Greenpower Team Race Ahead in International Finals

Newsletter: Issue 13 October 2018 Greenpower Team Race Ahead in International Finals

Bideford College Racing Take Second Place in Final!

On the 5th of October, Bideford College Racing Team travelled up to Rockingham Motor Speedway in Leicestershire to com- pete in the Greenpower F24 International Kit Car Final. Greenpower F24 is an electric formula car race for under 16 year old.

The team set off at 4am in the morning to be there in time for scrutineering. This was the last Greenpower final at Rocking- ham Raceway, a track at which Bideford College Racing hold the lap record. With 51 cars on grid including teams from as far away as China, everything was set for the 11:30 start of the 90-minute race.

Early in the race Adam managed to stay roughly half a lap behind the Bromsgrove School car called The Chicken, the race favourite. This was good because Bromsgrove School have a tendency to drain their batteries early and to make slow driver changes in the pit stops. For the first 30 minutes, Adam was consistently lapping around the same speed, staying ahead of another main rival, Megazord from Bristol Grammar School. At the first pit stop, the Bideford College car, JRB Special was in the lead, but only because the Chicken had made its first pit stop 3 laps earlier. Thanks to an amazing pit stop by the team, their second of the three mandatory drivers, Alex, re-joined ahead of The Chicken.

Unfortunately, The Chicken had picked up some good momentum in the three laps after its pit stop, and soon overtook JRB Special. The Chicken made its second pit stop quite early. JRB Special ran in the lead for a little while before Alex pitted after a very good stint. Bideford College Racing made another fast pit stop to ensure that they were close to the Chicken so that new driver Rowan could attempt to overtake the luminous yellow and black car.

There was only now about twenty-five minutes left of the race, and Rowan was doing everything he could, but the Chicken was still ahead. Then Bideford College racing noticed the Chicken losing its advantage over them. Hearts in their mouths, the Bideford College team watched as Rowan gained on Chicken, until he overtook for the lead!

Ben Cook, Harry Cook, Harry Dean, Callum Deemer, Adam Williams, Zack Rucki, Alex Rucki, Rowan Young… missing on the day but in the team…. Harvey Cottle, Danny Cashmore and Tristan House..

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By Evie Thompson and Daisy Williams 7HA During the start of the autumn term, the new Bideford College Year 7 students went on their residential to Dartmoor Training Centre. We did this to learn and develop the skills we would need at Bide- ford College and to get to know each other better, outside of the classroom. Some of these skills in- cluded; resilience, leadership, listening skills and the importance of time keeping and being organised. On the first day at Dartmoor there were 4 activities to complete in preparation for the long walk the next day. The activities we did were; navigation, orienteering, den building and learning how to make a Tyrolean crossing. The den building was to enable us to work on our team work and cooperation as a group. After a long, hardworking day, we returned to the centre, prepared the evening meal and using our map skills planned our route across the moor for the following day. Continued on the next page...

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Early the next morning the determined Year 7’s had a filling breakfast and set off on their journey across the moor. Two groups took the minibus and started at Dartmeet and the others started at the centre, this meant each group were walking independently. We had to face the elements whilst we climbed over rough terrain. It took between 6 and 8 hours, but we all had fun and faced our fears, especially at the river where the group had to build a Tyrolean crossing and support each other to cross the raging river. We also had to haul all the equipment there and back in very heavy rucksacks. We learnt a lot about Dartmoor from our experienced guides. After we finally returned to the centre, we showered and changed and started to work on our presentations for the next day. The next morning everyone was tired and aching from the previous day. We finished off our presentations and prepared to speak in front of the whole house. We reflected on what we had learnt and the skills we would take back to Bideford College. Everyone did their best and felt proud of what they had accomplished and that they had faced their fears. Sadly, we had to say goodbye to The Dartmoor Training Centre but were happy to return to our own homes and beds!

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It has been a pleasure welcoming the new cohort of Year 7 students into Bideford College, and I already feel that I know many of them, due to taking part in the full day walk on four occasions and many Tyrolean crossings during this years’ extremely successful Year 7 Residential. We were blessed with beautiful weather for the majority of the visits, although I do remember one particularly wet, windy and foggy day – up on Dartmoor – which I think added even more to the fun of the event! The students were a pleasure to be with and it was nice to get to know them, in a different setting, from school. It has been another very busy term, with many activities taking place, which I know you will be able to read about in the Newsletter. What never ceases to amaze me at Bideford College is the dedication of the staff, in putting on extra-curricular activities, trips and the daily revision sessions for Year 11s after school – every week. The staff at Bideford College really do care, very deeply, that the young people who attend Bideford College are given every opportunity to experience something new and learn something interesting – both in and out of lessons. I know that there are plans for further activities and trips for the coming term – and this will add to the richness of life at Bideford College. For Year 11s in particular, this is an important half term break – where they need to be revising hard for their Mock Exams, which begin on Monday 5th November. All students and parents have been furnished with an Ex- am Timetable and the times and dates of revision sessions which are held daily after school and during lunch breaks. It is imperative that they use this break to prepare themselves for these exams, so that they can be successful. I know that Mrs Jewell is in regular contact with the parents of Year 11 students, regarding exams and how we can support them to be successful. However, if there are any questions you still have about how you can support your child towards exam success, please do not hesitate in contacting her if Year 10 or 11 – or any of the teachers at Bideford College – for additional support and guidance. The more that parents can support their children with their learning – the more successful they will become. I would like to thank all the parents who have ensured that their child attends school – on a daily basis and I very much look forward to this continuing. It is imperative that the students attend school, so that they are able to learn but also, so that they can take part in many of the clubs, competitions, trips and activities which are on offer daily at Bideford College. Finally, I would like to wish you all a restful half term and look forward to welcoming you all back on Tuesday 30th October.

