Penwortham Post

July 2014 Penwortham Girls’ High School

Guests included past and present pupils who Jubilee Tea Party have been supported by our department together Welcome to the with their parents. Some former staff were also in Summer edition of the s you will all be aware, Penwortham Girls’ attendance together with current staff members who High school is celebrating its sixtieth year couldn’t resist the call of tea and cake! Penwortham Post which, Athis year and departments across the school as always, showcases have been taking part in various activities to mark Mrs Hawarden and Miss Hodgson donned their much of the work that pinnies to serve tea and homemade cakes which this momentous occasion. The Learning Support we do both within and outside the Department is no exception, and on Wednesday July were generously provided by a number of teaching 1st they hosted a vintage ‘Jubilee Tea Party’. assistants. The atmosphere was provided by classroom. authentic 1950s music which was soon drowned A real highlight of the Summer Term has been It was a department wide out by the buzz of chatter as everybody shared anecdotes in between slices of cake and sips of tea. our Open Days for ‘Friends of PGHS’. It has effort with everybody been an absolute privilege to welcome back so chipping in to make The hour and a half passed very quickly and many of our former pupils and listen to them the afternoon a roaring the guests were very complimentary about the reminiscing about their school days; especially success. Decorations were afternoon as well as the year round support that our the ladies who were part of the first cohort kindly donated and lovingly created by staff and department provides. in 1954! It was also reassuring to hear their friends. A special mention goes to Mrs Embley who observations about our school today: that spent hours toiling over her magnificent wallpaper Once again, a huge thank you to all involved and although the facilities and teaching and learning bunting! we hope to see you all again next year! were much more ‘modern’, the traditional values which underpinned the original Grammar School are very much intact. I was also immensely proud to hear the countless compliments about the friendly and calm atmosphere in our school and how impressed they were by our ‘neat, polite and friendly pupils’. Before our former pupils departed, many recorded their memories of their school days here at PGHS, which you will be able to hear on the Jubilee section of our website very soon. I do hope you enjoy reading this Summer’s newsletter and would like to take this opportunity to wish all our families and the wider community a safe and relaxing summer break.

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 1 Pupils acted, sang, danced and At the interval the audience was able Jubilee Concert played the night away. Past pupils to view a vast array of memorabilia Here are some quotes from the audience were also able to join us for the from the school archives, leave and pupils past and present: spectacle that covered the life evening; including Maria Toase, their own personal messages in the “What a fantastic concert last night. My of one family, through six Louisa Stirland and Nadia Wilson memory book and toast the school daughter was in the choir and when she Adecades, in one school. who treated us to their amazing for the future over a glass of bucks advised it was likely to finish at 9.30pm, musical talents. fizz! I did wonder why. What can you do Just as it did when the school was Former dancers Kate Hackett, The evening came to an amazing in two and a half hours. Well, a lot as officially opened by Lord Derby 60 it happens. It was interesting, upbeat, years ago, the sun shone for our Sophie Keeling, Ellie Meek, Lydia climax with the hall awash with Maudsley and Rebecca Wignall union jack flags and the sound of funny, sentimental, just so good. We, the Diamond Jubilee Concert held on audience were taken on a journey through Thursday 10th July 2014. returned to perform a fabulous ‘Land of Hope extract from ‘Cats’. It was fantastic and Glory’ the decades, the dancing, the acting, Over 150 pupils from Hutton to see so many former pupils and resounding the singing, the concert had it all. I was Grammar School, Middleforth CE staff return to take part in the throughout barely aware of the time passing, I was so Primary School and Penwortham celebrations either singing, playing the school. enthralled.” Mrs Hesketh Girls’ took to the stage with a pride or adding to the tremendous “I really enjoyed doing the performance in themselves, our school and its atmosphere. because we got to learn about how the history. school has changed through six decades and the history behind it.” Daisy Campbell “I really enjoyed the performance. I found it really moving and I think the audience did too.” Lana Hindle “I enjoyed the performance. It was so amazing that I got to take part in this event.” Taya Edmonds-Fletcher “The amount of practice and effort that went into the performance was unreal. Luckily, it all paid off!” Takanna McGardle “This week has been inspirational. We’ve enjoyed it greatly and we are privileged to be part of the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of Penwortham Girls’ High School and the sixty years of success.” Emily Hamer, Scarlet Mayer-Payne, Georgie Todd and Georgina Whiteley. “I had the most wonderful seven years here from 1973-1980 - when Miss Gerrard was the head teacher and taught us Latin! My daughter, Sophie Wilson, is now in year 7 and loving her school life too! Thank you Penwortham - here’s to the next 60!” Julie Stirzaker “I was here 1979-1986.... memories include being the Library Prefect and Miss Gerrard’s shoes clip-clopping down the corridor!” Diane Brown (Nee McCabe) “Fabulous school. Made me who I am today and will make my daughter who she will become. A strong, independent woman.” Carol Burke 1983

