THE KINGS OF WESSEX COMMUNITY SCHOOL A Specialist Technology College
THE KINGS’ MESSENGER Issue 51 October 2003
Dear Parents and Friends
With half term just around the corner, we can look back upon a very successful first half to the Autumn Term. Our year 9 Students have settled very well into life at The Kings of Wessex Community School and are beginning to make a very real contribution to our School. I have received many positive comments about their work and progress.
This half term has been characterised by a very large number of opportunities for our young people beyond the classroom. At the time of writing, a group of Sixth Form Stu- dents have just returned from their visit to New York and a party of Students are currently in Prague on the second leg of our Czech exchange. Geography fieldtrips visited Brean Down and the Mendips and Year 9 Students have all had the opportunity to visit the Radstock Museum as part of their work on the Industrial Revolution.
Students involved in last year’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream were spe- cially invited to take part in a RSC event for schools performed at the Redgrave Theatre in Bristol. The Duke of Edinburgh scheme has seen our Students participate in expeditions to the Quantocks, the Mendips and Exmoor. Our Year 12 English Students also went to Perth-y-Pia in Wales for a residential visit.
There can be few schools that provide such a wonderful range of opportunities for young people and we must all be grateful for the teachers who give so generously of their time to make these activities possible.
At the end of September, the School had its Church of England Section 23 Inspection. This focused on the School’s ethos, collective worship and the spiritual and moral devel- opment of our Students. We have just received the report and the Inspector was very posi- tive in all areas of the Inspection. Collective worship was found to be of a high quality; spiritual and moral development of our Students was reported to be very good with some excellent features, and the ethos of the School was described as very good. We are ex- tremely pleased with the outcome of the report and the positive comments.
Staying with the Christian theme of School life, I recently attended a very moving service at Wells Cathedral for Headteachers, Governors and local clergy. which was led by Bishop Peter.
Parents will be pleased to hear that Barbara Marshall, our Deputy Head, is now recover- ing after her recent operation. She is making good progress and hopes to be back in School for the start of the Spring Term. Phil Taylor, an experienced Deputy Head, is covering on a temporary basis until Barbara returns to School. Unfortunately, Terry Clark our Year 10 Co-ordinator will also be going into hospital shortly for an operation. It is likely that he will be away for the remainder of the term.
In his absence, Eric Holdsworth will be acting Year 10 Co-ordinator and Terry’s teaching will be covered by Josh Holt.
Many people have commented on the smart appearance of our Students in their uniform. We have received many letters from parents and members of the community compliment- ing the School on how smart the Students look in their new School blazer. I would par- ticularly like to thank parents for the support they have given and continue to give in en- suring we maintain our high standards. It was encouraging to hear that the Education Min- ister, Ivan Lewis, recently made a statement in support of school uniform.
On the sporting front, congratulations go to our Under 18’s rugby team who won the Schools Rugby Festival with the remarkable fact that throughout the tournament they did not concede a single try. We are all immensely proud of the team and feel confident they will go on to even greater things.
One final point, a reminder to parents that there will be a staff training day on Friday 7 November 2003 and School will therefore be closed to Students.
I have also included in this Kings Messenger a list of dates of future Kings Messengers. This should help you to ensure that you receive your copy.
Best wishes,
Chris Richardson Headteacher
Message for Year 9
I am pleased to report that our new year 9 Students have settled in remarkably well.
I have been impressed by their smart appearance and the confident way they are now moving around the School.
I hope each student will make the best of his/her opportunities here at The Kings of Wessex School and we look forward to working in partnership with parents to ensure a successful year.
Well done, Year 9! Keep it up!
Moira Sammonds Year 9 CoCo----ordinatorordinator
Reporting Absence A very big THANK YOU to all those parents who are using the Absence Hotline
A reminder to all those parents who are still not…
Illness or any other absence should be reported on the first and every day of absence by telephoning
01934 745304
(This telephone number is available 24/7 )
Your child’s name, tutor group and reason for absence should be given.
Alternatively, absences may be reported by email to
ABeesley@educ.somerset.gov.uk
Please note: absence should be reported for all students, including the 6th Form.
Thank you
Anita Beesley Attendance Secretary
Year 9 Maths go to Eden
When we arrived at the Eden Project at midday after a long journey from Cheddar with just one stop at an extremely hygienic service station. We were spoken to by a rep for about 15 minutes about the Eden Project and further plans for it. We were then given times and places to meet. We then set of for an hour on our own in small groups to explore the Eden Project and find some grub!
After that the hard work began. We got into our groups and our group had to follow Ms Greenslade to the Lake. We were given a big bottle of water that we had to weigh and then weigh the carrier of the water. Our route was explained and we had to time how long it took us to get to the top. It was a scorching hot day and after walking very quickly to get to the top it seemed doubly hot. We raced back down to Ms Greenslade and were given our second route. The longest route! This wore us out even more and we were not prepared for the third route inside the tropical dome and we were relieved to feel the spray from it. After completing our work we were allowed free time again. Ice creams were on order. After a long challenging day we were happy to sit in the comfy seats of the coach. The journey home was quicker than the journey there, but we couldn’t end the day without visiting the wonderful service station again.
By Beki, Andy, Harri and Frankie
The Year 9 Eden Project Trip was an exciting educational trip to remember.
After taking a two-hour coach trip through the countryside of Cornwall, we turned a corner to see a spectacular sight: The Eden Project Biomes.
We entered the Project and walked to the education hut where we were briefed about our ac- tivities by an Eden staff member. We were split up into two groups, each with an activity. One group were calculating how much energy they used when carrying large bottles of water, and the other group were working out the heights and areas of certain parts of the biomes.
After a quick lunch, the groups split up and we were free to spend an hour exploring the two Biomes: The Humid Tropics Biome and the Mediterranean Biome. The Humid Tropics Biome is the largest greenhouse in the world and is full of lush, green plants and trees. After walking around and exploring, we headed to the Mediterranean Biome. The Mediterranean Biome con- tains a vast supply of plants which grow in dry conditions. After viewing the plants and wild- life, we headed back to the education hut. There the two groups started work. The Energy Group started to carry five litres of water per bottle, carrying four bottles each.
The Energy Group loaded with water carried the water up to the top near the entrance and shop. They repeated this going up and down six times and then worked out how much energy they used. It was exhausting work, but the group was rewarded with chocolate to make up for the energy burned off!
The measuring group worked out the height to the top of the education hut using a clinometer and some formulas. They then went to the two Biomes and measured several parts of the Bi- omes using the clinometer, the formulas and a calculator. After recording the information, we had some free time to explore the gardens and the Biomes. Then we went to the shops to buy souvenirs and walked to the education hut to get our bags and for a final briefing. We then boarded the coach to make our long journey back home.