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Castlecombe Greenpower Racing 16/09/18

The second race meeting we have attended of the Greenpower season was at Castlecombe, a fair three hours away from home. As many of our team are in Year 10 and will be leaving in the not too distant future, the Year 8s had their chance to shine in the race at Castlecombe, including myself. All the Year 8s,bar one, squeezed in practice laps to get a feel for the rela- tively quick track. After practice we had a 45 minute gap until the first race of theday.

Alex Rucki started off the first race very well and made consistent progress throughout the whole of his first stint before we made our first pit stop of the day and handed driving duties over to Rowan Young. Rowan managed to complete his drive without crashing, despite one of the rear tyres going completely flat and requiring pumping up. As a result, we lost an estimated 3 minutes extra in the pit lane. Once we got the tyre pumped up again it was the turn of Tristan House to nurse the ailing battery to the end, quite literally stopping as the chequered flag dropped. At the end of the race we were third, with an aver- age speed of 22.1 mph.

For the second race, I was in the car for the start and the rest of the first stint. I managed to just about keep the Megazord car (Bristol Grammar School) for the whole of the first stint, setting the fastest lap over both races for our car, a 4:13.6 (though this was down to me having the best of the battery) and handed over to Danny Cashmore, the only Year 10 to actually race in the whole of the event. Our pit crew also did a great stop on the first changeover as I was only just in front of the Megazord car and by the time both cars made their first pit stop we were 8 or 10 seconds in front. Danny did a fantastic job of maintain- ing this gap for the rest of his stint, despite being cut up by two of the F24+’s (the faster cars for adults) on one of his laps. However, the exact same wheel problem halted us in the pit lane again. It was a shame, because we were potentially looking at a great result for our team. Harry Cook took control of the car for the final stint though a combination of the same wheel problem and the ailing battery meant he stopped after just one and half laps.

Over both races, we were placed 3rd, which was a great morale booster to carry forward into Rockingham, the International Final which is in a matter of weeks.

Written by Adam Williams – 8EC

Homework Support and Information:

Students are expected to hand homework in on time but we know that there may be a good reason if they do not. If a dead- line is missed, all students are given the chance to hand it in on the following day to their teacher. If homework fails to be completed and submitted, students are expected to attend a homework detention session on Tuesday or Thursday after school.

These take place in G3.1 for 30 minutes, in a fully equipped computer room with staff on hand to help them access their work and get started. If students do not attend this they will be expected to attend a College after school detention for 45 minutes

Additionally, the College Library is open from 8am until 4.30pm every day, including break and lunchtimes for students to do their homework.

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An important focus for the College this year (and beyond) will be looking at how we support our young people’s mental health and wellbeing. With that in mind ,we have be working closely with Young Devon and the Early Help 4 Mental Health team to develop a Mental Health Strategy for the College.

One of our first steps has been to bring together a group of students to be our first cohort of Mental Health Peer Supporters— these young people have been receiving weekly training sessions in how to support and signpost their peers toward getting any help they may need. They will also lead and deliver a change project supported by the College EH4MH Coordinator Mrs Southern and Young Devon trainer Andy Miller.

We passionately believe that our students need to have a say, and be able to influence and shape the mental health and wellbeing direction the school takes and for it to become a fundamental cornerstone of the Mental Health and Wellbeing strategy.

This first group of students are laying the foundations for future generations of Bideford College students.

BACK ROW L TO R - ELLIE BRAUNTON, ABIGAIL HUTCHINGS, ALICE ALLEBONE- PARISH, KAITLYN JOSLIN-EAST, POPPY MUNRO Two representatives from the Bideford College MIDDLE ROW L TO R - ARIA MITCHELL, ABBIE ROSE, CHLOE GLASSON, POPPY WAITE. FRONT ROW L TO R - JOSIE ROBINSON, ANTHONY WALTON, EMILY WILCOX, SKYE CON- EH4MH student group attended the annual NOLLY Schools’ Mental Health Conference in September NOT PICTURED: MIRIAM KEIRLE, SAMUEL HEARD where they worked collaboratively with other students and support agencies from across Dev- on .

Pictured is Ellie Braunton and Anthony Walton with students from our fellow MAT school Atlantic Academy.

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Well done to Bideford College student Molly Harris - we are very proud of your bravery and quick thinking in what was no doubt a very scary situation. A much deserved award!

St John Ambulance award for North Devon life saver Everyday Heroes event celebrates people who step forward in the moments that matter.

A teenager from Bideford was among the winners at St John Ambulance’s Everyday Heroes awards, in London on Monday night (September 24).

Thanks to St John Ambulance first aid training she received as an army cadet, 15-year-old Molly Harris saved the life of her stepdad, Peter Connors, when he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest aged just 39.

The charity’s annual event recognises the outstanding bravery and first aid skills of individuals and teams of people who stepped forward when it mattered most to help people, support communities, and have a positive impact on health.

The ceremony was hosted by celebrity vicar and one half of 80s pop band The Communards, The Reverend Richard Coles. And the awards were presented by guests, including TV medic and Strictly Come Dancing hopeful, Dr Ranj Singh.

“It’s an absolutely amazing night,” said Molly at the event, where she was presented with a Guy Evans Young Hero award. “I’m here with an award in my hand and my dad’s with me.”

Molly was getting ready for school when she heard her mum’s cry for help. She found Sarah panicking but managed to re- main calm and remember her training.

“My first reaction was to do the first aid,” said Molly, a student at Bideford College. “I didn’t have any other thoughts – just get my dad onto the floor, do the first aid, and call an ambulance.”

She learned first aid at army cadets, gaining her St John Ambulance badge in March 2017, but never thought she’d have to use those skills.

