SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM

not to have more, but to be more

Les Misérables, March 2020

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GUEST SPEAKERS LES A ‘THUNDERING’ TO COUNT ON MISÉRABLES VISIT YouTube Economist, ‘EconplusDal’, A very tough rehearsal schedule A very special visit for the visits the School proves to be worth the effort Netball team SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM Welcome Contents School Vision Welcome to the Spring / Summer issue of Welcome from Helen Jeys 3 #1. DREAM ‘EconplusDal’ visit 4 To be loved and trusted as an academic school that nurtures girls our Senior School termly publication, Aspire. Meet the Governors 6 to be happy, confident and resilient and who reach their potential Les Misérables 8 in whichever field they choose. St. Joseph’s Day 10 Charity Week 11 Library Appeal Update 12 #2. CHARACTER Dear Parent, Alumnae 13 Happy Dynamic Academic Sport 14 United Nurturing Ambitious Here we are at the end of the most unusual of years. As Proust said, “the real voyage Farewell Mrs Jeys 16 Fun Committed Inclusive of discovery consists, not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” Hello from Mrs Smillie 18 Friendly Aspirational This is what this last term has provided for many, if not all of us. However the virus Learning in Lockdown 19 has impacted our lives, the last few months have provided us all with huge challenges. These months have also, nevertheless, enabled us to focus on family, friends and the #3. BELIEFS importance of frontline services in a way that we have not, perhaps, done before and Providing an outstanding, educational journey to girls from the age we have all been, as a result, on a “real voyage of discovery.” I cannot put into words of two to eighteen how proud I am of how the School itself has responded to the crisis; the determination of the teachers to sustain the timetable and the inspirational way in which the pupils Inspiring girls to achieve and to be the very best they can be have responded to a very, very different type of learning. Our pupils have – most importantly - continued to learn and they have continued to make progress; they deserve the highest commendation and we hope, very much, that every girl will be Giving every individual girl a truly holistic educational experience back at the physical school in September. Mrs Helen Jeys Embracing the very best in technology to provide a personalised For me personally, I did not anticipate that this would be how my time at AESG Headmistress approach to learning would end. My four years at AESG have been hugely eventful; much has happened over the last few years to have tested us all but the community of this school is hugely strong and always pulls together in times of crisis. I remember, vividly, the day after Welcoming girls of all faiths in a school with a strong Christian ethos the Manchester Arena bombing when the whole school community stood outside in silent prayer and reflection. These past few months have seen pupils show Producing successful citizens for the future with global awareness, perseverance in their learning which will, I know, be of huge benefit to them in the empathy and a strong moral compass future. But it is this community that makes the School so special and I have loved my time leading it through difficult times as well as hugely enjoyable ones. From huge successes in public examinations, in sport and the performing arts, to an increased Supporting girls with superb pastoral care; one which develops girls’ alumnae profile and new facilities such as the climbing wall and the fitness suite, the resilience, self-confidence and self-belief School being awarded Apple Distinguished Status and celebrating a copious amount of awards and achievements of our pupils in areas as diverse as the Crest Award and Working in partnership with parents to guide girls throughout their Duke of Edinburgh, I am proud of what has been achieved over the last few years. school life Most importantly, I feel privileged to have worked with an outstanding team of staff and to have spent time with and taught the most wonderful group of pupils who I will miss hugely as I move onto my next school. #4. SPIRIT “Aspire not to have more, but to be more.” The first quote I wanted to be displayed on the walls at AESG was Aristotle’s “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” What I do know, then, #5. FOCUS is that the pupils at AESG receive a brilliant education. I wish them, the teaching staff, you and my successor – Mrs Nicola Smillie – all the very, very best for the future. Confidence and self-belief Best Wishes

Mrs Helen Jeys

ASPIRE ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 03 SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM Guest speakers to count on

On Wednesday 4 March, AESG had the privilege of hosting renowned YouTube Economist, Virang Dal, better known as ‘EconplusDal’.

