A Welcome From Our Principal
Welcome to the Aspire Magazine, reviewing the Spring term 2025. It has been a long, busy term with plenty of opportuni es for our young people to shine.
The College produc on of Frozen, earlier this month, was FANTASTIC! It was a huge effort by everyone involved - and there were LOTS involved. It really was a superb produc on, one of the best school produc ons that I have seen (up there with last year’s Annie, and the previous year’s Ma lda). It was sold-out for all four nights, so thank you to everyone who bought a cket.
There have been trips to Rome, Krakow & Malaga, as well as the Bridgewater Hall, Knowsley Safari Park and Manchester University. We have had successes in Public Speaking compe ons and Football tournaments. Duke of Edinburgh expedi ons have been undertaken, and EPQ Projects have been presented and submi ed. Our Year 11 & 13 students are preparing for their exams, and they are looking forward to celebra ng with their ‘Leaving’ Prom & Dinner.
The Shrewsbury Youth Mission Team have been in College to talk to Year 11 & Sixth Form students about this Summer’s pilgrimage to Lourdes. They have also led day retreats for all Year 9 students, whilst Year 8 students visited Savio House.
The Liturgical Choir helped lead Mass at St Gregory’s on Racial Jus ce Sunday, and they will be at St Paul’s Parish on Sunday 11th May.
I hope you enjoy your read of our latest magazine. Thank you to all of our contributors and all those who help put it together.
God Bless, Tim Beesley
Principal
In This Issue...
Year 8 Retreat Day at Savio House
Year 9 Retreat Day
Pilgrims of Hope Jubliee Year 2025
Holocaust Memorial Day Service
Le Chayim: The Miraculous Survival of Ziggy Landscha
Reconcilia on Service
ECO News
The Big Clothes Movement
Love Your Planet Day
Eco Warriors
Big Walk and Big Wheel Challenge
Chinese New Year
St Patrick’s Day 2025
Student Success
Public Speaking
Music Success
All Hallows Darts Championship
Rugby
World Book Day Doors
An Bullying Ambassador News
Odd Socks Day March 21st
Frozen Jr - All Hallows 2025 Produc on
Year 10 Work Experience Feedback
Young Carer's A ernoon
News from the Subjects:
English
Ma Dickinson Visit
Macbeth
Year 8 Geography and Science Trip to Knowsley Safari Park
Year 8 History Trip to Quarry Bank Mill
Modern Foreign Languages Visit to Evuna
Futbol Lingol Day
Science
Duke of Edinburgh Award News
Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Expedi on: a tale of mud, rain and sodden students!
Duke of Edinburgh Young Leader
Enrichment Visits
Krakow Trip
Rome Trip
Spanish Trip
Farm News
Gloves
New Lambs
Big Farm Spring Clean
Sixth Form News
Core RE—Refugees
Toddler Takeover in A Level Language
A Level Literature Trip to Haworth
Tea and Talk
A J Bell Appren ceship Open Day
EPQ Presenta ons
Prayer
Year 8 Retreat Day at Savio House
In March, our Year 8 students has the opportunity to a end a day retreat with their form at Savio House, Bollington. This experience is part of their Lenten journey as 'Pilgrims of Hope'. Students spent me building rela onships, reflec ng and praying together as well as a me taking part in team building ac vi es. This included a session to 'Build Bridges' and reflect on who supports them and enables them to thrive. There was also space for some valuable recrea on and social me on the pitch and in the games room. Thank you to the staff who enabled this retreat to happen, Miss Feely, Miss Robertson, Mrs Su on, Miss Davies, Mr Glendinning, Mr Evans, Mrs Garvey, Mr Blades and Miss Walker. Thanks also to the Sixth Form students, Sherry, Faye, Aneeta and Somy who gave up their me to support the retreat.
Mrs Su on wanted to share pictures of how her form worked together as a team, in one of the exercises that relied on communica on and co ordina on.
Year 9 Retreat Day
In March, as part of our Jubilee Year celebra ons, our Year 9 students were also able to experience a day retreat with their form, this me in our Chapel. Each day a different form enjoyed a wide range of exci ng ac vi es and though ul, reflec ve prayer me in a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Our students were led by Clare, Michael and Sandy from the fantas c Shrewsbury Youth Mission Team; as well as their form tutor. The theme of the retreat was 'Clay Pots', they looked at the uniqueness of their crea on, their fragility and their strength. The inten on was to help create resilience in our students and to show them how to look for the light in different situa ons. The day included an opening reflec on, crea ng tealight holders from a ball of clay, a discussion about how to keep going a er a failure, a team game of Crosses and Cornerstones as well as lots of fun icebreakers. Another important theme of the retreat was to explore 2025 as the Jubilee Year of Hope and for students to look for signs of hope in the world around them as well as in their own lives. At the end of the day there a period of reflec on and prayer. Our students enjoyed the day away from lessons with the chance to spend me with their form and form teacher in our Chapel. Thank you to the SYMT and all their efforts with the students.
Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee Year 2025
Early in the Epiphany term in 'Celebra on of the Word' assemblies we launched ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ Jubilee Year 2025. This is a Year of Jubilee in the global Catholic Church. This only happens every 25 years, so it’s important that all parents, carers, students, staff and governors celebrate the occasion. In the Jubilee Year, school communi es are invited to join together as ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, pledging to work together for God’s kingdom of jus ce, peace and love. We reflected on the ways we as a Catholic College can respond to the Gospel of Luke: “TheÊSpiritÊofÊtheÊLordÊisÊonÊme,ÊbecauseÊheÊhasÊanointedÊmeÊtoÊproclaimÊgoodÊnews toÊtheÊpoor.ÊHeÊhasÊsentÊ meÊtoÊproclaimÊfreedomÊforÊtheÊprisonersÊandÊrecoveryÊofÊsightÊforÊtheÊblind,ÊtoÊsetÊtheÊoppressedÊfree,ÊtoÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ proclaimÊtheÊyearÊofÊtheÊLord’sÊfavour.'
