Issue no. 65 - December 2012

www.edgbarrow.-forest.sch.uk

From the Headteacher

As we n ear the en d of the Au tu mn term I wan ted to tak e the opportu n i ty to bri n g everybody u p-to-date wi th what’s Our first painting and gardening day of n ew an d what’s been happen i n g at Edgbarrow School . this academic year was held on Saturday 29th September. Again we were very lucky with the support and time offered W el l i f I tak e you al l way back to by our Mums, Dads and students, who the su mmer hol i days I’m gave up a couple of hours on the day to del i ghted to report that ou r paint and garden. We estimate that this GCSE an d A-Level resu l ts were time we probably saved the school about £3,500. ju st ou tstan di n g thi s year. At Thankfully it was a beautiful day and our gardeners, of GCSE the stu den ts achi eved whom there were quite a few, did a sterling job on the 99.4% 5 A*-C or above an d 79% 5 A*-C or above front large flower bed and around the front of Reception. i n cl u di n g En gl i sh an d Maths. In addi ti on to that over 24% When I showed parents around on the following Monday of ou r resu l ts were A* & A, i n fact 174 of 179 stu den ts morning, even though it was raining, the school looked achi eved 8 A*-C grades. great! As for Hill block, by the end of the day we had painted and decorated entrances, three offices, the three W i th regards to A-Level resu l ts, they were ju st fan tasti c. big areas and the kitchen and it is now a brilliant 99.7% of al l exams tak en passed A*-E, 61% of al l exams environment for the students and staff to work in. Mrs tak en were A* an d A. Al so n earl y al l of ou r stu den ts got Guy our Student Support Manager and Mrs Patel our Head thei r fi rst or secon d pl ace choi ce at u n i versi ty, an d i n fact of Progress both send their sincere thanks to everyone! 74% of ou r stu den ts wen t to Un i versi ti es of thei r choi ce of Our next Painting and Decorating Day is on Saturday 2nd whi ch 53% wen t to Ru ssel l Grou p Un i versi ti es whi ch are March 2013 so please give us a couple of hours if you can, the top u n i versi ti es i n the cou n try. Ou r Si xth Form it’s a great way to help the school. con ti n u es to devel op wi th over 300 stu den ts an d a growi n g repu tati on for hi gh achi evemen t an d great pastoral care, advi ce an d gu i dan ce, whi ch I k n ow ou r stu den ts appreci ate. At the end of September once again the school was absolutely packed out for our Open Evenings and events for Year 6 students and parents. Throughout the term These won derfu l resu l ts were the reason for ou r Even i n g we have offered a number of tours for parents and of Cel ebrati on back i n September i n whi ch we had a party students and I have been so pleased and proud to hear of for ou r ex Year 11 an d Year 13 stu den ts an d thei r paren ts the wonderful comments made by families as they walk whi ch was a very su ccessfu l occasi on . Un fortu n atel y a few around the school while we are busy in lessons. They talk stu den ts were u n abl e to atten d du e to an earl y start at of the positive atmosphere within the school and the Un i versi ty so thi s even t may be hel d earl i er i n the term calm, orderly site in which students and staff seem very n ext year. happy. That means a lot to me and thank you to everyone for their help and support in creating such a positive and purposeful atmosphere. Fortu n atel y the weather was excel l en t an d on ce agai n more than 1000 stu den ts took part i n the spon sored wal k . Man y than k s to On the last Thursday in November we al l the stu den ts for wal k i n g or ru n n i n g the 6 held our annual Christmas Shopping mi l es an d to the paren ts, fami l i es an d fri en ds Event in the Sixth Form and once again for al l thei r su pport an d con tri bu ti on s. Thi s this was a lovely evening with lots and year so far we have rai sed approxi matel y lots of stalls both from outside the £12,000 whi ch i s a won derfu l achi evemen t. school and also many run by our 1 students. The event was very well supported and very As Headteacher I am required to set out to our parents busy. Thank you to the Swing Band who once again and carers the arrangements we have with regards to performed during the evening helping to our Behaviour and Exclusion Policies which aim to: provide a lovely Christmas atmosphere · Promote good behaviour, discipline and respect and, as always, a huge thank you to the PTA · Prevent bullying for organising such a wonderful event · Regulate the conduct of students which this year raised over £2,500. The students and staff of Years 7 and 8 once It is my responsibility to promote these policies to all again ran some stalls and they raised approximately £323 parents and carers. The two policies work together and to support PTA projects. can be found on the main school website under Home → School Policies. They are reviewed annually by the Governing Body. You will also find other policies that I am delighted to inform you relate to them including the Anti Bullying Policy and the that we have received a 10 Drugs Policy. The Behaviour and Exclusion Policies also year award for our Investors acknowledge the school’s legal duties under the Equality in People status. Of course Act 2010 in respect of safeguarding and in respect of we want to be an outstanding students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). school for our students but we also want to be an out- standing school for our staff. So we are especially pleased We all work hard within the school to ensure that to achieve this status once again. behaviour is appropriate and that students feel happy and safe and know what is expected of them. To support this positive atmosphere I would encourage you to take time As the potential for poor weather to look at these policies as they help us to support the day continues, can I please remind to day running of the school. All our rewards and parents/carers that should there sanctions will be in response to these policies and it is be adverse weather conditions important that you are familiar with how they work which delay the start of school or within Edgbarrow. mean we cannot open everyone will be informed via our school website and Schoolcomms messages. It is worth Please contact the school if you are unable to access these saying it is always our intention to be open. policies online.

Each year the school produces a School Development Plan Miss Rhodes joined Edgbarrow SLT in September 2002 as that is understood and followed by the staff and Governors an Assistant Head and in April 2006 she was appointed to of the school. In previous years I’m not sure that we have the post of Deputy Headteacher and it was very clear to shared the essence of this plan with parents and carers. In all of us that she would, in her own time, become a an effort to give you some understanding of where our Headteacher. So it comes as no surprise that she is focus will be this year I thought I would include this item in leaving Edgbarrow to take up her new post as the Newsletter. Headteacher of St Crispin’s School, in Wokingham. We are all absolutely delighted for her; and we know that she Our School Development Plan this year focuses on the will make the most fantastic Headteacher and that our quality of teaching and learning and in particular working loss is their gain. Miss Rhodes should be congratulated hard to deliver good and outstanding lessons for our and truly thanked for the time and effort she has put in to students. Therefore the title is Teaching and Learning, our school. She has given her heart and soul to Consistently Outstanding. Edgbarrow and there is no doubt that we are the better for it. She leaves with our very best wishes and I have no This year, as a staff we are working hard to provide good doubt that we will not only stay in touch but now start to quality marking and feedback that informs the students of forge some positive working relationships with St where they are with their learning. We are conducting a Crispin’s. number of training sessions on how to develop independent learning within the classroom and working We are used to teachers having a huge with middle leaders in an effort to help them to develop impact on their classes and the school but the quality of teaching within their departments Brenda Metcalf as a support member of staff, who has been at this school for over 20 years, has had enormous impact on The good conduct and behaviour of the students is very Edgbarrow. As our Financial Administrator important within our school and in partnership with good she has fully participated in helping us to quality leadership and teaching enables students to enjoy improve and develop as a school. Not only has she had school and achieve their best. Creating a safe, happy a hand in developing procedures and systems that have working relationship within a school is really important to helped our office and teaching staff and ultimately the me. children, but she is also the type of person who has 2 supported the PTA and the raising of money. Mrs Metcalf has devoted herself wholeheartedly to Edgbarrow School and we are going to sorely miss her knowledge, drive and commitment. We wish her a long and happy retirement as she leaves us all the better for her presence.

