ISSUE No.11 SADDLEWORTH SCHOOL MAGAZINE 2019/2020

Page 09 Page 14 Page 22 Page 26 SKI TRIP COMPUTING LIVE ANNIE PROM Our annual ski trip to Disneyland Paris Our musical production Saddleworth Hotel Innsbruck

Seefeld, Innsbruck February 2020 - CONTENTS- - LETTER FROM THE HEAD- A value driven school

03 FOREWORD 30 FOSS Headteacher's letter Fundraising events Saddleworth School is a value driven school. This means of every opportunity”, and this applies to students and staff that every decision we make and everything that we do alike. We were all proud to take part in our annual sponsored 04 ARTS FESTIVAL 32 CHARITABLE GIVING and say should reflect those values. It all sounds very high walk where our students build on their great commitment Plastics revolution Raising money for good causes brow, but about five years ago we did a lot of work as a to raise money for charities as well as funds to support year school around our moral purpose and from this came our group activities by quite literally going the extra mile through 06 ART TRIP 34 EXAM RESULTS DAY values which provide us with a reference point to make the beautiful countryside we are so fortunate to work in. At the Whitworth Art gallery Congratulations to all our students sure that all that we do is done for the right reason and It is easy to take the wonderful art and photography work in the right way, and also on the occasions when things permanently displayed in our hall for granted, but it is yet 07 DOVETAILS 35 CHANGING HORIZONS don’t go as planned or hoped. another example of students grasping the opportunity to Voices in Verse At the Queen Elizabeth Hall find something they are good at and really shine. Our mission as a school is “To empower and inspire” and this is reflected in all of our outward facing materials It is perhaps even more important now than ever before, 08 SKI TRIP 36 TECHNOLOGY & and we believe that this applies to all staff, students given the current crisis we find ourselves in, that we hold fast Annual trip to Innsbruck PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS and Governors of the school. Our mission statement to our values. We very often sign off our correspondence Out in Manchester and values are on the school website, but it is worth with “stay well and stay safe”, and this is not simply a 10 WORK EXPERIENCE refocussing on them in this article of The Voice because platitude, but comes from the heart. As I leave Saddleworth Pupils share their experience 37 MMRC it is important that they are not simply words, but borne in the summer, one of the things I will take with me is the Transforming the Library out in action. incredible sense of how much everyone genuinely cares 12 PAST STUDENT about and cares for each other. The weeks following the Our values state that Saddleworth School is a place where: lockdown and the partial closure of the school have thrown SPOTLIGHT 38 THE DAILY NEWS up many challenges to the staff and students of the school, Roshni Parmar-Hill Stem Day success • We each feel that we are valued by and belong to the both physical and emotional. As our students and parents Saddleworth family cope with the strange new world of home schooling, and • All work hard and are considerate and courteous 13 MUSIC FOR YOUTH PROM 40 GO COMPOSE those in school with the strangely quiet atmosphere of Royal Albert Hall Youth music project towards each other socially distanced learning in classes of 6, it is all the more • There is a strong belief in and practice of “can do and important that we work hard and put down the foundations will do” 14 COMPUTING LIVE 41 MISSION CHRISTMAS for future learning, and be “nice” to each other in the way • We all embrace opportunity Paris Trip Delivering presents that we care for and support each other through these • We are all encouraged to nurture and develop our difficult times. When we look through the wonderful articles passion in this magazine, we are reminded of what a fantastic place 16 DUKE OF EDINBURGH 42 FESTIVE CHEER • Everyone has a shared sense of community or of Saddleworth School is to work and learn in; they also provide Silver Award Christmas Concert themselves Bronze Award Community Service Carol Service inspiration and an aspiration of what might be again once • We develop a sense of our place within the global Senior Citizens Christmas Party we work our way through the truly insane times in which we community Community Christmas Carols find ourselves. 19 HISTORY TRIP • There is strong mutual respect, pride in self and in

London others, tolerance and collaboration Stay well and stay safe. 44 FISHING TRIP • We all model the behaviours of responsible and Les Webbers Angling Project 20 MFL successful individuals promoting aspirational attitudes Highlight on Language Trips and enabling fulfilment of potential in others 45 NATIONAL SUPPORT • We have a community based on equality and opportunity in which all are valued and can and do 22 MUSICAL PRODUCTION SCHOOL Dave Watson Annie What it means access • We embrace success and take pride in our own Headteacher achievements and those of others 24 SPORTS AWARDS 46 FAMILY HUB Sporting achievements Supporting families It is my great privilege as Headteacher, to be able to speak with the staff at the start of each week on all that 26 PROM NIGHT 48 SUCCESS has happened the previous week that has been great At the Saddleworth Hotel Sporting highlights and reflects our values. We have so many examples of staff and students going the extra mile for the school 28 PRESENTATION 50 IN LOVING MEMORY and for each other. We have seen fantastic musical and Tribute to Barrie sporting performances, and every student grasping the EVENING opportunity to speak about their learning and share it Recognition of achievements with their teachers, parents and peers during the PDR days. Alongside the PDR days we have seen arts, literary 29 MATHS TRIPS and sporting events that our students have grasped with Inspirational trips both hands, and as I visit classrooms in the school every day, I see fantastic teaching and learning taking place.

Our values essentially break down into a simpler form as “Work hard, be nice to each other and make the very best

2 voice voice 3 - ARTS FESTIVAL- Plastics Revolution

During the four days of the Arts Festival, students and of seabirds, dying of starvation, some with the equivalent, staff explored issues around plastic pollution in the in human terms, of twelve pizzas’ worth of plastic in their world today and came up with practical solutions and stomachs. alternatives that we can all adopt in order to make our Finally, we explored recent discoveries about microplastics, contribution towards mitigating this environmental crisis. which may ultimately affect our own health, being found At the start of the day, students arrived at the door of in the air and in food such as shellfish, salt and honey. We Boarshurst Band Club to find that they would only be reflected on the way that microplastics are now found in admitted entry if they were wearing plastic. A few bemused plankton, and the importance of these creatures as both faces soon came to realise that blazers, ties, etc. all contain a food source for our ocean species, and in terms of the polyester and nylon. Many realised that the soles of most immense contribution they make in providing over fifty 1. Replace single use water bottles and disposable of our shoes are plastic-based too. The purpose behind this percent of the oxygen we breathe. We explained that the cups with refillable alternatives. task was to encourage students to reflect on how ubiquitous concern for scientists – and us all – is that we don’t know the 2. Avoid cling-film to wrap sandwiches, replacing it plastic is today – we are almost ‘blind’ to its usage. long-term implications of all of these findings. with reusable lunch boxes, recyclable foil, etc. Having explored artwork inspired by the need to spread To conclude, we asked students to make one pledge – a 3. Use a metal rather than a plastic straw. the word on the impact of plastic pollution, we encouraged change that they could make in the way they use single- students to think about all the plastic they had encountered use plastics. To support them with this, we explored 4. Use a refillable pen/fountain pen – plastic is still since getting up in the morning: toothpaste tubes, cereal various options, which are being trialled by the leaders of involved, but quantities are less. packets and milk containers were all examples. the session. We discussed the negative and positive cost 5. Find out if there is a glass milk bottle delivery in implications of some of these alternatives, alongside the In light of the fact that we as a school want to make your area. idea that the simple polite refusal of plastics after paying for changes to the way we use single-use plastic, we started goods at our supermarket tills– a strategy recently explained 6. Replace plastic-based wet wipes with washable to encourage students to consider how just making one on the BBC ‘War Against Plastics’ programme, and popular alternatives that can just go in with your washing. change can have immense impact when we make those with many social media groups – is still a pledge in itself. changes together, the example of single-use plastic water 7. Try to buy cosmetics and beauty products which bottles being one of our biggest culprits. By the end of the four days, our students had created a sea are not wrapped in plastics, e.g. Lush in Manchester. of pledges against a sea of plastics, and it was fantastic to Having discussed the issues around sending plastic to discover how many students and teachers were already on landfill, and recent news reports about some of the UK’s board or were willing to make small personal sacrifices to Want to know more? Charities and companies such recycling collections not being recycled at all, we turned ensure a better future for all. as Friends of the Earth, WWF, Plastic Oceans and our attention to the impact on our oceans. We watched a Ecotricity all have information on their websites. short film, released by the United Nations about the plight Tips for reducing single-use plastics:

4 voice voice 5 - ART TRIP- - DOVETALES- By Zoe Cummins Voices in Verse

On 11th December, a group of Year 10 art students paid Before having lunch, we quickly browsed a small Last year we launched the Dovestone Learning Partnership published in this year’s ‘Voices in Verse’ magazine, which has a visit to the beautiful Whitworth Art Gallery. From the exhibition of tapestries with hangings by Morris and Co., annual writing competition, with the aim of finding a way been shared with all those involved and celebrated at the moment we arrived, we were astounded by some of the Grayson Perry, Marta Rogoyska and Eduardo Paolozzi to inspire younger students to write more for creatively Dovetales Literary Festival Evening. inspiring pieces of artwork adorning the gallery walls. sitting alongside thick carpets from Central Asia, fine silks and for pleasure. We widened the competition further, and This celebration event took place at Uppermill Civic Hall on from China and ancient fabric fragments from Peru and were joined by Freehold Community Primary Academy, The first thing that we did upon arrival was browse the evening of Monday 1st July, when over three hundred Egypt. I really enjoyed seeing Grayson Perry’s work and with all ten schools entering poems on the broad topic of the gallery and consider why people might visit it. We guests (students and parents) were invited to hear the how it symbolically represents the political entropy that memorable experiences. came up with many reasons, from tourism to students announcement of the winners. We were fortunate to be we live in today. like ourselves there to learn. The exhibitions included The project was discussed with KS2 teachers and we joined by international best-selling writer, Phaedra Patrick, work from famous artists, such as Paul Cézanne to After lunch we did a printmaking workshop with had organised for the National Literacy Trust to run some who presented the prizes to our aspiring writers. Music was more obscure artists, such as Barry Anthony Finan - a the amazing Alan Birch, an artist who specialises in training with schools in the partnership, in order to support provided by Mr Leedale and the DLP Band which really typographical artist with work in the contemporary printmaking and etchings. We had the opportunity to us with the teaching of writing, poetry in particular. Much added to the jovial mood of the lovely summer evening. A exhibition ‘Exchange’. This exhibition aims to rectify the make our own prints and etchings - using the drawings research has been done into the value of writing about real number of students bravely volunteered to read their work historic imbalance between white male artists and other that we had produced in the previous exhibitions - by experiences, so there was a wide range of topics chosen aloud on stage. artists who have been sidelined because they are female, using ink and a printing press. by schools as inspiration, including visits to the Stockport Saddleworth Deputy Head, Mrs Briggs, announced the black, non-Western, LGBTQ+ or marginalised in some Air Raid Shelters and Robinwood Activity Centre, and the It was a great trip which I think we all really enjoyed and winners from our school. Runners up were Rayana Bushara other way. impact of the Saddleworth Moor fire on locals, wildlife and I believe that it was possibly one of the most successful (‘The Fierce Fire’) and Hattie McTernan (‘Fear’), with Charlie the landscape. Some students wrote about experiences After browsing some of the fabulous artworks in the school trips that I’d ever been on! All of the students Evans being the overall winning writer with his poem ‘A more personal to them, including living in Oldham, facing permanent collection, we went into an exhibition called found it very inspiring and engaging. We would like to say Battle Rages’. fears and losing loved ones. ‘Unreformed’. This exhibition celebrated the design reform a massive thank you to Miss Pickup and Mrs Leitheiser for Mrs Michell, Language for Learning Co-ordinator, announced movement of the middle of the nineteenth century. The organising and taking us on the trip. Some schools asked if Mr Unsworth could visit again this the primary school winners: one from each school and exhibition was a myriad of Victorian wallpapers, showing year to offer support and advice. He is one of Saddleworth then the top three. Third place went to Eiliyah Afzaal the range of what was considered at the time to be both School’s IT technicians, as well as our resident poet and a from Knowsley for ‘The Journey’; second place to Ollie ‘good’ and ‘bad’ taste. We tried to reproduce our own published writer. He has already done some inspiring work Chamberlain from St. Thomas Leesfield with ‘I’m from versions of these intricate designs in a variety of styles in over the last couple of years with a variety of Saddleworth Oldham, me!’; and the overall winner was Jess Kilmartin from mediums such as ballpoint pen and continuous line. After students, including those who are more reluctant writers. He Delph with ‘Acrobat’. that, we went to a vast space with huge windows where was joined by Mr Lucas and Mr Attridge in working with a we drew the trees in the surrounding Whitworth Park on number of our partner schools. It was a truly wonderful evening, with some lovely new black paper with a white crayon. memorable moments for all those involved. Over six hundred students were involved in writing an entry, with the top twenty-five per cent of each school being selected to be involved in the semi-final. These have been

