EBRILL/ NEWYDDION CEI APRIL 2014 QUAY NEWS Number 41
Connah’s Quay High School winners of the President Cup Welsh Finals
A fantastic performance by the U18s Connah's Quay High School netball team in the President’s Cup Welsh finals at Deeside Leisure Centre on Saturday 29th March. The girls played exceptional netball and worked hard as a team to win the tournament for the third year running.
Their first game was against Ysgol Gyfun Gwyr and was a very good win to start the tournament off, the score was 13-3. Connah's Quay then played their 2nd game against Welshpool which they won 12-8. After a close battle on court they edged their way to victory. They won their 3rd game 17-2 against Ysgol Duffryn Aman comfortably. The 4th game was crucial against Haberdashers’ Monmouth School For Girls as both teams had won all their games so far. The girls pulled out a great performance in a close game and beat them 14-9. Connah's Quay then continued to win all of their games, beating St Teilo’s High School 21-6 and Bryntirion School 15- 10. The girls sealed the Championship in the last game beating Brynrefail 15-5, making them the winners and crowned the best u18s school netball team in Wales. A massive well done to all the girls that were
During the presentation 5 of the girls were selected part of the squad. as the top 20 players of the tournament by Welsh Caitlin Barley, Jessica Daltrey, Ashley Davies, netball. They were Jessica Daltrey, Ashley Davies, Molly Edwards, Rachel Edwards, Hannah Jones, Olivia Lyth, Chloe Maclennan, Molly Edwards & Leanne Chloe Maclennan and Leanne Thomas Thomas.
Carron Jones came into school representing
NATIONAL FINAL BIG BANG EVENT Engineering Education Scheme Wales and STEM. He writes for a magazine called Talent. The magazine is 25 years old this year. He came to interview Mr Jennings and the F1 Team to produce a report as a centre piece for the magazine. He wanted to focus on our success representing Wales for two years running at the world finals. He was very impressed with the pit display and the trophies that we have won over the past few seasons. He was also very keen to understand the future careers for the team members, their route and courses into higher education.
Full F1 story on pages 2 and 3.
YSGOL UWCHRADD CEI CONNAH CONNAH’S QUAY HIGH SCHOOL 1 NATIONAL FINAL BIG BANG EVENT NEC, Birmingham, 14th and 15th March 2014
On 14th and 15th March 2014, team Red Dragon Racing travelled to Birmingham to compete in the F1 In Schools National Final. Team members George Cox, Rhys Nimmo, Casey Burke and Lewis Steen went through to the nationals after a superb performance at Bangor University’s Regional Final.
On day one we arrived at the venue at 08:00 to set up the teams pit area before the start of the competition at 10:00.
We were also joined by Jade Gilroy from our new sponsor SKF based in Luton. Jade spent the whole day with the team including observing the four races and the engineering presentation.
Red Dragon Racing faced a difficult first day with a number of challenges, starting with their verbal presentation. This gave each of the four team members the opportunity to describe their roles. Soon afterwards George Cox and Casey Burke were scrutinised as part of their engineering presentation impressing the two judges with their technical knowledge.
This gave the team a huge opportunity not only to explain but also show the technical advances made since the Regional Final. Next came the four races which saw team manager George Cox achieving a very fast reaction time with the car travelling the 20m distance in 1.213 seconds. All team members were interviewed before the race. All of this was filmed and shown via ‘YouTube’ through F1 In Schools website.
By the end of day one finishing at 5pm, team Red Dragon Racing had performed so well, not only impressing the judges and our new sponsor but also the general public who attended the Big Bang fair. More racing would continue on day two with a race off at 11:30am.
Day two started at 09:00am with the team re-stocking their merchandise in preparation for a busy day with the general public. Two judging sessions in the morning starting at 09:45 with their pit display and design folder. Both could not have gone any better with other judges being told to look and study our pit.
Around 11am all the racing had been completed. Thirty teams from across the UK had all raced and were now eagerly awaiting the final ranking. This includes how your car meets the technical regulations alongside your fastest team. At 11:15am the display on the big screen showed that Red Dragon Racing were ranked 4th out of the 30 teams.
As far as this competition goes, we have never been ranked so high and clearly demonstrates how much progress has been made.
The knock out stage came next with the team easily moving forward to the quarter finals collecting valued points along the way.
At mid-day all the teams were invited to a science show whilst the judges calculated the scores from each of the categories. Our anticipation of the final outcome was not too F1 team with Jade Gilroy from our new sponsor SKF far away.
2 www.connahsquayhs.org.uk The awards ceremony started at 4pm with a view of the Abu Dhabi race circuit and Ferrari World where the World Finals will be held in November 2014.
Red Dragon Racing were awarded the Best Pit Display and were crowned Welsh Champions. This now means that Red Dragon Racing will now compete at the World Finals representing Wales and the school.
This would not have been possible without the support from all of our teams sponsors.
DRB, E.ON Flintshire Caravans, Great Bear Distribution ICam Engineering, John Dale North Wales Crusaders RFL Queensferry Sports, Rybrook Volvo Tata Steel, Willow Signs and our latest sponsor SKF
MENCAP TRAINING SESSION
Sarah Pickard of MENCAP Cardiff visited the school to give a talk about the organisation. The name MENCAP is a derivative of the derogatory term ‘Mentally Handicapped’, dealing with mental health and physical disability issues.
