MARCH 2018 ISSUE 34 www.gms.bucks.sch.uk

The arrival of the Easter break signifies the end of the second full term of the academic year and it looks like the warning of the return of the ‘Beast from the East 3’, for the Easter weekend, has abated, but there is still no sign of spring like weather. Let’s hope that the IMPORTANT DATES weather does improve at some point during the holiday before we return to school on Monday 16th April. School reopens on This latest ‘bumper’ edition of ‘The Voice’ national award this term from the Youth Monday 16th April showcases some of the school activities Sport Trust: Outstanding Secondary May Bank Hoilday - and events that have occurred since School of the Year Award for the quality of Tuesday 6th May the last edition. However, this is just a physical education and sports’ provision. flavour of the multitude of pictures and GCSE/GCE exams start - Monday reports that are on our school website, This Easter break away from school, for 7th May to 29th June so do please make sure you regularly our students, provides a very welcome visit the website. I would like to take this opportunity to recharge their batteries Half Term - Friday 25th May opportunity to publically thank all the before an action packed summer term. staff for their effort and commitment. The For our senior students, particularly Years Year 11 Prom - Friday 22nd June students at this school are provided with 11 and 13, this period must be used very productively for revision and examination Year 13 Prom - Thursday a vast array of learning opportunities that preparation. The exam season will be 28th June allow every student the opportunity to release their potential and achieve their upon us very quickly after our return. very own excellence. Many staff and students will be in school over the holidays, running and taking part There are a few events from this term that in revision classes and working to make I would like to draw to your particular sure that students are best prepared attention. Firstly, the very recent Friends for the public exams. I know that many of Great Marlow School (FoGMS) ‘Quiz parents and carers are supporting their KEY EVENTS at GMS Night’ which was a very enjoyable evening sons and daughters as fully as they can Please note all our important and raised a significant amount of money. with encouragement, positive support dates and events, including Thank you to the very hardworking FoGMS and the usual ‘taxi service’ to minimise Parents’ Evenings and Examination committee members and particular thanks any barriers. This help from families Timetables, are available on the to Mr Tim Ashburner who designed the website and are regularly updated. is invaluable as the pressure mounts quiz and hosted the evening. Secondly, towards the exam season. a group of Key Stage 3 drama students performed a powerful piece of work at the On behalf of the governors and the staff Wycombe Swan over the weekend of the of the school please have a very enjoyable 15th and 16th March entitled, ‘When Will Easter. We Ever Learn’, which looked at the futility of war. The cast performed their piece twice and this was seen by over a 1000 people. The students and staff received Kind Regards Don’t forget to view the online gallery for photographs high praise for their emotional and highly Kevin Ford skilled performances. Finally, we were relating to many of the Headteacher articles in this newsletter. delighted to a receive a very prestigious Art & Design Art GCSE AND A-LEVEL STUDENTS PREPARE FOR EXAMS

Another very busy half term has passed in a flash! Coursework deadlines for GCSE and A level were at the end of January with some wonderful work produced. We have had outcomes produced in Glass, video, 6’ window dressings, 3D relief, paintings, metal work, paper cut sculpture and mixed media.

The A-Level students have also been taking part in evening Life Drawing classes which run monthly. These classes have developed the student’s drawing and draughtsmanship skills. Please see examples of some of the students work.

The department are also busy organising a trip Berlin which will take place in the October half term 2018. We will be taking 30 Year 11, 12 and 13 students to experience the art, history and culture of this wonderful city with the aim to inspire new project ideas and independent learning for our students.

After the Easter break it is our busiest period of the year. The Y11 and 13 groups will have their ten and fifteen hour controlled test period to produce their final outcomes for their projects. We wish them well.

Mrs Sillwood Head of Art

Business predict the demand for their merchandise to make sure YEAR 11 STUDENTS HOST A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS EVENT AT GMS they had enough produce for two days of sales; secondly, they had to become adept at varying their selling One word sums up the success of the techniques, as competition from their peers ratcheted- recent business event: “excellent”. up and seemed to take market customers away from their stall and wares. Finally, at the end of the selling In total 40 students were involved, working process, the in teams of four. Each team had a unique students had marketing idea, from selling leavers to cash-up hoodies, to some excellent homemade accurately. cupcakes, oreo biscuit milkshakes, (which Profit is the proved very popular) and warm samosas. amount earned over It was fascinating to witness how the students grew and above the in confidence over the two days. A real belief in their out-goings, so special product generated an engagement that was precise cashing up was imperative if they were to know genuine and heartfelt. how much profit they had made.

It was a steep learning curve: first, the groups had to Mr Merreywether and Mr Wilson were delighted with the outcome of this initiative; delighted with the mature behaviour of their business students; delighted that all the effort has raised much needed funds for the One Can Trust. The students showed an ability to support each other, work in a team, be organised and above all show a professionalism beyond their years. GMS are proud of them.

By Mr S Wilson Head of Business English Macbeth Trip to The National Theatre

The 30 lucky students who attended the National Theatre’s production of Macbeth faced a blackened yet elevated stage meaning that none of the gruesome aspects of Shakespeare’s play were lost to them in the further reaches of the Olivier circle. A dark plot documents the rapid descent of “Brave Macbeth” to a “butcher” with Lady Macbeth fuelling their shared ambition. The modern dress, the dilapidated “The Year 11s buildings and the black hangings, containing decapitated heads on black poles, all realised that added to the post -apocalyptic effect. Interestingly staff overheard the students Shakespeare compare the play to dystopian fiction and the Mad Max films, something which has was completely been mentioned in this week’s press reviews of the production. accessible Staff commented on the marvel of Shakespeare, a playwright whose creations can once seen live be interpreted in so many different ways; the Year 11s realised that Shakespeare was completely accessible once seen live on a stage. We all agreed that hearing on a stage “ the lines spoken reinforced just how familiar the students are with the play - a real confidence boost.

Macbeth is a GCSE text, the Year 11s lucky enough to see this production have been given an insight into the themes at the heart of the play: nothing can match a live performance.

GMS thank the staff who organised the trip and gave their time to accompany the students. The students behaved impeccably both in the theatre and on the riverside stroll back to the coach: they were a credit to themselves and the school.

By Ms K Bailey

KS5 see “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” at the Young Vic. On the 22nd February, our A Level English Literature couple living in 1950s America where a world fuelled with students were given the opportunity to watch a National mendacity has left them trapped in a loveless marriage Theatre Live recording of the Young Vic’s production of with no hope of escape. Tennessee Williams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. With the Year 13s facing their exams in the upcoming As an A Level set -text, this was a terrific opportunity to months, it was fantastic to see so many our students develop the students understanding of the characters and embrace this opportunity in order to push themselves plot and how they can be brought to life on the stage. that extra mile.

Sienna Miller and Jack O’Connell perfectly depicted the By Miss C Bevan heart-wrenchingly tragic lives of Maggie and Brick: a Head of English English

KS3 ‘Wonder’ Trip to the Cinema

“On the 18th December 2017, the majority of Year 7 had a Christmas treat to the cinema. As we had been reading Wonder in class, the teachers thought it would be fun to watch.

We rented out the whole cinema room; it was immense. Everyone was super excited (including myself). We were all so excited because of how much we’d enjoyed the book. As in most cases, the film was not as good as the book because they missed out some key moments. I would give examples but I don’t want to give you spoiler alerts! On the other hand, the film was still amazing as it was so funny but at the same time so sad.

Adding to that, the film really helped me understand the book because it helped us understand the characters temperaments and feelings. The book is about August Pullman, who is a boy with a facial disfigurement, and it shows how much he relies on family and friends. The reason the school decided to read Wonder is because it makes us understand that you should not judge a book by its cover and why it’s wrong to hurt people’s feelings. “

By Lily Sabba 7C3 “Doing Wonder as an English topic was an experience I will never forget…It was made even better on Monday the 18th of December (the last full day of the term) when we went to see R.J. Palacio’s book that turned into a life-changing film.

The day was picked perfectly with a cold, Christmas feeling in the air. The line for the sweets and warm popcorn stretched as long as a giraffe’s neck! The sweet, salty smell drifted through the air.

The experience made me understand the story as if it was all happening in real life. The talented actors performed a great story line, which made me change my view on each character. Watching Auggie’s lifestyle as a boy with a facial disfigurement starting school was a fabulous but upsetting experience and a great way to end the topic. I would definitely want to watch and read it again!”