Mr Plumpton our Facilities Manager joined us almost two A group of 15 students from last year’s Years 11, 12 years ago, following a lifetime in the Army. The Facilities and 13, plus Mr Newbould and Mr Croxon went on Manager’s post was new to us and therefore his a World Challenge Expedition to Nepal in July. The appointment was hugely important. I have to say that Mr expedition lasted 4 weeks and the group arrived in Plumpton has done a fantastic job for us and I am sure that Kathmandu initially for a few days ‘ acclimatisation, Governors, staff, parents and students would all agree that followed by a couple of weeks trekking through the our school site is the better for his involvement and care. Langtang District in the foothills of the Himalayas. He has worked tirelessly throughout the two years, with The highest point on the trek they reached was an his team across the school, to ensure the best facilities, the altitude of 4773m so it was definitely a real ‘challenge’ best equipment and the quickest of responses to any as the company name suggests. They camped for issues we might have had. We are all eternally grateful for most of the trip, but on some nights spent some time his efforts and we wish him every success as he becomes staying in local ‘Tea Houses’. the Estate Manager for Holme Grange School in Wokingham. Once the the trekking phase was complete the team spent a week working in a school near Kathmandu, Thank you and goodbye to Ms Harper who has been which gave them the opportunity to learn about the looking after the school gardens for the past few months. local people’s lives and share in their culture. On the She has done a wonderful job and the flower beds and last few days they visited Chitwan National Park to plants are looking superb so thank you to her for all her experience the rare wildlife that lives in the park, hard work whilst she was with us. before flying home on August 10th. All had a fantastic time and below are a few photographs from the trip. Mrs Hansford joined us in September in our Resources Department and has worked hard to provide an excellent service for the school. We are sorry she is leaving us at the end of this term but we wish her all the very best in the future.

Mr Matthews, who is currently an Assistant Headteacher at St Crispin’s, will be joining Edgbarrow School in January as a Deputy Headteacher. We are sure that Mr Matthews will be a fantastic addition to our Senior Leadership Team and we look forward to working with him. ‘

60 pupils from Years 7-13 are involved and have I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone been working hard in rehearsals for ‘The Good The associated with the school a very Merry Christmas and a Bad and the Panto’, performing on the 18th & 19th Happy New Year. I hope you all have a peaceful time with December at 7.00pm in the school hall. With a crazy family and friends and I look forward to seeing all our Mexican, a haunted mine full of children and whip- students back in school on Monday 7th January 2013 crackin’, hip wiggling dances it’s definitely something (Week B). a little different! Ticket letters are available from reception. A huge thank you to everyone helping or taking part.

3 Using our Online Payment Scheme for trips and visits which is not only very convenient for parents/carers, it is also a more efficient use of time for us in school. The feedback I have received from our Finance Department is that this is a much more efficient system. If you have any feedback for us please can you contact us on [email protected] with the subject heading of

Ÿ Helping us be good neighbours to the local residents in our area. Bryon Drive and Kingsley Close, both off Sandhurst Road, are still very congested throughout the day. Local residents continue to be frustrated and concerned about access to their own driveways. In the mornings parents are dropping off, in the evenings they are waiting to collect and during the day parking on these roads has increased considerably. We have spoken to our Sixth Form regarding the quality of parking and the need to ensure that access to driveways is left clear. The police are aware of this situation and are monitoring the parking in these areas each day.

Ÿ Ensuring that your child wears a cycle helmet if they ride their bike to school? Furthermore, could I ask you to talk to them about the importance of cycling safely on the roads. We don’t want anybody being hurt when travelling to and from school

Ÿ Over the years Mr Waite, our Head of Art has lent out to students a number of Art books; these books are the personal property of Mr Waite and all are marked with his name on the inside cover. So if you have a son or daughter who has studied Art at GCSE and/or A level can you please check to see whether you still have them and return them via Reception. Many thanks in advance.

Ÿ Uniform As the weather gets colder can we please remind you to ensure that students are appropriately dressed. All students in Yrs 7-11 should be wearing the correct uniform at all times; during these colder months can I ask for your support by ensuring that students in Yrs 7-11 do not wear ‘hoodies’ to supplement the uniform, but instead would suggest that they wear the approved school jumper and always wear an appropriate coat. Furthermore can I ask that you ensure that they are wearing sensible shoes. Full details of the school uniform can be found via the following link (insert link)

Ÿ Giving students any tablets or medicines to take themselves during the school day. All medication must be handed in to and administered by our School Nurse. Could parents/carers also please ensure that students are aware that they should take any medication that has been prescribed to someone else.

Ÿ Parking Please note that the Sandhurst Road entrance to the school site is for deliveries and staff only. This is a single track entrance and exit and therefore for safety reasons is not an entrance for use by parents and visitors to the site.

Ÿ Could we please also ask that the use of the Grant Road entrance is kept to a minimum? This is a very busy area at the start and end of the school day and we would like to request that parents please use a different drop off and collection point when driving their children to and from school.

4 Year 7 News

A very warm Christmas welcome to the Year 7 page. I am delighted with how well they have settled into their first term of secondary education at Edgbarrow. We have had such a busy first term with so many opportunities to take Our netball practice sessions and matches are advantage of such as extra-curricular clubs like sports clubs, fantastic. Miss Madz is the coach and she really science club and drama rehearsals, making lots of new supports and encourages us and makes sure we are friends and testing all our attributes at the Oakwood playing to our strengths. The team is improving Challenge where 7P, Q and T braved the very worst of the greatly as the weeks go by and we have been taught autumn weather elements. the rules and skills of netball. The tutors and I have been encouraging all our students to There is a tournament coming up this month and the contribute, join in and take part and many are collecting following members numerous amounts of Merits each week. We have many have been selected to students who have collected bronze, silver and even gold play; Anna, Amelia, certificates, so well done and keep it up. Year 7s have also Grace B, Charlotte, been working on their Seven Signs of Success programme Millie, Grace G, Sofia and Max Angel designed the winning postcard which year 7s and myself. Beating will receive when they complete the 7 signs. Brackenhale has given This newsletter follows the very successful PTA fair where us a great confidence we had an outstanding turn out and participation. Our room boost and hopefully was certainly the loudest! We raised over £200 from the continued success. student designed and led activities such as “human fruit We have made the best start possible. machine” “beat the sock” “six pin penguin” and “chuck a Santa” for starters! Thank you so much for all your effort and contributions.

