Snow Leopard 2018

The Snow Leopard
The Dixie Grammar School Journal
Celebrating the Dixie Difference 2017-2018
The Dixie Grammar Junior School & Nursery
Temple Hall, Wellsborough
Leicestershire CV13 6PA
01455 293024
info@dixiejs.org.uk | www.dixie.org.uk
The Dixie Grammar School
Market Bosworth
Leicestershire CV13 0LE
01455 292244
info@dixie.org.uk | www.dixie.org.uk
Summer 2018

July 1st 2017 / June 30th 2018
Welcome
This has been another exceptional year for
year has progressed and wonderful to see
Colin Haddon retires after 31 years of loyal
the Dixie Grammar School.
older students as well as the Rotary having an
and dedicated service to the school. He has
We have built the Sarah Ennis Music Studio,
impact on sessions.
a warm tribute in the back of this publication,
providing a stunning setting for music lessons
Over the summer we are replacing almost all
but I wanted to take the chance to highlight
and ensembles at the Junior School; you can’t
the communal carpet in the school, including
his contribution here. In my final assembly of
have failed to notice that we have removed
the library, foyer and corridors and Year 5
the academic year I talked to the school about
the bumpy driveway surface in the Barton
classrooms at the Junior School. We will be
geese.
Road driveway and tarmacked the surface,
replacing the whiteboards in the Senior School
Most of the world’s twenty-nine or so species
which has necessitated us making the surface
main building with interactive touchscreen
of geese are no strangers to migration, and
bumpy again through the installation of speed
70” television screens – the same as in the
some routinely accomplish amazing feats.
humps, and we have upgraded the gates at
new Music Studio at the Junior school – and
In Asia, bar-headed geese regularly migrate
the senior school. The most exceptional parts
we will have them in every classroom in the
over the Himalayan Mountains, even over Mt.
of the year, however, are not provided by
school from 3-18 in two years from now.
Everest at an altitude of 30,750 feet where the
things – it is the students of the Dixie who
We will be transforming the Senior School
air is thin and the temperatures drop to minus
have made this year exceptional. It is they who
assembly hall. I will spare the details, but it
60 degrees Fahrenheit. On the other hand,
make this school an exceptional place to learn.
will go from a tired ‘everything hall of the
snow geese breed in the Arctic Tundra and
Finally, when a goose gets sick or is wounded
aware of the value of working in formation.
was called on to give an assembly in front
Take the last two weeks of term, for example
1950s’ to a spectacular dining room complete
winter in farmlands, lakes and coastal areas in
by gunshot and falls out of formation, two
Those at the front aren’t able to gain the extra
of the inspectors with no preparation. By
– Year 7 have impressed staff with their
with upstairs seating. I am very excited about
North America. These geese make an annual
other geese fall out with that goose and follow
thrust by flying in someone’s shadow and
all accounts, the impromptu assembly on
teamwork, cooperation and determination at
our future building plans, and I hope to be
round trip journey of more than 5,000 miles at
it down to lend help and protection. They stay
Colin has taken more than his fair share of
the theme of ‘nothing’ was one of his most
Kingswood; Year 8 were impeccably behaved
able to make significant announcements of
speeds of 50 mph or more.
with the fallen goose until it is able to fly or
time leading at the front of the ‘V’ since 1987.
memorable.
whilst away for a week in Germany; at our
deliverable projects later next year.
How do they manage such extraordinary
until it dies, and only then do they launch out
He is also one of those people who falls out
For Mr Haddon, leadership is synonymous with
Year 5/6 Science Day, Year 6 were the most
I look forward to the student councils
achievements? It has much to do with their
on their own, or with another formation to
of formation to help those he works with who
service and it is this selfless approach that has
impressive hosts to our visitors and during
having real impact again next year; the
V formation – as each bird flaps its wings,
catch up with their group.
are ‘wounded’, or need advice. He is one of
made his career so successful and of critical
Induction Day our senior pupils shone as they
student council in each school will be given
it creates uplift for the bird immediately
The parallels with school life and Mr Haddon
those colleagues who regularly ‘honks’ words
importance to the Dixie. Inevitably, many of
helped calm the nerves of the 62 students
a substantial amount of money for much
following. By flying in “V” formation, the
are obvious. At the Dixie, whilst the direction
of encouragement from behind! I have known
the Dixie’s core values reflect Colin’s. We will
joining us for the day in Years 6, 7 and 9. With
needed playground development. Our
whole flock adds at least 71 percent greater
is set by Governors, the journey is headed by
Mr Haddon for far less time than many, but I
miss him terribly next year and I can think of
GCSE exams concluded, Year 11 were out
caterers are changing – the range and quality
flying range than if each bird flew on its
senior staff and, as the last of the founding
recognise these extraordinary qualities in him
no better guest of honour at this year’s Prize
on a wide variety of work experience and
of food will get a real shot in the arm next
own. When a goose falls out of formation,
teachers to leave the school, Colin Haddon
– of leadership, encouragement and of care.
Giving.
with GCE A Levels concluded, our Upper
academic year. At the Junior School, provision
it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of
has put his mark on the school’s journey more
He is a great teacher of maths and a genius
Finally, I must convey my thanks to Mrs
Sixth were… well… mostly abroad, but I
will extend to incorporate a breakfast and
trying to go it alone – and quickly gets back
than any other. People who share a common
at constructing the school timetable every
Overton for putting this wonderful snapshot of
am delighted that they came back for their
tea time serving – innovation which we hope
into formation to take advantage of the lifting
direction and sense of community get where
single year, managing pupil options and the
2017/18 together. It is exactly that – a snapshot
Ball – and what a glamorous evening it was!
will extend to the Senior School in time.
power of the bird in front.
they are going more quickly and easily
myriad demands of colleagues. He also
– but it does underline what a remarkable
The Year 6 Dixie Open Skies Education course
We will also be celebrating 25 years of the
When the head goose gets tired, it rotates
because they are travelling on the thrust of
takes great assemblies – many of which are
place the Dixie is to learn and grow.
came to a close last week and it has been a
German Exchange in September – a fantastic
back in the wing and another goose flies
each other. The teamwork which pervades all
still referred to in the staffroom. During the
resounding success – it has been a pleasure
achievement for a school our size, underlining
point. Geese honk from behind to encourage
we do here, the academic, music, adventurous
2010 inspection, for example, John Wood
Mr Richard Lynn,
hearing stories of developing skill as the
our linguistic credentials.
those up front to keep up their speed.
activities and sport certainly suggests we are
was caught out of school and Mr Haddon
Headmaster
1 2