2 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk Jubilee 60/60 Event 7H Head Girl and Deputy Head H completed their 60/60 fund raising challenge when their line of coins finally reached the school Girl 2014/2015 7entrance. Family, friends and staff have generously donated their GHS would like to introduce the Head Girl, Sadia Butt and loose change which the girls have placed along the Deputy Head Girl – Emily Hardie corridors from their form room in room 26 to Reception. P They have been collecting for the Katy Holmes charity. Sadia Butt Special thanks to Davina Hi, my name is Sadia and I am the new Head Girl 2014/15! I Walton and her team! have an outgoing, bubbly character and I have a keen interest in They collected all the academic subjects such as Science, Maths and English. loose coins dropped around school and I also enjoy dancing (Bollywood) and cooking. I recently donated them to 7H’s took part in the ‘Springboard Future Chef’ competition and collection. I succeeded in getting to the North West Regional Finals in Manchester. The amount raised at the last count was £98 - the I’m a determined girl and I have big ambitions to become a girls are confident that dentist in the future. I hope to attend Manchester University to the final total will take them over £100. 7H says a massive study dentistry and be successful! THANK YOU to everyone who has contributed. Emily Hardie Ms Oakes Hello everyone, my name is Emily Hardie and I am writing this 7H Form Tutor article as the newly appointed Deputy Head Girl 2014 /15. I would like to thank everyone who helped me achieve this role. I would like to help pupils during their time here at Penwortham Girls’. In order for you to get to know me better, here are a few Moving on. details about myself. I have opted to study History as well as Graphics. Languages are aving been the Transition Manager and Year 7 Raising important to me and I have been fortunate to study both German Achievement Coordinator for more years than I care to and French, one of which I hope to carry on through to A-Level. Hadmit to - I am clearly not old enough to have been in post I particularly like English. I enjoy sport and over the years I for so long! have represented the school in various activities. I enjoy being part of the Netball Team and Dance Squad. Last summer I took It is with great pleasure that I hand the mantle of responsibility to my colleague part in Athletics and enjoyed this very much. I have also taken and friend, Miss Elliott. As a veteran of the Year 7 tutor team, she has a well- part in County Competitions such as Science Day and Maths established inside knowledge of the joys and challenges, ups and downs of the job tournaments. and she will bring to the role both this experience, plus the freshness and vibrancy I would recommend of new ideas as the school continues to move forward. Her inaugural speech at the the trips abroad, New Entrants’ Evening on June 26th gave her the chance to speak to the parents particularly the France for the first time, and she has already established herself in the role through visits and Belgium trip, to many of the new pupils in their primary schools. from which I have just It has been a pleasure and a privilege to fulfil these responsibilities here at PGHS returned. It has been and I admit to feeling a twinge of reluctance at handing on the baton (mixing my favourite one so my metaphors) but I would like to thank any parents reading this with whom I far! have had partnership links over the years and whose daughters I have, hopefully, Outside of school I nurtured; thank you for your support and for the friendships I have enjoyed with enjoy going to the you. And I wish every success and enjoyment to all the girls here in school and cinema, eating out and those joining in September as they continue their journeys towards PGHSuccess. shopping. Mrs Millward-Hopkins

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 3 Art Department News

The Art Department has had a very successful and busy 2013/14! To briefly sum up we have managed to ‘pack’ in the following:

• Visited the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery, London. • Visited the Tate Gallery, Liverpool. • A group of year 10 gifted and talented pupils attended a workshop organised by Runshaw College. • Delivered 3 workshops for primary schools. • A graphic artist who works in industry, has shown some year 10 pupils her greetings card designs and given them an insight into the real world of work in the creative industries. • Invited a past pupil to show her ‘A’ level work to a group of year 10 pupils. • Artwork displayed in the annual South Ribble School’s Art Exhibition. Some pupils won special Commendations for their super artwork. • Four pupils have won art prizes for art competitions that they entered outside of school, with one pupil, Erin Gorrell, winning an easel and a day in a workshop with a practising artist! • A ceramic local artist, Janet Dyer has made ceramic mugs celebrating the school’s Jubilee year with a group of year 7 pupils. • G.C.S.E Art Exhibition of year 11 work displayed in the school hall and in the entrances. • And finally…on page 6 there are photographs of some brave members of staff who have had their faces dramatically changed using photoshop to create a Pop Art image. Year 8 have been using these images to create Pop Art portraits. There are some examples of exceptional artwork by year 11 as well as examples of wonderful ‘fruit faces’ completed by our budding year 7 artists. Hopefully, the year 7’s will follow in the footsteps of our creative and imaginative year 11 who have just left school this year. Well done to all! Mrs. Staines Mr. Quinlan.

4 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk Here are a few examples of G.C.S.E. examination pieces by year 11. The ten hour examination was timetabled over a number of weeks and as you can see, they produced some fantastic work. The final pieces were developed from work produced in sketchbooks. The sketchbook work took 3 months to complete and had to show artist research, observational drawings, photographs, experimentation with different media, developments and compositions. May I take this opportunity to wish all our artists continued enjoyment of the visual arts whether producing art work themselves, persuing a career in the creative field or just visiting an art gallery. Good luck and best wishes. Mrs. Staines & Mr. Quinlan.

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 5 Art Department News

Year 10 - Erin Gorrell won an art competition, at district level, organised by the Rotary Club. As part of the prize Erin attended a workshop with a practising artist, she also won an easel. Mr. Ramsdale, Assistant Headteacher, kindly awarded Erin with this special award Well done to Imogen Yeung and Grace Wylie. They have used biro, pen & wash and paint for their GCSE urban landscape project, displaying flair and confidence. Well done!

Jessica Evans. Close–up of an eye. Her painting shows excellent use of tone, texture and colour.

Gemma Motin. She has built up the layers Her ‘fruit face’, based on the portraits of paint with of Arcimboldo. great skill. This shows great skill in composition and tonal blending.