The group of Year 10 and 11 learners attended the session. They all found it really interesting, learning new facts about MENCAP working in the wider community. The group were praised by the speakers as being attentive, well- mannered and asking thought provoking relevant questions. The group found the statistics rather surprising and shocking. All learners said they found the presentation informative and worthwhile.
Year 11 Health & Social Care learners attended a CASINO NIGHT workshop at Yale College in Wrexham in which they met a wide range of health professionals in order to gain an The Civic Hall hosted an outstanding event packed with music, betting and lots of fun! insight into a number of jobs in health and social care. Five sixth formers who are raising money for They had the opportunity to speak informally with their World Challenge expedition decided to nurses, physiotherapists, dieticians, occupational host a casino night. They arranged the event therapists and more in order to plan for their future on their own accord, employing an outside careers. company to come in and provide the tables and chips. They also managed to get an Year 12 Health & Social Care learners attended a excellent band for the event, which provided workshop at Yale College run by Cardiff University more entertainment for the night. The lads looking at the application procedure for nursing, raised a massive £1400. midwifery, etc. and how to write a personal statement.
www.connahsquayhs.org.uk 3 COMMUNITY NEWS
Take 3 FOREST SCHOOL
We are running our new Take 3 This year we have been able to offer a six week Forest School project for a group Challenging Years programme for of year 8 learners, this was delivered by Plas Derw and enabled learners to work parents. The first programme has only together and develop skills through woodland projects. been running for a couple of weeks but we have had a good response The School continues to link with New Options Autistic School and each term a from parents so far with comments new group of year 9 learners work closely with the New Options group helping such as ‘We used some strategies last them to enjoy their Forest School experience. night and they are working already’. We are continuing to work The programme is run by Mary with Countryside Services Daniels, Family Liaison and Shelley ensuring the local parks are Jones, Inclusion Welfare Officer. If you regularly cleared of litter. would like more information about this Karen Rippin (pictured) from programme please contact us at the Country-side Services has school. gained funding to present the school with a set of tools to enable us to keep working on the Rock Park Area, both litter picking and keeping the grounds presentable.
A small group of learners are working at Rhydymwyn with Youth Club will be New Wildlife on an environmental project, working towards their John Muir th open Thursday 10 April Award. open Friday 11th April. We have recently visited Deeside Hospital and performed a quick garden Closed over Easter then makeover for the Day Hospital patients. We have had a very positive response st from this. open Thursday 1 May closed Friday 2nd May The School is also continuing it’s close links with Lord Mostyn’s Estate and have been invited to attend an open day at the end of April.
As part of the Alternative Curriculum we took a small group of learners to the Cinema at Cheshire Oaks on Curriculum Focus Day. Their behaviour was impeccable and they were a credit to the school. School Uniform The learners who work with the New Options Learners at Forest School were invited to watch a rehearsal of Peter and the Wolf performed by a professional If you have any outgrown Orchestra. We took the group along with a small group of other learners, the uniform or PE kit and would like to learners from both schools watched and joined in with the orchestra and all find a new home for it please contact received a round of applause from the orchestra at the end of the rehearsal. Mary Daniels. Report by Mary Daniels/Paul Woodhouse
Diwrnod Campwriaeth Sir y Fflint: Llwyddiant i’r Gymraeg!
Flintshire Languages Day: Welsh success!
Ar Ddydd Gwener Mawrth 21 aeth Sian Edwards, Sian Duckworth, Jess Chard, Katie Ellams, Rhys Bennett, Joe Barlow a Connor Moult o flwyddyn 9 i Ysgol Maes Garmon. These learners represented the school as part of the More Able and Talented Flintshire Languages Day. Tîm Ysgol Cei Connah came top in the Cymraeg category and came a very respectable 5th in the overall Cymraeg, French, German and Spanish table. Da iawn!
4 www.connahsquayhs.org.uk WORK RELATED EDUCATION Career Clinic
Higher Apprentice of the year finalist and former learner Daniel Holland paid a visit to Connah’s Quay High School recently to inspire learners who are considering taking up an apprenticeship.
with the Welsh Government’s Department for Education and Skills to tour the country encouraging young people to take up some of the apprentice roles available in Wales.
Daniel, 22 from the Wirral is currently studying a NVQ level 4 in Engineering Leadership at Airbus and visited Connah’s Quay to talk about his personal experiences. Daniel added “I really enjoyed meeting the year 10, 11 and 6th form learners; they have some big decisions to make about their future over the next few years so I hope that my talk inspired them to consider the apprenticeship pathway”.
Daniel launched our Career Clinic talks taking place every Wednesday for our upper school learners to help inspire and guide them in their choices for a successful future.
Career Clinics already taken place: Apprenticeships and process Career in the Army Careers in NHS Healthcare services Career in Navy Career in Travel & Tourism
MOCK INTERVIEWS
Year 11 had a series of workshops delivered by outside employers on first impressions, skills and values, application process and CV writing with Careers Wales.
Culminating in mock interviews which took place over a two day period, seventeen local employers gave us their time and experience to what proved to be a successful and rewarding experience for our learners.
