Grammar TAKING School Newsletter

Issue 75 STOCK Spring/Summer 2020 SCHOOL LIFE SCHOOL LIFE

ENGLISH SKILLS SCHOOL LIFE MASTERCLASS Professional writer and speaker Paul Morris delivered an engaging Daniel Leech was dismissed in 1669, English Skills Workshop for some HEADMASTER’S after less than a year, for incompetence. of our Third Years. Equally, before I get too settled, it is Pupils were introduced to a MESSAGE worth noting that Rev Joseph Dale, who question type that features on became Headmaster in 1703, died in In difficult and unprecedented times, the IGCSE Edexcel English office in 1752 having led the school for a it often helps to take the long view. Language syllabus. mere forty-nine years. His successor, the Stockport Grammar School has been Rev William Jackson, managed a lesser, The output, which the group write in uninterrupted existence since it was though still undeniably impressive tenure using an image or statement as founded in 1487 through the will of of forty years. Whilst I very much enjoy the stimulus, will be entered into Edmund Shaa. SGS has survived wars, UNIVERSITY leading SGS, I will be a centenarian if I the Portico Sadie Massey Awards revolutions and economic upheavals stay as long as Rev Dale. competition. PREPARATIONS of all sorts and continues to flourish. The workshop is funded by I am completing my second year as After being founded in a church in the As the Upper Sixth celebrated receiving As a school community, we will always The Portico Library in Manchester. Headmaster of Stockport Grammar centre of Stockport, the school moved offers from prestigious institutions be forward looking, but it is sometimes School and I have already outlasted to Chestergate in 1607 and then to across the country, it was time for the wise to look backwards and celebrate fifteen of my predecessors who were Greek Street in 1832. The new school Lower Sixth to start their process of the heritage and values of the school, overtaken by a range of maladies, rooms allowed the Headmaster, application. Not to be thwarted by the sustained for more than 500 years. financial woes and political difficulties, Thomas Middleton, to teach 150 pupils national school closure, Head of Sixth Stockport Grammar School has always often fatal. Francis Lowe, Headmaster from 8am until 5pm with a two-hour Form Mr David Stone devised a virtual tried to educate the whole person from 1586 until 1587, died of the lunch break. The Head was assisted Higher Education Conference with a and prepare them for the rest of their plague. John Pollett, who became by an usher; the first usher William series of video presentations prepared lives. This is reflected in our three core Headmaster at the tender age of Bayles was described as ‘impatient when by SGS staff and a Google Meet for priorities: academic ambition; beyond nineteen in 1628, left Stockport a few overwrought’, a description that could each student with their UCAS Adviser. the classroom; care, community and months later leaving behind an alarming probably be applied to many people Further video presentations, including character. The pages of this magazine number of personal debts. Bradley when teaching a class of 150 for thirty advice from SGS alumni and university give numerous examples of these Hayhurst was an enthusiastic supporter five hours per week. representatives will follow as the Lower priorities in action, priorities that I hope of the Parliamentary cause and had to Sixth continue their application process. The school moved to its current site my predecessors as Headmaster would all PERFECT PRESENTATIONS BY PUBLIC step down in 1644 at the height of the in 1915 and continues to flourish; recognise if they were here today. Civil War when the Royalists captured SPEAKING TEAMS the ISI inspection earlier this academic Stockport. Dr Paul Owen Two teams spoke brilliantly at the Evelina Gwynne, Joseph Eaton and year gave SGS the highest possible Headmaster regional heats of the national ‘English Kate Horsley presented an amusing rating of ‘Excellent’. Speaking Union Churchill Public and engaging take on the need to Speaking’ competition. mask disgust in social situations.