It was lovely to meet so many of you at “Meet the Tutor evening” and match so many faces to names. I hope you found the evening enjoyable and useful. Year 7s will be receiving their first grade report after Christmas and this will allow you to see how they are progressing in their On the 22nd November 2012, the individual lessons. If you have any concerns or queries, school’s rugby team visited please do not hesitate to contact me. I wish you and your Bluecoats school for a rugby families a restful and enjoyable Christmas and New Year. tournament, held in Reading. The Year 7s, the tutors and I have definitely earned a rest The team included 15 people, and we look forward to the new challenges of the Spring Josh Johnson, who was injured, term. was able to visit and cheer the team on, along with the team who were fit to play. I think the best way to celebrate our successes this term is via the students themselves so please read the following We started with a few wins, but unfortunately we lost reports about their first term from their perspective. just 1 game in our group [against Reading Boys], which brought us to the second league, for the vase. To win the silverware, we had to win every match we played, which Mr Hollingdale was encouraging us to do. And we were successful and we won the vase. We were all very proud of the achievement and of how we represented the Year 7 use the website as a friendly source for info and links school. to other learning websites and basically a place for students to go and find out about the school around them! The Year I would say Sam Clough was the most determined and 7 Website is edited and controlled by The Web Team. We wanting to win some silverware, followed by Jamie are constantly putting things on the website as it is a job that Brown. Plus, Sam won a ball at the end signed by all of we have signed up to do because we love helping the school London Irish rugby club. with the computer side of things. We have links to our charity and Bubbles the duck and each tutor group has a In conclusion the day was terrific, a great experience for page to help and represent them. Please have a look. all of us, and we were glad we won the vase.

5 Year 7 News contd../..

Two pupils in every form across Year 7 are elected to be charity reps. Together we have chosen “The Shooting Star Chase”. This charity is for children around our age who can sadly not live for much longer due to terminal diseases, and we will support them through treatments and provide medicine and support for their families. One of their hospices is in Guildford and helps families in our area and all our donations will go to them.

Recently we have put on a competition to choose who can name the duck. We have had many names put in our box for “Name the Duck” and Amaya Opalka’s choice of Bubbles was the winner! Year 7 students also paid to guess where the Duck might be hiding across the world and lots of places have been bought for “Where’s the Duck”. Emma Soloman was the winner who guessed the Falklands. Both won a disco duck! We have been given photos of people from when they have rented the duck and taken it to fun places! By this we have raised the amazing amount of £97!

On 7th November the library hosted a visit from popular children’s author Pete Johnson. Pete spoke to Year 7 pupils about how he writes his stories and where he gets his inspiration, as well as answering lots of questions. As usual his visit was a great success and we have noticed an increase in the loan of his titles from the library.

A number of pupils wrote thank you letters after the event and the following excerpts show the interest in reading and writing that Pete’s visit sparked.

“I really enjoyed your stupendous presentation!” Joel Aboagye 7V

“It was my Birthday on the 7th November. It was my favourite present.” Rory Mackinnon 7T

“I love your books. They persuade me to read for hours on end and leave me on the edge of my seat.” Hudson Hobley 7T

“I loved how you used your language” Charlie Abbott 7U

“Since I was young I have wanted to become an author now I have seen and read your work I am going to work hard to reach this goal.” Aaron Joseph 7V

As well as the author visit the library took part in the Book Buzz scheme this term which meant that every Year 7 pupil chose a book as a gift from Edgbarrow. We hope pupils are enjoying reading their choices!

6 Year 8 News

Year 8 have had an extremely successful start to the year. been amazed at the creativity of the year group as they It has been a very busy term and I am delighted to see so have prepared their stalls to run on the evening. My office many of the pupils involving themselves fully in life at is full of Santa models, amazing art work and games that the Edgbarrow. Year 8s have designed and made during their lunchtimes and after school. Their enthusiasm is a credit to them and The year group are continuing to support a school on the standard of work so high that I am sure we will use SongoSongo Island, Tanzania and we were privileged their games for many years to come. before half term to have a representative from the charity talk to us about the island and the life there. I was very 8T have written the following about the Christmas impressed that so many of the pupils were prepared to Shopping Evening. give their time making and selling cakes at our recent cake sale to raise money for this venture and a big thank you to you all for your support with this. We have raised over £200 which we intend to use to help support the school by providing basic stationery items. By Emily Holloway, Jodie Lynch Earlier in the term we set each form a 30 Day Challenge and Emily Harding to take a photo every day to illustrate their awareness of Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural issues. This gave the With the Christmas Shopping Evening approaching, each pupils an opportunity to explore their ideas. Some of the form needed a stall idea. Pupils in our form (8T) pictures that the pupils created were excellent – we suggested a few ideas and a vote decided whose idea especially liked 8R’s illustration of ‘Peace’ would be our stall. Votes were counted and Emily Holloway’s idea was to be our stall. It was called Santa Attack! The aim of the game was to throw indoor balls through the holes in Santa and Rudolph. Emily Harding and Jodie Lynch found pictures of Santa and Rudolph which were then drawn on big pieces of thin wood. Meanwhile, Tilly Freeman painted the advertisement and prices posters. Emily Holloway, Charis Black and Hannah Doherty painted the Santa whilst Emily Harding and Jodie painted the Rudolph. After many lunchtimes of painting the Santa and Rudolph were complete, however there were no holes to throw the indoor balls through!! Help was needed, so Mr Waite (art teacher) As you will be aware we have launched our Gr8 project cut out the holes for us on the Santa and Rudolph. Then this year for the pupils in Year 8 to motivate the pupils we realised that we needed a stand so that the Santa and throughout the year. Pupils will be awarded points for Rudolph wouldn’t fall over. We went to Mr Lucas various personal challenges linked to school attendance, (design and tech teacher) who happily created stands for behaviour, their work, participation in extra-curricular us! The Santa and Rudolph were officially finished; then activities, charity work etc. As with all good competitions came the night of the Christmas Fair. We had asked the ‘points mean prizes’ and the project will culminate in a PE department to borrow some indoor balls to attack grand prize draw in the summer with prizes which we Santa and Rudolph with. They willingly obliged!!! The hope will encourage the pupils to try their best Christmas Fair was a lot of fun, not just for the helpers throughout the year. I have been delighted to be able to (Emily Holloway, Tilly Freeman, Hannah Doherty, award certificates to a large number of pupils already for Shalom Matsekeza and George Vallance) but also for the successfully completing 8 challenges and look forward to people who played Santa Attack. We raised a lot of presenting many more. Next term we have some money and had a great time doing it! Edgbarrow prizes for those who complete the next 8 challenges. Please encourage your child to join in with activities in school and to tell us about activities they After such a busy term I hope that the participate in outside school so that we can celebrate their children enjoy a fun, restful Christmas and I successes with them. would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas As I write this piece Christmas is fast approaching and we and I look forward to working with you all in have just had the PTA Christmas Shopping Evening. I have the New Year.

7 Congratulations

Max, one of our yr 12 students is a keen cyclist and in early September he won the UK Inter-Regional Track Championships which took place in Newport, Wales. He followed this success up in late September when he and his partner Ben Chapman won the National Youth A (U16 boys) National Madison Championship at the Manchester velodrome.

This is Max’s first national title so many congratulations to him! Alongside the On 4th November Ryan finished 3rd in the Boys World national medal he received Max also has a British Junior Wakeboarding Championships. 45 competitors Cycling Jersey which he can wear in all his Madison took part in the event which was held in Clark, races for the next 12 months! Philippines. Ryan received a Bronze Medal and is pictured below on the podium (far right) receiving his medal. Well done to Ryan and the best of luck for his next event!