6 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk English Department News

need one and a bundle of fun! Life in the English Mrs Millward-Hopkins has always threatened English department won’t be the same without her and we to grow old disgracefully – I won’t reveal the full will think enviously about her touring Australia extent of her plans here, but this poem gives us a t has been an eventful and productive year for and enjoying afternoon teas in posh hotels as a clue: the English department. At the start of this year ‘lady who lunches.’ Iwe welcomed back Miss Hodgson after the arrival of Tilly and now we prepare to say goodbye It is difficult to sum Mrs Millward-Hopkins up in a few words (!) but she will leave a huge gap in When I am an old woman I shall wear to our longest serving and cherished member of the purple department, Mrs Millward- Hopkins. school life that will be difficult, if not impossible, to fill. She is not just a respected member of staff, With a red hat which doesn’t go, and We are looking forward to working with Miss but I would go as far to say that she is loved by doesn’t suit me. Masefield who has chosen to begin her teaching many who have worked with her – not just in the And I shall spend my pension on brandy career with us. She has already visited the school English department. Mrs Millward-Hopkins is and summer gloves on a number of occasions, helped out with schemes always on hand to provide words of wisdom, an And satin sandals, and say we’ve no of work and met her future pupils. honest perspective, endless chocolates and possibly money for butter. the best hugs in the world. The staffroom will be Each year group has seen great success. Firstly, a duller, and quieter, place without her. As I’ve I shall sit down on the pavement when Year 11 who have just left us were a superb group collected stories about her in preparation for a I’m tired of girls who stuck it out to the end with diligence, farewell speech, the overwhelming message has And gobble up samples in shops and press good humour and exemplary behaviour. We wish been that she has provided numerous staff with alarm bells them all the best and look forward to seeing them unfailing support and inspiration in their own on results day. A special mention must go to our And run my stick along the public railings careers. Mrs Millward-Hopkins has the rare librarians who did an amazing job and are sorely talent of seeing the potential in every student And make up for the sobriety of my youth. missed already. (and member of staff) she comes into contact I shall go out in my slippers in the rain Our current Year 10, already proudly sporting with; then developing that potential through a And pick flowers in other people’s gardens the navy jumpers, have had a fantastic year. They mixture of encouragement, persuasion, bribery And learn to spit. have all completed the full portfolio of controlled and occasionally the force of her larger than life assessments (no mean feat with 5 extended essays personality. But maybe I ought to practice a little to write) and many have a set of superb grades to now? take forward to their final exams in Year 11. They So people who know me are not too have just finished the mocks and approached them shocked and surprised with a real maturity and desire to do well. We are When suddenly I am old, and start to already anticipating letting our hair down with wear purple. some serious shopping in London on our Theatre trip this Christmas. Jenny Joseph Year 9 have already risen to the challenge of Goodbye Ruth, you will be sadly missed. their first GCSE controlled assessments and have worked really hard, achieving some really Heather Mckeown – Head of English promising results. Years 8 and 7 have been busy honing their skills ready for the new GCSEs being launched in 2017 and have produced some beautiful pieces which are on display on our English corridor. A special thanks to 7A and 8E for their fantastic display work (See pictures). Back to the most important task in hand, however, saying farewell to Ruth Millward-Hopkins. She is a wonderful teacher, a warm and caring woman with the comfiest shoulders to lean on when you

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 7 History Department News

Battlefields Trip

n the morning of 4th April 2014 41 girls from PGHS were joined by 40 boys from Hutton OGrammar to set off on our 5 day trip to France and Belgium to see the battlefields of the First World War.

As we journeyed south through England the weather steadily improved and by the time we reached Calais the sun was shining, marking the beginning of an unseasonably hot spell of weather.

Our first stop was in Belgium in the town of Ypres, a place that found itself at the very heart of the Western Front during the First World War and was the scene of bitter fighting throughout the conflict. Seeing the lovely old town at night as we headed out for our evening meal made it hard to imagine its former, war-torn self and everyone was excited and eager to head out and see the battlefield sites.

On Saturday morning we were met by a Belgian guide who showed us around some of the sites around Ypres, including Hill 60 and the incredibly quirky Hill 62 museum, where you On behalf of all the staff that went on the trip I would like to congratulate the girls on their can look at (and even buy) an array of artefacts. Here the superb behaviour throughout and for being such good company! pupils had an opportunity to see some of the original trenches and get a better picture of the strategic importance of these Of course the trip was very thought-provoking and sad in parts, but we also had some good ‘hills’, which in Belgium means a small rise in the landscape! fun in the evenings and I know from all the written comments from the girls who went that a great time was had by all. From here we went to Tyne Cot cemetery, designed by the British architect Edwin Lutyens and without doubt one of Mr Ramsdale the most moving places to visit on any visit to the Western Head of History Front. It is hard to convey the tragedy of the war in words but everyone who visited the cemetery that day understood the scale of the sacrifice. Several of the graves mark the places where soldiers fell and died and are sat amongst thousands more, neatly laid out in rows. Surrounded by beautiful countryside and with the sun beating down on the pristine white Portland stone graves, the eerily silent cemetery reduced everyone to quiet contemplation. After attending the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate in Ypres we then travelled to France and over the next two days we visited more sites, museums, memorials and cemeteries. A wreath was laid at the memorial to the missing at Thiepval after Amy Sansom read an extract from a poem by Rupert Brooke. This gave both schools, pupils and staff, the opportunity to pay our respects to all those who died during this terrible conflict.

