Issue 23 on route December 2017

This Issue

Page 3 Results Roundup 2017

Autumn roundup Welcome to another edition of which has provided more state-of- the College’s On Route newsletter, the-art facilities to enable students to designed for current and prospective achieve at the highest possible level. Page 5 students and their parents or guardians, This term has also seen new Community Afternoon to catch up on ‘news and views’ from developments such as our ‘Lecture across the College campus. series’ (which was kicked off with One of the most exciting developments ‘Why May Lost’ given by Head of in the last few months has been the Politics at , Toby opening of our new Dramatic Arts Cooper), our involvement with the Centre, with its high-tech, flexible local charity Loveworks and the hosting and fully-equipped performance and of the Volunteers Fair (page 2). These rehearsal spaces, designed to meet initiatives all demonstrate our intent to the needs of our increasingly popular increasingly support the broader, local BTEC Performing Arts courses – namely community. Musical Theatre, Acting and Dance, Good luck to any of our prospective together with our A Level in Drama & students sitting mocks in January or Page 8 Theatre Studies. February and Happy Christmas and a Mixing A Levels with BTECs In addition, a superb extension to successful New Year to all. the Priory Building has transformed our accommodation for Computing, Geography and Politics. A new Physics lab capped off this ambitious project, Nick Clark, Principal

Performing Arts Box Office To book tickets for all the College’s shows, concerts and showcases see www.rcpaevents.co.uk Page 10 Meet England hockey hopeful George Mustchin From microscope to Time to give work of art Another excellent Upper Sixth BTEC Level 3 Art & Design (Graphics) students kicked off the academic year with a trip to Wakehurst something back Place in September, to do research for this term’s ‘Wild England’ project. set of results Examining seeds and plants under the microscope, they photographed some truly remarkable images. Art & Design Course Leader Kristine Sinclair was full of praise: “The students produced some amazing results, which have served as excellent primary source inspiration for their projects.”

Since the trip, students have been working hard both on their end-of-term projects and on a mixed-media exercise On Wednesday 8th November, opportunities on offer locally. exploring different artistic techniques College hosted the 2017 Volunteers Fair, and methods. Not only a great way to serve the Left to right: Laura Zander, Sasha Munn and Maisie Chamberlain organised by Voluntary Action Reigate & community, volunteering enriches They were able to use the images . students’ educational experiences and Upper Sixth students from Reigate Business and Management in September a combination of both allows students they captured at Wakehurst Place as a College students, together with members offers a chance to gain new skills and College received just rewards for all their 2018. Sasha Munn (centre) also got two to take the courses that give them the reference point, resulting in some really of the public, were able to meet with meet a wide range of people. It is also hard work back in August, when they A*s and an A and will be heading to best possibility of success. creative and dramatic works of art. achieved another outstanding set of UCL to read Economics. representatives from local organisations highly regarded by employers and For example, Zara Munday, who came results. to find out about their work and to university admissions teams. Maisie Chamberlain (right) got two up through the College’s Intermediate learn about the range of volunteering At A Level the pass rate was up from last As and a B and is also taking a year Level 2 Programme, achieved a year to 99.2%, with the College’s BTEC out, before going to study Politics & Distinction* in BTEC Level 3 Health & National results now officially among International Relations at Nottingham Social Care (one A Level equivalent) and Rachael has been a member of Dorking snorkelling club the top in the country with a 100% University. a Distinction* in BTEC Level 3 Sport (two pass rate. An incredible 97.5% of the A Level equivalent). She is now studying for nine years. Having worked her way through the different The College is proud of its impressive Diploma grades (two A Level equivalents) for a degree in Sport & Exercise Therapy courses and qualifications, she now volunteers as a qualified record of getting students onto MVD were high grades (Distinctions or at university in Southampton. BSAC snorkelling instructor. She finds this incredibly courses (Medicine, Veterinary Science Distinction*). In addition, 88.3% of rewarding as it allows her to share her knowledge whilst and Dentistry), with a few examples Dylan Powell took up a place at Subsidiary Diploma grades (one A Level helping others learn and develop new skills. from this year’s cohort including Portsmouth University to study equivalent) were high grades. Sandro Pietrunti (Medicine), Ailish Civil Engineering having gained a Principal Nick Clark commented, “We’re Redmond (Dentistry) and Hannah Parker very respectable A, C, C in Maths, Rachael is studying A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths and has applied to Artwork very proud of all of our students, who (Veterinary Science). Geography and Physics. He said, “I was study Medicine at university. achieved tremendous results, despite very happy with my results. I got into my by Jennifer Reigate College’s Oxbridge success Rowell (above) the significant changes to the A Level first choice uni and had a brilliant time stories included Amelia Hills (two A*s, and Jasmine exams. They’ve all been rewarded for at College.” Morgan and two A grades) who headed to Errin has been part of Reigate First Girls’ Brigade since their hard work, with the vast majority (right) - BTEC she was six years old, when she was taken along by Cambridge to study Classics, Elliot Nick Clark explained, “Students Art & Design moving onto their first choice universities a friend. She made her way up through the different Scott (four A*s and an A) who is doing are helped to choose the right (Graphics) including Oxford and Cambridge.” groups and is now a young leader, working with girls in Natural Sciences at Cambridge and combination of courses and are then Years 3 to 6. Through volunteering she has made new With so many students achieving at Jake Wren (A*, two A grades and a B) taught by specialist subject teachers. friends and has learnt more about herself and others, as the highest possible level it’s difficult to who is reading Anglo Saxon, Norse at As a result, they’re able to thrive in well as learning the value of patience and perseverance! single out individuals. Cambridge. Ben Elliott (three A*s and the supportive, adult environment an A) earned an unconditional place at we create. It provides the perfect Laura Zander (pictured left) achieved two Oxford to study Maths and Philosophy. transition between school and Errin is studying A Levels in Product Design (3D Design), Film, and BTEC Performing A*s and an A grade and will be taking university or employment.” Arts (Acting) and hopes to pursue acting as a career. up a place at Exeter University to study Being able to select A Levels or BTECs or 2 3 Students put Christmas gift bags in tutor pigeon holes for tutor groups to fill for local ‘Give a Christmas Gift’ initiative. Why Reigate was the right choice for me