8 Year 9 News

As a year group we have settled well into Year 9 and be meeting with you as parents and the pupils to discuss progressed with our studies towards the end of key stage what subjects are on offer to the pupils at 3. and what they want to do.

We continue with school life and the same things that were I hope you will be able to join us at the meetings in the important in Year 7 are still important to us now: correct new year as we look to work with you and your son or uniform, diary signing, completion of homework, and good daughter as we help them choose their options for time keeping, all go to help make a good school day for study at Key Stage 4. pupils and make the life of the tutor and classroom teacher, much easier. Thank you for your continued help and I look forward to seeing you there. support with these tasks. Happy Christmas and a Prosperous Attendance is a vital issue for us all, with evidence to show New Year. that pupils that are in school and have better attendance, ultimately achieve better results. Please support us with this getting your child to school on time or letting us know if they are unwell and unable to attend. . Trip to the National Army Museum

To encourage the pupils with these areas, we have been running a competition, covering Attendance, Merits and Sanctions, with friendly competition provided between forms to see who can do best. Well done to “Form V” (Miss Clarke) for winning in the first half term,;as I write a close battle between “S” and “T” is under way as we approach the end of term.

We have also been encouraging activities which pupils take part in and sharing with the year group what interests we have outside school. Judo, Singing, Boxing and Synchronised Swimming are just a few of the talents which Year 9 are taking part in and that we have heard about. If you know of any pupils involved in an activity that they would like to share with us, please let me know.

As a year group, we have been on a History trip to the Army Museum, enjoyed the visit from the German exchange students and have students taking part in the school production, as well as having members of the school Swing Band. Well done to all who are taking part. If you have missed out this time, please look to take part in the opportunities that are offered as it is these extra things which add to school life.

With Christmas fast approaching, Year 9 have recently undertaken internal exams which is part of the process of assessing their progress of the students as we come to the end of . Over the next few weeks we will

9 Year 10 News

I have been delighted with the fantastic start Year 10 have This year the Year 10s have taken part in a token scheme made to their GCSE and BTEC courses this term. They as part of their reward system. Whey they are awarded came back in September with enthusiasm and energy, 10 tokens they get to vote for the reward they would which they have used to very positive effect in their like to happen. The term they have been voting lessons. It has been quite striking the number of staff who between vouchers, a trip to Nando’s or a trip to Laser have emailed me, or stopped me as I walk around the Quest. At the moment it is a very close contest between school with their positive comments about their Year 10 Laser Quest and Nando’s. We will be taking the winners groups. I have also been delighted with the mature to one of these venues early in January. I look forward manner in which they have coped with the controlled to a fun filled evening! assessments in several subjects this term. I am sure they will maintain this excellent start, which will prepare them for the demands which lay ahead.

A number of Year 10s were trained to become ‘Peer Mentors’ at the end of Year 9. I have been delighted to see them working really well helping the Year 7s to settle in. This help and support can make a massive difference I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and to the Year 7s and enable them to enjoy this time and do your families a wonderful Christmas holiday and a well well here at Edgbarrow. earned rest! I would also like to thank you for your continued support. I look forward to another busy and As usual the Inter Form Quiz has been exciting term when we return in the New Year. hotly contested. 10V were the winners at half term and ‘Bubba’ the giant bath duck was taken on some exciting trips over the half term holiday. Mr Drosdzowski, 10V’s tutor also took . Bubba to watch Stoke play football recently. Bubba is still in a state of shock and asking when he might get to watch some proper football!

Our Netball, Rugby and Basketball teams have continued to be very successful again this term. They have all won the vast majority of their games. The PE department and I have been very pleased to see so many Year 10s showing such excellent commitment to training and playing for the school. Well done to all those involved.

As I write this, we are only days away from the School production. It is fantastic to see so many members of the year group getting involved; I look forward to watching them show off their talents.

10 Year 11 News

This term has been a busy, stressful time for Year 11 but Year 11 have also had the I am extremely proud of the way they are coping with the exciting new opportunity of mounting pressures on them. The vast majority becoming prefects this year, conducted themselves admirably and approached the which is a first for the recent study leave period in a mature and responsible school. Students were manner. It is now vital that the students reflect on their nominated by staff and results and the feedback given by members of staff in tutors with a final 30 being order to ensure that improvements, where needed, can selected to take on the new role. These students were be made in advance of the Summer exams. then presented with their prefect pins in assembly by Mr Elsey and went to Oakwood for The workload for those taking BTEC courses is also a cold but fun team building mounting, and it is imperative that the students keep up exercise. Already the students to date with all assignments. Leaving work until later will have made a big impact around only result in further pressures in the Spring term and it is the encouraging to see those pupils who are already school committing considerable amounts of time after school to site in supporting the younger stay on top of the workload for these BTEC courses and pupils and I believe their role will for those subjects with a large amount of coursework continue to grow throughout the required. school year as they work closely with staff and our sixth form head We have recently formed our boy and girl team. Congratulations Prom and Year Book to you all. Committees and I am delighted with the calibre of letters we Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to say a received to apply to be part of massive thank you to all the Year 11 tutors and attached these committees and the tutors who have worked so tirelessly throughout the enthusiasm term in supporting and encouraging the pupils in their of all involved. The fundraising tutor groups and to Miss Rhodes for all her support with activities will soon be starting with the year group since September, we all wish her well in gusto and I would like to say a special her new Headteacher post. thanks to Miss Dolby who is working so hard to support both me and the I would also like to wish you all a committees in these endeavours. peaceful and relaxing break and I will look forward to seeing all the pupils The Year 11s will bring home their next grade report in for the start of the new term on January, which will help provide a clear indication of how Monday 7th January Week B, ready to they are progressing towards their target grades and any meet the demands of the new term possible areas of concern. Please contact me or the as we prepare for the imminent subject teacher if there are any worries or concerns exams. following this so we can all work together to ensure the students perform to the best of their abilities and reach their potential in the Summer.

This academic year we have been continuing with our new reward system, where tokens have been awarded for homework, effort, contribution to school etc which have translated into prizes for those pupils who have collected the most during the term. The pupils have voted for a reward prize of vouchers and congratulations to all who received some for their efforts. The reward system will roll onto next term with a new prize so there will be plenty more opportunities to get involved throughout the New Year.