6 voice voice 7 -SKI TRIP- By Mr Simkins

"William had a fantastic time in Austria, thank you so much to all the teachers Saddleworth School again returned to this who spent their half term providing lovely quiet and friendly resort for our annual such a wonderful week of fun, laughter ski trip. A first for this year was taking 82 pupils and enjoyment. A special thanks to Mr Simkins and Mr Moule for their from Year 8,9,10 & 11 along with a dedicated excellent organisational skills and team of 8 staff members. Due to the popularity patience with over 80 children"! of the holiday we had to travel in two separate Mrs Reece coaches with pupils divided by year groupings.

"Thanks for all your hard work and organising. Rebecca had a great time and we really appreciate all the efforts put in by yourself and the other staff to run the trip". Thanks Mrs Woolfenden

Our chosen departure of Lunchtime on the Wednesday again By the end of the week all of the students, regardless of proved to be of immense value as there were no holdups their previous skiing levels had made great progress in at the ports of Dover or Calais and almost empty nursery’s their ability. We are not an Olympic training group, just a slopes for our first two days in resort. large party of likeminded students looking to have a great time in gorgeous surrounding enjoying fresh mountain The first three days were spent skiing in near perfect air, getting exercise, developing their skills and above all conditions, even the sun came out especially for us, we also having a blooming good laugh with their friends. enjoyed an evening in a fantastic swimming and leisure centre. We arrived back to school without any skiing related For a day’s rest for tired legs, we went on an excursion injuries, this is does not happen by accident (please to the beautiful city of Innsbruck, the day ended with a ignore the pun), it’s down to meticulous planning, hours delicious pizza at a popular restaurant. Our group including of dedication by the staff and cooperation from all of our our four professional drivers meant the restaurant had to be wonderful students. closed to other patrons, by the end of the evening the poor chef looked exhausted, mind you he had just handmade Since returning to school we have been asked would we and cooked 94 pizzas. take such a large group away again, after some thought that answer is of course yes, as we have many, many Whilst in Innsbruck the pupils purchased a souvenir note incredible pupils within the school that deserve these book which was passed around every person in our party amazing opportunities. We also have an experienced team so that they could write a thank you to Mr Moule for of staff that work tirelessly together to ensure the trips run organising the trip. smoothly for the pupils that have waited so long for the The last two days were spent back on the slopes with an holiday. afternoon departure on the last day, the pupil’s cooperation Thank you’ s must go to the travel company in resort reps with packing and organisation skills meant a perfect on time Jeff and Beth, Maynes Coaches drivers, the superb staff departure, this was nothing short of a miracle considering team and of course the ambassadors of Saddleworth how dishevelled their rooms were only a few hours earlier. school – the students themselves.

8 voice voice 9 - WORK EXPERIENCE AT HOPE TECHNOLOGY- - WORK EXPERIENCE- By Archie Casson By Melissa Demsteader

The weekend before my work experience started, I had My manager in this department was Rob Jones, who was a been racing in South Wales. On Sunday evening, on the great guy. As I had some skills from working in the bike shop way back, I just couldn’t believe that I was going to Hope in Greenfield, and from looking after my own bike, Rob was impressed and let me actually work on the bikes. One of my Technology – I was so excited. From the 8th to the 12th of July I had the best opportunity Despite having very little time in between our abundance jobs was sealing a wheel, I have had a lot of experience with Hope Technology is one of the world leaders in engineering to do work experience at the Civic Centre, Oldham in the of meetings, Guy gave me work to do around knife crime; this as my Dad and his business partner have just developed bicycle components. If you are in to biking, you would leader of the council’s office. Officially I was shadowing because I’m on Oldham Youth Council it meant I was able a new latex free product. From my knowledge, I was able to crave having Hope components on your bike. Since the the executive research and policy advisor Guy Parker, to write a full report on, not just on the rise of knife crime discuss the’Tyre Yogurt’ and even took some in for the guys co-founders started the company 25 years ago, Hope but shadowing is definitely an understatement as I was but, the deeper social implications behind it and I offered to test – they are now going to talk to us about buying the Technology have been pushing the industry forward through encouraged by councillors and officers alike to offer my solutions as to what the council should do next. It just ‘Tyre Yogurt’ sealant. designing, testing and manufacturing virtually all products views and opinions on different topics. This was very so happened that I was also speaking at motion to full in-house at the factory in Barnoldswick. Whilst I was there, I had the chance to speak to Rob about beneficial because they would always remark at how great council about knife crime the following Wednesday. All my a problem I was having with my bike when I changed the it was to have a young person’s views. involvement meant I was chosen to speak in Sean Fielding’s When I arrived at the factory, I was a little nervous about forks for different downhill tracks. The team were amazing weekly vlog and was definitely a highlight of the week. going in but then saw Woody Hole, Site Manager who was Whilst on work experience we had a growing amount of and showed me how to solve the problem and also gave me going to be my mentor for the week. I got out of the car, meetings to attend. I was always made to feel comfortable I understand that everyone has had different levels of some new parts to stop me having trouble in the future. walked over, shook his hand and we walked in. I felt like and included but also, with my confident character, I would positive experience on work placement and I hope to start Charlie going into the Chocolate Factory. Another of the benefits of working at Hope Tech is that they independently introduce myself to a lot of new people I seeing people becoming more aware of the real world of have a pump track at the back of the factory. At lunch time would meet around me. For me I think the hardest part of work as both work experience and community participation During the factory tour, I got to see all the departments on you can simply grab your bike from the rack and go have work experience was deciding what to wear. We had to be develops a good understanding within young people. site. From design to etching and carbon, virtually everything have a play about on the track. I was really impressed that smart. But also not too formal. It was a completely new work is done in-house. Everywhere I looked was engineering and Hope Tech do so much for their staff. They have pool tables, environment for me. technology. To see the bits on my bike being made was patio furniture and a gym. Regularly the owner, Ian will amazing. arrange rides for the guys followed by a BBQ. A lot of the On Monday, after my tour, I was in the ‘Wheel Department’ people that work at the company have been there from the - WORK EXPERIENCE- – this team build wheels, lacing up the spokes and fitting start – everyone feels that they are part of a family. I would By Harry Reeves the hubs. I had an idea what to do but was shown and then definitely like to work for a company like Hope Tech – fingers allowed to practice on a faulty wheel so I could have some crossed after college they might have a vacancy. hands-on experience. The order I was working on was 600 On Thursday, Mr Airnes came over to visit me. He also had a units for Wiggle and 150 units for ProBike. factory tour and I think he even felt wowed by what he saw. Last year I was on a work experience placement at Aspect. LTE. As well as site visits I completed some spreadsheets The next day, I went into the Etching department. A feature No doubt you will be able to guess that I had the most IT where they give IT support to businesses who need on Excel to calculate the profits of certain services and of a lot of Hope Tech products is the distinctive etched amazing week at Hope Tech. The people I met were brilliant virus protection or simply a connection to the internet. to also recognise the potential clients for that particular logo. Sophie, who runs the department showed me how the and made me feel really welcome. I was really happy when From Monday to Friday I worked eight hours from nine service who didn’t use it. system is set up and I watched a lot of different parts go they said they would be happy to have me back again for to five which was quite tiring as I was used to only doing through the process. A lot of the etching is very regimented On the last day the boss, called Ian, paid for a fish and chip future placements. 6 hours which although doesn’t look like much of a but they also have the facility to personalise parts for team lunch for all of us as it was a special occasion, as they didn’t difference, it was a big challenge on me to adapt to the riders such as ‘Adam Brayton’ who is one of their sponsored From my time with the company, I picked up some new bike have a placement before me. I was even allowed to watch a working environment. UCI riders. skills, met some great people and confirmed to myself that bit of the Wimbledon women’s final on my second monitor I want to follow a career in engineering within the biking Throughout the week I had many jobs to do to get the that I used in the week. My favourite department was the ‘Workshop’ where they industry. With technological advances and new materials, overall experience of working life in Aspect.IT. For instance look after the team riders’ bikes, Academy bikes and the Overall I enjoyed meeting new people in an office and developments are being made all the time. I would love to be I went on a site visit to a place called LTE Scientific where bikes of any of the 160 staff. Once you have worked at Hope also doing jobs, which I have never done before, and part of this and maybe have some of my input rolled out into I observed my work colleague fixing a broken printer Tech for 6 months, you can get a bike of your choosing – simultaneously learning loads about computers.. bike technology in the future. which wasn’t on the same system as all the other ones at this is just one of the benefits of working for the company.

