Qthe

What do you hear in the "My friend corridors of Queens' HOTor School? self­harms GOOD OR BAD? ­ what do I NOT Social Media do?" Ask our Agony RACIST COSTUMES Aunts! S At Queens’ School we aim to take every student in our care on a most

P extraordinary journey, and one which can nurture their individual talents and provide the skills and experience to last a lifetime. This newly re-launched school

R newspaper does just that: it is fully designed and created by students, with just an oversight from staff. I am impressed by the talent and dedication of the editors and sub-editors who have been the driving force behind The Q. The content reflects I our school STAR values and I hope you will agree that the content is full of N scholarship, tenacity, altruism and respect. The content, layout and design have all been created by the students. A special mention must go to Evie Pullen as the first

G editor of the paper, who has had oversight of the rest of the editorial team including Maia Anselmo, Ella Clarke and Danny Robinson who contributed a lot to the paper.

By turning the paper into an on-line editorial, we welcome a much wider

2 readership: students, parents, staff, governors, alumni and indeed the general public. This has helped us to mirror the same process that the media use in creating their

0 publications. The aim of this newspaper is to go beyond the school newsletter, which gives up-to-date information about the events and success of the school, and give 1 students the opportunity to create content and editorial pieces about current affairs that are meaningful to them both as individuals and the school body. 9 This content is testament to the passion around writing that is the epicentre of the curriculum at Queens’. These articles are both well written and designed to make you think about some of the current local issues. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I have. Mr. Morrell, Head Teacher Ella Mai easily won the jackpot this year twice with her old-style R&B tracks 'Boo’d Up' and 'Trip' which Casual Listener brought her to the top of the US charts – the first woman since 1992. ELLA MAI However, she didn’t get half as good Study Playlist a response from her home country. Cycle – Sabrina Claudio Last year, Ella released her first cheating on their partners, Chris and Seoul – RM studio album, gaining her a 6.6 on Mai meld their voices together in a Therapy – Khalid Pitchfork and the peak position of satisfying melody to deliver a story Honey – Kehlani 18 on the UK chart. She brought a that is not well beloved by many Instagram – DEAN total of 16 tracks, including 3 fans. It’s followed by a calmer tune, We Find Love – Daniel Caesar previously released singles and 3 ‘Cheap Shot’, which delivers the the Take Me – MISO new collaborations with A-list emotions of a loveless relationship CRAZY – John OFA Rhee musicians. well with the addictive chorus and Emerald - RINI the haunting melody that lingers Ella carries her familiar R&B sound behind her soulful voice. ‘Shot Clock’ efforts in this album. to this album, starting off with follows, bringing back the old R&B ‘Good Bad’. This song, to me, is The final three songs slow down ear candy with some pleasing reminiscent of a low-lit bar full of the tempo even more and carry a backing vocals and harmonies, people milling about, swaying to the much more romantic tone than the sampled off of Drake’s 'Legend'. music – but it lacks something. It majority of the album. ‘Easy’ is a fails to capture my attention and ‘Everything’, featuring John Legend, passionate and emotional piano even feels typical at times thanks to is a cute soulful song centred on an ballad full of harmonies and the generic beat. She follows it up attentive couple that hold a loving featuring a choir. It displays Mai’s with ‘Dangerous’ which begins with and careful relationship. Their voices powerful vocals incredibly well. It’s a noise that reminded me of a weave in and out of each other followed by the atmospheric lo-fi dungeon in a Pokémon game. It perfectly; silk-smooth vocals slow ‘Close’ that speaks of the pride and doesn’t even lead into the song – it down the pace of the album and happiness in being able to love a ends abruptly and threw me a little bring a much calmer and sweeter significant other. ‘Naked’ is the final off track. The rest of it was actually story to it. The ballad is followed by track on the album, rounding it off enjoyable with a lively experimental ‘Own It’ with a 90’s R&B sound perfectly with relaxing acoustics and beat that contrasts her usually more sampled from Adina Howard’s 1988 honest lyrics – ‘Are you ready to ‘chill’ songs and brings something track ‘T-Shirt & Panties’ and brings a fight just to see what’s lost behind new to the table. ‘Sauce’ is a slightly sexier vibe. However, the hi- my flaws?’ Mai carries pure emotions braggadocious track accentuated by hats and multitude of layers drown in this song, asking to be loved what the critics called a ‘meme- out Mai’s voice, pushing down its despite her faults. worthy’ pronunciation of the title. impact. ‘Run My Mouth’ is a slower, Overall, Ella has brought forward a This song breezes quickly past my smoother song framed by her pleasing debut album, though it ear and leaves little imprint if not passionate harmonies. It leads into lacks the true strength that I believe none – the synth melody playing ‘Gut Feeling’, the final collaboration she can achieve. Her spoken-word behind her voice this time reminds in the album with H.E.R., who brings interludes often don’t fit the song me of Animal Crossing, the bass and her crystal clear vocals and nifty (‘A: Assertive…forceful’ she says, synth chords lack the ‘sawce’ she piano runs to push Mai’s own vocal after preaching the importance of speaks of. love in ‘Everything’) and acquire the ‘Watchamacallit’ is the promotional same effect as SZA’s grandma single for this album, and for good talking – a skip. In my opinion, the reason. This collaboration with Chris pop sound she began with restrained Brown captures my ears immediately her ability to deliver the depth she and quickly turns into a fairly attempts to convey in her (albeit pleasant earworm. Catchy and generic) lyrics and her potential was attention-grabbing, an abundance of not lived up to. Despite all of this, it riffs and harmonies and a terrible promises a step forward in her message unite to make a slightly musical versatility, and I look less-than-perfect new anthem. forward to her future releases. Promising not to spill secrets of - Maia Anselmo COLOURISM

