Out of the Blue - Summer 2015

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out blue of the

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The Blue Coat School Founded by the Church of England in 1722

Pre-Prep Celebrates Marking 50 glorious years PAGES 10 & 11

Bugsy Malone Gangsters, Guns and Glamorous Girls what more could you want?

PAGES 12 & 13

Head First Many and varied are the tales told below of the activities that have taken place beyond the classroom this term – and the sheer range is astonishing! This is all to the good, because one of our key goals as a school is to offer the children as rich a diversity of experience as we can. As people we are all different, and have the potential to shine in very different spheres: how important is it then that we should have the opportunity to discover our own strengths and to flourish as we pursue our unique interests!

One part of the school that has flourished conspicuously over the past 50 years is the Pre-Prep Department, and great has been the excitement recently as we have held our very own Golden Jubilee celebrations. The ‘acorns’ of Pre-Prep are the ‘oaks’ of the future, and we pray that the children who have received so much as they have passed through Pre-Prep and Prep will want to give something back to the world when they are of an age to do so.

To those who are leaving us this year we extend our best wishes, hoping that they will long remember and live by the Blue Coat Values they have been taught: Be Truthful, Patient and Kind; Courageously Persevere; Show Respect to Others.

Alan Browning, Headmaster Front cover: Some of the oldest and youngest Pre-Prep children share in cutting the Pre-Prep 50th birthday cake

Term Round-up No one could accuse those at Blue Coat of letting the grass grow under their feet – even during the Summer Term.

Within the first week back Year 6 had already taken part in a Graphic Design Workshop before disappearing off to foreign parts to sample la bonne vie in France. Whilst they were revelling in chateau life abroad Year 1 were storming the battlements slightly nearer to home in Tamworth. Barely a week later Year 2 left campus to explore Weston Park. Other trips included Transition visiting Ash End House Farm and Reception going to Twycross Zoo. Year 4 went in search of the Bard in Stratford-upon-Avon and Year 3 had deep thoughts at The Thinktank in Birmingham.

Hridya trying his hand at falconry

Visitors to campus have come thick and fast, with our older pupils discovering more about the voyage of the Titanic, while their peers in Year 5 learnt about The Man Who Changed the World. However, Year 3 welcomed a possibly more pagan character for their Viking Day.

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Our marvellous sporting facilities have once again been put to maximum use.

The sound of bat on ball has emanated from the majestic square, as young, and not so young, have crashed balls to the boundary on a regular basis. Not to be outdone, the girls have produced some equally enthralling games of rounders, whilst in the pool swimmers have pushed themselves to new limits in both Pre-Prep and Prep. The front field played host to Sports Days for Pre-Prep as well as Upper and Lower School. In front of inspired parents records were broken and medals won.

Musical achievements have been celebrated in a multitude of ways, with recitals and concerts revealing a wealth of emerging talent.

Who could forget the unbelievable extravaganza of ‘Bugsy Malone’?

This was a real piledriver of a performance that showcased a mass of budding thespians at their very best.

The extended Blue Coat family were highly visible this term, as Old Scholars returned to reflect upon days gone by. Meanwhile The Friends beavered away. Their efforts included organising a sold-out May Ball, and the amazing Medieval Fete, where even the indifferent weather could not dampen spirits.

In the Spotlight We put these questions to Miss Merrill, Head of History (Prep), asking her to tell us a little about her Blue Coat memories and about how the school has changed over the years.

Q. How long have you worked at Blue Coat?

A. A very long time, though it doesn’t seem that long at all.

Life’s never dull at Blue Coat!

Q. What’s your favourite Blue Coat memory?

A. That’s really difficult: it’s hard to select just one. There have been so many incidents - mainly funny - but I’ll always remember the first glimpse of the Chapel decorated for Christmas each year and seeing the look of delight on the children’s faces as they go in.

Q. How has Blue Coat changed over the years?

A. As a school, it has changed greatly: new buildings, many more pupils and staff, but no boarders anymore, of course, and we finish at Year 6 rather than Year 8. However, the essence of Blue Coat hasn’t really changed, and that’s to be valued.

Q. Why do you like teaching History?

A. Apart from marking, you mean? I do play in a local orchestra every week and I’m a compulsive collector of a whole range of things, mostly useless but nice to look at.

Q. Do you have any pets?

A. Pets have always been a big part of my life. Currently I have a small menagerie at home – 2 rabbits, 2 guinea pigs, a gerbil and a tortoise. They make a terrible mess and chew all my things, but I wouldn’t be without them and love them to bits!

Q. Do Old Scholars ever come back and say hello?

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A. All the time - and that’s one of the best things about having been at Blue Coat for so long. It’s always interesting to hear what they’re doing.

One of my first pupils still says hello every day, as she is teaching in the classroom next to mine - Miss Patel!

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So ends another jam-packed twelve months at this esteemed establishment, where the bar is raised high but repeatedly cleared with ease – and not just in the high jump. The unbelievable achievements of our pupils that are witnessed on an almost daily basis throughout the School are indeed a wonderful testament, not only to their own skills, but also to the drive and determination of an outstanding collection of staff, along with the passion, belief and - frequently sacrifice of their parents. It has been a tremendous year, but now is the time for many to depart for a well-earned break. However, come September there will surely be even more excitement to come!