8 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk Geography Department News

The new build was designed by JMP rooms 38 and 39, and a historical seating for 32 students means that New Humanities Architects of Lancaster and was figures montage to come soon in room when appropriate lessons or segments constructed by VMC Developments, 37, definitely give an added wow of them can be taken outside. build complete another Lancaster company. Utilising factor. what was an old fire escape to connect Both the History and Geography the new build to the 30s corridor, The new build also incorporates a Departments are delighted to be in n June, the Geography and the three new classrooms are a very modern feeling corridor, which their new rooms and to be closer is floor to ceiling glass down one to the action than they once were History Departments bid world apart from the facilities the Departments previously had. Each side. This looks out onto a new quad in Annexe A. The opportunities for farewell to Annexe A and I of the new rooms is approximately that has been created by the build, even more creative teaching and took up residence in the newly 60m² with a high sloped ceiling, lots and which has been designed and learning are huge and it is hoped that furnished as an outdoor classroom. the students will take all the new completed Humanities suite of of glass and air conditioning; staff and pupils alike agree that the rooms Synthetic grass and raised flower opportunities given to them over the classrooms. feel spacious and bright. The addition beds have been used to give a clam next academic year. of very large world map graphics to atmosphere and the addition of

Up in the world

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 9 MFL Department News

French

e have had huge interest in our French trip to St.Omer and are looking forward to taking girls to Wthe Pas de Calais area in July 2015. In lessons, Year 7 have been interviewing each other about their hobbies and in the second half of the term we have worked on café role-plays. Year 8 have enjoyed learning about tourist attractions in Paris and how the French celebrate Bastille Day. They have produced tourist brochures as part of their assessments this term. Year 9 have been working on some shopping dialogues which they have filmed for our Jubilee celebrations. Many thanks also to Nouf Al Bunasser, Ruba Al Khodaidi, Abeer Alamri, and Rema Al Shehri who contributed video clips in Arabic. Well done also to Georgia Hampson and Prisha Patel for their conversation in Spanish. Year 10 have just completed their second controlled writing assessment on the topic of school. It was good to meet our new Year 7 on Sampling Day. They had a very short lesson in French but were very enthusiastic and took part in some interactive activities using Linguascope. Finally, if you are on holiday in France this summer, don’t forget to try out your French with these useful phrases. 1. Répétez s’il vous plaît. 2. Où est l’office de tourisme? 3. À quelle heure ouvre le musée? 4. L’addition, s’il vous plaît. 5. Je voudrais une glace à la vanille. 6. Parlez plus lentement. 7. Ma clé ne marche pas. Bonnes Vacances!

10 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk MFL Department News

which the girls learned some of as ask her some pertinent questions Finally, the end of term sees 35 of German the basic characters in the Chinese in English about life in a German our year 9 and 10 pupils visiting alphabet and they also had the school. They were amazed that Boppard in Germany. They will s always there has been a opportunity to learn some Swedish, she responded to their questions in be staying in a hotel overlooking wide range of activities taking Korean and Portuguese. Finally near-perfect English, as was Miss the river Rhine and improving Aplace within German lessons they used the interactive handsets Elliott, who couldn’t believe it when their language skills in a variety this year, but the highlights are often to take part in a quiz testing their Thora was able to explain to her of activities that include a visit when the opportunity presents itself knowledge of languages, countries year 9 class the meaning of the word to Cologne, the Lindt chocolate for pupils to practise their language and geography. The girls really ‘subsidies’. Some of our year 10 museum, Phantasialand theme park skills ‘for real’. enjoyed the day and all the different pupils were able to impress Thora and a cruise on the river Mosel. aspects of language learning that they themselves, however, by conducting Pupils in the past have been amazed Earlier this year a group of our were exposed to. their own question and answer at how beautiful the country is and year 8 students enjoyed a day at session entirely in German – an commented on the warm welcome UCLAN for a culture and language Another opportunity for our girls to amazing achievement considering they have received. For many enrichment session. There was a practise their language skills occurred that this is only their third year of pupils this will be their first visit to variety of activities organised for a few weeks ago when Thora, a year German compared to Thora’s seven Germany and we wish them another the students and the girls were able 10 student from Emden in the north years of learning English. Well successful trip and a repeat of the to have a go at interpreting in the of Germany, joined our German done to Georgia Cross in year 9 fine weather that has enhanced the ‘Worldwise’ interpreting suite. They lessons for a week. Lower school for maintaining contact with Thora visit in previous years. tried simultaneous interpretation pupils were able to listen to the ‘real after meeting her while holidaying (which involves speaking into a McCoy’ speaking German, thrilled in Egypt! K. Akers microphone and translating), a that they could actually understand Chinese calligraphy session during some of what she was saying, as well

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 11 Music Department News

Penwortham Live! Royal Liverpool Philharmonic his year we were fortunate to have at least two pupils Orchestra Tperforming as part of the Penwortham Live Festival. n Tuesday 29th April Mrs Cattanach Melisa Baydemir performed on and Mr Gornall Friday and Saturday night, singing O and accompanying herself with her were lucky enough to take guitar and ukulele. Melisa performed 16 pupils to see the Royal extremely well and made £75 from Liverpool Philharmonic selling wristbands which she has Orchestra. now donated to a local charity called ‘Inside Out’. It was a night Kirsty Noble also in Year 10 of film music performed on keyboard with our keyboard teacher Mrs Hooke at the directed by Galloway’s Centre in Howick. This Richard was Kirsty’s first ‘live’ performance Kaufman. and she did fantastically well. Well The orchestra done girls I am proud of you both. sounded fantastic and it was lovely to see an ex-pupil Sarah Brandwood-Spencer performing in the orchestra and to catch up with former Music Teacher Mrs Dyer. The girls as always were an absolute credit to take and we hope to go again in the Autumn term.