Learners came into school dressed for an individual interview with an employer armed with their CV. A short interview followed by a feedback session took place for each, I can assure you the adrenalin was running high.
I would like this opportunity to say thank you for your support, every learner came dressed appropriately for their interview and made Mr Anstey, Year 11 Progress Leader and Connah’s Quay High School proud.
We hope this is a valuable life lesson they can now build on for their futures. Employers who supported the day: Aileen Thompson, Volunteer Lee Edison, Marshall Aviation Darren Collins, Airbus UK Mark Williams, Tata Steel Dave Dayman, Kingspan Paul Hughes, Army Careers Denise Roberts, Volunteer Phil Hill, Royal Navy Jill Gauntlett, Volunteer Sue Roberts, FVSC John Frodsham UPM Shotton Paper Suzanne Taylor, Coleg Cambria Joy Brereton, Glyndwr University Tim Penn, Signature Leather Kerry Ottle-Jones, TTE
www.connahsquayhs.org.uk 5 WORK RELATED EDUCATION
Year 9 Engineering Challenge Coleg Cambria
Flintshire Schools were invited to an as part of National Apprenticeship Week. Various companies sponsored the event from Glyndwr University to Airbus.
This was to encourage and motivate individuals in thinking about apprenticeships in this area, to enhance their team building skills, communication skills and competitive spirit. The challenge was to make a model turbine and generate the most energy.
Connah’s Quay took along six year 9 girls to promote diversity in this predominately male environment and came second against a number of schools in this challenge.
This year we were invited to take part in Skills North West, the region’s biggest hands on North West jobs, careers and skills event. The event was held in Manchester where our learners were able to interact with top employers, colleges and training providers. Skills Event Manchester There was access to complete and update careers information, plus have the opportunity to experience first-hand a host of skills, trade and professions.
YEAR 13 Library
Accelerated Reader Applications have all been sent to UCAS for University in September. Our school is now getting ready for Learners are starting to make choices based on offers received. Learners Accelerated Reader.
should make sure that they apply for Student Finance as soon as possible, to This is a computer program that helps ensure they receive funding before their courses start in September. teachers and librarians manage and monitor children’s independent WELSH BACCALAUREATE reading practice. Your child picks a book at their own level and reads it at Learners have completed a range of elements including Improving Own their own pace and once they have Learning and Performance, The Individual Investigation, and The Diary. finished they take a short quiz about When WJEC confirms grades, these will be passed to learners. the book using a computer. Passing the quiz is an indication that your YEAR 13 PROM child understood what was read.
The Year 13 Prom will take place at Highfield Hall on Friday, 27th June. Accelerated Reader gives children, Arrangements are in hand to make sure this is a suitable finale for the end teachers and librarians feedback of our Sixth formers journey at Connah’s Quay High School. based on the quiz results, which the teacher then uses to help your child set goals and direct ongoing reading EXAMINATIONS practice. Exam timetables have now been distributed, and revision should be focussed on these dates to ensure learners achieve the grades necessary for their This has proved to be very successful in other schools to help improve first choice University offers. Revision timetables should be developed and reading ability and confidence in adhered to. Learners should be consulting with their subject teachers, learners and I have no doubt it will be asking for additional help where needed. Miss Malia is, as ever, available for successful here in Connah’s Quay individual support for learners (and their parents!) High School.
6 www.connahsquayhs.org.uk On 15th March we welcomed ten GERMAN EXCHANGE 2014 German students from our partner School in Öttingen. The students were hosted by CQHS learners and their families. They had a fabulous week exploring the local area including a visit to Beaumauris Castle on Anglesey, a Deva Experience followed by Roman Soldier Tour in Chester and a day trip to Liverpool. I would like to thank the host families for providing the students with an enjoyable week and insight into life in Wales.
We are looking forward to our return trip to Germany which will take place in the summer term.
CQHS LEAD PRACTITIONER LEARNING CENTRE
Connah’s Quay High School is the first school in Wales to be awarded with the title of ‘Lead Practitioner Learning Centre’. Over the coming months we will be facilitating the professional development of key members of staff not only from CQHS but from other local schools. Initially we will be working with our feeder primary schools and sharing the existing good practice around literacy, numeracy and narrowing the gap which have all been identified as key priorities for schools in Wales by the Welsh Government.
taken place in school. This is Justice In a Day undoubtedly an invaluable revision th tool for learners at this stage in their On 14 March a group of Year 9 education. learners interested in a career in the legal system attended a Justice in a I am pleased to report that many Day event at Theatre Clwyd. learners from years 10 and 11 have Earlier in the term all learners in years been using the site to support their Learners were provided with an 10 and 11 were provided with log on learning. insight into the workings of the details for GCSEpod. The site consists Criminal Justice System and visited of a series of podcasts lasting for After school from 3.15 until 4.15 the court in Mold. The event was between 3-5 minutes which have been learners in years 10 and 11 are able also attended by other young designed and tailored to meet exact to access the site in school during requirements of the examinations GCSEpod Club. Please do not It enabled learners to experience boards used at CQHS. The site can be hesitate to contact me at school if the Criminal Justice System at work used not only for revision purposes but you have any further questions which this group of learners is also for revisiting the learning that has about the site. Mrs Creevy considering for their future careers.
