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The Phoenix Collegiate Newsletter Summer 2014 Edition No: 13

GeoPost Dragons Den Head Teacher, Gary Hill welcoming 2014 Dwain McDonald, CEO of GeoPost UK Ltd.

This year’s GeoPost Dragons Den event took place on The entire event was planned and managed by our Tuesday 24th June. dedicated year 11 and 6th form students. They It was attended by Dwain McDonald, CEO of GeoPost included Sapna Sandhu, Katie Walker, Maringlena UK Ltd together with his senior management team Sula, Dale Britton, Yesim Bekir and Rohan Chumber. and directors. For more information and photos please visit our Phoenix website. The event was a huge success. Over 140 year 10 Business Studies students took part. They presented their Business Plans to the Dragons which comprised of managers and directors from GeoPost UK Ltd.

Return dates for September 2014 IN THIS EDITION Pupils return to Phoenix on Tuesday 2nd September 2014 Governors...... page 2 Year 7 pupils to arrive at 8.40am and report to the school hall Academies news...... pages 2-9 Years 8 pupils to arrive at 10.15am and report to their tutor Key Stages news incl Years 9, 10 & 11 pupils to arrive at 11.25am and report to their tutor Duke of Edinburgh...... pages 9-12 Year 12 students to arrive on Pastoral news...... page 13 Tuesday 2nd September at 10.15am and report to the school hall Visits...... page 14

Year 13 students to arrive on Sports update...... pages 15-16 Tuesday 2nd September at 11.25am and report to the Sixth Form centre

www.aspirebelievesucceed.com 1 Summer 2014 Results Days English Thursday 14th August GCE Results: Year 12 and 13 from 9.00am Thursday 21st August GCSE Results: Year 11 and Year 12 re-sits from 9.00 am Year 10 from 10.30 am Collection of Results Whilst most students collect their results we appreciate that this is not always possible. Results can be posted or collected on their behalf by prior written arrangement only. Posted results will require a stamped addressed envelope of A5 size with the candidate number written in the top left hand corner. Literacy Update

Renaissance Reading is flourishing around the school this year, with more students than ever receiving certificates for excellent progress. The following Governors students are Word Millionaires (they have read over a million words this year): Ellen Turton, Simona Herakova, Chaianne Frizzell, Leah Longstaff, Halimah Shahpal, Alyssa Riley, Bethany Perry, Lynnel Masangkay, Megan McDermott, Heather Lippitt Ayana Bogle, Renesha Hodgson, Davinder Kular, Jaipreet Guron, Eunice Olaniyi, Parent governor Matthew Johns and Fern Bunta Finn. Heather took on the role of Parent Governor in 2010, We have also seen some students reach the two million word mark: Aadel she was a former pupil at Menzies High School Semmoudi and Daisy Nock. Special praise goes to Bardia Dodangeh in Year 7, during the 1970’s and she has always lived in the who has reached the exceptional milestone of three million words! area. The tutor group winners from half term five are: 10O1 with 669,693 words, 9H1 She enjoys travelling and spending time with her with 1,499,012 words, 8N2 with 927,484 words and 7P1 with 1,771,750 words. family. Congratulations to all of these groups! Heather is married and has a son who currently attends the school and has always wanted the best for pupils from a parents’ perspective. She feels very positive and privileged to be involved in the ongoing success of the Phoenix Collegiate.

David Poole MA, HRM, FCipd – Director of HR & Training – GeoPost UK Ltd (DPD) Responsible for Teaching and Learning (Teachers Pay & Performance management process, curriculum, quality assurance framework development, literacy and numeracy) David joined GeoPost nearly six ago and is based in the Smethwick Headquarters. Before this he was Den-building activity the HR Director for Novartis Pharmaceuticals. Prior to this David was the Global Employee Development Director based in the USA. He lived there with his family for nearly 5 years. GeoPost UK Ltd has a passion to help the communities in which they operate as a business, and particularly interested in focussing their attention on an individual school, hopefully in making a significant positive impact. The Phoenix Collegiate was an obvious choice for GeoPost and David is delighted to have been accepted as a Governor for the school with special responsibility for the improvement of teaching standards. In addition to being a Governor, GeoPost helps in many other ways, which includes: Braving the great British weather for Student Enrichment Day back in June, • Offering Work Experience places pupils took part in a den-building activity where teamwork and organisational • Dragons Den projects for Business Studies skills were a must! Having crash landed on a desert island inhabited by man- • Managers lead many classes relating to Business Studies eating, wild beasts, pupils worked in groups to pitch their dens before they were savaged by the predators lurking in the thick forest! • Guarantee to hire at least 2 Apprentices each year Competing against each other, the teams fought to secure their shelters before • Organising employees to spend time redecorating parts of the school. their rivals. The Year 9 and Year 10 pupils showed excellent teamwork skills and David is particularly interested in hearing from students direct – so he valiantly battled the rain to successfully build their dens. However, it was the periodically arranges to meet groups of students whenever he visits the school, Year 8 pupils who were triumphant, proving that it is possible to work alongside and listens to their concerns and areas where the school needs to improve. people you wouldn’t normally to reach a shared goal. Well done, Phoenix pupils! (Miss Roper, Miss Foster, Mr Turner and Mr Uppal)

