A World of Challenge, Inspiration and Achievement
An Academy of Excellence
Year 8 students have recently under- Highcliffe gains Academy of Excellence Stage 4. Mr O’Connor reports that taken the Headteacher’s Challenge Status putting the 3 option blocks together, : ‘Top Tips for the new Year 7’. Mr there are 768 option choices. 743 Garner and I spent a day with Year 8 Over recent months Governors have have been allocated as first choice. tutor representatives who gave their been very busy, meeting frequently That means 96.7% of first choices presentation and reasons specifically to make sure that our application was have been allocated. designed to help new students settle proceeding smoothly. The working in and succeed. These were amazing, group ensured that we kept on track This is only one example of the high amusing and very pertinent. It was and we received our Academy Order standard we set all too clear that from the Secretary of State, Michael ourselves and all tutor groups Gove, to convert on 1st June. the great endea- had taken up this vour which has challenge with Our new status and essential fund- been undertaken great relish and ing will enable our school to go from to make sure commitment. The strength to strength. We aim both to that Year 8 has standard of work consolidate and build upon our out- the best pos- was consistently standing care, provision and achieve- sible start to their high across tutor ments, recognised by Ofsted in the new curriculum groups. Students spring term, who praised the school for programme in had designed post- sustained high performance. We are September. Thank ers, leaflets, sto- resolute in our ambition and vision for you for your ryboards, prompt our students. support and the way in which you cards, produced high quality film clips have supported your son or daughter and even computer programmes and This summer edition of H2U highlights through the options process. apps. It was Mr Garner and I who were what we are about as a community – left with the challenge! the outstanding array of opportunities open to and taken up by our students, In the end each tu- the diversity of our provision and range tor group received a of achievements by all age groups and certificate of merit for individuals, are exceptional. I trust a particular aspect of that you derive enjoyment and are work with the tutor proud of the way in which our students groups 8.7 and 8.9 be- readily take up other challenges, mak- ing the overall winners. ing the most of them. Groups 8.7 and 8.9 will undertake assemblies Year 8 have been working hard and giv- next September with ing careful thought to their next steps Year 7. All tutor groups in choosing their options so they can were awarded a £10 get ahead with an early start to Key
“I believe in using what you have, instead of mourning for that which you do not. In thirty years time, I want to be able to look back at my youth and know that I used my talents fully: that I wasted nothing.”
A former Highcliffe Sixth Form Student
Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 2
prize and the winning tutor groups gain a On the 2nd July 2011, 3 ex-Highcliffe students, 2009-2010 Head free tutor lunch! Boy Samuel Joynson, 2010 Top-A Level Achiever Adam Sloper, and aspiring film director Michael L Worrall, will be embarking on a The second part of the challenge is now charity expedition across Eurasia in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society. underway with each tutor group charged After each experiencing a close relative’s decline with the disease with developing their enterprise skills to in recent years, we decided that we would take part in a project turn £10 into ‘many’ £s for charity. Last that would raise awareness of the disease, especially among young year’s participants raised over £1500 by people, and would also raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society organising a Charity Fair in Activities Week charity. Such a project, originating from an idea in a Year 11 High- – beat that Year 8! cliffe School Philosophy and Ethics lesson, has taken the form of an A key aspect of our school has been the entirely self-organised and self-funded overland charity expedition liaison work we have developed through from Southampton to Shanghai, which we have challenged our- our Specialist School and Leading Edge selves to complete in just 40 days. Programme with our Feeder Schools. We would be very grateful for any help you can give in terms of Our Academy programme will take this donations and/or raising awareness of the disease. Donations can further to the benefit of all the participat- be made at www.justgiving.com/samuel- ing schools, staff and students. joynson0. All donations go directly to the Al- The language teaching is well established zheimer’s Society, as the entire expedition is and the Languages Festival (see page 18) self-funded by the three Highcliffe Students. a huge success. Only last week we all en- Sammy Joynson
Highcliffe Highflyers
Four Year 11 students (Amy Symons, Alice Kingham, Theo Turner, Jack Radford) helped prepare and teach a masterclass in Mathematics to Year 5 and Year 6 students at Highcliffe St Mark on Wednesday. We have aptly named the primary students the “Highcliffe Highflyers”. The lesson introduced the concept of algebra through a number starter and algebra board games, this was to allow the students in the following lesson to design their own game. We will use our Year 11 students to judge the best board games when completed. The Year 11 students were outstand- ing and delivered a great lesson which the pupils obviously enjoyed. It showed how using older students to teach can be such a useful strategy.
Some quotes from the Year 11 students:
“I am now certain I would like to be a teacher but it has made it harder to decide which year group and subject I’d like to teach.”
“I was very impressed by their high level of mathematics ability and confidence.”
“I was a little nervous at first”
“They were attentive hard working and fun.”
“I would recommend the experience to anyone.”
“Before I had tried this, I had not considered teaching but now I feel like it could be the path I want to follow”
Report by Mr Burgan Senior Curriculum Leader - Mathematics
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 3
joyed the Community Arts Festivalat of our young people. This was the self over the summer break. He the Regent Centre. Our PE staff and news (see below) that three current has promised to come in to school Sports Leaders have been working and former students have been before his university term starts alongside Primary colleagues to de- selected as part of the Olympic and share his experiences with liver an enhanced sports programme. Youth Choir for next year’s Olympic our students. Brief pen portraits The recent Mathematics High Flyers Games. With only 120 members this of each of the three participants project gives a glimpse of our future means that 1 in 40 are Highcliffe can be seen on page 8. plans (see page 2). This term has students. Congratulations! Before I go I would just like to seen all new Year 7 students (Septem- Finally, it is always a pleasure to see draw parents’ attention the term ber 2011 entry) enjoying the Murder our alumni students return and to dates information given on the Mystery Day as part of the transi- see how they are progressing. Last back page and also to use this tion programme as we prepare to week I had the pleasure of meeting opportunity to thank all staff, stu- welcome our new students into the up with the Head Boy, Samuel Joyn- dents and parents for their efforts Highcliffe Way. son (2010) and Samuel was keen in making this another great year Just as we were about to go to press to update me on his ambitions and for the school. we received news that confirmed for adventures. The box on Page 2 sets Ms Judith Potts us the importance of these types of out the challenge that he, with two opportunities for the development of his Highcliffe friends, has set him- Headteacher
Olympic Choir: A Highcliffe Presence
On 16th June an article appeared in the Bournemouth Echo which in- cluded the picture and the excerpts below.
‘A choir of Olympic proportions is being assembled from young people all across the country in the run up to the 2012 Games. Three local youths are among the lucky 120 to participate in what will be the official youth choir for the Olympic Games next year. Coral Norton, 16, and Dan White, 18, students at Highcliffe School and Sam Gibbins, 19, a performing arts student at Southampton University, (and former Highcliffe student) were well in a group, and people Youth Choir will sing at national chosen from nearly three thousand who could work well in a events in the build up to the hopefuls nationwide… team.”… Olympics and be part of the week …The three singers are part of a local …But the once in a lifeltime of the opening ceremonies. group in Christchurch known as The opportunity will require the It is part of the cultural Olym- Funky Little Choir Co, established by choralists to continue their piad, encouraging a wide range Sandie Elkins in 2007… hard work at three residential of people to get involved in the …She said: “The judges were looking training workshops to be held London 2012 Games.” for strong voices that would blend in the next few months. The
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 4
Sixth Form
Building an Oxbridge Tradition
Over the years our numbers of From entry into High- if you are a students obtaining the high entry cliffe School aspirations football fan requirements for Oxford and Cam- are raised, achievements or not! Again, bridge Universities have increased. celebrated and students there are are encouraged to aim many oppor- In 2009 Emma Fisher successfully high. tunities for gained a place at Oxford to read our students Medicine. In the following year two In Year 11 serious at- to talk to cur- students obtained places at Oxford. tention is turned to the rent under- These were Ryan Flanagan to read whole Oxbridge appli- graduates and Mathematics and Beth Waters to cation process where listen to talks read English. students are invited on the various to attend a one day subject requirements. This year conference held at (2011) we Thomas Hardye School Year 12 students are then invited to stay are very in Dorchester run by at both Oxford and Cambridge Universi- pleased undergraduates and ties as part of a residential trip visiting that three tutors of both Oxford the institutions during their open days in of our Year and Cambridge Uni- the month of July. 13 students versities. have been This is always a popular visit where stu- offered This is an ideal oppor- dents stay in the halls of residence, eat places; Hei- tunity in the fine dining di Barnett to hear halls and get a to read Physics at Oxford, Stephen firsthand what actually glimpse of life as Hutt to read Computer Science at is involved. Students it would be as an Cambridge and Samantha Millard to witness a mock inter- Oxbridge student. read Economics also at Cambridge. view which is deliv- This is a tremendous achievement ered by a tutor and an Taster lectures are and is reflection of the hard work undergraduate. given and students and commitment they show in their can ask questions studies. In addition, the differ- and gather the ent admis- many prospectus- In recent years sion process es enabling them we have extended between the to make more and improved our two Universities is high- informed decisions about their future programme for our lighted. choices. potential Oxbridge candidates and are Following on from this in It is always so encouraging to hear from able to offer an Year 12 students can attend our alumni students to hear how they extensive programme another conference at the are progressing and what they have gone of events, support Emirates Stadium in Lon- on to achieve. and guidance for don. It is a superb venue for them. such an event regardless Report by Mrs Dedman
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 5 Southampton University Visit
A unique opportunity for our A level at the Hospital. They then get to see me surer of studying Biomedical Biology and Human Biology stu- them being prepared for analysis. This Science at University.” dents. Highcliffe procedure is “I didn’t expect to gain such a Sixth Form normally to look great understanding of the elec- Biologists were for cancer cell tron microscope – it was genuinely invited to visit growth. If you helpful.” the prestigious are considering “The cutting room, where human Biomedical a career in the tissue was prepared for analysis Imaging Unit at Medical or Biol- was really interesting and made me Southampton ogy areas then sure that medicine is a career that I University Hos- this is a rare and want to go in to.” pital. The Unit fantastic oppor- is normally open tunity not to be And finally a quote from the Bio- only to Medi- missed! medical Imaging unit staff: cal Students, Research Gradu- Quotes from “It was a pleasure, and your stu- ates and employees at the University former A level Biologists; dents are a great bunch, a credit both to themselves and to you” Hospital. “I was surprised to find that I was the only student on my Medicine degree Our thanks go to Dr Anton Page and We have developed this partner- course at University who had gained ship with the University over the his staff in the Biomedical Imaging this experience. It helped me confirm Unit and also to his colleagues in past 7 years for our students. The my interest in a Medical career” visit gives a unique opportunity for Pathology our students to observe medical Anthony Wynn Hebden, currently a Ms S Cullen, practice first hand and also to talk Medical degree undergraduate. A level Biology tutor with experts in their specific fields “I really enjoyed the visit. It made Senior Curriculum Leader, Science of medicine. It is also an excellent me feel like a University student and opportunity to experience University it really helped my A level studies at Mr N O’Connor, life on Medical and Biomedical de- Highcliffe” gree courses as well as post graduate A level Biology tutor Deputy Headteacher research. Cerys Silverwood, First Class Honours Degree in Medical Psychology at Cardiff During the visit the students are able University 2009. to experience both transmission and scanning electron microscopes in ac- “The visit to the Pathology Lab was a Scholarship tion. The transmission electron mi- great experience as well. We saw hu- croscope can magnify up to 600,000 man intestines being sectioned in the Some great recent news relayed times, which is the same as being Pathology lab. I used this as part of my to us by proud parents concerns able to see a grain of sand on the personal statement in my application Felix Lazenby, ‘…Felix has been Sahara desert from the moon! This to University.” awarded a Sixth Form Scholar- means that it is almost possible to ship from the RAF. As part of this Quotes from our current A level stu- scheme he will attend a Leader- see an atom down the microscope. dents; As well as being a unique opportuni- ship and Adventurous Training ty, the visit also links in well with the “Using my eyelash to move the sample week in Norfolk in the summer first module, Cell Biology, on the A around was interesting” to help prepare him for the level course. Our students are there- “The specimens that we saw were in- selection process at the Officers fore well placed to answer the A level teresting and really shone a light on the and Aircrew Selection Centre at questions in their first examination in things that you don’t see everyday..... Cranwell. From there he is hoping January. who knew cancer felt like that???” to get a Bursary from the RAF to study engineering at University The success of the visit has also al- “Seeing the images from the electron and then join the RAF as a Com- lowed us to visit the Pathology lab microscope really made the organelles missioned Officer.This is just the during the day. Our aspiring Medics easier to remember than the images first step in a long process but we get first hand experience of human from the book.” are delighted with what he has tissues and organs that have been achieved so far!’ Congratulations removed in the operating theatre “Seeing the pathology unit has made to Felix!