The Sound Of Music
On Tuesday 24 April, students at the Dixie
Grammar School took part in a short concert
to mark the opening of the Sarah Ennis Music
Studio. Mrs Sarah Ennis worked at the Dixie
for over 22 years, transforming the Music
Department into the vibrant and integral part
of school life that it is today, before retiring
last year. Mrs Maryann Dye is now Director
of Music and continues to build on the
legacy left by her predecessor. Supported by
excellent permanent and peripatetic staff, the
department already offers instrumental tuition
throughout the school as well as a wide
range of string, wind and orchestral groups
and hosts events ranging from performance
soirées, to rock extravaganzas and concerts
with visiting schools from Hungary, China and
elsewhere.
The up-to-date technical facilities offered by
the new music studio provide a performance
and rehearsal space with a very professional
feel, from which younger students in
particular will be able to benefit. Indeed,
it is already booked for rehearsals by the
Junior School Showcase Choir. In a new
initiative, they will be joining the Senior School
Choir for the Summer Showcase 2018,
‘A Million Dreams’, which will also feature
instrumentalists and showcase performing
arts talent from across the school.
To mark the opening of the new Music Studio,
the Showcase Choir gave a short preview of
their summer show and Ella Grainger (Head
Girl) and Lauren Nicholls, both in the Upper
Sixth, gave impeccable and hugely impressive
performances. Ella and Lauren are two of nine
students in the Upper Sixth who have been
members of the school since Pippins Nursery
- as such they exemplify the values the Dixie
holds dear.
Former Headmaster Mr Richard Willmott
and his wife Isobel sent their apologies for
not being present at the event and added,
‘We are delighted that Sarah’s transformative
contribution to the development of music at
Dixie is being acknowledged in this way.’
At a time when so many schools are cutting
back on their provision of music, I am
delighted that a real hallmark of the Dixie has
been further strengthened. The investment in
new instruments and this fantastic studio will
help to ensure that future Dixie students get
the opportunity to be inspired to love music
and perform.
3
4

Easy Sailing
Year 5 as part of their PE curriculum take part
in a 7 week Level 1 RYA sailing course. The
children had a great time at the Bosworth
Water Park learning the art of sailing in small
groups. In the final week the children took on
a nine mile hike from the Junior School to the
Water Park across the beautiful surrounding
countryside. Tents were pitched (with help
from Jacksons of Old Arley!) and a great
time was had in our Dixie camp area. The
course was concluded with a showcase
regatta for parents. Teams raced a course
and times were taken – lots of medals were
won and the children all did an amazing job!
Both classes battled it out on the bell boats
and a few interesting jetty jump moves were
also thrown. A fantastic achievement for the
children and lots of fun had by all.
Mrs S Dicksee
5
6

Digging The Dixie
Dixie students were lucky enough to have
a second opportunity to take part in an
archaeological dig led by Matthew Morris
from the University of Leicester and Gemma
Tallis, the Bosworth Links community officer.
93 students from Years 6 to 9 excavated,
sieved soil and washed artefacts including a
clay pipe, various pieces of pottery and tiles
from two pits near the school tennis court.
The day highlighted the student’s enthusiasm
and teamwork and was enjoyed by everyone.
Mrs Jayne Oliver
“During the October half term break,
twenty students and three staff travelled
to Florida, USA for a week of intensive
science experiences. Students had handson
sessions on a range of topics involving
space science, technology of theme park
rides, physics of water parks, marine
animal anatomy and conservation, animal
behaviour and native wildlife habitats.
At the NASA space center, we got up
close to the last operational space
shuttle Atlantis, tried various interactive
simulators and experienced what a shuttle
launch would have been like. We had lunch
with former astronaut Jon McBride who
was a pilot of the space shuttle Challenger.
He gave an informative talk about his
experiences in space. His parting words
were “study and work hard to achieve your
dream job.”
Charlie Witham and Euan Ross
“At Universal Studios we were given a
guided tour of some of the main rides
before the general public were allowed to
enter the park. We went on the Spiderman
ride with the lights on and then contrasted
that with the lights off. Our guide took
us behind the scenes where the ride
vehicles are repaired and outlined how the
technology worked to enhance the visitor
experience. During our free time we went
around Harry Potter World which was
great.” Olivia Paice and Shuran Mo
7
8

The Warning Zone
Here at the Dixie Grammar School, we know
how important it is to keep our students safe.
To this end, we spent a day at the awardwinning
‘Warning Zone’ in Leicestershire.
The day started with some pretty serious
topics being covered, such as the dangers
of railway crossings, house fires and electric
shocks. The students were introduced to
ways to avoid these dangers as well as
coping methods should they ever be in such a
dangerous situation.
After lunch we were taken to the fairground
- an equally impressive environment whereby
we looked at the dangers of online activities
such as sharing images on Instagram and via
emails, etc. with the emphasis being placed
on inappropriate content – bringing home the
idea of not knowing who will be viewing your
images once they are shared. We looked at
the idea of not knowing who you are actually
talking to online and the importance of talking
to trusted adults (such as family members or
someone in authority, such as a teacher or a
police officer) if you have any concerns.
The day was a great success and the students
asked some very impressive questions. We are
very proud of their mature attitude towards
this very important subject matter.
Mrs Susan Overton
9
10

England & The Civil War
Year 8 visited the National Civil War Centre
in conjunction with their work on the English
Civil War, 1641-46. Having arrived at the
centre, the pupils were split into two groups
and began to take part in three activities
which had been prepared for them, led by the
centre staff. One was a visit to the gallery and
a short film, explaining the role of Newark in
the Civil War. There was then a workshop on
arms and armour, in which the students were
taught how the muskets worked and did a
drill exercise. They even carried out a brief reenactment
of a skirmish! While there they also
learned about the types of injuries received
and how they could be treated. Finally, there
was a re-enactment of the trial of Charles I
with our pupils playing key roles in the trial.
All agreed that it was a very worthwhile visit
which reinforced what had been learnt at
school but also gave the pupils a greater
understanding of the war.
Mr Brendon Tyrrell
11
12