And Pete Connors, now 40, is very happy and proud that Molly knew exactly what to do as his life hung in the balance.

“Basically, if it wasn’t for Molly, I wouldn’t be here; end of,” he said.

Now in its seventh year, the event at the Hilton London Bankside was sponsored by Laerdal Medical.

St John Ambulance’s Chief Executive, Martin-Houghton Brown congratulated the award winners.

“The achievements of our award nominees and winners like Molly are extraordinary and I have been overwhelmed by the stories of their everyday heroism in protecting life and health,” he said. To find out more about St John Ambulance, including details of training courses, how to make a donation in support of the charity’s life saving work, and opportunities to volun- teer in your area visit: www.sja.org.uk

www.facebook.com/bidefordcollege www.bidefordcollege.org 9 Next Steps South West Careers Bus and Exeter University Residential

On Tuesday 8 October, 24 year 11 students spent the afternoon at Petroc visiting the Careers Bus hosted by Next Steps South West. The students took part in an interactive session to encourage them to think about Higher Education followed by lunch in the canteen. There was then a tour of the Petroc campus where different areas were visited including the kitchens in the restaurant, the Hairdressing and Beauty departments and small animal care where we visited the dog grooming classroom. The afternoon session was designed to look at different careers with opportunities for students to research different job sectors and courses to start thinking about their future. Next Steps South West staff and student ambassadors were on hand to support them with this research and give general advice and guidance. All the students behaved incredibly well and many of the canteen staff commented on how polite and pleasant they all were, saying they were a great credit to Bideford School.

On 23 July 2018 13 Year 10 students went to Exeter University to take part in a Residential which was organised by Next Steps South West. This trip involved travelling up on a coach provided by Exeter University by themselves, staying in Campus accommodation, taking part in lectures, and meeting University staff, current students and post graduates.

Each Bideford College student from the Next Steps South West Year 10 Target Group who was interested in applying to attend had to fill in an application form, which was then sent to Next Steps South West and of the 20 students who applied, 13 were selected to attend. The feedback from Next Steps South West was that everyone had an excellent time and our students rep- resented Bideford College very well in terms of behaviour, enthusiasm and taking part in the activities.

Since our return to school, I have asked all the students who attended to come and see me to give their thoughts and opinions about the trip. Everyone thought it was excellent and nobody had a bad word to say about it. They all agreed it was a fabulous opportunity and they are extremely pleased they went despite feeling very apprehensive and nervous at the start. Some of their comments are below:

“The trip to Exeter University was really good. The lectures were interesting with great lecturers and the accommodation was good. The people were friendly and gave lots of information about university life. I want to go to University in the future”

“I loved it and it was a fantastic experience. I am already looking at University courses in the future as I know I would like to go.”

” There are too many good points to mention and no bad points at all. I definitely want to go to Uni and am still in contact with some of the people I met. I loved the bowling in the evening.”

“I loved it and I am interested in going to university in the future and will look at different university courses.”

Congratulations to Ted Emery, Peter Robb, William James, Daisy Brice, Mayson Gosling, Adam Saunders, Abbie Johnson, Kieran Ayres, Paige Reeve, Chloe Roper-Bickell, Bethany Wyles and Rhys Wassall for being selected to attend this residential.

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Arthur House are quickly becoming the footballing equivalent of Liverpool. Lots of early success, but now living in the past and constantly reminiscing about the ‘good old days’ when we used to win house cups. It was another disappointing fourth place finish in the Summer term House Cup.

Again, when looking at data, there is not much to choose between all five houses, but some more resilience in turning up to school and improving our attendance would give Arthur a massive chance of being a big club once again.

This half term is always hectic and from my perspective always flies by with the Year 7 residential being an exhausting but rewarding few days. The skills learnt on the residential are invaluable for the students in their journey through not just Bideford College but also life.

I would like to congratulate Matthew Cloke and Mimi Giles who were both awarded the coveted Head of House Award whilst on residential. Both students showed superb teamwork, resilience and leadership and all the characteristics of potential future House Captains. Speaking of House Captains, I would like to thank Sam Gale and Lydia Bray-Smith our current House Captains, who were both superb on the residential.

New additions to the Arthur House team come in the form of Mrs Price, Mr Mitchell, Mr Miles and Miss Bruxmeier. All four members of staff look to have settled in well. I’m particularly pleased with the addition of Mr Miles as he looks like he might be a handy addition to the inter house staff relay race at the next sports-day.

Two more quick things from me; firstly, we have a newly assembled House Council, which will meet every two weeks to discuss issues relevant to the whole school. Each tutor group has a representative to come to the meetings and discuss the agenda items and put their tutor groups views across. These House Councils then feed into our whole College Council, who meet directly with our Principal Mrs Kane. This is a great opportunity to invoke change and students need to use their tutor reps effectively.

Finally, Year 11 mocks will start after half term. The hard work starts now and a good proportion of revision should be set aside to ensure these ‘mock’ exams are of real relevance and importance. Looking at my year 11 students last year, those students who performed well in their mocks went on and performed well in the final exams...coincidence? I think not.

Have a relaxing half term and re-charge the batteries as we go again for the run up to Christmas.

Mr Skinner—Head of Arthur House

The Arthur House Year 7s recently returned from there Dartmoor residential where the teachers were very pleased with their behaviour and attitude while out of school and I’m sure the few days away will help these students massively over the next few years.

In other news the year 11s have reached the all-important GCSE year hopefully after a few years of hard school work they will be able to sail through and achieve the best grades possible. So get off Fortnite and start revising!

Overall it has been a very pleasant start for Arthur House in respects to behaviour and hopefully this can continue on into the future so I have something to congratulate everybody for.

