Cover Artwork by Amy Long ‘Escape’ (One of the winning entries to the ‘Life in Lockdown Art Competition.) “For the first time, the kind owners of the STRATHEARN Rosemount Estate in Greyabbey have opened up their home to the people who live in the village, as an escape from the worries of the pandemic. This beautiful trail around the lake offers some peace and tranquility during these tough times. Everyday, I walk my dogs along this trail, allowing me to see new scenery of a village I have lived in for almost 18 years.” SCHOOL.

2020. Cover Artwork by Grace Ruding Cover Artwork by Jessica Winton AS Level A2 Level inside STRATHEARN SCHOOL magazine.

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME .5 BOARD OF GOVERNORS .6 SCHOOL STAFF .7 FORM ONE .8-15 HEAD GIRL .16-17 SIXTH FORM .18-19 PRIZE NIGHT .20-29 CLUBS, EVENTS, SOCIETIES & ART .30-63 TALENT SHOW & HOUSE REPORTS .64-69 SPORT .70-91 PENRHYN .92-115 PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION .116

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 3

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME.

As I sit down to write this foreword to our annual school magazine, my thoughts inevitably turn to the unprecedented situation we are all living through. As we all know, school closed for most students this year on 20 March. Despite this shortened school year, I felt strongly that we should go ahead and publish the 2020 Strathearn School Magazine.

Our magazine’s front cover this year is Amy Long’s excellent piece ‘Escape’. In her comments on the piece (which you can read on the back cover), Amy talks about how the opening of a new pathway in Greyabbey allowed her to see new views of the village she had lived in for most of her life. I thought that this was so appropriate for this year’s magazine, because in a way that is what we are all doing at the minute. We are now back at school so there is some familiarity, but we are having to take a new view of everything because of the current situation. In ‘Escape’, the path looks inviting but we cannot be sure what lies ahead because it curves into the forest. This is such a meaningful image for us all right now. So much has changed over the last six months, and the reality is that we cannot see exactly what lies ahead. At this point, I would like to speak directly to our brilliant pupils, and to tell you some things that we can know for certain. Girls, we are here for you and we always will be. To those of you who are preparing for assessments, we are here to help you achieve success so that you can move on to the next stage of your lives. In the future, when you think back to your schooldays, it is probably inevitable that you will remember the challenges and changes of this period in time. My hope is that you will also look back on your time at Strathearn School and remember that you were part of a community that cared for you as you made your way along that path.

2019-20 provided many leadership and other opportunities for the girls in Strathearn. Thank you to our Office Bearer team and to the School Council for all that they have contributed to the life of the school. I do hope that Form One will enjoy their first appearance in the magazine, and that my Upper Sixth enjoy the memories of their final year at Strathearn.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our magazine this year - the articles and photographs are all looking splendid. My final thanks go to Dr McBride and Mrs Black for constructing this detailed record in these challenging times. I wish everyone well, and I hope you enjoy the 2020 Strathearn School Magazine.

STRATHEARN SCHOOL.5 BOARD OF GOVERNORS.

Chair of the Board

Mrs L Mallon LLB

Vice Chairs

Mrs R Bailie BA MSW MBA Mrs P Stewart

Mrs E Andrews BEd CertEd LNEA PQH Mr A Atkinson BEd Mrs C Auchmuty BA Mr R Brown BA Mrs N Connery MA PGCE PQH Mr TWW Forde MBE FCA Mr J Ireland BMus MCIPR Mr J Mallon BSc Mr GR McGowan FRICS Mr N McKeown BSc (Econ) FCA Mr R Masefield CBE MA (Cantab) Mrs D Nield Mr IC Noad MA (Cantab) Mr S Rodham-Boyd BSc CMgr MCMI Mr C Wallace LLB LLM Mr PA White MA (Cantab)

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 6 SCHOOL STAFF. PRINCIPAL. Mrs E McAllister BA PGCE Mrs L Staples BSc PGCE Mrs N Connery MA PGCE PQH MUSIC. Mrs D Ingram MA BA PGCE Ms J Kimber MA BA ARCM MTD CRE Ms J Kimber MA BA ARCM MTD CRE VICE PRINCIPALS. LIPF DPAGB LIPF DPAGB Mrs L Myers MBE BEd PQH Miss R Armstrong BMus, PGCE SCHOOL HEALTH NURSE. Mr A Anderson MEd BD PGCE PHYSICAL EDUCATION. Mrs C Boyd Mrs N Sinnerton BA PGCE PGDH Ms S Young BA PGCE DIS MEd Miss A Jordan BSc Mrs N Grundie BA PGCE SIXTH FORM SUPERVISOR. SENIOR STAFF. Mrs B Crawford BEd Miss L Stevenson LLB Mr A Atkinson BEd Mrs R Hewitt BSc Hons SENCO. Mr M Stevenson BSc PGCE RELIGIOUS STUDIES. Mrs L Myers MBE BEd PQH Mr C Jellie BEd MTeach Mrs N Sinnerton ART. Mr A Anderson MEd BD PGCE Mrs J Atkinson BEd Miss S Whitla MA PGCE Mrs R Browne BEd Mrs R Browne BSc PGCE Dip PD Mrs C Rea MA PGCE Mr P Mulligan BA PGCE TECHNICAL SUPPORT STAFF. Miss E Woods BA PGCE SCIENCE. Mrs L Allen BUSINESS STUDIES. Miss J Stewart BSc PGCE PQH Mrs M Black BA Mrs J White BSc PGCE Miss E Foster BSc MSc PGCE Miss G Campbell BSc ENGLISH. Mrs J D Gray MTeach BSc PGCE Miss M McLaghlan Ms W Erskine MA PGCE Miss MA Grier BSc PGCE Mr S Millar HND BSc Ms J Ferris BA PGCE Miss AM Griffith BSc PGCE Mrs J Shaw BSc DIS Mr C Heaney BA PGCE Mrs A McCracken MEd BSc PGCE CLASSROOM ASSISTANTS. Mrs D Ingram MA BA PGCE Mrs J Power BSc PGCE Mrs K Black BSc MSc PGCE Miss E McClure BA PGCE DipLCM Dr KA Ross BSc PGCE Mrs M Butters Dr J McBride MA PGCE Ms L Wallace MPhys PGCE Ms N Ditty Mr A Scott BA PGCE Miss R Newburn BEd Mrs S Doyle BSc GEOGRAPHY. TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN. Ms M Edgar BSocSci Mr M Stevenson BSc PGCE Mr A Atkinson BEd PGDH Ms I Jess Miss Morrison BSc PGCE Miss R Newburn BEd Miss A Jordan BSc Mrs L Staples BSc PGCE PREPARATORY DEPARTMENT. Miss D Larkham HISTORY. Mrs B Mawhinney BEd Miss O McParland BA MA Mr P Bradley BA MSc MEd PGCE Mrs E Andrews BEd CertEd PQH LNEA Miss M Palmer Miss JS Gibson MA BEd Miss GM Boyd BA PGCE Mrs R Shaw PGATC Miss J Sturgeon BA MA PGCE Mrs P Devlin BEd ALCM Mrs S Vollands HOME ECONOMICS. Miss C Hunter BEd Mrs D Welsh BA Dip IS Mrs A Blayney BSc PGCE Mrs D Hyndman BA PGCE Cert Ed PREMISES STAFF. Mrs A Lennox BSc PGCE Mrs A McKeown BEd Mr J Algie ICT. Mrs V McKinney BEd Mr M Paxton Mrs R Armstrong BSc PGCE Mrs J Walls BEd (Cantab) Mr J Gibson MATHEMATICS. Miss A Ramsey BA CATERING STAFF. Mrs J Anderson BSc PGCE FINANCE MANAGER. Mrs V Crymble Mrs R Aiken BSc PGCE Mrs A Flannigan BA FCA Ms T Gibson Miss Rebecca Arthur BSc PGCE FACILITIES MANAGER. Mrs L Gillespie Mrs FE Cochrane BSc PGCE Mrs L Foster BEng Mrs E Madden Mrs L Cozzo BSc PGCE ADMINISTRATION STAFF. Mr J Martin Mrs P Foye BSc PGCE Mrs J Griffin Mrs W McCluskey Mrs R McKeown BSc PGCE Mrs G Hanna Asc IM Mrs J McConnell Ms L Wallace MPhys PGCE Mrs A Lynn Ms M Mellon MODERN LANGUAGES. Mrs R Moore Mrs C Nesbitt Mrs J Fielding BA PGCE Ad CertEd, Mrs C Norris MSc BSc Mrs N O’Brien Dip CGD Mrs C Quee Miss C Stewart Mrs S Morrow BA PGCE Mrs A White Mrs J Muldrew MA PGCE Mrs L Wright Mrs J Thompson BA PGCE LIBRARIAN. Miss L Vincent BA PGCE Dr E Haire BA MA PGCE Mrs N Wilson CAREERS ADVISORS. Miss A Turner BA PGCE Miss AM Griffith BSc PGCE STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 7 FORM ONE. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 8 to help Compassion Belfast. This charity helps the most vulnerable in our society to access food, shelter The start of a new year is always an exciting time and care. The team from Compassion Belfast came for everyone. In particular, we recognise that our Form 1 in to speak to our girls to raise awareness of their pupils have to manage a big change in their lives as they work and they were very impressed by the mature move from primary school into ‘big school’. This year we and compassionate attitude displayed by our pupils. were delighted to set aside a day at the start of term Our girls managed to raise a huge £2031.15 for just for Form 1 pupils. The day began with a special Compassion Belfast. We presented the cheque to the assembly in which Mrs Connery gave them a special team just before Christmas and they were genuinely welcome and the Head Girl team shared memories of moved by the generosity displayed by the Strathearn their first few days in the school and gave some useful community; on behalf of Compassion Belfast I would advice for the weeks ahead. Feedback from Form 1 like to thank you all for your kindness in supporting this about this special start to the term was very encouraging worthy cause. and we plan to run the same format again. Form 1 were delighted to have a day out to the Folk Museum, and As we all know the school year was interrupted abruptly as usual many friendships were made, lots of delicious in March, and sadly school life had to be temporarily picnics were consumed and the sweet shop at the put on hold. In the weeks leading up to the lockdown museum made its yearly profit in one afternoon! I was so impressed by how our Form 1 girls remained calm and thoughtful towards each other. As I write this, This year, we were very pleased to be able to bring our we are still unable to attend school in the normal way sixth form peer mentor team with us. All credit must be and I would like to pay tribute to all the girls in Form given to the sixth form girls who were a great help on 1 who behaved so maturely in getting used to remote the day, looking out for the younger girls and helping learning. It is clear that the Form 1 girls have a great everyone to navigate their way around the museum. All sense of community and understand the need to help the girls were so well behaved and really entered into others, as well as valuing their education whether online the spirit of the day with great enthusiasm. This early or in the classroom. bonding activity always helps the girls to develop new friendships and get to know both staff and pupils alike. It is my hope that we will all be We were also very pleased to be able to run a Form together again very soon! 1 information evening for parents in early September. This gave us all a great opportunity to share advice and Thank you girls for being a great year group, and I wish allowed the parents an insight into the daily life of a you well as you embark on your Form 2 year. new Form 1 pupil.

Every year Form 1 take part in fundraising for a local Miss Stewart, Head of Form 1 charity. This year we were very pleased to be able

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 9 Back Row: Tara McNeill, Summer-Rose Archer, Sophie Castles, Krista Jones, Saffron Bennett, Anna Matthews, Grace Hanna

Middle Row: Emily Barry, Imogen O’Mahony-Truesdale, Monica Mounce, Neve McAlorum, Eve Armstrong, Maya Lillie, Ruby Huth, Olivia Strahan, Mrs McKeown

Front Row: Amelia Magowan, Matilda Brown, Tabitha Morris-Dickson, Francesca Holmes, Charlotte Cairns, Molly Boomer, Tiffany McGowan, Olivia Kane, Saoirse Hinds.

Absent: Connie Waterworth

FORMSTRATHEARN SCHOOL. 10 1A. Back row: Cassie Stewart, Rianna Redfern, Daisy Dorrian, Poppy Shaw, Grace Davison, Francesca Brundle, Jamillah Toriola

Middle row: Imogen Graham, Imogen Lyden, Alice Gardner, Lily Roden, Chloe Nelson, Taylor Brown, Mya Dunne, Lillybella Burrows, Miss J Stewart

Front row: Isla Stewart, Gemma Nugent, Lucy Andrews, Sophie McMullan, Rachel Young, Ella Sloan, Aimee Broadhurst

FORM 1TSTRATHEARN. SCHOOL. 11 Back Row: Maddie Leathem, Olivia Doyle, Megan Getgood, Sophie Gordon, Sophie McAdam, Hazel Macpherson and Evie Magowan.

Middle Row: Olivia Geary, Kate Farmer, Hannah Jackson, Sophie-Mae Holmes, Brooke Morgan, Charlotte Gorman, Ellie Mardell-Porter, Eva Mooney, Hollie Stitt and Aurelia Mayne, Miss Sturgeon

Front Row: Holly Millership, Lydia McCloskey, Victoria Leitch, Charlotte Howell, Isabella Hasan, Lily Keane and Eloise Keers.

FORMSTRATHEARN SCHOOL. 12 1R. Back row: Hannah Minford, Eva McGimpsey, Anjali Singh, Ellie Johnston, Megan Gibson, Charlotte Eighteen, Amelie McCord

Middle Row: Megan McCreesh, Naomi Boyce, Zoe Friend, Eve Downey, Aoife Rankin, Zarina Khan, Lucy Meara, Abigail McCutcheon, Abi McCreedy

Front Row: Charis Mills, Grace McCracken, Lily-Rose Wigham, Kami Harkness, Lucy Hanna, Aleena Wasim, Rachel Bryson, Honey Bridges, Ella Douglas

FORM 1SSTRATHEARN. SCHOOL. 13 Back row: Emma Hamilton, Bea Bell, Grace Johnston, Tasha Noble, Ciara Johnston, Paige Hamilton, Alimah Ajala and Ella Riddell.

Middle row: Rosey Magown, Katie Hill, Erin McKee, Grace Blackmore, Poppy Chapman, Abigail Kennedy, Eva Irons, Kirsty Gregg and Mrs Cochrane.

Front row: Susanna Villar, Darcy Shields, Johanna Hegan, Libby Gorman, Katie Brow, Kate Cunningham, Sophie Jess.

Absent: Eleanor Evans

FORMSTRATHEARN SCHOOL. 14 1H. Form One bonding day at the Ulster Folk Museum Ellie Davis Katherine Hunter Megan Adair

Q. What is your favourite memory from primary school? an interview A. I have so many fond memories of my time at Comber Primary School. One of the memories that stands out with the for me has to be taking part in our School Production of Bugsy Malone in P7. I got to be part of Dandy Dan’s gang which meant I was able to spray characters with silly string and throw cream filled pies at them like they HEAD did in the movie. I really enjoyed all the rehearsals, dressing up and performing. Another amazing memory I have was our P7 trip to Holland at the end of the year. We visited the caves, historical sights and shops of GIRL. Valkenburg. On another day we took a day trip to Efteling, the largest theme park in the Netherlands and one of the oldest theme parks in the world. But in a smaller theme Katherine Hunter park, my friend Alice and I were riding on swans (a bit like Pickie Park in Bangor) and when we got out, I walked too close to the edge and one of my legs ended up in the lake! Which meant I had to walk around the rest of STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 16 the day with one wet trainer. This was one of the most I like to read; I like crime novels, especially Peter May’s embarrassing but funny moments of the trip! novels! My love of the crime genre also carries over into the programs I like to watch, such as Silent Witness and Q. What is your favourite memory from your time at Line of Duty. Strathearn? A. Honestly, this was the most difficult question for me Q. What would you say is the biggest challenge to answer as I have made so many incredible memories involved in the role of Head Girl? over my seven years at Strathearn. I have to say that the A. The biggest challenge involved in the role of Head Berlin trip in fourth year has to be one of the best trips Girl for me was trying to juggle all the tasks involved I have been on. Berlin was an incredible city to visit and in it. This role gave me some of the most amazing as a massive history enthusiast, the cultural and historical opportunities such as meeting the Former Secretary significance of the city was right up my street. Indulging of State for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley, making in “Kaffee und Kucken” with my friends on top of the TV speeches at different events and organising the school Tower and visiting incredible historical sites such as the formal! There were so many amazing opportunities Berlin Olympic Stadium, the Brandenburg Gate and the coming my way I did not want to miss one of them. But Reichstag have to be among the highlights of the trip. there are only 24 hours in a day so trying to fit in these duties alongside working for my A levels, my job, my My last day of school was not as we would have hoped, extra circular interests and volunteering, I did sometimes but our health and wellbeing during the outbreak and find it all a bit difficult to juggle. That’s why I am forever spread of Coronavirus had to come above everything grateful that I was only one of a team of three. Megan else. Yet it was the last day of school that made me and Ellie, the Deputy Head Girls, were always there to realise that all my experiences and memories were made support me and they never complained when I came to because of the amazing people I have had the privilege them for help over and over again! Thank you, Megan of spending time with. This is why it is so difficult to and Ellie - I’m so grateful we had these experiences choose just one experience to talk about. My favourite together. memories will simply be getting to know my friends in class, clubs or the common room, who I look forward to Q. Do you have any advice for new pupils in creating more memories with in the years to come. Strathearn? A. Hello, new pupils of Strathearn! From my experience Q. What are your extracurricular interests? I have two key pieces of advice that I’d like to pass A. Music has always been a big part of my life since I onto you as you embark on your Strathearn journey. was little as my parents would always sing with me and The first piece of advice would be to make use of the encourage me to take up musical instruments such as the resources available to you. From textbooks to iPads, violin and the accordion. When I arrived at Strathearn you have access to a wealth of knowledge at your I joined the junior choir and I thoroughly enjoyed fingertips, but you also have access to something even performing in the school Carol Services and Spring greater – the teachers of Strathearn. Each of them loves Musical Evenings. In Senior School I joined the Senior their subject and understands when you are struggling Choir and School Orchestra. Through both these groups to grasp certain things. They are always more than I have performed amazing pieces of music such as the willing to help you so make use of them. Secondly, Incredibles and Dear Evan Hansen. Scripture Union has don’t be afraid to make new friends. When I came to also been a huge part of my time at Strathearn. I have Strathearn all the way back in 2013 the one thing I thoroughly enjoyed building friendships with girls from felt about this school was that it was a community and all different year groups in the SU sessions on Fridays or each of the girls genuinely cared about each other. This our smaller groups that met on Mondays. I loved giving fact has not changed over the seven years since then. up my lunchtimes to spend time building these lifelong In classes, extra-curricular activities and House events, friendships with others. you will make friends with so many different people. The friendships you make here in Strathearn will last a Q. What do you like to do in your spare time? lifetime – so make plenty! A. Most of my free time is taken up by volunteering. I am a people person so when I have no school work to do Q. What are your plans for next year? I enjoy going out and spending time with others. I do a A. I am still not 100% sure as to where I will be this lot of volunteering with my Church in Youth Groups. My upcoming academic year. However, I do know that the favourite thing to do is catch up with friends over coffee year will be put to good use to further develop my skills and doughnuts (or a McDonalds!). However, during the and qualities to become a Youth Worker as that is where busy school year it is important to leave time simply for I hope to see myself in the future. your own health and well being. There are many things I like to do to relax and de-stress by myself. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 17 SIXTH FORM. Leah Beattie, Freya Axten,FlorenceTinsley Cabecinha, Kate Wilson, Alex Armstrong, Lynzi Kennedy,Lauren MacAirt, Laura Faye Donaghy, Zara Hepworth, Tara Campbell, Back Row Anna Diekemper Alex Fawcett, Reid, Scarlett AndreaWeinert, Ruth Gregg, AimeeStitt, Rachel McClintock, Nina Reid, Jana McCabe, HelenDunn, Lauren White, LarissaYoung, Cara Tan, RowFourth Caughers Evie Wilson,Rachel Emma McCaughan,Sarah Baker, Jenny Bullman, McDowell, LaurenGibson, ZoëCarvill, Spencer Abraham, ErinStewart, Rebecca Grace Connor, EmmaMcGugan, SophieMitchell, Brooke Robinson, ZoëRobinson, Zara Hamilton, Lauren Armstrong, RionaFlorence, Third Row Rhiannon Brady, Zara Barbour Rebecca Welsh, Rachel Forsythe, Grace Ruding, HannahMorrison,Amy Bole, Tori SophiaHamilton,HarrietPlatt, Jackson, Daisy Moore, Rebekah Spence, Eva Aston, Chloe Armstrong, Kate Mashford, Bell,Lucy Emma Caldwell, AleenaJoby, BethBuchanan, Second Row Laura Killiner, Murphy Miller, MiriamO’Reilly Anna Kenny, EmmaCarson,Rosie Park, Eve Elliott,Phoebe Spratt, Amy Cooper, Ellie Davis, Katherine Hunter, Megan Adair, Heidi McMillen,EmmaCraig, Hutchinson, Crawford,Charlotte Kaitlyn Smith,Grace Jill Nelis, BethStrahan, EmmaLynch, Front Row (fromLtoR FORM. SIXTH ) OFFICE BEARERS.

Front Row (left to right): Lucy Mashford, Grace Ruding, Harriet Platt, Ellie Davis, Katherine Hunter, Megan Adair, Rebekah Spence, Daisy Moore, Hannah Morrison

Second Row (left to right): Tori Jackson, Beth Strahan, Murphy Miller, Emma Lynch, Laura Killiner, Miriam O’Reilly, Eva Aston, Sophia Hamilton

Third Row (left to Right): Emma Carson, Charlotte Crawford, Amy Cooper, Grace Hutchinson, Anna Kenny, Kaitlyn Smith, Rosie Park

Back Row (left to right): Heidi McMillen, Emma Craig, Eve Elliott, Phoebe Spratt

6th FORMSTRATHEARN SCHOOL.. 19 This year, 97.2 % of our pupils achieved 7 Subjects at A* – C and 100% of our girls passed their English and PRINCIPAL’S Maths. Perhaps our most impressive statistic, however, is that 74.5% out of the 954 grades awarded - that is 708 grades- attained an A* or A grade. This is against a CCEA average of 31.4%. 91.2 % - that is 870 out of the

PRIZE NIGHT . SPEECH 954 grades awarded- were with A*, A or B grades. We at Prize Night 2019. had 54 C* grades and only 15 C grades. I am sure you would agree that this is a truly outstanding performance. Madam Chairman, Professor Marshall, ladies and Those are the statistics but behind each grade there has gentlemen, girls. It gives me great pleasure to add my been a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication welcome to that of the chairman. It is wonderful to have to their studies to achieve this amazing success. And a former pupil of such note returning to speak in our 90th tonight, we will read out the names of those pupils who anniversary year. In reflecting on our past year, I have have achieved these grades and watch with pride as they been reminded of just how much we have to be proud of cross this stage to collect their certificates and awards. in Strathearn and how this one school in East Belfast has influenced so much of Northern Ireland and beyond. However, four pupils must have an individual mention this evening. The following pupils have achieved nine Strathearn opened its doors in 1929 with the Old Miskelly GCSEs at grade A*. Those girls are Abbey Connor, House and at this time was equipped with tennis courts, a Aimee Connor, Darcey Jamison and Jemima Thomas. As conservatory and a porter’s lodge. This is very different recognition of this brilliant achievement these girls have from the school today with its fifty-five classrooms, six been awarded the Eileen Hamilton prize for the top tennis courts and our many wonderful sporting facilities. performance in the school at GCSE. In 1929 it opened its doors to sixty-three pupils. Miss Miskelly, a Classics Teacher at Victoria College was At AS level we were delighted with the strength of the first Headmistress. In 1950, a separate Strathearn achievement attained by the girls. 71% of the grades Committee was established and the uniform became a awarded were either an A or B grade. Prizes are green tunic, fawn socks and shirt with a wine strip on awarded to pupils in last year’s L6 who have achieved the tie and scarf to remember the founder school. Our 3 or 4 A grades in their AS examinations. Tonight we uniform has not altered much to this day, holding onto the reward 29 girls who have achieved this top level of same colour in the skirt and blazer. performance, with 13 pupils gaining A grades in four subjects. This is a super level of performance and a great Throughout the decades, girls from Strathearn have base from which to secure success in A-levels next year. excelled in whatever they have chosen to do and in my third annual report as Principal of Strathearn I am Our A2 results were our best ever, with a 7% rise from pleased to report that this year is no exception. Tonight, last year of grades in the category A*-C at in A Levels. we take time to publicly celebrate the efforts and successes of the Strathearn community; you will hear 88.4 % of the girls achieved 3 subjects at grades A*-C, of the tremendous academic successes and also of the and over 51.4% of all the grades awarded were either vibrant and successful extra-curricular programme. We A* or A grades. Well done girls - these are tremendous will be rewarding year prizes in Forms 1-4, and these results. prizes are based on the girls’ performances in our summer examinations. We will also celebrate the performance of All the girls in the room tonight deserve great praise for F5, L6 and U6 in public examinations. Girls, we recognise their dedication and commitment to all aspects of school your hard work and that of those who are being awarded life. You never fail to amaze me with how you manage other cups and trophies. Well done to you all! to fit everything into your tremendously busy lives. But girls I am sure you would also agree with me when I say So, let’s begin by celebrating our GCSE results. The staff that your parents, with their interest, support and even and girls in this year group were more nervous than usual their essential taxiing services, have also contributed this year due to changes in the examination system. We to the successes we are celebrating this evening. Mums had the loss of controlled assessment in a number of and Dads I am sure that you are very proud of your subjects as well as the introduction of a C* grade, and we daughter’s achievements; whether she is in Form 2 or in had been cautioned that there would be a smaller number first year at university. Another group of people who of A* and B grades awarded. I am pleased to say, have contributed significantly to the successes we will see however, that our girls in Strathearn completely defied this this evening is the Strathearn staff. Their hard work, prediction with their superb results. dedication, and support of the girls knows no bounds. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 20 . PRIZE NIGHT

