Headmaster's Report

n September, we were saddened by we have remodelled our approach news of the death of Ron Birkett, to GCSE, to enable the majority of Iformidable Head of the Junior students to take an additional quali- School from 1968 until his retirement fication. The new school day that in 1986. Ron’s time at King’s was neatly underpins our review, will consist of enveloped by the Headship of Alan six periods, rather than the current Cooper, whom we lost in February. five, and this will provide increased Alan’s two decades at the helm from curriculum time for departments, 1966 to 1987, was a period of enor- along with a more balanced day for mous societal and cultural change pupils. and presented the school with some In a year in which we have seen significant financial and structural record academic results at A and challenges. It required someone of AS level, against the backdrop of Alan’s tremendous calibre to navigate tightening national standards, I this period successfully and the school am delighted to report that this will remain forever in his debt. The achievement has not diminished fulsome tributes paid to Alan at his the vibrancy of our music, impaired memorial service in Wells Cathedral, the quality of our theatre, or dam- bore eloquent testimony to the stature aged the record of our sport. The of one of our greatest headmasters. musical highlight of last year was Alan was my Headmaster and, the wonderful Maria Theresa Mass, typically, he was amongst the first to performed to a full church in the write to me when I was appointed. Puginesque splendour of St Albans. He knew the challenges of headship, Jo Beesley demands much from her but he also reminded me of its op- performers, and neither the choir, portunities and the absolute need to nor her exceptionally talented group look to the future, whilst working in of student soloists, let her down. The King’s School in the present. I am sure that he would Alison Lea and Soulla Richardson have been delighted with the pro- thrilled audiences with the Year 6 gress the school is making towards production of Honk!, the musical re- our 2020 Vision for King’s on a single telling of Hans Christian Anderson’s Contents site. The inclusion of the school in Ugly Duckling, with more routines the Local Plan, marks another step and costume changes than you will along the way and crucially offers us see in the West End. Little wonder Headmaster’s Report 1 reassurance that the project will be that the Junior Choir swept the financially viable. At the same time, board last year at the Alderley Edge I hope he would be pleased to see Musical Festival. And, for a change of Hail & Farewell 3 continued investment in our current mood, theatre-goers needed to look facilities. Work is now well underway no further than Donald Forbes’s on the Westminster Road develop- intensely dramatic staging of Timber- Academic Departments 10 ment and the first stage of our ICT lake Wertenbaker’s Our Country’s Strategic Plan has been achieved with Good. the completion of the single network At the same time, our sportsmen Events & Activities 38 across the Foundation, a new enter- and women enjoyed another impres- prise standard WiFi system and the sive year. The 1st XV’s unbeaten launch of Microsoft 2010. At Fence season and national second place in Infant and Junior 51 Avenue, the Upper Junior School the Daily Mail’s rugby ranking, was has been refurbished and we have the product of the same dedication, completed the transformation of the teamwork and leadership that we Rugby 56 canteen. Thanks to the generosity of have just noted in music and drama. the Friends of King’s, the Infants have Last year’s boys’ hockey season added a new play area to the facility was amongst the most successful Hockey 63 we opened for the Juniors last year. on record, with the 1st XI reaching Development, of course, is not just the NW finals and the U16 and U13 about buildings and facilities. Dur- teams reaching the North of England 65 ing the last academic year, we have Finals. Our U11 football team won conducted a review of our curricu- the Reliance Sevens tournament to lum, with the help of staff, students carry off the largest trophy I’ve ever Other Sport 69 and parents. The Education Commit- seen. And, not to be outdone, the tee approved the changes in October U11 netballers were crowned Mac- and we have now started to plan for clesfield and District Champions and Awards & Prizes 76 implementation in September 2014. winners of the Terra Nova tourna- As well as introducing Critical Think- ment. Our cheerleaders grabbed ing and P4C (Philosophy for Children) four out of five national titles, at Cover photograph by Michael Patey-Ford to pupils in Key Stage 3 (Years 7 - 9), the National Schools Cheerleading

1 Headmaster's Report

Championships, and in trampolin- ing, Rowena Moores was crowned U15 national champion whilst our U13 Elite boys’ team also came first. For once, our cricketers were blessed with sunshine, chalking up ten victo- ries against some worthy opponents including MGS, Stockport, King’s Chester and Bolton. Results like these (and there are more!), are the product of the combined efforts of the teaching and support staff at school and, of course, our pupils. Without a dedicated and supportive staff, no school can flour- ish. So let me thank my colleagues for all that they have achieved the last year, whether inside or outside the classroom. We expect a great deal from our staff and I continue to staggering £25,000 has been raised in the following pages. I hope it is be impressed by the huge range of across the Foundation to help good sufficient for me simply to record our opportunities they facilitate for our causes. This includes a remarkable gratitude. pupils. £3,000 at King’s Sings for Syria and I should also record our appre- We are also fortunate as a school, £1,200 at the Girls’ Division’s ‘Raid ciation to a number of Governors to have so many parents who are my Wardrobe’ event. Fundraising, of who retired from the Board last year prepared to become involved and to course, sits alongside other charitable including Mr Mike Forbes and Cllrs help us extend the range and number work, including the laying of a water David Neilson and Alift Harewood. of opportunities for our pupils. There pipe for a village in South West Africa Mike was instrumental in launching are, of course, too many to mention (pictured above), completed as part the Quincentenary Bursary Scheme in by name, or to include all of those par- of this summer’s Namibia expedi- 2002 which, to date, has raised over ents who give so freely of their time to tion, and the service programmes £500,000 and enabled 50 pupils to help the Friends of King’s, but perhaps run through the Duke of Edinburgh join, or continue, in the Sixth Form. you will forgive me if I pick out a few Award Scheme. Again, it would take His keen golfing interests make him a other individuals. Andrew Ireland has too long to identify all that we do, but stalwart of the Bursary Fund Golf Day, effectively run our chess club for the I want to offer our acknowledgement now an annual event raising around past four years, using time off work to and thanks to all our artists, fundrais- £2,000 a year. We are profoundly grate- coach and inspire the pupils. Alison ers and volunteers. ful. I should also record our thanks Moores not only helps coach the Year The new academic year is a time to Cllr Harewood who served on the 6 netball team, running practices on for welcoming new colleagues and for Governing Body ex officio as Mayor of Thursdays and Monday lunch times, recording our thanks to those who Macclesfield. The nature of the may- but is also one of a number of extraor- have left us. Last year saw the retire- oralty makes the appointment transi- dinarily committed parents who have ment of a number of long-serving tory by nature, but I would like to helped propel our cheerleaders and colleagues, including Mark Harbord record here our appreciation of Alift’s trampoliners to national success. Rob and Geoff Shaw, who taught me when interest in and commitment to the Thorneycroft is a constant fixture at I was at King’s, in the 1970s. The school. Indeed, I suspect she was pre- school matches, has generously spon- school also said farewell to our Senior sent at more school events last year sored our rugby players and helped Teacher for Staff Development, Val than I was. Cllr Harewood’s successor refit the Cumberland Street weights White, whose 19-year King’s career is Cllr Lloyd Roberts and, as a close room. To these, and all our parents, I saw her rise from one of the first neighbour, it is a pleasure to welcome want to offer heartfelt thanks on behalf teachers in the Girls’ Division to Vice- him to the Board. Finally, I would like of the school. Principal, and finally to the Senior to record our thanks to Mike Strutt There are two other areas of school Management Team. Other retirees for taking on the chairmanship of the life that I must touch upon. The first included Alison Powell, our unflap- Bursary and Fundraising Commit- is the work of our artists. The range pable Foundation Nurse; Val Kendal, tee and to Cllr Hilda Gaddum, who and quality of the artwork around the mainstay of the School Office; Clare succeeds David Neilson as our Child school is, quite simply, exceptional. Bingham, Gillian Banner and Linda Protection Governor. We are blessed with a team of artists Johnston. Michael Patey-Ford retired Equipped with a new set of aims whose subject is more than just a job: from teaching, but will, fortunately, and an ambitious development plan, it is a passion. And I am delighted that continue to lend the school his re- we have had a busy year. Working they communicate that passion to so markable creative and design talents hard at work worth doing is always many. Finally, there is the enormous on a part-time basis. The contribu- a source of satisfaction and, for me amount of charity work at King’s. tions of these King’s legends, and personally, it is both a privilege and What we do for others says much others who have moved on, were pleasure to continue to serve as your about who we are, and I am delighted acknowledged at our end-of-year hog Headmaster. to report another year in which a roast in July, but you will find more Simon Hyde

2 Hail & Farewell

Psychology from the Open University plays the clarinet and also plays hockey Hail and a Post Graduate Teaching Cer- for Ladies 1st team at Macclesfield Welcome to the following members tificate from the University of . Hockey Club. of staff, who joined King’s during the Before coming into teaching, Natalie academic year 2012 – 2013: had a 12-year career in advertising. Matthew Hogan joined the school to cover for maternity leave in the IT Helen Bassirat replaced Liz Auger as Andrew (Doug) Duggan joined us Department. He graduated in Second- the After School/Holiday Club Su- again in the Mathematics Department, ary Education Business Studies (ICT) pervisor and also became a Learning covering a maternity leave post. He with PE and is also currently studying Support Teaching Assistant. She joined worked at King’s for a period at the for a Masters in Education. He previ- King’s from the Diocese of Shrews- end of the Summer Term 2012 and ously worked at bury, where she was a Project Devel- was well received by pupils and col- as an e-Learning Coordinator and at opment Worker. Helen studied Child leagues. St Nicholas Catholic High School and Care, Education and Learning Support School as an ICT Teacher. He and previously worked as a Learn- Sarah Graham Sarah replaced Carol writes reviews on software and hard- ing Support Assistant and an Applied Dewhurst and Francesca McArthur as ware for an education magazine as well Behaviour Therapist, as well as run- our new Careers and Development as leading live reviews at their regional ning and owning her own pre-school Officer. Sarah came from a career in conferences. nursery. Helen worked as a volunteer media, and is a graduate in English Lit- for her local church and has been erature from the University of Lancas- Jessica Seth joined King’s to provide involved in running youth groups for ter. She enjoys amateur dramatics and cover for maternity leave in the MFL teenagers for many years. reading and has in the past run drama Department. Jessica came from Putney sessions and a book club for children. High School for Girls where she was Stephen Batson replaced Michael Head of Modern Foreign Languages Preston as Network Engineer. Stephen Richard Griffiths joined King’s as and Head of French. She was also has previous experience in a wide Deputy Head (Academic). He took a Head of French for three years at the range of organisations, both educa- first in English from Pembroke Col- North London Collegiate School. Jes- tional and commercial, having worked lege, Cambridge and then studied sica graduated in French and German at of Further Educa- for a PGCE in English with Drama at from the University of and tion and most recently for ROMEC. He the . He is a studied for her PGCE at King’s College, studied IT at Manchester College of Principal Examiner for the AQA English London where she also completed a Arts and Technology and has a Certifi- Literature iGCSE and is also a Parent Masters in German Linguistics. cate in Network and Systems Admin Governor at his children’s primary in Education from Lancaster Univer- school. Richard was previously Head Toby Seth joined King’s as Deputy sity. He is an Assistant Coach for the of English at Bolton School (Boys’ Di- Head (Development). He graduated Samurai Jujitsu Association where he vision) where he ran the Debating So- in Modern and Mediaeval Languages teaches self-defence to children. His ciety, a martial arts club and coached a (French and Spanish) from Trinity other interests include , football team, as well as directing many College, Cambridge and then took a mountain biking and fishing. major school productions. He had also PGCE in French and Spanish at King’s recently created a Sixth Form Reading College, London. He is also currently Emma Breese joined the Mathemat- Group and a Poetry Society. completing an MA in Leadership in ics Department from Alderley Edge Education (Leading and Managing School for Girls. A graduate in Engi- Maria Gutiérrez Fernández came Change for Improvement). Toby leaves neering from Cambridge University, to teach Spanish and French for two his post as the Senior Teacher (School and a holder of a doctorate from the terms on a part-time basis within the Organisation and ICT Development) same institution, Emma completed her MFL Department, and joined us from at the Godolphin and Latymer School PGCE training at Manchester Met- her teacher training course at Man- in London, where he was also Head ropolitan University. Before a career chester Metropolitan University. She of Modern Foreign Languages. He change to teaching, Emma worked as has previous experience at Cheadle has worked previously at Wellington a Senior Coastal Engineer and Project and Marple Sixth Form College, and is College and Dulwich College. He has Manager for several years. She has a a native speaker of Spanish. Maria has coached rugby, tennis and football and strong interest in drama and musical a degree in History, a Post Graduate has assisted with the Duke of Edin- theatre and is a qualified teacher of Teaching Certificate in History, an MA burgh Award. modern dance. in Post Graduate Teaching of Span- ish and a PGCE in Secondary Spanish Chris Skelton came as our new Direc- Natalie Davis joined us to become with French. Her interests include tor of ICT Support. Chris had worked the Head of Learning Support, a newly music, the arts, jewellery making and at in Cheadle, created department that replaced crafts. She can also speak Swedish and where he led their ICT Support team. Learning Enhancement. Natalie came Portuguese. His previous experience was in busi- from All Hallows School, where she ness, where he was an ICT technician. was a member of their SEN Depart- Sarah Hayward joined the Math- Chris graduated in Foundation Net- ment for a number of years. She ematics Department as an NQT. work Management from the Manches- graduated in Business with ICT Educa- She graduated in Mathematics from ter College of Arts and Technology. tion from Manchester Metropolitan Manchester University, where she also Chris enjoys keeping fit and has com- University and also has a Diploma in completed her PGCE course. Sarah pleted the Great North Run to raise

3 Hail & Farewell funds for the East Hospice. Frank Walker returned to King’s her sons at University, and in digging from retirement, joining the English up most of the old trees in her beauti- Emma Smith joined the English Department on a two-term, part-time ful garden, a job she says has needed Department from an Arts College in basis. doing for the last umpteen years. Sudbury. She graduated with a First LR in English and Music from the Univer- We also welcomed the following sity of Birmingham, and trained as a temporary members of staff: Tom Gillian Banner teacher at Cambridge University. An Ainsworth, Hockey Coach; Nick Gillian Banner joined the English accomplished musician, she enjoys Barker, Games Coach Juniors; Issy department in September 2000, only playing the piano. Bell, Volunteer Admin Assistant (Gap two months after her daughter, Esmé Year); Marta Yerpes Cordoba, Span- Patey-Ford, left King’s to study English John Tedford covered maternity ish Assistant; Marion Dupont, French at Worcester College, Oxford. Prior to leave in the Geography Department. Assistant; Kathryn Epp, German As- this, Gillian worked for eight years as a He graduated in Geography from sistant; Victoria Lomas, Sports Coach social worker before going to Sheffield Liverpool University where he also (Gap Year); Kate Morris, Temporary University for seven years where she completed his PGCE. He previously School Nurse; Tim Pont, Hockey studied for her BA, MA and PhD in Eng- taught at the Grange School and St Coach; Kamlesh Sodha, Rugby lish Literature. Throughout that period, Edward’s College, Liverpool, where Coach (Gap Year) she taught at Sheffield and also worked he was Senior Teacher and Head of for the Buxton Arts Festival, was a ‘fixer’ Teacher Induction and Development. for the Northern Chamber Orchestra, and worked as a researcher for a High Farewell Chris Thomson took on the newly Peak MP. created role of Director of Sport on Anne Alderson Within the Girls’ Division and the Mark Harbord’s retirement. He was Anne joined King’s 6 years ago as Sixth Form, Gillian quickly established a pupil at Oundle School and took a Learning Enhancement Coordinator. herself as an inspiring and creative BA (Special Honours) in Sport and She wrote very personal and informa- teacher of English and, the year after Recreation Studies at the University of tive IEPs to support the quite complex she joined King’s, she was appointed as Birmingham where he also studied for needs of some pupils who join King’s. the Senior Subject Teacher for English a PGCE in Physical Education with His- She understood how some of our in the Girls’ Division, which role she tory Subsidiary. Chris was previously brightest students may still need sup- managed ably. The varied and diverse the Head of Boys’ Games and Master port with particular needs, especially if route that Gillian took, to come to i/c Cricket at Fettes College, Edin- their learning requirements were a lit- teach young people, contributed great- burgh. He spent a year on a teacher tle more challenging than others. Anne ly to her delivery of the subject, whilst exchange programme at Trinity Gram- offered her pupils a level of personal her prior experience as a social worker mar School, Sydney and, after univer- care and kindness which came from was put to good use when she was sity, spent another year in Australia at her counselling background and un- appointed as Child Protection Officer Barker College and Canberra Gram- derstanding nature. Her wealth of ex- for the school. She also made contribu- mar School as a PE and Sportsmaster, perience as an English teacher certainly tions to the Governors’ meetings as a Games Coach and PE Assistant. Chris came into the fore in her exciting Study staff representative. played cricket for Northamptonshire Skills lessons and she was without Gillian is passionate about literature U19s and still acts as an area scout for doubt very highly thought of, not only and introducing young people to the the Northants County Cricket Board. by the pupils who had the pleasure of power of language. The resources she He is a qualified cricket, rugby and being in her lessons, but also by those produced for her teaching were inven- hockey coach. of us who had the pleasure of working tive and provocative, always requiring alongside her. students to think, question and chal- Janine Turner joined the MFL De- Not only did Anne do all this in just lenge aspects of our society and indeed partment for two terms on a part-time 2 and a half days a week in school; she their own thoughts. Furthermore, the basis. As well as being an educational put in a huge amount of time over and multi-media she used were stimulat- consultant for the BBC, Jan works at above that, giving up her weekends as ing and thought-provoking. She was the local Mill Languages Centre in Mac- she walked miles over hill and dale as patient and supportive, nurturing the clesfield and was previously Head of a staff member of the Duke of Edin- tentative and allowing the able to soar. Spanish and Head of Year at Stockport burgh team. I have no doubt, that her She never accepted the lazy, predict- Grammar School for many years. She enthusiasm and boundless energy was able responses, but urged her classes to graduated in German with French a highly valued contribution to the think and take risks. from the quality of those events. Throughout her time at King’s, Gil- and University of Freiburg and com- There is still a significant presence lian supported many young writers to pleted her PGCE at the University of missing from our TP building – not find their voice and the writers’ groups Durham. Her interests include swim- to mention the occasional offer of a she ran, produced remarkable work. ming, walking, dragon boat racing and shared lunch, which usually consisted Indeed, a writers’ residential that she opera singing. of four dates, three brazil nuts and a organised at Barlaston gave those who handful of raisins. (And a cup of herbal took part, time and space to create Dave Gee returned from retirement tea!) Anne plans to enjoy her retire- original and magical pieces; and per- from King’s to teach within the Design ment with her husband David: they haps more importantly, they had lots of and Technology Department for one aim to spend time travelling and having pleasure doing so. Gillian’s classroom, year. holidays (in term time!), supporting F4, at Fence Avenue was always an

4 Hail & Farewell inspiring place to visit. Thought-pro- Clare Bingham Apart from being a great Latin and voking wall-displays, impressive artwork Clare was one of the first teachers to Classics teacher, Kate was a dedicated and beautiful King’s Macc roses, created be enrolled for the newly founded Years 7 and 8 Form tutor, before mov- a harmonious environment, conducive Girls’ Division. She started in 1993 as ing to be a tutor in Years 12 and 13. to reflection and imagination. Senior Subject Teacher for Geography More recently, Kate ran the Sixth Form Gillian shared her interest in nature and gallantly operated in that role at activities on Wednesday afternoons. with her classes. In springtime, there Fence Avenue ever since. Significantly, She took part in many Classics trips would be live footage of the peregrines her affection for her subject has never abroad to Rome, Pompeii and Greece nesting at Derby Cathedral: the web- been in doubt. Nor will there be any and she organised some of these trips cam images documenting the chicks’ pupil who has passed through her herself. Kate’s presence on these trips, progress would be projected into the classroom who has not been touched along with Dan who inevitably tagged room, via the interactive whiteboard. by Clare’s concern for his or her pro- along, gave the trips a special, extra And, most notably, on several occa- gress and overall development. flavour. sions, in order to support her GCSE Her experience was invaluable to After taking part in the Fashion set’s study of ‘A Kestrel for a Knave’, her GCSE tutor groups and on many show for a number of years, including she organized a display of raptors in a Geography trip, including recent dancing in the staff salsa routine, Kate the Fence Avenue hall. Students were ventures to the French Alps, where took charge of organising the show for captivated: not only did the experience her hidden talent of speed skating was three years, with notable success. Dur- unlock the text for them but it brought revealed. She also operated as Head ing the last few years Kate had been them into close proximity with per- of Adlington, since the establishment giving up her time to help out with the egrines, kestrels and other birds of prey, of the House system in 1993. Here, D of E programme. an encounter that many students will she enthusiastically managed and Kate offered much to the Classics never forget. participated in numerous competitive, department and to the school: we will Gillian intends to spend time on yet jovial events, including playing the miss her but wish her well in all her her own writing and in her garden. We part of Posh Spice in a Spice Girls staff future endeavours. thank her for her significant contribu- rendition of ‘Wannabe’, complete with MTH tions to the English Department and pout, although disappointingly, minus wish her every happiness for the future. David Beckham. Christophe Fico LCD Clare always had a good sense of Christophe left this summer, to take humour and was great fun. I have up his post as Head of French at Rachel Bateman an abiding memory of a Christmas Bolton School. He arrived at King’s Rachel joined the English Department assembly, where someone, whom I in 2007, following some years work- as Senior Subject Teacher at Cumber- presumed to be a pupil, dressed in a ing in media, and quickly established land Street in September 2010, replac- full Santa suit and face-hugging mask, himself as a charismatic, meticulous, ing Reg Davenport on his retirement. strode purposefully up and down the efficient teacher and became a hugely The following year, she took up the aisles, throwing boiled sweets into the creative and productive team player SST post at Fence Avenue. increasingly animated crowd. To my in the Modern Languages Faculty. Rachel brought to her role as SST, amazement Santa departed after the Initially based at Cumberland Street, not only a high degree of organisa- assembly into the staff room, where after a short time he was promoted tion but also a strategic understanding ‘he’ casually remove ‘his’ mask, to to become Senior Subject Teacher for of the needs of a department. She reveal Clare, showing no signs of per- Modern Languages, and his impact encouraged and fostered cross-cur- spiration or fatigue. was huge in that role. Whilst promot- ricular working, whilst her consider- For many years, Clare organized ing the teaching of languages at the able experience as a GCSE Literature the Year 9 outdoor walking camps Girls’ Division, he also threw himself examiner and a regular contributor to with care and meticulous attention to into extra-curricular language activi- Teachit, was invaluable to colleagues detail, introducing all to the delights ties, setting up and running a highly and pupils. of map reading and soggy tents. We popular GCSE study trip to Paris and She was very innovative as an will miss Clare very much and wish her helping with many other activities. He SST, setting up an ‘ask the examiner’ well in all her future endeavours. will be missed at King’s but we wish website alongside revision sessions, ASP him every success in all his future and overseeing an exciting variety of endeavours. clubs and activities to enhance pupils’ Kate Easby IED enjoyment of English-related subjects. After 10 years at the school, Kate left Rachel was a calm and caring teacher King’s this summer for an exciting new Janet Handley and tutor, whom girls and colleagues life in ‘Bella Italia’. Throughout her Janet Handley joined King’s in 2008 respected enormously. time with us, she proved herself to be from Glossopdale Community School: She left King’s at the end of the an outstanding teacher. She was loved she came as a part-time English teach- Autumn term, to take up a post with by the younger pupils as a really caring er but, as it was immediately apparent an examination consortium in Cam- teacher, with a great sense of humour, that she brought significant reserves bridge. Her colleagues and pupils wish who provided exciting, engaging les- of passion, energy and expertise to her her every happiness, both in her new sons. For older pupils, she was invari- teaching, she was given a full-time post and in the next stage of what is ably seen as a devoted teacher, but at the first opportunity. Sadly for staff sure to be a very successful career. also a friend and adviser, with whom and pupils alike, Janet left King’s at JCA they wanted to maintain links, long the end of the Autumn term, moving after leaving King's. with her husband, Ingvar, to Norway,

5 Hail & Farewell where she planned to embark on new Coming from a farming background, ing duties with the completion of his adventures, such as learning Nor- Mark also had common sense and a doctorate – no small feat in the light of wegian, becoming a proficient skier hardworking, honest approach that he a timetable that made little allowance and returning to post-graduate study passed on to the boys. for his status as a new teacher, requir- at Tromso University, where she was As a sports coach, Mark’s enthu- ing him to teach at every age level in undertaking an MA. siasm and knowledge was second the Senior School. Since then, he has Janet was an inspirational and char- to none. As a sportsman himself, he always been ready to take on a heavy ismatic individual, totally committed played in 1st teams for cricket and workload for the benefit of pupils and to her students and her teaching. She rugby at Monmouth School, and was colleagues alike. Sixth Form students was a first-rate classroom practitioner, involved in the Glamorgan County have valued his wise advice on their who brought admirable drive, plenti- Cricket set up and with rugby at choices and applications for further ful ideas and passion to her subject. Lydney (then a close competitor of education, whilst colleagues have Colleagues and pupils admired and Gloucester and ) before con- greatly appreciated his patience and respected her unstinting dedication. tinuing with both sports at Loughbor- support in the role of Union Repre- In addition to these admirable quali- ough. sentative. ties as a teacher, Janet contributed Although Mark enjoyed teaching, he The principal driving force behind very significantly to the extra-curricular always said that his greatest pleasure Chris’s teaching, is his passion for life of the school community. She came from sports coaching, which Physics and his eagerness to share his organized and led the Girls’ Division in he undertook with great success. As insights with others. He was always its participation with the BBC School a Head of Cricket, Mark took King’s ready to surrender hours of his free News Report, for example; this was into a situation where its cricket was time to help enquiring minds. Chris so successful that the BBC included nationally recognized, including a held responsibilities as Head of Year, news segments produced by pupils as national U15 final played at Trent Head of Physics, two stints as Head of models of excellence on the DVD they Bridge. In rugby, he enjoyed a series of Science and has been on numerous sent to schools. successes, including an U15 Daily Mail committees tasked with ensuring posi- Janet also ran the highly successful vase final, triumphs at the Sedbergh tive developments for the school. His SLAMbassadors workshops, (promot- Tens competition and several signifi- extra-curricular work included numer- ed to schools by the Poetry Society), cant Sevens competition wins. Mark ous variations on the theme of Physics and she developed strong and im- always coached attractive, but prag- and Engineering clubs and projects; aginative cross-curricular links with a matic sport and was adept at identify- rugby; hockey (along with the associ- range of departments. ing team, and individual, strengths and ated tours) and, more recently, sailing. As a form tutor, Janet was outstand- weaknesses, in both King’s teams and His involvement with sailing typifies ing: members of 9JaH were extremely the opposition they faced. Further- his approach to school life: years ago, well cared for with Janet’s unbeatable more, he was a shrewd team manager Chris answered a crisis call to drive combination of no-nonsense, straight- who involved as many individuals as a minibus to Scotland at a few days’ talking and her desire to understand possible, but always attempted to put notice. He went on the sailing trip and support her tutees. them in a situation that stretched and and has been on the annual trip and Janet was an inspiring and compas- challenged without overwhelming. weekly sessions at Redesmere, ever sionate colleague: we will miss her and In the latter stages of his career, since. we wish her every happiness in her Mark saw the introduction of academic Chris attributes the longevity of his Scandinavian life. PE and also became involved in the stay at King’s to the strong, positive JCA Gold Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, working relationships he enjoyed with to the point where he undertook colleagues and the pleasure of teach- Mark Harbord his mountain leader training, which ing literally thousands of well-moti- Mark retired from King’s after a 35- led to many adventures in the Lake vated students. Over the years, the year career that was remarkable in District and Snowdonia. Again, Mark Physics Department benefited enor- its service to the school as well as its employed his unflappable nature and mously from the wealth of original input into the sporting, academic and understanding of the students to great worksheets, teaching notes and Power- social development of countless King’s effect, occasionally in difficult and chal- Point presentations he generated and pupils. Joining the school in 1977 from lenging circumstances. freely shared. His penetrating statisti- Loughborough University, Mark taught In retirement, Mark will continue cal analysis and mastery of the spread- PE and History, in addition to coaching his interest in sport, notably golf and sheet, helped the Department to run the 1st teams in cricket and rugby, with the outdoors, often with the King’s like a well-oiled Wimshurst machine. great success. Mark will be remem- ‘old-lags’ walking group, but most sig- Chris had a remarkable attendance bered as a firm, but fair teacher who nificantly he will spend more time with record at King’s, years going by with- thought carefully about the boys in his Lyn and his family. Mark will be missed out a single day off. On those rare oc- care, prepared effectively and created by both students and colleagues: we casions, his absence has been noticed a supportive, engaging atmosphere wish him well for a long and happy most by a quietness in the department through his understanding of the pu- retirement. – we will miss his readiness to share pils and his communication with them. CST an anecdote and repeat the same old Being able to think and communicate jokes! on a teenage boys’ level is a key skill in Chris Hollis New challenges await Chris at the the management of pupils and Mark Chris Hollis arrived at King’s in 1981 Grammar School at while his had that instinctive skill which encour- and spent the first two years of his wife, Lesley, will continue in her many aged boys to respect and trust him. career combining his Science teach- roles as a member of our Support

6 Hail & Farewell

Staff: she will be able to keep him up Val Kendal regularly coached Sixth Form foot- to date with the latest developments Val Kendall joined the school in 1994 ballers each Friday after school. His at King’s. The Science Department has and quickly became invaluable as the cultured left boot provided many a enjoyed considerable success dur- Secretary to the Sixth Form Division. goal for the staff team and, in turn, ing the years in which Chris has been In that time, she saw many changes in enabled numerous victories over the Head of Department. We wish him the Sixth Form, including a brand new young upstarts in the Sixth Form, for every success in his future endeavours building. this ageing team. and will do our best to carry forward She served with three different We will miss him and we wish Pat- the valuable legacy he leaves. Principals of Sixth Form, who were all rick well in all his future endeavours. PI profoundly grateful for her discretion, JSM warmth, tact and utter reliability. She Mark Hornby was a very good friend to many col- Rachel Maddocks At the end of the Academic year, we leagues and consistently displayed an Rachel joined the History Department saw the departure of Assistant Care- essential good humour and calmness at Kings’ in 2004 from Boston Gram- taker Mark Hornby. Mark was a very in the face of any problem. mar School. Her engaging teaching popular character around the school: Val was legendarily tactful and her style and determination to see every his jovial persona always made both willingness to help often led her to student achieve to their maximum support and teaching staff smile. give up her free time to support the quickly made her popular with her During his time at King’s, Mark was school. She had a genuine affection for classes. She wore many hats in her blessed with the birth of his son Vinny, the students and took a great interest time at King’s, including three years and a Cypriot wedding to his wife, in making sure they were well-support- as Head of General Studies as well as Poppy. We thank him for his contribu- ed by the Sixth Form Office staff. Her time spent as a hockey coach. In- tions to King’s and we wish all the very attention to detail and her ability to novation has been one of Rachel’s best to him and his family. plan ahead were particular strengths. watchwords, not least by creating PBJ Val leaves King’s for what we hope will from scratch the Government and be a long and happy retirement with Politics department, which she led Jill Illingworth her husband Steve. It is typical of Val and developed with great passion and Jill has been part of the King’s com- that she views her retirement as an success in the last three years. Further munity for an amazing 33 years, firstly opportunity to help her children with innovative moves include the planning as a spouse to Peter, then as a parent their childcare – she is certainly an ac- and leading of an extremely popular and from 1996 onwards as a member tive and supportive grandma. History and Politics trip to Washington of staff. Val has been a wonderful asset to and New York, as well as the develop- Jill joined King’s from Hulme Hall the school, dedicating what has been ment of the Equestrian squad, includ- and brought with her a wealth of outstanding service to King’s, and to ing its incorporation into the D of E experience to take up her initial role the Sixth Form in particular, for more programme with a three day trek! as Office Manager. She applied her than nineteen years. Both pupils and Throughout her time at the school, exceptional organisational and mana- staff will miss her and we all wish her several Sixth Form classes also ben- gerial skills to the role and successfully well in her retirement. efited from her advice and unswerving ran many of the school’s support func- RHR support in her role as a Sixth Form tions for nearly 10 years. However, her tutor and a number went on to study skills were much in demand and Jill Patrick Livingstone both History and Government and was invited to join the Admissions De- After three years with the Econom- Politics at various universities. We wish partment in 2005, working alongside ics and Business Studies department, her every success in her new Post as Christine Harrison and Linda Green. Patrick is heading back to Liverpool. Head of Government and Politics at Jill was a huge success with prospec- Patrick has been a real asset to the Denstone College. tive families, being able to draw on her department where his positive attitude MSR incredible knowledge of the school towards teaching and learning proved and speak as a parent, as well as being popular with the students, whilst I cer- Christine Morton a member of the Admissions team. tainly appreciated having a fellow Celt Christine joined King’s from Loreto in There are many King’s parents who in the department. Patrick also took September 2004. Spanish had arrived have spoken highly of Jill’s profession- on the unenviable task of teaching at King’s the previous year and my alism, kindness and understanding and three separate A levels in his first two own first few months in the job con- who have cited her personal touch as years, adding Government and Politics vinced me that what we needed was a the reason for joining King’s. It would to his repertoire, and it is a sad loss for Head of Spanish who would develop be remiss not to mention Jill’s encyclo- King’s that such a versatile teacher is the subject further. Christine came to paedic knowledge, attention to detail moving on. Patrick also fully immersed the school full of ideas and inspira- and her role in many successful Open himself in the extra-curricular offerings tion, determined to fulfil her brief, to Evenings, Open Mornings, prep school at King’s, coaching rugby and taking launch the language at King’s. events and entrance examinations. ownership of Student Investor and She established herself as a popu- Jill made an outstanding contribu- Chance to be Chancellor activities. He lar, warm and effective teacher. She tion to the Admissions Department toured with the senior rugby worked cooperatively, so that within and to the school as a whole for squad, acting as tour photographer a short time we had moved from a many years and she will be very much and warm-up specialist. It is perhaps situation where Spanish was studied, missed by her friends and colleagues. the staff football team that will miss by a select minority of pupils, in an CJ Patrick the most; the pacy Irishman intensive two-year GCSE course, to a

7 Hail & Farewell mainstream language taught through- in the new development: to this day, it care and compassion to those around out the Boys’, Girls’ and Sixth Form remains a dynamic, creative environ- her, as well as those who needed her divisions. ment for both staff and pupils. professional attentions. We wish her, Christine gave unstintingly of her Michael shared his professional and her husband Barry, happiness in time. Even during a period when design and printing knowledge to her retirement. she was busy building the Spanish develop those abilities in his pupils: TDS Department, as a dedicated Head of the work they produced was always of Year, she could frequently be seen at the highest standard. He also taught Geoff Shaw lunchtimes, coaching and encourag- the City & Guilds qualification, super- Geoff retired after serving 111 terms at ing her students at all levels. She was seded by the ECDL, and was a stalwart King’s: his contribution to the school always able to see the positive and the of this qualification, preparing and is truly monumental and deserves high potential in individuals and to work marking thousands of tests. As a result recognition. He began at King’s as a on their better sides. As a form tutor of his dedication, hundreds of girls Maths Teacher in the Senior School in over several years, she was renowned progressed successfully through the September 1976, took on the role of for her approachable, informal style, qualification and the department will Master i/c External Exams in 1982 and caring genuinely for her tutees. be very sorry to lose him as a teacher. then transferred to the Junior Depart- Christine was closely involved in the Michael has always been very popular ment in September 1983 as Deputy trips programme: she played a large with pupils, staff and the wider King’s Head. Geoff became Principal of the part in organizing and accompanying community: I know he will continue to Junior Division in September 1992. a rugby tour to Spain; initiated and have a huge impact on the school as He oversaw the Division’s move from ran popular and successful language he continues in his design role. I also Cumberland Street into new prem- trips to Mar Menor and Valladollid, know his pupils will miss him. ises at Fence Avenue in 1993 and the and was a frequent helper with the COD opening of the Infant Department in French exchange to La Rochelle. She 1997. In his time as Principal, his kind also went on the Paris and ski trips and John Pattison and caring personality endeared him was a great team player, over several This year, we sadly say ‘farewell’ to our to pupils, staff and parents alike. Geoff years, on the Year 7 château trip. She much-loved Head of Department, Dr was a natural teacher; he wanted every set up an Hispanic cinema club, was Pattison. John taught at King's for 17 pupil in the Division to achieve their an experienced practitioner within the years, serving as Head of Department potential and he delighted in their classroom, and as an AQA examiner. for seven of these. He is the most pas- successes. As she moves on to Withington, we sionate biologist you could ever wish He was an enthusiastic maths wish her well, believing that Con un to meet and his great enthusiasm and teacher and gave up many lunchtimes cambio de actividad se renuevan immense knowledge will be difficult to to offer extra maths lessons, both to las energias - a change is as good as a replace. John immersed himself fully support and enrich the children’s rest. We hope she enjoys her new role in all aspects of his teaching and was learning. His love of sport led him and wish her all the best. King’s will an inspiration to colleagues and pupils to coach both football and cricket, not be the same without her. alike. often transporting teams to matches IED John’s contributions to other and joining in with the singing in the areas of school life included an active minibus! Michael Patey-Ford contribution to the PSHE programme, He remained in that post until Au- Michael retired from teaching in July, the organization of a Speakers’ Club gust 2009, when he stepped down to though he will continue to be the and an invaluable commitment to the return to teaching Maths in the Senior school’s graphic designer, a role in Crossfire meetings. Another contribu- School. For the few years before retire- which he, in large part, has created tion to school life worthy of note, is ment, Geoff was an outstanding Form and sustained what is widely recog- the fantastic Animal House which he Tutor, and a wonderfully supportive, nized as the King’s ‘brand’. For more kept. Two rooms filled with snakes, ter- highly effective Maths teacher in all than 20 years, he has designed all rapins, alongside tanks full of fish and three divisions. Geoff took on a host of King’s marketing, everything from axolotl, attracted boys every lunchtime additional roles, such as organising the advertising and admissions materi- and acted as a magnet to visitors dur- Maths challenges for Years 7-13, which als, to stationery, signage and vehicle ing tours and Open Events. involved the selection and organisa- livery. The creation and evolution of John will be greatly missed. We wish tion of hundreds of pupils each year. the school’s website, the prospectus, him all the very best for the future and He has, virtually singlehanded, taken every edition of King’s Colours, and we look forward to hearing about his the Chess Club to new heights and of this publication, reflect the consist- future endeavours. introduced inter-school matches (in ency and quality of Michael’s design HLB which we have a successful record). vision. Geoff and his myriad contributions Michael started teaching in the ICT Alison Powell to King's, its pupils and staff, will be department in September 1991 and Alison joined the school in 1992 as remembered with great affection. We was soon involved in another signifi- Foundation Nurse. In the 21 years will miss him but wish him much hap- cant project when the Fence Avenue since then, she has looked after count- piness in his retirement. site was established in 1993. His vision less pupils and members of staff and PJC/AJL for a Resource Centre at the heart helped King’s manage many changes, of the Division, that would integrate including the introduction of the Girls’ Christine Warr traditional library facilities with the and Junior Divisions. Alison has been Christine Warr joined the newly latest digital technology, was realised a great asset to the school, showing formed Senior School After-School

