eNews issue - Spring/Summer 2016

eNews @stgeorgesascot

Issue 101, Spring/Summer 2016

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Beacon Lighting Ceremony There was huge excitement and considerable pride amongst the pupils and staff at St George’s on Thursday, 21 April as they celebrated The Queen's 90th Birthday with a spectacular beacon lighting ceremony.

The Queen, accompanied by The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall lit the Principal Beacon at Windsor Castle.

Joining over 1,000 others across the length and breadth of the country, St George’s staff, pupils, families and friends came together at 7.30pm to light their beacon in honour of Her Majesty The Queen. The Chapel Choir performed to an appreciative crowd, followed by readings composed

by Second Year pupil, Amy, and Lower Sixth pupil, Bella, whose work was chosen from a school-wide writing competition. The evening concluded with the whole school community singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to The Queen, before Mrs Owens lit the beacon.

Mrs Owens commented: “The lighting of beacons is a long and unbroken tradition in our country to celebrate royal jubilees, coronations and special birthdays. It has been an enormous privilege to be able to host this memorable event here at St George’s, in celebration of this important milestone in the Queen’s life”.

Ascot Schools Rounders

The U16 & U18 Ascot Schools Rounders Tournament was held at St Mary's, Ascot on Wednesday 27 April.

The weather, yet again, managed to provide entertainment with threats of cancellation halfway through with hail, rain and sunshine!

The U16 team were up against tough opposition from St Mary's, Heathfield and LVS, placing them 5th overall.

The U18s had some great matches. The team fielded very well, with Lower Sixth student Sarah scoring the most rounders for the team with some powerful hits.

As a result of mixed results the top three teams were placed based on Rounders scored for/against. This resulted in our team becoming U18 Ascot Schools Champions!! A superb result; well done to the whole team.

Awards

Fantastic Achievements

Mrs Owens has awarded girls who have performed above and beyond in their studies, by presenting Headmistress Commendations, Form Captains, Deputy Form Captains, Charity Representatives and Merit Awards in Chapel.

Each girl is nominated by their teacher and peers for performing exceptionally well in projects, achieving top marks in a test, and even helping with out of school hours events.

Congratulations to all of the girls who have received awards so far this term.

Headmistress Commendations Helping in Primary Spanish Schools Isabella Darya Caroline Alexis Grace Sadhvi Holly Bella Louisa Alexandra Sarah Isabelle Zafirah Robyn IT Scarlet Karry Keshni Olivia Tejasvi Lily Classics Emma Maite History Olivia Phoebe Aliya Ruby Lucy Amy Georgia Alice Louisa Hockey Maria Mille Anna Alexandra Annabel Isabella Darya Art Grace Grace Millie

Deputy Form Captains Avah Rosie Jacqueline Keshni Grace Haya Anna Olivia Siena Fleur Punch Grace Phoebe Charity Representatives

Form Captains Carmen Elizabeth Lydia Emily Annabella Sioghio Elizabeth Catherine Georgia Bernice Solana Fiona Kanwulia

Megan Merits

50 Merits - Bronze Lydia 75 Merits - Silver Charlotte Maia Supavidee Lala Kanwulia

100 Merits - Gold Mannat Lala Olivia 125 Merits - Platinum Lala India Rosie Ariana Lala

eNews

Celebrating eNews

Since the first edition of eNews was published, there have been over 100 editions published.

Please join us in looking back at some of the highlights from past editions.

Issue 58 - October 2011

Issue 69 - October 2012

Issue 95 - Summer 2015

Issue 59 - November 2011

Issue 74 - March 2013

Issue 64 - March 2012

Issue 85 - February 2014

Issue 98 - Winter 2015

Academic

Mathematics and History Bletchley Park Trip On Friday 29 April, the Fourth Year departed from school for the 90 minute journey which would take them to Bletchley Park.

Upon arrival the girls were divided into two groups. First order of the day for Group One was a very informative talk on cyber security and code breaking, culminating with the chance to try using the Enigma cypher machine used by the German Army in World War II. Whilst this was taking place in the main building, Group Two were shown around the site and given a detailed account of the work that was undertaken at Bletchley, as well as the conditions in which the inhabitants worked. During the course of the day the groups swapped activities and were given time to explore more of the exhibits on show in the main building, the manor house and the huts. Many of the pupils were fascinated by the complexity of the Enigma machine and by the number of women who worked at Bletchley. There was no time for any quiet moments as there was so much to see and discover.

Bletchley Park

Codebreakers in World War 2

Girls codebreaking via interactive screens

Everybody associated with the development of Bletchley should be congratulated on producing a fantastically interesting and informative venue.

History

Religious Studies

On Tuesday 10 May, we went to Chepstow in Wales. It was quite a long coach journey that took around two hours. When we arrived we had a quick snack and then headed for the castle. It was a lovely stone castle which was very impressive.