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 6
Year 13 Say Farewell in Style...
Well, first and foremost it has to be No matter where you go next and cliffe, I have learnt so much about said “I think we’ve done it”. Nearly what walk of life you choose, there myself, and I’m sure you’ll all agree two years, four exam seasons, multi- will always be a bit of Highcliffe in that we have changed. Most of us have ple coursework deadlines and numer- you. Whether it be that you gravitate even grown up! I can only hope that ous tellings of “This is a quiet study towards purple clothes, insist on calling you have all got the same out of being room” there may actually be light at libraries Learning Resource Centres or here as what I have. the end of the tunnel. you might just send out a medical form with every item of correspondence you Some of us will be starting full time A lot has happened in two years, both ever send. work, others will be going to university, inside the walls of Sixth Form and and a few love it so much they can’t out there in the real world. We’ve It’s the end of 2 years, seven for some bear to leave for another year. Who witnessed a change in government, of us and I would just like to take a knows what the future holds? I can the heir to the throne got married, moment to say a huge thank you to only begin to imagine what we’ll all be an ash cloud played havoc with the everyone, students and staff alike, up to ten years down the line. aeroplanes and somehow Jedward for making my time here so fantastic. managed to get a song to Number 2 Seven years is a heck of a long time, I Being here has given me so many op- in the charts. Joking aside there has think it can be said of all of us that we portunites and opened a lot of doors also been the Haiti Earthquake as have grown up here and made some of for the future. I know that all of you well as the earthquake in Japan that our closest here now have given triggered a tsunami, so it has been friends. me some of the best reasonably busy time. Though memories. it is an Inside the walls of Sixth Form it has era that I can’t go without say- been, thankfully, much quieter, we is coming ing thank you to all the started off nearly two years ago with to a close teachers and staff who a trip to Calshot, where I’m pretty there are have supported me over sure all the girls mercilessly flirted connec- the past years. Some of with the then new boy on the block, tions you have done so much Reece. We merrily trundled on to that I am for me, and I can’t even Christmas, the Hot Rocks Social and sure will begin to express how then out of nowhere the January stay very much I appreciate it; exams. I think it’s fair to say that they strong. We everything from choos- came as a complete shock to the have a very tight community here and I ing my options in Year 9, to getting me system. As far as I can remember not wouldn’t swap it for anything. into university. I couldn’t have asked a huge amount happened after that for more. until Activities Week in which a vari- It was Walt Disney who said “If you ety things happened. Then, summer, can dream it, you can do it” and things For the majority of us here, univer- lovely. Followed quickly by the Hell worked out alright for him. I truly hope sity is just around the corner. Both a that is UCAS. We were supposed to that everyone here goes on to follow scary and exciting thought. For some look at it over the summer, I’m pretty their dreams. I leave with you with a of us it’ll mean leaving home, and sure no one did. Notable socials after quote, a Spanish proverb I believe. at last, learning to cook and fend for that were Freshers, then the post ourselves! But whatever you go on to exams party and now here we are, “Do not cry because you are leaving, do when you leave, I want to wish eve- just about to leave. Not forgetting of Smile because you were there” ryone here the very best of luck, and I’ll look forward to seeing you all in 10 course, the massive event that was Speech by Stephen Hutt getting a clock in the study room, it years for the Class of ’11 reunion! was then wrong for three months, For many of us now, this has been a 7 “You can take us out of Highcliffe, but but it was there. year stint. Looking back, September you can’t take the Highcliffe out of 2004 seems a long time ago. Even for us…” It’s become almost a standing joke those who joined us 2 years ago, the that we have purple blood and time has just flown by, which can only Speech by Sofia Constantinou though I don’t quite think that mean that most of it has been good. Highcliffe changed our anatomy I do believe that it has a lasting effect. In the time that I have been at High-
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 7
... and with heartfelt emotion.
“Every student repeatedly years’ time, when their classrooms everything, tears and nerves, claims they cannot wait for have been filled by new students the very worst and best times the day when they will leave with new dreams and new ideas. But and most of all without it, I school and become indepen- I sincerely believe that I will never wouldn’t be me. dent adults, leading their forget them. own life. Now, when it comes I wish I had taken more pic- to crossing that bridge and Putting what Highcliffe has done for tures and appreciated it more leaving Highcliffe, we are all me, and so many of us, into words before, and before it’s too late I terrified. is proving harder and harder. School want to thank every single per- has not been just about meeting the son in this school for making it I have come to realise best friends I could ask for, passing what it is. what this school truly means my GCSEs and A levels and learning to me and how my days spent the importance of thinking for your- Highcliffe, you have shaped here will be some of the most self, but so much more than that. me as a person, taught me treasured in my life. that which I would never have The corridors I’ve walked through, learnt alone (not just educa- The brilliant, talented teach- the field I was made to play round- tion-wise!) and made me find ers who slave away at 4 am ers on, the school hall in which I sat the person I am, want to be marking our scribbled essays through hundreds of assemblies are and am on my way to becom- and half-done homework, and all imprinted in my mind and have ing. the headteacher who does so become part of me and in many much for this school, might ways I don’t want to let them go. by Asya Zuyeva” not remember my name in ten This school has seen me through
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 8
Name: Samuel Joynson Name: Michael Worrall Name: Adam Sloper What did I do at Highcliffe? What did I do at Highcliffe? What did I do at Highcliffe? I was Head Boy during the At Highcliffe I have fond memo- Throughout my time at High- 2009-2010 academic session, ries of the entire 7 years, but es- cliffe I always enjoyed the high but I was actively involved in pecially my time at the 6th Form, level of academia offered by the school life throughout Year 7 where I studied Philosophy and school and was always keen to to Year 13. I made the most of Ethics, English Literature, and was prove myself on such a level. the school’s extra-curricular the only student to study Latin Whilst at 6th form I studied A activities, by at A2. I also Levels in Mathematics, Further captaining the was one of the Mathematics, Physics, Spanish school football first students and AS Level Latin achieving team, taking part to complete high grades in all subjects. I also in the Duke of an EPQ project undertook an engineering proj- Edinburgh award in which I ect in Year 12 with two other and leading High- produced a film students working alongside the cliffe’s ‘UK Maths detailing the Royal Navy, for which I received Challenge’ team social effects of a Gold CREST Award. to the regional fi- teenagers tak- nals. I took part in ing Cannabis, What am I doing now? school visits to India, Germany, and was awarded an A*. I was a Having had a year away from France and the Czech Republic. prominent member of the debate the subject, I have realised just However, most importantly, club, and even filmed a few key how much I enjoyed studying I achieved academic success, debates. Spanish, I therefore have chosen achieving 8 A*s and 2 As in my to return to Southampton in GCSE Examinations in 2008, and What am I doing now? the next academic year to study 2 A*s and 1 B in my A levels in I have just completed my first Languages (Spanish and ab 2010. year at The University of Notting- initio French) with Contempo- ham, where I have been reading rary European Studies with the What am I doing now? Film and Television Studies. I also eventual goal of living abroad I am studying a BSc in Interna- participate in the Film Making So- and working for the European tional Relations and History at ciety and its Scriptwriting “Think Union. the London School of Econom- Tank”, in which I was involved in ics. In addition to my studies, the writing of a 10-minute film My desire to participate in such I am currently the LSE Debate that was shown at a student film an adventure as the one I am Society’s ‘Director of Public festival. I hope to take up a career soon to depart on certainly was Debates’ and General Secretary as a writer-director in the TV born in Highcliffe School. My of the university’s Conservative industry once I leave university. love of travel, other cultures Society. After graduation, I am and adventure first began in hoping to pursue a career in The roots of this epic expedition the lower school when I was politics. For me, the upcoming can be visibly traced back to High- fortunate enough to go to Italy expedition between Southamp- cliffe School. It was there that my and The Netherlands with the ton and Shanghai is intrinsically friendship with Sammy and Adam Humanities and Science depart- linked with Highcliffe School. was cemented and our love of ments, and grew on a month My love of adventure originates adventure kindled. My studies at long expedition to India with from the exploits of the Duke of Highcliffe instilled in me a love of World Challenge organised by Edinburgh award, whilst my ad- culture and the intrigues that the Mrs Kelly and Mr Nichols. The diction to travelling with friends wider world has to offer, whilst skills of teamwork, organisation is a result of those unforgetta- providing opportunities for me and problem solving I learned ble Highcliffe school trips... Yet, to grow in independence and not only during my time in India, critically, it was the teamwork ambition. Finally, the great com- Italy and The Netherlands but in and planning skills collated in munity atmosphere of Highcliffe the normal school environment Highcliffe’s classrooms which has made me want to do more at Highcliffe have allowed me to have truly enabled me to em- to help society, and this journey be feel confident enough to or- bark on such a complex expedi- will offer me an opportunity to do ganise a trip of such magnitude tion, and for that I must thank just that. and for that I am truly grateful. all of my Highcliffe teachers.
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 9 Curriculum w o rk relatedl earning
Business Woman of the Future 2011
The Langtry Manor Business try and encourage more young and enterprise projects, as well as Women Awards has been set up to women into business – as Hannah being successful in her academic stud- reward the achievement of women (our current ambassador) will soon ies. It is hoped that Hannah’s success in business in the local area. There be leaving for university. We hope will inspire other students to develop are 11 award categories all spon- to develop some form of associate the qualities that she has shown and sored by female friendly business- membership with the Network as continue the representation from High- es, including the Business Woman they are an inspiring group of busi- cliffe School as business and enterprise of the Future award that is spon- ness women who were also keen champions. sored by the Women in Business to help our students with careers Network. This award recognizes advice and work experience in the ‘Winning the Business Women of the future business talent of young future. Future award is such an achievement, women in full time as it means I get some recognition for education, and aged Hannah was the hard work I have put into project between 15 and 25 then shortlisted management and enterprise ventures. years old. as one of three More importantly it will become a cru- finalists for the cial part of my CV and personal profile, Hannah Leary in Year award with the allowing future employers to easily 13 was nominated other two final- see I am serious about enterprise and by the school for the ists being from business as the award will reflect my commitment she the Bournemouth success and determination. I would like has made to various Open University to thank the school for all their help enterprise projects in and AUCB (for- and supporting me in all my ventures, the school notably the success with mer Arts Institute), which means especially Ms Potts, Mrs Finch & Mr the 2009 ‘Make Your Mark’ com- that Hannah had done incredibly Callear.’ petition and the publication of the well to get to this point in the Report by Mrs Finch book, ‘Sam Goes to Marwell’. Her competition. All the finalists were nomination also included her invited to the exclusive awards cer- project management of film and emony dinner (Dress to Impress) at drama productions outside school. Langtry Manor on Thurs- Last month we heard that Hannah day 19th May 2011. It had made it to the semi-finals of was with great pleasure the award and she was offered the and pride to hear that chance to attend a local Women in Hannah actually won the Business Network meeting, who are title of Business Woman the sponsors of this award catego- of the Future 2011, ry. I accompanied Hannah to the with an engraved glass networking meeting on 28th April, trophy and certificate. held at the Captain’s Club in Christ- It is wonderful that she church, where we were warmly has received further welcomed by Jacqui Frampton of recognition for her hard the WIBN, and who has invited the work and determination school to become a member to on a variety of business
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 10 s c ienc e
Blue fusion competition at IBM Hursley.
