news li n k magazine • Autumn 2012 20th Anniversary! We celebrate 20 years with live performances and special guests

in THIS ISSue Voyage to the Stars School’s on for Summer A Spanish Encounter An Olympic Honour What’s inside? Principal’s Message NEWS Page 3 Two Decades: Celebration as we are greeted every morning One Outstanding by the new clock suspended over the reception College area. I am sure you will agree the students, with Page 4 It’s Showtime the fantastic technical expertise and support Page 6 In a League of their Own of Smith of Derby have produced a timeless Poetic Success for Tajalla piece. The clock symbolises the twenty years Page 7 Voyage to the Stars that have passed from 6 September 1992 to What’s it like to be 6 September 2012. As important, however, it a Material Scientist? embodies our vision for the future. Designed by Page 8 It’s Elementary our students, the clock project illustrates that when we put our trust in young people and Page 10 Landau Visits Loughborough Food Fusion: Food empower them with the tools to do the job, Glorious Food they always deliver. Page 11 Gills and Buoys Hook In our first twenty years, there have been a lot an Opportunaty of WWWs. Enterprising Eminence We estimate that we now have almost Aim High 3,200 graduates of the College who between Page 12 School’s on for Summer The new academic year found us reflecting them have: on WWW and EBI; What Went Well and Page 13 Thriving Council Inspires • attended 20,120,000 learning sessions On Your Marks… Even Better If? Alongside the opportunity to • undergone 4 full Ofsted Inspections Alphabet Photography celebrate, the twentieth anniversary has also • achieved 27,300 final examination results Competition provided an opportunity for reflection. During • seen 3 major building programmes the first few weeks of the new term, working Page 14 Alumni: The Landau Family • achieved over 3 million REACH credits with all staff and students we have challenged • taken part in almost 500 educational visits. Page 16 State-of-the-Art ourselves, and each other, to consider and Learning Space understand what it really means to be So what is our EBI? Masters of Technology world class. As key stakeholders, and a vital We must hold onto the vision that world-class Page 17 Goings on in the City part of our learning community, we would learning is not so much about our desire to Interdivision Round Up now ask that you do the same. Enclosed with challenge young people but nurturing their Page 18 Marriah’s Inspiration this edition of NewsLink you will find a tool desire to challenge themselves. We very much Conquering the for reflection. Please use this (or download look forward to reviewing your EBIs and how Cavendish Co-Op one from our website and complete online), to you may be able to support the College on our journey to world class. Curriculum identify three areas in which you feel we are Page 19 Home is where the Heart is achieving well (WWWs) and one area where Liz Coffey Page 20 Step into Whitehall the College would be Even Better If… Principal Promising Pathways We will always be reminded of our 20 Year Enrichment week Page 21 What a Yorker! A Hesley Wood Experience Page 22 A Spanish Encounter Credits Getting to Grips Editor Staff Contributors Student Contributors with Grenada V Ellis H Cadman Tom Bingham Yasmin Mitchell C Collington Tom Butler-Roberts Navneet Rai Page 23 Opportunities in Osnabruck Sub Editors T Fazekas Molly Coffey Tajalla Rasool Tom Bingham july sPotlight G Harris Demi-Marie Croft Elise Roberts Tom Butler-Roberts Page 24 Making More than a Buzz P Harvey Ariel Draper Ellie Rogers Amber Chilvers And the Winner is… S Hawley Macauley Goss George Scattergold Chloe Davies Page 25 The Review H James Josh Hanlon Zara Sharif Sabrina Khan Splendid Sportsmanship J Naughton Clodagh Holmes Joel Shinu A Coffey S Needham Leah Houldsworth Ellie Spare Page 26 Let the Games Begin… T Fazekas K Philpott Sarah Hutchinson An Olympic Honour C Parrish L Ogden Verity Jackson L Ogden S Owen Rose Martin K Vaughan D Slater Sophie Middleton L Wahid L Watson Agnes Milner L Watson A Wrampling C Wright C Wright

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Two Decades: news One Outstanding College

Thursday 6 of special guests including reception area for the eagerly It was unveiled by the post 16 September 2012 – governors of the College and anticipated unveiling of the students who contributed to tutors both past and present to College clock. Landau Forte College’s its design. The extraordinary share in day of celebration. Before the presentation of the celebrations culminated with 20th Anniversary Attendees were addressed by clock, the prestigious guests a scintillating performance – was a triumphant Mr Ashworth, Mr Whiteley Mr Landau and Sir Rocco Forte from the Singers, cleverly culmination of many and Mrs Coffey, three of the addressed the College and its choreographed by Mr Coffey weeks’ hard work and figures who have played a vital visitors speaking of the excellent to incorporate the newly preparation from staff role in the development of achievement and commitment placed clock. Landau Forte College during to continued success with Mr and students. For the students of Landau, the the preceding twenty years. Forte adding a touch of comedic remainder of the day progressed It was enjoyed by all those Each address referenced the value to the day’s events with with the normality of any other, who have contributed undeniable success Landau Forte the comment: ‘Little has changed in spite of the excitement over the last twenty years, has achieved, paying tribute since Landau opened its doors in that filled the air. Inspired by enabling Landau to be the to all those who have, and 1992, except perhaps the length Mrs Coffey’s speech, students outstanding establishment it continue to make it possible of the girls skirts!’. and staff will progress onward is today. With the exception for the College to be such an The dazzling new clock, and upward with rigour and of Landau’s performing artists, outstanding institution. Mrs marking the achievement of determination as we navigate for the majority of students Coffey concluded events in the College’s twenty years and our way toward becoming the celebrations of the day the theatre with her inspiring designed in partnership with world class. commenced with a live speech outlining the College’s Smith of Derby, now stands Ellie Spare, Year 11 broadcast from the theatre journey toward becoming a proudly in Landau Forte colours directly to their tutor bases. world class establishment and in the main reception area on The theatre held an audience directed guests to the main the ‘bridge’ of the upper mall.

