Students make the news! - Kings of Wessex Community School
Students make the news! - Kings of Wessex Community School
Students make the news! - Kings of Wessex Community School
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<strong>Students</strong> <strong>make</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>news</strong>!<br />
On Thursday 24 March 2011 Media Club students joined with around 800 schools across <strong>the</strong> UK to<br />
<strong>make</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>news</strong> for <strong>the</strong> BBC News <strong>School</strong> Report Day.<br />
The young reporters were<br />
participating in <strong>the</strong> BBC<br />
project to engage 11-14-yearolds<br />
in <strong>the</strong> <strong>news</strong>. Former<br />
teacher and BBC News<br />
presenter, Huw Edwards<br />
lent his support to <strong>the</strong><br />
project “to give young<br />
people <strong>the</strong> chance to <strong>make</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>news</strong> <strong>the</strong>mselves<br />
[and...] share <strong>the</strong><br />
principles <strong>of</strong> good<br />
journalism”.<br />
Over <strong>the</strong> past months<br />
Katie Bewick, Alastair<br />
Campbell, Alex<br />
Curnow, Lilli Helps,<br />
Lyndsey Hooper,<br />
Owen Marlow, Tom<br />
Powell, Molly Randell<br />
and Gary Sutlieff<br />
were busy training<br />
to be top journalists,<br />
filming interviews<br />
and producing<br />
reports.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> <strong>School</strong> Report Day, <strong>the</strong>y filmed a<br />
feature on <strong>the</strong> forthcoming Royal Wedding with insights into <strong>the</strong> romance between Prince<br />
William and bride-to-be Kate Middleton; reported on how computers have changed over <strong>the</strong> years and <strong>the</strong> impact<br />
on our lives; and ran film reviews <strong>of</strong> “Harry Potter and <strong>the</strong> Deathly Hallows” and “GNomio and Juliet”.<br />
Following <strong>the</strong> recent publication <strong>of</strong> „The Man who broke into Auschwitz‟ by Denis Avey, <strong>Kings</strong> and Queens<br />
journalist Lilli took <strong>the</strong> opportunity to interview Year 10 student Jess Shiner who had just returned from a<br />
memorable and moving R.E. trip to Poland and Auschwitz.<br />
The team were ably assisted by Year 11 and Sixth Form<br />
Mentors Katie Brock, Lorna Mortimer, Tristan Palmer, Ben<br />
Sutlieff and Grey Tyrell.<br />
Commenting on <strong>the</strong>ir journalistic work Teacher <strong>of</strong> English and<br />
Leader Teacher for <strong>the</strong> project Ellie Roylance said:<br />
“Our students worked really hard to create <strong>news</strong>y and<br />
interesting stories. This was a wonderful experience for <strong>the</strong>m -<br />
not least to meet <strong>the</strong>ir deadlines!”<br />
You can view <strong>the</strong> team’s reports on <strong>the</strong> school website at:<br />
http://www.kowessex.co.uk/sw<strong>news</strong>/<strong>news</strong>report.php<br />
THE KINGS OF WESSEX SCHOOL<br />
A Church <strong>of</strong> England Foundation <strong>School</strong><br />
Specialist Technology College<br />
Issue no. 96<br />
End <strong>of</strong> Spring Term<br />
April 2011 The <strong>Kings</strong>’ Messenger
Head’s-Up from Mr Richardson<br />
Headteacher, The <strong>Kings</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Wessex</strong> <strong>School</strong><br />
Dear Parents,<br />
You will be aware from media reports that<br />
schools across <strong>the</strong> country are beginning to feel<br />
<strong>the</strong> impact <strong>of</strong> Government austerity measures.<br />
Regrettably, <strong>Kings</strong> is no exception. Cuts to <strong>the</strong><br />
school budget and increasing cost pressures<br />
means that we have to <strong>make</strong> a saving <strong>of</strong><br />
£354,626. In response to <strong>the</strong> funding situation <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>School</strong>’s Governing Body is taking a number <strong>of</strong> measures to<br />
reduce costs: including cuts to <strong>the</strong> non-staffing budget and<br />
regrettably, an unavoidable reduction in expenditure on<br />
staffing.<br />
Unfortunately, <strong>the</strong>re have been continued delays in our<br />
application to convert to Academy Status due to protracted<br />
legal issues with <strong>the</strong> Church <strong>of</strong> England. This has been very<br />
frustrating, but I am pleased to say that at last, we are<br />
making progress, and we hope to be in a position to become<br />
an Academy some time next term.<br />
But you will know that here at <strong>Kings</strong> we remain committed<br />
and enthusiastic about providing an outstanding education,<br />
as we prepare our young people for <strong>the</strong> global and fastchanging<br />
technological world that we live in. And I hope that<br />
this <strong>Kings</strong>’ Messenger will provide you with an inspiring<br />
idea from this half term...<br />
It is that time in <strong>the</strong> school year when we focus on<br />
completing Controlled Assessments and getting students<br />
ready for <strong>the</strong> summer exam season. Exam technique is as<br />
important as knowing subject matter and Assistant<br />
Headteacher Mr Hughes has given students an exam<br />
briefing. I am mindful that <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong> school days<br />
for those students going on exam leave is rapidly<br />
dwindling. Year 11 students have met for <strong>the</strong> fourth<br />
time with <strong>the</strong>ir Mentoring Plus Mentor, and Sixth<br />
Form students are also discussing <strong>the</strong>ir progress and<br />
targets with Tutors. Staff continue to work<br />
tenaciously, running sessions at lunchtime and after<br />
school to encourage students to achieve <strong>the</strong>ir very<br />
best, and I also encourage attendance at this year’s<br />
Easter Revision sessions during <strong>the</strong> holidays for that<br />
extra boost.<br />
Year 9 chose <strong>the</strong>ir GCSE Options for next year in <strong>the</strong><br />
light <strong>of</strong> new Government policy – <strong>the</strong> new English<br />
Baccalaureate., which raises <strong>the</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>ile <strong>of</strong> choosing<br />
Geography or History, and a Language.<br />
We recently appointed our new Senior Student Team<br />
for 2011 after putting <strong>the</strong>m through <strong>the</strong>ir paces in <strong>the</strong><br />
selection process (and here <strong>the</strong>y are now). It is always an<br />
enjoyable task to see how those shortlisted students,<br />
now in Year 12 have, have grown and are keen to give<br />
something back to school. I know <strong>the</strong>y will be super<br />
ambassadors in this special role - not least in organising<br />
<strong>the</strong> annual Charities Week in December!<br />
It has been ano<strong>the</strong>r half term <strong>of</strong> happy accomplishments –<br />
many <strong>of</strong> which you can read about shortly; and aptly, we end<br />
<strong>the</strong> term on a celebratory note with our End <strong>of</strong> Spring Term<br />
Achievement Assemblies presenting Special Achievements,<br />
<strong>School</strong> Colours, Subject and Enrichment Awards – see <strong>the</strong> Roll<br />
<strong>of</strong> Honour.<br />
We enjoyed <strong>the</strong> recent Easter Concert <strong>of</strong> music-making, and<br />
I also praise our Drama students for <strong>the</strong>ir exam<br />
performances. Thinking about <strong>the</strong> Arts, it is wonderful to see<br />
Cheddar Arts@<strong>Kings</strong> Theatre flourishing in its second<br />
season, with its fabulous programme <strong>of</strong> music, comedy,<br />
<strong>the</strong>atre, and film nights.<br />
Out on <strong>the</strong> field, our P.E. Department maintained <strong>the</strong>ir winning<br />
streak when Year 9 Hockey girls won <strong>the</strong> Somerset Cup.<br />
Whilst for <strong>the</strong> second year, <strong>the</strong> Languages and Business Studies<br />
teams joined toge<strong>the</strong>r for <strong>the</strong> Sixth Form annual trip to Paris<br />
for <strong>the</strong> “Your Future in Europe 2011 Conference” at <strong>the</strong> Palais<br />
de Congrès, which I was fortunate to attend.<br />
On a moving note, at <strong>the</strong> time <strong>of</strong> writing, we will be<br />
welcoming Zigi Shipper into school to give his testimony as a<br />
Holocaust survivor. Polish by birth, during World War II<br />
Mr Shipper was sent to Auschwitz-Birkenau, but was<br />
eventually liberated by <strong>the</strong> British Army after being sent on a<br />
Death March to <strong>the</strong> German naval town <strong>of</strong> Neustadt.<br />
In this final week, we will be going to St Andrew’s Church<br />
for our services on <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>me <strong>of</strong> ‘Easter - Where do you stand?’<br />
organised by Christian Leader Joanna Slade and led by Rev<br />
Sue Rose.<br />