The Eden Project trip was a tiring, but very fun day.
By Jenni Sparks and Chloe Willis.
The Eden Project A poem by Frances Rabbitts and Lizzie Cooke
1. Leaving too early in the morning, With everyone yawning, We set off by bus No delays and no fuss
Until we started moving.
2. Down the motorway we zoomed, Until the Eden Project loomed, We drove into the parking lot And all alighted, sweaty and hot
And had to walk down. And down. And down. And down…
3. When we got to the centre We were given stickers to enter, Everyone needed their lunch So we went to have a munch
And returned for our pep talk.
4. Those measuring height, Quivered with fright, Those carrying water Got hotter and hotter
Then emptied it over each other.
5. Clinometers used, Digiwalkers abused, 8. On the way back to our homes, Pasties took the best bit We discussed the biomes, Maths got the rest of it. Trigonometry sums and algebra ‘Cause everyone just loves SOHCAHTOA! But all in all we had fun. So much so that we all fell asleep.
6. Plenty of plants Not to mention the ants, z Z Z Z UV rays weren’t banned So even inside we got tanned.
And most of us got burnt.
7. We were sad to say goodbye Mainly ‘cause we have to walk up so high, People argued with friends ‘Cause we weren’t allowed the “free” pens.
But some took them anyway.
GREEN – POWER IInn Science lessons students are taught about the energy crisis and the effect on planet Earth of burning fossil fuels but how do you teach about renewable forms of energy?
Mostly it is taught from text books with little practical application. To answer this question Kings of Wessex has bought a “Green Power Ed” package from Marlec Engineering from funds kindly supplied from TecTechnologyhnology College funding.
Soon you should see mounted above the Science block a pole with wind generator, photovoltaic panel and weather instruments. These will susupppplyply information which will be fed back to a power monmoniiiitortor inside a classroom and also linked to datdataaalogginglogging software for use on the Intranet.
The equipment is already on site but suffered some acid damage from the batteries. The shiship-p- pers had managed to turn the pallet upside down! Once the power monitor has been cleared for use by the manufacturers and the necessarynecessary poles etc. acquired for fixing, the “Green Power Ed” wind generator and photovoltaic panel will be ready to go! Eco Tip – Junk Mail
Are you tired of receiving loads of junk mail and throwing it away unread? Think of all the waste and the effect on the environment. If you want to get up to 95% of it stopped then there is a webweb---sitesite that you can visit to have your name taken off the advertisers’ register. It is very easy to do and only takes two minutes. Also on the same webweb---sitesite you can register to have unwanted telephone calls, ee---mailsmails and faxes stopped.
Visit www.tpsonline.org.uk
TPS = telephone preference service MPS = mail preference service ee---MPSMPS = ee---mailmail preference service FPS = fax preference service Eric Holdsworth Physics
Geographers get out and about...
Geography students in Years 10, 11 and 12 have all been involved in fieldwork activities this half term. Observing geographical features at first hand helps to bring landscapes ‘alive’ and strengthens work done in lessons.
Y10 were ‘treated’ to a visit to Brean Beach to investigate coastal processes and look at some of the management issues along the local coastline. A lot of work has been done at Brean recently to strengthen sea defences against flooding and erosion – with rising sea levels, coastal protection issues have become more complex in the UK.
Y11 are currently studying a GCSE unit on ‘Rocks and the landscape’. Fortu- nately, the Mendips provide some outstanding examples of limestone scenery. Many students, seated nervously at a viewpoint high above Cheddar Gorge, became aware of the dramatic and unique nature of their local landscape.
Meanwhile, Y12 investigated river processes and features in the delightful Horner Water on Exmoor. Students were involved in a number of data collec- tion exercises, taking several measurements of river characteristics. First hand experience of data collection is a requirement of the AS Geography exam and analysis of their results formed an important part of subsequent lessons. John Goodchild The Duke of Edinburgh Award
This season has been very successful and nearly seventy students have been assessed this half term for bronze and silver expeditions
Early in the summer, way back in June, 58 students then in year 10 explored the Quantock Hills in generally fine weather as they carried out a practice expedition. For many it was a first taste of carrying overnight kit on their backs and camping. Most seemed to enjoy the experience – enough to come back and finish the job this half term.
In July it was the turn of 20 students in year 11 to go down to Exmoor for 4 days practice for silver. Again, this was a good learning experience for the real thing.
Later that month another 20 students, this time from Years 12 and 13 got a good taste of Dartmoor for 5 days on a gold practice. The weather was very mixed – the first couple of days be- ing spent in record high temperatures with a risk of dehydration and the following 3 days in a con- tinuous downpour!! Our 6th formers showed some real fortitude in the face of the change in mood of the weather.
This then brings us back to the present and the three expeditions which went out this half term. 57 students in this years Yr 11 continued their bronze by being assessed on expedition from Spaxton over the Quantock and Brendon Hills to Monksilver, camping at Flaxpool House on the way. Just this week the current year 12 students had a rain soaked 4 days on western Exmoor.
We have heard that all our bronze and silver candidates have been successful with their expedi- tions. However, they do now need to complete their expedition logs before the end of the half term holiday. Remember, very few people fail the Award – but many fail to finish! Get the log done so that it all can be finished off.
Wessex Walks 2003
Over £1200 raised for Save the Children Fund
The sum raised by our students, staff, friends and families in this year’s Wessex Walks last May is a very handsome £1339£1339. A cheque has been sent off and will go eventually to Save the Children Fund.
Thank you to all who took part on the day either by participating and putting up with the blisters and aching legs, or by help given behind the scenes or simply by paying up sponsorship money on time.
If you want to take part next year the walk is scheduled to take place on the Sunday of the Mayday bank holiday weekend. Get in touch with Dr Ellis at school closer the time.
Dr Ellis
What does a Clinical Psychologist do?
This was the question that Mr Andy Lister, a Clinical Psychologist based in Bristol, came to answer, in school on Wednesday 8 October 2003.
An intrigued group of 6th formers heard how a variety of typical children/adolescences’ problem cases are dealt with by him from the time of referral to his team of workers, to their completion.
What was striking was the differing view of these young people’s problems. Clinical Psychologists take the view that the difficulties arise from either unsuccessful behaviour, thoughts and/or emotions which are then
worked on to help the young person cope better and then be able to move on.
There is no mention of “illness”, “disorder” or “treatments” which are terms used routinely by Psychiatrists implying also a very different idea of what is troubling the young person and what to do about it.
Another interesting feature was that Andy stressed that many of the basic psycho- logical ideas and theories that students learn at AS and A level are what he uses and puts into practise everyday to devise the most useful strategies to help these young people…and he says that they work! A creative side seems to be necessary for this job as well as a sound grounding in Psychological theory!