We met our tour guide, Neil, who took us on a tour of the castle.

He was really nice and was even in fancy dress! Following the tour, we learnt about weapons and armour. I was put in chain mail which was very heavy! Our guides then showed us some weapons and demonstrated the swords outside.

The poetry category requested a poem about human rights that connected the reader to experiences of human rights being enjoyed, denied or defended. The judges also looked for words that convey creativity and compassion, capturing the spirit of human rights.

Below is a review written by First Year student Isabel of her trip to Chepstow Castle and Tintern Abbey.

After visiting the castle, we went to Tintern Abbey. It was very beautiful and a little bit spooky as it was mostly just ruins. We learnt about the monks that had once lived there and what they would have eaten. We then popped into the shops, enjoyed an ice cream and got the bus back to school. I had a lovely day.

Third Year student, Omosigho recently achieved third place nationally, in the Amnesty International Youth Awards 2016 in the poetry category, with her poem 'Some Say'.

Omosigho composed her poem in just two weeks; it was written with the purpose of encouraging women of the world to be able to do anything they wish, without being pressured into doing so.

Mrs Magill commented on Omosigho's fantastic achievement. "I am incredibly happy for Omosigho. She has done very well and should be very proud of herself."

Well done Omosigho!

Below is a review written by Third Year pupils, Ellie, Olivia and Mollie, of their Classics trip to Bath on Thursday 3 May.

We visited the Roman baths and we all found it very pretty and interesting. We were lucky with the weather, since it was the hottest day of the year so far.

We learnt about how the Romans used the baths, and all about the naturally hot springs below the baths which supply the water.

We also learnt about the materials used to build the baths: limestone and sandstone. Lastly, we saw an old hypocaust system. This was how the Romans heated their homes.

Not only did we visit the Roman Baths, we also went to the Museum of Fashion. In the museum we looked at clothes through the ages and some of us tried them on.

We all enjoyed the trip and would like to thank Miss Fontes for organising the visit and Dr Tieanu, Miss Swidler, Mr Sharkey and Mrs Phipps for accompanying us on the visit.

IT

Cisco Systems On Thursday 28 April, a selection of Fifth Year and Sixth Form girls had the rare opportunity of visiting Cisco Systems Headquarters in Feltham as part of their IT studies. The theme of the day was 'Girls Power - Girls in IT'.

After a brief welcome, the girls took part in networking sessions with some women at CISCO, who told them how they got into IT and into CISCO. The girls then had the opportunity to go on a tour. The first stop was Smart City, a Lego model of how Barcelona was using the 'Internet of Things' to tackle some of the big city problems like parking, rubbish collection, and even using live environmental data to save resources such as water.

They then stepped into a highly connected living room that brought entertainment and work to a high definition wall. In the afternoon a global conference of schools was called and the girls had the chance to see and hear from the innovators behind an exciting CISCO project, the Smart Dressing Room. Girls’ schools from all over the world dialled in, and all were able to ask questions.

Student Yihui, reflected on the trip, "Visiting Cisco really helped me in many different ways. I talked to many people who worked in Cisco; they shared their work experiences which not only gave a clear concept of the structure of the firm, but also helped me to plan my future career."

At the end of the day, each group was asked to discuss, plan and present one of their new ideas from the day. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the trip, and left feeling inspired.

Academic

Classics

Arts

Music

Choir sing at Ascot Raceday for royalty The St George’s Chapel Choir were both privileged and delighted to perform at ‘The Prince Philip Trust Raceday’ held at Ascot Racecourse on Wednesday 27 April.

Fourteen of the choir, accompanied by Director of Music, Mr Hillier, sung to a very complimentary audience as guests arrived at the event and between courses at lunch.

The girls thoroughly enjoyed the morning, and of course the highlight was meeting and performing in the presence of HRH Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex.

Junior Summer Concert On Thursday 12 May the Music Department held its annual Junior Summer Concert in the Sue Cormack Hall.

Girls from First to Third Year performed a variety of pieces, with the First Year Choir singing ‘Naughty’ from the musical Matilda.

The solo and trio performances during the evening were beautiful, with the audience very much enjoying each and every one.

Well done to all the girls who took part and to Upper Sixth pupil Sophie who provided accompaniment on the drums, as well as to Mr Hillier and Miss Mason and all who made this such an enjoyable evening of music.

The evening began with the Jazz Band performing a very energetic version of 'Mission Impossible' by Lalo Schifrin, lead by Mr Smith.

Highlights included a beautiful performance of 'Swan Lake' choreographed by Miss Ellie from the Natalie Vinson School of Dance. The Jazz Band also performed 'Tequila' by Chuck Rio with audience participation at every chorus shouting "Tequila!" which was great fun for everyone.