Recently, some <strong>of</strong> Governors visited for our Spring Term<br />
Governors Day, spending time in lessons to see <strong>the</strong> school at<br />
work. And our local community champions have also<br />
supported and enhanced students’ learning opportunities. I<br />
thank Mendip Rotarians who have been busy with our Young<br />
Musicians, Writers, and “Big Pitch” enterprising students,<br />
and also <strong>the</strong> Year 12 Mock Interviews.<br />
Finally, I thank parents for your support this half term, and<br />
wish you and your family an enjoyable Easter Holiday.<br />
Yours sincerely,<br />
CHRIS RICHARDSON<br />
Headteacher<br />
Contents<br />
I remind you that we<br />
return for <strong>the</strong> start <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Summer Term on<br />
Tuesday 26 April 2011<br />
<strong>Students</strong> Make <strong>the</strong> News 1<br />
Head’s Up 2<br />
Roll <strong>of</strong> Honour 3-5<br />
Trip to Poland 6-9<br />
The <strong>Kings</strong>’ Art 10<br />
Dramatic Events 11<br />
World Book Day 11<br />
A Ma<strong>the</strong>matical Monday 12<br />
Year 12 Mock Interviews 13<br />
Scientific Experiments 14<br />
Learning Resource Centre 14<br />
Christian Leader Reflections 15<br />
Year 9 Springs into Charity Work 15<br />
Le Paris Trip 16-17<br />
<strong>Kings</strong> and Queens Sports Scores 18-19<br />
Charities Week Cheques Presentations 20
End <strong>of</strong> Spring Term Roll <strong>of</strong> Honour<br />
Special Achievement Awards: Congratulations and thank you to our students!<br />
Bronze (5 merits)<br />
Keira Bambury 9TT<br />
Jack Beacom 9SBA<br />
Danielle Clews 9CBA<br />
Rebecca Cox 9TT<br />
Abbey Floyd 9CBA<br />
Kieron Gibson 9DE<br />
Annabella Gould 9TT<br />
Karl Hooper 9VQ<br />
Timothy Ingle 9DE<br />
William May 9TT<br />
Zach Newsome 9TT<br />
Rachel Perry 9TT<br />
Olanah-Jay Shakespeare 9TT<br />
James Walker 9TT<br />
Jacob Burrows 10MG<br />
Jacob Durbin 10MG<br />
Rebecca Grantham 10LD<br />
James Henry 10MG<br />
Jade Marie Hide 10MG<br />
Benjamin James 10MG<br />
Thomas Jones 10MG<br />
Robyn McGibbon 10MG<br />
Emma Moore 10MG<br />
Sidney Morris 10MG<br />
Harley Ribi 10MG<br />
James Ross 10MG<br />
Paris Ward 10MG<br />
SILVER (15 merits)<br />
Shaun Adams 9JPF<br />
Harry Andrews 9SJW<br />
Shannon Baker 9CBA<br />
Sophie Bishop 9VQ<br />
Samuel Board 9CBA<br />
Rachael Boobyer 9SBA<br />
Ella Brandrick 9TT<br />
Owen Browne 9VQ<br />
Charlie Buckland 9SJW<br />
Chloe Butt 9SJW<br />
Alastair Campbell 9SJW<br />
Sam Chedzoy 9JPF<br />
Alexandra Clement-Close 9TT<br />
Charlie David 9SJW<br />
Samuel Day 9VQ<br />
Eleanor Dunlop 9DE<br />
Isobel E<strong>the</strong>rington 9DE<br />
Jonathan Fowler 9DE<br />
Abbey Floyd 9CBA<br />
Kyran Gale 9CBA<br />
Nathan Gelder 9CBA<br />
Charlie Gumble 9VQ<br />
James Hacker 9VQ<br />
Katrina-Anne Hamilton 9CBA<br />
Lilli Helps 9DE<br />
Daniel Hide 9DR<br />
Christopher Hill 9VQ<br />
Henry Hounsell 9TT<br />
Keisha Jacques-Harris 9TT<br />
Alexander Jeanes 9CBA<br />
Rhys Lewis 9CBA<br />
James Lomax 9DE<br />
Ross McColgan 9SJW<br />
Jack Miller 9SBA<br />
Bonnie Naish 9DE<br />
Rebecca Newman 9CBA<br />
James Newton-Browne 9DR<br />
Alexander Paterson 9SJW<br />
Sophia Pavle 9SJW<br />
Thomas Penhall 9DE<br />
Mat<strong>the</strong>w Prestidge 9DE<br />
Molly Randell 9VQ<br />
Mia Rowlands 9DE<br />
Louise Sealey 9VQ<br />
Abbie Slater 9VQ<br />
Alexandra Smith 9SBA<br />
Abbie Snelgrove 9MH<br />
Eleni Stamatis 9TT<br />
Billy Standen 9JPF<br />
Leah Street 9SJW<br />
Elizabeth Sturmey 9JPF<br />
Samuel Walters 9SBA<br />
Kye Whelan 9CBA<br />
Emily White 9JPF<br />
Grace Whittaker 9SBA<br />
Benjamin Williams 9DE<br />
Ellis Williams 9SJW<br />
Benjamin Rogers 10LD<br />
GOLD (25 merits)<br />
Kirsty Abbott 9MH<br />
Emily Allcott 9TT<br />
Holly Baldwin 9VQ<br />
Joshua Barker 9DR<br />
Katie Bewick 9TT<br />
Maisie Blair 9CBA<br />
Samuel Board 9CBA<br />
Joseph Bourke-Trotham 9VQ<br />
Ellis Bracey 9CBA<br />
Samuel Brock 9CBA<br />
Jemma Callow 9SJW<br />
Lauren Cleave 9DE<br />
Sarah Coggins 9VQ<br />
Thomas Cooksey 9SJW<br />
Oliver Cornish 9SBA<br />
Joshua Daly 9CBA<br />
Amy Day 9SBA<br />
Charlotte Day 9JPF<br />
Samuel Dearsley 9DR<br />
Lewis Dudley 9DR<br />
Zoe Dunham 9TT<br />
Eleanor Dunlop 9DE<br />
Mia Fisher 9SBA<br />
Katie Florey 9VQ<br />
Cameron Fraser 9MH<br />
Kyran Gale 9CBA<br />
Amber Gregory 9DE<br />
Hollie Griffin 9VQ<br />
Ben Harris 9DE<br />
Daniel Harris 9SBA<br />
Christopher Hawkes 9VQ<br />
Sophie Hodges 9CBA<br />
Tom Hope-Stone Bell 9MH<br />
Shannon House 9SBA<br />
Imogen Howorth 9MH<br />
Jack Hughes 9SJW<br />
Ben Hutton 9DR<br />
Ella Jameson 9JPF<br />
Alexander Jeanes 9CBA<br />
Rhys Lewis 9CBA<br />
Lauren Male 9VQ<br />
Owen Marlow 9MH<br />
Jack Masters 9MH<br />
Benjamin Michiels 9MH<br />
Maggie Morris 9SBA<br />
Ryan Moss 9SJW<br />
Hannah O’Brien 9SJW<br />
Jenna Patten 9CBA<br />
Rachel Perry 9SJW<br />
Simon Peto 9MH<br />
Joseph Podpadec 9SBA<br />
Madeleine Ralph 9SBA<br />
Stephanie Reeves 9SJW<br />
Caitlin Rickard 9SJW<br />
Joseph Scott Hartley 9JPF<br />
Emma Spittal 9MH<br />
Christine Staite 9SBA<br />
Rosalind Strang 9VQ<br />
Gary Sutlieff 9DR<br />
Nathan Tabberer 9DE<br />
Molly Thorne 9DE<br />
Shannon Vickery 9TT<br />
Eloise Voice 9JPF<br />
Kimberley Voit 9DE<br />
Robert Wallis 9CBA<br />
Phoebe Wedgwood-Potts 9MH<br />
Brandon Wilcox 9VQ<br />
Kristian Willmott 9DE<br />
Adam Wood 9JPF<br />
PLATINUM (50 merits)<br />
Sarah Appleby 9CBA<br />
Vanessa Brill 9DR<br />
James Bugler 9FP<br />
Chloe Burke 9DR<br />
Bethan Darby 9SBA<br />
Alice Davis 9CBA<br />
Sophie Deakins 9SBA<br />
Rebecca Douglas 9DR<br />
Hannah Forde 9DR<br />
Annabelle Harraway 9SBA<br />
Cora Marks 9DR<br />
To celebrate <strong>the</strong>ir accomplishments and contributions<br />
to school life this Spring Term, students will be<br />
presented with <strong>the</strong>ir awards in our Achievement<br />
Assemblies on <strong>the</strong> last day <strong>of</strong> term,<br />
Friday 8 April 2011.<br />
Bronze and Silver = a certificate<br />
Gold = a certificate, badge and £10 voucher<br />
Platinum = 50 merits<br />
(a certificate, badge and £15 voucher)<br />
Double Platinum = 100 merits<br />
(certificate and £20 voucher)
<strong>School</strong> Colours: celebrating students for contribution to extra curricular activities<br />
Badminton<br />
Billy Cavanagh 10JG<br />
Hal Davidson 10JG<br />
Daniel Yates 10MG<br />
James Chinnock 11SS<br />
Ed Lupton 11CC<br />
Dan Woods 11KL<br />
Football<br />
Jack Beacom 9SBA<br />
Tom Davies 9SBA<br />
Sam Dearsley 9DR<br />
Tim Ingle 9DE<br />
Brandon O’Reilly 9CBA<br />
Ross Panes 9DR<br />
Sam Walters 9SBA<br />
Kye Whelan 9SBA<br />
Calum Ponsford 11AS<br />
Finlay Travis 11AH<br />
Hockey<br />
Adam Wood 9JPF<br />
James Chinnock 11SS<br />
Jack Fraser 11LJ<br />
James Lindsay 11JLB<br />
Daniel Weare 11DPW<br />
Netball<br />
Holly Baldwin 9VQ<br />
Sarah Bradley 9FP<br />
Janne Clarke 9MH<br />
Lauren Cleave 9DE<br />
Amy Clegg 9DR<br />
Rebecca Cox 9TT<br />
Josephine Hill 9DR<br />
Shannon Johnson 9JPF<br />
Megan Kidner 9MH<br />
Chelsea Llewellyn 9DR<br />
Grace Low 9CBA<br />
Lauren Male 9VQ<br />
Helen McColgan 9VQ<br />
Katie Prior 9JPF<br />
Jade Skyrme 9DR<br />
Rosalind Strang 9VQ<br />
Shannon Vickery 9TT<br />
Eleanor Williams 9DE<br />
Daisy Goldsmith 10RMH<br />
Charlotte Rogers 11CC<br />
Lucy Woodman 11LDA<br />
Sinead Byrom 12CA<br />
Lucy Midcalf 12CA<br />
Jenny Pearce 12RW<br />
Olivia Yates 12CBE<br />
Swimming<br />
Shannon House 9SBA<br />
Mia Rowlands 9DE<br />
Eleni Stamatis 9TT<br />
Nathan Tabberer 9DE<br />
Music<br />
Harry Baker 9SBA<br />
Sara Bradley 9FP<br />
Alex Curnow 9FP<br />
Joshua Daly 9CBA<br />
Bethan Darby 9SBA<br />
Jasmine Day 9SJW<br />
Harry East 9FP<br />
Annie Gould 9TT<br />
Lauren Male 9VQ<br />
Alexander Paterson 9 SJW<br />
Tom Penhall 9DE<br />
Andrew Rose 9JPF<br />
Joe Scott-Hartley 9JPF<br />
Douglas Spinks 9MH<br />
Mock Interview<br />
Winners<br />
Natasha Adams 12CA<br />
Seth Cunningham 12BR<br />
Chris Day 12IS<br />
Emily Derrick 12RW<br />
Emily Ingle 12GR<br />
Chris Kent 12GC<br />
Sam Kent 12GC<br />
Kirsty McLaren 12CBE<br />
Lucy Midcalf 12CA<br />
Alice Wright 12CA<br />
Mock Interview<br />
Highly Commended<br />
Ben Fisher 12TR<br />
Lauren Haines 12GR<br />
Ashley Kelson 12TR<br />
Emily Kouidri 12IS<br />
Sophie Luff 12RW<br />
Alfie Palmer 12GR<br />
Thomas Wooton 12RW<br />
New Senior Student<br />
Team<br />
Head Boy: Lewis Jones 12TR<br />
Head Girl: Laura Weigold 12TR<br />
Deputy Head Boys:<br />
Adam Clegg 12BR<br />
Adam Green 12BR<br />
Max Hope-Stone Bell 12IS<br />
Lewis Podpadec 12TR<br />
Scott Virgo 12CA<br />
Deputy Head Girls:<br />
Chloe Kitching 12TR<br />
Lizzie Nash 12BR<br />
Claire Tidswell 12CBE<br />
Alice Would 12IS<br />
Olivia Yates 12CBE<br />
The <strong>Kings</strong> and<br />
Queens News Team<br />
Lorna Mortimer 11LDA<br />
Freya Cumberlidge 12RW<br />
100% Attendance<br />
Emily Allcott 9TT<br />
Ivan Beretvas 9MH<br />
James Board 9JPF<br />
Vanessa Brill 9DR<br />
Sam Chedzoy 9JPF<br />
Janne Clarke 9MH<br />
Amber Gregory 9DE<br />
Karl Hooper 9VQ<br />
Lyndsey Hooper 9SJW<br />
Henry Hounsell 9TT<br />
Imogen Howorth 9MH<br />
Scott Jenkins 9SBA<br />