Virang Dal’s YouTube channel reached The comprehensive full day workshop at The session was highly interactive with over 100,000 subscribers last month, AESG provided a dynamic environment students asking insightful questions and demonstrating his popularity among to allow up to one hundred students from absorbing the key concepts astutely. One Economics students across the world. different schools around East to student commented: “Econplusdal is The event at AESG saw 100 students from understand and hone core content and EPIC; he doesn’t disappoint in real life.” colleges and Sixth Forms come together application nuggets and provide them from across the region. with the confidence and understanding of Students left the event, with Econplusdal how to push towards the highest marks. It selfies, feeling more confident and Virang Dal is a teacher and Head of was a fantastic day which helped to build enthusiastic about Economics which will Economics with vast experience in Economics expertise in challenging areas be vital as they continue their studies. getting students top grades in Economics such as Market Failure and Policy Themes, examinations through focusing on key Competition Policy and Labour Market Finally, a huge thanks to the administration, core skills and exam secrets that unlock Themes, UK Economy Macroeconomic catering and site teams who made the the door to exam success. Policy Themes and International Trade event possible. and Protectionism. Patricia Cunningham, Business and Economics Department “I am an out and out Economist seeing “He gave six sessions on individual micro and “I particularly enjoyed the tips for the practical use of Economics in all macro topics in our course with in-depth essay writing skills as it enabled me that I do; I realised very quickly how analysis and key tips on how to succeed. to understand how to progress my the subject is the heartbeat of daily life, I thoroughly enjoyed it as not only was it essays with links between causes understanding the significance of informative, but it was also taught in an and consequences. I am hoping this choice, price and individual well-being, engaging manner. The highlight of the day will boost my grade as he made it concepts so deep but beautifully and was how interactive the workshop was, not really easy to understand and kept logically explained using simple just for us but for the 90 other students it general so I can replicate the skills

economic theory.” there. EconplusDal made a great effort to to all my essay topics.”

Virang Dal personally connect with everyone. We had Madi Ashurst a really great day and felt very privileged to have experienced an EconPlusDal workshop.”

Maggie Khoryati

ASPIRE ASPIRE 04 ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 05 SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM

After an enlightening interview with Mr Would you like the governors to be more Trueman, it had been arranged for me to involved in the daily life of the School? meet Mrs Rostron the next day. MRS R: Yes, and I think I have tried to do Meet the Governors that. My history with the School is that my two daughters came here. My youngest; she was the first one that went through reception, all the way through to Upper My name is Lily Beasley, and as a student in the Sixth Form, I have never actually Sixth. She was the first one who went through the entire school when Alderley considered in any real detail what the roles of the governors are. Why do we need them? Edge School for Girls was first created. So, I like to come into school. I think a lot of What do they do? I took it upon myself to find these answers out and found myself the older girls were the younger girls when my daughters were here; they know who interviewing two of the school governors in one week, Mr Trueman and Mrs Rostron. I am, but other people don’t necessarily. Yes, I do think its very important that the I began by meeting with Mr Trueman. governors come in, I come in as much as I can. I came to the school production and mass for Ash Wednesday. I think it’s What is your name and position? important for the staff particularly to know MRS R: My name is Joanna Rostron and who I am, so they feel they can approach We all keep checks on each other, and I am the safeguarding governor. I also sit me and equally, for the girls as well. then once every month I authorise certain on the Marketing Committee, and because things which are of a higher value. It’s of my safeguarding role, I sit on the Do you think student opinions are heard not a difficult task but it is quite a big Curriculum Committee as well. often within the committees? responsibility. As governors, everybody is MRS R: Yes, I think they are. I have sat in really switched on to safeguarding; there As a student myself, we normally just on the Student Council last year, so that I has been so much change in the world. see the governors every now and then, could then report back to the governors Every governor has a responsibility to keep such as occasions like Prize Giving. How what the students had to say. I also think a check on safeguarding in school. would you describe your daily tasks? it’s important, when they did the LGBTQ+ MRS R: For me personally, being the training, I was quite strongly involved, so I During the Curriculum Committee, we see safeguarding governor, I report a lot to went to every meeting that followed. more of the teachers, the Deputy Heads Mrs Jeys and Mrs Wood. They will also tell and representatives from the Junior me about anything going on at the School And so just like that, I had found myself School. Every time we meet, we have which I need to know about on a safeguarding wondering about the other members of presentations from each one of the basis. I probably don’t have contact daily, What is your name and position? The Finance Committee tends to be made the governing body, but perhaps that academic departments, which is always but I go through phases where I seem to MR T: My name is Chris Trueman and I’ve up of the same group of people, and we meet is for another time. I would like to thank very interesting, particularly from the have a lot of contact and some where not been associated with the School for a long at least every half term, sometimes more Mrs Rostron and Mr Trueman for Junior School because their interest in as much. I will have meetings with Mrs time. Around three years ago, I was invited often, because we’re running a business. It sparing me some time to complete these reading, writing and maths might seem Wood, or with safeguarding teachers in the to join the Governing body. I am currently is a school and we are helping the students interviews and for giving me an insight simple but a lot of effort is put into it. It’s Junior School. They come together and we the chair person of the Finance and to learn, but it is also a business and there into their daily tasks. I hope we have all interesting to see how things have changed. go through any issues, any policies and Building Committee and also sit on the are quite a lot of administrative staff. We learned something new; I certainly have! make sure that the policies are up to date. Curriculum Committee. have to attract pupils and parents to the I look forward to meeting other governors Would you like the governors to be more We get a lot of communication externally school, which is why we have a Marketing in future editions of Aspire! involved in the daily life of the School? from the government and the local councils, As a student myself we normally just and Development team, to make sure that MR T: I believe they have the opportunity and we make sure that we are following see the governors now and then, either the message about the school is getting out. Lily Beasley. to do so, such as during inspections and those procedures and that they work for in school or outside of school at events class observations, but it’s completely the School. So, I get a lot of policies to read, such as Prize Giving. We don’t tend The Finance Committee is about keeping their choice. but I have to ensure that I am happy with to hear a lot about the governors track of the income and expenditure and them and that the governing body would themselves and what they actually do. making decisions mainly about what to Do you feel as though student voices be happy with them. I’m probably in school How would you describe your daily tasks spend money on. You do have to make are heard enough at the committee on average in a half term, about three or as a school governor? decisions because there is never enough meetings? four times, but then I have correspondence MR T: Well, the Governing committee money to live in a dream world and we MR T: There is the School Council and the from Mrs Wood or Mrs Jeys more operates on three or four committee levels; have to prioritise. My job as Chair Person Headmistress represents the pupils and regularly even than that. On top of that, I there is a full governing body which meets of that meeting is to make sure that all any views at the meetings. Pupils and love coming into school, so any excuse! approximately once a term and there are views are represented and if you have to especially Sixth Formers can feed back three sub-committees; Marketing and prioritise things, you also have to make through various means; via the Head of Development, Curriculum and Finance sure everyone knows what the costs are Sixth Form for example. and Building. I joined the Curriculum and what options are available. Part of my Committee as it interests me more than role is when you’re spending large finance, as I was a teacher for many years. amounts of money in an organisation, to make sure there are financial checks so people cannot be wrongly accused of misconduct in the financial department.