10 voice voice 11 -SPOTLIGHT ON PAST STUDENTS- - MUSIC FOR YOUTH PROM- Roshni Parmar-Hill By Ruby Whitehead

More success for Roshni Former Greenhead College Student, Roshni Parmar-Hill was announced the winner of a British Education Award in the A Level, North of England category on Thursday 30th January 2020. The prestigious British Education Awards, held at the Hilton Hotel in Manchester, identify and celebrate individuals who have excelled within the British education system. Roshni, who now reads History at Cambridge University, was nominated for this award by the college following her outstanding A Level success of four A* grades in History, Philosophy, Religion & Ethics, English Literature and the Extended Project Qualification, plus her impressive participation in a number of endeavours both in and outside of college. An elected member of Youth Parliament, Roshni passionately debated for Votes at 16 in the House of Commons which she then discussed further on National Television on the BBC’s Sunday Politics. Roshni was also the leader of the UK delegation at the IMEP in Madrid, bringing together all member states from the EU to create a model experience of the European Parliament. Part of Hello, I’m Roshni and last year I packed my bags, leaving the FEMM committee, Roshni helped produce a resolution the rolling hills of Saddleworth and went to Cambridge that is now official EU documentation. In September 2019 University to study History. Roshni attended the European Parliament in Brussels for an Only a few years ago I was in the same position as many of ‘aspiring young female leaders’ project. you right now, wearing my blue blazer and tie (seven stripes On 13th November 2019, Oldham Youth Orchestra played At the interval, we went backstage and waited in the wings Other notable achievements include winning the award for long) not knowing what the future could bring. But using the at the Royal Albert Hall in the ‘Music For Youth Prom’. This to go on stage. I had mixed emotions waiting - I was Best Actress in the North West for her role of Anne Frank, wisdom of hindsight, that has always been the master tool for is one of the greatest achievements of the Youth Orchestra extremely nervous but I was really excited too. being an Ambassador for Hope not Hate and her continuous any historian, I have noticed how much Saddleworth School and one I’m really proud to have been a part of. voluntary work at both Oxfam and at Oldham Unity, a project We played 2 pieces on our own – Peter Martin's 'Toccata’ and subsequently Greenhead College offered me. to help refugees and asylum seekers when they have nowhere We have over 70 musicians, with 5 current Saddleworth where our very own percussion superstar Oliver Bates During those five years at Saddleworth that never seemed to else to turn, providing them with clothes, food and support. students – Oliver B, Elise S, Imogen C, Lucy B, and me – plus played the Glockenspiel solo, and the magnificent final end I had some of the most informative experiences of my life. several past pupils in there too. At 11 I’m chuffed to be the movement of Respighi's ‘Pines of Rome’, which is really quiet Firstly, the school can and will be the springboard to countless youngest member of the current orchestra. to start with, and then gradually becomes really powerful opportunities, I was always predominantly interested in The orchestra was invited to perform at the Royal Albert Hall and rousing. helping others so I was involved in setting up and running the after playing so brilliantly at the ‘Music For Youth Festival’ in We were amazing! We performed the best we had ever in-school peer mentor scheme. This may sound impressive Birmingham in the Summer. played, and the sound was absolutely phenomenal. I was or not, but really it was just a small group of students who We only found out we were going at the end of the summer so focused on playing I only really became conscious of the cared enough to get their act together and do something holidays, and have practised since September for the audience at the end when they were cheering and clapping. worthwhile. Really who is to say that can’t be you too? concert. There was a big screen behind us showing close-up shots The school is extremely well connected, so beyond the of each of the players and as I glanced up and saw a huge We had a mega early start, meeting at 6.30am to get the confines of rainy Uppermill and sheep-filled Saddleworth mugshot of Oliver playing percussion! coach down to London. We arrived just in time for rehearsal I was able to join Oldham Youth Council with some at 12:30pm. At the end of the show we played ‘The Future is Us’ as a encouragement from the staff and I haven’t looked back massed item with the other performers – all together with a since. Since joining the council I have been to Poland, We had a quick rehearsal in the bar before going into the 700+ strong choir, our orchestra and a Jazz band. Balloons spoken in the House of Commons and held a mock trail at main hall. I was nervous stepping onto the stage for first were released from the ceiling and fireworks and streamers the Old Bailey. This could not have even been conceived time but it was magical too. We accompanied the massed went off around us – it was amazing! in my wildest imaginations if it wasn’t for the help and choir in the first onstage rehearsal and it was completely 'I really can't say that I am the winner of the British I struggle to find the words that describe how amazing the encouragement of the staff around me. Education Awards because it wasn't just me behind the mind blowing. I was still tingling whilst having tea in a nearby restaurant later in the afternoon. Mr Booth wanted us to whole experience was - It felt truly awe-inspiring and I was All these amazing experiences are right at our fingertips, but success. This award goes to the whole of Greenhead ‘look the part’, so I wore a full-length black evening dress so proud standing there and taking a bow; it all felt, and still it is the job of our own will and motivation to grasp them. who has empowered and inspired me to think beyond my Granny had made especially for me. For the actual feels, quite surreal. Without Saddleworth School and what it has done for me I the conventional. Without the support, teaching and performance, we sat in the audience for the first half. The It was a long journey home and was extremely cold … we would still be a naïve child to the world, but instead this place environment the college offered me, I would not be in the other young musicians from all over the country were so arrived back into Oldham at 3am. most of us had been has been the garden to plant the seeds of ambition to fulfil place I am today - and last Thursday proved that. Being talented and a real mixed bag of music styles including a awake for nearly 22 hours, so it was a very long day but any dream. When you get to my ripe old age of eighteen you able to celebrate with a few of the teachers that helped steel pan drum band, choirs and a jazz band. I really enjoyed worth every single bit of the following day’s exhaustion!! We too will understand and appreciate the highs and the lows of me in my two years at college was the greatest reward of a singer called Owain Felstead from Wales and my favourite created memories for life, and, as I am sure most others will, I high-school. So as I finish writing this small article I want to the Evening, and I hope that what I have done has shown were a jazzy funk quartet called ‘The Wandering Winds’ from SO want to do it again! thank all the teachers and the school for its boundless energy others that all it takes is the openness to be yourself and Cornwall. There was also a choir and string group from over but most of all I want to wish anyone who has read this the the ability to let others help you on the way!' the hill in Huddersfield! best of luck for the future so that when you too look back on Well done Roshni we are so proud of you from all at your past, it is filled with happiness. Saddleworth School.

12 voice voice 13 - COMPUTING LIVE! PARIS TRIP- By Mr Nazir

- PERFECT IN PARIS-

A jam packed turnaround and the weather was Grim (bley), Mr Melling continually on his Twitter relaying his pictures at leisure. We headed out of the Parrish (Tom) and the fun could begin. Libby Shea got scammed into buying a 50 Euro replacement park pass, Perfect behaviour on the coach, not a Russell at all (Aimee) and no-one acting lairy, Mr Melling fell asleep in the conference, is he running out of gas? Not too Far (rah Connor) until the first services and a meeting with humming Mary! Maddy bravely asked a question in the auditorium and Miss Grimbley’s phone went off twice, Graham our gleeful, generous Cumbrian driver donating his free voucher for food, A fantastic YMCA picture on the Tower of Terror added entrepreneurial spice. Nieve Sling (O) ing in the doughnuts, even a Stucke (Mr) DVD player could not dampen the mood! Two hours marooned through engine failure in the English Channel, Free ice creams for everyone except Miss Muir who had suddenly taken ill, A new Boppit record for Aimee, Mc Nazir on the Mic with his usual flannel. Staff borrowing money from one another to buy fish and chips and cover the bill.

The service stations in France are “far too French” our group commented, SEAL skin socks for Melling to keep his feet dry and endless Guardian Crosswords to keep the staff The wait for the toilets is ridiculous the masses lamented. stimulated, The girls lost their mini-mouse ears on a ride and came back frustrated. Gangster beats emanating from the rugby lads situated on the back seat, Mr Lucas on breakfast duty, what great service, its ALL YOU CAN EAT! At Planet Hollywood the group are harmoniously singing Sweet Caroline, As we disembarked Finn found a purse and selflessly carried the water, If we didn’t keep getting locked out of our rooms things would be just fine. Jaedon retrieved Caelum’s phone and it still had its data! A visit to McDonalds and Blake’s eating challenge triumph was no Flook (Katie), McDonalds kept in business by the amount that he took. Into the Park (Isobel) and Emily had to Spurr (Grace) on Chloe who felt poorly sick, Scary face-masks, as many attempted a self-administered beauty treatment, Grimbley and Muir to the rescue which did just the trick! A press up and reverse burpee competition provided spontaneous entertainment. Maya was missing home, but she got a battery pack and contacted mum, After a late night impromptu meeting the Mr Nazir (The Falcon) starts day three back on his perch, Jack and co were not prepared to Sin (field) so to make meal-time they decided to run. Going to breakfast without shoes on your reputation will besmirch. Prize winners aplenty at the inaugural Lucas “Stop the Bus” quiz post-meal, Another successful year, where our Jacob returned an old guy’s hat and ate multiple crepes, this guy’s the real deal. The Omul live location tracker worked for a while but was not impregnable, students took themselves off to Paris to Mr Nazir needed a sabbatical, you know it takes serious time to get our rooms ready, Bella and Jess Ball still on the search for food and a Maccies, never satiated or full. attend the Live Computing Conference Mr Lucas needs his fifth Café Au Lait, a necessity to keep himself steady. At Passport control the French emigration officers did not like the look of our coach-load, After a game of Thorn and Rose it was off to see the fireworks and FROZEN depicted in French, So we got out of their hair quickly and back onto the road; with Mr Nazir and his team. Huge thanks Some of the girls cried with emotion but not our Nolan, he’s just hench. With Grace and Libby Shea adopting the floor sleeping position, to Mr Lucas, Mr Melling, Miss Muir and It was down to Blake and Jaedon to share a karaoke rendition. Miss Grimbley. Staff and Students have Bruce queued for ages for a ride he didn’t eventually see through, The staff playing “Heads Up” with our driver and predicting the time of the arrival home, been incredible, there were lots of funny Omul had gone absent without leave totally out of the blue. Max Jones worrying Miss Muir with GCSE PE answers unknown. At the end of day one Miss Grimbley showed off her epic Insta story, As we Pierred (Elley) towards the final stages of the trip we reflected on our Riley (Ben) good time, moments during our journey, some of Mr Lucas’s socks were stained brown, in that there’s no glory. At the Mid (Wood Olivia) point of this school year we know this group will be fine; which have been captured by Mr Melling A trip with pupils as sweet as Honey (Marland) and with staff as evergreen as Jasmine (Lowther), in the form of a poem. As the cock crowed on day two Maddie Balled at Mr Nazir to “Go Away!” We will look back fondly at this jaunt in years to come with a knowing grin. Lucy the Godmother was put in charge of tracking Omul, from the beaten path she must not stray. Friendships made, bonds grown and memories forged together, Despite our hopes and wishes the rain continued to pour down, An exemplary trip for us all upon which we will reminisce forever. Seventy minutes queuing for a ride yet still no reason to frown. Ruby admonished Mr Lucas for teasing and applying peer pressure,

14 voice voice 15 - DUKE OF EDINBURGH- SILVER AWARD By Harry Reeves (Head Boy) and Grace Woodcock (Head Girl)

The Year 11 students finished the Dofe silver award just cows. Our group had many ways of entertaining like telling after we were doing bronze. This year we did twice as embarrassing stories and making up ridiculous songs. much time for volunteering and an extra night of camping Another personal highlight was that my bronze and silver and more time walking. This meant that our bags were groups were mixed up completely, and I only knew a few of heavier, and we needed to walk for longer. I was using my my new group so I had a nice bonding over the 3 trips. smart watch which tracked my average amount of steps Everything from teaching small kids to play tennis and over the few days and it was nearly 38,000 which was learning new skills from camping and how to read a map almost 4 times the daily goal. has been great. It is impossible to condense all the days’ Besides the extra weight and time, it was fun as none worth of happiness into a few words but I have sincerely of that time was wasted. I really enjoyed looking at the enjoyed the DoFe experience and will miss it. natural areas and the countless amounts of sheep and Harry Reeves