The Third Year team of Grace Ensor- The pupils were superb throughout the PLAY CAPTIVATES AUDIENCES Adams, Alex Bloor and Scarlett Sim event and the teachers commented fluently and convincingly presented that it was a pleasure to see their Audiences enjoyed four amazing Wilson were in charge of lighting and their argument that human rights speaking and thinking skills develop performances of ‘Bethides’, a new sound; Ella Cook and Mrs Zoe Vernon are illusory. The Fourth Year team of significantly over the last few weeks. version of William Shakespeare’s created the costumes; Caroline Jenks ‘Macbeth’ created by the Classics, and Mrs Helen Lawson looked after the English and Drama departments. make-up and the set was designed by Mr Dan Farrell. ‘Bethides’, the school’s fourteenth AN EVENING OF MUSICAL DELIGHT Classics Play, takes the dramatic intent Directors for the play were Mrs Esther Pupils from First Year to Sixth Form Another indication that Chamber Music The Guitar Group gave their first of Shakespeare’s play and incorporates Suttle and Mr Alastair Thorley and earned rapturous applause from their continues to thrive at SGS is the addition performance of the year with a rendition the power of the original into the they also adapted the script alongside Spring Term concert audience with of Cello Choir – a group of six cellos of ‘There She Goes’ by The La’s. performances that were full of joy ranging from First Year to Lower Sixth established structure of a Greek tragedy. student Zoe Shah. Now in their second year, The and talent. – and they made a fantastic sound The play saw Nikolai Krywonos take on Mr Thorley said: “Bethides was the Mayhemiolas comprising of Caitlin Cutts, performing arrangements of the the role of Bethides; Katie Collier was successful culmination of the efforts Junior Band opened the show with Sarah Callow and Zoe Shah continue to ‘First Movement of Bach’s 3rd Lady Bethides; Oliver Ensor-Adams of many staff and pupils. Dramatic ‘Dr Rock’. Whilst the newly formed perform in a range of styles. Brandenburg Concerto’. barbershop trio The Be Sharps – was Duncan; Banquo was played by costumes were created for the The evening was brought to a close Rowan Sutton and Callum Barton was Chorus in particular and the cast consisting of Nikolai Krywonos, Teddy This concert provided the ideal by Big Band, who were on fine the Messenger. were provided with a memorable Hotchkies and Matthew Howling opportunity for some of SGS’s younger form performing stylish versions of set and atmospheric lighting. performed ‘Baby on Board’ and a groups to perform and the newly Behind the scenes, students Chloe Dixieland favourite ‘Ain’t She Sweet’ fantastic arrangement of Beatles classics. combined Vox II performed popular Almond, Evelina Gwynne, Sophie Pickup, “All of this served to inspire and ‘Cool’ from West Side Story classics including ‘What About Us’. Eloise Scott, Oliver Thorley and Ben committed and engaged which showed off their rhythmic performances every night.” playing superbly.

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SCHOOL LIFE SCHOOL LIFE URBAN DESIGN WINS NATIONAL EXCITING THIRD YEARS THRILLED BY YOUNG PLANNER AWARD ENTERPRISE AUTHOR VISIT Fourth Year Bella Platt scooped up Speaking about her success, Bella said: Upcycled, SGS’s Young Enterprise team, Third Year imaginations were the Young Planner Award at the Royal “I was ecstatic when I found out had the opportunity to present their captured as they listened Institute of Town Planning’s Awards for that I had won. For the competition business idea to a panel of business intently to author M A Bennett Planning Excellence. I wrote an essay and drew up people at Price Waterhouse Coopers. some blueprints and sketches who delivered an engaging talk Bella won both the ‘Best Report/Concept’ so it covered a number of subjects. They impressed the judges with their in the Hallam Hall. and ‘Most Sustainable Project’ awards upcycled business which produces During her talk she announced for the 11-15 category of the nationwide “I created a project that I would decorative items made from disposed that her book S.T.A.G.S has competition. want to live in myself and was of CDs and DVDs in order to reduce keen to make it as eco-friendly been picked up by 21st Century The awards recognise best practice e-waste within the community. and sustainable as I could.” Fox to be adapted for the screen by highlighting exceptional examples Most recently, the team progressed and that