Year 7 Vivo Reward Trip to an Islamic Centre in Liverpool On 26th March a group of year 7 learners travelled to the Islamic Centre in Liverpool. The learners were selected based on the number of Vivo points awarded since September. The purpose of the educational visit was to provide learners with an insight into Islamic customs and culture. The learners found the visit to be very interesting and informative. They will be sharing what they learned with their tutor groups in the near future.
www.connahsquayhs.org.uk 7 French and Commonwealth Unknown Soldier graves at Thiepval
World War I Battlefields Tour 2014
Thirty six learners from years 9 to 11 and four staff At the Thiepval Memorial, where over 70,000 men who travelled overnight to France and Belgium during have no known grave are remembered, we were February half-term. Learners were extremely positive overwhelmed by the endless lists of names, but managed about the whole experience. to locate the name of Mrs Ratcliffe’s grandfather-in-law.
“I enjoyed going to the battlefields and learning about We even got to set foot on Canadian soil as we stopped French/Belgian culture. I also enjoyed going to the at Newfoundland Memorial Park in Beaumont Hamel. museums and being able to spend time with my friends.” Here the land has been Ellen R. left and grass has grown over the remains of “I enjoyed going to the museums because they were very trenches, shell craters interesting. I really liked being able to experience what it and no-man’s land. We was like in the war and going in the trenches.” Megan R. walked through a trench “I enjoyed visiting places and I liked the second hotel which zig-zaged through best.” Jordan J. the top of the hill and out into no-man’s land, “I really enjoyed the battlefield tour trip as I learned many trying to imagine in the things about World War I in more detail. I think this trip bright sunlight what life helped me understand how the soldiers lived during the had been like for the soldiers themselves. That afternoon war and how they are now remembered.” Rebecca J. we visited an underground museum about the Somme, There were some worries at the start when the coach but we were all starting to flag due to sleep deprivation arrived later than anticipated, but we were soon on our by this stage. way. The idea was to get some sleep on the way down to After an early start on the second day, we entered the tunnel – I’m not sure how much the learners slept but Belgium and met our fantastic guide Nic, unfortunately they definitely ate loads of sweets and chocolates! the weather wasn’t with us. We got a chance to By 9.30am we were at our first stop, Albert, waiting for experience rain and bitter wind, which Mr Dixon joked our guide, the weather was wonderful and sunny, a real has been designed to give us the ‘complete’ trench contrast with the dull and rainy Wales we’d been experience! Despite the bitter rain we visited the very experiencing. Mathilde took us to the Lochnegar crater sombre German cemetery at Langemark, surrounded by first as we began our tour of sites in the Somme. Until oak trees and statues of mourning soldiers at the far you see it yourself it is not possible to imagine the depth edge. We also squeezed into the bunkers – used as field and size of this crater which resulted from an explosion hospitals, where Dr John McCrae, writer of the ‘In st on 1 July 1916. It demonstrates without question the Flanders Field’ poem we know so well from fearsome power and destruction of modern warfare. Remembrance services, was inspired to write the poem. Cecil Lewis RFC described the explosion itself "The whole At Lunch, we all spread out through Ypres searching for a earth heaved and flared, a tremendous and magnificent place to eat, sampling Belgium hot chocolates to warm column rose up into the sky. There was an ear-splitting up before strolling through the fantastic In Flanders Field roar, drowning all the guns, flinging the machine Museum, in the Cloth Hall. It was amazing to discover sideways in the repercussing air. The earth column rose that all of Ypres had been rebuilt since the 1920s due to higher and higher to almost 4,000 feet."
8 www.connahsquayhs.org.uk the destruction of the Great War, some of the buildings looked very old!
By the afternoon, the weather improved dramatically and we looked round the town, managing to fit in a well-deserved trip to a Chocolate Shop. Our Hotel looked across to the famous Menin Gate, impressing everyone.
On our way to the Last Post Ceremony
The Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate Langemark German Cemetery was both moving and memorable. Staff and This mass grave contains the remains of 25,000 Germans. learners were impressed by the number of Names of those known are written around the edges. attendees on an ordinary Thursday evening. Our wreath layers, Ewan McWhirter and Aimee Shaw, looked very smart and chatted with others from the armed forces also present at the ceremony. We laid two wreaths from school, one a traditional poppy wreath, the other made of Welsh willow, handcrafted by Mrs Waterfield’s daughter Helen.
Each hotel we stayed in provided a games room which meant learners could entertain themselves after we’d been out for dinner in a local restaurant. Other diners commented on the good behaviour of Connah’s Quay High School learners. Everyone agreed that the hotel in Ypres was the best!
Our last day was spent in Passchendaele, at another fantastic museum. We really enjoyed walking into the trenches and living quarters which had been reconstructed here. All Connah’s Quay staff were really impressed by the exemplary behaviour, good manners and enthusiasm of all the learners who came on the trip.
The Last Post which has been carried out here every night since 1918 (excluding the German Occupation during the Second World War). Report by Miss Farby, Photos by Cody Froggatt and Miss Farby.
More photos can be seen on the School website. Go to the parents tab then click on the Galleries section.