There are many missed lunch times for pupil discussions from a challenge whether it be on a Geography field and encouragement, as well as numerous extra-curricular trip encouraging the girls to go just one step further, or activities that empower our girls to develop their in the classroom with her innovative and encouraging interpersonal skills which are so vital in today’s dynamic teaching. She knew her pupils well and always strived to world. ensure they reached their full potential. Doreen, we wish you a very happy retirement. Others left us to take up The work, dedication and expertise of our teachers, in the promotional opportunities and posts in other schools. Mrs classroom and in many other activities, are the foundation McIvor, Miss McGahon, Mrs Kernaghan - we wish them all of the education and development of our pupils. I pay well. tribute to them, and thank them for their part in the successful outcomes which we celebrate this evening. Our support team has also seen a number of changes My thanks too, to the great team of support staff, who this year with our SENCOs Mrs Browne and Mrs Atkinson work hard behind the scenes to provide materials and leaving after 12 and 11 years’ service to the school assistance to the teachers, and to keep the fabric and respectively. We thank them for the number of young administration of the school running smoothly. I really people’s lives that they influenced during those years appreciate the professionalism of the staff of Strathearn and for the individual assistance they gave to help the and what they do, and all that they achieve each day. girls achieve their personal goals. We wish them well On this occasion, I would ask you to join me in showing our for the future. Mrs Hearst left after 15 years as Careers appreciation for their work. Advisor in the school. Her vast array of knowledge about university courses and her empathy with the pupils as they In East Belfast we are so fortunate so have such a rich made critical decisions about their future was amazing; tapestry of schools that enhance our pupils’ learning her true professionalism knew no bounds. Mrs Carson, experiences. In Sixth Form, our pupils benefit from Mr McConnell and Mrs Patterson all retired from support educational experiences in Campbell, Bloomfield and areas of school life and we thank them for their tireless Ashfield Girls. This year we have also embarked on service to the school and the support they gave to the our first sharing of an extra-curricular activity with one pupils and teachers on a daily basis. quarter of Form 3 pupils now participating in CCF with Campbell College. Therefore, I record my thanks to the Of course we must welcome new arrivals. Mr Jellie joined Principals and colleagues in East Belfast who strive to us from Belfast High School as Head of RS, Mrs Fielding bring excellence and opportunity to all the pupils in this from Ballymena Academy as HOD of Modern Languages. area. We also welcomed Miss Turner, Miss Woods, Miss Armstrong, Miss Hewitt, Miss McClure and Mr Mulligan. As time moves on and things change, so do the staff in Finally, we also had the appointment of Mr Anderson as Strathearn. This year we said goodbye to some long our Vice Principal for Teaching and Learning. Since taking serving members of the teaching staff. Ms Murphy, Head up this post, Mr Anderson has worked tirelessly to ensure of History, served here from 1982. She imparted her that the pupils’ teaching and learning experiences are of love for History (and Everton!) to generations of girls and the highest standard. Mr Anderson, we welcome you as many also benefited from her expertise on the hockey VP to the Senior Staff team and wish every success in your field. Gillian, we thank you for your unfailing dedication new role. to Strathearn and wish you well in your retirement. Mrs Martin, Head of ICT, saw many changes in the technology There are other sectors of the Strathearn community which in Strathearn School. Her advice and guidance was play an increasingly important role in the functioning invaluable as we developed our ICT strategy across the and development of Strathearn. One such body is the school and introduced new e-technologies across the Board of Governors. Strathearn has an exceptionally well curriculum. She was always at the fore when we were informed and dedicated governing body. I wish to thank introducing new technologies and encouraging her pupils you for the hours of meetings and the invaluable support to embark on careers in IT. Debbie, we wish you a very and advice you give to the school. Your vision is always happy retirement. Mrs Eakin, Head of Modern Languages, to ensure that pupils in Strathearn can avail of every joined us from Friends’ School, Lisburn in 2007. Diane opportunity to reach their potential and for that I thank instilled in her pupils a love of languages and was you. instrumental in introducing international languages courses in France and Spain. She also left a very important Our Parents’ Association do a wonderful job, mobilising legacy with the now famous French breakfast in Form support and assisting at events in the Preparatory One. Diane, we thank you for your dedicated service to Department and the Senior School. Thank you for your Strathearn and wish you well for your future plans. Mrs tireless dedication to organising a range of activities for Millar worked as teacher of Geography and Careers in pupils and parents - although the discos still remain our Strathearn for 11 years. Mrs Millar never shied away number one attraction! Last year they raised a total of STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 21 £6000 for the Secondary and Preparatory departments, managed to score a vital goal, with minutes to go winning which in the current economic climate is tremendous. We the cup. We were all extremely proud of how the girls are in the process of using a proportion of the money to played and know that a silver medal in a Schools’ Cup is an purchase new school materials. Please, on behalf of the excellent achievement. school, do continue to support the work of the Parents’ Association. Both the 3rd and the 4th 11 teams also had excellent

PRIZE NIGHT . seasons. The 3rd 11 met BRA in their Gibson cup semi- This year has undoubtedly been one of the most final and at full time the final score was still 0-0, leading memorable in Strathearn’s history. The girls have the match into penalty runs where our girls lost 3-2. certainly embodied the school’s new motto – encourage, Unfortunately for the 4th 11 an excellent performance empower and excel - in numerous ways. As I have couldn’t stop a strong Ballyclare side keeping the score line already said, the girls never fail to amaze me and level, and sadly the team were narrowly beaten yet again astound me at how they manage their academic studies on penalty runs. Even so, the girls ended their cup run with alongside such a vast array of extra-curricular pursuits. heads held high. I only wish that we could show a week by week diary to display their achievements, but unfortunately that is not Our 5th 11 team also had an impressive year competing on possible due to time constraints this evening. a regular basis and demonstrating the school’s strength and depth at senior hockey and the number of girls who just love However, I would like to begin the review by calling to play at all levels. forward Grace Hutchinson who is our current Games Captain to tell you about the enormous success of our Whilst the senior hockey achievements were amazing, I must sports programme over the past year. Welcome Grace. also mention the excellent season the junior U14 team had. They reached the semi-final of the Junior cup against local Grace Hutchinon - Sports rivals Methody, a game which had everyone on the edge of their seat. With the final score at 1-1 the dreaded penalty Long before the first signs of life return to the classroom runs began, eventually ending in sudden death which saw after the summer holidays, girls are out on the hockey Methody sneak into the final. This was heart-breaking for pitches training and practising for the season to come. This our team but nevertheless reaching the Junior Cup semi-final hard work and dedication allowed the 2018/19 season to is a super achievement. be an exceptional hockey year for all teams throughout the school, reaching one cup final and three semi-finals. Moving away from the manicured astro turf of the hockey pitch and onto the muddy grass, our cross-country teams Going into the season the 1st 11 hockey team had one had a superb season, excelling in the Co Down, Ulster and “goal; to reach the Schools’ Cup final. And we nearly Irish Schools’ Championships. did. The semi-final draw pitched us against Banbridge Academy, the reigning champions, in Strathearn’s first The Co Down District Championships took place on a cold Schools’ Cup semi-final since 2012. From the starting day in January this year. Despite it being an extremely whistle, in front of fantastic support, the team gave 100% demanding course, the Mini and Senior teams came but were unlucky to concede an early goal. We then away as District champions and qualified for the Ulster thought we had equalised when Erin Stewart scored from championships along with the junior and minor teams. a penalty corner. But as quickly as the celebrations began they were halted when the goal was, controversially some For the Ulster championships, the girls headed off to may say, disallowed. Mallusk with a reputation to uphold and expectations high. The course was familiar to many of the girls and so The team continued to outperform Banbridge right to they literally took it in their stride with all teams running the end but just couldn’t get the goal we so desperately exceptionally well. The junior team finished as runners-up, needed. And so, the final whistle went with 1-0 on the and the senior team came third, both qualifying for the Irish scoreboard, and Banbridge went on to win the Schools’ school’s championships. Cup. Due to the exceptional collective performance of all the The 2nd 11 similarly put on an excellent display of hockey Strathearn teams we were crowned overall Ulster champions throughout the season helping them to reach the final of for the third consecutive year - an amazing achievement. the McDowell Cup. The final was played just around the corner at Civil Service against Friends@, and our girls At the Irish schools’ championships, both the Junior and put on a fine performance, absorbing intense pressure, senior teams showed grit and determination on a difficult matching their opponents with the scoreboard at 2-2 course, with the junior team finishing in 3rd place making going into the final five minutes. Unfortunately, Friends’ this the second year on the podium for this team of girls as STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 22 . PRIZE NIGHT they had finished 1st in the previous year. was represented at minor, junior, intermediate and senior levels. Both our minor and junior teams put on excellent Another sporting arena which consistently puts the displays of tennis throughout all of their matches with both Strathearn name on the map is the swimming pool and this teams being crowned Ulster Schools’ Cup champions. year was no different. The swimming season started with the Swim Ulster Schools’ Cup and Championships where there Our senior tennis team were not far behind, reaching the were exceptional performances across the board. final of the cup where they played a hard fought match against Victoria College who claimed the trophy. The minor relay team performed outstandingly in the 4x50m Freestyle and 4x50m Medley relays, winning gold A less mainstream racquet sport these days is squash but in both. Furthermore the excellent performance of the at Strathearn it remains very popular and we’re very lucky intermediate team led them to gold in both of their relays to have some of the best players in Ireland. This year the and they were crowned overall intermediate champions U17 and U19 squash teams consisting of Emma McGugan, and took home the Ulster McMahon cup for the second Jemima Thomas, Sophie Thomas and Hannah McGugan successive year - an outstanding achievement. were crowned Irish Champions, an absolutely amazing achievment. The junior and senior teams also performed very well against strong opposition. The minor team then travelled Perhaps even more impressive is that each member of this down to Dublin to compete in the Irish Minor Schools’ team represented Ireland and/or Ulster in their respective Championships where they continued their winning streak, age groups with Emma McGugan on the Ireland U19 team, taking home gold again in both relays. Another exceptional Hannah McGugan on the Ireland and Ulster U17 team, year for Strathearn swimming across the board. Jemima Thomas on the Ulster U17 team and Sophie Thomas on the Ireland and Ulster U15 team. As the summer term arrived, we left behind the cold, wet dark after school practices and welcomed the slightly drier, As a result of these representative honours, Sophie and slightly warmer, slightly brighter athletics season, another Hannah travelled to the Netherlands and Emma to the area where our talented teams consistently achieve. The Czech Republic to compete in the European Championships season began, as always, with the County Down Athletics which is an amazing achievement in and of itself. Championships held at the Mary Peters track. Emma then went one step further, travelling with the U19 Our minor, junior, intermediate and senior teams all Irish team to Malaysia this summer to compete in the Squash came first overall in their individual age groups with our World Championships where she performed exceptionally mini team finishing as runners up. Excellent individual well against the best in the world, an unforgettable performances allowed many girls to qualify for the Ulster experience and an achievement to be extremely proud of. Schools’ Athletics Championships, which always take place during the exam season, meaning that some of the girls As well as having countless exceptional team performances had to reluctantly pry themselves away from their desks to in sports across the board I would also like to mention compete. some of the other individual sporting achievements and representative honours that the girls at Strathearn have This year the championships were extremely successful achieved. In swimming both Amelia Kane and Mia Davison with the mini and senior teams becoming Ulster Schools’ competed for the Ulster U17 team. Amelia then continued champions, and excellent performances throughout the her winning streak and went on to the Irish Championships age groups saw Strathearn being crowned overall Ulster where she became the Irish Open 1500m champion. Schools’ athletics champions - an amazing title to hold. Displays of athletic excellence at the Ulsters meant that Following these excellent performances Amelia went on to some girls qualified for the Irish Schools’ Championships compete at the European Junior Championships in Kazan, where Sophie Hoey was the Irish junior triple jump Russia where she finished in an exceptional 10th place. She champion, Anna Mckinty came runner-up in the intermediate also qualified for the world junior championships in Hungary triple jump, and the senior team placed 2nd overall in over the summer - an incredible achievement. Ireland, contributed to by the 4x100m relay placing 2nd and the 4x300m relay placing 3rd. Another set of excellent In athletics Anna Mckinty was chosen for the Ulster Schools’ achievements all round. U17 team, allowing her to show off her triple jump skills becoming Ulster Schools Junior and Northern Ireland U16 With the tennis season also coming hand in hand with exam triple jump champion. season, the excellent performances of all the teams are even more impressive as the tennis matches are balanced with In Irish dancing, Anna McKibbin was crowned Northern studying. This year in schools’ cup competitions Strathearn Ireland U19 and Ulster U17 Champion, with Cara Tan not STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 23 far behind being crowned Northern Ireland U17 and Ulster Bar Mock Trial - Erin Stewart U16 champion. For a while, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study after Strathearn girls also obtained representative honours in school. I always knew I was great at arguing so when the a huge range of sports including, sailing, water polo, opportunity emerged to participate in the Bar Mock Trial, I equestrian, football and many more. The sporting talents thought I’d audition for the role of a barrister and maybe PRIZE NIGHT . of the girls at Strathearn continues to be exceptional and it would help me to explore what I really wanted to pursue something the school is very proud of. But as everyone after school. As it turns out this was in fact the case. who has ever played sport knows, it’s not all about the competitions and impressive array of shiny silverware The Bar Mock Trial competition is a unique opportunity on display in the school corridors. It is more about the for students aged 15-18 from all over the UK to gain enjoyment which sport brings to the girls who take part “unparalleled insight into the justice system. The competition and the fantastic friendships which sport helps to bond. immerses students in all aspects of a criminal trial, as they take on the roles of barristers, witnesses, clerks, ushers and

Representing the school, province or even country is an jury members. For myself, I took on the role of a defence honour, but ask anyone and they will tell you that some of barrister. I had to cross-examine witnesses, prepare an the most keenly fought sporting events here at Strathearn opening and closing statement and think on my feet are the house competitions. From dodgeball with the depending on what the prosecution brought before us.

teachers to rounders on the pitches, these events show the true inclusive and competitive side to the Strathearn girls, I appeared in Belfast in a real crown court in front of a proving that sport is for everyone, no matter their ability. real judge and my research and preparation for the two cases the defence team had to present was assisted by In conclusion, I would like to take this“ opportunity to thank professional barristers.

all the staff who have given up their time to coach sports at Strathearn. During this experience I gained knowledge of certain laws and how they can be interpreted and applied in the justice

Special thanks to Ms Young, Mrs Crawford, Mrs system. I also developed my skills in logical reasoning, clear Grundie and Mrs Hewitt for all their hard work and communication and teamwork. During the Bar Mock Trial, dedication throughout the year making so many sporting we participated with students from various year groups achievements possible and without which this speech would which I thought was particularly important as I developed have been so much shorter. relationships with students I hadn’t met before. “

Thank you for listening This experience has taught me a lot, given me confidence and helped me develop skills I wouldn’t have necessarily Mrs Connery continued her report. known were there. When I leave school I will be applying to study Law. This decision was mainly due to the experience Grace is currently one of our Upper Sixth pupils who and enjoyment of the Bar Mock Trial as a whole, and I is studying Chemistry, Spanish and Biology and wishes would urge anyone with an interest to give it a go and to follow a career in medicine. She currently holds the audition, as I know for myself it really helped to build my position of Games Captain in Strathearn. This involves confidence and assisted in the decision to study law in the her being heavily involved in the organisation of the future. sports programme with special emphasis on motivating pupils to participate. We thank you Grace for all your efforts and all that you have contributed to Strathearn House of Lords Debate - Clara Potts School. Last November, 15 girls from Strathearn had the privilege Another area of extra-curricular life which has had of participating in a Chamber Debate in the House of an outstanding and very impressive year are the girls Lords. One day each year, the Lords Chamber is filled with who work alongside Dr Haire and Miss Stevenson in young people, and last autumn we learned that Strathearn the Bar Mock Trial events. These events allow pupils to had been selected from Northern Ireland to speak in the observe the legal process in action, but this was even Girls Breaking Barriers Debate. In preparation for the more special when the girls were asked to participate debate, we worked hard on our public speaking skills, and in a House of Lords debate. At this point I would like to were visited by representatives from Plan International, the call upon Erin Stewart and Clara Potts to give us their debate partner’s charity, and the English Speaking Union, fascinating report on this area of Strathearn life. “which runs the event. They introduced us to the issues up for discussion, offering us encouragement when we shared our ideas. Four pupils were selected by the organisers to deliver STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 24 . PRIZE NIGHT prepared speeches at the debate. I would now like to call on Miriam O’Reilly, our music prefect, to the stage to outline the tremendous year the We travelled to London after school on a Thursday Music Department and its pupils has had. afternoon with Mrs Connery and the other staff. We travelled into central London bright and early on Miriam O’Reilly - Music Friday morning; seeing the Palace of Westminster was overwhelming! Before the debate got underway, we had In 2019 our Music Department was honoured to be at the the chance to take a tour of the historic buildings, before forefront of celebrating Strathearn’s 90th Anniversary. On attending a question and answer session with a panel of the 27th March, we had a musical evening in the Ulster Hall. inspirational women in one of the Committee Rooms. We This was an exciting and unusual occurrence for Strathearn, met the Chelsea FC ambassador, Katie Chapman, scientist as we normally have our Spring Concert here in this sports Magee Aderin-Pocock and Editor in Chief of Marie Claire hall. Around 800 of our friends, family and teachers UK, Trish Halpin, who talked to us about their careers and attended, as well as our sponsors and distinguished guests. gave us advice. After an amazing lunch in the Long Gallery, the main business of the day got underway. Throughout the night we had various performances from “current Strathearn pupils across all year groups, as well Ellie Massey opened the whole debate, and addressed the as Penhryn pupils and past pupils. The concert opened with damage that persistent stereotypes can cause girls as they the orchestra playing the theme tune from The Incredibles, pursue their education. Other issues raised included street which set the tone beautifully for the enjoyable and lively harassment and the lack of female role models in public occasion that it turned out to be. A wide range of talent life. A number of pupils including myself were called upon was shown through the diversity of the performances, by the Deputy Speaker to add to the debate. Giving an showing that whether you play euphonium or saxophone, impromptu speech to the chamber was both nerve-wracking if you’re a singer or a drummer, there is always a group in and enjoyable. Strathearn that you can get involved in. On stage that night we showcased our orchestra, chamber orchestra, traditional All in all, it was an unforgettable experience. Our words group, junior choir, senior choir, chamber choir as well as are now a matter for the public record as the debate was “ soloists. recorded by Hansard. Speaking in Parliament was amazing. The experience improved our confidence, developed our A highlight for me was watching the Upper Sixth soloists public speaking skills and enhanced our ability to think on perform individually. Orla Bannister, Joanne Allen and our feet. I came away with the sense that there are solutions Naomi Cochrane each performed pieces which presented to problems that young women face and I will never forget their high level of musical accomplishment (as well as being at the House of Lords with Strathearn. It might have remarkable composure, it’s no mean thing to perform in such been a once in a lifetime experience for most of us- but an illustrious venue!). This must surely have been a great on the other hand, perhaps some of us will one day find inspiration to the younger musicians in our school. ourselves back in the Chamber addressing new issues and thinking of new solutions. Thank you. Another of the many highlights of the evening was the premiere of a choral piece specially commissioned for our Chamber Choir entitled “Still”. This piece, written by past Mrs Connery continued her report. pupil, Stephanie Devlin, with lyrics by Music A-level student, Íde Simpson, really showcased the range and versatility of I am sure you would agree that these have been amazing our Chamber Choir. We really enjoyed working together opportunities for the girls. Clara and Erin are both sixth on this landmark piece and, we hope, doing justice to the form students. Erin is in Upper Sixth and hopes to use composers. We’re proud to say this was yet another high the experiences she has gained to go onto university after winning the BBC Songs of Praise Young Choir of the and study Law. Girls we wish you well for the Bar Year Competition in 2018. Mock Trial this year and thank you for encouraging the younger pupils to become part of this fascinating part of A moment which made me especially appreciate Strathearn Strathearn Life. and its Music Department, and which really warmed everyone’s hearts, was when our choir of 170 girls sang the My final area to expand upon this year is that of music. Abba medley. This piece was the final performance of the The department has an ‘everyone welcome’ policy and night and included pupils from Form1 all the way to Upper anyone, from those with no previous formal musical Sixth. I think this performance reflected the real sense of experience, to those with a high grade certificate, is joy and togetherness which comes from singing together encouraged to enjoy and appreciate music and all of its and music making. This was a rousing and spirited finale associated benefits. to a memorable evening which reminds us all, if we need reminded, of the importance of maintaining our musical STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 25 traditions at Strathearn. We felt as a group that we had succeeded in our goal to celebrate the 90th Anniversary of our school in style. Ladies and gentlemen, as I conclude my third Prize On a sad note we were very sorry to see one of our Night report, I am humbled by the amazing body of music teachers, Mrs McIvor, leave at the end of May. pupils, staff and extended community who all hold

PRIZE NIGHT . She had built such positive relationships with pupils over Strathearn so tightly in their hearts and are always many years of teaching, taking school orchestra and, showing us strong support. of course, Chamber Choir, where she helped to achieve great success. We wish her all the very best for the future. One of the unique areas that we introduced in our However, we realise how fortunate we are to still have our 90th year is our 90 Acts of Kindness mission. This has

wonderful Head of Department, Miss Kimber, who is a been coordinated by Mrs Myers and Miss Gibson and daily inspiration. We are also delighted to welcome our has involved girls completing one good act to another new music teacher, Miss Armstrong. A lot of work is going person, either as a group or as an individual. This has

on behind the scenes leading up to our Autumn Musical been a tremendous success as girls have completed lots evening in November and Christmas Carol service, not of acts of kindness - from collecting schoolbags for forgetting our musical production of The Wizard of Oz children in Syria to tending locals’ gardens. We have in the last week of November, which is a joint production been truly moved by the response. I thank you, girls and with Campbell College. This will feature some of our best “ staff, for embracing this and strengthening our links musical theatre performers together with our pit orchestra with the community. and is being produced by Miss Armstrong. I can assure you this will be a night to remember and hope to see you all Strathearn has and always will be about people. there! While we do not fail to appreciate these wonderful buildings which are the envy of others, it is the girls who I hope this gives you a feel for the commitment and come through the doors that make the difference. dedication of our music makers throughout the year as For over 90 years Strathearn has been making its mark well as some of our achievements. I’m sure you’ll agree on East Belfast and beyond, forming and equipping that music plays an important part in Strathearn school life the leaders of tomorrow with skills and fortitude for and hope it will continue to do so in the years to come. the wider world. Mrs Connery continued her report. Madam Chairman, honoured guests, ladies Thank you Miriam. We do appreciate all the efforts and gentlemen, I am delighted to conclude that go into rehearsals and practice that go on inside school and at home. Miriam is currently in Upper Sixth my report on a wonderful 90th anniversary and is studying Music, English and Business Studies and year for Strathearn School. she hopes to further her studies in the realm of Business Management next year. We wish her every success.

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 26 . PRIZE NIGHT Leavers Return for PRIZE NIGHT .Celebrations

Good luck to all of our girls moving on to pastures new. Exciting times lie ahead for them all! We look forward to hearing all about their new adventures.

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 27 Ladies, gentlemen and fellow pupils, good evening and welcome to Strathearn School’s annual Prize Night. HEAD GIRL’S My name is Katherine Hunter and I am absolutely honoured to be the 56th Head Girl of Strathearn School.

Tonight is a night to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our entire school over the past year. SPEECH This includes the academic achievements of those sitting at Prize Night. in front of me, but also the other achievements that helped to shape Strathearn this year. Tonight also allows me to reflect on the past seven years of my journey at Strathearn and hopefully to inspire some of you for the upcoming year.

When sitting down to write this speech I had many different ideas floating around my head as to how I

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 28 . PRIZE NIGHT wanted to approach it. However, the same idea kept studying is? No, it’s not textbooks, and surprisingly it’s not coming back to me - if my four year-old sister was even Google. I have come to realise it’s the expertise about to embark on her journey at Strathearn, what and commitment of the excellent teaching staff we have advice would I give to her from my experience? Tonight, here in Strathearn that can help you improve and achieve this speech is dedicated to my sister Rebekah but what you want to. Every single one of them is doing what hopefully, fellow pupils, you can learn something from my they do because they love to see us achieve our best experience too. and they want to inspire us to reach the targets that we set for ourselves. Many of them have spent time with me When I started in Form 1 all the way back in 2013, I was outside of class helping me with work I didn’t understand extremely nervous but also very excited to make new or giving me useful guidance on my personal statement. friends - I am a people person. As I walked through the Most importantly, the teachers have never failed to make door of Mrs Cochrane’s mobile classroom on the first day, my time here at Strathearn enjoyable, whether it’s a few I remember thinking two things. Firstly, it really was cold jokes and a funny story in class from Ms Murphy or more in these mobiles! The second was, wow I can remember recently a full rap performed by Mr Jellie in SU, the so many faces from our induction evening. This really put teachers really brighten up my days. The passion I have me at ease and I made new friends in no time. This was witnessed from each of my teachers has inspired me to helped by the fact I was more than happy to help direct want a career working with young people so that I can and choreograph Video Stars and iMovies, or challenge mirror their actions and I want to take this opportunity to my new classmates to a game of Flappy Bird. In my thank them all for their influence. Please be inspired by time at Strathearn I have met some of my best friends your teachers and go to them about anything; they really in the weirdest of situations, such as meeting Tori on the are there to help you with anything you may be struggling aeroplane to Belgium on the 2016 France Trip. As I went with. up the school the opportunities to make new friends did not stop. The mixing of classes in Form Four meant I had If you speak to my friends and family sitting here tonight, to start all over again in making friends. This was a great they will not hesitate to confirm that I am very committed experience for me, as many of these girls who I simply sat to everything I do. That’s why I have been involved in beside in classes are now friends that I still really enjoy possibly every club and activity available in school. From chatting with over a cup of tea in the common room or Hockey to Choir, School Productions to SU - my parents spending a lot of time with outside of school; I hope to have been my own personal Value Cabs as they have remain in contact with them for many years to come as I allowed me to fit into my life everything that I want to be honestly couldn’t have asked for a better year group to part of. It’s great that our school has so many different be part of. Make friends that are going to last a lifetime. societies that appeal to all, but the House events are my particular favourites. I am secretly very competitive In Forms 2 and 3 things started to change. I overbought especially when it comes to quizzes so the House Quiz on multipacks of coloured pens and highlighters alongside never fails to bring out my competitive side even though I those big lever arch files. It was also at this stage have no general knowledge whatsoever. The House Bake that I started to realise it didn’t matter what coloured Off was an amazing experience and one of my favourite highlighter or pen I used in order to create my revision memories of my time in school. Alice and I even came notes but that I actually had to have the right information second with our Easter themed cupcakes so perhaps I’ll on them to get the marks! There is every opportunity to send an application off to Prue and Paul for Next Year’s study a wide range of subjects here in Strathearn. When I Bake Off. However, another one of the highlights for me came to the Open Morning, I was blown away by the fact has to be the Strathearn Discos - I reckon I was more you could make a key ring in technology, felt in Art, and stressed picking an outfit for those evenings than I was study the structure of volcanoes in Geography. I enjoyed for our School Formal. When it came to extracurricular the wide range of subjects so much that it made both my activities, I just threw myself into every single one of them. decisions of choosing my GCSEs and A levels difficult. I I was never brilliant at them all, but you will make new came to my decision in the end, thanks to the help of my friends, develop new skills and come out with some of the parents. Even though I enjoyed a wide range of subjects, most incredible memories from each. the one that always sat very close to my heart due to the influence of Ms Murphy was History, which even inspired As I stand here tonight in front of the many faces that me to volunteer as a tour guide at the Somme Heritage have helped to shape my Strathearn career over the Museum on Saturdays which has been one of the best past seven years, I want to thank you all. Teachers and experiences of my life. I learnt that when making your fellow classmates, you have helped me to carve myself big subject decisions, you should choose subjects you are into the person I am today. I will always remain incredibly passionate about and enjoy, as that will make learning humbled for every opportunity I have been offered and those beautiful revision notes you’ve made a little bit will look back for years to come with very fond memories easier to learn. of Strathearn and I hope you all will too.

But do you realise what the most useful resource for your Thank you. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 29 LONDON DRAMA TRIP. all asleep. After a refreshing rest, we boarded the bus In the early hours of the morning of Thursday 13th the next morning to make February, an army of green-fleeced GCSE drama the journey to the Globe students gathered at Belfast International Airport. There Theatre. Our tour guide told was an air of excitement among everyone, apart from us all about the history of perhaps Ms Ferris, Ms Ditty, Ms Erskine and Mrs Atkinson the theatre, highlighting the who had the arduous task of getting us all successfully differences between it and through security, to the gate and on the plane on time. modern venues and showing Due to Ms Ferris’ excellent efficiency, co ordination and us how it would have been time management skills, we even had time for an iced used by Shakespeare. We coffee stop at Starbucks before boarding the plane even got a look backstage and arriving at Stansted Airport a short time later. After CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES . and were allowed to get up a short coach ride, we finally arrived at the National onto the stage (another of Gallery and had a chance to look around some of my personal trip highlights!) the great masterpieces there - and also to spend our before we made our way to holiday money in the gift shop! After a few hours in the our drama workshop. Before National Gallery we assembled in the foyer and made we made our way back to the our way to the Rainforest Cafe for lunch, which was an airport, we got on the coach experience not to be forgotten, considering the tropical once more to make a trip we leaves, water and wildlife sounds around us! After lunch had all been looking forward and a trip to the M&M factory, we made our way to to: Covent Garden! We were St Martin’s theatre for the matinee performance of The given a couple of hours to have Mousetrap, the longest-running play in West End history, lunch and look around (although which was my personal highlight of the trip. After I had many of us spent most of our a quick nap in the interval (much to the amusement of time in the Brandy Melville my peers and drama teacher), I was able to fully take shop!) before heading back to in the second half of the play. This wasn’t the only play the coach to make our way to we saw, for after a quick burger and milkshake at Shake the airport. As we walked into Shake we made our way to the Apollo Victoria Theatre. the terminal in Belfast, we all As a staunch classical musical fan, I was not expecting it felt a mix of emotions - we to be entirely my cup of tea, but I have to admit I was were disappointed the trip blown away and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of was over, happy to be back seeing my first ever musical in the West End. After a long in our home city, and most of day we were relieved to get to our hotel, and I dare all... we were all absolutely exhausted! say that as soon as our heads hit the pillows we were Emma Owens 4H

. CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES

. UK-GERMAN CONNECTION YOUTH SEMINAR

At the start of November in 2019, I was given the incredible opportunity to travel to Leipzig, in I’m very grateful for the help of my

East Germany, for a youth seminar with UK German German teacher to attend this course Connection. I travelled with a group of 20 other Northern and the chance to meet some incredible Irish young people to talk about the progression and development of peace in Ireland and Germany in people, develop my understanding commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the fall of of German culture and I may have “ the Berlin wall (celebrated on the 9th November). It was even improved my language skills. truly amazing to stay in such a significant city where the “ peaceful protests began. We stayed with some of our This experience has really opened my German peers, taking part in workshops that pushed us mind to consider perspectives from all to really look into the impact that the past has on our angles and forced me to step out of societal progression and take responsibility for the future my comfort zone - something I would we can create together. Throughout the four days, we saw the cities of Leipzig and Berlin, taking in the colossal recommend you strive to do now and history of these iconic places, and even stopping off at again. It is always worth it! one of the remaining parts of the Berlin Wall - a very Freya Beers 5S surreal moment for all of us.