On March 24th six Year 10 students the world’s internet management, and Their team work was excellent, and (Aarron Sheppard, Christopher Slade, working together to deactivate volcanoes, improved massively throughout the Josh Mann, Bradley Tombleson, Emily as well as filtering communications, to get day, and they enjoyed all the ac- Paines, Nathan Dreifuss ) repre- tivities they took part in and sented Highcliffe at one of the IBM appeared to have performed Blue Fusion Science Week events. very well. In the end our team They were competing against 12 came fourth overall. other local schools in a series of practical Science challenges where It was an excellent achieve- they had to work well as a team in ment for all of them to do order to succeed. so well against such tough opposition, including college Before the challenges started they students. Bradley commented attended a lecture from one of “it was great fun, and I really IBM’s software developer on the want to go back next year” joys of a career developing intel- ligent computers. Chris added: “So do I, I hope I rid of bad ‘packets’. They managed to find get the chance” Nathan felt that: “I They spent the day with one of IBM’s a way to get rid of half of the bad without learnt a lot and realised that tech- recent graduate recruits. The activities losing any of the good – unfortunately, nological jobs can be a lot of fun.” included cracking complicated codes they filtered too many good packets with Report by Mr Booker with a range of ciphers used, running other rules.
Year 8 Brightsparks the course of the day. The students had a fabulous time and as expected of a Highcliffe The day began with a talk from one of student their behaviour was exem- As part of the celebrations for IBM’s directors who after his speech plary. As the day drew to a close we National Science and Engineering took questions from the floor. Harrison were all gathered together for the Week a group of six Year 8 students from our party took the opportunity results. We were awarded second (Xavier Bernhardt, Hannah Bren- to ask about IBM’s famous ‘Watson’ place although to be beaten by nan, Jonathan Carr, computer which recently 2 points (614 to 616) was a little Harrison Cassidy, Luis took part and won the fa- disappointing. However in the Dibdin and Bronwyn mous American game show Highcliffe way our students were Inns) travelled to Jeopardy. Following this wel- the first over to congratulate the IBM’s headquarters come we were launched into winners. at Hursley near Winchester. We the competition. We had 8 were all very excited as we drove tasks to complete during the course of Report by The Team through the manicured grounds of the day. The tasks were designed to the estate to the very impressive promote innovation, teamwork, prob- Hursley House. This was the same lem solving and communication skills. building in which the Spitfire had The students had to solve puzzles and been designed. We were amongst technological challenges in order to 16 schools invited by IBM to partici- explore basic concepts in some of the pate in their Bright Sparks competi- most interesting areas of information tion. We were welcomed into the technology. The activities included building and were introduced to our building network communications to IBM helper who would stay with us cracking codes to designing an ecologi- and support the team throughout cally friendly house.
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 11 Year 8 go to University
On Thursday 7th April, Katie Lean, Alice black powder. After this we Ritchie, Mat Clark-Wheeler and I went watched a quick demonstra- to Southampton University for the tion with liquid nitrogen, Salters’ Festival of Chemistry. We left dipping whole vegetables the school at 8am and we got there into it and smashing them at about 9am. Then we had to face a on the floor. Back down- 30 minute walk from avenue campus stairs we watched a ‘magic’ to the main campus. We were met in chemistry show-how to building 29 (the chemistry block) by a make a firework in 45 min- woman who greeted us, gave us our utes! labels and showed us into the lecture are just pleased we got placed! theatre. A man explained what we Then there was the prize giving, the prizes for taking part were given out were going to do and we climbed five The way home was quicker than the first; I went to collect ours. Then there flights of stairs to the fith floor lab for way there because Mrs Barclay knew was the Salters’ challenge, we weren’t our first challenge. vaguely where we were going and we placed for that one but in the univer- only took 45 minutes to get back to There was a murder! Mrs Flossie sity challenge we came second and got school. An eventful day out! Chopps was murdered behind a stage, some funky clock things for ourselves killed by a blow to the back of the and something for the school as well. By Sasha Woodward Year 8 head. We had to test the substances Bishop of Winchester came first but we given to us for the metals and non- metals present, the metals test was testing each substance by dipping a EES - The Tradition Continues wire loop into dilute hydrochloric acid, heating it, dipping it again and dipping it into a small amount of the substance On May 5th, Steven Alton, and putting it into the flame to observe Thomas Smith and Sarah the colour change. Brougham, represented Highcliffe at HMS Sultan The test for the non-metal part is put- for the 2011 Engineer- ting a scoop of it into a test tube with ing in Education Scheme, some acid and if it didn’t turn cloudy Celebration and Assess- we had to split it into two test tubes ment Day (CAD). Felix to test it with silver nitrate and barium Lazenby was also on the chloride to see which one went cloudy. team but unable to attend Then we had to get together as a group the event. again and compare our results and come up with a conclusion together. The team had spent the past 6 months work- For lunch, we had an hour to eat and ing on a project for the had to meet back at one o’clock to Royal Navy to design and get on with our next challenge. Most manufacture an alternative of us had a packed lunch, except Mat method for the ceremonial lighting and After this they were required to pre- who had some food from the students highlighting of naval vessels . pare a display stand so that people (in- union. After lunch, we headed into the cluding the Commodore!) could come union shop to see what was in there, The whole process has consisted of and quiz them about the project. not too exciting though! I got my mum a launch day back in October at the a pink cat called ‘Paris’. University of Southampton, a 3 day The whole day was a real success residential in January at the University and will hopefully result in gaining The university challenge was that we of Southampton and culminated in the Gold CREST awards and a place at the had some acids and alkalis, water, assessment day in May. regional final of the Big Bang event at sodium chloride, copper sulphate and Bath University. thymol blue. We had to make a pinky At the CAD the team were required liquid, a dark blue liquid, a clear blue to make a 15 minute presentation to Watch this space! liquid, a white solid in a solution and a naval personnel, including engineers, Report by Miss Berkerley about their project and final product.
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 12 Black Holes and the Self Force Lecture
Thursday 17th March saw 8 bud- various science and engineering depart- either ask one of the students or ding physicists from Years 10 and ments from the university, which our visit http://www.personal.soton. 11 (Warwick Bray-Nicholls, Elliot students definitely made the most of. ac.uk/njw1g08/ Dorey, Harry Boyle, Dan Gilbert, Michael Smith, Lewis Smith, Aaron The lectures were incredibly interesting An excellent introduction to the Page, Alex Errington) visit South- and pushed our students to their lim- possibilities of Physics and what ampton University and the Aim- its of understanding, but they were all we offer here at Highcliffe within Higher Teatime Lectures on ‘Space intent taking notes, and making notes of the Science Department. More to Exploration’ and ‘Black Holes and awkward questions to ask me on the way come at A-level! the Self Force’. home! Report by Miss Berkerley With this came the opportunity to If you would like to know more about look around stands put together by ‘Black Holes and the Self Force’, please
World Water Day
The objective of ‘World Water gathered all over the Dorset area. Day 2011’ is to focus international attention on the impact of an in- These ranged from the River Stour in creasing population and the effects Iford to the sea water of Boscombe that will have on one of Earth’s beach! Schools in Antigua and Bulgaria most critical resources, water. have also taken part in the experiment which demonstrates the magnitude of As a result, all students in Year 7 this investigation. and 8 were given a unique op- portunity to participate in possibly Highcliffe’s results have been col- the biggest chemistry experiment lected and added to the Global Water ever. During their science les- Experiment and can be accessed on the sons, students were set the task of website: http://water.chemistry2011. testing water quality from sources org/web/iyc/.
Marie Curie
During Science Week the theme was ‘Communication’.
Students in Year 9 were researching and investigating who was Marie Cu- rie as this year was the 100th anniversary of her winning the Nobel Prize for Chemistry.
Students were writing a detailed piece on her life as a female scientist, discoveries she made and how this has affected our understanding of sci- ence today.
During the week the students used their IT skills to find the research, select the important information and hand write leaflets, booklets and posters.
The Year 9 students produced some outstanding work that will be on display in the science notice board.
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 13 e x pressive ar ts
This Sporting Life
Year 7 Dor- set & Wilts Emerging Schools Rugby Festival
The High- cliffe Year 7 XV travelled to North Dorst RFC, Gillingham for the an- were a real all 3 games. nual Dorset credit to school The morning session led to 2 & Wilts both on and off draws and a loss. 10-10 v Bland- Rugby Festival. the pitch - playing in a fluid and expan- sive style in the real spirit of the game. ford, 5-5 v St Osmunds and a Nineteen schools entered the com- We look forward to playing again in Year 5-0 loss against Wareham. The petition that was split into 2 sections 8 were maybe we can be on the right results meant that we were just – the cup and shield competitions, side of those score lines! squeezed out of the top group Highcliffe were entered into the cup for the afternoon fixtures. competition to play a round robin Team: Cameron Rankin, Dean Harburn, In the afternoon, we played tournament against the strongest Sammi Hattab, Sam Woodhouse, Ciaran games against St John’s (Won schools. Johnston, Oli Jenkins, Finn Hayton, Pat- rick Busby, Angis Simpson, Nathan Smith, 5-0), All Saints (Lost 5-0) and In the group were St Johns, Bour- Rhys Pumphrey, Ed van Wingerden, Blandford (Won 5-0). It was a nemouth School for Boys, Gill- Rowan Woodly, Rowan Gillard very damp and cold team that ingham, Gryphon School and St attended the presentations th Michaels Middle School. Year 8 Dorset & Wilts Emerging Schools coming 6 out of 20 schools that Rugby Festival attended. Highcliffe played some outstanding rugby over the course of the day (Re- The Highcliffe Year 8 XV travelled up to The students involved on the day sults: W3 L2 D0 Position: 3rd) and Gillingham as the current holders of the were again a real credit to school were singled out for particular praise cup on a day that true traditionalists both on and off the pitch. Dom at the presentations as they had the would have said were perfect conditions Woodfine gained the outstanding highest total for tries scored. for a game of rugby. The rain and wind player award. led to a very cold and damp day for all Highcliffe narrowly lost to Gryphon participants, but to the credit of all those Team: Oli Baker-Clipston, Tyron School by the smallest of margins, involved the day was full of some high Hopkins, Hayden Eatwell, George a try right on the stroke of half time quality rugby. Robinson, Harry Staples, James proving the decisive score. Highcliffe Langdown, Tom Mahy, Connor were camped on the Gryphon line in This was particularly pleasing as the Whitcher, Dom Woodfine, Jack the second half but just couldn’t get team had a number of late withdrawals Whiteley, Matt Geraghty, Ben over the try line. Some exceptional due to injury and illness.The cup compe- Radford, Joe Swain, Tom Lean, rugby led to wins against Gillingham, tition was split into two pools of four. Chris Franklin St Michael’s and St John’s. Gryphon Highcliffe were drawn against St Os- Many thanks to the parents who School went on to win all their fix- mund’s, Blandford and Wareham. Lady attended and helped support the tures to win the tournament. luck wasn’t on our side with the coin teams. The students involved on the day toss, which led us to be playing uphill in Report by Mr Dean
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 14
Town Sports Congratulations to the students who represented the school so well in the recent Town Sports
Girls (First Name Year 7, second Year 8/9 except where indicated) 100m: Chloe Wakefield, Yasmin Wilcock., 200m : Arra- bella Mirza, Chloe Hughes. 800m: Jasmine Glyde, Maddie MaKay. 1500m: Martha Stickland, Millie Bird. Long Jump: Frankie Allard, Leanne Falla. High Jump: Emma Fletcher, Emmaline Barnes. Javelin: Hannah Murphy (Year 8/9). Shot Putt: Chloe Shults, Megan Woodall. Dis- cus: Keira Guy, Ellie Hill. Relay: (Year 7) Chloe Wakefield, Arrabella Mirza, Kiera Guy, Frankie Allard-Burt. (Year 8/9) Megan Smith, Emmaline Barnes, Yasmin Wilcock, Chloe Hughes. Sainsburys Link Boys Year 7 - Hurdles : Harry McGrath. 100m: Cory Jordan. Continuing our community link with Sainsburys. The 200m: Ed VW. 800m: Ben Hall. 1500m: Ciaran Johnston. assistant manager Kevin came into school and partici- Long Jump: Rob Allen. High Jump: Joe Cook. Javelin: pated in a Year 8 fitness lesson. He is training for the Finn Hayton. Discus: Sami Hattab. Shot putt: Jason Voller marathon so he was put through the paces by Mr Job- Year 8/9 - 100m: Taylor Mead. 200m: Matt Baker. 400m: bins and the Year 8 boys. He thoroughly enjoyed the Scott Harburn. 800m: Corey Norton. 1500m: Joe Mon- lesson as did the students. dino. Long Jump: Connor Spackman. Triple Jump: Tom Jackson. High Jump: Tom King . Javelin: Ali Ibarguen- Burrows. Discus: Matt Goddard. Shot putt: Oli Nicholls. Reserve: Joe Winduss. Year 10 - 100m: Chris Leonard. Sami Hattab – Discus. 200m: Jareth Stubbington. 1500m: Brendon Kirkton Juniors (Years 8 and 9): Yasmin Wilcock – 100m, Tayler Mead Well done to the following students who have been – 100m, Matthew Baker – 200m, Corrie Norton – 800m, Joe selected to represent Bournemouth at the Dorset County Mondino – 1500m Championships on Saturday 11th June at Kings Park. Report by Mrs Webber Year 7: Kiera Guy – Discus, Robert Allan – Long jump,
Caucasion Chalk Circle
the didactic nature of her life, flees with the play which poses the child. Eventually questions regarding the Governor’s wife who has the greater returns to claim her claim to ownership. Is child and a court case it the one that creates ensues. Using the test something or the one of the Chalk Circle the that cares for it? ‘real’ mother of the child is decided! Using anti-naturalistic techniques such as This thought provoking multi-role playing, breaking the fourth and challenging production engaged Recently Year 12 BTEC Acting stu- wall, music and narration, the play told our Acting students who can now use dents visited Poole Lighthouse to the story of a noble child deserted by the experience to enhance both their see a production of Bertolt Brecht’s his selfish mother, the Governor’s wife, practical skills and written course- ‘The Caucasian Chalk Circle’. Having whilst escaping from a coup d’etat. work. studied Epic Theatre as part of their A servant girl finds it impossible to acting training, the students were leave the abandoned child, and risking Report by Mrs McGrath very familiar with both the style and
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 15 Christchurch Community Project
Christchurch Community packed house! to share and showcase Project their work in a professional For several years, local The performances this year were venue and to participate schools have been coming wonderful and included contem- in an exciting performance together to celebrate their porary songs, musical theatre opportunity. creativity through music, and a range of historical peri- drama, dance and visual arts. ods and cultures were explored We are hoping to work on This year’s celebration of the through a variety of art forms. a similar project in the near arts, involving approximately future. Well done to all 200 students, took place The Community Project enables those who took part! recently at the Regent Centre, the students from both Highcliffe Report by Mrs McGrath Christchurch in front of a School and our feeder schools
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 16 Football: Success upon success!