Everyone in the College Community from takes place in the first few weeks of term Teachers to Personal Tutors and members and gives Lower Sixth and Intermediate of the Students’ Union make it their students the chance to get to know their responsibility to ease new students into classmates and Tutors. College life as quickly as possible. Here’s a Student Mentoring Scheme breakdown of the transition programme: Upper Sixth students are trained to support Personal Tutor and advise younger students and help Every student gets allocated a Personal them settle into College life. Tutor, who is someone who teaches them, so students get to know them really well, Freshers’ Party and they become the first point of contact Organised by the Students’ Union in early for any issues or concerns. October, the Freshers’ party is a great opportunity to make new friends and College Community Afternoon Above: Evie (left) and Alicia reconnect with old ones. Above: Joss (left) and Luca This is a fun afternoon of activities which

Making the move from school to Alicia who was at St Bede’s is taking other Music students. There’s lots going College can seem like a daunting A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and French on musically - I’ve joined Jazz Ensemble step. Here four students share their and hopes to study Medicine at university. and the Chamber Choir that both run experiences of joining Reigate as lunchtime clubs. I travel here from “My biggest worry leaving school was College. Dorking; it’s so easy as the train service is Community Afternoon having all new teachers that I wasn’t used quick and regular.” Evie is studying A Levels in Law, PE and to. But I found within only a few weeks Reigate College is renowned for its Psychology and joined Reigate from The that you’re with your teachers so much Luca who was previously at Warlingham strong community spirit with students Priory C of E in Dorking. at College that you soon get to know School is doing A Levels in Music, reporting a genuine sense of belonging them really well. There’s a positive, happy Drama & Theatre Studies and a BTEC in and togetherness. An important part of “I was unsure about starting at College. I atmosphere at College and people are so Performing Arts (Musical Theatre). this is the College’s Annual Community felt a bit out of my comfort zone. Before I nice. Afternoon, held in September each year. started it seemed like a big College, but it “I’m really enjoying studying three doesn’t feel big when you’re here. College is really helping me achieve subjects I’m passionate about. I struggle This year’s Community Afternoon took my ambition of studying Medicine. I’m with exams so it’s good having a mix of place on Tuesday 19th September and I’m really pleased I made the jump on the Aspire Programme which gives A Levels and a BTEC with coursework was a chance for students to work because everyone is in the same boat and guidance on applying to university and to take the pressure off. The facilities together, as each tutor group was so open to making friends. It makes a real I’ve joined the Medicine Club to improve are specialised - a real step up from tasked with creating its own College difference being able to call teachers by my knowledge.” school and the teachers are fantastically Community Charter and coat of arms. their first name. It feels like you’re more supportive. on a level with them, but they still have Joss a talented musician, studied at A barbeque and a series of fun authority. Dunottar before joining Reigate to take It can take me up to an hour and a half challenges followed, before students A Levels in Music, Music Technology and to travel to College on the bus, but it’s took full advantage of the giant colourful I love my courses. They combine really Art. definitely worth it, as coming to Reigate inflatables provided for the occasion. Stephanie Whitelock, Community Events well together and there’s a surprising has broadened my options for the Manager at the College said, “There amount of overlap. College has been a “It’s so easy to settle in and you find The afternoon was a great opportunity future.” was a real buzz in the College during the great stepping stone and starting uni will you know people from other things - for new students to make new friends afternoon, and everyone seemed to be seem a lot easier now.” like gigging in my case. I chose Reigate and feel part of College life early on in College as I wanted to be part of a vibrant the academic year. having a great time!” Music department, surrounded by lots of 4 5 Activities Apprenticeship successes Programme

Clockwise from left: Scarlett, Emily and Jamie