By Lauren Hudson 7C3

World Book Day

World Book Day was swept in on a blizzard 7s desired to be Oompa Loompas, those Every Year 7 and Year 8 receive a book token of snow swirls and the expectation that violently coloured creatures singing catchy entitling them to a £1 off a book worth the school would close. What better way to tunes about horrible naughty children. The £2.99 or more, or they can get a specially spend a snow day than entranced by a book imaginative world of R Dahl can hardly be written WBD story in exchange for the token and a storyline you could not possibly have bettered and can act as the stepping stone in participating workshops. The tokens can conjured up for yourself? to so many others, authors who can make a only be used if you are under 18, so please difference in a child’s life. encourage your child to use them to go forth The younger years had been reminiscing and find a good story. about dressing up on WBD, as Harry Potter, The library is going to have a book sale after an easy one, scar plus glasses; Oliver Twist, Easter so if you have any teenage books you Tokens issued on World Book Day are valid bowl, spoon, shabby clothes, glasses do not want please pass them to the library, until 25th March. optional. A surprising number of Year we would be most grateful. D & T Geography By Mrs H Young Young By Mrs H Last but by no mean least, the Sewing Bee’s have created created have the Sewing no mean least, Bee’s by Last but modelled on the seen have may stylish blouses which you has success Their March. on 28th Catwalk Marlow Great end techniques learn some high- the class to required and working hems with pleats, cutting, such as pattern enough, Ifwasn’t that and machines. new technology features decorative their own created some even next into the club continue keen to class are The too! looking next the and are to term forward challenge. can get you on how see updates to space this Watch clubs in the future! Technology and in Design involved GEOGRAPHY CLUB JUNIORS FIND FIND JUNIORS CLUB GEOGRAPHY RAINFOREST THE FROM INSPIRATION The “Geog Squad Juniors” meets every Wednesday in A10. Mrs Wednesday meets every Squad Juniors” “Geog The run this student) 12 Year and Hannah Brind (a Wheeler Mrs Messenger, lunch club. very creative Wheeler’s Mrs decorated when they particularly club was The creative syllabus, 7 Year tied in with the This Wall”. “Rainforest with a classroom Department. the Geography by topics explored but it is just one of many the River investigate 7 trip is planned to Year In the summer term a which ties in nicely Museum in Henley, Rowing the River at Thames of the year. the end studying at are they with what it is so popular in why subject, which explains is a diverse Geography GMS. diseases 8 the department teaching the different is currently Year With world. the affect peoples around that title that an intriguing “Impossible Places” 9 the topic is Year With do -Dubai, they where exist should really places whether investigates and Chernobyl. Vegas Las form and to question, investigate encouraged are children The a live making geography explored, are patterns weather The opinions. subject. as do the children. organisers, of the club’s the work GMS appreciate . UBS - A POPULAR CHOICE A POPULAR - UBS AFTER SCHOOL CL SCHOOL AFTER D&T D&T The Design and Technology Department have Department have Technology Design and The with dedicated working term had a successful their after at students clubs school The Scalextric club have been designing, building and building and Scalextric been designing, The club have and stylish cars on the track and this racing competitive Students again this term. nicely has been progressing learning about new machines and been enjoying have The and manufacture. of design techniques advance more starting now are been moulded and look to having cars, decals giving with their bespoke vinyl fantastically creative The sports streamlined and style the already colour cars. to is almost upon us. day so race is also underway, track design ‘Scrapheap Challenge’ club created cleverly engineered engineered cleverly club created ‘Scrapheap Challenge’ find around that they could materials ballistas from military ballista is a medieval (A siege the workshop. used their team The like a catapult.) - a bit engine ways solving skills up with creative problem come to the school a beanbag across throw of using in to only team of trials the losing In the first round field. keen however their beanbag 1m, throw managed to improvements and after some clever success for meters! of almost 20 a final distance they achieved itr Classics History GMS STUDENT VISITS AUSCHWITZ “I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I boarded the plane to Krakow on the 22nd February.

There had been a preparation seminar where we had the opportunity to listen to a Holocaust survivor called Rudi, he began by telling the story from his viewpoint; he told us everything that happened to him, he then kindly gave us the opportunity to ask him any questions. Next we were placed in groups that enabled us to mix with students from other schools, so that new friendships could blossom. I personally think this was a great way to organise the preparation phase, as it served as an introduction both to the place and to the people we would be travelling with.

The day of the trip soon came and it began early. Ryan and I both made our way through Luton airport, through security and finally onto the plane.

The journey wasn’t too long, around two hours, however, it felt a much quicker that that because everyone was having conversations with each other; we were all talking about how we’d feel when we arrived, and what we were expecting to see.

It was very snowy and cold when we landed in Krakow, with the temperature being around –5 degrees. “It is a sight I’ll never

Five different coaches, full of people, took us to Auschwitz, which was our first stop. I was forget. Auschwitz surprised with the size of the place, it was much bigger than I had originally imagined. We were given a set of headphones each, in addition, we had a very friendly, helpful guide, who was very informative. is an experience I’ll We had the opportunity to visit many of the different buildings: barracks, hospitals and never forget.” workhouses where the Jews had to work extremely long hours. Being there among the buildings increased my shock over how humans have the ability to treat each other that badly.

After Auschwitz, we went to a second camp a couple of minutes away called Birkenau; this was both a concentration camp and an extermination camp. The majority of this camp was demolished when the Germans heard the news of the Russian invasion: so they blew up as much evidence as possible to conceal their wrongs.

The day quickly passed and before we knew it we were at the memorial based in Birkenau. I took a moment to look up and saw over 200 candles: each student and teacher held a candle in remembrance; it is a sight I’ll never forget. Auschwitz is an experience I’ll never forget.

I am ever so grateful for having the chance to go on this trip, I would highly recommend it to anyone who has an opportunity to go; it is a period in history we should always remember. We are the generation now responsible for continuing that memorial, to prevent it ever happening again.”

By Jordon Lock Year 12

Classics and Political Sciences - Mock Results

Recently all Year 11, 12 and 13 examination students took mock exams in the department of Classics and Political Sciences.

The Department is proud that Sean Phillips achieved a final Grade A in his Politics Mock exams, while Daisyleigh Bamber and Shannon Darroch achieved the same in Ancient History.

In the Option C Law class, Shannon Darroch, Alex Hardy, Jack Preece and Natalie Wright all achieved Grade As while Jacob Fothergill and Olivia Lester did the same in the Option E Law class.

Two students from Beaconsfield, Holly Parker and Bianca Short, attend Law lessons at our school and we are pleased that these two also achieved Grade As in their Mocks.

By Mr S Pugsley Head of Department Maths Computer Science By Mr N King ScienceHead of Computer On Thursday 1st February, the Computer Science Science the Computer 1st February, Thursday On Smith, a Matt welcome to department delighted were in Reading. Teneo service engineer from 13 Computer Year the himself to he introduced First, about some background Science students providing by as some as well in the industry, work he came to how the industry into entering useful tips for in today’s world. Next,hour speaking he spent an students on a one to one basis takingto them in questions and answering Teneo in GMS students learnt what his role The detail. to he is required topics and the technical involves his by fascinated students were The in. be proficient dissertation,university them an insight because it gave demands at further what a university into education level. he spent time talking 11s, Year the In the lesson for sixth as an option at Science form about Computer and apprenticeships. BTECs A-levels, level: industry from impact visitors Having has a positive offer in a position to on the students as they are employment. into on the pathways guidance excellent students with an inspiration to it provides Importantly, in that pathway. follow Computing Students learn learn Students Computing in the workplace about life 2018 ! Methane Rocket! By Mrs R Gosling Acting Head of Science Jelly Baby Screaming Bottle! Whoosh a will be welcoming we holidays the Easter After block and the science into eggs number of chicken their regulating for the students will be responsible until of the incubator and the upkeep temperature - for be cared to and ready hatched the chicks are EGG-citing! They have observed a number of exciting observed a number of exciting have They including: demonstrations Toothpaste! Elephants “Alien messy hands with some been have There balloon Marvellous and tremendous rafts, Slime”. been built! have cars race This academic year, Year 7 and Year 8 students 8 students Year 7 and Year academic year, This Year The club. science for joined together have 7s in a fantastic way. Year supported the 8s have 7 students has been Year the enthusiasm from The overwhelming. INTERMEDIATE MATHS CHALLENGE CHALLENGE MATHS INTERMEDIATE Science Club Science By Mr C Day We would like to congratulate all of our students who participated in the all of our students who participated congratulate in the like to would We those in particular and to Maths Challenge this year Intermediate who achieved their remarkable and Mackenzie for Thomas Tom, again, to but once an award, as well. achievements However, an extra special recommendation has to go to Mackenzie Mackenzie has to go to recommendation special an extra However, achieving by group best in his year the 9 who not only was Year Jameson in that the Best also successful in School so but was and was the Gold Award, only where of the challenge, to the next round through he managed to get in the country achieve. 5000 students approximately Special mentions have to go to Tom Hamelink in Year 11 and Thomas Frank Frank Thomas 11 and Year in Hamelink Tom to go to have Special mentions groups. best in their year and was Awards Silver 10 who achieved Year in Overall, out of our cohort of students, there were 16 students who achieved the the students who achieved 16 were of our cohort out Overall, there of students, achieving and 1 student Award achieving the Silver 13 students Award, Bronze the Gold Award. This year, we had 87 students from Years 9, 10 & 11 compete in the UKMT the UKMT in 9, 10 & 11 compete Years from had 87 students we year, This again, once School Marlow have Great where Maths Challenge, Intermediate success. great achieved Science Aimimg High In February, Miss Agbozo took a group of This was a great experience for me. … Resilience was the students to Grosvenor Hall Activity Centre, word that all the pupils kept throwing about throughout the weekend and it was great to see the way their Ashford, Kent as part of the aiming high confidence changed during the weekend. Their attitude interventions at GMS. towards challenges changed so much over the days. They were all ready to face their fears such as heights. It The theme of the visit was, ‘Adventure and Challenge’, was was a great learning curve for me as well, as I found out specially organised for Year 8 students as an enrichment some characteristics about myself that will help me in the weekend away. The weekend was jam packed with a wide future’. range of outdoor activities, including 3G swings, outdoor laser, high equilibrium, nightline, Jacobs’s ladder, aeroball, ...and the teachers commented: orienteering and aerial runway. Learning outside the classroom is an area where GMS Also, there were many indoor activities to build team co- is very good at creating opportunities for students to operation, students engaged on team challenges, which participate in. This was our first event, completed as part required them to discuss and solve problems. Some of our interventions, and we are very pleased to report activities involved turning a team member into a robot that the purpose of the trip was met over and beyond our using cardboard and tape. However, to get access to a expectations. We will continue to focus these students on strip of sellotape each member of the team had to go to their set targets so they can continue to build the skills the instructor to convince her to give them a strip of tape they have identified for themselves. by either telling her a riddle, a joke or demonstrating a skill/talent they had. Each activity was geared towards GMS wants to thank our parents and carers for students developing specific skills that they needed to all the support; Grosvenor Hall instructor Katie build on, or improve upon, while new skills were being introduced. The students were very enthusiastic: over the for her enthusiasm and work with our students; weekend some of the most quiet and least confidence Mr Kevin Shea for his work and support on this students began to interact and become involved. venture; finally Ms Agbozo and her team for As part of the weekend, there were planned ‘thinking organising it. moments’ (times for each student to review their progress in school and make plans for the future). Student By Mrs M Morgan feedback from both junior leaders and the participants was very positive with most of them using the buzz-words ‘confidence and resilience’ frequently.