www.landau-forte.org.uk 03 It’s Showtime! …and the party carried on the catwalk. were followed by the Youth constructed by Technology from ‘The Clock’ celebration Inevitably the theatre doors Theatre with their performance students. during the day into a fun- were not strong enough to of Jack Be Nimble from the The 20 years of Learning and packed evening cabaret. A little Olympic Torch Ceremony in contain all this talent and the Achievement celebrations on less formal than the daytime Darley Park last June. show spilled out into the bar September 6th at Landau Forte ceremonies attended by Martin with live music and the song All heads were turned to the College were the fireworks; Landau and Rocco Forte, the ‘The Big Hand Said’ performed big screen, as a preview of the icing on the cake (there evening saw 150 students sing, under the new clock in the Right up my Street; a combined were even cupcakes beautifully dance and act their way into the lower mall. Composed for the project with the Broadway decorated by students) – but it’s next 20 year era. 20 years celebration, the song Cinema, Nottingham was actually Showtime every day at The 360° multi-sensory chimed quite nicely with our shown, ahead of its showcase Landau Forte College! experience was lubricated dignitaries during the day and at the Broadway Cinema. by student council waiters wound up the interval very The exhibition of Art and A Wrampling and waitresses, ensuring the musically for our evening Technology made the entire audience had the full cabaret audience. building a celebration of student treatment and the fashion show The Singers, Band, Junior Drama, success, as their creations filled weaved between the tables solos and duets who made such the upper and lower malls. Even before the models mounted a superb first half of the show the table decorations were

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www.landau-forte.org.uk 05 In a League of their Own It was a real pleasure to The nominated students were: plan to support the idea. The slogan ‘helping with pride’) and work with students who Aarondeep Ray, Gurjinder students worked tirelessly use them around the stadium to Tamber, Millie Weston, Hamza on their pitch for two weeks encourage crowd participation rose to the challenge Sharif and Megan Henson- – the result was an amazing and be on hand to sell when representing Griffin, Year 10. They were idea including a fantastic refreshments on the terraces at the College and Derby chosen for their enthusiasm presentation. half time to reduce the queues County Football Club and commitment to the I felt more proud than words on the concourse. DCFC Enterprise extension at a semi-final held at can convey, of the way the It was a memorable experience programme. students took on board my and a chance to strengthen Aston Villa Football This year the challenge has been comments and produced a our links with DCFC. Watch Club for the Premiership to come up with suggestions as confident, well-pitched business this space… the Rams on Hand Enterprise Challenge. to how customer service could plan. Our customer service idea colleagues may soon be coming be improved at our football was to re-produce the games to a football ground near you! club. The aim was to produce a makers of the Olympics (aptly T Fazekas five minute pitch and a business named ‘Rams on Hand’ with the Poetic Success for Tajalla Over the last four years, Tajalla for me and I was proud of what Peterborough and read Rasool has developed her I had achieved. my poems out in front of passion for writing poetry. After that, I had decided to the judges. I was never inspired to write continue writing poems There were two categories poetry but I chose to write whenever I had free time. For in the competition and I was short 5-6 line poems about a few years my poems got awarded first place in the animals. The first poem I ever published in the Young Writer 11-16 year old category. wrote was only 5 lines and it anthology and I received a I received a laptop for my was about a Kangaroo. number of certificates but poem. This success has built my confidence in writing and Luckily my poem was chosen the biggest achievement I hope I can do better and by Young Writers and I was of my life was last year achieve more success with my awarded a Merit certificate when I was selected from poetry in future. for it. Moreover my poem was the top 50 students in the published in the Young Writers UK who had entered Young Tajalla Rasool, Year 11 Book. This was a huge success Writers competition to go to

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Voyage to the Stars

On Thursday 4 October Year 8 experienced stars created in the night sky. Andrew told us Stardome. One learning group at a time, we about how the Ancient Greeks were the first went into the Sports Hall where there was a humans to discover a lot of these planets, stars huge black dome. Inside it was pitch black and a and patterns. screen projected on the walls. The sound of our From this we learned more about the noisy voices echoed around the dome. classifications of the planets and why dwarf Andrew Green (a member of the Royal planets are not eligible to be called a planet. Astronomical Society) explained to us the Now that we have looked at the constellations formations of the 8 planets; from Mercury to in more detail we enjoy looking at the patterns Neptune. He talked about the atmosphere of in the night sky and understand our galaxy these planets, their moons, and went through much better. the process of night and day, and gave us lots of In this experience we really enjoyed looking other general information about our galaxy and at the constellations inside the dome because solar system. they were all around us and it made you feel He then projected the constellations onto the like you were actually floating in space. inside of the dome and showed us all of the Clodagh Holmes and brightest stars and also the shapes that these Verity Jackson, Year 8

What’s it like to be a Material Scientist? On 19 September Year 10 million pieces! He also showed workplace context. Additional Applied Science the students an amazing We would like to take this students had the pleasure of a non-Newtonian fluid which opportunity to thank Dr visit from Dr Steve Edmondson, sometimes behaves like a liquid Edmondson very much for a materials scientist from the and sometimes like a solid. visiting the College and look University of Loughborough. Students also learned how to forward to enjoying one of his Dr Edmondson explained why make gooey slime using PVA talks again next year. materials science is important; glue and borax. J Naughton and H James what he does on a day-to- Each student took away a day basis; the experiments University of Loughborough performed at Loughborough; Frisbee made from the polymers and demonstrated the that they investigated in the properties of some fantastic session. Students found it materials. fascinating and certainly asked He showed students how lots of questions! The students plastics go through a glass are currently working hard on transition temperature – from their assignments in which they being soft and rubbery, to hard are investigating materials for and brittle. This was amusing use in an outdoor sports jacket. when he took a flexible yellow As a result of Dr Edmondson’s rubber duck, froze it in liquid visit, students are able to nitrogen and smashed it into a link their assignments to a