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 31

PARIS TRIP.

On the 17th of October 2019, thirty-three very excited pupils from F4 to U6 and five teachers travelled from Belfast to Paris. On the first evening we went up the Montparnasse Tower. The views from the top were incredible - we were so lucky to see the Eiffel tower “ light up on the hour. The next day we had classes at a language school in the morning which were really useful This was a trip and fun. In the afternoon we had the chance to visit a French lycée. This was my favourite part of the trip of a lifetime because it was so enlightening finding out about school which I'm sure CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES . life in France and also learning about the lives of young none of us people. The school building was really fancy and we even got a tour of the underground catacombs which will ever forget. were used during World War II. On the Saturday we did C’était extra! lots of sightseeing around Paris including Montmartre, the Musée d’Orsay, a Seine boat trip and a walking “ tour of the city which was really interesting. Then, on Sunday, we visited Parc Astérix, a theme park based around the Astérix comics. Even though it was a wet day, we all thoroughly enjoyed the rides and also the haunted houses, although these were not for the faint hearted. Finally, on the Monday morning, we all reluctantly packed our cases and went to our final lesson at the language school before setting off to the airport.

Katie Robinson L6T

. CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES 90TH ANNIVERSARY .GALA DINNER Strathearn Gala Ball Committee

The Strathearn School Parents' Association recently hosted a 90th Anniversary Gala Dinner at the Stormont

Hotel. Compered by former pupil Rebecca McKinney, the event celebrated 90 years of outstanding academic and extra-curricular excellence at Strathearn. Mrs Connery said: The past 90 years have been remarkable“ in so many ways, but we're on a journey. School Governor Parents' Association Jonathan Ireland and Chairs, Claire Ritchie Every year we set the bar higher and higher, parent Denise Strahan and Zoe Wilcox and we will continue to do so. I have every confidence that the next 90 years will be just as remarkable as the first for “our school community.

Mrs Myers, Mr Anderson & Mrs Connery

Chamber Choir with Miss T Devlin and Miss R Armstrong Strathearn Parents enjoying the Ball STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 33 CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES. I assault courses, firstaid,shootingandinmany other Cadets cangain qualifications inthingslike field craft, otherwise get through otherextra-curricular activities. cadets involved they areofferedopportunities may not The CCFisafantasticorganisation whereyoung sessions. week for 28committedcadetswhojoinuseach group of involved ourgirls good toget too!!We someof have a years nowof we andinStrathearn, thoughtitwould be Campbell have hadanestablishedCCFfor anumber combines cadetsfrom Army, RAFandNavysections. withCampbellCollege.Cadet Force inpartnership CCF STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 28 n September, ourfirst weever officiallylaunched . CCF:COMBINED CADET FORCE CCF: about how they have enjoyed theirfirst year involved in ourcadets(andleaders) hear first-handfrom someof We thoughtyou would like tohave to anopportunity CCF. to experience theactivitiesofferedthrough the someof Pathways comingintogive 2pupilsachance theForm involved‘trial day’ anorganisation inJunewhich called tojoininSeptemberandhadaspecial opportunity We 3the decidedto offerpupilsgoingintoForm self-discipline andperseverance. areas. They teamwork, thevalue alsolearn of . CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES “ Ria Cimic 3T Grace Steed 3T

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 35 “

Through cadets we cadets Through have able been things do many to such as visiting which we be able normally would not do, to and new did several We Barracks in November. Palace to try got out a shooting simulation; We things. exciting We video game. immersive it was in a vast, being like also participated in team-building games and leadership We sampled difficult! turned out to be quite They exercises. rationsarmy which was an unusual and tasty experience. There were accidently some odd sweet My group drinks. ofmade hot cola instead a very peculiar hot chocolate, taste! When I first joined Cadets, I didn’t know whatexpect. I to know I didn’t joined Cadets, When I first initially joined because of much fun I had at the trial how but that I knew we wouldn’t doing shooting and archery, spend every week doing an inflatable assault course. of part My favourite Cadets is definitely shooting; the ofexcitement being in the shooting range and the friendly learning competition is a great I also enjoyed experience. feel more prepared in case I aid as it made me about first I was quite disappointed an emergency. come across ever that I could no longer attend Easter Camp with Cadets because of but I do hope that I can spend a week lockdown camping with Cadets in the future. “ “ “

“ Emily Wilson 3S Anna Mounstephen 3R

I joined cadets thinking it was all marching, army training army I joined cadets thinking it was all marching, and firing practice but I realised there was so much more aid and practical skills basic first reading maps, to it like aid due to its first I really enjoyed outdoor cooking. like looking forward I’m really to in our daily life. importance going on cadet camps in the future. My thanks go to Mr Heaney, Miss Newburn, Mrs Anderson Anderson Newburn, Miss Mrs My thanks go to Mr Heaney, who training wereand Ms Wallace willing to undertake so thatthemselves could establish and run the CCF they in Strathearn also to Contingent Commander Robert and who Campbell College Gordon and the pupils from have and activities. training organised I also took up tenor drumming in the Pipe Band (whichI also took up tenor drumming in the is the type of drumming which a combination of involves both flourishing and rhythmic playing) and attended the annual to I had also been asked Burns Night celebration in January. Buildings at with the Band in Parliament part an event take I had in March and in the VE Day commemorations in May. Easter Camp whichsigned up for place in was due to take Magilligan where I would have been doing assault courses, unfortunately However, exercise. field work and a 24 hour outbreak. this had to be cancelled due to the Covid-19 afternoons and CCF meets after school on Wednesday Strathearn by normally the girls from are transported minibus although sometimes it meets College to Campbell skills such as I have improved in Strathearn. CCF, Through communication, and leadership teamwork, problem-solving and have in Strathearn also made other friends both and Campbell. In order to put some ofIn order to put some to the test, we skills our new-found were orienteering competition which entered into an took My abiding place on a wet (and muddy) day in February. memory of down or rather sliding, that day is scrambling, a very bank in search steep of point. It is control an elusive to say that which the leggings fair I was wearingthat day been the same again buthave . . . we never had great fun. The first year in CCF is known as a pioneer year to allow to allow as a pioneer year year in CCF is known The first elements of training in the three to receive you the forces, Navy as well as the associated and Airforce Pipe Army, i.e. compass work, includedBand. The training map reading, aid. and first drill work shooting, camouflage, As one ofAs one pupils who the be involved to privileged has been year of inaugural in the in Force Cadet Combined the Strathearn, which with Campbell is run in conjunction to try I have the opportunity had of a wide range College, activities. new

“ “ CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES. bright Saturday morning. Despite months of hardwork, bright Saturday morning. Despitemonthsof Citizen’s competitionattheRoyal Justiceona of Courts theYoung Irelandheatof competed intheNorthern this year, duetothediligent innosmallpart efforts of BookFair wasThe Scholastic agreatsuccessagain even awarded therounds. booksfor winningoneof theKids’LitQuiz,andwere Irelandheatof Northern Uganda. atthe Bookloversof representedtheschool split between theCancerCentreandYouth Friends of was raised £250,which CoffeeMorning and ourStaff The Library Team new gained membersthisyear, lotsof display whenthey arrived atthelibrary inSeptember. reading, andthey were abletofindtheircardsupon first towritepostcards tousabouttheirsummer formers on welcoming ournew pupils. We hadinvitedincoming Library Committee, was agreatsuccessandfocused run Our first craft session, year bookmark by the studying, reading, orgetting involved inlibrary life. the library was filledtocapacitywithpupils regularly iPads usingNILibraries’ Libby app. Atbreakandlunch, ebook initiative, somewere even readingontheirschool their regularlibrary periodsthisyear, our of and as part library was asbusyever thisyear. Juniorsenjoyed thelibrary Our hereatStrathearn. of are attheheart theloandesk,pupils recommendations orhelpingtorun STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 36 I MOCK TRIALS. W LIBRARY REPORT. n November, Trial BarMock Strathearn's team hether they’re borrowing books, offering energy totheLibrary. timeand thepupilswhohave givenand toallof somuch Thanks toCharlotte, thisyear’s Library Prefectfor herwork, circumstances. displays, pupilsadaptedadmirably tothechanged the digitalrealm.Through ourvideoreviews anddigital it was ourlibrary activitiesinto possibletoshiftsomeof been reading. Thoughouryear was thanexpected, shorter it's lovely tohearfrom pupilsaboutthebooksthey have vibrant thisyear,Our BookClubhasbeenparticularly and raised morethan£1600for localcharity. thisimportant included theCancerFundfor ChildrenReadOn, which Fiction Competition.World BookDay celebrations thisyear including BBC’s 500Words andtheNationalYouth Flash Trust. Studentsalsoenteredcreative writingcompetitions, were soldtoraise £80for which theEllenMacArthur AChristmasCarol intostrikinggreetingscards,copies of shelves. Acraft project old inDecembersawpupilsturn received £100sincommissionfor addingnew bookstoour bookstotheircorrespondingbookcovers.of Theschool the competition,by stillscenesfrom adaptations matching tospendat towinvouchers Pupils hadtheopportunity it. thelibrary teamwhohelpedto run those membersof her poised delivery of her case and to Sarah Black who her caseandtoSarahher poiseddelivery Black of Keers for Ireland.SpecialmentiontoCharlotte Northern two from torun casesagainst across schools staff court barristers,Final. Studentstookonroles witnessesand of proceedings, thepupilsdidnotqualifyfor theNational includedavisittoLaganside reallegal toobserve which Dr Haire . CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES .LIBRARY performed very well under cross-examination. Well done to everyone on the team who gained a great insight into the legal system and enjoyed running these cases against other schools.

The Magistrates’ Court Mock Trial team had made significant preparations for their Northern Ireland heat, which was this year to be held at Laganside Courts. They thoroughly enjoyed their practice sessions even though they did not get to run their cases against other schools.

Representing Strathearn through the Mock Trials is a great way to develop pupils’ presentation skills, as well as their critical thinking skills and it’s great fun! Dr Haire

SCHOOL COUNCIL. the school, and delivered a really engaging debating workshop, called ‘Let’s Talk Rubbish.’ The Northern Ireland Emma Craig and Hannah Morrison were this year's Commissioner for Children and Young People hosted a School Council Chair and Vice-Chair. Together, they ran celebration at W5 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of regular council meetings with poise, chairing productive the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. discussions which were had on the issues raised by Pupils gained important team working and communication pupils. This year these included proposals to reduce the skills from participating in these activities. number of single-use plastics at Strathearn, requests for expanded extracurricular provision and questions about In March, Strathearn hosted the inaugural East Belfast homework. Area Learning Community School Council Meet. Emma and Hannah welcomed pupils and staff from schools in the local area, where a shared forum gave pupils a chance to learn from each other about how their school councils work, to help them appreciate similarities and difference as well as find areas for improvement. They participated in leadership and team-building activities, and in the afternoon heard from a representative of the Education Authority’s Youth Service and the office of the NICCY. Mixed groups of pupils discussed three areas: tackling poverty, building resilience and looking after the environment. Feedback received from staff and delegates was positive, stating that it was a great opportunity to come together and have their voices heard. This has been a very successful year for Strathearn’s School Council. Emma and Hannah have left a legacy of an open and productive School Council, and they and all the reps who sat on this year’s School Council should be Members of the School Council were afforded a commended for their efforts in making the pupil voice number of opportunities. Belfast City Council visited heard at Strathearn. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 37 PUBLIC SPEAKING.

. PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITIONS CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES .

Six pupils from Strathearn spoke at the Soroptimist Catherine’s impassioned speech was very well-received, Public Speaking Competition in Bangor in November. and Hannah and Ellie oversaw the proceedings with Congratulations to Ellie Massey, Hannah Stanfield, warmth and flair. Though they did not progress, we are Hannah McCartney, Madeleine Ievers and Clara able to give them certificates in recognition of their Potts who received certificates in recognition of their efforts in this competition. participation. Judges commented on the exceptionally high standard on display. Special congratulations to Maddie Twamley successfully applied to speak at a Andra Vladu who won the heat, with her impassioned special summit in celebration of thirty years’ since the talk on the importance of bees, and who represented the United National Convention on the Rights of the Child. school at the NI final in February. She spoke about the national identity debate in the province to a group of local politicians at a special event The BPW Public Speaking Competition saw Catherine at W5. Welsh deliver a speech about cyberbullying while Dr Haire Hannah Stanfield and Ellie Massey ran a public meeting.

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 32 . CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES .POLITICS

In November 2019, our L6 politics class went to former leader of the UUP, who came into our class one Stormont to learn about the inner workings of our lunchtime. Here, we asked him questions on his career in government. We met up with our tour guide in the Great UTV and as leader of the UUP. Hall. First stop on our tour was the Assembly Chamber, where we took part in a mock debate about school Gavin Robinson, MP for East Belfast, was another uniforms, and learnt about the positions of the First politician we met with. Each of us had the chance to ask Ministers and Chief Whip. Next, we were taken to the him questions on several topics such as why the DUP lost Senate Chamber and were briefed by our tour guide on seats in the election of December 2019, the life of an how the chamber operated and who would have sat there MP and possible reforms of the House of Lords. We also in the early days of the assembly. We were then taken discussed pay increases for nurses and firefighters and to a meeting room where we took part in a Q&A with MPs. These experiences provided us with invaluable Robbie Butler who had been appointed to the position of insight into the workings of our country and brought depth chief whip for the UUP. to what we have learnt over the past year.

We have also had the opportunity to interview local Rhiannon Dowie politicians. One of these politicians was Mike Nesbitt, and Alex Agar L6A

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 39 ART. Beth Buchanan A level Portrait in Oils STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 40 . CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES . ART

our own Ms Kimber (photographer). These professional The 2019-20 Art & Design Department year started artists shared their artwork and experiences with off just like any other year. We had our annual Art Trip the students, giving real insight into creative career to Dublin in the autumn, visiting the Sculpture in Context opportunities and pathways available to students of Art at the National Botanic Gardens, IMMA, the National & Design, and inspiring students with their own project Gallery and the RHA to help our A-level students gain work at GCSE and A-level. The work of former Strathearn inspiration for their personal projects. In January, Form student Katie Noble was particularly inspiring for the Five students visited the annual prestigious True Colours students. show at the Ulster Museum, sampling the diversity of artistic talent from students in Northern Ireland. The after-school Art & Craft Club, organised and led by AS level students and Miss Woods, continued to enjoy very strong attendance and created a range of exciting activities for junior school pupils. Club members worked hard to create colourful props and scenery for the school Wizard of Oz production, and also produced a beautiful range of ceramic Christmas decorations for sale. Along with a third form class, they had been working to produce upcycled fashion pieces for exhibition at a local sustainable fashion event when the schools closed.

Sculpture in Context at the National Botanic Gardens, Dublin Particular congratulations are due to our own students Ellie Mackey(A2) and Elizabeth Walker (AS), whose work was selected for exhibition at True Colours. Miss Whitla, Mrs Rea & Ellie Mackey

The school closure, of course, had a huge impact on the Art Department, where the GCSE and A-level students had been just about to produce their final exam pieces. These unfortunately had to abandoned, which was greatly disappointing to the students who had worked so hard to prepare. Our annual end-of-year show was sadly not to be in 2020 - at least not in its traditional format - but we did celebrate the success and talents of our senior school artists through an online exhibition of their work Elizabeth Walker in June. During the lockdown period, the Art Department organised a whole school competition entitled “Life in Our lunchtime “Meet the Artist” series this year featured Lockdown” where students and staff were invited to share visits from a number of prominent local artists such as their experiences of lockdown through art. We received Ciara Gilmore (painting and textile art), Joel Simon many entries to this and the artworks produced show real (animator and portrait painter), Katie Noble (concept insight into the experiences and responses of our school artist), Stuart Cairns (sculptor), Trevor Woods (ceramic community to this unprecedented period in history. artist), Rory Jeffers (graphic designer and illustrator) and Miss Whitla STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 41 AS LEVEL. Emma Rutherford Eva Blakely-Hewitt Eva Abbi Norris Anna Huhtchinson Long Amy Elizabeth Walker Emily McConnell STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 40 . A LEVEL Megan Ashcroft

Heidi McMillen Rebecca McDowell Tara Campbell Tara Lauryn Hanson GCSE.

Rachel McDonald Rachel Mia Montgomery

Amy Ellison Amy Rachel Golden Taylor McCullough Taylor

Jodie Morgan . GCSE

Lara Finlay Zoitsa Leliveld Sarah Lowry

Sarah Ellison Lily Oxborrow Lilli Boyd Issy Todd

Lauren Nesbitt GCSE. Hannah McCartney Annie Heavern Amy Mawhinney Amy

Joanna Carson

Amy Major Rebecca Moore Grace Bowman . CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES items for the items for of food Issy Todd 5H Issy Todd the collection co-ordinated committee we committee we and as a to classes were issued were Shopping lists STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 47

Supporting the Neighbours in Need Programme – the Charities Committee

hampers. We were were We hampers. by overwhelmed the enthusiasm of the entire school community and these photographs What a the results. show also delighted to present EBM with were response! We to assist with their a cheque money our non-uniform from to everyone Thank you Neighbours in Need programme. local cause. worthwhile who contributed to this very schoolbag full of a filled pencil case had highlighters, a Strathearn pencil and more. pens, to nothing childrenThis means that Syrian next who have camps at least have refugee from and are arriving here schools.the smoothest start new possible to their It was morning passed over in Strathearna proud when we all the schoolbags Quail, and pencil cases to Brendan of Manager Refugee the Syrian Project the Regional to Miss thank you a huge to give like Consortium. I’d the collection and to helping to coordinate Gibson for a schoolbag in the brought who or items for everyone to help so an amazing contribution pencil cases – it was support! families who need our many set the target At Christmas the East Belfast Mission of supporting families in need at least 1,000 local annual their offering Christmas Hampers through by definitely Neighbours in Need Appeal - this was to support. can be a Christmas wanted something we local for many time ofyear expensive difficult and very many hampers are a lifeline to EBM’s Eachfamilies. year, their only hope offamilies - maybe having a family Christmas dinner. FUNDRAISING .

and these accounts give details of details accounts give and these two of them. 90 ACTS OF KINDNESS OF ACTS 90 As part ofAs part of our 90 Acts we Kindness programme, wanted to include a number of whole school activities Supporting the Syrian Refugee Programme Supporting Programme the Syrian Refugee We set the ambitious target of the ambitious target set collecting 90 schoolbags We 100 over with 90 filled pencil cases and incredibly, and staff. pupils into schoolschool brought by bags were every and indeed other pupils, Thanks to all of Form Two Bryson House is a Belfast-based charity tackle aiming to “major social and economic challenges” and to “build countless provided have They refugees. better futures” for the families starter with essential items for packages arriving in Northern Ireland. Over the past few years, my mum has been involved with mum my has been involved years, the past few Over teaching children English to Syrian refugee who arrive as a part of little, The Syrian Refugee very here with very, been have we As a family, Programme. Resettlement and their arrival in collecting essential items for involved would of we our pupils, that with the generosity knew we asking more Syrian childrenbe able to help many by schoolStrathearn pupils to collect some ‘Pre-loved’ bags the children,and stationery for in partnership with Bryson House .FRENCH CLUB

Bonjour! My name is Anna and I am currently in the same opportunities will be available in Strathearn’s my first year at Strathearn. Languages fascinate me Modern Languages Department, for the benefit of all and I adore studying French! Starting French in Form future Strathearn girls, for many years to come. 1 has been my first real experience of learning a new Anna Matthews 1A language but I embraced the challenge and jumped at the opportunity to become a member of our school French Club. At French Club, all the members are given a pen pal from the school where Miss Turner used to work in France, with whom we correspond via letters and email. My pen pal is called Clélia and I have loved being able to write to a new friend in a different language! As well as gaining confidence in communicating in French and practising our language skills, French Club has also provided a great opportunity to learn more about French culture. I have also found the club’s social aspect to be very rewarding and have made some new friends within the school community as a result. So far, my personal highlights have included sending and receiving Christmas presents and having the chance to video chat with our French pen pals. I love being a member of French Club and I hope that

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 48 . CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES .MODERN LANGUAGES EUROPEAN DAY .OF LANGUAGES ¡Hola! My name is Zophia and am currently in my I was extremely pleased with the outcome of the second year at Strathearn. This year, for European Day competition and ended up receiving 1st prize in the of Languages, I was given the opportunity to enter the ‘Best Use of Language’ category. I received a certificate NICILT Year 9 Poetry Competition at Queen’s University and Amazon vouchers from Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast. I decided to enter the competition as I knew it as well as a letter from the manager of NICILT, who would offer a good way of improving my knowledge congratulated me and explained the value of language of Spanish, given that I am very passionate about learning and the skills I will develop as a result. I really languages. enjoyed working on my poem and would definitely consider doing something similar the next time I have the My entry, ‘Un minuto hasta la medianoche’ (‘One minute opportunity to put my language skills to the test! to midnight’), was a take on the competition theme of Zophia Quigley 2R ‘New Beginnings’. I decided to focus on the finality of midnight, as the theme made me consider how each day is a new beginning. Thanks to the time spent working on my poem, both individually and with my GERMAN DEBATE. Languages teacher, Miss Turner, I became familiar with new vocabulary and phrases, as well as pronunciation and the rhythmic techniques used in Spanish poetry. Kate Bell, Sarah Baker and I are Upper Sixth students studying German. On 14th February we were Originally, this seemed like an impossible task. However, one of six schools to participate in the NICILT German debate. The motions were announced two weeks before the debate and we were shocked to find out that the motion was, “Brexit is beneficial for everyone in Northern Ireland”. We had to argue against the motion. The terrifying B-word is difficult to discuss even in English! Friends' School Lisburn had the task of speaking in favour of the motion. We immediately got to work on preparing our arguments with help from our language assistant Sara, a native speaker from Austria.

At the debate Strathearn's team was supported by the rest of the German A-level students. Each team member spoke confidently and fluently in front of the two native German-speaking judges. We argued passionately and had personal stories of how Brexit has affected jobs, Erasmus and border communities. Our opponents made strong arguments when having to argue for Brexit. However Kate Bell, the team captain, made strong counter arguments. As a result we won our individual debate. The issue was complex so we are very proud to have won our debate. Additionally Kate was awarded the Best Speaker prize for our debate. The overall winners were Enniskillen Royal Grammar and Strathearn were runners up! Competing in the debate gave us invaluable public-speaking experience and it increased our confidence in speaking German.

Anna Kenny U6R STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 49 CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 50 T CAREERS. UCAS CONFERENCE. Motivational Talk. Masterclass inJanuary Four andallForm attendeda wereFour girls abletoattendaYoung EnterpriseDigital inaRobotics Onetookpart Form Roadshow. Ten Form Two andFour completedaYoung Enterpriseactivity, and alsodidalotwithcareersthisyear.Junior school Forms Nursing, Lawandstudentfinance. as talks aboutpersonalstatementsandcoursessuch for Five. Form Interviews We alsohaduniversity applicant talksandindividualCareers A Level Subject choice students including, GCSEadvicetalksfor Three, Form Throughout theyear therewere many goodtalksfor sixth form. moreabouttheiroptionsafter Exhibition Centretolearn to theUCASHigherEducationConvention attheEikon university Lower applicantsandinFebruary Sixthwent organisation). were InNovember heldfor interviews mock asProjectdifferent talkswere Trust held,such (gap year open days atUUJandQUB. Throughout September this year toattend UpperSixthhadtheopportunity advice hasbeenvery of helpfultousall.Atthestart hroughout ourseven years careers atStrathearn, The Careers Committee The Careers

.YOUNG ENTERPRISE . CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 51 National Park, California National Park, San Lorenzo Spain in Huesca, This means: Amelie McCord 1S, on Yosemite Amelie McCord 1S, En el tiempo de la siega In the time of the harvest Que todos tenemos trigo. Que todos tenemos trigo. When we all have wheat. all have When we San Lorenzo, San Lorenzo, San Lorenzo, San Lorenzo, St Lawrence, St Lawrence, St Lawrence, St Lawrence, Sophia Cochrane 3T, on the festival of on the festival Sophia Cochrane 3T, En que buen tiempo has venido En que buen tiempo has venido You’ve come at a very good time come at a very You’ve In Spain the harvest for cereals takes place during In Spain the harvest cereals takes for song is sung to the summer months and this jovial a plentiful harvest.thank the Saint for There are many reasons I would like to go back to There are many reasons I would like the grey is that reason I loved The first Yosemite. painted cute cottage we our time there. rented for It was miles outside the main entrance located a few porch front two with It had a lovely to Yosemite. and a spacious back deck chairs wooden rocking ofcomplete with a barbecue and wonderful views and countrysidethe surrounding with majestic Cedars there were In the garden Pines. blackberry Ponderosa bushes with deliciously sweet blackberries to as night was drawing in, we werepick. One evening, floor to our cottage. the valley driving back from up floor is right as the valley It took about two hours and scary It wasat exciting the centre of Yosemite. trees and the darkness with towering driving through At one point a deer mountains looming all around. into the trees. and vanished the road jumped across was on of as part could smell smoke We Yosemite Thatfire. a little bit frightening made the journey also but the fire was miles away. One of is going to las the most the things I enjoy where set up a temporary (the fair), they ferias with lots of fairground to do. rides and other things people As it is normally very the day, hot during at night. I think that fair generally go to the it is then, because it is all lit up and much more exciting when on the attractions are up see the can you you One ofwhole town. the weirdest stalls at is the fair raffle), (the enter tombola can la you probably where of to win a leg cured ham. There is a traditional song of the festival: to write about a place they would like to be. to like would they about a place to write This year during lockdown, we asked our pupils asked we during lockdown, This year

Eva Wilson 2R, on Gran Canaria Wilson 2R, on GranEva Canaria

Holly Humphreys 2S, on the joys of on the joys home 2S, Holly Humphreys CREATIVE WRITING .CREATIVE I miss what would have been and long to be there Gran Canaria, where the sun is shining all day now. the sand granules across and the warm breeze blows the beautiful beaches. The azure blue sky meeting at with the emerald green sea. Sitting on the horizon the beach watching while the waves the sun go down, The palm trees small ripples upon the sea shore. make swaying calmly in the wind and on the pavements I goods. trying to sell their fake the street vendors can but dream of having tourists dinner along the I should have been one ofpromenade. those tourists. But I’m not. The mutual agreement in doing our separate things or rooms, splitting to different evenings, certain concentrating on our own maybe the same one, or watching gaming, working, Dad upstairs studies. the occasional from silent apart highlights, football ofoutburst exasperation in whatever it is he is doing. her reading Shauna and I sitting in the living room, the by and me playing the piano accompanied crackling of both taking a break to look at the fire, easy it is to work up each other and giggle at how father. my I have been to quite a few places on holiday and I have been to quite a few and food with their culture, were they amazing, is something nice about there so, Even languages. I the fact I just like everything. coming home after don't need to worry about where things are or what and whatI’m supposed to use because it's I’m not, always aren't kicking going to be autopilot in. They whenwrong say 'home is where is’. they the heart Home is the place that always can you come back to no matter what. smell that The familiar hits me when The calls to me when the door opens. people The catare home. that always brushes up against my her what me until I give she wants and follows legs The laugh we(usually food). all share at the slightly while she of about the roundness cruel jokes her, to bring fails calling at It never us. stands oblivious, completely normal it is. at how a smile to our faces All of the table just talking - never us sitting around talking. just about anything in particular, CREATIVE WRITING.