2 www.aspirebelievesucceed.com Rescued… Key Stage 3 Author Visit During the induction days here at Phoenix, Year 6 On Friday 20th June we had a visit from children’s author students took part in a creative writing competition entitled Chris D’Lacey. Chris told us that D’Lacey was his wife’s ‘Rescued.’ These Year 6 explorers really did impress us maiden name but because it was such a lovely name when with their imagination, dedication and talents, resulting they got married he decided to change his name instead of in us spending many hours deliberating over who our his wife changing hers. Chris has been writing books for winners will be. For the top three positions, there were children for over 30 years and this was his second visit to many contenders, showing us that the calibre of students our school. Chris’s first book to be published was called Fly coming to Phoenix is exceptional and we want to thank our Cherokee Fly and was shortlisted for the Carnegie book prize. feeder schools for doing such a wonderful job with them He told us it was based on a true event that happened to him beforehand. when he was walking through a park, and found a pigeon Unfortunately, we will not be revealing the top three with a broken wing. He called the pigeon Gregory Peck and stories in this episode because we want to present prizes although a vet told him it would probably only survive for a to the winners first but the winners will be revealed in our couple of days the pigeon lived with Chris and his wife in their next episode so watch this space to see if students from garden shed for fourteen years. Cherokee was one of Greg’s your school are flying your flags high and proud at our offspring. Chris has just published the last book in a very secondary school. successful series called The Last Dragon Chronicles. The first Once the winners are announced, the stories will be book in this series was called The Fire Within and the last book published on our website for all to enjoy; we cannot wait to is Dark Fire. He is now writing a new series of book called show you! the UNICORNE files about a boy who finds out his father is a special agent and not a travelling salesman and that he himself We truly believe we might have some future explorers, has special powers. There were three hour long talks and then adventurers and travel writers within our walls and we questions and answers after each one, and before he left he did will keep you informed and show you more work from a book signing and autograph session for some of our pupils. our fantastic, talented Phoenix students soon. Watch this It was a very good day enjoyed by staff as well as pupils. space! Maths

allowed the students to become accustomed to using Euros as payment and calculate conversion with a foreign currency. Check in was swift and rooms duly assigned. The evening meal of veal, Lyonnais potatoes and a selection of vegetables, followed by ice cream was well-received after a long day of travel. A brief explanation of the following day’s events preceded lights out and bedtime. Day 2 When the students look back on their trip, one of the main highlights will be the day they saw some of the world’s most famous landmarks. An hour’s drive saw the group arrive at Cité des sciences et de l'industrie. With exhibitions and interactive digital media, this was an excellent place to kick start the use of Maths in everyday life. A shorter coach journey into the heart of Paris provided the group with a chance to enjoy lunch on sundrenched lawns in close proximity to the Eiffel Tower. With everybody ascending the tower to a level appropriate to their personal comfort zone, photographs were taken of the stunning views and souvenirs bought. Following the exertions of climbing several flights of steps, the group found the perfect way to recover as they Maths Paris trip completed their Maths Resource packs aboard a riverboat cruise along the River On 25th June, 43 students from Years 9 and 10 went on a four day residential trip Seine. Despite passing the infamous Notre Dame Cathedral, there was no sign to Paris. Brilliantly led by Miss Gill, and more than ably assisted by Mr Hewlitt, Mr of its most famous incumbent as Quasimodo doesn’t work Thursdays. Feeling Brookes, Miss Bradley and Miss Goodwin, the students were afforded the opportunity to suitably revitalized, it was onto the Arc de Triomphe and more steps to conquer hone their mathematical capabilities in one of the greatest cities in the world. before enjoying dinner at a restaurant adjacent to the Champs-Élysées. Day 1 The trip began at the unearthly hour of 6.00 am and the departure from school saw goodbyes interspersed with yawns and a jostle for the ‘best’ seat on the coach. As the journey began, the tour party was introduced to their coach driver for the week, the knowledgeable and affable, Terry. As the miles passed, the excitement was palpable as questions aplenty were fired in the direction of the staff from enthusiastic students. Although there were delays on the M40, the group made good time and were able to enjoy the delights of Oxford Services. Legs stretched, caffeine consumed and supplies of sweets topped up, it was time to head towards the port of Dover. Boarding was swift and without fuss as the coach was invited onto the ferry after a brief wait. Once on board, the students were able to familiarize themselves with their new surroundings and take in the stunning views from the top deck. The distance between Dover and Calais is a mere 26 miles, which meant the ferry crossing was completed after just one and a half hours. Once on French soil it was a further three hours to drive before the group would reach their accommodation: Comfort Hotel Lagny Marne La Valle. A brief stop at the services, www.aspirebelievesucceed.com www.aspirebelievesucceed.com 3 Day 3 Day 4 ‘Who's the leader of the club, that’s made for you and me, M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E!’ A trip to Disneyland Following breakfast and a final hunt for missing Paris was always going to be a key factor in enticing the pupils to Paris. With the sun shining yet again, belongings, the group bade farewell to the hotel and the students were able to explore the delights of the theme park, combining rides with shopping, autograph its staff. The journey to the port of Calais was broken hunting with photos and eating with drinking. One of the many highlights was undoubtedly the legendary up by a scheduled stop at a large shopping complex, parade as the stars of Disney danced their way through the streets or waved energetically from one of the where final souvenirs, presents and bargains were duly many decorated floats. As the sun became replaced by a light shower, the group sought the comfort and purchased. Passport control saw the entire occupants shelter of an Italian restaurant to enjoy pizza, salad and garlic bread. Feeling thoroughly nourished and of the coach disembark before clarifying and confirming exhausted, it was time to return to the hotel. A birthday cake was brought out for one of the lucky students their true identities and being allowed to board the and everybody enjoyed joining ferry to Dover. The students completed the remaining in the celebrations before pages of their Maths resource packs and were then heading to their rooms to pack able to celebrate the second birthday of the trip with a and prepare for the journey delicious chocolate cake. Once back in Dover, parents home. and carers were notified of the safe crossing and the need to arrive earlier at school to collect their sons and daughters. A brief stop at Beaconsfield Services was very much-needed as it had been a long time since lunch. The fact that Brazil v Chile was being shown on a giant screen was an added bonus! Finally at 9.00 pm, the tour group arrived at school. A plethora of thank yous were exchanged between staff, students, parents and coach driver before finally everyone bid farewell and talk of doing it all again in 2015 could be heard resonating on the pavement. Gifted and talented mathematicians On Tuesday 8th July, 20 gifted and talented Maths on every video game and that vectors are used to wood using a 100g weight and a fulcrum. Secondly, students from Year 10, accompanied by Mrs Feildorf determine the lighting. they had to calculate the size of head for a triangular- and Mr Hewlitt, visited Wolverhampton University to tailed fish so that it would balance when suspended by The three workshops were entitled: Dragon Maths, participate in a Maths enrichment day. a piece of string. Mechanics and Josephus Flavius Binary Problems. Upon arrival, the students were divided into three In the Binary Numbers challenge the students stood in Dragon Maths was a team event that saw the students colour banded groups: green, purple and blue. The a circle and worked out who would be the last survivor divided into teams of 3 or 4 and required to answer groups reflected the carousel of workshops that they if they followed the strategy employed by Josephus as many questions as possible in 45 minutes. Each would attend throughout the day. Flavius. correct answer rewarded the team with a piece of An interactive lecture looking at the power and the dragon: the more correct answers, the longer the The school achieved a number of successes significance of Google kicked off proceedings. dragon! throughout the day with the following students This was followed by a look at the importance and winning prizes: Ellis Wright, Ashrafur Rahman, In the Mechanics workshop, the students were put relevance of mathematics in video games. Students Ruth Collett, Molly Patterson, Charlotte Ford, Helen into pairs and presented with a couple of challenges. discovered how polygons underpin the graphics Kadima, Oreoluwa Daodu and Natalia Paluszek. Firstly, they had to calculate the mass of a piece of