8 Hail & Farewell team in September 2009. Her calm War at RAF Cosworth, the Industrial Valete approach with pupils and her ability Revolution at Blists Hill and the Slave to deal with all the unusual situations Trade at Liverpool’s International Alan Cooper 1927-2013 one encounters at the end of a typical Slavery Museum. Valerie has always Alan Cooper, who died on 28 February, school day, made her a much-valued been determined to encourage pupils aged 85, will be remembered as one of colleague. We wish her the very best in to engage with history at first hand the greatest headmasters of the King’s her retirement. and stimulates their interest through School, an institution he cherished LS practical experience. and stewarded for twenty-one years. Valerie was also committed to the Alan arrived at King’s in April 1966. Ann-Marie Whalley pastoral work of the school: she was He was a Scholar of The Queen’s Ann-Marie joined the Economics and Head of Year 9 before her promotion College, Oxford and a former Head Business Studies department four to the role of Vice Principal at Fence of Maths at King’s College, Taunton years ago and has been an asset since Avenue in 2000. Valerie’s eye for detail and Dulwich College in London. Alan day one. She is an excellent classroom and genuine charm touched the presided over a period of considerable practitioner and caring Sixth Form hearts of staff and pupils alike. She change at King’s and masterminded tutor, who introduced a number of always had time for people, whether the transition from county grammar innovative methods for teaching to the they are colleagues, pupils, governors school to full independence in 1979. department. She fully involved herself or parents: Valerie is a ‘people person’. Keen to preserve access to the school in many departmental extra-curricular She enjoys the art of conversation, from as broad a social background as activities, such as Young Enterprise is an expert in her field and is very possible, he welcomed the introduc- and the Challenge of management, eloquent. Valerie’s assemblies have tion of the Assisted Places scheme in while at the same time dedicating her proved memorable - especially the 1981, whilst in 1986, school admission time to the Duke of Edinburgh Award one entitled ‘Rebel Without a Cause’. was opened to girls. programme and the hugely successful Another assembly that Valerie liked to Alan believed passionately in the Fashion show. Ann-Marie also took on give each year was on Remembrance King’s ideal of a broad and balanced the role of Head of Sixth Form PSHE, Day as again, the historian in her education with opportunities for where she redesigned the programme could not let the day go by, without both academic success and personal over the course of her tenure, in order explaining what and whom we were development. He was the living em- to meet the ever-changing needs of remembering. Valerie has both led and bodiment of this educational vision. Years 12 and 13. accompanied many tours to the Bat- Before Oxford, he won a scholarship Ann-Marie is leaving to start an tlefields of World War One, inspiring a to Bradford Grammar School and as a adventure with her fiancé Danny, who generation of boys and girls, through schoolboy, he played rugby for York- is also a teacher. They have accepted her expertise and enthusiasm. In shire. At Oxford he won a Blue and, positions at schools in Hong Kong more recent years, Valerie branched during national service, he played in and intend to use their new location out and accompanied History trips to the fêted Royal Signals’ team that took to explore further the wonders of Russia and China. I am sure that she on the Springbok in 1951. South East Asia. With just a smidgen will be using her retirement to explore King’s has never been rich in finan- of jealousy, I wish her all the best for even more exotic venues. cial endowments or land-holdings, but the future; the students in Hong Kong Valerie was an outstanding Vice despite this, Alan relentlessly pushed don’t know how lucky they are to have Principal and no one was surprised forward some impressive develop- Miss Whalley teaching them. when she was appointed Senior ments. The Percyvale Science Build- JSM Teacher for Staff Development across ing opened in the mid-1970s, and the the King’s Foundation, and joined purchase of twenty acres for the Derby Valerie White the Senior Management Team. It was Fields has provided generations of Valerie joined the King’s School in in this role that Valerie’s people skills sportsmen and women with a first- September 1994. The Girls’ Division shone through, as she inducted all class arena. The Alan Cooper Library, had just taken in its first cohort in new colleagues, guided NQTs through his final major project, still bears wit- 1993, so this was a particularly excit- their probationary year and trained ness to his remarkable contribution. ing time for the school. Valerie was staff in High Impact Teaching skills. Outside the school, Alan was an appointed Senior Subject Teacher for Valerie established a very high stand- immediately recognisable figure in History, where she made her mark in ard in her delivery of the NQT con- the locality. He was an active member the department, breaking away from ferences at the Derby Fields. Her ap- of the Civic Society, President of the the traditional GCSE curriculum, to proach has always been to share good Macclesfield Branch of the WEA and a introduce the popular SHP modular practice and invite young teachers to member of the District Health Author- history course in the Girls’ Division. come and inspire those others who ity. He served as both Secretary and This proved a very successful legacy, have been at the chalkface for a little Chairman of the North-West Division which has seen many girls go on to longer. Valerie made friends across all of the Head Masters’ Conference. study History at A Level and beyond. the Divisions and will be sorely missed For many King’s former pupils, There is no doubting Valerie’s love by those friends and colleagues, but including myself, Alan Cooper was a of her subject: she is a natural histori- we all wish her well in her retirement towering presence in their formative an. But in particular, Valerie loves local and thank her for her vast contribu- years. And if styles of headship rightly history. To this end, she planned and tion to the History Department, the change over time, few would dispute led numerous trips exploring the Silk Girls’ Division and the life of King’s that in those years, Alan could justifi- Industry in Macclesfield, the Cotton School. ably have claimed: L’Ecole, c’est moi. Industry at Quarry Bank Mill, the Cold EPO SH

9 Academic Departments

Art Brennand-Wood exhibition In October, the department took Year 10 students to see the exhibition For- ever Changes by Michael Brennand- Wood at Ruthin Craft Centre. Michael is a highly diverse and inspirational artist who has produced works in mixed media for over 30 years and his work can be seen in major public, corporate and private collections. Pupils spent a full day drawing and photographing the work and, whilst there, discovered that the artist was in the gallery, delivering a workshop. He took time to chat to the students and presented signed copies of the exhibition catalogue. Life Drawing As in previous years, the services of Education Art Prize the excellent life model, Stuart, were Following on from this trip, all Year retained and students extended the 10 artists took part in the national academic side of their drawing to Education Art Prize, a competition to support their Human Form project. produce a piece of work inspired by A large number attended the course the work of Michael Brennand-Wood. and gained so much from the course In November, Sophia Bird and James that they continued their studies at Phillips (pictured above right) were as a night class. selected as finalists and their work It is becoming increasingly rare out- was exhibited alongside the Forever side university to offer such a tradi- Changes exhibition at Ruthin. They tional, academic course in support of also spent a day at Ruthin, working the students’ studies. alongside Michael, producing new textile works under his tutelage. At Our Country’s Good the end of the day, they were each In support of the Drama Depart- presented with prizes of art materials, ment, a small team of artists worked copies of Michael’s published works on the set for Our Country’s Good and an original textile work created at Cumberland Street. The main set by Michael. piece was a painted floorcloth to symbolise the map and journey that Young Artists in Tuscany emigrant prisoners made. The drama Also in October, Harry Frost, Year studio was draped in ropes and sails 13 was selected to participate in the to create an authentic sea-faring highly prestigious Young Artists in atmosphere. Tuscany tour. Staying in a monastery in Castiglionchio, the students toured Art Enrichment, Conwy Tuscany, taking in such inspirations In March, Year 10 students took part as Florence, Siena, San Gimigniano, in the highly competitive Art Enrich- Arezzo and San Sepulchro. The week vative art graduates, when they were ment Weekend for selected pupils was full of experiences of drawing, invited to put on a showcase exhibi- throughout Cheshire. Students were painting, making, as well as eating tion at The Birley Gallery, Manchester taught in small specialist workshops, pasta and gelato, making new friends Metropolitan University. More than 30 led by local artists, teachers and mak- and talking late into the night. After students exhibited 2D, 3D and mixed ers, using a variety of different media. the trip, Harry extended the work, media work at the month-long exhibi- The course is held at the impressive to culminate in an exhibition at the tion. The selected pieces ranged from Conwy Outdoor Centre. The students ’s gallery space Juniors through to GCSE and A-level work from the local landscape and in May and, for his A level work, he pieces and included ceramics, glass, learn skills and techniques in the produced a striking wall-piece. It was textiles, graphics, fine art and sculp- workshops, where they experience an inspiring event and a fitting show- ture. This was a fantastic opportunity a varied range of activities, includ- case for the work of one of our most for our talented students to celebrate ing plaster casting, wire sculpture, talented students. their achievements and show their large-scale portraiture and etching. work to the public. The exhibition Students are challenged and inspired The Birley Exhibition was used as a teaching resource by not only by the teachers but also their King’s young artists rubbed shoulders MMU in training the next generation peers. All the skills experienced are with some of the country’s most inno- of art teachers. transferable and the work produced

10 Academic Departments

artists. Laura King-Smith’s layered, of the permanent collection of DAC screen-printed fabrics received glow- Beachcroft, Manchester, an interna- ing praise from an industry profes- tional law firm and sponsor of the sional, Winnie Spence’s breathtaking First Cut exhibition. Olivia also won book sculptures amazed all that saw a day’s workshop at Manchester Art them and the ceramic sculptures of Gallery with professional artists who David Nixon and Jonathan Emery use paper. contributed to the strongest show yet. Pride of place was taken by Harry Merchant Taylors’ Photography Frost, showcasing his A level work, In the autumn term, students partici- his EPQ study based on graphic pated in a photography competition novels, and work produced in Italy. sponsored by the Merchant Taylors’ He became a very worthy recipient of Company. Open to all ages, the theme the Selwyn Russell Jones Art Prize, a was Our Sporting Heritage. The ex- fitting finale before he leaves King’s pertise of King’s photographers was for a Fine Art degree at Edinburgh once again recognised in the award of University. prizes to Stephanie Redfern and Jona- than Emery. The work was selected over the weekend is often used to Year 12 at Conway for exhibition at the Merchant Taylors’ influence students’ studies for GCSE. The final big event of the year was Hall in Threadneedle Street, London As ever, our pupils were first-rate am- the AS into A2 Year 12 residential during December. bassadors for our school. The high- in Wales. 12 students took over the quality work produced was exhibited Conway Centre on Anglesey for the Cheshire Life Calendar at the Sixth Form Art Exhibition. weekend. The students produced Another photographic success saw DAT drawing, painting and sculpture Adam Boulton-Rawlinson in Year 8 works from locations such as The having one of his photographs se- Creative Arts Evening Marquis of Anglesey’s estate and lected for the 2013 Cheshire Life cal- In February, Year 8 boys put on an Newborough beach and woods; the endar. Adam is a keen photographer, exhibition as part of the Creative Arts group also travelled to the mainland whose passion for the art started after evening, alongside D&T, Drama and to visit the spectacular Dorothea taking a few pictures on his Dad’s iP- Music. The boys researched how faces Quarry. Back in the studio, the artists hone. Using a far more sophisticated have inspired artists through the ages, attended workshops on casting, glass digital SLR, Adam’s image, entitled in order to create their own ceramic lampworking, screenprinting and Hanging On, captured a delicate masks. They also displayed work in ceramic embossing. As ever, students image of the autumn countryside. print and textiles inspired by the work produced beautiful work ready for It was a real honour to have Adam’s of illustrator Jon Burgerman. It was their A2 coursework. work featured alongside professional an excellent opportunity to celebrate photographers’ work, for all to enjoy lower school creative arts. Competitions throughout the year of 2013. National BookBuzz GCSE and A level Exhibitions Year 7 student Adele Le Moignan Rugby Kit Competition The success of the examination was named as a runner-up in the The success of the photography students was celebrated in the End of National BookBuzz competition to competition was followed by an op- Year shows throughout May and June. design a book cover. Adele designed a portunity for students to be involved The GCSE exhibitions saw students cover for Shadow Forest by Matt Haig. in designing kit for the Rugby Sevens exhibiting particularly impressive Her beautiful and imaginative design to wear this year. There were a huge works in painting, glass, ceramics, caught the attention of the judges number of entries from across the digital media and textiles at Fence and she was named as one of the senior school. Scrutinised by the Avenue and Cumberland Street. runners-up in this year’s competition. design team at Kukri, the very striking The exhibitions provided a perfect opportunity for the selection of the The First Cut annual GCSE Art prizes which were To coincide with Manchester City Art awarded to Alex Moore and Sophie Gallery’s The First Cut exhibition, a Brown. Dan Greer’s light-based paint- competition was held for students ings drew much attention and the to produce an artwork made solely ‘virtual cityscapes’ based on Russia’s from paper. Year 9 pupil, Olivia Ham- Red Square, created digitally by Matt blyn, was awarded the runner-up Peers, contributed to a stunning show. prize in the 12-17 age group. Olivia’s At Fence Avenue, Keerthana Ganesh’s piece, Butterflies, was a delicate and exam work created with hundreds of intricate work inspired by Claire ceramic butterflies and Elizabeth Cliv- Brewster’s birds from The First Cut ery Adamson’s family portraits were exhibition. Her work was displayed at just a few examples of the outstand- from Novem- ing work displayed. ber 2012 until January 2013, mak- The A level Art Exhibition drew ing it much admired by a very wide the year to a close for Year 12 and 13 audience. The artwork is now part

11 Academic Departments entry by Sion Davenport, Year 7, was declared the winner. Further com- mendations and prizes were awarded to Sam Cockayne, Harry Wallace, Charlie Toms, Oscar Johnson, Steph- anie Redfern and Luke Gray.

Warhammer Championship During its first full year as part of the expanding enrichment on offer, two King’s School’s teams qualified for the national finals of the British School’s Warhammer championships. The ‘40K Team’ was first and the ‘Fantasy Team’ third in the North-West regional heats. Mrs Campbell has led the boys to victory, playing a battlefield game of subtlety, skill and strategy and the King’s teams featured some outstand- ing young players who take great pride in developing fabulous model armies.

DAT (MA) Finally, another of our talented staff, Mrs Threlfall, graduated with an MA from MMU in Creative Arts Practice. In addition to all of the cutting-edge educational experience that this enables her to bring to the classroom, she will be exhibiting her final MA personal practice work in Manchester. DI

Biology an opportunity to study living organ- River Bollin Biology Club isms in natural habitats; the focus was The annual trip for Year 9 students The Biology Club meets every both Rocky Shore and Sand Dune to the River Bollin allowed younger Monday and club members look habitats. The primary interest was in- biologists to get their first taste of after the fish and snakes kept in the vestigating the battle for survival both field-work. The aim of the visit was animal house. The Club is proud against the ravages of the tides and to investigate the water quality in the to announce it had great success between different individual species river; students were delighted to dis- in maintaining fish stocks this year. for space and food. A visit to Angle- cover that the water in the River Bol- There were exciting additions to the sey Sea Zoo allowed students to see lin is becoming cleaner. The number animal house as three super, little aquatic fauna and flora close up. of fish caught was also indicative of Axolotl joined: they are ably cared for good water quality and caused much by three sixth form biologists: Kate Tegg’s Nose Fieldwork excitement. Garnett, Joanna Dyson and Millie Year 12 students took part in a visit to HLB Beresford. The Year 7 members of Tegg’s Nose where they gained their Biology Club enjoyed a trip to Crea- first proper experience of ecologi- Chemistry ture Comforts to purchase some new cal techniques and field-work. It was stock for the fish tanks. These pur- a very enjoyable and educationally Chemistry Club underwent a trans- chases included Tiger Barbs, Siamese valuable experience for all involved: formation this year and was renamed Fighters and a Red-tailed Black Shark. quadrats and transects are now famil- ‘Senior Chemistry Society’. A hard- iar terminology. core contingent of Year 11 and Year The Biology Garden 12 students attended weekly, burst- The Biology Garden received some Nowgen ing with ideas and keen to explore much needed attention, as some Year Year 13 students became real scien- Chemistry beyond the confines of 13 students used shovels and spades tists for the day as they used PCR the examination specifications. The to clear weeds. (Polymerase Chain reaction) tech- main projects for the autumn term niques to discover a little about their were the perfection of the ‘barking Field Trip own genetic make up. dog’ experiment and the recovery of The A Level Field Trip to Anglesey in precious metals from old computer September, provided biologists with mother boards. It took several weeks

12 Academic Departments to obtain and extract a fraction of a very busy year. Led by Pete Jackson, gram of gold, but much fun was had King’s Head Technician the team per- by all and several old computer com- formed within school, at the Catalyst ponents were given a good home. In museum and outdoors as part of the the spring term, the team moved on Barnaby festival. The in-school per- to the preparation of small amounts formances to Year 7 boys were timed of silanes which react spontane- to act as a November 5th celebration. ously with air, to give spectacular but The exploding methane bubbles were harmless small explosions, lasting for a favourite this year; the incredible several minutes. A glimmer of fine noise created a sound wave that ech- weather in the summer term was oed round the room. all that was needed to bring out the The annual performance at the Chemistry department bazooka. Well Catalyst Museum was well attended done to Isaac Brough in Year 11 for with four schools sending students to designing and manufacturing an even watch the two performances. None bigger and even better piece of kit for of the students from the visiting use on the front field. With this new schools had seen the huge range of design and discovery of a near-perfect demonstrations that King’s does and fuel, (very cheap hairspray), the ten- students were in awe of the huge nis ball reached new heights and the explosions and bright flashes. bazooka itself very rarely misfired. The theme of the Barnaby Festival In June, Paul Thompson took two was ‘Metamorphosis’ and led to the teams to the RSC Chemquiz com- King’s demonstration team being petition at Manchester University. invited to perform two shows in the The boys’ team was: Alex Fray, Oliver grounds of Christ Church in Maccles- Prior and Alex Galbraith and the girls’ field. The weather and the outdoor team was: Beth and Megan Whiteley, venue proved very challenging; Pete Rachel Catlin and Rosie Turner. The events run by the department con- Jackson had to employ all his skills pupils from Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 were tinued to be very successful. These to make the experiments work and chosen not only for their ability in events were well managed by the de- avoid covering the audience in dan- Chemistry, but also for their problem- partmental prefect, Jenny Galbraith, gerous chemicals. After a few hours solving skills and ability to lead or who worked exceptionally hard of preparation and practice, the team work as part of a team. They took throughout the year to promote the performed their first show to an audi- part in a series of workshops includ- department and science in general. ence of around 100. Most had never ing practical work and quizzes, and The visits of Pownall Hall School, seen the show before and were soon were scored on their performance in Green Bank Prep and a number of wowed by exploding jelly babies, each area. Out of a field of more than local cub scout groups allowed the exploding balloons and the sight of thirty schools, the girls’ team secured department to open its doors to pop bottle rockets flying into the air. a very commendable 11th place and the local community so that King’s The two biggest cheers were for the the boys’ managed 19th place. students could pass on their love of home-made bazooka and the foam David Ormrod–Morley secured science. worm. The bazooka launched tennis a place to read Chemistry at Lady balls as high as the tower to gasps of Margaret Hall college Oxford: we wish Bangs and flashes amazement from the crowd. The gi- him well for the future. The King’s Chemistry department ant worm was very entertaining in the LCW demonstrations team had another high wind and was a favourite of the

Chemistry Fence Avenue This was another successful year for the chemistry department at the Girls’ Division. The Year 10 trip to the Catalyst Museum saw 66 girls spend a day making shower gels of various flavours, some of which were safe to use whilst others were deemed over- perfumed for human use. They also made lots of silly putty and spent an hour watching the King’s demonstra- tion team get through as many GCSE- related experiments as they could in an hour. The trip was a great help for GCSE studies. The revision sessions programme was well attended by Years 10 and 11. In addition the Open Day, Life at King’s and Junior workshop day

13 Academic Departments younger members of the audience. Year 8 boys (in collaboration with outdoor seating made by Sixth Form By the second show, word had other departments); an internal com- students. These products were very travelled and there had even been petition for a scale model of a radio- professional and were a credit to the postings on Facebook, so the audi- controlled Ferrari; team of pupils won pupils’ hard work and enthusiasm. ence grew to more than 200. This a Faraday Day and Mr Steele took a We would like to thank Friends of performance was possibly even better STEM trip to Sheffield University. King’s for supplying us with a superb than the first and every reaction was In addition, the Jewellery Club display cabinet for use within the de- greeted with cheers and gasps. The at Fence Avenue proved exception- partment. This helps ensure that pu- highlight of this show was the liquid ally popular and Mrs Campbell, the pils’ work can be seen and celebrated nitrogen which created a huge fog department technician, was kept by as many as possible. over the grounds that all the children very busy ensuring that creativity was enjoyed running through. It finished always challenged. Mrs Campbell also Faraday Challenge Day with yet another tennis ball being achieved success in the national final Following an invitation from the flung higher than the church and the of the fantasy gaming competition University of Manchester to take part, audience left, excited and happy to with a group of enthusiastic pupils. Mr Nichols put together a crack team have seen some real science delivered of creative and imaginative thinkers in the great outdoors. Exhibition from Year 8. On the day, the teams JSS In association with the Sixth Form Art were challenged to design and make exhibition, the D&T department had a communication system, which had real pleasure in showing the work to run between two villages caught in Design &Technology of the GCSE product design groups. a natural disaster area. There were a number of changes to Products ranged from clocks and The teams undertook some basic build into the department this year. tables at GCSE, to lighting, bedroom training in electrical connections and Mr Steele took charge of D&T at furniture, a traditional go-kart and creating circuits. Teams could pur- Fence Avenue, and a welcome friend, Mr Gee, returned on a part-time basis. Both made major contributions and the department could not have achieved all that it did without their help. Year 7 tackled three projects: a simple key ring, a more challenging and very successful USB light, and an organiser, allowing the pupils to experience wood metals and plastics. The PIC project and the mechanical toy proved popular with Year 8 pupils. Year 9 pupils tackled a packaging exercise, making chocolate moulds in their own shapes to package in the boxes they had designed. A design and make project followed, producing iPod Speakers. Designs and outcomes were superb and many of these items are now at home being used to the full by the pupils. At GCSE, Year 10 pupils were to develop good clocks using a period of design history as a starting point alongside projects to support the knowledge content of the syllabus. Year 11 worked hard on their Course- work project to produce some superb pieces. Six Year 11 pupils applied for an Arkwright scholarship. This prestig- ious award is designed to support a career in engineering. Matthew Peers (pictured) won one of these awards and will receive a £300 bursary for each of his two years in the Sixth Form. Several other activities took place this year including the Lego League competition; a creative evening for

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chase materials within a strict budget, Year 11 won with his highly detailed Creative Options Evening CS all of which had to be accounted for and innovative design: the cut-aways This evening was an opportunity to by a team member, who acted as a and sections particularly impressed display Year 8 creative talents. For project manager. Teams had to use the judges with their sophistication D&T, boys designed a small music available materials and create a code and he was a worthy recipient of the player, based on a PIC chip. These to transmit the message. Competition scale model. Congratulations also chips are small, programmable devic- for the best device was hard, but the went to Sean Odell, John Le Moignan, es, which the boys learn to assemble King’s team won the day. The team Ben Rowbottom and Harry Wallace into a circuit, then to program to pro- of Edward Hammonds, Katie Hast- for producing fine examples. duce tunes and flashing LEDs. Pupils ings, Angus Homer, Libby Kirk, Ben also designed and made a container Lauber, and Amy Morris did amazingly First Lego League for the circuitry. The display of work well in creating their own code and The Institute of Engineering and was excellent, with a huge variety of a super-effective device, which they Technology (IET) run this competi- gadgets on show. presented convincingly to the panel tion and it is becoming steadily more JN of judges. The team was awarded the competitive. The title was ‘Senior So- STEM Winners’ trophy and all had certifi- lutions’ and the competition revolved Year 8 girls attended a First Edition cates to support their success. Clearly, around the theme of assisting the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineer- King’s has imaginative and creative over-60s with their daily challenges. ing and Maths) event at Sheffield Hal- engineers within its ranks and the Lego League is never easy, but it’s lam University. The event was aimed at future looks bright. great fun and really taxing. It is key promoting careers in design, manu- that teams work together well to facture and engineering to those who Faraday iPad Competition research and propose solutions to the might not always consider this career. Students were challenged to design problems faced. The robot game was Girls are a particular target for such ini- an innovative communication device particularly challenging this year and tiatives, as they are under-represented based on a number of themes, us- lots of ideas were proposed about as employees in these areas. ing future technology. They had to shape and form, before finalising the The first activity required partici- explain how their idea could be made robot. The team focused up on the pants to produce a bridge using K’nex and explore the science and engi- idea that memory loss may be signifi- to span a distance of 300mm. The neering principles needed to make cant and they worked up an excellent bridges were tested with weights to it work. 80 pupils entered for this presentation which proposed a de- see which was the strongest and a national competition. Pupils’ ideas vice to allow people to find the most group of King’s girls won this activity. were imaginative and made good use important things quickly and easily The second challenge was to pro- of their technical knowledge, so we around the home. duce a wind turbine using materials await the results with interest. Competition day at Legoland Dis- purchased from central stores. A hair covery Centre saw the team perform- dryer test was used to determine F1 Ferrari ing well, and the team made the final who could produce the highest volt- Following the donation of a 1:10 scale yet again. The final is always based age reading from the most efficient model of an F1 Ferrari, the depart- on two runs and King’s team did turbine. ment challenged students to design a really well in the first run, but sadly, The audience also enjoyed a multi use vehicle capable of travel on AI took the competition. The team careers talk and videos promot- land, underwater and in the air. It was was awarded a consolatory trophy for ing STEM, providing much food for not an easy competition but there was programming and robot design. thought about future careers. a good range of entries. Matt Peers, GBS

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powerful as Lieutenant Clark who is Riordan produced real emotional Drama entrusted to the directing of the play. depth of character as the illiterate and Our Country’s Good He conveyed with great maturity an passionate convict John Arscott, as The main school production was individual who, on the one hand is well as the cynical Captain Tench and Our Country’s Good by Timberlake meek and charitable, but who also less-than-civilised convict, Shitty Meg. Wertenbaker; an intellectually dra- discovers along the way that he has Alex Langton delivered an appro- matic account of the first British penal a core of steel. Shirko Abid reflected priately gravitas performance of the colonies set up in Australia at the end with great skill and passion both the wordsmith, John Wisehammer, with of the 18th century. It portrays ef- disturbingly tormented Midshipman George Walker providing excellent forts to stage a production of George Harry Brewer and the highly idi- authoritative focus as Captain Arthur Farquar’s The Recruiting Officer, osyncratic Captain Campbell. Ollie Phillip – the liberal Governor and ini- using the conflict-ridden process as a Stevens was able to portray with tiator of the whole theatrical project. metaphor for examining and debating some fine acting both the hard-nosed, Year 9 and 10 pupils, Sam Brown, issues such as how to create a civi- unforgiving bully Major Ross and the Aarian Mehrabani, Ben Lynch and lised society; what is considered to be soft-hearted hard-done-by hangman John Le Moignan interpreted their important educationally and how to Ketch Freeman. Jenny Pinches gave a key roles with commendable maturity punish appropriately those deemed magnificently gritty and edgy version and skill. to have done something wrong. of the seemingly doomed convict Liz The venue of the Drama Hall was The theatrical intensity of the play Morden. Grace Fletcher produced all a great success in rooting the whole is heightened by the cast doubling up the sensitivity required – and more piece in a claustrophobic, heat-op- as officers and convicts. The highly – in her interpretation of the convict pressive environment, aided hugely committed cast rehearsed over a Mary Brenham, for whom putting on by the Art department’s symbolically six-month period in order to come to the play is a highly educational pro- effective, composite set design. grips with the considerable demands cess – in more ways than one. Alex Moore stage-managed every- of the language and philosophi- Becky Hughes played Mary’s thing from the beginning of rehears- cal concepts involved. The finished long-term friend and Devon-starved als to the clearing of the set after the product was delivered to much Dabby with lovely humour and pas- final performance, with all the com- critical acclaim. This was an ensemble sion. Will Strutt had us rolling in the mitment, organisation and energy piece in the true sense of the word aisles as the theatrically melodramatic of a true professional, helped along and as such it is extremely difficult to convict Sideways, contrasting this the way by enthusiastic techies, Tom single out individual performances: wonderfully with the significantly Lynch and Ken Tomlinson. however, Josh Keeling was superbly more focused Captain Collins. Ollie DAF

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Our Day Out November saw the Fence Avenue Hall transformed with a beautiful backdrop painted by Rachel Richards and her team. The set consisted of wooden blocks used by the cast to create scene locations such as the bus, the castle and the zoo. Our Day Out is a sad and humorous play writ- ten by Willy Russell with lively songs which supplement the action and expertly played by Linda Pyatt. The cast included girls from Year 7 through to Year 11. Their talent, enthusiasm and professionalism made this a memorable show. Sophie Brown played the domineering Bus Driver with excellent comic timing. Juliette Gorb and Sacha Allen played convincing teachers, with style and maturity. The school children on the trip were played with energy and fun. Most actors had to multi-role and Anna Watson, Nicole Hughes and Sophie Elton played such convinc- ing boys that Sophie’s family did not recognise her. This was a ‘feel good’ show with history, marketing, product portfolio Economics & Business Studies poignant moments which created and, most interestingly, the external powerful changes in mood and pace. This year saw big changes in the effects that Coke has had to react to The audience’s laughter and applause department. After four years’ ser- over the last few years to maintain its made this a most successful evening’s vice, Miss Whalley relocated to Hong strong brand and market position. entertainment. Kong, while Mr Livingstone returned CPT to Liverpool after three years in the Berlin Trip department. We wish them all the A group of seventeen Year 13 Busi- Year 7 Performance best for the future and thank them for ness Studies and Economics students This annual event took place in July their hard work and enthusiasm. visited Berlin, and stayed in ‘trendy’ in the Fence Avenue Hall. It involved East Berlin. every Year 7 student and they per- Transport Economics Conference After navigating via the under- formed for over a hundred family In October, A2 Economics students ground system to Wittenbergplatz, members. 7LAC devised their ver- attended a Transport Economics Con- the group took a bus tour around the sion of Alice in Wonderland, 7CJAF ference at University. sights of Berlin, before heading to the created their version of Beauty and Many economic professionals, as well BMW motorbike manufacturing plant. the Beast and 7EB delighted us with as the Chief Examiner of Economics, Students heard a presentation and their interpretation of Matilda. Their Colin Bamford, who provided case participated in the Q&A session be- talent, energy and insight made this a studies and economic discussion, fore moving to the production floor. most entertaining night. attended. The conference helped the There, they saw the process from CPT students to prepare for examination design to finished product. and consolidate their understanding The following day, the group LAMDA of topics. ascended the Berlin TV tower, a Sixth Form students, Years 11, 10 365m building, resembling a Russian and 9 girls all prepared monologues Coca Cola Sputnik. Although a little cloudy, the or duologues in readiness for their In March, an enthusiastic group of views were remarkable and it was LAMDA examinations, which took Business Studies students visited an excellent vantage point to view place at the end of April. Coca Cola’s factory in . The just how much development has They selected speeches from the students were interested in see- occurred in the city since unifica- 16th-century through to post-1980. ing operational strategies put into tion. The students also visited the The students must read the play, practice, such as the use of technol- Berlin wall before grabbing some understand character, learn lines and ogy, production lines, and waste lunch and heading to Ritter Sport, perform their selected speech with management systems, whilst also the famous German chocolate maker. clarity and confidence. There were a expanding their knowledge of Coke’s Once there, students learned about record number of students participat- marketing techniques and corporate the processes involved in producing ing and Examiners were delighted social responsibility actions. The trip chocolate before being given the op- with the standard of performances. included a guided tour of the factory portunity to make their own bars and CPT and a presentation on the company’s design the packaging. The final visit

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was to Axel Springer, one of Europe’s The boys came away with a prize for icy issues from defence spending to largest printing companies. The group their engaging and informative trade environmental concerns. Seventy-two (pictured above) flew home the stand delivered by Will, George and Year 10 girls participated in the Youth following morning with a greater ap- Mike. The girls, who gave a confident Budget during February, and contrib- preciation of Business and Economic and assured business pitch, narrowly uting their thoughts and ideas. The issues in the real world. missed out on the prizes for their girls displayed a maturity and grasp diversified business strategy. of events well beyond their years and Young Enterprise Both groups enjoyed the experi- many relished the opportunity to do a This year, two teams competed ence, learning about communication, better job than George Osborne. The against each other in Young Enter- organisational structure and team- task enabled the students to discuss prise. The boys’ team, ‘Why Not?’ work, in a competitive real life busi- topics such as the appropriate level soon encountered an innovative ness environment. of VAT and the budget priorities of idea which filled a gap in the school the NHS. The consensus amongst market, led by MD Will Poyser. Their Student Investor the girls was to increase tax to cut product was a unique King’s water After many months of competing the budget deficit further. They also bottle, which was fashionable and in this year’s IFS Student Investor agreed on a forward-thinking tax on reasonably priced. Popular among the Challenge, the winners were decided. ‘unhealthy’ food of 1%, as well as a lower divisions, the team processed From over thirteen entrants across more long-term plan of increasing their orders on a written reply slip the divisions, a team from the sixth investment in adult apprenticeships system, which proved quite efficient form claimed top spot. The challenge by 35%. The initiative is proof that in terms of distribution and stock allowed teams of students to invest girls and boys have valuable contribu- control. This led to relatively good a virtual £100,000 in real-time FTSE tions to make to the debate on public returns for ‘Why Not?’, requiring them stock prices. Teams competed online spending. to order another batch of 100 bottles. against each other and other local The girls’ team, led by Harriett Bur- schools, with a chance to reach the Bank of England Target 2.0 rows and Coralie Robson, operated a national finals and a trip to New York. Each year, the Bank of England more diversified strategy with a vari- The winning group was Livvo’s Li- holds a competition for Sixth Form ety of business ventures throughout ons who made a profit, albeit virtually, Economists – Target 2.0. Teams from the year, which returned a comfort- of £14,138.22 from their initial invest- schools around the country must able profit. These included cake sales, ment. Isaac Reaney was the group’s present for 15 minutes on the state both in school and during half-time at chief financial officer which made its of the economy and how the Bank of King’s rugby matches. They tried their return from a number of high risk England should ensure that the target hands at jewellery making and also investments. This wasn’t enough for inflation rate of 2% is achieved. Each had a successful stall at the school’s Livvo’s Lions to reach the Regional team is also questioned by a panel annual Christmas Fair. Finals, but they enjoyed the challeng- of judges. King’s has entered the When the time came to compete ing experience. competition for several years now and in the Regional Finals at Cheadle always performs well. Hulme School, the groups compiled Chance to be Chancellor The team travelled to Manches- their business reports, trade stands Chance to be Chancellor was an ter in November to compete in the and prepared for their business pitch opportunity for over 1,400 young regional heats, which were held at the to the entrepreneurial judges. The people to illustrate and present to the of Science and teams were marked on their busi- government, a Youth Budget. This Industry. They advocated no change ness acumen and financial success. represented views on a range of pol- in the interest rate – 0.5% – and

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£25bn of quantitative easing, but tar- geted into the hands of the consumer through vouchers. The team was grilled by the judges in a question and answer session, and forced to work together to come up with good an- swers to difficult economic questions about their policy choice. The team was praised for hav- ing the most original and creative presentation and policy idea, as well as a good, clear delivery and a good performance in the question session. King’s was placed 2nd; the students enjoyed the experience, finding it valuable practice for presentations and interview technique.