Emma Kelly 9SJW<br />
Kerry Martin 9DR<br />
Harriet Moody 9MH<br />
Ryan Moss 9SJW<br />
James Porter Hunt 9MH<br />
Mat<strong>the</strong>w Slater 9SBA<br />
Adam Wood 9JPF<br />
Jacob Allen 10AST<br />
Harry Davidson 10JG<br />
Bethany Ellis 10RMH<br />
Thomas Fincham 10LD<br />
Daisy Goldsmith 10RMH<br />
Lauren Marshall 10RD<br />
Krystyna Masny 10LD<br />
Dennis Palmer 10RD<br />
Tabitha Paul 10LD<br />
James Pavey 10TCO<br />
Ellie Peverall 10VW<br />
Tabitha Rogers 10RD<br />
Jessica Shiner 10TP<br />
Kes Svensson 10VW<br />
Lewis Thompson 10AST<br />
Gregory Tyrrell 10AST<br />
Jennifer Wilson 10RD<br />
Gemma Barwell 11AS<br />
Samuel Bath 11AT<br />
Cameron Browne 11AS<br />
Tristan Cakebread 11AH<br />
Rebecca Charles 11AT<br />
James Chinnock 11SS<br />
Josephine Douglas 11AH<br />
Benjamin Fowler 11DPW<br />
Zach Gittings 11CC<br />
Adam Kelly 11DPW<br />
Danielle Lloyd 11AT<br />
Edward Lupton 11CC<br />
Georgina Mason 11CC<br />
James Peebles Brown 11KL<br />
Benjamin Skinner 11LJ<br />
Jordan Sou<strong>the</strong>y 11SS<br />
James Strawbridge 11KL<br />
Ben Sutlieff 11CC<br />
Rianna Tanner 11KL<br />
Lucy Woodman 11LDA<br />
Enrichment<br />
Subjects:<br />
English<br />
Lucy Boobyer 10RD<br />
Bridie McGrath 10VW<br />
Liberty Mewes 10TCO<br />
Lucy Morgan-Evans 10RMH<br />
Tabitha Paul 10LD<br />
Tabitha Rogers 10RD<br />
Chloe Starks 10AST<br />
Lois Wilson 10LD<br />
Maths<br />
Alex Beretvas 9MH<br />
Jonathan Fowler 9DE<br />
Scott Jenkins 9SBA<br />
Mat<strong>the</strong>w Prestidge 9DE<br />
Andrew Rose 9JPF<br />
Joe Scott-Hartley 9JPF<br />
Alastair Bartlett 10TP<br />
Ellen Harris-Snell 10RMH<br />
Design Technology<br />
Jamie Emery 11AH<br />
Ellen Farrell 11ML<br />
Daniel Mehlig 11CC<br />
Joshua Page 11AH<br />
ICT<br />
Matteo Veglia 12CA<br />
There is an<br />
exciting<br />
programme <strong>of</strong><br />
extra curricular<br />
activities at <strong>Kings</strong>,<br />
With something for<br />
everyone!
Subject Awards: celebrating students for <strong>the</strong>ir achievements in <strong>the</strong> academic subjects<br />
Subject Awards Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Year 12 Year 13<br />
English Andrew Rose 9JPF Clara Wardman-Nicholls 10EM Phoebe Gupta 11AS - -<br />
English Language - - - James Watson 12GR Anna Spanring 13SJ<br />
English Literature - - - Rachael Bewick 12RW Daisy Robinson-Rattle 13SO<br />
Media Studies - - - Scott Virgo 12CA Robert Sparks 13SR<br />
Maths James Felton 9FP Mia Taylor 10LD Hea<strong>the</strong>r Cooke 11AT Ben DeIvey 12GR James Hall 13JR<br />
Product Design Lauren Male 9VQ Alastair Bartlett 10TP Joanna Martin 11DPW Chloe Heyworth 12CA Eleanor Jones 13SJ<br />
Food Technology Sophie Deakins 9SBA Jenny Wilson 10RD Eleanor Chick 11LJ Christopher Laband 12BR Olivia Owen 13SJ<br />
Child Development - - Amy Skittrall 11SS - -<br />
ICT Amy Day 9SBA Chelsie Bailey 10AST Sophie Pettler 11AT Tom Cashmore 12BR Stuart Thorne 13SK<br />
Computing - - - Ben De Ivey 12GR Alex Williams 13SR<br />
Biology Robert Fletcher 9VQ Jenny Wilson 10RD Alex Rossiter 11AH Jessica Benjamin 12GR Hannah Puddy 13SR<br />
Chemistry Sam Woodr<strong>of</strong>fe 9MH Hayley Nicholson 10RD Alex Rossiter 11AH Jessica Benjamin 12GR Tom Bridgwater 13GMC<br />
Physics Janne Clarke 9MH Tom Newton 10EM Joshua Page 11AH Christie Zanelli 12RW Brent Stewart 13SJ<br />
Psychology - - - Sinead Byrom 12CA Olivia Owen 13SJ<br />
Business Studies - Sid Morris 10MG Laura Fineran 11SS Chloe Heyworth 12CA Victoria Ferguson 13SJ<br />
Geography William May 9TT Beth Aston 10AST Mat<strong>the</strong>w Lomax 11ML Christopher Holt 12TR Daniel Sampson 13SR<br />
History Sophie Hodges 9CBA Robert Cornish 10RMH Calum Ponsford 11AS Oliver Conroy 12GR Joe Perry 13SK<br />
Law - - - Jemima Clements12TR Scott Tsoi 13SJ<br />
R.E. Ellie Brown 9TT Tabitha Rogers 10RD Dale Phillips 11KL Rachael Bewick 12RW Anna Spanring 13SJ<br />
Critical Thinking - - - Sophie Patten 12RW -<br />
Sociology - - - Chloe Bisdee 12CA Lauren Hooper 13JR<br />
French Scott Jenkins 9SBSA Bryony Allen 10LD Samuel Bates 11CC Jessica Benjamin 12GR Harriet Thompson 13SR<br />
German Shannon Johnson 9JPF Emma Tucker 10EM Eleanor Chick 11LJ Freya Cumberlidge 12RW Anna Spanring 13SJ<br />
Art Rosie Capps 9FP Mary Cornick 10VW Helen Pearce 11LJ Helen Bennett 12GR Sophie Watkins 13SJ<br />
Photography - Emma Deakins 10RD William Davis 11AS Joshua Timmins 12IS Daniel Albone 13GMC<br />
Textiles - Tabitha Rogers 10RD Lucy Kitching 11LJ Abigail Nicholson 12CA Eleanor Jones 13SJ<br />
Drama Ella Jameson 9JPF Aidan Young 10AST Tristan Palmer 11DPW Russell Eccleston 12BR Hannah Shaw 13SK<br />
BTEC Performing Arts - Greg Tyrrell 10AST Phoebe Gupta 11AS - -<br />
Music Tom Hope-Stone Bell 9MH Tim Lucas 10EM Emily Thorowgood 11LDA Edward Kimmins-Tonkin 12GC Thomas Haggerty 13SJ<br />
P.E. Jack Beacom 9SBA Emily Bancr<strong>of</strong>t 10TCO Ben Fowler 11DPW Sophie Luff 12RW Olivia Owen 13SJ<br />
Learning Support George Willis 9VQ Sinead O'Brien 10LD Robyn Keedwell 11CC - -<br />
PSHE/Citizenship Ella Jameson 9JPF Ben Rogers 10LD Joanna Martin 11DPW - -
A Memorable and Moving Insight into History:<br />
The R.E. Trip to Poland<br />
and Auschwitz<br />
41 Year 10 R.E. students visited Poland this half<br />
term. It was an emotional and eventful trip<br />
recounting <strong>the</strong> steps <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Polish people, Jews,<br />
Slavs, Political activists, Gypsies or<br />
Homosexuals who had been shown prejudice<br />
and discrimination by <strong>the</strong> Nazi regime.<br />
The group visited areas <strong>of</strong> Krakow used in <strong>the</strong> filming<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> acclaimed film “Schindler’s List” and walked<br />
in <strong>the</strong> footsteps <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> persecuted, who were forced to<br />
move from <strong>the</strong> beauty <strong>of</strong> Krakow to <strong>the</strong> ghetto slum <strong>of</strong><br />
Podgorze, before later being deported to various<br />
concentration and death camps - <strong>the</strong> biggest being<br />
Auschwitz and Birkenau.<br />
We were<br />
fascinated by a guided tour <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se religious and<br />
historical sites, with <strong>the</strong> added privilege <strong>of</strong> meeting a<br />
Holocaust survivor, who shared <strong>the</strong> harrowing story <strong>of</strong><br />
his survival and liberation from Manthausen<br />
concentration camp in Austria.<br />
We also visited <strong>the</strong> famous Oscar Schindler‟s factory<br />
which has now been transformed into a museum, “an<br />
ambitious, multimedia evocation <strong>of</strong> Krakow‟s<br />
experience under Nazi occupation from 1939-1945. The<br />
new museum uses Schindler‟s famous story as a<br />
springboard to recount a broader narrative that<br />
encompasses oppression and resilience, heroism and<br />
deceit” (Global New York Times)<br />
Finally, students also visited <strong>the</strong> Wielicka Salt Mines to<br />
explore <strong>the</strong> underground chambers, chapels with salt<br />
sculptures and salt lakes.<br />
By Mrs L Jory, Subject Leader for R.E.<br />
So, here we are, 70 years after <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> war,<br />
when we interviewed student Jess Shiner, to hear<br />
about her experience on this visit to Krakow and <strong>the</strong><br />
concentration camps.<br />
What were your first impressions <strong>of</strong> Krakow?<br />
The city <strong>of</strong> Krakow was a lot larger than I thought it<br />
would be. People had told me it was like England; but<br />
when I arrived I found <strong>the</strong> culture was very different. On<br />
<strong>the</strong> first walk around Krakow we went to <strong>the</strong> town<br />
square, I thought it was beautiful, especially all <strong>the</strong> stalls<br />
in <strong>the</strong> market selling amber.<br />
It was really great staying in Krakow. The hotel was in a<br />
good place so we could walk to all <strong>the</strong> interesting areas,<br />
led by Tony Dodd. We enjoyed going <strong>of</strong>f into smaller<br />
groups and discovering more toge<strong>the</strong>r. I thought that <strong>the</strong><br />
city was beautiful in <strong>the</strong> evening when we went out<br />
walking. The buildings were all lit up and <strong>the</strong> atmosphere<br />
was great.<br />
I was in Mr Green‟s group. And I know that all <strong>the</strong> groups<br />
had a lot <strong>of</strong> fun with <strong>the</strong>ir leader.<br />
The groups were an important<br />
part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> trip because as well as having our friends with<br />
us, we could also share good times with o<strong>the</strong>rs and bond<br />
with new people.<br />
What do you remember <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> visit to <strong>the</strong><br />
concentration camp?<br />
Both <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> camps were very emotional. On <strong>the</strong> journey<br />
<strong>the</strong>re I was preparing for <strong>the</strong> worst. Even thinking about<br />
it brought a lump to my throat...