We also explored the symbolism of the Jubilee Icon which is displayed in various forms and places throughout our College.
Holocaust Memorial Day Service
On Monday 27th January, a group of Year 9 students, accompanied by Mr Eardley and Ms Sinclair a ended the Holocaust Memorial Day service in Macclesfield Town Hall. A er an introduc on by the town's mayor and a prayer, the audience listened to a moving talk by Leah Burman, who told the story of her father, Ziggy Landscha who survived life in several concentra on camps and a death march during the Second World War. There was also a two minute silence allowing me for reflec on. Our students lit candles to remember the Holocaust.
Le Chayim: The Miraculous Survival of Ziggy Landscha
Ziggy was born in 1925 in a town called Chorzow, about an hour’s drive away from Cracow and near the border with Germany. He had a younger brother, Mayer, and parents, Chaim and Liba. They lived a tradi onal orthodox Jewish life in a well-established Jewish community. Chaim, owned a food shop which supplied everyone in the town. Life was turned upside down following the start of the Second World War. There wasn't me to escape from Poland and in 1940 they were transported to the Cracow ghe o. Ziggy was 15. Liba was murdered here one day simply going about her shopping. Ziggy, Chaim, and Mayer were moved to Plaszow labour camp, just over the bridge from Cracow, and in May 1944 in ca le trucks, to Gross - Rosen concentra on camp in Germany. Life was very tough and Chaim, only in his for es, died in Ziggy’s arms from overwork. Ziggy and Mayer were taken on a death march in the freezing winter of January 1945, dressed only in camp uniform, without shoes, and sleeping in the open air, to the notorious Mauthausen concentra on camp in Austria. They were one of the few to survive. However, Mayer was extremely ill and on arrival was separated from Ziggy, never to be seen again. Mayer died soon a er, aged 18, from starva on and exhaus on. Ziggy, now aged 19, starving too, was taken under the wing of a small group of Czech poli cal prisoners who generously shared their meagre ra ons. They could feel the end of war was approaching and so they decided to escape. The group dug a tunnel under the fence and on May 6th, escaped under the wire taking Ziggy with. Ironically, this was the date the Americans liberated the camp. Ziggy was shot through the back of his neck and his thigh. The next thing he remembers was waking up in hospital. The liberators had rescued him. In hospital for three weeks Ziggy was nursed back to good health. On recep on to the hospital Ziggy weighed only 48 kilos. An average weight for healthy male of his age and height is 74 kilos. Ziggy then spent some years working out what to do in his life and where to live. The Jewish community had been wiped out in Chorzow. He travelled to a few countries, eventually mee ng Renia, another Holocaust survivor, se ling in London, and in their re rement, in Israel. They married in 1951, had 3 daughters, 5 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. He has always been posi ve and looked forward. His mo o has been Le Chayim, a Jewish toast meaning “To Life”. This, then, is the miraculous story of Ziggy’s survival. He is the only one to have survived from his nuclear family. Had it not been for his own resilience throughout the war, the Czech prisoners and the brave escape, he would surely have died.
Reconcilia on Service
On the last day of term before the Easter holidays, we met as a whole school for a live streamed Service of Reconcilia on in prepara on for Easter. This provided an opportunity for reflec on and commitment as students completed their Holy Door pledge. Thank you to Mr Thompson and our Liturgical choir and chaplaincy group who help to lead us through an examina on of conscience and to Fathers Mar n, Tomasz and Pascal for joining us for the Sacrament of Reconcilia on. It was lovely to see so many students take up this opportunity. We hope they had a happy and holy Easter and enjoyed their cream eggs, if they lasted that long!
ECO News
The Big Clothes Movement
The St Mary's RC Congleton Confirma on candidates helped out brilliantly at a charity event on Saturday 25th January. They were organising the clothes for children and later, the accessories. This was ahead of the sale for The Big Clothes Movement, a "pre-loved" event where good quality women’s and children’s clothes, shoes and accessories are available to buy, including niche items such as maternity wear and sleepsuits. It was free entry and those a ending could take as much as they liked, paying only £2 per large shopping bag filled on exit. It was such a busy but rewarding morning. Well done to our students who so willingly and maturely supported this event.
Love Your Planet Day
At All Hallows we celebrate this day annually to help to raise awareness of the plight of our planet. This links directly with our Core Value of Stewardship and the Catholic Social Teaching messages that have been shared during Liturgical Prayer. It is also a reminder of the messages of St Francis of Assisi (800th anniversary of Can cle of Crea on) and Pope Francis' 10th Anniversary of Laudato Si - Caring for our Common Home encyclical. Our Students were able to replace one item of uniform [excluding their blazer] with a red or a green item.
Eco Warriors
In late March, the members of the Eco Council worked to support the Eco Warriors of Christ the King Primary School. Helping to raise awareness of the harm to rainforests and habitats of endangered species. The school were fabulously welcoming and the students engaged posi vely towards crea ng their protest flag. More informa on on progress to follow! Well done to George O'D, Jack T, Charlie M, Lo e D, Lucas N and Sony E for their fantas c efforts and being great ambassadors for our community. Special thanks too to Mrs A Fazl-Lavassani who drove us through the process of designing our protest flags and will be instrumental in making this project happen.