The students were able to ask questions about different types of Psychologists and training etc and found the talk to be very informative and entertaining.
We thank Andy very much for being so generous with his time and for bringing along a variety of useful information for us. Mrs Marsland Science Revision Guides – KS3 and GCSE
We issue all students with Revision Guides to help them with their exams but, unfortunately many are not returned.
Please, please could you check under your beds etc and return any dust-covered guides you find to the Science Prep Room!
We look forward to being inundated with used and unwanted Revision Guides!
Thank you. Mrs Riddick
Modern Foreign Languages
The New Term begins This term we were delighted to welcome Mrs. students develop learning strategies and exam Jones to the Language Faculty. She joins us from a techniques to enhance their performance in the background in industry, and having completed a summer examinations and it is hoped that they will period of maternity leave retrained to become a take full advantage of such programmes, which are teacher of French. It is refreshing having such a lead by leading chief examiners. Year 12 French bubbly newcomer to the department. Her lively students will once again be encouraged to take part in personality and enthusiasm for her subject are a the Mini-Assistantship to the Loire-Atlantique region . definite inspiration and her classes are certainly of France. Sam Hancock from the Year 12 German benefiting from her fresh outlook. She has AS group has applied for the Anglo-German welcomed the chance to apply her ICT skills to her Fellowship Award and we wish him luck in his classroom teaching and has already created endeavours. colourful Powerpoint presentations and web Mrs Bottomley will be accompanying a group of Year exercises. She now gives a few impressions after 10 students for the annual French Study trip to completing her first half term in the Language Fougères in Brittany – so over to Mrs Bottomley for a Faculty: few words: “Five weeks into the Autumn Term and I conclude that I could not have stumbled upon a more “ We travel by coach and ferry and stay in a family run hotel just on the outskirts of the town. At forward thinking school nor a more supportive department. Fougères we meet our course tutor who organizes the excursions to places such as the Sapeurs Pompiers The students encourage me, albeit inadvertently, to i.e. the Fire Station, the Railway Station at Rennes modify my teaching according to the audience that and the pretty walled town of St. Malo. Each morning I have before me. and evening the students will be busy working on The school’s extensive IT resources, which I have their assignments after having practised their French at my disposal, have become invaluable in on local people. This year we will be taking 25 monopolising the attention of even the most students from Year 10. The experience of being disaffected student. immersed in the French language for a period of six days is extremely beneficial and students always Nor should one lose sight of the wonderful return home feeling far more confident when coloured paper made available to the department, speaking French.” which renders our French worksheets ‘less threatening’ and embodies the ‘colourful’ nature of Last year the German Department were very the language.” disappointed in having to cancel the annual exchange Mrs Jones is currently teaching French at Key with the Gesamtschule Felsberg. This year we are all Stage 3 and GCSE and like Mme Davies, has the more determined that the Exchange should go taken on extra classes to relieve Miss Fogarty, ahead. All students who have embarked on a German while she continues her role in the Senior course of study are encouraged to take part in this Leadership Group. We very much look forward to valuable cultural experience. They will not only, have working with Mrs Jones in the future. the possibility of staying with families, observe the differences between the two educational systems but We would also like to take the opportunity to also have the ideal opportunity to develop their congratulate Miss Guest who is getting married just language skills. before half term. So from now on she will now be known as Mrs Donovan. We wish her and her new More details will be announced to students in their language lessons after the half term husband a happy future together. break. As in previous years the Faculty is planning a If there are still members of Year 10 who number of study trips for our Year 12 and 13 wish to take part in the French Study trip, students who are embarking on the AS and A2 you will need to contact Mrs. Bottomley at courses. These courses are aimed at helping school. Herzlich Willkommen & Bienvenue
Over the last few years we examinations are not carried out Level. have been very lucky to have in their mother tongue. This year We also welcome Stefano exchange students from is no exception we welcome Tina Palumbo, who has recently Germany spend a year of Zurner from Leipzig, which is returned from France having their studies with us. Each situated in the former East spent 2 years in an one of them has done Germany. Tina has embarked on International School in France. exceptionally well at AS Level Art, and Music AS Level Courses He has enrolled on the French – no mean feat when the whilst studying English at GCSE AS course.
From Leipzig to Cheddar!
I’m the new German Student, Tina Zurner in Year 12. I come from Leipzig, a town with about 500,000 inhabitants (about the same size as Bristol) and which is situated in the east of Germany. The first thing I noticed about English schools in general, were the large choice of subjects, from which I can choose to study. In Germany we can only study subjects like Photography, Art Textiles or Graphics in our freetime. Nor do we have a maximum of 6 lessons a day. I attend a grammar school in Leipzig and I have 36 lessons per week and so we do not have much extra time left over for subjects like this. But on the other hand we do not have so much homework to do and so when we go home, we don’t really have to think about school. Soon, I hope to be able to cope with my main problem – which is speaking the language. If I want to talk to somebody, I always find it difficult and have problems expressing myself, but I think that by the time I leave England, at the end of the school year, I will be much improved. In the four weeks I have been here, I have felt very happy and settled. Most people are very friendly to me and help me to lose the anxiety I have, because I’m here on my own and didn’t know anybody in this area before I arrived. – this is very much due to my new friends, host family and all my teachers – so thank you very much! Tina Zurner 12GR From Bordeaux to Cheddar! Up until about 5 weeks ago, I lived in France in Bordeaux. I had been living there with my mum and step-dad for about 18-24 months. Before that I had grown up in Essex, just outside east London. In France, I went to Bordeaux International School. The school had about 20-25 pupils in the entire upper school. There were only 3 students doing A-levels.
The school was quite good, it was just very small, and didn’t offer much choice in courses, especially at AS-level. Things in Cheddar are slightly different! There are over 300 students alone doing A-Level courses, which is quite a change from France! It’s better having a big school because you can pick and choose your friends whereas in France, you practically had to be friends with everyone, because you couldn’t get away from them if you weren’t friends.
The downside with Cheddar is that there’s little to do for teenagers. There isn’t much entertainment. Where I was in France, there was the city, which offered a bit of excitement and entertainment in the form of parties, clubs and bars. Stefano Palumbo YEAR 12 ENGLISH RESIDENTIALS
Between the 29th September and 1st October all year 12 students who study English Language went to Perth-y-Pia in Wales for a residential trip. Between the 1st and 3rd October all year 12 students who study English Literature also went to Perth-y-Pia in Wales for a residential trip. As I was the only one foolish/brilliant enough to do both it falls to me to tell you what went on for five days halfway up a hill in Wales.
The English Language trip began the week. We soon arrived at the relaxing and cosy centre but practically before there was time to unpack our bags and begin to take in the magnificent views we were back in the mini-bus and on our way back to School. Thankfully not ours though, we were off to a local primary school to read to children and then record and analyse their speech. This turned out to be a huge success and in the evening we worked on analysing our transcripts. After dinner we also spent some time reading, ‘Under Milk Wood’ by Dylan Tho- mas as a group.