Q. What are your hobbies outside of school?

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Once again there has been plenty to be thankful about, and many things to celebrate. The Founders’ Day Service took place in the Chapel under the watchful eye of our President, Rt. Revd David Urquhart, Lord Bishop of Birmingham, while the 50th Anniversary of Pre-Prep was rightly remembered with equal exuberance. Prize Giving Ceremonies are often moving affairs, especially when Year 6 leavers are within a whisper of the finishing post. This time was no exception, and parents throughout Prep held back proud tears as their offspring collected awards and trophies a-plenty.

A. I love teaching History. The enthusiasm of (most of!) the pupils to find out about the past is so rewarding and particularly when they understand why something happened and the effect it has on our lives today.

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Classroom Connection Reception On Wednesday 20 May, 71 very excited children and staff went on the Reception trip to Twycross Zoo. After a lively coach journey, they arrived at the zoo raring to go!

The classes spent the day touring the zoo. The children were fascinated to watch the antics of various animals, including a range of primates, elephants, zebras, parrots, penguins and flamingos.

Highlights included being showered with water by an elephant,

getting close up to a snow leopard and watching zebras “wrestling” – all very entertaining!

Further exploration followed in the afternoon. The children were able to get close to beautiful butterflies and a range of smaller pets.

They then had great fun letting off steam in the play areas before returning to the coaches, tired but having had a lovely day.

Transition The Transition children enjoyed a fantastic day out at Ash End House Children’s Farm. They had a wonderful tour around the farm, visiting many different types of animal. All of the animals were very friendly and the children were able to feed lots of them.

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The children particularly enjoyed stroking young chicks and a gosling in a basket, feeding leaves to the goats and giving a lamb a drink of milk from a bottle. Each child was able to collect and take home their very own egg from the barn as a memento of the day. There were some very happy and tired children on the coaches on the journey home!

Year 1 Year 1 had a superb day out at Tamworth Castle. After the short coach journey the children enjoyed a drink and snack in the grounds before walking up the path to the medieval castle. The children were fascinated to learn how to lay a table from the Lord’s servant, and found out about the clothes rich children might have worn. The squire’s wife explained how a boy became a knight, and some children even got a chance to try on some armour and hold the very heavy sword. After a delicious lunch in the Great Hall they all went on a tour of the castle. The views from the top were stunning. They arrived back at school with

their goody bags, exhausted but exhilarated after a very special day. The children behaved impeccably and were complimented on both their excellent questions and their impeccable manners.

Year 2 Year 2 children went to Weston Park in order to experience life in World War II.

in an air raid, listening to the sirens and the ‘all clear’.

Each pupil made a gas mask, which they had to carry around all day, and learnt about how children in the 1940s had to wear them for several hours at a time.

The children dressed in 1940s clothes and were able to handle artefacts in a sitting room of the era. They participated

One highlight of the day was sitting in the Anderson Shelter, which, although rather damp and smelly, really gave everyone an idea of the misery of living in wartime.

Everyone had a fabulous time and learnt so much about wartime in England.

Year 4 Yes, the day had arrived!

Every child in Year 4, And eight literary teachers, Roared off in the coaches heading for Stratford.

F amous Shakespeare’s Birthplace was reached, and all entered the Clore Learning Centre Opposite the glistening River Avon.

U pstairs to the workshops without delay, and two hours of drama games, mime and Re-enacting scenes from ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ followed.

Year 3 The excitement had been building for days and – finally - it was Thinktank Day! Year 3 had a great time learning about forensic evidence and how the human body moves on the dance floor! The Science Garden was great fun, allowing the children to soak their friends and teachers, climb, experiment with pulleys and imagine being a giant hamster in a wheel!

A fter much praise from the workshop leaders for the children’s behaviour and enthusiasm, Tarrying not, to Mary Arden’s Farm they set forth.

Sun lotion applied and appetites satisfied, T ime to discover the rather different fare being consumed by the Tudors, before Revelling in the music and dancing And exploring the Tudor house and gardens.

Then, more dramatic involvement when the storyteller appeared.

Falconry was next, and a display from a beautiful white owl.

Oohs and aahs as she swooped closely over their heads.

R eturning on the coach and admiring each other’s shop purchases, they all Deemed it to have been an excellent school trip!

In the planetarium we were taken on a journey into space, to view the stars and planets. The children learnt how to identify the North Star and orbited the Sun and each of the planets to take a closer look at our amazing solar system, including a rollercoaster ride to the stars.

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The Space Mission Show involved parachutes, fire, rockets and explosions! There was an exciting demonstration of how a rocket gets into space, accompanied by squeals and cheers of delight as the fuel ignited in the darkness! Great fun was had by all!

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French Trip Some things in school life remain pretty similar and inevitably certain aspects develop as time goes by. Such was this year’s French Trip that saw a collection of bleary-eyed children, and teary-eyed mums (and dads!), wave goodbye to the party at a ridiculously early hour. There was even a certain lesser-spotted Headmaster up with the dawn chorus – pressing the flesh and offering reassurance to soothe the nerves of any anxious parents.