Science

Molecular Biology Master Class Year 12 biology students had their first experience of university life when they took part in a ‘molecular biology master class’ at Wolverhampton University. They were challenged to carry out ‘genetic modification’ and ‘genetic fingerprinting’ – a technique used by forensic scientists to analyse crime scenes.

4 www.aspirebelievesucceed.com Forensic Science (CSI) at Phoenix As part of our Student Enrichment Day on 26th and Session B Session C 27th June, we planned a two day event to enrich our Who kidnapped Mr Hill...... ? Students compiled a detail account of the analysis student’s education at Phoenix. The wider aim for the previously carried out and drew conclusions from the two days was to broaden our student’s understanding . . . ask the students who took part in this CSI evidence in front of them. They role played a court of applications of science in forensics. This was also to workshop. Students were given a scenario and profile room drama. One group offered their evidence to highlight some of the dilemma in crime solving. Crime of suspects. They collected evidence and analysed a ‘jury’. This was a ‘mock trial’ with some students solving is complex, involving intricate collection and them to solve the crime! They performed the following playing the role of Journalist, Prosecuting Counsel, examination of evidence. The evidence that needs to be forensic analysis; Chromatography, Document Defence Counsel etc. kept sterile before it is analysed. It was important for analysis, Chemical analysis – Flame testing and students to understand this as carelessness may lead Fingerprinting. Students ensured that all evidence In summary, students gained a better understanding to wrong convictions. collected and chemical tests were performed accurately of Forensic Science over the two days and they as any errors may lead to wrong conviction. thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of it. Thank you to The two days were split into three sessions; all the staff and students involved in making this a A. Introduction to Forensic Science success. B. Collection and analysis of evidence C. Drawing conclusions Session A Students were introduced to a range of forensic techniques and the importance of forensic science. They extracted DNA from strawberries.

Field trip to Valley The biology departments A level field trip to Sandwell Valley took place on a gloriously sunny day on Thursday 12th June. The morning session involved locating 6 stations within the woodland and surrounding area, in order to complete an ecology exercise. Using a map was a skill little used by some students, as a couple of groups found it difficult to find all the stations! After lunch (and a little look around the farm) we ventured, in blistering heat, to the meadow to compare the number of red clover plants to the East and West of the main path. Still Viveak continued to wear his coat insisting he wasn’t too hot! Eventually, after a successful afternoon of surveying, we all headed home with plenty of data to number crunch back in the lab.

www.aspirebelievesucceed.com www.aspirebelievesucceed.com 5 Business and Creative Technology Academy

Year 11 Business GeoPost Dragons Den 2014 Studies Visit to IKEA The GeoPost Dragons Den is an annual event where Year 10 During April 2014 over 25 Year 11 GCSE Applied Business Studies students prepare and present their Business Business students were given an opportunity to visit Plans to the SMT of GeoPost UK Ltd. IKEA . The students have been studying In doing so, the students develop the following skills: the company for the written coursework element of their • Self confidence l Leadership GCSE qualification. • Decision making l Communication The trip allowed them an opportunity to gain a valuable • Risk taking l Team work insight into the company and the way they communicate The students worked closely with the staff from DPD both internally and externally. Students were looked after who advised them about the Business Planning process well by Ikea staff who treated them to food and drinks and entrepreneurial skills. Some of the groups also had the whilst they were there. opportunity to visit the DPD, Broadwell Works, Birmingham Rd, Oldbury, B69 4BF. This visit was organized by Trevor Fenn, Operations Development Manager and Mark Cash, Technical Support Manager. The winners of the event were announced by Peter Carroll, Employee Training & Development Manager and Paul McDonald, Community Development Officer at the Awards Evening on 7th July at the Bescot Stadium. The winning team was Pye & Co comprising of Lauryn Pye , Danielle Hall, Gurvinder Dhesi, Alyson Knott, Liam Baker, Bethany Dabbs and Bethney Jevons Art SED day During the SED day students were given the opportunity to investigate careers in the arts. The Creative Industries is the fastest growing sector in the UK. Students developed art work based on a West Midlands Artist Lucy McLauchlan. The Creative Industries style brief was to design a bird motif for a Tote bag. Four winners will be Phoenix hosts ‘The Big Lunch’ selected and the Tote bags will be on in partnership with Halifax sale in school from September 2014. As part of our Business Class partnership with Halifax, Phoenix hosted ‘The Big Lunch’ at school on Sunday 1st June. Both Halifax and Phoenix are committed to creating stronger links with their local communities who were invited to join them in developing a spirit of community, friendship and fun. Banner for the The lunch was well attended and, as well as enjoying the food and activities that were available, £1,078.20 was Year 13 Prom raised for Sandwell Parents for Disabled Children. Some Year 7 pupils helped to create a large banner for the Phoenix Year 13 Prom. Well done for your Saatchi Gallery / support towards this event! Deutsche Bank Art Prize for Schools The Art and Design department has entered GCSE students’ art work on to the Saatchi Gallery /Deutsche Bank Art Prize for Schools. Judge Laura Dockrill commented "The standard and quality of work entered is absolutely remarkable. What the Saatchi gallery is doing is phenomenal; showcasing the work of young artists and having wonderful imaginations splattered onto the Year 10 work experience gallery walls, installing confidence into young people by recognising their student in Art talent and taking Elise Cummins, a Year 10 student from Arthur Terry their work seriously. School chose to work with the Art This competition Department as part of her two week WellDesign done to Year 10 studentsTechnology Cameron Dunlavey and is necessary. It is work experience. One of her jobs Joseph Smith who spent a week in the technology making dreams was to design a leaflet for the Art department for their work experience. Their assistant come true." To view Summer school on 25-27th August. technician duties included repairing aprons, the work please visit Please contact the Art department maintaining stock cupboards and the construction of www.saatchigallery. if you would like to be involved in this very fine set of stocks for a 6th form fundraising com a multi media art project funded by event. Litter Watch.