On Tuesday, the last full Language day, we went to Brecon, home of the world famous Brecon Beacons, with the aim of making both a written guide and spoken guide for tourists to the town. We wandered around the town in small groups talking to local people and generally tak- ing in the atmosphere of the town. Come the afternoon we went to Abergavenny to visit a church and record epitaphs on gravestones, the epitaphs we recorded ranged from as recently as the late 20th century to as far back as the mid-17th century. Once back at the centre we set about analysing the change in language throughout the centuries when it comes to epitaphs and in pairs we recorded a spoken guide to Brecon and designed and wrote a written one.
On Wednesday morning we presented Tuesdays work before the rest of the group. After lunch it came time for the group to set off back home for Cheddar and the afternoons lessons. For me it was time to spend 5 hours alone, during which I grew bored. Very bored. But almost be- fore I knew it the Literature group drove up the long, steep hill which leads to the small, barn- like centre. The group had, I am told, been to Tintern Abbey in order to get an idea of the scene for some of the poems we would later look at. We spent what was left of the afternoon looking at what could be meant by the word ‘landscape’, this ranged from the obvious, sea, de- sert etc., to the slightly less obvious, emotional landscapes such as hate or hope. The day ended with reading Under Milk Wood’ again, despite being a different part it still allowed me to be ready to use my knowledge from the first trip and point out the backwards spelling of the town in the play, ‘Llareggub’.
Thursday was a very busy day, it began with us looking at how art, music and romantics are all intertwined. Then we looked at ‘the 20th century landscape’, for this we looked at poetry which concerned itself with the horrors of WWI. The afternoon was spent climbing the vast, impres- sive hill which lies behind the centre, the only problem was that the weather had resulted in the entire hill being enveloped in a cloud and so it was hard to see further than twenty yards ahead of you. Yet we still battled to the top of it and began to look for some inspiration to carve a piece of creative writing from, eventually the cloud began to disperse and the breath- taking view unveiled itself. This was the view that we spent the rest of the afternoon doing our best to write about. After dinner a few drama games occupied us until our beds call became irresistible.
On Friday morning we improved on our creative writing by looking at different ways of viewing landscape, we were given different techniques and implanted each one into our piece of writ- ing, we also used quotes from ‘Under Milk Wood’ and other poetry we had looked at. Then there was just time to get some lunch, read our writings and make sure we had everything before we were bundled into the mini-bus for the drive home, via Raglan Castle.
If I had the chance to do it all over again I most definitely would. It really is a fun, friend making and, of course, educational few days. Chris Gribbin 12JPF
ENIGMA WEEK 2004 –
AN EVENT FOR PARENTS
Following the success of last year’s Enigma Days,
Mr White has arranged for this
rare antique to be in school
for a week in January.
Students from all year groups
will be involved in activities
based around mathematics,
cryptography and history.
Enigma machines were used by the Germans during the Second World War to keep their communications secret. You may have seen the film ‘Enigma’ starring Kate Winslet that was set at the governments secret
spy base Bletchley Park.
In response to suggestions last year, there will also be an opportunity for parents and the local community to come along to an evening session on Wednesday 14 January 2004. Tickets are free (but lim- ited) and will be available for collection from the main school office. Claire Ellis, Director of the Enigma Project will be demonstrating the machine and talking about its history and role during the Second World War as well as the history and future of code making and code breaking.
Each of us relies on encryption when we make any sort of electronic money transfer whether on the Internet or when using a credit card in a shop.
Come and hear how it all began and what the future holds.
ICT Opportunities (Year 10)
Calling all Year 10 students interested in obtaining a full GCSE in ICT.
This is your final chance to register interest and find out about this extra opportunity. All you will be required to do is another piece of coursework over the next two years on a Small Company of your choice. It will be completed in your own time, at home or during the workshop sessions at lunchtime and give you another GCSE.
Go and see Mr Wells for a letter and sign up.
ICT in IN MATHS
Starting from September, all the Maths rooms at Kings have been equipped with data projectors. This will enable us to make a number of changes in the way the subject is taught and learned.
The first change involves the quality of presenta- tions. The use of PowerPoint slideshows and com- mercial software will enable board work to be pre- sented at a standard we simply could not reach if we had to draw diagrams on a whiteboard rather than “click” a mouse. Previous images can be re- trieved quickly if students are unsure of a step, or they can be shown again if students have been ab- sent for any reason. Also, lessons that have gone well with one teacher or group of students can be used immediately by other teachers and for other groups. It offers a great opportunity for sharing best practice.
A second change comes about because of the interactive nature of certain re- sources, particularly programs such as Virtual Image and Autograph, which we have begun to use extensively (and who don’t pay me to advertise). These pro- grams can be used to work through problems on the whiteboard, with stu- dents typing on the “next steps” and the computer providing constant feed- back. For some reason, young people are far happier about a machine telling them they have made an error than about a teacher doing the same thing! This enables techniques and procedures to be demonstrated, discussed, re- hearsed and improved with a whole class, who can later use exactly the same programs to revise their work.
The most important aspect of the new resources are that they can be used (in principle) for every lesson of every day, whereas a fully equipped ICT room, with one computer for each student, could not be used on this basis. It also interfaces well with more traditional teaching methods; a fact that is particu- larly important in a subject like Mathematics, where accuracy and rigour are vital.
Other aspects of uses of ICT which will happen on a less frequent basis in- clude the use of “full class” computer rooms for investigative work, course- work and revision programmes and Internet resources for extension. We have used these for two years now, but they are of their nature, not suitable for eve- ryday use. The advantage of the new equipment is that teachers and students will have access to ICT whenever its use is appropriate. Richard Walters Accessing your school files from home using the Internet.
You can now access, from home, your own work files and “Project Files” stored on the school computer network. To be able to do this you need an Internet connection at home, and to follow these simple steps;
To log-in to the service Connect to the Internet and run Internet Explorer (or other web-browser). Type into the address bar www.workspaceexplorer.com You now see a log-in page. Use your usual school log-in number and password The School Network name is kow After a short wait you will see a web-page displaying links to “Today’s Reminders” and buttons to “Project Files” and to your own Home Directory
To copy a file into your home computer
Click on the button, then click on the name of the file you want to download.
You then see this screen
Click on this button to Download to your computer.
The following screen appears;
You are asked to check that this is what you wish to do and told that to be certain that the file is saved to your computer, rather than just opened and displayed, you should “ Right-Click” on the link and select “Save Target As” and then give the location to which it should be saved.
Copying a file from Home to School.
To do this you use the “Upload” facility. It is one of the buttons on the top-right of the screen when you log-in to WorkspaceExplorer.