These are just a few of the student’s comments from their evaluation.

‘Now I know that I can use team work in lessons with my teacher.’

‘I will make good choices at home and in school.’

I will work on my self-confidence.’

‘I will believe in myself, listen to other people more. Ask people if they need help.’

‘I will learn to speak up in class.’

‘I will concentrate more in lessons.’

A-level junior leaders said:

‘The weekend was an amazing experience! The Year 8 pupils grew in confidence over the duration of the trip, as well as improving on other important skills such as team work. Their attitudes changed towards the challenges and were all keen to try new things. It was an amazing experience, which I am grateful for. Not only have I improved my confidence, it has also helped me to find out more about myself that I can apply towards future career opportunities’. Year 7 News Another fantastic term with year 7! The tutor team are working well together to provide exciting and well planned sessions that engage students and challenge them to develop a deeper understanding of their emotional intelligence.

Mind Up has been a core focus each week; students clearly have an understanding of the brain and how this works and are now looking at developing the skills needed to develop a growth mind-set. This term has focused on perspective and understanding others viewpoints and are now moving on to optimism and are learning how to train their brain to be more optimistic.

In the summer term year 7 will be looking at having a positive impact in the community where each tutor group will look at a charitable act and how they can support the local area.

I wish you all a wonderful Easter break and I look forward to welcoming back both students and some sunshine!

By Miss C King

Director of Learning Year 7

YEAR 7 SUBJECT EFFORT PROGRESS MERIT ATTENDANCE

ART Malakhi Allick Kieran Jennings Alana Ray TOTAL 96% CZ Arthur Hayward Rebecca Stevens Paige Welch G 94.7% DRAMA Donovan Pooley Daisy Musgreaves Maverick Sardie Samuel Johnstone- T 96.5% ENGLISH Eva Alconchel Malakhi Allick Taylor M 95.8% FRENCH Thomas Zheng Gracie Blake Molly McNally A 96.2% GEOGRAPHY Lily Mitchel Lauren Simmonds Rebecca Hayward HISTORY Alana Ray Toby Reekie Poppy Ungar R 97.5% COMPUTER SCIENCE Matthew McCall Francesca Piggott Alicia Ray L 93.7%

MATHS Jacques Bonnefoy Sherry Saeed Thomas Zheng O 97.1% MUSIC Arthur McDonald Malakhi Allick Blossom Martin W 97.5% PE Mia Dudley-Holt Jeigh Pankhurst George Brooks The attendance trophy RELIGIOUS STUDIES Emma Merry Joshua Edwards Mabel Daw will need to be cut in SCIENCE Molly Saunders Candice Taylor Thomas Zheng half for 7R and W! SPANISH Danny Farley Oscar Whale Lily Sabba TEXTILES Holly Eyles Jodie Fletcher Molly Saunders FOOD TECHNOLOGY Sherry Saeed Malakhi Allick Christina Baxter RM Elsie Tuffrey Niroop Adapa Lauren Hudson GRAPHICS Jessica Tarn Arthur McDondal Edward Drummond DEVELOPMENT Zack Leeper IN LEARNING Year 8 News Following a significantly successful period of fundraising at the end of the Autumn term, I am incredibly proud to announce that Year 8 raised a total of just over £1300 during Tanzania Charity week in December. Students were involved in the organisation and fulfilment of various activities involving baking, singing, sports and gaming skills and drew large crowds in their efforts. Mrs Roddick, Trustee of Walser’s Tanzania Charity was delighted to visit Great Marlow School early in the Spring term with a de-brief of the organisation’s visit to Africa, and impart details of how the money raised was used to improve the quality of life and education of similarly-aged students.

Year 8 are equally as excited about proceedings in their own school-life with the up-coming trip to Phasel’s Wood scheduled for next term. I am very pleased to discover that we have over three-quarters of the year group committed to the event, with approximately 180 students signed up to take part in the visit to the activity centre in mid-July. I continue to be proud of the efforts and successes that are being recognised within the year group on a daily basis, and am looking forward to sharing positive feedback with both students and parents at Year 8 parents evening in June.

May I take this opportunity to wish parents and students a happy and relaxing Easter break – I very much look forward to welcoming Year 8 back next month.

By Miss K Hunt - Director of Learning Year 8

Congratulations to the students below who received subject certificates at their assembly in December.