ASPIRE ASPIRE 06 ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 07 SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM Les Misérables

I always knew that Les Misérables was a very ambitious show to direct and there is no denying that it was a very tough rehearsal schedule from start to finish!

Only moments before the show I was This year’s principal cast are some of the “Les Misérables was such a great giving the cast some last-minute feedback most talented students I have had the show and it was a real team to ensure that every girl was able to shine pleasure to work with. I was particularly to their full potential. On reflection, it is pleased with our choices in terms of effort, none of us could’ve done incredible just how many breakthrough casting but what impressed me the most it without each other’s support. performances we saw on that stage, each was the support and encouragement they and every one of the girls involved gave had for each other. It is truly a pleasure to The cast truly felt like a family, their all and the show would not have been watch girls from across the school form from helping with harmonies the great success that it was without this lasting friendships doing something that level of commitment and hard-work from they are truly passionate about. I believe to our pre-show prayer, it was everyone involved. For a small school we that these experiences really allow the just brilliant.” really do have a phenomenal pool of talent. girls to develop not only confidence but

resilience and independence. Holly Cavanagh Clare Foster, Director

ASPIRE ASPIRE 08 ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 09 SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM St. Joseph’s Day Charity begins

Celebrating 21 Years of Alderley Edge School for Girls. at AESG

This year’s St. Joseph’s Day was a particularly special occasion as we Every year there are hundreds of issues brought to the attention of our community. celebrate 21 fantastic years of Alderley Edge School for Girls. Whether it is a natural disaster, a refugee crisis due to war or the need to fundraise