Big Walk and Big Wheel Challenge
For a fortnight in early April, our College Community have took part in the Sustrans Big Walk and Big Wheel. We saw an increase in par cipa on from less than 2% to over 7%. Sadly, we fell far short of those schools in the UK who achieved 100% but I am so pleased that we saw so many students take part, in spite of our difficult catchment area, where so many rely on buses. I also think it reflects the poor infrastructure we have for students (and staff) to feel safe as they ride their bikes. We con nue to lobby our MPs to help support our safe riding. I am delighted that Rannoch RW in Year 10 won the prize of Tony's Chocolonely Easter Eggs ( Fairtrade!) for his commitment to this ini a ve and challenge. He has religiously provided details of his walks and I am delighted for him. I do wish to thank others who have also shared their runs and evidenced their dedica on too. Please do keep up these great habits. I am sure you will see benefits from physically and mentally. Well done to all who took part!
Mrs Su on
Chinese New Year
January 29th saw the start of Chinese New Year, 2025 is the Year of Snake. This day on the lunar calendar marks the beginning of a new year – the Year of Snake. To celebrate the special event, students from our Mandarin classes had a lot of ac vi es to celebrate and all had great fun. Our students truly enjoyed the experience and appreciated this great opportunity to shine in their Mandarin during the Chinese New Year. Staff were very pleased with students achievement through the week's ac vi es
From 27th - 31st January, students from Year 7 to 10 had a special Chinese New Year Class. During the lesson, students learned how to say happy new year in Mandarin, what Chinese people do for spring fes val and their zodiac sign. Students were able to win a red pocket with printed Chinese money inside when they could say Happy New Year in Chinese correctly.
On 27th Jan Monday, Year 7 and 8 Mandarin students had a MEP trip at Confucius Ins tute of University of Manchester. During the day, students had cultural workshops about New Year taster session, Chinese songs and tradi onal instruments session and folk dance session. At lunch, students enjoyed delicious Chinese food like egg fried rice, spring rolls, fried noodles, curry chicken, etc in the Chinese restaurant. A er lunch student went shopping in the Chinese supermarket. By ge ng close to Chinese culture, students got the chance to integrate what they learned from textbook into the tangible ac vi es in daily life. What they experienced at Confucius Ins tute and China town will also prompt their future interest and inspira on in their Mandarin classes. Lots of students from Year 7 expressed their excitement about this trip. Sofia S said, with a big smile that she ‘really enjoyed it and felt grateful to College for organizing the trip’.
Although our Year 11 students were busy with their GCSE prepara on, they were very happy to taste the Chinese snacks. Poppy W and Charlo e A said that ”it was fun and we can learn more about Chinese culture than just a normal lesson.”
On 29th January, our staff decorated the canteen with Chinese lanterns. The school served many delicious and authen c foods with Oriental flavours, adding more New Year’s atmosphere to every bite.
St Patrick’s Day 2025
In what has become an annual tradi onal All Hallows, Ms Turley in our Maths Department once again donned a themed costume for St Patrick’s day this year and distributed enamel shamrock badges to staff an s ckers to students. She also decorated the Maths corridor. Beannachtaí na Féile Padraig Ort.
Student Success
Public Speaking
On Monday 27th January, a team of three Year 10 students competed in the Rotary Youth Speaks public speaking compe on in Biddulph. Jayna J, Jack T and Audrey F competed against Congleton High School and Fallibroome in the Senior category. The standard was extremely high and all teams delivered well prepared speeches- but in the end our team from All Hallows won the heat. The judges complimented the team on their professionalism and teamwork, as well as the quality and delivery of the speech on the harmful psychological effects of mobile phone technology. They progress to the next round and will represent All Hallows in the district final on 3rd March. Well Done!
Mr Megson
It was a pleasure to hear Grace T, Year 12 take part in the North West Catenian Public Speaking Compe on in March. Grace presented a very engaging, compelling and humorous talk en tled, you are only young once but can stay immature indefinitely’.
In early February, there was another Rotary public speaking compe on for intermediate and senior students. Well done to senior team: George O'D, Joe R & Giles W and Intermediate team: Milly M, Jessica W &Darcy A.
Music Success
Congratula ons to Charlo e C who won the KS3 Instrumental category at the Cheshire East Young Musician of the Year Awards 2025 in March.
All Hallows Darts Championship
A er 4 weeks and 52 par cipants it was the down to the final 4 of the 2025 Darts Championship at All Hallows. The first semi-final saw Tyler D take on Ma his B, where Ma his came out with a 3-0 victory to see him in the final. In the other half of the draw saw the last remaining teacher, Miss Turley take on tournament favourite Josh C. Josh came out with a 3-0 victory to set up a compe ve final. The final was best out of 5 legs, 501 format where both Josh and Ma his hit some heavy scoring. Ma his had a couple of chances to take an early lead but missed doubles le Josh the opportunity to break throw and take the lead. Josh ended up winning the final 3-0 and won the Championship. Mr Ives would like to take the opportunity to thank all students and staff who were involved; those that par cipated, helped score games and those that came down to support.