If I had to describe my Dofe experience in one sentence, as we had to be up early, however half of us were sat at it would be an experience I am not likely to forget! Both a bench two fields up from where we were camping, all bronze and silver had both highs and lows, however I think with our hats on and our fluffy socks as it was beyond silver was more of an enjoyable experience because we freezing, (bearing in mind it was the end of September) sat knew what we were expecting. around one picnic bench talking and winding each other I'd say a highlight of doing silver Dofe was arriving at the up. We thought we'd all got away with being up 'late' as we campsites and finding out if we'd got there first or last, thought both Mrs Reece and Dr Rowan had gone to bed... after walking for over 7 hours a day in the sun, or the cold, Oh how we were wrong. or with blisters, (sometimes all three which was never a However, the end result of the silver expedition were good combination!). very sore feet, but also a massive sense of achievement. With everyone talking about certain moments during our It is probably one of the most mentally and physically adventures during the day, which varied from someone challenging and draining things I'll ever have to do, but it falling over because their bag was too heavy, or falling really is worth it and I'm very glad I did it. down a hill, or two people having the rest of their group If any Year 7s or Year 8s are thinking of doing it, do it. It’s in hysterics because they were arguing about which path one of the most rewarding things I've ever done, and when to take, we all had something to talk about when we were you complete both awards and look back on it, you might eating and being able to relax at camp. actually say you enjoyed it! One highlight of my silver Dofe experience was during our Grace Woodcock final expedition, we were all supposed to be in our tents

16 voice voice 17 - HISTORY TRIP TO LONDON- By Miss Poppleton

- DUKE OF EDINBURGH- B RONZE AWARD The Philip Renold Award for Outstanding Community Service Dr Richard Knowles (Governor at Saddleworth School)

A presentation was made for Outstanding Community • local Rainbows or Cubs; Service on the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme at • Key Stages 1 and 2 primary children with reading, Saddleworth School and named after the late Philip arithmetic, art and literacy Renold. • local After School Clubs with craft, baking and clean Philip Renold was an inspirational teacher at up and outdoor games Saddleworth School for 12 years from the mid 1970s. • local Day Nursery, Pre-School or Reception Classes He trained in Outdoor Pursuits as part of his teacher with learning and outdoor activities training, introduced the Duke of Edinburgh Award • Primary School sport transition to secondary school Scheme at Saddleworth School, and quickly developed • local Park Run to promote fitness it into the largest scheme in Oldham. He had a passion • junior basketball, girls and boys cricket, dancing, for helping children developing their self-reliance. girls and boys football, gymnastics, lacrosse, netball, swimming and tennis coaching and/or training /or The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme started in refereeing 1956 and now operates in 144 countries with 420,000 • Under 12s Manchester Giants participants in the UK and operates at Bronze, Silver • Saddleworth Riding for Disabled and Gold levels. There are four parts to the Award What a pleasure it was for Miss Poppleton, Mrs to leaving their rooms immaculately tidy and showing • Sheltered housing - gardens - Volunteering in Community Service or helping O'Leary, Mr Sandhu and Mr Pheby to spend the great understanding and interest on the Jack the • Oldham Theatre Workshop age 6-8 Imaginers individuals; Developing Practical and Social Skills; weekend with so many of our wonderful Year 11 Ripper Tour; they were superstars all weekend! It was • Mossley Next Generation Musical Theatre Physical Improvement in sport, dance or fitness; pupils in January. evident that they will be leaving our school this year as • Diggle Band Club Planning, training and completing an Expedition. wonderful, model citizens of society and I have every • St Thomas Delph Church sideperson Every one of them was a credit to our school and confidence they will go on to be successful in the future. The range of Community Service undertaken for many • Delph Party in the Park clean up conducted themselves in exemplary fashion! From hours, week after week by Saddleworth School pupils is Thank you for your contributions over the weekend and • Delph Library entertaining us on the coach with their interesting song commendable and includes helping with- throughout the last five years! • Dovestone Youth Rangers requests (Dolly Parton and Elton John were favourites!!), • St Mary’s Church Charity Shop • Age UK Uppermill The History trip to London was fantastic and was absolutely worth going! I have never been to London before and I have always wanted to go there. While we were there we got to see many landmarks and exhibitions such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, The London Eye, Covent Garden, Leicester Square, The Jack the Ripper Tour, The Tower of London and The London Dungeons! As you can see, we managed to cram a lot of London into 2 days! I think it is especially beneficial to register your interest in going on this trip if you are studying GCSE History as The Jack the Ripper Tour especially provides a lot of extra information for the Whitechapel Crime and Punishment topic you do as part of your History GCSE. Finally, I would like to thank Miss Poppleton who This year, the Philip Renold Award for Outstanding Also commended this year was Joe Aston for three did a great job of organising this trip and Mrs O’Leary, Community Service on the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award activities: 3D Dynamos Under 10s football training, Mr Sandhu and Mr Pheby who did a great job of Scheme at Saddleworth School was given to James Booth Curzon Ashton Football and Greenfield Cricket Club looking after us whilst we were in London! for three Community Service activities: children age 7 to 9 Under 13 Girls training. self defence anti-bullying class, respect and citizenship; Jiu Alexander Jagger 11N Jitsu; miniatures model building and painting.

18 voice voice 19 -MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES TRIPS-

VIVA LANGUAGES TRIP TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER By Thomas Rowland & Matthew Guttridge

MANCHESTER UNIVERSITY TRIP The Viva Languages trip to the University of ours being Portuguese. This helped to show us what a Manchester was a fantastic experience for the Year typical day at the university would involve. This lesson We took 21 pupils to the University of Manchester 9 students. It most certainly opened up our eyes to highlighted how the facilities and staff at the university languages open day. We had a tour of the what a future with modern languages could look like could assist us in our journey through languages. university, had a taster session in Arabic / Chinese and showed us how much fun we could have, visiting and did a subtitling task using short films. This is Overall, we really enjoyed the experience of being foreign cultures and making new friends abroad. what our pupils had to say about the day. shown how languages could shape our futures, aid ‘Great experience and an insight into how university The day began with us arriving at the university and employment, and enrich our lives. works’ being given a short brief that gave us a glimpse into how the day would go. We spoke about how vital a ‘It was a great day. I have learnt so much about the uni.’ ‘I think it was a tremendous experience and was a foreign language can be for your career and how it ‘Today was good. It made me want to carry on with super day to learn new things, It was very interesting can aid you further in life. We were then given a very languages and think about going to Manchester talking to students and walking around Manchester riveting talk by students who study at the university. University.’ University’s campus.’ They told us what an MFL course would entail, and that through hard work you can achieve your ‘I found today really interesting and a really good ‘The Manchester University trip has definitely language aspirations. insight into Manchester University’s languages courses.’ encouraged me to look at learning a new language ‘The Manchester University trip was really interesting. and changed my thoughts on going to university and After this, we were tasked with creating our own I was able to gain an insight into what university is studying a new language.’ scenario in the language we study at school, with the help of one of the MFL students at the university. like. I particularly enjoyed the subtitling task. I enjoyed ‘I thought today was really fun and enjoyable. Our Through this activity we were able to learn lots of useful learning a bit of Arabic and learning about the culture. ambassador was really good and it made it more new vocabulary. We then used this in our filmed play Overall, it was a great experience which has made me entertaining. I also learned a bit of Chinese which was that was then shown to students from a number of think about taking French at A-Level.’ interesting.’ ‘The Manchester University trip was very useful to me visiting schools. This helped us to learn less formal and ‘The Manchester University trip was very interesting due more relaxed language to use in the future. as I found out a lot of information that I hadn’t learnt to finding out more about different languages and how After a break for lunch and a laugh watching everyone’s before. I really enjoyed learning another language.’ they can help you in different career paths. Also, it was scenarios, we were given a taster session in another ‘My favourite part of today was going on a tour of the interesting to find out what you do as a uni student as I language that you can study at the university, with campus and learning Chinese because it was very didn’t know what to expect.’ interesting and fun to learn. The Chinese characters were also very challenging but fun to draw.’

FROM SADDLEWORTH TO STRASBOURG By Mr Moule MFL VISIT TO FRIEZLAND SCHOOL During the October half term took Saddleworth School On Thursday 30th January, Miss Livingstone's French animals, fruit & veg, greeting and French culture to students and the languages department (and me) on class walked down to Friezland Primary School (yes all of years 2, 3 and 4. The teachers at the school a trip to Strasbourg. The trip, organised by Miss Young, we walked all the way!). Friezland School got in touch mentioned that our students were naturals with was a chance for us to take on and sample some of the and invited us to be part of their French immersion the younger ones, and everyone learned so much. very diverse culture of the city. day, to help the younger children start their journey I wonder if we might have some future language On our guided tour of the city we learned about how of learning Modern Foreign Languages. teachers in the making... watch this space! the city has been under French and German rule and Miss Livingstone's Year 10 class were absolutely had a very violent past. Thankfully things seem to have amazing! They decided what they wanted to teach, settled a bit now and it is now at the heart of Europe and planned out activities to help the children with the city having the official seat of the European learn. The resources they made were top-notch parliament. and showed a really strong understanding of how The children were fascinated by the dramatic stories of younger children learn best. wartime Strasbourg and were shown evidence of the On the day, everyone was all a little nervous but they different rulers of the city by the architecture when we had done loads of preparation and dress rehearsals went on the boat trip. We also had the opportunity to to make sure they were as ready as they could be. sample some local Alsatian delicacies when we went to The afternoon could simply not have gone better! To a local restaurant. say that the Saddleworth School pupils did us proud, Over the three days we were there the children is an understatement. They taught numbers, colours, behaved impeccably and were a pleasure to be with. Thanks again to Miss Young for organising the trip.

20 voice voice 21 SADDLEWORTH SCHOOL “I have just attended PRESENTS the performance of “We have been to “Annie” at your school all three nights and and needless to say it is the quality and the second year in a row enthusiasm shown that I have been reduced by the cast and the to tears. The talent orchestra has been that each child brought fantastic.” including your school band was absolutely outstanding. ”

In the very last week of term Saddleworth School Performing Arts Department presented our third, highly acclaimed musical performance. We chose to do Annie, a much loved family favourite. As ever, Saddleworth staff and students worked incredibly hard, rehearsing night after night to create a performance of the highest quality. We chose to use a video wall this year to create the many different sets required in this complicated play which really added to the overall professional quality. The cast worked superbly together, creating a fantastic rapport that really came across to the audiences and many have since become firm friends! Our wonderful parents, staff and friends attended in droves and sent in some wonderful feedback which was much appreciated after all our hard work! “It was a wonderful performance; something to lift the soul ”

“I would just like to thank all the pupils in the Annie production for a fantastic evening. The acting, singing, dancing and the orchestra were beyond all expectations. Every child on stage gave an amazing performance and should be extremely proud of what they have achieved. The music and drama department have certainly worked tremendously hard with all the rehearsal to produce such a brilliant performance so a huge thank you to all the staff involved.” Mr Madden

“A huge thank you for “I absolutely“Just wanted loved to say a watchingbig thank the you show. for all the dedication that you the hard work you put have each shown to Annieinto was We aWill childhood Rock You allowing our children favouriteand congratulations of mine.” for to shine so brightly. ” staging an absolutely amazing production.”