www.landau-forte.org.uk 07 08 news newslink It’s Elementary This year’s fashion Within learning sessions, in the detailed workmanship. and appreciated event; a perfect show was inspired by post-16 students developed, Two of the pieces included a opportunity to showcase the designed and made a number headband, designed to mimic creative flair of our students. the different elements of pieces reflecting their chosen the colours and movement of The designers and models were – water, fire, earth element. Year 12 had the task of water and an ethereal looking pleased to receive a number and air and aimed to providing the accessories, dress that gave the effect of compliments and the sheer incorporate them into whilst Year 13 produced a of wind. amount of effort that had been variety of garments. the pieces that the On the evening of the fashion devoted to this project was The initial designs and eye- show, amongst the other 20th clear to all. students created. catching final pieces were anniversary celebrations, the Ariel Draper and Sophie the result of hard work, care atmosphere was electric and the Middleton, Year 13 and dedication from all of the response was remarkable. It was students and this was clear a thoroughly well-put-together

www.landau-forte.org.uk 09 Landau Visits Loughborough

Year 13 A2 and BTEC Following the lecture we were Business students joined given a tour of the campus so that we could see the forces in September environment at Loughborough to visit Loughborough University including The Towers, University to discover a listed hall of residence, famous just what it would for once being the home of Mr Bellamy! be like to study business We were humbled to see the at higher education. Our presentation skills Overall, it was a thoroughly many sporting facilities on the were put to the test, as was enriching experience, made We began our day with a lecture campus, knowing that we were our knowledge of International especially memorable by an in International Business from walking in the footsteps of Trade but we rose to the unexpected encounter with a highly respected business Olympic heroes. challenge. We certainly Dame Kelly Holmes! A truly lecturer, Dr Julie Holland. The main challenge of the day learned how difficult it inspiring day. This was an insightful and fun was a very thought-provoking was for businesses to trade T Fazekas and Yasmin Mitchell, speech which introduced us to strategic brief to sell the internationally and the barriers Year 13 the Spangler (more commonly Respibelt; a belt used to help they would need to overcome. known as a vacuum cleaner) as train athlete’s intercostal well as proving to us that we are muscles which was used by products ourselves which need Mo Farrah. to ‘sold’ to universities.

Food Fusion: Food Glorious Food Students are participating in take their learning home and coming from the food room on a new extension activity this try out some of the recipes with a Thursday afternoon where the year focusing on Asian cuisine. their families. students have been cooking up Delivering the activity is Aruna The students that have been a storm making dishes including: Sharman Birch who, born in cooking this fantastic food this Malaysian curry, Thai noodles Malaysia growing and cooking term are: Shannon Clement, and coconut rolls. The students her own vegetables as a child, Shane Greenacre, Jacob are really enjoying learning teaches a fascinating blend of Kinsley, Adam Daly, Philip about new ingredients and how eastern recipes that includes: Hutchinson, Vivek Kaushal, to put them together to make Malaysian, Indian, Thai, Chinese, Bethany White, Maimoona truly mouth-watering dishes. Singaporean, Vietnamese, Hanif, Edward Rose, Sabah Japanese and Indonesian Arshad and Sara Arshad. S Owen influences. Students, staff and parents have It is hoped that the students will commented on the lovely smells

10 news newslink Gills and Buoys Hooked on Dissection Opportunaty Science WOW! launched delicate internal structures with a successful start to and to deduce their role in the anatomy of the fish. the year. Most students decided to Students from years 7 and 8 remove and dissect the eyeball had the opportunity to extract as their first step before their own DNA to view with progressing onto something microscopes, make bouncy larger scale. By the end of the custard balls, manufacture session many had a fully laden coloured glass beads and dissection board with all of construct reusable lava lamps. the interesting components One evening this term saw carefully laid out. It was another twenty students turn out enjoyable and messy session in force for the lucky dip with lots of smelly blood-stained dissection. Salmon heads, squid aprons (and hands!) by the end. and even a well-protected Science WOW! runs on orange bream were available for Wednesday of every week B. students to dissect. Students Look out for hints on posters practised and refined their around College as to what the dissection techniques through next one involves! skilfully locating and removing S Hawkley vital organs. With the assistance of post-16 biology students, many were also able to identify

Enterprising Eminence Aim High Young Enterprise is up and to win the award for the best success of the business.” running this year, with business plan in the South Roles for functional directors ambitious sentiments running finals. were also open to all throughout the College’s James Thompson who was members of the team and, strong team of twenty one elected by the team, and after intense competition, called Eminence. The scheme who is proud to be this year’s the best applicants were involves the Year 12 students managing director, highlights elected. Well done to – Tom creating and running their the team’s mood: Bingham, Company Secretary; own business independently “We are all very excited Catherine Greaves, HR which will develop their and enthusiastic about Director; Saffron Millington, entrepreneurial skills and the products that we will Operations Director; James qualities; essential for be releasing – which are Bates, Sales Director; business success in the best left as a surprise! With Gurdeep Sohti, Finance 21st Century. every meeting the team is Director; Chloe Davies, The next step for the business strengthened and I think that Marketing Director; and will be to develop a final it is really important for the Kuldeep Sandhu, IT Director. business idea and develop a team to be in one accord Thomas Butler – Roberts, business plan to enter into and supportive of each other Year 12 this business plan challenge so that everything we do this month. The team has together drives towards the high aspirations and hopes

www.landau-forte.org.uk 11 School’s on for Summer Landau Forte College The scheme lasted for two Derby County Football Club; and do things other year 7s haven’t introduced the summer weeks and enabled around even Zumba classes! Students been able to do in the past.” school scheme on 22 twenty students to have a taste had the opportunity to go on Kiran Sidhu, Year 7 of life at Landau before the new two visits outside of College to August for new Year We hope to continue the term began. The day started study the ancient Egyptians at summer College scheme next 7 students and it at 10am and finished at 3pm. Derby Museum & Art Gallery year. All the students who took turned out to be Their day was filled with new and explore the solar system at part were a credit to the College a great success. and exciting activities which Leicester’s Space Centre. and it’s great to see all the year developed their team “I can’t pick one thing I enjoyed 7 students settling into Landau building skills. the most, I enjoyed it all! I think Forte College so well. The activities ranged from it’s helped me settle into Landau K Philpott designing and creating their Forte College.” Jay Foster, own animations in ICT; learning Year 7 “I thought it was a really taekwondo; playing football nice experience to get to know with some of the players from the school better. I was able to

