The termly magazine of William Farr C of E Comprehensive School | CfBT Newsday Winner

Edited by Millie Alexander & Sophie Broadbent Winter 2012

Farrago 60th Anniversary William Farr School, Lincoln Road, Welton, Lincs, LN2 3JB Tel: 01673 866900 E-mail: [email protected]

Winter template.indd 1 12/10/2012 12:23:09 PM FARRAGO | Contents FARRAGO | School News Inside this term’s issue... Page 3 Catering goes Cashless Page 4 Outstanding OBE Editorial Page 5 Russia t’s that festive to look back over all of Farrago has been Page 6 Borneo time of the the school’s great eventful with many Page 7 Cataluna year again achievements, and fantastic trips to cover, Page 8 Parliament I and the end makes all those years notably Russia, Borneo Page 9 China of a special of going to school and China, alongside Page 10 Shakespeare Schools year as we mark the in a building site this term’s spolight Page11-14 Spotlight 60th anniversary of worthwhile. Even now, featuring not one Page 15 Ace Day William Farr, but most William Farr is moving department, but the Page 16 Movember importantly the revival with the times, with the whole school. Page 17 Equestrian Excellence of the carrot stick. The imminent arrival of the Millie Alexander & Page 18 Construction Week 60th anniversary gives cashless system in the Sophie Broadbent Page 19 A Dose of Davies us an opportunity canteen. This edition Year 13 Page 20 Amnesty International Page 21 New Challenges Page 22 Science College This edition’s cover image was created by Will Page 23-24 Sport Bowser International Schools Award

he International Schools community, such as parents, enabled us to learn and discover Award is a recognition businesses and social projects are about festivals, and the different T agenda for schools also involved and finally for UK cultures of our linked school and we everywhere to record schools, the chance to self-evaluate in turn have been able to share our and assess their international work, in order to achieve the full award own information. and to put it into the curriculum level of accreditation. When asking Ms Lymn about and the whole school ethos. her views on the ISA, she Free of charge, the said that she believes it is International School Award important for the students (ISA) is open to all UK schools, to see the world and to with every year producing become global citizens. about 1000 applications and The ISA is a wonderful of these, 95% gaining the opportunity for exactly this, award. The ISA offers the and William Farr as a school, framework for international applied for and achieved partnerships with schools a full ISA status. However, across the globe, and at the our school has goals for the same time, the chance to future that will contribute learn. It provides recognition and evolve our international for the teachers and their status, such as involving schools, and presents the more students and teachers opportunity to raise the with the international school’s profile through the local William Farr, with the help of our schools, and already from this an and the national media. appointed coordinator Ms Lymn, international schools committee The ISA also works to support made the ISA link about 3 years has been set up for students and schools worldwide to create an ago to the Lotus Valley School teachers. It is also highly important international policy; this involves in India, and since then we have that we as students and teachers international work in school been sharing and swapping our recognise our role as global citizens planning and staff development knowledge and information. and that we are inspired by this to and the opportunity to collaborate In the RE department, students take up further opportunities. with linked schools to share already study and learn about ideas for projects, activities Buddhism and Hinduism, but Gaia Pitt-Judd Year 10 and communication. The wider the link that we have created has 2

Winter template.indd 2 12/10/2012 12:23:11 PM FARRAGO | School News Catering goes Cashless etters have already gone home explaining the new cash-less payment system L for ‘Wills Diner’ that will begin in January. In order to further understand the scheme we spoke to Mr Stones about how the system would work and why it was being introduced. Firstly, when asked why the scheme was in the pipeline Mr Stones described the current cash based system as ‘cumbersome’ and said that he has had many requests from parents to consider ways of moving the system forwards. “The ability to be able to purchase anything from the school whether it be food, trips or even uniform, from home is attractive to parents” Mr Stones said. “The key way of paying for something onto a card using a ‘Refresh’ machine. the bank automatically place another would be with your thumb” he The scheme will be largely internet amount into the account once it continued, “however, some parents based with parents being able to put reaches £0, similar to a standing order.” have expressed issues with this, and money into their child’s accounts over Mr Stones emphasised the fact that so you will be able to use a swipe card the internet. However, Mr Stones also “you do not have to have access to the or bring cash into school and load it explained that “If you physically wish to internet to buy food, loading cash onto place money into your account there an account means an additional step will be a machine available in school to is required before going to the tills; do so.” this system just gives more options to Another advantage, for a parent at parents.” Most students have already least, is that items bought can be seen had their thumb prints taken as the by parents or guardians. “There will be preparations get underway for January, no more ‘5 packets of biscuits a day’,” when the scheme will begin. Mr Stones joked. “If there is not enough money in a student’s account they can Rhys Tomlinson, Rhys Edwards & Tom go £3 overdrawn. Additionally, with Kelsey Year 11 certain permissions, you can have School Council News new year, of course, Stones’ office. We also had the privilege means that we have a of representing the school at the new School Council! remembrance service held in Welton A The Student Council Church, where the form reps and year has been elected and reps reflected a positive image for the consists, as ever, of school. one boy and one girl from each of the This year we are planning to make the lower years and 12 members from the school greener; planting new trees and 6th Form, who make up the executive. introducing additional recycling bins. The Year 13s had the pleasure of But, we need more ideas from you! So sitting in and watching the Year if you can see something in the school 12 speeches, where they showed that you feel needs to be improved, tremendous courage standing up Bridgwood and Raoul Comber-Parsons. please don’t hesitate to ask us, that’s in front of around 250 students in The School Council was very successful what we’re here for! each year. Congratulations to the last year bringing a fair amount of successful candidates who will lead the positive changes to the school, such Jack Spedding Year 13 School Council into the future; Emily as the new bandstand outside Mr.

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Winter template.indd 3 12/10/2012 12:23:14 PM FARRAGO | School News Outstanding OBE ednesday 21st support of his wife, who also has been of equality even though they were from November marks able to put up with him all these years! different walks of life. Whilst waiting the date Mr Strong to receive his award he said he felt w received an OBE from overwhelmed and scared, especially as the Queen. His ‘Order of the British 350 people were watching. Once called Empire’ was for services to education, up to collect his award, he spoke to and is something that we can celebrate the Queen who remembered visiting with him due to his long time as head William Farr all those years before: “It teacher of our remarkable school. Much felt as though it was just the Queen and to our surprise Mr Strong said he was I for a few minutes.” After the ceremony “speechless” when he received his letter had finished, pictures were taken from the Queen, after attending the and fine-dining enjoyed, and he also Jubilee service, which in itself he saw encountered David Cameron, another as a great honour. Once he’d got over very important person! the shock he was ecstatic to accept, As well as his brilliant achievement however he said the most difficult of receiving an OBE, Mr Strong was part was that he couldn’t tell anyone of course head teacher of the school – it only became real when he saw his for twenty five years. At the 60th name in the Daily Telegraph. Anniversary celebration Mr Strong’s The day itself was “very humbling” speech had a lot of meaning for him: for Mr Strong. He said that sharing “It just said to me ‘William Farr’, and I the event with people from many wanted to send out a strong message different backgrounds, including to the students.” Kate Winslet, who received an MBE, Although it is a personal award, Mr was unbelievable. Mr Strong himself Strong believes you “don’t get there couldn’t believe he had the opportunity The glorious day began after a night without amazing co-operation from to be there. The day was made very at the Royal Air Force club, where staff, students and Governors. I owe a special as he was joined by his wife and Mr Strong and his wife are members huge debt of gratitude to you all.” children, and two very important ladies due to all the work they have done in – his Mother and the Queen. Mr Strong remembrance of Dunholme Lodge. He Charlotte Garfoot & Rebekah Coates says he couldn’t have been the head lined up with everybody receiving an Year13 teacher he was without the help and award, but he said there was a feeling Governance: Effectiveness and Structure he Governing Body proposals during the year and in Body to ensure that it is highly effective, worked hard over the July a strategy morning was held focused on the strategic and drives the last year with a school with the Senior Leadership Team. continued development of the school. T improvement adviser to There was a brief introduction to the There is a meeting at the start of each examine its effectiveness new Ofsted framework and a new term. and has restructured its whole Committee structure was discussed to Student Achievement Committee Committee structure as a result. mirror the areas of Ofsted inspection. (incorporating Quality of Teaching and Governors were encouraged to look The following structure was then Care and Guidance Sub-Committees) at the strengths and weaknesses approved at the final Full Governing Chair: Sue Blyth of the current system and areas for Body meeting of the academic year Vice Chair: Tim Smith improvement. A meeting was held in and Chairs/Vice Chairs were elected Resource Management Committee January, when they looked at focusing in September. The terms of reference (incorporating Human Resources and on outstanding, by confirming a clear are on the governance section of the Estates Sub-Committees) strategic vision; working with the Senior school’s website. Chair: Stephen Kirby Leadership Team on a system of robust Chair of Governors: Angela White Vice Chair: Alistair Logan quality assurance including evaluative Vice Chair of Governors: Tim Smith Committee members: reporting; reviewing the committee Co-ordinating Committee The new structure will be reviewed at structure and terms of reference; This consists of the Chair and Vice the end of the academic year to assess ensuring governors could evaluate Chair of Governors, Committee Chairs its effectiveness. quality and external benchmarking and Vice Chairs, advised by the Senior against Ofsted criteria. Leadership Team. The Committee co- Sally Coulter The Committees looked at the ordinates the work of the Governing Clerk to the Governing Body 4