11 Sixth Form News

Over 160 students joined Year 12 this September, making (among other fun things) in this beautiful capital city. over 300 students in years 12 and 13. We are increasing steadily and we are absolutely delighted with the wonderfully Year 13 students have been beavering away on their positive way that both year groups have worked and university applications. A number of students already have interacted this term. It really is a happy and vibrant place to four or five offers, despite the application deadline being a be. So thanks to all the students and staff who make it such a month away. Over 110 students will apply this year, with rewarding and pleasant Sixth Form. As the deadline others applying for professional training schemes / approaches for applications for next year, we already have 65 employment such as with Deloitte, KPMG or Ernst and applications from Year 11 students at other schools to join us Young, among others. 49 out of 89 (54%) of those who in Year 12 next year. This number will continue to grow as have applied so far have an offer from a highly selective more students from the area around seek to join our university, including Bath, Bristol, Exeter, Imperial College, successful and positive learning environment. King’s College, Loughborough, Leicester, Nottingham, Southampton, Birmingham, Surrey, Sussex, UEA, Sheffield, Students continue to play a major role in the running of Sixth York, Manchester, Liverpool, Royal Holloway and Warwick, Form life, and a number of activities have taken place this among others. We are still waiting to hear from UCL, term. The Freshers’ party for Year 12 was superbly Oxford and Cambridge. Five students have secured organised at Jagz in Ascot. It was a great evening with no interviews at Oxford and one student has been interviewed issues at all, thanks to the meticulous planning of the Year 13 at Cambridge. Students have applied for a wide variety of Social Captain (Eli Lower). The election of Year 12 Vice courses including teaching, nursing, clinical psychology, Captains was a fabulous event, with a supportive and positive zoology, medicine, media production, law, criminology, atmosphere and some excellent speeches. Our new team of marketing, chemistry with study in continental Europe, Vice Captains will work with the Captains to organise many three dimensional design, veterinary medicine, and so on. events over the course of the year. Our new team is: These are but a few of the fascinating subjects that our students will go on to study next year. They just have to get the grades now! Creative Amy McAree Hayley Kennard Fundraising Becca Manning Sophie White Many of our students continue to be involved in exciting Performing Arts Seb Zarrilli Sam Jackson and impressive sporting and musical or dramatic activities Public Speaking Catherine Lloyd Stephen Tolcher and events (including music grades, pantos, shows, local Social Eli Lower Sophie Lamden and national sporting events), and we congratulate them all Sport (Boy) Tom Mitchell Dean Harfield on their many successes. Others impress us with their Sport (Girl) Becky Turton Faith Jenkinson commitment to their community, helping old people, volunteering with youth clubs and groups for the disabled, seeking work experience in schools and companies, and We’ve had fundraising days; a fancy dress day; Children in helping at Edgbarrow with lower school groups. This will Need activities; and a Safe Drive Stay Alive event at the stand them in good stead in the years to come, and we are Hexagon in Reading. pleased to recognise their dedication here.

The Open Mic night, organised by our As the end of term arrives and the January modules Performing Arts Captain (Seb Zarrilli) and approach, we urge students to be completely aware of what Vice Captain (‘newby’ Sam Jackson), aided they have to do over the Christmas holiday. There is a lot of and abetted by Becca Manning, was an revision and work to do, and the more they accomplish evening to remember. The event was slightly during this period the easier next term will be. different in that it began with a Sing If You Can competition, which was challenging but We remain grateful for all the hard work of all Sixth Form hilarious – in no small part because of the inability of the staff (teaching and non-teaching), students and the singers to complete their tasks. The musical evening wonderful support of parents and carers during these demonstrated a great deal of talent in the Sixth Form as challenging years. As a team we can achieve a great deal, and individuals performed solo and in groups. It was a relaxed and we can look forward with confidence to next year in the really enjoyable evening. knowledge that there is a massive amount of potential in our students. An article on the Sixth Form Paris trip appears elsewhere in this Newsletter, written by As a team, we all wish you a very happy end Amanda Jackson. Thanks to her, Brian Waite to the year, and we send you our very best and Caroline Light for their excellent support season’s greetings. Happy New Year too! for a great trip. The students were fantastic company, as usual, and we spent four days becoming extremely cultured The Sixth Form team of staff and students 12 Governor News

A school has three very important groups of people, the students, the staff and the governors. To many parents the governors seem to be an invisible group who have no impact on the school, but in fact nothing could be further from the truth. We governors come from many parts of our local Community and especially from the School itself in the form of Parent and Staff Governors, bringing a wide range of skills to our task. We are responsible for setting the school’s “strategy”, and being accountable for and monitoring its performance. We do this by being a “critical friend” to the school.

Edgbarrow is very lucky to have an exceptional headteacher in Bob Elsey, who has gathered round him excellent staff. Jointly with our pupils and their supportive parents they all make the school “outstanding”. So what do the governors do to maintain this high standard?

Each term we have a “full” meeting to hear Mr Elsey tell us about the school’s progress and his plans for the future and we have committees to discuss specific topics in more detail – the school’s budget, the curriculum, pastoral matters (all about safeguarding and looking after your child), staffing matters (which include recruitment, promotions and pay) and the grounds and buildings. The outcome of these discussions is brought to all the governors at the full meetings.

These meetings and discussions make sure that the school is well run and gives Mr Elsey the confidence and support to implement plans. Often we challenge ideas or decisions and this helps us all to come to a better solution. More often we help Mr Elsey and his team in negotiations with outside bodies, for example our superb Sixth Form Centre was only built after very detailed discussions with and the national funding authorities. For another example, governors helped in deciding which organisation should provide our school meals – and some of us enjoyed free tasters!

But we don’t work blindly. Over the years we have hammered out “policies” that guide the school and the governors in the right direction. It is an important part of our job to keep these policies up to date as the world itself changes.

Another of our roles is participating in staff recruitment. As always, the ultimate decision is the Head’s, but governors take a full part in selecting senior positions.

We celebrate the success of pupils and of staff who grow in their roles. Departures are usually joyous occasions, or even retirements, staff going to bigger jobs at other schools or pupils moving on to the big wide world.

We governors are honoured and proud to be able to help Edgbarrow continue to be the great school it has become whilst still having had a lot of fun. Though we are informal in our meetings we are fully aware that we have a very serious purpose..

All schools are managed by a Governing Body, which Following the expiry of another works closely with the Headteacher and the senior Governor’s term of office, we staff in line with DfE and Local Authority guidelines. currently have a vacancy for a Parent Governor, elected by the parents, The Edgbarrow Governing Body consists of 7 parent and will be sending out the governors, 4 authority governors, 4 staff governors and application information in January. 5 community governors as per the Instrument of One third (7) of our Governors are Government. They are all volunteers who give their parents. If you are interested, we shall be very pleased time and expertise free of charge to ensure that the for you to stand. For more information - see John school is run well, within budget and putting the needs McNab’s note or contact him through the Clerk to the and well-being of pupils and staff at the forefront. Governors [email protected]