12 news newslink Alphabet Thriving Photography Council Inspires The Sports Council was The applications were of formed in 2010, consisting a fantastic quality and its Competition of thirty students. Students members have risen to fifty- were appointed to not only three covering Years 8-13. Well done to all the participants that took part in the promote and help organise With the London 2012 photography competition to creatively photograph objects that extension activities and games now over, we will look like letters! interdivision competitions, but be continuing our work: Thanks to Makhan Johal, Year 13 for supporting this workshop to also endorse the Olympic The commonwealth games and sharing his own highly successful techniques, graphic design and Paralympic values and in 2014 is being hosted in and photography. games. Glasgow and will be our next There were some fantastic entries and here are the winners: The continued hard work vision to help continue to YEAR 10: Rumana Idris (LEO) and enthusiasm from these inspire a generation. YEAR 9: Kelsie Gilbey (LYW) students has inspired many Many congratulations to the YEAR 8: Jessica Fearn (SHA) more to take part in school members of the 2012-13 Thomas Dearsley (BMH) sport. At the end of the last Sports Council. academic year, students YEAR 7: Tehjpal Dhaul (SCP) G Harris were given the opportunity Runners up: to join the Sports Council. Navneet Rai (CJW) Nothobeko Simba (LYW) Landau 1 Landau 2 Forte 1 Forte 2 Lewis Richardson (CJW) Hannah Abraham Tyronne Forster Tiara Samuel Jessica White Miles Barton Black Chantelle Grounsell Brandon Lee Harriet Collins Simranjit Choudhary Barry Record Southall Prithpal Johal L Wahid Chloe Davis Reece Limbert Emily Torry Raj Nizzer Amelia Griffiths Phoebe Lees Komal Pervez Chloe Hadfield Marshall Charlie Stokes Saffron Jackson Lauren Ward Umary Iqbal Fezan Mahmood Phoebe Torrance Ryan Roberts Natasja Joyce Journay Moulton Adnan Ahmed Callum Redfern Kamaal Khaliq Clodagh Holmes Demi Marie Croft Annie Johnson Callum Lacey Emily Fletcher Kyra Jackson Bethany Hill Oconnell Olivia Tataryn Fezaan Arshad Sophie Mee Bishop Abigail Woodward Connor Parker Ben Murphy Makhan johal Rachel Patterson Bronte Sutton Tajalla Rassol Joel Footring Helena Thomas Chalotte Green Cameron Wilton Ayman Yahya Ali On your Marks… Jonas Hey, Mateusz Cibor, race team of between three Callum Armstrong, David and six students. Using 3D CAD Parker and I are part of software teams design a car the Formula 1 in Schools and then test each design using extension activity. We design Virtual Wind Tunnel software and race miniature gas to analyse drag efficiency powered balsawood Formula and make the car more 1 styled cars. The challenge aerodynamic. Cars race side inspires students to learn by side along a 20m track and about computer aided design teams are judged on car speed, and manufacture, physics, as well their presentation and aerodynamics, branding, graphic exhibition boards. The challenge design and marketing with a big is an enjoyable way of learning focus on teamwork. about CAD CAM. Participating schools form a Joel Shinu, Year 9

www.landau-forte.org.uk 13 Class of 2007 Class of 2007 Then: Biology, Chemistry, Business Then: English Language and Literature, History, Psychology Now: Foundation Year Doctor, Merthyr Tydfil Hospital Now: PhD research into the role of touch in residential care, University of Nottingham

Upon the successful completion Catherine reflected: ‘It was hard I studied at Landau Forte College I’ve just started back at of her A Levels, Catherine made when the wrong decisions were between 2000-2007; it was a Nottingham for another four the progression into higher made and the right medicines great College and I have lots years of study to do a PhD education and began a five year weren’t available, resulting in of fond memories. At College, I researching the role of ‘touch’ in Bachelor of Medicine degree at patients dying that would have wasn’t the best-behaved student residential care for children, which Cardiff University. been saved in the UK’. and I didn’t particularly love is something I’m really interested Catherine spent five weeks Whilst at Landau Forte College, any of my sessions, I just went in and wholeheartedly believe working in the heart of the African Catherine was a keen performing because you had to. When I left that: ‘Kids need hugs, not drugs!’ bush at a rural mission hospital. artist; an extension activity to College, I travelled to India and My biggest piece of advice would This extreme work experience which she attributes her team worked in a children’s home for be: ‘Do something that makes you was all part of her elective working skills, her confidence and orphans in Mumbai. I had enrolled want to get up in the morning.’ project which she was required to clarity of speech. Catherine states: onto a Theology degree at the Mornings were never my favourite undertake in the months between ‘I wouldn’t have managed to University of Nottingham but time of the day, yet now I love finishing her final exams and progress into higher education, or quickly changed to social work getting up and am excited to see beginning work. to complete my degree, without as this was, I thought, something what the day has to offer. that would make me want to get Functioning in such a remote the transferrable skills I learnt at I didn’t appreciate how many up in the mornings. and rural area gave Catherine Landau and the character traits I opportunities were available at the opportunity to experience developed there.’ My first placement at uni was in a Landau or how lucky I was to get medicine in a completely different Catherine is enjoying every children’s home and I absolutely a place until I left – especially environment and in spite of little moment of the lifelong learning loved it; it definitely made me when speaking to friends who electricity and sparse supplies, that is included in her job. She want to get up in the mornings. went to school elsewhere. Make Catherine relished finding plans to complete two foundation I also loved the studying which the most of every opportunity; creative solutions to problems years at Merthyr Tydfil Hospital really complemented the practical appreciate what you have; and when resources were lacking. The in Wales before progressing on to element which I enjoyed so much. dream big. Thank you to all the medicines, machines and tests becoming a community doctor in I met some inspirational lecturers staff that looked out for me available in Zambia were in stark a local surgery. who encouraged me to apply for and encouraged me to believe contrast to those that we take funding into social work research, in myself. for granted here in England as which I was awarded.