22 voice AUTUMN 2018/19 voice 23 - SPORTS AWARDS EVENING- By Miss Muir

The delicious half-time buffet was provided by Bon-Appetit Catering, Royton, supplying us with cheese pie, meat pie, peas, beans and red cabbage – all served piping hot, with a smile! The children were given fresh doughnuts and juice in addition to their hot meal at their tables. The raffle of great prizes was drawn during the half time interval, allowing guests to collect their wins on their way out. The second act was opened by a team of 3 BTEC Dancers, showcasing their own choreography as part of their accredit course. A moving piece to a modern song, that was appreciated by all. This set the tone for the more prestigious awards, such as Best Progress on an academic course and the coveted Extra Curricular Award. The students were gracious and humble in their acceptance of such accolades and the staff expressed their great appreciation of the efforts shown by these elite few. Another BTEC Dance solo performance led nicely into the second guest speaker’s introduction, Ian Knott. Ian is another ex-rugby league professional whose decision to leave the sport was taken away from him through injury. He talked about overcoming depression and injury and other ways to stay involved in sport. A very positive message in such unfortunate circumstances. The final awards of the evening were of the highest calibre celebrating the achievements of our sporting stars outside of school. Some ranging from county team fixtures and professional club signings to England representation internationally. An overwhelming amount of our students represent their country and deserved the rapturous applause that preceded the announcement of the winner, Winner: Olivia Forster Olivia Foster for representing England U14 at basketball. A This year saw the fourth annual Sports Awards Evening around and under boxes and trampettes, showing off the Selected for England U14 Basketball for 2 full list of nominees for this category can be found below. take place at Saddleworth School. This prestigious skills they had learned from the expert tutelage in one of consecutive years, this year as captain. our Saddleworth Wednesday activities. The performance event began in 2015 due to the number of awards and The BTEC dancers finished off the night with a beautiful ended with a backwards somersault off the stage, Represented her country in Copenhagen last accolade our students were achieving. Aside from the performance used as part of their KS4 assessment leading perfectly landed on a crash mat. year, and competed internationally in Spain in academic prizes so often commemorated in assemblies, nicely into the last award of the night, in honour of one of the PE department wanted to host an evening that December. The awards were presented throughout the first act our previous sporting heroes. The Kevin Sinfield Award for celebrated the purely physical, sporting achievements of by our first special guest, Luke Ambler. Luke is an ex- Outstanding Achievement in GCSE PE was presented to the Saddleworth students to embody their passions out professional rugby league player and is also the founder Sophie Southern for gaining the highest marks out of the of the classroom. whole cohort in her GCSE PE exam. A very worthy winner of Andy’s Man Club – a help-group to show men its ok to Nominees for Outside Achievement in Sport The Sports Awards Evening saw 91 children nominated talk and deal with mental health issues together, in a safe who represents what Saddleworth School is all about. for a range of awards and 160 parents, friends and place. He talked about his journey into professional rugby, Max Godley Hockey One of the highlights of the school calendar, I’m sure family came to see them celebrated in their sporting his motivations and the reasons he decided to leave, to students and families will agree, the Sports Awards Olivia Forster Basketball achievements. The hall was decorated superbly, support mental health in men. The students and families Evening is a true celebration of talent, ability, hard highlighting the grandeur of the evening, with the crowd listened attentively to the poignant words. work and skill. It highlights the effort, commitment and Harley Edge Badminton arriving in droves, ready to take their seat for the evening The dance performance that took place in between awards dedication our students show to their art. An inspiring Rugby of performances, food and celebration. Zach Eckersley in the first act was from another Saddleworth Wednesdays evening for all that attended – including the long-serving The evening kicked off with an energetic slideshow of activity group, Infinity Dance. The girls performed an PE team, reminding us just why we do this job. Ella Didben Handball different sporting moments from across the past year, excellent street dance piece to keep the high energy of Well done to all that were nominated, keep up the hard Finlay Heydon Archery ranging from cheerleaders competing at the UKCA the evening going. After some great speeches from the work and we will see you again next year! National finals, to the charity cricket match between staff PE staff about the excellence they see, every day in our Farrah Connor Karate and students. The energy in the room was electric and Performers of the Year, the first half was closed by our the introduction to the evening set the scene for the first urban cheer squad, Storm Extreme. They delivered a bone- performance of the night: The Parkour Club, headed up by shaking routine that was worthy of a place on BGT! Tom Redfearn. The boys flipped and tricked their way over,

24 voice voice 25 ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶

Whether it was a magical experience or a horrific one, if you went to a high school prom, I am sure that it was a night to remember. For so many teenagers the prom is the highlight of high school. It is the one school event many students look forward to in their high school years. - WHAT A NIGHT- Many girls dream about their perfect dress, what By Miss Cook style their hair should be, which makeup artist Prom Night 2019 should I book? And of course to top it all off what colour nails should I have? But all of this comes at a cost; it has been The Year 11 Prom was held on Wednesday, 26 June 2019 at estimated that proms in the UK cost parents The Saddleworth Hotel. £90m a year, with prom dresses costing an average £220. Parents are also asked to pay The Year 11’s were treated to a silver service buffet, sweet table, magician, towards: photo booth and an ice-cream van. These extras were courtesy of our Y11 prom fundraising team and our generous sponsors: Ticket entry between £20 - £30; Make-Up/Hair £35 - £60 for full ‘prom’ package and Nails £20- Friends of Saddleworth School, The Saddleworth Round £35 table, Alithya, ePower trucks, Real Systems Control, Jet Metal Components, Grotton One Hair and Beauty and Mr Givvons. Saddleworth School has an amazing team of people who understand the stresses and costs of Pupils made an amazing entrance in a variety of vehicles including Proms and would do anything to make sure every two tractors. We were overwhelmed by the number of parents who child has the same experience as the next. After turned up to see their children arrive in style. hearing about Mahdlo Youth Zone donating Prom The year group did us proud not only did they look amazing (Miss dresses for girls, the SEN Team came up with the Cook and Mrs Byron scrubbed up nicely as well!!), they were idea of ‘Prom Pamper’. impeccably behaved. The dance floor was full from the start of the This was a chance for students to come along and evening until the last pupils left. have the whole package of pampering for FREE! McKenzie Roberts and Ben Lamb were crowned Prom King and To do this we got together a highly skilled team Queen. Mia Bunn was Miss Congeniality. who worked on Hair, Make-up and Nails. Mrs Irwin It was definitely a night to remember. a fully qualified hair stylist; worked her magic with curling tongs, straighteners and lots of hairspray! Mrs Hargreaves a former Harvey Nicks make- up artist, blended her way with lots of makeup pallets and brushes and Miss Muir with nails on point; armed with her UV lamp gelled and shaped the girls fabulous nails. Whilst the girls were getting ready, music was playing, drinks were flowing (Lemonade and Strawberries) and a variety of snacks which included Popcorn, Cupcakes and Brownies were spread across the table. This was a brilliant experience for the girls, one of the girls mentioned “it was so much fun getting ready together with your friends” whilst another said “this has saved so much money!” This was our aim for the night; for these girls to be as every part involved in the experience as everyone else. This was an amazing experience for everyone involved and hopefully will be something that

Saddleworth School will continue to do for Proms Photography. of Martin Sykes Courtesy in the future 26 voice ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ voice 27 - PRESENTATION EVENING- -MATHS TRIPS- By Miss Cook

On the 7th November, Year 11 Maths students visited the On Wednesday, 3rd July, two students from Year 9 and Royal Northern College of Music for the Maths Inspiration 10 students from Year 8 represented the school and took Event. The event was hosted by Company Director and part in a glorious maths competition at the fabulous Founder Matt Parker. Beginning in 2004 the event has Huddersfield college, Greenhead. hosted to over 150,000 students mainly in England but as far Pitted against fifteen schools from the surrounding area, away as Australia (Matt’s home country). our school faced some fierce competition as our two teams Rob Eastway - Maths on the back of an envelope of primarily year 8s were to be locked in vicious maths Rob pointed out the necessity for precise maths but combat with teams full of year 9s, giving them a severe spent this section discussing the need for people disadvantage. Despite this the red team and the blue team to be able to calculate the impure. Giving several from our school both performed brilliantly in the first round, demonstrations of how to calculate how many sausages which was a set of ten questions that were read out one are eaten in a day or how many jelly beans fit onto a after the other with one minute calculation times in between. Boeing 747. Rob argued the need for problem solvers Following this came a short break where upon both teams in jobs who can approach a task from various angles to leading educationalist Andrew Sutherland as well as guests made full advantage of the almost infinite plates of biscuits On Monday, 11th November saw Uppermill Civic Hall host come up with an answer even if it isn’t precise. the Year 11 Presentation Evening for our last cohort of from Oldham Sixth Form College, Oldham University and that were on offer and the refillable cups of orange cordial students who left Saddleworth School in the summer of Governors of the school. Aoife Hunt - The Shape of Escape one could drink. Once the break had finished, and our Aoife talked about her work at large scale music festivals, 2019. competitors were now fully prepared, the second and last The night was a huge success with the audience enjoying the Olympics and within the design and architecture of round of the competition begun; being significantly more The venue was filled to capacity with a wonderful turn the opportunity to hear stories and watch clips from Stadia and related maths required to calculate evacuation challenging, it truly pushed our teams to the test. This was out of family members, staff and special guests all ready younger years at school, school trips and sporting times. Aoife demonstrated that less people does not always because the questions, that were now on paper rather than to celebrate in the presentation of GCSE certificates plus successes. Our Head Boy and Head Girl completed their necessarily speed up the evacuation process. being read out, were a variety of numerous maths puzzles, many more awards that were on offer that evening. final duties delivering a wonderful speech and the evening Hugh Hunt - Maths in a Spin like a difficult Sudoku or worded problems, where the way concluded with photographs from the end of year Prom Head Boy Joseph Taylor collected the Arthur Surch Cup Why does a spinning top stand up? Why doesn't a rolling you interpreted the question itself decided whether you which were truly stunning. for his outstanding services to the school whilst Molly wheel fall over? Hugh Hunt demonstrated the mechanics answered it correctly, presenting many issues in calculating Sheehan and Sophie Southern took the awards for Pastoral Students and staff chatted freely at the end of the night of lots of spinning things, including gyroscopes. A real the answer. Assistant and Home School Leader Award respectively. showing what a caring and nurturing school we are. This highlight of the day saw Hugh explain the complexities of a Eventually the competition concluded and we made our way allowed students the opportunity to share with staff what boomerang ending with his showstopper of throwing (and Many more certificates, trophies and cups were on offer back. The blue team came seventh and the red team came direction they have taken their career in and to thank them catching) a boomerang around the auditorium several times. for students who had excelled in their GCSE examinations, ninth, rounding up the day. for their invaluable help over the last 5 years. attendance or who deserved special recognition for the Matt was a brilliant host bringing lots of humour to the day. commitment that they had shown to our school. A heart-warming night and the end of an era for the class The day ended with a Q&A session by all of the speakers on of 2019! stage followed by photo opportunities and a chance to meet Inspirational speeches were delivered from people ranging the speakers. All the staff and students had a fantastic day from the Deputy Mayor of Oldham and the Youth Mayor to with the event already pencilled in on next year’s calendar!