Mr Morris and Miss Green resumed their positions at the helm of Coaches A and B respectively, steering their charges safely to Rue via the Channel Tunnel. This was an exciting first for many, and the rapid journey from the UK enabled the fun to begin with a crazy evening of Château Olympics. While the shrieks of enjoyment were still hanging in the air, Messieurs Hill and Isherwood had already begun posting the techno magic of the now infamous blog, photos and videos.

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The week in France is all about making choices, and that was certainly true on the Tuesday when Parc Astérix provided thrills and spills to suit every taste. Miss Crews and Miss Keeber headed straight for the seriously scary-looking rides, and emerged with their groups spouting awesome adjectives to describe their experiences whilst wearing ridiculous grins from ear to ear. Others found equal delight in slightly more pedestrian activities before investing their pocket money in a variety of ways. It’s a clichéd phrase, but none could deny that ‘a good time was had by all’.

Wednesday was a far more sombre affair. Building on the pupils’ WW1 studies, further evidence was gained about the awful slaughter on the Western Front during the Great War. After returning to the excellent museum in Albert everyone stopped at the Gordon Dump Cemetery in Ovillers-la-Boisselle. Pupil Sam paid a moving personal tribute at his great-great-grandfather’s gravestone, an event that demonstrated to everyone how the hand

of history still affects families throughout the world. This was further reinforced at the Theipval Memorial, and again at Beaumont Hamel where so many Newfoundlanders lost their lives on the first day of the Battle of the Somme.

Happier times erupted in the evening when Operation Birthday Girl went into overdrive as Lizzie celebrated the Big Double One. If you are lucky enough to have your special day during trip week then tradition dictates you can rightfully expect a humdinger of a celebration. Future French Trippers, please note!

Individuals are not normally singled out for special praise in print but Archie was bravery personified when a freak accident left him gaining some unique souvenirs after a visit to the local hospital. Asked how he felt upon his return he responded with the quote of the holiday: “Fine Sir, apart from the three staples in my head.” Mrs Lambert-Green and Mrs Mian again demonstrated the value of venturing abroad with a linguist and a qualified nurse. This ensured that Archie returned to base rapidly, complete with his trademark smile and the massive respect of all his friends.

The final hours abroad saw a brief visit to the delightful seaside town of Fort-Mahon-Plage. Ice creams, crêpes and waffles were the order of the day before departing to the UK. Despite initially making good time the traffic on the M25 and M40 scuppered plans for an early return. However, spirits remained high throughout the journey home, with an impromptu Abba Sing-a-long in Coach A. As one wag put it, very much a case of Voulez-vous voyager avec moi, ce soir?

A massive vote of thanks must go to all the staff involved in another highly successful venture - both those in the front line and everyone behind the scenes. The children were a real credit to themselves, their parents and the School, and were instrumental in creating one of the most enjoyable visits of recent years.

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Thursday saw the traditional visit to Le Touquet-Paris-Plage for the market experience. Armed with euros and an inbuilt desire to spend, spend, spend, our explorers returned with a massive combination of presents and general tat. After a glorious picnic on the steps of the post office the groups departed separately to our favorite chocolate factory (sorry, Cadbury’s!), as well as the primary visit to a Wheat Farm where a delightful farmer and wife team instructed us in how to create plaited hearts.

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Art and Design Technology Gallery

Year 4 - Animation clay

Year 5 - Pencil and coloured crayons

Year 4 - Animation clay

Year 6 - Fineliner Year 5 - Metal bashing copper poppies

Year 5 - Talking Textiles

Year 3 - Mixed media Year 5 - Glass fusing

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Year 6 - Watercolours

Year 5 - Moving toys

Year 6 - Watercolours

Year 6 - Watercolours

Year 6 - Slipper project

Year 3 - Clay

Year 6 - Slipper project Year 4 - HLF RBSA Intaglio etching

Year 3 - Felting project

Year 5 - Moving toys

Year 3 - Felting project

Young Enterprise

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This is the third year that the Year 6 Young Enterprise Project has taken place.

It links Design Technology and Art and was an extremely enjoyable venture, as the pupils sourced and combined recycled materials to make their inventive final products. Each class spent half a day working with Graphic Designer Rebecca Emery to produce a logo for their goods. The children then prepared their products, set up their stalls and put on their entrepreneurial hats, ready to sell their wares at the Summer FĂŞte!

All proceeds from the sale of goods have gone to 17 charities, specially chosen by the children.

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Pre-Prep 50th Anniversary Birthdays with a zero on them are always something to celebrate! Although The Blue Coat School was founded in 1722, the Pre-Prep Department is a mere 50 years old, having been founded in 1965. Miss Ison, the first Head of Pre-Prep, led a team of just four teachers and about 60 pupils. There is now a staff of 40 and 240 pupils – and all were ready to celebrate everything that Pre-Prep has achieved over the last 50 years.

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Transition, Reception and Year 1 children led Year Group Assemblies in Chapel for their parents. Some of them reflected on life at the school in 1965 and in 2015, and some of them also gave a sneak preview into what they thought the school might be like in the year 2065! Perhaps some of the current children will be back to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Pre-Prep then!