Investors The Investors’ Club invites speakers to the department. The opportunity for students to learn from local busi- ness leaders helps to hone students’ tion based in the Girls’ Division: her in the delivery of the workshop and skills and understand the real world assured persona and dynamic ideas in participation. Mrs Smith’s class context of what we cover in the class- have proved real assets this year. We proved to be excellent teachers and room. In November local marketeer, also hailed a dearly loved friend back their ‘pupils’ found the whole experi- Ed Beattie, Managing Director of to the Department – Mr Frank Walker, ence extremely useful. Through Creative and a King’s old who worked in the Boys’ and Girls’ Literature in all forms was dis- boy was in school to share his wealth Divisions, capturing imaginations cussed in in November of knowledge with our A2 Business and inspiring all. Mrs Griffin became where two King’s teams competed Studies students. Ed provided the Senior Subject Teacher in the Girls’ in the regional round of the Kids’ Lit students with an excellent insight into Division and quickly introduced a Quiz at St Gregory’s Catholic High the importance of branding and tar- number of initiatives. School. Competing against teams geted marketing campaigns. He also The start of the academic year al- from across the North West, the talked through career opportunities lowed the Department to reflect on King’s students were full of enthusi- within marketing, giving advice on a the school’s best ever GCSE English asm and acquitted themselves well, number of different routes into such Literature results, which went some demonstrating especially strong spe- a career. way to temper the air of frustration cialist knowledge of the fantasy genre JSM engendered by the Examination and JK Rowling. One team member Board’s mismanagement of the Eng- had even gone so far as to memorize lish Language results. the number plate of Ron Weasley’s English Throughout the Autumn Term the enchanted car. Do not judge me by my successes, focus for our Year 11 students was The teams, composed of Alex judge me by how many times I fell how to capitalize on progress made in Clarke 8TSJ, Joshua Clayfield 7SLJ, down and got back up again. Year 10. After-school revision work- Charlotte Cramp 8TSJ, Jamie Fenwick Nelson Mandela shops were the order of the day at 8RWA, Verity Griffin 8TSJ, Rebecca the Boys’ site and ‘Ask an Examiner’ Ions 8TSJ, Nicolas Patigny 7GJS, Leo The English Department continues sessions with our very own expert, Mr Skinner 8RWA and Natalie Stevens to foster a spirit of curiosity, creativ- Griffiths, were also invaluable, while 8SJH, scored 61 and 57 points out ity and excitement. We aim to instill at Fence Avenue, the girls ran peer of 100, to come mid-pack out of the in students a love of reading and teaching sessions. Every set had its twenty-three teams present. They also personal pride in their own writing, own focus. Mrs Smith’s class held an achieved joint first place in one of the as well as the patient confidence to Of Mice and Men essay workshop for rounds. develop their opinions in class discus- their year group. The girls planned Earlier on in the term, members sion. and delivered a presentation in the of the Department competed in their At the start of the academic year, Resource Centre, sharing their strate- own ‘Lit Quiz’. A mixed team of staff we welcomed Mr Richard Griffiths to gies for exam success and revising the and pupils attended the Bollington the English Department. As a Prin- salient points of essay writing. They Festival ‘Challenge the Experts’ Liter- cipal Examiner for the AQA English then managed study groups of girls ary Quiz. The team, composed of Year Literature iGCSE, his input to the from other classes, coaching them 11 students Mioni Armstrong and Department is extremely valued. At through the completion of an exam Jenna Self, along with Mrs Bateman Christmas we said farewell to Mrs essay and sharing examples of excel- and Ms Walwyn, enjoyed pitting their Rachel Bateman and Ms Janet Hand- lent writing at the end of the lesson. wits against the other competitors ley and welcomed Mrs Emma Smith It was a pleasure to see how focused including the ‘expert’ team of authors who has taken up a teaching posi- and determined the girls were, both Bryony Pearce, Jon Mayhew, Sarwat

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Chadda and Michael Symmons Roberts. Writers’ visits inspire and captivate the beautiful landscape, seeking out It was a challenging competition and the students at King’s and this year Sylvia Plath’s grave in nearby Hepton- the team acquitted themselves well. two fantastic writers shared their stall, and simply taking time to sit and Back at school on World Book Day, ideas. Jon Mayhew visited the school think in the peaceful gardens. 7th March, teams from both divisions in February. He is the author of the The trip ended with a celebration competed in the annual inter-site Mortlock series: three wonderfully of the work done during the week as House Book Quiz, this year held in exciting, dark, and gruesomely gothic each student read from the anthology Fence Avenue Resource Centre. The chillers, set in Victorian London. produced on the final afternoon. The Gawsworth team emerged victorious, Year 7 were treated to a talk about work ranged from lyric poetry to sur- after a closely fought competition. his books and writing, in which he realist drama, short stories and comic As always, the Reading Groups in explained some of the techniques verse. both divisions have been busy this that he uses to create drama and sus- The fact that the students learned year. Groups of Year 7 boys and Year 8 pense. Then in March, Year 10 were how to cook a meal for 18 people was girls took part in the Carnegie Medal entertained by Bryony Pearce, author a bonus that led to various culinary Children’s Book Award shadowing of Angel’s Fury. Bryony explained delights and only one tea towel being scheme. Pupils read the eight short- how she succeeded in becoming an set on fire. listed titles and posted their reviews author, and went into detail about the The theatre also provides students online on the Carnegie Shadowing ideas behind her plots, such as the with opportunities to enrich their ex- website. They had a great time read- intriguing Milgram Experiment. perience of English. In February, Year ing and discussing the books and Students had the opportunity to 10 took a trip to the Bolton Octagon voting for the one they wished to see develop and showcase their own to watch a moving performance of win. writing. Thirteen Sixth Formers spent John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. Mrs Wilcox was delighted to report a week during the Easter holidays at Watching Steinbeck’s own stage that the number of books being is- Ted Hughes’ house, Lumb Bank in adaptation gave the students a faithful sued in the Rock Resource Centre , living and working along- representation of the text, which will rocketed this year with Year 8s being side professional writers Amanda prove particularly useful for their Eng- the biggest borrowers. Prizes were Dalton and Tim Pears at the Arvon lish Literature exam in Year 11. A Year awarded to the following Key Stage Foundation. A series of workshops 9 trip to see The Woman in Black 3 students who were the ‘top bor- and individual tutorials sparked im- was also a memorable occasion. The rowers’ of their year groups: Nicolas pressive and hugely inventive writing students were gripped with fear and Patigny 7GJS, Alexander Campbell by the students. Award-winning poet, the suspense was palpable. 7LAT, George Bryson-Sharples 7SLJ. Deryn Rees-Jones, gave a moving During the Summer Term, Sixth Year 8: Gordon Nicoll 8CEA, Siraj Ly- reading in the atmospheric upper Form Literature students visited the ons 8MTH, Kieran Bailey 8MTH. Year barn and answered questions about Buxton Opera House to watch the UK 9: Oliver Embley 9CJM, Jack Lucas being a writer and literary critic. Touring Theatre’s World Premiere of 9JN, Adam Garnett 9PAUT. The students enjoyed walking in an exciting new English translation

The Colossus Inspired by The Colossus by Francisco de Goya

Pain, Anger, Memories and even flares of Guilt, but above all pain. He moved his monstrous gaze downwards, Midway up his thigh, it had begun to rain. His feet carried him miles in one step, An inaudible crash and when his foot lifted, A pile of rubble, a pile of broken dreams and Memories. People said he was special and gifted, Below, people thought it was thunder, But it was a mirthless chuckle. Then memories filled with pain and sadness. His chin trembled and knees buckled.

A tear filled with helplessness Rolled down his cheek. Then fell. It formed a lake where it had landed. More followed. In the distance, a town, the sound of a bell. He moved on, a force of nature, ignoring the cries El pànico! He ignored it all but yet still felt the pain.

Adam Garnett 9PAUT

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Fields Inspired by Landscape from a Dream by Paul Nash

Not fields I’d ever know But you are there, I think, In a redblue uncertainty Of sunset, high tide, The gathering storm. An open door Led you in, And a closed door Held you there.

Al Hurd 9CJM of Miss Julie. Banned in the UK for Bell, Ed Hammonds, Callum Evans, ing poem on the theme of ‘Belief’. 50 years when first written, Miss Julie Will Kemp and Ed Mellard achieved Special mention must also go to Emily shocked critics across Europe with its commendations for their novel writ- Foster of 7CJAF and Harry Pinches of frank portrayal of inter-class relation- ing projects. Furthermore, Laura 7SLJ who wrote memorable pieces. ships. Although the performances Duncan’s outstanding response to Sophia Hulme of 8LB, Al Hurd of failed to convince at times, the stu- Shakespeare, which included a lively 9CJM, Adam Garnett of 9PAUT and dents agreed that the experience was puppet show using the original text, Ieuan Sanders of 9CJM are also to be extremely valuable and we had plenty merited much praise, as did Tess congratulated for inspirational po- to discuss on our return to school. O’Connor’s and Charlotte Horne’s ems, including evocative and striking Throughout the year, students’ work. Department Commendations images. David would have enjoyed endeavours have been recognized also went to Lauren Hayward, Verity the energy and enthusiasm that both and rewarded. In Year 12, David Griffin and Molly Robinson in Year 8. divisions showed towards the venture Marchington was awarded a Head of In Year 9, Zachary Howdle, Alex and it is with David in mind that we Foundation award for an outstanding Galbraith, Robert Massey, Paul Rob- prepare for next year and our big essay on Tennyson. In Year 8, awards erts, Owen Thomas and Sam Wal- Poetry Push. went to Qing Xia, who produced lace wrote superb analytical essays In June, we welcomed Miss Han- remarkably mature descriptive work on Romeo and Juliet. Furthermore, nah Crockart to the Department: she in response to Pinter and Dickens. Commendations also went to Sam will be starting her teaching career In Year 9 Ellie Hopewell, Charlotte Bryning, Lancelot Herpin and Mat- at King’s in the next academic year. Horne and Georgia Hehir produced thew Jackson. Sam Baker was award- Hannah had the opportunity to meet powerful monologues based on ed a certificate for excellent overall her new classes in the Summer Term 18th-century poetry. Awards were also effort and attainment in English. in preparation for September. We say made by the Head to Eleanor Toms’ Poppy Kirk, Lily Breece-Tovey and goodbye to Dr Gillian Banner and for her outstanding essay response to Lauren Whitney received Principal’s the Department is grateful for the ex- Romeo and Juliet and to the follow- Commendations for outstanding re- pertise, passion and accomplishment ing Year 9 boys for their spine-chilling sponses to pre- and post-19th-century that she has brought to the subject. Vampire Guides: Michael Abrahamse, war poetry. Alexander Krajewski and When singing about changes, Da- Rhys Bowen, Harrison Broughton, Tom Ballantyne Rowland were also vid Bowie encouraged his audience to Dan Crosby, Al Hurd, Ben Salisbury rewarded for outstanding examina- ‘turn and face the strain’. The Gov- and Alexander Welsh. tion performances and impressive ernment’s proposals to try to change This year a number of Department improvement during Year 10. the delivery of English in schools Commendations for outstanding Alice Carter of Year 7 achieved a include some controversial dictates. work were presented to students. Bronze Reading Award. Silver was The English Department will continue From 7CJAF, Julia Knyba, Emily How, awarded to Olivia Davies, Megan Hud- to strive to widen horizons and open Sarah Catlin and Alana Johnson- dy, Phoebe Pool. Sam Crosby of 7LAT minds. Parsons, achieved awards for impres- achieved a Silver Reading Award and sive effort. Ffyona Booker and Katie George Connolly in 7SLJ was reward- A free bird leaps Hayward also achieved Department ed for the consistently high quality on the back of the wind Commendations for splendid work, as of his reading tasks. Megan Whiteley and floats downstream did Katherine Murphy, Sophie Moss achieved the Gold Reading Award, till the current ends and Hannah Bailey. Joe Moores of as well as Mia Bains, Fiona Beeston, and dips his wing 8CEA wrote an outstanding poetry Katie Hayward, Adele Le Moignan and in the orange sun rays essay. Also in Year 8, Alex Fray, Joe Beth Whiteley. and dares to claim the sky. Laughton, Will Jones, Keeran Mano- The David Pook Poetry Shield was haran, Will Mattison, Alex Walley, awarded to Alex Denny of 8KB, who Maya Angelou Oliver Stevenson, Kieran Bailey, Lewis wrote a thought-provoking and uplift- LCD

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General Science A new scheme of work was intro- duced in Year 8 which proved very popular with the girls and this was reflected in the excellent numbers at science clubs and other extra-curricu- lar activities. The weekly science club saw girls creating exploding pump- kins, bonfire toffee, giant crystals and many more exciting things. The club even ventured outside to fire air-pow- ered rockets that reached heights in excess of 200m. The annual Year 7 trip to Catalyst Museum was a great success, with 55 girls watching interactive films and seeing a lecture on the many different ways particles can exist and change. They also took part in a number of from Year 12, triumphed over strong environs. In addition, cameras clicked workshops including an excellent competition from local schools to be all the while to collate photographic bridge building competition, where crowned the Cheshire and Manches- evidence of the positive and negative different styles of bridge were built ter Geographical Association branch impacts of tourism. Peppering such and tested to see which one was the champions They demonstrated their hard work was the opportunity to strongest. negotiation and presentational prow- sample the fine fare of the cafés and The year finished on a high with a ess when taking on the role of UN ice cream parlours and this added team of four girls from Years 7 and 8 members, concerned with the issue to the happy, purposeful atmos- taking third place in the regional Salt- of ‘Global Food Security’. phere and the enjoyment of the day. ers Chemistry competition, beating a In March, John Tedford joined the Castleton is a place that will be long host of schools from the Manchester department as maternity cover for remembered by our geographers and, area and, more importantly, beating Mrs Talbot: his conscientious ap- in years to come, many will return the Boy’s Division team too. This was proach to teaching deserves much and be prompted to recall their great a very impressive result, as the event praise, whilst in July, Mrs Bingham left day out! involved forensic science, practical us, after 20 years teaching at King’s. JDT work and detailed chemical knowl- We thank her for her many contribu- edge. The team enjoyed the day at tions to the department and wish Manchester University and took home her well in the years ahead. Indeed, some excellent prizes. my thanks go to all my colleagues JSS for their hard work and support in providing stimulating challenges for our pupils. ASP Geography This has been another successful year Castleton, Peak District for King’s Geography Department. This year saw the keen-as-mustard Examination results continue to be Year 10 Geographers journey to very pleasing whilst staff strive to pass Castleton to collect data for their on their intense passion for all mat- GCSE controlled assessment. At ters geographical. As usual, colleagues Winnat’s Pass, each pupil produced have also striven to enrich the cur- a fine, fully annotated, sketch map riculum with interesting and varied of the limestone gorge. Footpath trips, including a ‘wow and awe’ trip erosion measurements were taken to Iceland. at various sites and it was noted that, We were thrilled to see George whilst tourism certainly aids the local Wood in Year 12 win a place on the economy, there is, nonetheless, an British Geography Olympics team. environmental price to pay for its George beat hundreds of the coun- success. try’s leading young geographers, Pupils also conducted a land use earning a place on the four-strong survey to determine the propor- team. He will fly to Kyoto, Japan tion of tourist-related buildings and and compete against more than 30 facilities present as well as carrying countries. out a tourism-related questionnaire King’s Geographical Debating to survey both visitors and local Team comprising Lauren Garner- residents’ perceptions of the impact Jackson, Sam Hollis and Isaac Reaney of tourism upon the village and its

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Iceland This year’s upper school trip saw forty students and five staff spend five action-packed days travelling around the wonders of the newest country in the world (geographically speaking): Iceland. On arrival, the group headed straight to the world-famous hot springs of the Blue Lagoon where the 40 degree waters and silicate-based mud rejuvenated tired bodies. The next days included visits to stunning waterfalls; the amazing Strokkur gey- ser that erupted every five minutes; the black volcanic sand beaches of Dyrholaey, complete with 7-8 metre- high destructive waves, all the way from Antarctica, and a chance to walk down the spectacular Mid Atlantic Ridge between two tectonic plates. We looked in detail at the effect on is one of the most impressive in the The luxury coach that transported sharks and this certainly changed our country with stalactites, stalagmites, the group, the excellent tour guide opinions of what many see only as pillars, curtains and flowstone. Pupils and the sheer enthusiasm of staff dangerous fish. witnessed the considerable impact for the geographical and geological We also made recorded documen- that water has on limestone: they wonders around them, only added to taries, based on different elements were particularly impressed to learn everyone’s excitement. Not content stationed around the site. The topics how the cave system is still being with this, the team also crawled and that we covered were the Amazon explored and, in the future, may be caved their way down lava tubes, River, Lake Malawi in SE Africa, coastal extended further as new passages are donned crampons and ice axes to cave systems formed by mechanical discovered. The ‘flitch of bacon’ sta- climb the hugely impressive Solhei- weathering and coral reefs, which lactite and associated ‘poached egg’ majokull glacier, where one looked contain some of the largest diversity stalagmites encouraged pupils to avail down onto Eyjafjallajokull’s expansive of life in the world. These were then themselves of the food in the cafete- volcanic flood plain (it’s the volcano converted into Windows Media clips ria afterwards! One group persuaded that stopped the planes back in to be played back at school, showing their guide to extinguish all the lights 2010…) and finally braved a soaking, off our TV presenting skills. for a short period of time so that full by walking behind the idyllic 60-metre Michael Abrahamse 9PAUT darkness could be experienced. Seljalandsfoss waterfall. A 300-strong The trip continued with a visit to pod of dolphins was witnessed Poole’s Cavern, Peak District Grin Low Country Park to observe off the coast on a boating trip and Year 10 Geographers increased how limestone quarries can be used evening entertainment included ten their understanding of Carbonifer- after quarrying has ceased. The excur- pin bowling, quizzes – geographi- ous limestone scenery with a visit to sion was a useful and worthwhile cally orientated for the most part, of Poole’s Cavern in Buxton. The cavern extension of pupils’ GCSE studies. course - and visits to some of Reykja- CHB vik’s premier eating establishments. Nights were spent in an old cinema, learning about the formation of the island and relaxing in Reykavik’s open-air, hot spring. For a hardy few, there was even a very early morning, distant view of the Northern lights, illuminating the sky over one of the most sparsely populated countries on Earth. Our students behaved perfectly and were a credit to the school. ASP

Blue Planet Aquarium In February, Year 9 travelled to the Blue Planet Aquarium in Ellesmere Port, Wirral to supplement our learn- ing for the topic of Oceans. Whilst there, we had a classroom session that explained to us about the prob- lem of overfishing and the impact that it has on the Ocean’s ecosystems.

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Afon Nant Peris Fieldwork, near Betws-y-Coed. Here the FSC staff Year 12 Geographers undertook field- provided an excellent level of care work at the Field Studies Councils’ and education and a great deal was Rhyd-y-Creuau centre near Betws-y- accomplished in a short, but intense, Coed, North Wales. Once again the visit. The students visited Morfa centre more than fulfilled all our edu- Harlech sand dunes, to investigate cational and accommodation require- the hypothesis that plant species vary ments. The students’ visit to North along a transect extending from the Wales coincided with the start of the shore line to 400m inland. Photo- cold weather, which, as efforts were graphs of each site were taken and focused on a river study, meant the considerable improvements were need for careful preparation. On the made in plant identification. Weather first afternoon, the group visited Haul conditions were cool and breezy; the y Gwynt wind farm above Llanwrst, to Siberian winds that characterised the review green energy supply and asso- end of this winter had fortunately ciated issues, gaining an understand- not yet started. However, the previ- ing of why the wind farm had been ously wet weather ensured that the located there. The evening session wet slacks to the rear of the dunes was spent in classrooms, preparing were more like shallow lakes. Most of for the river survey of the upper Afon the students had sensibly taken the Nant Peris. wellies option; unfortunately staff had The next day, as we descended the not. PFH dealt with this problem by Llanberis pass, we were just below persuading Jonny Kenny to carry him the snow level, but the wind chill across (unfortunately for PFH, photo- was severe; however, the group was graphic evidence was made). well prepared and undertook an Cat and Fiddle, to the middle course Fortunately, all avoided the welsh excellent survey, looking at how the near Holmes Chapel. The students alligators and, with data acquired, nature of the river changed down looked at the environmental condi- the group returned to the centre stream. River depth, width, velocity tions that exist around the various for serious number-crunching and and nature of the bed load were all stages of the river’s course and how interpretation. A meal was enjoyed at recorded and the locations of each the nature of the river features and an Indian restaurant in Llanwrst that site photographed and recorded us- processes change downstream. At evening, when Holly J Smith and Sam ing GPS. The severity of the weather Dane Bridge, hill streams had coa- Butler celebrated their 18th birthdays at higher levels was revealed when we lesced into a ‘proper’ river with riffles with curry and cake. The next morn- watched the rescue helicopter operat- and pools, where more typical river ing more analysis took place and the ing above Snowdon. The survey was features could be seen. The group investigation procedure was evaluated completed and a rather wind-blasted then moved to Congleton to consider before conclusions were drawn. All in group returned to the centre, having how major engineering projects of all, some very high quality Geography developed a detailed understanding the Industrial Revolution altered the took place combining up to date GIS of river processes and an appreciation river’s processes. The final site was and effective hands-on fieldwork. The of the severity of winter weather in further out onto the Cheshire plain, students were a credit to themselves the uplands. where middle course features such as and the school and worked with con- Over night, the snow level crept meanders could be examined. siderable drive and determination. down to the lower hills, prompting The follow up field trip was to a PJP an earlier departure than planned, as small section of Swettenham brook, road conditions in North Wales and a lowland tributary of the Dane. This West Cheshire were beginning to get location is particularly useful because difficult. The students worked hard not only is it manageable, but each throughout the trip, often in genuine- sample site has a different channel ly unpleasant conditions, and in the shape and pattern, with meanders, morning completed statistical analysis pools, riffles and braids all present. and evaluation, before a hurried However, the main attraction, is that leave. Once again the level of tutoring measuring rivers means getting into at the centre was excellent: the stu- them, seeing how deep they are and dents received outstanding support whether one’s waders are up to the and gained helpful resources. job. PJP Many thanks are due to the Chesh- ire Conservation Trust and Mr Done River Dane & Swettenham Brook for allowing access to the site. Year 12 Geography students took two PJP trips to develop understanding of river features and processes. Firstly, Morfa Harlech, North Wales the River Dane was investigated in a Year 13 Geographers undertook series of hops downstream from one fieldwork based at the Field Studies of the sources on the moors near the Councils’ Rhyd-y-Creuau field centre

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the Geology Department was the dent was commended for his essay Geology huge and rather impressive map that submitted to Peterhouse College, The Geology Department continues is now framed on the wall outside the Cambridge. to grow in numbers of students. The Geology Room. As yet unpublished You will see below the wealth of eyes of many students from each new by the British Geological Survey, it trip opportunities offered to students. intake into the Sixth Form are opened is a preliminary version of a map of Year 7 once again enjoyed an activity to the delights that await them as the Geology of the UK that was being day visit to Conwy Castles as part of they enter the Geology Room. Walls reviewed during a meeting of Earth their studies of Medieval life, whilst and window shelves are adorned Sciences teachers earlier in the year. Year 11 students thoroughly enjoyed with specimens of minerals, fossils As a result of some geological sweet- their half-term visit to the historic and rocks whilst every drawer and talking to a member of the British city of Munich. Members of the Sixth cupboard is bursting with geological Geological Survey staff, Dr Fitzgerald Form are still talking about the over- and palaeontological treats await- left the meeting with the map rolled night train trip from Moscow to St ing discovery. The recently-installed up under his arm whilst teachers Petersburg, whilst the images of Red lighting shows some of the more from other schools looked on with Square at night and the Kremlin will impressive specimens off to their somewhat green faces. live long in the memory. best, reinforcing the reputation of the JAF As ever, thanks go to department Geology Department as the Aladdin’s members, who give unstintingly of Cave of King’s. their time to make such opportunities History Examination results continue to a reality. impress, with the majority of students The history department continues to MSR getting their best A level grades in prosper. Results remain impressive, Geology and a high percentage of the a testimony to the hard work of our History Trip to Russia class deciding to read Geology/Earth students and the dedication of my In March, 19 students embarked Sciences at University. colleagues. on their trip to Russia. After a day’s Geologists are generally known for Opportunities abound for students travelling, we arrived at the enormous their willingness to deal with any kind within the department. You will get Hotel Cosmos in Moscow. of weather and suffer any hardship a sense of this in the reports below. The next day, we had a sightsee- in the field to get the opportunity The Girls’ History Club continues ing tour of the city, where we saw to pursue their science; however, to thrive, whilst the Boys’ History the Kremlin, St Basil’s Cathedral, and not even determination such as this Film Club is extremely popular. Many the changing of the Guard, before could prevail against the weather at students, from both Divisions, took enjoying lunch on Old Arbat Street. Easter. The annual field course on the part once again in the annual Barnaby The afternoon took us to an interest- Isle of Arran had to be cancelled as parade through the streets of Mac- ing contemporary history museum the island was cut off by snow. With clesfield. This year, King’s participants that focused on communism and the no power, roads blocked by huge dressed as victims of the Plague, Soviet Union in Russia. snowdrifts and people being flown off fitting in with the ‘death’ section of Easter Sunday began with a tour the island by helicopter, any hope of the ‘Metamorphosis’ theme of the of the Kremlin and Armoury, where, reaching Arran was dashed. parade, which was held in June. Stu- proudly wearing bright blue shoe The disappointment of this was dents also enjoyed entering national covers, we saw the magnificent state countered by many of the Geology history competitions and one stu- carriages, clothes and royal collec- class accompanying the Geography Department trip to Iceland. At every stopping place, view point, car park, Dr Fitzgerald did not miss an oppor- tunity to find some rocks to look at and talk about: he possibly picked up the odd specimen or two. Travelling out with a rucksack weighing only 10kg, he returned with one twice as heavy and only just within the bag- gage limit. When questioned, ‘What have you got in here? Rocks?’ he hon- estly replied, ‘Yes.’ The Department now has a few more little treasures in its collection. A little earlier in the year, at home in the Peak District, fieldwork forming a part of the coursework for the A2 examination went without a hitch and the students produced sound pieces of work that contributed greatly to their final successful examination results. Another splendid acquisition by

25 Academic Departments tion of Fabergé eggs. After lunch in mony singers, Cossack dancing and memorial, we began our journey an underground shopping centre, we a bit of audience participation; two home. visited the Novodevichy Cemetery, members of our group were chosen The trip was an amazing experi- Moscow’s most famous cemetery. to join in with the dancing on stage, ence from beginning to end, with Thousands of people of importance much to the delight of the rest of us. memories we’ll never forget and pho- are buried here, including Khrush- The show was followed by a lovely tos we’ll never stop looking at, and chev and Chekhov, and the unique dinner in the ballroom of the palace, everyone who went to Russia would tombstones were fascinating to see. which included the Russian speciality, recommend the trip to anyone! We then had the chance to go on the borscht. Lauren Garner-Jackson 12SJM Metro and see some of the magnifi- Day 5 began with a visit to the Win- cent underground stations, which ter Palace and the Hermitage, where Barnaby Parade were created as Soviet propaganda we saw several Rembrandts, a few da We arrived at the Girls’ Division after by Stalin. After going to the circus in Vincis and a Michelangelo, among lunch to prepare our props for the the evening, we went for dinner at many other great works. After a group Barnaby Parade. We were required to the Hard Rock Café, where we took photo with Peter the Great himself, make dead bodies to look like victims some time to look at the impressive we went on a tour of the Yusupov Pal- of the plague. First we ripped up memorabilia on the walls, followed ace. This fascinating day ended with some newspaper and stuffed it into by a visit to Red Square. This wonder- an opera at the Mariinsky Theatre. Se- two bin bags. After that we tied rope ful, yet exhausting day, ended with us myon Kotko, a Soviet opera that was around them, connecting them and boarding the train to St Petersburg, both captivating and perhaps confus- sellotaped a balloon to the end of with many comments being made on ing at times, lasted 3½ hours with two them so it looked like a head (to me the snug size of our cabins. intervals, so it definitely tested our it looked like ‘Slender Man’). Lastly, Following a great breakfast in the endurance and concentration levels. we covered it up with a white sheet. It city the next day, we embarked on a It was, however, a wonderful experi- looked pretty good and I was pleased. sightseeing tour of the city created by ence and memorable occasion. We were given a verse to learn from Peter the Great. This included seeing Our last day took us to the mag- the Plague Song from the Horrible the frozen River Neva; a treat for Mr nificent Catherine’s Palace, which Histories. This was to be our chant Robinson when we visited the Tsar’s was certainly not short of rooms or when we were going around the town log cabin, and a tour of the Peter and gold. Walking round the vast palace on Saturday during the parade. Paul Fortress and Prisons, where we meant that a stop at a pancake shop On Saturday, we met at the back of saw Peter the Great’s tomb. After a was needed, and some last-minute the Town Hall. We were all exchang- tiring morning, we went to the enor- souvenir shopping was done too. ing compliments on each other’s cos- mous Hotel Pribaltiyskaya to check-in. We then travelled to a new shopping tume: Joe was a peasant; George was That evening, the group went to centre near the airport for lunch, a doctor with a great mask; Alex was the Nikolaevsky Palace for a folklore where some attempted ice-skating at also a doctor; Matt, Josh and I were all show, with caviar canapés in the the indoor rink, with varying levels of peasants. My job was to push the cart interval. The show included close har- success. Following a visit to the WWII with three dead bodies around the

26 Academic Departments parade. As we exited, I saw numer- On Wednesday, our last day in Cann scored the top school mark. ous cameras pointing at us and we Munich, we visited the concentration Both AS and A2 computing sets also even had to stop in order to have our camp at Dachau. This was an experi- competed in the National Cipher picture taken! It was great fun and ence which many students found Challenge for the third time. Once I was so happy that I took part. It is harrowing, including myself. again, both teams did very well and definitely something I shall treasure After leaving the concentration only lost points in the very last round. all my life. camp, we embarked on another walk- Outside lesson time, a number Joe Gardner 7GJS ing tour of Munich, however this time of students developed their own it was about the White Rose organisa- software for a variety of different Munich tion. The White Rose, or Weisse Rose, purposes, such as productivity tools, In October, forty GCSE History stu- was a group of students and teachers cipher solvers, strategy games and dents, under the supervision of Dr at Munich University who resisted Apps. Edward Nathan, Tom Cann, El- Craig, Mrs Olsen, Mr Robinson and the Nazis and made anti-Nazi leaflets liot Sime and Keir Birchall produced Dr Hyde, embarked on a study trip that encouraged others to resist the particularly impressive software. The to Munich, to learn more about the Nazis too. The main members of the department annually awards two Nazis’ rise to power. group were siblings, Hans and Sophie computing prizes and this year they Once in Munich, our guide, Dave, Scholl. were awarded to Elliot Sime and Keir met us for a short tour of the city. Our We returned home that evening Birchall. first stop was the site of the Oktober- tired, but having had a wonderful Former pupil, James McIlveen fest, a 17-day-long beer festival. The time in Munich. continues to write sophisticated apps festival had ended a few days before Mioni Armstrong 11 RAA whilst at university: he recently devel- we arrived, but most of the ‘tents’ oped an iPhone/iPad app called Laser were still there, including the famous Chambers that has already had over Oktoberfest sign. We then travelled 100,000 downloads. It is available for ICT to a Romanesque building called purchase on the iTunes store. ‘The Hall of Fame’, which features The department continued its excel- A special mention should be given the busts of many famous Bavarians, lent ECDL pass rate, with a further to Elliot Sime, who left King’s this including that of Claus Graf Schenk 200 pupils passing the qualification summer. Elliot will be at Lancaster von Stauffenberg, a member of the since September 2012. A very high University to read computer science 1944 July Bomb Plot. A Bavaria monu- number of pupils also scored 100% from September 2013. His comput- ment was also there, a 19-metre-high in modules. The A level computing ing and ICT ability and achievements bronze woman dressed in a toga with students competed in the British deserve further expansion. In Year 7, a lion at her side; it was very impres- Informatics Olympiad, in which Tom Elliot was at that time the youngest sive, especially as it was lit up against student in the UK to pass his ECDL the night sky. qualification. He scored over 90% in The next morning, everyone was every module too. He then went on looking forward to the Nuremburg to complete his ECDL extra qualifica- excursion. Our first stop was the Mu- tion in Year 8, and in Year 9 started seum of Fascination and Terror, which work on AS computing material. went into great depth about the Nazi In KS4 he was producing advanced regime. The actual museum was the level software and sitting in with A abandoned Kongresshalle, which Hit- level classes. He entered the national ler intended to use for speeches, but programming competitions giving the was never completed. We then visited Sixth Form students a surprise. Out- the Zeppelin Field, which Hitler used side the classroom, he always helped for party rallies. The last stop was other students and staff with any the Nuremburg court, where Nazis IT-related problems. His background were tried for their crimes of war and knowledge is vast and this developed against humanity. There was also an as he moved into Sixth Form. He exhibition going into the details of leaves behind a legacy in a number of the trials; who organised them, what departments. Elliot has a great future the sentences were and how long the ahead of him and I look forward to trials lasted. What surprised me the seeing software he will develop in the most was that the trials lasted approx- future. imately 12 months. COD On Tuesday, we had a tour of the Olympic stadium in Munich. This was Mathematics relevant to our GCSE-controlled as- sessment on the Arab-Israeli conflict. In addition to the Mathematics GCSE, After a brief visit to BMW World, for which all in Year 11 are entered, we embarked on a walking tour of top sets also sit the very demanding Munich along the trail of the Munich Further Mathematics Certificate, a putsch, which was a political upris- qualification which is halfway to an ing led by Hitler, to overthrow the AS. Six of those students secured government of Bavaria. A^, which denotes a performance

27 Academic Departments that is so strong that A* does not do top 1000 or so in the country. We also succeeded in producing a pyramid it justice. Three girls and three boys had three Kangaroo qualifiers: Dmitri capable of enclosing each and every achieved this high honour: Rheanne Whitmore, James Shering and Matt one of them. Beresford, Tom Eastgate, Jamie Edg- Harden (all Year 10). PJC erton, Laura Embrey, Jenny Shering A team of two Year 8 girls, Molly and Alistair Thomson. Laura Embrey Bessell and Hannah Wilcock, and two Modern Languages excelled even further, scoring 100% in Year 9 boys, David Jessop and Alex this examination, and received a per- Welsh, went to compete at a UKMT This has certainly been an event- sonal letter of congratulations from Team Challenge (first round) held at ful year for the Modern Languages the chief of examiners at the AQA in March. An Faculty. On top of teaching French, Examinations Board. unusually large number - 17 in total German, Spanish and Japanese The Triple Mind Challenge (Christ- - of teams from schools in the North and maintaining our extensive trips mas Kakuro, Spring Sudoku, Summer West took part on the day. Many had programme, we have broadened our Killer) was extended to the Girls’ competed several times before, so provision for extra-curricular interest Division this year, where an exciting we had tough competition. The team in languages and linguistics, and the race led to Capesthorne taking the had to compete in activities such as response to this has been very pleas- honours, helped by a sensational a timed cross number challenge and ing. We were sad to lose Christine first round where they pipped other a relay question round. We fought a Morton and Christophe Fico this year; houses by almost 100 points, giving great battle and came fourth overall, both brought an enormous amount them an almost unassailable lead. At which was very pleasing. to King’s, over a significant period the Boys’ Division, the contest was of time. Specifically, Christine had, more closely fought, with Tatton just Taster Day debut for Maths since the introduction of the subject beting Capesthorne by 3 points. Taster Day saw the introduction of in 2003, built a Spanish Department, The Maths Website (kingsmaths. a Mathematics element. With the and Christophe worked hard to rein- co.uk) continues to be popular with weather on our side, it was decided force a sense of a Modern Languages pupils, having now accumulated more to be bold and attempt to construct Faculty at the Girls’ Division. Both than 33,000 hits. Mr Laurence’s leg- a tetrahedron capable of enclosing were creative and inspiring language endary one-page solutions to the OCR all of the 20 aspiring mathematicians. teachers and they will be missed. In modules, continue to be extremely The pupils looked into the properties September 2012, we welcomed Toby popular with Sixth Form pupils, as do of a tetrahedron and discussed the Seth, Deputy Head (Development), the Beano and other revision-related mathematical sequences that would to the Faculty, and in the course of resources for Years 7 - 11. determine the requirements for the year we also welcomed Maria The department continues to have the giant version. With the calcula- Gutierrez-Fernandez and Janine excellent representation and results tions complete, each of four groups Turner in their roles teaching Span- in the UK Mathematics Trust Compe- produced sixteen mini tetrahedrons ish and French. We welcomed as our titions. Congratulations in particular to produce a medium tetrahedron, Language Assistants, Marion Dupont, to Laura Embrey, Year 11 (she got all which then created the final struc- from the Lille area of France, Kathrin 24 questions attempted correct!) and ture. Despite a few minor structural Epp from Bavaria, and Marta Yer- Matthew Smith, Year 10 who quali- hiccups, which required a few last pes Cordoba from Madrid. We also fied for the Olympiad - usually the minute repairs, both of the groups congratulated Mr and Mrs Tsang and Mr and Mrs Houghton on the birth of their babies. We were delighted to broaden our enrichment provision for those par- ticularly interested in language. For the first time, pupils from the school entered the national UK Linguistics Olympiad, with students from Years 8 to 13 tackling the ferociously difficult questions. All seemed to find the challenges interesting. Our teams did well in this competition, particularly the Sixth Form entrants, with Harry Bradbury managing to achieve a Gold Award for his entry. In March there was another first for the school: a half-day symposium for those in Year 10 and upwards with an interest in language study. A large audience enjoyed talks from a range of exciting speakers, all active profes- sionally within the realms of modern languages. The students enjoyed an insight into the careers to which their language study could give access.