Beyond the back gate of the site a path stretches far As I draw back the curtains, a sea of light blinds away in both directions, cutting through the forest. me. Glimpsing the turquoise blue ocean, it beckons It is an old railway line that brought people from me and a wave of delight washes over me. I behold Glasgow and Edinburgh to Killin so they could get the foaming waves crash upon the soft, golden the steamer to go up Loch Tay to Kenmore for their sand and become instantly mesmerised by the holidays, but it closed nearly 60 years ago. If you rhythmic roll of the tide onto the beach. Filled with follow it to the right it goes through bogland and excitement, many fond memories of times on the Tiffany McGowan 1A forest, with lots of fallen trees and long grasses. To French seaside come flooding back to me. Pulling the left, you walk down a sandy-coloured tree-lined on my salt-smelling swimming costume, I also grab CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES . lane to a small road. On one side of the road are a pair of blue denim shorts and head for the door. some houses and on the other a low grey wall. Over Sliding my feet into my ever-sandy flip flops, I grab the wall is the Falls of Dochart. You can climb over my freshly waxed surfboard. The familiar clip-clop enormous flat rocks or lie in the sun (when there is sound of the soles of my sandals striking my feet any). The Bridge of Dochart crosses the river. Just fills the corridor as I head down the stairs and out before the middle of the bridge, a gate leads down of the door. The surfboard weighs on my shoulders, to a little island called Innis Bhuidhe which is the but it is not a chore to carry it, as I know of all the burial site of some of the MacNab clan. Further enjoyment that it will bring me when I finally reach down the road you head to the centre of the village, the shore. Reaching the seaside, the joyous cries of where there are different shops, a school, a church children ring in my ears. Removing my flip flops, I sink hall, a Co-op and a few other buildings. into the sand. Velvety powder covers my toes and I begin my journey across the beach. Every step, my Even though it is quite an isolated place, it’s not like feet are engulfed by the shimmering mass. Sighting quarantine. This isolation is quiet and peaceful, where the vivid green flags fluttering in the slight breeze, I you are free, with no WiFi or schoolwork. I’d like grin widely when spotting the radiant faces of many to visit the log cabin because I need somewhere to gleeful children, diving in and out of the glorious switch off and just do my thing with my people for a waves. Laying down a towel and get ready to jump little while. into the glistening expanse. Aoife Rankin 1S, on Killin, Scotland Amy Boyle 2S, on Bidart, France

I recall the fragrances of the bunches of bright I miss jumping in to the turquoise, crystal clear, flowers as we walked by them and how my mother saltwater. I miss running on the golden sandy beach never missed a chance to buy a bunch of these vivid with my friends under the bright blue cloudless sky. I and delightful plants. Another thing about Seattle miss going on lovely scenic bike rides with the breeze is that because I was so young, it was also a place on my face. I miss going to get refreshing, sweet, ice where I tried many new things I hadn’t even heard cream in the baking, warm, sun. I miss having that of before, one of them being when I indulged in feeling when I have butterflies in my stomach on the one of my first ever Frappuccinos from the original journey up to the caravan site. I miss waking up to the Starbucks store opposite Pike Place Market. The only sun flooding through my curtains knowing that it’s going downside of being able to go to this coffee shop was to be a long, fun, sunny day. how there was always a substantial line outside of the Hannah Minford 1S, on her store at all times. caravan in Portballintrae Tara McNeill 1A, on Seattle

My special place is situated on the amazing, clear and cold Atlantic coast. It is about thirty miles from Tralee and forty miles from Killarney. It is well worth the terrifying, cramped, eight-hour van journey to get to it. It is called by many, “the most beautiful place on earth” and I would agree. My family particularly enjoy a trip to the excellent ice cream shop, Murphy's. My dad, my sister and I go into town just to get some of their amazing, flavourful ice-cream chocolate. It’s literally to die for! Connie Waterworth 1A, on Dingle, Co. Kerry

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 52 WORKING FROM HOME. Katie Brow 1H Tiffany McGowan 1A Miss Sturgeon's History Anna Matthews 1A classes in Forms One, Two and Three were given the option to create a historical figure out of a boiled egg. They were all egg-scellent!

Emma Hamilton 1H

Eva Wilson 2R

Libby Gorman 1H Emily Barry 1A

Evie Rutherford 3R Sophie Johnston 3R Carys Jones 3R Maeve MacAirt 2H

Catherine Friend 2R

Ruby Moore 3R Bethany Johnston 3A Elena Gourley 3H Annabel Harron 3R Jodie Hall 3H STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 53 WORKING FROM HOME. LIFE IN LOCKDOWN

.COMPETITION WINNERS Jiyun Park 3H Junior School

Aoife Rankin 1S

Rebecca Shannon 2T

Evie Pringle 2H Zoe Hill 2A

Naomi Boyce 1S

Connie Waterworth 1A Clara Waterworth 3A Evelyn Stanfield 3S Evelyn Matilda Brown 1A .WORKING FROM HOME

Kinga Kloskowska 3T Grace Johnston 1H Also a mention to Maya Dohkia F2 and Sara Murray F2 who“ are prizewinners for their videos.

Well done to everyone who took part and shared their experiences of 'Life in Lockdown'. Isla Mitchelson 3T “ Senior School

Anna Hughes 5S Lauren Nesbitt 5R Amy Major 5S Eva Blakely-Hewitt L6S Blakely-Hewitt Eva Beth Buchanan U6T STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 47 HARPISTS NAMES Sophia Hamilton Amy Bole Emily Wilson

DUKE OF EDINBURGH GOLD AWARD PRESENTED BY PRINCE EDWARD

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 56 MUSIC. .CHAMBER CHOIR

It was another busy year for the Chamber Choir. After day of term before Christmas, in a special assembly, we saying our goodbyes to Mrs McIvor, in September we sang ‘Gaelic Blessing’ as a farewell to Mrs Myers on her were so fortunate to have Mrs Devlin take over. We last day at Strathearn. After over 35 years, it was an quickly started working for our first event, Prize Night, emotional send-off which we were privileged to take part where we sang two pieces: ‘Gartan Mother’s Lullaby’ in. Amidst the excitement of everything a new year brings, and Dan Forrest’s arrangement of ‘Be Thou My Vision’. from mocks to interviews and all our other individual In November, we were invited to sing at the PTA Gala commitments, 2020 saw our Chamber Choir rehearsals Dinner in the Stormont Hotel for Strathearn’s 90th continue as ever twice a week. On the first Sunday in Anniversary. We were welcomed by the compère for March we sang at the Campbell College Family Service. the night, past pupil Rebecca McKinney, before singing We performed ‘Be Thou My Vision’ ourselves and sang an ‘Be Thou My Vision’ and John Rutter’s ‘Gaelic Blessing’. SATB arrangement by Rollo Dilworth of ‘Give Me Jesus’ December was a very busy time for us. We turned our with the Campbell choir, along with three congregational focus to the Carol Service and prepared three pieces: hymns. We were all absolutely gutted, especially those ‘An Earthly Blessing’, by Will Todd, Philip Stopford’s ‘A of us in Upper Sixth, that due to the Coronavirus we Christmas Blessing’ and John Rutter’s ‘What Sweeter were unable to have our usual Spring Concert. However, Music’, all of which we thoroughly enjoyed learning. I know I speak on behalf of others when I say that we As well as this, in the run-up to the holidays we visited will look back on our years in the Chamber Choir with Strathearn Court Care Home and sang a range of carols fond memories, and I can say what a truly great musical to the residents, with many of them choosing to join in experience it has been, all thanks to the wonderful music and sing along with us, which was lovely. On the final department that Strathearn is so blessed to have. Amy Bole U6S Back row: Megan Adair, Lauren White, Tara Kerr, Eve Elliott, Phoebe Spratt, Charlotte Crawford, Emma Carson

Second row: Lucy Bole, Natalya Ricketts, Anna Hughes, Sophie Longstaff, Rosie Park, Lauren Mooney, Cheryl Watson, Tori Jackson

Front row: Catherine Welsh, Amy Bole, Miriam O’Reilly, Beth Strahan, Íde Simpson, Rosie Elwood, Halah Irvine

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 57 ORCHESTRA.

This year the School Orchestra met every Wednesday afternoon after school for rehearsals led by our new music teacher, Miss Armstrong. The orchestra welcomes pupils right the way from Form 1 to U6, and this allows for a wide range of abilities in various orchestral instruments, as well as encouraging friendships to be formed across different year groups. This year the orchestra got to showcase their hard work at the Autumn Musical Evening in November. We entertained our audience with an arrangement of Schubert’s Marche Militaire, John Williams’s Hedwig’s Theme, known from the Harry Potter movies, and ‘Can You Feel the Love Tonight’ by Elton John. We were also excited to play some other well-known and lively pieces for the planned Spring Concert, including an arrangement of Haydn’s 'Surprise Symphony', the Finale from the Organ Symphony by Saint-Saëns, and ABBA’s ‘Money, Money, Money’. We are devastated that this concert will not be going ahead due to the current circumstances! Despite this, we all thoroughly enjoyed orchestra rehearsals this year and are very grateful to Miss Armstrong for all her hard work!

Miriam O’Reilly U6T

Back row: Martha Gooding, Sophie Thomas, Elly Ryan, Amy Major, Sarah West, Lois Whiteside

Third row: Jemima Thomas, Zara Conroy, Lilli Boyd, Anna McKinty, Jodie Morgan, Ella Keane, Daisy Johnston, Madeleine Heawood, Lauren White, Rachel Neilly, Rebecca Shannon

Second row: Rachel Brett, Emily Hanna, Amy Bole, Zara Hanna, Sophia Hamilton, Laura Gordon, Lauren Mooney, Kathryn Finlay, Anna Hughes, Faith Heyburn, Tori Jackson, Lucy Bole, Miriam O'Reilly, Stella Moore

Front row: Abi Patton, Caitlyn Watson, Lauren Wright, Anna Matthews, Rebekah Devlin, Francesca Hamilton, Rebecca Hill, Rosie Elwood, Sophie Hagan, Kristanna Clegg, Bea Bell, Amélie Euler, Hannah Watson, Ciara Moore, Catherine Welsh This year Traditional Group was made up of seven members and was open to any pupil from Form 1 to U6 who plays a traditional Irish instrument. Our group, which TRADITIONAL consisted of fiddles, flutes and a harp, rehearsed every Monday lunchtime, led by Miss McClure. During the first .GROUP term we worked hard at our pieces for our performance in the Autumn Musical Evening. Then in the following term we focused on ornamentation and developed our playing in the traditional Irish style, which is freer than classical music. We also began to learn music by ear – without any sheet music, which was a real challenge for some of our newer members. Unfortunately, we were unable to showcase our new pieces as the Spring Concert was cancelled due to the Coronavirus situation; hopefully we will get the opportunity to perform them next year. I really enjoy Traditional Group and would encourage any new members to come along as it is a great way to improve your playing and learn a new style.

Lauren Mooney 5S

Back Row: Emily Hanna, Laura Gordon, Zara Hanna

Front Row: Lauren Wright, Emily Wilson, Lauren Mooney, Faith Heyburn

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 59 SENIOR CHOIR.

This year has been an exciting and memorable year for the Senior Choir, and we have completed pieces that we are proud of and really pleased with. We met every Monday after school and the rehearsals were engaging for everyone, no matter what their singing background. The Carol Service was a huge success, with the Senior Choir singing ‘The Lord is my Shepherd’ by Will Todd, which was a beautiful, calming piece, paired with the more upbeat and lively ‘Cantata Domino, Alleluia’ by Cristi Cary Miller, which the choir really enjoyed performing. In the anticipated Spring Concert we would have performed ‘Seasons of Love’ by Jonathan Larson and a collection of songs from the musical ‘Les Misérables’ by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg, which would have been sung collectively with the Junior Choir. We’re disappointed we couldn’t perform at the concert, however the memories and skills we took away from this year of Senior Choir makes the hard work all worthwhile! I’ve really enjoyed my seven years of choir and being part of such an amazing and dedicated team, both pupils and staff.

Tori Jackson U6R

Back row: Jessica Pennick, Katherine Hunter, Eloise McKnight, Eve Elliott, Madeline Best, Madalaine Wilson, Phoebe Spratt, Amy Hanna, Ella Keane

Fourth row: Lauren White, Sarah Blackmore, Lauren Nesbitt, Sophie Jordan, Martha Gooding, Emmerald Emerson, Alexandra Coetzee, Ellie Dornan, Molly Leeb, Madeleine Heawood, Megan Allen, Catrina Martin, Nicole Gallagher, Grace Bowman, Annabel Holden, Sarah Lowry, Tara Kerr, Emily Parker

Third row: Leah Orr, Rosie Hardy, Kathryn Finlay, Megan Adair, Ellie Van Giesen, Sarah Clarke, Joanna Carson, Ellie Johnston, Aoife Moore, Charlotte Crawford, Zara Rintoul, Natalya Ricketts, Alex Graham, Rachel Constant, Abi Stevenson, Emma Carson, Rosie Park, Heather Dunn, Tara Winton

Second row: Madeline Doherty, Maddie Twamley, Íde Simpson, Miriam O’Reilly, Grace Ruding, Tori Jackson, Zara Hamilton, Beth Strahan, Laura Gordon, Lauren Mooney, Cheryl Watson, Anna Hughes, Emily Hanna, Sophie Longstaff, Sophia Hamilton, Eva Aston, Lucy Bole, Amy Bole, Rebecca Welsh, Rebecca Hill

Front row: Isabella Anderson, Catherine Welsh, Ciara Moore, Sarah McIvor, Freya Beers, Beth Gallagher, Alice Sloan, Catherine O’Reilly, Eva Pagels, Caitlyn Corbett, Katie Darley, Rebekah Devlin, Rosie Elwood, Ellie Massey, Lauren Wilson, Rachel Brett, Lauren Farmer, Hannah Watson, Halah Irvine, Zoe Boyce, Alice McIvor . CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES .JUNIOR CHOIR Junior Choir is attended by girls from Forms 1 to We started learning ‘Shallow’ and a medley from Les 3 and is directed by Ms Kimber. We meet on Tuesday Misérables which we were to perform with the Senior lunchtimes in the Manning Hall. I fully recommend Junior Choir: two magnificent pieces! Although there were a Choir as it is an amazing opportunity to have fun and lot of words to learn for both pieces, we eventually improve your singing. In the first term we began learning conquered them and had both pieces word perfect! our piece for the Carol Service. We sang ‘A Star Dances, an Angel Sings’ by Greg Gilpin, an exquisite melody! This year has been my favourite year in Junior Choir. The We laboured long and hard on getting the harmonies music has been fantastic. I would have thought it hard to just right. The Carol Service was also a great opportunity find even more beautiful music than last year (as we sang to listen to the senior girls and Penrhyn pupils sing their an ABBA medley) but Ms Kimber succeeded. My favourite beautiful pieces. I thoroughly enjoyed the Carol Service, was the 'Les Misérables' medley as the music is superb. My as we all sang beautiful carols, listened to readings, and preferred song in the medley is the Finale as it is uplifting celebrated Jesus’s birth and the spirit of Christmas. and looks to a better and brighter tomorrow!

In the spring term we rehearsed for the Spring Concert. Grace Steed 3T

‘Bouncers’ directing review

DRAMA REVIEWS. A performance of ‘Bouncers’ at the MAC Theatre Belfast in October 2019 captured my interest in the way it was directed. ‘Shirley Valentine’ acting review Director Zoe Seaton opted for a physical theatre style which aided writer John Godber’s humorous dialogue and fast paced A performance of ‘Shirley Valentine’ at the Lyric Theatre storyline. However, although from the outside ‘Bouncers’ looks Belfast in March 2020 proved to me that, despite being in an like a light-hearted insight into the lives of four bouncers and age of ‘Total Theatre’ in the 21st Century, acting is still an the customers at their nightclub, I appreciated the balance important constituent of the stage that can single-handedly that Seaton struck between physical comedy and the darker, captivate an audience. On paper the play can seem limited, wider themes of society and the mistreatment of women at as it consists of nearly 2 hours of constant one handed the hands of men. This balance took her audience of mostly monologue. Pairing this with the fact that the play itself is teenage drama students on an emotional journey that kept us 30 years old and the protagonist is a middle-aged woman, entirely engaged. In her direction, Seaton recognised the more I thought that as a teenage student I would be unable to modern, stylised approach to theatre that is emerging in the relate and engage with what was onstage. Design was also 21st century. Her use of rapid multi-rolling aided the humour limited, with a composite set of a kitchen scene acting as a associated with the portrayal of exaggerated Northern Irish mere backdrop to Shirley’s rapid dialogue. However, the warm stereotypes, as for example at times the four men onstage delivery of Tara Lynne O’Neill, whose professional discipline delivered performances as drunk, excitable teenage girls. This shone through in her expert handling of a one woman show, meant that, despite the slightly dated era and accompanying allowed me to connect deeply with Shirley’s personal journey 80s soundtrack that appealed to older generations in the of self-discovery – a message even a teenage audience can audience, I was able to relate and engage with the characters relate to. O’Neill flawlessly navigated her way through writer onstage. This is evidence of a tuned in director who is aware Willy Russell’s sharp, self-deprecating humour, the comedy of of their diverse audience and the social norms they can relate which was heightened through her constant direct address, to. Alongside the light-hearted humour Seaton kept a focus on making the relationship between actor and audience colloquial Godwer’s wider social message, with this being most poignant and relaxed. Due to the nature of the one handed monologue during the character ‘Lucky Eric’s’ monologues. During these the play was fast moving and emotionally charged, meaning moments there was an obvious conscious directorial decision wit and humour could quickly be undercut with desperation and made by Seaton to contrast the familiar chaotic stage action vulnerability. During these moments O’Neill would jarringly that consisted of song and dance, multi-rolling and physical contrast her light-hearted characterisation with expert sincerity, theatre with a more sincere, natural delivery whereby Eric was delivering Shirley’s inner conflicting thoughts and her longing onstage by himself, directly addressing the audience with his to cut loose from the familiar daily path around her kitchen experience of disrespect towards women. This allowed me as and rediscover herself once more. The plethora of emotions a female audience member to reflect on the reality of such and reactions I as an audience member experienced, from important issues in Northern Ireland. Seaton’s overall directorial laughter to silent sympathy, had me on a rollercoaster based aim reminded me of Brecht and his ideology of ‘Epic Theatre’- on acting alone. theatre should educate, not merely entertain. Beth Strahan U6S STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 61 WIZARD OF OZ. A Strathearn Production . CLUBS, EVENTS & SOCIETIES DRAMA . Beth Strahan U6S STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 63 hen it was announced that the school announced musical 2019 hen it was for W was to be ‘The Wizard of Oz’, instant excitement ensued. For ensued. For of be ‘The Wizard to Oz’, instant excitement was with hopeful girls filled their perfecting corridors were the weeks and attempting the Rainbow’ ofrenditions Over ‘Somewhere of me being one accent, the Kansas list was When the cast them. girlmy little came dreams of finally announced being Dorothy the chance be given to of such playing so excited and I was true, delighted of last year Strathearn. I also was in my an iconic role with some of closest stage be sharing the my to see that I would as the Elliott Eve Simpson as the Scarecrow, with Íde friends, offstage Carson as the Lion. Our friendship Tinman, and Emma the memories chemistry a genuine us to portray onstage, allowed Making the of long time. a very which with me for I will keep having was more special, and a lot funnier, even experience Toto. role of the play year, in first Olivia Strahan little sister, my of seeing two emotional her very Mum it was my for I know one at the start ofdaughters, and one at her Strathearn journey as a duo. together the end, onstage did not come overnight. polished product the finished, However, the start ofFrom September to the end of the cast November and with rehearsals on Thursday their paces, put through were given, No mercy was after school Saturday. Friday and all day to Manning ourselves having to drag with us U6 pupils even Hall the morning a photo of after formal, included which was high spirits. very that perfectly captured our in the programme who really to Ms Armstrong, has to be given thank you A huge task the large given into the deep end, as she was thrown was ofyear teaching Director despite this being her first Musical and dedication, alongside at Strathearn. Her professionalism made her a great her laid back sense of nature and humour, addition to the Strathearn work to Music Department and a joy ifwith, even the memory of drilling harmonies is still forever stuck in the back of that definitely will head. Another vision my is that of dressed up not be easily forgotten boys Campbell to thank would like waistcoat, hat and all. I as flying monkeys, being a part ofCampbell for and creating the production another successful Strathearn-Campbell school musical. who took partOur ensemble of groups girls all year from reflected the community ofin the production Strathearn as a the from through, the whole way a team effort as it was whole, to personally would like I bows. first cast meeting to the final put the time and dedication they thank the whole cast for all ofinto the production, which off evidently paid based on the curtain As on the audience reaction alone. closed literally on a lot of and metaphorically last performance the girls’ time left to thank. And that one person was on the Strathearn stage, time at Strathearn, she has my is Ms Ferris. Right throughout that I talk for I know me. failed to support and encourage never been have could never this production the whole cast when I say ofmessage the the She perfectly grasped done without her. every on stage beautifully relayed which a message was show, Strathearn. or rather, home, no place like night- there’s STRATHEARN’S GOT TALENT. JUDGES. BOUCHER. WATTS. Mrs Anderson, Mrs Butters, Mrs Power, Eva Lappin (3T) Orla Millard (3T) and Katherine Boucher Hype House (Form 1 Pupils) Boyle (3T) Mrs White Ellie Johnston (1S), Grace McCracken Tiffany McGowan (1A) (1S), Hannah Minford (1S), Jamillah STAFF GROUP. Toriola (1T), Johanna Hegan (1H), The Four Behaviour Points Eve Armstrong (1A), Emma Hamilton (1H), Matilda Brown (1A), Charlotte Mr Jellie (vocalist), Mr Lindsay (base WINNER. Gorman (1R), Eva Mooney (1R), Mya guitar), Mr Mulligan (guitar), Mr Scott Tiffany McGowan (1A) Dunne (1T) (drummer)

BARBOUR. MCCAUGHEY. Charli Graham-Ogg (2A), Clara Wa- HOUSE WINNER. Emma Smyth (2A) terworth (3A) & Lucie Spence (3A) Watts Catherine Friend (2R) and Zoe Charis Mills (1S) Friend (1S) STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 64 STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 65 Laura Killiner Beth Strahan BARBOUR. Jenny Wilson (pictured below) HOUSE REPORTS .

Throughout our seven years at Strathearn, Laura, Jenny of ‘Don’t Stop Believing’. I and I have been integral parts of the Barbour House community, would like to personally thank therefore when we were given the opportunity to uphold all members of Barbour for House Captain roles we were delighted. Jumping straight showcasing their talents in all into our duties we had to begin thinking about one of the of the House events this year. most anticipated events in the Strathearn calendar- the House Throughout the year we Plays. Working as a team of three we began to brainstorm used every opportunity to ideas and eventually, through months of scripting, auditioning, encourage our House members casting and directing, we proudly presented our play ‘House to donate to our chosen House Heroes’. We would like to thank all of our dedicated cast and charity Marie Curie. In our backstage crew for making the experience so special. All of the busy school lives fund-raising commitment evidently paid off, as Barbour House was awarded can often be forgotten about, Best Technical and Best Director. This success for Barbour set the therefore at every house event we encouraged the girls to tone for the rest of the busy year. donate whatever they had. The girls’ generosity shone through, and this money will go towards supporting Marie Curie and The enthusiasm and participation of all members of Barbour families affected by terminal illness. shone through in the plethora of indoor and outdoor sporting activities throughout the year, including House Dodgeball and As we say goodbye to our roles as House Captains, Jenny, House Cross-Country. Sports Day 2019 also exemplified the Laura and I would like to thank all members of Barbour for fun, competitive spirit of Barbour, with the girls participating in making this year so enjoyable. I know I will carry the memories a range of sporting events, all whilst keeping the House Spirit I have made as House Captain of Barbour well into my adult up through their multiple chants and our iconic House song life. A massive thanks also has to be given to Ms Wallace and ‘I’m Walking on Sunshine’. Our success in House events was Ms Young for organising all House events and ensuring the year definitely not confined to the PE department, as many of our ran as smoothly as possible. To the girls who have the privilege members excelled in the House Quiz and Debating events. We of being House Captains of Barbour next year- keep the house also received third and fourth place in Strathearn’s Got Talent spirit going! Go Barbour! for Emma Smyth’s Irish Dancing and the Friend sisters’ rendition Beth Strahan U6S

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 66

. HOUSE REPORTS

Grace Ruding Eva Aston Rebekah Spence BOUCHER.

Last April when Grace, Rebekah and I were appointed Lappin placed second after singing an original song - we are House Captains we had no idea what to expect. Looking sure she has great musical success ahead of her! Although back on it, we can certainly say that it has been an absolute we did not always place first in everything, the level of pleasure, and we have formed friendships and made memories participation and house spirit never failed to amaze me. So we will never forget. many girls were passionate and enthusiastic competing in house hockey, netball and badminton and the sporting success of Our first event in the house calendar was the Day of Sport, Boucher shone through time after time. The charity that we chose which saw marvellous athletic achievements from pupils to sponsor this year was ‘Go Make A Difference’, a charity and teachers alike! Following varied degrees of success in inter- very close to our hearts following a charity trip to Tanzania in house dodgeball, tennis and debating we faced the next highly the previous year. They focus on aiding East Africa and send anticipated house event - the House plays. We got to work volunteers out to help build schools, clean water supplies and writing a script over summer, and being up against the other provide medical and social care to those in need. drama student House captains imposed a certain pressure on us. We decided on an end-of-year graduation idea, and with I have been so grateful to work alongside Grace and Rebekah, a good soundtrack and an intensely choreographed version of who have been so dedicated and passionate about working as ‘Greased Lightning’, we felt confident! We would like to say a a team. It goes without saying that Ms Young and Ms Wallace special thanks to our amazing cast that ranged from First form deserve a great deal of credit for all their work in supporting to Upper sixth who really helped pull the whole thing together, the houses, from organising the events to replying to last-minute as well as the backstage and technical crew who helped it all emails from three very stressed girls. We were very sad to hear run smoothly. Special congratulations go to Megan Adair and that Ms Young was stepping down from her role as head of the Evie Hempstead who won both Best Actress and Best Supporting House system in school, as she has always been so committed Actress for their roles. to each and every one of us. Whilst she set the bar very high, Ms Wallace has taken it in her stride and we are grateful to As the year continued, Strathearn’s Got Talent saw Grace, have worked alongside both of them. To the upcoming House Rebekah and I scouring for talent and we were not Captains, I wish you all the best of luck and hope you enjoy disappointed. The first form ‘Boucher Hype House’ dancers every minute of it! performed a variety of dances with great verve, and Eva Eva Aston U6T

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 67 Emma Carson Eve Elliott MCCAUGHEY. Íde Simpson HOUSE REPORTS .

Last April, when we were given the privilege of becoming in a lot of work over many a lunchtime to bring our script House Captains of McCaughey, we couldn’t wait to get involved. successfully from page to stage. Unsurprisingly, this has been one of the most fulfilling, rewarding and fun experiences of our school life to date. Our duties Throughout the school year, we saw house events as began last June with the first house event which was the day of opportunities to contribute to the community by raising charity sport. Everyone got stuck in from first year pupils to a few very funds. Our chosen charity was Action Mental Health NI. We enthusiastic teachers. It was encouraging to see the pride and are very grateful to be leaders of such a generous house who enthusiasm for all involved in McCaughey house. From the outset donated at every event through the year. we knew that we would have a fantastic year. Heated debating competitions, mindboggling quizzes and As keen drama enthusiasts, the prospect of the upcoming house overtly competitive netball competitions, all showed that play was something we were very much looking forward to, McCaughey house was full of headstrong, spirited and especially because all three of us have been involved in house determined girls who always worked well as a team. Their plays since we were in first year. House plays have been an efforts were recognised when we won Dodgeball. The range integral part of our school life, so we strived to ensure that we of talent was further shown in ‘Strathearn’s got talent’. provided a fun and memorable experience for all involved. Although they did not place, we were so proud of our acts who After much brainstorming and hard graft over the summer showcased their talent to the whole school. holidays to come up with a plot for our play, we finally decided on the idea of a school lock down. We had a diverse range Overall, as house captains we would just like to say a huge of characters to cast, from members of the elderly community thank you for making this year so enjoyable for us. We have to boys from a neighbouring school. Our audition process been so lucky to lead a house as enthusiastic, good-spirited was difficult to say the least! The sheer amount of talent from and fun as McCaughey, and wish the new house captains the all those who auditioned made it possible for us to have an best of luck for the upcoming year! incredibly strong cast. Our play was a great success and on adjudication day, saw us being awarded first place. Regardless Eve Elliott U6R of the result we were filled with pride of the cast who put

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 68 . HOUSE REPORTS

Rosie Park Heidi McMillen Amy Cooper (pictured below) WATTS.