The following screen is shown; Use the Browse button to locate the file you want to send to school and then click on the Send button.
Mr Simon Williams – Assistant Headteacher (E-Learning)
18th September 2003
Games/Internet Cafe
Open now: 4:00-6:30 pm Monday to Wednesday 4:00-5:30 pm Thursday
At "The Skittle Alley. the George Hotel, Church Street Wedmore"
Call 01934 713907 for more information History Department News Miss Stevens left the department in July to go to teach in an American School in Georgia. Our new Historian is Miss E Hearn who is already very much part of the History Team and has assumed re- sponsibility for assisting with the School debating society.
Year 9 are about to go on their History Trips to Radstock Museum where they learn about aspects of life in Somerset in the 19th century. In fact, the first trips have just taken place and the students have found them interesting and useful.
Year 11 are underway with their second piece of GCSE course- work. They are reminded that they should complete it as soon as they can. The final deadline is Monday 15 December 2003.
Mr Targett
BUSINESS STUDIES 4C2 This is the Company Name to look out for this Year!
A strong team of Year 10 students head up the Young Enterprise Pro- gramme for the Kings of Wessex this year. They are:
Alex Travis David Reeves Tom Mitton Steve Maynard Simon James
Clocks and candles are on the agenda – the company name being derived from the Cheddar Clock and Candle Company! They will be selling their hand made products at school Parents Evenings and at local Trade Fairs.
They meet every Tuesday night from 4 – 5 pm in BS2 and will soon be going into production for the Christmas gifts.
We wish them well in their endeavours. L. Lombard
WORK EXPERIENCE
The dates for Year 10 Work Experience this academic year are Monday 14 June – Friday 18 June 2004. All Year 10 stu- dents will receive a booklet explaining the process early in November.
There will be a few changes to the process this year and these will be fully explained in the booklet but should any student be thinking of organising a placement at this stage, it is important to take into the account the following:
The employer must hold a current Employers Liability Insurance certificate; It is not possible for us to carry out Health & Safety checks other than for businesses in England. We cannot support placements abroad.
If you have any questions you would like answered at this stage, do please contact me. EXTENDED WORK PLACEMENTS
A new programme in the school curriculum commenced in September with a group of Year 11 students taking part in a one-day per week work placement programme. The aim of the programme is to give students the opportunity of gaining a prolonged period of work experience in an occupational area of inter- est to them. The programme will continue until the end of the Spring term.
The summer term was spent organising the placements in a diverse range of oc- cupations – farming, motor vehicle, construction, child care, animal care, horti- culture and the production of trophies.
On their return to school after the summer break students completed their Health & Safety training and started their placements mid September.
Also included in the programme is a Personal Development course and First Aid training.
Students are thoroughly enjoying their time with employ- ers. We very much appreciate the commitment of the em- ployers to the programme and the very positive experience the students are receiving. Barbara Taschimowitz Work Related Learning Co-ordinator
HEALTH & SAFETY TRAINING 11 September 2003
Year 11 Extended Work Experience students trav- elled to Clares, Wells to complete their Health & Safety training before embarking on their work place- ments. The event was organized by John Funnel, Tri- dent Trust in collaboration with Clares.
Students were put through their paces with a lively presentation on the importance of Health & Safety awareness. Topics covered included the identifica- tion of notices, health and safety equipment and relevant regulations. Con- gratulations to the students all of whom passed the Health & Safety Aware- ness Certificate.
The morning culminated in a tour of the factory to observe Health & Safety in practice and the production of shopping trolleys.
Grateful thanks to John Funnel for organising the morning and Phil Wakeman, Senior Health and Safety Officer, Clares for hosting the training.
Visit to Callow Rock Quarry
On Tuesday 14 October 2003, Mr Hitt and myself were fortunate enough to be invited to look around Callow Rock Quarry with other teachers and students in the area.
We discovered the many avenues of work associated with the quarry and its employer, Bardon Aggregates. We were given a very detailed and in- teresting tour of the huge site and its offices. The tour was very informa- tive and the talks were really well presented, all their staff were very en- thusiastic. There were lots of “goodies” to be had and the company was very generous, donating various items including a rugby ball, cricket bat and books to participating schools.
It was an excellent opportunity to learn about the aggregate industry.
Daniel Morris, 13LM Art Department News
Last Summer‘s GCSE AS/A2 Results were Excellent, and reflected the hard work that Students, and Staff had put in to raising standards in the subject area.
On the 9/10/03 a Coach Party of AS/A2 Textiles Students visited the Knitting and Stitching Show at Alexander Palace, London as part of their Course. The visit has always been a successful one, in terms of inspiring students through the work of major Textile Artists such as Jan Beaney, and Alice Kettle, not to mention the Trade stands, and Workshops.
Cheddar Valley Workshops: Groups of Students, the Art, P E and Music Departments had the opportu- nity of working with Musicians, Choreographers, and a Photographer as part of a series of Workshops held in the Cheddar Valley Schools. The Work Shops included , World Percussion, Lomo Photography, Dance, MC Workshop, and a Music for all Workshop.
The Workshops were organised, and brought to Cheddar Valley by Jeremy Herbert. It has been a very positive experience, and has helped enrich the Curriculum.
Future Events: Two visits are planned towards the end of term for Year 11 and Year 12/13.
Tate Modern Year 11 The Clothes Show Year 12/13
Dates to be announced News from ‘Photography’
We are bursting at the seams with enthusiasm! Our largest intake to date at AS, are all learning new skills and quickly put- ting them into practice very creatively!! Curriculum development money has meant we have been able to acquire (almost donated), a fabulous set of 2 professional Mamiya twin lens reflex cameras with a set of 5 studio lamps. Historically, this set has taken shots of stars at movie premiers. The colour lab, not only has had a real impact on our fantastic results, but is proving very popular with our year 13, due to the fantastic quality of the prints we are achieving.
The Thursday after school club, aimed at GCSE Art students, is proving a real hit, also very popular for D of E skills. Students have already learned to develop a film! Mrs White
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
It is just before 9.00pm. You are waiting backstage at The Redgrave Theatre, Bristol and the show relay system in your dressing room has just given you a ‘Standby Call’. This means that in 5 minutes you will be on stage, performing ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ to several hundred people at the Royal Shakespeare Company’s, ‘Shakespeare for Schools Festival’.
You have been in the Theatre since 1 o’clock and in that time you have had one full run through. You are using a new set and the technicians controlling your sound and lighting have not seen your performance before today.
In complete silence, you make your way backstage. It is hot, dark and cramped. As you are the last School to perform tonight, three other Schools have left props, scripts and bits of costume in your space. The Stage Manager gives you clearance to begin. You are about to step from the near darkness of backstage onto a stage lit by 25 kilowatts of light.