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In the French Department, col- In the German Department, we our German Assistant, Kathrin Epp. leagues put together the first Year were pleased to re-launch the Rhine- This was a wonderful project promot- 9 course based on Michel Thomas’s land trip, opening it up to more year ing bi-cultural exchange and partner- principles of teaching. We are pleased groups than previously, and giving ship between King’s and the Mittels- with the results, which give a solid the opportunity to our students to chule Katzwang in Nuremberg. Pupils foundation and a sense of confidence increase their cultural understanding prepared boxes of typically English to our pupils, ready for their GCSE of the German way of life. We were Christmas and Easter goodies to send study. visited by colleagues from the Sal- to our partner school in Germany, In February, Dr Isabelle Vander- vatorkolleg in Bad Wurzach in June, and the German pupils prepared schelden gave a stimulating and use- with a view to exploring a possible boxes of German fare to send to our ful half-day workshop on the cinema new link with the school involving an pupils. Letters of introduction were of Jean-Pierre Jeunet. Years 10 and 11 exchange. Back in Macclesfield, pupils also written and enclosed with these attended a GCSE one-day conference from Years 9 – 13 enjoyed the play parcels. in Manchester and many commented Nichts zum Anziehen, performed by In the Spanish Department, we afterwards on the usefulness of the the German touring theatre company, were most grateful to Helen Con- day. Trips continue to be a strength of Onatti, at Fence Avenue. This was naughton for taking over the role of the department; in October, Mr Fico followed by language workshops, and Head of Department. One highlight took the annual trip to Paris, which pupils commented on how useful the this year, was the Year 13 visit to was hugely enjoyable and successful afternoon had been. In February, a MMU in February for their Spanish for our Year 10 and 11 students. They group of Sixth Form students visited Sixth Form day. Alex Langton and struck a pleasing balance between Manchester Metropolitan University Will Machin particularly enjoyed the learning the language, experiencing for a day of lectures and workshops ‘fun with interpreting’ lecture, which the culture, and enjoying all the other on A level topics. A group of Sixth put everyone on the spot, making more obvious attractions which Paris Formers also attended Brecht’s it nerve-wracking for students and offers. At Easter, Mme Schué took a play Mutter Courage at , teachers alike! A second, new initia- group of Year 12 and 13 students to participating in the accompanying tive was the cultural topic morning Montpelier for a period of work ex- workshops. Janine Turner delivered workshop in March, given by the perience, which proved enormously two workshops in preparation for the contemporary Spanish film specialist, beneficial to their spoken French and Year 13 cultural topic – one being an Ms Carmen Herrero from MMU on their confidence. The students en- introduction to film in the GDR era, the films of Pedro Almódovar. gaged in a wide variety of placements, and the other an introduction to the Finally, many students were happy and were obliged to communicate film set in that era, Barbara. to take their interest in Spanish or entirely in French, before returning One Year 9 boy had his work dis- Hispanic language and culture into home to French host families. In July, played in Oxford for their Bonn Week their own spare time, and some Sixth sixty Year 7 pupils enjoyed a wonder- celebrations, and pupils also entered Form students attended the VIVA ful few days of activity holiday at the the Ernst Juenger translation compe- Spanish film festival in March at the Château de la Baudonnière in Nor- tition and the Goethe Institute Digital , where they watched mandy, where they participated in a Days’ competition. several Spanish and Latin-American huge range of activities, using French Finally, mention must be made of films. at all times. Projekt Austauschpaket, organised by Japanese continued to attract a

Starry Night on the Rhone Inspired by Starry Night on the Rhone by Vincent Van Gogh

Starlight, softly surging downwards Towards the faded shore Night smeared by an oily cloth Torchlight reflected across The water like Charon’s ferry In silence walks a pair Their wrinkles lit by fiery beams Stars ceilidh dance in their eyes Their hands a mosaic of life But their bodies are frail As brittle as life itself Behind the river’s curtain Ships glide through, enveloped in fog Indefatigable Mighty steeled workhorses Pulling their heavy load On a starry night on the Rhone.

Ieuan Sanders 9CJM

29 Academic Departments small but committed core of Sixth Once again, the children benefitted ready to go out proved to be helpful Form students, and we were pleased hugely from the commitment, pa- in developing our German conversa- with the results achieved, which is tience, humour and dedication shown tional skills, as well as providing much testament to the hard work of our by the dream-team of staff which humour. Many in the audience were Japanese teacher, Atsuko Koido. accompanied them and ensured they surprised to discover that, despite Our aim is to continue to offer had a wonderful experience. doubts, the language was understand- an engaging plethora of increasing IED able and the play could be followed language-learning opportunities for with ease and enjoyment. The group our students. GDR Film Barbara activities after the play, allowed newly- IED In June, independent languages acquired knowledge and enthusiasm consultant Mrs Janine Turner, who to be put into practice. Château de la Baudonnière is currently teaching Spanish and MSTH We have taken groups to the wonder- French at King’s, led an exciting event ful Château de la Baudonnière for for AS Level German students. Jan Music over ten years now, and are hugely delivered two workshops, the first an impressed by the range of activities introduction to film in the GDR, and We reached the end of another and the quality of the educational the second an introduction to the year in fine style. Thanks and congrat- experience. All the activities are run contemporary German film Barbara, ulations go to Liz Rotherham, Oboe by young, talented French staff, who which the students also watched. Jan and Recorder teacher, who retired speak only French to our students. used clips to look back at the history after 15 years of valuable inspiration By the end of the holiday, our pupils of the German film industry, then Jan and enthusiasm. Congratulations and have learned some new vocabulary, students with an introduction to the all best wishes went to Neil Fulton whilst their confidence in using the film and set it in its context. who married in July: we wish him language is noticeably strengthened. Jan has taught German for many and Fiona great happiness in their life Above all, they return full of stories years and is a very keen advocate of together. We also welcomed Beatrice about the fun they have had. the use of film in language teaching. Hubble as our new Oboe and Record- Every opportunity is taken to rein- With the backing of the Goethe-Insti- er teacher and wish her many happy force students’ use and understand- tut, Manchester, she has delivered her years at King’s. ing of French. For example, each meal ideas in many schools in Cheshire and We were very proud to be de- was preceded by an interactive pres- Yorkshire. She is a regular speaker for scribed in the Good Schools Guide as entation of the food for that meal. As the Association of Language Learning. ‘huge and impressive’: King’s Music the week progressed, it was great to MSTH continued to provide challenge and see pupils using French naturally and opportunity in equal measure to a without hesitation. Onatti Workshop great number of superb pupils, both We enjoyed orienteering in the Pupils from all three Senior Divisions inside and outside the classroom, and extensive and beautiful grounds, ca- encountered some much-appreci- their response is quite overwhelming. noeing, climbing and archery, fencing ated entertainment in the form of Long may this continue to be so. and the notorious assault cause, and an enriching play, presented by the King’s musicians have been in- enjoyed glorious sunshine for most foreign language theatre company, volved in well over 30 musical events of our visit. Evening activities were Onatti (below). Their portrayal of two during the year, mostly within school, varied and excellent. On one night young and excited teenagers getting but with a significant proportion we had a very competitive sports tournament, involving three different groups participating in three differ- ent sports, whilst bemused sheep and llamas looked on. A few days into the trip, came the famous (or infamous), French evening. This began with a fancy-dress competition, with some very impressive entries. Finally, we had an evening of It’s a Knockout, with relays involving shaving-form and the welly-chucking competition On the final morning, we stopped at the impressive market in Caen, where the children excitedly set about buying French ingredients for their picnic, to be eaten on board the ferry. Again, there were some wonder- fully original ideas, and many children showed a real curiosity about French products and an interest in buying typical food. They were, of course, rewarded for their curiosity by a deli- cious lunch.

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It is perhaps invidious to pick out a few items for special mention, but Jamie Edgerton deserves praise and thanks for directing the Saxophone Ensemble on both occasions. The Brass Group comprising Year 7 boys exhibits great potential and a wonder- ful sense of camaraderie and fun. It goes without saying that the value of attending regular rehearsals and then playing in concerts is a vital part of life for those fortunate enough to have the opportunity. October 2012 saw two excellent concerts given by guests of King’s. The internationally renowned Italian jazz pianist, Enrico Pieranunzi, headlined a day of jazz in which the King’s Big Band and other local performers played all afternoon and evening. This was a marathon effort but quite stunning in its range and intensity. Steve Plews organised the event with vision and enthusiasm. Daniel Moult, Concert Organist Extraordinaire, also performed for us. He is a London-based organist, with family connections in Macclesfield; indeed his two young nephews attend King’s Juniors. He gave a programme of phenomenal technical and musical dexterity praising our Makin Organ as within the wider community. one of the best he has played. Music at Mike’s, our Friday lunch- vember and May, respectively show- The Year 8 Boys’ Evening received time series at St Michael’s Church, cased our ensembles and staff who a makeover this year. It is always a goes from strength to strength. Boys devote so much time to the pupils in- great success but by including Drama, and girls from every year group in the volved. Wonderful performances from and superb examples of Art and D&T Senior Divisions have entertained, Jazz Band, Jazz Ensemble, Big Band, work, something quite remarkable enthralled and profoundly moved Brass Group, Flute Groups, Clarinet was achieved. The boys were given increasingly large and ever more Ensemble, Saxophone Ensemble, the opportunity to perform in public appreciative audiences. We have en- Wind Band, Concert Band, Founda- in musical and dramatic contexts, joyed soloists, String Orchestra, Jazz tion Orchestra and String Orchestra fighting nerves, showing courage and Band and Big Band, BFC, Boy’s Choir were enthusiastically received on discipline and ultimately, really enjoy- and many other contributions. A both occasions. It goes without say- ing themselves doing something they considerable sum of money has been ing that the standard of performance may never do again. Great thanks raised for East Cheshire Hospice from continues to develop, year on year. must go to all the boys and to the the retiring collections. We are very grateful to St Michael’s and, latterly, the URC for welcoming us, and giving our pupils a great platform. All of the concerts are a highlight and unfair as it may seem to single one out, I must mention the final concert of the sea- son. Almost all the Year 7 boys sang in this, with valuable contributions from boys in Years 9, 10 and 12. There was a real feeling of corporate cohesion and identity, coupled with a love of performance which will linger in the minds of all those involved for a long time to come. If you did not have the chance to attend one of these concerts, please take the earliest op- portunity to do so next year. The Instrumental Concerts, in No-

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‘Creative Staff’ who made it happen. on Valhalla. The bus then took us to a brilliant time and we’d like to thank An Evening of Fine Music, mas- Windermere Youth Hostel. After tea Mrs Beesley, Mrs Pyatt, Mrs Barratt terminded by Mrs Beesley, was an we had a mini rehearsal, and then it and Miss Smith for taking us on such innovation and an immense success, was bed time. a memorable tour.’ (£650 was raised.) shining a light in the darkening days We arrived in the beautiful village Any one of the pupils on the tour of November. This really was a soirée of Cartmel after lunch on Sunday. would have written in similar vein; with an intimate atmosphere, soft The Priory was lovely to sing in and such events are of immense value and lighting, drinks, nibbles and stunning we even had an audience for our provide memories that will linger for music. Performances were given by a rehearsal. We sang and played our a lifetime. few of our visiting instrumental staff hearts out and we received huge ap- As the summer term drew to a and four of our most talented student plause. We were raising funds for the close, King’s Swings, an evening of players, to a large and very apprecia- Priory and Crisis, which is Mrs Pyatt’s Jazz, was performed by the Jazz Band tive audience. If this was not success favourite charity. We had a full house and Big Bands directed by Gareth enough, the evening also raised so I hope we raised lots of money for Brown and Kevin Dearden. A great £1000 for charity. homeless people, especially as we night was enjoyed by all and another With Christmas fast approaching, sang The Streets of London. We all had £450 was raised for East Cheshire the Foundation Choir set out for Chester Cathedral for our biennial Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. This is always an utter treat for all concerned and a vital part of King’s pupils’ continuing musical develop- ment. Singing brings a great joy and discipline but never more so than in a cathedral where we become part of a tradition reaching back millen- nia. This was a truly uplifting and memorable occasion for choir, solo- ists (Clare MacKinnon, Will Poyser and Anna Callow), conductor and self-indulgent organist! It is fair to say that the congregation also rose to the challenge and sang with great gusto. The service was repeated in Macclesfield and twice for the school. This was splendid worship in which all involved with King’s should take immense pride. Much time is spent at weekends either in school or away, enriching the lives of our young musicians. The Wind Band and Jazz Band enjoyed a fabulous weekend at Ilam Hall Youth Hostel. The string players have enjoyed ‘Pizzicato and Pizza’ and a weekend of intense rehearsals at Trigonos (pictured right). The differ- ence that these weekends make to all of our players, musically and socially, is immeasurable. We have also had the pleasure of taking large groups to the Lowry and to the Opera House in Manchester to see Mozart’s Don Gio- vanni and the immortal G&S Pirates of Penzance. Another great favourite is the BFC Tour to Cartmel. Harry Lyons, Year 7 Music Scholar, has contributed the following edited highlights: ‘It’s a good job Blackpool Pleasure Beach didn’t know what was about to hit it as the groups spread out in all directions, in search of the short- est queue. It may as well have been raining, because we all got drenched

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Hospice. The Big Band also enter- a fabulous group of songs further en- taken in the collective stride. Mrs tained a massive crowd in the Market livened by soloists Alex Clarke (Flute), Beesley conducted the entire concert Place at the Barnaby Festival Feast in Eleanor Fielding (Voice) and Alex with style and aplomb, and the audi- late June. This was a splendid event, Voysey (Electric Guitar). The choral ence showed their appreciation with and simple, very effective, advertis- sound was spellbinding, with accom- a standing ovation at the conclusion ing for the school, again proving the paniment provided from the piano by of the piece. What a concert, what worth of our enriching extra-curricu- Mrs Pyatt. memories, and another £2700 raised, lar activities. After a satisfyingly slick turn this time, for Syrian refugees. The Music Competition Soirée around at the interval, the Founda- I am very proud to have been able took place in late June and was the tion Choir, soloists, and orchestra of to take part in much of what is de- culmination of a number of weeks staff, pupils and friends took the stage scribed above. Our immense thanks gentle playing by boys and girls in under the baton of Mrs Beesley for a go to all the music staff for all their Years 7 to 9. It gave a wonderful truly memorable performance of the dedication, hard work and humour, indication of the talent and potential Maria Theresa Mass by Haydn. This and to all other colleagues who have available across the school and was a underperformed masterpiece, written been involved in a year of challenges very enjoyable concert. in the same year as Mozart’s Requiem, and triumphs. The Choir Dinner at Adlington Hall demonstrates intensity, depth, beauty SJM. is always a most enjoyable affair, not and humour in equal measure. Our least because of the wealth of origi- home-grown soloists were remarkable Junior Music nality on display at the ‘Talent Show’, in their magnificence; great maturity The Juniors began their year with a but because it truly marks the end of of voice and personality was shown by Year 4 production, the musical panto- the musical year, but – it wasn’t quite Clare MacKinnon, Mary Thorp, Elea- mime, Ali Baba. Sterling performanc- over. nor McKenna, Henry Strutt and Henry es were provided by Georgina Devon The Foundation Choir and the BFC Reavey. These parts are usually sung as Ali Baba; Isabel Watkins as Mrs really had to sing for their supper as by paid professionals – who needs Baba; Faye Fitzmaurice as their son, King’s Sings on July 2nd was a truly them when you have such talent to Hamid; Georgia Bailey as Sandy the magnificent concert; without doubt, draw upon? The orchestra played slave girl; Milan Turnbull as Cassim; it was the highlight of the year and an with flair, precision and musicality; Emma Graham as Chuckle; Derrin event which few of our competitors tribute must be paid to our own Laura Scott as Tickle and Jeremy Herpin could begin to match. Embrey, who led with confidence far as Mustapha. Year 4 pupils shone as The concert was held in the opu- beyond her years. Finally, the choir; members of the gang and as pizza lent setting of St Alban’s Church, at what a choir! Pupils from Years 8 to delivery boys and girls. Each class the kind invitation of Fr Peter. The 13, with a few additional staff, tackled performed a dance and also a percus- music certainly matched the mag- this work with enthusiasm and a level sion accompaniment. nificent Pugin architecture and was of musicianship more than equal to Our Christmas Concert showcased beautifully enhanced by the soaring the task. There are passages of great our Junior ensembles, presenting the acoustic. technical difficulty, great intensity and results of their hard work during the The BFC opened proceedings with close ensemble, all of which were Autumn Term. Items played included

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‘Walking in the Air’ performed by Max Hine. Members of 6JEB deliv- a long search is reunited with her son. Woodwind Wonders; an icy ‘Winter ered the Christmas readings and 6SR Year 6 children appeared as grebes, Song’ played by the Guitar Ensem- performed a sketch, The Christmas quails, speckled hens, wild geese and ble; a jazzy version of ‘Jingle Bells’ Party, which showed how Christmas frogs and they became very adept at from Star Strings and a rousing ‘Regal has changed through the years. Three quick costume changes. There was a Fanfare’ from Team Brass. Years 3 and traditional carols were sung as part lot of dancing in the show including a 4 Choir sang the charming ‘Santa’s of the service; the first verse of ‘Once military-style routine for ‘Wild Goose Little Bell’ and Years 5 and 6 Choir in Royal David’s City’ was beautifully Chase’ and synchronised high kicks delighted those members of the sung as a solo by Saffron Milner and in the song ‘Warts and All’, which was audience who were children of the the Years 5 and 6 choir delighted us a real show-stopper. The success of 70s by singing, ‘The Twelve Groovy with a high descant during the final the show was due to an enormous Days of Christmas’ which mentioned verse of ‘O Come all Ye Faithful’. team effort by staff, parents and, most many things fashionable during those That evening, a choir of Year 5 and importantly, the children, who gave years. Solos were expertly performed 6 pupils returned to St Paul’s to per- stunning performances of quality far by Aidan Carman, Aisling Day, Bryn form in a charity concert, attended by beyond their years. Barker, Georgina Bergman, Shanice Councillor Alift Harewood, the Mayor Years 3 and 4 led our Easter Donatien and Max Hine. of Macclesfield. The concert also celebrations by performing Easter 6SR visited Harry Lawson Court featured the Lions Youth Brass Band by Alison Carver. The songs told the and gave a special concert to the from Stockport. Our pupils impressed story of Holy Week and were inter- residents. Zoe Thomas, Theodora the audience with their beautiful spersed with passages from the Bible Ghiorghiu, Lottie Thomas, Ellie and confident singing and they were read confidently and clearly by Year 4 Watkins, Emily Higginbottom, Olivia splendid ambassadors of our school. pupils. The children sang the seven Holder and members of the choir A substantial amount of money was songs with enthusiasm and conveyed performed items, and the class raised by the concert which goes the joy of the Easter message in their recited the poem, ‘Twas the night towards the upkeep of this beauti- performance. The Years 3 and 4 Choir before Christmas’. Hilarious Christ- ful church. As we enjoy holding our also contributed to the service by mas jokes were told by Jamie Shut- services at St Paul’s twice a year, it is singing ‘Praise the Risen Lord’. tleworth and Thomas Davies whilst good to be able to offer something Junior musicians had a success- carols and Christmas songs were sung back in return. ful time when they competed at the by everyone. The children spread In March, Year 6 performed the Alderley Edge Music Festival achieving the Christmas spirit to the residents musical, Honk! It retells the well- 3rd, 2nd and 1st place certificates. of the court with their entertaining known story by Hans Christian Ander- The ten members of Stringstars com- concert. son of the Ugly Duckling. This special peted in the Small Ensemble Class Finally, the Junior Christmas duckling, played by Sam Jones, and played a varied (and technically Church Service at St Paul’s Church hatches in the nest of Ida and Drake, demanding) programme of ‘Cool completed our festive celebrations. a pair of mallards played by Saffron Calypso’, ‘Oh Danny Boy’ and ‘Sea Each year group sang a song which Milner and Max Hine. The other duck- Shanty Medley’. The adjudicator was reflected part of the Christmas story; lings are less than happy with their impressed with their rhythmic and Year 3 sang ‘Mary’s Song’; Year 4, new brother as he doesn’t resemble dynamic ability and commented on ‘On the Road to Bethlehem’; Year 5 the rest of the brood. This drives their use of pizzicato and tremolando. sang ‘Let the Bells Ring’ and Year 6, him into an unlikely friendship with They were pleased to receive a 3rd ‘Unto us a Son is Born’. The Years 3 a Cat, played by Francesca Sawyer, place certificate in a strongly con- and 4 choir performed, ‘Tonight a who is hoping for a tasty meal and tested class. New Boy Born’ and the Years 5 and 6 who leads him away from his adopted The fifteen members of Woodwind choir sang, ‘Sing out with Praise’, with mother. Fortunately, the Cat’s plans Wonders, featuring children from a trumpet part expertly played by are constantly thwarted and Ida, after Years 3 - 6 who play flutes, recorders,

34 Academic Departments clarinets, percussion and bassoon, efforts of Music Staff, parents who en- Jodrell Bank performed in the Large Ensemble courage their children and our young Year 10 students attended lectures at class. Their pieces were ‘Galloping musicians who share their musical Jodrell Bank on the electromagnetic Home’, ‘Barcarolle’ and ‘Popcorn talent with us throughout the year. spectrum, had a visit to the planetar- Polka’. Their ensemble playing was AJL ium and explored the world-famous given a favourable comment and also Lovell radio telescope. their contrasting moods between the SJH pieces. This ensemble achieved 2nd Physics place. Nuffield Bursary Scheme Forty boys and girls from Year Physics Club Having gained a place on the Nuf- 6 sang as a choir in the Year 6 and A dedicated and enthusiastic group field Bursary Scheme and spent four under choral class. Their programme of Years 7, 8 and 10 boys attended weeks at Liverpool University in was comprised of ‘Happy Talk’, an Physics Club each Tuesday lunch August 2012, Keir Birchall was invited exuberant number from the musical time. They participated in a variety to attend ‘The Big Bang’ UK Young South Pacific and the more relaxed of innovative projects sourced by our Scientists and Engineers Fair at The song, ‘The glory of Love’. The adjudi- inspirational technician, Dr Embrey. ExCel in London in March 2013. cator commented on their accurate For example, they built and rode CPH harmony singing, their clear diction, homemade hovercrafts, made from good support and breath control and wood and plastic and powered by Headstart and Smallpeice Trust their sense of enjoyment, which was the kinetic energy in the fan of a leaf This summer I was lucky enough to also communicated to the audience. blower. The myth-busting videos and gain places on Headstart and Small- Their performance was rewarded homemade speakers proved to be peice Trust Engineering courses. The with a first place certificate and a favourites as did the ‘water rockets’ first, Headstart, was at Bristol Univer- silver cup. which were fired up to heights of sity and allowed me to experience The Junior Music Festival, held over 20 metres. living in university accommodation over 4 days, produced 10 hours of CEA and a broad spectrum of engineering confident and well-prepared instru- disciplines. This provided a useful mental and vocal playing by our insight to some elements of Engineer- young musicians, which is a testa- ing I had not previously considered, ment to the dedication shown by our such as Aeronautical Engineering. pupils towards their studies. It was The main focus of the week, however, particularly pleasing that the Year 3s was using a microcontroller: program- were keen to enter and we were treat- ming it to use three light sensors ed to performances in every available to follow a line and then park in a class, including Ensemble. Mr Mercer, garage. This was very challenging: it Mrs Barratt, Mrs Beesley and Mrs was a steep learning curve to use the Pyatt adjudicated and encouraged the programming effectively. children with their hints and tips on I then attended a Smallpeice Trust performance technique. course at Birmingham University. This The Junior Summer Concert was a course was on Railway Engineering wonderful and joyful way to end the and I found it more intriguing than year. The hall was filled with pupils I’d expected. I learned about many supported by an admiring audience of interesting aspects, such as how the family and friends. Items performed safety functions work and the reason- included Woodwind Wonders play- ing behind their design. My group of ing the theme tune to Doctor Who; five was set the task of building a one- Stringstars played a hauntingly beauti- carriage train that was to be rolled ful arrangement of ‘Londonderry Air’; down a track into a wall, at 2.5ms-1, Team Brass gave a stirring rendition with the mounted accelerometer of ‘Michael Row’, Guitar Ensemble experiencing no more than 10g. The played a moody piece, vaguely remi- group I was in won and our solu- niscent of James Bond called ‘006’; tion was also the cheapest by a large Dance Group performed an upbeat margin. Jon Bentley from the ‘Gadget response to the song ‘Candy’ and Show’ presented the awards. Super Samba, making their debut in Both courses helped me to decide this concert, played lively Carnival that Mechanical Engineering would rhythms in ‘Samba Batucada’. The Christmas Physics Lecture be my preferred discipline. I would three choirs that sang, Lower Junior, Sixth Form students heard an enlight- recommend them to anyone inter- Upper Junior and Competition Choir, ening lecture on dark matter at Liver- ested in Engineering. gave excellent performances, sing- pool University. The lecture covered Jack Brierley 12JRP ing harmonies with accuracy and very recent research on supernovas confidence. The Year 6 class winners and evidential support for a new Cambridge Physics performed their winning items, play- theory of the origin of dark matter. I took park in the Cambridge Senior ing to an exceptionally high standard. SJH Physics Challenge - a four-day resi- Such fine music comes through the dential course for 60 top-performing

35 Academic Departments

Sixth Form physicists. In a group with Psychology Religion and Philosophy ten other Sixth Form students, I was lucky enough to spend the week liv- The Psychology Department had an- Towards the end of spring term, Miss ing in Corpus Christi. Lectures on a other successful and enjoyable year. Agour organised the annual revision whole range of subjects, from Quan- Mrs Barbara Collins gave a fasci- weekend to Bollington. Set in the tum Mechanics to Astrophysics, were nating talk about her work in stress beautiful grounds of Savio House, the held in the Pippard Lecture Theatre of counselling and relaxation, suggest- group of Year 11 girls and boys spent the Cavendish Physics Faculty. These ing techniques that students could a thoroughly enjoyable and produc- were supported by practical sessions use in trying times, such as prior to tive day and a half covering the sylla- in laboratories: experiments included exams. She also discussed various bus in new and interesting ways. The using lasers to calculate the thickness confidence-boosting techniques. behaviour was exceptional and the of a hair, a light bulb to estimate the A PGCE student from the Univer- event contributed to GCSE results. temperature of the sun, as well as sity of Bolton, Ms Nathalie Connor, Year 7 students visited Manchester, tests used to analyse the properties of completed her second teaching to explore the significant religious pendulums. placement with us. The process of diversity present in this area. Stu- Evenings were spent in punting mentoring helps to keep the depart- dents sat transfixed in front of the sessions, we had dinner in a different ment abreast of current changes and colourful deities of the Hindu temple, college every night and attended the ideas in education and we benefited were given a fascinating talk in the Trinity garden party. The whole was greatly by having Ms Connor with us. Didsbury Mosque and experienced a very enjoyable experience of life at She commented very positively about calming meditation at Kagyu Ling Cambridge. our students and compared them Buddhist Centre, in Chorlton. It was a Thomas Cann 13AMH very favourably with other students fascinating blend of cultures and the she had taught. students gained invaluable insights British Physics Olympiad Students had the opportunity to into the differences and similarities The British Physics Olympiad aims to go on a number of trips. We went to between religions. encourage the study of Physics and Twycross Zoo where we observed We continue to update and re- provides opportunities for students the primates and listened to a talk fresh our online presence. The R&P to stretch lateral thinking skills. on the evolution of intelligence. We intranet is popular with students and In November, Keir Birchall, Chris were able to see our adopted female should become an invaluable re- Hanak and Josh Keeling sat a 2½ Bonobo, Banya, and adopted her for source for parents. In addition to this, hour paper, usually given to Year 13 another year. Several students went RNJ successfully trialled the use of Fa- students. Chris secured a Bronze on a residential Psychology Course cebook groups with A Level sets. This Award whilst Josh and Keir received at Nottingham University where they proved extremely useful as a means commendations. In March, Ed Na- attended lectures on a wide variety of communication between teachers than, Richard Southern, Charlotte of subjects such as Dream Analysis, and students. The trial will be rolled Harrop, Tom Meadows, Tom Cann The Paranormal, Forensic Psychol- out to Year 12. and Harry Bradbury, sat the one-hour ogy, Child Development and Eating RNJ AS Challenge paper. Ed and Richard Disorders. They were also given (pictured) secured impressive Gold advice from the University Admissions Resource Centres Awards, Charlotte, Tom Cann and Tutor on various aspects of the UCAS Tom Meadows gained Silver Awards application procedure and tips on The new academic year saw the Re- and Harry received a Bronze Award. completing their personal statements. source Centres ‘jump ship’ from the CPH MJB old intranet to the King’s School web- site. The developments have gathered momentum over the year and now include our current online resources - the library catalogue, subject links, information on new books and online safety. We are delighted to facili- tate this new access point and look forward to pupils and staff having an enhanced experience of our service. This year, the summer competition took the form of a ‘Reading Passport’ and we had some exciting entries from the Year 7 group including Sam Crosby and Samuel Andresen from the Boys’ Division and Megan Huddy and Beth Whiteley from the Girls’. All the Year 7s also participated in the BookBuzz Scheme and Adele Le Moignan became a national runner- up in the competition to design an alternative cover for one of the books. Her beautiful design for Shadow For-

36 Academic Departments est by Matt Haig was very impressive. books for purchase and This could be me Another book cover winner was Year we feel that this ownership 8 pupil, Caitlin Plant (pictured), who of the stock has given an A scratty terrier lay on my knee, was the first runner-up in a national additional boost to borrow- A stale loaf and an old mug o’ tea, art competition to design a new book ing. Stock has also been A cigarette stump just dumped next to me, cover for the classic The Railway enhanced by a regular A sorry sight for anyone to see. Children by E Nesbit. Amongst the donation from ex-pupil, Mr judges were Jacqueline Wilson and K L Brookfield. Mr Brook- A stillborn child in 2003, the illustrator, Jez Alborough. field acquired an eclectic My wife and I grieved but she gave up on me. During a busy Autumn Term, selection of books for the My job of a teacher, left me alone, two enthusiastic teams from King’s Resource Centres, for which A box on the road is where I call home. competed in the regional round of we are enormously grateful. the Kids’ Lit Quiz held in Warrington. LS My money ran out, faded away, They held their own against a very My life has gone but I’m here to stay, competitive field. In the Spring, My heart is beating but my soul is dead, authors Jon Mayhew and Bryony I took for granted my table and bed. Pearce visited School as part of the The scraps of my car from the crash in ’09, celebrations for World Book Day, Forensics came to the scene of the crime. enthusing pupils (and staff) with their Left me in a state in the hospital room, individual approaches to their writing. A three-day coma… I woke up too soon. The celebrations continued with the Inter-House Book Quiz, hosted by My life destroyed from depression and ache, the Fence Avenue Resource Centre I keep on fighting for my little girl’s sake. this year and Gawsworth were worthy I visit the grave four times a week, winners. A ‘Favourite Character Vote’ I lay down flowers and listen to her speak. was also held: Winnie-the-Pooh was the top choice at Fence Avenue and No family, no friends, just here – alone. Harry Potter at Cumberland Street. In this little place that I call my home. World Book Day was also the prompt for our inaugural sponsored ‘Reada- Sophia Hulme 8LB thon’. Pupils read as many books as possible during a 3-week period: through sponsors, they raised funds to support various children’s chari- ties. Throughout the year, pupils partici- pated in the many activities, quizzes, competitions and clubs that the Resource Centres offer. The Carnegie Shadowing Award and the Cheshire Schools’ Book Quiz are two large- scale external events undertaken by students and staff, alongside those in-house ones such as the Spanish Easter Word Hunt and Christmas Readings in the Resource Centres. We are fortunate to work alongside and with so many different depart- ments here in the Resource Centres. Independent research skills are incor- porated into the curriculum areas as and when appropriate, and in many guises. These can range from a simple quiz to a murder mystery. Our in- house publications for staff and pupils range from termly newsletters – Kinfo and Info@King’s – to ad hoc leaflets, posters, book lists and the like. These highlight the different activities, new materials and opportunities we offer to pupils and staff. Our statistics show that the boys at King’s buck the national trend and do indeed ‘read’. This year, RC staff encouraged pupils to recommend

37 Events & Activities

Charities Chess Crossfire This year, several local, national and This year was another prosperous Two versions of this Christian discus- international charities benefited from one for chess at King’s. The weekly sion group have met at Cumberland the compassion, generosity and kind- club is increasingly popular amongst Street this year: one for boys in Years ness of our pupils. Across the Founda- lower school boys, drawing in a broad 7 to 11 and one for the Sixth Form. tion, we celebrated the fact that our range of skills, from those who are Boys meeting every Red Week school community raised in excess of new to the game, to those who play enjoyed a preliminary doughnut (or £24,000. for King’s in the chess team. two!) and activity, followed by a brief In the Autumn Term, the Senior The team had a very successful presentation of some element of the Divisions were delighted to support year, with wins against Fallibroome Christian faith and an opportunity to The Christie which was a particularly HS, Tytherington HS, and Altrincham ask questions or engage in discus- poignant choice, following the death School for Boys, as well as an enjoya- sion. A particularly popular series of of our Deputy Head, David Pook. bly close match against Stockport GS. meetings had a sporting theme: ‘Is life The Sixth Form Fashion Show was However, the chess team did not stop a Game? … about success? … about as popular as ever, uniting pupils, there, and claimed a victory during playing fair?’ parents and teachers alike, to raise the Staff versus Students chess match, Sixth Form meetings had a more £3647.47. The Boys’ Division contrib- with one particularly tense match last- erudite air, although the doughnuts uted well and showed much initiative ing over two hours. have been equally welcome. Topics for in their fundraising activities. The discussion were inspired by current girls at Fence Avenue strove to raise affairs or requested by students: Mira- the record amount of £6794. It was cles; The Message of 1D (seriously); a memorable project, especially the Gaga or God?; The God Delusion … Music Department’s Evening of Fine Crossfire meetings are planned Music in November. and presented by youth workers from The Infant and Junior Division con- Glod (an arm of the work of The Titus tinued to support Destiny Garden in Trust, a non-denominational Christian Kenya, while becoming superheroes charity) and are administered and themselves raising £1919 in their Su- overseen by King’s teaching staff. Pres- perhero Run, in aid of the adventure entations are given in assemblies by playground at King’s. This year also saw the return of Glod staff, inviting pupils and students With three non-uniform days and a the annual inter-house chess tour- to residential Easter revision breaks variety of fundraising events through- nament for the Boys’ Division, with and summer holiday camps in the out the year, most notably the trium- each house entering a four-man team, North and Midlands. This year, these phant performance of Haydn’s Maria playing the other houses over three proved to be particularly popular with Theresa Mass in aid of the Syrian weeks. With fierce competition, the our pupils. refugees (BFC pictured below), King’s tournament resulted in a draw be- As with Crossfire, one of the pur- pupils do indeed fulfil the school’s tween Tatton and Gawsworth. poses of the Glod holidays is to give four aims: they work hard to achieve Once again, the club was mentored young people the chance to explore their target of improving the lives of by Mr Ireland, who helped everyone what they think about the Christian others; they utilise their lively and improve their chess over the year. faith and its relevance for today. On enquiring minds to develop fundrais- I must also thank Mr Shaw, who or- the holidays, all attend relaxed and in- ing ideas; they demonstrate their care ganised and promoted the club, and formal meetings, which include short for the community and, ultimately, arranged the many matches we all talks and discussions about Jesus and become well-rounded individuals. enjoyed. his teachings. LFA Edward Nathan 12AMH PI

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D of E Gold A Blistering Expedition In July, in temperatures more suited to Columbia than Cumbria, five groups of Year 12 students undertook their Gold Duke of Edinburgh qualify- ing expedition. On Saturday morning, after a comfortable night at Elterwater Youth Hostel and fuelled by a full English breakfast, the groups set off for four days of walking in unrelenting heat - during which they would cover a distance of over 75km, and 3000m of ascent, whilst carrying packs of 20kg!