Thursday 2 July saw the Anniversary Day, with a Chapel celebration for former pupils and staff followed by a delicious picnic lunch for the whole school and our guests provided by Mr Gladwin and his team. Pre-Prep staff and children reflected on the three main periods of leadership in Pre-Prep over the last 50 years – those of Miss Ison, Mrs Mauser and Mrs Andrews - and the changes that have occurred during that period. Mr Browning presented Pre-Prep with a delightful picture of an oak tree. This had been created by our Chaplain, and included the names of all the current Pre-Prep and Buttons pupils and staff, representing the growth of Pre-Prep and the seeds that have been planted in the lives of so many young children through the dedicated work of the staff over the past 50 years. Songs, old and new, were sung as part of our thanksgiving to God for the blessings of 50 years of Pre-Prep.

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As term drew to a close, the Year 2 children led the final Thanksgiving Service, again reflecting on 50 years of Pre-Prep through an exciting birthday celebration. Posters displaying the words of the blessing that was sung at the end of the service were presented to each of the classes. Each child was also given a small card copy of this as a keepsake. Thank you to The Friends of The Blue Coat School for their generous sponsorship of these cards and posters.

Finally, a huge, colourful frieze was unveiled, created by the children and their teachers, depicting just a few key aspects of life in Pre-Pre in 2015 – together with each child’s own self-portrait. This will be hung in the St Martin’s building to mark this anniversary. Thank you to Mrs Needle and Mrs Lynn for their considerable efforts in the final construction of this wonderful piece of artwork. Thanks must also be given to the Pre-Prep staff from each of the last five decades – and to the many children who have been an inspiration to the School.

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Bugsy Malone Gangsters? Guns? A sleazy nightclub… Undertakers?

Onlookers were shocked, as rival gangs of Year 6, firing silly string (with the occasional foam pie!), took over the Hall… and the body count grew! This was, of course, this term’s production of ‘Bugsy Malone’ – a tale of violent rivalry and ultimate reconciliation (with a number of great songs along the way!).

The play is set in ‘30s America, where the city is divided by two feuding gangs, led by mobsters Fat Sam Stacetto (Riyaan) and Dandy Dan (Gabriel). In the opening sequence alone, undertakers have to remove three bodies, and news reports alert us to the escalating violence!

Enter our hero: Bugsy Malone (Angelo), a likeable rogue, who swiftly encounters the feisty but charming Blousey Brown (Lizzie).

New in town, Blousey gets a job at Fat Sam’s Grand Slam, “the liveliest joint in town”. Humble cleaner, Fizzy (Naina) also dreams of joining the chorus line of talented dancers, led by the glamorous Tallulah (Amara).

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Dandy Dan is in the ascent, wiping out Sam’s gang of loveable but inept Bad Guys, as they search for the elusive Splurge guns at BettyLou’s Laundry. Fat Sam is left with only faithful sidekick, Knuckles (Daniel), as his empire seems on the point of collapse. Meanwhile, possibly the world’s least effective policemen (Harvey and Jake) attempt to apprehend the villains! Bugsy saves the day, discovering the astonishing pugilistic talent of Leroy (Ellis). Even boxing promoter

Cagey Joe (Thomas) and his fighters are impressed! Together, they rally an army of down-and-outs to come to Sam’s aid in a dramatic shoot-out at the Grand Slam!

School Council

As silly string flew everywhere and the cast stood on the brink of total chaos, they were reminded that “it’s not too late to change”. Girls and gangsters alike realised that the love you give away comes back to you: now, that sounds more like a Blue Coat Value!

Before the General Election, the really important voting had already taken place at Blue Coat. Councillors and Secretaries were voted in to represent every form in Prep. Once the badges had been presented at the first meeting, the real work began.

Children have already set their minds to changing the school dinners, with Mr Gladwin happy to help, and they have really noticed the changes. Flavoured breads, more cold meats and a faster servery are all benefitting the children now. Recently the topic of behaviour, both good and bad, has been discussed.

The children have discussed where behaviour is good around school and what is thought should be done about rectifying poor behaviour. One child even mentioned being more strict!

Look out for more topics next year – who will be each class representative then?

Congratulations to all in Year 6 on a spectacular production! All will be left humming those tunes for months to come… (and looking out for foam pies!).

Headmaster’s Awards Form Award

Millun Gill

4D

Headmaster’s Award

Ria Gokul

4J

Headmaster’s Award

Zoe Willcox

4M

Headmaster’s Award

Fintan Dowling

4P

Headmaster’s Award

Zaki Almallah

5B

Headmaster’s Award

Ruby Couzens

5S

Headmaster’s Award

Chloe Graham-Major

5S

Headmaster’s Award

Harriet Bradley

6C

Headmaster’s Award

Amelia Bradley

6H

Headmaster’s Award

Rosabella Sung

4D

Director of Studies Award

Chloe Graham-Major

5S

Director of Studies Award

Samuel Reason

5W

Director of Studies Award

Erin Quinn

6G

Director of Pastoral Care Award

Maya Narayan-Hull

6I

Director of Pastoral Care Award

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Name

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Sports Report Pre-Prep Sports Day The children in Pre-Prep thoroughly enjoyed Sports Day. The afternoon began with the Pre-Prep baton relay, where a child was chosen to represent each class and pass the baton onto the next child.