Nervous yet?
Well, as anyone who saw it will tell you, it didn’t show.
On Monday 13th October, 25 students from The Kings of Wessex presented a 30 minute version of last year’s school play as part of the RSC’s ‘Shakespeare for Schools Festi- val’. It was even more of an honour to be asked to close the first night of the Festival with our performance. Once again, I am full of praise for the confidence, talent and sheer determination of everyone involved. The day really was very tiring and yet each of the students gave an outstanding performance which led to Chris Grace, the Festival Director describing the performance as ‘Better than a number of professional produc- tions seen’. It was slick, assured and very entertaining – even from my ‘vantage’ point in the gloom of backstage.
Congratulations to the cast and crew who deserve to feel very proud of themselves. Thanks also to the parents, students and staff who made the journey to Bristol to see the performance. It was good to know that there were at least some friendly faces in the audience.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream Cast
Theseus - Henry Eriksson Hippolyta - Clemmie Robinson Egeus - Harry Willoughby Hermia - Stephanie Robson Lysander - Scott Reynolds Demetrius - Andy Strang Helena - Louise Wright
Quince - Will Redgrove Bottom - JJ Chalmers Snug - Tom Taylor Flute - Dave Pollock Starveling - Simon Goss Snout - Simon Orris
Oberon - James Eden Titania - Laura Morgan Changeling - Amy Waelchli Mustardseed - Emma Patterson Cobweb - Becky Robinson Fairy - Nicole Vosper Moth - Sophie James Peasblossom - Alice Fitton Puck - Philippa Hambly Narrator - Sarah Small
Stage Managers - Emily Eden Frances Ward
‘Les Misérables’
It was wonderful to be given the opportunity to revive last year’s school production. However, now it is time to move on. Rehearsals for this year’s production of ‘Les Misérables’ are now well underway. This is the most ambitious project that the Creative Arts faculty has undertaken so far and we would be very grateful if anyone feels that they could help out with the production. In particular, we are looking for help construct- ing the set and costumes which are crucial to the success of this show.
Please contact Steve Conway if you are interested in helping out.
This busy term began with performances after only five days back at school! Ellen Butcher led the hymn beautifully at the Awards Evening, followed by the Chamber Choir singing Bruckner’s Locus Iste from the balcony. The music for the evening was rounded off with a stunning performance of ‘Shackles’ by Rebecca Robinson and the Gospel Choir. Well done to everyone who took part.
The Gospel Choir sang again at the three Harvest Services – a new song called ‘Better Than Life’.
We are now in preparation for Remembrance and Christmas Services as well as a Christmas Concert and Battle of the Bands (being led by the senior team for Charities Week)
Rehearsals have also started for Les Misérables – a stunning Musical which we will perform in February.
On 6th November the GCSE and A Level groups will be going to The Colston Hall to hear the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra play Mahler’s 1st Symphony. This is a great opportunity to hear symphonic playing at its best and I do encourage all music stu- dents to make this a priority.
A quick reminder of rehearsal times:
Concert Band 1.20 Monday Jazz Band 1.20 Tuesday Orchestra 1.20 Wednesday Gospel Choir 1.20 Thursday
Blundell’s School South West Schools One Day Event
On Sunday 7th of September, 3 teams from the Kings Of Wessex School competed in an ‘Inter Schools One Day Event’, hosted by Blundell’s School at Cuckoo’s Nest, Tiverton. The three teams consisting of: Rosie Al- len, Heidi Keane, Emily Atkin, Charlotte Chard, Holly Pinnington, Laura Gould, Frankie Robins, Beany Savage, Natalie Reynish, Linda Newman, and finally Livvy Savage as an individual in the senior class.
Our entries outnumbered the pupils from any other school.
The teams (Gold, White and Green) started positively with consistent good dressage scores in line with the competition. Rosie Allen and Emily Atkin performed extremely well with some excellent scores. Unfortu- nately for Linda, her horse went lame and was unable to continue with the competition.
Next was the Show Jumping. This caused a few problems for some of the students, but still Rosie Allen, Heidi Keane, Charlotte Chard, Holly Pin- nington and Beany Savage all had some fantastic clear rounds.
At the end of the competition, the Kings of Wessex ‘Green Team’ consist- ing of Heidi Keane, Charlotte Chard, Beany Savage, and Laura Gould came 4th overall, beating Millfield and Blundell’s!! Individually Rosie Allen came 3rd and Holly Pinnington 8th in Section A, Heidi Keane came 6th in section B, Charlotte Chard came 6th in Section C and Beany Savage came 8th in Section D. Livvy Savage came 8th in her Section in the senior competition, an excellent result in itself. A fantastic result for the Kings of Wessex first entry in a One Day Event competition.
We all look forward to future competitions…watch this space.
If any student is interested in joining our team, please contact Mrs White (Photography Room A4).
Heidi Keane
Sports News from our Kings (and Queens!)
This year’s rugby season has got off to a tremendous start. Having to play in hot conditions and on very hard ground, all five of the schools teams have been well represented at training and have already achieved great success in local rugby festivals, friendly matches and the early rounds of the Somerset cup competition.
The 1st XV have had an outstanding opening to their season. The 6th form turned out in force for early season trial matches in preparation for their first Somerset Cup match against Culverhay School, from Bath. Culverhay were unable to field a side and conceded the match to Kings, putting to them through to a next round tie against Churchill. Their next outing was at the inaugural Weston Super Mare 1st XV Rugby festival. Here they beat strong opposition including Backwell, Churchill, Chew Valley and Clevedon to finish as clear winners and CHAMPI- ONS! From that performance a number of Kings players have been selected for a North Somerset Under 18 squad. Congratulations to Adam Fotheringham, Matt Neave, Trent Warren, Mark Pilgram, George House, Nick King, Will Foster and Paul Phillips. They have since played a handy Wells Cathedral 1st XV which Kings dispatched with ease win- ning 19 – 8.
The 2nd XV have demonstrated their strong potential early this season with an emphatic 34 – 5 win against Wells Blue. They have been committed to training with many players pushing for 1st team places and clearly showing that Kings of Wessex senior rugby has truly got strength in depth.
The Year 11 side have started their Somerset Cup run successfully with a well earned 32 – 12 win against Haygrove School. That put them through to the next round where they will meet Kingsmead School, to be played on the 4th November at Kings of Wessex, K.O. time to be arranged. They have since played away to Churchill School where Kings came home the victors winning 26 – 0.
The Year 10 side have had a mixed start to their season. Their first game of the season was their opening Somerset Cup match against Priory School. After a closely fought match Kings eventually lost the tie 19 – 17, putting them out of the cup competition. They have since played more friendly matches and have yet to record their first win. Recent perform- ances have demonstrated a rekindled spirit and I am sure, with continued commitment, their first victory is just round the corner.