The pink group: We had an interesting encounter on our third day, when we were am- bushed by a herd of heifers, who took a particular disliking to one of our members. As they were blocking our path from the field and were refusing The orange group: Enrichment to back down, we decided to make One of our strongest memories from a beeline for the nearest gate. Our the expedition would have to be The enrichment programme contin- group’s fears were added to when the saving a sheep from being stuck in ued to stretch and challenge students bull, who until that point had been a fence, as well as encountering the throughout the year, with both its relatively apathetic, decided to wan- same unfriendly cows as the pink workshop programme and its se- der over to the gate, which suddenly group. However, our favourite mo- ries of trips and events. This year’s looked very insubstantial, and take ment was eating Gold Bars at the top workshops included a wide range of an interest. But, in general, we came of our last ascent. subjects ranging from the economics away with a great sense of achieve- of developing countries to problem- ment, having bonded as a group and The green group: solving and the trading ethics of strengthened friendships, and were We particularly enjoyed getting back large, multi-national companies. They very grateful for the opportunity to to the campsite first every night, so involved students from every year participate. that we could watch as other groups group and most of the events were arrived miserable, hot and sweaty, as mixed. Highlights included not one The black group: we were relaxing and eating tea with but two epic Third World trading On our best day, which coincidentally our tents all set up. Jumping in lakes games where teams had to manufac- was our last, we spent the morning and rivers was a welcome escape from ture objects to sell in an ever-chang- climbing high up one of the steepest the heat, and made it feel like a holi- ing market. This created a frantic hills on our route, before an after- day, but then we would have to put atmosphere and some very entertain- noon walking along the skyline. The our rucksacks back on! ing trading techniques, as promises sense of achievement we felt after Despite the record-breaking tem- were made and, occasionally, broken. conquering the climb, and then wan- peratures, blistered feet, and swollen The game was very popular across the dering up amongst the clouds, made bites, all the groups made it to the Foundation and encouraged students us feel incredible. The amazing pano- finish in Coniston. However the most to think about how poorer nations ramic views we witnessed throughout impressive (or desperate) finish came must use their unique resources to the expedition were breathtaking and from the pink group, when they came generate income. Another popular well worth the effort. in first at 3.15. Running through the event was a problem-solving ses- centre of Coniston, looking for the sion for Year 7 students, who spent The blue group: Tourist Information Centre, whilst hours solving a series of problems, Our favourite group memories were bemused locals watched, they were which included complex codes, logic stopping at a beautiful tarn on the quite a sight. problems and practical problems. The morning of the second day and want- We are pleased to report that all hardest conundrum was to calculate ing to stay there forever, in the sun. the groups finished their expedition the number of hairs on an average We also had a relaxing evening at successfully, despite the oppressive human body, using a roll of kitchen Coniston Hall campsite, where every- heat, persistent horseflies, and painful paper, calculator, sellotape, marker one went swimming in the lake, after blisters. All students finished sweaty, pen and a lot of lateral thinking. a very hot, humid day of walking. We smiley, and satisfied. The final event for Year 10 was kept our group spirits up with story JPB based on iconic images and how to times, where tales of Harry Potter or use them to create interactive learn- The Hobbit were read aloud. ing resources using post-it notes. Ver- sions of the Facebook ‘f’ and Apple’s

39 Events & Activities logo looked spectacular, whilst also containing huge amounts of informa- tion. So successful was this technique, that the posters were used at a train- ing event for newly-qualified teachers as examples of innovative teaching ideas. External trips included the ever- popular Dragons’ Den competition; events at local universities such as engineering competitions and sci- ence events; a maths problem-solving event, and a number of language competitions. The year finished with a stream of successes: teams from King’s won STEM engineering com- petitions at Manchester and Sheffield Universities; chemistry competitions at Manchester and a national German competition, culminating in a prize ceremony at Oxford University. These successes were a fitting end to an- other outstanding year during which King’s pupils were set some daunting challenges which, with their usual where. The students from Greenbank Extended Studies aplomb, they met and thoroughly were a pleasure to work with. enjoyed. The annual visit of Pownall Hall The Extended Studies programme, JSS to King’s was also a great success. A undertaken by students in Year 13, group of Year 5 and Year 6 students enjoyed a very productive year. Junior School Visits spent an afternoon in the Fence Av- Students benefited and learnt a great The programme of junior school enue Science labs doing experiments, deal from the wide range of subjects visits continued with six Sixth Form watching demonstrations and having available including Japanese, Gen- students from the enrichment pro- fun. Everyone went home clutching eral Studies, Theatre Studies, Sports gramme running a wide variety of home-made silly putty and everlast- Leadership and the Extended Project workshops for local schools. These ing key rings, having witnessed an Qualification (EPQ). Each subject ranged from team building to science escaped jelly baby, who leapt flam- brings its own challenges and re- and involved over 200 students from ing from the test tube, before being wards, and lessons reflect this. The local schools. The first two visits were recaptured and returned to his fiery Japanese students, as a reward for to Marlborough Junior School and to fate. The students from Pownall were their hard work, learned how to make King’s own juniors and were based very enthusiastic and they were, in sushi. The General Studies students around team building and problem turn, impressed by the expertise of were asked to be creative as part of solving activities. The team also the Sixth Form helpers, as well as the Culture and Society unit - some visited Marlborough later in the year the bravery of Alex Morris and Ellie were even brave enough to sing in to run a science afternoon involving Boardman, who became human tar- front of their classmates. The EPQ over 80 students taking part in four gets for the pop bottle rockets. students carried out their presenta- different activities. The final event saw the team visit tions in March and subjects included The first visit of Greenbank Prep Altrincham Prep to run a science- everything from projects considering School to King’s saw a fun-packed based afternoon for 92 Year 5 boys. the issues surrounding badger culling, science afternoon complete with gi- This tested the skills of the Sixth to the development of graphic novels. ant foam worms, flaming hands and Form students, who managed to The presentations were superb and screaming jelly babies. The afternoon run four different activities, includ- thoroughly enjoyable. started with the students making ing an archery competition involving MM silly putty and polymorph key rings. air-powered rockets and the very They then moved on to producing famous custard corner. The afternoon firework flame colours, punching the finished with a Hallowe’en themed Runway on the Runway non-Newtonian liquid custard and bangs and flashes show; the giant exploding tubes of hydrogen. How- exploding pumpkin gained a sponta- This ‘promtastic’ fashion extravaganza ever the excitement generated by this neous round of applause and made a and charity event took place in March, was nothing compared to the joy the mess of the school’s car park. and starred twelve lucky pupils from group felt seeing their first exploding The Sixth Form team involved in Years 12 and 13. The Fashion Show jelly baby. Greenbank students also running the visits were wonderful am- was held in the Runway Centre at had their hands set alight, including bassadors for King’s and they devel- Manchester Airport. The catwalk the very brave Mr Dunn. The finale oped a wide range of skills during the spanned the length of the iconic of the day was the giant foam worm, two years they ran the programme. Concorde and students from ten local which appears to grow from no- JSS schools, including King’s, modelled

40 Events & Activities prom wear from some of the best international designers. Many mem- bers of our Sixth Form community contributed towards this spectacular event through their involvement as models or by assisting with photog- raphy, journalism, fashion styling, choreography, hair styling, make-up and fundraising. Staff played their part too, in this fund-raising effort. Four brave mem- bers of staff abseiled down the Phys- ics block. This was not, however, a normal abseil, as they were ‘dressed’ for the occasion: Mr Street modelled a tutu; Mrs Roberts was in a onesie; Mrs Broadley was glamorous in a pink wig and red stilettos whilst Mr Mason made the abseil as a chicken! Techni- cal support on top of the building was provided by Dr Fitzgerald and Mr Edgerton. Staff and pupils observed and sponsored the event, raising a helped by older girls. Some girls just Knit and Natter large sum of money. came for a chat! Our efforts were sup- As well as fund-raising, the aim Knit and Natter is a new and interest- ported by the Friends of King’s who of these events was to draw atten- ing club, which attracted girls from provided knitting needles and wool; tion to teenage cancer, especially in across the Year groups to meet at we must also thank members of staff, the North West, where awareness is 1pm every Thursday. Our aim was who also donated materials. amongst the lowest in the UK. The to knit a blanket for use on the bed We knitted, we purled, and next money raised was donated to three outside the Nurses’ office. Some girls year, we may aspire to turn a heel! charities: Teenage Cancer Trust, Make were already experienced knitters, Anna Withington 10VHB a Wish and Medcare. but others learnt to knit under the HLB guidance of Mrs Balcombe and were

House Activities There was a host of exciting competi- tions and the aim was to ‘cater for all’ in this year’s Fence Avenue House activities. Mathematicians enjoyed Suduko, Kakuro and the Killer Quiz. Sportswomen fought hard in House Hockey, Netball, Rounders and on Sports’ Day. Musicians made music and warbled in Christmas Songs whilst artists put their creative skills to good use to design outfits for House Mascots. The quick and agile raced to the cups in the Speed Stack and scientists flooded to the Hall for the ever-popular Science Quiz. Book lovers relished their involve- ment in the Book Quiz; debaters dis- cussed topics with great passion and academic excellence was rewarded with many merits. In addition to all these challenges and events, everyone congregated to enjoy the Fence Avenue tradition of the Gym Competition and the National Dress Fashion Show. The House System at Fence Avenue was a hive of activity and the winning House was Gawsworth. HLB

41 NAMIBIA Namibia is true frontier country, with dirt-track roads linking far-flung settlements, vast farms covering areas which are larger than individual UK counties, and huge game reserves, teeming with lions, leopards and with more cheetahs than in all the rest of the African continent. Thirty-two students and three members of staff spent four weeks in Namibia travelling, working and living life the African way. Two teams followed identical itineraries as they criss-crossed the country in large overland trucks, avoiding wandering wild life. The trip divided into four elements, each with its own challenges and adventures.

Photograph by Jim Street classes, ran after-school sports, cooked the school dinners in the world’s biggest cooking pot and then acted as ‘dinner ladies’. This was an amazing experience: our pupils worked with the wonderfully keen local children, whose enthusi- asm for learning and taking part was huge herds of elephants, each of itself a lesson in making the most which needs 100s of litres of water of difficult circumstances. King’s stu- a day and each of which can dig a dents performed impressively; they few metres into the ground. And, taught lessons which were interac- as everyone knows, elephants have tive, fun and educational, as well as very long noses, so they are adept at producing a memorable sports day. Project locating water below ground. The In addition to the work, students The phrase ‘once in a lifetime’ is task was very demanding: it re- spent time tracking animals with the over-used but the project phase of quired students to dig a 500m long, San. Whilst no animals were found, this trip truly fitted this description. 2-foot deep trench, through African it was clear that leopard, lion, and The project was spent with the bush, with temperatures approach- elephant were all wandering around San people of the ing 35 degrees. However, the team the camp site unbeknownst to the Kalahari; they are a threw themselves into students and staff. It was also clear people whose DNA is the job and each morn- that the San were a people who considered to be the ing, as dawn broke, a knew how to survive - fires were oldest on earth and line of students could be made in an instant using just two who may be counted seen heading off into the pieces of wood (yes, that does really as ancestors to bush with picks, shovels, happen). Poison arrows were fired every person on the rakes and other imple- with unerring accuracy and spears planet. The San live ments of destruction for hurled huge distances. These expe- the same life they their pre-breakfast dig- riences were as close as it is possible have for millen- ging session. Rocks, roots, to get to a true hunter-gatherer ex- nia: hunting in the scorpions and much more istence and were a significant high- bush with spears were encountered, but the light of the trip for our students. and poison arrows students stuck to the task On departing the village, both and surviving in and at the end of the trip, teams managed to fit in a game one of the harshest environ- the trench was finished, the of football against the local high ments in the world. The aim of the pipe laid and connected, and water school. This sounds a normal project was to bring water from the was flowing through taps into the run-of-the-mill activity but in fact deep Artesian well, located outside village campsite. The walk to water involved 500 spectators screaming the village, into the campsite on the that every villager had to make, on and chanting, an opposition in full village edge which was intended a daily basis, had been cut from Nike kit (thanks to the enterpris- to attracte hardy travellers into 1.5km to a mere 250m. ing Emily Mound) and possessing a the village. This involved digging This would in itself have been dazzling array of skills. Both King’s a deep trench, through the African a massive achievement, but the teams were soundly beaten at foot- bush, putting in pipes and taps both students also did a bit of teaching; ball and netball, but the chance to to bring water into the camp and quite a bit of teaching, in fact. The play football in remote Africa was to make the pipe elephant-proof. two teams ran the school for a total unique – and not one of the team ‘Elephant-proof’ is essential for of four days between them. They had ever played in front of a larger the San. They live side-by-side with taught all the lessons to the three crowd. Events & Activities

Safari Each team spent three days in Etosha National Park camping, driving up and down the dirt roads looking for game and sitting silently around dimly-lit waterholes whilst rhino wandered grumpily up to the water. Vicious honey badgers wandered through the campsites, jackals stole food and mongoose herds swept everything before them. Elephants were every- where, as were rhino - this supposed endangered animal seemed to be ubiquitous in Etosha, with five being seen at one waterhole. One team saw two leopards with a kill whilst the other had lions everywhere and both left having enjoyed a quintessentially African experience.

Coast The Skeleton Coast is infamous as one of the most desolate places on the planet: huge waves pound onto vast empty beaches that stretch for thousands of miles, whilst inland is endless desert. At one end, lies Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, whilst the other disappears into Angola. Both teams camped at remote beach sites, having stopped off on the way to witness the unique sight of 80,000 Cape fur seals gathered around a small point on the coast. This sight was a sensual assault – the smell was overpowering, the noise of tens of thousands of mother seals calling to their cubs was deafening and the sight of the huge males waddling down the beach was truly comical. The campsites were empty and it was the only time on the trip that the weather actually could be described as poor, although the mist, drizzle and dampness did evoke memories of home. Having survived a whole day without sun, the group headed to Swakopmund for three days of rest and relaxation. This involved body surfing, whale watching and spending time in the wonderful cafés and shops of Swakopmund. It also meant that clothes could be washed, pizzas eaten and hot showers used to excess. The highlight of the coast trip was the day spent sand-boarding in the beautiful dunes overlooking Walvis Bay. This simple sport involves lying on huge cardboard sheets and sliding down huge banks of sand at speeds in ex- cess of 70kmh. Wipe-outs were com- mon but, by the time the students had graduated to the last run, which contained a large jump, they were experts at driving their boards.

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Desert southern Namibia. This huge escarp- ing through idyllic gorges as troops The desert part of the trip took part ment contained multiple trekking of baboons moved by and mountain in Sossusvlei National Park. This huge trails, large numbers of mountain zebra ran up the hillsides, the stu- expanse of land consisted of hun- zebra and the highest density of dents were met with what was quickly dreds of sand dunes, some of which leopards in Southern Africa. The aim nicknamed the ‘gorge of death’. This are amongst the largest on the planet, was to complete two treks through was a short, steep-sided section of as well as petrified forests which are the mountains and spend time swim- gorge that had to be traversed by thousands of years old. The students ming in the many rock pools around holding onto chains and leaning out climbed huge dunes, trekked through the campsite. The shorter Olive trail over the sides of the gorge. This was a the desert to remote valleys of petri- was a beautiful walk with a sting in nerve-wracking experience, especially fied trees and stalked springbok the tail. After four hours of wander- as one slip would have meant a long through the dunes. The scenery was drop into a deep pool and stagnant awe-inspiring, and constantly chang- water. The students took different ing: the sight of light from the rising approaches but all managed to make sun creeping along the face of 1000 the descent even if it took some a foot high sand dunes, was indescrib- little longer than others. The main able. trek was a wonderful 20 km wander across the high veld and through Trekking deep gorges. Whilst no leopards were The trekking stage took place in the seen, a fresh kill was found by one beautiful Naukluft National Park in team and it was a little disconcert- ing to know that there was a leopard close by the group. The highlight of this trek, were the natural swimming pools at the end, which allowed the groups to cool off in style.

Spitzkoppe Spitzkoppe National Park sits 150 miles from the coast and contains hundreds of rock domes that climb vertically out of the desert. Both teams spent three days exploring the park. This statement in no way does justice to the time the students spent scrambling on pristine rocks, climb- ing though caves and up onto remote ledges, and watching the sunlight move across immense rock faces. The campsites were idyllic and the stars at night were stunning, with the entire sky lit up like a planetarium. The highlight was the night the teams spent sleeping on top of one of the rocks. Campfires were lit and the students slept under the star-lit sky, trying to stay warm as the desert wind howled across the summit. The next day, saw the dawn’s light shining on a huddle of cold bodies but warmth soon returned as the sun rose in the sky, when the students descended for breakfast by the fire. The expedition was an amazing success from every perspective. The students involved threw themselves into every activity and task that came their way and were a credit to King’s in all that they did. In addition, Mr Puddephat and Miss Barton worked incredibly hard in giving up a large part of their summer holiday to ensure that the trip was the success it was. JSS

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Outdoor Activities The start of the outdoor year was blessed with clear if cold weather. Journeying with a group of fourteen students to Mid Wales on an evening of very heavy showers, it looked as though the weather might be against us, but by Bala, the sky was clear and as the camp site was reached, the stars were out in force. A frosty morning followed but the sun was warm as the group walked out, under a clear blue sky, to the summit of Cadair Idris. After lunch, the group plunged down an adven- turous descent to the impressive Llyn Cau, ringed with dark crags. After a short dip in the lake (feet only!) the ascent by the Minfordd path seemed easier and everyone climbed steadily to the summit plateau for a second time, before taking the alternative descent to the large lake below the put in a request for the Old Ing to summit, surrounded by yet more Dismal Hill cave, which is a very phys- impressive crags. As the sun dipped, ical undertaking; it was achieved with the group dropped down through only a few bumps and bangs, whilst ancient oak and birch woods back to the rest traversed Ingleborough in the camp, where a welcome rest was had. frost to Ingleton. By mid-afternoon, The second day was cloudier, with the buses were packed and everyone a keener wind. Nevertheless, the was on the way home. We had been ascent of Aran Fawddwy was under- lucky with the weather once again. taken, through some of the wettest The end of the Autumn was cel- terrain outside Scotland. At 905m, ebrated with the beginning of Winter, this is the highest mountain beyond as a canoeing and manhunt trip to the main Snowdonia range and it is North Wales was held in beautiful, very reminiscent of the Highlands in cold weather yet again! The sun glint- the rough nature of the going under ing off Llyn Padarn made it difficult foot. The whole group made it to the to see, and the cold was alleviated by summit ridge, where they entered the the fire, built on the shore, to toast mist; a smaller raiding party of seven marshmallows. The Cwm Pennant base and Sunday was used to good ef- made a dash for the main summit. All bunkhouse made a very comfortable fect, with a prolonged session of man- were reunited on the descent, which hunt on Anglesey; this was perhaps a was fairly speedy. The clouds were little damp and cool but all survived getting lower and the wind stronger, and overall it made a memorable end but the rain held off and only began to the term’s activities. as the bus pulled into school. The Spring Term usually starts After half term, a group of 27 with a bang and this year was no students from Years 7 - 13 plus staff, exception. A two-week period of cold visited the comfortable Old School weather came to a dramatic conclu- Bunkhouse near Ingleton for a week- sion on the weekend the students end of walking and caving. Venues headed off to Helvellyn Youth Hostel. beneath Ingleborough were good for It was an adventurous journey up the a novice group, although a little wet. snowy M6, alongside the snowplough The older pupils climbed Pen-y-ghent at times, to arrive finally at Glenrid- as the weather improved and the sun ding, which looked more like an came out, before meeting the others alpine ski resort. Once safely there, for a high-calorie lunch at the Rib- it was time to relax and the next day blehead Burger van! In the afternoon, saw the group head back via the the roles reversed, with the younger buses, to collect equipment, and on group scrambling up the waterfall at into Grisedale. The ascent up to the Goredale and the older ones getting Hole in the Wall was a little arduous, remarkably wet in Borrins Moor and but near the top, it was enlivened Upper Long Churn caves. On Sunday by a stop to dig a very big snowhole, morning, a stronger, older subgroup which several students tested out

46 Events & Activities by having their lunch inside. It was a beautiful day, which tempted the group to go on and climb to the summit via Swirral Edge, which was deep in snow and exciting. Once on the top the weather turned decidedly Scottish, with hail and strong winds. After a gusty descent off Low Man, it just remained to take the zig-zags down into Brown Cove, passing some optimistic skiers on the way down. Various means of travel were tested, with sliding on the bottom proving most effective. In the last mile to the hostel, the rain began and it grew in intensity as the evening progressed. The next morning, it was still raining. There had been a huge loss of snow, and as forecast, the heavy rain stopped at 0930 and apart from strong wind and one hail shower, the party was untroubled by precipita- tion, until they left just after lunch. This allowed a lower level route enteer on a course partly set by Mr the clough to emerge eventually onto round by Angle Tarn to be done, with O’Donnell and the centre on Satur- the main southern edge path, before an optional ascent of Place Fell. Those day, followed by some more canoeing heading into the mist and on to Mad- who did this had winds in excess of on Sunday, with the instructors from woman Stones. 70 mph to contend with; the best way GR8. It was an oversubscribed trip, The mist lifted to show the trig to deal with it seemed to be to sit on which is good to see. point in the distance and great fun the grass and slide! The valley was The last outing on the calendar for was had trying to take the frozen sec- a pleasant relief from the blasts and the Spring Term was a one-day walk tions across the peat, to avoid being chatting merrily soon brought every- on the Kinder Plateau. After a doom- sucked under! One of the girls had a one back together at Hartsop and the laden weather forecast, it was a sur- lucky escape from that fate when Oli- journey home, by now in spring-like prise to have nothing more than a few ver Jones pulled her out. The descent sunshine. flakes of snow and plenty of sunshine, by Ringing Roger led to the café and A combined trip with Mr along with good visibility for much of lunch, after which the group headed O’Donnell, enabled pupils to enjoy the day. The length of the Edale valley back up Grindsbrook Clough, before a mix of activities in early March. A was traversed from near Upper Booth more off-piste excursions took them well-appointed outdoor centre near before a climb into Jaggers Clough to Grindslow Knoll and a fine open the shores of Derwent Water was the led Mr Edgerton on another whim, as view. All that remained was the direct base, with an opportunity to ori- he set off up a small path alongside descent to Upper Booth, made faster by sliding down the steep, smooth grass. A short stretch along the road brought everyone back to the mini- bus, from what had been a very pleas- ant and enjoyable expedition. The first trip of the summer, after all the excitement of wet Year 9 camps and Bronze D of E, was to Snowdonia for yet another attempt to traverse all the 14 3000’ peaks of the region. In addition, a group of the younger pupils did the classic gorge scramble of Afon Ddu in the Conwy valley. The older group left the valley at 0600 and, in windy and cloudy weather, crossed Snowdon then Crib Goch, before descending to a second breakfast in the Llanberis valley. After the painful ascent of Elidir Fawr they were blown in strengthen- ing winds across the Glyders, before the sun came out as they summitted Tryfan. At Ogwen, a status report was taken and in view of the wind and the

47 Events & Activities threat of rain to come, mixed with conditions, and the possible prob- tiredness, a decision not to continue lems faced by legionaries, the team was taken. However, Miss Aspinall headed upwards into the mist. The then suggested finishing the job the summit attempt ended in defeat, due next day. So, whilst Mr Street and Mr to the gale force winds, but the team Thompson headed for Tryfan with the still managed to spot deer, ascend youngsters, the 3K group climbed the Place Fell and brave the conditions, Carneddau and had a fantastic day in even at lunchtime, when hail stones increasing sunshine with much lighter the size of golf balls fell, sending eve- winds, thus completing a successful ryone running for cover. crossing of the range, albeit in two JSS bites! The final trip of the year was both Coasteering land and water-based. The hospitable This year’s coasteering trip to An- campsite on Anglesey hosted us once glesey saw 24 pupils and 5 members again, providing an evening meal of of staff spend a weekend jumping fish and chips which was lapped up from cliffs, riding zip wires over the by all, both pupils and staff. On Satur- sea and navigating their way around day, the activities consisted of coast- sand dunes. There were three activi- eering, which involved jumping from ties: coasteering, sea-level traversing ever-greater heights, which become and a zip wire. All three required increasingly scary, into deep water by bravery, skill and a sense of fun. There the edge of the cliffs – safer than it were many highlights: Mr Thomp- sounds! Later, the group moved along son’s attempted somersaults into the the coast and did sea-level travers- sea; Dr Fitzgerald’s effortless zip wire ing, climbing near the water, where ride and Mr Street rising feet first a slip or fall has humorous, rather the perils of Swirral Edge. This was a from the depths, after a cliff jump. than painful, consequences! After a wonderful ascent, in beautifully still The students performed exceptional- comfortable night, Mr O’Donnell set conditions, and the deep snow made ly well, especially on the last cliff jump everyone an orienteering exercise it much easier than it looked. The which was a full thirty feet above the around the Rhoscolyn area, using summit proved a ‘little’ windy, so after sea and required a great deal of brav- a map he had prepared personally. an ‘entertaining’ descent through ery, as well as skill. The action-packed This proved to be a suitable finale the clouds, down steep, snow slopes day finished with a mass game of foot- for the year, even though the lack whilst cowering from the driving ball and fish and chips in the sun. of suncream did leave a few people sleet, the group was relieved to return The next day saw a King’s first: red-faced. to the warmth of the hostel, where all a school group orienteering on a PME told fantastic tales of snow and ice. course mapped and designed by Mr The next day was even windier but O’Donnell. This tough course over Winter Walking the group attempted to reach the heath and dunes saw teams compet- This year’s winter trip to the Lake Dis- High Street, a fell named after the old ing in pairs to complete 12 check- trict could best be described by one Roman road that ran across it. After points in relay format. Students ran word - epic. Having read every avail- lengthy discussions about the practi- through gorse, scaled boulders, leapt able weather forecast and then left calities of wearing togas in mountain high fences. The event was a great school on a sleety Friday, the brave group headed towards the Lake Dis- trict and, with perfect timing and local knowledge, made it to within a mile of their youth hostel accommodation. From then on it was every man and woman for him/herself. The students had been forewarned and were kitted up ready for the winter conditions; however a number of them had brought wheelie bags, which proved to be a little difficult to manoeuvre in very, very deep snow. The next day brought sunshine, strong winds and more deep, deep snow. After some steep ascents, a lunch stop was reached and Mr Edgerton used all his years of experi- ence to produce an amazing snow hole, of true grandeur, for the group to eat in. Fortified and clutching ice axes, the team felt ready to tackle

48 Events & Activities success and was aided by Ben and Jake O’Donnell, who not only helped set out the course, but also assisted quite a few lost students to find the checkpoints. JSS

Gorge Scrambling A hardy group of ten students and staff spent a pleasant morning relax- ing by swimming up a river, climbing waterfalls, crawling through narrow, water-filled gaps and leaping from rocks into deep plunge pools. The Afon Dhu river was in fine form and Year 9 Camp Ski Trip overnight rain lent a little extra weight The Year 9 girls’ camps were a great The week before Christmas, a group to the force of the water. In addi- success: the weather was kind, the of twenty Sixth Form pupils and five tion, added obstacles, such as tree midges were fewer in number and staff went to La Plagne, France for stumps, had been pulled into the bloodthirstiness than usual, and the a week. It was snowing when we river, increasing the difficulty of the paths were clear and easy to follow. As arrived which continued all week, ascent. After getting wet by sliding a result the girls had a great experi- mainly at night, creating perfect down a smooth rock face, the team ence walking in the Peak District, skiing conditions. During the day, weaved its way up to the first real cooking for themselves, braving we skied for several hours with our challenge: the infamous Elephant’s badgers and sheep on the campsite, guide, Mark, who improved tech- Bum crawl through. This is a narrow and coping with the night walk into niques, showed us some great slopes tunnel between two rocks, filled with the gloom and dark of Lud’s Church. and pointed out stunning views of the fast-flowing water, where the only Each of the forms showed great Alpine range. A smaller group took escape is a vertical shute. The team team work skills and supported each part in the off-piste course for five made light work of the crawl, despite other magnificently. The speed they days and were taken on some more the torrent going through it, and walked at was very impressive, as was challenging areas of the mountain. were soon climbing the first waterfall the huge number of sweets, crisps The food in the hotel was great of the day. The next two hours, saw and chocolate that was consumed with the highlight being afternoon the group showering under a water- en route. The late night expedition tea, which was perfect after a day’s fall, swimming across plunge pools into Lud’s Church was a highlight; skiing. After dinner, we relaxed in and trying to climb on top of slippery this chasm was formed by an ancient the hotel or went out: on one very boulders whilst the river did its best earthquake, which legend says was enjoyable evening, we went to the to wash everyone downstream. The used by the Luddites for secret meet- bobsleigh track, where some of us scramble finished with a session of ings, before they wreaked havoc on braved the 90km/h speeds. We had a rock jumping: each participant had nearby mills. This annual precursor wonderful week. to jump from a narrow ledge into a to the Duke of Edinburgh awards Laura Venables and plunge pool, aiming to land in the expeditions is very popular with stu- Hattie McCance 12LCW deep part so as to avoid being washed dents and these participants were no over the nearby waterfall. exception. Surfing trip JSS JSS In a summer of great weather, the four days which sixteen students and four staff spent surfing in Cornwall, were probably amongst the hottest of the year, with temperatures hit- ting the high 20s each day. The sea glistened and the sand glimmered like gold. Unfortunately, hot weather does not often produce big waves: the first three days offered waves that were small but ideal for beginners, so surfing lessons went exceptionally well. Everyone managed to get up and remain standing all the way to the beach. For some of the staff, this took a little more effort. In addition to surfing, the teams tried their skill at beach volleyball, cricket, touch rugby and other beach activities. Due to the calm conditions, there was also the opportunity to swim around the rocks and to take part in some open water

49 Events & Activities training. The evenings were spent to school planners were suggested ‘Aspire’ proved to be an enjoy- sitting in the youth hostel garden (be- and agreed. A new ‘Lost and Found’ able way for those who were making low), watching the sun drop into the Board for lost property was set up. highly competitive university applica- ocean, whilst cooking on the BBQ, or A new School Council Notice Board tions to hone skills and develop con- visiting local tin mines, perched on was established, on which minutes fidence when dealing with unfamiliar the edge of cliffs. As ever, the trip was and other Council matters could be material. a huge success, and this year, it was publicised to the Division. RHR an especially golden, if rare, start to a All forms sent representatives to great British summer. the meetings, which were also at- Zoo Club JSS tended by Dr Hyde, Mr Griffiths and Mrs Anderson. Zoo Club continued to be a magnet HLB to young zoologists at Fence Avenue. School Council Large numbers of girls flocked to the The School Council at Fence Avenue Biology lab two lunchtimes a week, to Year 12 and 13 Aspire had some excellent achievements see the many snakes, geckos and fish to report this year. Some were very ‘Aspire’ sessions ran all year in the that share our departmental habitat. significant and had an impact on all Sixth Form as part of our aim to chal- The reptiles continued to thrive in the girls in the Division. A Canteen lenge all pupils to ‘aspire, work hard the Animal room, enjoying a regular Committee was established which and achieve’. The weekly sessions change of bedding and tasty mouse met twice a term, to discuss devel- run for an hour after school and are for dinner. The marine tank, a won- opments to the canteen. As a result, open to all who want to tackle tasks derfully eye-catching ecosystem with themed days and menus, plus feature and topics not covered in lessons. an array of marine life, was a marvel sandwiches were introduced. Various Sometimes the sessions contained for all our visitors. New additions refurbishments to cloakroom facilities a practical challenge such as trying included some fabulous Fire Shrimp, were implemented, following propos- to run a hospital following utilitarian which enhanced the invertebrate als by Council members and the girls principles; sometimes they were the- biodiversity within the tank. they represented. The Prefect Selec- oretical: does language form thought The girls spent lunchtimes han- tion procedure was reviewed and or thought form language? On one dling the animals, learning about their amended following suggestions from memorable occasion, humanities behaviours and ensuring they are well the School Council. students challenged the scientists to cared for: they are possibly the best- Other developments were smaller, a debate with the motion, ‘Poetry is loved snakes in Macclesfield! though still important. Improvements beautiful but science is what matters.’ HLB

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Charity In the Autumn Term, King’s Infant and Junior Division held their Annual Harvest Festival. After the service, pupils brought gifts of food, some of which were distributed by Year 6 to the residents of Winlow Flats, Mac- clesfield. The remainder went to help those in need at Macclesfield Care and Concern, Cradle Concern and Silklife Church Foodbank. In November, the Junior School Council organized a charity day in aid of Christie’s. Activities included a cake stall, Guess the Name of the Teddy, Treasure Island Hunt, Book Sale and a coin-roll made, rather ingeniously, from the ‘car ramp’ experiment Year 5 had been investigating in their Sci- ence lessons! The charity day raised a grand total of £531.92. In December, the School Council held a ‘basket raffle’ in aid of Destiny Garden School in Kenya. This event (in conjunction with the Christmas Post Office and Christmas Service collection) raised £1100 for Destiny Garden School. In the New Year, Infant and Junior pupils supported Red Nose Day: the non-uniform day combined with a raffle raised a total of 492.85 for the charity. Later in the Spring term, the School Council organized a luxury chocolate box, which was then raf- fled, raising £200 for the Zion Or- phanage in Jerusalem. In the summer term, Upper Junior Pupils decided to turn their fund- raising efforts towards an adventure playground for the Lower Junior and Infant pupils. The Sponsored Super- hero Run was not only a great success but it also raised £2463.25. In total, the Infant and Junior Division raised in excess of £5000 for charity. NS

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Enrichment Gregson and produced two sculp- and talented writers to perform and This year, a wide variety of opportuni- tures of baby elephants. Year 4 adopt- read individually in Music and Words ties were offered to pupils to enrich ed a cross-curricular approach and assemblies. The Music Festival pro- their learning. Kagan teaching and applied their mathematical skills to vided an opportunity for all Juniors learning strategies were adopted by create pieces of art work inspired by to compete on their chosen instru- Infant and Junior staff, to be used Mondrian. Year 5 attended workshop ment, with Year 5 and Year 6 winners alongside our traditional teaching sessions run by staff in the Senior performing in Prizegiving and the methods. All pupils are encouraged Division and visited the Whitworth end-of-year concert. simultaneously to participate in ques- Art Gallery in Manchester. NS tion and answer sessions, role play In May, FOKIJ organised an Art Chess Club and discussion activities. Exhibition to display pupils’ work in a The chess club continued to attract a The Infant Department started gallery format with each picture hung regular attendance of 15 - 20 players using a new literacy scheme in Sep- and framed. The theme of the exhi- over the winter and spring terms, tember 2012 called Read Write inc. bition was ‘The Seasons’ and it was including experienced players and A review in June demonstrated the delightful to see the range of styles those new to chess. progress made by our pupils, espe- used to portray aspects of nature. A keen team of 13 from Years 3 - 6 cially that of the Pre-School children, A final year art student from spent an engaging day in November who had all reached an advanced Manchester Metropolitan University, at the AJIS competition in Bolton, stage for their age. Elena Borodenkoand spent three days coming home with a silver medal for The Big Write was introduced in with Years 3, 4 & 5 pupils who were William Cann in the Year 6 Interme- September 2012 to ensure that chil- encouraged to learn new skills, from diate competition. The children new dren throughout the Junior Depart- which a beautiful flowery display was to tournaments did well in their five ment become confident and increas- produced. matches, and no one came home ingly able writers. Staff witnessed a Junior Chess players competed in without scoring a point. vast improvement in pupils’ writing the AJIS Chess tournament in Novem- Our club tournament was hotly and introduced half-termly challenges ber and performed extremely well contested again, with a separate com- to stretch the more able writers. against stiff opposition. Congratula- petition this year for the Year 3 be- Junior writers won 3rd place in a tions went to William Cann who won ginners, which was won by Lily Cook. national poetry writing competition, a coveted AJIS Silver Medal. The chess Victory in the main tournament went entitled Travel Back in Rhyme, orga- club also runs a school tournament once again to William Cann in Year 6 nized by ‘Young Writers’. One of our annually which is part of the Schools’ for the School champion shield, al- gifted writers, Remy Miller, won the Chess Challenge. This year, 5 pupils though he was run a close second by prize for having the best poem in the scored the required points to take both Jodie Foxton and David Harris. competition. part in the area finals, and three pu- Congratulations to William, Jodie, Da- Many Year 5 and 6 pupils took part pils (William Cann, Jodie Foxton and vid, Freddie Higginbotham and Louis in the Primary Maths Challenge, a Freddie Higginbotham) went on to Adkins, who all scored the required national problem-solving paper aimed the North West finals. points to qualify for the North West at challenging more able pupils. Eight Talented actors have been encour- finals, held during the Easter holidays. of our pupils achieved Gold Award, aged to take on parts in musicals and William, Jodie and Freddie then went fourteen Silver, and nineteen Bronze. class assemblies and instrumentalists on to take part in the Northern Giga- Aisling Day, Matthew Hall and Aidan Carman, Year 6, and David Harris, Year 5, qualified for the Primary Maths Challenge Finals paper. In the Junior Maths Challenge U13 age group, Junior pupils won 7 Bronze awards, 1 Silver with two Year 6 pupils, Matthew Hall and William Cann, winning Gold awards. Congratulations must go the Year 6 pupils who were awarded an academ- ic scholarship into our Senior School. These pupils were Aidan Carman, Aisling Day, Matthew Hall, Sam Jones and Jamie Shuttleworth. Max Hine and Aisling Day were been awarded Music Scholarships. Junior pupils participated in a vari- ety of inspiring art activities. During Art Week, in the Autumn Term, Year 3 worked with textile artist Liz Spinks to create textile pyramids for their History work on Ancient Egypt. Year 4 and Year 6 pupils worked for two days with willow sculptor, Caroline

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from Mrs Coyne, and then went to children and staff thoroughly enjoyed Manchester Museum to see some of the performance and the highlight the mummies and objects for real. was when the children were given The children were allowed to han- 3D glasses during the interval. The dle things from 5000 years ago, and glasses enhanced the amazing special were very impressed by an x-ray of a effects and the children sat enthralled crocodile mummy, which held a few throughout the whole show. surprises. After a picnic lunch, the The fun didn’t end there, for children explored the rest of the mu- after lunch, they moved on to the seum, sketching some super fossils Manchester Museum of Science and and live animals in the vivarium. Industry. The children spent an hour Back at school, the topic was absorbed in the Experiment area finished in style with an Egyptian where they learnt some amazing facts day, when pupils made death masks, about science in everyday life. They jewelled collars, ate Egyptian food took part in puzzles, and were en- and Walked Like Egyptians along couraged to see, hear, feel and smell with a video of Michael Jackson. The science in action. To end the day the pupils learnt a great deal about this children were taken to the Manches- period of History, enhanced by a lot ter Underground Gallery and walked of hands-on learning experiences. through a Victorian Sewer built using VFAA original bricks from a Manchester finals in the summer term, showing Pancake day sewer of the late 1830s. their strong play against talented The children in Early Years and Year opposition. 1 learnt about the origin of Pancake Pets at Home VFAA Day before having the opportunity to Pre-School visited Pets at Home at Christmas Theatre weigh and mix the batter to actually Lyme Green, Macclesfield where they Pre-School and Reception’s presen- make the pancakes for a pancake saw an assortment of animals includ- tation of Hey Ewe was a charming party. To get the children in the pan- ing rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, re-telling of the Nativity. Told through cake party mood, they had a Pancake lizards, snakes and fish. They were the eyes of a curious sheep and all Race. Children and teachers took fortunate to meet the Vet, who gave her friends. The same afternoon, part but, unfortunately, none of the them a tour of his surgery and also Key Stage One entertained a packed pancakes survived the race. Luckily, watched a dog have his fur washed audience with solo pianists and Infant lots of extra pancakes had been made and dried. choir performing seasonal pieces for the children to enjoy back in the before everyone presented The Bossy classroom. Camping Christmas Fairy. The meaning of Pre-School had a lovely day camping Christmas was discovered through Horrible Histories in the Gingko meadow. words, songs and dances led by 2ES In March, Year 2 classes had an action- They carried the camping equipment and fantastically supported by 2CW/ packed day. They went to The Lowry and set up three tents. They also MB and Year One, who dazzled in Theatre to see the ‘Horrible Histories made their own tent from ropes and sparkling costumes. Once again, the - Vile Victorians’ in the morning. The blankets. The children were very audience was left amazed at what such young children are able to achieve.