Throughout the afternoon the children had opportunities to test their skills and compete with each other in a variety of games. In the spirit of being good sports, all of the children clapped and cheered their friends during each race.

Buttons Nursery also enjoyed a Sports Day of their own, with parents all cheering as their children crossed the finishing line.

Prep Sports Days Two fine days of weather shone down for this year’s annual Prep Sports Day events, and it was lovely to welcome so many supportive parents and spectators on both days.

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Both afternoons ran smoothly and all the children were congratulated on their performances and behaviour throughout the event. Team spirit was clear for all to see, as they ran, jumped and threw with immense enthusiasm to achieve some record-breaking performances!

National Success Congratulations to Joseph (6C) and Daniel (6C), who qualified for the National Schools’ Modern Biathlon Championship Finals held at the Olympic Park back in March. Both boys produced gutsy displays on the track (800m) and in the pool (50m). Despite carrying a leg injury, Daniel completed the two disciplines and finished in 40th position out of 120 competitors, whilst Joseph produced a fantastic performance to finish 14th in the same competition. The school looks forward to more children attempting this exciting event in October as they seek to qualify for the National Finals.

Other sporting highlights have included: • A n unbeaten year in swimming by our Boys’ and Girls’ A Teams in every age group • G irls’ U11A Rounders Team – Winners of the King’s Hawford Tournament • G irls’ U9A Rounders Team – Runners-up in the RGS The Grange Tournament • B oys’ U9A Soccer Team – Runners-up in the RGS The Grange Tournament

Year 1 Swimming Gala All of Year 1 thoroughly enjoyed their Swimming Gala, held in the Summer Term. They impressed with their swimming skills and competitive spirit and it was wonderful to see such progress. As well as each child swimming in two races, each class in turn then treated parents to a charming exhibition of swimming skills. Thanks must go to the swimming teachers for organising this event so brilliantly!

It has been a good year for our U11 netball team, who have had an unbeaten season, and qualified 5th out of 43 schools in the Midlands IAPS tournament for a place in the National Finals at Roedean School, Brighton. 38 teams qualified from all over the UK, and the standard was exceptionally high. The schedule was punishing, and although they lost the first few matches, the girls learnt from the experience, raised their game, and went on to finish on a high, beating Derwent Lodge 4-1 and drawing with Brambletye 4-4.

Congratulations to all on a great team effort!

English Schools’ Swimming Championships Having qualified as one of the top three schools in the regional round, the Boys’ U11 team, consisting of Daniel (Captain), Joe, Ethan and Elliot, should be congratulated on their fantastic relay result at the ESSA Championships held on 20 June at Ponds Forge, Sheffield, attaining a team personal best of 104.73 and narrowly missing a final by .17 of a second! The boys can be very proud of themselves for representing The Blue Coat School so convincingly and putting in such an excellent performance. The final result placed Blue Coat 17th fastest nationally.

Year 2 Swimming Gala Despite several anxious and jittery children showing their nerves, the gala went off - swimmingly! All the children showed their determination and perseverance when completing their heats. From a few strokes to full lengths, the children showed how proficient they were in the water, and demonstrated their skills. Those watching encouraged their classmates and friends with good grace and enthusiasm. In the best spirit of the school they cheerfully tried hard and performed well.

We need to extend our thanks to the dedicated swimming staff for preparing the children so well and ensuring that the event went off faultlessly.

School Video The children have had a fantastic time as the school has produced an all-singing, all-dancing video spectacular! Black Hawk Productions have been filming at the school over the last term, involving all the children in showing what the school is really all about. Every aspect of the school has been captured to give the true essence of Blue Coat - and everyone is thrilled that the video is now live. To view it please visit:

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thebluecoatschool.com/video

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Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music Examination Results – 2014 – 2015 Instrument

Vanya Agarwal Maya Ahmed Arooj Ahmed Aditi Ajithkumar Shalini Arun Lucy Atkins Roshan Bahia Roshan Bahia Roshan Bahia Roshan Bahia Saran Bahia Saran Bahia Katie Baker Katie Baker Aran Bansal Indira Basu Sofia Begh Joshua Bobin Amelia Bradley Harriet Bradley Harriet Bradley Grace Bromfield Rebecca Broome Rebecca Broome Rebecca Broome Rebecca Broome Alexander Bryans Emma Burns Ruby Couzens Evie Crow-Marcetic Evie Crow-Marcetic Aaminah Dar Aaminah Dar Karishma Dar Gabriel Dass Simran Dhinsa Helena Dietrich de Pablo Lotti Gabriel Lotti Gabriel Turan Gardiner Turan Gardiner Ria Gokul Aarye Goyal Skye Henshaw Skye Henshaw Matthew Holland Charles Hubbard Thomas Isaac Aahana Jain Sahana Jain Sahana Jain Aahana Jain Aahana Jain Sahana Jain Elizabeth James

Piano Piano Violin Piano Singing Piano Music Theory Horn Horn Piano Piano Clarinet Clarinet Clarinet Bassoon Piano Violin Piano Clarinet Cello Piano Piano Piano Music Theory Violin Violin Singing Violin Flute Singing Flute Singing Violin Violin Alto Saxophone Singing Piano Singing Clarinet Piano Trumpet Singing Violin Piano Music Theory Piano Piano Clarinet Piano Piano Music Theory Music Theory Piano Piano Singing