Year 7 Football Team Have Record Breaking Season. This season has seen the Year 7 football team achieve unprecedented success which no other team in Highcliffe School his- tory has ever done by winning a treble of cups. Every competition they entered in this year they ended up as the eventual winners. The season was a long one starting way back in late November with their first ever game as a team being the first round of the County Cup and would finish with the Bournemouth School of Excellence 7 ‘a’ side Trophy Competition in late May.
Bournemouth Schools Final. With a strong start to the season all ready under way from their early County Cup fixtures the team brought this into their Bournemouth Schools League matches enabling them to finish top of their league winning almost every game, only draw- ing one in the process. They comfortably won their semi final beating Portchester School 6- 0. They went into the final against Twynham School who they had beaten in the league after a very tight game. Highcliffe suffered two early setbacks in the opening 10 minutes, going a goal down and losing their influential captain Cory Jordan. After a quick reshuffle, which saw Danny Smith sit back into centre back to partner Nathan Smith the team managed to hold out till half time after some heavy pressure throughout the first half to keep the score at 1-0. With a rallying half time team talk still ringing in their ears the team went out full of confidence. Cory now feeling nearly fit was deployed as a centre forward to put further pressure on up front. With Highcliffe quickly began to pile on the pressure and soon levelled with Cory scoring the equalis- er. This soon became 2-1 with Jack Wyeth touching in from close range after a well worked passing move. With Twynham heads going down Highcliffe began to dominate and we added a third with a smashing free kick from now new centre back Danny Smith, the game was then wrapped up with seven minutes to go with Jack Wyeth scoring the fourth, his second of the game, finishing off an amazing fight back to win the Bournemouth Schools’ Cup 4-1.
Team: Paul Sutton, Ross Aimson, Jamie Fields, Cory Jordan (c), Nathan Smith, Joe Cook, Danny Smith, Ciaran Johnston, Jack Wyeth, Ed van Wingerden, Harry Hardman. Subs: Ciaran Sheekey, Sami Hattab, Toby Atkinson, Jack Rankin.
County Cup Final. With the County Cup Final running late into May due to this year’s earlier snowy conditions Highcliffe took on an always strong Broadstone Middle School on 12th May. With the pitch being unusually small for both teams this made for a very compacted quick game with both sides struggling to create any space and chances of recognition. Highcliffe though started
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 17 to get a little bit of joy down the flanks with Ciaran Johnston creating a few half chances, and he was awarded with his efforts as with a horrible mistake from the Broadstone keeper, saw him miss-kick the ball presenting Ciaran with and open goal and easy tap in. The second half continued in the same manner with both teams battling hard for dominance.
With ten minutes left Highcliffe were awarded a corner which allowed the two big centre backs Cory Jordan and Nathan Smith to come up and create havoc in the box, this resulted in a goalmouth scramble with the ball eventually being back heeled into the net by Cory from five yards out. Highcliffe then ran out the clock for the last ten minutes to claim another deserved 2- 0 victory.
Team: Paul Sutton, Ross Aimson, Jamie Fields, Cory Jordan (c), Nathan Smith, Joe Cook, Danny Smith, Jack Wyeth, Harry Mc- Grath, Ed van Wingerden, Harry Hardman. Subs: Ciaran Sheekey, Sami Hattab, Toby Atkinson, Jack Rankin, Ciaran Johnston.
Bournemouth Schools of Excellence 7 a side Trophy Competition. After receiving a phone call from Matty Holmes the Head of the School of Excellence , inviting the school to enter a team in their competition. Ms Potts eagerly paid the £200 entrance fee to give our boys a very special opportunity. We arrived on Saturday 21st May to play against various teams from around the country.
The group stage saw us play against teams from London West Ham, Winchester, Sailsbury and the Bournemouth Schools of Excellence’s own team. The team finished second in the group having won two drawing one and losing one to the Bournemouth School of Excel- lence. Highcliffe then progressed through the knock out stages to find themselves in the final having to meet the only team that had all ready beaten them, the School of Excellence. A reshuffle of the team to confuse the opponents saw Highcliffe triumph 2- 0 to com- plete an amazing season and lift a treble of trophies!
Team: Paul Sutton, Ross Aimson, Ciaran Sheekey, Harry Hardman, Danny Smith, Cory Jordan, Joe Cook, Harry McGrath, Nathan Smith, Jack Wyeth.
Year 9 Turn it Around After a disappointing start to the season, where the Year 9 team had struggled qualify for the knockout stages of the Bourne- mouth and District Schools’ Football Cup, they went on to save their best performances for the semi and the final.
In the semi final Highcliffe met Bournemouth School for Boys, who were the current holders of the Cup. Highcliffe started strongly going in at half time 2-0 up after goals from Oliver Nicholls and Anthony Waters. Early in the second half BSB hit back with an early goal to put them pressure on the Highcliffe boys, another goal from Anthony Waters put Highcliffe in a strong position leading 3-1 with 20min to go. BSB managed to get a goal back, but the Highcliffe defence and stand-in goalkeeper Harry Young held firm for a deserved win.
In the final Highcliffe met their local rivals Twynham School at Chapel Gate. Twynham who had convincingly beaten Highcliffe earlier in the season took an early lead. Highcliffe equalised mid way through the first half with an Anthony Waters free kick and then went on to take the lead though a Ali Ibarguen Burrows header. Constant pressure from Twynham in the second half saw them equalise (2-2), Ali Ibarguen Burrows grabbed a second to again put Highcliffe ahead only for Twynham to equalise once more(3-3) and only an outstanding battling performance saw Highcliffe hang on.
The extra time was end to end with Twynham just edging the best of the chances. So to penalties.... Highcliffe missing their first penalty, made it advantage Twynham. A outstanding save by keeper Tom Jackson made it all square, Twynham also miss- ing a second penalty meant that Highcliffe were in the driving seat. Oliver Nicholls firing in the winning penalty to leave the purple side celebrating and allowing captain Ali Ibarguen Burrows to collect his second trophy in 3 years!
Highcliffe team -Tom Jackson, Jamie Trimble, Bradley New, Matt Baker, Guy Janes, Jack Smith, Ali Ibarguen Burrows (Captain), Tom King, Oliver Nicholls, Anthony Waters, Lewis Caine, Jake Cummings, Alexander McDevitt.
An exceptional season for both Year 7 and Year 9 - and the school. Well done!
Report by Mr Jobbins
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 18
m o dern languag es
Primary Languages Festival
So much fantastic language learning is Mudeford Junior Year 6s put on a French happening in our local primary schools Fashion Show. A group of Year 6s from at the moment that we thought it Hordle danced the Flamenco and did the would be a good idea to bring everyone Macarena in Spanish. Pupils from classes together to share their work. 3 and 4 at Tiptoe performed some French role plays set at the Doctor’s and So this March we held the first ever in a restaurant. Twelve Highcliffe Year 7 Highcliffe Primary students performed Languages Festi- ‘Hallo aus Berlin’ in val. Groups from German. our feeder schools were invited to Year 12 students take part by per- studying for the forming a dance, Foreign Language song or play in a Leader Award (aka foreign language FLLA) helped with that they have the preparations and been studying. organisation of the day – it definitely Much preparation wouldn’t have been as successful with- went into the performances and we out their help! were delighted to see such a variety of languages being showcased: Everyone really enjoyed the morning and the performances were all brilliant. We A group of Year 5s from Highcliffe St will definitely do it again next year! Mark put together a song, a dragon dance and some information about the Chinese New Year all in Mandarin. Some
Leading the Route employers look for people who have is important and if you do, I know studied a language and so by choosing that you will not regret it. a language, you are more likely to get a Year 10 students studying a language job. Also, universities and colleges are Report by Sarra Demetriou 10.4 for their GCSEs and Mr Maurice went looking for people who are learning a to the 6th Form Study Centre for language so you are more likely to get Mrs Stefanutti, the Course Direc- a meeting with “Routes into Lan- into the university or college you want, tor at the University of Bath, gave guages”. The meeting just because you have studied a presentation on the importance was on the importance a language. of languages in a world which is of languages and why becoming increasingly competitive it is good for students It was stressed in the meet- internationally. At a time when our at school to decide to ing that learning a language is Year 10 students are starting to study a language. good for communicating with think of the next step forward for people in foreign countries their educational career, we think Not far into the meet- because if they cannot speak that it is very valuable for them to ing, we were shown English, how are you going to get more and more in touch with a graph on which communicate with them? the universities and the world of countries had the best work. ability to learn a language and right Almost every Year 10 came away Report by Mr Maurice at the end of this graph was our little from this meeting wanting to learn a Head of French, Assistant Director island: The United Kingdom. However, language as an A level. There are so Language School. nowadays, when trying to get a job, many reasons why learning as language
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 19 Dual Linguists Have Their Say
I hope to gain a better understanding of They’re useful in the different countries’ modern world for cultures My lessons are travelling or enjoyable and I will business. continue with both at A Level.
I like all of the different topics Studying two languages at we have studied GCSE is challenging but really rewarding. You get a deeper insight into what I hope to be able to makes up the languages communicate with and the culture behind it. people effectively in foreign countries. It opens a lot of doors and gives you more ease in the job market It looks good on I hope to find a your CV and good job and they’re interesting travel to different and fun to learn countries Learning two languages is twice as fun! It’s fascinating and It gives you a broader It’s so hard to get jobs it’s a great way to get outlook on other now and having two into university. people and it’s useful if languages means you’ll you go on holiday. be wanted by employers.
