CHristmas EDITION featuring...

International Visits

Shoebox Appeal

Beacon’s Got Talent

AWARDS EVENING 2018

@barrbeaconsch www.barrbeaconschool.co.uk vimeo.com/matrixacademytrust Awards Evening 2018

A message from the Head Ms L Draycott Teacher

This time of year is undoubtedly a special one. However you celebrate the season, it’s a time to reflect on the This year’s Awards Evening was a triumphant celebration of individual and collective successes. Hundreds year that has passed, look to the future and appreciate the present. of pupils received awards for subject achievements and supporting others. In addition to Matrix Director Mr Hoey, we had a guest speaker in the form of Thom Sutherland, a pupil at Barr Beacon from 1995-2000. Thom There has certainly been a lot of meaningful reflection at Barr Beacon, with our pupils taking lead roles in shared his experiences of being a pupil and how his time at Beacon shaped his career path. He now works several Remembrance events for this special year marking 100 years since the end of the First World War. as a theatre director around the world and recently completed staging an opera in Norway. Well done to everyone who collected an award this year. We have also been reflecting on the lives of others, specifically people in other countries less fortunate anth our own. I was especially pleased that pupils and staff produced 129 shoeboxes for the Foundation for Social Change and Inclusion’s appeal. Thank you for any contributions you may have made. They will really make a difference to people living in Bulgaria and Serbia.

With the new year on the horizon, this is also a time of year to look forward. In particular, I know you will be eagerly anticipating news of 2019’s international visits. We are involved in many projects which allow our pupils to experience different cultures. In this newsletter alone you can read about excursions to Denmark, Germany, Sicily and the Czech Republic.

The end of term is also, of course, a chance to celebrate, and this issue also features coverage of our special events, including a fantastic Beacon’s Got Talent and the hilarious staff pantomime.

Have a great break.

Ms L Draycott

Attendance Information for Parents/Carers Notices - If your child needs to take prescribed medication please ensure you have Please remember that if you take your child on signed it in at reception. The forms are available holiday during school time you are very likely to under the Publications tab on the website. receive a fine from Local Authority. The Local Authority may also take parents/carers to We regularly conduct research in school to identify court if their child is persistently absent (below opportunities for enhancing the learning for all 90%). Some parents have even been arrested, pupils. This includes surveys and group interviews. If taken to court and fined over £500. you would prefer your child not to be involved, please contact Mr Lowbridge-Ellis.

PROGRESS EVENING DATES

Year 9 - Thursday 31st January 2019 4pm-8pm Year 12 and 13 - Thursday 7th March 2019 4pm-7pm

Year 8 - Thursday 14th February 2019 4pm-8pm Year 7 - Thursday 28th March 2019 4pm-8pm Year 13 Celebration Evening Year 12 Visit to The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army in has, this Christmas, provided over 1100 toy parcels and over 400 food It was lovely to welcome back last year’s Year 13 students and find out how much they are all enjoying their parcels to families in Birmingham who will be struggling over the Christmas period. destinations. Our Celebration Evening started with a speech from Phil Bright, who finished his A levels at Beacon in 1981. He is currently Head of the Postgraduate School of Medicine. On Thursday 13th December, 15 members of our Year 12 were chosen to be a part of this operation and boarded a mini bus for the short journey to St Chads Queensway where the Salvation Army is located. After the exam certificates were handed out, the audience were treated to a piece by Elgar performed by current student Joe Farr. Mr Lowbridge-Ellis finished off proceedings with a speech reminding the audience On our arrival at the Salvation Army, the students met with Captain Clare Allman, the minister of the Church, to stay true to themselves and pursue careers which they find rewarding and enjoyable. who explained the purpose of the distribution of the toys and food and how it was a vital part of the work that they do.

During the morning, students were engaged in preparing over 100 toy parcels to send to families where they would struggle to provide presents for their children. Each parcel contained a toy, something to do, such as colouring or play dough, and a book to read. The food parcels contained 28 items including tinned food, pasta, rice and mince pies – all to make Christmas a little happier for someone. After lunch, students helped to pack a van that was being used to distribute the gifts to the various centres around the city that had made referrals on behalf of families.