Added Value!
“I r\
Several of our Sixth Form mathematicians
have been working towards their Dixie Maths
Leaders Award during the year. To achieve
the award, they are required to provide
curriculum support, for which they plan and
deliver two lesson starters and two lessons.
They are also required to give up their time
at lunchtime to be paired with a Maths Buddy
and finally they observe and then deliver a
lesson at the Junior School. The award aims
to develop leadership, communication and
organisational skills.
The Maths Leaders have just finalised the last
part of their award by planning and delivering
a full mathematics lesson to a year group at
the Junior School. The Leaders thoroughly
enjoyed their time at the Junior School and
were warmly welcomed. Well done Maths
Leaders – as usual you have been marvellous!!
Mrs H Daniels
13
14

Whole School Sports Day
Record Breakers:
Year 7 boys discus: James Curtis 20.5m
Year 7 girls 800m: Daisy Wilebore 2.54
Year 7 girls 1500m: Daisy Wilebore 5.55
Year 6 girls 600m: Nadia Gauhar 2.02
Year 6 boys 600m: Henry Green 1.56.6
Year 6 rounders: Holly Davies 30.8m
Year 8 girls high jump: Megan Mears 1.30m
Year 8 boys 100m: Nathan Cadman 13.1
Year 8 girls discus: Rhiannon Chiles 16.46m
Senior girls 100m: Ella Grainger 13.5s
Senior girls 200m: Ella Grainger 29.09s
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Wholesome Fun...
In the Pippins Nursery, the children spend a
good deal of time outdoors taking advantage
of our wonderful rural environment. This ties
in with our topics on growing and finding out
where our food comes from. We like to walk
across the field and watch the local farmer
using his combine harvester, before collecting
some wheat to grind up and make into bread
for our snacks. Our garden provides the
children with somewhere to plant seeds and
watch them grow – sometimes into carrots
and potatoes and, this year, some delicious
strawberries. They also love planting up their
old wellies, making colourful displays around
the Nursery entrance and garden. In fine
weather we read stories inside the woven
willow den, adding extra magic to story time.
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18

Hang On, Harry!
Ou
In December Year 6 were given the
opportunity to visit the Warner Brothers
Studio Tour and see the props and scenery
used in the production of the Harry Potter
film series. By interacting with the members
of staff, the students learnt lots about how
things were made and all about the different
behind the scenes roles.
This was the first trip to include a tour of the
newly opened Forbidden Forest. Whilst seeing
the large spiders was a little scary for some
of the students, the majority found the forest
quite magical and loved seeing a full size
animatronic Buckbeak.
As in previous years, students enjoyed
sampling the (non-alcoholic) butter beer,
chocolate frogs and the braver ones tried
some Bertie Bots Every Flavour Beans.
Miss N Gordon
19
20

No Stone Unturned
The Ecton Hill trip was for Chemistry in
order to practice our skills at finding different
minerals in rocks and creating gunpowder.
I was surprised by how huge Ecton Hill
was. The people were very nice but I didn’t
understand how they could dedicate their
whole lives to rocks and stones, even though
stones are admittedly interesting. One of the
men showed us a beautiful blue stone, an
orange stone and a yellow/green stone. Ecton
Hill used to be used for copper mining, I think,
and there were still lots and lots of mines
and plenty of copper, even though nobody
mines there any more. It’s been preserved
for historical research. There were many
sheep and a few blocked up mine entrances
which attracted much interest. I thought
the view from the top was beautiful, even
though it was cloudy. In fact, it rained buckets
throughout the day and we all got soaked.
On top of the hill, we collected some copper
samples and saw an old mill where rocks
would be pulled up from the mines below. We
also saw the place where a tractor had sunk
inside one of the massive holes and was lost
forever – the top of the tractor was still just
about visible. That afternoon, we ran some
tests with the copper samples we’d collected,
did a few simple activities such as finding
gold in a pan, and exploring a mine. The mine
was quite scary because I’m claustrophobic
and the ceiling was very low, but after a
minute I really enjoyed it and we got to see
some amazing sights underground. We wore
helmets with headlights and a few lucky
individuals got to hold torches. Going into the
mine was a great experience. Overall, Ecton
Hill was a fantastic trip that probably helped
our Chemistry grades – probably.
Amaylia, Year 8
“The trip bus with an angry wasp.”
Max Bembow Year 10
fhghfgfghghfghghgh
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22

St
World Challenge
In July, two teams of students and four Dixie
staff travelled to Borneo for a month. The
teams separated in Kuala Lumpur airport
and did not meet again until the flight home.
For each team the trip involved four distinct
phases – acclimatisation, trek, community
project and R and R.
Acclimatisation involved day walks in the hot,
humid conditions of a tropical island. Wearing
a headband was vital and all clothes had to be
washed each day! We also had to get used to
carrying fully loaded backpacks.
Trekking involved planning meals and buying
enough supplies to survive five days in
the jungle, cooking all our own meals on a
camp fire, setting up hammocks to sleep in
and digging a jungle loo! The river made an
excellent bath!
The community project for one team was
living in a village and helping them change the
pipework for their water supply. Challengers
carried 50m pipes 2km along paddy fields and
muddy tracks, through rivers and bamboo
forest. The pipes were then changed and each
person carried a 2.5m piece of
old pipe back to the village.
R and R was right at the end and
both teams visited the Orangutans at Sepilok
and enjoyed white-water rafting, the high rope
course, snorkelling and of course sitting on
beautiful beaches.
A wonderful and rewarding experience
learning that phones are not necessary all the
time and living without electronic gadgets is
possible.
Georgia, L6
23
24

Young Chefs
The Rotary Young Chef Competition
is a well-established and successful
competition organised and promoted by
Rotary International in Great Britain and
Ireland and sponsored by Filippo Berio.
It is a four-stage national competition
to support and encourage development
of cookery skills. It starts with a local
round, the winner of which goes onto
the District Finals. The competition was
fierce, standards were high and judging
was difficult; as with all competitions there
has to be a winner and our congratulations
went to: Christian Olds, Year 8, Elliot
Breadon, Year 7, Megan Mears, Year 9, Dan
Kennedy, Year 8, Emmie Deer, Year 11 and
Cam Overton, Year 10.
For the local round, the contestants rose
to the occasion and all the meals created
would not have been out of place in any
restaurant. The atmosphere was cool
and collected with students being well
prepared and organised.
The winners ceremony revealed Dan
Kenny in 3rd place, Megan Mears in 2nd
place and Cam Overton in 1st place.
Cam went on to the District Final held on
Saturday at The Tudor Grange Samworth
Academy Leicester. Here he had to create
a three course meal (starter, main course
and dessert) in 2 hours 30 minutes. Cam
did exceptionally well at the District round
of the Rotary Young Chef. The judges
said this year the scoring was very close.
Unfortunately, Cam did not gain a place
but he was praised for the uniqueness of
his starter, a stuffed fig wrapped in Parma
ham and placed on a crouton, and also for
the success of his dessert, the only panna
cotta of the day to be set enough to turn
out. Well done to all those who took part.
25
26