Winter template.indd 4 12/10/2012 12:23:15 PM FARRAGO | Trips & Visits “Strictly Come Russia” n the 24th of October, 40 sleepy students and teachers congregated o in the school car park at 2.30am, pulling their suitcases and yawning, ready to set off to Heathrow and await a flight to Russia. Despite landing on the wrong runway, because of unhelpful Russian air traffic control, we eventually ventured past the scary Russian airport staff (tip – don’t smile!) and into St. Petersburg. Having travelled all day, we had a relaxed tour through the city by bus and checked into our hotel, which was huge! We were shocked to see that our room numbers were in the 5000s, and it took us at least 10 minutes to get from the lobby to our rooms. We ended the day with an evening walk through the area around our hotel; our paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, and to see the Moscow State Circus. The first real experience of the Russian cold. Rembrandt. Rob Willows Chamberlin performance included phenomenal In the following days we visited such said that the Hermitage was his acts unlike anything we’d ever seen, but sights as the Battleship Aurora, the ship favourite part of the trip! at times it was distressing for the animal from which the shot responsible for The last day in St Petersburg was jam lovers as some acts involved reluctant sparking the revolution was fired, and packed, and ended with a trip to the bears and sea lions. where we were shadowed by some very Folklore show, which starred a very Our last day in Russia was again suspicious looking characters, quoting special guest… Mr Carpenter, who fantastic. We visited the Kremlin, Mr Brittain, ‘the vultures are circling!’. got picked to participate in one of the disappointed not to see Putin We also visited the Hermitage; a acts and looked to be enjoying his but nonetheless we enjoyed the museum incorporated into the Winter time in the spotlight immensely! After experience; also a museum of Russia Palace, which was the home of Tsar the show we ate a sit down meal at treasure, where we saw magnificent Nicholas 2nd, the last Tsar of Russia. the hotel and departed for the train carriages, suits of armour and gifts to ‘It was amazing to stand in the spot station. Ringing in our ears as we the Tsar’s family throughout history. where Bloody Sunday happened,’ one disembarked were warnings about the Our flight back was quiet and some of the students said. The Palace was shifty characters likely to be present, of us even got first class meals due really stunning to look round, lavishly and so we formed a protective circle to a fortunate shortage of aeroplane decorated in an Italian and Renaissance around our luggage while the teachers food. Touching down at Heathrow, we style, for example, some rooms were kept a sharp eye out. Boarding the encountered a brief mix up with the entirely coated in gold. The museum overnight train, we managed to stow coach, it being too small to fit all of also holds famous artwork; we saw our suitcases away wherever they could us in. But, with the departure of Mrs fit and most of us got a comfortable Brittain and a few others in a taxi, we night’s sleep. It was magical to look set off on the way home and to our very out of the window and see the English beds. Russian snow-covered countryside The trip was thoroughly enjoyed disappearing into the darkness. Pulling by all who went and made special into Moscow, we were welcomed with memories that will last a lifetime. Most slushy snow, rain, and a freezing wind. importantly, it gave the Year 12s a Forget British wintertime, Moscow is real experience of Russian history and the coldest we’d ever been! Wrapped in culture to use in their January exam fur coats and our ‘ushanka’ Russian hats, (good luck)! we had a short tour of Moscow and a Finally we would like to send out a trip to the Modern History Museum. massive “thank you” to all the teachers We then enjoyed a lovely meal out at involved for making the trip such a a Russian restaurant, and each tried a fantastic experience! shot of Russian vodka, before going Sophie Broadbent Year 13

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Winter template.indd 5 12/10/2012 12:23:16 PM FARRAGO | Trips & Visits Borneo Part One lean clothes, air Mike, the camp guides, taught us how to our destination point – white water conditioning and to make bamboo cups, spoons and rafting! It was surprising the train morning lie-ins, these blowpipe darts as well as taking us on moved at all and conversations soon c were just a couple of night walks through the jungle where became difficult due to the lack of things that 32 brave the whole group came down with windows. The most frightening thing students and 6 adults surrendered leech paranoia, flicking them off before about the train however was the toilet as they gathered on the William they reached skin. At dinner times we (or hole). One wrong move or a shake Farr car park to embark on their would gather round the camp fire with of the train and you could fall down “adventure of a lifetime”. Despite the our noodles and “sweet” chilli sauce the hole onto the tracks. Needless to wait for a replacement coach, to listen to Mike, Mickey’s younger say we all held it in. The train spirits were not dampened took us through the forests and we eventually arrived and poverty of Borneo until at Hayes College London to we reached the start of the collect the group kit which white water rafting course. A included the infamous trowel. quick change into swimming After a whirlwind of coaches, gear and the group were off planes and the rather exciting on an adrenaline fuelled trip exploration of a mini jungle in through level 1 to level 4 rapids Kuala Lumpur airport, we arrived surrounded by snake filled in Kota Kinabalu and split up trees. At one point the raft I into the two teams. Much to was in got to try “body rafting” the delight of my team we were and we all excitedly jumped greeted by the welcoming party, out into the water to realise otherwise known as a couple of halfway through the rapid that cockroaches outside our hostel. life jackets are important when Once we had spent couple being repeatedly dragged under of days acclimatising in the city, we brother – tell us about life in Borneo water again and again. It was great fun walked 3 hours into the jungle and with which consisted of dating women and and we all wished we were at the top of only one short fall down the side of the taking them to KFC for romantic nights the course to do it all again as we got mountain path, we arrived at ‘Mickey’s out. The hospitality was amazing and into the train to take us to our ‘home’ in Jungle Camp’, a small but cosy little Mickey’s sister was a really good cook Kota Kinabalu. clearing in the jungle with wooden – the banana fritters went down a treat The following day started early with a shelters to sleep in. Within the first and were enjoyed by everyone, even quick minibus ride to the coach station minute of being there we learnt exactly the cow back at Mickey’s house. where we would embark on our six why rainforests were called rainforests After the jungle came our trip to the hour journey to the halfway point; as we endured constant precipitation Padas River. A 4AM wakeup mixed with Sepilok orang-utan sanctuary. Despite for four hours, postponing activities jam sandwiches for breakfast made an the slightly dodgy English movies and allowing us to have a much needed exciting morning and was made even dubbed in Malaysian with English nap. Sapinos, Mickey and his brother more interesting by the train journey subtitles and a convenience stop that had a bathroom reminiscent of the first Saw movie, the journey to Sepilok was made interesting with breath- taking views of Bornean mountains, draped in blankets of jungle. Eventually we arrived at the sanctuary and we witnessed the endangered orang-utans at feeding time. It was obvious that they had hidden the cute and fluffy baby ones because the ones we saw looked like Gollum, however, they were still a sight to behold and we were privileged to see these beautiful indigenous apes who in their current situation, might not be around for much longer