Rugby
Congratula ons to Frankie J (7C). She, along with her teammates at Manchester Rubies Under-12 Girls Rugby Team, travelled down to Barnet, North London home of Saracens recently. Frankie had been chosen to represent Sale Sharks Women’s team and in effect, the North of England at a fes val of rugby, prior to the Women’s Premiership Grand Final. The girls were superb, playing fantas c rugby to the delight of the crowd. They won three of their four games and a fabulous me was had by all, and especially Frankie. Well done, Frankie!
World Book Day Doors
In what has become an annual All Hallows World Book Day, students and staff decorated classroom doors again this year with a bookish theme.
An Bullying Ambassador News
In February, Mrs Lewis took 10 students from Year 7 - Year 11 to an An -Bullying Training day in Derby, run by the Diana Award charity. The students took part in workshops, learning what bullying behaviours are, how to help someone who is experiencing bullying, and how to look a er their own and others' wellbeing. We learned that bullying is REPETETIVE, NEGATIVE and INTENTIONAL and can be VERBAL, INDIRECT or PHYSICAL. We also looked at some fantas c ideas of how to tackle bullying behaviours and con nue promo ng an inclusive and welcome environment at school. The An -Bullying Ambassadors have so far won two badges for their work - the inclusion and the wellbeing badge. They are now working towards their community badge and have lots of brilliant ideas off the back of their training day.
World Down Syndrome Day 21st March
Our students and staff took part once again in the annual World Down Syndrome Day and were encouraged to wear odd socks. The idea behind wearing odd socks is to highlight the uniqueness of every individual and to celebrate differences, just as those with Down syndrome have their own special quali es. By par cipa ng, we’ll not only raise awareness but also create a posi ve and inclusive environment for everyone.
Frozen Jr - All Hallows 2025 Produc on
A er months of rehearsal, this week our talented students have performed for their family and friends Frozen Jr. The shows have been fantas c, a real tribute to the hard work of students both on and backstage, as well as the staff involved, especially Mr Bailey.
It was sold-out for all four nights, so thank you to everyone who bought a cket. Here are the names of many people who made this fantas c produc on possible.
The Performing Arts PTA ‘Dream Team’, who helped out every night:
· Jess Lopez, who set up everything for the 'Front of House', led the PTA mee ngs, and organised coordinated everyone
· Aimee & Karen Jerdin, who made over 125 costumes, sourcing & styling all the wigs, and hand-making all Elsa & Anna costumes.
· Carol Sharples for full weekends, every night of show, urgent deliveries & pick ups, and sourcing and organising props
· Louise Whitburn, for two full weekends, every night of the show, and full make-up design
· Katherine Cooke, for every night of the show, as well as mul ple, major prop development
· Imogen Shelley, for driving to mul ple loca ons, picking up and delivering the set
Addi onally, other parents & carers who helped out on the evenings of the show:
· Nancy Sil
· Charlo e Aggersbury
· Cheryl Bush
· Claire Lawton
· Izzy Lawton
· Catherine McBride
· Hannah Maguire
· Kelly Vanaudenaerde
· Kim Blisse
Not forge ng our fantas c staff team:
· Rachel Smith - musical director, full costume logis cal organisa on, with Aimee & Karen
· Izzy Richardson - choreographed the full show and managed backstage
· Beth Shatwell - choreography support, and backstage help
· Mr Thompson - technical support, and musical direc on
· Mr Bailey – Director!
Audience members were also able to have their picture taken with the cast. Here's Anna and Elsa with two young fans!
Year 10 Work Experience Feedback
We would like to congratulate our Year 10 students on their work experience in March They came back to College with many stories to tell of their placements. Some stories of their me include:
"I worked in the head office of a fashion company. I really enjoyed my me there; I learned about all the departments, such as prints, buying, designing, marke ng etc. I also got to visit a supplier which was fun. My favourite bit was crea ng my own print".
"I worked in a recep on. From this work experience I learned to be confident in front on people".
"I worked at St Alban's Catholic Primary School. This week I worked in recep on suppor ng the children. It was a very good experience and most of the children were very cute! However it is a really ring job and I really appreciated the teacher".
"Worked in a small bakery. I took from my experience that when slicing onions, put cold water on your wrist to prevent your eyes from watering!".
"Amazing experience. It was nice to see all my old teachers again. The kids were great. I got to read to them".
"It gave me a be er understanding of what working is like and it was enjoyable to be of help".
"I found shelving books at Waterstone's very relaxing. However, it was very ring".
"I learned what it is like to work in an office 9-5".
"I liked the teamwork of the company and the mee ngs were interes ng as well".
"I got to know what goes on in a football club behind the scenes".
"It was a very interes ng experience, understanding the world of language teaching".
""I enjoyed learning new skills, however it was very ring. Really fun experience: the cuisine was amazing".
We would like to thanks students, parents and the employers for their help and support with this work experience which forms a valuable of our careers educa on offer.
Mr Blades
Young Carer's A ernoon
At the end of term, we held our termly young carer event. Guests from Cheshire East, school health services and CGL came along to provide a variety of support informa on and wellbeing ac vi es. It was a great turnout and a lovely feeling of community for the students. If your child lives with someone who has a physical and/or mental health condi on and you would like more informa on about how we support young carers in College, please contact: c.clements@allhallows.org.uk or l.grimshaw@allhallows.org.uk.