This was celebrated by a whole school essential money for a medical charity, our pupils always feel a sense of responsibility. service in the School’s Millennium Hall. All girls from 2–18, along with all staff members, Governors and special friends of the School gathered together to reflect This March was our third annual charity Chaplain Lenny has also worked with Bare upon all that the past 21 years has week. Prior to this week, pupils in the Necessities to raise awareness of period brought and listen to readings from Senior School voted for their chosen poverty and has tied in International the students, Head Girls, Headmistress charities ‘Doctors Without Borders’ and Women’s Day with a sanitary product drop and School Chaplain. ‘Syria Relief’ and plans were quickly drawn off scheme. up to raise funds. Whether it was the Staff Bleep test, Own Clothes Day, Bake Sales, Film Time, Obstacle Course Challenge, Disco or the Sixth Form 70km Challenge the girls, as ever, rose to the challenge. Charity Reps had collaborated to ensure that each event went without any problems. Mrs Baines was always on hand to help the money roll in and we finished the week raising over £1000. Alongside celebrating the School’s 21st The service was full of fantastic singing not Responses do not always require financial birthday, the service focused on the Fruits only from our choirs but the whole school donations to charities; we encourage the of the Holy Spirit and the diversity of our with a rousing version of our school hymn girls to provide their time, food items; even school community. ‘Shine, Jesus, Shine’, ‘We’re all in this writing letters to Parliament as a way to Together’ from High School Musical and highlight an issue or charity that they wish Our Junior School, from Pre-School to a rendition of Stevie Wonder’s ‘Happy to support. This year, we have also seen Year 6, presented the fruits, each featured Birthday’! Lily and Arabella in Year 7 sell items and on nine balloons for all to see, Joy, Love, raise over AUS$700 for WIRES, a charity Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, In recognising our diversity, other senior supporting people and animals affected by Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control, school girls said prayers from faiths the Australian Wildfires earlier this year. recognising we all have the ‘key’ to each represented within our school community: In addition, many Duke of Edinburgh of these fruits and should strive to adopt Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Sikhism participants have been busy giving their them all in our lives. and Islam. Our prayers focused upon time to charities and pupils in Year 9 have climate change, equality, peace, illness been keen to support the local park run. and the plight of refugees respectively before closing with the Lord’s Prayer.

We were also joined by Reverend Butler, who led us in our opening prayer and “Inspired by Sali Hughes’ ‘personal care package’, we re-used the previous closing blessing. year’s young enterprise products of personal hygiene including sustainable toothbrushes, soap, toothpaste and a cotton wash cloth. I am excited to give back to my local community and to provide aid to the homeless within Manchester. We hope that this is the first step in the forging of positive links with those more unfortunate than ourselves.”

Lauren Galligan, Lower Sixth Pupil

ASPIRE ASPIRE 10 ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 11 SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM Alumnae

As our alumnae network grows, we are delighted to introduce you to more of Alderley Alumnae’s newest members! Whether you are an old girl of Alderley Edge School for Girls, St. Hilary’s or Mount Carmel, we would like to speak to you!

1981Class of Annette Boden MSc

As a former pupil of Mount Self-compassion teaches that it is ok to make mistakes, that we Carmel I was thrilled to be are not perfect but that we can learn so much when we treat Library invited to share my journey in ourselves with kindness. I now teach the Mindful self-compassion the hope that it inspires and programme and bring compassion focused therapy into my motivates all the young women clinical practice. It is my life’s work and my soul’s purpose, to live coming up through the ranks of in accord with the core values that I learned from the school days Appeal Alderley Edge School for Girls. I enjoyed so much and have never forgotten.

During my formative years I am really looking forward to delivering a ‘Lunch and Learn’ at Mount Carmel I wanted to session in the School where I will share some tips and techniques Update become a journalist, however, with girls from overcoming exam nerves, to spreading their wings that was not to be my path. and choosing a vocation that they are passionate about.

I have always been proud of the values I learned from my school days and compassion was a big part of the teaching. I found once I left school that I was drawn to helping people in whatever In memorium role I undertook. I began a journey of self-discovery and As many of you will be aware, we have In the Senior School and Sixth Form, From top: Junior School Library completed a BSc in Psychology and a Masters in Psychology but Peter Ainsworth been working hard to raise funds for we are planning a £21 pledge where the and Senior School Library not immediately after school. I took the long and winding road We are saddened to inform you of the death of former School the complete refurbishment of both our girls undertake tasks at home or in the through retail management and found that I enjoyed supporting Governor, Peter Ainsworth. Until the end of the last academic Junior and Senior School Libraries. community in order to raise £21 each to staff and encouraging them to be their very best and passionate year, Peter served as a governor of AESG and prior to that, at donate towards to appeal to celebrate our about all they undertook. We have recently received a generous 21st Birthday with the hope of completing Mount Carmel School. donation from the Sisters of St. Joseph the fundraising for both projects in 2020. I found that I was drawn to a vocation of health care and Peter was an accountant and served for many years as Chair and are now over 80% there in reaching psychotherapy and have been in practice for over twenty years of the Finance Committee, providing a long and extensive our goal for the appeal. Pupils, parents We have also been speaking to many of our now. I learned much about myself and compassion, but it wasn’t level of support to the School. There will be a family-only staff and our wonderful PFA worked suppliers about the project, some have already until I became unwell with a chronic physical condition over ten funeral held shortly but a public memorial service is being incredibly hard to support us. We are confirmed that they are willing to support years ago now that I learned to treat myself with the same care planned and we will communicate that information to you also incredibly grateful to have received us with donations for the final push. and compassion I offered to others, to listen to my body and use as soon as we know more. a generous donation which has come in all the skills I learned during my school days. to the School in memory of a member of If you would like to support our appeal or our alumnae. donate either personally or through your I came across the work of Kristin Neff and Chris Germer-pioneers Sister Aida Gill business, please contact Debbie Dawson in the field of self-compassion research and teaching and I began It is with great sadness that we can confirm the passing In the Spring Term, the girls in the Junior by email [email protected] or phone to develop a new relationship with myself – one of care and of Sister Aida Gill from the Order of St Joseph. Sr Aida School completed a sponsored readathon 01625 588045 kindness. This helped with pain management but also gave me was based at the Convent of St Emilie, in Bowdon. Many and all monies raised from World Book the confidence to continue my work as a health care professional memories have been shared online amongst Mount Carmel Day will also go to the Library Appeal. Our writing articles for magazines. PFA also hosted a brilliant Ladies’ Lunch alumnae so please do send in any messages or memories at Piccolino. you may have.