Students remarked throughout the day that they counted it an immense privilege to be able to help people out at this time of year and especially to give families a happier Christmas when it perhaps otherwise might not have been. Remembrance 2018 Remembrance 2018

By Corporal E. Payne (Year 10) We are very proud of our Sixth Form students who took part in the Service of Remembrance at Aldridge War Memorial on Sunday 11th November. It was very moving and the students were very privileged to be part On Friday 9th November our RAF Cadet Force all met at the amphitheatre before making the walk to the Barr of such an important event. They each took on their responsibilities with great pride: one was a flag bearer Beacon hill for the 100th year anniversary of the end of the First World War. during the parade; one was leading the parade playing the drum; two of them joined in a reading after the two minute silence; one laid a wreath on behalf of the school, and one was asked by the organisers to video The respectful service was led by Reverend Andrew Brazier and was supported by fellow faith leaders. All record the whole service. All five of them were great ambassadors for the school. cadets were representing Barr Beacon School with pride throughout the whole service. Cadet A. Johnson and Cadet A. Dubb were chosen to lay our wreath on the war memorial after the one minute silence took place. Both cadets said they were honoured to lay the wreath on such a special and momentous occasion that commemorates the 100 years since the guns sell silent on the Western Front.

Special guests included The Mayor and Mayoress of Walsall, who said that they were really proud of how many schools were there showing their respects for this significant year. To Year 9 cadets, this was an insight into what our cadet force experiences throughout the year.

“We Shall Keep the Faith” and “The Fallen” were two meaningful poems read out at the service and were followed by hymns “I Vow to thee my Country” and “We Will Remember” which we all sang to remember everyone who risked or lost their lives for us including soldiers, nurses, animals, civilians and many more that helped Britain be the country it is today. Remembrance Art Piece Shoe Box Appeal

Barr Beacon School have put together 129 packages of presents for children living in poverty. The Foundation Pupils have been honoured to make an artistic contribution to Walsall Council’s 100 anniversary for Social Change and Inclusion’s Shoe Box Appeal helps people in Eastern European countries who have commemorations of the end of the First World War. The pupils were invited to produce a piece of art using been living in conditions unimaginable to most of us. The shoe boxes contain clothing for cold weather, any medium which depicted their interpretation of the time between the start and end of the Great War. The stationery and sweet treats. only boundaries set were the size of the canvas provided and the need for the work to be completed by the 26th of October. Sometimes we are in danger of taking all that we have for granted. But this time of year is the perfect On accepting this challenge the art department received two canvasses: one to be drawn or painted, the opportunity to consider the lives of others. At Barr Beacon, we always encourage helping others. Our pupils, other using fabric to create their impression. The pupils chose as their subject John Edward Gravenor, who parents/carers and staff have really gone the extra mile with 129 shoe boxes crammed to bursting with died fighting bravely in 1916. In 2016, John’s great niece discovered what had happened to her relative after she items that will make a real difference. turned detective: he was killed at the age of 26 during fierce fighting in Greece.

You can find out more about John here:

It was the pupils’ idea to find a solider that represented the local area. It’s so important for our pupils to connect with the histories of their families and the local community.

The finished works were displayed at a ceremony on Barr Beacon itself, led by the Mayor of Walsall on 9th November. The artwork was prominently featured on the rotunda around the war memorial, facing the stage. They were also displayed at the service in the centre of town on Remembrance Sunday, November 11th.

The pupils who were involved are: K Evans, S Deol, D Hawkins. Beacon’s Got Talent 2018 was a showcase of singing, dancing and instrument playing. Pupils from across the age range took part, many for the first time.

Although it was very tough to decide on winners, the voting public decided that Isobel in Year 10 was their favourite, followed by Jeanettah, Michelle and Alisha (a.k.a. IMPACT) in Year 9 and moon-walking Alix in Year 8.

This year’s Beacon’s Got Talent was organised by Year 13 media students, led by Tamsyn Brown. Congratulations on a successful evening. The staff pantomime has been something of a tradition for over a decade. But the story of this year’s pantomime was something a little less traditional. Pupils were the first ever audience to experience the adventures of the boy wizard Harry Plotter (no copyright infringement intended!).

The story concerned his friends trying to appease their teachers by finding them obscure presents. Using the mysterious ‘Claptrap of Destiny’ device, they jumped through time and space: from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, to Love Island to a galaxy far, far away and back to their magical school (which bore a striking resemblance to Barr Beacon).

The staff threw themselves into their characters and the pupils were delighted. Prague Erasmus Trip Cologne Christmas Markets

On Monday 3rd December 39 pupils from Years 7, 8 and 9 set off for Cologne. After a long journey we arrived in Six Year 8 pupils and two staff were part of the first overseas exchange working on the ‘Written in Stone’ Cologne and on the second day we headed for the traditional German markets. Pupils enjoyed experiencing Erasmus project. Pupils who went to Prague were involved in delivering presentations to school leaders, the cultural and culinary traditions on offer in various markets around the city. teachers and pupils from other participating European countries including Spain, Italy, Czech Republic, Lithuania and Romania. On the third day, we visited Phantasialand where the bravest amongst us sampled the world’s fastest launch on a rollercoaster multiple times. The pupils were fortunate enough to visit some local castles and heard stories about the history and legends from the local community. During the next term, pupils will be learning about heraldry and will visit local castles All in all, we had a brilliant time in Cologne and have returned with a greater appreciation for German culture. in the Midlands and share information gathered with the other schools across Europe. Denmark Trip Sicily Trip