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alumni

Class of 2004 Class of 2003 Then: Business, ICT PE, General Studies Then: Chemistry, Geography, History Now: Assistant Vice Principal at Now: Barrister, No. 5 Chambers, Birmingham

‘Loved it.’ That’s how Clare learning difficulties. Clare has After leaving Landau Forte few other jobs offer such freedom, Lambert describes her seven recently been appointed to a new College, I read Law at Christ’s diversity and exhilaration. The years at Landau Forte College. post as the Assistant Vice Principal College, Cambridge. The only first time I appeared in court; The College helped to prepare her at a new provision of education, reason I applied to Cambridge winning my first trial; losing my for her future, Claire explained, the Derby Pride Academy, which was because of the support and first trial; and negotiating my first through the longer working is based at Pride Park Stadium. encouragement of my personal settlement are all memories that day and the College’s ethos The Academy accommodates tutor at the time, Ms Brett. will stay with me. No doubt there of promoting independent students who have been excluded My law degree was certainly a will be many more to come too. learning; this especially helped from previous schools and challenge, but it was one I was Aspiration and self-belief are at university. Following her time help them to get back on track well equipped to meet because of perhaps the most important at Landau Forte, Clare went through vocational studies, diet the strong academic foundation qualities Landau Forte instilled on to study a four year degree and nutrition advice, and even Landau Forte had provided me in me, and did so right from the consisting of PE, Sport sessions with Rams players. with. Much like Cambridge, start. And it is perhaps this, above and Dance, and then trained to be Clare describes her tutors at Landau Forte teaches not just all else, that has kept me on a PE teacher at Liverpool John Landau Forte as being hugely knowledge and how to pass track and helped me to persevere Moores University. ‘committed’ and really wanting exams but, more importantly, how through the inevitable setbacks After completing her degree, her to succeed. At Clare’s young to think; how to research; how to that arose along the way. Clare found herself in her first age that’s exactly what she’s analyse, argue and evaluate; and As a civil practitioner, I don’t teaching post at Pingle School in done. The confident young woman how to present. These are highly quite experience the drama of the Swadlincote. After being made has ambitions of being a future transferable skills and they have criminal courtroom (and, most redundant, the confident Clare school head, enabling her ‘to put certainly served me well in my likely, I’ll never defend a murderer later found a new post at Ascot her own stamp on the school’ and pursuit of a career in the Law. or a terrorist) but whether it’s College. The independent school implementing her own vision. Whilst at Landau Forte, I was a a personal injury claim, road posed a challenging environment member of the Youth Theatre traffic accident, unfair dismissal, as it largely deals with students and Choir, so it is perhaps no eviction or bankruptcy, practising who have behavioural and surprise that I chose a career at as a barrister is filled with daily the Bar, rather than becoming challenges and the manner in a solicitor. It is a long path, so I which one rises to and resolves took two gap years during which I them makes for a very rewarding enjoyed travelling, as well as living job indeed. and working overseas. It is also competitive and expensive, but

www.landau-forte.org.uk 15 Masters of Technology State-of-the-Art The Year 6 CAD CAM master class is underway, giving Learning Space students from local primary schools the chance to work with the latest 2D Design software and CNC machines. The students are learning how to use 2D design software which will enable them to design and make their own creations using laser cutters. These designs will be themed and include fridge magnets, key rings and clocks based on Halloween and Christmas as we move towards the festive period. S Needham

A dramatic new look Gone were the traditional within these fields. Raj Nizzer, to one of the learning workbenches and white walls a Year 10 Product Design and in was an exciting, vibrant student spoke about the area environments within learning space with specially saying, ‘It makes you want to Technology greeted designed workstations. produce more creative work, it’s students when they The concept was to model colourful and the environment returned in August. industry and university Product enhances your learning and Design and Computer Aided suits the subjects we are Engineering studios. learning in it’. The learning experience of Our thanks go to our Governors Product Design and Computer and Trustees for supporting Aided Design and Manufacture this venture. will be enhanced giving students C Wright a feel for what it would be like to study or pursue a career

Football Badminton Badminton Interdivision Winners Winners Singles Winners Doubles The last academic year witnessed YEAR BOYS YEAR BOYS YEAR BOYS the largest ever involvement for 7 Landau 1 7 T. Mason (F2) 7 T. Mason & N. Nath (F2) the Interdivision competition. As 8 Forte 1 8 M. Barton-Black (L1) 8 M. Barton-Black & D. Varley (L1) usual, many students and staff took 9 Landau 1 9 J. Ball (F1) 9 T. Samuel & E. Wang (F1) part in the competitions, playing, 10 Landau 2 10 H. Mertens (L1) 10 T. Hlomayi & C. Talwar (F1-L1) helping to organise or supporting 11 Forte 2 11 G. Sohti (L1) 11 G. Sohti & D. Hutchinson (L1-F2) their division. It was great to see so P16 Landau 2 P16 A. Brown (F2) P16 M. Parker & T. Wakefield (L1) much sportsmanship in the close STAFF Forte STAFF Mr Middleton STAFF Mr Thompson & Miss Faulknew (F1) matches. One credit was awarded GIRLS GIRLS for every student that took part and 7 Landau 1 7 J. Green (L1) 8 Landau 1 three credits for every student in the 8 K. Jackson (F1) 9 Landau winning team. 9 T. Samuel (F1) 10 Forte 1 10 This is how the results for 2011/2012 11 Forte 11 broke down: P16 P16 STAFF Miss Liang