Georgina Hayes Year 13

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Winter template.indd 6 12/10/2012 12:23:17 PM FARRAGO | Trips & Visits Cataluña n the middle of Ramblas (a straight high street, and yet of the region as well as the cultural October, a group of we still managed to get lost!) looking at value of the Catalan language, which is four ‘A level’ Spanish various market stalls, we took the metro a kind of variation of normal Spanish. students traded the to see the Sagrada Familia, (which is We then drove to the town of Peniscola I rain and wind of not a play as one of us had thought in the neighbouring region of Valencia, Lincoln for the town of previously) a stunning cathedral where we walked through the cobbled Sant Carles, Cataluña in sunny Spain. In designed by Gaudi in the last century, streets to an old castle, admiring the spite of getting up in the middle of the and which is still in the process of being shops as we went. We also went onto night to get to the airport on time, the built today. Next we visited Parc Guell, the beach where those of us who were trip was a great success; as entertaining also designed by Gaudi, where we feeling brave dipped our toes into as it was educational. admired the views of the city the sea, which was surprisingly cold The first day was spent considering the sunny weather! investigating a market, selling all Sadly, the next day marked the end sorts of interesting things such as of our trip, and we drove to Reus clothes, gifts and Spanish churros, airport where we waved goodbye followed by a well-deserved siesta to Spain. After a flight during which to prepare us for the impending we questioned the sobriety of the ‘tapas crawl’. Returning to the hotel pilot (the landing was less than after a few plates of patatas bravas smooth), we were welcomed(!) back (and a particularly memorable to England by the gale force winds, incident involving a tortilla getting which were blowing so strongly that intimate with the floor) it was time they couldn’t open the back doors of to turn in. the plane. However, the next day was the All in all, it was a very memorable highlight of the trip – a day in and funny trip for everyone involved, Barcelona! After filling up on the and the students who took part delicious breakfast provided by the The final, full day of our trip consisted would like to express their thanks to hotel (when one member of the group of speaking to some local Spaniards Mrs and Mr Anderson and Mrs and Mr ate so much that we had to pretend about their lives in Cataluña, which Doyle for ensuring that we had such a that their plate was the communal was interesting and will be very useful great experience. rubbish plate), we set off on the two when we come to study the region in hour drive to Cataluña’s main city. the future as part of the A2 syllabus. We Franki Phillips & Polly Mason Year 13 After wandering down the famous Las learnt about the customs and traditions Ash Dickinson s part of the National bring poetry to life and make it more our Year 12 students tend to show an Poetry Day celebrations, interesting for younger people,” we interest and offer some new and funny writer, poet and comedy were told by Mrs Meggett, Head of ideas.” A performer Ash Dickinson English who organised the visit. “We His new book, ‘Slinky Espadrilles’ is now visited the English also hoped the day would show that available for purchase or to borrow Language and Literature AS students poetry can be modern, as Ash writes from the school library. and the Year 10 students for a poetry both very interesting and modern Katie Turner & Jessica Norfolk, Year 12 workshop on Friday 5th October. poetry.” He performed a selection of his own Ash Dickinson’s workshop gave the AS material, some of which had not been students an introduction to unseen performed before, as well as providing texts which will feature in the end of the opportunity for students to write year exam, something that is often their own poetry. found very difficult by students and so “I really enjoyed it,” said Catherine the workshop provided students with Williams, an AS Language and the opportunity to practice analysing Literature student who took part in the the unseen poetry. workshop. “It was a lot of fun and I think Can future students expect a visit from it’s really helped me to understand how Ash? “We think so,” said Mrs Meggett. to interpret unseen poetry.” “He’s been coming to the school for “The idea of the visit was to try and the past 5 years and enjoys coming, as 7

Winter template.indd 7 12/10/2012 12:23:18 PM FARRAGO | Trips & Visits Students in Parliament n 20th September, speak with Lord Norton of Louth, Year 12 and 13 “the United Kingdom’s greatest Government and living expert on parliament” O Politics students who specialises in studying were lucky legislature. He told us about how enough to visit the Houses of he became a Lord, the work the Parliament. After an early start House of Lords does and how the and the 7:30am train to London House differs from most Upper we arrived at King’s Cross. Then, Chambers in the world. We also having navigated the bustling discussed whether the House London crowds we made our way of Lords needs to be reformed, to the River Thames and stood in with Lord Norton putting forward awe at famous sights such as The a strong case to suggest that London Eye, The Battle of Britain change is not needed. Memorial and of course the Government and Politics student Houses of Parliament. Dom Partridge said that the Our first activity of the day was highlight of the trip was being a tour of Portcullis House and able to go into the House of the Houses of Parliament and, Commons as it was almost surreal after passing through rather to enter a room that famous. strict security checks, we entered Overall, we found the day a great one of the most recognisable don’t have enough people to agree experience as we were able to buildings in the world. Our tour on them. The difficulty in forming a further our understanding of how comprised of visiting all the coalition actually made us discover Parliament works and also discuss important parts of Parliament such some new found sympathy for this with an expert. as the Central Lobby. As Parliament Clegg and his coalition partners! Matt Evans & Aggie Hewitt Year13 was still in summer recess, we were After lunch in Parliament Square, we & 12 lucky enough to enter both the returned to the House of Lords to Houses of Commons and Lords and were amazed at how surprisingly small the chambers were. Other highlights of the tour included seeing Westminster Hall, famous for where the trials of Guy Fawkes and Charles I took place as well as where recent speeches have occurred from leaders such as Barack Obama. Next, we took part in an activity where we were split into groups and had to ‘form a coalition’. This involved working in either The ‘Purple Party’ or the ‘Silver Party’, who had to compromise on different policies, similar to the current government. Most groups managed to find a middle-ground which appealed to both parties. However, in real life, if two parties don’t manage to form a coalition, the leading party can form a minority government, but this makes it difficult to pass laws if they 8

Winter template.indd 8 12/10/2012 12:23:18 PM FARRAGO | Trips & Visits China

n August 17th, a group The night train from Beijing to Xi’an was the beautiful Yangtze River. of 10 sixth formers an experience to say the least; space Another early start took us to Shanghai, embarked on a once was something to be desired. Arriving a place of architectural wonder. Our O in a lifetime trip to in Xi’an, we were handed over to our first stop was the tallest building in the other side of the new tour guide Leo, who took us to see Shanghai, the Jin Mao Tower, and our world. Landing in Beijing, China we the ancient Terracotta Army. They were visit took us to the 88th floor with an were greeted by our tour guide, Lucy, truly magnificent, if not slightly eerie, observation deck for a 360° view. After where it seemed our school name each one a direct copy of a member of this, we had the opportunity for the had been lost in translation as we the emperor’s army. As the day came to first time to get dressed up for the were now the ‘William Fass School’. We a close, we took a 9 mile bike ride along evening meal. We were taken on a boat headed straight to the Beijing Olympic Xi’an city wall, where we were able to cruise along the river, where we were Park, viewing the unique ‘Bird’s Nest’ take in the wonderful views of both the subjected to the usual paparazzi that stadium and also encountering our first old and new parts of the city. couldn’t resist snapping a shot of us bombardment of the Chinese wanting Our next flight took us to Wuhan, with westerners. to take pictures with us. Our final day consisted of Over the first few days in visiting the Jade Buddha Beijing the William Fass Group Temple, walking down the visited the Temple of Heaven, most expensive shopping Tian’anmen Square and the street in China and visiting Forbidden City. The evening’s the 16th century gardens in events brought along an the centre of Shanghai, the acrobatic show, which Lucy relaxation of the gardens Whitlow was given the honour prepared us for our long of opening, hitting a button with flight home. a 500kg hammer, demonstrating The trip provided us with her unquestionable strength. a new perspective on Whilst in Beijing we also got to Chinese food and culture, see the renowned Giant Pandas from eating Peking duck at Beijing zoo and enjoyed a freshly carved, to eating an hectic Beijing Hutong tour on unknown meat which we rickshaws ending with a meal were later told was fox. This cooked for us in a local home. journey proved to be an The highlight of Beijing was without a very painful 5am start. After a day’s unforgettable experience and we can’t doubt climbing the Great Wall of China, journey to reach the Three Gorges Dam, thank Mr Mattley enough for organising one of the Seven Wonders of the World. we eventually realised the beauty and this memorable adventure to the East Chairman Mao himself famously said work that went into building the largest of Asia. that “you are not a man until you have dam project in the world. Mr Mattley walked on the Great Wall of China”, and was also able to get his geographical Emily Davis & Alice Thompson Year despite the gender bias in this quote hat on and tell us everything we 13 we all proved that we could tackle the needed to know about the dam. On the challenge and reached the highest journey back to Wuhan, we were able limit. to get a quick glimpse and a picture of