Five Year 12 students and two staff went on the first exchange of skills in the Erasmus ‘C4’ (Collaboration, Nine students and two staff flew into Catania, Sicily on a two and a half hour flight for a five day cooking and Critical Thinking, Communication, Creativity) project that will last for two years, ending in May 2020. cultural exchange. With visits to Etna and other local points of interest in Catania, pupils learned about local history and how food is produced locally then used to make fine dining cuisine. Students met other members of the project including staff and students from Sweden. Finland, Denmark, France and Turkey, presenting on their schools and how the education system works within their country. Pupils involved in the project also enjoyed a professional kitchen master-class by the chefs, in which they had to make their own pasta and support their Sicilian exchange pupils in presenting a three course meal to Following this, all the students worked collaboratively on how immigration has impacted the Denmark and teachers and students at the school. the positive steps they are taking to ensuring the best education for all within their community welcoming all nationalities into their area. Barr Beacon School students were a credit to their school, leaving a lasting The pupils thoroughly enjoyed the experience and cannot wait for the return leg of the exchange in March impression. 2019. Wrekin Mr Bredon Mr House Grocutt House Townsend

Well done to Annabelle in Year 7 who continues to go from strength to strength with her dancing outside Bredon House have had yet another fantastic year. I competition at my local temple. I am really pleased of school. She also recently performed with the professional dance group Flawless, which she thoroughly have been really impressed with all of your hard work with this achievement as playing the drums is one of enjoyed doing. Her dance group also recently won a local dance competition and I really think she is one to and the way in which you have contributed to all areas my favourite things to do. watch for the future. Well done Annabelle. of school life. We have achieved an unbelievable amount of commendation certificates and praise The next AJ… Written by Ethan in Year 8 It was a great night celebrating at Awards Evening this year with so many awards given to Wrekin pupils who postcards. My personal highlight of 2018 was Bredon I have recently started sparring in my local boxing continually work extremely hard both in and out of school. A huge well done to Ethan in Year 11 who received House winning the Sports Day Trophy! I hope that you club. I was asked to spar against older teenagers but the Special House Award for Wrekin for his attitude and effort in all he does, along with his fundraising for the have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I was able to compete against them and win. I really upcoming Scout Jamboree in USA. So very deserved, so well done to Ethan. You certainly deserve it! enjoy boxing as it is a lot fun and keeps me fit and healthy. This was then complemented with a lovely KS3 Awards Assembly where pupils were congratulated by Bredon House Award… Holly in Year 10 Leadership for all their hard work, effort and attendance. Holly received the Bredon House Award in this A Football Masterclass… Written by Vinnie in Year 8 year’s fantastic KS4 Awards Evening. Holly’s I play football for Holy Name FC. I really enjoy learning Finally a massive well done to all the pupils from Wrekin who were selected by their form tutors to receive a great determination, outstanding work ethic and about how to better my own game. I have recently brunch in the training room and a special well done from the Headteacher for the continual hard work, effort tremendous support to the House resulted in her been taught that I always need to watch the ball and and ability to always do what is asked. It was a well appreciated event and ones that the pupils will remember. being a worthy recipient of this prestigious award. play the way which I am facing. This has helped me Fantastic work! become a much better player. I wish all of pupils and their families a restful and peaceful Christmas and hope they have a lovely break and are re-charged to go again in January. Indian Classical Dance… Written by Abinaa in Year 7 Horsewoman of the Year… Written by Caitlin in Year Every Saturday I attend Indian classical dancing 8 classes. I really enjoy dancing as it is a lot of fun I really love riding horses and I have recently achieved and helps with my fitness. I also have a dance my Stable Management Certificate. I am very proud performance on the 15th December which I am really of this. I am also preparing for my riding exams as this looking forward to. is something that I want to do when I am older.

Scouts Promise… Written by Rachel in Year 7 Super Swimmer… Written by Olivia in Year 7 I go to Scouts every single week. I have now received I have been swimming since I was four years old. I my Silver Award for completing 25 different activities. have recently achieved my 3,000 metres award. I I have received badges for making crafts, abseiling have also become a rookie life guard which I am very and many more. proud of.

Arts and Crafts… Written by Sienna in Year 7 And finally... I have created an amazing ‘Carnosaur’ using a wide I would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a range of paints and a lot of hard work and patience. Happy New Year. My design has won a number of competitions and has also featured in a magazine called ‘Warhammer.’ I am really proud of my outstanding achievement.

Football Star… Written by Archie in Year 7 Last Sunday my football team finished in fourth position in the league. We narrowly missed out on promotion by one point. However, I was told by my manager that I was one of the best players this season and I am really proud of my team’s efforts.