News from the Subjects
English
Ma Dickinson Visit
Author, film maker and mountain climber Ma Dickinson visited College again this week to speak to our Year 7 students about his wri ng and adventures on Mount Everest and the importance of reading. In an inspira onal and ac on packed presenta on he described the life of a documentary film maker on Everest and all the highs and lows that entailed. He spoke about how his wri ng career developed from a love of reading as a child, the book that started his fascina on with Mount Everest; The Ascent of Everest that he borrowed from his much loved grandfather, when younger. Our students were spellbound by the photos and videos of life at Base Camp and Ma ’s climbs to the summit.
Ma then signed books that our students had bought and delivered three workshops on crea ve wri ng in the a ernoon. The theme was Lost in the Storm and produced some outstanding wri ng from our students. The visit was a great success and we hope to welcome Ma back again next year.
Macbeth
Students across Years 10 & 11 had the opportunity to watch the stage produc on, Macbeth. It was lovely to receive feedback from the theatre: Good a ernoon
I just wanted to reach out to you as I know that All Hallows brought a party of students to Daneside Theatre last night to watch Macbeth.
I would like to thank you for bringing such well mannered, well behaved and apprecia ve students . All of our front of house volunteers commented on what a lovely group of young people they were, and the cast no ced what a good atmosphere there was among the audience too. We really appreciate you all coming along. Please pass on our thanks and respect to all those who a ended. Many thanks
Year 8 Geography and Science Trip to Knowsley Safari Park
In late March, our Year 8 students together with Science and Geography staff headed to Knowsley Safari Park for a joint Geography and Science trip. The day was a very busy one with a range of ac vi es for the students to take part in and understand the work of the staff at the park. Students had a coach tour of the park observing and spo ng the animals that live in the 'wild'. There was also a chance for the students to see a Sea Lions display and
Year 8 History Trip to Quarry Bank Mill
In early January, our Year 8 students and their History teachers travelled to Styal to visit one of Britain's greatest industrial site to support their current topic in their History lessons, the Industrial Revolu on. Students toured the extensive sight and visited the Mill which is a rare surviving eighteenth-century co on mill, built by the industrialist Samuel Greg, with working heritage machinery. They then spent me in the Appren ce House formerly the home of the appren ces and superintendents. They were amazed to find out that up to 90 children were housed there, working 10-hour days in the mill. The final stop on the tour was Styal Village which is an early nineteenth-century village, built by the Greg family for their mill workers.
Modern Foreign Languages Visit to Evuna
On a Tuesday in March, Year 9 Spanish students had the opportunity to visit Evuna in Manchester to prac ce their Spanish speaking skills and taste a variety of Spanish tapas dishes. They all enjoyed the experience and amongst other dishes, their favourites were; calamares, patatas bravas, pincho de pollo and tor lla de patatas. ¡Qué bien!
Futbol Lingol Day
Period 1 and 2 all Year 8 and 9 students a ended a talk from Futbol Lingo in the College Hall about the importance of speaking different languages. They believe that it is vital learning addi onal languages and believe that we can use football as a tool to promote and teach languages, drive engagement in modern foreign languages in the UK and Interna onal Schools. The aim is to champion and highlight the importance of speaking different languages and how impac ul they can be. The mission is to not just #ConnectTheWorldof Football, but to use football as a vehicle to inspire a genera on of future linguists.
During the rest of the day smaller groups of Year 9 students a ended either a French, Spanish or German workshop, depending on the language they are currently studying. The workshop saw students working in groups to pitch a given country as the loca on for the next Football World Cup.
Science
Congratula ons to all those students who took part in the Send Your Work to Space Compe on set by Liverpool University which asked for students to design a logo to be used for sending experiments into space to the Interna onal Space Sta on. Good luck to all those who entered.
Duke of Edinburgh Award News
Students Conquer Welsh Mountains in DofE Challenge!
Imagine scaling rugged peaks, braving the elements, and even rescuing a cow! That's exactly what this year’s All Hallows students faced during their recent Duke of Edinburgh prac ce expedi ons in the wild Welsh mountains.
Conquering Challenges
The journey wasn't all cow rescuing heroics. The Gold group tackled demanding terrain, traversing rocky slopes before reaching a well-deserved lunch break with a breath taking view of a massive quarry. Mr Barron praised the students for their efforts, "It was fantas c to see them working together, sharing meals and with the new nomobile phone rule in place, seeing them resort to tradi onal ac vi es like playing cards and actually talking to each other instead of scrolling through their phones.”
Silver Stars
The Silver DofE group arrived the day a er, eager to test their naviga onal skills. Each day saw them me culously plo ng routes, deciphering maps, and relying on their compasses to navigate. The DofE assessors were impressed, commending the groups on their excep onal naviga on and resilience. "Not a single complaint about the cold or rain," they remarked. A big congratula on to all the students - this gruelling expedi on wasn't just about reaching the finish line; it was about teamwork, resilience, and the thrill of pushing their limits in the wild.
Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Expedi on: a tale of mud, rain
and sodden students!
Over fi y students recently ventured into the wilds around Tarporley for their Bronze prac ce expedi on. As expected, the Bri sh weather switched from bright sunshine to rain making some of the ground extremely muddy and difficult to walk on. A er the first day’s trek, groups started to arrive at the campsite and a er dropping their backpacks began pu ng up tents and cooking their evening meals before a game of football broke out. Rain arrived with the darkness around 6pm forcing many sensible students into their tents. Other decided to stand out in the rain for many hours and were surprised when they had a very uncomfortable nights sleep in damp clothes. The next stage in the process is to provide Mr Barron with your groups for the Qualifying expedi on on Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd May. Groups can have 4 to 7 members. Well done to everybody involved, Mr Barron
Duke of Edinburgh Young Leader
Congratula ons to Haru P who has become our first ever DofE Young Leader. DofE Young Leaders are a key part of the DofE Charity’s desire to put young people at the heart of DofE delivery. Young Leaders will inspire, mo vate, guide and support young people through their DofE programme. Working alongside adult leaders within the centre, they will choose which ac vi es they will support with and then access the appropriate training from the DofE Charity. Haru successfully passed the recruitment process and is looking forward to helping DofE par cipants by passing on his knowledge and suppor ng them with gathering evidence for their volunteering, skill and physical sec ons.
