 2025 Countries List](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/1738804416174-1MHJLV493VHY1NGC073X/Untitled+design.png)
Cultures in Focus: International Day 2025 Countries List
International Day at Somersfield Academy is a celebration of culture, community, and connection. Each year, Children’s House and Primary classes explore a country, learning about its traditions, cuisine, and history. This year, we proudly highlight the following countries, chosen to honour our students' diverse heritage.
![Somersfield Runners Impress at BSSF Senior Cross Country Championship](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/1738774764014-QGDXR5CLPZ1DEBFJGEB6/IMG_20250204_134647.jpg)
Somersfield Runners Impress at BSSF Senior Cross Country Championship
Somersfield athletes delivered outstanding performances at the BSSF cross country championship. Leyla Crews claimed 3rd in the U16 girls, while Carina Bortoli secured 2nd in the O16 girls. Luc Campbell led the O16 boys with a 6th-place finish. A fantastic effort from all 18 runners!
![The Montessori Approach to Writing](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/cf40ca45-9b05-4ace-8fe7-3a1f2615b86c/4.png)
The Montessori Approach to Writing
The Writer’s Workshop is a comprehensive approach to teaching primary students writing skills. The teacher utilises a combination of whole group, small group, and individual instruction along with teacher and peer conferencing to develop all areas of writing.
![The Reid Kempe Memorial Race 2025](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/1738351141972-VK4982NWIZI6FXV4G2NU/IMG_6833.jpg)
The Reid Kempe Memorial Race 2025
The 2024 Reid Kempe Memorial Race was a meaningful whole-school event, starting with a reflective memorial walk. Despite the muddy conditions, students demonstrated resilience during the rain delay. Awards were presented at Friday’s assembly, with Shiloh Stevens '31 (20:31) and Evelyn Fahy '31 (21:22) emerging as the overall winners. In the house competition, the Makos triumphed over the Tigers in total points.
![Gallery: Boys Middle School Basketball Kicks Off Season with a Win](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/1738353604855-SLNO6ACSHGBF7G64QISN/IMG_1033.jpg)
Gallery: Boys Middle School Basketball Kicks Off Season with a Win
Our boys started their season strong with a 21-14 victory over MSA in their first game! A great team effort set the tone for an exciting season ahead. Well done, team!
![Girls’ Basketball Team Shows Grit in Season Opener!](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/1738346580094-MMNLZT2MIGR0YHW9SR20/IMG-20250130-WA0012.jpg)
Girls’ Basketball Team Shows Grit in Season Opener!
Our girls put up an outstanding effort in their season opener at the Somersfield "Thunder Dome," narrowly falling 12-10 to reigning champs MSA. With just one practice—and for our M1s, their first-ever game—they played with heart. Zarah Fahy led with 6 points. Coach DeSilva praised their attitude and drive!
![Strong Start for the Somersfield Sharks JV Basketball Team](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/1738297310090-3DGMYCL1CFBOKOWG1F52/20250130_174424.jpg)
Strong Start for the Somersfield Sharks JV Basketball Team
The Junior Varsity Basketball season is off to a fantastic start for our Somersfield Sharks! In a hard-fought match against MSA, the teams were locked at 14-14 at halftime. However, the Sharks turned up the intensity in the second half, securing a 30-20 victory. Owen Rosorea led the charge with six second-half points, contributing to a great team effort.
![DP1 Students Explore Holocaust Survivors' Stories](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/1737657541551-3ABKM9Y0BCVXS7F0MIKK/Untitled+design.png)
DP1 Students Explore Holocaust Survivors' Stories
In recognition of Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January, Somersfield's DP1 English A: Language and Literature HL class studied the Holocaust through Art Spiegelman’s MAUS. They created projects portraying survivors’ stories, using creative mediums like newspapers, diaries, and maps, to explore the emotional impact of these experiences.
![Exploring Nature Through Photography: A Creative Co-Curricular Experience](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/622bb79e5717e8506ca76e94/1738244503667-R36DBXB2APRZQGSQID7J/20240913_143133.jpg)
Exploring Nature Through Photography: A Creative Co-Curricular Experience
Students in the Nature Photography Art Co-Curricular explored local natural sites, collecting plastic waste and other materials for creative projects. They learned photography techniques, crafted ornaments, and gained inspiration from guest artist Meredith Andrews. Some entered the Reg Grundy competition, with Joey earning a commendation.