Modern and Ballet filled the evening beautifully between the Jazz Band pieces, all choreographed by Natalie Vinson, Miss Amy, Miss Ellie, Miss Laura, and also the girls themselves.

Special mentions go to Sasha and Lily for their stunning ballet pieces and also Upper Sixth student Moe, for her inspiring dance in the style of Michael Jackson, which included the famous moondance move.

Jazz Band entertain with 'Mission Impossible'

'Swan Lake'

Finale dance to 'Play that Sax'

Modern dance piece to 'Why don't you do right?'

The girls were almost outshone on the night by Miss Lofthouse, who graciously leapt through the air during a dance in her beautiful neon tutu! Everyone very much enjoyed the fun of it!

The show concluded with a high tempo modern dance by Lemonia, Lizzie, Annabel, Eseroka, Moe and Zoe dancing to 'Play that Sax'

by Fleur East. The whole audience were clapping along to the beat and enjoyed every minute of the whole evening.

Thank you to Mr Smith, Mr Pearn, Mrs Lowe, Miss Lofthouse, Mr Hillier, Miss Mason and staff from the Natalie Vinson School of Dance for their superb help with all of the dances and music.

A huge congratulations to all of the girls who took part in the show; everyone thoroughly enjoyed the Jazz and Dance spectacular!

Arts

Jazz and Dance Show The annual Jazz and Dance Show took place on Thursday 5 May in the Sue Cormack Hall.

Boarding

Boarding and Clubs Fun Boarding Social highlights enjoyed by our boarders this term have included an arts and crafts evening, and cupcake decorating which all of the girls thoroughly enjoyed.

Gardening Club The Gardening Club continues to offer new challenges for the girls in the Summer Term, including planting projects and studying environmental issues. They focused on investigating what happens with the plants at different times of the year, and have prepared the next batch of spring and summer plants.

Cake fun with boarders

Socials

The club are now arranging the fantastic gardening patch outside the Sue Cormack Hall and are expecting another bloom of record-breaking giant sunflowers. The girls are enjoying the nice weather and developing extremely useful skills of independence, responsibility, and huge commitment towards having a colourful and lively garden that they can call their own. Not only are they brightening up the school, but they also take pride in the work they do and are always excited by the weekly changes in the little corner of nature. Keep up the good work, girls!

Socials On Saturday 14 May, Fourth Year girls attended a Social at Eton College.

The girls enjoyed a sit down meal, followed by a disco in the School Hall.

Everyone very much enjoyed the evening; thank you to Eton College for hosting a lovely event.

Sixth Form

Sixth Form

On Monday 2 May, Upper Sixth student Anna took part in the National Knockout Finals at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Reading Hockey Club U18 team won their match against Alderley Edge 2-1 to win the Finals. The team are now Plate Winners and also Home Counties League winners - a fantastic double achievement!

It was a great season for the team, who also picked up the Colts Ladies 'Team of the Year' award as well.

Congratulations to Anna and all of her team mates for their superb effort!

Anna with Mrs Owens

Houses

House Rounders

On Tuesday 26 April, on a very changeable afternoon, girls gathered on the sports fields for the annual House Rounders competition.

Girls from all year groups participated and some excellent play was seen.

After some tough competition, Becket House was victorious in both the Junior and Senior competitions, with only six points separating them from the runners up, Darwin House. Congratulations to Becket and to all the girls who took part.

On Friday 29 April - Sunday 1 May, Mr Moran and Miss Mason accompanied Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award entrants on a practice expedition to the New Forest.

Seven Sixth Form girls took part in many activities including night time navigation practice.

Well done to the all of the girls involved with the Bronze, Silver and Gold expeditions so far this year.

Further practices and final expeditions will take place as below.

Saturday 18 - Sunday 19 June - Fourth Year Bronze Expedition Friday 24 - Sunday 26 June - Fifth Year Silver Expedition Monday 11 - Friday 15 July – All Gold entrants Practice Expedition Monday 29 August – Friday 2 September – All Gold entrants Expedition

Duke of Edinburgh Award

Duke of Edinburgh Award

News

Alumnae

The Alumnae Association have celebrated two reunions this term; a 30 year reunion organised by a former Georgian, and also the annual reunion held for all alumnae by Alumnae Officer, Sue van der Veen.

The 30 year reunion was a huge success, with 22 Georgians in attendance. Drinks were served in the front hall upon arrival, followed by Mrs Owens and Mr Hillier conducting a tour of the school for everyone.

Nine of the Georgians stayed the night in the now Fourth Year boarding area, which is where they had boarded during their O Level studies in 1984.

Georgian and organiser of the event, Claire Hughes comments "It was the first time that many had walked up the front stairs as this was not allowed in our time! There also seemed to be a lot more carpet than in our day! We were all very impressed with the New Library".