I think that Birkenau was <strong>the</strong> most moving<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> two. The pictures <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> killed<br />
people brought some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> group to<br />
tears.<br />
We had a particularly enthusiastic guide<br />
who told amazing true stories <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> things that went on exactly where we<br />
stood. None <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> group spoke as she<br />
explained. We simply put ourselves in <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
shoes. A really nice moment in <strong>the</strong><br />
concentration camp was when we all met up<br />
and shared a prayer and discussed <strong>the</strong> history<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> place with <strong>the</strong> group leaders...<br />
What was it like meeting <strong>the</strong><br />
Holocaust Survivor?<br />
Meeting <strong>the</strong> Holocaust survivor was one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
most memorable moments in Poland. I think it<br />
will stay with me for a long time...<br />
I thought that Auschwitz would be worse for me,<br />
but <strong>the</strong> survivor who spoke made me think <strong>the</strong><br />
most about what it was like to be <strong>the</strong>re.<br />
Everyone was very respectful <strong>of</strong> him and I was<br />
amazed how we all listened for that one hour. He<br />
had brought his blue and white striped uniform<br />
with him and I was amazed by how small it was;<br />
and I could imagine him younger and scrawny<br />
under <strong>the</strong> fabric.<br />
What amazed me most was when my friend asked<br />
him if he forgave <strong>the</strong> Nazis for what <strong>the</strong>y did, his<br />
reply was simply „yes, we must forget about <strong>the</strong> past<br />
and think about <strong>the</strong> future.‟ I was so surprised by<br />
how he could forgive someone who had been so<br />
cruel to him...<br />
What were <strong>the</strong> most memorable moments <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> trip?<br />
Without doubt <strong>the</strong> experience in <strong>the</strong> concentration camps<br />
will stay with me forever.<br />
In contrast, bowling was<br />
really good fun, as it was nice to have relaxing time after<br />
a hard and heavy day at <strong>the</strong> camps. Being in <strong>the</strong> hotel<br />
was also very good. I think because <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> mixture <strong>of</strong><br />
solemn and happy moments it made <strong>the</strong> trip interesting<br />
and we were never bored.<br />
The early mornings weren‟t that bad,<br />
because it meant we slept well at<br />
night – after all <strong>the</strong> walking during<br />
<strong>the</strong> days.<br />
It was <strong>the</strong> best trip I’ve ever<br />
been on!<br />
Interview by Lilli Helps 9DE and<br />
Lorna Mortimer 11LDA<br />
The <strong>Kings</strong> and Queens News Team
And here are some more <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> students’ memories...<br />
Auschwitz-Birkenau:<br />
“We were shown <strong>the</strong> evidence <strong>of</strong> what was left behind: glasses, crutches, plates, baskets.<br />
Some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> bags were especially upsetting seeing names and ages, some had <strong>the</strong> word “Kleinkind” (children) written.<br />
There were pictures <strong>of</strong> inmates with <strong>the</strong>ir date <strong>of</strong> entry to Auschwitz and death.<br />
Families had left flowers next to <strong>the</strong>ir photos.” Ayliffe Cumming<br />
“To walk through <strong>the</strong> gates was emotional as I just imagined men and women walking side by side about to meet <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
tragic fate” Katie Davies<br />
“Visiting Auschwitz was a good and wonderful experience that will stay with me forever and ever.<br />
When we hear about it in school it is not <strong>the</strong> same as actually seeing what happened for real, <strong>the</strong> torture and pain all<br />
those thousands <strong>of</strong> victims went through.” Ellie Rialas<br />
“The visit to Auschwitz I think is something that everyone should do at least once in <strong>the</strong>ir lifetime. It shows a massacre<br />
that should have never have happened and should definitely never happen again.” Elizabeth Wooton<br />
The Holocaust Survivor:<br />
“I was moved by <strong>the</strong> emotion in his eyes.<br />
He told us about <strong>the</strong> living conditions and his<br />
experiences in <strong>the</strong> camp. What he went through,<br />
nobody should have to think about, let alone live<br />
through. I have so much respect for him <strong>the</strong> way he<br />
has coped with <strong>the</strong> past and lived his life. His talk<br />
made me feel very humble and grateful.”<br />
Jess Abbott<br />
“It shows how strong humans can be in times <strong>of</strong><br />
despair. He said that his determination to survive<br />
pulled him through.” Eve Hayzer<br />
“If it had not been through hope, help from o<strong>the</strong>rs<br />
and inner strength he wouldn‟t have survived.”<br />
Sophie Vincent<br />
“He said he could forgive but never forget.”<br />
Chloe Mattock
Jewish Quarter - Kazimierz:<br />
“We went to a Jewish Synagogue, where we learnt about Jewish beliefs and rituals. The men have to wear small hats and<br />
<strong>the</strong> women would have to sit separate. The Torah would be placed in <strong>the</strong> middle <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> room.”<br />
“Going to <strong>the</strong> cemetery was emotional as so many lives were lost to war and violence. On <strong>the</strong> grave stones were small<br />
rocks which are placed as a traditional gesture, like we would put flowers. The difference with rocks is that <strong>the</strong>y last a<br />
long time-never die.” Sophie Vincent<br />
“It moved me so much to see how many lives had been destroyed.” Chloe Starks<br />
Ghetto: “Jews were forced to live in tiny, overcrowded areas <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> city. The areas were sectioned <strong>of</strong>f with walls.<br />
Most people in <strong>the</strong>se areas got violently sick as <strong>of</strong>ten fifty people had to share a house.<br />
Schindler‟s factory has now been converted into a museum which was very interesting; I liked <strong>the</strong> way it showed <strong>the</strong><br />
history <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Polish people. The red Nazi flags really made me think. It was quite moving.” Ayliffe Cumming<br />
“The big chairs in <strong>the</strong> square at Podgorze, symbolised <strong>the</strong> people waiting for deportation and waiting to find out what<br />
was going to happen to <strong>the</strong>m next.” Chloe Mattock<br />
“It was interesting to see how <strong>the</strong> Jews waited for selection and how this was symbolised through <strong>the</strong> chairs and also <strong>the</strong><br />
story <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> only non-Jew in <strong>the</strong> Ghetto and how he helped people by giving <strong>the</strong>m medicine.” Elizabeth Wooton<br />
Krakow: “The biggest city square in Europe. The market stalls were selling Amber and it was sparkling in <strong>the</strong> light,<br />
creating an orange walkway. Wood carvings and different breads were also sold in <strong>the</strong>se little stalls.” Tabitha Paul<br />
“The Church had two towers and a bugle player played a tune on <strong>the</strong> hour, but never finished his tune because it<br />
symbolised when <strong>the</strong> trumpeter played to warn <strong>the</strong> people <strong>of</strong> an attack and was shot midway through”. Harry Wivell<br />
“The castle was amazing and was occupied by a Nazi leader during World War 11. Under <strong>the</strong> hill once lived <strong>the</strong> Krakow<br />
Dragon. The legend is that <strong>the</strong> dragon was killed by a young man who won <strong>the</strong> hand <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> princess in marriage.<br />
A statue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dragon now remains and brea<strong>the</strong>s fire.” Harry Wivell
Year 9 Art Work:<br />
Some truly great work has been created this year by our Year 9 Artists and we are delighted to showcase some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
wonderful work for you now:<br />
Katie Prior Imogen Howarth Nathan Tabberer Keisha Jacques<br />
Art Exams:<br />
We are now at that time <strong>of</strong> year when students are preparing for exams on <strong>the</strong> following dates:<br />
Art, Textiles & Photography GCSE: Monday 4 April – Thursday 7 April 2011<br />
Art & Textiles AS Level: Tuesday 26 – Wednesday 27 April 2011<br />
Photography AS Level: Wednesday 27 – Thursday 28 April 2011<br />
Art & Textiles A2 Level: Wednesday 27, Thursday 28 April and Tuesday 3 May 2011<br />
Photography A2 Level: Wednesday 4 – Friday 6 May 2011<br />
London Art Trip - Thursday 14 – Saturday 16 July 2011 inclusive:<br />
Letters are about to go out for our exciting summer trip to London <strong>of</strong>fered to our current Year 10 Art students.<br />
This is a wonderful opportunity for students to visit <strong>the</strong> great museums <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Capital including <strong>the</strong> Tate Modern, Tate<br />
Britain, The National Portrait Gallery and The Saatchi Gallery. We have also organised a Creative East End Walking<br />
Tour, which exposes students to street art, art galleries, a street market and places <strong>of</strong> worship with a commentary from<br />
an expert guide. <strong>Students</strong> will be practising <strong>the</strong>ir own skills through observational drawings and photography building<br />
up a strong portfolio <strong>of</strong> work towards <strong>the</strong>ir continuing development at GCSE.<br />
We will soon be holding a parent and student information evening about <strong>the</strong> trip. Date - TBC.<br />
Rotary Club <strong>of</strong> Mendip Young Artists 2011 Competitions:<br />
The deadline has now passed and so we will be reporting on <strong>the</strong> winners <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> competition shortly...<br />
There are two age groups: Intermediate (13-15 year olds) - one painting or photograph <strong>of</strong> a landscape per student<br />
Senior (16-18 year olds) - one painting or photograph <strong>of</strong> a landscape per student<br />
For fur<strong>the</strong>r details see Subject Leader for Art Ms Weaving.<br />
Textiles needs any old sheets, curtains, material, wool, old clo<strong>the</strong>s!<br />
Please contact Teacher <strong>of</strong> Textiles Mrs Gale if you can help – thank you!