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Winter template.indd 9 12/10/2012 12:23:19 PM FARRAGO | Trips & Visits Shakespeare Schools his year a group of for half an hour as we were the Y8 and Y9 pupils second play to be shown. Our took part in the performance was amazing; the T Shakespeare best we had ever done! The Schools Festival second we got off the stage and on Wednesday 27th October there was a loud cheer, we had we performed the famous done it! Time for a quick interval Shakespeare production ‘A then we all got to sit at the back Midsummer Night’s Dream’ at the of the auditorium to watch the Drill Hall in Lincoln. remaining two shows. Before the final performance Finally we all got on to the the cast had the wonderful helped us to practice keeping stage for the last time whilst experience of meeting the Central our voices loud until the end of the Central School of Speech and School of Speech and Drama who performing a line. To do this we Drama gave feedback on all four of supported the cast workshop placed our hand at our mouths and the plays. All the rehearsals since on Tuesday 25th September. At extended our arms while we said May had been worthwhile and a the workshop we learnt various the line to make sure we finished special thank you to Mrs Blackbourn exercises to help us with our the line and projected properly. and Mrs Summers for the time and performance. One of my personal A technical rehearsal was held at effort they put in to getting us ready favourites was when we had a giant the Drill Hall on the morning of for the performance. It really was a inflatable ball, which we had to the performance. This gave us an magnificent experience! throw around the circle without opportunity to perform our play to . it touching the floor; the ball a different school also taking part. Emily Southall Year 8 representing the performance and We also experienced the lights and each of us representing the actors. sound effects for the first time! The point of this particular exercise LIGHTS CAMERA ACTION! The make- was to show that we had to keep up was on, hair done, audience full the performance going no matter and we were nervously waiting what happens. Another exercise to perform. We waited, in silence, Lest We Forget o enhance Year notes to assist with the upcoming 9s knowledge of topic. World War One the T History department The year group considered it to be arranged a talk by a valuable experience. One pupil an expert on the topic; with relics said the talk was “knowledgeable such as the Lee-Enfield rifle and and thorough”. Everyone came machine guns to log books and away filled with the knowledge to meal equipment, he helped us to excel in aspects of World War One, realise the hardships of a soldier’s and a deeper understanding of the day-to-day life. stress and danger which featured in an infantry man’s time serving. It was interactive, informative and interesting. Boys tried their hand Charlotte Pailing Year 9 at manoeuvring a rifle and the contents of a shrapnel bomb were passed round, while students took

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Winter template.indd 10 12/10/2012 12:23:27 PM FARRAGO | Anniversary 60th Anniversary

n 27th September this year the whole school went to Lincoln o Cathedral in order to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the foundation of our school. The school was opened on the site of RAF Dunholme Lodge which had been bought in 1946 for £600 by Rev William Farr, the vicar of Welton. He died in 1955 and the school was then named after him. We asked a number of guests who attended the service how they felt about the school, the service and how they thought the school has changed over the last 60 years. Angela White, Chair of Governors. because all four of my children have many young voices to be heard, the “The service was a very enjoyable gone through William Farr, and we spontaneity was brilliant. It just makes celebration and the unity of the school have fond memories of the staff and me so proud to think that over the last to recognise the achievements made all the events that they’ve taken part 40 years we’ve done that, I’m just so in the last sixty years was wonderful. in. The school is a fabulous part of the proud. So many changes have taken William Farr had real vision and passion community and it works to give the place over the last 60 years. Mr Sawyer to develop a place where children best possible education in the area.” changed the school significantly, from could receive a good education, and it’s The Chaplain, William Farr School. a secondary school with no exams, to thanks to his commitment that we have “The service at the Cathedral was really a school that has become thriving. The such a brilliant school here today. excellent; the student performances academic standards have definitely William Farr has changed and moved were great because it takes such risen, I believe I have to get this in forward so much in the last sixty courage and strength of character to here; it’s become an ‘outstanding’ years; turning from a village school sing in front of so many people. The school. Overall for me, it has been an into a place of education known soloists were particularly admirable, incredible privilege to carry on the nationwide. There’s been a lot of and the collaboration of staff and great legacy that Mr Sawyer left. I’d building development over the years students in the choir was very class William Farr as my other family, to accommodate more students; the enjoyable to watch and listen to.” such a wonderful group of young introduction of the sixth form shows Mr Strong, Former Head teacher people, I’m ever so proud of them. It’s how the school has continued to grow “It was a wonderful celebration; it was an outstanding school, with a national in popularity as it is recognised as a such an uplifting way to celebrate reputation for excellence. “ highly accomplished establishment. the last 60 years. There were so Mr Sawyer, Former Head teacher The school has been a part of my life “It was an honour to be invited back for such an occasion, the quality of the school as a community is fantastic, this was very much reflected through the cathedral service. The behaviour of the students is brilliant, they are so polite and the response from the community has been so good. The school has had such a positive influence on the children. I am just so proud to belong to such a community; pride is such a big thing. The students clearly have responded so well to their teaching, the way they communicate with one another is great to see. I am so pleased, I feel like I have done something for society, especially seeing how the school has progressed.” 11

Winter template.indd 11 12/10/2012 12:23:32 PM FARRAGO | Anniversary Cathedral Choir owards the end of the cathedral.” The choir was always fun last school year, Mrs to attend. We had a lot of laughs Rozier and Mrs Baker and enjoyed all the music that was t gathered together a chosen. group of students from Everyone put in a great deal of Years 7 to 13 to sing in the ‘Cathedral effort and really proved what Choir’. Practices were held once a William Farr students can achieve. week until the day of ‘William Farr’s The performance has hopefully 60th anniversary’. encouraged more students to We always thought it sounded want to join and take part in other good, with beautiful harmonies events that the choir will be in. The and dynamics. But this was nothing next feature being in the school’s compared to the amazing sound we ‘Christmas Concert’ to sing a few made in the Cathedral, we were just arrangements from various musicals surrounded by an overwhelming and Christmas songs. chorus. Andy Tallon said “It was If anyone is interested in joining the one of the highlights of the service” singing group, we rehearse every and Mrs Blackbourn thought “It was Friday at 1pm in I15 . absolutely delightful and angelic. The song was truly fitting to the Megan Baker & Flora Enright Year 10 The Future is Bright ith the sense of will always be a connection between long bond.’ Mr Stones thoroughly nostalgia floating them and the school.’ enjoyed the 60th Anniversary W in the air following Not only do the pupils of William service, and thought it was the the joyous 60th Farr have a connection with the perfect occasion to celebrate the Anniversary school, but the whole world, school’s sixty years of success. When celebration service, we sat down after the school achieved the asked if he had anything else to add in Mr Stones’ office to ask why he ‘Full International School Award’. he simply said; ‘The future is bright!’ thought William Farr was such The school has links with many a special school, and why it had countries via trips, exchanges and continued to grow and prosper over communication through ‘pen-pals’. the course of sixty years. This reinforces Mr Stones’ view that Firstly, he said, “Our school is all students should see themselves unique!” Why? Mr Stones feels a as a part of the wider community, part of the school, not just a Head as well as the fact that William Farr teacher. His philosophy is ‘education is so special for providing these with the students’ and he feels as if amazing opportunities. ‘I want our school achieves this; there is a the students to see themselves good relationship throughout the as global citizens: there are no school. ‘I like to see and work with physical or intellectual limits or the students as often as I can and boundaries they cannot go to.’ I want them to feel they are able Lastly, the students all have a to come and talk to me. I am really mutual support for each other interested in the future of all of our which you would not find in all pupils and would like to keep in schools, for example- the busking touch and know what they have stand raised £42 within a few done after leaving the school. Once weeks, and this will continue to they leave William Farr it isn’t over, grow. Mr Stones also wants to look I want to be in touch to see what at how past students can support they’ve done with their lives; there new ones, as William Farr is a ‘life 12

Winter template.indd 12 12/10/2012 12:23:34 PM FARRAGO | Anniversary 60 Years of Change eligious Studies provided a huge expansion of the performances such as Oliver and The main change Art department, allowing us to Peter Pan, giving all students the R within our department provide an even greater variety opportunity to get involved. would be the huge of tools and techniques for the Design & Technology expansion of the students. The quality of work often DT students are given many study of World Religions and the produced is breath-taking. opportunities to develop their inclusion of Philosophy & Ethics in Maths interest in the subject, whether it is the school curriculum, which has The quality of teaching and through showcasing their work at been received by the students with academic standard has been seen exhibitions, going on trips or taking great enthusiasm. to greatly improve over the last advantage of the many facilities Geography 60 years, currently with 90% of within the department. As the world around changes, students attaining A*-C at GCSE Music geography changes with it-as level. There are many students who Welton and Lincoln change they Drama have gone on to have music provide constant reference points. Not all schools teach Drama, so orientated careers, including a We pride ourselves on the fact that the fact that William Farr has it as successful career on the West End out of 3500 secondary schools, integral part of the curriculum is stage. Music at William Farr has only 200 of them enter more than in itself a great achievement. In expanded over the years, with the 100 students for GCSE geography 2006 the department moved from introduction of rehearsal rooms and William Farr is one of them. It Wolfson to Irving, where they and a range of new instruments. still appears today to be a popular now make use of the two drama The greatest addition to the choice amongst the students. studios. The drama department department has been the school’s Art now extends further than the radio station, which was opened in The opening of the Escher building curriculum, putting on annual 2010. “In My Day.....” ixty years of William The lessons were strict and the Dunholme, RAF Scampton, Scothern, Farr School has seen facilities were minimal, but despite Nettleham and Hackthorn to name a S a huge number of this, the pupils have lots of good few. Terence recalled how he had to pupils walk through memories! cycle every morning from Scothern, its doors. We come rain or shine. interviewed four pupils from the Mark also told us how most school who were there at the very lessons were in one classroom, and beginning. Meet Pat, Mark, Deryck sometimes, one teacher would be and Terence who started in 1952! trying to teach two classes at once! The experience that they had was Finally, we asked the ex-students very different from what ours is what they went on to do after today. Mr Wakerly was the head school. Terence said, “I went teacher, and the school was much on to Tech College and did an smaller in terms of its size; there engineering apprenticeship, and were just 128 children split into I’ve done engineering all my life”, four classes. Subject choices were and Pat told us how she went limited; options included English, “I remember some P.E. lessons that straight out to work. This is very Maths, Geography, P.E., R.E and we had on a field near Prebend different to our current Sixth Form, History; there were no languages, Lane. We walked there and it was most of who have applied, or will be no algebra in Maths, and only Rural absolutely freezing, so at the end, I applying, to University. Science. Pat described how the boys used to jump on the back of a coal It was a privilege to meet these also had to do Woodwork and the lorry to get back to school!” laughed ex-students and find out a bit about girls were taught Domestic Science. Deryck. their time at the school, and how “But we didn’t have homework or The pupils came from a selection of greatly is has changed since their exams!” Lucky things! primary schools, including Welton, day.