28 voice voice 29 - FOSS FUNDRAISING- - FOSS EVENTS- Friends of Saddleworth School Friends of Saddleworth School

The FoSS committee currently has 12 active members and meet once a month to Wine and Cheese event organise fundraising events. New members are always welcome – please search our ‘Whose Wine Is It Anyway’ will be a wine tasting event Facebook Page for updates on meeting dates and events. run by The Wine Vault of Uppermill. There will be fun, Here are just some of the items purchased by FoSS. games and of course wine tasting where you will have the chance to sample some wines and take a guess as to which country they come from. The date for this will be Table tennis tables Musical equipment Year 11 Prom tables iPAD for SEN New Stools for confirmed soon. for EAL students department Library £900.00 £130.00 £300.00 £500.00 £500.00

New stools for the Library We are trying to encourage pupils to read for pleasure and the provision of comfortable furniture in the Library would enhance this. We already have a number of pupils across the school that use the Library as a “safe space” during lunch and break and pupils enjoy the calm Pancake Flip Competition atmosphere. As I am writing this a Year 7 boy is quietly On Tuesday, 25th February we organised a competition sat reading in one of our new reading areas! Comfy chairs for pupils and staff to take part in how many pancake would make this an even better space to be.. flips they could do in 1 minute. Four of the ladies from the FoSS committee came into school to run the event. We raised £40.00. Prizes were given out to all the winners. Congratulations to Nathan Jones in Year 9 who won 1st prize! Year 7 & Year 8 disco On 11th November we held a disco for students in the Table tennis tables for PE department evening for Year 7 & Year 8. It was very well attended by 80 pupils. A free hotdog and drink was provided as part We purchased three NEW table tennis tables to replace of their ticket money of £5.00. the old and damaged tables that were well past their best having been in use for many years. We will be able to take these new tables to the new school when we move. This has improved extra-curricular provision at lunchtimes and Lucky Numbers Draw after school. Improved levels of teaching and learning in After the success of the last couple of years we are PE lessons as pupils will have access to quality equipment continuing with this again this school year. To date there that is not old, faulty and unusable. are 157 people taking part, with the option to join at any month throughout the year. If you would like to join and iPad for SEN department Year 11 Prom support us please pay through Parent Pay and you will FoSS purchased an iPad FoSS have sponsored a Musical equipment for EAL students be assigned a ‘Lucky Number’. A number is drawn each for the SEN department table for the Year 11 Prom A large part of the work we do with our EAL (English Grand Prize Draw month and a sum of money given to the winner. for the pupils to use whilst at the Saddleworth Hotel. as an Additional Language) pupils is on their social and FoSS will be running a Grand Prize Draw again this year in the Learning Base. emotional learning. A number of our pupils, particularly and have very kindly been donated a fabulous prize of those from a Roma background, love music. We explore a FitBit from a local company in Delph, 2Eskimos’ who musical themes to help pupils celebrate their own provide software for schools. We have also been donated cultures and to learn how to work in a supportive group. some Airpods by Vision for Education. Tickets will go on New members are always Part of our EAL timetable is a programme of lessons on sale soon, watch this space! Don’t forget, all events, news welcome, please search our engagement of Roma pupils within school. It is our wish and reminders can be found on Facebook page @Friends of to improve the provision in relation to pupil engagement our Facebook page @Friends Saddleworth School. further by including a musical element to the Roma Scottish Ceilidh of Saddleworth School. Many thanks Engagement course, include a musical element to other This is the first time FoSS have run such an event and it Many thanks FoSS Committee basic English lessons, but also to have instruments will hopefully prove to be lots of fun! The date is yet to FoSS Committee available for all EAL pupils to practise before school, at be confirmed but will be announced soon. It will be great break and lunch times. to see you all there in your dancing shoes!

30 voice voice 31 - CHARITABLE GIVING- - WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY - By Mayah Hopkinson

WALK THE WALK! Statistics show that 10% of all young children under NOW A SADDLEWORTH TRADITION the age of 16 have a diagnosed Mental Health illness. 70% of these, however, are still yet to have sufficient Perfect weather accompanied over one thousand interventions in place to help them through what can be students and colleagues on the annual charity walk such a difficult and confusing time of their young lives. from Saddleworth School to Dovestone and back. This By raising money, via a whole school non-uniform day, as challenging event not only enables colleagues and a school, we have ensured that more young people can students to enjoy our magnificent countryside together, it receive the help they need through various charities such also raises money for charity. Over £5000 was raised and as Healthy Young Minds. given to the children’s chosen charities. These included: We also believe that the non-uniform day theme sparked conversation amongst students in our community about the Winston’s Wish - Who provide memory boxes for potential issues and has helped lots of pupils who have been bereaved children. questioning their own mental wellbeing. This has highlighted Francis House – Who provide care and support for families. pathways in which they can access to support them with Save the Children – Providing a better tomorrow for those their recovery in a confidential environment. We hope this less fortunate. event drew attention to the fact we should all treat people with a little more kindness, check up on our friends and also Young Minds – Providing support for young people. FOOD BANK check up on ourselves. – Providing care for adults with life Dr Kershaw’s By Zoe Cummins limiting illnesses. Are you as happy as you could be? We also hope people remember that a person’s physical health is just as important Oldham Mountain Rescue – Providing emergency rescue. Throughout the whole of Year 9, form 9A managed to raise as their mental health and that every mental illness is valid Rubens Retreat – Helping children, parents and siblings of £183.00 over various charity events such as bake sales, and EVERYONE is entitled to help and support. "My sincere thanks to all of the Saddleworth School staff those with serious illness. Easter raffles and a sponsored spelling test of all of the and our students for supporting the non-uniform day. I We thank all those students who stepped up to the mark words of the Week. As a form we decided to donate the would like to extend further gratitude to the form tutors of Years 7-11 who have all now handed in the monies raised by raising money for these good causes. Well done! proceeds to the Oldham Food Bank. in aid of World Mental Health day. The grand total that we We believed that this charity was important because every are now going to be able to split between various mental single day hundreds of men, women and children go hungry. health charities is £1,116.15 which is absolutely fantastic "Last year the whole school walked to Dovestone, If the money that we raised could help just a few it would be and will make a real difference to local and national around Dovestone and back to school. Both of enough. organisations as they strive to help those in suffering". us enjoyed the walk because we got to spend On the 10th July, me, Zoe Cuthill, Conner Perry, Mrs Marsden the day with our friends. Also we think it was Mr Melling (Whole School Charity co-ordinator 2019 a nice way to spend the last Wednesday of the and Mr Hazzledine (our form tutors) set out on a trip to Aldi. year. Going on a walk made us feel more relaxed We spent £176.30 on products ranging from toiletries to cereal, juice to biscuits and cans upon cans of sweetcorn. We because we didn’t go into any classes that day!" then drove to the food bank and made many trips from the Grace Donaldson and Heidi Davis minibus carrying boxes and packets. We soon learnt that the food we provided would only feed around 15–20 families (2 adults and 2 children) for 3 days each. On the day we went they had already handed out 21 food parcels! As a form we are proud of our efforts and thank anyone who has donated money towards our form events which has gone on to help those that are the most in need.

Did you know…. Mr Madden started singing with the Saddleworth Male Voice Choir last year and sang in his first concert for St George’s Day with The Oldham Tinkers at Uppermill Civic Hall. He decided to join the choir as he had always had an interest in music and enjoyed singing. For more information and to join the A massive well done to all our colleagues who took part in choir please see our website https:// Movember, the month formerly known as November, is a saddleworthmvc.org moustache growing charity event held during November each year that raises funds and awareness for men's health. Together the team raised £210.00.

32 voice voice 33 - EXAM RESULTS DAY- - CHANGING HORIZONS- By Hannah Gibbins and Demi-Lee Green

On the 10th March we attended the Changing Horizons We all enjoyed the experience thoroughly and are very Event at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in Oldham. grateful to have been given the opportunity to embrace this experience. We visited lots of different and interesting interactive workshops such as border control, the armed services and construction engineering. All of the skills we learned today will be very helpful for us in later life and they could help shape our decisions as to which career paths to follow. Our favourite session was the “professional voice” seminar as this showed us how to portray ourselves more confidently in job interviews. We also learned about the impact that litter has on the local community when we attended the First Choice council workshop.

Congratulations to all those students that collected their results in the Summer of 2019. We hope you were rewarded for your all hard work and you are able to successfully make your way onto your post 16 pathways. Good luck and keep in touch.

- BUSINESS LUNCH- By Mr Leach

Continuing our inspirational series of 2019/2020 Business Lunches we were joined in February by Philip Patterson of HSB Engineering Insurance who was able to deliver a talk to a selection of interested students about his current role and career to date. Students enjoyed the experience and were able to discover more about the Apprenticeship pathway and how this may be an option for them as they move forwards. Philip was able to share his experience of the many different careers within the Engineering sector and the exciting opportunities that await in that field. We would like to thank Philip for taking the time to speak to our students and ask if you are interested in speaking at any of our next Business Lunches to please contact Ms Dempster at School.

34 voice voice 35 -TECHNOLOGY TOUR- -TRANSFORMING THE MMRC INTO THE LRC- By Mr Simkins By Mrs Lewis, Library and Resource Centre Manager

For the past year the MMRC (Multi-media Resource reading book for free chosen from 15 available titles. Centre) has been unloved, unused and abandoned. ‘Bookbuzz’ started in September when students were The Library management system, Eclipse, stated given the opportunity to discuss the books and watch there were 6,000 books in the library of which 4,000 videos of each of the authors explaining and reviewing were out on loan and there were piles of books kindly books from this year’s selection. From this our students donated by parents stashed in the room. In September were able to make an informed decision about which the challenge of restoring a Library to the heart of book would best suit their interests and abilities. Saddleworth School began. A great team effort from staff and students has seen the space transformed into Orders for books were taken and the books arrived a few the Library and Resource Centre which now provides weeks later. Students excitedly received their free book a space to enjoy reading for pleasure, borrowing from and have been enjoying reading them. a newly restocked library of 3,500 books, and study support sessions enabling pupils to research and complete homework tasks. All students in Year 7 and 8 have timetabled lessons in the LRC and are actively engaging with the Library. The LRC (Library and Resource Centre) is open every day from 8.15am – drop in to see the transformation and pick up a book.

On Thursday, 27th February, 28 Year 10 Product Design known areas but also places that they would not have Bookbuzz pupils accompanied by 4 staff visited Manchester to previously visited, Josh was constantly pointing areas of This year, Saddleworth School students in Year 7 have look at buildings of architectural interest, the purpose interest and providing background information. been able to participate in a national initiative from of the visit was to take photographs of buildings, or ‘BookTrust’, the UK’s largest children’s reading charity, During the tour phones were regularly used to take to provide each year 7 student across the country with a elements of them to give the students inspiration for photographs, the pupils were asked to take around 50 their GCSE portfolios. during the day to give them a great source of imagery for We travelled via train to Piccadilly and met our tour guide the next part for their coursework. in Sackville gardens home of the Alan Turing memorial, After the tour we had time for a late lunch in the Arndale - Proud to be part of Uppermill Brass Band – our guide for the day was Josh who is a historian with an food court prior to catching our return train. obvious passion for our great city. Our students’ behaviour was great with many good - NATIONAL THIRD SECTION CHAMPIONS 2019- By Mrs Lewis, Library and Resource Centre Manager We were most fortunate with the weather as it did not questions; it was also most humbling to see one of our rain, although it was cold the sun was a welcome relief. group stop to give a homeless person some money. The tour took our students around the city centre to well- 2019 was an eventful year for Uppermill Band, their 40th with great pride that I told them I was a member of the Anniversary Year, and qualification to represent the North National Third Section Champion Band of Great Britain – West at the National Brass Band Finals held in Cheltenham Uppermill Band. in September. Since qualifying every rehearsal, and there Having been promoted to the Second Section in 2020 were many, focussed on mastering the test-piece “Viking Uppermill Band returned to Blackpool this February and Age”. Hours (and hours) of rehearsal, at home, and in the succeeded in winning the section – so as the North-West -PHOTOGRAPHY TRIP- band room meant that band members were fully prepared Area Second Section Champions will be heading to the for their performance. Uppermill Band travelled by coach National Finals again in September. to Cheltenham for an overnight stay in a hotel (also hosting a Yorkshire based band and the England Futsal team!). Contest day dawned and following an 8.00am final rehearsal On the 22nd November a group of Year 10 photography Uppermill Band were drawn to play number 4 in a field of 20 pupils went on a day trip to Manchester. bands from across the country. Pupils enjoyed a tour of the Northern Quarter and took The performance, whilst not flawless, was exciting and photographs of the extensive graffiti, architecture and full of commitment. Coming off stage band members street art. In the afternoon, pupils walked to the John knew they had given it their best shot and there was then Ryland’s library and admired the beautiful architecture, a long wait for the remaining bands to perform. There before walking back via China Town, the Alan Turing was lots of talk in the hall and on social media about the Memorial and finally a stop at Vimto park! Uppermill performance and the predictions were looking The photographs taken on the day will be used in their good (although this can sometimes be a curse!). When the current piece of course work ‘man versus nature’. adjudicators took to the stage to announce the results they stated that there was one “clear, clear winner” and that the Pupils behaved exceptionally well, were tenacious in their Third Section 2019 National Champions of Great Britain were learning and a credit to the school. Uppermill Band. It was a very long (and loud) journey back to Saddleworth – a coach full of elated players and supporters. So when a student asked me on the Monday morning “Did you have a good weekend Miss? What did you do?” it was