On the 24th and 25th March we were lucky enough to take 50 learners from Years 7, 8 and 9 to Glyndwr University to take part in the Scribblers Tour which is run in association with the Hay-on-Wye Literary Festival. During the day learners were lucky enough to listen to talks from, and meet, published authors of young adult fiction. There was also the opportunity to take part in a media workshop. The day certainly left a lasting impression, encouraging those who took part to pick up a book or put pen to paper in the hope of becoming the next J K Rowling! By Mrs Bradshaw.
POETRY DAY LITERACY SKILLS PROJECT WITH WREXHAM FC
This term five lucky Year 9 learners Fifteen Year 7 learners have recently been took part in a More Able and Talented involved in a project with Wrexham FC to poetry workshop led by energetic improve their literacy skills. The aim of the project Rastafarian poet, Levi Tarfari. The is to provide an alternative approach to learning. event, which was funded by the The learners took part in a range of activities Flintshire 14-19 Network, saw learners from local schools spend a day at including; analysing match reports, writing new Hawarden High School exploring the match reports from old clips, interviewing past themes of identity and culture in poetry. players and creating a biography. After watching the poet perform some These lessons were also backed up by an hour of his own poems they then created coaching session by the club and a tour of the their own. stadium.
www.connahsquayhs.org.uk 9 LIBRARY - Book Fair
In February once again, the school had a book fair in the library. This Transition Support proved very successful, earning the school a massive £818 commission for us to spend on further books. I would like to thank parents for their support in encouraging their children to buy books from the fair.
answer session during which learners asked questions about politics and current issues from Learners in Year 10 are currently around the world. The learners also working on their individual were provided with a talk on Cancer investigations as part of the WBQ. Prevention which was delivered by The investigation is an important an experienced cancer specialist part of the course and it provides practitioner from NHS Wales. The Since January Sue Messham has learners with the opportunity to key messages for learners were how been working at Connah’s Quay High School as a transition support complete an extended piece of to reduce the risk of getting cancer through making appropriate lifestyle worker. This new role requires Sue writing and compare an issue in to spend time at some of our feeder Wales with the issue in a different choices such as not smoking, getting enough exercise, having a balanced primary schools as the move up to part of the world. high school can be a difficult one for diet and protecting yourself from As part of the PSE and WEW the sun. some learners. Sue’s role is to make elements of the WBQ 2 guest this move an enjoyable and smooth speakers have delivered sessions. If you have any questions about any transition for both learner and parent. Our local MP, Mark Tami delivered of the elements of the WBQ please So far the feedback from the schools, a session on Life as an MP which don’t hesitate to contact me at learners and parents involved has was followed by a question and school. Mrs Creevy been very positive.
Revenge Tragedy
Year 12 have been studying the gothic novel genre as part of their A level literature course. Mrs Thomas took the group to a performance of ‘Othello’ at the Venue Cymru Theatre in Llandudno to experience a live performance of the blood thirsty and passionate work of Shakespeare on stage.
It was an opportunity to enhance their appreciation of a Shakespeare’s revenge tragedy and see live theatre. It was a lovely afternoon and great fun for all concerned.
LORD GERMAN OBE
Year 12 and 13 learners were treated to a visit from Lord German OBE as part of the Lord Speaker’s ‘Peers in Schools’ outreach programme on Friday 7th March. The programme is accessed by schools which apply for a visit from a member of the House of Lords; the aim is for learners to hear an explanation of the work and role of the House of Lords, within our parliamentary democracy.
Lord German is a member of the Welsh Liberal Democrats; he entered the House of Lords in 2010, after his role as a member of the National Assembly for Wales (South Wales East).
Learners were given a talk that was both informative and entertaining. They developed an understanding of what power is and why they need it – certainly a thought provoking exercise! Further discussion involved issues that directly affect learners – this undoubtedly made them think! For instance, the group enjoyed a discussion on lowering the voting age, and put forward some valid arguments for both points of view.
Many thanks to Lord German for giving his time to help our learners’ understanding of the political process.
Further information can be found on the Lord Speaker’s webpage: www.parliament.uk/houseoflords/lordspeaker
10 www.connahsquayhs.org.uk ALL NEW BREAKFAST CLUB
On 12th May, we are launching a brand new school meals this will be available to you for free! Breakfast Club which will be based in the canteen. The process will be exactly the same as it is for Those of you familiar with the current breakfast other food you purchase from the canteen – put club will find everything that brings you to the club your money in the Revalve machines and the now: tasty food, relaxed surroundings and activities money will be taken off your account via your for those who want them but this time there will be fingerprint. For those on free school meals it will be even more on offer! For those of you who haven’t exactly the same as claiming your dinner. been before, now is the time to come along. There will also be activities available for those Breakfast club will be open from 8.00 a.m. to 8.30 wanting to get involved from table tennis to board a.m. and a range of breakfast style foods will be games. We’re also open to suggestions so if you available to buy. Why not start your day with a have an idea of what we could do in breakfast club, healthy bowl of cereal and a slice of toast? Or, for just have a word with your school council rep. a treat, a tasty bacon buttie? A range of items will be available to suit every budget and taste. There will be reminders about the breakfast club in assemblies after Easter; on the school TV screens In addition, there will be value ‘meal deals’ where and on the website. for 65p you can purchase a bowl of cereal, toast and a drink. For learners who are entitled to free Hope to see you there!