The Hunger Games of planning and celebrating the Dr K Owen added: through to the Stockport and Tameside screenwriter Peter Craig was contribution that planners and planning “Bella produced a fantastic Showcase Event and on to the Greater on board. make to society. report for the competition. Manchester County Final for the fifth It outlined a forward- The Manchester-born novelist, The competition tasked entrants to plan year in a row. thinking sustainable whose books include The Island, the future sustainable development of concept that addressed The team’s world map CD mosaics engrossed the audience as she a local urban area and Bella based her issues such as community certainly won over the judges and, in talked about her school and project on an area of Salford. cohesion, sustainable doing so, the team also picked up the university life, her career to date Bella, who started the process of transport and food award for best customer service. and her books. planning and application in October, production.” PUPILS DELIVERwas coached PETITION by GeographyTO DOWNING teacher STREET The talk was the first author Dr Kirsten Owen. visit of 2020 and a host of eager pupils descended on the Library at lunchtime to ask her further PETITION DELIVERED questions about her stories and TO NO. 10 inspiration and to get signed and custom-stamped books. Eighteen Eco-Committee members from Stockport Grammar’s Junior and Senior School travelled to 10 Pupil Jack Purves said: “I was Downing Street to hand over a petition focused on reducing interested to see how her INSPIRATIONAL carbon emissions. The pupils have now had a formal letter life affected what she wrote. SHAA LECTURE from the government to acknowledge the petition. For example, in S.T.A.G.S Alan Tomlinson, father of Old she looks at the different The petition has amassed over 800 signatures and urges Stopfordians Mark and Naomi Tomlinson, classes of people and how the government to adopt emission reducing ideas including came into SGS to talk to the Sixth Form the environment they are in more tree planting. about the Hero Project by the Anthony can make people equal.” Nolan Trust which operates as the UK’s Whilst the pupils were in the capital they spent the day principle blood stem cell and bone exploring a variety of sustainability themed attractions marrow donation register. WORLD including the Royal Academy of Arts to see the Eco- Visionaries exhibition and the London Aquarium where BOOK DAY they could read more about the conservation and SGS had a packed schedule for World protection of marine wildlife. Book Day, including the Big Book Swap Speaking about the trip, Lower Sixth student Rabeeah- and Cake Sale, hosted by the Library, which Nuur Mohammed said: “Visiting the Eco-Visionaries raised £224 for the school’s designated charities exhibition at the Royal Academy was an eye-opening BURSARY FUND and Book Aid International. experience that very effectively showcased the APPEAL During the day, pupils took part in a ‘Title Quest’ consequences and imminent dangers of the The Bursary Fund provides means-tested competition to list as many books as possible that climate crisis. assistance to children joining SGS at age were being championed by staff members wearing a “My highlight was being able to hand in our petition 11 and for Sixth Form. The coronavirus tag on their lanyard. This prompted lots of mini book to 10 Downing Street, an opportunity I will always pandemic has also caused financial chats and helped pupils find out about good books. be grateful for and cherish for the rest of my life.” challenges for a number of families with Second Year Edward Griffiths was the winner children at the school. If you would like Junior School teacher Miss Sarah Knowles added: of the competition with the longest list and many to make a donation to the fund to help “The passion and enthusiasm of the children of the championed books are now on display families who need assistance with fees, was evident and it brought children from all ages in the Library so that pupils can follow please contact Mrs Rachel Horsford at together, exposing them to many ideas which we up on those recommendations externalrelations@stockportgrammar. will continue to discuss over the next few months and get reading. co.uk or visit stockportgrammar.co.uk/ – providing a focus for the school to help towards alumni/support-us/. We are very grateful gaining our Eco-Schools Green Flag Award.” for all support for the Fund.