END OF TERM CERTIFICATES - AUTUMN 2017

SUBJECT EFFORT PROGRESS MERIT

ART Ben Coles Jack Clark Amelia Eldridge

CZ Archie Smith Jack Clark Jenna Harvey

DRAMA Grace Dawson Eathan Paul Miarosa Ledger

ENGLISH Molly Lines Ruby Anson Aiden Grice

FRENCH Zenzele Samuel-John Jake Dennis Kiera Allen

GEOGRAPHY Eathan Paul Evie Highgate Joanthan Yarwood

HISTORY Hannah Oliver Ruby Perks Kenzie Price

COMPUTING Kelsie Smith Izzy Goldsworthy Kenzie Price

MATHS Rebecca Spencer Connor Neville Ruby Perks YEAR 8 ATTENDANCE MUSIC Kenzie Price Elliott Kerley Ruby Moss 8G 96.2 PE Ruby Perks Viola Marengo Tilly Beaulieu 8T 93.1 RELIGIOUS STUDIES Tilly Beaulieu Ben Coles Charlie Goff 8M 92.8 SCIENCE Hannah Oliver Jamie Walker Samuel Friel 8A 95.8 SPANISH Mohammed Aslam Ole Myerson Chloe Shenstone 8R 92.8 TEXTILES Rebecca Langford Sulaiman Shah Leah Bigsby 8L 95.4 FOOD TECHNOLOGY Noah Gottrup Margo Edwards Hannah Oliver 8O 92.0 RM Amy-Lee Howard Charlie Goff Chloe Blois 8W 94.0 GRAPHICS Izzy Goldsworthy Harley Townsend Jessica Taylor DEVELOPMENT TOTAL: 94% Ben Coles, Harry Mc Nally IN LEARNING Year 9 News YEAR 9 9 YEAR ATTENDANCE 95.6% TOTAL G 95.1 T 95.4 M 96.3 A 92.9 R 96.3 L 97.1 O 94.8 W 96.3 We are still trying to find a date to complete the the still trying complete are to date find a to We weather. the inclement due to Football Friends after Easter! be safe should we Hopefully will be 9s Year Summer the Looking to forward Junior 10 Year alongside some PGL going to part become now which has of this trip. Leaders acknowledge like to also the amazing I would Wycombe at the performance at Energise performed 27 KS3 students Swan an incredibly see the to powerful and it was lovely piece working so groups Year different students from together. well thank and acknowledge like to also the I would Miss work Hunt and Miss King their do with groups. Year respective 9 By Mr S Ross - DirectorYear of Learning END OF TERM CERTIFICATES - AUTUMN 2017 - AUTUMN TERM CERTIFICATES END OF Subject Effort Merit Progress exciting time where Options are Options are time where exciting This has been an extremely busy busy an extremely been has This month for the Year group. It is an It an is group. Year the for month mature in making their decisions in making their decisions mature student’s seem to have been very very been seem to have student’s can be quite an anxious time. The The time. quite an anxious can be Heads of Departments explaining Heads of Departments explaining March to make their final choices. to make March their courses. They have until 30th 30th until have They their courses. chosen. I also understand that this this that I also understand chosen. Textiles Dan BuckleyWharton Dior Diadoo James Foster Spanish Simpson Leo Tribe Leah Zach Libra Rs Hancox Adam West Dhani Anna Radford Rm Emily PierceThomson Bailey Anna Radford Pe Hancox Adam Thomson Bailey Stone Oliver Music Lawrenson Charlotte Fryer Evie Hollows-Butwell Aila History Shanti Roselli Lukman Hussain Skye Oliver Graphics Martha Blake Knox Sutcliffe Axel Henry Anderson Geography Kayleigh Griffiths Harding Freya Spooner Immy Food Tech Food Hugo Loretto Ella Bennett Abigail Routledge FrenchWilliams Maddie Skye Oliver Max Goff Drama Jodie CarrollVass Melissa Jones Riley Tom Dev In Learning Farley Will Rincon Leo ComputingYosifov Yosi Pankhurst Talie Mccall Peter Citizenship Jess Squire De La Bruyere Olliver Larkin Macey Art Sarah Shepherd Howden Callum Skye Oliver Science Kayleigh Griffiths Pj OdonovanThomson Bailey Maths Zach Libra Matthews Paige Talbot Issy and listened intently to the different to the different and listened intently

Congratulations to the students below who received subject certificates at the Year Year subject the at certificates who received below to the students Congratulations assembly. Certificate Winter 9 I was most impressed by the behaviour of the of the the behaviour by I was most impressed ta the collection they were student sand the way see me to for It pleasure point on time. is a real the to you Thank themselves. them enjoying the trip. staff who attended In January we went to Westfield on a Thursday Thursday on a Westfield In January to went we eating a shopping or and enjoyed evening expedition. they possess as students of GMS to they possess as students of GMS to in letter a formal help them write role. this prestigious application for is the perfect process prefect The 10 students to Year all for platform and attributes their strengths consider in form, been encouraged, and all have their develop use a mind map to to ideas about the qualities they possess for be considered that will need to education or employment future any applications. By Mr M Payne 10 DirectorYear of Learning LEWIS Anna Cariad LUCAS Jess MAXWELL PERKS Maddy ROUS Keren Tilly SEYMOUR Hannah WOOD BUTLER Abi Hannah CLAYTON GREENE Imogen Josie GROVER HARNESS Abi JONES Amelia LABLANS Saskia as they progress through their first year of GCSE. GCSE. of their first year through progress as they this term which is credited to their focus and determination determination and their focus to credited is term which this The Year 10 students have once again worked extremely hard hard extremely worked again once have 10 students Year The KEY ASSEMBLIES ASSEMBLIES KEY PREFECT LAUNCH – 10 YEAR PROGRESS GRADES PROGRESS The Spring term has seen the launch of the prefect application process. The Year 10 students 10 students Year The application process. has seen the launch of the prefect Spring term The the qualities consider to been encouraged and they have the launch assembly attended Congratulations to the following students who in their Spring progress grades received an an received grades who in their Spring progress students the following to Congratulations in all their subjects: excellent The Year 10 form tutors have once more been pivotal in encouraging their students in form in form their students in encouraging been pivotal more once have tutors 10 form Year The support all of your for this term. you Thank start a consistent day. their school to and providing 10 students whose Year of the and carers thank all of the parents like to again, I would Once and of work term second support a positive students has ensured of the and encouragement effort. working to with you I look forward and break the Easter deserved over all a well rest I hope you in the summer term.

Year 10 News This Spring Term Year 11 have continued to work hard Year 11 News furthering the core life skills of resilience and responsibility that we have been devloping at GMS. The students’ positive attitude to learning and their willingness to improve continually, impresses me in the run up to their GCSE exams.

MOCK EXAMS AND YEAR 11 PARENTS EVENING

The students conducted themselves well during the GCSE mock exam period in January and the subsequent parents evening in February was well attended. Parents and students were given progress grades and mock exam results along with clear areas for development to ensure students were focused on what they can do to improve for their GCSE exams. The Year 11 REVISION WEEK AND REVISION SESSIONS team wish you a To support students throughout the upcoming revision period, we hosted a revision Happy Easter. week at the end of March consisting of morning sessions with Mr Pendlebury and Miss Tuddenham in the 6th Form Centre. Students were presented with a range of revision strategies and ideas to support and motivate them through their GCSE exams. We have Work hard and also designed a Year 11 revision timetable for Easter, Saturdays and Half-term which boasts an array of extra sessions across all departments. aim high.

PROGRESS GRADES

A new set of progress grades was published in March. Students and parents can look at these for strengths and areas for improvement.

Congratulations to students who received an Excellent in 8 or more of their subjects in the March 2018 progress reports:

AUSTIN Ben DEAN Emily PETREA Robert STEWART Izzie BAHRA Munmeet FISHER Corinne PITT Daniel TIPLER Sophie BEDFORD Joe GARDINER Kacie POPHAM Harrison WALKER Lucie BOGIE Millie GRIFFITHS Molly PUTTICK Hannah WEBB Georgie BOWLER Jemma HOLDEN Toby RHYMER Maisie WEBB Michael BROYHILL FOGG Toby HOOD Roxy RILEY Lily WINDSOR Helen BURLISON Rachel LAKDA Zainab RUFFELL Joseph CHADWICK Cameron LASSEN Toby SALINAS Hugo CHANDLER Amy MACKEY Lily SHAH Ursalaan CHANDLER Louise MCAULEY Jessie SHEPPARD Freddie COLLINS Tabi OPENIANO Hartlee SMYTH Sophie

Plans are being made for the last day of Year 11 and the Prom in order to celebrate the students’ hard work and achievements.

We look forward to seeing Year 11 back in school in April 2018 ready for their GCSE examinations.

Year 11 and I are aiming high!

By Miss F Tuddenham Director of Learning Year 11 Sixth FormSixth News On Friday 9th February, Great Marlow School hosted its annual Careers Fair. Over twenty different exhibitors attended the event, from local businesses to national corporations, all were willing to give their time in order to speak to GMS students about their workplace, their chosen career and how students might access that particular area.

The guests ranged from healthcare to solicitors, accountants to the forces and event management to engineering; all of the stallholders were all fantastic in the attention and effort given to communicating with students

The event ran from 10 am until 1.20 pm, with students from Year 9 to 13 being given the opportunity to spend some time browsing the stalls. For many, the Careers Fair will have been the first time they have had a chance to discuss their future with somebody who was not a family member or teacher; for others it was a great opportunity to target a specific careers option and research fully.

At breaktime, in T3 and T4, two seminars were conducted by the apprenticeship groups Paragon and CoTrain. These talks were well attended and many students were informed about the option of an apprenticeship and how this route might benefit them.

The guests were very complimentary about the students and commented particularly about their politeness and the mature, sensible questions that they were being asked. All students who attended helped to contribute to a positive occasion which may have helped form a few ideas about future paths.

GMS must thank the following people who contributed and made the Careers Fair such a success: all of the guest exhibitors; Marlow Chamber of Commerce; the members and mentors at Bucks Skills Hub; the students in the CACHE Childcare group and Gill Southon (CIAG co-ordinator at GMS).

By Mr O Hollyman Head of Sixth Form House News Just before half term the Key Stage 3 (Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9) students participated in the first round of the Interhouse sports competition. Students competed in a range of different sports based on what they had been doing in their curriculum time since September. Activities included, handball, badminton, hockey, rowing, football, netball and basketball.

The house competition gives students the opportunity to work with other students in their house, lead warm-ups and perform drills they have practised in lessons and participate in formalised competitions demonstrating the skills they have been developing. Practical technical skills form part of the assessment criteria, however, points are also awarded for teamwork, communication, leading the best warm-up, the first house to be out at the activity etc.