16 newslink Goings-on in the City

With the Derby There’s good news for all you start of January. Illuminated which features Christmas lights ice skaters – novice or expert – Halloween might seem a distant artists who incorporate the Derby Christmas ice rink will sculptural, photographic and switch-on just last memory but if you’re still in the be returning to the market place mood for a fright then Derby’s metaphorical light into their week, it’s fair to say on 1 December and operating ghost walks might be for you. work. Also for any budding that the festive period throughout the festive season. Explore the ‘most haunted city artists out there, the Quad is is only just around If pantomimes are your thing in the UK’ with expert guides also holding portfolio reviews on Wednesday 5 December. the corner. then you may be pleased around the city centre. Tours to hear that Derby Live’s last for three hours and booking This is a great opportunity to pantomime for this year is is essential. get advice on your work from critiques as well as Quad’s Peter Pan. It stars Britain’s Got Meanwhile at the Quad, they artistic director. Talent winner and Waterloo are holding several free entry Road’s George Sampson as Peter exhibitions to coincide with Tom Bingham, Year 12 Pan. Performances are running their season of light. One of throughout December to the them is an exhibition called

Basketball / Netball Winners Credits YEAR BOYS GIRLS 7 Forte Forte Division Football B.Ball C.R Total 8 Landau 2 Forte 9 Landau 1 Forte 2 Forte 1 138 115 43 296 10 Landau 2 Forte Landau 2 127 57 51 235 11 Forte 1 P16 Forte 2 111 79 39 229 STAFF Forte Forte Landau 1 72 85 67 224 Cricket / Rounders Winners YEAR BOYS GIRLS 7/8 Forte 1 Forte 9/10 Landau Landau P16/ STAFF Draw Draw

www.landau-forte.org.uk 17 Marriah’s Inspiration As part of her English ‘I have not always been in nickname is Blade Runner as ‘I know how difficult it is to curriculum, Marriah a wheelchair but due to a he runs on blades – flexible balance with limbs that aren’t medical condition, I am now. I prosthetic limbs made of strong. Pistorius will have Hafeez, Year 11, was chose Oscar Pistorius because carbon fibre which are fitted to work hard to achieve his asked to devise a he inspires me; his disability to his knees. balance, just as I do. I find it presentation about doesn’t hold him back,’ Marriah explained that Pistorius’ uncomfortable where people who inspires her the Marriah says. strength is what inspires her who don’t understand stare at me. He runs in front of crowds most. She chose Born on 22 November 1986 ‘because some days when I with his fibulas missing (the don’t feel well and I’m expected and seems to be confident and Oscar Pistorius. long slender bone from knee to to still do my exercises, I want happy to do it. This inspires me ankle), Pistorius’ consultant and to give up. He trains every day to go out and not worry about parents decided it was better no matter how he feels. His what people think.’ for him to have no limbs rather determination makes me more D Slater than ones that wouldn’t support determined. Sometimes as a him. Pistorius had a bilateral wheelchair user, you have to below-knee amputation. His amend the rules.’

Conquering the Cavendish Co-Op

Ben’s communication skills have really enjoyed stock taking as improved greatly – something he has been able to use his that has been noted around mathematical skills that he has College. He feels that he has gained in the College. definitely settled in at the Thinking about the future is the Co-Op. His organisation and next step for Ben. He has Ben’s work placement began into his working life. time keeping skills have really enquired about doing an enhanced as he gets himself to in March 2012. He has been Since starting the placement, apprenticeship within the going twice over a two week Ben feels his confidence has and from the placement by bus. Co-Op group. If unsuccessful, period; has never missed a shift; increased as he is meeting Ben would be very keen to he would like to do an and is always on time. Ben is new people. He has been take on a part time role within apprenticeship within the really enjoying getting some collaborating with others and the Co-Op. He would love to business or travel industry. We experience in the retail industry with different departments do some training on the tills wish Ben the best of luck with and meeting new people. He is and believes that he has learnt and have experience working his applications. also developing skills to take to work alongside others well. in the shop. However, he has H Cadman

18 newslink Home is curriculum Where the Heart is ‘My Derby’ is a project It involves the whole school an itinerary for tourists in that Year Seven curriculum, ranging from our Geography sessions. In History to ICT, the project Mathematics, we used data students complete included most subjects. related to Derby whereas in so that they learn The aim was for every student English we wrote about Derby about their city and to have completed a handmade and ourselves. where they live. brochure that contained vital To enhance our learning information about Derby. At experiences, we visited a variety least one page was allocated of different places in Derby for for every Humanities subject the afternoon. First of all, we studied at the College. were introduced to the places All of the students in Year 7 we planned to visit and then we participated in an interesting were directed by a guide around series of different activities the building. The places that we based on the project that visited were: the Cathedral, the focused on Derby. Our tasks QUAD and the Silk Mill. incorporated elements of Overall the project broadened Derby’s history, the Cathedral, our perceptions of Derby as Rolls-Royce and Landau Forte our own city and this assisted College! We were assigned to our understanding of the try and sell the city. significance of the city in which The brochures were accurate, we live. informative and bright as well Navneet Rai, Year 7 as clear to read. We created My Derby

www.landau-forte.org.uk 19 curriculum Stepping into Whitehall

During August, sixty The scheme, set up by the Social meetings, shadow my manager for the first time I had a clear students from across Mobility Foundation, sent us and meet various other civil insight of what work within the the United Kingdom into the various departments of servants and armed forces civil service was really like. Whitehall. I was allocated to the personnel. In addition, I was were given the chance The experience was inspiring, Ministry of Defense in which I given numerous projects to enriching and definitely one I of a lifetime to have a spent the majority of my time work on, mostly relating to the will cherish forever. working within the offices of White paper which the MOD two week internship Sarah Hutchinson, Year 13 working within the Industrial Policy. had recently completed. civil service; I was During my time in the MOD I It was great to meet so many had the opportunity to attend people from the profession and lucky enough to be one of them. Promising Pathways From the outset, the level of within the Pathways to Success talent each student possessed programme whose maxim is: became clear and it was no Exploring aspirations, sharing surprise that they had been information, celebrating nominated by their teachers achievement. to attend the course. As I After being wholeheartedly introduced myself to others, inspired by the alumnae I was awestruck by their speakers, a spectacular supper outstanding achievements, awaited us. The meal was immense enthusiasm and littered with surprises at every drive for success. I felt turn: stands of magnificently honoured to have been decorated desserts were hoisted On Wednesday 4 July 2012 selected alongside them. majestically into the dining I travelled to the University “Success is simply the hall by a concealed central of Cambridge to immerse movement from one failure elevating platform in an myself in the Pathways to to the next without losing elaborate ceremony. Success Programme hosted by enthusiasm,” declared Frances My experience was truly Murray Edwards College. The Edmonds. The guest speaker empowering; it has left me in programme is an opportunity and an alumna of the University no doubt that Murray Edwards granted to the most promising of Cambridge was quite frankly College is ‘for women who female students in Year 12 from one of the most inspirational expect to lead the way’. schools and post-16 colleges women I have had the pleasure Agnes Milner, Year 13 across the United Kingdom. of meeting. Enthusiasm abounds