Congratula ons Haru, from Mr Barron and the rest of the All Hallows DofE team.
Enrichment Visits
Krakow Trip
Over half term Year 10 and 11 students visited the Polish city of Krakow to learn about the city's role in World War Two and the impact of the Nazi occupa on.
Day 1
A er a day travelling our group headed straight to their hotel to se le in. They went out to a nearby restaurant serving tradi onal Polish food to get acquainted with the local food.
Day 2
Our group headed out a er breakfast to the town of Auschwitz for a detailed tour of the permanent exhibi ons and buildings at the Auschwitz I Main Camp and the most important original camp buildings in Auschwitz II Birkenau: prisoner barracks, the unloading pla orm and the ruins of gas chamber and crematoria II or III.
On returning to Krakow there was some me for the group to explore the old town and then eat their evening meal at a restaurant in Krakow's Rynek Glowny, the central square.
Day 3
On the agenda for Wednesday was a three hour guided walking tour of the city. This included the war me ghe o of Podgorze and Schindler’s Factory, the Old Town Square, University District, Wawel Hill and Kazimierz, the former Jewish Quarter. The students had a guided tour of Schindler's Factory In the evening the group ate in the Hard Rock Cafe.
Day 4
For the final ac vity of the visit, our students were given a guided tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine which included the museum. They then headed to the airport for their flight home.
Rome Trip
Day 1
Despite the 4 am start there was no rest for Team All Hallows. A quick breakfast at the airport and we were boarded and ready to fly.
For Liv, who had never flown before the turbulence was nothing to her, but not for a Hen group screaming at the back of the plane!
Landing in Rome we breezed through the airport only realising once on the coach that we had skipped passport control all together!
Lunch was a personal choice today, while some played it safe with Big Macs, others tucked into Burrata panini, pasta and pizza, ‘When in Rome’!
19,000 steps or 12.4 km later we had visited the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and eaten gelato! We the entered the Holy Door at one of the pilgrimage churches in Rome - Santa Maria Maggiore, where we went for Mass.
Day 2
An early start but worth it to miss the worst crowds at the Coliseum and the Forum. Lunch followed by a visit to San Clemente Basilica to study the ‘Tree of Life’ mosaic then gelato at Piazza di Spagna. Each much needed break provided an opportunity to shop! 24,000 steps or 15.3 km later and we had an impromptu piano concert courtesy of Carrie and Henry in the restaurant.
Day 3
Trying to get 26 people on the same metro at rush hour was a challenge, but 20 minutes later were all at the Va can museum ready for our guided tour. The an cipa on of seeing the Sis ne Chapel meant all the corridors of tapestries and Roman busts made it worthwhile. We took a short cut direct to St Peter’s Basilica with an opportunity to enter the second holy door in as many days.
Once inside we saw the Pieta and the dome, both created by Michelangelo. Lunch was in the Va can City followed by, yes you guessed it, gelato in Piazza Navona before our final shop! A red but sa sfied group of students and staff then headed to the airport for our flight home.
Spanish Trip
Day 1
On Friday morning, we landed safely in Málaga, filled with excitement for our adventure. We kicked off our trip with a thrilling cable car ride, enjoying breath taking views of Benalmádena.
A er that, we made a brief stop at the beach, where the boys played football and girls relaxed under the sun and took in the stunning view. To finish off our first day, we enjoyed our first tapas meal, tas ng a range of delicious dishes. It was a very long day but everyone was amazing. All the walking and fresh air meant almost everyone was in bed and asleep in minutes!
Day 2
Saturday was another exci ng day for us all as we embarked on a coach trip to Seville! Our first stop was the iconic football stadium, where we explored different trophies, past kits, the changing rooms, the press room, and much more. It was a fantas c glimpse into the world of football and the history of the team.
A er the stadium visit, we took a well-deserved break at Plaza de España. We enjoyed our packed lunches while admiring the stunning architecture and even picked up some souvenirs. In the a ernoon, we headed to Las Setas, the largest mber structure in the world, which was an impressive sight. Following that, everyone had some free me to shop before regrouping for our evening meal. We enjoyed another delicious tapas meal, with some students bravely trying new dishes. A er a fulfilling day, we returned to the coach and made our way back to the hostel, ready for a good night's sleep before the next day's adventure in Granada!
Day 3
Granada, we had the chance to explore the stunning Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich history and architecture of the Moorish period. Wandering through its intricate palaces and lush gardens, we were cap vated by the beauty and serenity of this iconic landmark.
A er soaking in the sights, we indulged in more delicious tapas, sampling the local flavours that Granada is famous for. The culinary journey didn't stop there; we headed to an olive oil mill where we had the opportunity to make our own paella! It was a fun and engaging experience, and we quickly discovered that we had some talented chefs in our group. The aroma of saffron and fresh ingredients filled the air as we cooked, and the best part was tas ng the fruits of our labour.