Egyptian Trip Year 3 studied the Ancient Egyp- tian culture during the Autumn and first half of the Spring terms. They enjoyed a cross curricular approach to the topic, using not only History lessons to look at the land, beliefs and evidence about the Egyptian civilisa- tion, but also art to study objects such as jewellery and funeral ware, and ICT to research the roles of the many Egyptian Gods and Goddesses and to produce graphic art too. The children were encouraged to think like archaeologists, deciding what we can tell about people from the pictures or objects they have left behind, and what new questions the objects leave us with. We had a superb slideshow of the real Egypt

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‘We do like to be beside the seaside.’ designed to help pupils who have Reception children made the most not studied the language make quick of the beautiful weather when they progress in an enjoyable way. enjoyed an afternoon of summer In the Spring Term, the focus of activities in the outside classroom. the Club switched to our younger They enjoyed playing in the sand pit pupils who flocked each week to and the water pit; tried out newly- watch the next instalment of Belle et constructed boats of many shapes Sebastien. The story of a young boy and sizes in the paddling pools and and his adventures with a mountain dodged the water sprinkler. To end dog in the Alps, captured the pupils’ the afternoon and to help the chil- imagination so whole-heartedly, that dren cool down, they were given ice they sometimes forgot that they were lollies. watching in French! The Summer Term brought the Adam Perrott return of the Boules Club, in which Pupils were entertained by Adam Per- pupils from all four Year groups had rott when he shared his writing with a lot of fun improving their skills in the children who loved the storylines this traditional French game. Winners from his books, which feature The from each match were recorded and Odds, a family of pranksters and came together to provide an exciting meddlers. There was some audience championship where a Year 4 pupil, lucky to explore a real camper van participation in his comic presenta- Cara Holliday, was declared overall too. The day ended with sausages tion which involved balloons filled winner. cooked on the barbecue. with shaving foam and Adam Perrott AMJ also read extracts from his books. The Tatton question and answer session gave an Field Trip to Formby Point To begin their topic ‘On the farm’, insight into the working life of an au- In April, we visited Formby. Reception children visited Tatton thor and the process of having a book We had tour around the dunes Park farm. There were many animals published. from our guide, Ruth, and we each to meet including reindeer, pigs and had a clipboard to fill in along the their piglets, horses, cows, hens and Buxton Opera House way. their chicks, sheep and lambs. A high- Year 1 went to Buxton Opera House We looked at different parts of the light of the visit was feeding the ever- in June to see an adaptation of Tid- beach and spoke about the patterns hungry goats. After a delicious picnic, dler and Other Terrific Tales, by Julia of vegetation in each area: the fixed the children had the opportunity to Donaldson. The tales were woven dunes have more permanent vegeta- build dens and play on the adventure together with live music, songs, pup- tion such as grasses, pine trees and playground. pets and a host of colourful charac- moss. They are also a good habitat ters, which kept the children and staff for moths, natterjack toads, rabbits, Summer Concert spellbound. After the performance, spiders and snails. The Infant Department enthralled the children went to the Pavilion The coast at Formby Point is erod- a packed audience with a charming Gardens where they enjoyed a picnic ing very fast. Rubble from the old car performance of The Pied Piper. 2CW/ lunch before returning to school. park and caravan site was still on the MB took the main roles, speaking and beach. The ranger told us that they acting with confidence and maturity. French Club would try and get volunteers to clear They were magnificently supported As usual, the academic year began it up before the summer starts. by 2ES as mischievous rats and the with a series of French programmes The mobile dunes are easier to rest of the Infant classes who sang and danced with enthusiasm. The choir sang superbly and the Year 2 children enjoyed receiving their special King’s bear as a gift from the Infant Department as they make the transition to the Junior Department. The afternoon was a truly joyful expe- rience.

Pirate Day In July, Year 2 children enjoyed a leav- ing/Pirate party, which involved dress- ing up as pirates and participating in assorted activities. These included making ‘pirate’ cookies, puzzles and quizzes, and making fishing rods. The children had a pirate party at the end of the day.

54 Infant & Junior erode away but Ruth said that the ended with the children sharing some I was so scared of the caves as we ar- local Homebase gave them unsold ‘jumbles’ with Sir William and narrow- rived. As we entered it did not seem Christmas trees to put next to the ly being put in the stocks on their way so bad but it got worse. Soon I was mobile dunes so the sand would out of the hall. enjoying it. As we crawled through blow against them to form a harder NS the small gaps and swam through a to erode dune. Marram grass mostly small pool, I loved it even more. I left grows on the mobile dunes. However, Jersey Sports Tour the cave proud and not afraid. Formby is an unusual beach, because The Infant and Junior Division tried Isaac Salisbury they don’t have embryo dunes at the a new venture this year and experi- front of the beach, only large mobile enced a first ‘overseas’ Sports Tour. I enjoyed the rafting because you had ones. We all enjoyed our day and it Thirty three Year 6 pupils joined the to work as a team to build the raft and ended by seeing a red squirrel. 5 day tour, which included Rugby and then be able to float in the water. Adam Humphreys and Netball coaching clinics, a tourna- Casey Holliday Melissa Taylor (6ST) ment and afternoon and evening excursions and activities. The sports’ We all worked together to make our Bramall Hall coaching in both Netball and Rugby raft to race against another team. I In December, Year 5 visited Bramall was an excellent standard and all enjoyed cooling off in the pond after Hall in Stockport where they became developed their skills in a positive at- the race. Tudor ladies and gentlemen for a day. mosphere amongst new friends. The Thomas Davies After they had been taught proper boys were based at Jersey Rugby club ‘London manners’, they were allowed and the girls at a new indoor Netball I enjoyed caving a lot and after a to meet Sir William and Dame Doro- Centre: both were ideal. The children while I was having so much fun, I had thy Davenport, who welcomed them worked really hard and were com- forgotten to feel nervous. I did have to the hall and invited them to join in mended on their attitude, behaviour to crawl some of the way and also had preparations for the Yuletide feast. and their abilities: they were a credit to wait in the dark for the instructor. In the stillroom, the goodwife to King’s. The best bits were when we had to taught the children about Tudor med- On the final morning, teams com- wade through knee-deep water and icine and they learned how to apply peted in the ‘Jersey Games’, playing got it in our wellies. goose fat to the chest in the event in a tournament format. All received Ellie Watkins of a cold, sniff rose petals to prevent medals for their participation and the spread of germs and also several the girls were very proud to win When I went on the zip wire, I was rather severe remedies for toothache, their event. Excursions included the going so fast and I was too excited. none of which they were eager to try Gerald Durrell conservation zoo and Zoë Thomas out. Pupils also enjoyed acting out a an Aqua Centre: both were a great Tudor play for Sir William and tried success with the children. It was an I am sure that all of Year 6 enjoyed their hand at playing a range of Tudor action-packed trip: our enthusiastic their trip and would love to go again. instruments. The resulting cacopho- and energetic tourers coped brilliant- Aisling Day ny was not quite up to standard for ly with the busy itinerary. the school concert though. The day DCB SPCT

Outward Bound Year 6 went to the Hollow ford Centre in Castleton for an adventure-packed weekend filled with challenging courses and team-building games. Aisling Day

One of the things I really enjoyed was the caving. At first I didn’t really want to do it but in the end, I loved it and enjoyed squeezing through the small gaps and crawling through muddy water. Jamie Shuttleworth

When we were doing the abseiling, we were all looking very nervous, as the bridge arches were incredibly high. I was relieved I wasn’t first but even when it was my turn I was ex- tremely scared. In the end, I zoomed down so quickly that no one could see me. It was so epic! Holly Jones

55 Rugby

out on top by 26 points to 19. With training sessions continuing 1st XV On the back of such a superb through the Christmas holidays, the The efforts and achievements of autumn for the 1st XV, they were duly boys returned eager to make some the 1st XV squad this season were awarded the Rugby World Team of the real headway in the Daily Mail Cup unrivalled: the character, courage and Month for October. Parker, Percival, and, despite the best efforts of the spirit of this superb squad will live Sheratte, Marsden and Ravenscroft weather, King’s finally played Wirral long in the memory. were also selected for Cheshire U18; GS at a very windy Caldy RUFC for a Last year’s tour to Canada un- whilst Hale, Greer, Jackson and Thor- place in the quarter-final. From the doubtedly played a huge part in the neycroft represented Cheshire U16 start, the team was always too strong team’s success this year. On return and J Kenny, Ravenscroft and Sadler and dominant for Wirral and, with the to domestic duty, Jack Sadler became were also involved with the Sale likes of J Kenny, Sadler, O Kenny and Captain and he proved himself to be Sharks U18 EPDG. Parker all having their best games of a superb leader. He played in every Further wins followed against the season, King’s romped home by game of this record-breaking season Rydal-Penrhos, Nottingham High a staggering 31-0 margin. This was an and always had the full respect of the School, Adams Grammar School and exceptional result, away from home, team. Denstone College and cup wins over in challenging weather conditions: for After conquering QEGS Wakefield, Sandbach, Lady Manners and Man- the first time in the school’s history, by 17 points to 13, and MGS, 26-15, chester Grammar School meant that King’s had reached the quarter-final both away, followed by an emphatic the 1st XV were unbeaten as they of the Daily Mail Cup. victory over Lancaster RGS by 38 approached the Christmas holidays, Given the severity of the winter, points to 14, perhaps even in the with the small matter of a much it was not surprising that Merchant early stages, the writing was on the anticipated Daily Mail last 32 game Taylor’s and Stockport Grammar wall for a formidable season. away to Barnard Castle to play in the School fixtures were cancelled in Throughout the autumn, further final week of term. Barnard Castle January. Along with the cancellations emphatic wins followed, crushing hosted the game superbly and credit and the approach of the quarter-final , 41 - 12 and in the must go to the Head Groundsman for game in early February, it is easy to 1st round of the Daily Mail competi- getting the pitch playable after 3 or 4 see how a thrilling 26-26 draw with tion, King’s defeated The Grange days of frost and snow, and the team Kirkham Grammar School could be School 65-03, setting up a local derby snatched a remarkable victory from overshadowed. Yet, both schools clash with . the jaws of defeat. played superb rugby in a competitive For many, the Sedbergh game was The team entered the festive break atmosphere: a draw was a very fitting the highlight of the season and in with a record of played 20 and won result as well as a providing a superb front of almost 800 spectators, the 20, testament not only to the efforts spectacle and advert for northern 1st XV produced their most complete of established players, but also to schools’ rugby. performance of the season. In a game the contributions made by many of In February, three buses of pupils, of high class entertainment, both the U16 players such as Joe Hale, staff, players, supporters, Old Boys sides played attacking rugby but it Harry Jackson, Archie Thorneycroft, and parents set off to Northampton was the composure and precision of Dan Greer, Jonny Hammill and Huw School for Boys, amidst snow flur- the King’s side that meant they came Ravenscroft. ries and freezing winds, to embark

56 Rugby

Behind the scrum, Thomson 2nd XV proved a prolific try scorer at outside This season was somewhat mixed, as centre and the half back duties were promising displays were intermingled shared between Robinson, Burke, with those of a less impressive nature. Egar and Reaney, each possessing The season began well, with good contrasting talents and skills; the away victories at Wakefield, Manches- first two should be pushing for 1st ter , Lymm and Rydal; in fact, it was XV honours somewhere in the back the side’s home form which stuttered line next season. Crosby, at full back, early on, as the team was well beaten improved enormously as the season by Lancaster and, more emphatically, progressed, putting his physicality to Sedburgh just before the October good use; wings Barkanyi, Brierley break, but registered an impressive and latterly, Fullerton, made good win against Woodhouse Grove. progress too. Ravenscroft was also a The half term holiday did not seem useful asset when released from the to suit the players, as none of the next U16 squad, while Rooney succumbed three games were victories. After that, to an early season injury. weather seriously interrupted the All in all, the season turned out on the biggest game of King’s rugby programme: only three more regular well; whatever the result of games, to date. The boys involved handled fixtures were played, resulting in wins the side never once capitulated and themselves impeccably, but we knew against Denstone and St Ambrose, Tom Hennell won the 2nd XV end of what we were up against when, after and a close defeat at the hands of season award, a fitting recognition of 90 seconds, top try scorer and self- Kirkham. The weather relented in a player who always gave of his best. professed speed machine Tom Fair- February, enabling a further three Such individuals make the coach’s clough, suffered a horrifying double fixtures to tale place, all against 1st experience all the more positive. fracture to his right leg in an innocu- XV opposition: a drawn game against RGD ous clash with his opposite winger. Fallibroome, a convincing defeat The game was delayed for twenty by Bridgewater H S and an equally minutes and the atmosphere in the resounding victory over Runshaw U16 changing room was sombre: the team Academy. was determined to secure a win for The team certainly gave of its This was a mixed season on all fronts. Tom but the emotional energy of such best, invariably trained positively The usual influx of players pre-season an exhausting day took its toll, so that and played with enthusiasm and and then the loss of players during the game ended in a 3-0 defeat. gusto. The forwards worked tirelessly the season to the 1st and, occasion- Our last 15-a-side fixture of the sea- throughout, none more so than props ally, 2nd XV, coupled with the cold- son was at home to St Ambrose Col- Mason and Rattigan. Crummack and est winter for 50 years which caused lege and the boys put their midweek Boyle, the main lock pairing, car- many games to be cancelled, makes disappointment to one side and won ried hard and to good effect, whilst it clear why this was such a roller- easily in an exciting and open game the back row, picked from Hennell, coaster of a season. The year kicked of rugby by 38 points to 13. This was Hooley, Brown and Wood was busy off with a heavy defeat to QEGS Wake- a fitting way to sign off a truly remark- and industrious. Remaining members field. Finlay McCance gave all, his able season: they played 24, won 22, of the pack - Butler, Nicholls and Holt Scottish heritage not allowing him to drew 1 and lost 1, scoring 763 points - made massive contributions when give up in face of overwhelming odds. and conceding only 227. not on 1st XV duties and the young- However, the team bounced back In so many ways, the efforts of ster Thorneycroft added lineout capa- brilliantly, with close wins against these boys and the success they bility and gazelle-like mobility; Hanak Manchester GS and Lancaster RGS enjoyed might never be bettered. joined the squad as the season pro- (17-12 and 27-19 respectively). The Obviously I hope that isn’t the case gressed and never failed to impress. win against Lancaster was very pleas- and both I and all the Staff at King’s ing indeed, in the face of adversity will be working very hard to make and, at times, unpleasantness. The sure we have another season like this team then suffered a disappointing in the not too distant future. King’s defeat to Woodhouse Grove 3rd XV, rugby players don’t know when they who were unskilful but made up for are beaten; they never give up; the that in size, eventually beating the camaraderie and spirit of these teams team 20 -14. is what makes the rugby experience at The toughest opposition of the King’s, so very enjoyable and reward- whole season was Sedbergh: they ing for all those involved. fielded a very strong side, and King’s Thanks must go to all those who U16 was, once again, missing a couple represented King’s in Canada and of the larger players. A huge effort in throughout this record-breaking sea- the first half with some brave de- son: your efforts were truly remark- fensive work, kept the might of the able. brown shirts at bay. However, the GAJM/JPB rising tackle count wore the team down and, despite some unbelievable

57 Rugby defensive work, it lost 41-18. for the conversion from the touch- Crosby and Stockport Grammar. The In between, the team also lost to line, with only two minutes left on the final game of the season saw the team Stonyhurst in the Preston Grasshop- clock and King’s 1 point down. He play St Ambrose College, where it pers Floodlit cup. The starting XV was nailed it straight through the middle dug in very deep. With some great the strongest of the season with play- to win the match 20 - 19. defensive work from Hinchcliffe, in ers such as Ravenscroft, Thorneycroft, Weather interfered at Stonyhurst dreadful weather conditions, the Greer and Hale who had returned College with a cancelled match and team managed to scrape out a win from 1st and 2nd team duty for the then there was a good, closely-fought 8 – 7, with a late penalty from Roberts match. The team started strongly (21-18) win against Denstone Col- securing the match. after Thorneycroft put it in a strong lege. Teamwork was beginning to pay Grateful thanks go to all the position by opening the scoring, but off, as the menacing Jonny Jones, the coaches, especially Mr Halewood who somehow the final score was an ago- established scrum half was showing devoted a huge amount of time over nising 12-10. what a good spoiler of the opposition the weekends to coach and support The team lost narrowly to Not- ball he was. He put their scrum half the team. tingham, in a close-run match. Ten- under terrible pressure at scrum time Toby Bianchi 11PFH and sion was high and Toby Bianchi, the and forced many turnovers. The pack Finlay McCance 11HLC Captain, certainly received some ear was working well together: forages bashing from the referee as a result. from the irrepressible Hammill were U15 The final score was a disappointing 12 taking their toll on the opposition - 8. Next up was a combination side of whilst Mantel’s phenomenal tackling As far as points were concerned, this Adams Grammar U16/17 - a big outfit and sheer determination made up was a very successful season. How- and their size and play unfortunately for any lack of size. The seven-stone ever, the real gains were made in told, especially on Tom Key, usually monster was a dangerous force. attitude and approach as a number a paragon of good behaviour. In the The front row of Murphy, Salem and of players emerged who were able end, the 22-6 defeat was no disgrace, Feldman were starting to make their to perform well at A team standard. as many of the opposition were a year presence felt. Williams and Lucas This is one of the strongest group of older. were working well together in the players to emerge over recent years: Surely the best performance of the engine room, winning good line out as a result, expectations of the boys season was against Wilmslow when ball and making the hard yards up are high. some imaginative rugby as well as front. Roberts in the backs was always The season started well, with an ex- some superb defensive work were on willing to play in any position and was cellent away win at QEGS Wakefield: display. The whole side never shied constantly showing the opposition Gurney made good defensive deci- away from any tackle and put their what skill he had in both his physical sions at outside centre and the half body on the line. Key, who became and verbal abilities. backs, Hodgson and McClusky, pulled the established fly half, showed what Having built up a head of steam the string effectively to steer us to a a golden boot he had, especially after before Christmas, the team narrowly good win. The following week saw an the try of the season as Ravenscroft lost to a very strong Kirkham Gram- unsatisfactory win away at MGS: open flicked the ball behind his back to Mc- mar School (12 – 8). The weather side flanker, Lavelle, was outstand- Cance who passed it on to Roberts to intruded too, cancelling a couple of ing with a tackle count that almost race in at the corner. Key stepped up fixtures against Merchant Taylor’s exceeded the rest of the forwards put together. This game revealed the collective propensity to fall off tackles and this surfaced again against RGS Lancaster. After 20 minutes, the team was three tries down and struggling to deal with their large and aggressive pack. However, a midfield turnover just before half time saw the ball moved quickly to winger Fairclough to score and Lancaster wilted. Pleas- ingly, the game finished with the King’s forwards on top and prop Percival scoring from short range to seal the win, after an imperious place kicking display from McClusky gave a lead. Just to make the start to the season even harder, there was a mid-week fixture with Sedbergh. In this game, Lavelle was once again outstanding, well supported by Peakman and the emergent Kenny. In the backs, Black- well caused significant problems for the opposition with his direct run- ning. Another good win against Lymm

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frequently and pleasingly all players in the rugby squad on a permanent fitted in effectively, with Lumsden basis, but were available on request now also showing that he could per- on Saturdays. form at A team as a centre or winger. Sevens U15B The sevens season was severely cur- The U15B team acquitted themselves tailed by weather this year, which was well throughout the season and it was disappointing after all the preparation a testament to them that a number and hard work put in by the boys. of what were thought to be B squad Nevertheless, good improvements players at the start of the season, were made in skills and awareness forced their way into A squad conten- - particularly in the case of those tion. However, this does sometimes forwards who were relatively new deprive the B team of their core and to the sevens squad. The weather the team should be commended for intervened to the point that only two always trying to play attractive rugby tournaments were possible. In our to record some good wins. Austin and own Myles Marshall competition, hav- Simpson ran well and were danger- ing gone unbeaten to win the group ous on the wings, as was full back well, the team lost in extra time in the Dowd, who was beginning to push quarter finals to the eventual tourna- for A team contention at the end of ment winners. In the Solihull sevens, the season. In the centres, Richard- the team did not qualify through the son ran well throughout the year group, but went on to win the plate HS left the team unbeaten, with good and improved his defence, as did competition having adapted well progress made. Lumsden, who captained the side to the unexpected unavailability of After the long half term break, the effectively and developed his game winger Fairclough. team came back to a Daily Mail cup to the point where he was in serious PJP/DMH/CST game, away against Caldy HS, which A team contention. Similarly, Soltau was narrowly lost. The team respond- at scrum half, had a very good season U14 ed well to record a therapeutic 50 and showed good key skills. In the point win against Nottingham HS the forwards, Blythe battled well in the It was a real pleasure to work with following Saturday. From then on, a back row, as did flanker colleague the U14 rugby sides this season: they series of good wins were recorded up Haughton, who had an unfortu- have developed over the past two sea- to Christmas. Defences improved and nate season with injuries. Barratt sons and there is much to anticipate. fitness was excellent. In the front row, performed well at Number 8 and in The fixture list was strengthened Rodgers, having adapted to lose-head the second row, Rowbotham, who with the addition of both Sedbergh prop from hooker, scrummaged and returned to rugby this year, had a School and Woodhouse Grove carried well and Laing played solidly fine season. In the front row, Barlow School, making it a more challenging at hooker. In the second row, depth performed well at hooker, but strug- proposition than last season. Both meant that Price, Smith, Kenny and gled with injury and Shanahan battled teams acquitted themselves excep- back row Wallace, played in rotation well at prop throughout the season. tionally well. The U14A team enjoyed with all having excellent games and Thanks should also be offered here good wins against some local rivals. developing well. In the backs, long to those boys who did not want to be The team beat St. Ambrose 38 – 10, term injury to McClusky and inju- ries to Blackwell and Lauber, forced changes. McKeever stepped in at scrum half and linked effectively with Hodgson who stepped out to fly half. Furthermore, with number eight Peakman filling the inside centre slot effectively, and normal full back Krajewski on the wing, Turner took the full back role with considerable aplomb. Initially lacking a little con- fidence, he became an ever-present player, with good game awareness and great balance. After Christmas, the run of wins continued, although the weather in- evitably played a part. Good victories were recorded away from home in difficult conditions against Denstone and St Ambrose, and at home against a physical Kirkham GS side. In this period, the squad rotated even more

59 Rugby

MGS 53 – 5 and Lymm HS 36 – 0. The narrow loss against Sedbergh School 17 – 22 was one of the highlights of the season; despite losing, it was one of the most physical and mature performances from any school team I have had the privilege of refereeing. The side finished the 15-a-side sea- son in style, with a victory over Irish touring team Christian Brothers Cork, which rounded off a challenging, but exciting season. The U14B team had another out- standing season under the watchful eyes of Mr Livingstone and King’s head chef (and parent) Mr Martin Embley. The U14B playing record was astounding as the team achieved a 91% win ratio, which is an exceptional feat by any standards. Their only defeat came at the hands of Lancas- string of successes, which saw winger School side. At half time, after a stern ter GS, losing narrowly 7 – 5. It was Alex Denny score 10 tries and count- word or two, King’s picked them- pleasing that the U14B side was so less kicks in the 44 -17 and 56 - 5 selves up and got back into the game. successful, boding well for the future wins over MGS and Lancaster Gram- With only moments to go, Solihull of King’s rugby. mar. The team went on to record a broke through. Alex Denny managed The U14 7-a-side squad was the winning streak of seven consecutive to chase back, tackle and subsequent- Plate runners-up at the Solihull school games. The team knew its strengths ly won a penalty on the King’s try line. sevens, but unfortunately all of their and played to them; strong work from Josh Burke took a quick tap penalty other competitions were cancelled the forwards marshalled expertly by and with two passes, the ball went due to inclement weather. Across all Josh ‘Scooner’ Burke provided plenty to Denny, who showed his blister- teams, ten competitions were can- of ball for the slick interchanges ing pace, running in a try under the celled due to poor conditions which between Redpath and Blackwell, ena- posts from almost 100m away. The try adversely affected the 7-a-side season bling the backs to run in tries seem- was converted, bringing the game to in general. ingly at will. 24–24. Thanks must go to Mr Thomson, Then came the mid-season wob- The team followed with two com- Mr Embley and Mr Livingstone for ble: King’s suffered a shock defeat prehensive victories, against Leicester their continued support and hard to Wilmslow, losing a poor game to a GS, 50 - 0 and Toothill 50 - 0. King’s work in coaching and managing the team that clearly had less talent, but faced the hosts next; Nottingham HS: sides. much more desire. This was quickly in the second half there were some PMA followed by a defeat to Wirral Gram- outstanding performances from Tom mar in the quarter-final of the Chesh- Blackwell, Jos Collier, James Quinn ire Cup. and James Crummack with the final U13 Two wins against Denstone and result a victory to King’s at 35 - 7. In It was another excellent season for Kirkham seemed to put the team their final fixture against Warwick, the U13 A team. The team clocked up back on track before the weather de- who had also not lost a game, King’s a 82% win rate, averaging in excess cided to shut down King’s rugby for showed great tenacity and eventually of thirty points a game through their a month. Luckily, despite question- got their reward following a flurry of unique style of running rugby and able pitch conditions, the U13s were passes. James Quinn broke down the hard counter-rucking. able to play their final game of the left touchline showing a good turn Ably captained by Will Peakman, season against a strong St Ambrose of pace and sealed King’s victory 26 - the team maintained a majority of team. This turned out to be an epic 17. Alex Denny was named player of familiar faces from last season with encounter: King’s showed real grit, tournament, but without the support a few new recruits. Cameron Red- chasing down every ball and tackling and hard work shown by all of his path joined the school this year and their hearts out. The team was behind team-mates, he could not have hoped brought some hard running and ex- by two scores at half time, before bat- to achieve this accolade. quisite off loads to an already strong tling back to win 20–17 with the last King’s then travelled to the na- back line. There were big changes in kick of the game, which was a fitting tional sevens tournament at Rosslyn the front row with Connor Wordley end to an excellent season. Park. With the weather far from ideal, joining mid-way through Year 7 and The sevens season also fell foul King’s defeated Dulwich College 45 - Rob Devon gaining promotion from to the weather, with only two com- 0, Arnold School 36 - 5 and the Welsh the B team. petitions going ahead. The squad side, YsgolGyfun Cwm Rhymni 29 The season started in similar travelled to Nottingham HS for their – 14, which placed them top of their fashion to the previous one with a first taste of sevens rugby but un- group, with an impressive points dif- heavy defeat to an excellent QEGS fortunately, King’s struggled to get ferential of +94. As is often the case side. King’s followed this loss with a going against a well organized Solihull in tournament rugby, tiredness be-

60 Rugby came a factor: the team was defeated years. Showing great skill, compo- new to the game, they learnt quickly by an excellent Howard of Effingham sure, stamina and resilience, they and soon grasped the key concepts. School 32-7 in the knock out stages. finished the tournament unbeaten A great 5 - 5 result, against a strong This season’s player of the year in six games, scoring over 150 points Woodhouse Grove side, proved the award goes to Tom Blackwell. Tom and conceding fewer than 30 to lift perfect springboard from which has trained hard all season and is a the trophy. Will Davies, Archie Phillips to launch the season. As the team real team player who this season was and Sam Buckingham showed their started to understand the game bet- selected to represent ‘The Lambs’, maturity as they controlled the games ter, a good run of form in the middle the North of England Independent and a mention must be made of Oscar of the season was reward with wins Schools representative team. Johnson, whose pace proved invalu- against Nottingham 27 - 7 and Adams JSM and RJ able with a hat-trick in the final. 24 – 14. Stand out performances The boys were a pleasure to work came from Freddie Sass and Harry U13 B with being eager to learn and to Botham, who both carried the team Despite a slow start to the season, the develop as players. Richard Griffiths, well in these victories. After this good team managed to finish with impres- new to the game, made massive run of results, many matches after sive victories over Adam GS, Den- improvements through the season: Christmas were cancelled due to stone College and Kirkham Grammar. his future is bright. Will Davies looks weather, so the boys went through a For the season, the team recorded six an accomplished fly-half with good long period without a game, leading losses and four victories. Throughout balance and a mean side step. Sam to some disappointing results. the season, the skill level improved Cheetham’s dedication was appar- significantly within the team but it is ent: he consistently worked hard in U12 C the team spirit and camaraderie that practice and was always first down There were only two games for the C developed and impressed most so to help the coaches. Sion Davenport team, but plenty of enthusiasm shown that there is now an impressive team made the most significant improve- by all players. The key factor in these work ethic. Training numbers were ments throughout the season and was games was to focus on enjoyment and impressive all year. also the winner of the ‘design a rugby developing a better understanding of TSJ shirt’ competition run jointly between game play in a competitive environ- Rugby and the Art Department. ment. Special mention must be made of The first game of the season was U12 captain and player of the season, Sam against QEGS Wakefield in early Octo- This season proved a really good Higginson. An impressive, athletic ber and all the work in games lessons challenge, despite being disjointed, back-row forward, Sam was a frequent and at practice came together as the with the overwhelming majority of winner of the ‘man of the match’ team produced a super display, win- matches played before the Christ- awards and always led by example, es- ning 39 - 12. At MGS, communication mas break. From January onwards, pecially in those difficult early season and skills again allowed the team to only two regular season matches encounters. It was most fitting that he win 32 - 10. were played, owing to the inclement scored the last try in the final of the Congratulations to all the boys weather. The opening matches of the Wirral Sevens tournament to bring who represented the school in these season did not augur well, with heavy home the silverware. games, and more importantly for en- defeats being suffered at the hands thusiastically turning up for training of two impressive, experienced sides, U12 B week-in and week-out. Lymm and Woodhouse Grove. Yet, in Although many of the boys were SCB/JN/GBS/KS/PW the subsequent weeks, the boys failed to be downhearted, attended training sessions regularly and rebuilding con- fidence. Two cosy wins over Notting- ham and Manchester GS were a tonic: the try of the season was in the game against MGS and was finished by Toby Moule, resulting in a 19 – 0 win. Confidence was high and the boys crushed Adam’s in the next fixture. Despite narrow defeats in January and February against Kirkham and St Ambrose, there was undoubted optimism as the Sevens tournaments began. In the first, King’s finished gallant runners-up to a robust Nottingham side but had gained valuable experi- ence in the seven-a-side version of the game. A week later, at the Wirral tournament, the U12 VII produced some of the most accomplished play by a young King’s team in recent

61 Rugby

some fine attacking rugby. A flurry of squad of nine travelled to Merchant Junior Rugby tries reduced the deficit significantly Taylors’ School for the AJIS Sevens The King’s U10 team began their sea- so that, by the end of the match, MTS tournament. King’s entered the tour- son with a fixture against Terra Nova were relieved to win 42 - 28. The B nament with high hopes of perform- School. Though many were playing team played their first match of the ing well and perhaps challenging for their first competitive game, the boys season, showed great enthusiasm and the main prize. Unfortunately, the showed a great deal of endeavour endeavour, particularly in attack, and boys started slowly and in the first throughout. Three tries were scored were unfortunate in conceding a late game against Kirkham, the opposi- by fly-half, Ben Kersh, in a hard- try to lose 25 - 20. tion were a little sharper so that, fought contest, which resulted in a 15 The A team fixture against The disappointingly, King’s suffered a nar- - 15 draw. In the next match against Grange School blew away the cob- row 19 - 14 defeat. After also losing The Grange School, King’s was far too webs after Christmas, with a com- narrowly to a strong Manchester GS strong for the opponents, with the fortable 40 - 7 win. The B team also team, the boys were destined to fin- large squad of 15 players needing to played their first fixture of the term ish outside the top two places in the be used carefully to maintain a more and despite their best efforts were group and, after defeating Abbeygate even contest. Six players scored tries defeated 35 - 15. College 40 - 0, they entered the ‘Plate’ in a resounding 55-20 win. The future In the fixture against Altrincham competition. From the outset it was looks bright with the nucleus of a Prep, the A team performed well in clear that the boys were far too strong strong team forming, ready for more difficult conditions, with star fly-half, for this section of the tournament, fixtures as U11s next year. Murray Redpath, scoring all four tries with resounding 40 - 0, 50 - 0 and 52 - The U11 team began the season in a 28 - 14 win. The B team fought 0 wins being recorded on the way to with a tough fixture against Liverpool valiantly and were unfortunate to lose the final. King’s faced a determined College and narrowly won 21-12. 15 - 5. Grange team in the final and after a Against Birkenhead Prep, King’s re- The U11s hoped to maintain their relatively even game the final score corded the second win of the season, excellent form against Terra Nova was 21 -21 and it was agreed that the after a hard fought match. In the School, however, in the opening few plate would be shared. opening minutes, King’s raced into minutes they were stunned as their Colours were awarded to Max a 14 - 0 lead, after tries from Charlie opponents scored twice to lead 10 - 0. Hine, Josh Green, Murray Redpath Ward and Thomas Davies. However, This, along with the steep slope of (Captain), Remy Miller and Charlie the opposition fought back well and the pitch, proved to be a stern test, Ward. three tries either side of half-time saw so that at half-time the score was 10 MKW Birkenhead lead 21-14. Fortunately, - 7 to Terra Nova. With the slope and the boys recognised the need to keep the elements in their favour, the boys hold of the ball for longer periods played superbly in the second half, in order to create pressure and this with a hat-trick from Murray Redpath resulted in three further tries from and a score from Isaac Salisbury in Year 6 rugby and netball players Ward, Warr and Caplin to round off an the closing minutes sealing a in their Jersey Tour strip excellent win against tough oppo- comfortable win in nents. the end. King’s was also involved in two King’s finished closely-fought matches after the the 12 a-side season Autumn half-term. In the first fixture with a tough fixture away against Stockport Grammar, the against Stockport boys stuck to their task in difficult GS in the AJIS Cup circumstances, with well-worked tries Quarter-Final. King’s scored by Redpath, Ward and Payne, fought bravely securing a 15 - 15 draw. This served to against strong op- be an excellent warm-up for the cup position, but were match against Kirkham which fol- defeated 28 -21. lowed. After an even first half, King’s After conceding gradually began to grind down the twice early on, opponents, who provided a stern the boys fought physical test throughout: the final back to level the score was 26 - 14 to King’s. match at two tries As they travelled to Merchant apiece at half-time. Taylor’s School in Crosby, the U11 A However, in the team hoped to maintain their unde- second half Stock- feated start to the season. However, port dominated they were met by an extremely skilful and despite a late and athletic opposition and, after score by King’s, conceding four times, King’s were 28 they held on for - 0 down at half-time and extremely victory. deflated. Still, the boys came out for The U11 the second half with fierce determi- season was nation and shocked their hosts with completed as a