If you have news you would like me to report. Please get in touch.

Jake Holding (Arthur House Journalist)

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Hello, my name is Ms Luke and I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the new Head of Brunel House. I must begin by thanking Mrs Bourke and Mr Nias for all of their hard work over the last couple of years for the Brunel students and as a result of that hard work, I take over the role as the leader of a very hard working and supportive group of tutors and students. I am very proud to be taking on this role.

The first half term has seen us elect our new House Council and our tutor representatives which include Scarlet Phipps 7JC, Daisy Williams 7HA, Ethan Whatling 8KS, Josh Cox 8JS, Harry Fanson 9MM, Alice Allebone Parish/James Harding 9SB, Me- ghan Hare 10SH, Joe Spencer 10SL, Aimee Williams 11AC and Rebecca Halloway 11IW, Josh Jordan and Charlie Mallaband our House Captains who will all be involved in gathering information from their tutor groups to feed into our council meetings which will be chaired by two of our Brunel sixth form leaders Jack Watts and Curtis Wilford. The idea behind our council is to provide students with the opportunity to voice their opinions on different college matters.

Our year 7 students have settled in well. We had a fantastic residential in which despite the wind, fog and rain (a typical day on Dartmoor) the Brunel students showed great resilience and unity when walking across the moor and setting up their tyrolean crossing. I must thank Josh Jordan one of our House Captains and Aimee Williams another member of our Brunel student leadership team for their support on the residential. Thanks must also go out to our year 8 and 9 mentors Zinnia Olde, Finn Davies, Harry Fanson, Eve Goodman, Molly Childs, Molly Forsey , Janae White and Ben Spencer who have been visiting our year 7 tutor groups most Fridays this half term to answer any questions and offer their support. We will have some Sixth Form mentors visiting the Year 7 students after half term to support them with their times tables!

We have got off to a fine start this half term in terms of House points, in fact as I write this article we are at the topof the House point table which I am very excited about! Coming up we have the Inter house Cross Country which I know we are already busy sorting teams for, I feel sure we will put in a sterling effort! I am determined Brunel House will win the House Cup!

Remember Year 11, your mocks are soon after half term so you must plan your time sensibly and make sure you do some revision!

Thank you for your support this half term, it has flown by,

Ms Luke – Head of Brunel House

We have had so many things happen in these past weeks in Brunel House. First of all, a warm welcome to the New Year 7s who arrived in September and have tried very hard in their lessons and gaining us House points. Also congratulations on their Residential with their resilience and determination on the trip and sticking together in tough times.

The Year 9s are deciding their GCSE options ready for Year 10 and working hard to make sure they get to the options they want – Good luck. We have the Year 10s who are starting their GCSE option choices and working hard ready for their exams later in the year and finally, Year 11 who are in their final year who are finishing up their option choices and preparing for lots of revision and their end of year exams – Good luck.

Finally, to everyone who has gained House points for Brunel and tried their very best in their lessons to earn the House points. Carry on doing your very best this year to gain House points, keep your attendance up and keep going!

Caleb White Brunel House Journalist

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What a fantastic half term it has been for Coleridge House - there is so much to write about. I can remember back to last October half term when I was just coming back off paternity leave and I barely knew students’ names, systems or how things would develop in 12 months. One year on, I am extremely proud of the students in the best House and can feel there is real momentum.

I would like to welcome Mr Culley, Miss Wynn and Mr Shuttleworth to the Coleridge team; I heard that there was some big money offered (from the other Houses) during the transfer window for these outstanding professionals, but they chose Coleridge – sorry to other new staff – maybe in the future there will be a vacancy on the golden team.

This half term has seen all 5 Houses go on residential to Dartmoor; although this was the first year for Mr Maughan and Miss Smith (along with 47 Year 7s), I had been lucky enough to go 5 consecutive years before this cohort; I can honestly say that this is my favourite year with such an amazing bunch of students (7HS and 7JM). I know that the time and effort taken to prepare for this residential will pay dividends over time as the principles of Bideford College are threaded through several adventurous activities. I would like to thank all the parents and staff that made this residential happen – none more so than two fabulous Year 7 tutors and two even better House Captains.

The House charity for Coleridge will be Claire House. This is a fabulous charity and Claire House Children Hospice helps seri- ously and terminally ill children live life to the full by creating wonderful experiences and bringing back a sense of normality to family life. This charity was voted for in a ballot and all Coleridge students had the opportunity to vote. Well done to Jo- sie Blake 11SB (charity leader) for organising this and researching some other worthy causes.

Finally, the competitions are off and running – literally! The House X Country event is this week and I am sure the Coleridge students will show true resilience and be out training with their individual training planes that I have provided them.

Roll on half term, may the momentum continue and good luck to all the Year 11s in their mock exams after half term – revise well!

Mr O’Donoghue—Head of Coleridge House

It has been a great start to the school year for Coleridge. An excitable group of Year 7’s joined our masses and have already begun to develop their skills and increase their knowledge. I’m sure all the teachers and students in Coleridge have made the new students feel welcome.

The year 8’s are pleased to no longer be the youngest in the school! However, they will be best placed to give the new students advice about how to be the best they can be whilst at Bideford College.

The year 9’s have begun to think about their options. This is not only the time to think about what to specialise in, but also to think about what subjects you NEVER have to do again.

The year 10’s have started focussing on their GCSE’s and revising for their exams. It’s the time to re-focus on the future.

It’s also a big year for the year 11’s as in June they will be sitting their GSCE’s. Many people will be thinking about what is next for them and where they will be going after Bideford College.

We are all at different places within our education, but we all share common hopes and aspirations. As you go around the school keep this in mind and remember that we are all on different parts of the school journey.