Discrimination based on skin tone within the same community

How many of you have heard of the term colourism? specialising in products that help ‘lighten the skin’ to Whilst racism is a frequently talked about issue in discrimination in the film and modelling industry, India society since the early 1930’s, ‘colourism’ or is known for following old traditions and beliefs, one of ‘shadeism’ is an equally important problem that is not the main ones being that darker skinned people are talked about enough in the media and often inferior to lighter skinned people. overlooked by many people as a minor issue. Just like racism, colourism, has many negative impacts A massive example of potential colourism in practise such as how it promotes a narrow standard of beauty is the idea that light-skinned black women have it and self-hatred and also ensures that many talented easier in showbiz. According to the BBC, many people individuals don’t get the same opportunities and a level believe that celebrities such as Rihanna, Beyonce and playing field, in many different careers and industries. Zendaya find it easier to become more successful in Even though times are changing, it is important to the industry due to their lighter skin tones. recognise the fact that apart from major issues that are Of the 68 female solo artists who’ve been in the constantly brought up in the media, there are many British Top 40 chart since the start of 2017, 17 are of minor issues that affect many people around the world, black heritage - and the vast majority of those are and as the generation of the future, it is important to lighter-skinned. This a prime example of how acknowledge these matters and shed light on them. colourism is affecting the music industry and how Preena Madlani many dark-skinned artists are not getting the same recognition and opportunities due to their skin tone.

The Oxford dictionary definition of colourism is 5 embarrassing things you ONLY did in Year 7: “prejudice or discrimination against individuals with a dark skin tone, typically among people of the same •Use a whole tray in the canteen for a single slice ethnic or racial group”, however colourism can go the of pizza. other way, as in the black community, there are cases of discrimination against light-skin people for ‘not •Run everywhere. Like, EVERYWHERE. being black enough’.

The black community, however, is not the only •Scratch lines into your tie. Wow, you’re so cool. community affected by colourism as there are many other communities in which there is tension between •Do gaming celebration ‘Fortnite’ dances on the people of different shade skin tones including India. playground.

The issue of colourism in India goes back centuries, •Say ‘peak’. and there has always been a prevalent difference between lighter and darker Indians. From brands The Editorial Team AD? GOOD OR B Social Media

Whether you love it or loathe it, it’s undeniably a massive part of everyone’s lives in 2018, from browsing through the latest Instagram trends at breakfast to watching YouTube videos until the early hours of the morning (we’ve all been there!), there seems to be no escaping the unforgiving grasp of social media. However, is social media really as bad as it’s being portrayed in the mainstream media? Are we ignoring the positive influences and conveniences being created by it? Why is social media bad?

The main issue that I have with social media is that despite what the name implies, it’s anything but “social”. For how long has it been the norm to neglect real world interactions in favour of mindlessly staring at a mobile phone screen?

At this point, social media has become ingrained into our society, we judge others and obsess over how many likes and followers we have whereas in reality fail to realise that it’s all ultimately meaningless and this constant need to compare oneself against someone’s social media profile is damaging to not only our mental health but also to our confidence.

My main concern is that our communication skills are diminishing due to the lack of real world interaction in favour of communicating via a screen online and this is becoming a massive problem, we no longer see people on busy commuter trains conversing and opening up to random strangers about their life problems, instead of taking the initiative to talk to other human beings we simply do the easier thing, pull our phone out of our pocket and senselessly browse through the latest trends and fads.

Furthermore, social media is becoming more and more damaging to people’s mental health and wellbeing. Due to the lack of face-to-face contact that’s provided with social media, keyboard warriors on sites such as twitter are able to anonymously attack and insult others without seeing the harm that they are causing.

By no means am I implying that we ditch social media for good however we definitely need to balance our social media usage and at the end of the day remember the purpose of social media is to make it easier for friends and family to communicate around the world.

Danny Robinson AD? GOOD OR B and influence of these movements would have been diminished from what it is now and we shouldn’t undercut the positive influence that social media has had just because of the bad.