Amy, Rosie and I have loved being part of our House debates, through which the ever since first year, and so we were delighted to be appointed brainpower of Watts was Watts house captains last April. We couldn’t wait to get showcased! In our annual talent started, with our first responsibility being the annual Day show, we were amazed at the of Sport before the summer. Watts was set up well for the incredible talent that Watts upcoming year as our house were victorious for the second year House had to offer but we in a row and we were determined to do our best to continue were sadly only able to choose this! Throughout the new school year many inter-house sports two acts to perform in front of events continued such as netball, badminton, cross country, the school. A massive well done dodge-ball and hockey. The enthusiasm of Watts House to Orla and Katherine for continued to amaze us and we were extremely proud of each their performance of “Dancing girl’s efforts and participation. For us the highlight of the house through the decades” and calendar was the house plays. The tedious task of writing our congratulations to Tiffany McGowan who was able to win the play, ‘Work Experience’ over the summer was quickly forgotten trophy for Watts with her incredible performance! when we performed in the Manning Hall in October, with each girl from Form 1 to U6 giving it their all and making us This year we chose to support the Northern Ireland Children’s extremely proud. A massive thank you to our amazing cast and Hospice, which is a fantastic cause that we are proud to raise everyone else involved, from hair and makeup to backstage money for. A big thank you to everyone who contributed for making the process so enjoyable. Special congratulations throughout the year. Sadly, this year we saw Ms Young step to Sarah McDonald who was awarded best cameo for her down from her responsibility of running House events after amazing and hilarious performance. I also want to thank Rosie many years of incredible work. However, this meant we got and Amy for all their hard work and effort. From producing the the support of both Ms Young and Ms Wallace. The house script to organising tech and lighting, it has been so much fun system wouldn’t be the same without the effort and time that working alongside you both this year. My memories from various both of these teachers put into it, and we are so thankful for house plays are one of many things that I will cherish from my their hard work. time at Strathearn. GO WATTS! Other highlights of the house year included the House Quiz, held by the fantastic quiz-master Mrs Gray, and the house Heidi McMillen U6A

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 69 .SPORT .SPORT GAMES CAPTAIN’S REPORT. Harriet Platt (Deputy Games Captain), Grace Hutchinson (Games Captain), Anna McKibbin (Deputy Games Captain) Another extremely successful year of sport for The summer term was rounded off with another Strathearn has flown by, one which everyone should be outstanding tennis season. This year in Ulster Schools’ Cup very proud of. It was a sporting year filled with countless Competitions, Strathearn was represented at Minor, Junior, achievements, titles and enjoyment. These are some of the Intermediate and Senior levels. Both our Minor and Junior highlights of the past year. teams put on excellent displays of tennis throughout their matches, with both teams being crowned Ulster Schools’ Keeping to the trend set by previous years, in the summer Cup Champions. Our Senior tennis team were not far of 2019 the athletics season brought brilliant success to behind, finishing runners up in the Ulster Schools’ Cup Strathearn. Many girls competed in the Co Down District competition. Athletics Championships with our Junior and Senior teams coming first overall in their respective age groups and our Sadly, my final hockey season at Strathearn came to an Mini, Minor and Intermediate teams finishing as runners end this year but I am thankful to be able to take away so up. Excellent individual performances allowed many girls many amazing memories from each of my seven years of to qualify for the Ulster Schools’ Athletics Championships, hockey. Throughout the 2019/20 season all of the teams where our Mini and Senior teams became Ulster Schools’ played at a very high standard and we made it to three Champions, and excellent performances throughout finals this year- an amazing achievement! Unfortunately the age groups saw Strathearn being crowned overall the 1st XI didn’t get the cup run they had hoped for as Ulster Schools’ Champions for the second successive year. they were knocked out of the Belfast Telegraph Schools’ Displays of athletic excellence at the Ulsters meant that Cup in the 3rd round by a very strong Friends’ side, the some girls qualified for the Irish Schools’ Championships, eventual Schools’ Cup runners up. Both the 2nd and 3rd XI something to be extremely proud of. At this event, the teams made it to their own respective finals, with the 2nd Senior team placed 2nd overall in Ireland! XI finishing as runners up in the McDowell Shield, and the 3rd XI playing excellent hockey to come away with the Gibson Cup. The U14A team also had a very successful Cara Tan, season, finishing as runners up in the Junior Cup. Harriet Platt, Aimee Stitt Cross country is always a very successful sporting area within Strathearn and this year was no different. At the Co Down Districts, there were many successes for Strathearn with excellent individual and team performances leading our Junior, Inter and Senior teams to qualify for the Ulster Schools’ Championships. There, the Inters came 2nd, the Seniors placed 3rd and the Juniors finished in 5th. This meant that the Inters and Seniors qualified for the Irish Championships where they finished in 4th and 5th place!

Netball is another extracurricular activity which always proves to be very popular with the girls at Strathearn. This year the Minor, Junior, Intermediate and Senior teams all played in the Northern Ireland Schools’ Netball Keith McClure STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 70 Photography League competing in various matches throughout the season. There were many great netball achievements in the 2019/20 season, particularly our Junior netball team reaching the semi-final of the NI Schools’ Junior League and our Minor netball team finishing as runners up in the NI Schools’ Minor League.

Swimming is an area of sport in Strathearn which proves to be very strong year after year. This year Strathearn took away the titles of Junior and Senior Ulster Schools’ Champions thanks to some very impressive individual and team performances. During the 2019/20 season there were countless individual achievements for Strathearn girls, but I would like to mention in particular Amelia Kane who represented Ireland at the European Short Course Swimming Championships at aged only 16. Here, she achieved three new personal bests in her three races!

Here at Strathearn we are very lucky to have such a wide range of sports which girls are involved in at both recreational and competitive levels, including badminton, table tennis, gymnastics, cricket, dance, showjumping and squash. Regarding squash, I would like to mention Sophie Thomas and Hannah McGugan who were crowned Irish Under 17 and Under 19 National Champions respectively. Both were selected to play for Ireland at the European Championships. Emma McGugan was also selected for the Irish Senior team - these are outstanding achievements.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of the staff

who have been involved in sport at Strathearn over the years and to the

parents who support us in our chosen sports because you make all of the achievements above possible. Special thanks to the “ “ PE department here at Strathearn, which looked a little bit different with Mrs Harvey coming out of retirement to teach again and with the arrival of Miss Hewitt. In particular I would like to thank Ms Young who is at the heart of sport at Strathearn and whose dedication and love for sport, we will always remember.

Grace Hutchinson U6T

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 71 SPORT . HOCKEY. Portadown College in the quarter final. Following this, a tight match against Royal School Armagh lead them to Strathearn hockey has had another exciting and the final of the McDowell Shield. This was a third final in positive season for all age groups. The 1st XI team, a row for some of the Upper Sixth pupils on the team. captained by Harriet Platt, started off their season with a Unfortunately, after the terrible weather conditions and a successful Ulster Schools’ Super League run. This year the scoreless game, the girls were extremely unlucky not to win team once again made it through the group stage but then against Methody in the penalty runs, but nonetheless had went one step further when they beat Methodist College an excellent season of hockey. We would like to thank Mrs Belfast in the quarter final, which lead them to the semi- Hatfield for organising sponsorship by George Best City final against Rainey at Stormont. Rainey, however, proved Airport for the 1st and 2nd XI shirts this season. to be the better side on the day. Moving away from the Super League and onto the Belfast Telegraph Schools’ The 3rd XI, captained by Elly Ryan, had an extremely Cup, the 1st XI unfortunately did not get the long cup run successful season which started off with a 5-0 win against they had wanted as a very strong Friends’ School Lisburn Lagan College in the Gibson Cup. They played excellent side knocked them out in the 3rd Round which lead them hockey to finish top of their group, which led them through into the Senior Shield. Here, they drew Portadown College to the quarter finals. Continuing to show their strength the in the quarter finals. Depsite putting in a great effort the 3rd XI qualified for the semi-final of the Gibson Cup after girls could not get the result they needed, bringing their beating Wallace High School 1-0, and then went on to 2019/20 season to an abrupt end. beat Belfast Royal Academy 1-0 in a very competitive semi-final. After a brilliant performance from all the 3rd The 2nd XI, captained by Grace Ruding, started their XI players and support from their coaches, Strathearn season winning 2-0 against Omagh Academy in the 2nd became Gibson Cup Champions beating Ballyclare round of the McDowell Cup but their cup run came to an High School 3 – 1 in the final. These girls should be end when Ballyclare HS beat them in the next round. As exceptionally proud of themselves for their commitment a result, the 2nd XI entered the McDowell Shield where throughout the year which lead to their success. they started to play their own game of hockey beating The 4th XI, captained by Rosie Park, also had a successful reached the semi-final of the cup and plate competitions. season starting off their cup run with a 7-0 victory against Well played girls – this was a great start to your hockey Banbridge Academy in October. They went on to beat careers at Strathearn! Sullivan Upper in the quarter final 1-0. Unfortunately, Ballymena Academy narrowly beat them in the semi- Special mention also goes to the girls who were involved final of the 4th XI Cup, 1-0. The Strathearn players left in Ulster Hockey Development Programmes this season. everything on the pitch and we are so proud of this team Strathearn had seven girls - Mac Eager, Karis Hamilton, for all their hard work. Anna Kirk, Sophie Livingstone, Ruby Rebbeck, Jess Ryan and Emmy Thornton - who were selected for the U15 We also had a 5th XI this year who played some friendly Talent Development Programme this season and a number Saturday fixtures. It was great to see so many Strathearn of these girls were asked to attend a U16 Development girls from Form 4 - U6 getting involved in hockey Group trial as a result of their performances in the throughout the season. U15 programme. Lucie McNaught, Anna Gillespie, Sophie Hoey and Niamh Hatfield attended some U17 In junior hockey, the Under 14As, captained by Sarah Development sessions at the start of the season with Lucie Hylands, won against Cloughnagh Junior High School in progressing to be part of the U17 Development group the first round of the Junior Cup, 3-0. They went on to throughout the season just missing out on reaching the final play Sullivan Upper in the next round in a tight game and stages for the U18 selection process for next season. managed to stick together and work as a team, scoring a much-needed goal, to finish the match 1-0 and qualifying At Christmas, all age groups enjoyed our annual for the quarter finals. This super team then qualified ‘Christmas Cracker’ tournament where lots of effort was for the semi-finals after beating Banbridge Academy put in by all to have the best costume. Some however and took on Friends’ School Lisburn in a brilliant semi- forgot they actually needed to be able to play hockey final, winning 2-0 and earning themselves a place in the in it as well! Our season finished with a very competitive Junior Cup Final. Unfortunately, the Junior Cup was not Inter House tournament, enjoyed by players and Strathearn’s to take; after lots of great hockey and hard spectators alike. work, the girls lost 3-1 to a strong Killicomaine Junior High School. Big thanks to Mr Hylands of Hyland Fuels for Thanks to all the PE staff for their commitment to every sponsoring the under 14 sweatshirts for the Cup final! team throughout the season and to all our supporters who cheered us along the way, especially in finals week. The other four Junior teams - U14Bs, U13As, Bs and Cs Special mention to Cecil Swinton for producing match worked hard all season to develop their skills and improve statistics as he supported us throughout the year. I would their team play as they played regular Saturday matches. like to wish everyone the best of luck for next season. The Under 12s played in a tournament hosted by Methodist College Belfast, where both “A” and “B” teams Harriet Platt U6T STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 75 HOCKEY. SPORT .

4th XI - Cup Semi-finalists Back Row: Amy Ellison, Holly Gilpin, Kristen Kerr, Tori Kerr, Lucy Chambers, Ellie Dornan, Sophie Longstaff, Aiza Ghafoor 1st XI - Super League Semi-Finalists Front Row: Alice Henry, Erin McClure, Mabelle Wilcox, Back Row: Grace Hutchinson, Harriet Platt (Captain), Ella Simms, Rosie Park (Captain), Talia Irwin, Tara Kerr Jenny Wilson (Vice Captain), Eve McKibbin, Erin Stewart, Niamh Hatfield, Alex Fawcett Front Row: Anna McKinty, Amelia Hopkins, Lauren Armstrong, Anna Gillespie, Lucie McNaught, Jess Ryan, Lara Whitten

U14 A XI - Junior Cup Runners Up Back Row: Miss Scott, Amy Nesbitt, Rhiannon Davies, Angelique Toombs, Emily Wilson, Sophie Livingstone (Vice Captain), Sarah Mavitty, Hannah Dadley-Young, 2nd XI - Mc Dowell Shield Runners Up Sarah Hylands (Captain), Ellie Patrick, Mrs Hewitt Back Row: Karis Hamilton, Rachel McDonald, Hannah Front Row: Anna Cousins, Darcy Shields, Annabel Harron, McGugan, Amber Hamilton, Sophie Hoey, Molly Elliott, Georgia Thornton, Beth Chivers, Darcy Blair, Mac Eager Grace Ruding (Captain) Megan Adair, Zara Hanna Front Row: Eve Elliott, Anna McKibbin (Vice Captain), Niamh Hatfield, Jemima Thomas, Emmy Thornton, Daisy Moore

U12 hockey (MCB Tournament) Back Row: Lucy Andrews, Lottie Eighteen, Libby Gorman, 3rd XI - Gibson Cup Winners Daisy Dorrian, Sophie Gordon, Hannah Grant, Hannah Back Row: Mrs Crawford, Tilly Nield, Lucie Maskery, Jackson, Eve Armstong, Kirsty Gregg, Lily Rodden, Hannah Sarah West, Sophie Thomas, Cara Murray, Eva Ralston, Minford Ruby Rebbeck, Connie Hanna, Eva Kissenpfennig, Mrs Harvey Front Row: Kate Cunningham, Isla Stewart, Darcy Shields, Front Row: Kate Hunter, Rhiannon Brady (Vice Captain), Susann Villar, Aurelia Mayne, Ella Riddell, Sophie Holmes, Elly Ryan (Captain), Anna Kirk, Emma Wilson, Alice Henry Maddie Leathem, Rosey Magowan

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 76 . SPORT .U13 CHRISTMAS CRACKER TOURNAMENT

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 77 NETBALL. SPORT . .TRAMPOLINING

Zoe Hill and Amy Wilson Minor Netball Team - League Runners Up Back Row: Alex Picton-Lynas, Georgia Thornton, Florence Rebbeck, Darcy Feeney, Gracie Hamilton, Rosie Whitten, Heidi Carter On 24th of November, three girls from Strathearn Front Row: Emma Stranaghan, Lauren Wright, Hollie Davies, competed in the Northern Ireland Schools’ Trampolining Katie Mullan, Eva Morrison Championships, held in Ards Blair Mayne leisure complex. This year, we had two girls entered in the intermediate competition: Zoe Hill in the 7-9 category This academic year has proved to be another great and Alexandra Speers in the 10-14 competition. Both season for Netball in Strathearn, with many girls from all girls were in very competitive age groups but still ages getting involved in practices throughout the week. competed and represented the school very well. Amy The Minor, Junior, Intermediate and Senior teams have Wilson competed in the novice 9-10 category and all competed in the NI Schools’ Leagues. performed very well. Congratulations to these girls who took part; you should be very proud! Special congratulations to the Minor Netball team who Amy Wilson 4R were runners up in the NI Schools’ Minor A League final, losing out to a strong Rathmore Grammar team, after beating Dominican College 17-12 in the semi-final. The Junior team made it to the semi-finals of the NI Schools’ .GYMNASTICS Junior A League, narrowly losing to Killicomaine JHS. The Intermediate and Senior teams also had superb It has been another successful year for gymnastics at seasons, playing very well against strong competition Strathearn. This year the gymnastics club has been run including Bloomfield Collegiate and Glenlola Collegiate. by “Gymfun” and has been attended by girls from Forms 1 to 3, however everyone is welcome to attend. It runs on Interhouse netball was once again a favourite amongst a Wednesday afternoon from 3:45 to 4:45. Each week the Strathearn girls. There was a great turn out from we are encouraged to progress our gymnastics skills all age groups, all eager to compete and support their with a mixture of floor, vault and beam skills. We also Houses, making the atmosphere highly charged. Special had the opportunity to work towards British Gymnastics mention should go to Watts House who were the overall Proficiency Awards and we were all successful. It is a winners of this fiercely competitive tournament. I hope great opportunity to make new friends, try out new skills that this will encourage more girls to get involved in and improve strength and flexibility. I have enjoyed after-school Netball next year. attending the club this year. Some of us also attended gymnastics clubs outside school and had the opportunity Thank you to all the coaches who gave of their time to to compete in Gymnastics Ireland and Northern Ireland take our training sessions and matches. I am hopeful that competitions. Well done and thank you to the girls and the next Netball season will be just as successful for all coaches, especially Miss Kerr, for all their hard work and age groups. dedication throughout the year. Megan Ashcroft U6R Abbie Conroy 2S STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 78 . SPORT EQUESTRIAN. The Equestrian team had great success throughout the year in both showjumping and dressage, with participation in three of the five legs of the Meadows Equestrian Centre inter-schools showjumping league. In the second leg in October, our open team of Ellen Douglas, Felicity Johnston and Katie Smith won the tack and turnout award, whilst our novice team of Louise Brown, Ellen Douglas, Kathryn Finlay and Felicity Johnston came 10th. Preparatory member Rachel Booth joined the older girls with a clear round in the primary class, boding very well for her future school representation. Maeve Clarke also competed throughout the league, joining Kathryn, Ellen and Felicity in a strong team.

In November, Eva McGimpsey and Kathryn Finlay competed in the Ulster Schools’ Dressage competition Eva McGimpsey held at Gransha Equestrian Centre. Although it was a day for the ducks, they both thoroughly enjoyed representing Strathearn.

Louise Brown was selected to represent Northern Ireland Tetrathlon at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in April 2020. In March, Felicity Johnston qualified for and was due to compete at the Pony Club UK Winter Triathlon Championships in Aylesbury. Unfortunately, both these events were cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Felicity Johnston L6T Louise Brown, Ellen Douglas, Rachel Booth (Penrhyn), Felicity Johnston, Kathryn Finlay CHEERLEADING. Ireland Junior (All Girl) Level 4 Cheerleading Team 2018/2019

In April 2019, Connie Hanna and Zara Hanna travelled to Orlando, Florida to represent Ireland in the World Cheerleading Championships.

They competed in the Junior All-girl Level 4 advanced category. The competition took place in the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Disney. The team placed 7th and the whole experience was worth the weekly training in Dublin.

This really is a fabulous achievement for these two sisters.

Zara Hanna (Left) Connie Hanna(Right) STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 79 Intermediates: Overall Co Down Runners-Up with ATHLETICS 2018/19. two new district records from Amelia Kane in the 1500m,

SPORT . and Anna McKinty in Triple Jump. Other Intermediate results from the girls: Anna McKinty 3rd 300m Hurdles, Amy Ellison 2nd 800m and 4th Hammer, Casey Dawson 3rd 300m and 5th 200m, Chloe Browne 3rd 3000m, Amelia Hopkins 4th High Jump, Molly Elliott 4th 80m Hurdles, Rebecca Callaghan 4th Long Jump, Anna Gillespie 5th Javelin, Sophie Longstaff 7th Triple Jump and 7th 100m, Megan Allen 7th 300m, Sophie Jordan 7th High Jump, Lara Whitten 9th 1500m, Rosie Bonner 10th Shot and 10th Javelin, Amber Hamilton 12th Discus, Mia Montgomery 13th Shot, Alice Sloan 18th Long Jump, Holly Gilpin 18th Discus, with the 4x100m Relay: (Casey Dawson, Anna McKinty, Molly Elliott and Sophie Longstaff) coming 3rd.

Juniors: Overall Champions, with lots of success. Sophie Hoey 1st Triple Jump and 1st 75m Hurdles, Connie Hanna 1st High Jump and 5th Triple Jump, Lucie McNaught 1st Javelin, Ruby Rebbeck 1st Discus and 7th Javelin, Emma Wilson 2nd Hammer and 4th 75m Hurdles, Emmy Thornton 2nd 1500m and 6th 200m, Niamh Hatfield 3rd 200m and 5th Long Jump, Mabelle Wilcox 3rd 800m, Eloise McKnight 4th Shot and 11th High Jump, Alice Browne 5th 1500m, Erin McClure 6th Long Jump and 14th 100m, Anna Kirk 6th Hammer, Lula nother Track season completed, and yet another Hopkinson 11th Shot, Sophia Knox 13th 800m, Alex A Faloon 14th Discus, with the 4x100m Relay: (Sophie successful year for Strathearn’s athletes throughout the year groups. Fantastic results were achieved at Co Hoey, Erin McClure, Emma Wilson, Niamh Hatfield) Down, Ulster and Irish Schools’ Championships. Well coming 1st. done to everyone who got involved at each of these. Minors: Overall Runners-Up with some great results The Co Down District Athletics Championships were held from the following girls: Amelia Hazle 1st 75m Hurdles in May, and Strathearn were crowned overall Junior and 2nd High Jump, Laura Irwin 3rd 75m Hurdles, Lucy and Senior Champions, as well as the Mini, Minor and Wills 5th 800m, Amy McClean 5th Long Jump and Intermediate teams coming 2nd overall. There was a 18th 100m, Niamh Long 9th High Jump and 13th Shot, massive turnout and plenty of medals. The results were Bethany Johnston 12th 800m, Rhiannon Davies 14th Long as follows: Jump and 12th 100m, Angelique Toombs 17th Shot, with the 4 x 100m Relay : (Bethany Johnston, Amelia Hazle, Seniors: Overall Champions with great performances Rhiannon Davies, Amy McClean) coming 3rd. from all the girls, with the 4x300m Relay of Harriet Platt, Murphy Miller, Rhiannon Brady and Aimee Stitt Minis: Overall Runners-Up with lots of individual setting a new district record. Other great performances successes. Anna Cousins 1st 100m and 1st Long Jump, were as follows: Freya Axten 1st 3000m, Murphy Miller Maisie McCrea 1st 800m, Emma Stranaghan 3rd Long 1st 800m and 2nd 1500m, Harriet Platt 1st Triple Jump, Jump and 7th 100m, Katie Mullan 3rd 800m, Bea Baker Zara Wilson 1st Hammer and 3rd Discus, Kerry Annett 11th High Jump, Velvet Meharg 14th Shot, Megan Flood 2nd Triple Jump and 2nd Long Jump, Cara Tan 2nd 22nd Shot, Ella Hampton 28th High Jump. The 4 x 100m 100m Hurdles and 3rd 100m, Anna McKibbin 2nd High Relay: (Emma Stranaghan, Maisie McCrea, Bea Baker Jump, Aimee Stitt 2nd 400m and 3rd 200m, Eve Elliott and Anna Cousins) finished 2nd. 2nd Shot Putt, Ruby Baxter 2nd 3000m, Katie Wills 3rd 1500m, Alex Fawcett 4th Javelin, Molly Longstaff 4th With these fantastic performances, the Ulster Schools’ 100m and 4th Long Jump, Olivia Nelson 5th 800m, Lucy Championships were next for plenty of our girls. Mashford 5th Shot put, Rosie Park 5th 400m, Hannah Strathearn was represented by around 30 athletes McCann 5th Javelin, Grace Hutchinson 5th Hammer, and from all five age groups. There were many individual Rhiannon Brady 5th Discus and 6th 200m. The 4x100m successes, but every point counts at these Championships, Relay: (Molly Longstaff, Harriet Platt, Cara Tan and so well done to everyone who competed. Our Junior Aimee Stitt) were 3rd. Team were crowned overall 2nd in Ulster, with our Mini STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 80 . SPORT and Senior teams finishing as Overall Ulster Champions! Juniors: Special congratulations to Sophie Hoey Every athlete’s efforts contributed to Strathearn ranking who was Irish Triple Jump Champion – a brilliant Overall 1st in Ulster for the second year in a row. These performance. Other great successes from Connie Hanna Championships were held on 17th and 18th May. This is 6th High Jump and Emmy Thornton 7th 1500m. a brilliant achievement, especially during exam time. The results were as follows: Intermediate: Well done to Anna McKinty who was 2nd in the Triple Jump. Amelia Kane was unable to Seniors: Overall Ulster Champions with a great compete due to international swimming commitments. performance from the 4 x 300m team who set a new Ulster Schools’ Record. Well done to the girls – Harriet Seniors: Overall 2nd in Ireland. Lots of successes in Platt, Rhiannon Brady, Murphy Miller and Aimee Stitt. the Senior Team; the results were as follows: Murphy Other successes from the Seniors were: Murphy Miller Miller 4th 800m; Kerry Annett 5th Triple Jump and 7th 1st 800m; Zara Wilson 3rd Hammer and 5th Discus; Long Jump; Eve Elliott 6th Shot; Zara Wilson 9th Hammer Kerry Annett 3rd Triple Jump and 3rd Long Jump; Eve and 9th Discus. The 4 x 100m Relay Team were 2nd; Elliott 3rd Shot Putt; Cara Tan 4th 100m; Harriet Platt well done to the girls – Molly Longstaff, Harriet Platt, 4th Triple Jump; Aimee Stitt 4th 200m ; Freya Axten 5th Cara Tan and Aimee Stitt. The 4 x 300m Relay also 3000m; the 4 x 100m Relay were first. Well done to placed, coming 3rd – a great performance from Harriet the girls involved – Molly Longstaff, Harriet Platt, Cara Platt, Murphy Miller, Rhiannon Brady and Aimee Stitt. Tan and Aimee Stitt. These were all brilliant achievements made by the girls Intermediates: some great individual performances and were all down to hard work and dedication. As a from the intermediate team: Anna McKinty 1st Triple result of their performances at both the Ulster and Irish Jump; Amelia Kane 3rd 1500m; Amy Ellison 9th 800m; Schools’ Championships, Anna McKinty was selected Casey Dawson 10th 300m; Chloe Browne 11th 3000m; for the Ulster Schools’ Athletics U17 team to compete with the 4 x 100m Relay (Anna McKinty, Casey Dawson, at the Inter Provincial Tailteann Games, placing a Molly Elliott and Sophie Longstaff) finishing 7th. commendable 4th place against some girls nearly two years older than her. Amelia Kane was also selected but Juniors: Overall 2nd in Ulster. Lots of success from was unable to run due to commitments in swimming. This the Junior team: Sophie Hoey 1st Triple Jump and 75m is a fantastic achievement for both girls to be selected! Hurdles; Connie Hanna 1st High Jump; Emmy Thornton Anna was also selected to compete at the English U17 2nd 1500m; Mabelle Wilcox 4th 800m; Emma Wilson Championships in Bedford. 4th Hammer; Lucie McNaught 7th Javelin; Niamh Hatfield 9th 200m; Ruby Rebbeck 11th Discus; the 4 Well done to the Strathearn girls who competed in the x 100m Relay came 4th – (Sophie Hoey, Erin McClure, Ulster Schools’ Multi-Event Championships in September, Emma Wilson and Niamh Hatfield). competing over the five different events – Hurdles, High Jump, Long Jump, Shot and 800m. Congratulations to the Minors: great performances from these girls: Amelia Minor Girls, Anna Cousins in 10th, Amelia Hazle in 23rd Hazle 6th 75m Hurdles and 8th High Jump; Laura Irwin and Emma Stranaghan in 26th. In the Junior Girls, Sophie 10th 75m Hurdles, with the 4 x 100m Relay: (Bethany Hoey finished 5th and Connie Hanna 6th. Johnston, Amelia Hazle, Rhiannon Davies and Amy McClean), finishing 8th. Overall, another great year of athletics for Strathearn. A big thank you to all the Minis: Overall Ulster Champions with great successes for these girls: Anna Cousins 1st 100m and 1st Long coaches involved in helping our athletes Jump; Emma Stranaghan 2nd Long Jump; Maisie McCrea to achieve these great results. 4th 800m; Katie Mullan 9th 800m. The 4 x 100m Relay Good luck to the competitors next year! placed 1st, well done to the girls involved – Emma Stranaghan, Maisie McCrea, Bea Baker, Anna Cousins Aimee Stitt U6R