12 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk Music Department News

Samba Fun!

his term our Year 10 GCSE musicians The girls supported Mrs Cattanach in leading Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 in a samba went to Cop Lane CE Primary School groove to support the team each class had chosen. The hall shook with the sounds of Let’s go Mexico! Come on Italy! and Go Austrailia! Tas part of their Celebrations of the World Cup. With the World Cup held in The pupils at Cop Lane certainly had rhythm and bags of enthusiasm. A fantastic Brazil it was only natural that we did a afternoon was had by all. samba band workshop. Thanks Year 10!

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 13 Maths Department News

UKMT Mathematical Challenge Primary Maths Challenge 013-14 has been a year of outstanding mathematical achievements by a number of PGHS pupils. Girls in years 7, 8 and 9 have taken part in the inks with local primary schools have been developed 2UKMT Mathematical Challenges and many have been awarded Silver and further this year with the running of the Primary Maths Bronze certificates. LChallenge in October that was won by Penwortham Middleforth CE Primary School. Furthermore, the 24 Game Special mentions must go to Charlotte Daley of year 8 who Jubilee Challenge was held in the spring term and was fiercely achieved a Gold Certificate in contested. Prizes were awarded for the best team overall and the Junior Challenge, putting for the best flag design. her in the top 6% nationally and Emily Hamer of year In Key Stage 4, a number of year 10 and 11 pupils got a taste for A 9 who got through to the level maths when they attended the ‘Taking Maths Further’ event ‘Grey Kangaroo’ competition at Manchester University along with pupils from Hutton Grammar achieving a certificate of Merit School. and being recognised as one of Just before we finish for summer, year 10 pupils will be putting the top 25% pupils nationally. their financial management skills to the test during Business and Congratulations to all the Enterprise week. winners and well done to all All in all it has been a busy and exciting time and we are looking who took part. Many of the forward to next year and the challenges and successes it will questions were extremely undoubtedly bring. challenging.

Duke of Edinburgh Award

n Saturday the 10th of May 18 girls and 10 boys, became trepid explorers for the day; kitted out for a day of building tents, cooking, using map skills and hiking. As part of Oour Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, students in Year 10 from PGHS and Hutton Grammar did an eight hour training expedition. This meant arriving in Rivington rather bright and early. In fact, most of the students were there before the teachers!

Unfortunately the weather wasn’t on our side, but that didn’t dampen our mood. Tent building was rather chaotic thanks to the wind; however, we did end up with a well built and rather cosy finished project. We then cooked a very tasty meal, well, reheated what our parents had made for us the night before! After we had eaten we began to hike, full of yummy food and wrapped up warm. Map skills were something none of the students seemed to have and we relied greatly on our D of E instructor to steer us in the right direction. After going off course a few times we all safely arrived at our destination - with large sighs of relief. Perhaps the most tortuous part of the trip wasn’t the 8km hike, but watching Mrs Sweeney and Mr Cafferkey drink huge hot chocolates with whipped cream and marshmallows whilst waiting for our parents. The whole day was very enjoyable and everyone had a brilliant time, although I know a hot shower and bed were definitely needed at the end of it. Thank you to the teachers and instructors for guiding us. Emily Noble 10S

14 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk Science Department News

Blackpool Zoo

his term saw the whole of year 7 visiting Blackpool Zoo for an exciting Science experience based on Tadaptations and classification. It was a perfect day for viewing the animals and once they had all woken up, many, including the lions and the gorillas, came out to sunbathe and enchant the girls with their playful antics. Year 7 had the opportunity to handle ‘Colin’ the Giant Madagascan hissing Cockroach and ‘Geoff’ the Royal Python. Additionally, the girls watched the sea-lions perform a variety of tasks. There was also an opportunity to watch the lions and penguins being fed, the elephants being washed Y8 Predator display and experience coming face to face with the cheeky Ring- tailed Lemurs. s part of the Life and Death topic, 8C produced a display on predators. A great day was had by all and four intrepid future In lessons they had looked at how zoologists will be presented with an award for finding out A predators are adapted for survival and hunt the most about the origins and habitats of the animals. for prey. Well done year 7! Some of the features that predators have include excellent eyesight and smell to spot prey, eyes at the front of the head to judge distance to the prey and colouring for camouflage (so they can sneak up on prey). The students worked in pairs and picked a predator; they then researched its adaptations, collected pictures and produced a poster. The predators that the class picked were bears, sharks, snakes and lots of big cats such as tigers, lions, leopards and cheetahs. The posters were excellent, full of factual information and colourful pictures.

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 15 PE Department News

PE News Football Club he summer term is always a very busy one and this one hasn’t been any different. r Hamilton runs football club T after school on a Friday and We have continued our hockey coaching, which is run in Mso far it’s proving to be very partnership with Garstang Ladies Hockey Club. successful.