Most importantly, social media is a fun and inventive way for people across the Why is social media good? world to connect and share what they love. People can keep in contact with friends, The popular opinion, especially family, colleagues and significant others among older generations, is that social that live in the other side of the world and I media is bad, to which I disagree. I think think that it’s pretty amazing to be honest; that social media is a wonderful thing that contact can be maintained with people has enhanced not only our relationship miles away with just a few clicks! Social with the world around us, but with the media has redefined communications people around us too. Apps like Instagram between people for the better, they’re and Snapchat are always criticised for the issues like creating unrealistic beauty more efficient and fit much better into our busy day to day lives than anything else I standards and ruining face to face interactions. And though they may be can think of and it is really beneficial to our modern day lives. some truth to these statements, I feel as if Marla Morris people always choose to focus on the negatives for things like this. For one, I think that social media is a powerful platform with which change can be What TO get for a gift influenced and people can accurately express themselves in whatever way they Customisable Gift want to. From mugs to pillows or just a picture frame makes for a great, simple and highly appreciated There are many advantages to social gift. It has a personal feel to it and would be media, people over all different types of something that can be treasured forever by the platforms have spread positive affirmations recipient. Just make sure the photo used is a good and messages preaching body and sex one! positivity, which teach love and acceptance An Experience Day Out If you look online you can easily find some great of yourself - what’s negative about that? days out for very good value such as boat trips, Social media is a means of enhancing and afternoon tea or even driving experiences. It improving one’s relationship with makes it look like a very well thought out gift, you themselves. There are also movements can choose from a huge variety of days out and it advocating for equal human rights and also gives you the opportunity to join in and enjoy political change. Currently the #MeToo yourself on this little day out. movement on Twitter is in the spotlight Anything on Their List with people around the world uniting to Be attentive throughout the year! If you see the bring about social change and justice for person you’re buying for comment on something those who have been sexually harassed, positively or they openly tell you they want and the ever controversial something, get it. They will definitely want it and #BlackLivesMatter movement calling for you will be praised for the close attention you change in racial equality. Without social paid! media platforms, I feel as if the coverage Dan Zvoznikov When festive seasons creep nearer and nearer; festive and joyous times. along with the chocolate, candy and songs we On the other side of the debate, it is being love to sing every year at those times, ongoing argued that people shouldn’t be told what controversial debate over costumes, once again they’re allowed to wear since we are all rational, pulls the spotlight on itself. Dressing up is free individuals aloud to express ourselves and always fun to make things that little bit more do as we please, without a third person exciting, but what if I told you that some people interference. The fact that a ‘white’ child is able are taking up issue with how it’s being done. In to wear a costume themed around the Native fact, that is the case and so far, many have been American race, is seen as something to be criticised and accused of, and for, “cultural celebrated, as an example of multi-culturalism, appropriation” based on the themes behind and diversity, and above all tolerance. At the same associated with particular costumes. time, the same argument, though taken in Calls for stores and e-commerce sites, like another direction, is used by political Amazon and eBay, to prohibit the sales of such correctness and social justice advocators who costumes, led to an evaluation of such, and in see this as an example of how western society some cases, they were removed from sale. An has racism ingrained in it even in the most innocent of things. This, however, has fuelled the arguments made by those on the opposing RACIST side, who see and used this reaction as an COSTUMES example of this was when a costume up for sale on Amazon and eBay of a ‘Chinese Boy’ received Leonardo Luz immense backlash, after people on social media pointed it out as being offensive to Asians, example of how ‘far’ and ‘radical’ things have since the models for the costume were white become on the accuser’s side of the isle. By and pulling their eyes back in a “slant-eye” certain people, this debate is seen as absolutely expression. A similar case occurred in 2017 ridiculous and meaningless since costumes are when a costume – still on sale on some ‘make belief’ and harmless, and children and websites- of the “World War Two evacuee girl”, their parents should be able to dress as they Anne Frank, was criticized on social media for wish based on any character, real or not. being insensitive. Moreover, one thing is for certain, people are Since then, more and more cases involving, becoming increasingly aware of certain social ‘Native American’ costumes like Disney princess topics and issues which are affecting and ‘Pocahontas’, costumes depicting traditional becoming ever so relevant in our modern ‘Mexican’ outfits, and one of ‘Maui’ from the society. We are left to decide however, if we film Moana, have been subject of dubious should stop doing things which might offend debates on social media. Recently, NBC host- certain individuals, or just not pay any attention Megyn Kelly, apologized on American television to it and move on with our lives. Should there after she received backlash from celebrities for be greater awareness of those around us so making “offensive” remarks, where she asked things done cause no offence, or should those what was “Racist” about Blackface - makeup around us, which might take issue with used by a non-black performer playing a black something one does, says or supports, grow role. The extent of this debate has caused a lot more resilience and ‘thick skin’ in order to of controversy in the media and amongst overcome the fact that others see things ordinary people as to what is actually okay for differently? You tell me... children to be wearing in these, supposed to be, Layomi Abudu Change starts with YOU FOOD WASTE