Dramatic<br />
Events<br />
Following <strong>the</strong><br />
success <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
school production<br />
‘Pride and<br />
Prejudice’ last half<br />
term, <strong>the</strong> Drama<br />
Department is<br />
pleased to announce<br />
two fur<strong>the</strong>r<br />
productions this<br />
school year.<br />
The Year 9 play sees Year 12 Chloe Kitching directing ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and Year 10 will<br />
be performing ‘The Tempest’ under <strong>the</strong> leadership <strong>of</strong> our new Teacher <strong>of</strong> Drama, Miss Banham, who is<br />
covering for Mrs Step who is now on her maternity leave. These two productions are shortened versions<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> well known Shakespeare plays and will be performed in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Kings</strong> Theatre in <strong>the</strong> Summer Term –<br />
diary dates to follow!<br />
In addition, <strong>the</strong>re is plenty going on with Year 11 monologue and duologue AS Level exams at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong><br />
March, plus Year 12 group pieces. GCSE group pieces are scheduled on <strong>the</strong> last Thursday <strong>of</strong> this term, and<br />
AS Level monologues in May, before <strong>the</strong> Year 11 AS Level group pieces on Tuesday 10 to Thursday 12 May<br />
2011. There are 50 candidates taking AS Level Drama this year!<br />
Finally, Year 13 will be watching ‘A Comedy <strong>of</strong> Errors’ as part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir course at <strong>the</strong> Tobacco Factory in<br />
Bristol and <strong>the</strong>re is an open invitation to all Years 10-13 Drama students to see ‘Guys and Dolls’ at <strong>the</strong><br />
Theatre Royal in Bath on Tuesday 26 April 2011 (tickets are still available and cost £12.50).<br />
World Book Day in character at <strong>Kings</strong><br />
<strong>Students</strong> were amused to be taught by characters from a novel for World Book Day as part<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> national booklovers special day on Thursday 3 March 2011.<br />
The literary line-up included a sprightly March Hare from Alice in Wonderland, <strong>the</strong> Gingerbread man, one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 101<br />
Dalmatians – pursued by villainess Cruella de Vil, Minerva McGonagall Deputy Headmistress at Hogwarts in <strong>the</strong> Harry<br />
Potter stories and Ar<strong>the</strong>r Dent from The Hitchhiker's Guide to <strong>the</strong> Galaxy. Holly Golightly “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” provided<br />
a touch <strong>of</strong> glamour in a black cocktail dress and huge hat, along with Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective Sherlock<br />
Holmes, and many more.<br />
English Enrichment Leader Rosie Holliman’s classes had a lesson in Neverland with her dressed as Peter Pan and Tinker Bell<br />
was seen teaching in <strong>the</strong> Languages Department.<br />
To celebrate <strong>the</strong> day, all students received a £1 book vouchers to inspire <strong>the</strong>m to buy a book.
A Ma<strong>the</strong>matical Monday by James S<strong>of</strong>fe, The <strong>Kings</strong> and Queens News Team<br />
You may not have noticed...but Monday 14 March 2011 was a significant day in <strong>the</strong> un<strong>of</strong>ficial Ma<strong>the</strong>matical<br />
calendar. Rearranged for in <strong>the</strong> American system, <strong>the</strong> date 3/14 may help remind you <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> famous number<br />
that intrigues ma<strong>the</strong>maticians worldwide...pi day!<br />
A surprise for ma<strong>the</strong>maticians and geographers alike!<br />
The number π, 3.142 to<br />
three decimal<br />
places, has its<br />
most well known<br />
application with<br />
circles where pi<br />
times <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
diameter gives <strong>the</strong><br />
circumference.<br />
Though<br />
interestingly, pi can<br />
also be observed in<br />
nature...<br />
Geographers were<br />
amazed to find this<br />
unusual number<br />
when studying <strong>the</strong><br />
routes <strong>of</strong> rivers all<br />
over <strong>the</strong> world.<br />
When dividing <strong>the</strong><br />
real length <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
river by <strong>the</strong> straight<br />
line distance from<br />
source to mouth, <strong>the</strong><br />
result is always extremely<br />
close to pi.<br />
Although nowadays all calculating pi involves is a touch <strong>of</strong> a button on our calculators, it was not always that easy! From 20 th<br />
Century BC onwards, ma<strong>the</strong>maticians through <strong>the</strong> ages, including those as well known as Fibonacci and Newton, have all<br />
been intrigued by <strong>the</strong> power <strong>of</strong> pi. Whilst those ma<strong>the</strong>maticians struggled with establishing only a handful <strong>of</strong> reliable decimal<br />
places, with <strong>the</strong> help <strong>of</strong> computers it is now possible to find pi to over thousands <strong>of</strong> billions <strong>of</strong> numbers past <strong>the</strong> decimal<br />
point.<br />
However some ma<strong>the</strong>maticians legitimately question <strong>the</strong> need for such an achievement. It has been calculated that pi to just<br />
11 decimal places is accurate enough to calculate <strong>the</strong> circumference <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> earth to within a millimetre, and only 39 decimal<br />
places are needed to find <strong>the</strong> circumference <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> entire observable universe to <strong>the</strong> precision <strong>of</strong> an atom!<br />
Yet this knowledge hasn’t stopped <strong>the</strong> infinite length <strong>of</strong> pi becoming an obsession for some. Lu Chao, a 24 year old student<br />
from China, was able to recite 67,890 digits <strong>of</strong> pi from memory. It took him 24 hours and four minutes before he made an<br />
error. For those who struggle enough with telephone numbers, this is truly an impressive achievement!<br />
Our enthusiastic ‘A’ Level ma<strong>the</strong>maticians enjoyed celebrating pi day with suitably circular pi, not pie, <strong>the</strong>med cakes to learn<br />
about <strong>the</strong> importance and beauty <strong>of</strong> this special number, as well as find out about some <strong>of</strong> its more unusual applications.<br />
<strong>Kings</strong> ma<strong>the</strong>maticians look ahead to next year’s pi day with <strong>the</strong> prospect <strong>of</strong> more discovery, more intrigue - and more cake!<br />
More Meaningful Maths<br />
Fibonacci Project: At <strong>the</strong> very end <strong>of</strong> last term our Year 9 ma<strong>the</strong>maticians enjoyed<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir second Enrichment Week <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> school year. Centred around <strong>the</strong> work <strong>of</strong> Fibonacci,<br />
<strong>the</strong>y explored his famous sequence (1,1,2,3,5,8,…) and its many applications in nature and<br />
art, as well as <strong>the</strong> purely ma<strong>the</strong>matical curiosity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> pattern. For <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> this term<br />
<strong>the</strong>y designed Easter egg boxes. Whereas Fibonacci is all about number <strong>the</strong>ory, <strong>the</strong> box<br />
activity developed <strong>the</strong> students’ understanding <strong>of</strong> shape and space.