We have had lots of girls from years 7 through to 10 The girls have been very enthusiastic and regularly attending practice and even with this being committed in the short time the football a new club we managed to enter teams in to the South club has been running. The girls have Ribble Hockey Tournaments. developed their skills greatly and enjoyed the training drills and games. We would Similarly the rugby , run in partnership with Leyland welcome all new players, even if you Warriors, has continued into the summer term and we have never played before!! are looking forward to entering competitions in the next academic year. During Wimbledon fortnight the girls have enjoyed the opportunity to play short tennis and try something new during their lunchtimes. Primary They led some activities in the We have also helped some of our local primary schools to run morning such as Athletics, their Sports Days. Our sports leaders have received praise and Schools Sports Netball, Basketball and Treasure commendation for their efforts in helping Middleforth and Little Hunt and in the afternoon Hoole primary schools’ in particular. Festival all primaries participated in a netball tournament organised We have organised and hosted all the South Ribble Rounders Tournaments and led by year 10 leaders. again this year. Unfortunately for the year 11 team, the tournament had to n Wednesday 11th June, be abandoned due to the terrible weather conditions. However, the girls year 10 sports leaders They all enjoyed the day and carried on playing through the wind and rain for as long as they possibly Oran a sports festival sports leaders once again made could before giving in to the elements. for 3 local primary schools, us proud! Well done all the Ashbridge, Middleforth and sports leaders! The year 10 and 8 teams finished in 3rd position. The year 9 team won their tournament Hoole St. Michaels. and are going to represent the Worden Schools’ Partnership in the Lancashire Games.

These results helped the team to finish 2nd overall. South Ribble In the Year 7 Eloise Yeung won the 200m and Honor Barnes came 3rd in the javelin . The team Championships finished 4th overall. The U16 team had wins from Katie Littlefair in the e had another good season on the track 200m, who also broke the record, and Georgina and field with both the Year 9 and U16 Newcombe in the 300m. Mia Bellingham came Wteam coming 2nd in the South Ribble 2nd in the long jump and discus. Championships. Katie, Georgina and Charlotte were all selected In the Year 8 team Charlotte Daley won both to represent South Ribble in the Lancashire her events in the 200m and long jump, Freya Championships. Katie finished 3rd in the 200m. Darbyshire was 3rd in the 800m as was Ellie These 3 girls regularly train and compete for Wiggan in the 1500m. Both girls achieved new Preston Harriers and are all extremely talented. personal bests!

16 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk Sports Day Rounder’s News

ell done to everyone who ongratulations competed for their forms to our year 8 Won Sports day! Crounders team, they were awarded There was strong competition in all events, with the added interest 3rd place in the South of staff competing in all the Year Ribble Rounders 10 events. The girls were thrilled Competition. to beat the staff and next year I am sure there will be some serious secret All girls played very well training by the staff!! and won games against There were records for Charlotte All Hallows, Priory Daley, Hannah Collinson and and Leyland St. Mary’s. Georgina Newcombe in the triple Unfortunately, they were jump and also Honor Barnes in defeated by Balshaws. the shot. Congratulations to 8G Overall, they played very well. Well done girls! who won the Championship Relay, beating a staff team in the process!!! Team players were: Individual Champions were: Maya Darbyshire, Bethany Aitchison, Lauren Hall, Elizabeth Year 7 Rawsthorne, Livvy Lake, Abigail Halliwell, Charlotte Daley, Katie Winner Eloise Yeung Hindle, Charlotte Hough and Freya Darbyshire. Runner Up Georgina Hardman Players player of the match: Abigail Halliwell Coach’s player of the Year 8 match: Bethany Aitchison Winner Charlotte Daley Runner Up Freya Darbyshire

Year 9 The evening finished with the following awards: Winner Hannah Collinson Sports Presentation Runner Up Kira Darbyshire Rising Star: Abi Taylor in Year 9 for her success in the Netball Team, the U14 Nationals Basketball Squad who Year 10 Evening finished the season ranked in the top 10 nationally and Winner Georgina Newcombe Sports Personality of the Year: Sports Personality of the Runner Up Lucy Aldred he annual Sports Presentation Evening Year is voted for by the girls themselves: took place on Monday 30th June. The Form Champions: 3rd Mia Bellingham Winner 7G evening is about celebrating sporting T 2nd Eloise Howard Runner Up 7P success and the commitment, effort and Winner 8G improvements the girls and teams have made 1st Vicky Bayley Runner Up 8H All of these 3 girls are in Year 11 and have been Winner 9S & 9H this year. so committed to sports throughout their 5 years at Runner Up – Penwortham. As well as being talented sportswomen Winner 10G The evening opened with an ‘Applause’ dance from they are exceptional leaders and have always helped the Runner Up 10S pupils in Years 8 to 10. After Mrs Pomeroy’s opening speech our very own Mrs King talked about her sporting PE Department.....we are going to miss them very much! success in the Ironman Triathlon and all the training and The PE staff would like to thank It was a very enjoyable evening and we would like dedication that is required to compete in this event. all the girls who competed and to thank all the staff who helped us on the night, all supported the athletes and to all the In all, sports awards were presented for ‘Player of the the parents and carers who came and supported their staff who competed and marshalled Year’, Most Improved and Most Committed. It was daughters and to everyone who donated raffle prizes. the events. Sports Day is such a extremely difficult to reach a decision for each category As the final movie showed on the night; we are very brilliant day and we could not do it as we have a lot of very talented and committed girls! proud of all the girls! without you! www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 17 Space Department News