4 www.stockportgrammar.co.uk Follow us on twitter @stockportgs 5 SCHOOL LIFE SCHOOL LIFE JAPANESE ADVENTURE FOLLOWS ARTS TRAVEL AWARD WIN Lower Sixth student Ben Finlay-McDougall is in for the experience of a lifetime when he heads to Japan after winning this year’s Albert Johnston Travel Award. CHAMBER There were seven strong applications for the Award this CHOIR year but Ben thoroughly impressed the judging panel, and picked up the £1,500 prize, with his detailed and PERFORM engaging presentation entitled ‘Japan – to understand AT OXFORD the cultural differences throughout Japan through the UNIVERSITY EXCITEMENT AS use of theme parks, immersive attractions, culture and food’. Members of SGS’s Chamber Choir WORKS PROGRESS enjoyed a wonderful trip to the Ben is planning on studying Mechanical Engineering where they SGS is committed to creating and at university and would like to enter the theme park sang Evensong with the University developing the perfect environment for industry as a Rollercoaster Engineer or a Themed our pupils to enjoy learning. College Chapel Choir and discovered Attractions Engineer. more about university pathways. The construction of new Sixth Form During his travels, Ben will take advantage The musicians were fascinated by facilities is well underway and pupils of the numerous opportunities to connect a tour of University College led by were excitedly watching as the works with the country’s unique traditional a number of students, including progressed throughout the term. culture and he will be learning as Old Stopfordian Elsa Shah who is much of the language as he can in the currently an organ scholar at the upcoming months so that he can be university. prepared for the cultural differences. It was followed by a Question and Ben commented: Answer session with University DAZZLING CHICAGO “Japan is a country of College’s Director of Music Mr Giles The talents and hard work of our actors, Their talents were matched by the biodiversity, value and Underwood and a Senior Tutor musicians, dancers and stage technicians musicians in the orchestra who, along respect.” Ben has been about future musical and non- came together beautifully at the dress with the pupils on stage, received a completing voluntary work musical pathways and opportunities in higher education. rehearsal and pupil performances of standing ovation. A dedicated team at Cancer Research and The Chicago. Sadly, the main performances of pupils and staff brought together Wellspring. He says this has The day concluded with the could not go ahead because of the lighting, make-up, props and all the taught him the importance of performance of Evensong under national COVID-19 restrictions but other back stage essentials to create a valuing what he already has and the direction of Mr Underwood and all those who were fortunate enough perfect theatrical experience. of having people around him. expertly accompanied on the organ to see the production were amazed by Elsa Shah. Directed by Head of Drama Mr Matt by the exceptional standard of the SGS Director of Music Mr Michael King-Sayce, and with musical direction The development will create a large, performances. Dow said: “It was a fantastic from Director of Music Mr Michael Dow modern and well-equipped social space PHENOMENAL FUNDRAISING EFFORTS experience; the pupils sang Holly Buckley as Roxie Hart, Grace and choreography by Dance teacher Mrs with a stunning glass roof for Lower and superbly in the Evensong Shropshire as Velma Kelly, Cam Wylie Abi Downing, Chicago was a true Drama, Upper Sixth Form students – further SGS pupils have raised £4,244 for Other charity events hosted this service and they were a great as Billy Flynn and Gabriel Keeble as Music, Dance collaboration which took promoting the sense of community that the school’s three chosen charities year Included the Santa Dash raising £200 credit to the school throughout Amos led a cast that truly dazzled as months of dedication to prepare. underpins the success of SGS. – The Christie, The Wellspring Trust and non-uniform day which raised £1,515. the day.” they sang, danced and acted their way and Educaid through a number of through such classic numbers as “All Existing facilities will also be developed The national school closure interrupted events this year. That Jazz”, “Cell Block Tango”, “Mister to provide enhanced study spaces for the plans of the Sixth Formers who Cellophane” and “Razzle Dazzle”. the students and contribute to SGS’s The annual Nicholson House Jumping serve as Charity Captains but everyone excellent academic record. Jacks Valentine’s lunch was a hit involved can be very proud of this year’s ARTIST SCOOPS again, raising £187. amazing fundraising. UP AWARD Performances by SGS musicians A massive congratulations to Upper created a lovely ambience for the Sixth student Hannah Franklin pupils who enjoyed tucking into a who won the U18 category at this tasty meal whilst their drinks were year’s Living Edge Magazine Schools’ kept topped up by members of Art Competition. Nicholson acting as waiters. The standard of the competition was very high and SGS is thrilled with Hannah’s tremendous achievement.