Congratulations to George Wright, the Year 10 Captain, for being successful at recent Somerset trials and been selected for the county Under 15 side.
The new Year 9 side are demonstrating great potential with a squad utilising all the talents of the new students from Hugh Sexeys and Fairlands. They won their first game against Wells Blue 27 –10 but flattered a well-drilled Churchill side, which beat Kings 38 – 12. Their first loss reflected an understandable lack of team cohesion which was much im- proved in their next match against Ralph Allen School, in the Somerset Cup. A close af- fair with Kings eventually finishing victors, winning 27 – 22. Their next cup match is home to Worle School on the 23rd October, K.O. time 3:30 pm.
Congratulations to Henry Eriksson, Simon Tyson and Luke Gupta who have all been successful and been selected to represent the Under 17 West of England hockey side in forthcoming fixtures. A fantastic achievement.
Henry Eriksson has also been successful in gaining representative honours in football. Henry is currently representing the Somerset Under 16 side in county fixtures.
The Kings of Wessex football season has also got under way. The year 10 football side were drawn home to Frome Community College in their first round of the Somerset cup. They gelled as a team immediately to outplay the visiting Frome side and won convinc- ingly 4 – 1. They now face Bishops Fox in the next round.
Rod Bell House Sport Each of the four Houses met early in the new term to select captains and to organise teams for the forthcoming events. The new SENIOR HOUSE CAPTAINS (Year 13) had the unenvi- able task of chairing each meeting but all acquitted themselves extremely well. Avalon Lyonesse
Nick McKen Nick King Heather Edwards Jo Burkinshaw
Camelot Tintagel
George House Adam Fotheringham Linda Newman Hannah Laken
NEW SENIOR CAPTAINS
The first events this year on the House calendar are the hockey tournaments.
Firstly, the Senior Boys battled it out over several lunch- times. Lyonesse progressed to the final with a huge 7-1 victory over Tintagel where they met Camelot (1-0 winners against Avalon).
The final was a very close encounter with just one goal from Paul Phillips giving Lyonesse the trophy over Camelot. Simon Ty- son’s Avalon had to settle for third place after a 4-1 win over Tintagel (Captain Jack Shillito) in the play-off final.
In the Junior Section the boys from Years 9 and 10 battled it out for their hockey trophy. George Shillito went one or two better than his brother as he led his Avalon team to vic- tory in the final over Jason Gupta’s Tintagel side. Lyonesse had to settle for third after beating Camelot in the play-off. Terry Clark GIRLS HOCKEY
1st XI have got off to an excellent start winning all three of their matches to date. The Senior girls have worked well together on Monday lunchtimes and after a few changes have settled well into a squad. In the first match against the Blue School, Kings worked hard and finally won 2-1.
Kings won fairly convincingly after a slow start at Churchill and put in their best performance to date at Bridgwater College. Practices are well attended by the 1st XI and a good team spirit is developing.
Under 1144 XI About 20 girls turned up to the Under 14 hockey trial at the start of term which was very convincing. At the point of writing the squad have played three games and have won all three very convincingly. Practices have been very well attended on Thursday lunchtimes and most players who have attended the practices have played a game. A talented team in the making so keep going girls!
2nd XI Captain this year for the 2nd XI hockey team is Sam Percival. Practices have been well attended and the team have played with confidence in all of the matches so far. Their opening game was against a strong side at Chilton Trinity played on As- troturf. Both teams had lots of opportunities to score but with some excellent saves from both goalkeepers, the score remained at 0-0. The following matches were against Chew Valley- Kings won 4-1 and against St Dunstans– Kings won 3-1. Unfortunately Crispin cancelled their fourth fixture. It is good to see new faces at practices and a strong group of year 11 players in the squad.
CoCongratulationsngratulations to:
• Stacey Dann continues to perform at the highest level in her sport of tram- polining. She recently competed for Great Britain in an U.18 competition against Germany and was placed 5th
• Jenna Young who has been selected for the Somerset under 19 county hockey team.
• Rachel Goddard (year 11) and Elainna Teeve (year 11) who have been se- lected for the Somerset U. 17 county hockey team.
• Matilda Eriksson (year 10) who has been selected for the Somerset U. 15 county hockey A team.
• Ebba Eriksson (year 9) has been selected for the Somerset U. 14 county hockey A team. • Emily Rossiter who has gained selection for the U. 15 county tennis squad.
• Simon Tyson, Luke Gupta and Henry Eriksson have been selected for the west of England U. 17 hockey team. This is the third year in succession that the boys have been successful.
• Henry Eriksson has been selected for the under-16 County soccer squad.
Swimming club There is an opportunity for students in all years to swim during Monday lunch- times. The sessions are led by a fully qualified ASA coach. Come along and get fit and improve your strokes.
Badminton club This has been well supported so far this term and takes place every Wednesday lunchtime at the leisure centre. See Mr Bennett (English department) for more information.
In his absence, Eric HoldsworthUUndernder will 15be Hockeyacting Year Team 10 Co-ordinator and Terry’s teaching will be covered by Josh Holt. The Under 15 Hockey Team have played fixtures so far, against St Dunstans, ManyChurchill people andhave Sidcot. commented We onhave the been smart really appearance pleased of ourwith Students the turnout in their at uniform.practices We havethis received term, and many sometimes letters from we parents have andhad membersenough ofplayers the community to make complimentingup two whole the Schoolteams. on how smart the Students look in their new School blazer. I would particularly like to thank parents for the support they have given and continue to give in ensuring we main- tain our high standards. It was encouraging to hear that the Education Minister, Ivan Lewis, The last match against Sidcot was probably the most exciting. The teams were recently made a statement in support of school uniform. fairly even, but Kings managed to be 1-0 up at half time. Unfortunately, Sidcot Onmanaged the sporting to get front, a goal congratulations in the first minute go to our of Under the second 18’s rugby half. teamAfter who that won both the teams Schools Rugbywere Festivaldetermined with the not remarkable to let in fact any that more throughout goals. the The tournament match theywas didreally not concedegood, and a single try.Hannah We are allDuckworth immensely proudscored of anthe teamexcellent and feel goal! confident Everyone they will was go at onto their even best, great but things. a special mention to Lisa Binning who played fantastically even though she had a Onebad final injury. point, Also a reminder to Alice to Grantparents andthat thereClare will Macaulay be a staff who training played day onoutstandingly Friday 7 November this 2003 and School will therefore be closed to Students. match. I have also included in this Kings Messenger a list of dates of future Kings Messengers. This should helpThe you Churchill to ensure gamethat you started receive well your withcopy. our first goal in the first few minutes of the game. We won 3-1.