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Grade Result

1 2 2 3 1 1 1 1 2 2 4 3 1 3 2 2 1 1 4 2 3 3 2 2 2 3 1 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 3 2 4 4 1 2 5 2 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 3 1

Merit Distinction Merit Distinction Merit Pass Distinction Merit Merit Pass Pass Merit Distinction Distinction Pass Merit Pass Pass Pass Distinction Pass Pass Merit Distinction Distinction Distinction Merit Merit Pass Merit Pass Merit Pass Merit Pass Merit Pass Merit Distinction Distinction Pass Merit Pass Merit Merit Merit Distinction Pass Distinction Merit Distinction Distinction Distinction Merit Distinction

Instrument

Lydia Jin Easher Kang Arpita Kaur Beatrice Kendall Ismah Khan Arjun Kumar Arjun Kumar Billy Laight Bronagh Lee Bronagh Lee Aurelio Lencioni Aurelio Lencioni Aurelio Lencioni Kiran Lidhar Thomas Macalino Kavya Maganty Amulya Maganty Amulya Maganty Amulya Maganty Amulya Maganty Suhail Mahmood Shyan Marrie Amara McCracken Maya Narayan-Hull Rohan Narayan-Hull Maya Narayan-Hull Rohan Narayan-Hull Alisha Narendran Tiggy Newbould Tiggy Newbould Simran Nijjar Pranoy Nishanth Melanie Page Prisyn Pagliuca Benito Pagliuca Gargi Paneesha Ishani Patel Shayan Patel Jahnvi Patel Mia Pearse Oliver Poole Rufus Powell Erin Quinn Ryan Raeiszadeh Sophie Reason Samuel Reason Sophie Reason Sophie Reason Samuel Reason Sophie Reason Naina Reddy Naina Reddy Naina Reddy Naina Reddy Tom Roberts

Violin Piano Violin Clarinet Singing Bassoon Piano Clarinet Piano Violin Piano Violin Piano Piano Singing Violin Piano Violin Music Theory Violin Violin Piano Singing Music Theory Music Theory Piano Piano Piano Clarinet Singing Singing Violin Cello Singing Singing Violin Music Theory Cello Music Theory Music Theory Piano Piano Singing Piano Piano Cello Singing Music Theory Cello Violin Singing Piano Violin Singing Singing

Grade Result

7 1 1 2 3 3 4 2 6 8 2 3 3 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 2 4 2 1 4 2 4 2 2 2 1 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 4 1 1 3 3 4 4 4 3 4

Distinction Merit Pass Pass Distinction Pass Pass Merit Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Pass Merit Distinction Distinction Distinction Merit Distinction Pass Merit Merit Pass Distinction Pass Pass Pass Pass Merit Pass Merit Pass Pass Distinction Merit Merit Distinction Merit Pass Pass Merit Merit Pass Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction Merit Distinction Merit Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction

Instrument

Tom Roberts Tom Roberts Nikita Saini Nikita Saini Nikita Saini Kheera Sandhu Jessica Scurlock Jessica Scurlock Jessica Scurlock Bhavesh Sharma Bhavesh Sharma Naarain Sharma Shreya Shetty Aryan Sudeshkumar

Trumpet Singing Piano Guitar Guitar Singing Flute Music Theory Piano Piano Alto Saxophone Singing Piano Violin

Grade Result

1 3 2 3 2 4 2 1 1 3 3 1 1 4

Distinction Distinction Pass Merit Distinction Merit Pass Merit Distinction Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit

Instrument

Abigail Tomlinson Henry Trevis Edward Whitehead Libby Whitehouse Jessica Whitlock Elizabeth Wigg Zoe Willcox Tristan Wong Ben Woodward Ben Woodward Evie Wynne Daphne Xuan Angelo Xydias

Singing Guitar Trombone Singing Singing Music Theory Violin Violin Music Theory Piano Singing Piano Trumpet

Instrument

Kieran O’Hara Aryan Sudeshkumar Aaryan Tyagi

Drums Drums Drums

Grade Result

1 1 1 1 1 1 3 4 1 1 4 1 2

Distinction Distinction Pass Merit Merit Pass Merit Merit Merit Pass Distinction Merit Merit

Rockschool Examinations

Instrument

Shalu Arun Shane Kumararatne Amelia Mohammed

Drums Drums Drums

Grade Result

1 3 1

Pass Pass Pass

Grade Result

2 2 2

Pass Merit Pass

Musical Notes As ever, there are many highlights in the Music Department calendar. It’s a very busy department, and a lot happens every term, but here are a few highlights to give a glimpse of what has been happening.

Towards the end of term, the Chapel Choir and Choral Society sang a beautiful Choral Evensong, perhaps the most traditional and purest form of sacred music in this country. The elegant surroundings of Great Witley Court played host to the choir, and the stunning baroque Parish Church, with its ornately decorated ceiling, and organ built for and played by none other than Mr George Frederic Handel himself, was a fitting venue for the children to raise their voices heavenward.