It’s been another exciting and or the new Year 7, SPACE lessons gave them the opportunity to get to know their new form Year 8 innovative year for the space Fand to explore their new school. department. Pupils have been eanwhile, Year 8 did some fantastic work Their first assessed task was to design their ideal on the global environment and produced taking over the teaching; displays school – not just thinking about the building’s Msome fantastic suggestions for designs for have raised awareness and features and facilities (a pink fur-lined swimming environmentally-friendly bags and wonderful haiku pool was one learning essential suggested!) but also poems about the problems we create for the world. campaigns set up to help others. the ethos and environment they wanted. They very quickly realised that the school they were joining would give them the place, people and Year 9 Year 7 support they will need to succeed. Some of the comments made by pupils include: ear 9 held mock elections to explore ideas relating to democracy and voting. Year aving experienced lessons taught by Year “I feel as if SPACE this year was one of the best 7 – you may want to look ahead – perhaps 10 pupils, members of 7H decided they Y subjects ever. I think the lesson I taught was very your election campaigns in Year 9 could feature that also wanted the opportunity to lead a class. H effective because we used different strategies that we longed-for, pink ,fur-lined pool. Taya Edmonds-Fletcher and Takanna McGardle learnt in our regular classes.” Takanna McGardle. presented an excellent 20 minute SPACE lesson on Children’s Rights to the rest of the form. “I liked the role play and we learnt about children’s rights.” – Mia Kelly Taya explained why they wanted to take such a brave step: “Takanna and I chose to lead this lesson because we thought it would be good experience. Rights of Children We wanted to remind the class that children’s rights are important and must not be ignored. We included ear 7 looked at the Rights of Children in some websites where they could learn more. The their SPACE lessons. Year 10’s have also inspired us as they have been Y leading lessons throughout the year for their They produced posters to highlight specific rights coursework.” and to show how these are being abused in some parts of the world. Chloe Holmes produced a Takanna added:”Child rights are very important. very nice piece of work which was nominated Many people don’t realise that some children are for a Headteacher’s Commendation. Chloe said: treated as slaves. We hope our lesson helped to raise “I wanted to have a really clear image of the awareness about rights. I am very proud of our differences in rights around the world. My poster lesson and would like to do it again.” showed some children playing and children in a Form Tutor Miss Oakes said: “These are Year 7 Low Income Country struggling with big rocks, pupils leading a class! I would never have had that building something. It’s not fair and we should be level of confidence and articulacy when I was that aware of how lucky we are in this country.” age. They have worked really hard and incorporated the best practice they have picked up in school. Well done girls.

18 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk Space Department News

Year 10 and 11 Body Image SPACE Quote of the t KS4 statutory requirements for Personal, his year’s GCSE Citizenship students have Social and Health Education are delivered produced some great pieces of work. Year 2014 Athrough “Super Learning Days” where T pupils go ‘off timetable’ for 3 periods to explore Naadirah Tailor was part of a focus group an issue in depth. working on body image, she stated, “Our focus ‘The quality I would was on the way the media represents body image choose is kindness Year 11 had the benefit of the incredibly brilliant and the harmful effects it can have on adolescent school-nurse team to help them through some girls who are often uncomfortable with their own because no matter of the issues relating to sex, contraception and bodies. Our display tries to highlight the problems relationships. This work was further developed by and also presents some positive role models.” what you look like, the provision of learning activities in form time. kindness can open Year 10 thoroughly enjoyed an input by volunteers from the Amy Winehouse Foundation the key to someone’s on the effects of substance misuse. Fair Trade heart whilst being One of the most exciting and powerful his eye-catching display was produced by innovations in the department has been Year 11 GCSE Citizenship students as part pretty can only last a encouraging pupils to get really involved by of their Controlled Assessment Course taking over teaching for other year groups. Year T Work. while.’ 11 GCSE Citizenship students set an incredibly high standard with the lessons they planned and It makes really effective use of the Fairtrade By Amy Jenkinson 7H presented on Body Image, Obesity and Fair-trade. colour scheme and has a clear message. The girls Younger pupils benefitted from the activities who produced this display last year all achieved and felt inspired to have a go themselves. With A and A*s! careful advice and guidance they have developed some great lessons which comply fully with all the criteria expected for an excellent lesson – well done all you mini-teachers! At lunch times a group of year 8 pupils help out Ms Oakes with her SPACE resources by tidying her folders and helping her with her lesson plans, commenting on content and suggesting issues that most affect our pupils. They always are willing to help and as a reward they get merits!

Display Work

s well as classroom based activities, KS3 Space pupils and GCSE Citizenship Astudents have the opportunity to display their work around school

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 19 RE Department News Year 7

ear 7 enjoyed a visit to a Cathedral and Sikh Gurdwara at the start of Here’s what some of the pupils said about their visit to the Gurdwara and the June. Pupils started their day at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Preston. Cathedral: Y ‘The cathedral was very large and daunting. The Gurdwara was very nice They had a very interesting talk and were then able to ask questions and inside and quite pretty. The best bit was getting free langar in the Gurdwara’. explore the meaning of artefacts used in Sikh worship. They also enjoyed Zaineb langar – free food provided by the Sikh community as an act of service and equality. Traditionally this would be lentils, rice and curry but the girls probably ‘I thought the Gurdwara was quite magical because the way it looked was preferred the crisps and chocolate they received! beautiful and I had never been in such a religious place (apart from church). I enjoyed listening to the Sikh teacher because it was like hearing his point of In the afternoon they travelled to Liverpool to visit the Anglican Cathedral. view on his religion’. Trips are provided by the RE Department to enrich their learning experience; Sophie a visit to the Cathedral is always guaranteed to get a “wow” from the girls – it is an awe-inspiring building. Groups were shown around some of the ‘In my opinion, the best part of the trip was when we entered the cathedral, main features of this fascinating building by volunteer guides. After the visit, because it was very beautiful’. the school received a phone call complimenting the girls on their behaviour, Christina enthusiasm and knowledge. ‘I enjoyed visiting the Gurdwara because it made me look into the Sikh Well done from the RE Department Year 7 : ) religion. It was also fun spending time with my friends at such special places’. Takanna ‘I really enjoyed visiting the Gurdwara as it was really nice to see all the decorations and where Sikhs eat the langar meal. It was great having our own younger langar. My favourite part of the day was looking around Liverpool cathedral. I loved all the stone carvings and I lit a candle in memory of my granddad’. Guru Nanak Gurdwara Liverpool Cathedral Ami Year 8 Year 9