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 20 art/d e sign/ technology
Product Design
This course is designed to build on the We take a very product orientated view impact on lifestyle. creative design process studied in Key on the course but the exam entry will Assessment of the course is done Stage 3. It develops skills, knowl- actually be Resistant Materials. through a coursework project and edge and understanding of materials Key aims: one written paper. and their properties. • Actively engage in the pro- Completion of this course pro- These materials fit into the three cesses of Design and Technol- ogy to develop effective and vides the student with a greater key groups of Wood, Metal and understanding of manufactured Plastic but also includes Smart Materi- independent learners. • Make decisions, consider products and encourages them to als. The course is primarily practically be a more discerning consumer. based with students learning subject sustainability and combine skills with knowledge and un- knowledge through discreet design It also provides a direct link to fur- and make tasks. Computer Aided derstanding in order to design and make quality products. ther study of the topic at A-Level Design (CAD) is integrated throughout and University. the course to encourage full use to be • Develop decision-making skills through individual and collab- made of the excellent CAM (Computer Possible Careers: Architecture, orative working. Aided Manufacture) facilities that we Engineering, Surveying, Interior • Understand that designing have. We have always considered the Design, Product Design.etc. environmental implications of design- and making reflect and influ- ing and manufacture but this will now ence cultures and societies Report by Mr Nicholls take a fuller role in the course. and those products have an
Catering News
Christchurch Food Festival
Famous TV chef, Lesley Waters and Mary Reader (Christchurch Food Festival organiser) came into school to choose a student to represent the school in the Christchurch Food Festival, Young Chef of the year competition.
Sam Herbert was chosen from a group of eight Year 10 students. There was a ‘cook off’ in Saxon Square where the three finalists from local schools had to cook a two course meal in front of an audience of on- lookers. Sam was relaxed and calm and took it all in his stride, cooking a fabulous Chicken Tarragon, followed by meringue and summer fruits. He did Highcliffe proud but unfortunately was pipped at the post by Twynham School.
Mrs Reader said the standards of the competition were exceptional. Well done Sam!
Report by Mrs Leitch
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 21
First prize went to Eva Gallagher with The event was a huge a very impressive ice-cream cone cake. success and enjoyed by everyone. Second prize went to Lillie Hirst who created a giant cupcake, and third prize The students received glowing went to Lloyd Norton who produced a compliments from Ms Potts and cake with a distinctive patriotic design thank you cards and letters from (pictured). the residents who hope to see this as an annual event Well done Year 9 Caterers, you are all winners in our eyes. Reports by Mrs Leitch
Cake competition Year 9 Tea party Our Year 9 Catering students were Year 9s held a so enthusiastic that they couldn’t cake sale in order wait until next year to host an out- to raise money to side catering event. fund a tea party for local residents. Ms Potts kindly agreed to a cake Their efforts competition and generously raised £45 to go donated the prizes. Year 9’s were towards ingredi- delighted and produced some ents. They spent exceptional cakes. the day making and decorating The competition was judged by Ms the cakes and Potts, Mrs Coleman, Mr O’Connor setting up the Da and the ex mayor and school gover- Vinci foyer to re- nor, Mr Geary. Unfortunately there ceive their guests. could only be three winners.
Fun in Textiles
Year 9 Junk Fashion Photo Shoot like Alexander Mc- fashion student. Queen, Jean-Paul Take a Year 9 Textiles class, a rail of Gautier, Christo- Hair was styled, old clothes, a plethora of safety pins, pher Kane and shoes selected and shoes, hair accessories, fabrics and others, students everyone gathered other materials. set about produc- in anticipation ing their own in the Da Vinci th Throw in some cameras, lights, 6 outfits based on a atrium for a fash- Form Photography students and a variety of themes. ion shoot. London fashion student and what do you get? A frenzy of activity Students posed ensued and a won- in front of the ‘A JUNK FASHION PHOTO SHOOT!’ derful collection of camera which was amazing costumes skilfully (and pa- The challenge for the Year 9 Textiles appeared as stu- tiently) wielded by Technology students was to create dents cut, pinned, sixth former Alfie a collection of inspirational catwalk sellotaped and Kybert. Numerous creations in an hour using the ma- shaped clothes fantastic shots terials and clothes available in the and fabrics to the were taken, and Textiles room. volunteer models a great time was After looking at pictures of garments ably assisted by had by all. made by famous fashion designers Bethan, a London
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 22
This experience can now be a have really been encouraged to be crea- A: No, you can make a fashion springboard for learning about tive in what they make. item but there are many other some of the different things things that you could make in- required for the GCSE theory The Year 9 Textiles students really enjoy cluding street wear, children’s paper. These include: fashion Textiles...find some and ask them. toys, clothes that incorporate trend forecasting, fabric proper- modern technology, a rucksack ties, different ways of shaping Q: But you have to make an evening with an electronic component fabric, modelling/prototyping and dress/ball gown for your GCSE practical and cool stuff from recycled environmental issues. project don’t you? denim.
The fashion shoot also got the The key thing is to be crea- creative juices flowing and stu- tive, make something you dents have designed a small col- are really enthusiastic about lection either singly or in groups and play to your strengths. taking inspiration from some of We have amazing facilities the ideas in the catwalk creations. in Da Vinci and you can do things like designing your Oh, and if you think that these own fabric on a computer creations are really ‘girly’ then and printing it. that’s because the models were girls. Q: Do you have to be bril- liant on a sewing machine to Examples of other themes that do GCSE Textiles? could easily have been an option A: You do have to be able to are: ‘aliens’, ‘camouflage’ and use a machine, the key thing ‘computer games’. here is accuracy.
GCSE TEXTILES TECHNOLOGY: You will be taught how to Frequently asked questions use a machine and you will Q: Isn’t Textiles just ‘sewing for be given a chance to work girls’? on your machine skills in Year 9 through lots of excit- A: No! Textiles is much more than ing projects. just sewing and it is most certain- ly not just for girls. If you feel that you are not ‘brilliant’ on the machine Textiles products range from when you get to your sportswear, armed services GCSE practical work, don’t uniforms, film costumes, shoes worry, you can play to other and even things like car seats and strengths and show your footballs. design and making skills off in other ways too. There is a lot of amazing new technology around in textiles Q: Is there an exam as well from things that change colour as the practical work? with heat to clothes incorporat- ing computers and fabrics that A: Yes, there is a theory harden on impact. exam covering all sorts of things from environmental The Hollister clothes that you all issues to smart materials like wearing were designed by and how textile products are Textiles designers. made in industry. The theory exam is worth 40% of the Q: What sort of things do you do final mark. in Year 9 in Textiles? A; Textiles in Year 9 this year has Reports by been about building skills, confi- Mrs Silverwood dence and enthusiasm. Students
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 23
Once again it’s time to celebrate the achievements of a few of our students in Art, Design and Technology. The students listed have been nominated by their subject teachers in recognition of the exceptional dedica- tion and hard work they have demonstrated over the last five months. Every student listed will have received a ‘Congratulations’ postcard sent home and the three overall winners will have their photographs displayed in the Da Vinci foyer.
In Da Vinci, we consider this process to be a crucial part of encouraging our students to achieve their very best. Every one of my colleagues is dedicated to supporting our students in producing outcomes they are proud of.
Well done to all the nominated students and keep up the excellent work and attitude.
Mr Nicholls (Senior Curriculum Leader of Art, Design and Technology) The winners this term are:
Charles Brewis, for generating and developing imaginative ideas in Graphics.
Jack Case, for always achieving the highest standard possible and striving to complete work to the best of his ability.
Adam Howard, for consistently pushing himself. This has resulted in two units of Photography work this year that are mature, original and genuinely exciting.
Kathryn Moses, Michael Smith, Luis Dibdin, Oliver Anderson, David Mills, Kathryn Moses, Alana Snow, Lily Waltham, Freya Norley, Adam Howard, Chloe Finch, Jack Case, Isobel Worral, Charles Brewis, Ben Tilley, Phoe- be Barnett, Pippa Peters-Cheale, Natalie Martin , Rhianna Stokes-Harrison, Anna Facer , Emily Hiscock, Isobel Jolliffe, Jessica Pollard, Paige Starks, Anna Facer, Isobel Jolliffe, Jessica Pollard, Paige Starks, Chloe Charlwood, James Bonney, Jessica Rajska.
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 24 m a themat ics /ict
Getting down to business
outlet where the students whole day seminar with the YEAR 12 were treated by Christchurch company Young Biz. Tyres to a lunch whilst having The Year 12 BTEC Business the opportunity to ask Ross This is now an annual event students have been busy this about the business so that a where the students get the year with visits to and from SWOT analysis could be chance to learn about how to local businesses. form their own business and
All educational visits are produced. work towards delivering a arranged to tie in with the presentation to the rest of continuous coursework The students were very the group based on a element of the course. First, appreciative of the time Ross enterprising idea they have was a visit from Ben Rayner, spent sharing his knowledge thought of with prizes of with them and for awarded to the winning CHS buying them teams Creative McDonalds! who very kindly gave up his time Finally, the school was to come in and deliver a delighted to recently marketing workshop with the welcome Dave Clark, of Clark students where the students Financial Services who Finding external business had to use what they had delivered a presentation to sources that are prepared to learnt to develop a give up some of their marketing mix for a range of valuable time is always interesting products. extremely welcome as it provides the students with More recently, the students another perspective than had the opportunity to visit that offered in the Chirstchurch Tyres , where the students about both the classroom. On behalf of the school, I would like to thank the business partner, Ross, communication and all of these individuals and took time to firstly show the operational aspects of his their organisations for giving students around the business. up their valuable time. premises to explain how the business operated. YEAR 10 Report by Mr Callear
This was followed by a de- The year 10 students were brief at a local fast food also recently involved in a
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 25 Feedback Policy - Keeping Parents Informed
At Highcliffe we are continuing to look for ways to encourage our students and staff to work more closely together, reflect- ing on the learning that has taken place and plan steps for continued improvement. Our focus for improvement this year has centred on updating the feedback policy and embedding our ‘attitude to learning’ ethos.