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For a number of years concerts and recitals have been recorded, building an archive of performances as a record not only of pupil achievement, but of great music making as well. Listening to these recordings, it is gratifying to hear the children exhibiting such a high quality of playing and musicianship. It is very easy to take the standard of music making at school for granted, but these impressive achievements are gained through dedication and hard work, long hours of practice and lots of rehearsal. Learning to play an instrument from an early age is fun at first, but what follows is, for many, a real challenge. Courageously persevering (a Blue Coat value) is what matters. ‘When the going gets tough, the tough get going,’ so they say - and musicians certainly need to be able to do that! Learning to play an instrument is a life-long learning path and what better place to start than at Blue Coat?

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One of our favourite concerts is always the Summer Concert, and this term’s was no exception. The Music Department always works tirelessly every year to put on a fantastic concert. There were nearly one hundred performers in the concert, representing every facet of instrumental playing - from bassoons to bass drums, trumpets to triangles.

Pre-Prep Suzuki Strings

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With Morning Recitals and Chapel Concerts a-plenty, young Blue Coat musicians have entertained us royally throughout the term.

The School’s links with choirs and ensembles outside Blue Coat continue to grow. Currently there are six choristers in Birmingham Cathedral Choir, and a number of children are members of the National Children’s Orchestra, the CBSO Junior Chorus, and the Central Birmingham Schools Orchestras and Ensembles.

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The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art Speech Awards Pre-Prep

Grade Result

Grade Result

Hassan Afzal Priyamvada Agarwal Zahid Ahmed Anjali Ajayaghosh Rayyan Ali Rohil Awasthi Simran Bansal Amelie Black Joanne Bobin Rohan Cherukad Bertie Chandler Lucy Coleman Emma Daniel Yusuf Douis Milo Dowling Elsie Fraser Amar Gill Maysoon Haroon Zunaira Imam Harkeerat Kang

Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 2

Humnah Khan Rishul Marrie Zara Mohammed Nithin Moodley Nayan Najran Dexter Noble James Padley Natasha Page Gargi Paneesha Archie Pemble Filippos Psychogios Keerat Rai Arjun Reddy-Kolano Rajan Sall Serena Sall Jia Samra Rohan Tandon Freddie Trevis Holly Willson

Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1 Solo Introductory Stage 1

Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit

Merit Merit Merit Distinction Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit

Prep

Grade Result

Grade Result

Hasan Ahmed* Joshua Bobin Hamoodi Fakir Ria Gokul May Hadley Morgan Heagren Isobel Heagren Monique James-Thomas Lydia Jin Laila Johngir* Easher Kang Saru Karanam Pratham Kaushal Tanya Leech Amulya Maganty Shyan Marrie Amelia Mohammed Mudiwa Mtemererwa

Speaking V and P Entry Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Reading for Performance Solo Introductory Stage 3 Speaking V and P Entry Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Speaking V and P Entry Solo Introductory Stage 3

Stephanie Otite Melanie Page Elias Papaioannou Shayan Patel Jahnvi Patel Ishani Patel Erin Quinn Ria Sahota Naarain Sharma Sareena Sharma Shreya Shetty Agil Singaraselvan Aryan Sudeshkumar Dhiren Tandon Abigail Tomlinson Christopher Yu Amelia Zaman Theresa Zygmunt

Solo Introductory Stage 3 Speaking V and P Entry Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Speaking V and P Entry Speaking V and P Entry Solo Introductory Stage 2 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3 Speaking V and P Entry Solo Introductory Stage 3 Speaking V and P Entry Speaking V and P Entry Speaking V and P Entry Speaking V and P Entry Solo Introductory Stage 3 Solo Introductory Stage 3

Distinction Distinction Merit Merit Merit Merit Distinction Distinction Merit Distinction Distinction Merit Merit Distinction Distinction Distinction Merit Distinction

Distinction Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Distinction Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Merit Distinction

*External candidates

Scholarship Awards and Examinations Success to Senior Schools Academic Scholarships In total, 32 awards were offered to Blue Coat School Children, reflecting their high performance, but 27 were declined in favour of alternative offers.

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Amelia Brunning Elliot Clarkson Ryan Rahman

King Edward VI High School King Edward’s School Priory School

Naina Reddy Rayhaan Rehm-Ali

King Edward VI High School Priory School

Scholarship Awards and Examinations Success to Senior Schools Old Swinford Hospital School