The government commitment to delivering three million apprenticeships by 2020 is good news for sixth formers, as it means there are a wealth of school leaver opportunities available. Here three former students talk to On Route about their different apprenticeship schemes. Scarlett Meakings Emily Vivian Jamie Smith Previous school: The Ashcombe Previous school: Oxted Previous School: Oakwood Subjects studied at Reigate: A Levels in Subjects at Reigate: BTECs in Business Subjects at Reigate: BTECs in Art & French, English Literature and Psychology and Travel & Tourism Design (Graphics) and IT, A Level Media Reigate College offers a fantastic range Details about the Spring Programme, of around forty extra-curricular activities, including times, locations and Apprenticeship: Human Resources with Apprenticeship: Business Administration Apprenticeship: Digital Marketing with through the College’s Autumn and pre-requisites will be available in Spotlight on global high-tech company Thales. with global consumer goods company media group Dentsu Aegis. Unilever. Spring Activities Programmes. January at www.reigate.ac.uk/activities- ‘Students for “I liked the idea of working in HR as I think “I was drawn to doing an apprenticeship programme With activities ranging from sewing it really suits my skills and the more I found “The College Careers staff were really as I liked the idea of on-the-job training, machine skills to Ancient Greek, clay Stephen Tippen, Director of Student High-Impact out about Thales, the more I wanted to do supportive and helped me prepare for the whilst being paid. an Apprenticeship with them. two Unilever assessment centres. The mock modelling to fencing, and dodgeball to Development says, “Getting involved with Based near Regent’s Park, my Charity Club’ interviews we did definitely helped boost Jazz Ensemble, there really is something the programme is an excellent way to I got a place on the Level 3 HR apprenticeship will last 18 months and I’ll my confidence. for everyone! enhance university and career prospects. This varied programme – Apprenticeship Rotational Programme with spend six months in each of the three main Students with extra-curricular interests focussing on issues as diverse as Students have the chance to find out Thales in Crawley. This means that I get to Unilever is a really friendly and exciting departments; Audio Visual Planning, Audio stand out as being able to demonstrate global poverty, animal suffering, about the programme and meet Activity work across various areas of HR during the company to work for. I was amazed that Visual Buying and Digital. high levels of commitment, participation international catastrophes and the two-year prgramme, gaining a breadth of within only a couple of weeks of starting, Leaders at the College Activities Fair (this I have to complete a series of online and dedication beyond their studies.” threat from artificial intelligence knowledge before deciding which area I’d I was already working on my first task – term held on 12th September). training courses including Google Analytics – gives students the opportunity like to pursue as a full-time career. organising an ice-cream sampling event. He added, “Recent educational research and an online Marketing Fundamentals to consider whether charities are This immediately helped me settle in and conducted by groups such as The Sutton At the moment I’m working in the project qualification. The end result will be a Level responding in the most effective made me feel part of the team. Trust has emphasised the importance management side of HR, organising and 3 Diploma in Digital Marketing and a full- way. They also have the opportunity of extra-curricular activities in students’ managing events that we run with schools Working in Unilever’s Customer time, permanent role with Dentsu Aegis.“ to organise some fundraising development. Evidence shows that having both on and off site. Later I’ll move in to Development Shopper Marketing activities for a charity of their an outside interest can have a massive shared services and then resourcing, which Refreshments Team we focus on products choice. impact on future study and employment includes the recruitment of new staff.“ such as tea and ice-cream. My job is so Diary Dates The Club meets on Tuesdays at opportunities. varied. As well as working on events, National Apprenticeship Show, 1.15pm in Room P111, and all are The College’s varied Activities programme I’m involved in magazine photoshoots in Sandown Park 5th & 6th March 2018. welcome. and the Volunteering Fair hosted here London, store visits and attend a variety of meetings.” See the weekly Careers Bulletin for in November are key examples of our apprenticeship opportunities. Available commitment to the enrichment of each on Facebook @ReigateCollege student’s educational experience.” 6 7 Why it’s good to Union matters ‘Mix and Match’ The Students’ Union has made an excellent start to the year. Thank you for all your efforts – from organising the Freshers’ Party to charity drives and assisting at College events. A Levels with BTECs To see photos of past events, ‘like’ www.facebook.com/ReigateCollege. Students’ Union representatives 17/18