1.6 BILLION TONNES of food goes to waste every year

For a brief moment, think to global warming and climate back to those times when you change are enormous. Methane bought some food but then is also a flammable gas that can your parents’). No, the real issue realised that you weren’t become a serious hazard if is that you’re wasting food: food actually that hungry after all or allowed to accumulate. In that will end up in a landfill after decided that the food wasn’t addition, new analysis reveals being transported there by an quite up to standard and you that the amount of food that is organisation that is funded by threw away about half of it - wasted each year is set to rise by the taxes your parents, aunties with your conscience telling you a third by 2030, when 2.1bn and uncles pay out of their not to - but you consoled tonnes will either be lost or hard-earned salaries; food that yourself by thinking, ‘it’s only thrown away - that is equivalent could have fed one of the almost half a sandwich’. What we often to 66 tonnes per second. There 632 million people living in forget to acknowledge is that all is too much poverty and extreme poverty around the those halves add up. Every resources are too scarce for this world. single day I see students to continue. This trend has to Each year, 1.6bn tonnes throwing away ridiculous stop. of food worth approximately amounts of food on the basis 70% of food and drink $1.2tn, goes to waste – about that it ‘wasn’t that nice’ or ‘there waste each year could have been one third of the food produced was too much’ or even ‘it’s not avoided. Next time you’re about globally. Furthermore, food my money’. If you pay £2.30 for to buy food for lunch just take a waste accounts for 8% of global a baguette and throw away half moment and ask yourself if you greenhouse gas emissions, of it, you are binning £1.15. But can finish what you’re about to according to the FAO (Food and the money you paid isn’t even buy. If your mum has put Agriculture Organisation). How? the main issue - you’re only something that you simply Well, when organic material such hurting your own pocket (or cannot stand in your lunchbox as food scraps is put in a then offer it to a friend. If you’re landfill, it is generally making your own pack lunch, compressed and covered. This pack/use the foods that are removes the oxygen and causes closest to expiry, not the newest it to break down anaerobically. ones. I know it sounds like Eventually this releases common sense but if we all just methane, a greenhouse gas that paid a little more attention to is 25 times more potent than these things, we could affect carbon dioxide. The some real change. repercussions of this in regards IN COLD BLOOD

Truman Capote A true account of a multiple murder and its consequences

In Cold Blood is a non-fiction novel by the author most famous for his short story Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Truman Capote. The duration of the novel flits between the What NOT to get for a gift investigation of the murder of the Clutter family in 1959, who were well-known in Cooking Equipment their home city of Holcomb, Texas, and life Your parent will not be most pleased with a on the run for the two perpetrators. tool they will use to help cook you more A few things inspired me to read this food. It would also most likely be the wrong book, the main factor being my interest in model of toaster that they want and these true crime and the process by which crimes kind of things need to be bought when are solved and the criminals are caught needed, not for a special occasion. and convicted. Money/Vouchers I thought that Capote’s choice to Only exception is if someone has specifically cover both Smith and Hickock’s lives on asked for it because they are saving up for the run and the police’s endeavours to something etc. but other than that, it’s solve the crime was interesting as it gave a simply the laziest gift you could give. clear layout of the events after the murder. I also liked the inclusion of interviews with Holiday Related Gifts locals that knew the family, as it showed Any gift related to an event (Valentine’s day, how the public and those who know them Christmas, etc) has an expiry date: that day. reacted and why the police were put under Unless it’s some nice chocolates or just a so much pressure at the time. One thing I mini gift then you should avoid these kind of disliked about the book was the slightly gifts as it won’t be very memorable and long introduction of the Clutter family and simply just a bit cliché. their place in Holcomb, as I thought it was Dan Zvoznikov slightly dull, although the book does pick up afterwards. I would recommend this book as I think its an interesting insight into crime solving in a time different to our own, and the layout with both perspectives shown is different from most other books. I’d recommend this book to anyone with an interest in true crime, as that’s the main theme of this book. I would say that this book might not be appropriate for Year 7’s and maybe Year 8’s, but Year 9’s and above should be fine to read it.

Book Review by Marla Morris It’s amazing that the heart makes no sound when it cracks Robert Cormier HEROES

Francis Cassavant has just returned contrast to the way they talk about each home from the war to his hometown of other. The way the author presents the Monument, Massachusetts after losing feeling of emptiness that Francis goes most of his face in the French trenches in through after having something so dear World War Two. He arrives armed with a stolen from him is somewhat heart gun to murder his childhood hero in cold breaking. We see that the emotional effects blood. Taking place during real time and a that the war has on the young men who series of flashbacks to Francis’ childhood, served can change them for life; the this book describes Francis’ past struggles disgusting things they have to witness stay and relationships. with them for life. On the other hand, at We were reading this book in class times, the book can be slightly predictable. with our English teacher instead of our Overall, the book offers a lot of insight into silent reading time. Every English lesson, the experiences after the war and how it we would read approximately a chapter of contradicts the innocent bliss life before the book before discussing the chapter serving in the army. and answering questions about it. Across This book, in my opinion, would be our class, we had many different opinions great for people who like Teen-Fiction about each one of the characters. We books, but are looking for a slight change. spoke about the relationships between The time period and location for this book each other and how they have developed make it hard to compare to other books, throughout the book. seeing as the place where it’s primarily set I liked that this book offered an is a small town in America. The themes experience of what the men thought about within this book can be heavy at times, so I themselves during the war; the way that wouldn’t recommend it to anyone below they talk about themselves is a stark secondary school age.