Feedback and marking forms an instructed • use opportunities to re- essential part of a student’s learn- draft work when appropri- ing. It is specifically for the students’ • label lines, tables, scales and ate points are completed in pencil benefit and is provided to help them using a ruler as appropriate • check over work thorough- move forward in their understanding ly before handing it in and learning. • the covers of their books are kept clear of graffiti and/or • read work over carefully, Feedback and marking also forms equivalent preferably aloud and to an important part in the assessment someone else • targets that are given by the process for both the student and teacher are recorded in a • use a dictionary, or ask for the teacher and clearly identifies the suitable place such as their help, to check spellings, next steps in learning. organiser, front or back of and use a thesaurus, to book or file improve language usage Students engaging in the feedback process is essential, and therefore • targets are addressed • read over their work when marked and ask for guid- they have a number of responsibili- • he/she looks back over previ- ance if necessary ties for the process to be successful ous written feedback when tackling new pieces of work • accept responsibility to The Student is responsible for ensur- ‘catch up’ on work, includ- ing that: • they are aware of the level or ing home study, after being grade they are working at absent • work is handed in for mark- ing on time and all home All Students should be encouraged to: • collect work from their study is completed using teachers when an absence black ink • present the final version of is planned in order to limit their work neatly and carefully the effect of the absence • work is dated and headings so that they can be proud of are underlined with a ruler what they have achieved • to be fully involved in At- titude to Learning focus • diagrams are outlined in • distinguish between class days pencil unless otherwise work and home study
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 26 Feedback Policy - Keeping Students Engaged
Attitude to Learning (ATL) is the bly, tutor registration periods focused This provided a visual profile of system we have developed at High- on attitude to learning and tutees were their ATL and from this students cliffe through which we continually encouraged to explore the behaviours could clearly state what area assess each students approach to that could be displayed for each ATL they considered to be an area of school. This includes such aspects grade 1-5 by working through a num- strength and/or set themselves a as effort, motivation, behaviour, ber of tasks. The final task was drama target area to improve their overall punctuality and working to their based – where in groups tutees acted ATL. Once again, each student was ability. ATL is scored on a 1-5 scale out these behaviours and then those given individual feedback regard- that can be found in all student or- watching the performances assessed ing the results from the day so ganisers (p.11), on the TV monitors the ATL grade that was being displayed. they could make comparisons with around school and on tutor group Mr Evans led the day with the year their teacher’s grade. The task can notice boards. Every term parents group that aimed at improving Year 7s be found on pages 12 & 13 in the receive either a progress check or a understanding of the attitude to learn- school organiser. profile for their son/daughter; this ing boundaries they will be assessed includes an ATL grade for each sub- YEAR 10 ject along with explana- A cohort of students in Year tory notes. 10 focused their attention on the coasting ATL grade. The This year we have been day aimed to promote positive very keen to continue learning behaviours - challeng- involving students in ing the traditional viewpoint reflecting on their -atti that an ATL 3 grade is accept- tude to learning in their able or satisfactory. lessons. An ATL grade of a 3 is no longer satis- They were simply asked factory; it means that to reflect on whether they the student is ‘coast- were challenging themselves ing’ i.e. fulfilling the beyond minimum expecta- minimum requirements. tions in their lessons. 88% of The introduction of the students in the cohort dem- ‘Coasting’ ATL grade has onstrated on the day were driven down the indi- capable of improving their ATL vidual number of 4 and grade. 5 grades. The school’s Year 11 aspiration to move to an outstand- by throughout their time at Highcliffe ing level of student performance School. Mr Evans and the Year 7 Tutor Year 11 was the first year group to is reflected in the way we have team have since worked with a number have an ATL focus day this aca- begun to challenge the belief that of Year 7 students identified through demic year. The day was launched the coasting ATL grade is no longer the ATL Focus Day. in assembly where we focused on acceptable. A number of projects developing students independent are taking place through which YEAR 8 learning skills and students were students are considering what the Mr Garner and the tutor team contin- given guidance on the structure of different ATL grades actually mean ued to embed the attitude to learning the day. Students were asked to and how this can inform their learn- ethos by leading Year 8’s ATL Focus self assess their ATL in each lesson, ing. Opportunities are then being Day. Again, students were given the while staff were asked to make an created to encourage students to opportunity to reflect on their ATL in assessment on their ATL. self-assess their own ATL grades in each lesson and were able to compare their lessons. An example of this Individual feedback was given back their grade with that of the teacher. Mr can be found in the organiser on to each student through their tu- Garner and the Year 8 Tutor team have p.12 & 13. tors and time was allowed during since worked with a small cohort of registration for students to either Year 8 students identified through the Year 7 ATL Focus Day recognise their achievement or set ATL Focus Day to improve their under- individual targets for improvement Year 7 students were encouraged standing of the importance of attitude for the year ahead. in assembly to ‘think differently’ by to learning on progress. experiencing their first attitude to Report by Mr Dean learning focus day. After this assem- YEAR 9 – ATL TRIANGLE FOCUS DAY
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 27 Homestudy - Paving the path to success.
“Home study serves various educational needs. It serves as an intellectual discipline, establishes study habits, and eases time constraints on the amount of curricular material that can be covered in class, and supplements and reinforces work done in school. In addition, it fosters student initia- tive, independence, and responsibility and brings home and school closer together.”
Home study at Highcliffe School develops students’ initiative and -re done? is relevant, meaningful and rea- sponsibility and fulfills the expectations In Years 7 and 8 (KS3) each home sonable in length. It extends the of students, parents, and the public. study should take a minimum of 30 studies undertaken in school and minutes to complete, in KS4 this provides students with valuable There are various types of work which will increase to a minimum of 45 life-skills experience in self-disci- a student may be asked to undertake; minutes. pline and individual responsibility. • revision / preparation for an How do you know what is set and Almost always, quality is more im- examination when? portant than quantity. Home study • written exercises Parents can find information about is not an extra; it is an integral part what homestudy is set in a number of all courses at all levels. • project work – part of longer of ways. Through the ‘MyHighcliffe’ section on the school website, the Home Study has many purposes: term assignments Home Study timetable and in the allowing practice and consolidation • reading – continuing a book School Organiser. The organiser Is of classwork, providing opportuni- started at school or purely where the home study is written ties for individual work, training for reading for pleasure and which parents are asked to sign students in planning and organising on a weekly basis time, developing good habits and • research – gathering informa- self-discipline, creating channels for tion Students will receive a copy of home/school dialogue. the Home Study timetable and are • completing work started in shown how to access information Research in the last decade has class via MyHighcliffe. begun to focus on the relationship between home study and stu- When should Home Study be done? They are expected to write each dent achievement and has greatly At whatever time suits the individual home study set in their School strengthened the case for home but it is certainly advantageous to Organiser and the date that it is due study. establish a routine. It is a good idea in, following this up by handing their for students to use the Home Study home study in on time Although there are some mixed find- timetable to plan the work to be done ings about whether home study ac- each evening. The most important thing parents/ tually increases students’ academic carers can do is simply to take an achievement, overall many teachers Students need to commit to do home interest in their child’s work. Apart and parents agree that home study study most nights, allowing some time from trying to provide the correct for other activities and make sure you time and place for home study to be avoid leaving everything to the last completed you could ask what home minute. study has to be done, check the school website and/or your child’s Where is it best to study? organiser. Contact the school as Individuals have their preferences but, soon as problems arise in general, the following conditions are thought best. On a flat surface, Above all, please offer preferably a table or a desk. In a well-lit area away from distractions such as TV, encouragement at all computer, mobile phone. times!
How much Home Study should be Report by Ms Kennedy
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 28 Mobile Apps - Keeping Highcliffe at the Cutting Edge
As you will be aware Highcliffe Blackberry and iPhone/iPod/iPad) Android Market Place has always been at the forefront to keep in touch with your son/ of using technology to allows daughter’s home study, attendance Blackberry App World students and parents to access and targets. Report by Mr Downs their own up to date informa- tion. We are againsetting the standard with the use of technology with The original MyHighcliffe portal us becomingthe first school in the was launched in 2003 and won UK to have apps released across a European award in 2004 for multiple phone types of this nature the ‘Best use of ICT in Educa- published. tion’. For more information and to find This year all schools have to out how you can access MyHigh- meet the Government target cliffe from your mobile or Smart- to provide a limited amount of phone please visit http://station1. information available online to highcliffe.dorset.sch.uk/mymo- their parents. I am glad to say bile and download the user guide we have already exceeded this. to find out how to find your own FeedID unique code. Over the last 6 years we have not stood still – we have added You can download the apps by the highly regarding facility to searching for MyHighcliffe from: access Home Study that has been set along with updating Apple App Store the look and feel for students.
The VERY exciting news is that MyHighcliffe has now gone Mo- bile on multiple platforms! This allows students and parents to use an Internet enabled Mobile
Phone or Smartphone (Android,
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 29 THE HIGHCLIFFE CHALLENGE GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH!
As an important method for students to record and gain recognition for their activities, the High- cliffe Challenge is an online system that covers all activities that students are involved in, both -out side the classroom at Highcliffe and in the wider community.
This year has been a bumper year for the Highcliffe Challenge!
Looking back over the year to date, more students than ever have passed the Highcliffe Challenge in Years 11, 9 and 8. Year 10 and 7 are also making good progress.
The Key Stage 5 Highcliffe Challenge is also going well – so well that two Year 11 students, Holly Broomfield and Robin Tindall completed it last term, even before they start in the Sixth Form, be- coming one of a select group of students to earn the complete set of bronze, silver and gold badges!
Also, for the first time ever, a whole tutor group have completed the Key Stage 3 Highcliffe Chal- lenge – well done 9.5!
In fact, so many students are passing the Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 Highcliffe Challenge, the school has had to order more bronze and silver badges not once, but twice already this year!
It is wonderful to see so many students proudly wearing their Highcliffe Challenge badges on their jumpers as they move around school and to know that so many more are well on their way achiev- ing this award! Key Stage 5 Challenge David Johnson, Holly Broomfield, Robin Tindall. Key Stage 4 Challenge Alexander Field,, Zoe Gilham, Madeline Morgan, Bradley Tombleson, Curtis Badley, Shayne Bai- ley, Emma Barry, Maxwell Baybut, Madeleine Bell, Emily Bix, Mia Blakeney, James Bonney, Harry Boyle, Holly Broomfield, Arran Burkies, Johnathon Cann, Jack Case, Nikita Caulkett, Katy Charge, Mitchell Clay, Emily Clifford, Charlotte Coleman, Sophie Curl, Nathan David, Rebecca Day, Jose- phine Dear, Eleanor Drewett, Letitia Fowgies, Laura Fox, Teegan Frampton, John Gray, Lucy Gris- dale, Rachael Harris, Alice Harrold, Robyn Harvey-Hutchins, Joseph Herbert, Erin Hill, Emily His- cock, Annabel Howard, Rebecca Jones, George Keats, Shaun Kendall, Ellie Keyworth, Ashley King, Alice Kingham, Abigail Leakey, Abigail Leary, Maisie Leigh, Jack Lord, James Marsh, Steven Metcal- fe, Danielle Morley, Samantha Oxborrow, Aaron Page, William Parkes, Jack Radford, Danika Rick- ard, Sophie Rolt, Matthew Runnalls, Omar Sharif, Patrick Sheekey, Andrew Sloane, Harry Smith, Michael Smith, William Smith, Emma Snaddon, Megan Stansbie, Alexander Stewart, Charlotte Stone, Amy Symons, Katherine Taylor, Ryan Taylor, Robin Tindill, Theodor Turner, James Under- wood, Charlotte Warner, Saskia Yarwood.
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 30
Key Stage 3 Challenge Bethany Amos, Rosie Ashley-East, Eleanor Brad, Donatella Butt, Sian Butt, Harrison Cassidy, Alice Clifford, Connor Cross, Luis Dibdin, Morgan Foakes, Megan Freeman, Emma Garland, Phoebe Grinter, Hannah Hall, Bronwyn Inns, Zoe Irwin, Lucy Keats, Jessica Kydd-Coutts, Katie Lean, Thomas Lean, James Lopez, Amy Marshall, Joseph McCombe, Michael McWilliam, Kathryn Moses, Saskia Ormrod, Isabel Riding Alice Ritchie, Chloe Roxburgh, Amy Sanchez- Price, Alastair Scott, Ben Shutler, Gemma Tandy, Heather Tomkins, Joshua Upton, Daniel Ursell, Candice Weaver, Eleanor Adams, Jamie Adams, Alfie Alderson, Lloyd Alexander-Chard, Matthew Anderson, Mollie Aspley-Deadman, Rebecca Atkinson, Satiah Austin, Zak Barrett, Kate Barry, Jackson Barton, Harvey Baybut, Reece Beasley, Emily Bidwell, Kate Bignell, Grace Blakeney, Samuel Blick, Olivia Boddy, Jack Bradley, Emma-Louise Brangan, Jessica Burton, Xanthe Bush-Hipwood, Lewis Caine, Abigail Clarke-Jones, Bria Clegg, Eric Collie, Georgina Col- lins, Maisy-Jane Cook, Charlotte Cooper, Naomi Davidson, Poppy Day, Tristan Dicks, Paige Doe, Tom Drewett, Amber-Louise Elkins, Leanne Falla, Thomas Fear, Morgan Fereday, Jack Fisher, Joe Franklin, Matthew Goddard, Samuel Gray, Michael Grist, Noah Gurden, Chloe Hall, Kieran Hawkes, Blake Hawksworth, Lillie Hirst, Fallon Holiday, Samuel Holtom, Lucia Hopcraft, Ale- jandro Ibarguen-Burrows, Patrick Jenkinson, Daniel Keffen, Freddie Keyworth, Joshua Killen- gray, Polly Lane, Ellie Langrish, Georgia Law, Charlotte Lawson, Hamish Lazenby, Jack Leakey, Christopher Leonard, Charlotte Lockley, Jack Lockyer, Chloe Mainzinger, Eleanor Mantle, Elliot Marsh, Hannah McIntosh, Madeline McKay, Georgia McWilliam, Tayler Mead, Beren Miles, Oliver Mitchell, Eleanor Moore, Adam Morley, Hannah Murphy, Max Naidoo, Alice Newport, Tamara Norgan, Corrie Norton, Elisa Peroni, Lauren Phelps-Burry, Huw Pilley, Aidan Pinner, Jade Pitt, Robyn Prince, Nina Rajska, Nina Rhodes, Gemma Rogers, Emily Ruzgys, Victoria Salter, Hannah Sheard, Eleanor Sheekey, Kitty Sherwood, Alexandra-Eve Shield, Abigail Sirmu- lis, Alicia Smith, Megan Smith, Chloe Sparks, Theodore Swift, Rebecca Symons, Joshua Tenn, Hannah Tomkins, Rebecca Tooze, Emma Towler, William van Wingerden, Hannah Vickers, Lily Waltham, Ellouise Warren, Alexander Wiggins, Yasmin Wilcock, Joshua Wilkins, Lauren Willis, Joseph Winduss, Eleanor Wyeth, Harry Young.