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Winter template.indd 13 12/10/2012 12:23:36 PM FARRAGO | Anniversary Through the Years 2000- Wolfson: Opened by 2008- Reception: Opened by Professor Nigel Paine; Chief Reverend John Saxbee PHD Bishop executive of the Technology of Lincoln & Rt. Reverand David Colleges Trust 11th October 2000 Rossdale MaMsc Bishop of Grimsby 2001- The school achieved the 30th September 2008 distinction of attaining the best 2010- The school radio was formed, comprehensive school A-level opened by BBC Radio Lincolnshire results in England. radio presenter Rod Whiting. 2004- Arkwright: Opened by Mrs 2011- P Strong resigned as head M Spencer Gregson OBE, cabinet teacher, to be replaced by A. Stones member for education, Lincolnshire Ba (Hon) Ma. County Council 6th February 2004 2011- William Farr became an 2004- Gallileo: Opened by his royal independent academy. highness Earl of Wessex, KCVO 2012 – New school badge 28th April 2004 2005- Halley: Opened by Councillor Spotlight created by Rachael Mrs Edna Chapman Chairman of Boddy, Rebekah Coates, Charlotte Lincolnshire County Council 14th Garfoot, Niamh Moore & Carina 1952- The school was opened on October 2005 Williamson Year 13 the site of RAF Dunholme Lodge, 2006- Received an ‘outstanding’ which had been bought in 1946 for award in every £600 by Rev William Farr, the vicar category in of Welton. He died in 1955 and the an OFSTED school was then named after him. inspection, 1952- C.W Wakerley Esq. became the best in the head teacher. country. 1955- C.W Wakerley Esq. resigned 2006- Irving: as head teacher. Opened by 1956- H.P.C North Bsc (Econ) Ms Evelyn became head teacher. Glennie OBE 1971- H.P.C North resigned, to be Percussionist replaced by B Sawyer Ba. & Bishop 1972- The school acquired of Lincoln comprehensive status. Wednesday 26th 1978- The sports hall was built. April 2006 1985- B Sawyer resigned as head 2007- The teacher. school changed 1986- P Strong Bsc (Hons) OBE its Technology became head teacher. College status, 1990- First chair lift installed for to become a disabled access. Science College. 1993- Darwin: English and Science 2007- Escher: departments destroyed by fire 24th Opened by Lord May 1992. Reopened by Bishop of Puttnam of Lincoln 15th March 1993 Queensgate CBE 1995- The sixth form was added to 14th March 2007 the school. 2008- Mrs 1996- Banks: Opened by Her Brittain, Head of Majesty the Queen 14th October History, received 1996 the Guardian 2000- The school signed up for ‘Teacher of the the latest education initiative; Year’ award. Technology College status. 14

Winter template.indd 14 12/10/2012 12:23:40 PM FARRAGO | Events Work Experience ork experience is a Police for my work experience because good opportunity I thought it would be very interesting for pupils to broaden and a good way to experience this field W their knowledge of the of work. The placement consisted of a world of work and gain huge range of things including; visiting practical experience in the workplace. the TV department, going to custody, It takes a lot of preparation to organise observing firearms and dog training and Mrs Johnson has this very stressful and visiting the media department. I role. To ensure we get the best possible learnt a lot of skills on my placement experience it is our job to make sure that I can use in my everyday life we go to a placement that will suit our such as; improved confidence, ICT future career ambitions. Placements skills and communication. I loved my varied from primary schools, the RAF, work experience and will remember it all the way to the police. forever. I (Annderley) went to Lincolnshire For my work experience I (Hannah) attended Ellison Boulters Primary School. I want to work with children work experience week and I shall use in the future, so this was a brilliant what I learnt in the years to come. placement for me. I got to know some Work experience is an amazing of the children quite well and it made opportunity and we’re sure everyone in me smile when they remembered my year 11 will agree with us when we say name after a few days. I learnt how to that it will stay with us forever and we communicate better with those who will take way not only good skills but a are a lot younger than me and what lot of good memories. patience really means. I was also able to improve my confidence of talking Hannah Roberts & Annderley Hill Year to the children and the staff at my 11 placement. I thoroughly enjoyed my An Ace Business Day! ver the years, many to build an innovative and attractive appealing, diverse (but also not too different presentations rollercoaster to both boggle and expensive) display units, which they’d and activities have amaze those who would ride it – prizes need to sell to the shops found at O graced our were awarded based on appearance various ends of the hall – the school on the team with the most money various Ace Days, but one at the resolution of the task stands out above the others would win the grand prize…a for its creativity, opportunities gigantic bag filled with a for a heap of fun, and delicious array of chocolate. teamwork-building skills All were desperate to emerge – Business Day. On Friday from the hall victorious, and 19th October 2012, Year 10 so card flew across the hall, were given the opportunity pens scribbled ferociously to experience the exciting and the shops were world of business, involving overloaded with products. some Apprentice-style And while one group grabbed tasks, passionate teamwork the much-desired glory, all and some delicious prizes had been given a fantastic – chocolate is a historically- experience of the business helpful motivator. The day world – it was described as began with an introduction to business, and length; it was intended to be “brilliant” and “really fun” by many, before ‘wuzzles’ (word search puzzles) marketed as ‘the longest rollercoaster and would certainly be something absorbed the minds of over 250 Year in Europe’. And the final task was recommended to the younger years! 10s – all desperate to win, and no one the most important of them all – a Alan Sugar, Year 10 is coming for you! wishing to settle for second best. parodied version of Alan Sugar ordered Following this, teams were required the teams to construct aesthetically- Andy Tallon Year 10

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hildren in Need takes from 7SJE said” I like Pudsey Bear and Altogether the school raised £3018.77, place every year and Blush and I think that Children in Need the cake stall at break time raised £137 C this year’s event was on is a brilliant cause as it helps so many and at the bandstand at lunchtime, Friday 16th. The appeal disadvantaged children and young £88.16. WOW!! helps disadvantaged children and people all over the UK”. Even though we raised so much there young people all across the UK. This year the school held many events are still so many children and young We asked some Year 7 students what to raise money for Children in Need. people out there that need our help. they like about Children in Need. Some of the events included: cake We thank those that donated, in any Sam Dickinson from 7SJE said” I think stalls at break time, a football match way shape or form, in school or outside Children in Need is good because between the Yr11 and Yr12 boys, and of school; we hope you will do so next I like the reason why people make performances from students on the year too, as an even bigger total would fools of themselves and all do it for bandstand at lunch. Also the Sixth be fabulous. charity. I also like Pudsey Bear”. Also Formers dressed up as their childhood Matilda Troughton & Rachel Benson another Student Kathryn Edwards heroes from television or books. Year 7 Movember ovember has Higham, Mr Hamilton seen a busy and even Mr Stones month of got involved. On the N fundraising 30th November there for William was a Mo Sale and Cake Farr staff and students. Not Sale in Irving Foyer at only have we raised money lunchtime and even a for Children in Need; we Finger Tash Salon. A big have also supported a thank you to everyone number of other charities. who donated. Our forces cadets took December also looks time to raise money for set to continue in The Royal British Legion a charitable vein as by selling poppies and the Candy Cane sale poppy pins around the will raise money for school. Approximately 70 Barnabas Hospice & boxes were collected for longer complete without Mr Mattley’s Teenage Cancer Trust the Operation Christmas Child shoebox Movember appeal! For the month of and the sale of tickets for the Sixth appeal! Well done and a big thank you Movember men around the world Form Panto tickets will go towards the on behalf of Mrs Rawson. grow Moustaches to raise money and Scoliosis Campaign Fund. Of course the month of November is no awareness of Prostate and Testicular Mrs Blackbourn Cancer. This year Mr Mattley, Mr 16