Well done to Fifth Year pupil Lois McCarthy whose beautiful artwork was shortlisted in the U16 category.

6 www.stockportgrammar.co.uk Follow us on twitter @stockportgs 7 SPORT SPORT FANTASTIC SPORT IMPRESSIVE NATIONAL CUP RUN RUGBY TOUR Thirty U12 rugby players headed to the The Under 15 rugby squad put Midlands on a mini-tour. in a host of impressive cup performances as they reached the On the Friday, they played a triangular FOOTBALLERS Quarter Finals of the National Cup. fixture against Bishop Vesey’s Grammar REACH QUARTER Their cup run started back in School and Solihull School before October when they defeated heading down to Warwick, their base for FINAL Lymm High School 72-0 in the the night. Last 32 of the Area Knockout. Congratulations to the Under 13 For match reports and a list On Saturday, the boys played against girls’ football team on a closely A gritty and dedicated of fixtures and results for a two very strong Warwick School sides performance saw the boys earn fought match in the Quarter Final range of SGS sports, visit our before heading to the Ricoh Arena to a 26-15 victory against Queen of the Sisters n Sport National Plate dedicated sports website. watch Wasps against Edinburgh Rugby in Competition. Elizabeth Grammar School and the European Rugby Champions Cup. secure their place in the National sport.stockportgrammar.co.uk/ In the Quarter Finals they hosted Cup Quarter Finals. It was a fantastic trip and a great way Easington Academy. An entertaining for the U12s to end their first rugby A closely fought game saw Stowe match saw the game finish 4-4 and season at SGS. The boys fully embraced School come away with a 21-14 extra time was required to separate the core values of rugby - teamwork, victory but the squad can take the sides. respect, enjoyment, discipline and great heart from the fact their sportsmanship. The away team then edged it to win cup run meant that they were one with the narrowest of margins. of the best eight schools in the country at this age group. SKILLFUL PLAY TENNIS PLAYER FOR PLATE SERVES UP SUCCESS The Under 15 Hockey players can Fourth Year tennis player Oliver Hague be rightly pleased with their efforts NATIONAL HOCKEY came back with an extra bit of baggage after they reached the Quarter from an international U16 tournament Finals of the National Plate. SELECTION in Stravanger, Norway after he won the A brace from Libby Porter and Congratulations to Fifth Year Emily doubles competition. strikes from Amy Jack and Talia Edwards who has been selected for On the way to securing the title, Oliver Zelhof saw them earn a 4-1 victory the Hockey Wales U16 team. and his partner Freddy Blaydes defeated over Moreton Hall in Round One. The midfielder, who plays for the second, third and fourth seeds. At In the Quarter Final they faced an SGS and for Bramhall Hockey the tournament, Oliver also competed in away tie against Wakefield Girls’ Club, attended a training RUNNING the singles event. High School and home advantage camp in Cardiff. FOR GOLD He now looks ahead to the Grade One proved decisive as the hosts secured National Final at the National Tennis a 3-1 win despite Holly Smith’s goal. First and Second Year pupils took part Centre in London where the best U14 in House Cross Country. boys in the UK will be competing. In First Year, Arden were first; Vernon second; Nicholson third; and Warren fourth. Medal winners for the NETBALLERS IN THE NATIONALS boys were Hugo Cooke (1st); Oisin The Under 14 Netball team secured but the girls showed great determination Atkinson (2nd); and Finn Haisley third place at the prestigious National and grit to earn an impressive bronze IRELAND (3rd) and for the girls it was Caitlin Schools Finals which took place at the medal after seeing off Guildford High TOUR FOR KEEN Hill (1st); Maisie Keyes (2nd); and start of March. School 14-8 in the Third/Fourth playoff. FOOTBALLER Florence Hughes (3rd). After drawing their first couple of games, The team also finished with the best Fourth Year football player Harry Lynn In the Second Year competition, the girls went on a fantastic winning defensive record out of all the had a great time playing for Stockport Nicholson finished top; Warren came streak across the next six games with schools in the entire competition. SFA U15s on their tour of Ireland. second; Arden were third and Vernon victories including Wellingborough School ended up fourth. Medal winners for SGS’s Head of Girls’ Games, The trip saw the team play three (13-3) and Taunton School (14-4). the boys were Ben Lavender (1st); Mrs Laura Goddard said: matches. Harry ended the tour on a high Josh Roberts (2nd); and Tom Farrelly These results saw them reach the “It was a fantastic experience for after bagging the winner with a left- (3rd) and for the girls it was Lucy Semi Finals where they faced Putney the players and a school sporting footed 68th minute shot that earned Vine (1st); Emily Carolan (2nd); and High School. The opposition were memory they will never forget.” them a 1-0 victory against Dublin Tamsin Emery (3rd). unfortunately too strong on the day City Team.