6 www.aspirebelievesucceed.com Communications Studies Academy What else is going on in Languages? Now that our extensive range of exams be able to study please do not hesitate in different languages is complete for the in contacting me. Places for some of the year we are looking ahead to 2014/15 and sessions may be limited. planning lots more opportunities for pupils From September we will see Polish GCSE to learn and gain qualifications. being taught for the first time in curriculum Next year we will continue with our highly time to our year 10 group and we will be successful Panjabi classes on Fridays offering AS Polish and ESOL in Year 12. Phoenix leads the way after school as well as extra-curricular We also welcome two new members of with iPad Technology German, Polish, Latin, Urdu, French and staff to the department, Ms Dell and Ms even, hopefully, Chinese Mandarin! This Lesu and we are looking forward to them is all in addition to Spanish in Years 7-10 joining the team. During the Year 6 taster day all parents and and French in Year 11. If you have any Lucy Abraham – Leader of World pupils had a chance to experience using the new enquiries regarding different languages Languages IPAD technology that will be available for our that you would like your son/daughter to students in September. These will be used to improve Literacy and Numeracy. It is expected that this initiative will massively boost students’ achievement in these areas. Student Enrichment Days Students in Years 7, 8, 9 and 10X2 had a very different couple of days on 26th and 27th June 2014. The timetable was collapsed for students Royal Horticultural to work in sub-teams within their form groups’ Society Young country teams of Brazil, Germany, Italy and Mexico. Students enjoyed a range of activities all inspired Photographer by the Brazil 2014 World Cup and sub-teams were competition 2014 awarded a number of “goals” determined by their GCSE Digital Photography students effort, progress and outcomes achieved in each have entered Photographs to the Royal session. Horticultural Society Young Photographer In ICT, students were given tasks to research their country and team, to collect competition 2014. Sophie Allsop has information to later be used to create presentations and podcasts. entered 3 excellent quality photographs examining texture and natural form. In Languages, students were treated to a very different experience with our very own “Student-Teachers” teaching their home language. Bhawanjot and Mahtab taught 9X2 German, Liton and Jaspreet taught Italian to 7X2, Shamsher, Taljeet and Frederico taught Portuguese to 8X2 and Ramandeep taught Spanish (even though for him, this is not his ‘Language Leaders’ home language!) to 10X2. All were outstanding! A group of Year 9 students has been completing a course called ‘Language On the Friday, students enjoyed a “Brazilian Dance Workshop” with Miss Legarska and Leaders’ which allows students to teach younger children Spanish. To had an exciting dance-off at the end of the day. complete the course they have been to Pennyhill Primary School and taught At the end of the two days, sub-teams who had been awarded the most goals over the 3 different classes of Year 4 - Spanish. two days presented their work and there was a vote The lessons went very well and ranged to see who the overall winners would be. This was a from teaching them inside the classroom tricky decision, as some excellent work was produced and outdoor activities as well. The Year but, in the end the winning sub-team was Helène, 4’s enjoyed being taught and the Year 9 Molly, Chloe and Harsimran from 10X2 who were then Language Leaders learned a lot about awarded their grand trophy! teaching from the experience. Lucy Abraham – Leader of World Languages Ramandeep Sandhu People Studies Academy Canoeing expedition On Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th June six Year 13 public services students accompanied Mr Stevens, Miss Ault and centre staff from Malthouse stables Tipton on a 2-day canoeing expedition down the River Severn from Bridgenorth to Bewdley. The activity involved students paddling their own 3 seater canoes approximately 10 miles downriver on the first day to their camping site at Hampton Loade, Shropshire where they pitched tents and roughed it for the night prior to continuing on down river to Bewdley twisting and turning through the South Shropshire and North Worcestershire countryside. The activity was both challenging and enjoyable and took in some lovely scenery and challenging rapids for inexperienced canoeists. Overall an excellent event, enjoyed by all and with the impeccable behaviour and attitude exhibited and expected of Phoenix Collegiate students. www.aspirebelievesucceed.com www.aspirebelievesucceed.com 7 Year 12 trip to Birmingham Crown Court Building houses in Geography "In GCSE Geography with Miss Ward we have been The Year 12 Sociology and Philosophy and Ethics groups learning about how Shanty Towns develop over time. went to the Birmingham Crown Courts in June in preparation To do this we were first given Wooden Poles (bread for Year 13. The trip was to understand the workings of our sticks), rope (strawberry laces) and canvas sheets legal system and it was a real eye opener for the students. (tortilla wraps) to build the beginnings of a dwelling out of, as though we were new arrivals in the city of Mumbai. Over time, as we found work, we could afford to buy more building materials, including bricks (Rivita) and Cement (icing) and so our structures became more house-like. The pictures show the results of our building escapades! Somewhat surprisingly, both classes managed to survive without eating the building supplies, and the houses were much admired by other year groups! A resounding success!"

Performance Academy Yr 13 Drama Queens...Goodbye! The Year 13 completed their course quite fittingly with an Year 12 Cabaret assembly performance for the sixth form. This assessment was an extremely moving, physical theatre devised piece that explored the travesty of 9/11. Students used TheEvening Yr 12 Performing Arts students hosted a fantastic movement and shadow theatre as a form of expression Cabaret evening, including variety acts and dinner rather than the spoken word, and despite this challenging in the drama studio. The students had the overall genre produced some exceptional work. responsibility for the entire production, from devising and directing their own acts, deciding upon the running Ms Wood and Mrs Down would like to say a special order, to decorating the room, organising food and goodbye to what has been the best Year 13 performing arts drink. Audiences were entertained with a variety of class we have ever had at Phoenix!!! We wish you all the acts from circus skills, singing, ballet, musical theatre luck in the World! numbers, monologues, street dance and mime acts. A great evening was had by all and we were delighted to raise £50 for charity which will go towards a children’s ‘Tapestry’ Gifted &Talented Workshop cancer research. Well done Yr 12 for a great evening! Some lucky G&T students took part in a workshop with some professional actors from the play ‘Tapestry’. We were delighted to have the opportunity to watch the actors perform, and then get involved in some practical activities ourselves that helped explore the plays themes and issues about identity and equality. All Phoenix students taking part ranged from Year7-Year13 and performed brilliantly together showing excellent levels of creativity and imagination.