36 voice voice 37 The Final After a hard fought contest with some excellent navigation skills, the winning team with a fantastic time of 1 minute 58 seconds was 'Matthew and Co.' consisting of team members Matthew Maguire, Antalia Canaves Hodkinson, Brianna Liddle, Gracie Campbell- Dye and Scarlet Broadhurst. Other Awards Two more awards were up for grabs throughout the day. This was for the 'Best Design' and the 'Best Teamwork'. The winner of these two went to: Aero Air and Airship Geezers. Aero Air: Best Design consisting of Jena Chalis, Charlotte Clasby, Rebecca Woolfenden and Simra Ali. Airship Geezers: Best Teamwork consisting of Angus Rowan, Joshua Curtis, Joe George, George Kay and Kalle Breitholtz. Quotes from students "I learnt a lot of new skills and got partnered with people I would not normally choose. However I have made new friends and really enjoyed the day." Isabella Flitcroft. "I learnt to work with the team better." Hannah Doyle "I am so proud that my coding worked and we nearly won. Just one second off the winning team time." Daisy Hallam "It reminded me of my ICT and coding skills and I was able to use it for a new purpose. The big hellium balloons were amazing and I had lots of fun." Simra Ali "I liked overcoming the challenges and seeing our final prototype working."Joshua Curtis "I liked the independence and flexible structure. We were in control of how to manage the task." Logan Westley-Fear. Teachers final words Myself, Mr Airnes and Mr Nazir would just like to congratulate all students who took part in this fantastic and exciting event. Events like these that remind us just how amazing the students of Saddleworth School are. To take on such a challenging task and demonstrate wonderful design and creative skills as well as resilience. It was a pleasure to be part of. We very much look forward to hosting a future event for many more students. Mr Joshi

38 voice voice 39 -GO COMPOSE- - GEOGRAPHY TRIP TO MANCHESTER- By Amber Frost By Aimee Jefferson

On the 25th September all the Year 11 Geography students went on a trip to Salford Quays and New Islington, in Manchester, to explore what we had been learning in the classroom. The students were split into two groups, one group going to Salford Quays in the morning and the other group going to New Islington. In the afternoon the groups swapped over. In New Islington, we visited all the houses and projects we had learnt about in the classroom. While in New Islington we saw first-hand how the housing management projects, for example The Chips and Cotton Fields Park, have impacted the community and the planet. An example of this is creating a shorter work and school commute allowing people to walk to work and school, resulting in less air pollution. While in Salford Quays we walked around Media City, where we were able to apply what we learnt in school to what we were witnessing in order to understand how Media City impacted the community and businesses and made the social quality of the area much better. Overall this trip massively increased our knowledge of the topic – People of the UK - so that in our future exams we can fully understand what the question is asking as well as fully understanding each area of the topic. I know that everyone that went on this trip – including the teachers – enjoyed it.

In the Summer Holidays, I attended ‘Go Compose’ Sound Design for Media -MISSION CHRISTMAS- which is a youth music project dedicated to offering I created the elements of a soundtrack; how to electronic music opportunities to young women. The understand and work from a script; discover storytelling workshops were for young women aged between 11 & through sound design; audio recording, manipulation In December, Mr Simkins and Miss Danby along with 22 at Huddersfield University. and sound design; programming and performing sound 8 pupils visited Mission Christmas HQ to deliver our I spent five weekends engineering, soldering, designing for theatre (in QLab). I worked with Aiwan Obinyan. (A contribution. We arrived with our heads held high handing over an amazing 16 large black bin bags of toys and gifts. and amplifying sound. I found it interesting and I learnt filmmaker and composer). These were received gratefully with admiration for our so much. I would recommend this course to others 100%. Everyday, everywhere is sound continued involvement and support for this charity. My written work has been sent for verifying and I will be I learned about transducers and motors; basics of using Pure awarded UCAS points. (Towards a Bronze Arts Award). Data (sine tones); develop soldering skills; listening to the Then the scale of the operation brought home the importance of supporting Mission Christmas, we estimated environment; physics of the listening process; knowledge Each session was packed with the following - that there were at least 50 volunteers sorting out all the around vibration and frequency. I worked with Ryoko Akama Electronic India gifts and placing them in the appropriate sections of the Eleanor Cully. (A sound artist, composer and performer). massive warehouse. I learned the basics of sound recording in a recording studio; the Indian music scales; what happens in a recording studio; Make Music with Light and Electronics After a guided tour, our pupils assisted by organising the production of my own track and collaborate with others/ I learned about electronic circuits, signal flow and toys that they brought and were given the opportunity friends in the group. We all made a cover of John Legend’s components; DIY approaches to music making; study to ask questions, the lady in charge took quite a shine All of Me. I worked with Supriya Nagarajan and Mark Mynett. and discuss sound art history, including its links to the to Hendrix! I know I say this every year but emotions run high from guilt, shame then tears, that we have so much (Performance, studio and sound engineers). Russian avant garde; to use Ableton and its controller and develop insight into production software to create compared to our neighbours

Make Electronic Music soundscapes; sampling techniques. I worked with Vicky When asked how many children do you hope to help this I learned how to write a structure of a piece of music; use the Clarke. (A sound artist and electronic musician). year, we were told the aim was 40,000, sadly however For those who have supported this charity from the bottom GarageBand app; explore sampling, recording and mixing; this year they have requests from 56,000. Even after all of my heart I thank you, for making Christmas special for explore MIDI notation and arrangement; audio recording this generosity, tragically around 16,000 disadvantaged those in need, and for those that forgot or thought someone including mic placement and input levels; experiment with children living in Manchester will wake up on Christmas else will bring something in, please help this year! audio effects such as reverb and echo. I worked with Caro C. morning without the presents that we privileged ones will Thank you Mr Simkins and Miss Danby. (An artist, engineer and facilitator in sound). have to share.

40 voice voice 41 -IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME -THE SADDLEWORTH SCHOOL OF THE YEAR- CAROL SERVICE- By Mr Beckwith

Our traditional offering at Christmas time in the annual William Yarwood (cornet) and Imogen Cox (violin) all Saddleworth School Christmas Carol service in the displayed superb maturity in their solo contributions on glorious acoustics of St. Chads Church in Uppermill. the evening. The beautiful surroundings of Saddleworth Church offer December is a terrific time of year to be a musician! At Saddleworth School we Yet again an enthusiastic audience / congregation a wonderful backdrop for our hugely talented young attended the evening and joined in singing popular pride ourselves on offering something for everyone during the festive period – performers – this year was no exception with terrific Christmas carols accompanied by the outstanding young our festive programme for 2019 was no different. performances from the Brass Xplosion, String Ensemble musicians of Saddleworth School. If you were unable and school choir. Each year the music department to make the Carol Service last year keep an eye out for like to offer soloists the opportunity to gain valuable the December 2020 date – it promises to be another performing experience by performing at these events; excellent start to the festive season. Melissa Demsteader (voice), Grace Woodcock (voice),

J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J

-SENIOR CITIZENS CHRISTMAS PARTY- By Max Cooper

In December, Saddleworth School brought the community The event was later held on the 19th December, the together once again, by hosting the annual Senior volunteers that morning had a variety of tasks including, Citizens Christmas Party. reorganising the library (where it took place), preparing A few weeks prior, Ms. Dempster was on the lookout for tables, creating a fun presentation which included a warm volunteers to help organise and promote the event. The welcome and quizzes and displayed the raffle and prizes volunteers all came together to discuss what had to be (made up of the donations). The food for the afternoon done to create a successful and enjoyable experience. was a buffet, supplied by the Jamie Oliver Cookery group, One of the main tasks, was to go into the village and which created a large and beautiful selection of food. visit local businesses and shops, asking them if they Throughout the afternoon, our visitors were entertained by could donate any raffle prizes. We were very fortunate in a group of gifted musicians from our music department, receiving a large number of amazing gifts and prizes. including a brass band, a rock band and two talented singers. To finish off the successful and enjoyable event, the To promote the event, with assistance from the school, guests made their way to the assembly hall in which they emails were sent out and advertisements were placed in experienced a Saddleworth School Christmas Assembly. the weekly school bulletin and the school’s social media. Overall the event was a success, and everybody had a wonderful time.

J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J

J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J J -CHRISTMAS CONCERT- J J J J J J J J J J J J -COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROLS-

Another annual event the Music Department cherish As always with these concerts it is fantastic to see each is the school Christmas Concert. This extravaganza and every year group represented in the programme The final event of the Music Department’s musical supporters in aid of the Parish Council Chairman’s Charity of musical talent goes from strength to strength demonstrating the final results of all their hard work Christmas feast is our annual visit to the village to we again aim to perform for those who cannot get to hear each year as the music department ensembles dazzle throughout the Winter term – the talents we have on entertain members of the public who may not be able to our talented young musicians at this time of year – carols, and entertain audiences with their terrific musical display at Saddleworth School are remarkable and a real reach our other events throughout the festive period – this festive ditties, soloists and lots of festive fun as usual was the capabilities. testament to the hard work given by music staff and gives our students a chance to perform in their own local standard fayre at this lovely community event. The 2019 Christmas Concert was no exception to this the students as they strive for such high standards of community and spread a little Christmas cheer to the After what seemed like a thousand verses of Hark the Herald rule with great performances of a variety of seasonal musicianship from such young people – long may this good folk of Saddleworth! Angels Sing, a good number of Ding Dong Merrily’s, another tunes, ditties and festive favourites performed by the tradition of excellence continue. Speaking of tradition it First stop, Grand Café Abacco… our brass players delight triumphant rendition of the 12 Days of Christmas and a Concert Band, Brass Band, Year 7 Band, Brass Xplosion, is worth mentioning that the audience participation items every year as they perform a selection of popular Christmas successful final rousing verse of O Come All Ye Faithful, the Woodwind Ensemble, String Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, were also of an equally high standard on the night – the carols to villagers who are passing by, or those members music department and its superbly talented gang of young the Guitar Ensemble, Lower String Ensemble, POP Choir massed Christmas Carols and the 12 days of Christmas of the public who are intentionally there for a listen, either musicians reach the end of what has been another extremely and a vast array of some of Saddleworth’s finest musical reached dizzying new heights in 2019! way everyone is royally entertained and our seasoned brass busy but rewarding festive season. soloists. A special thanks to Mrs Pickett, Mr Doughty, players are treated to a hot chocolate with all the trimmings It would be terrific to see even more people enjoying some Mr Housley, Mrs Radcliffe, Ms Drumm, Mr Lord and Mr – marshmallows and chocolate galore! festive merriment and quality live music making by the Beckwith for their efforts and guidance in directing and The second stop on this community gathering is the Lower young people of Saddleworth School in December 2020 – preparing ensembles for the evening. Hall at Uppermill Civic Hall. The Brass Xplosion are joined please keep your eyes and ears open for dates of Christmas by the school choir for this leg of the festive community events in the next academic year. outing – organised by Cllr Byrne and a team of wonderful