Connah’s Quay High School kitchen staff have been busy bringing in the new rules and regulations set out by the Food Standards Agency. All Catering Assistants had a refresher in Level 2 Food Safety, while the Site Supervisor gained a Level 3 in Supervising Food Safety in Catering. We have been following for some time the Appetite for Life which the Welsh Government legislated in September 2013.
What is Appetite for Life?
Appetite for Life is the Welsh Government’s plan for improving the food and drink provided in schools in Wales. It sets new food, drink and nutrient standards that mean food provided in school will be healthy, well balanced and that snack foods and drinks with little nutritional value will not be available. With the high standards of the kitchen staff we gained another Level 5 Food Hygiene rating (highest we can get) in March 2014. Rachel Hope, Site Supervisor
For further information follow the link to the school meals http://www.flintshire.gov.uk/en/Resident/Schools/Menus/FlintMenu/index.html
During ICT club learners are able to develop a variety of skills building upon software programs that they will be using in class. This group have been able to use Dreamweaver which has enabled them to create a website, they have also used moviemaker to create video adverts that they can then add to their websites.
Year 7 took on the challenging job of creating a 1920’s film to be looped and played as an en- Wednesdays trance sequence for those watching the Bugsy performance. This involved adding images and text 3.15 - 4.15 whilst cropping motion films to be included in the clip. Year 7 were also able to add music from the 1920’s to this film.
New topics being introduced include the use of green screen. Learners have been around the school taking images and film to be used as part of their green screen scenarios. They will also be looking at the flying effects created within Harry Potter and trying to recreate some of the action.
www.connahsquayhs.org.uk 11 On the 28th March forty four learners took part in a sleepover at school to raise money for Chester neo unit "Babygrow appeal". We are hoping to raise over £300 for the charity.
The night consisted of pizza, music, dvd’s, make overs, Fifa matches and lots more. Most of the learners stayed awake for the whole night.
Thanks to everyone that helped during the event and thanks for helping to raise money for such a good cause.
Flintshire War Lessons from Auschwitz: Memorials: Two year 12 learners, Grace Kenny and Harry Cruse-Harris took part in Eifion and Viv Williams visited the Lessons from Auschwitz programme. This programme allows schools school recently to talk to Year 9 about to nominate two 6th form students to visit Auschwitz Birkenau. Based on the War Memorials in Flintshire. This the premise that ‘hearing is not like seeing’, this four-part course was of great interest to the learners, explores the lessons of the Holocaust and its relevance for today. The especially those who had visited the LFA Project aims to increase knowledge and understanding of the Battlefields during the half term break. Mr and Mrs Williams talked Holocaust for young people and to clearly highlight what can happen if about how they began to research the prejudice and racism become acceptable. stories behind the names on the War The visits to the former Nazi extermination and concentration camp of Memorials. Learners were fascinated Auschwitz-Birkenau were preceded and followed by half-day seminars in to learn more about those named on order to ensure a unique experience. Grace and Harry travelled to the Connah’s Quay Memorial. They were shocked to hear about one Cardiff to take part in each seminar, these included an opportunity to meet and listening to a Holocaust survivor. soldier who had been shot at dawn for deserting his post. Another surprise The students are now working on the fourth and final part of this was the age of some of the soldiers experience, which is how they can share the knowledge and experience who lost their lives during the Great gained with other learners. War. Report by Mrs Ratcliffe Learners then had an opportunity during lessons to investigate further those who had lost their lives during the Great War. Readers of the newsletter may be interested in looking at the website created by the Williams’ for themselves. To find out more, go to www.flintshirewarmemorials.com/ about-3/
Mr and Mrs Williams would also be interested to hear any stories you may have about relatives who may be commemorated on any of the War Part of the memorial to those who lost their lives. This is translated into Memorials in Flintshire. the language of all nationalities who perished in Auschwitz.
12 www.connahsquayhs.org.uk
Bugsy Malone: Splurge-tastic!!!!!!
Following weeks of rehearsals the Bugsy Malone School musical opened at the Civic Hall. Over 70 learners shimmied, splurged, sang and served in front of a packed audience. Yes it was standing room only as our talented Performance Group took to the stage to entertain the school and local community with an additional special performance for our local primary schools. Mrs Davies-Moore the school Drama teacher and director of the show was thrilled with their commitment and performance. ‘’They were awesome!!!! A real credit to the school, their families and themselves.’’
Two of the learners, Tom Stokes who played Bugsy and Amelia Douggie – Blousey Brown along with Mrs Davies-Moore represented the school on Dee Radio. ‘’They were very professional when being interviewed and showed real maturity in answering questions LIVE on radio. ‘’ said Mrs Davies Moore. ‘I am very fortunate to be working with such an enthusiastic committed bunch of young people’’. New Dance project A group of 12 learners engaged in a project with New Dance Company called ‘Go gentle’ - a celebration of Dylan Thomas’ life. Over a series of sessions they created an original piece of dance and performed it along with other learners from the area. A very successful evening illustrating the power of dance for communication as well as an art form.