Year 12 Story Romeo & Juliet On April 10th 2014 the after school drama club writing Competition performed a moving rendition of Shakespeare's The drama department launched their annual story Romeo & Juliet as a musical. writing competition with our local primary schools All pupils involved worked extremely hard every again this year. We received some great entries and week in rehearsals and were a credit to the school. SED- Performing Arts the Year 12 students selected the winning story from Whitecrest Primary entitled ‘The Impossible’ concert to transform into a stage production. It was a Well done to the music and tough challenge to adapt the script by adding new drama students that helped stage characters, scenes and dialogue whilst still sticking a fantastic show for Student closely to the original story. All students and parents enrichment day, sharing the from the winner’s class were invited to a special VIP stage with the brilliant Bhangra performance in the drama studio, and even got the dancers. The performers worked chance to join in too! incredibly hard to rehearse and produce a quality show for the whole school. This was hard work on the day as the show needed to be performed four times back to back, with the same level of energy and enthusiasm throughout. A brilliant example of professionalism, stamina and team work from the Performing Arts students.

8 www.aspirebelievesucceed.com Key Stages Maths Academy The Maths Academy worked with Double(see Academy pages forEnrichment further information) Days their pupils to create games under the theme of ‘Carnival Games’. By On 26th & 27th June 2014, it was ‘double’ Enrichment Days with a twist! For the first time creating such outcomes, pupils Enrichment Day was led by the school Academies. Each Academy planned and delivered exciting developed skills in problem-solving, activities under a particular theme. By delivering such activities, pupils developed a range of skills thinking and creativity with planning within team-building, investigating, competing and much more. It also provided opportunities for and designing the games. pupils to participate in activities that they had never experienced such as playing Basketball in a wheelchair. This article will highlight the ‘buzz’ that was created in school over the two days.

English Academy ‘Lord of the Flies’ was the theme that the English Academy planned and delivered. Pupils had a remarkable day build- Performance Academy ing tents, taking part in a tribal dance, mask making and Pupils had a lot of fun within so much more. The pupils that worked within the English Performance Academy as they hosted Academy will now have some understanding of what ac- many physical activities linking to tivities are involved within the ‘Duke of Edinburgh Award’. National Sports Week. Pupils were given an experience of what it is like for an athlete to play Basketball in a wheelchair.

Science Academy “Who done it?” Pupils had an amazing time investigating a crime scene through Forensic Science. Pupils worked in groups to carry out finger print experiments to solve a mystery.

People Studies Academy The People Studies Academy arranged a variety of activities based on the theme of World War. Pupils were given opportunities to experience what types of games were played in war times. Business Communications Studies Academy & Creative Pupils were divided into teams based on the theme Technologies of World Cup 2014. Pupils were tasked to create podcasts and interactive presentations incorporating world languages that were taught by our very own Academy Pupils developed a variety of skills undertaking students. To add some Brazilian flavour to the days, activities within ‘Creative Opportunities’. Pupils had pupils also had opportunities to take part in a Brazilian fun designing graffiti logos, making summer medley dance workshop. Having reached the semi-finals, it desserts, creating rocket launchers and developing was form 10X2 known as ʻBrazilʼ that won the best skills in Photoshop using a SLR digital camera. outcomes of the day. Go Brazil! www.aspirebelievesucceed.com www.aspirebelievesucceed.com 9 Showcase The Duke of The highlight of the Enrichment Days was the Music & Dance Showcase organised by teachers and sixth formers within the Edinburgh Award Performance Academy. Our very own talented pupils performed live on stage, creating great entertainment. Pupils and staff were given opportunities to perform with ‘Lions of Punjab’ Bhangra dance group who performed a spectacular dance display. Overall, the ‘double’ enrichment days were thoroughly enjoyed by both staff and pupils who now look forward to the last enrichment day of this academic year which is ‘Activities Day’ on Monday 21st July 2014.

Now in its second very successful academic year, The DofE Award at Phoenix continues to provide life changing experiences to our students. Due to the programme’s popularity, applications to join the 2014/2015 season are available directly from Miss Hancocks or via the Phoenix DofE link on our website. Will you be part of it? Check out our link to see what we have been up to so far. https://www.phoenixcollegiate.org/index.phtml?d=540812&preview=1&t=1385547875

Primary Links / Key Stage 3 Achievements Transition Summer school Again this year to support the transition from primary into secondary we will be running our transition summer school which is available to all our new Year 7 students. We will be hosting this free summer school every Tuesday and Wednesday of the holidays from July 29th onwards. All your child will need is a packed lunch and a big smile! Hope to see you all there. Induction week in June Induction Day – Before we hosted the big days we bought the pupils into school for one day in June. An early introduction to life at Phoenix, working in our literacy 2nd & 3rd July 2014 centre, being fed a feast thanks to our caterers Aspens and attempting to Another fabulous couple of days with our future Year 7 pupils. The day started with write a winning story for our competition. a packed out hall with family and friends of all our new pupils getting hands on with some Ipads which will be used in Year 7. Yet again competition was fierce to create the winning comic! Once the pupils had been sent off for the day it was great to see so many parents stay behind to meet senior staff and have chance to ask any questions. The children had a great time experiencing life as a Phoenix student, getting to know their form tutor and attempting to acquaint themselves with the site! Phoenix Bescot Stadium Y7-10 Awards Ceremony 2014 This year’s event saw over 120 prizewinners receive their well earned awards watched by over 250 members of the audience made up of staff, parents and other invited guests including the Deputy Mayor and Deputy Consort. The event celebrated the hard work and success achieved by our students while recognising hard work from our teaching and non teaching staff. It also recognised the support and guidance from the parents and carers who support the students beyond school with the demands of their courses. Our guest speaker this year was Dr. Derrick Campbell who is currently the Police Complaints Commissioner for central and kindly spoke at the main school and the sixth form awards evenings this year for which we are very grateful.