ASPIRE ASPIRE 12 ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 13 SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM

Reaching New Heights AESG Swimming Gala v Cheadle Hulme The climbing club, now in its third year, was tenacious in attempting the difficult A ‘Thundering’ visit continues to go from strength to strength. boulder problems in the afternoon. The PE department are delighted to have As well as the twice weekly club sessions at Although disappointed she could not quite introduced swimming galas this academic the school wall, we have been enjoying complete them all, she need not have year and travelled to Cheadle Hulme for visiting other venues and gaining invaluable worried. Her phenomenal tenacity was their first event. The Year 8 team, consisting During the Spring Term we celebrated immense success across all of experience. We had two visits to the rewarded as she finished both the ISA and of Seren Redfern, Isla Campbell, Pippa Substation bouldering wall in Macclesfield the Open Competitions; an outstanding Collis and Ellen Stanion, were pipped at the summer sports at AESG as well as welcoming a very special guest. in December which was great fun, as always. achievement. We will certainly be back the post by Cheadle 25-31 points. The next year! Year 9 team beat Cheadle 29-28 in a very In November, four of our older girls competitive gala. They managed to win entered the Independent Schools When we are able to do so, we hope to both relay races and produced some new Association Climbing Competition in return to cliffs such as Windgather Rocks Indoor Athletics Success personal bests! Well done to Ruby Ogden, Worcester. This was a huge success for and in the . Beatrice Wilshaw, Olivia Williams, Sascha both the girls individually and the School. Excitingly, we have been invited by the Smith and Scarlett Samuels. The Year 7 and 8 athletics team travelled to Pinnacle Club to meet them at an outside Poynton High School this term to compete We arrived with few expectations, hoping crag in the Peak District. in the Macclesfield and District Indoor for an enjoyable and challenging day out Athletics Competition. The girls represented and were not disappointed. There were four The Pinnacle Club celebrates its centenary Team AESG wonderfully; always cheering routes to climb in the morning followed by next year as Britain’s only all-female on team mates and being very supportive. a series of boulder problems in the afternoon. climbing club. This promises to be a It was great to see so many young people fantastic day where our girls will meet and Year 7 Results: enjoying the sport in such a friendly, chat to experienced women climbers. With The Year 7 team finished in first place out enthusiastic and fantastic atmosphere. Cheshire climber, Shauna Coxsey, now of eight Schools and will be representing confirmed for the Tokyo Olympics, clearly Macclesfield and District at the Cheshire The day exceeded our expectations, as did there has never been a better time for girls School games! the performance of our girls. At the end of to take up the sport! the morning session Mia Ogden was one Manchester Thunder’s Track results: Year 8 Results: point off the top of the leader board. Mia Rebekah Airey Visits AESG 2 Lap Individual Cianna Carrington, 1st The Year 8 team finished with silver for Netball Masterclass! and Ava Stones, 4th medals and only missed out on 1st place by 16 points! 4 Lap Individual Martha Rigby, 1st This term, we were delighted to welcome and Bella Reid, 4th Rebekah Airey from Manchester Thunder Track results: to AESG to work specifically with our 8 Lap Paarlauf Cianna Carrington 2 Lap Individual Amy Kouvarellis, 3rd U14 and U16 ISA teams in preparation and Martha Rigby, 1st and Isla Campbell, 5th for the netball season. Rebekah also 6 Lap Individual Elizabeth Sinclair, 1st conducted a masterclass with our Year Individual Mimi Rankin, 1st and Emily Phillips, 1st 9-11 netball players. Obstacle Relay Bella Reid, Ava Stones, Lilly- Ella Killen and 8 Lap Paarlauf Mimi Rankin and Emily Rebekah is a versatile player, who can play Elizabeth Sinclair, 2nd Phillips, 1st as goal keeper, goal defence and wing defence. 4 x 2 Lap Relay Elizabeth Sinclair, She joined Manchester Thunder in 2019 and 6 Lap Individual Hannah Reeves, 7th Ava Stones, Martha is part of the Futures Programme. Rigby and Cianna Obstacle Relay Hannah Reeves, Emily Carrington,1st Phillips, Isla Campbell The sessions focused on the varying and Polly Thorp, 4th techniques for each position along with exercises to ensure players are warmed 4 x 2 Lap Relay Polly Thorp, Isla up appropriately before playing. Rebekah Campbell, Mimi Rankin spoke to the girls about her journey and Emily Phillips, 2nd to success and how dedication and commitment are key. Well done to all competitors from both the track and field, it was a real team effort to We are proud to be able to offer sessions produce podium results. A special thank as such for our young sportswomen. The you to Mrs Redfern for all of her coaching. girls’ dedication to their teams is phenomenal We are really lucky to have you at AESG. and this wasn’t unnoticed by Rebekah. We would like to say a huge thank you to Rebekah for joining us on two occasions, for giving our girls such attention and inspiring a new generation of netball players.