Georgian Gallop The annual Georgian Gallop took place on Thursday 21 April. Girls and staff braved the rugged terrain around the grounds of the school. Congratulations to everyone who took part and to the winning House, Darwin.

Sports Workshop On Saturday 7 May, St George’s welcomed girls and boys in Year 5, 6 and 7 from local schools to enjoy fun activities with the Sports Department.

The children spent the day playing Ultimate Frisbee, Pop Lacrosse, Rounders and learning how to High Jump.

Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day and thank you to Mrs Lowe and the Sports Department, and the Marketing and Admissions Department.

Open Morning

Open Morning On Saturday 23 April, St George's held its Open Morning for prospective families.

The day began with families enjoying tours conducted by St George's pupils, followed by speeches by Mrs Hewer, Headmistress Elect, and the Head Girls.

Each Department provided fantastic classes for the families to view. All of the guests very much enjoyed the morning and we look forward to welcoming families to our next Open Morning on Saturday 8 October 2016.

Young Enterprise Young Enterprise

On Thursday 21 April the St George’s Young Enterprise teams, 'Bound' and 'Prism' attended the Area Finals, held at the Hilton Hotel in Bracknell.

Lots of local schools were also represented and it was an opportunity to showcase all the work 'Bound' and 'Prism' have been doing in developing their businesses. The evening started with a Trade Fair and promotion of products. 'Bound' and 'Prism' created excellent trade stands and the judges spent a lot of time discussing product development, launch and promotion with both teams.

Each team in the area finals gave a presentation covering their Young Enterprise journey so far; covering successes, lessons learnt, financial results, and feedback on the experience as a whole.

During the evening, there was also an opportunity to meet with local business leaders and be involved in a panel discussion on important aspects of entrepreneurship and developing business skills.

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The St George's Instagram account is now active and is jam-packed full of exciting photographs from around the school.

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Lower Sixth student Zafirah has taken on the now on challenge of managing the content of our St George's Ascot account and uploading images Instagram for viewers to enjoy. We hope that you will particularly enjoy some archive photography posted on #FlashbackFriday's.

Social Media

We were delighted that both 'Prism' and 'Bound' won prizes at the finals. 'Bound' were awarded Best Trade Stand, and 'Prism' the Judges Special Award.

Sport

Disneyland Netball Tour

During the Easter Holidays, the PE Department accompanied girls on the bi-annual netball tour in Disneyland, Paris. The girls and staff travelled to the Davy Crockett Ranch where they spent four nights.

Netball activities included pool stages of the International Netball Festival, coaching clinics and International player masterclasses from England's netball team. The girls then competed against other schools in the International Cup, Shield and Plate finals with an awards ceremony held in Disney Village on the last day.

The 'Mickey's' team won the Challenger Cup and the 'Minnie's' team came third. Overall St George's won the Umpires Award for 'Best Spirit'. Well done girls!

Everyone enjoyed visiting the Disneyland Park each afternoon, which provided a well-deserved break. It was a fantastic opportunity for all of the girls, who thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Horse Riding

Second Year pupil, Imogen, successfully qualified at the South Suffolk Agricultural Show held at Ampton Racecourse on Sunday 8 May. She will go on to compete at the Royal International Horse Show held at Hickstead Show Ground in July.

Imogen also competed at the Royal Windsor Horse Show on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 May. Her family are very excited and proud of her.

Well done Imogen and good luck for the International Show!

Events

Future Events

Following half term, there are many exciting events taking place at St George's including Sports Day, Second Year Play and a Family Rounders/Tennis and Picnic Morning. Please see below a snapshot of the events taking place. Please do visit our website at www.stgeorges-ascot.org.uk for live calendar updates.

27 May - 5 June Half Term

6 June First day after Half Term

6 - 9 June Third Year Trip to Normandy

10 - 12 June Gold Duke of Edinburgh Direct Entrants practices

14 - 17 June Royal Ascot Week

15 June First Year Latin Trip to Verulamium Museum and Roman Theatre

16 June First to Third Year pupils line the streets for the Royal Party on Ladies' Day

17 June Sports Day

18 - 19 June Fourth Year Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition to Ashdown Forest

24 June Sports Awards Evening

24 - 26 June Fifth Year Silver Duke of Edinburgh expedition in the Brecon Beacons

28 June Second Year play

1 July Inauguration Dinner for new prefects team and parents

2 July Family Rounders/Tennis and Picnic Morning 5 July Music for a Summer Evening 7 July - Last day of term - Upper Sixth Valedictory Service, Prizegiving and Upper Sixth Leavers' Ball +44 (01344) 629920 St George's School admissions@stgeorges-ascot.org.uk

Ascot Berkshire

SL5 7DZ