62 Hockey

out their time at King’s, have been 1st XI ever-present as captain and goal- The season was a very enjoyable and keeper. They are very good players successful one. Certainly if success is and excellent at teamwork. In a side measured by the improvements made that struggled for early success, they in a group of players, then this was were stand-out players and deserv- one of the most successful seasons in edly shared the player of the season recent years. All benefitted from the award. Jamie Winrow improved as the expert coaching of Tom Ainsworth season progressed: he has become a from Bowdon HC and from Tim Pont good, all-round player and hopefully, from the Netherlands. Both put sig- will go on to play club hockey. He was nificant time and effort into improv- voted the most improved player at ing the technical and tactical standard the Taunton Festival, a fitting tribute of all the teams. from his fellows. A good cup run saw the team Matt Spandley and Alex Rees be- U16 beat King’s Chester, Sandbach and came very good defenders, Alex came Cheadle Hulme. Although the team to the game late but the hard work This was the final season as an age took a heavy defeat against a strong they both put in at practice developed group side for one of the strongest Altrincham side, they still qualified for their defensive techniques. Jamie hockey year groups we have had in the North West finals day, where two Irving and Alex Quinlan were also late recent years. The season was another draws and a defeat were not enough recruits but both were strong and successful one. The team lost to only to take the team beyond that stage. athletic forwards, capable of upsetting two schools in the season, Rossall The 1st XI had a very good season defences with good positional play and Doncaster, who both went on to on the regular North West hockey cir- and attacking running. Mike Higgin- represent the North of England in the cuit but, as always, the end of season son was a very popular utility player: National finals. Over the years, King’s festival games were very challenging. he played all over the pitch, even as has some fantastic battles with Ros- The Taunton Festival was a particu- a stand-in keeper when Will Machin sall and the games have always been larly hard weekend: nearly cancelled was injured. He never gave anything closely fought. It was Rossall who following heavy snow, in the end it less than 100% and he provided one edged King’s into second place in the was played in bitterly cold condi- of my personal highlights at King’s, North West finals; when both teams tions. The team played five of the best when he scored the winning goal for progressed to the North stage, it was schoolboy sides from England and the then U16 side against Newcastle, Rossall who beat King’s by a single Northern Ireland and King’s did very to provide that year group with their goal, ending the team’s chances of well throughout, narrowly losing their first-ever win as a team. As the Year progressing to the National stages. final game to the tournament win- 13 players leave, the challenges and The side was well-captained by ners, Belfast. opportunities are there for the latest Callum McIlveen, who marshalled a It is sad to say farewell to the Year crop of players and with a strong Year strong defence with Tom Lynch, Ben 13 players and this has been one of 11 group coming through, the future Winrow and Ed McKee. Jake Gillson the most hard-working and tightest- looks very good for hockey at King’s. had another good year in goal, with knit groups we have had. The two SM some great saves and goal-line clear- Wills, Galloway and Machin, through- ances. The midfield was dominated by Alex Cripps (who hates to lose the ball), Chris Taylor and Jordan Grocott. Up front, James Ireland and Jamie Edgerton provided the pace and James Almond-Smith (‘Moses’) was invariably at the head of the ‘D’, ready to pounce on any loose balls to slot the ball home. Goalscorers are a very valuable commodity indeed: Moses was one of the best. Jamie Edgerton and James Ireland became really good wingers as the season progressed: they will be a real handful for opposi- tion defenders next season. JJ Gold- finch completed the quartet of ‘J’s’ up front: JJ is a good finisher and a fine athlete. He finished the season play- ing some games as a goalkeeper so that it may well be that this is where JJ will find himself next season. Callum McIlveen, Chris Taylor, Tom Lynch and Jordan Grocott went on to play for the 1st XI in the end-of-season festival at Taunton and were excellent

63 Hockey against some of the best U18 teams to Caldy followed and the team was Macfadyen containing any Rossall at- in the country. Jordan went on to win well-beaten at 6 – 0, though Dan tacks. After a well-worked attack, we the U16 player of the season and as Allmand-Smith had a very good game. came away with a short corner, with the whole group move forward the After two games lost to bad weath- Josh converting top left. The team future looks bright for next season’s er, the team welcomed Newcastle didn’t let the intensity slip, getting 1st XI. for the return fixture. We dominated the ball easily up to MOTM Gregg SM possession and MOTM Robin was the Booker who, after a ball crossed in, first to find the back of the net, then finished it majestically in the bot- put away three more chances to bring tom corner from top right D. After U15 the game to 4 - 0. We kept pressing a classic half-time team talk from Mr The U15 had a mixed season. A disap- and after goals from Josh, James, Ash- Kennedy, we were all raring to go. We pointing start saw the team lose 3 – 2 ley Barrett and yet again Robin, who put the pressure on, overloading their to Merchant Taylors’, after the team managed to bag 5, the game ended 8 D but having shot after shot saved, had built a 2 - 0 lead and dominated - 0, a most pleasing result. until we managed to feed Gregg the the game. James Shering picked up A good but unsuccessful trip to ball, which he finished in an almost- the Man of the Match award, whilst Rossall saw the team lose narrowly to identical manner to his first goal. Full both Henry Strutt and Josh Towne Rossall and the Lakelanders, both very of confidence we then held out for also had a good game. strong sides. The two Harrys, Booton the win. Against Newcastle-under-Lyme, and Meadows, had excellent games A draw against St Anselm’s fol- the team again started very positively, and picked up the Man of the Match lowed, with Thomas Andresen the passing the ball around well whilst awards. pick of the players, and another good James Shering controlled the midfield For the Rydal fixture, bad weather game for Harry Meadows. Overall, it along with Robin Laughton. James in Macclesfield meant that some play- was a fantastic performance, contain- Shering scored after the break to ers were unable to make the meet- ing team work, ball speed, possession bring the score to 2 - 0 before poor time but the sun shone on the Welsh and slick finishing. Knowing that the marking let the home side sneak one coast and, after enlisting the help of coaches and parents were proud, we in. Robin Laughton got MOTM, but some of the U14s who had already were looking forward to next season, there were also good performances played that morning, King’s finished when, hopefully, we can have some for Oliver Andrews and Oliver Pa- with a deserved 4 - 2 victory. success in the cup. padimitriou. However, the highlight of the Our special thanks must go to Tim At Bolton, King’s moved the ball season, was beating Rossall 4 - 0. This and Tom, for making training enjoy- around well, to secure a deserved 3 - was a fantastic team performance, able, and to Mr Kennedy and Mr 1 win. with everyone playing extremely well. Moores, for all the hard work they put Joe Machin, Josh Towne and Will The midfield players were especially into organising our games. Harris had good games. A tough trip solid with Robin, James and Oliver Joshua Towne 10 GAJM

64 Cricket

fixtures. Siddall, Henry Holden, Cal- of the season, was an excellently- 1st XI lum McIlveen, Ben Winrow and Tom contested one. Captain Tom Foreman At the outset, King’s 1st XI had not Key also took significant numbers of top scored for the Old Boys with 54, been expected to have a particularly . but contributions all down the order successful season, with few players This year’s annual festival took enabled them to declare at 224 - 7. left from last year’s side. In the event, place at Barnard Castle in Durham, King’s then made a brave effort, faced they significantly ‘over-achieved’, and saw King’s win three out of three by top County League spinner Jimmy recording no fewer than ten victo- games, for only the fifth time in the Lomas in particular, and 44 from Sid- ries with only three losses in sixteen festival’s forty-year history. In the dall, and 57 from Jamie Winrow – his full games, with some notable scalps first game, v Edinburgh Academy, big first 1st XI half-century in his final in- under their belts. Manchester GS, runs by Marsden [80] and McCance nings – enabled them to stay in with a Birkenhead, Stockport GS, King’s [98] enabled King’s to amass 285 - 5 chance almost until the end. Surprise Chester, and the very powerful Bol- in their 50 overs, and the wickets package, Guy Mason, however, caused ton, all fell to King’s, whose accurate were shared around as Edinburgh great consternation with 6 - 24 from a bowling and gritty all down fought well, to reach 224 in reply. superb 10 - over spell, and the School the order, regularly overcame sides Then, against Rossall, a similar game just managed to hang on for a draw whose star players had been expected resulted in an even wider winning on 201 - 8. to dominate. Captain Ben Marsden margin – King’s 254 - 7, with Marsden SM led from the front, scoring a total of 62 and Siddall 93; Rossall 88. 773 runs for the season, at an aver- The hosts had also won their first U15 age of over 55 per innings. He was two games, so that the third day saw also very instrumental in generating a genuine ‘final’. King’s struggled It’s been an up and down season for a marvellous team spirit, a major with the bat to reach only 122, with the U15s, playing 10 games, winning 4 strength of the side. Finlay McCance, 20s from Siddall, Jamie Winrow and and losing 6. Adam Siddall and Will Hodgson were McIlveen providing the majority of Our first game of the season was the other main run-scorers, though the runs. Four wickets from Hodgson, against King’s Chester, who did well others also chipped in, often vitally, and a hat-trick from Holden, then with the bat in the first innings, scor- at different times. Young leg-spinner bowled out Barnard Castle for just ing 197 from 30 overs: unfortunately Hodgson was top -taker with 90, however, so that King’s emerged we were lacking form and nobody 36, and he was perhaps unlucky not undisputed festival winners. scored any noticeable runs. Next we to have been selected for North of The final match, against a strong played Stockport away, when nobody England Schools in their end-of-term Old Boys’ side, on the hottest day stayed at the crease long enough. We

65 Cricket played Cheadle Hulme the week after. played against Merchant Taylors’. We One of the first disappointments This was a different story regarding bowled first and Joe Turner was the for the team came at Birkenhead the bat, with Stew Gurney, Will Down, stand-out bowler, bowling 5 overs for School, when they were bowled out Harry Blackwell and Joe Turner all 26 runs and taking 3 wickets. Unfor- for just 58. Despite the best efforts of scoring in the high 30s/low 40s, so we tunately we couldn’t score enough leg spinner Paul Roberts, who picked had a respectable total of 215 from 30 runs to win the game but congratula- up 3 wickets, Birkenhead just about overs to defend. The bowlers didn’t tions go to Josh Towne for scoring 29. reached the total but lost 9 wickets in disappoint and the game was won The season had its positives and nega- the process! comfortably. tives but we all developed our game A good midweek win in a low scor- Next was a mid-week game against and became better cricketers. ing affair against St Ambrose, meant St Anselm’s. We lost the toss and were Harry Blackwell 10PA that the boys went into the Cheshire sent out to field. Matt Salt had an Cup semi-final against Altrincham GS excellent spell bowling 4 overs for 14 full of confidence. Sadly, the team U14 runs and taking 3 wickets. The op- underperformed with the bat and in position only scored 83 and the runs The U14 XI had a successful season, their 25 overs could only reach 109. were knocked off quickly when Joe with multiple wins against strong Altrincham reached the target with an Turner scored a quick 34 to finish the sides. The season started with a nar- over to spare and 2 wickets in hand: game and enable us to win. MGS away row loss against King’s Chester, but whilst the defeat was disappointing, was next, which was always going to quickly improved and the team en- the strongest side won and they right- be one of the harder fixtures and with joyed a great win against the Grange, ly deserved their place in the final. all due respect to them they scored restricting them to just 66 runs, with The season ended with a fantastic 209 in their 35 overs. Tom Anderson, some good batting performances win against Merchant Taylors’, where taking 2 wickets on his debut, was from Sam Bryning and Dan Crosby, some key players, including the definitely the highlight of the game. both getting into the 30s. Harry captain, were missing. It was a great We met Stockport again a few Broughton developed his Captaincy opportunity for some other players weeks later: this time it was a com- skills throughout the season and to grab the headlines and the Bryn- pletely different story. Stockport was a confident and knowledgeable ing brothers did exactly that. 47 runs batted first and scored a total of 118 leader, whilst also contributing much came from the slashing willow of the from 20 overs. Through some good with both bat and ball. effervescent Sam Bryning and the batting from Stew Gurney, scoring 29, The team followed up this win with team posted a good total of 107 for and Harry Blackwell, scoring 36, the an excellent performance against 4. Sam has been a rock at the top of game went right down to the last ball Stockport GS, bowling them out for the order and he has suited the role of the innings but, unfortunately, we 93 before knocking them off with 7 of opener brilliantly. King’s was more just came short, losing by 3 runs in wickets in hand. Dan Crosby put in than capable of defending this total, a game that could easily have gone another good performance, this time with Josh Bryning making a massive either way. reaching 51. contribution with his right arm me- Birkenhead was a game where One of the team’s most convinc- dium pace, tearing apart the tail end, each department of the team worked ing wins was against Cheadle Hulme taking 3 wickets and an opportunity well and an all-round team effort was School, scoring 195 for 4 wickets then of a hat-trick. rewarded with a win. Stew Gurney bowling them out for just 74. Harry It has to be said that 2013 was a batted very well in his first innings, Broughton put on an excellent bat- good season for the U14s, with all the scoring 55 , helping score a ting performance, reaching a top class players contributing to what was an respectable total of 127. In the second score of 98, and good bowling perfor- enjoyable summer of cricket: hope- innings, Jack Rodgers bowled 5 overs mances came from all 7 bowlers. fully many will become King’s 1st XI for 19 runs, taking 2 wickets. Will King’s continued their good perfor- cricketers over the course of time. Dowd took 3 wickets from his 5 for mances and began the Cheshire Cup Harry Broughton richly deserved 19 runs and Tom Anderson bowled 3 well, defeating Sandbach in the open- the batter of the year award, whilst overs, taking 3 wickets for 15 runs. A ing round. This took them straight Paul Roberts was outstanding with his joint effort meant the game was won through to the Quarter Final of the leg spin and is the bowler of the year. comfortably. Cheshire Cup, where they faced It has been an absolute pleasure We continued our winning ways by Stockport GS once again. Again, the to coach and work with the boys this defeating St Ambrose in a high scor- squad put on a good bowling per- season, they have been hard working, ing encounter. Will Dowd scored 57 formance, James Hodges being the polite, helpful and very keen to do in a total of 212-7, whilst Matt Salt and standout with 4 wickets. The batting well for the school. Jack Rodgers picked up two wickets was one of the best performances of GAJM/SCB in the St Ambrose reply. the season, as Harry Broughton once Bolton was another close fixture. again led the way, getting 53: the team We batted first and scored 143 with won with an over to spare and with 7 U13 Harry Blackwell and Stew Gurney wickets in hand. scoring 46 and 47 with Joshua Towne Toddy Leddy with the bat, Ollie A large squad of nearly forty boys coming in at the end to score a quick Quinn behind the stumps and Zach turned up to the nets most Tues- 21. In the bowling department, Jack Howdle with the ball, all made huge day evenings, making selection for Rodgers took 2 wickets for 27 runs contributions to the success of the A and B teams very difficult. They from 4 overs. side throughout the season and must all showed great enthusiasm and Our last game of the season was be applauded for their efforts. enjoyed themselves. This was a good

66 Cricket season, with only two games can- Archie Phillips took to his role as he proved himself to be more than celled due to weather. Other games Captain very well. He led by exam- capable with both bat and ball. were played in mixed conditions. The ple and set high standards with his CFS A team went on to play ten games and wicket keeping. Sam Crosby was an the B team played four, plus a friendly attacking opening batsman who also ‘England v Australia’ game to get eve- bowled some useful left arm seam, Junior Cricket ryone involved. when required. Sam Buckingham The A team had very good wins started to show ‘game awareness’ be- The U9 cricketers began their against King’s Chester, St Ambrose, ing a thoughtful player who read the school career with two games of Kwik the Grange and Merchant Taylors’. game well. He had some outstanding Cricket against Upton Priory School. The Grange game was the first round shots and was a very clever bowler. Both teams played with great enthu- of the cup which King’s won but Al- Charlie Toms enjoyed batting, had a siasm, with the B team winning their trincham in the second round proved good array of shots and was an excel- match by a narrow margin. Unfor- too strong. lent opening bowler. Sam Cheetham tunately, the A team faced a more The A team was very well led crackled with ideas and infectious experienced team with several pow- by Owen Jones who improved his enthusiasm. He opened the attack to erful players and were comfortably captaincy as well as being leading good effect. Will Davies grew from a beaten. Nevertheless, the experience batsman. His fielding was also excel- player lacking a little in confidence, will stand them in good stead as they lent, particularly on the last game of to become a classy pace bowler with further their skills in Year 5. the season. Joss Collier and Sammy hostile intent. Charlie Fogg took the The U10s began with early season Chong usually opened the batting. adage, ‘Practice well and you’ll play defeats against Stockport GS and Both were susceptible to being well’ very much to heart and his dili- then travelled to Bury GS shortly caught but Joss scored 174 runs, gent approach paid dividends, with before half-term. King’s did well to becoming second highest scorer. some fine performances. post a competitive score of 264, after Owen Jones coming in at number George Connolly was another starting on 200, with Chong, Kersh three, was top scorer with 191 runs, player who was ‘game aware’. He and Davies impressing. In reply, the at an average of 24. Jack Willcock and recognised situations quickly and opposition was pegged back by some Cameron MacKinnon, Max Turner and was always ready to react, as well as tight bowling in the opening overs. Ben Turner were a pleasing middle or- being an excellent spin bowler. Angus However, the failure to take wickets der, scoring 350 runs between them. Thompson was one of the more ultimately cost King’s the match, de- The later order batsmen, Joe Moores, consistent – if not the most consist- spite the late efforts of Rajendran, as Cameron Redpath and Alex Denny ent – of the bowlers and looked set to Bury surpassed King’s score to reach also contributed. develop into a fine, all-round player. 266 and a narrow victory by a mere 2 The best bowler was Will Peakman: Louis Gruber was the epitome of the runs. In the final match of the season, he looked to be a promising and phrase ‘team player’ and no job was King’s travelled to face Birkenhead threatening opening bowler. Owen too big or small for Louis: he bowled School, but unfortunately had to Jones, Joe Moores, Jack Wilcock and tight overs, scored useful runs and settle for two games of Kwik Cricket, Kieran Manoharan took it in turns took difficult catches with great due to the weather conditions. Both to bowl, with a degree of success. A aplomb. Tom Carter was a thought- schools mixed up their two teams, number of other players - Josh Burke, ful player with some fine shots and so that a mini-tournament could take Ben Robinson, Tom Blackwell - played accurate bowling; he also took some place, with one comfortable win and at some stage during the season. The fine catches in the outfield. Ferguson three narrow defeats for King’s being B team made very good progress and Roylance only played a couple of recorded by overall. Congratulations the strength of the squad augurs well games for the A team but in that time to Joey Chong, who was selected for for next season. The team was usually composed of Hopwood, Robinson, Barker, Hunt, Rands, Houghton, Prior, Burke, Bailey and Fray. CJM

U12 A The U12 A team began their cricket- ing careers in the Senior Division in a very promising manner. They lost only one of their Saturday matches, to a very strong MGS side, and won the rest in some style. They were a friendly, sociable and cheery group of boys, who displayed a great deal of obvious talent. Their development through the season was remarkable and spoke volumes about their quest for knowledge, their ability to listen and to put advice into practice.

67 Cricket the Cheshire U11 cricket squad, a game, with each batting team starting 10 runs short. particularly impressive achievement on 200 runs. After a closely-fought The highlight of the term was as a Year 5 pupil. contest, Bolton were the winners by the Reeman Sixes tournament, held King’s U11s began their season 2 runs. at Stockport GS. In this format of with a pairs game against Macclesfield King’s performed extremely well to the game, each of the five outfield Cricket Club. This proved to be an win the next fixtures against Birk- players were required to bowl one excellent start to the season, with all enhead. In the A team game, all 10 over each, with accuracy even more 10 players having an equal opportu- outfield players bowled two overs important than usual, due to having nity to bat and bowl. The match was apiece and restricted their visitors to a only four fielders. The boys began evenly contested, with the scores below-par score of 75. In reply, King’s with a tied match against Manchester level going into the final over of the cruised to victory with more than 5 and followed with comprehensive King’s innings. Fortunately, the last overs to spare. In the B team game, wins against Cheadle Hulme and pair (Nico Caplin and Oliver Payne) King’s bowled with great consistency Birkenhead, to reach the final. Un- managed to hold their nerve to ease throughout the innings and were also fortunately, in the final King’s faced the team past the Macclesfield score comfortable winners, scoring 290 to a determined Bolton team, with one for a narrow victory. Birkenhead’s 270. outstanding opposing batsman prov- The first competitive game was an King’s faced Manchester GS in the ing to be the difference between the away trip to Bolton School, with the A Quarter-Final of the AJIS Cup, but two sides, as King’s was defeated by Team contesting the 1st Round of the were eliminated in a thrilling game. 18 runs. However, King’s bowled and AJIS Cup. After the hosts had elected Manchester did well to post a chal- fielded with great discipline through- to bat first, they were immediately lenging total of 85 from their alloted out the day, effecting some mag- under pressure, with opening bowlers 20 overs, although a slightly wayward nificent catches and run-outs in the Miller and Carman giving very few bowling performance from King’s process. When batting, Remy Miller loose deliveries. Regular wickets con- proved to be costly at the end of the and Joey Chong led from the front, tinued to fall and the innings ended match. In reply, King’s started steadily scoring 70 and 63 runs respectively in the 17th over with only 40 runs on and, midway through the innings, in the 4 matches. Cricket colours the scoreboard. This was well-below were in contention to reach the 86 were awarded to Remy Miller, Murray par on a small outfield and King’s runs required for victory. Unfortu- Redpath, Thomas Davies and George needed only 10 overs to pass Bolton’s nately, despite the best efforts of Muirhead. total for the loss of only one wicket. Davies (*25), Chong (19) and the MKW/NB The B team played their first pairs middle-order batsmen, the boys fell

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Championships the Inters (Year 10) ton, James Crummack; Alex Denny; Athletics and Cross Country were 1st, the Juniors (Years 8 and Will Jones; James Jordan; Joe Moores; Boys 9) 2nd, along with the Minors (Year Will Peakman; James Quinn, Cameron This was a fine season for athletics 7). As a result, six from each team Redpath; James Simmonds; Ollie Ste- in terms of both weather and re- represented the District at the County venson and Alex Welch sults. King’s hosted two early events, Championships. Athletes finishing in Year 9 – Tom Botham; Sam Brindle; one for track and the other for field the top two positions were selected Finlay Calder; Alex Galbraith; Freddie events. The Relays meeting was a to represent the County, in an Inter- Hayward; Tom Higginson; Mike Jones; great success, with King’s finishing a County meeting. Having won the Jun- Elliot Keen; Todd Leddy; Robert creditable 3rd out of 8 schools. The ior triple jump, Tim Phillips competed Massey; Tim Phillips, Toby Sayle; Will Field Events meeting was held against in the Mason Trophy against nine Thomson; Peter Thorp Sandbach: the Year 9 team won whilst other counties for Cheshire. Once Year 10 – Ed Austin; Will Barratt; Years 7 and 8 teams finished 2nd. again he achieved a personal best and Harry Blackwell; Gregg Booker; Will King’s entered the English Schools’ finished 2nd in a very high standard Fairclough; Brendan Jacot; Will John- Cup with mixed success. The Inter meeting. Three Year 7 athletes ran for son; Alex Krajewski; Hary Lumsden; Team (Years 9 and 10) was expected Cheshire against Merseyside; these Kieran McKeever; Harry Meadows; to do very well, but did not qualify for were Oscar Johnson, who won the Matt Peakman; Jack Rodgers; Jack the second round. The Junior Team High Jump, along with Charlie Toms Simpson and Ed Thompson (Years 7 and 8), on the other hand, and George Bryson-Sharples. DTB performed well in the 1st Round, King’s hosted the Track League this scoring a creditable 293 points, year, against MGS, SGS and Junior Athletics qualifying for the 2nd Round. With a HS. We won both the Year 8 and 10 King’s Junior athletes enjoyed an ex- slightly rearranged team and better age groups and were 2nd in both the tremely successful year and celebrated weather conditions, the Team was Year 7 and 9 age groups. As a result, numerous medal-winning perfor- outstanding. The athletes finished 1st King’s won the trophy. mances at the big Championship or 2nd in almost all the track events The season finished with a trian- events of the Athletics year. and continued this form into the gular Track and Field meeting against The weather threatened to spoil field. As a result, King’s scored an CHS and SGS. Once again, the Year 10 the early part of the season, yet ath- amazing 412 points (119 point better and 7 teams won, with the Year 8 and letes trained hard and, despite miss- than the previous completion) win- 9 finishing 2nd so that King’s won the ing warm-up events, still managed to ning the event quite easily. This score Boys’ overall competition. produce excellent results on the big put them 4th best in the North West The following represented King’s stage. Region. for athletics: Sports Day kick-started the com- The highest individual scorer was Year 7 – George Bryson-Sharples; petitive season and was a wonderful James Quinn with 40 points, with Joe Richard Griffiths; Sam Higginson; Os- festival of mass participation and Moores and Cameron Redpath each car Johnson; Archie Phillips; Charlie friendly House rivalry. Capesthorne scoring 39 points. Toms and Harry Wheelton was the eventual winner, with Gaw- In the Macclesfield and District Year 8 – George Barker; Milo Bar- sworth coming a close second: the

69 Other Sport abundance of athletic talent from Ward, M Redpath, O Payne, N Caplin, won the event, with four boys being all Houses was clearly in evidence A Mounteney, S Donatien, S Milner, S selected to run at the County Cham- however, and was a good indicator of Eastgate and F Sawyer. pionships. Unfortunately, owing to things to come. DCB other commitments, only George The AJIS event in Wigan produced Barker competed. He was King’s first an unprecedented medal haul. It was Cross Country counter throughout the season and a stunning team performance and The season started with the English thoroughly deserved to be selected extremely pleasing to see so many of Schools’ Cross Country Cup. The to run for Cheshire in an Inter-County our athletes perform to the best of Inter team (Year 10 and Year 9) ran meeting. their ability. Making finals is always very well in the first round, held in King’s also entered both a Year considered to be an achievement , finishing 2nd and so qualified 7 and Year 10 team in the District and securing any medal a rare and for the Second Round. This was the Championships. Both teams finished impressive result. This year, however, West Central Region and was held 2nd, with Archie Phillips winning King’s athletes won two relay team at Walton Hall Gardens, Warrington. the Year 7 race. Dan Batt and James and two individual Golds, a Silver, Here most of the boys found the Hudson (Year 7) and Ed Thompson three individual Bronzes and a team competition too strong, although (Year 10) competed in the County relay Bronze, making this a truly ex- Harry Lumsden finished 13th and Championships. ceptional occasion! The day was also Gregg Booker 14th, the former being Boys who competed during the made very special by the incredible King’s first counter in both rounds. season: Year 7 Dan Batt; Sam Buck- achievement of securing three AJIS Unfortunately, King’s were 5th in the ingham; James Hudson; Oscar John- Championship records: Anna Moun- team competition and so did not pro- son; Archie Phillips. Year 8 George teney won Gold in the Year 6 150m gress through to the Finals. Barker; Alex Fray; James Quinn, Cam- sprint final in a time of 21.3 seconds The Junior team (Year 8 and Year 7) eron Redpath; Ollie Stevenson. Year and Ben Kersh threw a cricket ball an ran superbly well in both rounds, only 9 Rhys Bower. Year 10 Gregg Booker; impressive 46.29m: both made it into scoring 20 points in the first round Harry Lumsden; James Shering; Jack the record books. The Year 5 Boys’ and 25 points in the second round for Simpson; Ed Thompson. Year 11 relay team also clocked up a Champi- the team of four counting runners. Dougie Naismith. onship best in the 4x100m relay, with As a result, King’s won both rounds DTB a time of 60.4 seconds. The success- and qualified for the National Final, ful team of Charlie Boddy, William held at Canon Slade School, Bolton. Junior Cross Country Davies, Ben Kersh and Sam Worthing- We had hoped to continue our good King’s Junior Cross Country runners ton should be extremely proud of this form and were looking for a top six enjoyed another successful season achievement. finish. Unfortunately, conditions and many showed great dedication to The Macclesfield and District were not suitable for our small and regular Wednesday training sessions Athletics Championships provided light team and as a result it finished throughout the season. another impressive evening of top equal 17th. Although this was a big The Macclesfield and District race athletic performances. Athletes disappointment, credit must be given series gave runners an opportunity competed with flair and determina- to the six athletes who performed so to compete against other schools and tion to perform very successfully on well and made it through to a Nation- King’s teams performed consistently the track and in the field, winning in al Final (which is for the top 24 teams well throughout the Autumn and all team categories at the champion- from the 519 entered). The team was: Spring terms. Runners who regularly ships. This is predominantly a Year 6 George Barker; Alex Fray; Archie Phil- secured top 10 positions were William event but emerging young athletes lips; James Quinn; Cameron Redpath Davies, Jimmy Foxton, Charlie Ward Isabel Moores and Sam Danson, from and Ollie Stevenson. and Murray Redpath in the Year 5/6 Year 4 and Sam Worthinton from Year This team was entered in the Mac- Boys’ event and Jodie Foxton and 5, all secured Gold in their sprint clesfield and District Championships Louisa Boden in the Year 5/6 Girls’ finals, adding valuable points. Other against the Year 9 runners. Once event. On Championship Day in Gold medal performances came from again, they all ran extremely well and March, three teams secured team Charlie Ward, Anna Mounteney and Bronze medals and congratulations both the Boys’ and Girls’ 4x100m should go to our Year 5/6 Boys’ and relay teams. Girls’ and our Year 4 Girls’ teams. In addition to this team excellence, The AJIS event was unfortunately Anna Mounteney must be congratu- postponed from a flooded Octo- lated, for establishing a new Cham- ber date to a freezing January one! pionship record with a time of 21.05 Outstanding individual performances seconds in the 150m. She emerged as came from Susie Moores, who nar- an extremely talented athlete and her rowly missed out on Bronze with a speed is breathtaking! 4th place in the Year 5 Girls’ event, Well done to all our ‘awesome ath- and from Murray Redpath who letes’ on a stunning year. secured a top 10 finish for the Year 6 Thanks to our proud athletics Boys’ race. Captains, Oliver Payne and Anna House Cross Country races took Mounteney for their commitment and place in the Spring Term and were inspiring performances this season. very closely contested. Individual year Athletics Colours were awarded to: C group winners for both the boys’ and

70 Other Sport the girls’ races were: Albert Brad- won four 1st places, yielding them were very evenly matched and at 0 - 0, shaw and Lily Cook, Year 3; William four National titles, whilst King’s Kit- the match was forced into extra-time. Worswick and Isabel Moores, Year 4; tens (Year 7) took 2nd place. They After an early goal for the opposi- William Davies and Susie Moores, Year beat the greatest number of teams as tion, all hopes of retaining the trophy 5; Murray Redpath and Anna Moun- they competed in the largest category. seemed to be fading. However, with teney, Year 6. All Houses were repre- We are very proud of the girls and 20 seconds remaining, Captain Remy sented by these runners but Gaws- their outstanding work, and very Miller struck a fierce shot from the worth became House Cross Country grateful to all the parents, staff and edge of the penalty area to equal- Champions. Sixth Form who gave their time to ise, forcing the match into a penalty Thanks to our Cross Country Cap- help on the day. shoot-out. Fortunately, King’s held tains: Louisa Boden and Charlie Ward. The captains and vice captains their nerve in this tense situation, Colours were awarded to: Murray were: with both Remy Miller and Thomas Redpath, Charlie Ward, Jodie Foxton Year 7 (Kittens) Captain Olivia Davies scoring resulting in a 2 - 1 win. and Louisa Boden. Moores; VCs Izzy Stevens, Jess Kra- King’s hosted its annual U11 DCB jewski tournament which was blessed with Year 8 (Cats) Captain Sophie Jack- glorious sunshine. In the group Biathlon son; VCs Mollie Gallagher, Tilly Stott stage, the boys performed extremely Changes are afoot in the world of Year 9 (Cubs) Captain Fiona Cor- well and physically dominated each Schools’ Biathlon. Due to the ever-in- nish; VC Ellie Holder of their opponents. With 2 - 0 wins creasing enthusiasm for this two-disci- Year 7 - 9 (Simbas) Captain Olivia against Bury, Altrincham and Bolton, plined event, qualification procedures Hamblyn King’s strode confidently into the are constantly being refined. Years 7 – 11 (Lions Allstars) Captain semi-finals. This proved to be a very This year, eleven keen and enthusi- Rowena Moores; Cheer Prefect Beth even match against King’s Chester, astic girls from Years 7 to 11 were suc- Burrows with both teams having opportunities cessfully entered for inclusion onto Rowena Moores has been selected to score. However, at 0 - 0 the match the North of England rankings list, to be the Cheerleading Prefect for headed into extra-time. Mid-way for selection for one of the National 2013 – 2014. through this single period of 7 min- Semi-Finals. Unfortunately, the qualifi- RB utes, a goalmouth scramble resulted cation level was so high, that only our in Thomas Davies smashing the ball elite performers, sisters Rebecca and into the back of the net from close Junior Football Katie Hughes, made it through to the range to score the ‘Golden Goal’ semi-finals and subsequently, deserv- King’s U11 team began the season amidst wild jubilation! In the final, edly, to the National Championships, in promising fashion, after winning King’s faced Altrincham Prep whom where they confirmed again that they the Macclesfield Primary Schools’ the boys had already defeated 2 - 0 in are in the top echelons of their sport. Football Tournament for the second an earlier match. Nevertheless, their After all achievements world-wide year in succession. After early wins opponents once again proved to be had been collated, Katie was awarded over Upton Priory 2 - 0 and Hollinhey a very good passing team and scored the Bronze medal for her 3rd place 5 - 0, together with two draws, King’s early in the second half to go 1 - 0 in the World U14 group and Rebecca qualified from their pool in 2nd place ahead. Despite the best efforts of the was placed 5th in the U16 group. and faced St John’s in the semi-final. King’s players, they were unable to The girls’ undisputed dedication However, this proved to be more force the equaliser and had to settle to both swimming and running is comfortable than anticipated, as for Runners-Up medals this year. obviously paying dividends. They are King’s emerged as 5 - 0 victors. In the King’s began the Macclesfield great ambassadors for King’s, as well final against St Alban’s, both teams Primary Schools’ season with two as being wonderful role models for other female athletes. DMB

Cheerleading The National Schools’ Cheerleading Championships were held in June at the Manchester Velodrome. There were more than 3000 competitors and the standard was exceptionally high. Yet, with over 110 pupils from the Girls’ Division competing, the day was a great success for King’s. The teams pulled through the ranks with outstanding performances, complet- ing skills which other schools are yet to achieve. The girls were confident and consistent, whilst their routines were dynamic and entertaining. King’s Simbas, Cats, Cubs and Lions

71 Other Sport wins over Upton Priory. In the A team their last two matches and they were The U10 A team experienced a match, King’s opened the scoring unfortunate not to win both games. mixed season, with a narrow 1 - 0 with a Griff Roberts’ strike after only Nevertheless, this was a good experi- victory over The Grange, together 25 seconds, but were then forced to ence, as they were playing against the with narrow defeats against Stockport defend for much of the first half and very best teams in the county. GS and Birkenhead Prep. The most Upton equalised shortly before half- The season finished on a high note promising results were produced time. However, in the second half, in mid-May, as the U11 team rounded against strong opposition though, King’s began to pass the ball much off their season with a fine win in the with a fantastic 5 - 4 victory being more effectively and sealed a comfort- Reliance Sevens tournament. In late recorded over Bolton School and a able victory with three further strikes February, in a qualifying round, King’s compelling 0 - 0 draw away against to win 4 - 1. The B team showed progressed after topping their group, King’s Chester. King’s hosted the much endeavour throughout their which included Puss Bank, Whirley, annual AJIS U10 Football Festival for match and deserved to score more Dean Valley and Rainow. In the games the second year in succession. The than the solitary goal from Adam held at Hollinhey Primary School, A team was not at its best and was Humphreys. King’s faced Prestbury, which proved defeated in three of the matches, In the second league match of the to be a fiercely contested match. After albeit by a narrow margin in each season against Prestbury, the A team taking a stranglehold on the game in case. The B team also featured in this was beaten 1 – 0, despite enjoying the second half, King’s was rewarded festival, after replacing Westholme much of the possession and territory after a powerful shot from Thomas School. They faced the daunting task throughout the match. After King’s Davies rebounded into the path of of being up against A teams from squandered several chances, the op- Charlie Ward, who slotted the ball Liverpool College, Abbeygate College, position broke away in the last minute into the corner of the net. With only The Grange and Oldham Hulme. and scored a goal to record a narrow two minutes remaining, this proved Despite this, the boys performed win. The B team played in a very to be the winning goal in a 1 - 0 win. with enthusiasm and courage and even match, with both teams having In the final, the boys faced a strong were delighted to win 1 - 0 against chances to score. In the last few min- Gawsworth team. However, King’s Abbeygate. Unfortunately, they suf- utes, King’s scored a well-taken goal dominated, creating several goal-scor- fered comfortable defeats in the other by James Warr, after good work from ing chances, whilst remaining solid in three matches. Nico Caplin, to take all 3 points. defence. Goals from Thomas Davies The U9s had their first taste of In the final league match of the (2) and Charlie Ward resulted in a competitive football at the AJIS term, King’s hosted St Alban’s. The comfortable 3 - 0 win. Football Festival and performed with A team game proved to be a very Junior Football Colours were great enthusiasm throughout. The exciting contest, with both teams awarded to: Harry Brough, Thomas squad of 8 boys played 7 matches in very evenly matched. After conced- Davies, Remy Miller (Capt), Oliver total and were rotated throughout the ing an early goal, the boys fought Payne, Murray Redpath, Griff Rob- morning to give them an opportunity back to score twice before half-tme. erts, Isaac Salisbury, Charlie Ward and to play in different positions. Excel- Unfortunately, after the opposition James Warr. lent wins were recorded against The scored a leveller, King’s could not force the winning goal, despite their best efforts. King’s B team performed extremely well, recording their third successive win, to maintain their position at the top of the league. Star striker, Nico Caplin, scored a memo- rable hat-trick. After Christmas, both teams faced the same local opposition in the reverse fixtures. Unfortunately, the A team narrowly missed out on winning the league title. However, the B team continued their fine performances, managing to win all of their matches and therefore secured the league title by a comfortable margin. In the Spring Term, the U11 A team represented the Macclesfield District in the Cheshire Football Finals, having won the local tournament at the be- ginning of the year. Disappointingly, King’s failed to find their best form in the opening two matches, losing 1 - 0 and 2 - 0 respectively, which scup- pered any hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages. More positively, the boys performed a great deal better in