MUSIC
The Spring Term is the busiest of the year for the Music department with intense preparation taking place to ensure that this year’s Year 11 GCSE group obtain the best results possible. The performing examination took place on the 14th March and was assessed by an external WJEC examiner. Each learner performed as a soloist and as part of an ensemble. This examination accounts for 30% of the final grade and the results were very promising.
The final listening and appraising examination will take place in mid May and due to the very demanding nature of this 1½ hour examination and its greater weighting of 40% it is vital that the cohort score highly in the coursework and performing sections. We wish the Year 11 learners every success in all of their impending examinations.
The Music and Drama department is currently preparing for the Easter services which are due to take place during the morning assemblies of the last week of term. These will take the form of performance group items as well as solo musicians and readings in order to achieve a memorable and meaningful service.
A selection of electric and bass guitars are now in the department ready for auditions for forming rock/pop groups from various year groups. The feasibility of buying in assistance from Flintshire Music Service as from September for an hour per week in currently being looked at to further develop the range of musical styles being studied at the school.
www.connahsquayhs.org.uk 13 NATIONAL POETRY COMPETITION
Recently, year 8 learners Beth Jones, Kaitlin Ashton and Laura Maguire submitted some excellent poems into a He was a hero, National Poetry Competition. The theme He was an inspiration, To all the people, that they had been given was ‘heroes’ and Wales has lots of hills, Of every nation. And is famous for its daffodils they chose to write their poems on people He fought for their freedom, But that’s not what I came to say at all who inspired them. It was excellent news It’s the way they handle a rugby ball to hear Beth Jones’ poem “Mandela” has He fought for their lives, He was so determined, 6 nations is all they can dream, been selected to appear in a published For freedom to arise. Working hard as a team national poetry book! The crowd is very keen He fought and he fought, Only a try in between He tried and he tried, Halfpenny starts to run Spelling Bee He achieved his goal, We’ve almost won And not long ago died. 30 seconds on the clock Sadly this year saw an end to the Times The targets on Lock He’ll always be in our hearts, He takes a dive National Spelling Bee competition. I hope people see, Manages to survive However, this has not deterred a number His memorable achievement We’ve won again Of setting black people free. of keen Year 7 spellers who now meet The crowd went just insane every Thursday with Mrs Milligan and He goes by the name of They can’t wait Kaitlin Ashton for a lunchtime of inter-form Nelson Mandela. A rugby ball will decide their fate. spellings! by BETH JONES Year 8 by KAITLIN ASHTON Year 8 PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Netball news
The year 9 and 10 girls took part in the Urdd Netball tournament this year and beat Ysgol David Hughes in the final to win the tournament. Well done for a fantastic result.
Year 7 and 8 teams got to the semi finals of the Urdd tournament in October.
Many girls have been selected for North East Wales u14s, u16s & u18s squad to play in the Welsh inter counties this year.
U14s - Caitlin Evans, Daisy Thomas, Keeley Genders, Frankie Lamb-Roberts, Amelia Douggie, Sophie Maclennan. U16s - Caitlin Barley, Molly Edwards U18s - Hannah Jones, Jessica Daltray, Ashley Davies, Lauren Cronshaw, Chloe Maclennan
Football Athletics
A very quiet term due to light and extremely poor Our KS3 learners took part in the Flintshire indoor weather conditions. Very few matches across the county athletics competition at Coleg Cambria. The four teams and indeed the country were played. were very successful with many individuals achieving first, second or third in their events. The Junior boys County football representatives- team won the overall event beating 7 other schools. Year 7 - Leon Sumner, Levon Hughes Well done to all for great performances. Ryan Locker Year 8 - Coel Lambert, Matthew Hill, Kai Hardcastle was selected for the NE Wales team to take part in the Year 9 - Jack Wynne National competition.
MAT (More Able and Talented) Some Year 12 learners were involved in a Badminton day held at Castell Alun school. They were involved in coaching sessions run by National coaches. An enjoyable and informative event.
Gymnastics - We currently have a club coach working with our learners during lunchtimes to develop display and apparatus gymnastics.
Rugby - The rugby development officer is working with the year 7 boys to develop their basic rugby skills.
Sports Education - The Year 9 girls have been involved in a sports education programme this term as a trial. It is aimed at developing leadership skills as well as literacy and sports skills. The aim is to develop overall learning and increase the learners attainment levels at KS3.
14 www.connahsquayhs.org.uk What Activities will be happening after Easter?
We are looking to offer a wide range of activities for learners to get involved in. These activities will include:
Athletics Hoola Hooping Table Tennis Club Badminton Club Horse Riding Tennis Club Cardio Tennis Rounders Trampoline Club Dodgeball Street Dance and many more… Gym Club 5x60 Successes: Climbing – Year 10 Learners in Year 10 experienced several weeks of climbing sessions during their PE Outdoor Adventures lessons. Learners gained experience and developed new skills at Deeside Leisure Centres Extreme Zone and then further developed them at The Boardroom Climbing Centre. Learners fully enjoyed the sessions and improved throughout the weeks. Well done boys! Learners Joel Griffiths and Nathan Mendoza
5x60 Street Dance: Year 9 Learners had a new experience during PE lessons where they could select to attend a six week street dance workshop. This workshop allowed learners to develop and express their creative side within street dance. Learning new routines, steps and working together in larger groups. Two groups of 30 learners entered into the workshop and progressed through the routine with ease. We had coaches coming in from Urban Fusion to help develop the session and this has allowed girls to continue with after school club and sessions within the community. Well done girls!