The students really engaged in the rivalry between the houses and worked hard to beat the other teams. The results are as follows.

These points will be added to the overall house totals being collected throughout the year, including results from the achievement points total, the logo competition, the Christmas tree decorating, and more recently the collection for One Can Trust. PE Year 8 district winner; Billy Ricketts, 8 district winner; Billy Ricketts, Year Ryley Bowler Josh Pedley, Dan Sloss, Joyce and Morgan The level of participation for football training has been brilliant every Friday training has been brilliant every of participation level football Friday The for turning up each week, 15-20 students consistently With the season. throughout the selection our fixtures, get selected to for been working hard all of which have has been very difficult! process YEAR 10/11 FOOTBALL YEAR YEAR 9 FOOTBALL YEAR with the team football 9 boy’s the year for It year been another successful has additions and with a few year last from play to majority continuing of the team win the was to aim this year The of squad improved. the depth and strength first aim was achieved The a good countydistrict cup run. league and produce Ramsey William Sir but a loss to all year undefeated remaining with the team both students and Mr was a disappoint for Cup of the County Round in the 3rd styleThe and way go far in the county cup. they could Higgins who all believed composure showed They be applauded. has to this year the students played an scoring in them attacking resulting with a real threat on the ball and played including highlights this year numerous were There of 4 goals a game. average Risborough side but the most Princes tough and a 3-0 win against a confident performance seal the league against Sir must be the 3-1 win to impressive but the likes of Dan was missing some key players team The Ramsey. William good performances help Jenkins to all produced Greg and Ellis Delgardo Wright, the district retain aim next league title and is to The year the vital win. secure will see the same Hopefully we the semi-final of the county cup. reach look to when this year and effort the students as has been produced commitment from plenty are there summer and remember your Enjoy their GCSEs. into they move Tennis) Cricket, and of activities participating to (Athletics, in outside of football BOYS’ FOOTBALL BOYS’ turned up to have teams football 7&8 boys the year Over terms two the last popularity The of school. the for and play train to huge numbers training in picking makes very amongst the boys in the school teams football as difficult play! to choose from 20 plus to often have we all seen a mixture of fortunethey have and year both squads this with have We 8 boys year win was the most significant but the glimpses of brilliance shown winning the district up at JHGS. tournament turned up at the district number of with only the minimum 8 boys Year The 5. the tournament, for players William whole night, unfortunately only lost one game the Sir that was They unbeaten and then went determination great showed they Borlase! However, of the night. the rest the delight of all the boys much to tournament them winning the lead to This in the final!) lost out last year (and especially Mr Shea Snr who narrowly that and behaviour commitment rate, of the work Mr proud so Snr & Jnr are Shea and hope it continues this year shown everyone have connected teams with the in the future. Ben Forbes Charlie Harvey, to thank you send a massive also like to would We and Gabriel work. Hickling and hard all their commitment for Badminton club is very popular at GMS for club is very GMS for Badminton popular at with huge numbers both girls and boys the practice lunch attending of students been able have We time clubs each week. all age groups across teams field strong to Wins in the District leagues this year. SWR, PRS and against Cressex, come have the final awaiting currently are We Borlase. Our this space! league positions so watch BADMINTON Year 7/8 Boys - Jonathan - Jonathan 7/8 Boys Year Josh Dudley-Holt, Yarwood, Leach Jimmy Crosby, Oliver Year 10 Boys - Jacob Orchard, - Jacob Orchard, 10 Boys Year Dean Whiteley, Billy Wright, Batterberry Jozef Year 11 Boys - Tom Hamelink, Hamelink, Tom - 11 Boys Year LuccaCameron Vujasevic, Gabriel Gavin, Oliver Lindsay, Freddie Wratten, Jacob Hickling, Paul Taylor Noel Baker, For the first time, the District have District the time, the first have For tournaments table tennis organised table a weekly With KS4. for KS3 and and a week club running each tennis use to looking GCSE students number of their 3 sports, for one of table tennis a fantastic provided these tournaments opportunity for a number of our student We competitively. table tennis play to District are report we pleased to that are 10 and 11) champions for KS4 (Year team! for the KS3 boys place and a third TABLE TENNIS TABLE PE Girls KS4 A team were also selected for the The year 10s have had a mixed season in terms of results in the District league Bucks County competition and performed but have always worked tirelessly to the end in games against tough opposition. extremely well. Highlights of the season have been wins against JHGS and Cressex. Confidence has certainly grown as the team have played more matches together and it KS3 Boys/Girls - Josh Dudley-Holt, has been great to see students making their competitive school debuts for the Jonathan Yarwood, Conor Anstiss, school team this season. Monty Avery, Krishan Misra, Jimmy Leach, Ethan Paul, Josy Pedley, Squad: Owen Bowles, Charlie Harvey, Ben Oscar Ashley, Giana Soomal, Fores, Raph Hickling, Alex Dimmock, Alfie Malakhi Allick, Nicole Vujasevic, Corrick, George Holder, Liam Harman, Jacob Sophia Vujasevic, Ruby Moss Middleton-Craig, Kai Tanner, Tom Davies, Corey Smith, Lewis Lynch, Jacob Frost, Fynn Hughes, Jayden Grant, Dylan Ayres, Tom Donovan

The year 11 squad have had their best County cup run for years, reaching the semi final. This took us to John Colet School where sadly the cup run came to the end. There have also been some fantastic individual and team performances throughout the season with wins against Cressex, Princes Risborough and a hard fought 3-3 draw against JHGS. With a couple of matches still go towards the end of the season, there’s no KS4 Boys/Girls - Lucca Vujasevic, reason why the team can’t retain their District league title! Alfie Flowers, Harry Sweetland, Matthew Vaughan, George Vaughan, Squad: James Ashburner, Sam Parry, George Pete Donkin, Freddie Noel Baker, Vaughan, Harry Williams, Harry Sweetland, Jack Delgado, Dean Whiteley, Oliver Luke Mantle, Alfie Flowers, Jacob Wratten, Saunders, Sam Parry, Tom Hamelink, Cameron Lindsay, Jack Delgado, Oliver Gabe Hickling, Jacob Wratten, Ben Saunders, Mohsin Shariff, Bobby Wakefield, Cronin, Maisie Rhymer, Sophie Smyth, Gabriel Hickling Georgie Webb, Helen Windsor, Amy Articles By Mr J Clarke, Mr J Shea Chandler, Isi Hansen, Molly Griffiths, and Mr A Higgins Flo Braybrooke, Zainab Lakdha, Georgie Webb, Hannah Puttick GIRLS FOOTBALL KS3 The U13 Girls Football team have been busy this term playing their league fix- tures. The squad have been committed to training and gameplay, and new addi- tion Evie Highgate has done a fantastic job finding her feet and developing her confidence in goal. With still a few games to play the girls sit in 3rd place, with 4 wins under their belt beating Highcrest, Pipers Corner, Cressex and SWR in a some tight and well contested matches. Zoe Clarke and Becky Stevens By Mr J Clarke have bagged goals for the team and Teah North Head of PE and Alba Braybrooke have been tough to break down in defence. With 3 matches left all is to play for- well done girls!

Team: Georgia Price, Zoe Clarke (C), Georgia Pana, Teah North, Mariella Sloss, Becky Stevens, Viola Marengo, Alba Braybrooke & Evie Highgate