Space Race
The students of Year 9 went on a trip to the
National Space Centre this year. They were
split into two groups and given tasks to do.
One group had to go around the museum
and answer questions on the exhibitions,
while the other group went to a simulator and
was split into two groups. One group had to
command a mission to Mars, the mission was
to command a space shuttle to land on Mars
to replace the crew that was already there
and the other group’s mission was to land a
probe on one of Mars’ moons. The students
did all of this whilst dealing with problems
such as humidity levels. After lunch the groups
switched over, this taught the students how to
work together and to keep calm whilst under
pressure.
Robyn, Year 9
27
28

Swimming Success
Victor/Victrix Ludorum 2018
Year 6: Harry Crane and Emily O’Higgins
Year 7 Tom Hudson. Oscar Mitchell
and Rebecca Kennedy
Year 8: Daniel Kennedy and Charlotte Chenery
Year 9: Oliver Crane, Keeley Whitehead and
Rhiannon Chiles
Senior: Rhys Chiles and Ella Grainger
Overall score:
York 819
Lancaster 849
Winners of the
Swimming Gala 2018: LANCASTER
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30

Day Trip Nippers
The Reception children spent the Spring term
exploring Bosworth and the local area. They
had several trips out and about on the school
mini buses. They surveyed the types of shops
around Bosworth Square, learnt interesting
facts about the wildlife and reservoir at the
Water Park and searched for signs of Spring
all around Bosworth Park. A particular highlight
of the topic was the morning spent at
Bosworth Battle field and in their new visitors
centre. Our tour guide brought history to life
with props and through her retelling of the
story of the battle between the Yorkists and
the Lancastrians, which the children were fascinated
by. A super topic enjoyed by all.
Ms Katie Fennell
31
32

Blimey, That’s Slimy
STEM has been a huge success this year. The
students have enjoyed making a variety of
products; ranging from bath bombs to melting
rainbows to the beloved slime. At Christmas,
we had a special STEM @ Christmas session
where we made snow storms in a jar and
Christmas decorations using the method of
chromatography.
We have also had a fantastic year in
Engineering club; starting with making a
snack factory conveyor belt for decorating
chocolate with lots of tasty goodies. The
group then started welding with chocolate
to test the strength of different brands.
They finished the year by designing and
constructing a bridge made of a mixture
white, milk and dark chocolate. A scrumptious
feat of engineering!
33
34

The Great Outdoors
The Upper Sixth went on our annual biology
outing to Stonepit Fields Nature Reserve in
Moira Leicestershire. Here they came face
to face with some of the smaller mammals
that live there as well as seeing signs of
larger ones, such as badgers. They looked at
succession and were amazed at how quickly
this happens when they looked at photos
taken by previous groups.
They did some quadrat work and
pond dipping as well as some practical
conservation, beating back the ever-growing
patch of Japanese knotweed. The weather
was kind and the scenery pleasant; they
didn’t really want to leave… but the call of
McDonalds was strong!
Mr J Kirkwoodd
35
36

Wish You Were Here!
Each year we start the GCSE course with a
two-day residential stay in London where,
working in various museums and art galleries,
the students make drawings and do research
related to our set themes. We visit the
National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery,
the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert
Museum in South Kensington, next door to
the hostel where we stay. While visiting the
V&A this year we had the opportunity to
experience the Pink Floyd: ‘Mortal Remains’
exhibition, which featured the history of this
iconic British rock band. There was also a little
time for R and R on the night of the stay and
after dinner we had an evening of sketchbook
critiques and discussion. The work done in
the museums and galleries made up the first
pieces included in the students’ portfolios and
made for an impressive start to their GCSE
studies.
Mr G L Bailey, Head of Art and Design.
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Naturally Motivated
DOSE is a lesson outside. We light fires,
build dens, cut wood and have fun. We built
a bridge over the river and chose a tree,
then we built a Green Man face out of
clay and put it on the tree. Dose is a good
way to get outside instead of being in a
classroom the whole time.
Emily, Year 6
In DOSE we did lots of different enjoyable
activites. These included making fire,
making shelters, carving, playing games
and making pop guns out of elder. Out
of all of these my favourite activity was
making fire using flint and steel.
Anish, Year 6
39
40

Accelerating Science
A group of twelve students went on a school
physics trip to Switzerland during the Easter
break. The main purpose was to learn about
the work at the largest science laboratory
in the world, CERN near Geneva. We also
travelled to the Swiss capital Bern to visit
the house where Albert Einstein wrote the
work that made him famous. On the return
flight home, the pilot invited us into the
cockpit, showed us around and answered our
questions.
‘I enjoyed learning about how the Large
Hadron Collider and its detectors work and
also finding out about the research they carry
out.’
Isaac Mackley
‘The trip to CERN was very interesting as it
took the particle physics and magnetic fields
parts of our A Level course and applied them
to real world research’.
Mark McCall
‘I particularly enjoyed the visit to CERN as
they were able to mix knowledge and fun
into one happy package. The Swiss themed
restaurant was pretty cool.’
Lauren Poole-Brooks
‘I really enjoyed the Albert Einstein museum
because it was really interesting to learn more
about the personal life and work of such a
famous person’.
Kathryn Penrose
41
42