Book Review by Ruth Morris Sexism in School

Does sexism still exist in Queens’ football academy. Last year, the under School? sixteens Queens’ girls won the county cup for football so girls are clearly capable and An article released by the independent football should not be restricted to just a stated that sexism still exists in schools, and boys’ football academy. However, sexism is that 57% of teachers admit to stereotyping more explicitly shown through people girls and boys. This made us think about our complying with stereotypes. “Girls can’t school and if sexism still exits. play.” “Girls can’t kick a ball properly.” “It’s a To begin with the definition of sexism, boys' sport”. from the dictionary, is prejudice or However, for some reason we fail to discrimination based on sex. This includes acknowledge the sexism that exists within behaviour, conditions, or attitudes that boys school experiences. In school boys are foster stereotypes of social roles based on often told how girls perform better in class gender. and in exams. Through stereotypes, we We have all experienced sexism in our assume boys will underperform compared to lives and school is an environment which is girls. Also, in some instances teachers make not excluded from this. We get taught to presumptions that certain boys will act and embrace our differences and appreciate behave in a certain way. It’s not fair that other people, cultures and genders but boys can have a disadvantage due to sexism is still occurring in our everyday lives. society’s gender assumptions. It’s 2018 and we are in a modern society full Sexism exists towards both genders of new things and ideas yet football is still and school is not an exception to this. seen as a “boys sport” at school. We are surrounded by gender stereotypes Here is the truth, males and females but we are not restricted to these. Both are different. This is purely scientific, we genders should be able to express were not made to be the same as each other themselves how they want to without so surely sexism is just based on reality? worrying about what is expected of them. Males are biologically stronger than females. Sexism and prejudice will always be around Females are biologically better at multi- but it is our decision to conform to these tasking. This is fact, not sexism. So where is ideas. the boundary between sexism and science? India Baker-Gorton As I mentioned earlier, the prime example in English schools is girls football and its lack of attention or recognition OVERHEARD AT QUEENS’ compared to boys football. In Queens', when the academy existed, there was no girls' "She gave me water and I was like, I hope it’s filtered"

"And then Michael killed the priest"

"I wonder what your mum would say if she knew you washed your sheets every day" OVERHEARD AT QUEENS’

You enter school at the age of 11 “We learned about mountains in where you get thrown into an atmosphere English today” full of new people and frightening experiences. Secondary school plays a major “I’m just waiting until my role in developing you as a person, it’s a sister has a baby so I can place where we learn new skills and make steal it” new relationships with people. Our years of secondary school are filled with different “That’s basically sponsoring emotions; excitement, happiness, sadness, terrorism” anger, jealousy and stress. However, amongst the experiences of school and developing yourself as a person, peer pressure will be, and has always been an issue. behaviour so that we “fit in”. This desire to fit Peer pressure is defined as the in with others can often make us forget who influence of members of one’s peer group. we are or put an increasing pressure on us to The most common in secondary schools are change. peers influencing others to drink, smoke, But is peer pressure always a bad take part in sexual activities and misuse thing? Peer pressure is always associated as school time. Being in secondary school can something negative. But sometimes people already be overwhelming with the workloads, influence you to do things out of your waking up early every day and finding time comfort zone that will benefit you more than to do what you want. The peer pressure of you would realise. In my opinion, peer secondary school is another obstacle that pressure is inevitable but it isn’t always bad. needs to overcome. Statistics say that I believe if you surround yourself by people between 20%-30% of adolescents report who accept you for who you are, they will symptoms of depression due to peer only pressure you into doing something that pressure. will benefit you or that they think will make In your time at secondary school, you you happier. You and your friends can have probably witnessed or been part of pressure each other into some things that some sort of peer pressure. We go to school will improve your health and social life and with hundreds of students with different make you feel good about your decisions. personalities, experiences and backgrounds For instance, if all your friends are going on so there’s no doubt people have different a run on a Saturday morning, that could views on what is right and wrong. But why do motivate you to go. we let someone pressure us into doing While we are constantly influenced by something we disagree with? My answer is those around us, ultimately the decision to conformity. As students we do not want our act (or not to act) is up to us as individuals. school experience to be a nightmare, we So when it comes to decision making, the want to gain our peer’s acceptance. In order choice is up to you. to do this we go along with the majority Shatou Rasha Peer Pressure