13 PE Department

Brown jointly captained the side and used their knowledge and experience well against some tough opposition. Both are very promising rugby players and certainly two to watch for the future. The Year 7 rugby team had an excellent start to their playing careers at Edgbarrow. Right from the first training The year 8 rugby team has had an excellent season this year. session there were high hopes and expectations on the They came runners up in the Bracknell league only losing to team who have a number of boys that play for Bracknell and Garth Hill having beaten them earlier in the year in the other rugby clubs in the area. Despite this, it did not stop cup. In the cup the boys managed to get to the 4th dozens of other boys joining the club as complete beginners round after some fantastic wins losing to Reading Bluecoat and training regularly to improve their skills. There has School who won the competition last year. This years, been a really positive atmosphere at training. players of the season were Ben Kemp, who was also top The highlight of the playing season in Year 7 is always the scorer, Billy Coles and Aaron Wray. A special mention Berkshire Schools Festival held at Reading RFC and should also go to Albert Watson who has done a fantastic Reading Bluecoat school. Edgbarrow were drawn in the job as captain and also played an integral role in every match ‘group of death,’ along with Reading Boys School and setting a great example from the front. Forest A team. A very close and hard fought game against Reading where Edgbarrow were defeated 3 tries to 2 meant that winning the group would be a challenge. Strong The Year 9s had a tough start to the season with their first wins against Garth Hill, and LVS B meant that the last group game being against private school LVS, who, although twice game against Forest would decide who would be second in the size of our team, were impressed with our continued the group. Forest came out fighting and quickly developed fight right up until the final whistle (the boys particularly a two try lead. As the game went on and Edgbarrow tried enjoyed the free meal at the end). From here the team to play catch up, the defence was exposed and the faced some tough challenges in the league being narrowly Edgbarrow boys were beaten. The structure of the beaten by Garth Hill and Ranelagh. Once again the boys tournament is such that wherever you finish in your group, picked themselves up and ended the season on a high with you then go on to a knock out phase. Edgbarrow went into a couple of big wins against Sandhurst and EP, Hopefully we the Vase Competition. In the quarter final we were drawn can continue with this run next year. Well done boys! against the John Madejski – a huge side lacking in basic skills but very strong runners. The Edgbarrow boys tackled and defended well and, when with the ball, passed The Year 10 rugby team has enjoyed another very good it around nicely to create three fantastic tries. It was rugby season and improved both as individuals and as a enough to defeat the Reading boys and set up a place in the team. The spirit in the team is very high and despite some semi final against Forest B. Having been well beaten by the changes in personnel in key positions from previous years, A team from the same school, Edgbarrow were out for the confidence and ability levels have been strong. The some revenge. Right from the first whistle Edgbarrow most enjoyable aspect of their season has been the cup run were all over the opposition scoring three tries in the first they had in the County cup. Convincing wins over Garth half. A similar rout continued in the second half and a place Hill(turning over a defeat from last year into a 20 point in the plate final was won. The opposition in the final was victory), Grammar and, most convincingly Forest Maiden Erlegh. By this time the weather had closed in and won the boys a place in the semi final played last week. The the light was being lost rapidly. The Edgbarrow players opposition were a very well drilled and very well coached made a brilliant start scoring 3 tries in the first half; Maiden Emmbrook side. Due to poor pitch conditions the team had Erlegh did not know what had fit them. Unfortunately to forgo home pitch advantage and play away from home. Edgbarrow took their eye off the ball in the second half Emmbrook had a big crowd of vocal supporters assembled allowing Maiden Erlegh to come back into it. Fortunately it and I believe this was crucial in the result. The game was was too little too late and Edgbarrow sneaked the victory. unbelievably tight throughout; the half time score was 7-5 A huge well done must go to all the boys involved in the day to Edgbarrow. Injuries to some key players meant that but also to all the boys that committed to coming to Edgbarrow played in the second half with some players out training every week. It was a great first season and a team of position and the final score was 15-7 to Emmbrook. which could and should achieve great things in the future. Some crucial missed tackles and refereeing decisions Two players deserve a special mention: Alex Turton, a proved costly and the team took the defeat hard which novice to rugby in September, was the top try scorer not reflects their determination and will to win. However, they only from Edgbarrow but from our group of schools. He can all be proud of their achievements and the combines outstanding strength, speed and acceleration performances from earlier in the season. They have one leaving most players in his wake. Sam Clough and Jamie game left to play in the Bracknell league which should result 14 in them being crowned Bracknell Forest Champions. Players of note have been Jacob Burchfield, a ferocious ball This year a great number of 55 girls carrier and tackler, Chay Smith, new to the school and the turned up to be part of the team but a talented runner and kicker of the ball – a real Edgbarrow Netball Team, working asset to the side, Sean Stichbury, now playing club rugby hard, every training session has seen and causing havoc at every breakdown and tackle area and a vast improvement in the group of Elliot Mitchell whose kicking and tactical game has really girls producing some top class come on as the season has progressed. Well done to all the netball at such a young age. Their boys involved and fingers crossed the league can be won. season began with a gruelling battle against Sandhurst which resulted in a draw. This result prompted the girls On Saturday 10th November the PE to become more attacking in their tactics resulting in their department took 45 students up to first win against a tough and well drilled Easthampstead Park Twickenham stadium to watch team. Their latest result was a nail biting contest against a play Fiji in the first of the very strong Brakenhale team. A great team partnership was autumn internationals. Fortunately for us, Fiji looked like apparent between our Centre (Becky Ball) and Wing Attack they had not played or indeed practised in a while, so (Grace Gregory), moving the ball up the court within England were able to dominate the game running in a seconds. Goal Attack (Emily Del Nivo) and Goal Shooter multitude of tries and playing some expansive rugby. The (Grace Boucher) showed their excellent composure under students involved were a real credit to the school and a pressure shooting close to 100% success. Excellent pleasure to take away. Well done and thanks for such a defending from Emelia Baker, Charlotte Sayce and Maddie pleasant day to all involved Clarke built a solid defensive foundation that allowed Edgbarrow to make this game interesting. In the final quarter, Edgbarrow were down by 6 points, but a change in tactics and the teams’ incredible fighting spirit brought us back into the game, winning in the dying seconds of the The U16 basketball team have had a difficult match 10 – 9. Well done all girls who have taken part in time in the league, because they are all year training and the games so far, long may this fighting spirit 10 pupils and the opposition are mainly year continue. 11s. However they produced a very good performance against and were winning by 2 points at half time. Unfortunately Prospect came back in the 3rd and 4th quarters to win a close game 52 – 46 Our first game this year was against Ranelagh. We felt a little under prepared and the game was close. The The boys began their season with a local derby thriller. In attackers in this game worked very well with Alicia the warm-up it was clear the two teams of Sandhurst and Martin, Melissa Robinson and Georgia Richards scoring lots of goals. Each team took it in turns to Edgbarrow meant business, not missing a single lay-up, L Sandhurst showed off their speed and Edgbarrow showed score goals. Eventually Ranelagh beat us by 1 goal . that height will pose a clear threat in this game. The game We came back from this determined to improve so began with Edgbarrow taking a clear 6 point lead due to worked very hard on our defence focusing our Sam Newmans’ height and Marco Paolo Ramos’ intelligent training sessions on this. It clearly worked and in our point guard skills. Sandhurst broke out of their shell in the next game against Brakenhale we won 31-4. The 2nd quarter and brought the game level, making the second Edgbarrow defence consisting of Elisha Meade, half very tense. The game see sawed to and fro with 2 Hannah Bevins and Emily Bryson, were impossible to points being the difference for the remainder of the game, get past. Our next game was a big one; it was the nerves were evident in both teams with unforced errors South East Berks netball tournament hosted at St increasing. With 30 seconds on the clock, Edgbarrow were Georges in Ascot. At the event over 140 girls took 3 points down, it took an almighty step up in defence and part. We played lots of games winning some and losing an And 1 from AJ Gamboa, levelling the game with 10 some. It was an intense tournament and a few girls seconds on the clock. A nail biting end, but Edgbarrow gained injuries. managed to get Marco Paolo free to drive toward the The Year 9s are also enjoying officiating and basket scoring a winning basket on the buzzer – leadership. We are learning how to use our whistles EDGBARROW WIN! and tell players what they are doing. The girls also The boys have more games to come against Windsor, helped Miss Mead and Miss Madz organise the year 10 Langley and . Sandhurst were South East Berks netball tournament ( A BIG THANK unbeaten until they met Edgbarrow - let’s hope this is the YOU TO ALL THE GIRLS FROM MISS MEAD AND beginning of a super season. MISS MADZ )