Winter template.indd 16 12/10/2012 12:23:49 PM FARRAGO | Events Equestrian Excellence n August 30th 2012 win. We all gave it our best shot and Lauren Moore, Naomi tried not to let our nerves get the Banks, Andrew better of us. Only 3 people on the O Morvinson and myself team needed to go clear to win, so (Emma Sanders) when we found out that our third took part in a team event for show person had gone clear we went jumping at Burghley. There were 37 absolutely mental, we had won! It teams of 4 all together, some Pony was one of the best moments of clubs had more than one team, our lives, and unquestionably one but we were the one team there to of the proudest. We thanked our support The Burton Hunt. team instructor Ian Bennett for the We all completed the first round, in amazing job he had done with us In Class 1 the results were as follows: which everyone did really well and and for supporting us all the way. William Farr came in 1st place, with altogether came out with only 4 After we had calmed down slightly Hannah Knight, Kit Slater, Isabelle faults. We didn’t realise that there was we were then told to go into the main Deague and Isabella Hebborn. The only one other team also on 4 faults, ring for the prize giving presented Individual over 14 Champion was while all the others were on 8 and by Mary King, an Olympic Three-Day Hayley Graham (3rd place in the above, which meant that William Farr Eventer, which was such an honour! whole class), 5th place was Chloe was in the top two teams to jump off. However it was slightly embarrassing Railton and in 6th place was Isabelle We hadn’t expected that at all so we as none of our horses wanted to Deague. were just ecstatic! stand still, so poor Mary had a hard In Class 2 the results were as follows: Just as we had begun to recover from job trying to get the rosettes and William Farr came in 2nd place with, the shock of already being in the top trophies to us. But, anyway, it was an Beth King, Sian Owen, Allanah Mayo two, we had to jump our final round, amazing day and we were absolutely and Fraiser Cooke. the deciding round I guess you could over the moon and so grateful for In Class 3 the results were as follows: call it. So, knowing that we couldn’t everyone who had supported the Team B, Sian Owen, Fraser Cooke and do any worse than second; this took a team. We hope to go back next year William Deague, were unplaced and bit of pressure off the team. However, and come out on top then too! (Hope 3rd place was awarded to William Farr, knowing that we could also win made I haven’t jinxed it for us now…) with Martha Hayes, Emily Tarantino us very competitive. William Farr However the William Farr team didn’t and Rosie Earnden. was the second team to jump, and stop there; we also went to the NSEA In Class 4 the results were as follows: the first team came out with 8 faults, schools challenge qualifier in October William Farr placed 3rd, with Emily meaning we were the only team on 4, and came out with amazing results Tarantino, Martha Hayes, Rosie and if we kept it that way we would there too! Earnden and Emma Sanders. Finally, in class 5 the results were as follows: Lincolnshire County Champion, 1st place awarded to Andrew Morvinson and 4th place to Emma Sanders. So overall it was a fulfilling day and everyone was really pleased. It was an even greater honour that the Head Teacher himself, Mr Stones, could be there with us to share in our victory! We cannot thank the team leader Mrs Parry and everyone else who has helped organise the Equestrian Team enough! Thank you to everyone, we are really grateful, and we hope to impress you again soon when our next event comes up, and don’t worry, we will be sure to keep everyone informed. Emma Sanders Year 12

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Winter template.indd 17 12/10/2012 12:23:49 PM FARRAGO | Events Construction Week n the 10th and the and also worked on their teamwork Alice Crooks stated that “it was really 11th of October, the DT skills. Students appreciated the good, and I would recommend it to department kindly took opportunity to acquire new skills and anyone that gets the opportunity to O 60 Year 9 and go”, and that her favourite 10 pupils to the activity was painting and Lincolnshire Showground, in decorating, as she was order to take part in an event able to learn about new known as Construction Week. painting techniques. And It was run by the educational it certainly wasn’t just the business partnership with students who appreciated Lincoln College, Simon’s the day, trainers and Group, Lindum Group, instructors all commented Jacksons and Gelders, to on how well the William name but a few. Farr students had worked Students took part in an at the problem-solving array of fantastic activities and teamwork tasks including: painting and throughout the two days. decorating; mud wall It was a day thoroughly building; path-laying and enjoyed by all! bridge-building. Over the two days, they were also given the chance to experience form friendships with students from Andy Tallon & Charlotte Jones Year 10 project management and planning other schools. Sixth Form Integration riginally the prospect paired forms we played games, such enjoyed the games and the fun of a year 12 and 13 as blind egg and spoon races, tug of the two year groups coming O ‘bonding session’ was of war, dodge ball and the ‘Island’ together. They also said, “ The first awkward, both year game. This encouraged teamwork session was informative and helpful groups were and communication. in many ways, however the dreading it, so when afternoon was more fun Friday 21st September and we were able to relax approached we were not and enjoy it more.” looking forward to the Mr White, Head of Year day ahead. 12, said the he thought Surprisingly, the day the afternoon was very wasn’t as much of a beneficial and was disaster as we were pleasantly surprised at anticipating. To begin how both year groups the afternoon, a Year 13 took the afternoon was paired with a Year seriously. There is such 12 to discuss ‘Sixth Form a difference in the study Life’ and how to handle room, with the two exam stress. The Year groups integrating so a 13s were supportive and huge thank you to Mrs encouraging; they offered Munro and Miss Shaw for plenty of advice and were organising the afternoon. approachable, making it much more Rachel Morran and Ollie Windle We believe that the afternoon was relaxed. of Year 12 said, “It gave us a good constructive and interesting, and Then came the part everyone had understanding of what life would we would be happy to make it an been waiting for, Period 5. We made be like as we progressed from AS annual event. our way down to the sports hall to A2.” They thought we should Eleanor Haigh & Harriette Maddison where activities awaited. In our definitely do it again as they Year 12

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Winter template.indd 18 12/10/2012 12:23:53 PM FARRAGO | Features A Dose of Davies... In a Manger his term’s Dose of Davies if vegetables get all too much for is a Christmas special, eating; you could always convert and therefore you them in to musical instruments T would have thought as done by the London Vegetable that this article would assume a Orchestra. Thereafter, the Christmas humorous and light hearted feel. songs we know and love could However, as Christmas nears, an resonate up and down the school important issue has been brought corridors. to my attention. Every December, But what if I don’t like carrots? I in years past, many of us have hear you cry! Well, do not despair enjoyed form Christmas parties and as there are many other vegetables the inordinate amount of food that that match them handsomely. The goes with each one. However, in cucumber is set for a comeback as is this decadence we have forgotten the stick of celery, and coupled with one of the great yuletide traditions. some hummus you are set to have a An institution which, in days past, whale of a time! was cherished above all else: The I am not suggesting that the only humble carrot stick. Food; it is not without its criticisms. things that should be eaten at The problem the carrot faces is the The food is extortionate in price parties are carrots, far from it. But commercialism of today. I can bear and by the time it gets to Welton it when you tuck into your pizzas and witness to this as only last year my needs defrosting. your crisps this Christmas, spare a form, 11SAC, ordered a colossal This is also the case with many other thought for the humble carrot stick; amount of pizza. Although pizza types of ‘party food’ and when you it is time that its redundancy came has its pros, being mainly that they stack them up against the carrot to an end. And on that note, Merry are delicious and that there are few it wins every time. Who could say Christmas! other times in life when you feel as no to a root vegetable that makes if you should be presenting Man vs. you see in the dark? And besides, Joe Davies Year 11 Arkwright Scholarship ast year four put his money towards materials students were for his project work, books and selected to apply resources or even a trip or a L for the Arkwright laptop. The Arkwright Scholarship Scholarship, has also paid for him to attend a highly recognised and a residential course run by the prestigious award for the high Engineering Development Trust achieving Design & Technology next year. student with a keen interest in During October half term, Jake engineering. picked up the award at the Students should be looking Institute of Engineering and to study Systems & Control Technology in London along Technology (Electronics and with 200 students from across Mechanisms) or Product Design, the country. Jake wants to read test score Jake Toth (12LAN) was with Maths and Physics – the best Engineering at University and is asked to interview at Loughborough combination for an engineer. The currently looking into Electrical and University. In July a letter was sent applicants had to write a complex Mechanical Engineering as his focus. congratulating Jake on his hard application form and pass a design Jake joins a small group of four work and success throughout based problem solving test which William Farr students, three of which the process, awarding him the tested a range of high level thinking have been over the last three years. scholarship of £600 over his two- skills which were both marked Well done Jake! year course in Systems and Control externally. Technology at A-Level. Jake can Based on his application form and Mr Price 19