Congratulations to all students who are determined to log their Challenge successes for themselves. This is an important part of building up your own profile of achievements. it is an excellent base for starting to draft your UCAS statements and your CV, as well as becoming more independent as learners. Ms Potts
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 31 Globalised Another Great Visit by Japanese students
EXCHANGE PROGRAMME BRINGS tional perspective to the courses the The Johoku Students also visited CULTURES, CURRICULUMS (AND students are doing ... two primary schools, Highcliffe St. FAMILIES!) CLOSER TOGETHER Mark and Tiptoe,where they again A delegation of 11 students and two demonstrated calligraphy and Whenever our partner school in staff (Mr Branch and Mr Nakano) ar- origami. Japan, Johoku High School for Boys, rived at Highcliffe School on Monday visits Highcliffe School, they always 21st March. They were warmly greeted As you can imagine the impact bring a little bit of magic with them. by their buddies at the Da Vinci. on those students of seeing these This year was no exception. Japanese boys with their smart black uniforms was Our students were so excited to huge. The Johoku students see them. I had students run up did an excellent job of “get- to tell me they’d said “Konnichi- ting stuck in” and carefully wa” to one. I heard students showed the young students saying, “I want to have one next how to fold the paper. In time”. I even heard one student fact, the impact on the say, “They’re so cool, I want to Johoku students was huge, be one.” too. They really enjoyed and said they’d like to have Significantly, the programme stayed longer. this year marks a real step- change in the level of integra- Within Highcliffe School, too, tion between the two schools’ the Johoku Students spent curriculums. When our students The Johoku students had already spent much of their time working with visited in October, they were able to the weekend in London so they’d had our students and staff. For example, do some research about whaling on a chance to recover from jet-lag. This with Miss Thorpe-West’s Year 10 behalf of the Science faculty and on was important because they had a art class they demonstrated their earthquakes for geography students. busy schedule ahead of them. calligraphy and origami skills to provide inspiration for that class’s When the Johoku students visited One of the aims of the programme is coursework. This was on top of us this year, they became involved to provide a chance for the students working with some Year 7 art with specific classes - a Year 10 Art to feel a part of the school as much groups. class and a Year 9 Health and Social as practically possible. Therefore, on Care class. Through these classes, the first day at Highcliffe, they spent Furthermore, the students also teachers at both schools are now much of their time “shadowing” their worked with Ms Ford’s Health and investigating ways in which we can buddies by going to classes and gener- Social Care Year 9 class. This class integrate the work both schools’ ally participating in whatever activities had spent a long time preparing students do. their buddies were involved in. questions and artefacts for the Japanese students in order com- What does this mean for our stu- Their presence also provides us with an pare the lifestyles between young dents? It means that, over time, opportunity to strengthen our connec- people in Japan and England. there will be more opportunities tions with Ballard School and with our for more students at each school to “feeder” primary schools. At Ballard They found out about how they so- work together - not just during the School, the students were warmly cialised, how much time each spent period of their stay, but during the welcomed with banners and displays doing homework and playing sport course of the year using IT technolo- where they gave a workshop on ori- amongst other things. They also gies. This will add a genuine interna- gami and calligraphy. provided some sweets, with mini-
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 32
eggs proving to be a little baffling parents. The Johoku students and their would like to thank Ballard School for our Japanese guests! buddies had been fully involved in the and Tiptoe and Highcliffe St. Mark for preparation of this, spending the after- welcoming the boys. I would like to It was fantastic to see both these noon making cakes and scones. thank the families for looking after projects get underway. Our the boys and giving them such a schools have always worked well In writing about all the activities the great time out of school hours . together, but as a result of these boys got involved in at school, I am not initiatives and the connections forgetting, of course, the way in which I would like to thank the buddies made, the programme can now the boys were looked after by their host for doing such an efficient job of be built much more fully into families. They had taken them to sight- punctually ensuring the boys were the curriculums of both Johoku seeing to Corfe Castle, or to music clubs where they needed to be, integrating and Highcliffe School. It is work such as the Lighthouse. They had taken the students into school life, and for like this that will enable us to them shopping at West Quay or played generally helping out so effectively. foster on-going communication plenty of football with friends. One boy The programme really fostered their between the students of both even helped a family move house! ability to take responsibility. school communities, providing that truly international dimension I was really touched as always by the ef- Finally, I would like to thank the boys to the work they undertake. forts the families of Highcliffe School go of Johoku School and their staff. The to in order to ensure that the Japanese boys were, as always, fantastic and It wasn’t all time in school, how- boys have a fantastic time here. It was a real credit to the school. We look ever. We took them to Christ- clear from talking to their teachers and forward to continuing our work with church Priory where we went up the things that they were saying that you and building on the connection the tower and we also visited the they felt really welcomed and felt very we have made. Mayor at the Civic Offices. On the quickly a part of things here. final Friday, we went to Salisbury The boys of Johoku School visit High- Cathedral and Stonehenge. It was What was also interesting to hear about cliffe School every year in March. If very chilly but fortunately the was the impact of the boys on the you are interested in hosting, please rain held off. host families themselves. One parent let Mr Bryden know and look out for remarked that “We did family things a letter regarding the programme in On Monday 28th March, the again.” Having the Johoku boy in the January 2012. We are also planning students had a fantastic surprise. family provided an opportunity for the a trip to Japan including to Johoku Thanks to the efforts of Mrs family as a whole to go out for trips and School. This will probably take place Stone, the Johoku students were generally do things together. in July 2012. A letter regarding this treated to an afternoon tea at will be distributed shortly. the Christchurch Harbour Hotel Before concluding, I would like to where they tucked into sandwich- express my gratitude to a number of Report by Mr Bryden es and scones as well as touring people. Firstly, to all staff who helped the hotel. in so many ways both big and small. I
We’ve always known that the Jo- hoku students have many talents and on the Wednesday before they left and at the Farewell Party, they displayed the group dancing skills with dancing to “Soran” , a traditional Japanese folk-song.
On the Wednesday lunchtime, they performed this to a huge number of students in the gym where a small entry fee was col- lected to raise money for the Red Cross.
On the Thursday, thanks to the work of Ms Leitch and Mrs Rowe, we had a Farewell Party which was attended by students and
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 Students Fundraise for our friends in Japan
Many Thanks to all involved: Organisers, artists and TOTAL RAISED: £668.50!!!
audience.
Olympic Dreams Gettting Ever Closer
We are almost within the final had indeed dawned. This was the day in place. Tents had been erected. year of the countdown to the everybody woke up earlier than usual. The alumni, parents, choir, teacher Olympic Games. Developments One would not expect people to rise and students occupied their seats continue with our Kenyan Olym- up early because the previous day anxiously waiting for the arrival of pic Dreams partner school and had been hectic with all the cleaning; the guest of honor.Moments later, you can check these on the BBC washing class rooms and cleaning the the chopper was seen in the sky, website by clicking on the link at compound. many left for the place where it the end of this article. Our partner would land. There he was. This man school has just celebrated ( a mat- Despite the freezing weather, many whom many anticipated to be presi- ter of months before we do here students if not all took a cold shower. dent of our republic in 2007. The at Highcliffe) its 50th anniversary Every one endeavored to look smart. man, who because of his loyalty with a big ceremony attended by Male teachers in their new suits looked and patriotism signed the National both the Prime Minister and the like British gentlemen while female Accord that saved Kenya from the Archbishop of Kenya. Below is a teachers walked gracefully and in flam- jaws of post election violence. The report of the day written by Moses boyance in their African attire known guest of honor; the right honor- KIbet, the student who visited us as` Vitenges.’ The compound looked able Prime Minister Engineer Raila in January. clean with all the lawns and flowers Amollo Odinga was accompanied trimmed. The buildings had a new look by four members of Parliament ‘A FINAL WRAP-UP TO MAGNIFI- after the re-painting. Everything looked and two assistant ministers. They CIENT 50 YEARS OF GLORY. new. The millennium clock that was were received warmly with ulula- centrally situated in the school com- tions, students waving flyers with It was all smiles for students, pound had been replaced by a gleam- the school emblem at them. Songs teachers and the non- teaching ing statue of our patron; Saint Patrick. rented the air the Prime Minister staff of St. Patrick’s High school. At the venue, all preparations were planted the tree for remembrance. The day we had all longed for
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 He thereafter unveiled the plague. The first student to be admitted to the Korir was forced to post pone the His security was on high alert incase school, who is now a court of appeal mass.Later in the evening, the of any unprecedented threat. There judge; Justice Philip Tunoi was given a students were treated to a special was a hush as the Prime Minister chance to speak. His speech injected meal. After supper, they danced to walked to the venue. Those in atten- the much- needed dose of loyalty to the the music all the way to 11 .pm. dance included the patrician school into our and left for their dormitories. As brothers from Ireland, old boys hearts. we retired to our beds, we were who were now doctors, profes- quite aware of what lay ahead of sors, lawyers , judges, econo- The chief guest’s us. Another journey of 50 years mists just to name but a few. turn to speak had just begun and it was our Others present included those came. Everybody enduring role to ensure glory out who had excelled in various was keen to hear of it. A journey to prove self worth disciplines like athletics basket- each and every had just begun. ball, football, etc .To mention word he said. He names, Joe Odhiambo,a Guinness talked about the dilapidated nature of I take this opportunity to pass my World record holder in spinning the the school buildings and promised that sincere greetings to Mrs. Coleman basketball ball was present . the government has plans to finance whom I regard as my mother, Mrs. the repairs. That Stone, Mr. Coughlan, The former Principals of our school he was keen to see Ms.Potts and of course were also present not forgetting the completion of the entire Highcliffe representatives from the Provincial the multi- purpose community for the administration and the political hall and the sports support you gave us. leaders some of whom had come complex he had It’s my wish that you to celebrate while others to let us earlier on laid the keep up your high know their political intentions. After foundation. He urged standards. God bless the opening prayer, our principal Kenyans to shun you hope to see you in was the first to speak. He offered ethnicity and peace- the near future. a detailed account of the school’s fully coexist so as to realize the vision Moses Kibet history. He further talked about the 2030. He then donated Ksh. 500,000. Form 3 West plans the school has that will ensure He later launched the schools strategic St. Patrick’s High School excellence in academics and co- cur- plan for the years 2011-2017 before Iten, Kenya’ ricular activities. He enumerated cutting the Jubilee cake. The crowd and the challenges then asked all the the students waving the fliers escorted Here at Highcliffe the school has stakeholders to lend a helping hand the chief guest to his chopper at about been asked to contribute to the so that the school attains its goals. 3.00pm. Thereafter, Joe Odhiambo, process of finding torchbearers Second was the pioneer Principal, the NBA basketballer showed us his to carry the Olympic Flame on Bro. Fintan Mcdonald who thanked basketball skills. A parent sang a song part of its journey around the God for having blessed the school to in the local language about the Golden country leading up to the games. reach greater heights. He nostalgi- Jubilee which moved many. There We have placed a visual reminder cally recounted the early days when was a downpour which unfortunately on this page. If you have any the school was started and the chal- interfered with the programme. The suggestions don’t keep them to lenges they faced. mass celebrant, Bishop of the catholic yourself, let us know! Diocese of Eldoret; Bishop Cornelius
Nominate a Torch Bearer On Saturday 14 July 2012 the Olympic flame will be travelling from Bournemouth to Southampton. The school has been invited to nomi- nate people as bearers of the torch. We would welcome all sugges- tions of community and unsung heroes whose names we might put forward to represent Highcliffe. Now is your chance to become part of the Olympic Dream and to say thanks to someone important.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/olympic_games/world_olympic_dreams/9475739.stm