Is it always bad? Full name and reason Q8-Guilty Pleasure? behind it? “The only thing I find as a "Richard James Lawson. I guilty pleasure might be that I should have been called James still like all the rap music I but my aunt stole the name listened to in my youth” he and named my cousin that,” revealed to us. “50 Cent, Lloyd Banks, bit of Usher that sort of Favourite Quote? thing.” Although mildly It's a fairly long one - a ‘Man in embarrassed about this, we the Arena’ excerpt from wouldn’t put it against the Theodore Roosevelt’s odds of him performing it in Citizenship in a Republic the Queens’ talent show. speech. He perceives this is in Fingers crossed! relation to his lifelong ambition to write a book and about those people who have Into the Life of: Mr Lawson doubted his goal, but he feels that “you should try to do it even if you don’t succeed, at How would you relax after a What would you be if you least you tried. It’s about not hard day of marking weren’t a teacher? being scared to fail.” papers? “I can’t really see myself being anything other than a teacher” Teacher Best Friend? It seems as Mr Lawson is like any one of us as he likes to Lawson claimed. Although After some deep thoughts “watch TV, The Wire after some thought he did tell about who he could upset with especially,” and he also loves us of how “Maybe something his decision he vouched to say audio books and medieval studying medicine, like an “I think it’d have to be Mr fantasy as they “take me into Oncologist” would have been Lower, Mr Connolly and Mr a world that’s different to the his alternative profession. So Field, as we all call ourselves one you’re in and anything who knows - maybe Mr the ‘Bridge Four’ after the like this I find relaxing,” hence Lawson would’ve been the book Words of Radiance about proving the effectiveness of man who find the cure to four individuals who create a getting lost in a book is for cancer, but nevertheless we strong bond working together stress. thank him for his efforts to in tough, near slave like help us with education work.” Let’s hope that this is Q7-Most memorable instead. He did also mention a reflective of the friendship moment as a student? brief study of art and a job between them and not the job atTesco but he claims “that Mr Lawson was referring to! “Honestly my best memory wasn’t for me.” He also added that they each was my form tutor Mr Hidden Talent? have a group symbol where Griffiths, he was an ex boxer they cross their arms when and one of the most “Grade 7 of the ‘Narp’ AKA the they see each other - a true influential people I’ve ever nose harp” he proclaimed. He bromance. met. I suppose I could call him gave us a demonstration and my teaching role model.” Mr we can say it is pretty Relationship Status? Lawson tries to replicate his impressive and a cool party “Married and expecting a teaching style in his own, so trick. If there are any fans of child” Lawson told us with we may be getting a small Arctic Monkeys, you’ll be glad pride. We at The Q, on behalf taste of what he may have to hear that Mr Lawson knows of everyone at Queens’ School, been like. “He would control a few of their music on the congratulate him on this news behaviour yet never shout and ‘Narp’ so if you want to hear and wish him the best on his just gave really good advice his renditions you may need journey through fatherhood. for a young man to hear.” to make a booking to a performance of his! Advice to anyone reading Which TV/Movie Character this? do you relate to the most? Mr Lawson’s last words of “I feel I might be a bit like wisdom to us were “Never Mattrim Cauthon from the take yourself too seriously "It's about Wheel of Time books series, and only worry about the which I hope they’ll make into opinions of the people who not being a TV series soon enough.” matter to you rather than scared to those who don’t.” A Biggest inspiration? suggestion to everyone to be fail" themselves and not let people “My mum. She’s thoughtful, put you down when they does anything for anyone hardly even know you. A without expecting anything in strong willed attitude like this We thank Mr Lawson for his return and you could say she would get you far in life as it time to give us such a has done for Mr Lawson. doesn’t suffer fools” was his compelling and interesting instant response. Lawson insight into his life and we opened up further on his hope it helped everyone reading this see him in an thoughts and advice by telling even better light than before. us that “At a certain age you We will hopefully see you in realise your parents’ value in the next edition of Into The your life and everything Life Of, until next time, they’ve done for you. Every goodbye! youngster takes their parents for granted, as did I.” Let this HOT be a lesson for our young Re-watching old Vines on YouTube: readers. RIP Vine. We miss you. For those of you not in the know (you younger years out there), Vine was an App from 2012-16 where users could create six-second home-made videos and share these online, leading to millions of brilliantly NOT hilarious clips made by ordinary people all over the world. Many online content creators like Logan Paul started out on Vine. Luckily for you, you can still search Too much Queens’ branding. for ‘Vine compilations’ on YouTube and re-live the old magic. Welcome to Queens’ Corp. We hope you enjoy your stay. Please show me your Holidays: Queens’ ID badge and sign here for MORE PLEASE. And hurry up with the snow day, 2019. What’s taking you so long? your Queens’ branded planner, lanyard, school bag, PE bag, new PE kit, New teachers who are really awesome: stationary set and water bottle. Guys, Mr Owen, are you not perhaps the world’s nicest man? We love the new student it’s like too much. We love our school support teachers too! but what’s next, Queens’ branded pyjamas? Queen’s slippers? (Don’t lie, Mr Morrell. We know you’ve got some.) Fashionista Mr Hopwood even wears a Mock exams The new system in the canteen. Queens’ beanie! It’s not a good look, Sir. REALLY STRESSED. LOOK AT US. It literally took half a century for NOW GO AWAY. someone to work out how to make the The new gates are really heavy canteen better for everyone. For our It makes our arms hurt and it’s really Boys walking round school with younger years, especially our year annoying. It’s also embarrassing when their hoods up sevens, the canteen is now a calmer, it’s hard to do and everyone’s You look stupid. You’re not a safer and so much less stressful place watching. gangsta, you’re a teenager in a nice to be at lunchtimes. We were going to school and you need to get over put the canteen being too busy into our yourself and stop trying to make ‘Not’ list, but then Mr Taylor’s new yourself look hard in front of little system solved it. All hail, Mr Taylor! The children. You’re not too cold, you’re Q salutes you. just insecure. Why do you think that there Why should young people is such a low voter turnout become more involved in in the young demographic?, politics? Do they not care about the Politics decides what future of their country or direction the country is are they just lazy? going in and young