Matthew Anderson

King Edward VI Camp Hill Boys

Suhail Mahmood

King Edward VI Aston

Lucy Atkins

Edgbaston High School

Zak Malik

King Edward VI Camp Hill Boys

Saran Bahia

King Edward VI High School

Ruby Manhota

King Edward VI Camp Hill Girls

Aran Bansal

King Edward’s School

Hugo Martin

Bishop Vesey’s

George Berry

King Edward’s School

Amara McCracken

Edgbaston High School

Joshua Bobbin

King Edward’s School

Ethan McGuirk

King Edward VI Five Ways

Amelia Bradley

King Edward VI High School

Ellis McKenzie

Bishop Vesey’s

Harriet Bradley

King Edward VI High School

Amelia Mohammed

Solihull School

Grace Bromfield

King Edward VI Five Ways

Hugo Mulligan

King Edward VI Camp Hill Boys

Amelia Brunning

King Edward VI High School

Amaan Munir

King Edward’s School

Jacob Carr-Simms

King Edward’s School

Maya Narayan-Hull

King Edward VI High School

Pranav Chandar

King Edward VI Camp Hill Boys

Alisha Narendran

King Edward VI High School

Rajan Chohan

King Edward’s School

Tiggy Newbould

King Edward VI Handsworth

Elliot Clarkson

King Edward’s School

Simran Nijjar

King Edward VI High School

Gabriel Dass

Handsworth Grammar

Ishani Patel

Edgbaston High School

Joe Day

King Edward VI Camp Hill Boys

Erin Quinn

King Edward VI High School

Harvey Dhillon

King Edward’s School

Ryan Rahman

Priory School

Harpreet Dosanjh

Handsworth Grammar

Safa Razaq

King Edward VI Handsworth

Carys Evans

King Edward VI High School

Naina Reddy

King Edward VI High School

Amreese Gakhal

King Edward’s VI Handsworth

Thomas Redfern

King Edward’s School

Jessica Gannon

Edgbaston High School

Rayhaan Rehm-Ali

Priory School

Turan Gardiner

King Edward’s School

Jake Robinson

Adams’ Grammar School

Lewis Goddard

Handsworth Grammar

Danielle Russell

King Edward VI High School

Aarye Goyal

King Edward’s School

Nikita Saini

King Edward VI High School

Archie Hadley

Priory School

Kheera Sandhu

King Edward VI Camp Hill Girls

Riyaan Haroon

King Edward’s School

Aleena Saud

King Edward VI Camp Hill Girls

Isobel Heagren

King Edward VI Handsworth

Bhavesh Sharma

King Edward’s School

Daniel Hindle

King Edward’s School

Shreya Shetty

King Edward VI High School

Emma Hope

King Edward VI High School

Daniel Slater

Solihull School

Sam Howells

King Edward’s School

Kajol Sohal

Edgbaston High School

Elizabeth James

King Edward VI High School

Freya Stone

Kings Norton Girls’ School

Gia Kattapuram

Lordswood Girls’ School

Daya Talwar

King Edward VI Camp Hill Girls

Pratham Kaushal

King Edward’s School

Leen Uraijah

Edgbaston High School

Beatrice Kendall

King Edward VI High School

Angelo Xydias

King Edward’s School

Ismah Khan

King Edward VI Camp Hill Girls

Christopher Yu

St George’s School

Arjun Kumar

King Edward’s School

Bronagh Lee

King Edward VI High School

Kiran Lidhar

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Charity Check This term the Blue Coat family have “gone the extra mile” in order to support many different charities around the world and here in the UK. A motley crew of little Pirates waddled and toddled to help raise funds for Barnardos. As far as we know, no one was made to walk the plank, but an admirable number of laps around the front field were completed and £790 was raised. “Well done me hearties!”

More miles were covered by our Year 5 and 6 children in their tag marathon in aid of Miss Ward’s teaching trip to Malawi. Added to the miles and laps were many a sponsored length of the swimming pool, swum by our Year 3 and 4 children as they aimed to shatter their distance targets. The sponsor money raised will be helping to fund teacher training in Malawi.

Zimbabwe. The educational toys purchased at the Barnardos shop in Harborne will have had the journey of a life time. A special thank you to Pre-Prep parents and children for making this possible.

A further 10km were added to these “extra miles” when Mr McDowell ran in the Tear Fund Nepal Appeal race.

Congratulations Mr McDowell!

Once again our Young Enterprise team have been pushing back the boundaries of creativity and making juggling balls, mini picnic tables and candle holders. These items were sold at the Summer fete and raised an amazing £750. A number of charities will benefit including Wateraid, Dogs Trust and Dementia UK.

Thanks to the ongoing stuffing of our Rag Bag container, we have been able to contribute towards the sending of another van to

Thank you to the whole school family for such generous giving over the year

Summer Fête

made an amazing £1500 for our chosen charity this year, the National Institute for Conductive Education. Thank you to The Friends for a superb job.

On Saturday 13 June, eagerly anticipated, we held the Blue Coat Summer Fête.

The weather threatened a wash-out and at 8.00 am, as the Fête team started to set up, this certainly seemed to be the case. The rain, however, didn’t dampen any spirits, and by 12 noon the Fête was up and running – albeit working to Plan B! The Fête Committee did a fantastic job in galvanising the whole school community into creating an absolutely brilliant event. Knights in shining armour, Soaked Teachers, Bouncy Castles and a whole host

of similarly ancient relics made their unique contributions, and it was clear that children, parents, staff, friends and Old Scholars all had a tremendous time. The raffle

Key Dates for AutumnTerm 2015 Term begins Monday 7 September

Half-Term holiday begins Thursday 22 October

Open Morning Saturday 10 October 10-12.30pm – Please arrive by 11.45am

Term resumes Monday 2 November Term ends Wednesday 16 December

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The Blue Coat School, Somerset Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B17 0HR S

The Blue Coat School Founded by the Church of England in 1722

Telephone 0121 410 6800

Fax 0121 454 7757

Email info@thebluecoatschool.com

Website thebluecoatschool.com

The Blue Coat School Birmingham Limited is registered in England, Registration No. 8502615 and is a Registered Charity No. 1152244