A School In Harmony
Christmas 2017 brought around many
concerts, including the annual and
greatly enjoyed ‘Christmas Rocks’, with a
selection of pop and rock songs played by
a variety of students doing solos but also
performing in bands. Similarly, this concert
provided us with the ever delightful
staff band “The Facilitators”. Prior to the
rock concert, the school choir braved
the elements and sung out in the square
opposite the school. After the excitement
of ‘Christmas Rocks’, there was the Carol
Service held in the church which helped
get everyone in a jolly, Christmas spirit,
demonstrating the talents of the orchestra,
wind band and choir and was the debut of
the newly formed jazz band.
Lauren Yr 11
Our youngest children in the school joined
together to perform Our First Nativity.
They made their teachers and parents
extremely proud as they confidently said
their lines clearly and sang their songs
beautifully. It was the first time we used
the Junior School Sports Barn for a
nativity production, which allowed us to
accommodate an audience of over 100.
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44

Go Team Dixie!
What an adventure Year 4 had at Skern lodge
in North Devon! We took part in numerous
activities including crabbing, surfing, abseiling,
camp craft, kayaking, to name but a few.
Over the four days the children amazed their
teachers with their determination, teamwork
skills and ‘go for it’ attitude.
Skern Lodge was so amazing. My most
favourite part was when we went to the
beautiful beach and went surfing and body
boarding.
Lizzy
I loved Skern, it was the most amazing place
ever! My best bit was crabbing and we all
managed to catch 24 crabs between us.
Isla
Skern is the best place ever! I loved going
down into the underground tunnels. The most
challenging part was the climbing wall but we
all did it!
Seb
We had an amazing time at Skern as a whole
class because we worked as a team and stuck
together. I really loved the High Ropes!
Erin
At Skern we went crabbing on Appledore
Harbour. We caught 24 crabs. Ella caught a
massive crab and called it ‘King Crab’, it was
really funny!
Niamh
45
46

China And Beyond...
My Experience in China
that the point of mentioning negatives is not
to complain or discourage people from doing
Gentle’ or ‘Sunshine Boy’ written on it instead
of my usual name; how tube passengers
Also, regular phone and video calls with
and visits from family and friends have
and are very pleased and vocal with praise
when you do so. Indeed, this condition (and
language skills, obtain cultural understanding,
form lifelong friendships and so on, my final
By Jordan Henshaw
a Year Abroad. Indeed, I think it’s important to
often photograph or film foreigners without
been occasions that I have looked forward
my very deep love for coffee!) has enabled
piece of advice is ‘seize every minute’. After
know that different cultures work in different
permission in China. Although some of these
to. Through providing something which is
me to strike up such a rapport with some
all, in the immortal words of JLS: ‘you only get
As of today, I only have one month left of my
(and sometimes surprising) ways before you
were amusing to start with, they have all
not Chinese or academic to think about,
local baristas that they buy food for me
one shot, so make it count, you might never
Year Abroad at Beijing’s Tsinghua University.
make such a big decision; especially when you
stressed my foreign background, and made
these times have proven to be (sometimes
when they go shopping! These small acts
get this moment again.’
Now is an ideal time for me to reflect on my
could be moving to the opposite side of the
integrating into Chinese society difficult.
welcome) diversions from my Year Abroad.
of kindness have helped to create a friendly
experiences in China, so as to inform (and
world!
However, the ensuing homesickness has been
After each conversation or visit, I have been
environment to settle into.
maybe entertain!) those interested in studying
In my experience, these can all be grouped
easy to solve. The university environment
able to approach the remainder of my time
In conclusion, although there have been good
or working overseas as part of their degree,
under the umbrella of ‘culture shock’. The
is summed up in the motto of ‘to strive
in China with a clearer mind, allowing me to
and bad aspects to my Year Abroad, I have
or living elsewhere in the future. This past year
British are generally regarded as especially
unremittingly’, meaning that students here
better enjoy and make the most of my stay
ultimately been able to solve the negatives
has been filled with good and bad times for
polite, including by the Chinese who consider
tend to prioritise academics. Because I am
here.
with the positives. Because of this, you should
me, but because you should always ‘end on a
us ‘gentry’ or ‘gentleman’. You can only
very much the same, I have been able to
Changing tack slightly, cultural difference
not be discouraged from living overseas, due
high’, I’ll start by discussing the difficulties of
imagine my reaction, then, when I discovered
meet and befriend new people from different
can also be positive. Because relatively few
to fear of the unknown alone.
my life abroad.
how queueing is not a popular pastime;
countries easily, whose warmth has helped
foreigners can speak Mandarin, natives tend
Indeed, as this time can enrich your university
Before beginning, though, I want to emphasise
my Starbucks cup had ‘foreign friend’, ‘Mr.
Tsinghua to feel more like home.
to be very willing to speak Chinese with you,
experience through how you improve
47
48

Theatre Live
“No dead bodies are kept in this van
overnight” was written on the back of the
van and that said all you need to know.
After a hasty rearrangement due to the
snow, fifty of our students were faced
with the messier side of medicine in the
form of human dummies as patients that
they had to prepare for theatre and then
animal organs to simulate what surgery
was really like. This included carrying
out a tracheotomy and doing a sectional
autopsy on a heart. It wasn’t just wet play;
the students were taught some detailed
anatomy and were expected to record and
remember what they had been told. Not
to everyone’s taste but those who took
part seem to love every moment – even
the VERY smelly digestive system. Not
something that one gets to see every day!
Mr J Kirkwood
49 50

Mandarin Mix
Our Mandarin A Level group paid a visit to the
Junior School to help with their celebrations
of Chinese culture, Chinese New Year in
particular. We prepared songs, colouring and
presentations regarding festivals in China and
the common practices. Their quick ability to
learn Chinese numbers was very impressive,
and they were very well behaved and eager
to listen to what we had prepared as a group.
It was an interactive day, getting to know the
Pippins and having the opportunity to inspire
them with some fun Chinese knowledge. We
shared a tasty Chinese meal, which we helped
serve, then we played outside with Chinese
Dragons and admired their cultural outfits. It
was a lovely day and they seemed to enjoy it
as much as we did.
Abbie, Year 11
51
52