8 www.stockportgrammar.co.uk Follow us on twitter @stockportgs 9 REMOTE LEARNING REMOTE LEARNING

INGENIOUS EQUIPMENT REMOTE LEARNING RISING TO THE PROJECTS HELPING THE DONATIONS CHALLENGE Reception made a great start to COMMUNITY SGS were made aware of calls Following government guidelines, the as a family and that we really do their new topic on animals. The for extra PPE donations for the children made fantastic animal Stockport NHS Foundation Trust. school closed to most pupils from the appreciate all the efforts that you Whilst staff worked hard to continue Junior School pupils have been spotting hideouts, pet shops and To support this, SGS’s Science end of the day on Friday 20th March. and all your wonderful staff are to develop the minds of our pupils delighted to receive regular video junk model animals. departments donated science Extensive use has been made of making.” (Parent) with virtual learning, the whole SGS messages from Headmaster Mr Tim equipment. electronic resources, with staff keeping Year One pupils enjoyed learning community also joined together to A small number of pupils whose parents Wheeler who had some help from in regular contact with pupils to support about buoyancy with a task to support the wider Stockport community. Following on from this, the school are key workers have been cared for Moose and his endearing puppet them pastorally and academically. design and make a pirate ship also put together donations of more in school. At the time of writing, our friends. With regular support and which would float. Edith’s mum science equipment to give to a local "I have to say that I'm really Junior School pupils in Pre-Reception, encouragement, children from across said: “Edith loved making her care home. blown away with the level of work, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 and our the Junior School have risen to the boat, complete with pirate, support and care you are providing, Senior School Fourth Year and Lower challenge of home learning. Meanwhile, Design Technology canon and gangplank and made THANK YOU it is amazing! I just wanted to let Sixth have just returned to school. worked hard to produce face shields an excellent prediction about you know how grateful we are TO OUR NHS for NHS workers. why it might float.” Former SGS swimming teacher, Kristy Story time with Mrs Sullivan has Franklin took boxes of donations to INSPIRATION been a regular treat for Year Three Stepping Hill Hospital. who have enjoyed watching and Now a midwife, Kristy was appreciative of the toiletries donated by staff, pupils and AND LEARNING listening to her read entertaining parents for NHS staff. stories such as Dick King-Smith’s Junior School children were busy making posters to thank the NHS and all those Across the school, innovative ways have ‘The Hodgeheg’ and ‘The Diary of a who care for us. been found to deliver online teaching Killer Cat’ by Anne Fine. and provide pastoral support. Our Some of the images appeared on display in the Emergency Department at teachers have used a range of platforms Macclesfield District General Hospital. including Google Meets, Google Parent Mrs Joanna Raynes works there and has said that the posters – which include Classroom, Satchel One, the Pupil Portal, ones from Year Three pupil Ellie R and Year Five pupil Sophia M – have received lots email and Classlist. SCIENCE of lovely comments from patients and staff and brighten up the department. INVESTIGATIONS In the Senior School, pupils have VIRTUAL POETRY enjoyed regular video assemblies from Year Three pupils helped Miss Pupils have joined their teachers on the Headmaster Dr Paul Owen. The Sixth Knowles to set up an investigation Google Classroom as they continue Form team have continued to support to find out about the function their reading, writing, mathematics university preparations with a series of of leaves, with plants being and wider learning. TASTY video presentations to guide students monitored over a series of weeks. through the process. Year Four used their daily outings As part of Year Six’s English Lessons, BAKING stunning version of Bellin’s ‘Vaga Luna, to carry out litter walks, choosing staff set up “Poets’ Corner”. Pupils As part of their Food and Nutrition Departments have also created a variety Che Inargenti’ by Fourth Year Ella Moran, categories and designing a tally were encouraged to join, so that lessons, Second Year pupils of videos to support remote learning. accompanied by Director of Music Mr chart to record their results. they can share and respond to made some carrot cakes for their Pupils can now watch a wide range of Michael Dow; while five percussionists each other’s poems and attend practical work. science experiments featuring SGS staff: came together to play ‘In The Box’, a Poetry Meets. from Fractional Distillation with Dr Annie new piece composed by SGS Percussion It was wonderful to see that Glarvey to Projectiles Demonstrations teacher Mr Mark Landon. KEEPING ACTIVE The virtual club has inspired some the baking by Charlotte with Miss Ruth Moore. The Physics amazing creativity including Viola P’s Carson was enjoyed by Meanwhile, First Year pupils joined AND WELL department alone has videoed nearly atmospheric poem ‘The Boy’ about a NHS staff. Mr Ollie Johnson on a virtual ‘trip’ to The Sports department devised a 40 experiments. werewolf. CHALLENGES The British Library in London as they variety of sporting challenges and Videos in the Design Technology explored ‘The Treasures Room’ and activities for all. FOR CHARITY department include an introduction the ‘Harry Potter: A History of Magic In the Junior School, Pupils took part in an exciting to the piercing saw. Head of Food Exhibition’ together using Google Headmaster Tim Wheeler ran challenge that involved an SGS KEEPING CREATIVE and Nutrition Miss Sarah Hodkinson Meet and the Google Arts and Culture the London Marathon... in ‘race’ to the Tokyo Olympics 2021 has demonstrated a range of recipes platform. Junior School Headmaster Mr Tim his own back garden to raise and a UK Inter-School Competition. including Macaroni Cheese, teaching Wheeler asked pupils to send in their money for The Little Princess Second Year pupils how to make the dish Pupils, staff and parents covered ‘Share A Smile’ pictures and the Trust. and about the process of gelatinisation. over 18,000 miles in the challenge. creativity of pupils was inspiring. Six SGS families raised money (Correct at time of publication) The school’s musicians have been Beth H in Reception created a for the Emmeline’s Pantry with taking part in not only virtual rehearsals SGS is grateful for the support colourful drawing of herself with a their ‘Tour De Lockdown’ which but also performances, which can of the alumni who sent in smile whilst Year Three pupil Zoe L saw them run, walk and cycle be enjoyed by following SGS Twitter, challenge videos that were made designed a smiley face in front of a a combined 3,500km. Instagram or Facebook. available for the whole school rainbow – tying into the NHS rainbow The performances have included a community to enjoy via email and initiative that youngsters took part in SGS social media. around the country.

10 www.stockportgrammar.co.uk 11 JUNIOR SCHOOL JUNIOR SCHOOL

JUNIOR SCHOOL

INTRIGUING SCIENCE PUPILS TACKLE INVESTIGATIONS INTERNET Year Five pupils learnt about air resistance by making parachutes, with SAFETY different sized chutes, out of bin bags To mark Safer Internet Day, Junior and string. School children took part in a They tested the parachutes by dropping number of activities. them from a height to the ground and The older pupils attended an timed how long it took. They did this INTERNATIONAL assembly where the topic was three times for each parachute to find an WOMEN’S DAY ‘Together For A Better Internet’ - average time. A group of Year Six pupils held an this year’s global Safer Internet Day After assessing their results, they assembly where they delivered a theme - whilst the Infant pupils’ discovered that the parachute with the presentation highlighting a number assembly looked at keeping personal largest chute was the slowest because it of inspirational women. information safe. created more air resistance. The girls compiled some independent research after reading Frances Hardinge’s award winning book ‘The Lie Tree’ which highlights misogynistic attitudes. They turned their thorough research into a display that is on show in the reception area.