ASPIRE ASPIRE 14 ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 15 SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM

14. 17. 19. What was your first job? What is your most memorable What will you miss most about AESG? I worked in a cattery when I was sixteen AESG Assembly? The real sense of community and family Farewell Mrs Jeys! and then, while at university, I worked as a Any assembly presented by Mr Russell. that reflect what is really special about Credit Control Clerk in a firm in the middle He is a wonderful story-teller and always AESG. I will genuinely miss both staff and of Birmingham. I had to ring up companies manages to think of creative ways to pupils – I have learned so much and have and ask why they had not paid their bills… illustrate a topic. However, the single loved everything about my experience at As we prepare to say farewell to Mrs Jeys after four years, we thought it would It was not the most uplifting of positions!! assembly I remember the most is last the School. I also have been privileged to year’s Christmas assembly; this is always work with an incredibly talented senior team be fun to ask her 21 questions and find out things that perhaps you didn’t know 15. the highlight of the year for me. I really who all pull together; I will really miss them. Did you always want to be a enjoy watching the pupils’ reactions to the in commemoration of our 21st Birthday. headteacher? different news stories in my summary of 20. No, but I did always want to teach. I have the year but this year’s rendition of ‘The The girls have learned a lot about always loved my subject and have always Twelve Days of Christmas’ is like nothing growth mindset and coming back from wanted to share my passion with others. I I have ever heard before. The volume was perceived failings and learning from have, however, always been very ambitious incredible and everything about it just them. What would be your best piece 3. 8. and becoming a Head has reflected a reflected real joy. Fantastic!! of advice? Who inspires you? What’s the first concert you attended? natural progression in terms of my career. To know that as a woman, you can strive Gosh... Aristotle, Malala, Jacinda Ardern Do I admit this one?! I think my first 18. and achieve whatever you want and in any (who I think is an amazing leader), Oprah concert was ‘Erasure’ – they were amazing!! 16. What is your most memorable field. Aim high and never live with regrets. Winfrey, Emmeline Pankhurst, Eleanor The School encourages reading for AESG moment? Roosevelt (another source of amazing 9. learning and reading for pleasure It is so difficult to say that there is ‘one’ 21. quotes!), Ella Fitzgerald (incredible jazz What’s one thing about you that and has been working on fundraising moment but there are events I remember What’s the best piece of advice you’ve singer), Maya Angelou... surprises people? for two new libraries. What is your incredibly clearly and for different reasons. ever been given? The fact that I can speak and understand favourite book as an adult and what I remember the morning after the ‘Never live with regret’. It is always my ‘go 4. Hebrew. was your favourite childhood book? Manchester Arena bombing and how we to’ piece of advice if I am ever faced with a If you could have lunch with one My favourite childhood book was ‘Malory all stood outside praying for those who had big decision! person, who would it be and why? 10. Towers’ by Enid Blyton. I really enjoyed been affected by this terrible tragedy. I also Gandhi would be fascinating to have lunch Do you have a bucket list and if so, reading about the mischief the girls got up remember my first speech at the Bridgewater Thank you Mrs Jeys! with. His philosophy surrounding equality what’s on it? to at boarding school. As an adult, I have Hall (that was incredibly scary) and I also and peaceful protest continues to be of To visit India and Vietnam. I am fascinated always enjoyed ‘Rebecca’ by Daphne Du remember introducing Helen Sharman to influence. But if I could have a dinner by religion and I would love the opportunity Maurier... “Last night I dreamt I went to a packed Millennium Hall last year; that party where Jesus joined us alongside to immerse myself in the culture of these Manderley again...” was an amazing memory for so many of us. Mrs Herring and Mrs Jeys celebrating Martin Luther King and Siddhartha the school’s 21st Birthday this year two amazing countries. Gautama, I think that would be incredible. 