5x60 Girls Festival: This term 5x60 run a girls only festival where learners experienced new sports and activities which they would not normally have the opportunity to do so. These girls were taken off timetable for the day and the festival involved all 12 high schools within Flintshire, allowing the girls to meet and create friendships from other schools. The girls experienced activities like, cardio tennis, girls only dodgeball, cricket, basketball, spinning, kettle bells, hoola hooping and cheerleading which will be coming into the extra curricular timetable after Easter. Excellent work on the day girls well done! 5x60 Horsing Riding: A mixed group of learners regularly attend Horse riding after school where all learners have continually improved in their riding skills. This has now developed into an international activity when our German exchange friends became involved experiencing horse riding for the very first time.
If anyone else is interested in getting involved please see Mr Young (5x60 Officer).
5x60 Hoola Hooping Fitness Sessions: Lady Taverners Cricket U13 Learners from Year 9/10 have taken part in after school hoola hooping Competition: sessions designed to help improve their fitness in a new and exciting way. Five girls from Year 7 entered the These girls have increased their fitness from these session enabling them to competition which saw all 12 high enter race for life, where they will be hoola hooping around the course for school enter. The girls played an charity. Well done Girls. indoor version of cricket which saw them win 2 out of their five games. 5x60 Games: The girls did extremely well due to having a smaller team then all other 11 Learners from Year 7 experienced a variety of activities that they would schools. The girls developed their not have chance to do in school. The Games were based at Deeside. The bowling and batting skills which was day consisted of the learners experiencing 15 new activities. These activities great to see. allow them to develop new skills and show off some of their old skills. Excellent performance girls.
www.connahsquayhs.org.uk 15
Year 8 Eisteddfod 2014 DATES FOR LEARNERS
Blwyddyn 8! Please check the school website for any future amendments
As part of the Year 8 Eisteddfod www.connahsquayhs.org.uk Curriculum Focus Day in February year 8 participated in Welsh School Closes School Opens legend drama and Dawnsio Easter Friday 11th April 2014 Tuesday 29th April 2014 Gwerin (traditional folk dancing) th workshops in the morning. The Bank Holiday Monday 5 May 2014 rd nd afternoon was an interform Half Term Friday 23 May 2014 Monday 2 June 2014 competition in the Lecture Summer Friday 18th July 2014 Theatre with Dafydd from the
Urdd (Youth Movement in Wales) adjudicating. This year saw the SCHOOL MEALS launch of the ‘Seremoni Connah’s Quay High School learners eligible for Free Cadeirio’ (chairing ceremony) for Meals will be entitled to an allowance of £2.10 per day. the best poem in the year. Da iawn Eve Burke for winning! Fundraising for the Financial Year: April 2013 Injured Rugby Players £739.99 Year 11 Prefects Rewards Trip April 2013 Alder Hey Children's Hospital £57.90
On the 5th March, the Year 11 Prefect June 2013 Help the Heroes £93.87 October 2013 Sponsored Walk £3253.23 team which consists of 45 learners, November 2013 Children in Need/ Morocco £1323.38 were rewarded with an afternoon December 2013 Toys and Tins Appeal £657.92 treat at Cheshire Oaks. All of the January 2014 School Production £594.06 learners enjoyed a competitive March 2014 Sport Relief and Orang-utan Appeal - to be confirmed afternoon of tenpin bowling.
This was a well-deserved reward for From Quay to Quay all of the hard work and commitment Year 9 learners enjoyed a busy day in Salford Quays. Learners were that each and every one of them has investigating regeneration for Geography follow-up work in class. They also demonstrated over the year so far. had the opportunity to visit the Imperial War Museum North for History They have all taken part in whole work. school activities such as parents We also took in some culture, strolling round the L.S Lowry gallery in the evenings and open evenings. They Lowry Centre. His pictures became famous for his ‘matchstick cats and also carry out duties at break and dogs’. The weather was mostly good, meaning we were able to have a look lunch times as well as being peer around Media City and the new BBC studios. No matter how hard we tried, mentors for learners in the younger learners didn’t catch a glimpse of the actors at the new set for Coronation years of the school on a day-to-day Street which has just been built next to the IWMN! Things have really gone basis. They have all been outstanding from strength to strength since we began visiting with Year 9s, and the area in all that they have been involved in continues to improve. throughout the year. They are a real credit to the school. Miss Sims A Level & GCSE exam timetables are on the school website. Follow the Learners tab then click on Examinations.
If you scan the QR code IMPORTANT MESSAGE…… Contact Details
below it will take you to the We are increasingly using text messaging as a means of communicating. school website. Therefore could you please ensure school has your most up to date mobile phone and email contact details to ensure you receive all relevant communications. Please provide this information to your child to pass to their form tutor.
Term ends at 3.15p.m. Friday 11th April 2014
New Term starts at 8.50a.m. Tuesday 29th April 2014
16 www.connahsquayhs.org.uk