Before wrapping up our day, we had the chance to buy some locally made olive oil, which was a perfect souvenir to take home. Later that evening, we returned to the hostel, and some of us took a li le stroll to unwind before heading to bed. It was a day filled with culture, and culinary delights, leaving us with wonderful memories of Granada.
Day 4
We kicked off our morning with two hour Spanish lessons, where we had the chance to learn some useful phrases.
A er our lessons, we enjoyed even more tapas, which was the perfect way to fuel up for our next stop: the Picasso Museum. Exploring the museum allowed us to appreciate the genius of Picasso and view some of his most iconic works.
Later on we had an opportunity to do some shopping to pick up some more souvenirs and explore local shops. To top off our Spanish adventure, we ended the day at a tradi onal Churrería, where we enjoyed the classic treat of churros con chocolate. The crispy churros paired with rich chocolate made for a sweet ending to a wonderful day.
We collected our luggage and it was me to head to the airport! Just before boarding, we awarded students with cer ficates and 'souvenir bags' to help them remember this trip. The flight was slightly delayed, which meant a lot of students were catching up on much needed rest, however a small number s ll found the energy to play 'UNO'!
Farm News
Gloves
In January, sheared wool from our farm sheep was put to good use by Mrs Vergara, our Reprographic Technician. She carded, spun and ki ed a sample into a handy pair of fingerless gloves for the cold weather.
New Lambs
Before we broke up for the Easter holidays, two lambs were born on our farm. All sheep are doing well!
Big Farm Spring Clean
On Saturday, 29th March, over 40 members of the All Hallows community came together for the Big Farm Spring Clean, and what an incredible effort it was! In less than an hour, the skip was completely filled, and we made great progress around the farm. Old, ro ng structures were removed, fences were repaired, and the old bird aviary was dismantled. Fallen branches were cleared, allowing the grass to grow, and the garden area was died up to create a temporary lamb nursery.
The site is now cleared and ready to welcome the summer months ahead. A huge thank you to everyone who came out and contributed their me and effort. It was wonderful to see so many people suppor ng our school farm. We couldn't have done it without you, and we truly appreciate everyone who gave up their Saturday to help make the farm a be er place for all.
Thank you once again to our amazing volunteers!
Sixth Form News
Core RE—Refugees
Refugees Welcome Cheshire East Chair and ex-teacher of 25 years, Nicky Campbell visited our Year 12 students this week as part of their General RE course. The proud mum of Gogglebox BAFTA winner Leon Campbell, told us all about the charity that she chairs here in Cheshire East. Then our students were asked to consider various ques ons to help empathise with refugees. Nicky began by encouraging the students to think of the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke’s Gospel). They were asked to think about the ques on “who is my neighbour” and this was then linked to their considera on in rela on to a refugee. This, again, was linked to the current Ukraine crisis. However, Mrs Campbell was clear to point out that she got involved in the charity when the Syrian refugees were fleeing because of war, followed by the Afghan refugees in August 2021 and in the last couple of years, the Ukraine crisis. Nicky explained that the reason she got involved was because of her own family history; Jewish pogroms forced her ancestors to leave a part of the world we now know as Ukraine.
Students talked about the the real difficul es that refugees might encounter when travelling and se ling in a news country and related to the students who have come to our College from Middle East countries, Ukraine and more recently, the Chagos Islands.
Nicky and Mark, her fellow volunteer, talked about their main concern being feeling safe. She helped us to think what it is that is the final straw that forces people to leave their homes and country. Mark (a water engineer by trade) then explained to our students, using a selec on of photos to understand about life in a refugee camp by describing his work for Oxfam and Save the Children. He has also lived in Ukraine for a while, and helped us to learn how dangerous it was in Ukraine for those experiencing the war, as well how difficult it is to deal with the cold, especially without electricity or hot water. His work in Afghanistan was different again and he was welcomed because he was there to help provide running water and sanita on. In Ethiopia he helped us see what the locals had to do to get water as they ba led a drought. The river water was 20 miles away and people could only carry enough drinking water, water that wasn’t safe to drink.
Mark also le us with the thought that there are many interes ng jobs in the charity sector. Also, listen to the stories of those who are displaced as they have been through some dreadful things and give them me respect.
Mrs Campbell talked about what service Refugees Welcome offers such as providing English Langauage lessons. She reminded students to think about the quality of their dona ons to such chari es. The most important thing to consider is the culture and religious beliefs of the refugees; ensuring suitable clothing and food dona ons for instance. She encouraged gi s of money instead; enabling the refugees to buy what they needed. However, Nicky also made a plea for the students to donate their me by encouraging them to consider the ages of the people forced to leave their homelands and come to the UK. These people were their own age and they can do things that would be valued by the young people with people their own ages. This might also help our students to help with mee ng their DofE and Sixth Form volunteer hours obliga ons.
Finally, Nicky advised that there is a drop in at St Michael’s Church in Macclesfield each Saturday for hosts and the refugees and any volunteers would be welcome. If you are interested in suppor ng their work, please check the website for details, including a QR code to explain further.
Thanks to Nicky Campbell for her inspira onal talk!
Toddler Takeover in A Level Language
In March, our Year 13 English language students had some special visitors in school... pre-schoolers! As part of their studies of child language acquisi on the 6th formers were excited to meet some real youngsters aged 0-5 and their grown ups, hear them talking and discuss how they speak. As part of the visit they played with toys, did some colouring, and took their special guests on a visit of the school farm, where they got to feed some of the animals. We think the people who enjoyed it the most were the parents, who got to sit back and enjoy a rare hot drink hands-free!