President: Kit Giroux

Vice President: Dan Edmunds

Administrator: Jack Crouch

Treasurer: Kacper Zygmunt

Equality Emily Cheeseman Officer:

Disabilities Ferdie Gould Officer:

LGBTQ+ Ellie Graham Officer:

Unity Officer: Jackie Nando

National surveys of thousands of Freshers’ Party the live DJ. They also enjoyed the free Women’s Jemina Edwards Advanced Level students show that there The College Refectory was transformed photo booth and glow-sticks in bountiful Officer: is a pattern between their GCSE scores From above left: Simran, Polly and Cale with UV paintings, neon palm trees, supply, the evening got the term off to a and the results they achieve on A Level balloons and lights to create a fantastic cracking start. Charity Officer: Enya Webster-Salter and BTEC Level 3 courses. setting for the sell-out neon-themed Simran Sharma Polly Saines Cale Mitchell Organised by the College’s Students’ Freshers’ Party on Thursday 5th October. Events Officer: Nikita Osborne Many students find that doing all BTEC Previous School: Reigate Previous School: Previous School: Union, the Freshers’ Party is one of the Level 3 or Technical Level courses, rather School Dunottar St Andrew’s CE High Students danced the night away with highlights of the social calendar. Community & Megan Beard than all A Levels, or a ‘Mix and Match’ of School, Croydon Welfare Officer: these with A Levels, gives them the best BTEC Law, A Level BTEC Sport, BTEC Business Sociology and A Level and BTEC Performing Arts Intermediate Programme, chance of attaining the UCAS points they Student Dan Edmunds & Ellie need to progress to university. It comes as English Literature (Acting) followed by BTEC Law and Governors: Graham a surprise to lots of students (and parents) Queen Mary University University of Bath, Sport BTEC Business to learn how many UCAS points BTECs of London, Law, 2016 & Social Sciences, 2017 , Environmental Maisie Bayliss can count for (see table below). Marketing, 2017 Officer: For example, it’s preferable for students to do a combination of two BTEC Level Comparison of A Level and BTEC UCAS Points 2017 3 Subsidiary Diploma/Certificate and Freshers’ Party photos by Isobel Townsend Student welfare one A Level and achieve a Distinction or Points GCE GCE BTEC BTEC BTEC Fancy a chat? Megan Beard, Community Distinction* in the BTECs, than it is for A Level AS Level Diploma Subsidiary Certificate Diploma & Welfare Officer, and Emily Cheeseman, them to do three A Levels and achieve 112 D*D* Equality Officer help with the running of lower grades in them. Age Concern Christmas Appeal 104 D*D the College’s student drop ins. Most students who keep up with 96 DD The SU is serving the elderly in A student choir will also be visiting Led by staff member Ella Mansfield, the demands of BTEC/Technical Level 80 DM Redhill, Reigate and the centre on Tuesday 19th the sessions take place on Monday and coursework and are committed to doing by co-ordinating the College’s December to sing carols as part of 64 MM Wednesday lunchtimes in P107. All are well, are capable of achieving Distinctions involvement with Age Concern’s the festivities. 56 A* D* welcome. on BTEC Level 3 courses. 48 A MP D Christmas Appeal. As BTEC Level 3/Technical Level course are 40 B Each tutor group, together with Loveworks ‘Wear it Red’ predominantly coursework based, doing 32 C PP M some College departments, is The College annual Christmas Charity Day a combination of these courses with 28 D* putting together a gift bag for is on Tuesday 19th December. The SU will traditional A Levels can take the pressure 24 D D an elderly resident known to be encouraging all staff and students to off around exam time, with students 20 A Age Concern, as well as raising wear red (the brighter the better!) and being able to focus their revision efforts 16 E B P M £7.50 to cover the cost of their bring in donations for Reigate-based charity on fewer courses. 12 C Christmas dinner. This will Loveworks. Here are some examples of different kinds 10 D enable 90 local elderly residents of programmes former students have 8 P to attend the Age Concern taken and what they’ve led to. 6 E Daycare Christmas meal. 8 9 DofE Gold Award goes from In the spotlight strength-to- strength Recognised throughout the world, Meet England the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the leading youth achievement scheme hockey hopeful for 14-25 year-olds. Comprising five complementary sections – volunteering, George Mustchin skills, physical, expedition and residential – it gives participants the opportunity to develop their own interests and skills, and is highly regarded by employers and universities alike.