Intermediate Maths Challenge: Top set students from Year 10, toge<strong>the</strong>r with some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> brightest Year 9<br />
students sat <strong>the</strong> Intermediate Maths Challenge paper a few weeks ago, and won an impressive two gold medals, 17 silver<br />
medals and 13 bronze, which will be presented at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> Spring Term assembly. However, <strong>the</strong> most significant<br />
achievements were by Year 9 students Alex Beretvas, Scott Jenkins and Andrew Rose who won places in <strong>the</strong> first round<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Ma<strong>the</strong>matical Olympiad and <strong>the</strong> Grey Kangaroo round. They sat <strong>the</strong> papers a few weeks ago and we<br />
await <strong>the</strong> results.<br />
This term we also sent a team <strong>of</strong> Ma<strong>the</strong>maticians to <strong>the</strong> regional heat <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Team Maths Challenge at Millfield <strong>School</strong>,<br />
which has become an annual event. The students enjoyed a varied set <strong>of</strong> ma<strong>the</strong>matical games and puzzles designed to<br />
develop <strong>the</strong>ir teamwork, as well as <strong>the</strong>ir interest in Maths, and it is a good opportunity for <strong>the</strong> students to see where <strong>the</strong>y<br />
stand in comparison to <strong>the</strong> elite ma<strong>the</strong>maticians <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> county.<br />
STEP (entrance exam) coaching sessions: At lunchtime, two sessions are running for students who want to<br />
extend <strong>the</strong>ir ma<strong>the</strong>matical interest. <strong>Students</strong> trying<br />
for places at Cambridge and Warwick University<br />
can attend <strong>the</strong>se STEP (entrance exam) coaching<br />
sessions, which are fun, problem-solving seminars.<br />
O<strong>the</strong>r students join in as well.<br />
Maths Club: Some <strong>of</strong> our Year 9’s have asked<br />
for <strong>the</strong> Maths Club to be started again and we are<br />
using <strong>the</strong> Maths in Motion s<strong>of</strong>tware to enjoy maths<br />
in Formula One racing games.<br />
KLP: Finally, Years 10 and 11, 12 and 13 students,<br />
who are all sitting Maths GCSE exams next term<br />
can find lots <strong>of</strong> past papers on <strong>the</strong> KLP. A good<br />
place to look for help is our<br />
YouTube Channel: “maths520”<br />
By Mr T Powell, Maths Enrichment Leader<br />
Year 12 Mock Interviews report by interviewee Rachael Bewick<br />
Year 12 recently had <strong>the</strong> opportunity to take part in mock interviews in order to prepare us for university and future jobs.<br />
It was an interesting experience, as a lot <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> boys came in a suits and smart clothing, which was an interesting occurrence<br />
in itself and many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> girls seemed to grow a few inches overnight.<br />
However, <strong>the</strong> smart clothing didn’t stop many <strong>of</strong> us from being nervous before <strong>the</strong> interview; scared <strong>of</strong> falling over or onto<br />
<strong>the</strong> interviewer or, saying something that was less than appropriate for <strong>the</strong> interview. As far as I know, however, this did not<br />
happen and everything went well. So, it appears all <strong>the</strong> nerves were for nothing.<br />
Throughout <strong>the</strong> interview we were asked questions replicating <strong>the</strong> style <strong>of</strong> a real interview, and under <strong>the</strong> pressure <strong>of</strong> this<br />
environment I think many <strong>of</strong> us found it hard to word our answers articulately (even if we had practised beforehand...).<br />
Overall however, everything worked out and we thank <strong>the</strong> Mendip Rotarians, PTA, Governors and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
friends <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> school for providing us with a very helpful, if not slightly,<br />
nerve-wracking experience.<br />
The ten best interviewees will receive a Headteacher’s<br />
Commendation, whilst<br />
<strong>the</strong> seven Highly Commended a certificate to be presented<br />
in <strong>the</strong> End <strong>of</strong> Spring Term Achievement Assembly.<br />
The winners for <strong>the</strong> best interview<br />
Natasha Adams 12CA<br />
Seth Cunningham 12BR<br />
Chris Day 12IS<br />
Emily Derrick 12RW<br />
Emily Ingle 12GR<br />
Chris Kent 12GC<br />
Sam Kent 12GC<br />
Kirsty McLaren 12CBE<br />
Lucy Midcalf 12CA<br />
Alice Wright 12CA<br />
Highly Commended<br />
Alfie Palmer 12GR<br />
Ashley Kelson 12TR<br />
Ben Fisher 12TR<br />
Thomas Wooton 12RW<br />
Sophie Luff 12RW<br />
Emily Kouidri 12IS<br />
Lauren Haines 12GR
Physics Matters Talk<br />
Scientific Experiments<br />
‘A’ Level Biology students Brinna Barlow and Amy Richards have achieved a<br />
Bronze Award in <strong>the</strong> National Biology Olympiad competition. Congratulations!<br />
This is a wonderful achievement as <strong>the</strong> questions are really difficult.<br />
Mehtab Arshad, Jamie FitzPatrick and Lucy Cornish also entered – so well done to <strong>the</strong>m too!<br />
By Miss S Jackson, Subject Leader for Biology<br />
Sixth Form Physicists took a virtual trip<br />
into <strong>the</strong> world <strong>of</strong> climate research when Post-doctoral Research Physicist Dr Paul Green from <strong>the</strong><br />
Space and Atmospheric Physics Department at Imperial College London visited school.<br />
With his expertise in <strong>the</strong> physics <strong>of</strong> climate Dr Green talked about his Undergraduate Degree at Manchester<br />
University, subsequent PhD at Imperial, followed by a description <strong>of</strong> current research work using <strong>the</strong> infrared<br />
<strong>the</strong>rmometer to better understand <strong>the</strong> role <strong>of</strong> clouds in <strong>the</strong> present and future climate <strong>of</strong> Earth.<br />
Dr Green shared how a Physics degree could lead to a career within Physics research, but also to o<strong>the</strong>r careers<br />
where skills in numeracy, problem-solving and an ability to understand complex <strong>the</strong>ories and ideas are sought by<br />
employers in many sectors. <strong>Students</strong> enjoyed asking many questions from <strong>the</strong> fate <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> climate - to PhDs.<br />
Learning Resource Centre by Mrs B Knutson, LRC Manager<br />
Opening times - Don’t forget, if you need a bit more time to finish <strong>of</strong>f your work, or print it out, or if you want<br />
to read <strong>the</strong> papers or a book... <strong>the</strong> LRC is open from 8.15am on Tuesday to Friday mornings.<br />
New Books - We have been updating our fiction stock this year, and regulars to <strong>the</strong> LRC will have seen a lot <strong>of</strong><br />
new books on display. If <strong>the</strong>re is anything you would like to read, but can’t find it, come and talk to <strong>the</strong><br />
Librarians. If we haven’t got it, we will usually order it, and <strong>make</strong> sure you get <strong>the</strong> first read.<br />
Student Librarians - If you want something to do at lunchtime, we are still looking for student librarians to<br />
work at lunchtimes for one session a week. If you want to know more, come and talk to <strong>the</strong> Librarians.<br />
Magazines - We acquired a new magazine display stand, and some new magazines, “Kingpin” – for those <strong>of</strong><br />
you who like skateboarding, and “BBC Knowledge” – a mixture <strong>of</strong> science, nature and history. If you would<br />
like to see something different than our current selection, come and tell us, and we will see what we can do.<br />
Box tops for books - We are still collecting tokens from <strong>the</strong> top <strong>of</strong> cereal packets. Thank you for bringing<br />
<strong>the</strong>m to <strong>the</strong> LRC, and ei<strong>the</strong>r give <strong>the</strong>m to <strong>the</strong> Librarians, or put <strong>the</strong>m in <strong>the</strong> box on <strong>the</strong> counter.<br />
Student Reading Group - The group have just finished reading “The Pig Scrolls” by Paul Shipton, “The<br />
Amulet <strong>of</strong> Samarkand” by Jonathan Stroud, and “Skulduggery Pleasant” Book 1 by Derek Landy.<br />
These books were put forward for <strong>the</strong> teenage section <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Somerset Fiction Award, and our students are<br />
now voting for <strong>the</strong>ir favourite. Voting has now finished - presentation ceremony to follow...<br />
Reading Lunchtimes - We have been holding reading lunchtimes on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, to encourage students to<br />
look at newly acquired books. Overall, we feel it has been a success, as more books have been taken out.<br />
Research shows that students who read one book a week, will do better in exams than those who don’t read...
Christian Leader Reflections<br />
I wonder whe<strong>the</strong>r you’ve already<br />
been on line to enter <strong>the</strong><br />
ballot for tickets for<br />
2012 Olympics?<br />
With three sons who are all members<br />
<strong>of</strong> our local swimming club, we’re keen<br />
to try to watch some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ‘watery’<br />
events. Apparently <strong>the</strong> Aquatics<br />
Centre will have room for 17,500 spectators. But even this<br />
large number is tiny in comparison to <strong>the</strong> 80,000 <strong>the</strong> main<br />
athletics stadium will seat.<br />
So what’s <strong>the</strong> biggest event you ever been to?<br />
A football match? Pop-concert? Glastonbury?<br />
Perhaps you’re planning to go up to London for <strong>the</strong> Royal<br />
Wedding. My husband and I went up to London in 1995<br />
to take part in <strong>the</strong> celebrations for <strong>the</strong> 50 th anniversary <strong>of</strong><br />
VE day. The streets <strong>of</strong> London were teeming and Hyde<br />
Park was a mass <strong>of</strong> people. Despite <strong>the</strong> numbers, <strong>the</strong> mood<br />
was very relaxed and everyone was caught up in <strong>the</strong><br />
feeling <strong>of</strong> shared celebration. But crowds aren’t always<br />
such warm, or safe, places. You probably remember <strong>the</strong><br />
disasters at Heysel Stadium in 1985 and at Hillsborough<br />
in 1989 in which many people lost <strong>the</strong>ir lives.<br />
More recently we’ve watched crowds shaping<br />
history in <strong>the</strong> wave <strong>of</strong> revolutions across <strong>the</strong><br />
Middle East and North Africa. Whilst in our own<br />
country, we’ve seen increasing levels <strong>of</strong> violence at<br />
demonstrations against tuition fees and spending cuts.<br />
Being part <strong>of</strong> a crowd can be intoxicating – making us<br />
behave in unpredictable ways.<br />
As <strong>the</strong> events <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> first Easter unfolded in Jerusalem two<br />
thousand years ago, <strong>the</strong> crowds played <strong>the</strong>ir part <strong>the</strong>re<br />
too. People welcomed Jesus into <strong>the</strong> city on Palm Sunday:<br />
singing, waving palm branches and throwing <strong>the</strong>ir cloaks<br />
on <strong>the</strong> road before him. Later that same day, <strong>the</strong> crowds<br />
would also have watched, probably in disbelief, as Jesus<br />
cleared <strong>the</strong> Temple <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> traders who sold sacrifices to<br />
pilgrims. And <strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong>re were <strong>the</strong> crowd who shouted<br />
‘Crucify him!’ to Pontius Pilate and called for Barabbas not<br />
Jesus to be released on Good Friday.<br />
Two millennia later, Jesus still provokes<br />
strong reactions from people. Just like <strong>the</strong><br />
crowds in Jerusalem <strong>the</strong>re are those that<br />
worship and those that scorn. And yet I wonder<br />
how we would greet Jesus today? What would that crowd<br />
look like here in Somerset in 2011? Would indifference be<br />
<strong>the</strong> overriding emotion? A feeling that <strong>the</strong>re are more<br />
important things to<br />
worry about?<br />
This Easter, how<br />
will we react to<br />
Jesus?<br />
As <strong>the</strong> supermarkets fill<br />
up with Easter eggs and<br />
we look forward to time<br />
with family and friends,<br />
will we carry on as<br />
usual, or will we join in<br />
<strong>the</strong> cry <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> crowds on Palm Sunday,<br />
‘Blessed is <strong>the</strong> King who comes in <strong>the</strong> name<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Lord’. I wish you and your families a very<br />
happy Easter. By Joanna Slade, Christian Leader<br />
Year 9 Springs<br />
into Charities<br />
This Spring Term Year 9 tutor groups have chosen a<br />
charity each to see who can raise <strong>the</strong> most money. 9DE<br />
and 9VQ are supporting <strong>the</strong> Dorset and Somerset Air<br />
Ambulance; 9TT a local cancer charity; 9MH <strong>the</strong> Light for<br />
Life charity; 9FP <strong>the</strong> RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat<br />
Society) and 9JPF will be fundraising for <strong>the</strong> Bristol<br />
Children's Hospital.<br />
Tutor groups 9SJW and 9SP have chosen two charities:<br />
9SJW will support Children with Leukaemia charity and<br />
Help for Heroes. The cancer <strong>the</strong>me continues as 9SBA<br />
have decided to fund cancer research and MDF Bipolar<br />
Organisation and 9DR are supporting Macmillan Cancer.<br />
Year 9 Leader Mrs Read said: “This is <strong>the</strong> first charities<br />
challenge that our Year 9 students have undertaken as a year<br />
group. I hope it will teach our young people to be good citizens<br />
and to think about helping o<strong>the</strong>rs, as well as bringing <strong>the</strong><br />
different tutor groups toge<strong>the</strong>r.”<br />
Fundraising efforts to date are impressive with a cake sale (see<br />
here some members <strong>of</strong> 9FP holding a cake sale to raise money for <strong>the</strong><br />
RNLI), sponsored runs around Cheddar reservoir, three-legged<br />
day and – <strong>the</strong> sometimes tricky - sponsored silences.<br />
By Alastair Campbell, The <strong>Kings</strong> and Queens News Team<br />
International Women's Day<br />
On Friday 4<br />
March 2011<br />
school<br />
representatives<br />
Katie Hay,<br />
Naomi Taylor,<br />
Katie Brock &<br />
Cora Marks<br />
attended a<br />
service held at<br />
Cheddar Baptist<br />
Church to<br />
celebrate <strong>the</strong><br />
special day.