After the exceptional performances at the Ulster Championships, 14 girls qualified for the Irish Schools’ Championships on 1st June 2019, where they competed against the best in Ireland in Tullamore, Co Offaly. It is such an achievement to even qualify for these championships, and we offer everyone who competed huge congratulations. We hope that these performances make each of the athletes determined to continue to work hard in the future. The results were as follows:

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 81 SPORT. Intermediates resulted in an achievement of 2ndplace, of resultedinanachievement Intermediates and HollieMassey the in13th.Strong from running allof teammate MabelleWilcox in9th,AliceBrowne in12th very commendable3rd place, closelyfollowed by her a with Emmy battlingfrom toachieve Thornton thestart teamonceagainStrathearn performed impressively, the next theday, race of 3000m,the theIntermediate Wills,and Lucy for theJuniors, finishing7thand 9th. In Mullan, for theMinors, finishing6th,andMacEager team competition,withspecialmentiongoingtoKatie also ran impressively togain bronze andsilver inthe for theUlsterChampionships. TheMinorsandJuniors and 10threspectively, andqualifyingasindividuals particular, SophieJessandEllaRiddellfinishingin9th theteamran the1500mrace strongly,members of in While theteamnarrowly missedoutonthemedals, all astheMinisdiscovered theday.quick, inthefirst race of meantthattheraces werecourse! Thischange especially discovered thattheusualhillwas the nolonger of part whenthey relief began, despitebreathingasighof and Seniorteamswere towhereitall goingback experience for theyounger teams, boththeIntermediate to DelamontCountryPark. Whilethiswas anew This year theDistrictAChampionshipsreturned or simplytokeep fit! all members, whetherthey were aimingfor competitions andhelp sacrificing every Thursday tocoach afternoon Thank you toMissKerr for hercommitmenttotheclub, always beensuccessfulandthisyear was noexception. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 82 W hen itcomestocross country, has Strathearn outside of themedalsinahigh qualityfield.Mabelle outside of Emmy hada spectacularrace tofinish4th,just Thornton theIntermediates, andthey of didnotdisappoint. turn an extremely respectable5th place. Itwas now the Maeve Clarke in98th,allhelpingthe teamtoachieve with LouiseBrown in80th,AmeliaHazle88thand Johnston was thenext homein63rd, girl Strathearn in asolid21stand22ndplacerespectively. Bethany Eager Willsleadingouttheteam,finishing andLucy gain 28thplace. Next upwere theJuniors, withMac proud, impressivelyMullan didStrathearn running to 23rd positionrespectively. IntheMinorrace Katie raced strongly andworked together togain 20thand intimidate them.BothSophieJessandEllaRiddell who didnotlettheirfirstever UlsterChampionships Mallusk’s muddy playing fields. Firstup were theMinis, teams moved ontotheUlsterChampionships, tackling After victoriesattheDistricts, Strathearn’s qualifying themfirstplaceintheteamcompetition. earned girls 29th. Thesecommendableperformances from ourSenior ChloeBrowne,finished astrong 24th,notfaraheadof in stepping upfrom herusualsprintstocompletetheteam, in 23rdandwas closelyfollowed by AimeeStittwho, Johnston10th. Felicity putinasolidperformance tofinish impressive last100mtomovein aparticularly upfrom Lara Whitten in3rdand5thpositions, withLara putting to finish2nd.Nottoofarbehind were Murphy Millerand battled tothefront from theget-go andraced strongly up were AmeliaKane with2000mtorun. theseniorgirls, qualifying comfortably forChampionships. theUlster Last COUNTRY. CROSS .SPORT

Murphy Miller U6R Murphy STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 83 Miller the first home in 23rd, followed by Freya Axten Freya by followed Miller the first home in 23rd, Felicity Whitten in 59th and 61st respectively. and Lara to efforts also put in strong and Chloe Brown Johnston the contributing towards claim 69th and 70th place, commendable 5th place position overall. team’s Cross to the members ofCongratulations this year’s or fun and fitness, Country Club! Whether just running for has put in hard member Strathearn, every competing for done! Well the year. throughout work and improved

With both of the Intermediates and Seniors qualifying, the teams set off the Irish Championships in Santry for First off were Mrs Harvey. Dublin, accompanied by Park, putting Thorntonthe Intermediates once again with Emmy achieving 10th place against in a fantastic performance, the Irish U15 and qualifying for the best in the country, Strathearn girl home the next was SIAB team. Mac Eager Hollie Massey by 42nd, closely followed in an impressive Kissenpfennig 65th, Eva Ellison finished in in 51st. Amy 71st. The girls’ strong 68th and Alice Browne only led to their 4th place position overall, performance least missing out on a team medal. Last but not narrowly from to step up forced the Senior team, who were was the this challenge, their usual 2000m to 3500m. Despite to their best, with Murphy performed girls once again Wilcox also ran impressively to finish 18th, and not and not finish 18th, to impressively also ran Wilcox Ellison in 28th, Amy Massey Hollie were behind too far Kissenpfennig Eva in 34th, and Browne in 31st, Alice an towards to contribute runningin 39th, all strongly in the team competition. medal position silver excellent next were the Seniors girls’In the last of race day, the the unable to compete, to run Kane and, with Amelia girls had a challenge to of ahead were them if they determined However, team success. replicate their usual Miller achievingMurphy with the girls well ran as ever, and Freya Whitten both Lara and a solid 6th place, in 22nd and to finish Axten also running impressively Felicity Johnston Not too far behind were 32nd place. who achieved 48th and 57th place and Chloe Browne, earned performances These admirable respectively. and medal in the team competition the girls a bronze qualified them to compete in the Irish Schools’therefore Intermediate along with the team. Championships, SPORT. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 84 CROSS-COUNTRY. Bea Baker, AnnaCousins, AnnaReynolds, Holly Davies, Emmy MabelleWilcox, Thornton, HollyMassey, Chloe Browne, AmeliaKane, Johnston, Murphy Felicity Miller, AimeeStitt,Lara Whitten,(absent Freya Axten) Alice Browne, Eva Kissenphennig, Amy Ellison Intermediate TeamIntermediate Maisie McCrea, Katie Mullan Minor Team Senior Team Mac Eager, Wills, Lucy LouiseBrown, AmeliaHazle, Ella Riddell,Sophie Jess, Hannah Minford, Hazel MacPhearson, AnjaliSingh,AmeliaMcGowan Rhiannon Davies, Bethany Johnston Junior Team Mini Team .SPORT

Cara Tan U6R Cara Tan ) Imani Forde 3A Imani Forde . DANCE . STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 85 pressure. Everyone has a different Everyone pressure. of all join in on the level skill but we Dance brings everyone same thing. a bit of for fun and a laugh. together supervising for to Miss Kerr Thank you and helping us this year. Devlin, Cara Tan (Captain Tan Devlin, Cara Senior Dance Team he Senior Dance Team excelled yet again this this again yet excelled Dance Team he Senior MacCartney, Rebecca McCleary, Emma Hylands McCleary, Rebecca MacCartney, Front Row: Rebecca Welsh (Captain), Hannah Pollock (Captain), Hannah Pollock Welsh Rebecca Row: Front Middle Row: Aaliyah Moore, Molly Graham, Hannah Molly Graham, Moore, Aaliyah Middle Row: (Captain), Rebecca Crymble, Jade Scott, Zara Rintoul Scott, Zara Jade Crymble, (Captain), Rebecca Back Row: Marnie Preston, Anna McCabe, Kaitlyn Smith Kaitlyn Marnie Preston, Anna McCabe, Back Row: Chan, Jodi Flaherty, Amber Brown, Leah Howe, Rebecca Rebecca Leah Howe, Amber Brown, Flaherty, Chan, Jodi year. Missing lockdown by just two weeks, a team of weeks, just two by lockdown Missing year. fifteen girls of comprised Forms at 4 to U6 competed and Aerobics the Northern Movement Ireland Creative schools many across against Championships (NICMAC) the final the auditions in October, Following the country. Tuesday every commitment, practising their team showed after school along with additional lunchtime rehearsals put in the effort as As well big day. leading up to the Welsh Rebecca the coaches, Tan, Cara dancers, the by tirelessly to choreograph Smith worked a and Kaitlyn each was girl The routine dance that allowed shine. to and high-energy Jack’; an extremely called ‘Jumpin’ who team the by brilliantly executed challengingnumber, 2nd place in a category a well-deserved awarded were of so proud are this high standard. We of extremely an eachachievement dancer, put in by work and the hard supervising to Miss Morrison for thanks with special every rehearsal. T . DANCE SENIOR senior dance captains sometimes come along to teach us parts of the dances learn as part club. ofthey their own easy-going it is at Dance how I enjoy areas for There are always Club. there is no so, but even improvement Emma Hylands, L6R Emma Hylands, (Captain) Amy McClean, Sara Murray McClean, Sara Amy Junior Dance Team Emma Hylands (Captain), Sarah Hylands, Emma Hylands (Captain), Sarah ance club takes place every place every ance club takes Kenny, Zara Walker, Lucy Dunbar, Ella Dunbar Lucy Dunbar, Walker, Zara Kenny, Niamh Long, Darcy Blair, Ria Cimic, Darcy Blair, Niamh Long, Back Row: his year Strathearn’s Junior Dance Team was led by led by was Junior Dance Team Strathearn’s his year Middle Row: Megan McCreesh, Rachel Carson, Chloe McCreesh, Rachel Megan Middle Row: Bridges, Mya Dunne, Grace McCracken, Marnie McCracken, Preston Grace Dunne, Mya Bridges, Front Row: Jade Scott (Captain), Charlotte Gorman, Honey Scott (Captain), Charlotte Jade Gorman, Honey Row: Front three L6th pupils- Emma Hylands, Jade Scott and Marnie Scott Jade pupils- Emma Hylands, three L6th up of made sixteen committed team was Preston. The one over selected from girls Forms 1 to 3 who were from The whole auditioned in October. hundred pupils who efficiently alongside the and very tirelessly team worked coaches They routine. themed carnival to perfect their to the best ofperformed at the Northern their ability Championships. and Aerobic Movement Irish Creative from tough competition very up against The team were unluckythe other schools out on to miss very and were of are so proud coaches,a medal. As their the girls we on the top three this missed out though we and even the girls great fun and represented Strathearn had year supervising for our Thanks to Mrs Lennox proudly. very rehearsals all year! DANCE CLUB. D . DANCE JUNIOR T Wednesday at lunchtime. All students Wednesday a week, to join in. Every are welcome different different dance is taught by ballet, include pop, They students. The ballroom. jazz, and contemporary, SPORT. 2018-2019 TENNIS. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 86 T Aiza Ghafoor, HannahPollock Chan Romelly Roberts, Sophia Knox, Junior BTennis Team Knox Bteamandlike made uptheIntermediate the Alice Sloan,Megan Allen,AmberHamilton andOlivia tocompeteagain nexta chance year. the semi-finals. They were a young team andsowillhave then played intheSeniorPlateand madeitalltheway to thecompetition.They thecupbutwere knocked outof of and Rachel Lemonmadetheirbestefforts intheirsection EllyRyan,The SeniorBteamof Tara Kerr, KristenKerr since 1styear. to beasuccessfulteamwhohave beenplaying together Despitetheirfinaldefeat,theyachievements. stillproved playeryear witheach receivingsilver medalsfor their SeniorCupthis for upintheUlsterSchools’ runners Emma Craig andErinStewart,Hutchinson, had tosettle for EmmaMcGugan, us. Grace Theteam,consistingof cup butunfortunately VictoriaCollege proved toostrong the Our SeniorAteammadeitthrough tothefinalof Cup finals. and threeteamsgoingalltheway totheUlsterSchools’ theirrespective competition thesemi-finals of reaching the 2019Tennis seasonwas noexception, withfour teams ennis isanextremely strong for and sport Strathearn overshadowed. Junior Champions respectively. Thesesuccesses cannotbe team whowere bothcrowned Minor and UlsterSchools’ However, huge congratulations totheMinorandJunior A theirGCSEsat thistime. the midstof togetachievement tothesemi-finalwithmostplayers in but Methody were stronger ontheday. Itisstillagreat they tookonMethodistCollege andputupagoodfight beaten VictoriaCollege ontheway. Inthesemi-final Cuphaving Intermediate theUlsterSchools’ semi-finals of Craig, Sarah West andLaurenMooney the reached JemimaThomas, Sarah Ateamof The Intermediate Sullivan Upper. were nottomake unlucky ittothefinal,losingnarrowly to Ghafoor, Sophia Knox andRomelly Roberts. Thegirls HannahPollockthe JuniorBteamconsistingof Chan,Aiza theplatesemi-final ourteamstoreach was The thirdof season. and unfortunately lost,butthey thoroughly enjoyed their PlatewheretheyIntermediate facedGlenlolaCollegiate They played theirway the through tothesemi-finalof Senior Bteamwere unabletoprogress inthecup. .SPORT

TENNIS . Erin Stewart U6R STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 87 Champions Maisie McCrea, Eva Wilson, Maisie McCrea, Eva Ulster Schools’ Minor Paige Hawthorne, Eva Morrison Eva Hawthorne, Paige Minor Tennis Team Minor Tennis achieve successes and continue similar Well done girls and good luck for the and good luck done girls for Well forthcoming season. Let’s hope we can season. Let’s forthcoming Strathearn’s excellent reputation in Tennis! reputation in Tennis! excellent Strathearn’s Congratulations to all the girls to all Congratulations participated who in tennis that proved they again, once as, year this past over A big Strathearn at the centre of is Ulster Schools’ Tennis! to all the staff fantastic helped create this who thank you their girl showed who to every a thank you season and are We tennis this year. commitment to unwavering accomplishments. of proud year’s this extremely Champions Ulster Schools’ Junior Kate Hunter, Lucie McNaught, Hunter, Kate Sophie Thomas, Sarah Mavitty Sarah Sophie Thomas, Junior A Tennis Team Team Junior A Tennis Runners Up Runners Emma Craig, Erin Stewart Emma Craig, Ulster Schools’ Senior Senior Tennis Team Senior Tennis Grace Hutchison,Grace Emma McGugan, As well as these teams there were many more girls out many were as these teams there As well match their skills and improving tennis practice, enjoying matches in friendly of number play and a huge girls Tennis taking part House in the fiercely contested Inter competitions. The Junior A team of Lucie McNaught, Kate Hunter, ofThe Junior A team Hunter, Kate Lucie McNaught, made their way Mavitty and Sophie Thomas Sarah Friends’ defeated final where they convincingly to the School Schools’ Ulster Lisburn Junior Tennis be crowned to Champions 2019. The Form 1 Minor team powered through their section their section through The Form powered team 1 Minor ofknock-outand stages Friends’ defeated and the Cup School Ulster Schools’ Lisburn to be crowned in the final made was 2019. The team Champions Minor Tennis Wilson and Eva Morrison, Eva Hawthorne, up of Paige Maisie McCrea. TABLE TENNIS. . SPORTS HALL ATHLETICS

able tennis is a relatively new sport at Strathearn SPORT . T Strathearn’s Sports Hall Athletics teams began training but we have still had great success this year. On the 5th on Thursday evenings for the annual Sports Hall Athletics February, two teams of six girls took part in the Ulster Championships. The competition is held each year at Schools’ Table Tennis Championships in Lisburn. Despite the Meadowbank Arena in Magherafelt. This year, the it being many of the girls’ first tournament, our U15 Strathearn Sports Hall Athletics teams competed in two team came 2nd and our U13 team came 4th which was competitions. They first competed in the Ulster Sports a brilliant result and bodes well for what we can achieve Hall Athletics Heats in December and then competed in the future. in the Ulster Sports Hall Athletics Regional Finals. Strathearn girls competed against four other teams, from Londonderry, Fermanagh, Antrim and Donegal. The girls Special congratulations go to Anjali Singh who finished all performed exceptionally well, facing tough competition this year as the Irish No. 1 U13 girl. Anjali also played throughout but managed to successfully gain placings and on the Ulster U18 girls’ team in the Junior British League medals in a wide range of events. at the beginning of March, which finished second in Division 2. This is a great achievement for a pupil who is The U13 girls had some excellent individual results. At only in Form 1. the heats, Hollie Davies placed 2nd in the Shot; Emma Lauren Mooney 5S Stranaghan was 3rd in the Standing Long Jump and 1st in the Parlaaf; Anna Cousins was 2nd in the two Lap, 2nd in the Standing Long Jump and partnered Emma to take 1st in the Parlaaf; Masie McCrea was 2nd in the six Lap; Bea Baker was 3rd in the two Lap and 1st in the Triple Jump.

At the regional finals the U13 team came 3rd overall. Hollie Davies placed 2nd in the Obstacle Relay and 3rd in the 4x1 Relay, Katie Mullan placed 2nd in the 2 Lap and 3rd in the 4x2 Relay, Mya Dunne placed 3rd in the Vertical Jump, Emma Stranaghan placed 3rd in the 4x2 Relay and 2nd in the Standing Long Jump. Bea Baker placed 3rd in the 4x2 Relay.

The U15 girls also achieved some excellent individual results. At the heats, Sophie Hoey placed 1st in the U15 Team Standing Long Jump, 3rd in the two Lap, 1st in Shot and Back Row: Cerys McMurray, Sophie Thomas, 2nd in the 4 x two lap relay; Emmy Thornton was 1st in Lauren Mooney, Anjali Singh the Parlaaf, 1st in the four Lap and 3rd in the Speed Front Row: Katherine Boyle, Rosie Elwood Bounce; Niamh Hatfield was 3rd in the vertical jump and 1st in the Parlaaf; Ciara Moore was 1st in the vertical jump and 2nd in the 4 x 2 relay; Bethany Johnston and Amelia Hazle were also on the 4 x 2 relay coming 2nd.

At the regional finals the U15 team came 2nd overall. Sophie Hoey placed 3rd in the two Lap, 3rd in the 4x2 Relay, 2nd in the Shot and 1st in the standing long jump. Niamh Hatfield placed 3rd in the 4x2 Relay. Ciara Moore placed 2nd in the Vertical Jump, Emmy Thornton placed 2nd in the Parlaaf and 3rd in the 4 x 2 relay. Bethany Johnston placed 3rd in the 4x2 Relay.

Congratulations to all the girls who competed this year. Thank you to Mrs Crawford and Miss Kerr who coached the teams and supported the girls throughout the year.

U13 Team Niamh Hatfield 4A Matilda Brown, Eve Armstrong, Bella Emerson, Connie Waterworth, Lauren Wright, Amy Boyle

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 88 .SPORT Bella Emerson 2T Emma McGugan U6A STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 89 he football club is held at lunchtime every Friday club is held at lunchtime Friday he football every he 2019-20 season proved to be another fantastic he 2019-20 season proved on the hockey pitch. We play matches play and do small drill pitch. We on the hockey such or simple skills . I on footwork as working exercises friends to make way as it is an alternative football enjoy enter to hoping were work. We from break fun a also and a tournament at the end of the season but unfortunately happen. it couldn’t this year football a fun activity to break up the day. I find Overall, one for the Strathearn the squash girls. The U17 team, one for consisting of Thomas and Sophie McGugan, Hannah ofLucie McNaught, and the U19 team Emma McGugan both qualified to compete at the and Jemima Thomas, Irish Schools’ competition in Dublin. Unfortunately squash had to be cancelled due to the coronavirus this event pandemic. Hannah success. Individually the girls had great have girls’ the National champion U19 Irish was and McGugan Ireland at the U19 European for selected to play was team championships in the Netherlands. Sophie Thomas the girls U17 Irish National Championships and won team Ireland at the European for selected to play was championships came third in England. Emma McGugan to play selected at the Irish Senior Nationals and was Team the Irish senior team at the senior European for Championships in the Netherlands. Well-done girls! Well-done T T SQUASH. the year as they went head to head to win points for for win points head to head to went as they the year was house ofWhiteside Lois houses. their McCaughey after winning the Salver with the Wilkinson presented tournament in all matches performance due to her superb on behalf thank you a huge to say like I would played. Miss to Mrs Crawford, badminton club at the of everyone as all of not be and Miss Sturgeon, this would McKeown all the wish Mrs Crawford We help. possible without their thank Mrs Harvey and we best while on maternity leave has Everyone help during her absence. stepping in to for and we the badminton club this year enjoyed thoroughly in September! it to start again for wait can’t FOOTBALL CLUB. Ruby Huth, Kate Farmer Huth, Kate Ruby Connie Waterworth, Grace Hanna, Grace Connie Waterworth, Form 1 Badminton Team Form

he badminton club has had yet another successful another successful yet club has had he badminton

There was an amazing turnout an amazing ofThere was girls at the this year a everyone Interhouse Badminton tournament. It gave had learntchance throughout all the skills they to practise Kathyrn Finlay, Aiza Ghafoor, Cara Murray and Murray Cara Aiza Ghafoor, Finlay, Kathyrn Lois Whiteside made up the Junior team, which was The team played league. particularly in this year’s strong Upper and Royal beating Sullivan together, well very and Grammar, then lost to Coleraine They and Prior. of stage the to the next just missed out on progressing competition, which is still an incredible result! The Form 1 team consisted of Kate Farmer, Grace Hanna, Grace The Form of 1 team consisted Farmer, Kate McAlorum and Connie Huth, Neve Ruby Holmes, Francesca lost to Bloomfield they Unfortunately, Waterworth. the round of Collegiate in the first the Cup but enjoyed This year of on the team nonetheless. playing experience one in the league teams, Minor able to enter two were we Sophie Johnston, Hollie Davies, and one in the cup. all made up Minor McConkey McCarten and Kate Faye and successful in beating Bloomfield A, who were Team and Prior in the lost to Royal but unfortunately Wallace, B consisted of Emerson, Gracie Bella Minor Team league. who played Wilson and Lauren Wright, Hamilton, Eva Hunter strong Cup but lost to a very in the well extremely House team. year and still remains very popular with the girls popular of still remains very and year of their knowledge has extended Strathearn.Everyone girls to know getting while the year, throughout the game turnout each excellent The week groups. in other year 8, Minor and able to enter Year were meant that we Ulster Schools’Junior teams in the Badminton League/Cup.

. BADMINTON T the 100m breaststroke and Florence took the gold in 100m backcrawl and bronze in 100m freestyle. Chloe

SPORT . SWIMMING. Browne placed 27th in 100m freestyle. Their overall results meant Strathearn won the Nocher Cup and were crowned Ulster Schools’ Senior Champions. This year has been very enjoyable and successful for Strathearn swimmers. Strathearn also competed at the Ulster Schools’ Junior Cup in Larne on the 11th of January. The relay team The Strathearn team that attended the Swim Ulster of Lucy Wills, Aoife Stafford, Eva Lappin and Tasha Schools’ Cup Championships excelled at Bangor Aurora Noble placed 4th in both Medley and Freestyle relays, on the 12th and 13th of October. All girls performed narrowly missing out on the bronze medal position. outstandingly as seen through the results they obtained. Alice Gardener, Ella Riddell, Sophie Holmes and Sophie Jess placed 13th in the Medley relay. Lucy Wills swam The Minor girls relay team consisting of Emily Barry, impressively and placed 5th in 100m backcrawl. Zophia Tasha Noble, Sophie Jess, Anjali Singh and Sophie Quigley stole the show by getting a Personal Best in Holmes came 3rd and 4th in the Freestyle and Medley 100m butterfly (and gaining the gold medal) as well as relays respectively. claiming 4th in 100m freestyle. Well done girls for these achievements! In the Junior girls’ section, talent was shown from Forms 1-3. In the 100m butterfly Zophia Quigley placed 3rd Also, special congratulations to Amelia Kane who while her teammate Rosie Whitten placed 4th. Rosie also represented Ireland at the European Juniors from placed 1st in 100m freestyle. Lucy Wills came 7th in 3rd-7th of July in Kazan, Russia and the World Juniors 100m backcrawl and Grace Davison swam exceptionally from 20th-25th of August in Budapest, Hungary. She well in both her individual events placing 1st in 200m IM then went on to compete at the European Seniors Short and second in the 100m breaststroke. The Junior Relay Course in Glasgow in December, coming away with team, consisting of Lucy Wills, Grace Davison, Zophia three PBs in three events in her Senior debut for Ireland. Quigley and Rosie Whitten, finished in gold medal An amazing achievement by Amelia! Amelia, along position in the Medley and Freestyle relays. All these with Florence Tinsley and Grace Davison, qualified team and individual performances combined to make to represent Ulster at the Interprovincial Swimming Strathearn overall Ulster Schools’ Junior Champions, Championships at the NAC in Dublin but unfortunately bringing home the Firth Cup. this competition was cancelled due to Covid-19.

The Intermediate relay team of Rachel Childs, Lara With an extraordinary year now over, on behalf of all Whitten, Alice Browne and Martha Cupples placed 3rd the girls, I would like to say thank you to Mrs. King and and 4th in the Medley and Freestyle relays. Lara and Ms. Young for all they have done for us throughout the Alice performed well, placing 5th and 7th respectively in year. I’m sure all swimmers are looking forward to next the 100m backcrawl. year!

The Senior team performed outstandingly. Their relay Florence Tinsley U6T team consisting of Chloe Browne, Mia Davison, Amelia Kane and Florence Tinsley won gold in both Medley and Freestyle relays. Amelia placed 1st in 400m KAYAKING. freestyle and 2nd in 200m IM. Mia placed 4th in

This year the Kayaking club attracted girls of all abilities from all year groups and once again provided a fun and friendly way to experience paddle sports.