20 newslink enrichmentweek

A Hesley Wood What a Yorker! Experience During enrichment week 2012, During enrichment methods of torture. We were year nine students had the week, Year 8 had a two shown equipment used such as opportunity to take part in a guillotine. day residential visit to a three day camping trip at Next we went shopping on Hesley Wood Scout Camp, York and Leeds. the Shambles; it is the oldest outside Sheffield. This was an We had a long coach journey shopping street in England. exciting new opportunity for to York. Before we reached the There were some beautiful little many students. centre of the city we stopped at shops and our favourite store Over the three days, all of the the National Railway Museum, was the sweet shop. Around the students took part in different where we looked at different corner from the Shambles was activities to earn points for show was the biggest hit with sorts of trains, we also saw a the town square where there their team in order to compete different acts taking to the lot of railway platform signs, were people doing magic on the for prizes. Rock climbing, tower stage including Mrs Watson who including the platform 9¾ sign street. It was great! building and archery were performed her very own version from Harry Potter! It was a day On the second day, we visited some of the activities that of the Britain’s Got Talent rap to remember because we were the national armoury which the students took part in. As ‘Where’s my Keys, Where’s able to explore the fascinating was awesome! We saw many students were in teams, it gave my Phone’. equipment. weapons and some very them a chance to form new Overall, the camping trips were Once we arrived in York, most detailed suits of armour. friendships and meet a great success and all the of us went to the York Dungeon. We had such a fun visit to York new people. students enjoyed their camping The smell was disgusting, it was and Leeds; I hope this year’s Year Along with all the fun, students experiences! dark and the enclosed spaces 8s enjoy the visit as much as also had to ensure rooms were Leah Houldsworth and Josh made it feel like anything could we did. clean and took it in turns to Hanlon, Year 13 happen at any point! They were Elise Roberts, Macauley Goss prepare meals for the rest of the lit up with torches and students and Zara Sharif, Year 9 group throughout the day. In the heard talks about ancient evenings, the talent

www.landau-forte.org.uk 21 Getting to Grips with Granada

To exceed as linguists As well as advancing our During our placement at in Spanish. and immerse ourselves language skills, we left the the college, we worked with In our spare time, our hosts experience gaining new students from the age of 4 and in Spanish culture, took us out to experience life friendships and memories that 15 in their English Summer and leisure in Granada. We we had the exciting will last a lifetime. Camp programme. Our main visited many tapas bars and the opportunity to On 2 July, Frances Cadd, Ruth duty was to help develop their beautiful Alhambra palace that participate in a Webster and I flew to Malaga English language skills and overlooks the city. understanding of English culture Airport which was very daunting Our time in Granada was a life work placement which we achieved through as we had never travelled changing experience that not exchange with Granada sports, cooking and performance independently before. We were only allowed us to flourish as activities. During breaks we Bilingual College in completely out of our comfort linguists, but also develop close spent our time in the outdoor southern Spain. zones living with host families friendships from across Europe swimming pool and sunbathing for the two weeks. However, our which will always cherish. hosts were really hospitable and in the 40 degree heat which Rose Martin, Year 13 after a few days we already felt gave us an opportunity to at home. converse with the teachers A Spanish Encounter Molly Coffey reflects on the my enjoyment of it. However, the visits to the art museums a little time relaxing, taking in College’s visit to Tossa de Mar getting native speakers to and then applying what I had the sun, listening to the sea and in Spain. speak in their language can be seen and learnt to the sketch walking on the sand, was just ‘Having the opportunity to visit a challenge; once they realise book we were given for the what I needed after another Spain as part of learning the you speak English, they usually week. I was proud of what I busy year at Landau.’ language has to be a big plus. answer in English!’ produced and it has helped Molly Coffey, Year 11 Getting the chance to practise ‘Our visit to Tossa de Mar and my study of Art and Design, the language with native Barcelona was a mixture of art, something I hope to continue to speakers has supported, not only culture, language and fun! The study at Post 16.’ my learning of the language but highlight of the trip for me were ‘Finally, the chance to spend

22 enrichmentweek newslink

Opportunities in Osnabrück In July Alicia Gwinnutt, really enjoyable and I remain were trying to say. Charlotte Allseybrook, in contact with my exchange We all enjoyed our stay in student and her family who Nuala Kelly and I Germany. It was the perfect way were very welcoming.’ to develop our skills in German travelled by mini bus, Charlotte shares her and understand the local plane and train to experiences: ‘In the primary culture. It was an experience Osnabrück to complete school where I was placed, the that we would recommend to a work placement, children and teachers barely students looking to expand their spoke any English which was horizons and improve their self- which allowed us to a fantastic opportunity to use confidence. use and improve our the German we had learned Demi-Marie Croft, Year 13 German speaking skills. but also a difficulty that I soon overcame. I helped the children Charlotte and I worked as with their Maths and English classroom assistants in two and helped in their bicycle different primary schools, whilst training classes. The placement Alicia was at in a baby unit in was both interesting and the local hospital and Nuala fulfilling, especially when I had experienced employment in a the opportunity to help out on a veterinary surgery. school trip to the safari park and Alicia explained: ‘I was really with the school sports day.’ happy with my exchange Throughout our stay we took partner and found that we got part in social and cultural on really well. The opportunity activities, allowing us to learn was enriching to both my more about the German German studies and my lifestyle and culture. We met University application as my at barbecues, cooked together exchange partner managed to and went to the Abi-ball, the find me a placement within equivalent of our post-16 a hospital. Because of work prom. During the time that we placement laws in Germany, were socialising we spoke both I was able to participate in a English and German to each wider range of activities so, other. It was very relaxed and in some ways, it was more it didn’t matter if our German valuable than a placement in wasn’t 100% correct as our new England. I found the entire trip friends understood what we