10 www.aspirebelievesucceed.com Key Stage 4 Achievements Year 11 Prom and Leavers’ Assembly On the 27th of June, our Year 11 pupils officially left the school and there were two events to celebrate this. In the morning, there was a special assembly to celebrate their school careers to date, at Menzies, Manor and finally at Phoenix and in the evening, their prom was held at the West Bromwich Albion Richardson suite. Both events were well attended and it was a highly enjoyable, yet emotional day. Special thanks go out to Paige Reynolds, John Chauhan and especially Shelby Agger for their wonderful performances in the morning, and congratulations to Alfie Price and Darcy Harris, our Prom King and Queen. We wish the Year 11 pupils every success in the future and look forward to seeing them on the 21st of August to receive their exam results.

Phoenix Bescot Stadium Y7-10 Awards Ceremony 2014

www.aspirebelievesucceed.com www.aspirebelievesucceed.com 11 Key Stage 5 Achievements 6th Form Graduation Head Boy and Head Girl 2014-15 and Awards Evening Following a gruelling election process which includes a pupil vote, Wednesday 25th June staff vote and tough interview with Mr Smith and myself, we are delighted to announce the winners. Our 6th Form leavers and prize winners were treated to a night of glitz and glamour at WS10 Conference Head Boy: Matthew Roberts Deputy Head Boy: Alex Herr and Banqueting Centre. It was definitely a night to Head Girl: Alicia Cox Deputy Head Girl: Sapna Sandhu Head Boy: Deputy Head Boy: remember for our top students who were rewarded Matthew Roberts Alex Herr There was very little to separate these four students. They are all for their hard work throughout their years at Phoenix. outstanding ambassadors for the school and will make a superb Guest Speaker Dr Derrick Campbell gave a truly team. I am looking forward to working with them and seeing the inspirational speech. changes they make to the school. This was followed by a highly entertaining I would like to take this opportunity to thank the outgoing Head Girl speech by Head Boy and Head Boy and their deputies for all their help and support. They Connor Welch and have been amazing and are a tough act to follow! Deputy Head Boy Thank you to: Head Boy Connor Welch, Deputy Head Boy Reiss Reiss Kailla. Head Kailla, Head Girl Amy Higginson and Deputy Head Girl Riana Jules- Girl Amy Higginson Dantzie. Head Girl: Deputy Head Girl: and Deputy Head Girl Miss Barr Alicia Cox Sapna Sandhu Riana Jules-Dantzie spoke eloquently about their time at school and their hopes and dreams for Year 12 the future. Entertainment came from the awesome and Royal Air Force extremely talented 6th form band “Thrown Together”, Registration Phoenix Sixth Form was pleased to invite the Royal Air Force into Ben Stanaway, George Allen, Holly McEntee, Joseph It was excellent to see so many of our the school for the Student Enrichment day on 26th June 2014. The Foster and Calum Richardson. Mr Peddie, sharply new Year 12 cohort in school for their RAF provided the Year 12 students with teamwork focused games dressed as always, accompanied the band. introduction to 6th Form on Thursday 3rd and activities. Aside from enjoying themselves, both the students and staff, understood the importance of communicating well and working I wish all our pupils the very best of luck in the future. July and our new Head Girl and Head Boy and their deputies gave them extremely together. Miss Barr good advice about how to prepare for life Following this was an introduction to UCAS. Students focused on in Year 12. finding the right course for them at University and staff were on hand Registration for 6th Form will take place to support them with beginning their personal statements, something on GCSE Results Day, 21st August, which will be extremely important when applying to University within from 10am to 1pm in the school hall. An their first term back as Year 13 students. additional day will be held on Friday 22nd August in the 6th Form Centre. If pupils cannot attend these sessions they should see Mrs Allen, 6th Form Administration, on Wednesday 3rd September in the CLC. Sandwell Parcel Company Transforming Student’s Life High-flying West with opportunities that have the potential to transform will spend a week at Yale, get to visit New York City and Bromwich student, their lives.” experience life in one of America’s top universities. Joseph Forbes, has Paul McDonald, Community Development Officer Further information about the Sutton Trust US landed a prestigious from DPD, explained: “We work closely with Phoenix Programme can be found at: Law Apprenticeship with and, as one of Sandwell’s largest employers, we have parcel firm DPD. http://www.fulbright. a responsibility to the local area and we try to identify org.uk/news-events/ Joseph, 17, a student students from Phoenix who will fit in with our DNA, news/sutton-trust- at Phoenix Sixth Form, by which we mean honesty, hard work, accountability, us-programme- will be supported by passion, flexibility and respect. Joseph is a high 2014-cohort- DPD throughout his attaining pupil who is ideal for this role.” announced apprenticeship in order The go-getting teenager will also be jetting off to For more to gain the professional qualifications he needs to America to spend a week at the Ivy League US become a commercial lawyer. information about University, Yale, this summer. He was one of 175 any other element, The Smethwick-based worldwide parcel delivery students from across the country chosen from an please contact Miss service recruited Joseph following a rigorous original pool of 2,000 who applied to take part in the Barr at the school. application procedure. He will be their first ever Law Sutton Trust US Programme 2014, run by the Sutton Apprenticeship student. Trust and the Fulbright Commission. Joseph said: “I can’t wait to get started in a real job. I “I’m really excited about going to America, I’ve never get on really well with everybody at DPD and it is an been there before and am looking forward to seeing the amazing opportunity. It is going to be a massive part of sites of New York and living like an American student my life and have an enormous impact on my future.” for a week.” Head teacher Gary Hill said: “I am delighted that our The students had to submit a video application and be Head teacher, Gary Hill, (left) with close relationship with DPD is providing our students successful in the April Introductory Residential. Joseph Joseph Forbes