Reigate College students on the 2017 expedition to Snowdonia

Fifty-seven Lower Sixth students have already signed up to the Gold programme, which is open to all new students, regardless of whether they’ve achieved the Bronze or Silver Awards. Being a Direct Licensed Centre, the College is able to offer a wide range of in-house training sessions. Many of these focus on the expedition to Snowdonia, which is undoubtedly the most challenging, and rewarding, element of George Mustchin was at George Mustchin: I was attracted by OR: Who do you currently play for? and demonstrate hockey-related drills hockey team. In total I’m usually on a the programme. before joining Reigate College. He’s hockey pitch five days a week. the College’s excellent reputation and GM: I train and play for East Grinstead and skills throughout the day in front of currently in the Upper Sixth studying the amazing facilities. the GB selectors. It was pretty full on but Next year’s practice hike will take place men’s. It’s one of the oldest and most OR: What are your plans for the A Levels in Chemistry, Biology and Maths. I’ve just heard that I’ve got through to in the Brecon Beacons from 28th to 31st OR: When did you start playing respected clubs in the UK. I get to train future? March 2018, with the final qualifying alongside the men’s first team so I’m the final selection camp. Here he talks to On Route about his hockey and what do you enjoy about GM: I’m not sure yet about going to hike from 6th to 10th July 2018. learning from British Olympic players passion for hockey and his ambitions for the game? OR: How many times a week do you university but if I do decide to go, I’d like Students will be assessed on all aspects of such as Liam Ansell and Chris Griffiths. the future. GM: I first played hockey in Year 4 play? to study Quantity or Building Surveying. the trek, including camp craft, teamwork, I’ve just taken part in a selection day for On Route: What made you choose when I was eight years old and I’ve been GM: I train twice a week for East I definitely want to keep playing hockey navigation/map reading, cooking, food a place in the GB colleges hockey squad. Reigate College? playing ever since. As a striker I enjoy the Grinstead as well as playing at the and one day I’d like to get into the Great selection and route planning . We had to play a number of matches speed of the game and the team spirit. weekend and for the College’s mixed Britain squad.