Enterprising Dixie
It’s been an incredible journey for the Young
Entrepreneurs who embarked on their
Company Programme in October 2017.
Twenty students signed up to form two
businesses and generate and bring to market
two products. Under the expert guidance of
Business Advisors Nicola Newell (Athena’s
Books) and Tanya and Leigh Harrison
(Basic), the two businesses began working
towards the first of many milestones. Both
Athena’s Books and Basic were run as social
enterprises. What became apparent very
quickly was they weren’t just products. They
were the embodiment of the values of each
group and they were intensely proud and
committed to their creations (and rightly so!).
The learning was experiential and ongoing.
Students had to consider, what market are we
aiming the product at? How do I reach them
in our marketing? How do we merchandise
the trade stand? There were also decisions to
be made about profit margins and pricing.
The Young Entrepreneurs entered a number
of competitions this year including The
Foxes Lair at De Montfort University, the
Young Enterprise Trade Fair at The Highcross
Shopping Centre, Leicester, the YE Company
of the Year Award at Leicester University and
the Young Enterprise Company of the Year
County Competition at DMU. A huge thanks
to all the members of staff who have been so
supportive to the Young Entrepreneurs.
The skills I have learned from Young
Enterprise have not only given me an insight
into the world of business, they have set me
up with a much clearer mindset for my own
future.’
Isobel Flude, Managing Director, Basic
‘Taking part in Young Enterprise has
undoubtedly been a particularly challenging,
stressful experience but extremely rewarding
too, especially when first seeing the product
we had created. It has provided me with
a platform to understand the makings of
a business first hand as well as develop
my confidence and skills through both
running weekly meetings with the group and
delivering pitches to audiences.’
Imogen Banton, Managing Director, Athena’s
Books
53
54

Best Of Friends
It was a long journey to Kingswood but it was
worth it. It was really fun and we got to do a
lot of activities like caving, rafting, fire making,
climbing, orienteering, shelter building and
roasting marshmallows by the camp fire. All
the students pushed themselves to do the
activities even when they were scared.’
Alyssa, Year 7
55
56

Buddy Up
Induction Day students had a taste of various
lessons as well as having the opportunity to
explore the senior school. Year 5 students
had time in HE making chocolate truffles or
muffins, using some of the equipment in DT
and meeting the new Year 6 form teachers.
Year 6 students met up with our current
cohort and followed their normal time-table
as well as making some new friends.
Well done to our prefect team for
entertaining the induction students at lunchtime
in the house garden.
Year 5 students joined us for a day of science.
We had to build a tower using only paper,
cardboard and tape. It was then tested during
an earthquake, wind and then fire. This was
then put out using water.
‘We learnt to build structures out of
newspaper straws and cardboard. I really
enjoyed it because we worked as a team and
we all learnt building techniques. I think the
Year 5 visitors really enjoy it too. We all helped
each other. We ended up burning the tower!’
Harry Linsey, Year 6
‘On science day we made skyscrapers with
newspaper straws. We helped the year fives
and after we had built the frame for the first
floor we just had to keep building upwards. At
the end the group with the tallest skyscraper
that could withstand air, water, fire and earth
(the four elements) won.’
Anish, Year 6
‘On science day, we built skyscrapers. Half
way through we had a minor earthquake test
and our structure survived! At the end of the
day the tallest tower got set on fire! It went
down really quickly. We all really had fun on
science day.’
Livi, Year 6
‘We were taught how to build a Skyscraper
that could survive the four elements,
fire, earth, wind and water. We had to use
newspaper and roll it up into straws to make
the base and the structure. We also had
cardboard and some paper. The first element
we had to survive was an earthquake. The last
one was fire. Luckily all the Lego men were
evacuated before the fire started.’
Taniya, Year 6
‘Science day was great. We worked in teams
with some of the year five students. The
challenge was to build the tallest structure
out of just newspaper and cardboard and we
won. It was a great success and at the end Mr
Kirkwood set it on fire.’
James, Year 6
57
58

Secret Code
To bring their History studies to life, Year
5 visited Beaumanor Hall to experience
their World War II Day programme.
Dressed as evacuees, with authentic
labels pinned to their clothes, the children
spent a fascinating day at the former
wartime listening station. Part of their
time was spent learning how the enemy’s
messages were decoded and then how
the information was shared with teams
at Bletchley Park. The children were also
challenged with the concept of rationing,
having to work out how to stretch their
allocated provisions to feed a family –
learning how few sweets were available
per week was a shock for many! Time
in the real air raid shelter, in the dark
with gas masks and a siren, gave them a
very real taste of what an air raid might
have felt like. An enjoyable and thoughtprovoking
day out leading to lots of lively
discussion in the classroom.
59
60

Sweet Charity
Our fundraising work has continued to be as
popular as ever this year with funds being
raised from non-school uniform days, bake
sales, the K9 Doggy Disco and various fun
events within both the Senior and the Junior
School. Additional charitable work has
included the donation of hair to the Princess
Trust and the planting of crocus bulbs in aid
of Polio cures. All in all, a total of over £3400
has been raised with funds being donated to
the Brain Tumour Charity, Children in Need,
Hurricane Irma, Caine Partners and The British
Heart Foundation to name but a few.
We would like to thank all those who have
kindly donated their time, energy and support
over this past academic year. A fantastic
achievement by all.
61
62