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mnesty International good for the group to play a part, was formed in 1961 by whenever justice is done. The reaction A Peter Beneson, a lawyer, of some of the people that have been after reading about “The imprisoned for speaking their minds Forgotten Prisoners” of has been terrific; it gives them a huge Portugal, who were imprisoned for morale boost to know that they have raising a toast to freedom. Fifty-one international support.” years and three million supporters The most high profile case amnesty has later, Amnesty International has been involved in was the case of Aung grown into one of the world’s premier San Suu Kyi, a Burmese democracy human rights organizations. Amnesty campaigner, who was placed under has campaigned across the world house arrest for decades by the Military on issues ranging from the plight Junta. She was released a few years of “prisoners of conscience” (those ago, and Amnesty campaigned non- who are imprisoned for their political stop for her.” beliefs) and atrocities committed Amnesty Young Reporter throughout the world, such as the The annual Young Human Rights genocide in Darfur. Reporter competition has started, Mr Speck runs the William Farr to prisoners of conscience and other and is open to all students at William Amnesty International group which victims. We also have an annual cake Farr School. Budding journalists can meets every Monday at 1pm in C2. sale which raises a lot of money for the highlight a human rights issue in up to He told me, “It’s open to anyone; we organisation.” 500 words, with the prospect of your do a variety of things, writing letters Mr Speck feels that it is important to article being published in the ‘Guardian’ on behalf of the unjustly treated, get involved because it really can make or other national publications, and asking for fair trials, signing petitions. a difference. He said that, “there are a prestigious awards ceremony in We’ll be starting our annual greeting people all over the world who have London in May 2013, so get writing! card campaign just before Christmas, been let out of prison all because of which sends messages of solidarity Amnesty International, and it feels Dominic Partridge Year 13 Reggie Clemons ne of the human rights A review into Clemons’ case has been issues currently of focus underway since 17th September to for Amnesty International determine whether or not his death O is the case of American sentence stands. You can show Reggie Clemons, who has your support for Clemons and the spent almost two decades on death commuting of his death sentence in row, despite the prosecution in his case two ways. You can send Clemons a agreeing that he didn’t commit the card, showing your support for him and crime for which he has been convicted. letting him know people are fighting Clemons was sentenced to death as an for his cause. Alternatively, you can sign accomplice in the 1991 murder of two a petition to stop Clemons’ execution, young white women, Julie and Robin just one flaw in Clemons’ case. which can be found on the Amnesty Kerry, who plunged from the Chain The U.S. death penalty is heavily biased International website, along with of Rocks Bridge into the Mississippi by race, in particular the race of the the address of where to send cards River. Clemons was arrested as part of a victim. In Clemons case, the murder to Clemons. This petition takes only group of four, with two other members victims were white, the three convicted moments to fill out, and every name of the group – Marlin Gray and Antonio defendants were black, and two of the that’s added can have a large impact. Richardson - being sentenced to death. crucial witnesses were white. Moreover, The only white member of the group, blacks were disproportionately Robert Willows-Chamberlain Year 13 Daniel Winfrey, pled guilty to a lesser dismissed during the jury selection, offence and became a key witness in resulting in an unrepresentative their prosecution and has since been jury given St Louis’ sizeable black released from prison. This highlights population.

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Winter template.indd 20 12/10/2012 12:23:54 PM FARRAGO | Features New Challenges his year has been a real to perform in his memory. rollercoaster for our Having designed the route originally nation in the world of for the air ambulance, I would use the T cycling; from the success same route and visit three airbases of the British team at the along the way; Scampton, Coningsby London Olympics to the retirement of and Waddington. With the odds against Chris Hoy, one of the most successful me as the weather was poor on the Olympians of all time. As well as day with heavy rain, ice and visibility Bradley Wiggins winning the Tour issues; wet, stressed and on the verge de France and the controversy that of exhaustion, the distance was surrounded Lance Armstrong. completed. Allowing me to confirm to This July, I decided to undertake new my sponsors that their donations had challenges and wondered how I’d value! An estimated £800 was raised, go about giving back to the wider and I would like to thank everyone from community. These ideas and my I’d undertaken as a cyclist. school who sponsored me. enthusiasm soon became reality as The Castle to Coast 100 triggered the Looking back and learning from my I was faced with one of the hardest beginning of my charity ridden season experiences, I would urge anyone experiences of my life. With three of my and the work I would undertake this to get involved in giving back to the Dads work colleagues; James, Will and year. The following months after this community, as you never know when Richard, I embarked on the Castle to first ride my uncle, Stephen Bradford, you yourself could need assistance from Coast 100 for Lincolnshire Youth Sports fell ill with cancer and passed away. a particular charitable organisation, association. In July, we set off from the Determined, I took it upon myself to big or small, your donation will always Lindum cricket ground with the burden undergo a 68 mile course in November matter. of 100 miles to complete in less than 8 which would be the real pinnacle of my hours. The experience became one of cycling season, not competitively, but Ben Bradford Year 12 the most emotionally draining events as a personal deed that I felt necessary Open Evening illiam Farr is always bucket, and just like that – they’d come Farr”, as a result of the night they’d enthusiastic about alive. experienced. A Year 10 student stated welcoming its potential Dissections of human organs in that the vibe in the Art Department W new students, and Science were somewhat horrifying, was “phenomenal”, and the wonderful nothing displays that but unchangeably attention-grabbing selection of artwork completed by more clearly than the magnificent – the whole Science department held current students astounded all of those outing that is Open Evening. This a selection of various experiments who set their eyes upon it. year it took place on Thursday and tests going on that left could-be- The evening ended up as a massive 27th September from 6pm to 8pm, students wide eyed and smiling (or success, and parents and possible attracting hundreds of primary school in some cases cringing), their minds students alike had nothing but praise children from all around Lincolnshire. brimming with the thoughts of being for William Farr. Sonya Bannister William Farr School gave many young able to do these things when they thought it was “really good”, and children the opportunity to be as come to William Farr. another parent considered it “a excited as possible about the prospect The music department left visitors brilliant evening”, and his daughter has of being admitted to one of the best humming and tapping their feet as subsequently applied for William Farr. schools in the country, and most of all the big band rehearsed swing and Charlotte Jones & Andy Tallon Year 10 – the school just wanted them to enjoy jazz numbers - Adam Windle, cornet themselves. player in Year 10, said, “It was good As 6 o’clock drew nearer, Drama sets and everybody liked the performance. were readied, games were prepared There was a steady stream of people in Maths, and even the bubbling test coming through watching and many tubes in Science seemed excited about enquired about music lessons .” the evening ahead! Once guided Just a few buildings down in Banks, through the foyer by a waiting student a brilliant display of Plains Indian life guide, the many Year 6 students and took place, drawing large crowds of their parents were greeted by a group visitors, all of which Flora Enright – of living statues – all they had to do one of the Plains Indians – thought was put some money in a donation were “very enthusiastic about William