12 www.aspirebelievesucceed.com Pastoral Phoenix Anti Bullying Leading Parent Community Partnership Award Raises the Bar ‘Anti Bullying Quality Mark – UK‘ and At Phoenix we pride ourselves in our relationships with ‘We Are Here for You‘. families and the local community and are constantly Remember the phrases: ABQM-UK and WAH4U. finding new ways to keep families informed about what happens in the school. Anti bullying is going places at Phoenix. We have been working on the evidence bank this year ready for the assessment It was therefore with great pleasure that on 2nd July we successfully achieved the stage of the quality mark application process. We now have a team of fully above award after having an exceptional final verification. trained Peer Mentors who support pastoral staff in dealing with bullying incidents The assessor said: and a Steering Group made up of students, teachers, parents, support staff and • The commitment of the leadership team, staff and volunteers ensures that high governors which is driving our anti bullying standards even higher than the quality and extensive parental partnership is achieved. Substantial links are made sound level mentioned by Ofsted in 2013. with parents to support them in helping their children in the educational process. The catchy WAH4U logo is the Peer Mentor logo devised by the peer mentors • Parents have very high confidence in the school and readily communicate their themselves. It says exactly what the ABQM-UK Peer Mentors are all about. YOU. appreciation of the support they and their children receive. Quite simply, Bullying is not tolerated at Phoenix and the whole school • The quality of information and range of systems for communicating with parents community will stand firm against the bully where the bully will be supported as is excellent and ensures that all parents, irrespective of ethnicity, are kept fully well as the victim should an incident be reported or detected. informed. When we obtain the national award it will be recognition of yet another factor that makes Phoenix stand out as a great school. • The school is highly welcoming and committed to involving families in a substantial number of family learning activities for parents’ own and joint parent/ Keep those eyes peeled, those ears tuned in and join the whole school anti child learning. bullying team. Mr. Harris. Phoenix ABQM-UK link • Strong links are made with external agencies in supporting the school’s work with families. Morrisons Courses that ran during 2013-14 Step into GCSE English Step into GCSE Maths Childcare Level 1 Childcare level 2 Basic ICT Skills Step into Admin Lets Grow ESOL Changes Parenting Programme Zumba We are hoping to have these courses and more available in 2014-15 Do you shop at Morrison’s? If so in September when you shop you may be ESOL course for parent/carers delivered by Sandwell College in school every Tuesday able to collect Lets grow vouchers. We will 9.30-11.30, concessions may be available be collecting these in school to support New for September Pilates starting Friday 19th September at 1.30pm in Community the improvements we are making with our Room, 6th Form Centre £1 a session. Limited places available please contact Michelle horticulture section. Hellend to book a place 0121 588 8384 / 07969 648 548 or email [email protected] Parent/Carers Coffee Morning Every Thursday 9-10.30am Advice and guidance available also help to fill in forms. Parents who completed the Step into GCSE Maths

Attendance Triple P Parenting Programme Our thanks go again to our parents and pupils for our improved attendance rates again this Changes Parenting Programme year up over 1.5% on 2012/13. However to Holiday provision available at Phoenix 28th July to 8th August, ages 4-12 years, 9.30am-3pm, £5 per day for more help us make further improvement next year details contact 0121 588 8384 or email [email protected] please ensure that holidays are not made Also running October half term Monday 27th October to Friday 31st October. during term time and any appointments are If you need any more information please contact Michelle Hellend, Development Worker at Phoenix Collegiate. also made outside of the school day. Uniform The end of August is one of the times of the year which can be costly for parents as they buy uniform for their children. Please ensure that no money is wasted buying the incorrect uniform. Please see flyer enclosed or the school website for further detail on our strict uniform policy.

www.aspirebelievesucceed.com 13 Miscellaneous Former Menzies student visiting the school 20 years after leaving Earlier this year we were privileged to meet up with former Menzies High School student Michelle Bunch (formerly-Davies). Mrs Bunch visited the school as part of a project to help inspire the younger generation in succeeding to achieve in what they believe in. Mrs Bunch herself has exceeded in her own Kids out field of work as she is now Deputy-Head teacher of Grove Vale Primary School Once again Phoenix pupils were able to take part in the and is highly respected amongst her colleagues. After her departure from the Rotary clubs ‘Kids Out’ experience and Drayton Manor. school in 1994 Mrs Bunch went on to study at Wolverhampton University gaining her teaching degree and Pupils worked to improve social skills, independence therefore leading up to her current success. and self-esteem. The pupil support team and all our We have had many former students return but few as respected and high up in their field as Mrs Bunch. Upon pupils would like to thank the Rotary club for running her return to now Phoenix she was greeted by two sixth form pupils Ryan O’Connor and Sunil Dhap. The two these events. pupils took Mrs Bunch on a tour of the school allowing her to see the developments since her departure in 1994 and giving her the chance to catch up with her former form tutor Mrs Bowdler and her former Chemistry teacher Mr Haycock. As she walked round the school site she pointed out various changes in the school’s appearance. These included: the change in the location of L block since her departure, J block was once a music and sixth form block but is now a library for all year groups and she explained that the now English/Art block (C Block) once housed the library on one floor. Also while walking around the school she pointed out that M Block and I block were formerly a part of Hill Top High School therefore those were not open to the whole school so it was her first time inside these blocks since leaving the school. Towards the end of her visit the pupils asked Mrs Bunch what had changed the most since she attended the school and she replied by saying ‘the security is the most changed thing about the school, because when I attended here students were able to leave school freely and go to the shops without the teachers consent’. She also stated that there were no security gates surrounding the Sports Hall facility when she was at the school. To conclude her first visit back since leaving the school in 1994 Mrs Bunch was extremely pleased and happy with seeing how the school had changed and thanked Ryan and Sunil for giving her the opportunity to visit the site and see former teachers once again. Sandwell Fishing Competition SEN coffee morning On Tuesday 1st July, Mr Stevens took 6 budding anglers to compete with teams from A big thank you to all parents attending our SEN coffee schools across Sandwell in the annual fishing competition. The weather was hot and morning. During the morning parents offer support as a result fishing was difficult but the students conducted themselves excellently and guidance to each other as well as giving feedback and were a credit to the school in terms of their behaviour, attitude and application. and advice to the SEN department. This term the SEN The team came 5th overall behind teams from Wood Green, The ACE Academy and coffee morning has guided the school as it makes but this did not detract from a wonderful day. The team were headed changes for the new SEN code including advising the by captain Joe Pearce and included Callum Fellows, Cameron Dunlavey, Richard school on how parents of SEN pupils want meetings to Ulman, Josh Bradshaw and Jack Britton be conducted and reviewing our policies. with Cameron Dunlavey catching the Our SEN coffee mornings are held half termly on a best weight at 5lbs plus. Monday - the next morning will be in September and Mr Stevens will be looking to take more than one team of 6 next will be published on our website. All parents and year to this competition so if you are interested in fishing and perspective parents are welcome, please phone pupil have your own fishing tackle then keep your eye out for the date of support for more information. this and some possible practice matches building up to the main competition!