42 voice voice 43 - FISHING TRIP TO LONDON- - NATIONAL SUPPORT SCHOOL- By Blaine Makin By Mr Milburn, Executive Headteacher

We went to Les Webbers Angling Project in London for a stories who survived and I was glad I wasn’t alive at that school trip from Monday to Thursday. It was to learn how time. Then we went to the River Thames and walked to fish as it could interest us as something to do with our for about an hour, there was loads to see like people When Saddleworth School became a designated National jobs in education and the programme is designed to debunk spare time instead of doing the wrong things and it was performing in the streets, arts and monuments you learn Support School in 2017, there will have been plenty of the myths and establish a data base of aspirant leaders. also an experience that not everybody gets to have. about I saw Big Ben and the House of Parliament, its people who would have asked “so what does that mean?” From there we have been able to support colleagues who Over the last three years we’ve gradually found out. want to be coached or get involved in other developmental On Monday we got there early and met Les he told different to see things in real life rather than just a picture Our starting point was to say that whilst there is a moral activity as they progress towards school leadership. us some ground rules like no littering, clean up after there is more to it! imperative to support schools in challenging circumstances, yourselves and make your beds in the morning to keep Also we then rode a boat down the Thames and saw We’ve also worked directly with the Department for anything that we do with other schools should be at no the place tidy. We then got straight into fishing. We were things like a battleship and London Bridge which intrigued Education on the Tailored Support Programme. The aim of detriment to our own school. Consequently, we set about given a guide by Mr Pheby which was simple to do, I was me as I wanted to know more about them. After the boat this Programme is to keep colleagues in teaching beyond using the additional funding that Saddleworth received to expecting it to be a challenge when it just takes patience ride we went to the London Bridge experience which the first five years. We have worked with five schools across reinforce the staffing at the school and in the summer of and the worst bit was picking up live maggots. Within was a scary walkthrough where people scared you and Greater Manchester and Yorkshire offering CPD and Mentor 2018 we appointed an additional Assistant Headteacher an hour I had the hang of catching and unhooking the chased you, it was one of the best parts as everyone stuck training that has been well received and clearly impacted on who has done a great dealt to strengthen our team. fish. After a few hours me and Charlie cooked tea for the together and everyone was scared at some point. teacher retention. The latest sessions have been led by Dr Oldham has been designated as an Opportunity Area and Paul Simmons of Independent Coaching who has worked to group. We decided on spaghetti bolognese and went Then Mr Pheby bought us chippy and we all discussed the I was asked to become the secondary Lead Headteacher train 14 colleagues over three days from Cedar Mount and shopping for the ingredients, another group set the tables trip. and another made the drinks. for the Borough which has led me to going out to monitor Oldham Academy North. The trip taught me to respect people more because and advise on School to School support that has been On Tuesday, we visited Windsor Castle, there was armed For a number of years, I’ve had the privilege of working everyone is different and to be more independent with undertaken right across the Borough. It was at this stage that police and the castle was something I had never seen with new Headteachers in Oldham seeking to mentor and things I do and to also give teachers more respect as they Mr Watson became Headteacher at Saddleworth School and before. We also got to go into most of the shops then support them as they seek to make their mark. It’s an honour are only trying to help us! I became the Executive Head. we went to Tesco to get the meat for a barbeque. We to work with such talented and able colleagues and like all definitely bought too much, when we were cooking, the We’ve provided and brokered out intensive support for the work outlined above, I feel that we learn as much from teams swapped over and I cleared up instead of cooking, Kingsland School in Oldham. Thanks to the hard work of working with other schools as we are able to share. Pupils at all together it was a great team effort. After the barbeque colleagues at the school, Ofsted judged it to be “Good” Saddleworth have directly benefitted from our engagement I went fishing and caught a baby pike it was the best fish earlier this year; a judgement that is testament to the as a National Support School for example, we have sent two I caught and made me even more interested in fishing I commitment of a team who work with some of the most of our pupils to work on an outdoor pursuits course that has wanted to do it even more. Unfortunately, I didn’t catch vulnerable young people in our Borough. been established to support learners from Kingsland. any larger fish. The National Support School has also received a commission I would like to offer my own thanks to Governors and colleagues On Wednesday we went to the centre of London to the from the Opportunity Area to run an Aspirant Leader at Saddleworth who have supported the development of War Museum which taught me things that you didn’t learn Programme. Basically this has involved us working with the National Support School. The work that we are doing is in lessons and I saw interesting things like the bombs middle and senior leaders in the Borough to encourage them enriching our own work as a school and bringing in significant dropped on Britain which really shocked me. We then to embrace school leadership roles. There have been real funds to support the children that we serve. went into the holocaust area; we weren’t allowed mobile challenges in getting colleagues to sign up to the most senior phones in there because the things were so upsetting. I learnt that Hitler wasn’t the one behind everything it was a joint effort from a chain of people and I heard people’s

44 voice voice 45 - FAMILY HUB- By Mrs Wolfenden

At Saddleworth we believe in supporting the needs of After each session I ask for any feedback. We have had every pupil. As the Family Support Worker, I know it some fantastic feedback from Parents/Carers… is invaluable to our pupils’ education that school has a positive relationship with our parents and for our parents Feedback: to have a real understanding of what challenges our • Really enjoyed this informative, information session. pupils’ face and how to support them effectively. • Helpful for me to hear a discussion on boundaries and For the past 2 years I have run a ‘Living with teenagers’ when to pick my battles. evening. The aim of the evening was to help parents • Useful discussions and information. understand their teenagers. We shared how to access • Thank you really helped me understand put things into support and provided guidance with different aspects perspective. to a teenager’s life; we also discussed and demonstrated techniques and strategies for parents to use to support • Confirmation that as a parent, I am still human and that their teenagers. other parents have similar issue. • Understanding that many child issues are the same that At the end of both evenings, parents were asked to we went through. complete a feedback information sheet. I analysed these forms and this academic year I initiated The Family Hub. • Great support. The aim of the Hub is to offer weekly, whole school parents/ • Great night, really supportive, you have helped me and carers sessions. For parents to come together in a safe others. and confidential environment to discuss and share their • Another supportive and informative session. Learned so concerns, worries or share strategies they may be using or much especially on mental health and the impact this access some 1:2:1 support. has on children. The Hub has had a variety of focusses that have all had • Great to speak to other parents. one common denominator, our children’s wellbeing. Each • Really useful session made me feel like us parents aren’t session has looked at different issues our pupils and their alone. parents/carers are facing. Myself and other professionals • Learnt some really useful tips. from outside agencies have led the sessions to share their expertise. Some of the session have been… • Thank you! I feel upskilled to deal with my adolescent teenager in a much more positive way, ultimately Mental health and wellbeing – Mental health includes our helping us both. emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects • Took me a few weeks to get there but so pleased I made how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we the effort. handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through to adulthood. The Hub has been supported regularly by some key parents and staff, I really appreciate their continued support and Drugs & alcohol - David from OASIS delivered a want to take the opportunity to thank them. I also want to presentation on Drugs and alcohol during which open and thank anyone who has walked through the door needing confidential discussions took place and facts and myths help and guidance because that’s not an easy thing to do. discussed. We covered, Substance information, Reasons for use, Advice, Adolescent Behaviour and development. Moving forward some parents suggested that I offer a Family Hub drop in at Parent evening. This was a great Time to Talk - During this session I delivered a presentation suggestion therefore we had a drop in Hub at the last Year 11 around the following topics, how to support your child’s parents evening and I had a great response. There will now emotional wellbeing, what to do if your child school refuses, be a drop in Family Hub at each parents evening too. support and guidance on supporting a child’s self-esteem, knowing your teenager, parent child relationship and positive I am also currently working on The Family Hub section of strategies to promote a healthy relationship, adolescent the School website. Here you will be able to find relevant behaviour and development and what boundaries and information, website details to access support, guidance and consequences are age appropriate. The session is an practical advice. Plus, some of the information shared on the open forum for parents/carers to can ask questions, share Family Hub evenings will also be uploaded. experience or just listen. Many quotes say that “parenting is the hardest job in the School Expectations - We shared school expectations on world”. The Hub is simply designed to help, support and our children and tips for success. There was an open forum give parents/carers the knowledge and skills to help support to chat openly or alternately someone to talk to privately. them in parenting their children. Stress awareness– A presentation on what stress is and top The Hub is run in the School library, 6-7, most Thursdays. tips on how to manage it. Check the weekly bulletin or email for details. Please feel free to pop along have a brew, biscuit and chat. If you Anti-bullying – What is bullying and how to support your prefer to just sit and listen that’s great too, no pressure, no child if they are being bullied or are bulling. questions just a group of people wanting the best thing Up and coming topics are Social media/Gaming/ Grooming/ for their children. I hope to see you soon CSE, followed by a repeat of all topics already covered thought the year.

46 voice voice 47 NETBALL CHAMPIONS

- SPORTING SUCCESSES- By Mr Melling

The Saddleworth School PE department have witnessed first Oldham school to have achieved this feat in over one some exceptional successes during 2019 and the start of hundred years. A girls’ rugby team has now been introduced the new decade. at Year 8 to supplement the rounders, netball and girls We have welcomed Mr Cooney and Mrs Kipling as new staff football teams that already exist and regularly triumph in additions to the PE team, whilst Mr Melling has stepped up local and regional events. Cricket and Cross Country remain to the position of Assistant Curriculum Leader following Mr as strengths of the school with many individuals representing Meadowcroft’s move into semi-retirement after 32 years of the borough and earning County honours. loyal service to the school. Olivia Forster, in Year 10, represents the England U15’s Our pupils from Year 7-11 have performed superbly in an basketball squad whilst Harley Edge in Year 9 and Chloe array of sports, both inside and outside of the school arena. McHugh in Year 7 are excelling in badminton and football The Saddleworth Storm Cheer squad which was introduced respectively. by Miss Muir in 2018 continues to go from strength to We look forward to seeing our students gain even more strength finishing 3rd in the national finals whilst the rugby individual accolades and team honours. teams have reached two national finals and were victorious in the North West Counties Cup at Year 11, becoming the

RUGBY CHAMPIONS

48 voice voice 49 In loving memory of Barrie Ashley 26.7.1952 - 16.4.2020

A special place within our hearts is always kept for you.

Mosaic created by Elleece Taylor and Mrs J. Coates. Original photograph of Barrie by Marie Whitehead.

50 voice voice 51 SADDLEWORTH SCHOOL

FIND US ONLINE SAY HELLO EDITOR www.saddleworth.oldham.sch.uk [email protected] Community and Operations Team

DROP US A LINE FOLLOW US VISIT US 01457 872 072 High Street, Uppermill Saddleworth, OL3 6BU