UNDER 16 GIRLS FOOTBALL This year saw the girls start the year as defending champions of the county cup which meant there was additional pressure on them to perform as any school would want to be able to say they have beaten the county cup champions. The majority of the team had continued on from last year with the additions of Cariad Lucas, Imo Greene, Katie Russell, Niamh Creighton and Rosie Jones who came in to replace the students that had left year. The defence of the county cup started well with an impressive 5-0 win against Dr Challoner’s. It is evident from the game that other schools would struggle to cope with pace that is the team this year. Numerous times during the game the sister act of Rosie and Molly Jones and supported by Izzy Hanson drove past the defensive to create PE U15 Girls Netball season had a fantastic have Team U15 Netball The area. in the local opponents some fierce - playing been a team and have gelled together as have They has been some There training. to regularly committed and of years the last couple changes in position over in their ability to be more developed have students than relying rather players and all round versatile of just one position. During the course on playing close games, had some really have the season they and determination their resilience shown but have games apartto bring home the win on all from High School in the normal league Wycombe against rectified was in this defeat However, competition. the team played where the end of season tournament lost to 6-6. Having to draw a phenomenal match and winning margin a narrow A by Abbey Wycombe finished have they that all their other games it meant Runners Tournament this season as both the District A District Runners Up. League Wycombe Up and the of girls. group lovey a really for achievement fantastic Staff vs “friendly” off with a finished the season They the best team was This Sport for match Relief. Students game The against staff in a number of years. to play game all and a great closely contested physical, was Another 11-7 to the staff. was final result The round. girls and you’ll height and a little more of training year us. have Articles By Miss K Russell and Miss G Muttitt Girls’ Active Girls’ have leaders who the Girls Active It for has been a busy term club and trying running the takeover do a fantastic job to continued out some new sports and handball lacrosse with the girls like fantastic opportunity leaders also had a The visit 3 local primary to They Primary School launch a Girls Active Campaign. schools to job delivering the school and did an excellent to credit a real were a variety of fun team by followed an assembly on the initiative, girls are The 4 and 5 girls. Year building activities of a group to off the the summer term for Day Takeover plan their beginning to out! eye your so keep they did last year back of the obstacle course Year 7A Netball Team: 7A Netball Year Mia Dudley-Holt Becky (C), Georgia Price, Stevens, Merry, Emma Ocean Dove, Lily Sabba, Millie Hopkins & Christina Baxter Year 8 Netball Teams: 8 Netball Year Annabel Tilly Beaulieu (C), Amelia Megson, Jenna Harvey, Pendlebury, Robyn Eldridge, Tilly Brown, Emilyne Essalah, Kiera Allen, Maggie Bogie, Anson, Ruby Chloe Blois, Marengo Viola Georgia Pana, (C) & Zoe Clarke It has been a busy term for they KS3 netball teams they KS3 netball teams It for has been a busy term in league games and competing finishing off their 7A team Year The tournaments. their end of season startmade a fantastic great GMS, showing netball at to finishing runners up in their spirit, and team resilience 8A team Year the Another highlight came from league. finishing tournament, in their county who finished 3rd Abbey and behind Wycombe on points with level to continued 7 and 8 B teams Year The High. Wycombe and Highcrest. Corner Pipers Borlase, beating hard train back after a series of tough bounced 9 girls Year The in Corner Pipers games and finished on a high beating game in their last game of the season. tightly contested next netball- looking what of promising to forward Lots all involved. done to Well will bring. year KS3 Netball By Mr A Higgins The girls reached the semi-final finishing top of their group and faced Buckingham Buckingham and faced of their group top the semi-final finishing reached girls The in par performance 1-0 lead but an under an early took resulted girls The School. girls the for years in 2 Unfortunately losing 3-2. the first defeat this was the girls worked who have girls and manage the coach to has been pleasure it however and supported years. the two hard throughout each other numerous chances to score. This became a common theme throughout the the throughout theme a common became This score. to chances numerous Ramsey. William Sir and Grammar Chesham wins against other PE Girls’ Cricket posted our highest score of 68 in our 6 overs. GMS A group of girls had their first experience of Girls looked to be on top as Cricket, recently entering the U15 Lady Taverners Cup. Katie took a great catch After a handful of training sessions the girls were keen and Emily a wicket in to give it their best shot, and came up first against quick succession; however a tough Wycombe High team. Despite losing Katie two Pipers Corner batters Windsor in the first over, Grace Kisbee and Amelie managed to find their feet Fitzpatrick took their time and the team managed and retire, leaving them to score 38 runs in the allocated time against some a total of 6 runs needed very quick and accurate bowling. Katie picked up two to win off the last over. wickets in her first over but it wasn’t enough as WHS Unfortunately the girls couldn’t quite do enough and reached their required total with 2 overs to spare. Next Pipers took the win with 3 balls to spare. The girls the girls faced Cressex and were bowling first. Immy finished in 3rd place- a fantastic effort by lots of girls Spooner and Emily Kisbee bowled tightly and the girls that are new to cricket. It was certainly a fun day and managed to restrict Cressex to 42 runs. great improvement was made by all- well done!

What followed was a great run chase with Grace Team: Amelie Fitzpatrick (C), Collette Fitzpatrick, Becky Stevens, retiring and Becky Stevens hitting a fantastic 4 to win Courtney Sullivan, Louise Larney, Issy Talbot, Immy Spooner, Emily the game in the 4th over. Last up was Pipers Corner Kisbee, Katie Windsor & Grace Kisbee and what followed was the best performance of the day. Amelie, Katie and Grace all retired, timing the By Miss G Muttitt ball nicely and looking to hit the ball into the gaps- we

GIRLS’ HOCKEY New to hockey this year, Evie Highgate Brown winning two short corners within affirmed herself as a strong defender with, the first three minutes. GMS dominated the U13 Girls Viola Marengo, Maellys Antoine and Georgia game from start to finish, but unfortunately Pana, continuing to progress from the great came out with a 2-0 loss, after two break This term has continued to demonstrate start they made in year 7. Kelsey Smith was away goals from the opposition. It should back between the posts, and made some be noted, that St Georges went on to win the depth of hockey talent at GMS. fantastic saves when required to, but given the tournament. Next up was Headington, Invigorated by the success of the the strength of the outfield players, she had where again, the GMS girls dominated the U14 squad before Christmas, the a fairly quiet tournament. game in terms of possession, short corners and D penetrations. Unfortunately, there U13s were determined to match their seemed to be a magnetic force-field around achievements. the goal, so the teams ended up sharing the points, with the final score ending 1-1. With four of the U13 girls playing key roles in the U14 success, and with the U13 This meant that the girls faced Beaconsfield team being undefeated in the league, High school, the other qualifiers from expectations for the In2hockey national Buckinghamshire, in their quarter final. competition were extraordinarily high Having beaten Beaconsfield High twice for this group of girls. Already used to already this season, the girls went into competing on a regional stage, Zoe Clarke, the game confident that they could Kiera Allen, Tilly Brown and Alba Braybrooke, get the desired result, but equally not stepped back into 7-aside hockey bursting Many opposition coaches remarked on underestimating their opposition. As with confidence. First up were the county the talent, determination and teamwork expected, the game was tight and very end championships, where they asserted their displayed by the GMS girls. The progress to end, with both schools putting everything experience from earlier in the year, helped they have made, both individually and as on the line to try to win. Zoe Clarke along by the young year 7 recruit Colette a team, is phenomenal and this is simply epitomised this, taking a ball to the foot Fitzpatrick, and dominated every game they down to their hard work and unrelenting after a cracking strike at a BHS short corner, played. resolve to improve. The girls are no longer but refused to go off and fought on bravely. in these competitions to make up the BHS took the lead in the first half with some The girls finished the tournament numbers; they are now a formidable force very skilful play and excellent strike, which undefeated, with a comprehensive 6-0 win in Buckinghamshire. was against the run of play. GMS didn’t over Wycombe High School, a tight but give up though, with some excellent team deserved 1-0 win over Beaconsfield High Onto the regional finals, where it seemed build up play, Kiera Allen managed to break School and a conclusive 4-1 win over local coaching staff of 4 plus per team wasn’t out free from the BHS defence and slot the ball rivals Sir William Borlase, to be crowned of the ordinary. Undeterred, the GMS girls into the right hand corner, with a perfectly county champions. got off to a bright start against last year’s struck reverse hit. runners up; St George’s. The girls produced It should be noted that every single GMS some excellent attacking play, with Tilly In the closing stages both teams had their player played their part in the tournament. PE opportunities, but Alba Braybrooke put in The disappointment couldn’t have been in the future. The expectations the girls set some truly outstanding tackles to keep the more prominent throughout the GMS team, for themselves, confirms their growth in momentum with GMS. The girls could have which demonstrates the interminable care confidence, and belief in each other. The put the game to bed on several occasions, and desire shown by every single member girls have shown over the last few months, but a mixture of pressure and great goal of the squad. Although the results didn’t that with hard work and persistence, you keeping from BHS, meant that it wasn’t to go the way we would have hoped, I have can be successful. I am incredibly proud of be. The game finished as another 1-1 draw, no doubt that the frustration felt will make the girls’ achievements. with the girls unfortunately losing out in a them stronger as hockey players, and be penalty shoot-out competition. used to keep on learning and progressing By Miss L Porter