Congratulations!
ART & DESIGN TECHNOLOGY
Teagan Brown, Nadia Gauhar, Amaylia Dewis, Henry Young, Emily Clement, Isla Crameri, Olivia
Dracup, Cameron Overton, Max Benbow, Lexie Kirwan-Jones, Georgia Ellis, Abigail Riley,
Phoebe Conway, Jessica Payne, Emilia Feeney, Yasmin Wong.
ENGLISH
Nadia Gauhar, Martha Hobkirk, Amaylia Dewis, Daniel Kennedy, Robyn Walker, Harriat
Whitehead, Helena Brown, Laila Gauhar, Ione Gildroy, Kathryn Penrose, Grace Brooks, Eniola
Awodiya, Reuben Stephenson, Anna Sykes, Kitty Handford, Malaka El-Gammal, Frederick Sykes.
COMPUTING & COMPUTER SCIENCE
Teagan Brown, Evie Gibbons, Lucas Barter, Amaylia Dewis, Kieran Thursby, Robyn Walker,
Connor Duane, Katy Hurst, Alexander Brankin, Joel Howes, Alex Harlock.
SCIENCES
Nadia Gauhar, Rebecca Kennedy, Lucas Barter, Daniel Kennedy, Amaylia Dewis, Guy Kibble,
Emily Cutler, Rhiannon Chiles, Robyn Walker, Isla Crameri, Thomas Brining, Oliver Robertson,
Laila Gauhar, Emma Lowden, Sophia Smaditch, Rebecca Smart, Grace Brooks, Lexie Kirwan-
Jones, Grace Brooks, Jessica Falshaw, Chloe Vinestock, Katie Mears, Eniola Awodiya, Alice
Boddy, Georgia Ellis, Olivia Paice, Judith Kam, Natalka Smaditch, George Bacon, Hannah
Mihsein, Isaac Mackley, Harry Broughton, James McCall, Christian Smaditch, Lewie Brooks,
Thomas Stone.
HISTORY
Nadia Gauhar, Madelyn Steel, Amaylia Dewis, Daniel Kennedy, Kieran Thursby, Harriat
Whitehead, Laila Gauhar, Georgia Hancock, Kathryn Penrose, Lara Steel, Anna Sykes, Amy
Hemsworth, Lauren Nicholls, Harry Broughton
LANGUAGES
Nadia Gauhar, Evie Gibbons, Maddison Bolsover, Daniel Kennedy, Lucas Barter, Guy Kibble,
Robyn Walker, Harriat Whitehead, Ryan Smith, Robyn Walker, Ellie Casserly-Rose, Laila Gauhar,
Simran Mann, Emma Lowden, Jonathan Kam, Grace Brooks, Kathryn Penrose, Alice Sykes,
Chloe Vinestock, Lexie Kirwan-Jones, Eniola Awodiya, Anna Sykes, Anna Ketchion, Georgia
Ellis, Reuben Stephenson, Amy Hemsworth, Anisha Mackay, Charlie Bowman, Elizabeth Harvey,
Malaka El-Gammal, Harry Broughton.
MATHS
Jonathan Cole, Nadia Gauhar, Lucas Barter, Elliot Breadon, Isla Crameri, Robyn Walker, Laila
Gauhar, Jamie Thompson, Grace Brooks, Katie Mears, Eniola Awodiya, Olivia Paice, Hannah
Mihsein, Joseph Thirlby, Thomas Stone.
DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
Holly Davies, Imogen Dracup, Hannah Clarke, Amaylia Dewis, Alfie Madden, Harriat Whitehead,
Ella Briddick, Olivia Dracup, Kieran Madden, Chloe Vinestock, Alice Boddy, Charlie Jacques,
Anna Greasley, Mark McCall, Lewie Brooks, Kathryn Smart.
HOME ECONOMICS
Nadia Gauhar, Rebecca Kennedy, Lucas Barter, Jake Redrobe, Millie Newall, Harriat Whitehead,
Emma Lowden, Jamie Thompson, Grace Brooks, Freya Webley, Alice Boddy, Robert Butterill.
GEOGRAPHY
Harriette Gallagher, Nadia Gauhar, Amaylia Dewis, Daniel Kennedy, Emily Clement, Harriat
Whitehead, Laila Gauhar, Rebecca Smart, Jessica Falshaw, Freya Webley, Zacharia Gauhar, Anisha
Mackay,.
MUSIC & MUSIC PERFORMANCE
Rebecca Kennedy, Evie Gibbons, Nadia Gauhar, Maddison Bolsover, Amaylia Dewis, Emily
Cutler, George Steel, Kieran Thursby, Emily Clement, Laila Gauhar, Rebecca Smart, Sophia
Smaditch, Lexie Kirwan-Jones, Lauren Poole-Brooks, Catherine Nicholls, Natalka Smaditch, Isaac
Mackley, Lauren Nicholls, Christian Smaditch, Thomas Stone.
63
64

Until We Meet Again
children when the Dixie Grammar School
Colin had nothing planned. Undeterred,
time at the school; he says that he has always
to spend more time on roles within his
opened its doors in September 1987. Dixie
he donned his academic gown, made his
considered his approach to his role to be an
church and further develop interests such as
was a very different school in those days
way to the assembly hall and delivered an
outworking of his faith and an expression of
photography.
- there were no Deputy Heads serving
assembly on the subject of… ‘nothing.’ His
Christian service
If the writer of this piece can speak personally
under Dr Arnold Burrows and no Heads of
unflappability (I doubt the inspectors would
There are other, occasionally unexpected
for a moment, I have known Colin for over
Department. The ten teachers therefore
ever have guessed this was an improvised ten
sides to Colin – his encyclopaedic knowledge
thirteen years and there have been many
had to be flexible and in his early days in the
minutes) is a hallmark of Colin’s time at Dixie
of rail routes, his almost complete failure
times when I have been deeply grateful for
school, alongside Mathematics, Colin also
and of how he deals with the unexpected that
to participate in “Non-uniform days” (his
his wise counsel. I admire his generosity of
turned his hand to Latin, Religious Studies and
school life inevitably throws up.
standard excuses have been that he always
spirit, his fairness and his good judgment. His
Games.
Colin’s assemblies are also famous amongst
forgets or that he needs the pockets in his
depth of knowledge of Dixie is immense and
It was at the end of the new school’s second
both staff and pupils for their Christian
suit) and his admission (in assembly) that he
his contribution to the school as it is today
term, in May 1988, that Colin was made
content. It is often affectionately noted that
as good as destroyed his wife’s car by setting
cannot be overstated.
Senior Master (the equivalent of Deputy
there is no subject matter from which Colin
fire to it while carrying out welding work
Colin – thank you. And from everyone
Head). A Senior Mistress (Jan Warner) was
cannot commence before proceeding to
underneath!
associated with Dixie, we wish you a long and
then appointed in 1989.
draw a Christian message by the end of an
In retirement, Colin intends to spend the
very happy retirement.
In the thirty years that have followed, Colin
assembly. Indeed, it is Colin’s Christian faith
time with his family that being Deputy Head
has served under four Headmasters and seen
that is the thread that runs throughout his
has not always afforded. He also intends
Mr Jon Dixon
his role expand – Exams Officer, organiser of
daily cover, creator of the timetable, master
of ceremonies at Prize Giving…. even
organising the tea and coffee in the staff
room.
MR COLIN HADDON
Having graduated from the University of
One of the things that Colin is perhaps most
renowned for is his assemblies. And amongst
This summer is particularly significant for
Durham and completed his teacher training,
his assemblies, one of the most memorable
the Dixie Grammar School as it marks the
Colin was working at an inner-city school in
occurred during an inspection. There had
retirement after 31 years’ service of Colin
Leicester when he first became aware of
been a mix up – the headmaster at the time,
Haddon. Colin is the last serving member
the Leicestershire Independent Educational
John Wood, had been expected to take the
of the original school staff, appointed at the
Trust, set up by a group of educationalists and
assembly, but… John Wood was at the Junior
school’s re-founding in 1987. His contribution
business people, which planned to establish
School. At 8:45am, with pupils and inspectors
and dedication to the school for so many
an independent grammar school in Market
sitting in silence in the Hall and teachers
years, as well as his patience, good humour
Bosworth.
becoming increasingly uncomfortable at the
and wisdom, will be much missed and much
After applying successfully for a position,
non-appearance of anyone on the stage, a
remembered by all who have worked with
he was one of ten teaching staff (only four
message was urgently passed to Colin. Of
him or been taught by him.
of whom were full time) and seventy-five
course, not expecting to take an assembly,
65
66