Wilbur J Mason, Coleridge House Journalist

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Farwell House News

Pictured: Jill & Eddie Farwell and their children

Well, what a fantastic end to the Summer term, Farwell House deservedly winning back the House Cup, thanks to the hard work and determination of all of our students. This, coupled with our Sports day victory was a very pleasing way to start the Summer Holiday.

With that now far behind us, Farwell students have been working hard since their return in September. Attendance for our house so far stands at 93 % - let’s see if we can raise this by Christmas - the expectation is 95% or above. Well done to all students who have managed to attend school every day this academic year.

Year 7 students had a fantastic time on the residential; they were a real credit to the House. The residential gave students the opportunity to make new friends, get to know their form tutors and push themselves to see what they were capable of on the second day, completing a nine-mile walk across Dartmoor. The weather was very kind to us too– full details of what else students got up to can be found elsewhere in the newsletter. A big thank you also to Olivia and Caleb as Farwell leaders, they did a fantastic job of helping students and working with them on their tasks during the stay, demonstrating their excellent leadership qualities.

Year 11 students should now have a revision timetable in place for their time at home and be studying often, in small but planned sessions, as they prepare for their mock exams that will commence directly after half term. Please encourage them to take time during the holiday to do this.

Look out for the news articles written by our House Journalist Reece Wassall elsewhere in the newsletter.

Finally, enjoy a restful break. Please encourage all students to take time to relax and prepare themselves for the second half of the term, which will lead us up to Christmas.

TJ McQuillan Conquers the Three Peaks

Most people want to spend the summer holidays sat at home or going to the shops, but not TJ. To help with the Children’s Hospice South West he raised a lot of money doing the 3 Peaks Challenge. Firstly he went to Scotland, where he climbed up Ben Nevis, a huge mountain which is the highest mountain in the British Isles. Standing at 1,345 metres above sea level. But that didn’t stop him. Once he had climbed Ben Nevis, TJ travelled to Cumbria where he climbed Scafell Pike. Even though he found this mountain the most difficult he was still determined to finish what he had started.Finally he travelled to Wales where he climbed Mount Snowdon. All of this work may have been tiring and left him with a few blisters, but he still enjoyed it immensely and was extremely proud of his achievement; TJ encourages us to do the same.

Bo Bennett – Fundraising Star

Some students will go above and beyond to help local charities and this is exactly what Bo has been doing .During September she did a cake sale at her local primary school to raise money and to support the Macmillan Cancer Trust and the Teenage Cancer Trust. The Headteacher of the primary school was glad to support this fundraising event . Hundreds of people flooded into the school all looking for a tasty slice of cake. Bo says it went extremely well since she had raised more than £800. She strongly encourages other students like us to do the same as her or to raise money for charities in any other way.

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News

Well that’s gone by fast, and I’m not just talking about the first six weeks back to school either! Hello Hepworth! Introductions first before I answer the cryptic sentence above. My name is Mr. TJ Cross and I am the Head of Hepworth House while Mr. Cope is away. The reason I say “…that’s gone by fast…” is because it not only seems like yesterday that I was walking through the door six weeks ago as a new member of staff, but it also only seems like yesterday that I was walking through the door twenty-six years ago as a new pupil too! That’s right, I am a Bideford College “Old Boy”, so yes I know what its like to be at Bideford College, and it’s great to be back and help the new generation accomplish their aspirations, whatever they may be! Hepworth House has, as we all expected, had a great start to the year and I’m pleased to say that both the new Year 7 tutor groups have settled into life at Bideford College well. They have had an exciting start to their college lives with a residential experience to the Dartmoor Training Centre where they learned valuable skills, which can be transferred into college life and beyond. The highlight of the trip of course being the 13km trek across Dartmoor and “zipping” through the air on a bridge they themselves had built! Amazing! I would also like to say a big thank you to Mrs. Anderson and Mrs. Neagle for accompanying their groups on the trip and placing their faith in their tutees by using the same pupil bridges themselves: a great way to build trust with your tutor! Another big thank you goes to our House Captains Kate Rowe and Alfred Staines-Byrt for giving up their time to help the Year 7’s settle in, a great Hepworth House Team effort. As well as Mrs. Neagle and myself may I also introduce Mrs. Salisbury to the Hepworth family, and can I say on behalf of us all how warm a welcome we’ve had and how we are looking forward to many successful years in the “best” house. Successful meaning House trophies… lots of them… and a few Sport Day Shields wouldn’t go amiss either… Go get those House points Hepworth, I want to see those blue ribbons this year; no pressure! Wishing you all a great half term and also wishing our Year 11s the best of luck in their upcoming mock exams. Remember Year 11s: the more you revise the “luckier” you’ll be. Mr. TJ Cross Head of Hepworth House (Acting)

As this first half term draws to a close, we are able to reflect upon on some of the key moments of this important term.

We have welcomed the new Year 7s, not only to Hepworth but to the College; they have settled in and have been working hard to earn Hepworth House points. The Year 7s all showed great team spirit on Dartmoor too.

Year 10s have begun to study hard for the beginning of their GCSEs and for Year 11s they have begun to revise for their mock exams after the half term; fingers crossed they all get great results from those exams.

This year will be an important year not only for the Year 10s and 11s but also for the Year 9s as they begin to think about the options they will take.

Hope you all have a relaxing half term and I look forward to keeping you all up to date with all of Hepworth’s news after the half term!

Mayson Gosling – Hepworth House Journalist

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The Sixth Form Quiz League has begun! The arrival of the new Year 12s into the Sixth Form has brought the introduction of our fortnightly Quiz League; taking place within Tutor Groups every Friday Week B. Marked in the strictest of confidence by Miss Gilbey and Mr Ayre, the results are posted up and around the Sixth Form, with a prize to be won by the end of term by the best scoring Tutor Group!