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 Aspire Highcliffe-Ballard Lecture Series Continues
A Career in Marketing ly. It was a great way to end this series would have to get some qualifica- of lectures. tions. So over a course of 12 years The present series of collaborative he embarked on night school study lectures was bought to a close on the Insurance Unlocked! and came out with an MBA from 14th March with an amusing presen- Harvard Business School. He qualified th tation given by Mark Timbrell. Mark On Friday 13 May 2011 we were for- as an accountant, and although he used to work for a marketing agency tunate enough to secure the expertise admitted at never actually being an and then went on to start of the ‘newly retired’ accountant, he highlighted the fact his own company which Chief Executive Officer that accountancy opens many doors then went global. He has of AXA Asia Pacific, in the world of finance. Mr Penn worked on many named who came to enlighten has found working in Asia difficult at brands such as Coca Cola, us on the business of times due the corrupt nature of the Mercedes, American insurance. It may sound various governments and empha- Airlines, American Express rather glum and mun- sised that one of the qualities needed and Guinness to name a dane to you and me for a role such as his was integrity. He few. but Mr Andrew Penn also added that to work abroad is so managed to keep us amused with an- beneficial to your career. Mark enlightened the audience ecdotes about the role he has played in about the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the Asia over the past years. The audience was invited to ask marketing world using our audi- questions of which there was quite a ence for demonstration purposes to The audience was intimate and were variety. Mr Penn left us to start a tour highlight a typical target audience. quite captivated by the tales Andrew of European cities before he hopes He used the power of the media to had to tell. His route in to this career to secure a job either in New York or allow us to observe the various ways was quite unconventional, in that he London. in which marketing companies spend left school at 16 with hardly any quali- many, many millions of pounds in fications and went to work for P and Thank you to the many of you who order to tempt us to buy their prod- O in London. In fact his parents were have supported the lectures over the ucts. He showed a variety of adver- sitting in the audience and he was sure past weeks. If you have any sugges- tisements, some of which made us they weren’t overly impressed by this! tions for our next series, please get in smile, laugh or reach for the tissues. touch with Mrs Dedman at school. Mark pointed out the different strat- Anyway, it didn’t take him long to egies used and it was amazing how realise that if he wanted to get on he Report by Mrs Dedman very similar products are presented in totally different ways. He gave us an insight as to the many avenues Courses at Leeson House available within the marketing world New weekend residential courses for students to be held at Leeson House, Swa- and the variety of skills required nage have been released for the Summer and Autumn terms for 2011. Please go to along with the different routes into the website or see Mrs Dedman for all of the details; this field. The audience were invited www.leesonhouse.com to ask questions, which many of Courses range from creative writing, arts & crafts, play writing, acting, maths, them did. science and ICT. Take a look and see what appeals to you! Students who have at- tended these courses in the past have thoroughly enjoyed themselves and got a Mark was ably assisted by his ten great deal out of them. There is an application form to complete which needs to be year old son who managed the com- signed by school in order to gain a place. There is a charge for these courses. puter presentation most competent-
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 Students at Eco-Conference
On 11th March 2011, 10 Highcliffe 900kWh electricity usage. We saved Out of the experience talking to students went to Hamworthy Sports this much in 2 months and we the teachers I got more confident centre to speak to a hundred and would like to reduce more with our speaking to large groups of people, twenty trainee teachers about a campaign. We are running our cam- how other schools are eco aware and number of ideas about our school. paign in our citizenship lessons. questions that they had to ask about our school and the way it is run. This At the conference I spoke to the We have sent letters to senior helped are campaign by getting other trainee teachers about Eco aware- members of staff which have led to schools aware of saving energy and it ness in schools, how we have saved meetings and PowerPoints to go on also educated them by them asking energy over the last several months the Information screens around the us questions about it. and about our campaign to try and school. I spoke to the trainee teach- get our school and others to save ers and let them ask us questions Overall the whole day was a really more. about our campaign and our school good experience and if I had the energy and many more ways to chance to do it next year I would. I started by speaking about how we try and convince our school to save have saved over 400kg of carbon more. Report by Liam Walls dioxide emissions and also over
Mock Interviews
This year saw the expansion of the seriously. ‘ Whatever may be said about the Year 10 Mock Interview programme. ‘youth of today’, it seems the future Due to the success of the process in Naturally there was some anxiety is in good hands if Highcliffe students past years it was felt that it was im- and nerves from the students as have a say in it!’ portant to extend they waited this opportunity for their ap- ‘The students seem very confident to all students in pointment and well prepared’ Year 10. but lots of smiles once Here are some of the student com- It was a huge the ordeal was ments; logistical exercise over, possibly but we managed out of relief or ‘I am really impressed with that! to secure many the realisation Thanks Miss.’ new interviewers that an inter- ‘He said he would offer me a job.’ from local busi- view should nesses with the be meaningful ‘That was fantastic!’ help of Connect but not some- South West, with a varied skills base, thing to be scared of. ‘I want to do it again.’ who kindly offered to give up their time to interview our students. Most of the students came out full ‘Awesome!’ of enthusiasm and one student was Mrs Wheeler allowed the interviews even offered a work experience ‘Can I have another interview like to take place in the Library on 3 days placement after the issue was men- that in Year 11?’ over 3 weeks and proved to be an tioned in his interview. He came out ideal location. beaming! ‘That was so beneficial. I know where I need to improve for next time’. It was hoped that the interview The interviewers were extremely im- preparation in PWL lessons would pressed. Here’s what some of them We would like to thank everyone for prepare the students to some extent had to say; helping to make this such a positive and give them a valuable opportu- experience. nity to put theory into practise. ‘This process is so worthwhile.’ Report by Mrs Dedman, Mrs Stone The Year 10s certainly rose to the ‘You must have given me all the best and Mrs Finch occasion. They were punctual and students’ smart taking the whole process very
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 Inspire Duke of Edinburgh Success
Well done to Sasha Chubb and Ria Herridge who have completed their Bronze DofE and have been presented with the award by the mayor of Christchurch and school governor.
Sasha and Ria have undertaken this with the Christchurch Open Award Centre and were given a special mention during the ceremony for their willingness and confidence joining a new group away from their peer group. The girls have just begun their silver award.
Highcliffe student wins international boxing vest.
Lawrence Boxing Club’s Patrick as his more experienced opponent continues to go on to win further Busby claimed his first England vest tired, but Rae hung on to win in an- trophies. His next competition will in April when he represented his other hard fought bout. Well done to be in Paris this summer. country at a tri-nation tournament Patrick and we wish him success as he Report by Mrs Dedman in Manchester. Patrick is a Year 7 student at Highcliffe School and as an ABA finalist won his internation- Stop Press: Rounders Success al vest in the 48kg category. In his opening bout representing England, Congratulations to the Year 8 Round- malie Barnes, Carolyn Mahy, Ellena Patrick was matched against Welsh ers team. They have beaten Glenmoor Paskins, Liberty Butterfield, Alice champion Kieron Jones. In a hard School, Bournemouth School for girls, Clifford, Georgia Hilliard, Georgia fought bout against a very aggres- Avonbourne School and the Grange Flint and Saskia Ormrod. sive and experienced opponent Pat- School to reach the finals of the East Report by Mrs Webber rick defended superbly and coun- Dorset Rounders League. They have all ter-punched his way to a narrow attended rounders club and worked points victory. Twenty four hours hard to refine their skills in fielding later Patrick had to box the current and batting. English champion Bradley Rae, who he had lost to three weeks previ- They are a delightful group of girls and ously in the ABA finals. Although I am so proud of them. Congratula- giving away 2kgs in weight Patrick tions to: Megan Freeman, Donatella again defended well and could have Butt, Isabel Riding, Chloe Ragettli, Em- snatched a win in the final round
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 Relay for Life
Dear all,
You may be aware of the Cancer Research ‘Relay for Life’ event which takes place at Ferndown Leisure Centre on July 16th and 17th 2011.
Relay For Life is an inspirational, overnight, community event that celebrates the lives of people touched by cancer. Team members take turns to walk, jog, skip, space-hop or dance their way around a track throughout the entire event, whilst all around the event a party is in full swing. There are team stalls, family activities, live music, quizzes, dance displays, education on healthy living and many more activities. At nightfall, the atmosphere changes as Relay For Life halts for the most moving time of all, the Candle of Hope Ceremony, when we light candles in memory or support of our loved ones who have experienced Cancer, accompanied by singing and readings.
Relay is not a sponsored event – there is no prescribed number of laps that need to be completed. Teams collec- tively and individually raise funds before, during and immediately after the event. It is open to all ages and states of fitness and the track is fine for buggies and wheelchairs, as well as for fit and healthy walkers
Relay For Life is more than just a fundraiser. It allows communities to come together, to honour Cancer Survivors, remember those whose lives have been lost, educate the community on cancer prevention and early detection, and raise life-saving funds to help Cancer Research UK find new answers to the many different forms of cancer. At Relay For Life we come together for one day....one night....one reason.
I will be joining fellow members of my SemiColons Bowel Cancer Support Group, who will be taking part as a group for the first time, this year. If you feel that you would like to sponsor me for this year’s event, then please either visit me in the Lower School Office, or send me an email pledge, and I will enter your details onto my form, or visit my on line donation link.
Thank you!!
Tim Barnes
Young Art Dorset 2011
The 6 students named below were fund research into child cancers. chosen by the judges of the Young Art Dorset 2011Competition to Alfie Alderson, Joshua Tenn, Mol- have their work on display at the lie Russell, Candice Weaver, Kathryn exhibition. Moses, Patrick McCarthy. The students received invitations to Report by Jan Bullas attend the private viewing and prize giving ceremony where they met the judges and receive certificates.
In addition, all the artwork in the exhibition was for sale by silent auction with all funds raised being donated to Cancer Research UK to
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011 The Importance of Extra-Learning Opportunities
We have had a his mother that the knick-start to Sandbanks in the summer. I have very pleasing email the whole process was the school also played in various tournaments recently from the organising for a coach from Wes- across the south of England. parents of William sex Volleyball to come in to the van Wingerden (Year school and introduce students to In March this year I played as a 9) regarding his the sport, and her thanks to the pair in the U14 South West vol- recent successes in school for offering such opportuni- leyball tournament which we won. Volleyball. His team ties to our young people. Having qualified in February for the were victorious in regional U15 Championships we the the Southern Round of theU15 Here is the news in Will’s own words: progressed to the Southern Cham- Championships, the tournament ‘Two years ago when I was in Year 7 a pionships in Reading at the end of taking place in Reading. Volleyball coach from Wessex Volley- March. ball Club came in to run an after school This means that they have qualified club which I attended. Following the This was a six a side tournament. for the National Finals in Birming- eight sessions I was invited to play in a Once more we were victorious and ham. local U12 tournament. This was my first by winning have now qualified for introduction to the sport. the National Championships which In March they had also won the are being held in Birmingham in U14 Sw Mini-Volleyball Champion- I then went on to join the club and May. ships. after six months was invited to join the Report by Will van Wingerden (9.5.) U15 coaching squad. I have trained What made the email particularly each week both indoors at Talbot pleasing was the comment form Heath School and on the beach at
Round Table’s Children’s Wish Wish Walk 2011 New Date – Friday 16th September 2011
Great News The Wish Walk new date has now been confirmed! It will now take place Friday 16th September. Please tell all your friends & colleagues! “Making Wishes come true for children with life-threatening illnesses”
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011
H2U, Volume 10 Issue 4, June 2011