Indian Drums… Written by Harkirat in Year 7 I play Indian drums outside of school and I recently finished in second position in a drumming Holly is presented with the Bredon House Award. Malvern Mrs Clent Mrs House Saunders House Sorensen

May I start by thanking the Clent staff and pupils for the effort and enthusiasm they have shown this term. This It has been a very busy and amazing term with Malvern raising term is one of the busiest with a number of key highlights that need to be mentioned. lots of money for Children In Need and other nominated charities. I have seen many Commendation Certificates claimed buy We have supported Children In Need and celebrated both KS3 and KS4 awards this term. At the annual Awards pupils showing how well they are achieving in their lessons. In Evening at Walsall Town Hall, Clent Prefects were awarded their certificates and Emily in Year 11 received the addition, I have sent out a record number of praise postcards special Clent House Award. This was awarded in recognition of Emily’s dedication to her House and the school which is a real highlight this term. Here I have selected a few as well as her outstanding academic achievements and the progress that she has made. There are far too pupils that have represented the school and have achieved many pupils to name individually, but well done to all of the recipients. amazing things this term. There has been a large number of sporting fixtures over the last couple of months and Clent pupils have J Pritchett 11M2 played their part in raising the profile of our teams. In girls football there has been great commitment and dedication from Rowelle in Year 8, Katie in Year 9 and Anais and Serena in Year 7. In Basketball, Callum in Year On Thursday the 1st of November, Jessica cut 23 inches of her 8 and Daniel in Year 7 have developed their skills and been a credit to the school in recent fixtures. hair to give to the Little Princess Trust (Charity). The charity makes wigs for children with cancer. Jessica often gives money I would also like to take this opportunity to inform you that from January I will be taking up the post of Assistant to charity but she was inspired by a client that comes into the Headteacher at Barr Beacon. I have had an amazing 5 years being Head of Clent House and Miss Franks will hairdressers where she works and had done this. Jessica then take up this position in the New Year. contacted the Little Princess Trust to get involved. Please see the result on the photo to the right. May I wish you all a happy and relaxing festive period and look forward to seeing you all back in January ready for the new term. L Thorpe 7M2 & T Awe 7M2 The 23 inches of hair that Jessica

gave to the Little Princess Trust. They represented Malvern in the Year 7 Football game. L. Thorpe continued to cause trouble for St Francis defence and Tanny was solid at the back. The girls played an excellent game and have lots to take into next week’s fixture. Well done girls!

E Taylor 8M2

Evan Taylor showed real determination in the defence and quickly brought a more organised defence to the quarter at the Year 8 Basketball Game at Bloxwich. With his high spirits and extra confidence, Evan and the boys managed to score quick points in the first couple of minutes, during the first quarter. This was mainly down to some quick, crisp passing from Evan Taylor. Super job Evan!

M Riley 7M1

M Riley should be in the next Great British Bake Off. She has been busily baking biscuits for friends and teachers putting a smile on lots of people’s faces. She really is a superstar. Thank you for my lovely biscuits. I have shared them with Malvern House.

I wish all of Malvern a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Have a good rest and stay safe! A. Kalang received the Malvern House Award on Awards Evening. Alice in Wonderland Lord Mayor’s Quiz

This half term KS3 Drama club proudly performed their On Thursday 29th November, 6 students from Year 13 attended the Lord Mayor’s Sixth Form Mega Quiz. Competing with adaptation of the Lewis Carroll classic “Alice’s Adventures sixth formers from across Birmingham, students were tested on some fiendishly difficult questions from a broad range of in Wonderland”. topics covering topics such as science, history, the natural world, mathematics, music, film and 2018. This was the final product of weeks of rehearsal and They played their joker well, doubling their points in a high scoring round, which launched them up to 8th on the leader included the pupils’ own directed scenes, handmade props, board at the half way point. A further 5 rounds ensued and their final placing on the leader board was a strong 13th, out set and costumes. of 35 schools. As a result, the performance was performed to parents an With no preparation work involved, our students were very happy with the outcome and were pleased to beat many of the selected Year 7 pupils. The performance was a success local schools including some of the grammar schools. with many of the audience still singing the tunes days after the show had ended.

Well done Drama Club!

Maths Challenge

Several of our sixth formers achieved awards at this year’s Senior Maths Challenge, answering tough questions set by the UK Mathematics Trust.

Over 80,000 pupils from across the UK returned scripts for the Senior Maths Challenge with the top 10% receiving a Gold certificate, the next 20% Silver and the next 30% Bronze. 2 silvers and 7 bronzes were awarded.

Our highest achievers were Year 13 student L. Baldwyn- Jolley and Year 12 student A. Narwain. Well done to everyone who took part.