Welcome Mr Ayre! The Sixth Form have welcomed a new addition its staff this year with Mr Ayre being appointed as the new Deputy Head of Sixth Form. His help and expertise will mean excellent data tracking for the Sixth Form, to ensure that all students are achiev- ing at their highest potential, as well as raising the profile of the Sixth Form in and around the local community.

Macmillan Coffee Morning

Outside of studying for A-levels, the two things that Sixth Formers are great at are raising money and eating cake – which is probably why Macmillan Coffee Mornings have been such a success in the past. This year was no exception to that, but we did decide to do things slightly differently. Rather than the usual break time bake sale in the Winter Garden on main site, we chose to hold a proper coffee morning in one of our Kingsley classrooms form 9-12:20 on the 27th of September. Students in private study periods were welcome to come on in, grab a cake and hot drink and stay for a chat, and tubs and trays of cake were bring bought by teachers to take back to their staff rooms for break and lunch. There was also a competition for which House could bring the most cake to sell, and Brunel won with a total of 14 bakers! Overall, the whole morning was a major success and we managed to raise an impressive £267.48 .Thanks to everyone who baked and bought!

Welcome Back Mrs French!

Having been on temporary sabbatical, Head of Sixth Form Mrs French is back and leading KS5 to university and apprenticeship success. Every member of the Sixth Form will agree that her welcoming approach and wealth of information regarding our future prospects is a valuable asset to the College. Attending weekly Student Leadership Team meetings, Mrs French listens carefully to the opinions and input of the students and actively plays a part in helping to improve student experience at Bide- ford College Sixth Form. Welcome back Mrs French.

MUN Conference

Three of Bideford college’s sixth formers trekked all the way out to Exeter College one early Saturday morning to take part in a model UN conference, the first Bideford College has taken part in. Lili Farris, Abigail Cook and Beth Gibb ventured out and took part in lively debates representing Saudi Arabia talking to other representatives from the countries about relevant and alarming topics of the world today. The debates went on throughout the day and was very enjoyable taking part in such for- mal debate. Lili enjoyed it so much she won a highly commended delegate certificate. Well done Lili!

Sport in Sixth Form

Harry Carr and Jack Knight are SLTs new sports reps for the Sixth Form. They have ambitious plans and to turn Sixth Form sport around and have spent many days designing a questionnaire to find out what sport we want in Sixth Form as Sixth Formers. We wish them luck to get the results they need. On the 12th November the young men of Sixth Form have organised a friendly football match against Kingsley Sixth Formers which they have independently organised themselves. They have been promoting sport in other Sixth Forms and getting the name of Bideford College out there.

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Bideford College Goes International!

Wednesday 26th September saw the college embrace diversity during its celebration of European Day of Languages . All staff did their best to address students in a foreign Language of their choice. Some English literature lessons were taught in French, whilst some Science lessons took a liking to Spanish. The Library injected some debatable Greek greetings throughout the day alongside some Jamaican maths sessions to the astonishment of our students who realised that the quiet little white town of Bideford was hosting so many talented lin- guists. In a world where only 25% of the world population speak English as its native or primary Language, we hope that this day of multiculturalism gave them a taste of what the world has to offer.

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Library

Year 7s debate Royal Society Award Shortlisted Books

Year 7 took part in a lively debate as they read and reviewed this years’ Royal Society Young People’s Book Award .

UK publishers submitted their best science books for under-14s to the 2018 Royal Society Young People’s Book Prize and now an adult judging panel has narrowed them down to the six best. The Prize celebrates books that communicate science to young people in an accessible, creative way and has been running for over 25 years.

The overall winner of the prize is selected entirely by groups of young people from across the UK. Every year, the adult judging panel hands over the reins to young readers to make the final decision, with young reader judging panels drawn from over 300 schools, science centres, reading clubs, community groups, scouts and brownies.

They worked together to discuss the individual merits of each of the books before deciding collectively on their winner. Their vote has now been sent off to the Royal Society and the winner is announced on the 22nd November.

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Rivers of Reading Students have been busy getting creative and showing their personal reading journeys. All Key Stage 3 students were asked to go on a trip down memory lane to recall their favourite stories – from baby books, to their childhood inspirational reads, to their teenage interests. Students were asked to design ‘Rivers of Reading’ which acted as a metaphorical journey for the books they have enjoyed reading. The creations offered a real insight into reading interests, specific aspects of enjoyment, and gave teachers a deeper insight into reading habits. Teachers were creative with their displays and the work has formed several classroom rivers along with best pieces celebrated in a corridor display. English Faculty Teachers also enjoyed modelling how to create the Rivers of Reading by looking back at their own personal reading journeys. Key Stage 3 Co-ordinator Mrs Cox said: “It was a pleasure to see the students and teachers enjoy talking about their favourite books and all the students worked so hard on creating their own journeys. This work helps to build foundations with reading practice and develop stronger reader to reader relationships.”

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During last summer’s term, all KS3 students took part in the Mal Peet Creative Writing competition; it was run as part of Exe- ter’s Extreme Imagination Festival ( https://exetreme.org/) which has events running throughout this October half term. Students had to write a 500 word short story based on one picture which appears in the book ‘The Mysteries of Harris Bur- dick’.

Delightedly, we were informed that Nikita Gray in 9DS (Arthur) won the competition for her under 14 age category and Emily Anderson 9RK (Farwell) was the runner up. Both girls are invited to an award ceremony in Exeter on October 21st and their prizes will be awarded by children’s author Philip Reeve.

Nikita’s winning entry is on the following page – please take a moment to read it…

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Winning Short Story

Experience and Advice for Life by Nikita Gray

I hate Mondays.