people There are a whole host of are the future of this reasons why there is low voter country. They need to voice turnout amongst the young. In their opinions and to have a some cases it is a simple case say in what that future is. If of voter apathy (aka: laziness). they do not let the Some people cannot be government know what they bothered to register to vote think they’ll make their and go down to the polling decisions without them, and station on Election Day. To that is not a promising some degree, life is also much prospect! more complicated and busy now for Political Participation in the many young people. I think some Youth university students have the trouble of An Interview with Mr.Jones: Politics and being registered to vote either at home History Teacher. or at university and not being in the right location How would you suggest Do you think introducing when an election happens. I that young people could get politics to the education think modernisation of how more involved and engaged system could have a we vote could help. There are in political issues? negative impact as students pushes for mobile or online Young people can get involved may feel as if its being voting that might attract in many different ways; shoved down their throats? younger voters. Although joining pressure groups, I would say no. I think if you many countries that have starting online petitions, and frame a lesson right and trialled this and have stopped attending rallies. Another way ensure it is accessible for using it due to security risks. is to get young people students then you can make I also think some people are involved through their almost anything enjoyable to put off by politics. They see education. Queens’ does a learn. I would say the big dusty old men who have been fantastic job in holding the difference in teaching politics in Parliament for years using Friday Debates and the at A Level is that the students complicated language, and it debates in form that brings choose the subject because it alienates them. However, I political and social issues into is something that naturally think politics is changing and school to be discussed. interests them. However, I we are seeing a form of Perhaps mock elections could think in order to leave school younger, more accessible be a fun and engaging way to as a fully functioning citizen politics. Young people do care get young people more of our society I do think about their future and their involved in politics. There are students need to understand country. Mhairi Black is an MP a surprising number of something about politics, and for the Scottish National Party opportunities available. it is the duty of their teachers and the youngest in Whether that’s joining the to ensure it is embraced, Parliament. She was still at youth wing of a political party rather than shoved down their university when she entered of their choice, or getting throats! Parliament. Anyone looking to involved in Youth Parliaments, be inspired by youth politics or model United Nations should watch her first speech groups, there is always a in Parliament. chance to get involved! British Empire (albeit by Do you think that lowering Are political parties at fault somewhat questionable the voting age to 16 is a for the participation crisis, methods!), and he established good idea? Would it could they do more to the Great Reform Act of 1832 encourage young people to engage with the youth in that gave a huge number of be more politically engaged terms of social media people the right to vote for or just further increase the presence and campaigns? the first time. However, I participation crisis? Political parties really want to suppose the great irony is that I suppose I am in two minds get young people involved in he is most well-known for his about this one. If we look at politics and find future favourite blend of tea! the Scottish Independence leaders and members for their Favourite Quote? Referendum of 2014 the parties. Last election, the voting age was reduced to 16 Again, so many to choose majority of campaign for the vote by the Scottish from! I think I will take this spending by political parties Parliament on the basis that opportunity to share some was on social media. They’re the referendum would directly great wit from history. When affect 16-18 year olds fully aware that social media the French pirate Robert significantly. Youth is the way to capture the Surcouf captured two English participation actually attention of the young. I think ships in one go the English increased during this it would be foolish to say that captain exclaimed: referendum! Recently, the they do not care about young “You French fight for money! Welsh Assembly seems to be people, however they do very We British fight for honour!” making plans to encourage little to make themselves Surcouf coolly replied: votes at 16 too. attractive to young people. “Monsieur, a man fights for I think there are a lot of what he lacks most…” factors at play here, and it is The news is often awash with not as simple as granting their spending scandals, MPs’ votes to 16-18 year olds in pay-rises while they vote to order to fix the problems of cut funding to key services, or 5 reasons why the movie “Lady the participation crisis. jeering at each other in Bird’ is worth the watch! However, I do think it could be Parliament. It does not create a great positive for improving a positive image of politics •It is a coming of age drama that deals with voter turnout in the 18-24 and I think it increases voter a high school revolving plot that many of demographic in future years. I apathy. So, perhaps it is more us can relate to and sympathise with expect the problems of the the media than the political participation crisis we are parties themselves who are to •It has a whirlwind of different genres and facing are still likely to blame? themes peppered into its plot – engaging continue despite that. Perhaps and compelling drama, entertaining then that begs the question; Favourite historical figure what’s the point? Arguments and why? humour and comedy, heartfelt tragedy, against votes at 16 say that There are many noteworthy dreamy romance and so many more! young people’s ideas are not candidates out there; Sir fully formed at that age. As Francis Drake for his daring, •It will always keep you guessing what with everything, there are Thomas Paine for his idealism, happens next with its various plot twists compelling arguments for and Winston Churchill for his wit. and never fail to surprise against this. I might spare If I’m honest my favourite Queen’s a four page essay figure can change from day to •The quality of the acting will also amaze here, take the diplomatic day! I think of late I’ve come you with wonderful, emotional route and say; I am undecided. to be fascinated by Earl performances Charles Grey. He was Prime Minister of Great Britain •Unlike other movies, the events that take during the early 1830s and place in Lady Bird are likely and truthful. really paved the way for a Preena Madlani huge set of reforms. He helped to ban the slave trade in the Feminists are Angry and Deluded