BestUnfortunately wishes, three players, Izzy Higgs (Captain), Mathilda Eriksson (Vice Cap-
tain) and Holly Barkus, were unable to play in the match against St Dunstans (with a draw of 1-1), as they were taking part in the County Hockey Trials at Milfield School. Special congratulations to Mathilda who got into the County squad.
The team is progressing steadily and with some tough matches ahead of us, we hope we can keep up the good work and excel- lent team spirit. Izzy Higgs Captain NEW BOOK SALE IN LRC Attention: Art & Textiles, ArchiteArchitec-c- ture, Printing, Sculpture, Ceramics, Graphics, PainPainttting,ing, Fashion, Design, Media, Crafts and Photography students
Friday 21st November 2003 11am - 2pm
New books at bargain priceprices!s!
To be paid for and taken away on the day – so start saving!
Card Educational Foundation
Educational grants are available for any pupil living in Draycott.
These may be for uniform, books, equipment, trips and activities, but exclude help with transport and ski trips. They vary between £25.00 and £250.00
If you are interested in applying for a grant, please forward your application to:
Mrs H.M. Dance, Clerk and Treasurer The Draycott Charities Leighurst, The Street, Draycott Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3TH
Applications should be returned by 20 November 2003.
Parents may apply on behalf of children but those aged 16 years or over should apply themselves. If you are wish to discuss further, you may contact Mrs Dance at the above address.
ow, what a half term! At the Corrick Theatre. Among other things, Wmoment a group of around 30 we listened to the then No1 single by students are in the middle of the first Black Eyed Peas. The chorus was ever ‘Alpha for Youth’ course to run used to People killing, people dying in the school. Alpha, normally run by make the Children hurt and you hear them churches as a course for adults to point that, in crying introduce them to a hurting Can you practice what you preach Alpha for Christianity, has been world, God And would you turn the other Youth starts going for well over 10 loves us and cheek? in Kings of years. Started in wants to Father, Father, Father help us London, it’s now very show his Send us some guidance from Wessex international with love to us. above more than 16,000 running throughout he 'Cause people got me, got me the world. Alpha for Youth happens T whole questioning, all over the world too and is, as the course is Where is the love? name suggests, a course for young looking forward to its trip away at half people following the same values and term. They’re going to a Big House in teaching as the Alpha Course. the country to get away and relax, eing a Church of England School, having great fun whilst learning more Bwe’re very excited to be able to about God. offer it here at The Kings of Wessex. ther new items from the desk of Every student has the chance to take a O the Youth Worker this term are fresh look at God - in a more personal the weekly ‘Theme Thoughts’ which way to the studying of RE. It runs are a resource to help tutors provide a during the lunch hour and is a totally spiritual element to tutor times. voluntary course presented in a fun and There’s also a resource for assemblies friendly atmosphere for learning. It is and those leading them, called ‘Prayer interactive, often with contemporary Post’. Both items follow the school’s music and topical video illustrations. chosen theme for the week and aim to There is an emphasis on small group help the school meet its commitments discussion, where everyone is given to the spiritual growth of students. equal value and their points of view an continues to help a few students respected. But most importantly of all, I each week with the various it gives people the chance to ask the difficulties we all face in life. He big questions of life and maybe find would like to thank you for your some answers. support and encouragements in this t was the third week of term when and all his work. Iwe had our ‘Launch Party’ in the
Ian Howlett is 31 years old. He is married to Nic and they live in Weston-super-Mare. He has been a Youth Worker for St. Paul’s Church in WsM for 3½ years before taking up this post. He is normally based in School on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Anyone is welcome to contact him through the School Office.
THE KINGS OF WESSEX PTA
PROUDLY PRESENTS FOR THE YEAR 2003
A CHRISTMAS CABARET
InvolvInvolvinging many students performing musical, drama and dance acts, with audience participation for carol singing!
So …….grab a partner, bring a friend ………….. make it a party
On Wednesday 3rd December 7.30 pm
In the School Hall
Tickets £10 each (£6 children) which includes
AN APPETIZING FULL BUFFET SUPPER
Tickets available from the school office
CHEDDAR CRAFT FAIR
Sunday 23rd November 2003 - 10am - 4.30pm
The Kings of Wessex School
Now in its 13th successful year, the Cheddar Craft Fair, one of the village’s most popular events and always very well supported and attended ,returns to The Kings of Wessex School on Sunday 23 November 2003.
This year's Fair promises an exciting range of top quality art, craft and design with a wide range of unusual and original gifts for Christmas.
Highlights include wonderful, colourful ceramics from several Devon and Somerset potters; stylish silver jewellery; stained glass, paintings, cards and prints; hand painted silk scarves, painted furniture and embroidery kits.
There are clocks, bowls, ornaments and mirrors, and plenty of unusual handcrafted toys for children.
For lovers of good food ,there are delicious handmade preserves , chutneys. and chocolates.
And so that visitors can enjoy a relaxing break from all that hectic shopping, there will be an 'all day' cafe with gourmet refreshments including hot and cold savouries from around the world and wonderful home made cakes.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
The school term dates for students in the academic year 2003/2004 are as follows:
October 2003
HALF TERM HOLIDAY 25 October – 2 November 2003
November 2003
Return to School Monday 3 November (Week B)
Staff Training Day Friday 7 November (School closed to students)
PTA Annual General Meeting Tuesday 11 November at 7.30pm (Learning Resource Centre)
Year 11 GCSE Trial Exams Monday 17 – Friday 28 November
BCG Tests for Years 9 and 10 Monday 17 – Friday 21 November
Winter Ball (for Year 9 and 10 students) Friday 28 November
December 2003
Charities Week Monday 8 – Friday 12 December
Christmas Cabaret Wednesday 3 December at 7.30pm
Senior Student Prom Friday 12 December at 7.30-12pm
Last Day of Term Friday 19 December
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY 20 December 2003 – 4 January 2004
January 2004
Return to School Monday 5 January 2004 (Week A)
Sixth Form Open Evening Wednesday 14 January
PARENTS’ EVENINGS will be held on the following dates:
Year 10 Thursday 6 November - 5.00 to 8.00pm
Year 11 Wednesday 28 January - 5.00 to 8.00pm
Year 9 Wednesday 3 March - 5.00 to 8.00pm
Year 12 Wednesday 24 March - 5.00 to 8.00pm
THE KINGS’ MESSENGER will be published on the following dates:
Thursday 18 December
Thursday 12 February
Thursday 1 March
Thursday 27 May
Thursday 22 July
Year Co-Ordinators: Year 9: Mrs M Sammonds Please do not hesitate to contact your Child’s Year 10: Mr T Clark (Mr E Holdsworth, Acting Co-Ordinator) Year 11: Mr A Hitt Year Co-ordinator if you have any concerns or wish Sixth Form: Mr M Hayward to discuss their progress.