t the end of last term, Mary-Kate McKay, a Miss England ollowing their end of year exam, finalist and committed Christian from Preston, came to share Year 9 began their GCSE studies in Aher life story and beliefs with Year 8 in an extended Assembly. FRS. In their first lesson they played ‘The Trade Game’. She spoke of how her faith Working in groups they took on the role helps her in of a country and had to produce paper her work and shapes. The more paper shapes made, the specifically more money was made for their ‘country.’ The slight sting in the tail was that how the Bible different groups were given a different amount of ‘resources’ (paper scissors, impacts her rulers etc) with some groups/countries given very little. The ‘countries’ then had life. Year 8 had to trade (or not!) with each other to help each other out. Cries of “It’s not fair!” been studying and “They are greedy!” were common throughout the game. One group turned a unit on the to prayer and entertaining the other groups in return for materials! Although a Bible in their ‘fun’ lesson there were serious learning objectives: to know what it might feel RE lessons. like to be part of a ‘rich’ / ‘poor’ country; to understand that countries, even rich ones, rely on poorer countries for some of what they need and finally, to explore moral questions raised by playing the game.

20 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk RE Department News

Visit to the Mandir (Hindu Temple) and Manchester Jewish Museum

n Monday 23rd June, pupils from Year 8 set off on the RE trip to a Mandir (Hindu temple) in OPreston and the Manchester Jewish Museum. In the Mandir, girls enjoyed a brief talk about the main beliefs of Hinduism followed by a tour of the main prayer hall. Girls also had the opportunity to take part in a short yoga activity, however this was entirely optional.

Following our morning at the Mandir it was onwards to Manchester Jewish Museum, a former synagogue. Girls listened to a short talk about Judaism to consolidate their learning and then asked questions of the Jewish guide. They then had the opportunity to go off in pairs or small groups and explore the synagogue for themselves before re-convening to watch a Shabbat meal being re-enacted. This is what one Year 8 pupil had to say about the day: “The Hindu Mandir was magical: the gold, the paintings and the Gods made this peaceful place of worship a real beauty. The visit to the Jewish museum was also very informative. It was very interesting talking with a real Jew: she showed us her beliefs and her religion. It was a great trip and a nice day out!”

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 21 Sampling Day Food n Thursday June 19th 150 Year 6 new starters (or Year 6¾!) came excitedly and nervously into school for their Sampling Day. Mrs Technology OMillward- Hopkins, Mr Ward and Miss Elliott greeted them in the hall and they were soon off, with their tutors and a team of eager new Peer Pupils in year 6 enjoyed making Counsellors. Pupils had a busy day getting to know each other and a little bit layered chilled desserts during a hot about the school as they had guided tours and experienced some lessons. Summers day. The peer mentors and Mr. Bowles could not resist They were treated to a super drama performance to make them think about having a go. Pupils made some facing any fears they may have about high school and reassuring them what exceptional layered products within a great time they are going to have at PGHS: thank you Mrs Woodhouse, her 20 minutes. Year 10 drama class and Year 9 drama club.

7G Form 7P Form

7H Form 7S Form

7J Form 7Y Form

22 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk Waterstones BBC Good Food pcoming in-store activities to Show Live!! be held every day from 12-2pm Uthroughout the Summer Holidays. n the 13th June pupils attended the BBC good food show live Each day there will be themed colouring Oto sample and taste foods from in competitions, book offers, quizes and around the world. They also watched a live activities! Every Sunday we will also be demonstration by Paul Hollywood who hosting Storytime for smaller children demonstrated bread, yet again!!!! based on the week’s theme at 2pm with our fantstic storyteller Dan. Mon 21st July - Sun 27th July Here Be Dragons... Mon 28th July - Sun 3rd July Fairy Wonderland Mon 4th Aug - Sun 10th Aug Pirates Ahoy! Mon 11th Aug - Sun 17th Aug Jaqueline Wilson Week Mon 18th Aug - Sun 24th Aug Julia Donaldson Week Mon 25th Aug - Sun 31st Aug Sports and Crafts Week

Breakfast Club Reward Trip

s a big well done for regularly attending breakfast club Avoluntarily, 13 pupils set off into Preston City Centre for breakfast at Costa followed by a trip to Waterstones Book shop.

Here the pupils were given a £5 voucher to spend on a book of their choice. The girls had lots of fun drinking their smoothies and choosing their books, with the most popular choice being ‘The Fault in our Stars’ by John Green. Everybody behaved impeccably and thoroughly enjoyed the trip. It was a joy for all the staff involved.

www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk 23 Farewell Prom

he Year 11s said their goodbyes in style this year with their farewell Prom at The Pines THotel in Chorley. Arriving in some amazing ways: from a retro camper van to a huge red bus, the girls certainly knew how to make an entrance. After walking down the red carpet and having their photos taken by a professional photographer they sat down to a delicious 3 course meal. Everyone looked the part and the girls danced the night away! We would like to wish them every success for the future and will miss them very much.

Cop Lane Penwortham Preston PR1 0SR

Penwortham Girls’ Telephone: 01772 743399 Fax: 01772 752475

High School Email: [email protected]

Website: www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk

24 www.penworthamgirls.lancs.sch.uk

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