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Winter template.indd 21 12/10/2012 12:23:59 PM FARRAGO | Science College Inspiring CERN s part of the A level as we were doing a lot of travelling, the magnets, a quarter, a half and a Physics course, Head everyone on the trip was a bit tired round 1000. The guide that my group of Physics, Mrs Hill, but we soon woke up as we arrived had was very insistent that if we took A pioneered the first ever in what appeared to be just a very away nothing else, we should know school trip to the CERN industrialised town, but the tram that the magnets don’t accelerate the laboratory in Geneva, Switzerland, stops labelled “CERN” assured us protons they curve them around the home of the Large Hadron Collider otherwise. LHC, they use an electrostatic field (LHC), the largest particle accelerator to accelerate them. Are we clear? in the world. For those amongst us Magnets curve the protons. Okay? who haven’t a clue what any of this Okay. is, stick with me as I give a (hopefully) Next we looked around an exhibition simple summary. If you already in the main building, all about know all this feel free to skip the next the history at CERN, the different paragraph. experiments conducted using Alright, hopefully you paid attention the LHC and some science-y stuff to your chemistry teacher and at too. Because the LHC is located least know that everything is made 100 metres below ground and it is of atoms, and know that these atoms impractical to take 40 students down have a nucleus, and you might there where there isn’t a great deal of know that this nucleus is made up air, they had put a decommissioned of two types of sub-atomic particles section of the LHC in the exhibition called Protons and Neutrons. Now for us to look at. They also built the Scientists all over the world were very surroundings to scale so we could see happy with this theory when they what it was like. As we’re such serious proved it and, providing you aren’t Physicists when we saw the cross- at A Level Physics yet, so are you. section of the magnet we didn’t awe BUT there are yet smaller particles After a short introduction to at the scientific wonder and human that make up sub-atomic particles the goings on at CERN and the achievement, no - all we saw was a called Elementary Particles and these experiments at the LHC, they split smiley face! are quarks and leptons, and these us into smaller groups and first gave Katherine Furlong Year 12 are what the Scientists at CERN are us a tour of the Magnet testing looking for and investigating. By facility Hall. I know that doesn’t accelerating proton ions (called sound too impressive but there are Hadrons) and colliding them, usually 1232 magnets in the LHC and they with lead ions, in a very large ring, 100 all have to be tested to make sure metres underground, and recording they work properly as they are really the different particles and energy very important to keep the protons given out by these collisions, they can in a circle. In fact we were shown a find them. wall outside that had plaques on to After very little sleep the day before commemorate testing an eighth of Whisby Nature Park n the 18th and 19th The day was split into 2 sections. and coffee which everyone was very of September, Year 13 In the morning, we focused on a grateful for) we returned to the great biologists made their qualitative task. The Whisby Nature outdoors to carry out the second O annual visit to Whisby Park Education Officer (Adrian practical assessment. Much to the Nature Park. The purpose Royston) taught us some of the key disappointment of everyone who of the trip was to carry out 2 practical skills involved, such as quadrat use, had brought wellies with them, we skills assessments, which, together and then we were released into the didn’t actually have to go into the with an evaluative task, make up park. Once the assessment task was lake. However, the warm weather and 10% of the final A2 grade. It is also completed, and all the pencils that fresh air made up for this and the trip one of the few opportunities to do had been dropped into the nettles was enjoyed by all. biological fieldwork outside of the had been retrieved, we returned to Alexandra Burkitt, Year 13 school grounds. the centre. After lunch (and the tea 22

Winter template.indd 22 12/10/2012 12:24:02 PM Farrago Sport Cricket Champions ear 7 Cricketers are Newton, Elise Keyworth and Matt Ward tactics alongside Mr Strange was key Lincolnshire County who all chipped in with vital wickets. to our success and, last but not least, Y Champions (again!) Special mention for our captain / credit to Dek Binnington – who led Following victories over wicketkeeper Tom Gregory whose with bat and ball this year. The star all- North Axholme Academy, calm captaincy and development of rounder seemed to take special relish Healing CS, The Lincoln Priory in the destruction of the Priory and Boston Grammar School in – with bowling figures of 4 for the final, Year 7 were eventually 1 amidst the 12 all out rout, crowned Lincolnshire U12 whilst still managing to hit the Champions in September. This is winning four runs. the third time in four years that Thank you lads – you made Mr an U12 or U13 team has carried Strange a very happy teacher away the County Championship. / coach. I look forward to this The whole team contributed year’s Year 7’s contribution to hugely to our success. However, the U12 / U13 teams. I hear we credit should go to our bowlers have some talented cricketers! who in bowling out the opposition for low scores made Mr Strange the batsmen’s job very easy this year. So well done to; Sam Cross Country Success ross Country and William had powerful opposition however this 1-2 finish in the Intermediate boys Farr School is a match did not deter them. Across the board race, with Josh Parker coming 2nd and made in heaven. Year we had students proudly flying the Will Ryan Bond coming 1st! These fantastic C in, year out the pupils Farr flag and as per usual, remarkable podium finishes put Will Farr soaring of our school brave the results were achieved. Representing the in the overall leader boards. The Under fierce weather and harsh girls, Year 7’s Abigail Small came in 1st 13 Girls team came 1st, along with the terrain that the joys of outdoor running place in her Under-13’s race, followed Under 13 Boys team who also captured bring, and still manage to qualify the top spot. In the junior for the District trials, but better leader boards Will Farr’s girls yet, produce exceptional results. managed 3rd and the boys 3rd Every year the Will Farr athletes also. Lastly the intermediate excel, winning countless races, girl’s leader board saw Will Farr and this year was no exception. narrowly miss out, coming 2nd, On Tuesday 27th of November, however the intermediate boys Will Farr’s brightest young were able to clinch the gold in runners made the trip to the their overall standings. South Common in Lincoln to, A massive congratulation once again, compete fiercely goes to everyone who in the Lincoln & Gainsborough competed in this year’s District District X-C Championships. To Championships. Once again, qualify for this event, students William Farr has shown its needed to come in the top 3 remarkable superiority at these at House Cross Country and so cross country races, managing only the very best of William to find many excellent athletes, Farr’s spectacular long distance which begs the question, is runners were chosen for the there something in the water? team. Facing representatives from every up with Year 11’s Rebekah Ward coming Billy Truswell Year 12 secondary school in Lincoln and 3rd in her Intermediate girl’s race. The Gainsborough, Will Farr’s Year 7 – 11s boys then followed suit with a fantastic 23

Winter template.indd 23 12/10/2012 12:24:08 PM Farrago Sport Fantastic Football illiam Farr’s Sixth Form boast a history W of fantastic sporting excellence and their boy’s football teams have always been at the forefront of the school’s achievements. This year’s Sixth Form team were hoping for much of the same success as previous years and set out on the 2012 National Schools Cup run with high hopes. The team set out on their campaign with their first game against St. Peter and St. Pauls. The team flourished from the start whistle, and comfortably sealed a 3-0 victory with goals from Daniel Elliot, Lewis Richards and Leo Burke, showing great promise for the following games. The second round saw the Will Farr the box by ‘apparent’ defender Danny of the previous game, they knew they squad make the long trip north to Hull Lea brought down the Hessle winger were capable of a comeback. This to play Hessle High School and Sixth resulting in a penalty. If the spot kick came in the form of two fantastic Lewis Form. A shaky start from the Will Farr were to be scored, the game would run Richards goals, miraculously levelling team caused them to go a goal down into extra-time and possible penalties the game at 2-2 with not long to go. in the early minutes. They managed however a miraculous, strong right Will Farr were on top, however the to eventually find their feet yet Hessle hand by goalkeeper James Peachman game was snatched from their grasp in doubled their lead just before half-time, sealed the victory for Will Farr, leaving the dying minutes when a controversial making hopes for a win seeming ever the Sixth formers overjoyed and Danny penalty decision was awarded to the doubtful. The second half however was Lea very much relieved. Sheffield team, by the referee, who is a complete contrast to the first. After The third round of the cup could surely also our very own Mr Rice! The decision an inspiring team talk, the team came not live up to the drama of the second; proved fatal as High Storrs netted out with flair and vigour. Dominating however this was certainly not the the penalty and the final whistle was throughout the park, it was not long case. The team faced High Storrs of shortly blown, securing the game at before the score was all tied at 2-2. Sheffield on Wednesday 17th October. 3-2, and ending Will Farr’s hopes of a Daniel Elliot’s self-titled ‘screamer’ High Storrs started very strong, cup title. The Sixth Formers showed then put Will Farr into the lead at 3-2. showing their strength and talent grit and determination throughout the In the dying minutes of the game, throughout the field and by half time competition, however just fell short. more drama was to come. The hopes had netted two goals against William There’s always next year! of a third round tie were seriously Farr. This setback didn’t leave the team compromised when a rash challenge in downhearted, and with the memories Billy Truswell & Danny Lea Year 12 team. Adam Bridle said he thought that Year 7 footballers this year. he Year 7 football trials this year’s Year 7 squad was going to be Mr Willett picked the team and they started on Monday 10th the best ever. He also thought that the had their first football game against T September and lasted football trials were really fun. We also North Kesteven on Thursday 11th until Wednesday 13th, and asked Chloe Brocklesby and she told us October and won 5-2! Since then so the Year 7s had only three days to that the football trials were really good the team have gone on to play King impress Mr Willett. Many were very and very enjoyable. She also said that Edward’s where they won 4-2, with hopeful about getting into the team, we have a good chance of winning. Harry Pickett scoring all 4 goals! unfortunately only 14 of the pupils During the trials the group was split Congratulations to the Year 7 team could get a place, and so they were all into two teams to play a match, and who are so far unbeaten. Clearly they going to strive for their best. tested on their individual abilities. are a fantastic team who are hopefully We interviewed some students about Jake Holt, another eager competitor, going to go far this season. the football trials, and asked them thought it was a very fair and what they thought and if they have enjoyable way to pick the team. He Aaron Langley & Tom Maddison Year 7 high hopes for the year 7 football believes that there are a lot of talented 24

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