15 done very well considering most of the pupils in the U16 teams are in Year 10 and are playing against Year 11s from other So far this year we have only had schools. Similarly the U14 teams have some one game against Ranelagh. This Year 7s playing against Year 8 and 9 from was a close game and we only lost other schools. The experience will have by 27 goals with the final score been good for them and as a result they will being 29-2. Training is going well be even stronger next year. with lots of new girls joining to compete for the school and we have learnt lots of new exciting drills. Rachel The Girls U14 team have won all their games and will Boucher, Rachel Hardy, Ella Croft, Molly Maunders, definitely qualify for the county championships. The U16 Rosie Clarke, Elisa Fletcher, Alys Blades, Sarah Mattey, girls team won most of their games but lost to Garth and Chloe Leivers, Chloe McCree, Leah Walton, Emily will have to wait to see if they have qualified, depending on Gilbert, Taku and Jess Davies are all part of the Year 10 other matches played. netball squad. We are looking forward to playing in the South East Berkshire tournament in the New Year. The U14 and U16 boys won most of their games, but both lost to Ranelagh and again will have to wait for other results in the league to see if they go through to the county championships.

There have been some new faces, Erin Watson and Rachel We have only had one hockey match this term, because of McCree on the team this ye, proving themselves to be cancellations and there are only two state fantastic defenders So far this year the girls have only schools in the area that can raise a hockey played one game. It was a very close game against team. Ranelagh with us winning 9-8. The girls also played in the SE Berks Tournament. The games were of a very high The Year 7 and 8 boys played Charters and standard and many of the teams we played against were of lost 2 – 1 after a very close and exciting match. This game a county standard. The girls played exceptionally well and really was a game of two halves in which Charters scored persevered in all of their games and will be playing more twice in the first half, but after a little reorganisation at half games in the New Year. time the Edgbarrow team pinned Charters in their own half for the entire second half and scored one goal, but despite constant pressure could not quite get the equalizer. The girls and boys badminton teams have now finished the Berkshire League games and have had a reasonably More games for the boys and girls teams are planned successful season against some good opposition. They have between Christmas and Easter.

PE EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES - SPRING TERM 2013

Yr 7/8 Table Tennis - Sports Hall - BTEC/GCSE PE Catch up - H5 Mr Fisher Yr 9-13 Badminton Coaching - External Coach Yr 9 - 13 Aerobics - External Coach Yr 7 Football - Mr Basher All Years Basketball - Sports Hall - Yr 10 Football - Mr Drosdzowski Mr Newbould Yr 9/10/11 Netball - Miss Mead Year 7/8/9 Tennis Coaching - External Coach Yr 11 Football - Mr Hollingdale All Years Basketball - Mr Newbould & external coach

Yr 9/10 Table Tennis - Sports Hall - Yr 8 Football - Mr Fisher Mr Fisher All Years Badminton - Mr Newbould Yr 7/8 Netball - Miss Madz and Mrs McClatchie Yr 11 & 6th Form Rugby - External Coach Yr 9 /10 Netball Officiating - Miss Mead All Years Volleyball Club - Sports Hall Yr 9/10/11 Basketball (Girls) - Sports Hall - Miss Madz Mr Fisher All Years Hockey - Mr Fisher Yr 9 Football - Mr Newbould Yr 7/8 Badminton - Sports Hall Staff and 6th Form 5 a side - 4.00-5.30 Mr Newbould Team Tennis - External Coach 16 Maths Department

On Tuesday 6th November our Further Maths students in both Years 12 and 13 sat the UKMT maths challenge. This is a national competition with ‘problem solving’ type questions set around many different areas of mathematics.

Our students achieved gold, silver and bronze certificates and the results are given below:

Year 13 Year 12 Joseph Lee* Jay Porter * & ** David Goswell

Beth Nixon Hayley Kennard Peter Hitt Aaron Scardifield Laura Knowles Phoebe McEwen

Stefan Collier Josh Bean Matt Cowley Faith Jenkinson Sebastian Zarrilli Ellen Hodges

*Jay Porter and Joseph Lee scored enough points to go through to the next round of the challenge which was held on 30th November. Results to follow in the next newsletter!

** Jay Porter also received a certificate for ‘Best in School’.

The maths department would like to congratulate all the students who received certificates.

On Monday 12th November, four of our Further Maths students represented the school in the local heat of the Senior Team Maths Challenge, held at in Reading. This event is run jointly by the UK Maths Trust and the Further Maths Support Network and involves an evening of maths puzzles! Regional heats are held all over the country with the winning teams taking part in the grand final. The team this year was made up of two Year 13 and two Year 12 students: Laura Knowles, Ben Franks, Aaron Scardifield and Jay Porter.

I had the pleasure of accompanying the students once again and a good time was had by all. Unfortunately we were not one of the winning teams (Eton managed that again!!!)

Well done to the four students involved and I thank them for giving up their valuable time.

Calculator = £5.50 Filled pencil case = £3.50

Pen, pencil, rubber, ruler all 10p each

17 Other News

Mr Evans, Mr Waite, Mrs Light and I took 29 French, Art and Photography 6th Formers to Paris for a very enjoyable and interesting 4 day trip.

It started off with a very early coach ride to St Pancras to catch the Eurostar to Gare du Nord ending up with a long walk to the hotel with our bags after using the Métro. Mr Evans had warned everyone about gangs of pickpockets at Gare du Nord but this year we only saw armed guards in the station. We dumped our bags and went straight back out.

We had a packed itinerary starting off with Notre Dame built in Gothic style and then on to Le Panthéon which houses some of France's most famous citizens' remains including Marie Curie, Louis Braille and Voltaire. Then to Eglise Saint Séverin which is in the flamboyant gothic style and very dark inside but with unusual stained glass windows. Luckily the sun shone through these beautifully. The photography students had fun here with the low light.

Already the students were getting the hang of using the Métro – it is number, name and colour coded,so very easy to understand.

Saturday consisted of an early visit to Sainte Chapelle which has the most amazing stained glass windows and reminded us of the Harry Potter dining hall. Then we had a lovely walk through the Jardins des Tuileries and along the Christmas market on Champs-Elysées on the way to Place de la Concorde. Next we climbed the many steps to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for a view from the very top. The weather had just cleared and we could see the sights all around. In the evening we visited the Sacre-Coeur and Montmartre area which is a great time to visit this area as it is beautifully lit up and is very bohemian.

Sunday saw half of our party visiting Le Louvre which would not be complete without viewing the Mona Lisa but I think what really fired the students up was the glass diamond and the old moat that had been dug up and renovated beneath the gallery itself. The other group visited the Musée Rodin to see the spectacular statues in the grounds. Then it was back on the Métro to La Défense for the Grande Arche and shopping before our finale at the Eiffel Tower. Fears had to be faced to get to the top of this huge tower, braving fast moving elevators and see-through iron steps but we made it and was well worth the effort. The views are amazing and we could recognise all the places we had visited previously.