Girls’ Hockey Boys’ Hockey With GMS hockey now well established on a local and regional level, For the first time in it is unsurprising that there was large interest in the sport among GMS history, the Year the year 7 cohort, with many taking up hockey having never played it 7 boys have their very before. GMS has seen over 20 year 7 girls try their hand at the sport, own hockey team. with many discovering that they possess a natural talent, at what could With a mixture of be considered as a very unnatural sport! highly experienced and very talented The A team got off to a fairly slow start in the league, with only one boys, and some of its members having any previous hockey experience before year inexperienced but 7. Undeterred from their initial losses, the girls continued to work sporty boys with incredibly hard and found enjoyment in the learning process and natural talent for small wins, such as effective passes and tackles, outcomes in the D hockey, there were high hopes for the team this year. and of course the goals they scored. Every game the girls played saw With most local schools concentrating on Rugby during the them improving all the time, and the gaps between them and their Autumn term, the boys only played one fixture between opposition narrowed as the season went on. September and Christmas, which took place against local At their county tournament, the girls’ main aim was to enjoy the rivals Borlase. The boys competed exceedingly well, with day and be competitive in every game they played. The tournament Madden twins Benny and Isaac, demonstrating why they were county players, and dominating much of the hockey schedule unfortunately didn’t lend them a helping hand, having to taking place. Unfortunately, the experience of Borlase, most play 4 games back to back, with most other teams only having 2 back of whom play together at Marlow HC, won in the end, with the to back games! This seemed initially to work in the girls’ favour though, score finishing a very respectable 5-3. as they were able to keep what they’d learned fresh in their minds, so were able to hold Wycombe High School (regional qualifiers) to a 0-0 Post-Christmas saw more fixtures in the diary for the year draw, having lost 5-0 to them earlier on in the season. Poppy Ungar, 7 boys. First up were Desborough, where the boys finally made some truly spectacular saves in goal, demonstrating huge goal seemed to gel and were able to gain two very strong wins. keeping potential for the future. This fantastic achievement bolstered The A team completely dominated their game, with the result the girls spirits and belief in themselves, which took them to achieve finishing 7-0. The B team had to work a bit harder for their their first ever win as a team, which came against Beaconsfield High result, which finished as a 3-2 victory. School, with the goal being scored by Emz Spooner. Buoyant from this recent victory, the boys went into their Eventually however, tiredness did catch up on them and the girls county tournament confident that they could achieve more unfortunately sustained losses against Aylesbury High School, Dr success. The boys started the tournament strongly, Isaac Challoner’s and local rivals Sir William Borlase, the eventual County Madden putting the team ahead against The Beacon School, Champions. It should be noted that the team was without captain but unfortunately couldn’t see the game out, which ended Colette Fitzpatrick, who had been selected to boost the year 8 team 1-1. The boys then unfortunately gained two very close losses in the regional quest. As much as Colette was very much missed, it is against eventual regional qualifiers, Sir William Borlase and Dr Challoners, 1-0 and 4-3 respectively. important to recognise that each member of the squad stepped up and played some of the best hockey that they’d played all season, knowing Disappointed with these results, the boys were determined that Colette was not there to be relied upon. Holly Eyles and Keziah not to go away from the tournament empty handed, and Watts dominated the midfield, with Faye Simpson demonstrating put in two strong performances against The Royal Grammar some excellent close skills, rivalling many of the top players in the School and John Hampden. The RGS result finished as a 3-3 tournament. MVP however, must go to Mabel Daw, who revealed a draw, but finally the team got the win they deserved, with natural games brain, and put in some of the best tackles I’ve seen from their match against John Hampden finishing 5-2. a year 7 student. Despite not going through to the regionals, the boys showed The girls went into their last league game of the season, bursting with excellent promise for future county rounds. They epitomised confidence and excited about the progress they’d made all season. They GMS hockey by taking this confidence into their last game used this mentality to win their final game v Chesham High School 6-0, of the season, with the A team putting in an outstanding and come 4th out of 8 in their district tournament. The girls may not performance convert their previous 3-3 draw against RGS have reached the regional finals like some of the previous year 7 teams, into a 5-2 triumph. The boys have worked incredibly hard but they have epitomised what hard work, determination and true all season, I have no doubt that they will go far in future motivation to learn, can achieve. Well done girls, I’m very excited about competitions. your potential for the future. By Miss L Porter PE BOYS’ RUGBY Year 7 & 8 Rugby The second half of the rugby season kicked off just after February half term. Training was as effervescent as ever and there was a strong sense of intensity and focus from both the year 7 and 8 teams respectively.

This side of the season is used for us to play all of our local rivals (which weren’t played in October) in District Leagues. Our competition includes, Chesham Grammar, ST Michaels, Princes Risborough Upper School, Beaconsfield, Sir William Ramsay, Cressex and Amersham.

The year 8s had a difficult first game against CGS and struggled to find their rhythm. However, after they’d blown the match cob-webs away they found their true form and started piling on the pressure. Unfortunately, this return to form was slightly overdue meaning the GMS team lost by 1 try. Their subsequent matches have been played at Aylesbury Rugby Football Club on the 4G pitch. GMS has won 6 games out of 6 and some players have even represented other teams who haven’t managed to field a full team. This mature and positive attitude is a reflection of the core values that this brilliant game instils in young people and all of the students at GMS that play rugby are clearly progressing and benefitting from this.

A significant mention should go to Jimmy Leach who has captained the side and shown how well he can manage the responsibility of this task. His communication and organisational skills are excellent – a true leader in the making.

The year 7 team have maintained their original numbers and even grown a bit more boasting a squad of 22 keen players. The ability level continues to increase and it is a pleasure to see so many boys enjoying the sport and now as a result of their exposure to it at GMS, many of them are now playing for local clubs. The 7s had a very successful start to the season being crowned winners of the Berkshire Floodlit Tournament, beating local grammar schools John Hampden and Borlase, and they only conceding one very closely fought fixture against Desborough (in next year’s fixture we will be fielding our strongest team!).

Keen to build on these successes the boys took no prisoners in their first game. A relatively strong Chesham Grammar School side had met more than they could contend with when they entertained us at their pitch. No less than 4 of their PE staff were watching and one might assume they thought the outcome would be different. The GMS year 7 rugby team worked like a well oiled machine, brutal ball carrying and pin point passes opened up the Chesham Grammar defence for well worked and fully deserved tries. Furthermore, despite the size of the Chesham backs the GMS defence remained resolute and allowed little to no joy for these sizable players. A full time score of 35-10 was a positive result after our demise in the year 8 fixture.

The remaining fixtures against slightly weaker oppositions enabled our entire squad to contribute their efforts to the year 7 programme. The development of the squad is critical as the boy’s progress in age, eventually they will be playing 15 aside and their squad of 22 will all need to be well versed and confident in match play for continued successes. The progress of these players has been exponential, from non-playing to confident performers who know and demonstrate the appropriate skills and tactics throughout the games. This has been significantly aided by a positive squad mentality where all of the boys are prepared to help and encourage each other in matches and training alike, sharing their knowledge and understanding throughout the squad. The a/b team beat Beaconsfield 45-10 and SWR 45-5. The squad have 1 more fixture this term and then a county tournament at Aylesbury Rugby Football Club after the Easter break. I am confident that this team will continue to progress and be successful, they have an abundance of ability, but more importantly a positive outlook that if fuelled by a will to win and an infectious enjoyment of playing team sport.

By Mr S Goodright Year 7 Swimming Year 10 Girls County PE Scheme Handball Tournament

This year’s cohort of students The annual year 10 girl’s handball tournament involved in our swimming scheme took place during the first week back after half at GMS have completed their term. In preparation for this no less than 20 girls 6 months of weekly lessons. All from year 10 attended training twice a week for year 7s involved in the scheme 1 month leading up to the competition. Inspired have progressed from non, or by the successes of the year above, the current weak swimmers, to confident and year 10 girls wanted to prove their worth for positive students who have all GMS. A healthy contingent from the year 10 improved in both skill and ability netball team in attendance meant that the passing ability was strong, in the water. leaving just the shooting and defensive skills to work on. Defending came naturally to the girls as it was similar to netball, albeit just in The scheme started in September a wall as opposed to individuals. The shooting however was no so 2015 to give all non-swimmers in natural. Being allowed to take 3 steps holding the ball, then jump and year 7 at GMS the opportunity to then throw (pass/shoot) is a very difficult skill to learn (huge amounts learn this essential life skill. of coordination needed), but integral to success in the game. Despite The students also learnt survival being frustrated by the difficulty of this skill the girls continued with and life-saving skills. Through the practices showing a huge amount of endeavour and resilience. the scheme, they developed their This in turn paid dividends as the vast majority of the squad can now proficiency and knowledge and perform this skill, this will help further if they use handball as an all students involved have shown assessed GCSE PE skill, as it will allow them to access the higher grades. tremendous perseverance and courage. The tournament hosted 12 teams from around the county including schools from Milton Keynes. I have taken this fixture for the past 2 years The GMS Swimming and it became immediately apparent that the standard had moved up Scheme will start again in significantly yet again. Each team would play a 6 minute straight game September, an opportunity against every other team there, meaning that our 2 GMS teams would offered to next year’s year have to play 11 fixtures, including a GMS VS GMS game. 7s. Both the GMS teams started slowly and struggled to find their form, By Miss H Murray the 6 minute games were not helping as the intensity was amplified as the players knew they had little time to dominate a game so went out as hard as they could. The initial games saw us lose marginally, but at times the potential was seen as the GMS girls moved the ball fluently down the court culminating with the ever-difficult jump shot.