Having to wake up at six thirty am, rush to eat my breakfast, just to arrive at a stuffy old office. It’s worse in the summer; there is only one fan and that is at the opposite end of the office to me. My life reminds me of this painting, It’s this group of people on an endless track on the ocean. Basically I’m hoping to go somewhere, but no closer to the finish than when I started.

And don’t get me started about my boss. When I’m in my office thinking that I might go home early, put on Emmerdale, and have a nice hot cup of tea. He comes in, putting a pile of papers so loudly on my desk that I quickly awake to reality, and a bunch of files that have to be checked by tomorrow.

But that makes my clients ten times worse. I’m a lawyer at Parker & Son, so we’re supposed to get all the high-end cas- es. Except me. I get lumped with all the stupid ones that will never get taken to court. For example; I threw my shoe next door, it has grass stains on it. It’s their grass, so they have to pay. Honestly, who do these people take me for?

That painting had a caption on the back that says “Another time, Another place.” More like I want another job and another life.

I often wonder what would have happened if, I hadn’t gone to law school, if I had gone to art school, and became an artist, or have tried to have been an actress. Too late now I guess.

I’ve been working at Parker & Son for five and a half years and still haven’t gotten a single raise or promotion. Really, I’d like to change firm, I’m not if I should go to LawyersRus or Bensons. I’ll figure it out later.

But, for now I need to figure out how to put this chair from IKEA together. Note to self: learn how to read Chinese. I’ll use the google translator app on my phone for now, “Screw thunder up to happy on blue curtain.” What? It does remind me of that painting though, now that I think about it. Confusing.

I think I’ll just go to sleep, I’m exhausted. I’ve had enough of this for one day especially after checking files. My co- worker, Lia, use to tell me things like, “The more effort you put into life, the more you get out of it.” I’ve tried. But it has- n’t worked yet. Or things like “A friend brings you advice, and a best friend brings you gin.” I could actually do with some right about now.

If there is anything you should take away with you from my experience is, life is way too short, so dream big, smile and eat cake. Also, don’t ever, under any circumstances, or do so at your own peril, buy furniture from IKEA. It’s a health and safety hazard.

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Bideford College Presents

(Performed entirely by students A musical by ALAIN BOUBLIL and CLAUDE-MICHEL SCHÖNBERG School Edition special adaptation licensed by MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL and CAMERON MACKINTOSH (OVERSEAS) LIMITED Preparations are well underway for the College production of Les Miserables! With over 60 students in the cast from Year 7-13, the musical extravaganza promises to be an emotional rollercoaster – and that’s just the rehears- al process! The students are working incredibly hard and already sound phenomenal, we have such talent in the College and are very fortunate to be able to celebrate this with such a high profile production. These things cannot happen without an immense amount of dedication, so thank you in advance for all the time spent rehearsing lines, practising the harmonies and building the characters; not to mention the behind the scenes teams already busy planning spectacular set, and the technical support that will transport us to the heart of the revolution. Tickets will be on sale shortly after half term, opening night is Monday 10th December and curtain up will be at 7.00pm. We very much look forward to seeing you there – Mrs Conroy and Mrs Chappell.

As part of the passion for the performing arts within Bideford Col- lege it is a tradition to put on a yearly show, last year was Beauty and the Beast and the turnout was fantastic with all the seats and tickets selling out for both nights!

This year the keen cast will be putting on a show of Les Misérables . Originally written by Victor Hugo the musical is set against the back- drop of 19th century France. Les Misérables tells an emotional story of broken dreams and unrequited love, sacrifice, passion and conse- quence.

So far, the cast has been getting stuck in with the singing and acting with great enthusiasm. After half term, the cast will be continuing to assemble the rest of the show ready for the 10th and 11th of December, so also keep a look out for tickets to go on sale!

Mayson Gosling and the Les Mis Cast

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Team News

The Year 9 Football team were victorious over Chulmleigh with a 3-0 win in their opening league fixture. A well struck free kick from Blake Shapland opened the scoring after 15 minutes and the lead was doubled just before half time as Aaron Conners-McGee burst through on goal and rifled home the second. The game as a contest was effectively over early in the second half as Conners-McGee found time in the box to slot home his second and Bide- ford College’s third. The squad:

Harry Fanson Cameron Randen (GK) James Evans Dan Smith Bailey Jennings Louis Pimlott Evan Suggate Aaron Connors-McGee Taylor Stevens Tom Berry Blake Shapland CJ Hamilton Will Mugford Liam Elkins Jay Childs

Great effort from the Year 7 football team in their first match of the season. They lost 2-1 but were the better team for long periods of game. It took most of the first half to work out their best positions and formation, which played into Chulmleigh’s hands. However, they completely dominated the second half and should have scored a hatful of goals. Promising signs for the future.

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Team News

Football—4th October

The year 9 team battled back fantastically from 3-1 down to secure a last minute 4-4 draw against Torrington. Tom Berry tapped home the first for Bideford, but after that it was the Ben Scarrett show. Coming off the bench he scored a hat trick including a last kick of the game effort which resulted in a share of the spoils.

Another great effort from the year 7 football team. They lost 5-4 to Great Torrington but it was a fantastic game for the neu- tral. George Shapland scoring all 4 of our goals!

2/10/18 - Year 8 - Bideford 6 - Torrington 4:

In a very close game and first game of the season, the Year 8 team showed real character and desire to perform against tough opposition. Liam Martin scored 4 goals and is showing real potential as a lone striker (9aside), Fin Waldron and Rafe Barnes were the other scorers.

4/10/18: Year 8 - Bideford 11 - Atlantic Academy 0.