On our last day the groups split into three. Some went to Le Marais for a look at the Jewish Quarter and to shoot the unusual architecture in that area. Some students went to the Pompidou Centre to compare the art there with the Louvre. The rest went sightseeing at the amazing underground complex at Forum des Halles.

I would like to say how proud we were of all the students – their behaviour was exemplary and they were great ambassadors for Edgbarrow School. I think they all gained something from this trip; in their chosen A level, their geographical and social knowledge and in their team building and self understanding. Well done to all and thanks to everyone who made this trip possible.

Amanda Jackson (Photography Technician)

18 NOTICEBOARD

May we remind parents and Although we strive for high attendance from our other visitors that we are a students, if you know your child is unwell or injured non-smoking site, and that, We would like to remind parents and carers and not fit to be in school please do not send them. If therefore, smoking is not that we have a dedicated telephone number a student becomes unwell or injured during the permitted anywhere within for reporting student absence whether it be course of the school day it is the parent/carer’s our buildings or grounds. going to an appointmentin school. or not going .to be responsibility to collect their child or arrange for a The number is: responsible adult to do so. Please ensure that your contact details are kept up to date so we can Parents can also advise of absence by using efficiently ensure the health and safety of your child. the email absenceschool reporting website. facility on the

It is a serious breach of examination regulations to bring a mobile phone into an examination room – see the school Parents should note that the school website for more details. Please ensure cannot be responsible for the personal that students do not bring mobile phones property of students whilst the to school during examination sessions. students participate in off site activities At other times mobile phones should be and the school will not be liable for loss The Centre is for any students experiencing switched off and remain hidden and social, emotional or behavioural difficulties of or damage to such property should not used at any time on the school that may have an effect on their learning. this occur. By agreeing that your child Students and parents are welcome to may participate in the activity proposed contact Ms Guy and her team directly. you also acknowledge and agree that site. However referrals will always be agreed the school shall have no liability in this with the Head of Year. Ms Guy and her respect. team can be contacted via the main school number on 01344 772658

SOFT FOOTBALLS We now have the facility to offer Paracetamol to Please remind students students if the need arises. This can only be accessed that they should bring soft via the school nurse. If the nurse assesses that the use footballs (not leather ones) of Paracetamol is necessary, she will first telephone into school to play at the parent/guardian for consent. An accurate record If it is necessary for students to take any lunchtime. is kept of Paracetamol use. We hope that this will medication in school (including non-prescription enable your children to remain in school and that they medicines), the medication and a signed consent will be more comfortable and able to concentrate on form (this form can also be downloaded from the their lessons. We will of course still ask you to collect school website) must be handed in at Reception. The your child if they remain unwell or in severe pain. where it will be stored safely. The medication If you have any concerns regarding this should be sent in its original container, complete please contact the School Nurse on 01344 772658. with the expiry date and dosage details student must to come to the medical room at the required time to report to the Nurse or a First Aider before taking the medication.

School Evaluation Items of lost property can be We would like to reinstate our Parent reclaimed from Reception at Can students please make sure that Evaluation Forms that we used a few years lunchtime from 1.45pm onwards when using the school minibus they ago. In time we will make this electronic but only. Items of PE kit are kept in the PE department for a short time do not eat when travelling in it and in the meantime we will be using paper before arriving in Reception. Can certainly do not leave any litter versions at Parents’ Evenings. Therefore behind. Furthermore, please do not could we please ask parents, when you attend we please remind all parents that wear dirty boots while travelling in your next Parents’ Evening, to spend 10 all personal effects should be named and that unclaimed lost the bus and ensure that the whole minutes completing an evaluation sheet. bus is left clean and tidy after every property will be disposed of at journey. This is a fantastic new bus; the end of each term. let’s make sure we can all enjoy it.

19 Foodbank – 1 High Street, Crowthorne, RG45 7AD Open: Monday and Thursday 12noon-2pm Food donations can be made between these times or dropped into our Vineyard Centre (address below) during normal office hours or brought along to church at Edgbarrow School on Sunday mornings 10am-12noon Foodbank background About a year ago we heard about (what we fondly call the shed) in Crowthorne High Street, and thought it would be great if our church were able to rent it, if possible, and run a storehouse of some sort there. Vineyard Church were already established in Crowthorne, holding its services at Edgbarrow School each Sunday and has offices and meeting rooms on Wellington Business Park in Crowthorne.

During the ten years that Vineyard church has been in Crowthorne we have continually helped people in need of clothing, furniture and food, so the foodbank was a natural development for us when we heard of the idea together with people’s need in both Crowthorne and Sandhurst.

After we commenced renting the shed from LR Edwards electrical in April 2012 some of the wonderful guys and girls from our church spent the next few months giving their time and skills (in between working!) in renovating the shed on a tight budget plus generous donations from various local companies turning it into the fantastic building it is now. We have partnered with Bracknell Foodbank (part of the Trussell Trust) who have been wonderful in supporting and teaching us how the foodbank principle works.

Crowthorne Foodbank was officially opened on Thursday 6 December by Councillor Bob Wade, Chair of Crowthorne Parish Council, and will be open on Mondays and Thursdays from 12noon to 2pm for clients to collect food and people to donate food.

How the foodbank works The Foodbank gives out nutritionally balanced emergency food to people in crisis who have nowhere else to turn. It also offers additional support to help break the cycle of poverty, putting people in touch with relevant agencies who can offer further Support.

Food is donated by the local people (see our food list below). Volunteers sort and pack the food into food packs. Each food pack contains enough food for 3 days. We partner with front-line care professionals, who identify people in crisis and give them a voucher. On taking their voucher to the Foodbank centre, people receive a warm welcome, a hot drink and a food pack. They also put people in touch with agencies who can help resolve the underlying causes of the crisis.

The foodbank provides: Milk (UHT) Breakfast Cereal Tinned soup Fruit juice (Long life) Pasta Sauces Baked Beans Rice/Sponge pudding (tinned) Tomatoes (tinned) Pasta/Rice (500g) Tinned vegetables Tea bags Instant mash/tinned potato Tinned meat / fish Tinned fruit Sugar (500g) Biscuits and cereal bars

Vineyard Church Centre We meet every Sunday at: 25 Wellington Business Park Edgbarrow School Dukes Ride, Crowthorne RG45 6LS Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 7HZ Email: [email protected] Breakfast from: 10:00-10:30am 01344 780087 Service time: 10:30am-12noon

www.wokinghamvineyard.org 20 Autumn Term 2012

Last Day of Term Friday 21st December (school closes at 12.05pm)

Spring Term 2013

First Day of Term Monday 7th January

Half Term Monday 18th - Friday 22nd February

Last Day of Term Thursday 28th March (school closes at 12.05pm)

Summer Term 2013

INSET Day Monday 15th April (school closed to pupils)

First Day of Term Tuesday 16th April

Bank Holiday Monday 6th May

Half Term Monday 27th - Friday 31st May

Last Day of Term Friday 19th July (school closes at 12.05pm)

GCE AS & A Level Results Day Thursday 15th August

GCSE/BTEC Results Day Thursday 22nd August

For further Term Dates/Key Dates please visit our website at:

www.edgbarrow.bracknell-forest.sch.uk

21