INCLUSIVE ZONE As the tournament progressed the GMS teams found their form and BASKETBALL drew with the top placed teams, however after the marginal losses at the beginning we struggled to make the top 3 positions overall, we were Great Marlow School were invited to placed 5th and 6th respectively. This is by no means a disappointment as attend an Inclusive Zone Basketball afore mentioned the standard was of significance. Overall, both teams tournament on Tuesday 20th March. This unique sport is played on courts split in did exceptionally well considering that they had never played together to zones, which enables wheelchair basketball players and basketball players to as a team in a competitive fixture. Keen to build on these successes and play together in a squad. their experience the year 10 girls played the year 11 girls in a lunchtime fixture that we used for friendly rivalry and healthy competition, but The tournament took place at the University of Brighton and teams from secondary ultimately for GCSE PE assessments. The year 11 girls won by 1 goal in schools in the South East region were invited to participate in the event. a very well-played and competitive fixture that realistically could have This was a great opportunity for the students to participate in a new sport, organ- been won by either team. ised by Youth Sport Direct and to represent Great Marlow School. By Mr S Goodright. The GMS team played 4 games. Each game was played by a squad of 4 players, with 2 wheelchair users in the central zone of the court and one non-wheelchair user on each wing. We rotated the players for each game, as we took a team of 11 to the tournament. The GMS team played brilliantly. They were the least experienced team in this sport, having never played IZB before. They soon mastered the rules and proved to be a real challenge to the opposing squads. GMS were also the youngest team there, comprising of eight year7s, two year 8s and one year 9 student. The other schools had squads with students up to 17 years old playing for them. We lost 2 of our games and won the other two. A fantastic result and all students involved in the tournament showed great team spirit and sportsmanship throughout the tournament. Well done to all involved!

By Miss H Murray GMS voted as All year Cross Country Youth Sport Trust The Bucks Schools County Cross Country Competition took Outstanding Secondary place at The Cottesloe School in Wing on a chilly February day. School 2018 Due to a huge number of GMS students wanting to compete we had to take a coach to the venue. However, between races The award of Outstanding Secondary School was given to GMS by the Youth this did serve as our classroom and shelter which given the Sports Trust at a recent glittering Awards weather was very much needed. Evening Dinner. Awards were given to The course was set in the stunning countryside of north Buckinghamshire, schools who have introduced whole and utilised farmers’ fields and footpaths to make up the distances for the school initiatives that have significantly age related races. Although incredibly scenic, the respective routes were improved student outcomes. difficult to say the least. Distance wise they were as is prescribed by UK Athletics, however the intensity of the courses was increased significantly The panel of judges considered that the by the landscape. A valley gave excellent opportunity for the runners to My Personal Best initiative, now rolled stretch their legs and show some serious pace, but for every decline there out to the whole school, has made a will be an incline to follow at some point. This was brutal! A 600 metre drag from the bottom of the valley to the top was the toughest I have seen in a significant contribution to students in the school cross country and all of the students had to do this twice! It really whole school. did set the field apart and required huge amounts of muscular endurance, Our staff believe that schools should not cardiovascular fitness and out right resilience from the competitors. just be considered ‘exam factories’ and It is great pride that I can say that none of our students were broken by this that students should reach their full course. They all finished and all ran the entire way (helpful in cross country). potential both academically and as part We had some exceptional results too. Molly Jones finished in 2nd place, and has been placed in the county team, Zoe Clarke, year 8 finished 23rd of their own character development. By running a year 8/9 race, Alba Braybrooke also year 8 finished 25th. promoting a series of life skills called the 6Rs: Resilience, Responsibility, Respect, All of our runners are keen to go next year, and will be Resourcefulness, Readiness, Reflection, running as the upper age group so they will hopefully push for places in the county team like Molly Jones. This summer students have been encouraged to display we will see them all competing in the middle distance the character traits that will give them events in district and maybe county competitons. the potential to be successful in and out of school. By Mr S Goodright The autumn term was focused on promoting resilience and responsibility in tutor time, assemblies and it departments, through achievement stickers and SIM points. Spring term is focused on embedding resilience and responsibility, while adding resourcefulness and readiness to the mix. By the time we break up in the summer all the 6Rs will be in full swing.

Alongside My PB, the PE Department has been running the Girls’ Active initiative. The main aim of this is to develop girls’ confidence when taking part in sport and physical activity, which gives a greater confidence in all lessons. Students who lead the initiative have the grand title of Girls Active Leaders (GLAMS). The popular Takeover Club that runs every Wednesday is their idea. And, Chloe Brownbill, won the National Committed Learner award at the Girls’ Active awards 2017.

By Mr J Clarke CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE GMS STUDENTS IN THEIR SPORTING PURSUITS

SWIMMING SUCCESS FOR REBECCA A haul of medals have been won by Rebecca Hayward at the Berks and South Bucks County Swimming Championships held on 13/14thJanuary and 27/28th January. This is truly a success to celebrate: an incredible swimming achievement.

She was awarded 8 Gold Medals in:

800m Freestyle 200m Butterfly 100m Butterfly 50m Backstroke 100m Backstroke 200m Backstroke 400m Individual Medley 200m Individual Medley She came in second to earn a further 3 Silver Medals in: 50m Butterfly 100m Freestyle 4 x 100 Medley Relay team (swimming the backstroke leg) Finally, 1 Bronze Medal in 200m Freestyle Overall, she is ranked 2nd in the ‘Top Girl Award’ according to the ‘points based score’ achieved throughout the competition.

Her best stroke is back stroke and her performance times have led her to be ranked as National Number 1 in her age group for the events with distances of 50m and 200m. In the 100m she is ranked ‘Number 2’ but this could change, of course.

JEMIMA WINS BRONZE MEDAL IN INDOOR ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS A Bronze Medal for a GMS Year 9 student, Jemima Hay, who competed in the South of England Indoor Athletics Championship 2018 and won this prized medal in the Under 15 Long Jump category. The event took place over the weekend of 6th-7th January at Lee Valley, Edmonton. Her proud parents reported that, “It was a tough competition with athletes from across the whole of the south of the country.” She has made a fabulous start to the year, there is the expectation that with her determination and work ethic she can add 10cm onto her personal best to make the Nationals and English Schools this year. Needless to say, her parents, and the school, are “delighted” and “proud” of Jemima. Congratulations go to her. GMS HOST MINI badminton keepy-uppy. Each team spent five minutes on each station gaining OLYMPICS points for their team. They were helped and encouraged by a team of 20 year On Tuesday 6th March, Great AND FINALLY.... 10 Sports Leaders, who proved to be a Marlow School hosted the annual credit to Great Marlow School with their mini-olympics. The event has been ParentPay is an established inspiring and mature support of the running successfully for the last 5 younger students. The final event was a method of making years and was attended this year relay race; an opportunity for each school by Sir William Ramsey School, payments of money to to achieve some extra points to add to Cressex Community School, St Great Marlow School and their final score. Michael’s Catholic School and has been in place for a The closing ceremony started with Chiltern Way Academy. Each school an exciting and impressive gymnastic number of years now; brought teams of 8 participants. display, performed by the year 8 girl’s The teams comprised of both able it is extremely efficient gymnastic team. They kept the audience and less able-bodied key stage 3 and effective. This way enthralled and entertained while the students, all eager to represent their scores were being finalised. Finally, schools. The Great Marlow students of transferring money is Ella Beaumont, who played wheelchair involved were: Artie Hayward, Oliver suitable for both small basketball in the GB women’s squad and still plays in the premier division of Brownlie, Zack Leeper, Alisha Hassan and more substantial and Blossom Martin from year 7 and the nation league presented the teams Ryan Coare, Ben Coles and Reuben payments, for school with their certificates and medals. The Metcalfe from year 8. trips, for example. It is winning team this year were Sir William Ramsey School. They were given the mini- To start the event in style, one of our a far safer method of olympic shield to engrave and display at talented year 8 students Elliot Kerley payment than either their school until next year’s competition. performed an energetic urban dance cheque or cash brought Our GMS team showed outstanding routine, which everyone thoroughly teamwork and sportsmanship. enjoyed. into school by hand. Well done to everyone Following this entertaining opening GMS wishes to reach out involved. ceremony, the teams completed a to all the parents and circuit of activities, including basketball By Miss H Murray shots, speed cup-stacking, hurdles and carers who have not yet signed up for ParentPay. It is easy to enrol. Just email, [email protected]. Good Luck... uk to request an activation ...to all students letter. We will help you taking examinations through the process if in the Summer Term. required. We hope you get the results you are aiming for and that your future aspirations are realised. Remember all information regarding examinations at GMS is available on the website, including dates for the results in August. Great Marlow School Bobmore Lane Marlow Bucks SL7 1JE