OnDudley Friday 27th June twenty twoZoo Year 7 and 8 pupilsVisit went on a trip to Dudley Zoo as a reward for all their hard work since September. What a fabulous day everyone had, despite torrential rain, thunder and lightning. Everyone was able to see lots of different animals including Tigers, Lions, Kangaroos, Otters, Flamingos and many, many more. One of the main highlights of the day was visiting Binti the Literacy Centre’s newly adopted chimp.

Binti the Literacy Centre’s adopted chimp

14 www.aspirebelievesucceed.com Sports Update

Desmond Douglas - 11 times English Table Tennis champion, who peaked at equal World No.7 and European No.3. He represented Great Britain at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, in both the singles and National the doubles. Sports week Phoenix Collegiate took part in National Sports week in June. We had an action packed week including Mike Mullen BMX, Sandwell Steelers American football and Boxing, Dance Artist who did Contemporary/street, Emergency First Aid course, Football freestyle with Danny McGee, Daniel Caines came back in to do a strength, core and body conditioning lesson, Wheelchair basketball, Trampolining, Ultimate Challenge and Ben Heason motivational speaker. Lots of new opportunities where given to the students and lots of students rewarded for their efforts over the year.

Indoor Cricket Tournament Massive congratulations and thank Year 12/13 you to the lads who attended the 6th girls and boys Form Indoor Cricket Tournament at Sandwell College on Wednesday Dodgeball 14th May! The Year 12/13 girls and boys They won their group, but lost in the Dodgeball teams came 3rd in final to Sandwell College A team. the tournament held this term at Phoenix. Both teams played A great performance, especially as really well and were a credit to the team consisted of one player from Year 10 and 4 from Year 11! From left to right: the school. Iqubalpreet Singh(Capt), Rabin, Kharal, Yugraj Kapoor, Navdeep Singh, Gurvinder Singh, Narandeep Tiawana, Suraj Johal. Year 7 football Charity football team The Year 7 football team played on Tuesday 1st April and were beaten 3-2 We are raising money for cancer research UK in a very close game in the cup against . The pu- and we have raised £140 so far (from small pils played extremely well and worked tirelessly throughout. A big thank change) but we are still collecting. We have you goes to Andy Martin who has worked with them throughout the year. got a charity football team to help raise more money for the charity itself. The team consists of pupils from Phoenix sixth form, Sandwell Sandwell Schools Games College and Birmingham University. Organiser: Ryan O’Connor - Gymnastic competition Manager: Callum Bromley Some students competed at Wood Green in a Sandwell schools gymnastic Collectors: Alex Herr, Jonathan Silwood, Floyd competition. They conducted themselves really well and showed dedication Cruickshank and control when performing. They worked hard and practised every Future activities; lunchtime for two weeks to learn the routine and vault required. We are just Team playing from “Tipton Sports Academy” awaiting the final results. Meeting with DPD about sponsorship and donations. Any donations would be kindly received. Athletics team The Phoenix athletics team went to Tipton Sports academy to compete in the Sandwell schools athletics competition. We came 8th out of 15 schools with noticeable performances from Reece Patterson (Year 11) a 1st in the 200m and a 2nd in the 100m, and Courteney Cooper in Year 8 who came 1st in the 100 meters. www.aspirebelievesucceed.com www.aspirebelievesucceed.com 15 Sports Update

Year 10 Football team The Year 10 football played their cup game against Perryfields on Thursday 10th April. Perryfields just edged the win in a very close game ending 2-1. The year 10 boys played some very good football and were unlucky not to go on and win the game. All boys were a credit to themselves and the school. Thanks to Luke Markham for his efforts this year with the team.

Oliwia Zegel plays for West Bromwich Year 7 a side Oliwia got scouted from playing school basketball by a coach at West Bromwich Basketball club. She has since participated in the Premier League 4 Girls football competition Sport National Tournament in Manchester and Derby. She attends training every Ten girls from Year 8-11 where invited to play on the WBA pitch in a 7 a side week and has shown true potential. Well done Oliwia!!! football competition. They drew 2 and lost 2. The girls were a credit to the school and played well. Well done!!

Initial Knights Rounders tournaments We had a dance group in school called Students represented Phoenix Initial Knights. They performed for a in the Year 9 Rounders range of students showcasing their style and talent. They then invited students tournament on 21st May and 'Congratulations to Callum to join in a workshop which was came 3rd place with some Bromley (Year 12) he has thoroughly enjoyed. Congratulations to fantastic skills and teamwork gained his FA Level 2 all students who participated. for all to see. They represented coaching Award'! the school excellently. On Thursday 12th June Phoenix played Sandwell Birmingham Children’s hospital College at rounders. We hosted the game despite poor A few Year 11 students put on a talent show weather. The Year 11 and 6th form competed really well and won 17 to 15.5. to raise money in aid of pancreatic cancer. It was a lovely atmosphere and all were superbly behaved representing the school They raised £160 and visited Birmingham at its best. The following girls took part in the rounders season against numerous Children’s Hospital to present the cheque. schools. Just awaiting final results. Well done girls They had a tour of the hospital and even engaged with children on the Burns unit. They were really pleased and humbled to see where their money was going. Well done! Congratulations!! The following students have been selected from the West Midlands County Athletics Championships as a result of coming 1st in there event at the Black CongratulationsFirst aid to the studentsCPR who have passed their Country athletics competition. Emergency first aid which will last for 3 years. Diavonne Lewis- Shot and discus Ayana Bogle- Shot and discus Reece Patterson- 100m and 200m Courteney Cooper- 100m.

16 www.aspirebelievesucceed.com