Whether we are allies or rivals (geographical positioning) we were on fire and scoring 9 goals in the second half made it seem much more comfortable that it was in the first half. A clean sheet from Ben Spencer helped him secure more House points for Brunel whilst Finlay Newton- Charmers (Coleridge) celebrated like he had won the lottery with his first ever goal! Liam scored 5 I think and the others all contributed in a one sided affair.

9/10/18 - Year 11 Football tournament:

This was 11 aside but due to Petroc trips and geography field trip we only had 10. It should be noted that Sam Wright and Liam Short were unable to play due to training with Yeovil and Southampton respectively.

Thanks to Harrison Short, Ethan Jeffery for filling in at last min - they must get lots of House points - ohh yea Coleridge!

Bideford 3 - 0 Park - Jamie Rutland scoring two and Tom Souch scoring the third; both of these boys were outstanding throughout the tournament and Tom has had his GCSE practical score increased due to this. Bideford 3 - 2 Atlantic Academy - Feisty match - Jamie Rutland, Oakey Prouse and Tom Souch with a screamer, top bin, miles out! Bideford 0 - 2 GTS - GTS - were much the better side, good group of boys—well done.

Hockey

Two teams played against Kingsley on Thursday 4 October. The older and more experienced team drew 0-0 but had more of the possession, territory and chances. Lola Olde was voted our best player by the Kingsley girls for the impressive number of tackles and interceptions that she made. Team mates were Gemma Cleave, Andra Dobrescu, Ellen Keirle, Jasmine Fey and Keira Connolly. The younger and less experienced team of Anna Drawer, Miriam Keirle, Zinnia Olde, Scarlet East, Evie Wood and Bo Bennett lost 2-0 despite it being another well contested match. It was the first school hockey match for over a year and the girls did really well, especially the volunteers to go in goal, padded up like Robocop!

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This year I competed in the British Kitesurfing Championships. This was my second year in the Junior Girls category, I had so much fun last year and was so excited to get back into competition.

Round 1 was held in Skegness. It was a really long drive, but really cool to see all my friends after the winter. The wind fore- cast was light but we were really optimistic about it. While we were waiting for the the wind we were playing lots of different games and having heaps of fun. We ran the competition on Sunday and attempted to throw down all our tricks. The wind was still really light but it was really fun competing again after the winter. I was really stoked to be placed 2nd!

Round 2 was in Hayling Island at the Kitesurf Armada which is the biggest kitesurf event in the UK. It was really cool to hang out at the F-One kites stand with Dom on Saturday. On Sunday we had to get up bright and early to pump up kites and set up, we were ready to kite the wind was still really light but we managed to get out anyway we were all throwing down front rolls and back rolls and having so much fun. The prize giving was on the big stage and I came 2nd! I was presented my prize by 5 x World Champion Aaron Hadlow!

Round 3 was in Westward Ho! It was a really short drive for me it took about 6 minutes in the car. On the Saturday we all pumped up kites and waited for the wind, it didn’t come through on the Saturday so instead me and most of the Juniors went on the stand up paddle boards and had a blast.

On the Sunday there was a bit more wind but not quite enough for my 11m so I borrowed a big kite from my coaches and threw down my first railey in a comp! And jasmine landed her first front roll! We did a lot of backrolls and front rolls and I was so happy after riding my best heat. Again I came 2nd and was so pleased with my progression.

Round 4 was the last stop of the BKC championships. It was in Ramsgate and it was a long drive, it took about 6 1/2 hours to get there. The wind was cross shore with a big wall upwind so the wind was a bit sketchy. The Juniors got out on Saturday, and the wind picked up enough to use our 11s. It was the last competition of the year so we all went out and had so much fun riding together. There was a lot of wind on the Sunday so we had a cracking time watching all the pros and the women pro’s. The prize giving and also the end of year prize giving was presented by Lewis Crathern which so cool to have a pro kiter there. I was super happy to come 3rd at Ramsgate, and then became Vice Champion for 2018! Massive well done to my friends Jasmine in 1st and Francesca in 3rd.

I would like to say a massive thanks to 514 for the coaching this year and the awesome kites and boards from F-one along with Sunzapper Uk for protecting my skin and helping me be even more colourful. I had a great year and cant wait for the next year.

Maddie Evans - 8MA

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Inter house cross country results 2018

Arthur Brunel Coleridge Farwell Hepworth Year 7 Boys 82 4 70 3 54 1 68 2 89 Year 7 Girls 112 5 45 1 66 3 72 4 61 Year 8 Boys 54 3 39 1 105 5 84 4 47 Year 8 Girls 74 4 68 3 58 2 120 5 46 Year 9 Boys 72 2 47 1 67 3 79 4 96 Year 9 Girls 93 4 72 2 55 1 150 5 81 Total 487 341 405 563 420 Overall Pos 4 1 2 5 3

Year 7 Boys 1 Will Prouse 2 Ollie Goldsworthy 3 Charlie Stevenson 4 Arlo Sherborne 5 Will Buck Year 7 Girls 1 Sophie Land 2 Isobelle Pink 3 Lily Haste 4 Lily Porter 5 Isla Tithecott Year 8 Boys 1 Charlie Pilkington 2 Michael Doodson 3 Zach Ernest 4 Jake Cleave 5 Liam Martin Year 8 Girls 1 Eliza Heywood 2 Emily Wilcox 3 Georgie Pengilly 4 Kyla Love 5 Libby Stevens Year 9 Boys 1 Fletcher Powe 2 Louis Pimlott 3 Bailey Jennings 4 Alex Wright 5 Bailey Green Year 9 Girls 1 Caitlin Sargent 2 Maddison Tate 3 Amie McMurray 4 Ella Tomlinson-Bowden 5 Zinnia Olde

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