11. Find out more about Mrs Jeys’ most 5. Do you have any guilty pleasures? memorable AESG moments, her secret What’s the one skill you think everyone My family would say that I have an Thank you Mrs Jeys talent and the best piece of advice she should have? unfortunate taste in 80s music; something has received! We also have a special note a note from Shirley Herring, Chair of Governors The ability to type! Everyone complains for which I will not apologise! from Mrs Herring, our Chair of Governors about the noise that I make when I type – thanking Mrs Jeys for all she has done When I first met Helen Jeys at the interviews for Headmistress of Education Conference in Washington. This confirmed her but I was taught to touch type at school 12. during her time at AESG. AESG I knew she was an exceptional person with the potential to growing reputation in International circles and also reflected and can type over 100 words per minute. I What was your favourite subject achieve great things. In the four years she has been Headmistress, very well on the school. However, Helen’s goal has always been am incredibly grateful for that skill when at school? So Mrs Jeys, here we go! she has achieved even more than I could have expected or hoped the improvement in academic achievement. Last year saw the faced with well over 100 emails every day! Religion and Philosophy – obviously – for. I had hoped she would be with us longer but we are grateful school’s best ever A level results. With this exceptional Everyone should learn!! but I also loved Music and English too. 1. for what she has achieved in four high-intensity years. improvement in examination results, AESG is now respected What would be your perfect day? for its academic prowess and is ranked in the top 5% of schools 6. 13. The way I would describe my perfect day The improvements in appearance throughout the school were nationally for A level progress. This is a crucial one – are you a cat Who was your most influential teacher has changed quite a lot because of lockdown immediate, including inspirational quotations to make us all person or dog person?! and why? as I am sure it has for everyone. My perfect think and reflect, and the impressive displays of alumnae in the I would never have expected Helen to slow down as she Definitely a cat person. I have two rescue Mr Cunningham, my English teacher. day is spending the day relaxing with my hall and corridors. She targeted the upgrading of sports facilities completed her time here. However, nobody could have foreseen cats – Milo and Busby – who love lying over He was an incredible teacher but also family – anywhere – but preferably outside as a priority and the improvement in sporting success, as well as the impact of a global pandemic in her final term. Typically, with my computer keyboard when I am typing. knew how to ensure that I kept things in in the sun with a good book at the ready! the impressive climbing wall, will be a happy reminder of how her Senior Leadership Team, she set about organising online perspective too. When I became worried she got things done. Her ability to act decisively was evident after teaching for all pupils. Her foresight in leading the development 7. about my ‘A Levels’, he reminded me that – 2. the terror attack at the Manchester Arena, where she spoke to of AESG as an Apple Distinguished School ensured that the quality Do you have a pet-hate? If so, if things didn’t go as well as I would have We know you love inspiring quotes, reassure the girls immediately the next morning and employed a of the distance learning exceeded most other schools. She has what is it?! wanted - the sun will still rise in the which is your favourite? counsellor to support girls who needed it. This was appreciated worked through weekends and holidays to ensure the safe return Untidiness and people putting empty morning. I always remember this phrase Without a doubt, “Educating the mind and praised by parents. of those year groups recommended by the government and all boxes back in the larder – Grrrrrr! and it always reminds me to keep my without educating the heart is no education Junior School years will be in school for part of the time this priorities in order. at all.” This Aristotelian quote can be Her excellent communication skills have been recognised term. We are grateful for all of the Juniors, in addition to Years found outside of the PA Hall and, for me, widely as she has been asked to write articles for newspapers 10 and 12 have been back to school for a time this term. sums up what an outstanding education and magazines and appear on the radio. However, the crowning should be all about. glory has been the invitation she received to speak at the Global Shirley Herring

ASPIRE ASPIRE 16 ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 17 SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM SPRING / SUMMER TERM 2020 SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM

Clockwise from top left: Dalia’s ISA Freedom Art Gallery entry, Rebecca’s Religion and Philosophy work on Christian heresies, Sudipta in Year 10 uses one of our hand sanitiser stations in school, Marya’s ISA Hello from Freedom Art Gallery entry and lockdown photography hacks Mrs Smillie! by Lilia in Year 12.