Should women be happy with what they already have?

Feminism also isn’t important elected despite his many, many because of course women want faults, but that resulted in self-entitled men to drive past women from all over the world her while she’s on her morning marching the streets in dozens jog. In fact, women even like of cities to fight for their being genuinely scared for their rights. Women outed some of lives at night time when they’ve Hollywood’s sleaziest sexual gone out to have a good time with assaulters, from the 82 who their friends, not to get drugged spoke out against Harvey and sexually assaulted by any guy Weinstein and every other Throughout history, women who thinks that’s completely fine powerful idiot who thought have been quiet, complacent, to do. No, feminists are women could be taken for mysterious creatures that completely unrealistic in their granted. kept to themselves and took wants, and crazy to think that care of our homes and they are entitled to fight for: So, forgive me if we feminists children. Society liked it that equality. seem angry or deluded. If we way, men liked it that way. aren’t bloody grateful enough Indeed, feminists are acting So why did this have to for what you’ve given to us. But utterly ridiculous and being change? Today’s youths are – maybe? – we require these unfairly angry at society for the destroying centuries of fundamental rights? Maybe we important culture, in terms way society treats the female population. Don’t they know that shouldn’t be judged by you for of the way society works, God only created women to implementing them. After all, with their “equality”. But pleasure men, tend to their feminism is about equality, just feminism is simply not houses and mother their children? like the LGBTQ+ community or needed. They were not meant to have equality for all races. In fact, professional jobs, to be doctors Firstly, I like it when men feminists are the same as your or soldiers, to compete in sports hold doors open for me. It “meninists” or “equalists”. It is or drive. Men and women were makes us women feel dainty the same fight, and it is a fight not born equal. and precious, like fine china. that needs to be fought. Of course, feminism would However, that does not mean we mean the end of that. can’t change that. Now, in 2019, Apparently, equality means women can do almost anything, if losing common human they’re brave enough, with tons decency, and women aren’t of role models to look up to; take allowed to have the freedom last year’s box office hit “Wonder and equal rights and be soft Woman” which encouraged girls and feminine at the same of all ages that they can be as time. And god forbid, men strong and resilient and heroic as even attempt to be remotely Diana Prince, the titular character. nice to a woman who isn’t In fact, last year was a great year attracted towards him. for women. Yes, Trump was Natasha Naqvi Ask Agony Aunts

School makes me anxious I’m in year 7 and I’m finding My friend is self-harming overwhelmed because of this, secondary school more then you should consider A week ago, I got a message difficult than I thought. I’ve talking to an adult yourself, in from my friend saying that been feeling really anxious a way that doesn’t have to they’d just self-harmed. I tried include your friend if you about going to school and it to help but I wasn’t sure what don’t want it to. gets worse when I’m here. I to say and I’m worried that Best of luck! don’t know what I can do to they’ll do it again I don’t want make it better. them to feel like I betrayed them by telling an adult about My friends don't want me Dear Student, When I’m around my friends it, but I don’t want to stand by It might seem like a cliché, but they make me feel like I’m not and do nothing. How do I help you’re not alone here. Have wanted there. They all laugh without making it worse? you tried talking to your but won’t explain the joke so I friends about this? Maybe your Dear Student, worry that they’re laughing at parents/guardians or a trusted We understand that this is a me. I don’t know how to fix adult? Other than that we difficult situation to navigate this because I don’t feel like recommend breathing especially for someone not any other friendship groups exercises, or maybe taking trained in dealing with this. will accept me. pages in a notebook and We feel obligated to tell you doodling or writing to see if that you won’t be betraying Dear Student, that helps. A support system your friend by trying to help Your friends will change is important, but personal them, and that it is important throughout your school life, methods to cope can be just to consider telling a trusted this happens naturally. You as helpful. If the anxiety gets adult about this. shouldn’t worry too much too intense, you could talk to A student or peer is not because things tend to fall matron or get your parents to equipped to handle a situation into place, whether this means make you a doctor’s like this, especially not if you that you find people that appointment. Please don’t are handling this alone. you’re more comfortable with ignore the issue because it Alternatively, we can or you stick with the people could get worse, and whether recommend that you do some you know now. But, if you feel or not you make a doctor’s research on this subject like you’re always the end of appointment, being active matter, mind.org.uk has a the joke, or you’re not happy about this will help. useful article for those with around your friends, now In terms of other, more friends who self-harm. If you might be a good time to start general advice, we suggest are unwilling to go to an talking to some new people. not skipping breakfast, adult, then it may be useful to Try to start a conversation avoiding too much caffeine try and prepare yourself in with someone, or join a club (either in coffee or in fizzy trying to talk to your friend that interests you because this drinks), staying hydrated, about asking for help can be a really good basis for getting in the habit of themselves. It is possible that friendships. Remember that sleeping well and getting being knowledgeable on this it’s okay not to get on with some exercise. Try browsing subject would be a good place everybody. Making close anxiety.org or the NHS to start in helping them. friends is a process of trial website for some helpful In the end, we must impress and error. articles on relaxation upon you the importance of Best of luck! techniques. looking after yourself during Best of luck! this process. If you feel