very positive performances. There is Mixed Hockey Rugby Sports Roundup a very talented squad this year and a The Hockey team has performed The rugby squad is strong this year, with the fantastic team atmosphere. Stand out exceptionally well this season winning College fielding two teams. Lewis Crouch has performances so far have come from the inaugural Mixed Hockey Hurtwood been excellent as captain, Barney Davies has O’Neill Anderson in midfield and, as House Cup with a superb 1-0 victory marshalled the backs superbly and there have always, Ramin Rashidi up front who has against Esher in the final. The team has been outstanding performances from Owen scored some priceless goals. progressed to the next round of the AoC Hulme, Max McAuliffe, Jacob Burgess, Rob Mens’ 3rd Team Football Mixed competition where they will play Cousins, Reuben Galvau and Robin English. It’s been a mixed bag of results so far, favourites Peter Symonds. Golf with two early victories followed by two Ladies’ Football being the current top scorer with 18 of Olivia Hunt took part in the 2017 Sky Sports Basketball defeats. The highlight of the season The Ladies’ Football Team has made a these. Seven of these goals for Imogen Junior European Golf Open in November. The team has made a good start to the came against Collyers, after the ladies With five rounds on two of Spain’s most season, securing wins in a third of its Mens’ 1st Team Football so far came in mid-November beating fantastic start to the season, scoring 28 Reigate College’s 2nd Team 4-2 in the goals across 5 games with Imogen Burns were 3-1 down at half time, but turned prestigious courses, the event is seen as games. Coaching will focus on improving Good start to the season with some Surrey Colleges Cup. the game around to win 9-3. Europe’s most challenging test in junior golf. confidence, tactics and team performance.

10 11 Starting at Reigate College in Diary dates September 2018? From December 2017 Tickets available from www.rcpaevents.co.uk Look out for invitations to our evening Applicants’ Events - designed to help firm up subject choices and weigh up What When Where possible career choices. To include Medical Sciences, Engineering, Hot Feet Dance show Tuesday 5th, Rispoli Theatre, Law, Classics, Film & Media, Fashion & An exciting range of dances, all Wednesday 6th and Reigate College Textiles, Modern Languages and many choreographed and performed by Thursday 7th December more! students. Tickets cost £6 (students & 7 - 9pm Events are by invitation only as places are concessions £3) limited. Christmas Cross-College Show Tuesday Rispoli Theatre, An Alternative Nativity. 12th December Reigate College Over 18’s only. Tickets cost £2.50 5 - 7pm

Winter Concert Thursday Rispoli Theatre, A magical evening of musical 14th December Reigate College performance by the College’s top 7.30 - 9pm For all the latest careers advice and musicians. Tickets £3 (students £1.50) opportunities, don’t miss the Careers Bulletin which gets emailed weekly to End of Autumn Term Wednesday every student. 20th December Also available via the College Facebook page. Start of Spring Term Thursday 4th January Simply ‘Like’ @ReigateCollege on Battle of the Bands Thursday Harlequin Theatre, Facebook and receive it, on a weekly Suitable for over 16’s. 1st March 2018 Redhill basis, alongside other College news. Tickets in advance £6 (concessions £5). 7pm Also see www.reigate.ac.uk/new-careers- All tickets £7 on the door. bulletin Shakespeare School Festival BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts (Acting) students gave an outstanding performance at the Shakespeare School Festival at Leatherhead Theatre in November. Sharing the stage with three other schools, the students gave Reigate College’s Alumni is a ●● Sign up via the future first website: an expressive and creative rendition of professional network of over 1,000 www.futurefirst.org.uk/former-student/ Macbeth to create a performance worthy former students who are studying or reigatecollege of a professional theatre group. Their working in a wide range of areas. captivating and engaging approach ●● Join our new group on made them the stand-out performance Help us grow the network, so that Search ‘Alumni Reigate College’ together we can help inspire and of the evening. ●● Or email Laura Troop via support current students. [email protected]

Photography page eight – Michael Little. All other photography by former student Raluca Babos.

Reigate Sixth Form College Castlefield Road Reigate BTEC Acting teacher Zoe-Ann Dunkley Surrey RH2 0SD praised everyone involved, saying, “The Tel 01737 221118 students were a real credit to the College Fax 01737 222657 and the evening was a great success. We [email protected] hope to return next year with an equally masterful production.” www.reigate.ac.uk 12