The sessions were run exclusively for Strathearn by Belfast Kayak Academy. We learnt skills that lead to a formal kayaking qualification and enjoyed races, games and canoe polo. We also had free time to play about on the water. This club runs on Fridays after Minor Relay Team school at Ormiston Pool. Details of Cup etc Anjali Singh, Sophie Holmes, Zoe Hill 2A Tasha Bell, Sophie Jess (front)

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 90 .SPORT STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 91 U15 A Team Amy Boyle, Rachel Carson Rachel Boyle, Amy Winners of Holywood Maisie McCrea, Daisy Compton Cricket Club Tournament U13 Super 8’s Team U13 Super 8’s Ailsa Gallagher, Eva Wilson, Eva Ailsa Gallagher, Back Row: Sarah Tweedie, Sophie Thomas, Tweedie, Sarah Front Row: Lucie McNaught, Karis Hamilton, Niamh Hatfield Lucie McNaught, Karis Front Row: Georgia Thornton, Hamilton, Gracie Front Row: Hannah McGugan, Penny Hood, Aiza Penny Hannah McGugan, Back Row: Ghafoor, Cara Murray, Sophie Hoey, Ruby Rebbeck Ruby Sophie Hoey, Murray, Cara Ghafoor, Jemima Thomas L6A Ailsa Gallagher, Lucy Brown Ailsa Gallagher, Cricket Club Tournament Amy Boyle, Eva Wilson, Eva Boyle, Amy Front Row: U13 Teams for Holywood for U13 Teams ricket is still a relatively new addition to sport at new a relatively ricket is still

Georgia Thornton, Gracie Hamilton, Katie Mullan, Georgia Thornton, Hamilton, Katie Gracie Rebecca Gabbie, Lola Parkes, Maisie McCrea,Eva Maisie McCrea,Eva Lola Parkes, Gabbie, Rebecca

Daisy Compton, Abi Conroy, Maeve McAirt, Maeve Daisy Compton, Abi Conroy, Back Row: Morrison, Katherine Boyle, Evie McMullan, Rachel Bowan Evie McMullan, Rachel Boyle, Morrison, Katherine Outside of school Lucie McNaught, Anna Kirk, Sophie Civil Service for Thomas and Jemima Thomas competed matches the summer throughout Cricket Club and played Cup their team which on to win the Challenge for went Sophie and Lucie, league. as the women’s Final as well sessions NCU training Jemima then got selected to attend around! A great season all the winter months. throughout Throughout the last few years of cricket we have made made of have years we cricket few the last Throughout NICS and with local cricket clubs – CIYMS, links many Club this Cricket A special thanks to Holywood Holywood. with coaching their assistance organising for and for year with two had great success this season We competitions. U15 teams taking partU13 teams and three in Holywood took on teams from Cricket Club tournaments where they well All the girls played Upper. Rockport and Sullivan winners at this the overall team were but the U15 ‘A’ tournament. at the Super also had an U13 team playing We School8s competition at Friends’ Lisburn, who to reach well the semi-final but did exceptionally a more experienced beaten by unfortunately were HS team. Wallace Strathearn but has nevertheless been a huge success.With success.With Strathearn a huge been has nevertheless but in teams competing many and numbers at training large in grow to see cricket exciting it has been tournaments, popularity. C . 2018-2019 CRICKET PENRHYN. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 92 PENRHYN SCHOOLCOUNCIL . A DEPARTMENT. PREPARATORY STRATHEARN more. thegloomand resilientlymoveshake forward off once situation satheavilyuponhisshoulders, hewould always the Although hehadmomentswheretheweight of This was Shackleton’s realityfor ayear andahalf. dashed. were theirway, turning onlytohave thesehopesutterly felt incrediblyhopefulthatagoalwas insightandthings never broke him.Numerous times, andhismen Shackleton care for others. Hisoptimismnever failedhimanddefeat abilities thetwo mostvitalwere hisresilienceand How Shackleton’s many didhedoit?Of leadership magnificent leadershipwithoutparallel. hismenalive,this, hebrought all27of back afeatof the transcontinental journey hehadhopedfor. Despite became trapped inice andhewas unabletocomplete the Antarcticcontinent.Duringthisexpedition hisship Shackleton’s goalwas tobethefirstmantraverse mine. isadefinitefavourite Ernest Shackleton of Ernest famouspeopleandSir anumberof P4, we research P4.In Ialsoteach PreparatoryStrathearn Department s part of my role as Head of Department in my Department role of asHeadof s part and memorable year inourhappy school. successesinwhathasbeenyetsporting anotherenjoyable our outstandingperformances onthestage andour to inviteyou toreadaboutouracademicachievements, we have Iamdelighted and seejusthow achieved. much I amalways year ontheschool amazedwhenIlookback opportunities. excellentalso offersawidevariety of extra-curricular however, Education Preparatory aStrathearn Department academicexcellence,Assessments. Alongsidetheaimof results inthe2019/2020AQE CommonEntrance is evidencedby excellent achieved thefactthatgirls byThe highacademicstandardachieved ourP7pupils success. Success, inPenrhyn, comesinmany varied forms. needforessential qualitiesthatourgirls theirfuture I believe that resilience, careandcompassionare asthosedisplayedwonderful qualitiessuch by Shackelton. At Penrhyn, todevelop ourpurposeistohelpgirls Seated on floor: SophieNelson, EmilyMorrison onfloor: Seated Front row: Ava Dunlop, AmeliaMaze, ErinSweet, Faith Mercer Julia Cochrane, EmmaBell IslaAldworth,Back row: Grace Gilchrist, Head of Department Department Head of Mrs MawhinneyMrs .PENRHYN Katy Allsopp Katy STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 93 Seated on floor: Grace Conroy, Essie Costello, Conroy, Grace .HOUSE CAPTAINS Seated on floor: Sophie Crawford Mya Somerville, Essie Costello, Vanessa Minford Vanessa Somerville, Essie Costello, Mya Front row: Zara Gray, Tara Curry, Aisling Gaskin, Julia Cochrane Curry, Tara Gray, Zara Back row: Front row: Front row: Eakin, Lotte Carter Aisling Gaskin, Lydia Greer, Mya Mya Greer, Aisling Gaskin, Lydia Sophie Crawford, Chloe McKittrick, Chloe Sophie Crawford, Somerville, Macy McCormick, Lauren

Pollin Gray, Julia Cochrane Gray, Back row: Seated on floor: Erin McDowell Charlotte Harvey Vanessa Minford, Mrs Andrews, Zoe Andrews, Mrs Minford, Vanessa Greenaway, Megan Chercoles Carter, Chercoles Carter, Megan Greenaway, Georgia Matchett,Front row: Annabel Maggie Wilson, Katie Barr, Isabella Kenny, Mrs Andrews, Zara Zara Mrs Andrews, Isabella Kenny, Barr, Katie Back row: Emma McNally, Tara Curry, Faith Mercer, Mercer, Faith Curry, Tara Emma McNally, . PREFECTS DUTY P7 . P7 CLASS PREFECTS PENRHYN. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 100 ART. Ella McEwenP1 Ellen Burnside P2 Ellen Burnside P1-P3 Ella McKinney P1 Emma Wilson P2 Emma Wilson Astrid McGimpsey P2 Bella McCormick P3 Bella McCormick .PENRHYN

P6 Viking Ship P6 Viking Charlotte P7 Harvey Eva Graham P5 (pink) Eva Libbie Gordon (red) P5 Jessica (green) Kerr P5 STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 95 P4 P4-P7 Bella Houliston Sophia Bennett P4 ART . P5 Amelia Maze P4 Amelia Maze Essie Costello P7 Lottie De’Ath P4 P5 Ava Dunlop P4 Ava Freya Bevan P4 Freya Bevan Zoe Greenaway P7 PENRHYN. P2 TRIPTOULSTERMUSEUM MAY 2019. THE PENRHYNYEAR2019-2020. intestine -we allhadtohelpbecauseitwas solong! eating healthy food. Itwas funtopulloutStuffee’s small how tolookafterourbodiesby ourteethand brushing Museum andmetournew friend,‘Stuffee’.We learned On Thursday 16thMay 2019,P2visitedtheUlster cygnets andfedtheducks. trip we hadawalk around thelake andwe metthelittle insects. Thiswas avery enjoyable activity. To our finishoff many woodlice, beetles, greenfly, slugsandmany more Then we went onamagnificentminibeasthunt. We caught to findnewts. Ava Dunlop one! was tocatch very lucky lookout we went pond-dipping. We hadnetsandwe tried stuffed animals, teeth.Afterthe shellsandsharpshark then went tothelookout. interesting Therewere lotsof exciting BugDay. Whenwe arrived we and ateoursnack On 24thMay 2019,P3went toMountStewart for avery P3 TRIPTOMOUNTSTEWART enjoyed comeintoourclass. havingVicky poppy seedsandwe We didpaperplateart. really hold avery slimy snail!Ourclassalsogottoplantlovely We sawminibeastsinlittleboxes andwe even gotto Ladybirdthe Harlequin andtheNew ZealandFlatworm. minibeasts. We aboutInvasive as learned Minibeastssuch Secret Message Flowers. OnFriday, weabout learned we didgardens andwe plantedpeasandmade gardens andanotheroneonminibeasts. OnThursday lady cameintoP3andledaworkshop on namedVicky On Thursday 9thMay andFriday 10thMay 2019, a P3 ‘PLANTANDPLAY’ROADSHOW STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 96 Ava Dunlop andSophieThompson P3 Lottie De’AthandRain AkpojiviP3 C Hunter P3 STEAMDAY many beautifulsurroundings. new thingsinsuch garden. We thoroughly enjoyed ourtripandwe so learnt and treesgrowing inthe feeling thedifferentplants grounds andsmelling growingtasting fruits inthe flowers, coloursof matching listening toanimalsounds, organised for usincluded andthefunactivities “TheSenses”inschool the topicof the “Rainbow Chips”programme. We hadbeenstudying The P1swent onatriptoMountStewart andfollowed P1 TRIPTOMOUNTSTEWART themselves andwe would definitelylove todothisagain! how we were working together. enjoyed Every singlegirl very sensibleandwise. Mrs. Mawhinney cameintosee group andwe each hadtobe The P3swere leadersof blowing differentshapes. bubbles andmakinglotsof and vinegar like andtheniterupted avolcano. We loved Rainbow Volcanoes we mixed bakingsoda, food colouring activities were the Rainbow Volcanoes andBubbles. In materials collage andballoon-driven cars. Ourfavourite experimenting withcarsandramps, makinganatural makingnewspaper sticks, cocktail towers, butterflycubes, sunflowers, withmarshmallows designingstructures and bubbles,different shapesof drawing andpainting Rainbow Volcanoes, plantingsunflower seeds, making activities. Therewas We had10different M =Maths A =Art E =Engineering T =Technology S =Science STEAM standsfor: hadtwoand P3girls fabulousSTEAMDays. This iswhat On Thursday 30thandFriday 31stMay 2019,theP1,P2 Amelia Maze and Sarah Matchett P3 Amelia Maze Matchett and Sarah V McKinney .PENRHYN Ava Dunlop P4 Ava STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 97 Ava Sweet P5 Ava Thursday 26 September 2019 was European Languages Languages European 26 September 2019 was Thursday learnt In Assembly we about all got dressed up. We Day. teaching Mrs Hyndman was different languages. a few us French. different colours of She had four card and she taught us the colours in French. of The colours the cards – jaune and green – yellow blue – bleu, red – rouge, were vert. I dressed up in a flamenco dress and I had good fun. EUROPEAN LANGUAGES DAY On September 19th on a Prep 5 went trip to wonderful Island. The Oxford we did first thing meet our leader was Our called Pascal. was first activity minibeast hunting. Then lots. I found pond went we were We dipping. and put into groups one at a went we brought time and we the nets back and put them in a box so that with water could see the you Then we creatures. bird watching. went that Oxford saw We Island had lots of birds on it. . 2019 SEPTEMBER ISLAND TO OXFORD P5 TRIP THE PENRHYN YEAR 2019-2020 YEAR PENRHYN THE . C Hunter Heidi Dunlop P5 Sophie Nelson P4 Rachel Chacko and Chacko Rachel P2 TRIP TO CASTLE ESPIE AND MUSEUM AND P5 TRIP TO CARRICKFERGUS CASTLE CARRICKFERGUS TRIP TO P5 P4 TRIP TO CASTLE ESPIE 10th June our P4 On Monday the bus with by class travelled It was P2 class to Castle Espie. and we day, sunny a lovely morninghad a fun-packed full of We interesting activities. learned all about the journey and spotted of birds, migratory different types of on the birds Lough and learned about their fed the ducks and We habitats. after lunch the shop visited we It was home. our journey before day! a really enjoyable On Monday 10th On Monday June 2019, P2 visited Castle Espie. fed the ducks, We made perfume using and plants, flowers had a minibeast hunt at the and played Park. Play Wildwood of a fun day It was outdoor learning and our environment. exploring JUNE 2019. On Friday 31 May 2019 P5 visited Carrickfergus 2019 Castle 31 May On Friday Inside gate house. went to see the first We and Museum. ‘Murder Hole’! The and could see the up looked we hole on top of this down to pour hot oil guards used their The archerstheir enemies. also shoot down would the by trapped were into the hole as the attackers arrows drawbridge saw the Then we portcullis at the entrance. to the rope cutting by down which be lowered would de Courcy built this John the castle during invasion. protect the sea. We Norman by high up on a rock castle in 1177 saw a statue of sad. We who looked his wife Affreca permission learned to smile from to have that she had used to the Museum and went we her husband! Finally, and my really enjoyable a treasure hunt. It was ipads for part offavourite the trip. PENRHYN. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 98 THE PENRHYNYEAR2019-2020. to gothereagain inthefuture. thecastlewerefrom very theremainsof beautiful.Ihope Bailey castlebuiltby John deCourcy’s Knights. Theviews Motteand Anglo-Norman in the12thcentury. Itisan County Down. It was built issituatedin Castle which then tookthebustoClough really hardbutfun.We into themaze, Ifound which tarantulas. Next we went snake, snails, fishand room thatkept afemale We thenwent intoanother had turtles, birds andfish. into anotherroom which butterflies. Then we went beautiful we sawlotsof the butterfly room, where there we hadtowalk to journey. Assoonaswe got We tookalongbus Seaford Butterflycentre. the P5classwent tothe On Friday 27September AND GARDEN P5 TRIPTOSEAFORDEBUTTERFLYHOUSE about hisjob as presentation did afabulous visited P3.He Captain Agar Dad whoiscalled September, my On Monday 30th P3 VISITBYCAPTAINAGAR Rachel Chacko P5 Belfast City Airport nextBelfast CityAirport week. P3hadagreattime. Wean airport. aregoingtovisit aboutwhatwealso learned do andwherewe goat at amapandfound allourholiday destinations. We exhausts. MyDadhasaco-pilottohelphim.We looked an aeroplane fliesusingtwo engines. Italsohasthree a pilotflyingaeroplanes for Jet2. howWe learned POETRY DAYWITHWESMAGEE added to the beauty of thegarden. Natureatitsbest! added tothebeautyof from plantingtoflowering andfeelproud thatthey had thegrowth couldobserve thedaffodilsthat thegirls of garden. We aflower chose bedclosetotheP1path,so In SeptembertheP1splantedbulbsinPenrhyn OCTOBER 2019. P6 VIKINGDAY P1 DAFFODILPLANTING had anamazingtimewithWes Magee! poem called‘Seagulls’.Wes Magee is80years old.We There were seagullsonthejourney and hetaughtusa He travelled by ferryfrom Liverpool toBelfastovernight. ‘Hide andSeek’,‘Birthday Game’and‘Stroke theCat’. a poet.Hisfavourite poemsare‘MyDog’s FirstPoem’, ‘Deep intheGreenWood’. Hetaughtusallaboutbeing poetry bookscalled‘So, You Want toBeaWizard?’and had awholeday workshop. Heshowed his ussomeof Hedidworkshops for P1–P6.OnTuesdayschool. P7 On Monday 30SeptemberWes Magee cametoour Sophie ThompsonP4 Issie Hazel-Agar P3 V McKinney .PENRHYN Bella Turtle P4 STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 99 Lottie De’Ath and Freya BrandLottie De’Ath and Freya P4 Emily Morrison P3 and Issie Hazel-Agar P4 TRIP TO CASTLE WARD P4 TRIP TO CASTLE WARD On Thursday 10th ofOn Thursday on went P3 October, the George a trip to Airport.Best City met Paula, First we big to a went then we We room. conference lots of Paula asked questions about the airport. Then Gareth and the fireman came are three fire engines at the There told us about his job. dressing up in We loved airport, just in case there is a fire. At the end trip. We had a lovely outfit. fireman Gareth’s bags! goody got fabulous we M & M VISIT On Friday 11 October we had a visit from Dr Oyama to Dr Oyama had a visit from 11 October we On Friday to the hall with our lab down went We look at diversity. We and plastic glasses. coats and put on plastic gloves in around and swash to swish and got a drink sat down On Thursday 10th October our P4 class travelled by by 10th October our P4 class travelled On Thursday took part in its annual where we bus to Castle Ward fun spent the morning doing various We ‘Applefest’. activities such art apple and as planting apple seeds, in the beautiful gardens games activities and playing craft the apple trees outside. and exploring of Castle Ward shop and sang visited the National Trust left we we Before a really super day! some ‘apple’ songs! It was saw the M & M production On 11 October 2019, we and her birthday White’s Snow It was White. of Snow The sisters were a party. preparing for stepmother was to The stepmother went inviting Prince Rider to the party. who’s on the wall mirror and said ‘mirror, the magic mirror White is the fairest of replied ‘Snow them all?’ the mirror the fairest of them all’. DIVERSITY SCIENCE WEEK THE PENRHYN YEAR 2019-2020 YEAR PENRHYN THE . C Hunter Bella De’Ath P3 On 4th October 2019 2019 October On 4th day. a Viking P6 had MichaelRita and being called (who was day) the Magnus for teachcame in to us First Vikings. all about of watched all, we some videos about the Vikings in our made spears out of Then we card, newspaper classroom. added red paint to the end even We and some poles. all headed to the hall to watch we blood! Next for and in the a second time It started playing another video. middle of it Magnus came running Viking! in dressed as a we Once I did too. to admit I have screamed. Everyone split up into groups the shock we from had all recovered called trip a Viking board game and did activities like which was tell you I can and a chainmail troll trap relay, We really heavy. because the chainmailhard work was all had break time and came back to find another set of were flint and steel, Heidi and I There was activities to do. bashing sparks by to make the only ones in our group to lunchWe headed talking about the flint on the steel. We fighting! Sword next. had been told was what we on guard and positions, actually fight but got taught didn’t the positions as quickly into had to get 1,2,3,4 & 5. We got it or slow were got put out if you as possible and you announced and was I got a special bracelet I won! wrong. P6 Viking day. leader of I really enjoyed the longship. On Thursday 10th On Thursday October 2019, P2 visited W5. Our tour guide Matt taught us about the astronaut, We Tim Peake. video clips watched of in space astronauts learned how and we to be astronauts to launch want Some girls now a rocket. so much like up because it looked fun. grow when they P3 TRIP TO GEORGE BEST CITY AIRPORT P2 TRIP TO W5 PENRHYN. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 100 activity booklet. We allgotto received and an a safetypack pupil a fireescapeplan.Each and how tohave itisimportant aboutFireandSafety learned was funandeducational.We visit P5on25October2019. It FireStationcameto at Knock Firefighters from Green Watch FIREFIGHTERS P5 VISITFROMGREENWATCHKNOCK thoroughly enjoyed. in all,itwas avery interestingandinformative visitthatI All taught ussomemoreinterestingfactsaboutStormont. ourage she a videothatgirl madeaboutStormont; was adebate goingon. Part thetourinvolved of seeing to gointotheBlueAssemblyChamberbecausethere very interestingpaintings. Unfortunately, we didn’t get was avisittotheSenateChamber, wherewe sawtwo in theworldduringWorld War thetour II!Ahighlightof have must beenthesmelliestbuilding Stormont attack. andcow tarmac manure,mixture of tohideitfrom enemy that duringWorld War II,thebuildingwas covered ina theyear.represents aday of Myotherfavourite factis foot facts arethatthebuildingis365feetwide;each interesting factsaboutthebuilding. Mytwo favourite we metourTour Guide. OurTour Guidetolduslotsof Wethe airport. ourtourintheGreatHall,where started ourblazers.had totake Itwas off abitlike securityat On arrival, we wherewe went through asecuritycheck, STORMONT P7 TRIPTOPARLIAMENTBUILDINGAT round andthanked ournecks DrOyama for coming. and squeezedtheliquidintobottles. We putthem a pipettetotake uptheDNA.We allgotglassbottles then we addedcoldethanoltomake two layers andused Then we shookupthetubesandleftthemfor 2minutes, 25 ml,thenwe addedsomepinkliquidtothe6mlmark. of took plastictubesandpouredthedrinkuptomark our mouthsandspititoutintoaplasticcup. Afterthiswe THE PENRHYNYEAR2019-2020. Katy AllsoppP7 Lotte Carter P7 Lotte Carter P1 AUTUMNWALK the firesafetyvisitespeciallywhensirensounded! down coneswiththewater Prep5enjoyed hose. Allof intheplaygroundsee thefiretruck and we tried to knock NOVEMBER 2019. good fun! wedifferent patterns madewithourrubbings. Itwas onourhandsandtocomparethe thebark roughness of the beautifultrees. Itwas reallyinterestingtofeelthe from rubbings picturesandtookbark made natureart Walk inthePenrhyn garden. We collectedleaves, On Friday 25thOctobertheP1swent for anAutumn and learned a lot. and learned he went toOxford University. Ireallyenjoyed thistrip Then we watched amovieaboutCSLewis andfound out books. Therewas abigoneandsomereallysmall ones. We were asked somequestions andheldsomevaluable also wrote PrinceCaspianandTheMagician’s Nephew. was andtheWardrobe. TheLiontheWitch CSLewis stories was based onthelamppostinCampbell.Thisstory talking aboutCSLewis. his came inandstarted Oneof sat onthemats. Whenwe hadsettleddown, MrSmith andmats. We chairs andtheboyslots of satonthechairs whotookustoabigroom with some Campbellteachers minibus andwhenwe gottherewe were welcomed by workshop aboutCSLewis atCampbell.We travelled by On Tuesday 12thNovember, theP5classwent todoa FOR ACSLEWISWORKSHOP P5 TRIPTOCAMPBELLJUNIORSCHOOL Sophie NelsonP5 Alex P5 Savage V McKinney .PENRHYN Jemima Readman Sophie Crawford P7 Charlotte Acheson P6 STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 101 P1 & P3 CONCERT On Thursday 5 December P5, P6 and P7 got to see the On Thursday P1 and by a Baby” Loves dress rehearsal of “Everyone the singing. to see it. I loved really excited P3. I was I thought it was about Mary and Joseph. The story was brilliant. The performance and the costumes were funny lively very entertaining. The songs were extremely was all thought out. I loved well actions were The and bouncy. outstanding. was I thought the play little dresses. the P1’s On the 3 December 2019 a group ofOn the 3 December 2019 a group P6 girls (Cecily Allen and Nyla Mallon, Bella De’Ath, Katie Park, Country Competition in Cross to Flahavens went myself) Park coming 8th, Bella finished with Cecily We Newcastle. and me 30th. I think it was 16th, Nyla 18th 12th, Katie experience! an unforgettable On Tuesday 3rd December 2019 P6 and P7 went on a 3rd December 2019 P6 and P7 went On Tuesday hop-off’ ‘hop-on, A double decker bus Belfast Bus Tour. schoolcollected us from and took us on an interesting tour visited During the tour we of main attractions. the city’s all Gaol, Crumlin Road Titanic quarter, Market, St George’s Hospital for Royal and Shankill Memorial Gardens, Falls heard lots of We Sick Children and Queens University. that, fact of was facts about Belfast. My favourite the day Market. stored in St George’s bodies were during the war, about the Our tour guide also told us some information gates large in some places in the city and how troubles closed at 7.00 pm and reopened at 6.30 am. We were before taken photographs to get places stopped at a few day all had an exciting returning to school lunch. for We out. FLAHAVAN’S PRIMARY CROSS COUNTRY COMPETITION . 2019 DECEMBER BUS BELFAST TOUR P6 & P7 THE PENRHYN YEAR 2019-2020 YEAR PENRHYN THE . Farrah Taylor P5 Farrah Taylor Tara Kirk P6 Thom Tara Isla Aldworth and Grace Gilchrist P6 On Friday 29th November 2019, P5 had an Early Man 29th November On Friday Rita and Michael came to tell us all about Workshop. such had some activities to do, up as as dressing it. We also made bread and we We and cavewomen. cavemen had some pictures of things out of sticks. We a wall wove such food, as spears and used to kill animals for that they and we used clay made pots with Rita, and we We axes. it with lots ofdecorated Last but not least, we squiggles. Michael put stones around made a fire in the playground. had a really enjoyable We in the middle. it and wood day. EARLY MAN WORKSHOP WITH P5 On 26 November 2019 a few P5 and P6 girls walked P5 and P6 girls walked 2019 a few On 26 November to Strathearn Strathearn to watch girlsover ‘The perform Wizard of of not all Oz’. The reason why the P5s and P6s most of because on a trip with the class were was went a lovely got to Strathearn there was When we the choir. The really exciting. started it was When the play display. a beautiful, pink, sparkly dress Godmother wore Fairy checked overall The play dress. a blue, wore and Dorothy the acting phenomenal and a blast! The singing was was play. this funny really enjoyed astonishing! We was STRATHEARN’S PERFORMANCE OF ‘THE STRATHEARN’S PERFORMANCE WIZARD OF OZ’ On 21St November, a few other girls and I went to the other girls and I went few a November, On 21St “Be Kind called My song was Music Festival. Holywood My dad song. a funny was My song Parents”. to Your 1.20 pm at around classroom the P6 me from collected arrived We Centre. Leisure us to the Queen’s and drove weren’t. but we late, were and rushed upstairs thinking we sat in the Most of Mrs Mawhinney there. the girls were children nine for aged was group The age back row. started if speaking about First, the lady a fire and under. She the building. needed to leave we happened. If so, be nervous when we shouldn’t we about how also spoke was number the first person. I She then announced sing. went on. watched I fourteen people before fifteen, so I me up really good! Mrs Devlin called was Everybody told The lady on next. that I was to the piano to say up with pride, coming on. I walked that I was everybody heart out! I sang my name and song. then announced my other people sang after five best. Around I also tried my the adjudicator an interval. Finally, Then there was me. in P4 came 3rd, I came Brand announced the score! Freya and Iona Blair came 1st! I was joint 2nd with Cecily Park singing in first time ever my so pleased because this was Penrhyn! came from All the girls that won a big crowd! I had a great time! story, listening to my for Thank you HOLYWOOD MUSIC FESTIVAL MUSIC HOLYWOOD PENRHYN. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 102 orange team. place was thegreenteam,in2ndand1st placewas the three placesandDundonald took4th–7thplaces. In3rd all very eager tofindoutwhohad won. We tookthetop really well together. Whenthelastrace ended we were more. Alltheteams triedvery hardandwe allworked javelin, 4x1relay, push,5strides, 2xrelay chest and to thewarm-up. Therewas events avariety including of and TheAcers. Theevent andteamswent soonstarted up We formed threedifferentteams:TheBears, TheCats Campbell College BelfastandDundonaldPrimarySchool. Athletics. Weto take inSportshall part were joinedby On Monday 13January P6andP7went toStrathearn SPORTSHALL ATHLETICS JANUARY 2020. “Ho, Ho, Ho!” before leavingwithamerry photograph withtheclass wishes andheposedfor a about theirChristmas girl arrive. Hespoke toevery to wait for SantaClausto gathered around thetree together andthenwe had aspecialsnack Christmas Party inclass. We the P1shadalovely On Friday 20thDecember P1 CHRISTMASPARTY P4 ARTWORKSHOP THE PENRHYNYEAR2019-2020. creating Christmasfloral decorations. arranging hadawonderful expert. Thegirls afternoon andaflower teacher Sandra Carson,whoisaretiredart a flower arranging led workshop by the very talentedMrs On Monday were 16thDecembertheP4girls treatedto Megan Chercoles Carter and Julia Cochrane P7 andJuliaCochrane Chercoles Carter Megan V McKinney P Devlin P7 SCIENCEVISITTOSTRATHEARN cameras andhow they worked. We were sadtoleave. loved visitingthephotographer andshesawtheold hearing tested.Sienna best andshehadher the doctor’s house to visit.Ariannaloved shops andchurches oldhousesand of love. Therewere lots them tosomeonewe We have togive loveharvest knots. We madebeautiful weaving workshop. After thatwe hada on top. Itwas yummy! it withlovely butter got toeatapieceof over thefire. We then Audrey taughtushow to make sodabreadonagriddle divided into2groups. We had2very exciting workshops. trip toCultra Folk Park. Firstwe Thenwe hadoursnack. On Thursday 23rdJanuary 2020,P3went onanamazing SCHOOL P3 TRIPTOCULTRAFOLKPARK mouldy stick and a bit of afir tree. mouldy andabitof stick and discover whatwas hidinginandaround moss, a scale. Thethirdtaskwas touseamicroscope tomagnify theabove liquidsandcomparedthe resultsona of each juice, water andvinegar. We tomixinto usedachemical liquid hadmetalinit.We magnesia,lemon usedmilkof various organs.of Thesecondtaskwas tofindoutwhich together ahumanbody plasticrepresentations outof andgiven threetasks. Thefirsttask chairs was toput Sienna Mooney &IsabellaWhite Maggie Wilson P7 Wilson Maggie .PENRHYN Lauren Eakin P7 Chloe McKittrick P7 Molly McCoubrey P6 Molly McCoubrey STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 103 as the scullery, which are very different to the ones we which we different to the ones very are as the scullery, fancy plates on there were room In the dining now. have ofthe table and a painting in the who lived the person saw we Upstairs old fashioned clothes. a man in house, In one of like. been the have would what the bedrooms This with pretend drawers. box a wooden was bedrooms also were actually the toilet, with a lift up lid. There was lunch had our packed in down We dressing tables. two which in the garden, was the reception area and played got back on the bus to go back we to before really big, school. in the Some people bought old fashioned toys PE! back just in time for arrived We shop. KLASS KIDS ASSEMBLY FEBRUARY 2020. On Friday 7 February came to our 2020 Klass Kids On Friday themselves introduced First they school Assembly. an for started with We going to do. were and said what we and ‘Shotgun’. the songs ‘Castle on the Hill’, ‘Let it Go’ Essie got called up and sounds. recorded animal Then we Atkinson got called had to made a dog sound. Then Mrs Then we funny. very a chickenup to make sound – it was heard a story from fun. We recorded a song which was man whose friends about a paralysed It was the Bible. dug a hole in a roof of P7 had their a house to see Jesus. and did games played and after that we workshop own it. I really enjoyed Overall crafts. and during our topic of Surgeon My Dad is a Veterinary he came into schoolthe human body on 7 February 2020 animal bodies to talk about the animal kingdom, and how different. He but also very similar to ours, are very and structure and it anatomy discussed different organs, to look at had We really interesting and enjoyable. was of then had to guess what different animals and x-rays would they and where in the body from were animal they the hardest one to guess to say be on a human! I have the whale! At the end he got us to look at an x-ray was with it. The dog had wrong of what was a dog and say My dad said that the a plastic toy! actually swallowed so long on for went They excellent. class questions were nearly missed our break! we P6 VETERINARY SURGEON VISIT THE PENRHYN YEAR 2019-2020 YEAR PENRHYN THE . Two ofTwo our young scientists hard at work. On Monday 27th January we went on a trip to Sentry Hill went we 27th January On Monday went This is an old Victorian farmhouse. We in Carnmoney. school, from 9.30 am. Mrs Andrews, at about on a bus, mum When we with us. came Mrs Atkinson and Essie’s there to were and Deirdre, Wesley people, two arrived really nice and were They us around. meet us and show a long from toys, saw some children’s First we helpful too. ladder and a flip Jacob’s a ball catchertime ago, game, A Jack-in-the-box also a spinning top. book. There was also We toy. favourite my was teachers in saw a cane used by saw a wooden those times and we back used which straightener was if children slouching! were Wesley told us a story about the family in the farmhouse and who lived a stone hot us an old iron, showed to keep bottle and a cover water We also saw a flies off food. the jelly mould and glove-stretchers, into the house went When we use today. which don’t we at the kitchen also known looked and the utility room, we P7 VISIT TO SENTRY HILL PENRHYN. mini-game with laminated cards with pictures of food.mini-game withlaminatedcards withpicturesof look at,aswell asareal elephanttooth!Heplayed a Mr Blairalsohadafew modelstopass around for usto couldn’t imagineallthethingshetalked aboutinmy head. The picturesinthepresentation reallyhelpedbecauseI more. on youra tooth,theskull,nerves faceandmuch it was very interesting. Hetalked of aboutthestructure to talkaboutteeth.HehadaPowerpoint presentationso 2020MrBlair,On 12thFebruary my dad,cameintoP6 STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 104 P6 VISITFROMADENTIST gave us. time andhadgreatfunusingallthespecialthingsRachel to pretendbedoctorsandnursesduringourgolden wouldn’t thebabies. ThatFriday hurt we brought indolls eyes. Itwas abluelightanditwasn’t toobrightsoit us thespeciallightsthatthey usetoshineinthebabies’ breathe anditwas anose!Sheshowed aboutthesizeof oxygen masksfor tiny babieswhenthey needhelpto monkey anditfitted him!Sheshowed the usthesizeof nappy…it was sotiny. We gottoputitonGeorge my between aprematurebaby nappy baby andanormal Rachel showedgot tokeep inschool. usthedifference in facemasks, gloves andhatstoshow we ustoo, which forto keep ourgoldentime. Shebrought theminschool brought andwe inscrubs gottotrytheseonandwe got thethingssheusesinherwork every day.some of She need helpfrom doctorsandnurses. Rachel brought in whentheybabies andwhoaresick and areborn Victoria Hospital.Rachel withtiny works premature about herjobworking asachildren’s nurseintheRoyal 2020totellusall came intoourclasson12February We didaproject onthehumanbody. MycousinRachel P6 VISITBYACHILDREN’SNURSE at theirhomesonValentine’s Day. was aspecialsurprisewhenitarrived which tocausesuch making, enveloping, addressingandpostingtheletter, thoroughly enjoyed Thegirls theprocessin school. of On Tuesday theP1smadegorgeous 11thFebruary cards THE PENRHYNYEAR2019-2020. P1 VALENTINE’SCARDS Niamh ComanP6 V McKinney interesting. I was quitesadwhenthetalkwas over asitwas very names for was a muscle solongithadtobeabbreviated! explained inyour the aboutthemuscles face. Oneof tooth was themaintopicMrBlairtalked about;healso foodyour the was teethandwhich of bad.Thestructure The game was food was toidentifywhich goodfor Princess filmandhadacake as well. Whatasuperday! add tothestyle. We danced,played games, watched a andwe woreschool theprettycrowns we hadmade to were allowed towear theirfavourite princessdressto to celebrate their“Fairy-Tale” theendof topic.Thegirls On Friday theP1shadaPrincess Party 14thFebruary P1 PRINCESSPARTY Iona BlairP6 V McKinney .PENRHYN Peggy Hirst P2 Peggy Nainsi McCoubrey P2 Nainsi McCoubrey Augusta McCausland P2 Augusta STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 105 WORLD BOOK DAY COSTUMES AND ART AND COSTUMES DAY BOOK WORLD THE PENRHYN YEAR 2019-2020 YEAR PENRHYN THE . V McKinney WORLD BOOK DAY WORLD . 2020 MARCH On Thursday 5th On Thursday March the P1s World celebrated dressing by Book Day up as a character their favourite from book. The girls their developed talking and listening performing by skills, and Tell” a “Show all We the class. for listening to the loved girls’ best parts of the most story and it was to discover enjoyable such of a wide range books on display. PENRHYN. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 106 in herage group atthefestival. also awarded thecupfor theoverall mostpromising voice ErinMcDowellMcCormack, andIsabellaKenny. was Macy performances. Individual prizeswere awarded toMacy high commendationwas theirindividual given toallof theatreclassatBelfastMusicFestival, where musical inthe tookpart theP7singingclassgirls On 11March THE PENRHYNYEAR2019-2020. FESTIVAL P7 SINGINGCLASSATBELFASTMUSIC ‘People WhoHelpUs’.Thankyou for comingtovisit. so loud!Thishands-on experience was greatfor ourtopic, then we gottoclimbintothejeepandboat!Thesirenwas and Rescue. They delivered aninterestingPowerPoint and Brooke cametotalkabouttheirwork withLagan Search On Tuesday MrHirst(Peggy’s 10thMarch, dad)and P2 VISITBYLAGANSEARCH&RESCUE C Hunter P Devlin