Until We Meet Again
MRS VANESSA CULL
with their child’s journey through the School,
MRS THIELE
Just before Christmas we said a sad goodbye
always the first port of call if help or advice
We are very sorry to be saying goodbye
to Vanessa Cull, member of the School
was needed. Vanessa had a reputation for
to Alex Thiele who has been offering oral
Administration team for 16 years. Having
remaining professional and calm at all times
support in German for the last two years.
MR & MRS NORDEN
services, as well as supporting students in the
time at the Dixie they have exhibited genuine
started as an Office Assistant, her role
developed to give her particular responsibility
in her dealings with parents and was always
ready to comfort a child in need of first aid.
Both GCSE and VI Form students have greatly
appreciated her tailoring lessons to their
Jim Norden was invited to help develop the
many musical events and concerts at Dixie.
interest in and extraordinary care for those
for the Nursery administration and with
As a colleague she could be relied upon to
interests and all staff have enjoyed getting
school brass department in 2003, following
they teach and have been the most cheerful
Marion Lambourne’s retirement then became
go over and above requirements to make
to know her and her friendly presence. We
early retirement from his position as Head
Judy Norden was asked by Mrs Ennis in
and optimistic of colleagues.
Registrar for the whole school. For many
sure any given job was seen through to
wish her and her family well as they return to
of Instrumental tuition for the Warwickshire
September 2014 to cover a term’s maternity
existing parents of children in the school,
completion. We wish Vanessa all the very best
Germany.
County Music Service. During his fifteen years
leave and has been here ever since! She
Vanessa was the first person they spoke to
for the future in her new role.
at Dixie he has produced many hundreds
retired from her position as Curriculum Area
or met and she became inextricably linked
of brass players as well as coaching and
directing brass ensembles at numerous
Manager for Music, Media and Performing
Arts at the North Warwickshire College in
MR ROBIN KYNE
MR MARYTN GOWER
appreciated his sense of humour, but the
school musical events. In addition, he has
2010. As well as being an active musician
Mr Robin Kyne joined us for the spring term
We were very fortunate to secure the
verdict is out on that one! Our thanks go to
taught music theory and had over seventy
and accompanist to diploma level, she has
to cover Mr Macmillan’s parental leave. It is
services of Martyn Gower to help us cover
Martyn for the excellent and thorough job he
successful grade 5 students to date.
until this year been a senior examiner for A
never easy taking over classes in the middle
Miss Entwisle’s maternity leave in November
performed in.
He has maintained a busy playing schedule,
Level Music practical papers, including many
of the year, but as an experienced teacher
and December. Martyn was, until July 2016,
Miss Entwisle’s absence.
including playing for the Queen at Leicester
years ago examining the Dixie candidates!
and former Headmaster, Mr Kyne quickly
Head of Geography at Leicester Grammar
Cathedral in 2012 and again last year at the
She has particularly enjoyed playing in school
built a good rapport with students and staff.
School and so brought a wealth of experience
Maundy service. In between times, he helped
productions, concerts and carol services
The Upper Sixth English Language group
to the classes he took charge of during his
give Richard lll a ceremonial send-off at his
and also supporting her students in their
were especially grateful for his experience
brief time with us. Students appreciated his
re-interment service.
performances and examinations. Both Jim and
and guidance in the run-up to their A Level
knowledge and warmth of character, whilst
He has particularly enjoyed playing in school
Judy will be sorely missed next year and not
examinations.
staff found in him a hugely reliable colleague.
musical productions and Remembrance
just for their music making. Throughout their
Martyn would claim that both groups
67
68

Until We Meet Again
MISS YITONG LIU
MR BRENDON TYRELL
MRS LINDSAY CHAPMAN
Miss Yitong Liu joined us as a Hanban
A big thank you to Brendan Tyrrell for
Mrs Lindsay Chapman joined Pippins in April
volunteer teacher from Shangdong province,
covering Humira Fatima’s maternity leave. As
2006 as a classroom assistant and she very
China in October 2017. She not only teaches
usual he has worked with integrity, humour
quickly realised that she wanted to stay
Mandarin to Y7 and L6 students but also
and a passion for the teaching of History. We
and make this her career. She undertook
teaches an adult class at the Dixie; meanwhile,
shall all miss him and wish him the very best
her training with the support of the school
she works at our Junior school and four
for the future.
and qualified as Early Years Educator in
other local primary schools. During her time
2009. Lindsay has been a great asset to
in England, she has made a tangible impact
the Early Years team. Her enthusiasm and
on all the learners she has worked with and
good humour makes her popular with
we appreciate her contributions very much.
staff, pupils and parents alike and she has
We wish her a safe journey home and great
always endeavoured to ensure learning is
success in her postgraduate course.
fun for those in her care. Her cooking skills
have been called on over the years with
Christmas cakes, pancakes and biscuits and
she has always enjoyed supporting the annual
playscheme. Lindsay is now looking forward
to spending time with her family and friends
and we wish her the very best for the future
MR ANDREW MITCHELL
with creative solutions to solve them. Andrew
concert, and taking part in the clay pigeon
Andrew will be sorely missed by the
works incredibly hard and he has often
shooting club.
DT department. We have continually
been caught doing extra work during his
Andrew we would like to thank you for all of
been impressed by his level of skill and
lunchtimes!
your hard work and wish you all the best for
competence in the workshop. There have
As well as being invaluable to the department,
the future.
been many times over the last year where
he has thrown himself fully into the life of
practical design problems have arisen, and
the school. For example, performing in the
Andrew has always managed to come up
staff band (playing bass guitar) at the Internal
69 70