The group of inspirational MAGICAL MUSICAL PERFORMANCES women included Rosa Parks, Ada Lovelace, Marie Curie, Fadumo Q Year Three and Four pupils enjoyed performing their class ensemble pieces. Dayib, Mamie Phipps Clark, Ellie Year Three delivered sensitive and accurate performances on a whole Simmonds and Onjali Rauf, who variety of instruments including ukuleles, cellos, violins, keyboards and recently visited the school. drums to mention but a few. Their work inspired Year Four pupil Year Four rose to the challenge of tackling some of the fastest pieces in Freddie L so much that he read up their classical repertoire, including the ‘William Tell Overture’ and the ‘Can about spy Virginia Hall and joined Can’. A wide range of solos were performed at all musical levels by pupils them at the front of the assembly. During the day, Reception listened who are taking instrumental lessons. to ‘Buddy The Dog’s Internet Safety Well done to everyone who took part. Story’ and learnt a song to help them remember how to use the internet safely. Year One listened to a story about ‘Smartie The Penguin’ SPECTACULAR keeping safe on the internet and Year Two made a ‘Safety On The SUPERHEROES Internet’ jigsaw. Reception pupils unleashed their inner superhero as they donned capes Year Four used an interactive to enjoy a WOW day. learning package to gain knowledge of staying safe, successfully Throughout the day, they took part in completed tasks relating to e-mail, a number of activities, including a and social media use, and engaged Superhero Training Camp with events in class discussions about the such as ‘The Iron Map Leap’, hidden dangers of the web. They ‘The Flash Dance’, ‘The Hulk learned what to do if something Smash’, ‘Superman Speed’ upsets them and used iPads to and ‘Spiderman Crawl’. make an avatar to represent themselves.

12 www.stockportgrammar.co.uk Follow us on twitter @stockportgs 13 JUNIOR SCHOOL JUNIOR SCHOOL NEW SPORTING TRIO PRE-RECEPTION CELEBRATE MEDAL BUILDING SUCCESS Construction of the new Pre- A trio of young sporting stars from the Reception building has begun, Junior School have been celebrating enabling us to develop our facilities their success after scooping up a host for our youngest children and to of medals at County Championship continue to provide an exceptionally competitions. high standard of education and care. In addition, the project brings an Year Six pupil, Arthur W, represented opportunity to develop and extend Stockport Metro Swimming Squad outdoor play and learning spaces for in the County Swimming children across the Junior School age Championships. range. There have been a number His hard work and training certainly of other exciting developments for NEW HEAD OF SGJS paid off at the championships where Junior School children this year, We are delighted that Mr Matthew the highest ISI Inspection rating he won three gold medals in the 50m, including the construction of new Copping is joining SGJS as Head in of “Excellent”. 100m and 200m breaststroke races changing rooms and new all weather September 2020. Matthew is currently as well as two silvers in the 100m and surfaces in the Quad. Mr Tim Wheeler: “It is now nearly Headteacher of Brooklands Primary 200m individual medleys. seven years since I first visited The new Pre-Reception building will School in Sale and is married with SGJS and I still remember clearly Meanwhile, Year Six Cross Country be completed in Autumn 2020. two children. the sense of welcome and of runners Molly M and Lucy J have been Chairman of Governors Mr Christopher warmth that I felt when I walked representing Stockport at the Greater Dunn: “Matthew’s wide experience in the door. That first impression Manchester Schools Cross Country and engaging approach meant that has stayed with me and I have Championships. ASTONISHING LITERARY ADVENTURES he was the unanimous choice of tried throughout my time at the The talented runners did extremely well SGS Juniors had a busy time immersing In Pre-Reception and Reception, the Reception pupils made the most of the Governors to lead SGJS. I look school to build on that strong at the high level competition with Molly themselves in books as they celebrated children shared Rachel Bright and Jim the beautiful pictures and descriptive forward to working with Matthew sense of community. It has also M taking third place in the U11 category World Book Day and enjoyed engrossing Field’s wonderful picture book, ‘The Way language in the book, each writing their over the coming years to secure been important that we challenge and Lucy J coming in fourth place. talks from award-winning authors. Home for Wolf’. own sensational setting description. the best possible education for all and inspire the children and I our Junior School pupils.” have encouraged them to set SGJS PE and Games teacher, The national theme for World Book Pre-Reception children enjoyed listening Year One and Two children were ambitious targets. The response Mr Martin Cooke said: “We are very Day this year was ‘share a million to the story and talked excitedly about captivated by ‘The Bear and the Piano’ Mr Matthew Copping said: “I am of the children, their willingness stories’ and the Junior School’s broad Wolf’s winter journey home. by David Litchfield and took part in a absolutely delighted to have proud of Arthur, Molly and Lucy to explore, their enthusiasm and theme within this was ‘adventure’. range of activities including creating their been appointed as the Head of not only for their performances energy, have been fantastic. They own bear hats and designing furry masks SGJS. I am excited to have been but also for the resilience and grit are the ones who create the happy to reflect different emotions. given the opportunity to lead that they show in their training and buzz that is daily life at SGJS. For the school having witnessed the commitment to sport.” Year Three and Four were taken on an a school is, ultimately, a collection fantastic attitudes the children urban adventure in ‘The Promise’ by of people, both children and adults, have towards learning and the Nicola Davies. Our Year Three pupils who share experiences, learn clear commitment of all the staff in reflected on the change in urban and play together. They are what recognising and celebrating each environment and subsequent changes in makes SGJS and I shall take with pupil as an individual.” emotion of the characters, and portrayed me many happy memories of those these in emotion graphs. Creating Mr Tim Wheeler has been Head of with whom I have shared my time textured vocabulary flowers to inspire SGJS since 2014 and is also Chair at the school.” and create poetic songs, in response to of the Little Princess Trust. In 2019, Thank you Mr Wheeler for your ‘The Promise’. kept our budding Year he received an MBE in recognition of fantastic leadership of SGJS. Four poets busy throughout the day too. his services to charity and education. Under his leadership, SGJS achieved ‘The Widow’s Broom’ by Chris Van Allsburg was Year Five’s book choice. With their creative hats on and pens at the ready, they were all determined to write engaging descriptions, powerful poetry and clear instructions.