As the school gets ready to close its doors for the summer, we eagerly await the arrival of Mrs Smillie, our new Headmistress, as she shares her thoughts on joining us this September!

As mentioned in my last letter, I am delighted to be taking up the post of Headmistress of Alderley Edge School for Girls in September 2020 and building on the successes achieved by Mrs Jeys and her Senior Leadership Team. Before lockdown, I was fortunate to visit the school several times to begin a handover process with Mrs Jeys. I joined current Learning Year 6 pupils in January when they sat the 11+ Examination and was delighted to join the school to celebrate St. Joseph’s Day in March. I am in regular contact with Mrs Jeys and the Senior Leadership Team to continue this handover process, even though at present it is using technology rather than face to face. in Lockdown Having grown up in the North West and having lived in South Manchester before re-locating to the Midlands, my husband and I are excited by the prospect of moving back north and being closer to family and friends. Once lockdown restrictions are relaxed, we At our Senior School Assembly on Friday Parents have supported their daughters are looking forward to visiting the area again. I have thoroughly loved my six years as Head 20 March 2020, as we were giving the girls in new ways: in short by becoming the of Saint Martin’s Girls’ School but was keen to move to Alderley Edge School for Girls their final briefing before lockdown began, household’s IT support department as following my Governors’ decision to merge my school with Solihull School, a large Mr Plews the IT Development Manager well as maintaining their existing jobs, Mrs Nicola Smillie co-educational mixed school. Having worked in girls’ schools since 1995, I am an advocate told girls that remote teaching and maintaining wellbeing and providing for single sex education for girls. I believe that girls thrive in an all girls setting as they learning would be “almost as good as being academic support across all subject areas. New Headmistress achieve the highest academic standards, without stereotyped, gender weighted expectations in school”. I am not quite sure that we Finally, teachers have had to prepare new whilst developing self-confidence and self-belief. This is certainly the case at AESG. believed him on that Friday morning but I resources and develop delivery methods am very pleased to say that Mr Plews was in ways that did not exist a few months Before training to become a teacher, I read Hispanic Studies and French at Liverpool right. This comment from one parent sums ago. The investment made by the school University. As part of my course I was fortunate to be awarded an Erasmus study grant to this up perfectly: “My daughter is learning over the past five years that has resulted complete part of my degree at Seville University which was a fantastic opportunity. I am really well. The experience is as close as in us becoming an Apple Distinguished looking forward to teaching Spanish when I join the school, as well as getting to know the you can get to being physically at school. School has certainly come into its own in girls and staff through leading assemblies, observing lessons and supporting the many The extremely efficient interactive online recent months and has put us in a position co-curricular activities which are provided for the girls. learning with the teachers has greatly that many other schools are not as minimised the inevitable disruption fortunate to be in. In the meantime, I hope that you and your families stay safe and well. I look forward caused to the girls’ education during this to meeting you in person later this year. terrible pandemic”. As we break for the summer holidays, I would like to thank all pupils, parents and Best wishes If we have learned anything in the past staff for their incredible hard work over few months it is that unpredictable things the past four months. I am so very proud happen in life and we have to respond of our collective effort and my thoughts to the best of our ability. It is our pupils, can be summed up in a recent email to inevitably, who have faced the biggest me by a teacher of many years’ service Nicola Smillie challenges: new technology, long hours to the school: “I’ve lived through many alone, missing friends, no sport or clubs incarnations of this school, but I’ve never and remote supervision by their teacher been prouder to declare that I work at the to name a few. Pupils have developed magnificent, resourceful, positive and personal qualities in a way that they would supportive Alderley Edge School for Girls”. not had they still been in school and greater self-reliance and independence Mrs Millar are at the heart of this: qualities that foster a Growth Mindset.

ASPIRE ASPIRE 18 ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 19 Alderley Edge School for Girls, Wilmslow Road, Cheshire, SK9 7QE T. 01625 583028 E. [email protected] www.aesg.co.uk @schoolforgirls /Alderley-Edge-School-For-Girls

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