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Grange and Birkenhead Prep, with tenacious and competitive netball. In a further two matches being drawn. the game against Lymm, after a slow This bodes well for next season, when and nervous start with the team very the boys will play more fixtures as quickly going down 3 goals, the squad U10s. settled down to win 10 - 5. Against MW/ST/NB Fallibroome, the team played excep- tional netball to win 8 - 7. The game against Bridgewater, last year’s winners, was tough but the Netball girls stayed focused and played stun- U15 ning netball to win 9 - 6. Sadly, King’s The U15s had a spectacular season lost 7 – 9 against The Grange. Still, crammed with multiple medals and the girls became division winners and trophies. Year 10 girls gave their con- were successful in making it through tinued commitment throughout the to the semi-finals against King’s Ches- winter and this showed in a plethora ter. The U13 squad was confident of of achievements. The first highlight winning this important match and of the season was the Stonyhurst took an early lead 5 -2. Sadly, follow- Tournament. We had numerous ing an injury to Frances Gurney, who triumphs over other teams, until we The success of the team was partly fractured her ankle, King’s lost the met Cheadle Hulme, who stole a down to the first-rate facilities of game. King’s Chester went on to win draw, just as the whistle blew for full four new netball courts however, we tournament. time. Unfortunately, we were pipped could not have been anywhere near King’s U13 played many Saturday at the post by Cheadle Hulme on goal as triumphant, without the excep- fixtures against other Independent difference, so team took 2nd place. tional coaching of Mrs Coleman: she schools. Once again, they showed However, this did not dampen spirits, encouraged us constantly, whether in their potential and ability, beating as we’d had a great day out. rain or shine, tournament or match. many prestigious schools within the The second most significant mo- It was thanks to the coaching of Mrs independent sector. Most notable ment of the season, was the Cheshire Coleman, both in club and school, were victories against QEGS 37 – 2; County Tournament. The weather that this season I gained a place in Birkenhead 43 – 4 and a B team win conditions were clear but cold. We the U17 North West Regional Excel against Denstone 31 – 9. were victorious, apart from one game Academy. Hopefully, this hunger and The Stonyhurst Invitational Tourna- against Fallibroome, so we were love for netball will be passed down ment was played early in the season: runners-up again. However, in the the line to the younger netballers, as the squad played an exceptionally Macclesfield District Netball League several of us are involved with their high standard of netball and Antonia we did not settle for second. We had coaching. The girls were a pleasure Bianchi captained with determina- been undefeated in the league match- to captain, with wacky warm-ups and tion, showing great leadership. es, however we had one game to go: wonderful wins. Let’s hope that next The squad won all divisional Fallibroome. They were the team we winter’s season at least mirrors the matches. They met a strong Stony- had been waiting since Year 7 to beat accomplishments of this year. hurst in the semi-final but King’s and, after a tight game, we won 18 – Eleanor Bird 10VHB showed resilience and proved to 20, so that, for the first time in many be the fittest. They went on to play years, King’s won the Macclesfield U13 King’s Chester in the final: the squad District Netball League. This is a competitive, committed and showed great skill but, disappoint- This success could not have been extremely able age group. There were ingly, were beaten 7 - 10. achieved without the many Monday consistently 30 girls who regularly CJC nights the girls gave up to train with attended training sessions. Congratu- tenacity, energy and enthusiasm. I am lations go to Frances Gurney and U12 sure, like me, they always looked for- Sophie Jackson, who were selected The Year 7 squad was comprised of ward to the Friday afternoon games for Cheshire County U14 Satellites. very able athletes. Throughout the sessions, which were full of fun and Antonia Bianchi was also successful in year A and B squads competed in focus. The commitment of the team the U14 Cheshire County trials, being the Macclesfield and District league, is without a doubt commendable, as selected for the U14 squad. Antonia where both squads finished mid-ta- many of the players participate in a was also selected to trial for the U16 ble. On Saturdays, the teams travelled range of other sports such as hockey, North West regional trials. further afield; they enjoyed victories horse riding, cheerleading and tram- The U13 squad played excellent, against Rydal Penrhos, Liverpool Col- polining, to name but a few. strategic netball within this year’s lege, Denstone, QEGS, Blackburn, I must mention Sophia Bird and Macclesfield District Netball League Withington HS and Birkenhead GS. Imogen McCance who representrd and the squad finished in third place The squads suffered defeats against the Cheshire Netball U16s in the overall within the A league, being nar- The Grange and Newcastle-under- country squad. They had a remark- rowly beaten for a runners-up posi- Lyme. Congratulations go to Ffyona able influence on the game, playing a tion by Poynton High School. Booker, who successfully trialled for number of positions. They were will- The squad was extremely well U14 Derbyshire County Satellites. ing to take on any challenge, to make drilled and prepared for the Chesh- CJC/CLB the team a winning combination. ire County Tournament and showed

73 Other Sport

Rounders U15 Rounders was as popular as ever with the Year 10s. There were stunning catches and fielding, as well as bat- ting, from Abigail Johnston, Ellie Bird, Sophie Brown and quick-fire bowling or loopy ‘donkey drops’ from Imo- gen McCance and Sophia Bird. These techniques were securely backed up by the ever-efficient back stoppers, Holly Brierley and Jenna Davenport. Many opposition players met their destiny because of the slick ‘bowler- backstop - first/second base’ triangle with Sophia Biggin’s sure hands at 1st post and Jennie Mercer’s at 2nd. Anna Callow, Sarah Laughton and Nicole Hughes contributed their fair share of the rounders and efficient fielding, to help ensure this was a year group worthy of the title, ‘The Dream Team’! DMB

U13 Junior Netball Rounders is a popular summer sport Orienteering Pupils play competitive netball from producing some exciting fixtures, Year 3. They begin with small group The school team attended fixtures with many strategies that can be games and eventually progress into across the North West of England, implemented within match play. This full games of netball. Wherever pos- East Midlands and West Midlands. was an extremely able group which sible, matches are arranged for A, B, C In the autumn and spring terms, we produced some excellent results. and sometimes D teams, in order that attended events on Sundays and in Alexandra Clarke captained the squad, all pupils have the chance to play for the summer term, after school. The showing mature leadership skills. The the school by the time they leave the spring fixtures were hit hard by very squad also benefitted from outstand- Junior Division. wintry conditions. ing performances from Evie O’Brien, After a slow start to the year, the Two orienteering days were also Imogen Clowes, Helen Nixon, Matilda U11 A team had a very successful incorporated into the Outdoor Activi- Stott and Sophie Jackson. The squad season, achieving success in the many ties Club, which were very popular did well, with some noticeable victo- matches they played. Their winning with the students present. These took ries, such as in the games against The season ended on a high when they place at the side of Derwent water in Grange 28-10 ½, and against Lymm became the eventual winners of the the Lake District and at Rhoscolyn on 15 – 4 ½. King’s also recorded a win Macclesfield and District Primary Anglesey. against Newcastle 11-8: this is always Schools’ Netball Tournament, and also Having competed in orienteering a tough fixture and the girls fought champions at the Terra Nova Invitation events since Year 8, it was finally time hard. King’s fielded extremely well Netball Tournament. The U11 team, to say goodbye to Jonathan Emery whilst Alex Clarke bowled with speed captained by Alex Cairns, is talented and Anton Petho, who headed off to to prevent Newcastle from scoring. and they show great potential. university. They had some interesting The game against King’s Chester, The U10 team made huge pro- personal battles against each other was a great match and everyone with- gress, beginning to work together and over the summer series of events. in the squad contributed. The fielding play competitively. Over the course of I would like to take the opportu- was excellent, and the deep fielders, the year, the team played ten match- nity to thank Mr Colville for all his Annabel Hebb, Matilda Stott, Char- es, winning six. Their end-of-year efforts over the past 15 years. Having lotte Cramp and Ruby Thorneycroft tournament was postponed, but they been an integral part of the orienteer- contributed, making very accurate look forward to the challenges that ing club staff, Mr Colville has ‘retired’ throws to fourth base. At a final score Year 6 will bring. from involvement with orienteering of 18 ½ to 10, this was a fantastic end The U9 team had a successful to concentrate on starting a squash to a successful Rounders’ season. and rewarding year of netball. They club. In those 15 years, Mr Colville CJC consolidated their knowledge of the has assisted with approximately 200 rules and were beginning to play as fixtures. Along with all the students Swimming a team. A and B teams competed in involved, I am very grateful for his en- friendly matches against Terra Nova, thusiasm, energy and expert advice. We were lucky to swim at Newcastle- AESG and Stockport and the results COD under-Lyme School, St Edwards Col- were close. lege and Sandbach School, competing NS in their annual galas. Traditionally,

74 Other Sport

Trampolining This was the most successful year for King’s trampolinists since the sport was introduced to the school seven years ago. Thirty-four pupils took part in the North West Championships and they secured exceptional results with outstanding performances from all who took part. King’s qualified to the North of Britain Championships in six catego- ries with five 1st Team places, one 2nd Team place and six individual qualifiers. The standard of competi- tion was very high but King’s out- stripped many other competitors with technically outstanding routines and by handling the competition pres- sure well. In the Girls’ Elite teams, the U15s came 1st, the U13s 2nd, and the our swimming teams do very well; lovely opportunity for our swimmers U11s 1st, whilst the U13 Boys’ Elite they give a very good account of to be part of such an enthusiastic and team came 1st. Both the Girls’ and themselves and produce some excel- determined winning team. the Boys’ U11 Novice teams won 1st, lent competitive performances. It is King’s then tried a new venture in whilst U13 Novice Girls’ were 4th with especially pleasing to have the com- April when we revisited Cheadle with U15 Novice Girls’ 3rd. mitment of talented pupils who train a Year 3 and 4 team. All swam very Five out of six King’s teams quali- with external clubs. well and had a lovely time experienc- fied for the North of Britain Champi- Inter-School Galas are always very ing the thrills and spills of racing. onships and Rowena Moores qualified well-organised and performed in There were some extremely close individually to represent the school an enjoyable, if highly competitive, finishes to entertain the support- in the British Schools’ Trampoline atmosphere. It is good that King’s ing parents and Albert Bradshaw, Championships. At this event, three continues to be recognised as an Eve Carter, William Worswick, Isabel out of five teams achieved podium enthusiastic supporter of such galas Moores, James Payne, Scarlett Brough places. These achievements dem- and we are grateful to all of the pupils and Oliver Brown were all delighted onstrated the improved technical who have contributed to King’s swim- winners of their individual races. Re- aspects of all trampolinists and ming teams. lay teams were also successful and the showed the consistency of each DMB King’s Year 3 and 4 swim team was pupil throughout the competitions. only narrowly beaten when the final Rowena Moores became National Junior Swimming scores were announced. This was cer- Champion and King’s was the most The swimming year began in Novem- tainly a very worthwhile initiative. frequently represented school on the ber with the AJIS event at Darwen Our Year 5 and 6 House Swim Gala podium. Leisure Centre. King’s was extremely took place in May and a hot, hectic RB well-represented in 11 finals, although but happy afternoon saw over 130 pu- Susie Moores was our only medallist; pils involved in 40 events, all hoping she was proud to win Bronze in the to win valuable points for their House Girls’ U10 25m Butterfly. Luke Stevens team. Adlington became the Upper came a frustrating 4th in the Boys’ Junior House Champions. U10 25m Butterfly final; both these In June, Year 4 swimmers enjoyed swimmers show great promise for two sessions of competitive races and next year. all swimmers were able to enjoy com- Local galas took place in December peting and representing their House against Cheadle Hulme and Year 5 team. Individual events and relays in a and 6 teams narrowly lost in a very full range of strokes, gave children the exciting match. Luke Stevens, Joey chance to demonstrate their excep- Chong, Aidan Carman, Remy Miller, tional skills. Capesthorne are Lower Eleanor Norbury and Murray Redpath Junior House Champions. were event winners. Swim Captains this year were Sarah In March, Year 4, 5 and 6 children Abrahamse and Fionn Carman; both travelled to Stockport GS and were were pleased to receive swimming delighted to win by 270 points to 211 colours. points. Our young swimmers thor- DCB oughly enjoyed the experience and proved to be extremely competitive; it was a busy schedule, but provided a

75 Awards & Prizes

Distinctions in Public Examinations David Pook Poetry Prize Alex Denny A Level Boys’ Division Robert Batchelor Prize Thomas Carter Girls’ Division Robert Batchelor Prize Meredith Stephenson Pupils with 4 A*/A grades Junior Division Robert Batchelor Prize Jodie Foxton Chris Hanak Amy Sanderson William Haynes William Smith Junior Division Robert Batchelor Prize Maxwell Haigh Pupils with 3 A*/A grades Chloe Abbott Bethany James Retiring Prizes Rafia Aslam Kristina Killick Geoff Shaw Retiring Prize, Megan Bailey Jessica Lenderyou Mathematics, Physics, Music Prizes Laura Embrey Luisa Bianchi William Machin Val White Poppy Kirk Keir Birchall Ben Marsden Gillian Banner (Joint) Samantha Rae Lucy Brown Katie Mellor Gillian Banner (Joint) Rosana Wardle Maddie Coutts Alex Rees Hanja Dickinson Lauren Rousseau Michael Patey-Ford Alexandra Swift Adam Dixon Kate Ryan Clare Bingham Ellie Hopewell Jonathan Emery Holly E Smith Robert Harris Holly J Smith Edward Horton Charlotte Stafford Upper School Prizes Sophie Hurst William Strutt Biology, Mathematics (Single) Prizes William Haynes Business Studies, English Language Prizes Maddie Coutts GCSE Design & Technology Prize Dominic Sheratte Pupils with at least 8 A*/As Classics (Wilmot) Prize Tom Meadows Mioni Armstrong Francesca Millin Economics (Canon F W Paul), Rheanne Beresford Alex Moore English Literature, EPQ Prizes Kristina Killick Toby Bianchi Emily Mort French (William Broster) Amy Sanderson Jack Bradbury Emily Mound Darragh Burke Joseph Murphy German (J O Nicholson) Prize Jenny Calnan Elisabeth Clivery Adamson Lydia Myers Extended Studies (T B Cartwright) James Crosby Jamie Cunningham Christopher Noxon Geography Prize, Development Trust Tom Eastgate Jonathan Pinches Scholarship Major Award Holly J Smith Jamie Edgerton Edward Potts Geology Prize Jonathan Emery Laura Embrey Sophie Quinn Katie Fray Jasper Rossi History, Politics Prizes Chloe Abbott Jennifer Galbraith Jenna Self Mathematics: (Double), Physics Prizes Chris Hanak Keerthana Ganesh Aaron Shaughnessy Philosophy, Spanish, Ron Darlington Juliette Gorb Jennifer Shering Jazz Prizes William Machin Tabitha Green Isabelle Shone Physical Education Prize Lorna Davies Jonathan Hammill Jennifer Shone Psychology Prize Holly E Smith Esteban Herpin Ailbe Smith Dan Hinchcliffe Isabel Smith Religious Studies (Thorneycroft) Prize Charlotte Stafford Rebecca Hughes Rebecca Sparks Senior Choral Prize Clare MacKinnon Oliver Jones Jessica Stuart Senior Orchestral Prize (Joint) Sarah Mycock Holly Keen James Sudweeks Senior Orchestral Prize (Joint) Mary Thorp Anja Knudsen Alistair Thomson Simon Schuler Computing Prize Elliot Sime Tom Lynch George Walker Terri Marshall Anna Whaley Theatre Arts Prize Rebecca Hughes Finlay McCance Ben Winrow Edward McKee Middle School Prizes (Boys’ Division) Head Boy’s Prize Aaron Shaughnessy Special Prizes Principal’s Prize Darragh Burke Headmaster’s Prize, Senior Reading, Deryck Siddall Cup Esteban Herpin C A Bradley History Prizes Sophie Hurst Best All Rounder Cup Jonathan Hammill Headmaster’s Prize, Music Prize William Strutt Macclesfield Grammar School Principal’s Award, Chemistry Prize Hanja Dickinson Tom Eastgate Principal’s Award Harry Hayward Boys’ Division Council Cup Matthew Peakman Year 7 Achiever’s Cup George Connolly School Prizes (all age groups) Year 8 Achiever’s Cup, Sainter Prize (for scientific research), Lower School Reading Prize Alexander Fray Maimi Wright Prize (for computing) Keir Birchall Year 9 Achiever’s Cup Alexander Galbraith Ben Davies (Poetry) Prize Eleanor Guiver Year 10 Challenge Cup Robin Laughton Dr Norman Maurice “Arclex” Jack Brierley Year 7 General Science Prize Alex Campbell Selwyn Russell Jones Sports Prize Ben Marsden Year 8 General Science Prize Fionn Carman Thornber Chemistry Development Prize Jessica Lenderyou Art & Design, Theatre Arts Prizes Alex Moore Marcall-Costello Award for Biology, Geography Prizes Finlay McCance Endeavour in German Charles Cockburn Chemistry Prize Jasper Rossi Ken Brookfield Elizabethan Prize, Product Design Prize Matthew Peers Art (Selwyn Russell Jones) Prize Harry Frost English, Mathematics, Music Prizes Jamie Edgerton I A Wilson Economics Scholarship Simon Fullerton French Prize James Shering Alex Anderson Memorial Quaich Gracie Butler German Prize Jack Bradbury

76 Awards & Prizes

History, Dual Science Prizes Joe Hale Physical Education Prize Imogen Ashwood Latin Prize Oliver Jones Product Design Prize Victoria Provis GCSE Physical Education Prize Toby Bianchi Spanish Prize Isabelle Shone Physics Prize Alistair Thomson Theatre Arts Prize Anna Watson Religious Studies (Thorneycroft\0 Prize Matthew Williams Spanish Prize Edward McKee Lower School Prizes (Girls’ Division) Junior Choral Prize Eleanor McKenna Junior Orchestral Prize Rachel Catlin Lower School Prizes (Boys’ Division) Junior Choral Prize Henry Strutt Junior Orchestral Prize Henry Reavey Form Prizes (Girls’ Division) 10GBS Elise Boothroyd 10RAR Olivia Watkins Form Prizes (Boys’ Division) 10VHB Rosie Turner 10GAJM Alex Blyth 9ECS Hanna Laniado-Green 10MSR Matthew Smith 9LFA Freya Kapadia 10PMA Ben Rowbottom 9LuH Frances Laker 10PI Edward Thompson Religious Studies (Thorneycroft) Emily Underwood 9CAM Oliver Quinn 8LB Helen Nixon 9CJM Ben Lynch 8SJH Georgina Boden 9JN Jack Lucas 8TSJ Alex Clarke 9PAUT Max Watt 7CJAF Julia Knyba Religious Studies (Thorneycroft) Freddie Hayward 7EB Beth Whiteley 8KB Keeran Manoharan 7LAC Megan Whiteley 8CEA Luke Smith Religious Studies (Thorneycroft) Emily How 8MTH Kieran Bailey 8RWA, Religious Studies (Thorneycroft) Angus Homer 7GJS Sean Carroll Junior Division Prizes 7LAT James Rous English: Reading Matthew Hall 7SLJ Joshua Clayfield English: Speaking Olivia Holder Religious Studies (Thorneycroft) Joe Hopewell English: Writing Shanice Donatien Mathematics William Cann Geography Emily Higginbottom Middle School Prizes (Girls’ Division) History Jamie Shuttleworth Head Girl’s Prize, Chemistry, History Prizes Katie Fray French Mollie Fyfe Principal’s Prize, Girls’ Division Council Cup, Art, Design & Technology Georgina Bergman Religious Studies (Thorneycroft) Prize Rebecca Hughes Music Max Hine Macclesfield High School ICT Aidan Carman Best All-Rounder Cup Anna Whaley Religious Education Louisa Boden Year 7 Endeavour Cup Sarah Catlin Physical Education Oliver Payne Year 8 Achiever’s Cup Qing Xia Sophia Eastgate Year 9 Achiever’s Cup, Macclesfield High Science James Gilda School Isobel Day Cup for French Eleanor Toms Swimming Sarah Abrahamse Victrix Ludorum Cup Charlie Ward (Outstanding Sportswoman) Sophie Quinn Games: Boys Remy Miller Macclesfield High School Games: Girls Alex Cairns Somerville Challenge Cup Caitlin Jacobsen Running Charlie Ward Jenny Lee Mathematics Prize, Anna Mounteney Anne Cohen Astronomy Prize, Form Prizes 10CHB Form Prize Aiman Aslam Macclesfield High School Academic Achievement Prizes Susan Russell Jones Cup for German Tanisha Orchard 5SM Sarah Turner Sue Bream Crystal Star Ella Kennerley Tom Turner Anne Craig French Prize Jennifer Shering 5MW Amanda Vel History Essay, Middle School Josh Rajendran Reading, Dual Award Science Prizes Mioni Armstrong 5NS Finn Knudsen Year 7 General Science Prize Charlotte Wardle Freddie Higginbotham Year 8 General Science, 4EDM Dominic Townsend Religious Studies (Thorneycroft) Prizes Lauren Hayward Fay Fitzmaurice Art & Design Prize Sophie Brown 4SCW Oliver Hall Biology Prize Keerthana Ganesh Emma Graham English Prize Jennifer Shone 4KW/LC Lottie Dennett German Prize Anja Knudsen Lewis Johnson Geography Prize Olivia Morris 3JC Emma Graham Fay Fitzmaurice Latin Prize Emily Mound 3VA/CK Millie Crummack Modern Languages Prize Juliette Gorb Lara Tabachnik

77 Awards & Prizes

Endeavour Prizes Junior Division 6JEB Imogen Collinson Name...... Instrument Grade Result Saffron Milner Emma Graham...... Guitar 1 115 Pass Bethany Henshaw...... Piano 3 117 Pass 6ST Casey Holliday Daisy Holden...... Piano 3 116 Pass Jason Kenning Madeline Holden...... Piano 1 133 Dist 6SR Freya Snook Saffron Milner...... Piano 3 116 Pass Eleanor Norbury Mollie Pettit...... Singing 1 131 Dist Amanda Vel ...... Piano 2 117 Pass 5SM Max Hough Spike Vidler...... Guitar 1 105 Passs Thomas Knight Associated Board Theory Examinations 5MW Charlotte Warren Christian Beeston Name Grade Result 5NS Charlotte Parker Thomas Andresen...... 6 76 Pass Charlotte Smith Josh Towne...... 5 66 Pass Sophie Quinn...... 5 86 Merit 4EDM Henry Noble Isabel Watkins Trinity/Guildhall Examinations 4SCW Toby Gray Sixth Form Isabella Johnson Name...... Instrument Grade Result Justine Blake...... Flute 8 76 Merit 4KW/LC Jeremy Herpin Isabelle Sharp Boys’ Division Name...... Instrument Grade Result 3JC Ben Hellewell Bradley Greatorex-Jordan..Keyboard 3 64 Pass Toby Denton Alex Krajewski...... Drum Kit 6 88 Dist 3VA/CK Zac Spencer Pickup Siraj Lyons...... Clarinet 4 76 Merit Angus Rutherford Joseph Murphy...... Clarinet 5 75 Merit Year 4 Young Artist Award Girls’ Division (Mrs P J Aspinwall Trophy) Cara Holliday Name...... Instrument Grade Result Mrs C J Hulme Y6 Eleanor Collett...... Oboe 5 84 Merit Musical Production Prize Tasia Osborne Anna Fenwick...... Flute 4 75 Merit Cricket Trophy Thomas Davies Emma Gosney...... Clarinet 6 88 Dist Robert Batchelor Prizes Max Haigh Katie Hayward...... Flute 4 89 Dist Jodie Foxton Sameera Lyons...... Flute 5 71 Pass Eleanor McKenna...... Violin 4 87 Dist Ridings Best All-Rounder Cups Sam Jones Emma Nockton...... Flute 2 83 Merit Aisling Day Zoe Richmond...... Flute 6 75 Merit (and the Martin Badger Cup for All-Round Endeavour) Jenna Self...... Bassoon 6 71 Pass Issy Shone...... Jazz Flute 6 72 Pass Jen Shone...... Jazz Flute 6 71 Pass Music Examinations Elizabeth Stephenson...... Flute 5 71 Pass Junior Division Autumn Term 2012 Name...... Instrument Grade Result Associated Board Practical Examinations Christian Beeston...... Keyboard In 89 Dist Misha Higham...... Keyboard 1 78 Merit Sixth Form Name...... Instrument Grade Result Spring Term 2013 Anna Townley...... Piano 4 128 Merit Associated Board Practical Examinations Boys’ Division Sixth Form Name...... Instrument Grade Result Name...... Instrument Grade Result Alex Galbraith...... Guitar 2 117 Pass Tom Rheimberg...... Piano 6 117 Pass Angus Homer...... Guitar 2 120 Merit Boys’ Division Harry Pinches...... Piano 2 126 Merit Name...... Instrument Grade Result Henry Reavey...... Piano 7 110 Pass Ben Allmand-Smith...... Trombone 1 134 Dist Aaron Shaughnessy...... Jazz Saxophone 4 122 Merit Sam Andresen...... Trumpet 3 135 Dist Dmitri Whitmore...... Guitar 5 100 Pass Darragh Burke...... Piano 3 102 Pass Girls’ Division Alex Campbell...... Trombone 4 115 Pass Name...... Instrument Grade Result Thomas Carter...... Trumpet 4 121 Merit Sacha Allen...... Singing 6 125 Merit Harry Collett...... Jazz Trumpet 1 132 Dist Rebecca Austin...... Trombone 1 118 Pass Hugo Coulson...... Guitar 1 124 Merit Anna Callow...... Piano 4 116 Pass Rhodri Evans...... Guitar 3 111 Pass Rachel Catlin...... Jazz Saxophone 2 132 Dist Alex Fray...... Guitar 3 130 Dist Evangelina Homer...... Singing 3 121 Merit Ben Lauber...... Singing 4 120 Merit Frances Laker...... Cello 3 122 Merit Ben Lynch...... Jazz Saxophone 4 127 Merit Emily Roberts...... Singing 3 126 Merit Ben Lynch...... Singing 5 122 Merit Harriet Rous...... Cello 3 116 Pass Harry Lyons...... Trumpet 4 120 Merit Jenna Self...... Singing 5 120 Merit Edward McKee...... Trumpet 5 109 Pass Maddie Townley...... Cornet 5 123 Merit Aarian Mehrabani...... Singing 3 130 Dist Eleanor Tunick...... Singing 4 117 Pass Adam Murray...... Cornet 4 100 Pass

78 Awards & Prizes

Harry Pinches...... Jazz Trombone 1 131 Dist Girls’ Division Oliver Quinn...... Trumpet 3 115 Pass Name...... Instrument Grade Result Tomos Rands...... Cornet 3 108 Pass Fiona Beeston...... Keyboard 1 84 Merit Sam Stokes...... Trombone 4 102 Pass Emily Foster...... Keyboard 3 77 Merit James Thomas...... Singing 3 120 Merit Anna Gilmour...... Flute 2 65 Pass Tom Voysey...... Piano 1 130 Dist Frances Laker...... Piano 5 64 Pass Girls’ Division Emily Roberts...... Flute 7 75 Merit Olivia Shaughnessy...... Jazz Flute 6 67 Pass Name...... Instrument Grade Result Lydia Shone...... Flute 2 73 Pass Rachel Anderson...... Singing 2 126 Merit Annie Thomson...... Singing 5 72 Pass Fiona Beeston...... Singing 3 127 Merit Eleanor Tunick...... Flute 5 77 Merit Elena Boden...... Singing 5 124 Merit Anna Whaley...... Jazz Saxophone 6 73 Pass Elise Boothroyd...... Cornet 2 128 Merit Anna Callow...... Singing 5 130 Dist Junior Division Sarah Catlin...... Singing 2 126 Merit Name...... Instrument Grade Result Alexandra Clarke...... Flute 5 130 Dist Christian Beeston...... Keyboard 1 68 Pass Charlotte Cramp ...... Trumpet 4 120 Merit Toby Gray...... Flute 1 72 Pass Juliette Gorb...... Piano 6 124 Merit Verity Griffin...... Violin 5 111 Pass Sorrel Haughton...... Violin 4 126 Merit Summer Term 2013 Lauren Hayward...... Piano 3 120 Merit Megan Huddy...... Violin 5 125 Merit Associated Board Practical Examinations Caitlin Jacobsen...... Singing 5 114 Pass Sixth Form Emily Jaques...... Piano 2 127 Merit Name...... Instrument Grade Result Emily Jaques...... Singing 5 131 Dist Nicholas Harrington...... Trumpet 8 125 Merit Jessica Pettit...... Singing 3 120 Merit Clare MacKinnon...... Singing 8 135 Dist Rosana Wardle...... Piano 3 120 Merit Sean Odell...... Piano 2 102 Pass Katie Wray...... Singing 3 123 Merit Kate Ryan...... Piano 8 112 Pass Junior Division Charlotte Sampson...... Piano 8 111 Pass Mary Thorp...... Piano 8 115 Pass Name...... Instrument Grade Result Anna Townley...... Flute 8 131 Dist Georgina Bergman...... Singing 4 121 Merit Harrison Blackaby...... Viola 1 130 Dist Boys’ Division Scarlett Brough...... Singing 1 124 Merit Name...... Instrument Grade Result Aisling Day...... Cello 4 126 Merit Sam Andresen...... Singing 3 131 Dist Shanice Donatien...... Violin 3 130 Dist Callum Barr...... Clarinet 3 109 Pass Lauren Harbige...... Piano 2 118 Pass Thomas Dennett...... Violin 4 103 Pass Emily Higginbottom...... Piano 2 120 Merit William Fox...... Jazz Piano 5 130 Dist Freddie Higginbotham....Guitar 2 130 Dist William Jones...... Trumpet 4 103 Pass Madeline Holden...... Piano 2 123 Merit Ben Lauber...... Guitar 1 136 Dist Hugh Horne...... Trumpet 2 112 Pass Jack Lucas...... Singing 3 123 Merit Lewis Johnson...... Guitar 1 107 Pass Ben Lynch...... Jazz Piano 2 137 Dist Keiran Melville...... Violin 1 130 Dist Harry Lyons...... Double Bass 3 111 Pass Saffron Milner...... Singing 2 135 Dist Siraj Lyons...... Piano 4 113 Pass Merridy Russel...... Guitar 1 124 Merit Francesca Sawyer...... Piano 2 125 Merit Maitre Patel...... Saxophone 2 112 Pass Francesca Sawyer...... Violin 3 126 Merit Henry Reavey...... Singing 5 132 Dist Ben Sneddon...... Piano 2 130 Dist James Rous...... Guitar 1 117 Pass Freya Snook...... Singing 1 122 Merit Aaron Shaughnessy...... Piano 4 120 Merit Zoe Thomas...... Singing 1 117 Pass Girls’ Division Darcy Woodfine...... Singing 1 109 Pass Name...... Instrument Grade Result Associated Board Theory Examinations Charlotte Abbott...... Singing 4 111 Pass Ciara Allen...... Saxophone 2 126 Merit Name Grade Result Florence Blackwell...... Singing 1 123 Merit Nicholas Harrington...... 6 68 Pass Lilian Breese-Tovey...... Singing 2 121 Merit Anna Steward...... 5 82 Merit Anna Cartwright...... Singing 2 122 Merit Eleanor Strutt...... 8 80 Merit Zara Choudry...... Singing 1 121 Merit William Fox...... 5 87 Merit Oliver MacFadyen...... 5 76 Pass Imogen Collinson...... Piano 1 120 Merit Jonathan Pinches...... 5 82 Merit Georgia Cooper-Taylor.....Piano 2 117 Pass Henry Strutt...... 6 71 Pass Eleanor Fielding...... Saxophone 3 127 Merit Tom Voysey...... 5 78 Pass Eleanor Fielding...... Singing 5 135 Dist Sarah Laughton...... 5 81 Merit Juliette Gorb...... Cello 7 133 Dist Emma Gosnay...... Piano 5 115 Pass Trinity/Guildhall Examinations Verity Griffin...... Piano 2 117 Pass Sixth Form Meredith Stephenson...... Singing 2 112 Pass Name...... Instrument Grade Result Eleanor Tunick...... Singing 5 109 Pass James Raval...... Oboe 8 66 Pass Sophie Vlissidis...... Singing 1 121 Merit Iain Smith...... Drum Kit 6 75 Merit Louisa Whaley...... Violin 3 103 Pass Boys' Division Beth Whiteley...... Eb Horn 3 137 Dist Name...... Instrument Grade Result Lucie Willis...... Piano 3 115 Pass James Jordan...... Drum Kit 2 67 Pass

79 Awards & Prizes

Junior Division Arts Name...... Instrument Grade Result Georgia Bailey...... Singing 1 127 Merit May Broadley...... Piano 2 109 Pass The King’s School in Macclesfield May Broadley...... Singing 2 125 Merit Registered Charity: 1137204 William Cann...... Cornet 2 109 Pass Aidan Carman...... Piano 4 107 Pass Founded by Sir John Percyvale, Kt, by his Will dated 25th January, 1502. Emilia Cole...... Piano 3 112 Pass Re-established by Royal Charter granted Emilia Cole...... Clarinet 3 112 Pass by King Edward VI, 26th April, 1552. Millie Crummack...... Piano 1 137 Dist Nancy Davis...... Piano 2 107 Pass Supplemental Royal Charter granted by Alex Diedrick...... Piano Prep test Elizabeth II, 11th February 2009. Sophia Eastgate...... Singing 3 120 Merit Governing Body as at 31st August 2013 Jodie Foxton...... Piano 3 121 Merit Chairman: Mollie Fyfe...... Piano 2 107 Pass A N Dicken BSc, CEng, FIChemE Mollie Fyfe...... Singing 1 102 Pass Vice Chairman: Phoebe Gleave...... Piano 1 111 Pass Misha Higham...... Singing 1 121 Merit Dr J W Kennerley, BPharm, MRPharms, PhD Sam Jones...... Violin 4 110 Pass Co-opted Governors: Jason Kenning...... Piano 3 127 Merit P T S Boyd, 2 Landseer Drive, Macclesfield Kate Marsh...... Guitar 1 114 Pass M G Forbes BSc, 3 Bridge Green, Prestbury, Macclesfield Susie Moores...... Violin 2 121 Merit Derrin Scott...... Piano 1 130 Dist R A Greenham FRICS, Langdale Jarman, Sutton, Macclesfield Dr J W Kennerley, BPharm, MRPharms, PhD, Associated Board Theory Examinations 28 Walton Heath Drive, Macclesfield Name Grade Result A McInnes, Windrush, Gawsworth Road, Macclesfield Ben Lynch...... 5 83 Merit Mrs A E Nesbitt BA, Tom Lynch...... 5 77 Pass The Hollows, Willowmead Park, Prestbury, Macclesfield Rachel Catlin...... 5 78 Pass Alex Clarke...... 5 92 Dist C R W Petty MA (Cantab), Emma Gosnay...... 5 83 Merit Endon Hall North, Oak Lane, Kerridge, Macclesfield Olivia Hamblyn...... 5 69 Pass Brig K Ross, Old Parks, Marton Lane, Gawsworth, Macclesfield Chloe Henshaw...... 5 84 Merit Mrs J Spinks BA (Hons) PGCE, 2 Clough Bank House, Bollington Eleanor McKenna...... 5 73 Pass J R Sugden MA, FIMECHE, Trinity/Guildhall Examinations 4 Marlborough Close, Tytherington, Macclesfield Sixth Form Ms J White, 2 Newhall Barn, Gawsworth Name...... Instrument Grade Result Ex-officio Governor Hanja Dickinson...... Clarinet 8 73 Pass Mayor of Macclesfield Boys’ Division Nominated Governors Name...... Instrument Grade Result Matthew Calvin...... Drum Kit 1 75 Merit Appointed by the Lord Lieutenant of the County of Chester Aidan Carman...... Bassoon 3 85 Merit A N Dicken BSc, CEng, FIChemE, Oscar Johnson...... Drum Kit 1 78 merit Merry Bank, 11 Magnolia Rise, Prestbury, Macclesfield Richard Smith...... Keyboard 3 71 Pass Appointed by Cheshire East Council Marcus Wesley...... Drum Kit 3 72 Pass Mrs L Brown, 23 Eldon Road, Macclesfield Girls’ Division J P Findlow, LLB, Kandersteg, Broad Walk, Prestbury, Macclesfield Name...... Instrument Grade Result Mrs H Gaddum, Lane Ends House, Hollin Lane, Sutton, Macclesfield Polly Cartwright...... Singing 5 73 Pass Isobel Lovatt...... Saxophone 5 80 Merit Appointed by the Rt Revd the Lord Bishop of Chester Helen Lyons...... Flute 8 65 Pass M Strutt, 10 Buxton Old Road, Macclesfield Sameera Lyons...... Jazz Flute 6 67 Pass Officers of the Foundation as at 31st August 2013 Bethany Marlow...... Bassoon 1 71 Pass Head of Foundation: Emma Nockton...... Flute 3 88 Dist Zoe Richmond...... Flute 7 82 Merit Dr S Hyde MA, DPhil Elizabeth Stephenson...... Jazz Flute 6 78 Merit Director of Finance and Clerk to the Governors: J M Spencer Pickup BSc, ACA Junior Division Name...... Instrument Grade Result Solicitors: Sebastian Bye...... Flute 2 80 Merit sas daniels LLP, County Chambers, 6 Chestergate, Macclesfield Eve Carter...... Recorder 1 90 Dist Auditors: Toby Fraser...... Recorder 1 84 Merit Messrs Josolyne & Co, Chartered Accountants, Macclesfield Thoe Gheorghiu...... Flute 2 71 Pass Ben Hellewell...... Recorder 1 89 Dist Bankers: Misha Higham...... Keyboard 2 90 Dist National Westminster Bank PLC, Macclesfield Freya Shaughnessy...... Flute 1 81 Merit Gagan Singh...... Keyboard In 79 Merit

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