Le French and Business Studies Trip à Paris<br />
Looking at <strong>the</strong> photos, I don’t think I need to elaborate on <strong>the</strong> beauty <strong>of</strong> Paris...<br />
Then, it was ano<strong>the</strong>r early morning,<br />
and <strong>of</strong>f to ano<strong>the</strong>r conference. We<br />
heard from a humorous<br />
representative from Innocent<br />
Smoothies, which had us all laughing<br />
out loud. Then <strong>the</strong> speakers <strong>of</strong><br />
banking, and Human Rights<br />
contributed. As <strong>the</strong> whole group were<br />
extremely tired from all <strong>the</strong> walking,<br />
sightseeing and learning- it was very<br />
hard to resist a little nap in <strong>the</strong> big comfy<br />
chairs at <strong>the</strong> back <strong>of</strong> a dim lighted room<br />
(zzzz...)<br />
We had to leave early to catch our boat<br />
trip. Sailing along <strong>the</strong> River Seine was one<br />
<strong>of</strong> my favourite moments. French music<br />
was played, giving a very au<strong>the</strong>ntic feel –<br />
ra<strong>the</strong>r like <strong>the</strong> gypsies who played at <strong>the</strong><br />
Metro.<br />
The trip began with a quick train journey<br />
under <strong>the</strong> sea, we arrived in France at five in<br />
<strong>the</strong> evening and <strong>the</strong>re was a quick turnaround.<br />
Before we knew it we were up <strong>the</strong> Eiffel<br />
Tower, capturing Paris in <strong>the</strong> night.<br />
The following morning, after filling up on pain<br />
au chocolat, we headed out on <strong>the</strong> busy Metro to<br />
<strong>the</strong> "Your Future in Europe 2011 Conference".<br />
Business Studies listened to <strong>the</strong> amazing story <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> youngest entrepreneur Louis Barnett, whilst<br />
<strong>the</strong> French students discovered from Laetitia<br />
Beneteau how Eurostar itself was born, entirely<br />
en français.<br />
Next, we headed out into <strong>the</strong> big city, walking<br />
for hours admiring <strong>the</strong> beautiful buildings. Mr<br />
Richardson led <strong>the</strong> way with his interesting<br />
facts. Our very own tour guide. This was when<br />
we experienced <strong>the</strong> true wealth <strong>of</strong> Paris: Louis<br />
Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Channel all filled to <strong>the</strong><br />
brim with shoppers. I can speak for <strong>the</strong> girls and<br />
say we were very jealous!<br />
That evening we had a traditional dish <strong>of</strong> „steak<br />
and chips‟... and we were joined by a very<br />
successful ex-<strong>Kings</strong> student Sabina Savage, who<br />
is living <strong>the</strong> life <strong>of</strong> fashion in <strong>the</strong> capital, with<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers even from Givenchy.
We all found it very amusing when one man was playing “Never gonna dance again” by George Michael!<br />
Before our evening meal we ventured to <strong>the</strong> outstanding Notre Dame. It looked magnificent in <strong>the</strong> dark. We<br />
were all aware it was our last night, so we had many group photos. I think all <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r students would agree<br />
that Mr Richardson‟s most popular line was “Group Photo!” We may have moaned at <strong>the</strong> time, but I know<br />
we‟re all thankful for <strong>the</strong> photos <strong>of</strong> times we can‟t forget.<br />
By <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> trip, no one wanted to come<br />
home. We had a real taste <strong>of</strong> French culture, guided<br />
to all <strong>the</strong> best parts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> busy city by Madame<br />
Davis and Mrs Wilson, with interesting facts along<br />
<strong>the</strong> way from Mr Richardson.<br />
I’m happy to say; I've been up <strong>the</strong> Eiffel Tower,<br />
I’ve witnessed <strong>the</strong><br />
view from Sacré<br />
Coeur, I’ve felt<br />
<strong>the</strong> atmosphere<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> eerie<br />
Notre Dame<br />
and I’ve<br />
walked under<br />
<strong>the</strong> historic Arc<br />
de Triomphe.<br />
By Amy Nicol, The <strong>Kings</strong> and Queens News Team<br />
“It was one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most memorable trips I have been on!<br />
I will treasure <strong>the</strong> memories for years...”<br />
Fellow trip member Nat Gall
<strong>Kings</strong> and Queens’ Sports Scores<br />
<strong>Kings</strong> Triumph for Hockey Cup! Report by Coach Mrs Roberts<br />
This half term, <strong>the</strong> Year 9 Girls Hockey Team added to <strong>the</strong> school‟s silverware when <strong>the</strong>y won <strong>the</strong> Somerset Cup<br />
in <strong>the</strong> final against Huish Episcopi Academy.<br />
The girls had played Huish in an earlier round, drawing 1-1 so knew it was going to be a challenging re-match. Which, it indeed, proved<br />
to be... The team never<strong>the</strong>less gave a determined and indomitable performance. With only eight minutes to go <strong>the</strong> score was 0-0. Play<br />
had gone from end to end and <strong>Kings</strong> had failed to capitalise on numerous chances in <strong>the</strong> first half. The conditions were poor and a<br />
defensive slip was a possibility from both teams. But, a late penalty corner quickly taken, saw <strong>Kings</strong>‟ Ashleigh Jones, slot <strong>the</strong> ball in <strong>the</strong><br />
goal paving <strong>the</strong> way for <strong>the</strong> final winning score for <strong>Kings</strong> 1-0.<br />
A delighted Mrs Roberts said: “Congratulations to our girls for a wonderful performance. I have been impressed by <strong>the</strong>ir determination<br />
and teamwork in all our matches and practices this season. This is a very worthy win.”<br />
Congratulations to <strong>the</strong><br />
winning team – pictured here now!<br />
Back row: Chelsea Llewellyn, Amy Rossiter,<br />
Grace Low, Amy Clegg, Josephine Hill,<br />
Rebecca Cox, Katie Prior, Sara Bradley, and<br />
Shannon Vickery. Front row: Sophie Deakins,<br />
Rachel Perry, Megan Kidner, Ashleigh Jones<br />
Vanessa Brill and Jade Skyrme<br />
Girls‟ Senior Netball:<br />
Congratulations to <strong>the</strong> first team who have<br />
played well in all <strong>the</strong>ir games.<br />
All our matches were very close, particularly<br />
against Wells Blue, Crispin and Chew Valley<br />
<strong>School</strong>s. A huge thank you to Hannah<br />
Puddy who has captained <strong>the</strong> team again this<br />
year...<br />
Most <strong>of</strong> you have represented <strong>the</strong> school for<br />
<strong>the</strong> last time... But I hope you will continue<br />
to get involved in Netball!