“

was and made sure I was looked andmadesureIwas after.was We played because Ididn’t know anyone. Thegirlsinmy class Niamh alsojoinedinP6.She started aftermeand I moved to Penrhyn in week 4 of TermI moved toPenrhyn 1.Ifelt 4of a inweek and she had all of my booksready for me. Isat and shehadallof friendly. showed everything Everybody mewhere were very welcoming. There were 22 girlsinthe welcoming. Therewere very were The school has very highstandards onhow hasvery The school girls should behave at school. I am pleased to be at Iampleasedtobeat school. at should behave Acrostic Poems by Rain AkpojiviP4 move desks every half term so we gettoknow termsowe move half desksevery Everyone wanted totalkmeandfindthings wanted Everyone between GraceandHeidiDtostart with.Webetween Mrs Hyndmanshowed my deskwas mewhere bit awkward and nervous when Ifirst andnervous when arrivedbit awkward games at break time but they calledthemby breaktimebut games at Penrhyn madesomegoodfriends. andhave out about about me – they were chatty and chatty me–they about were out about we all made sure that shefelt too. allmadesurethat welcome we different abitconfused! namessoIwas Starting at Penrhyn at inP6 Starting class when Ifirst when joined. class by MaisieRainer everyone really well. everyone reallywell. “ . PENRHYN .POEMS & ESSAYS Learning at Home During a Pandemic by Rain Akpojivi P4

It was almost the end of term two at school and our classes enjoying home school because I get to spend time with mum slowly started to feel empty. Fear of a new virus, the human while learning. corona virus COVID 19 making people sick and even killing some was spreading in the community. Little did we know However, I really do miss my friends from school and my that our lives where about to change drastically. There teachers. Everyday can also feel like the same day and it were still lots of activities planned. We were all looking is sometimes boring. Although, some of us have been able forward to the Mary Poppins play by the P5 to P7 pupils. I to catch up through video calls, speech and drama lessons for one had the day all planned with my mum. My dad was aren’t the same without my friends. No swapping seats, no returning from South Africa the morning of the play. He lunch partners, no Irish dancing, no Art with Mrs Mawhinney would look after my sisters while I had alone time with my or singing lessons with Mrs Devlin! mum and enjoy the play. Well, you already guessed! We were unable to watch the play as the show was cancelled. Everyone is working hard to fight the pandemic and save You can imagine my disappointment. Now triple that and lives. My dad says we have to be grateful to all the health you can see how sad the P7s especially would have been. workers and keyworkers keeping us going. He says we All those hours of rehearsals! There were tears for sure. have to listen to the news (he loves listening to the news!) and do our part. Hopefully very soon, we will all be able to Almost all of the world is now affected by the ‘corocoro get back to normal everyday life. Even though I am loving virus’ as my mum calls it. So by midday on Friday 20 remote learning and home school, I can’t wait to get back March we all left school wearing long faces, our school to school, to see my friends and teachers and run around the bags full of tons of work packs prepared by our lovely familiar grounds and corridors of my beloved Penrhyn. teachers. We weren’t even sure when we would be back to school.

Almost five weeks have gone, and we all have a new normal, home schooling or remote learning as some people call it. I have mostly enjoyed this home schooling thing. I get to lie in a little more in the morning as there is no morning rush to get to school. I also get to spend time with my siblings and mum, who has also become my teacher. Don’t tell her that I said this but she is a very strict teacher!

After a bit of mental maths, some spelling and written tasks and some exploration of bird and facts on the Scottish Islands, I spend the rest of my day playing with my sisters or watching programmes on Netflix. I sometimes get cookery lessons from my mum and I now know how to make yummy scrummy noodles and pasta. I even do ‘dress the baby’ competitions with my mum. It is a race to see who is first to finish when dressing my sisters. It’s fun because, somehow, I always win. I am sure I’m ready to be a babysitter now! Funny enough since we have been in lockdown, the weather has been really sunny. It has only rained once or twice. Since the weather has been so nice and sunny, I sometimes go on bicycle rides and play football and tennis in the garden. I also enjoyed the videos from Mrs Devlin and Mrs Mawhinney and the tasks they give us. It was lovely to see photos of my friends also working from home. I am really

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 107 PENRHYN. ENTERTAINMENT. MARY POPPINS. very disappointed. ourhousehold.Weaudience hadtobemembersof were that we would onlybeperforming the play onceandthe Unfortunately, duetoCovid-19we received thenews umbrellas.colourful costumesandalsoavariety of and even gottotryonourcostumes. We hadglittery, play was improving. We were allowed usemoreprops getting closertotheperformance nightandevery day the with allourfriends. We were reallyexcited asitwas to cometogether. We hadgreatfunrehearsingonstage props. Aswe rehearsedmore andmoretheplay started Hall we gottousetheproper stagingandbegan touse rehearsing inStrathearn’s ManningHall.Inthe the play becamebetterwe were given theprivilege of At first we rehearsedin Penrhyn’s assemblyhallbutas (Annabel) were castasJane andMaryPoppins. andwe allenjoyed characters multiple andI it.Macy withthesmallerrolespleased with.Thegirls gottoplay weparts got.Everyone received arole thatthey were it!Weevery minuteof by off started findingoutwhat experience duetoCovid-19we gotcutshort stillenjoyed andweresmaller parts alsothechoir. Even thoughthe P7s tookonthemainroles whileP5andP6played the O CHRISTMAS ROADSHOW. M decorate it. group an areaintheclassroom tosetuptheirstalland treats tosell.Following this, Mrs Andrews allocatedeach came upwithideasfor fungames toplay anddelicious twogroups Then,withourgroup orthreegirls. of we entrepreneurial skills. To prepare, we initiallysplitinto completing theAQE. Itwas toshow our alsoachance by themselves. Thiswas arealtreatfor theP7safter aChristmasRoadshow torun offered theopportunity STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 108 n the15,16and17December, P7were ary Poppins was theP7play inPenrhyn in2020. that next year’s aswe did. P7senjoy itas much helping others. Overall itwas agreatsuccessandIhope happya lotof memories. Itisalso goodtoknow we are was areallyenjoyable timewithmy friendsandImade I thoroughly enjoyed theChristmasRoadshow becauseit could alsotake part! prize. Theteachers you gotthehighestscore thenyouif couldwinaspecial to comeandvisit.Everybody couldplay thegames and It looked fantastic.Allpupilsfrom P1toP6were able The classroom was transformed intoaChristmas Grotto. memories. Itwas aplay thatwe willnever forget. did. We hadagreattimeandmadesomany amazing We aswe hopeallthefutureP7senjoy theplay asmuch recorded onDVD forever. all devastated, butgrateful thatithadbeenfilmedand Mary Poppins. Therewould benolive show. We were bad news toperform thatthiswould beouronlychance the play andhadagreattime, onlytofindoutfurther costumes andgiven radio micstouse. We performed were very excited. We were alldressedupinourfancy thedressrehearsalfinallyarrivedThe day andP7 of By Annabel Pollin andMacyBy Annabel McCormickP7 By Annabel Pollin P7 By Annabel

. PENRHYN WORKING FROM HOME.

It’s safe to say that this school year has been far from normal! Whilst we’re disappointed to have missed out on many of the interesting and enjoyable activities that we had planned, we are also really proud of the way our girls have risen to the challenges of remote learning. It hasn’t always been easy but as you can see from these photos, the Penrhyn girls really have shown great resilience and enthusiasm in adapting to their new circumstances. Amy Greenaway P3

Issie Hazel-Agar P3 Daisy Rose Skinner P3

Bella McCormick P3

Sophie Wilson P3 STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 109 PENRHYN. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 110 WORKING Annabel Pollin P7 Mya Somerville P7 Mya Somerville FROM HOME. Darcy WhiteP4 Lotte Carter P7 Lotte Carter Lottie De’AthP4 Sarah Matchett P4 Matchett Sarah Lydia P7 Greer Emily Morrison P3 Emily Morrison Sophie Crawford P7 Sophie Crawford Sarah Bryans P4 Bryans Sarah .PENRHYN Isabella White P3 STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 111 again next year. again next We can’t wait to see you wait can’t We Well done girls! Well Sienna Mooney P3 Sienna Mooney Rosanna McGimpsey P3 McGimpsey Rosanna PENRHYN. picture of God’s amazingworld. The picture of Sea andSky’paintinga and ‘Earth, songs by Lyn Marsh-‘Silver Moon’ opened by singing two beautiful 2020we inFebruary Concert At theLaganvale Technology Band the UlsterHall. Anniversary in Strathearn Concert andthe Army ChristmasConcert theYear,of Sydenham Salvation Curie, Radio Choir UlsterSchool Marie Church, Concerts, Glenmachan St Anne’s Cathedral, Festival Brass Royal Club, BelfastGolf NSPCC Our previousengagements include come andlistentojoinin! workers lefttheirdesksto lots of few peoplelisteningbutvery quickly thereweresongs. Atthestart onlya carols andwell known Christmas in ConcentrixBelfast.We sang We office alsoentertained workers Well donegirls! andwithgreatconfidence. clearly reading two lessons. They spoke bythe Preparatory Department from P7represented Julia Cochrane EssieCostello and Carol Service. SeniorSchool intheStrathearn part Choir.School InDecember, we took cup for thebestoverall Primary Priory CupandtheMauriceFoster announced thatwe hadwon the We were very excited whenitwas and ‘Why We Sing’by GregGilpin. we sang‘Silver Moon’ by Lyn Marsh Music Festival inNovember 2019 working together. AttheHolywood newenjoy learning songsand and self-esteem.We thoroughly personal creativity, self-confidence foropportunity ustodevelop our Our performances provide an group andtolistenconcentrate. is greatfun!We towork asa learn choir ourschool Being amemberof CHOIR CLUBS. for themostpromising voice. alsowon aspecialcup McCormick and IsabellaKenny. Macy by ErinMcDowell McCormick, Macy Music Festival andprizeswere won entered thetheatreclassatBelfast theP7girls won medals. InMarch Park, andTara Thomwhoall Kirk Iona Blair, Cecily Grace Gilchrist, Maze, Rain Akpojivi,Freya Brand, gotoAmelia Special mentionmust performed brilliantly.girls Holywood MusicFestival andthe wereP4-6 girls enteredfor confidence onstage! In November add toourrepertoire, andgain to develop goodvocal technique, week wesinging classes. Each meet This hasbeenasuperyear for SINGING Goodwin. composedbyFlying Machines!’ Ron joined ‘TheMagnificentMenintheir down andspinningaround aswe evening tooktheaudienceup, the Fly aKite’.Ourfinalpieceof ‘Chim ChimCheree’and‘Let’s go included ‘A Sugar’, Spoonfullof show. TheMaryPoppins’ Medley musical the songsfrom ourschool alsoperformed aselectionof choir confidently onstage! Well donetoall performing so the girlsfor r Mawhinney Mrs Mrs PDevlin

.PENRHYN J Armstrong STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 109 Emily Morrison & Rachel Cairns P3 Emily Morrison & Rachel SPEECH AND DRAMA Speech each an opportunity for provides and Drama her her communication expand skills, girl to improve aim to The classes imagination and think creatively. poetry and drama an appreciation offoster literature, while building selfself confidence and esteem, creating learners. individual confident and motivated an arena provides drama for necessary The interaction The skills. team-working where the girls can develop of Festival SpeechLagan very produced Drama and the opportunity The girlssuccessful results. to also have of Artenter the London Academy Music and Dramatic and the last sets of results were examination (LAMDA) truly outstanding. We have been following an exciting Scripture Union an exciting been following have We and during January called Shine Kids programme fun games, February played Each 2020. we week participated drama, craft in fabulous exciting enjoyed activities and learnedGod. In our last week more about yummy had a brilliant treasure hunt and decorated we songs which learning new also loved We Easter biscuits. hope to teachwe the rest of the girlsin Assembly. SCRIPTURE UNION SCRIPTURE Miss King Claire Childs Party ProfessorParty

SCIENCE CLUB to way interactive Our Science Club is a really fun and look Each interests. we existing week on already expand a sunset, leafat a different subject such to make as how We or making a real cloud in a bottle. chromatography and use a combination of experiments demonstrated the leaf example, For projects. creative investigative the Bernoulli can be used to demonstrate effect as blower it holds a beach when held at a steep ball in mid air even The childrenangle. then each up 8ft windbags try to blow scientific principles. with one human breath using the same The girls are offered a healthy afternoonThe girls snack are offered a healthy and we can offer support to complete their to those who wish access also have We 4 and above. in Prep homework part space where the girlsto a great outdoor can take some fresh air after a hard and have in outdoor games in school! work day’s We have an arts and crafts trolley which full of is an arts trolley supplies and crafts have We where the girls to create their can use their imaginations their individual scrapbook. for masterpieces own Our fun-filled After SchoolOur fun-filled from day Club runs every part-time Full-time and 2.00-5.45pm. are sessions School After all years. Club provides for available in artsand crafts, girls the opportunities for to engage friends. and to socialise with play role AFTER-SCHOOL CLUB CLUB AFTER-SCHOOL PENRHYN. IRISH DANCING SPORTS. the year perform atOpenMorning. iswhenthegirls relaxed, funenvironment for allinvolved andthe highlightof developing theskillsinvolved inIrishDance. Classesprovide a bothsoloandteamdances aswell enjoy learning girls as Irish Danceisafunactivityavailable toallatPenrhyn. The CRICKET CLUB STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 114 ATHLETICS Back row: Zara Gray, Vanessa Minford, Megan ChercolesCarter, Front row: ErinMcDowell, EssieCostello, McCormick, Macy Lotte Carter, Katy Allsopp, JuliaCochrane Isabella Kenny Cathy McCamley Macy McCormick, McCormick, Macy Vanessa Minford, Emma McNally, Erin McDowell, Annabel Pollin Katy Allsopp, Essie Costello Lotte Carter, Zara Gray, Front row: Back row: HOCKEY CLUB DANCE CLUB Julia Cochrane, IsabellaKenny, BellaDe’Ath,NiamhComan,CecilyPark Nainsi McCoubrey, Alice Sloan,Tara Thom,ChloeBurrows, Kirk Maggie Back row Bennett,Sarah Bryans,: Scarlett Rain Akpojivi,RachelCairns, Isabella White, IssieHazel-Agar, AugustaMcCausland,EllenBurnside, Alexa Burns, MollyMcCoubrey, IonaBlair, Layla Corry, Terry Scarlett Front row: AnnabelPollin, Zara Gray, MollyMcCoubrey, IonaBlair, Back row:Back Katie Allen,EssieCostello, Vanessa Minford, Charlotte Acheson, NylaMallon,Megan ChercolesCarter,Acheson, ZoeGreenaway, Front row: Amy Greenaway, Freya Brand, EmilyMorrison,Sienna Wilson, AoifeO’Connor, McKenna NatashaMcMullan,Charlotte Back row:Back JemimaAgbaje, JuliaCochrane, BellaTurtle Mooney, WillaReadman, Poppy Fraser, Willow-Rose Young, Front row: Freya Brand, Sarah Bryans Jemima Readman, LotteCarter

. PENRHYN .SPORTS PE P1 – P3 Sports Day avoided the rain but there was a shower The weather was kind at our P1-P3 Sports during the last races. Guest of Honour Day in June. All of the events were was the Commonwealth Games athlete participated in with great enthusiasm by Amy Foster, who presented the medals. the girls, and many parents, grandparents, The Overall House winner was Boucher brothers and sisters came to cheer on our (Captain Ellie Johnston and Vice-Captain athletes. For many it was their first time Darcy Shields). Many thanks to Strathearn competing in a Sports Day, but everyone for allowing us to use their facilities and to enjoyed themselves and all the girls were the Sixth Formers who helped in running presented with a participation certificate. the events.

P4 – P7 Sports Day Individual Winners Our Senior Sports Day was held at Ava Sweet P4 Strathearn on the last Bank Holiday in Cecily Park P5 May with many parents and family along Vanessa Minford P6 Individual Winners to support the girls. Unfortunately, the Sophie Gordon P7 Cecily Park, Vanessa Minford, Ava Sweet day was cloudy and gloomy; we nearly JUDO CLUB CR0SS COUNTRY

Back row: Macy McCormick, Astrid McGimpsey, Katy Allsopp, Essie Costello, Grace Robinson, Heidi Moore, Lottie De’Ath, Alice Ritchie, Alice Sloan, Emma Wilson, Freya Brand, Amy Greenaway, Isla Aldworth, Ava Williams

Front row (seated/kneeling): Jemima Readman, Bella Turtle, Erin McGirr, Freya Bevan, Back row: Bella De’Ath, Nyla Mallon Laura Porter, Torrance Glover, Jemima Agbaje Front row: Katie Allen, Charlotte Acheson, Cecily Park TENNIS CLUB The after-school tennis club which runs on a Tuesday and Numbers in the classes are good and steady but we are Wednesday afternoon at CIYMS Tennis Club continues to be always keen to get more children involved in tennis. The classes a great success. Emma Crowe, one of the CIYMS tennis coach- focus on fun and technique. We aim to give the children funda- es, collects the children from school and walks them to CIYMS mental knowledge of tennis strokes and to encourage them to where the children have enjoyed tennis thoughout the winter enjoy playing in a safe, fun-filled atmosphere. months in the club indoor dome. Stephen Watters Head Coach SWIMMING

Back row: Sophia Blair, Scarlett Childs, Libbie Gordon, Katie Allen, Nyla Mallon, Delphine McGimpsey, Grace Gilchrist, Julia Cochrane, Megan Chercoles Carter

Front row: Valentina Danielli, Grace Chercoles Carter, Cecily Park, Vanessa Minford, Heidi Dunlop, Layla Corry Individual Winners Freya Brand, Katie Allen, Layla Corry, Vanessa Minford. STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 115 STRATHEARN PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION.

Due to all these great activities and the work of the Parents’ Association, we are delighted to say that our The Strathearn Parents’ Association is made up of finances are very healthy at present, with a record bank both the Penrhyn team and the Strathearn team. As you balance at the end of December 2019 of £18,570. would expect each team is focused on their respective school, however we work very closely together as one In January 2020 it was agreed between the committee association, with one constitution, one overall committee and the school that the majority of the funds raised and we raise funds together for the benefit of both would go to support the new Strathearn and Penrhyn ICT schools. We hold regular meetings of the overall Strategy, contributing to the purchase of vital hardware committee for some of the more formal activities and then and software for both schools. as individual teams for specific fundraising events. Our purpose is to support the schools, through fun fundraising We had many plans for the remainder of 2020 - a pub events and activities which enhance the girls’ overall quiz for the parents, the Penrhyn Summer Fete, more experience. used uniform sales, more discos and another ball in December. These have been put on hold for now. When This year has clearly been very unusual and challenging. the time is right, however, we hope to run more fun events Despite this, 2019 and 2020 have been hugely successful. for the girls and parents to support the schools. Indeed, Indeed, this culminated with our 90th Anniversary Gala we already have the Stormont Hotel booked for a ball Ball celebrations in November 2019 at the Stormont towards the end of 2021. Hotel. The evening was enjoyed by all, and tickets sold out very quickly. The school’s Chamber Choir kicked us off We are always looking for new committee members or with their beautiful voices. Rebecca McKinney, a former volunteers. If you would like to help in any way, please pupil, did a splendid job of hosting the evening for us and contact school reception or contact our Chairs Zoe Wilcox we rounded it off with an auction which helped us raise a (Strathearn) or Claire Ritchie (Penrhyn) through the school. whopping £10,000 for the schools. We would be delighted to welcome anyone to be part of the team. As well as the success of the gala ball we have held many other events. At Strathearn the successful discos for Years We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the 8 and 9 have taken place at the Stormont Hotel. P7 parents who give so generously of their time and money were also invited along for the February disco after their throughout the year, enabling the Parents’ Association AQE. They were well attended by pupils from Strathearn, to continue to run events and raise important funds Penrhyn, Campbell College and neighbouring schools. for both schools. It is very much appreciated. A very sincere, heartfelt thank you to all those who serve on the The Penrhyn team have been extremely busy. The team committee for their continuing support and enthusiasm. and lots of helpful volunteers ran “The Greatest Showman Also, thanks to Mr. Anderson as teacher representative Summer Fete” in May 2019. The fete was a roaring and to Mrs. Connery and Mrs. Mawhinney for their success and it was also helped by great weather. The continued support. end of term discos, where the girls get to dress up and have their photos taken against a themed photo wall with Finally, we hope that in what has been a historical year props, have proved great fun. The “used uniform” sales for many reasons that you, your girls and your families have generated lots of funds. In February, just before are all well. We very much look forward to when we can lockdown, we were able to hold our first movie night for meet again and create lasting fun memories for the girls. the girls. It was held in the Manning Hall, with popcorn Stay safe and well. and goodies provided. The girls loved it and we are so glad that it went ahead. The Penrhyn and Strathearn Parents’ Association Committee

STRATHEARN SCHOOL. 116

Artwork by Amy Ellison GCSE Cover Artwork by Grace Ruding Cover Artwork by Jessica Winton AS Level A2 Level Cover Artwork by Amy Long ‘Escape’ (One of the winning entries to the ‘Life in Lockdown Art Competition.) “For the first time, the kind owners of the STRATHEARN Rosemount Estate in Greyabbey have opened up their home to the people who live in the village, as an escape from the worries of the pandemic. This beautiful trail around the lake offers some peace and tranquility during these tough times. Everyday, I walk my dogs along this trail, allowing me to see new scenery of a village I have lived in for almost 18 years.” SCHOOL.

2020.