A Level Literature Trip to Haworth
On Friday 7th March a group of A level English Literature students travelled into the Yorkshire Dales to Haworth, home of the Bronte sisters. A er a night spent in the YHA, a very compe ve quiz night and even more compe ve games of pool, we woke up to an uncharacteris cally sunny day and headed into Haworth and to the Bronte Parsonage Museum. We a ended two seminar-style talks with one of the Bronte experts who gave us some important contextual insights into Bronte history and also a taste of university with a cri cal interpreta ons talk. A er a bit of a wander around the highly Instagrammable Haworth high-street, we finished off our trip with a hike over the moors to the Bronte waterfall. We le feeling that we had embodied Catherine and Heathcliff and feeling prepared for our upcoming Wuthering Heights exam!
Tea and Talk
As part of our mental well-being programme, our mental health first aiders organised a tea and talk morning in the Common Room. Students came in comfy clothes and had a chance to spend me with friends, drinking tea and hot chocolate, with a few muffins thrown in!
'It was nice to have a stress free start to the day.' Cara, Year 13 'It put me in a good mood and mo vated me to learn. I enjoyed the chance to be in my comfy clothes to!' Darcy, Year 13
'I was really impressed that school bought the marshmallows I asked for!' Keira, Year 13 'It was a lovely atmosphere in the common room and I saw a real difference in their stress levels not just on
A J Bell Appren ceship Open Day
A group of Year 12 students a ended AJ Bell's annual appren ceship open day, where they heard about the 2 different types of appren ceships offered by the company. Students took part in a speed da ng type networking session with current appren ces and the a Q and A session. They also got to catch up with Ma lda, who le All Hallows last year and had previously a ended went to the open day, going on to gain a place at AJ Bell. A very busy and informa ve day with lots learnt.
EPQ Presenta ons
Year 13 students who have been working on their EPQ (Extended Project Qualifica on) presented their findings confidently with expert knowledge in a wide range of subject areas, there really was something for everyone! All staff and students came away having learnt something new. Students have been working on these research projects since September and it is a great opportunity for them to gain independent study and research skills, something which is extremely valuable as they progress into higher educa on or the workplace.
This is what the students said about their EPQ Presenta on A ernoon:
Orla - US Government policy on abor on
At the EPQ presenta on, we adopted a market-style approach, through which all the presenta ons were evenly do ed around the room to make them accessible to the supervisors and teachers walking around. The presenta ons were a fantas c opportunity for everyone to showcase their independent research, developed skills, and the challenges they faced throughout the process.
Will - Is our vo ng system fit for purpose?
The EPQ Presenta on was an excellent opportunity to showcase months of research to staff who were genuinely interested in what I had researched! To see all the work come together in this presenta on has been incredibly rewarding, and whilst I didn’t manage to get around many other presenta ons, those I did see were insigh ul, whether they were about the Death Penalty, Abor on, or Formula 1! The EPQ, overall, really has been an amazing opportunity to expand my studies into a specific area of interest.
Sam - Chris anity, Trump and the red wall EPQ presenta on a ernoon was a great opportunity to showcase all our hard work! From the Church to motorsport, poli cs to cancer, literature to the environment, there was a superb array of topics up for discussion. It was par cularly enjoyable to chat
Students who completed an EPQ and the project tle:
William C
Should the UK replace first-past-the-post with propor onal representa on to improve democra c representa on?
Annabel D
How does studying octopuses contribute to our understanding of human biology and technology?
Sam G
Chris anity, Trump and the Red Wall.
Orla B
Does the US government have an ethical responsibility to provide abor on access to all women, across all states?
Dante C
How can robo cs and AI help with efficiency and safety within manufacturing?
Oliver C
How the development of super conductors can be used in oncology.
Tabitha E
Sylvia Plath’s poems in the collec on ‘Ariel’ are merely confessional opposed to being a generalisable comment on the female experience’. In light of this view, discuss the social impact, or lack thereof, of Sylvia Plath’s poetry.
Issy G
To what extent would ethical concerns surrounding body swap technology impact job recruitment?
Envere H
Is there a link between endometriosis and cardiovascular diseases?
Bethan H
How have sociolinguis c factors contributed to the influence of French on English?
Cara J
The effects of the menstrual cycle on an elite athletes performance.
Isabel L
How exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) affects the development and maintenance of rela onships throughout life.
Georgia M
How was the power of ar cle 48 abused in Nazi Germany and how would its reinstatement affect the modern world?
Alannah N
How does a Formula 1 Drivers physical and mental health impact their performance?
Ava R
Can carbon neutral infrastructure solidify the future of urban sustainability in Europe?
Daniella S
Why are women more prone to ACL injuries than men and what are the key factors contribu ng to this disparity?
Casie S
How unconscious male bias has led to the lack of women in senior posi ons within businesses
Harry S
Is the Death Penalty too dangerous to reinstate in the UK?
Daria T
The use of nanopar cles for targeted drug delivery and can they be used for cancer treatment in the future?
Prayer
Risen Christ, when darkness overwhelms us may your dawn beckon.
When fear paralyses us may your touch release us.
When grief torments us may your peace enfold us.
When memories haunt us may your presence heal us.
When justice fails us may your anger ignite us.
When apathy stagnates us may your challenge renew us.
When courage leaves us may your spirit inspire us.
When despair grips us may your hope restore us.
And when death threatens us may your resurrection light lead us.
Amen.
Annabel Shilson-Thomas/CAFOD