Girls‟ Year 9 Netball:<br />
Attendance to training has been excellent this<br />
year. We could easily put out two teams every<br />
week if schools could find teams to play us.<br />
Play has improved over <strong>the</strong> course <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> term<br />
and we were pleased to have won a game<br />
against St. Dunstan‟s – who we hardly ever beat<br />
at Netball!<br />
O<strong>the</strong>r results were very close – although<br />
unfortunately ended in defeat.<br />
Well done to all year 9‟s who have been involved<br />
(in <strong>the</strong> photo right). Mrs S Roberts<br />
Girls‟ Year 10 Netball:<br />
The Year 10 team have made real<br />
improvements this season thanks to <strong>the</strong>ir hard<br />
work and endeavour in <strong>the</strong> lunchtime practices.<br />
Without fail every Thursday lunchtime <strong>the</strong>y<br />
have worked hard on <strong>the</strong>ir court play and as a<br />
consequence played some good netball. The team had some good wins and some near misses, which was a real improvement on last<br />
year. Well done to all who played and to Daisy Goldsmith, our new recruit. Mrs T Tibbs<br />
Boys‟ Football: Year 11 Boys played Wells Blue, winning 9-2, with a hat-trick from Chris Spittle.<br />
The Year 10 continued <strong>the</strong> winning streak with a 3-0 triumph. Whilst, <strong>the</strong> Senior 1 st<br />
Team won 3-0 and <strong>the</strong> Senior 2 nd<br />
Team won 9-1,<br />
thanks to Adam Green who scored four goals. Well done to all our boys for <strong>the</strong>ir formidable performance! Mr S Osgood<br />
Boys‟ Rugby: Following <strong>the</strong>ir success last half term, <strong>the</strong> Year 9 Boys‟ Rugby team played a friendly against Winscombe U14<br />
Rugby Team and won a pleasing 41-5. The match was played in front <strong>of</strong> spectators and under floodlight at Winscombe RFC, which was<br />
a first time experience for all <strong>the</strong> boys. We are delighted to retain our winning reputation! Mr L Davies<br />
Sporting Heroes:<br />
On Saturday 19 March 2011 three students were selected to run for<br />
Somerset in <strong>the</strong> English <strong>School</strong>s Cross Country competition in<br />
Wollaton Park in Nottingham.<br />
The conditions were sunny, with a few challenging hills as Isaac<br />
Taschimowitz came 67 th<br />
out <strong>of</strong> 320 in <strong>the</strong> Intermediate Boys, whilst<br />
Emily Kouidri and Jess Benjamin ran in <strong>the</strong> Senior Girls, and came<br />
141 st<br />
and 154th out <strong>of</strong> 290<br />
runners.<br />
Here are Emily and Jess now<br />
(sadly, Isaac could not be in <strong>the</strong> photo)<br />
Dancers shake it up:<br />
Earlier in February, Dancers<br />
An action shot from <strong>the</strong> House Badminton tournament<br />
from <strong>Kings</strong>, Fairlands and Hugh<br />
Sexey Middle <strong>School</strong>s and Danzatak enjoyed <strong>the</strong> opportunity to join toge<strong>the</strong>r and put on a great<br />
show in our <strong>School</strong> Hall showing <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong>ir skills in front <strong>of</strong> a large audience <strong>of</strong> family, friends and<br />
locals. Following an afternoon <strong>of</strong> rehearsals, <strong>the</strong> dancers and group leaders put toge<strong>the</strong>r fantastic<br />
routines to foot-tapping tunes that got everyone involved. The hard work and excellent organisation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> staff and group leaders was apparent.<br />
Many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> routines were choreographed by <strong>the</strong> children <strong>the</strong>mselves during lessons or dance<br />
classes. The Middle <strong>School</strong>s were impressive, regaling <strong>the</strong> audience with <strong>the</strong>ir interpretations <strong>of</strong><br />
„Cotton Eyed Joe‟, „Men in Black‟ and many more. The <strong>Kings</strong> and Danzatak girls were well<br />
choreographed, and Lady Gaga‟s songs were a popular choice, with „Bad Romance‟ and<br />
„Telephone‟ performed by several <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> older girls.<br />
Some groups used costumes as part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir displays. The two „Thriller‟ groups had spectacularly<br />
spooky outfits – not least <strong>the</strong> girls with extreme hairstyles. Not easy to brush out <strong>the</strong> next morning.<br />
An evening <strong>of</strong> monsters, cowboys, lea<strong>the</strong>r jackets and leotards, this was not one for <strong>the</strong> dance<br />
fanatics to miss out on and much appreciation goes to <strong>the</strong> Middle <strong>School</strong>s P.E. teachers and<br />
especially to Mrs Williams, <strong>Kings</strong>‟ <strong>School</strong>s Sports Co-Ordinator who organised <strong>the</strong> show.<br />
The evening was a great success. I have a feeling <strong>the</strong> entire audience found <strong>the</strong> show exciting and<br />
entertaining and <strong>the</strong> dancing talents <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se young people allowed <strong>the</strong> audience and performers to enjoy <strong>the</strong>mselves toge<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
So let‟s all…keep dancing!<br />
By Lorna Mortimer, The <strong>Kings</strong> and Queens News Team
Chosen charity trio given a<br />
helping<br />
hand from<br />
<strong>Kings</strong>!<br />
This half term,<br />
Senior Student<br />
Team had <strong>the</strong><br />
pleasure <strong>of</strong><br />
presenting a<br />
massive £3122.93<br />
each to three<br />
different<br />
charities thanks<br />
to <strong>the</strong>ir fantastic<br />
fundraising<br />
efforts in <strong>the</strong><br />
annual 2010<br />
Charities<br />
Week.<br />
Over one<br />
week last<br />
December,<br />
<strong>Kings</strong><br />
students<br />
and staff raised<br />
over £9,000 by participating in a variety <strong>of</strong> outlandish<br />
events - from jelly wrestling to egg throwing to armpit waxing in aid <strong>of</strong> three deserving charities.<br />
This year <strong>the</strong> money is going to a local, national and international charity: bibic, which helps <strong>the</strong> families <strong>of</strong> children<br />
affected by autism, cerebral palsy and learning difficulties to cope in everyday situations; Help for Heroes, who provide<br />
support and facilities for troops injured in combat and Habitat for Humanity, which aims to provide better housing<br />
conditions for people all around <strong>the</strong> world.<br />
It was with a great sense <strong>of</strong> pride that <strong>the</strong> Senior Team presented <strong>the</strong> cheques to <strong>the</strong> charity representatives, Simone Joyce<br />
(bibic), Fiona Rainbird-Clarke (Help for Heroes) and Stefan McNally (Habitat for Humanity) and found out more about<br />
how <strong>the</strong> money will help <strong>the</strong>ir work.<br />
This was last year’s Senior Team’s final <strong>of</strong>ficial duty as <strong>the</strong>y shortly hand over to <strong>the</strong> newly elected Team for 2011.<br />
So, it’s three cheers to Head Boy James S<strong>of</strong>fe and Head Girl<br />
Carla Gordon, along with Deputy Head Boys Ollie Crandon,<br />
Tom Haggerty, Alex Hicks, Sam Jones and Freddie Mehlig,<br />
and Deputy Head Girls Brinna Barlow, Hannah Shaw, Anna<br />
Spanring,<br />
Nadine<br />
Williams<br />
and Abbey<br />
Woolway.<br />
Report by<br />
Freya<br />
Cumberlidge,<br />
The <strong>Kings</strong><br />
and Queens<br />
News Team
The <strong>Kings</strong>’ Calendar (Summer Half Term 2011)<br />
April 2011<br />
Return to <strong>School</strong> Tuesday 26 April 2011 (WEEK A)<br />
GCSE Art Exams Tuesday 26 April 2011 – Thursday 28 April 2011<br />
Year 10 Drama Trip to Guys and Dolls Tuesday 26 April 2011, departs 6pm from <strong>School</strong><br />
PTA Meeting Tuesday 26 April 2011 at 6:30pm, Conference Room<br />
Music/Drama Trip to “Hairspray” in Bristol Wednesday 27 April 2011, departs 6pm from <strong>School</strong><br />
Year 12 Biodiversity Day Thursday 28 April 2011<br />
Duke <strong>of</strong> Edinburgh Silver Expedition Friday 29 April 2011 – Sunday 1 April 2011 inclusive<br />
SCHOOL CLOSED FOR BANK HOLIDAY - Friday 29 April 2011<br />
May 2011<br />
SCHOOL CLOSED FOR BANK HOLIDAY - Monday 2 May 2011<br />
Important – on Tuesday 3 May 2011 students will use <strong>the</strong>ir MONDAY WEEK B timetable for <strong>the</strong> day<br />
(but <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> week i.e. Wednesday 4 to Friday 6 will be normal timetable).<br />
GCSE Art Exams Tuesday 3 May 2011 – Friday 6 May 2011<br />
Year 12 Biodiversity Day Wednesday 4 May 2011<br />
Year 9 Battlefields History Trip Information Evening Wednesday 4 May 2011 at 7pm, Learning Resource Centre<br />
Senior House S<strong>of</strong>tball and Rounders Thursday 5 May and Friday 6 May 2011<br />
Years 11 and 12 Drama Group Pieces Evenings Tuesday 10 May 2011 – Thursday 12 May 2011<br />
GCSE English and „A‟ Level Biology Exams Monday 16 May 2011, A.M.<br />
GCSE French and „A‟ Level Business Studies Exams Monday 16 May 2011, P.M.<br />
GCSE Music and „A‟ Level History Exams Tuesday 17 May 2011, A.M.<br />
GCSE Religious Education and „A‟ Level Geography and<br />
Media Studies Exams<br />
Tuesday 17 May 2011, P.M.<br />
Year 8 New Parents‟ Information Evening Wednesday 18 May 2011 at 6pm, <strong>School</strong> Hall<br />
„A‟ Level Maths and Sociology Exams Wednesday 18 May 2011, A.M.<br />
GCSE English and „A‟ Level Food Technology and Product Wednesday 18 May 2011, P.M.<br />
Design Exams<br />
GCSE French (Reading) and „A‟ Level History Exams Thursday 19 May 2011, A.M.<br />
GCSE Biology Exam Thursday 19 May 2011, P.M.<br />
Year 10 Key Skills Conference Day Thursday 19 May 2011<br />
„A‟ Level Law and P.E. Exams Friday 20 May 2011, A.M.<br />
„A‟ Level Maths and Sociology Exams Friday 20 May 2011, P.M.<br />
<strong>Wessex</strong> Walk (information from Dr Ellis) Sunday 22 May 2011 – all day<br />
Year 9 Battlefields History Trip Monday 23 May – Wednesday 25 May 2011 inclusive<br />
„A‟ Level English Literature Exam Monday 23 May 2011, A.M.<br />
„A‟ Level Music and Chemistry for Life Exams Monday 23 May 2011, P.M.<br />
Junior House Tennis Tuesday 24 May and Wednesday 25 May 2011<br />
GCSE English Literature, „A‟ Level Business Studies and<br />
Physics Exams<br />
Tuesday 24 May 2011, A.M.<br />
GCSE P.E., „A‟ Level German and Geography Exams Tuesday 24 May 2011, P.M.<br />
GCSE Additional Applied Science and Chemistry Exams, Wednesday 25 May 2011, A.M.<br />
and „A‟ Level Psychology Exams<br />
„A‟ Level Law Exam Wednesday 25 May 2011, P.M.<br />
„A‟ Level Religious Studies and Maths (S1, D1) Exams Thursday 26 May 2011, A.M.<br />
„A‟ Level Biology Exam Thursday 26 May 2011, P.M.<br />
GCSE Physics and „A‟ Level Computing, and „A‟ Level<br />
Critical Thinking Exams<br />
Friday 27 May 2011, A.M.<br />
GCSE Business Studies and Religious Studies Exams<br />
„A‟ Level Chemistry Exam<br />
Friday 27 May 2011, P.M.<br />
Year 9 Alton Towers Trip Saturday 28 May 2011<br />
HALF TERM HOLIDAY - Saturday 28 May to Sunday 5 June 2011 inclusive<br />
The <strong>Kings</strong>’ Messenger is due to be published on <strong>the</strong> following dates:<br />
Friday 27 May 2011 Friday 22 July 2011<br />
Absence Phone: thank you for phoning Mrs Townsend, our Attendance Secretary before 10.00am on <strong>the</strong> first and every day <strong>of</strong> your<br />
child’s absence with <strong>the</strong>ir name and tutor group. You can phone on 01934 745304 (this telephone number is always available, with an ansaphone<br />
for out <strong>of</strong> school hours), or alternatively email absence@kowessex.co.uk. We also monitor closely Sixth Form students’ attendance.<br />
Year Leaders: Please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Year Leader to arrange an appointment in advance if you have any<br />
concerns or wish to discuss <strong>the</strong>ir progress.<br />
Year 9: Mrs E Read Year 10: Mr T Clark Year 11: Mr A Targett Sixth Form: Mr S Green
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