Year Six pupils took a step back in time as they listened to Paul Fleischman’s book ‘The Matchbox Diary’. They were inspired to create their own written descriptions of personal memories, linked to their own special objects.

14 www.stockportgrammar.co.uk Follow us on twitter @stockportgs 15 JUNIOR SCHOOL JUNIORS JUNIORS USE AMAZE IN CODING SKILLS MODEL UNITED Pupils from Year Two and Year Six NATIONS enjoyed taking part in engaging, Year Five and Six pupils took part in the educational and fun Science, Junior Model United Nations. Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) workshops delivered The topic was ‘Big Game Hunting’ and by STEMworks. the countries represented included Italy, Year Two pupils learnt how to construct Brazil, Russia, , Spain, Canada and the chicken and cat robots. United Kingdom.

The children worked with a partner to The club is a great starting point for pupils create their robots and used advanced who can continue their desire to debate coding to make them move, dance, by joining the Model United Nations flash their eyes and even detect club in Senior School. a visitor. TASTY SHROVE

Year Six pupils demonstrated a range TUESDAY To mark Shrove Tuesday, of skills including creativity, planning and teamwork as they took part in a Pre-Reception pupils had a number of challenges. fascinating time making their own scotch pancakes. Under the careful supervision of Mr Kettle, the children had the opportunity The children discovered the to program Lego robots and compete reason for Shrove Tuesday and in the Ultimate BP STEM Challenge were delighted to make the where they designed their own pieces pancake batter. of ‘wearable’ tech. Whilst making the batter, pupils enjoyed learning about where the ingredients came from and excitedly discussed their favourite ECO-CONSCIOUS pancake toppings. JUNIORS TAKE ACTION Prior to the day of baking, the As part of Waste Week 2020 in the pupils had been reading the book Spring Term, children across the Junior ‘Mr Wolf’s Pancakes’. School took part in activities to learn how society can try to contain and process waste.

Pre-Reception looked at Julia Donaldson’s story of ‘The Snail And The Whale’, talking about oceans and plastic CRICKET SQUAD waste and the effect on sea creatures. SELECTIONS Alice J said: “It’s bad for the Well done to Year Six environment and it can hurt all the pupil Daniel D who has animals in the whole wide world. been selected for the U11 It’s just bad and makes Tameside Regional Cricket the animals die, and our animals squad for the 2020 are helpful.” season. Other activities in the school saw pupils learning about the impact of plastic tooth brushes on the environment, researching statistics about plastic waste and continuing their work on saving water.

Pupils in the Junior School have joined with those in the Senior School to create an eco-committee which aims to look at making the school greener. Junior and Senior School members of the committee travelled to 10 Downing Street to present a petition focused on reducing carbon emissions.

16 www.stockportgrammar.co.uk