www.landau-forte.org.uk 23 Making More than a Buzz Last year Isabelle This year Landau Forte again There were 35 semi-finalists for Students in Year 7 have just Moss, Year 9, not only fielded a strong team. Spanish and 32 for German. learnt the alphabet in Spanish and German and are preparing reached the final of the 26,000 students across the Jaya and Kasim acquitted country participated in the themselves well, but narrowly to do battle in this year’s Languages Spelling Bee, Routes into Languages Spelling missed out on a place in the Spelling Bee. but went on to Bee last year. Year 8 students final four. Maryam went through L Watson become the national Maryam Barkat, Jaya Jaspal to represent the College in the Spanish champion! and Kasim Mohammed went final for Spanish and came through to the semi-finals in second in a very tense sudden Cambridge on 6 July 2012. death round.

And the winner is. . . Year 9 students once again This year’s entries were wowed us with The Film Score outstanding and the ten finalists Oscars Ceremony. Students presented Oscar-winning scores. were challenged to compose After the votes were counted music for a short film using and verified, the winners were motifs, hit points and a wide Niall Meakin and Mehvish Naz. range of instrumentation. The A huge well done to all of Year 9 pieces were then recorded using for their compositions. special computer software to C Collington create a mood and texture for the short film drama.

24 newslink julyspotlight

The Review Rounders 2011-2012 was another fielding skills were second to successful year for none; and Rabia Hamza (Year 8) whose batting shone through in our year 7, 8 and 9 the final stages. rounders teams. Through team work and hard Individual matches against work during their learning other schools and colleges sessions and extension, the in Derby allowed the girls girls were able to win more to notch up some valuable games than ever and even wins in preparation for bigger challenge for the top spots in competitions to come. the competition. Taking part in tournaments held With even more training and at Academy, the dedication this year, the girls girls were able to show off a hope that they will get even vast range of their skills. Some closer to that first place position particular highlights came from that they hope to achieve. Clodagh Holmes (Year 8) whose L Ogden

Team of the Year Splendid Sportsmanship Girls Y7 Sportshall Athletics Landau Forte College hosted and Peter Thompson. Over their Sports Presentation 100 students across all key evening in front of a capacity stages were recognised for their Most Improved Student audience of parents, students, sporting successes within the BOY: Sujan Anand staff and guests. Our guests of curriculum and beyond. GIRL: Carly Croft honour were Natalie Faulkner Young Leaders of the Year BOY: Tyrone Forster GIRL: Natasja Joyce The Reece Jeffrey Award Reece Limbert The Sam Robinson Award BOY: Makhan Johal GIRL: Rachel Patterson Sports Person of the Year BOY: Barclay Izzard GIRL: Kelsey Burton Evans

www.landau-forte.org.uk 25 26 julyspotlight newslink Let the Games Begin

This year saw the very The Olympics Sports Day was a the day to come. It was also a pleasure to see first whole-college celebration of all forms of talent The students sign up was a that even the students who Olympic Sports Day at Landau Forte College and a massive success. This was largely decided not to participate in fitting occasion to mark both due to great commitment from the events were able to help out held at Moorways the London 2012 Olympics and all students at Landau Forte with such as officiating which Athletics track. the anniversary of 20 years of College but also down to each included timing, measuring and learning at the College. of the division team captains keeping score. Held on Monday 2 July, the who were: The day ended with all students order of the day began with LANDAU 1 – Cameron Wilton, who had come 1st, 2nd and 3rd tutor group activities which Natasja Joyce, Hannah Abraham, places being presented with included ice breakers, learning Amelia Griffiths-Marshall, Ben their gold, silver and bronze songs, chants, dances, and Murphy. medals by Mrs Coffey. creating their very own team LANDAU 2 – Reece Limbert, It was a great achievement for flag which was to be paraded Phoebe Lees, Fezan Mahmood, all who took part and we look around the athletics track. Tyrone Forster, Chantelle forward to the next one! After breakfast, students hopped Grounsell. L Ogden onto buses and made their way FORTE 1 – Tiara Samuel, Komal to Moorways to take part in the Pervez, Saffron Jackson, Adnan opening ceremony. Despite the Ahmed, Demi-Marie Croft. rain, both students and staff FORTE 2 – Raj Nizzer, Ryan where full of enthusiasm and Roberts, Annie Johnson, Fezaan excitement at the thought of Arshad, Connor Parker.

An Olympic Honour

Landau Forte College had the The next location was the This torch was then handed to honour of starting off the Derby Assembly Rooms where all of them live on the show. Community Torch Relay on the student torch bearers were Huge congratulations to the 11 June 2012. Many students gathered. From there, we went three students who took part in lined the corridors so that our onto Derby Cathedral for a this unforgettable experience. own Year 10 torchbearers – service to celebrate the Olympic G Harris Komal Pervez, Aarondeep Rai and Paralympic values. and Victoria Taylor – could Finally, we had the honour perform their own relay around of lining the path the official the College. Olympic torch took through Next we paraded to Derwent Derby’s market place and held Primary School where we were our torch up high for the whole greeted by the whole school world to see on international lining the playground to the television! soundtrack from Chariots of East Midlands Today also Fire. The relay then went onto commissioned Landau Forte a total of forty-eight schools to create a torch for their in Derby; each creating a torch programme. Our torch bearers and reproducing a relay. The visited the studios and met with community torch relay was the producers and presenters to completed by Ashgate Primary help them create a design for School arriving at Landau Forte the torch. College to cross the finish line to complete the torch’s journey.

www.landau-forte.org.uk 27 How it all began

Overhead image of site Artist impression of interior The plans are drawn up

Interior starts to take shape Almost complete Construction gets underway

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