Cobham Hall Insight | Spring-Summer 2020

Insight |

Spring/Summer Term 2020 Reflections

Issue 18 | Published September 2020 1

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Welcome from the Editor and Examination Results School News Cobham Hall Helps the Community Cobham Hall Goes Virtual The End of Lockdown Debating Topical Issues Scholars Head to Oxford Masterclass Meet Our Student Leadership Team Festival Day Prizewinners Something Wonderful This Way Comes MPs Visit Inspires Future Politicians Celebrating the EPQ Wellbeing at Cobham Hall #BoardingLife A Royal Visit for Cobham Hall STEAM Across the School Summer Intensive Programme From the ILC...

Women Supporting Women Sporting Success Cobham Hall’s Past Uncovered...

Elders’ News Unicorn News and Events Stay in Touch

Spring Ter m’s stagram Post Most Liked In

Head Announcement Over the summer, Ms Roberts made the difficult decision to leave Cobham Hall to be closer to her family. Ms Roberts is about to become a grandmother and wanted to be closer to her daughter at this time. We wish her and her daughter all the very best, and thank Ms Roberts for everything she has done for the School during her tenure as Headmistress.

Our Deputy Headmistress, Mrs Barrett, has now taken the reins. Mrs Barrett has a long association with the School, having started as a parttime Mathematics teacher when her daughter was very young. She progressed through a variety of roles to the post of Deputy Headmistress, which she held for three years.

Summer Te r m’s Most Liked Instagram cobhamha

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Welcome from the Editor

What a year. At the start of January 2020, if anyone had predicted that Cobham Hall would have gone from the high excitement of a Royal Visit, to being forced to adapt to remote learning as the country faced a nationwide lockdown, I think there would have been plenty of bewildered amusement.

The term ‘unprecedented times’ has been thrown around quite a lot, but for young people, as well as all of us, the spring and summer months of 2020 threw a curve ball into our lives that no-one could have predicted.

And I have been astounded at how remarkably well the Cobham Hall community rallied. Whether it was adapting to remote learning and working, or supporting our local communities or simply encouraging one another and sharing lockdown tips and ideas, there was much going on alongside remote lessons.

Writing this as the girls start to return back for the Autumn Term, it’s an absolute joy to hear the laughter echo around the corridors, and see life coming back to a building that was practically empty for months. At times, writing Insight whilst working from home, it felt like I was writing about things that happened a lifetime ago or from a dream, not a few short weeks ago and a reality where ‘social distancing’, ‘Covid 19’ and

‘Zooming’ were not part of our daily vocabulary. But it also did a remarkable job in keeping me positive and looking to the future.

Editing Insight is always a pleasure, especially now more articles are starting to be written by the kind, insightful and intelligent young women that make up our student body. But over lockdown, Insight gave me the chance to reflect on not only what we enjoyed in the Spring and Summer, but what we have to look forward to as we continue to adjust and adapt to ‘the new normal’.

Insight will begin to change shape as the Media Team begin to have more input, and so at this stage of moving the school magazine forward, I would welcome your comments, feedback and suggestions on this publication. What do you like, what would you like to see more of, or indeed less of? Please feel free to send me your thoughts, I always welcome feedback reidt@cobhamhall.com.

In the meantime, I trust you’ll enjoy reading this edition of Insight, and everything that happened during the strangest two terms I’ve experienced at Cobham Hall!

Tracey Reid Insight Editor and Marketing Assistant

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Examination Results A Level We had a 100% pass rate, with 77% A* to C overall, and 81% A* to C in STEAM subjects. Additionally, 29% of students achieved A*-A and 50% A*-B in our first cohort for the Extended Project Qualification.

Girls have gone on to universities including the London School of Economics, Kings College, London, University of Exeter and Loughborough University.

GCSE 96% achieved a Grade 4 or above in their GCSE results. with some outstanding individual results.

LAMDA We were thrilled to receive this year’s London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) results. We saw a 100% pass rate, with all girls receiving either a Merit or a Distinction. Two-Thirds of girls achieved a Pass with Distinction, and four girls earned a Gold Medal.

ABRSM We also saw a 100% pass rate in the Associated Boards of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) examinations.

School News

Staff News

Congratulations are sent to Miss J West, Mrs F West and Mrs Keys, who all welcomed their babies earlier this year. Mrs Keys and Mrs West each celebrated the birth of a baby boy, and Miss West a girl.

At the end of the Spring and Summer Terms, we said farewell to several members of staff. We wish Mrs Hillier, Ms Clements, Mr and Mrs Jackson, Mrs Theobald, Mr Gibson, Miss Berry and Mrs Didzinskiene all the best in the future.

Cobham Hall Hosts Round Square Forum Over the last weekend in January, Cobham Hall welcomed Heads and Representatives from 27 European schools, who are also part of the Round Square network, for a forum to discuss and share best practice for Round Square frameworks.

As well as being introduced to a new framework for developing students’ skills and abilities and build on the IDEALS, there were a number of workshops to enable the Reps to take concrete ideas and plans back to their schools.

Participants were able to catch up with colleagues, share good practice, develop collaboration opportunities, make new connections and extend understanding of Round Square within their schools.

A meeting was also subsequently held at Cobham with a smaller number of Heads from Round Square schools in February to share collaborative ideas and suggestions moving forwards.

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Over the Summer Term and for the start of the Autumn Term, we welcome Mrs Topps as Higher Level Teaching Assistant, Mr Green as our Lead Music Teacher, Angela Wood as our School Nurse, and Miss Shipton as our Graduate Housemistress. We also welcome our new Artist-inResidence Miss Kaitee Reed, as well as our Language Assistants and Gap Students who support Boarding.

A Sad Farewell to Guide

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Barbara Coombes, one of our Guides and Welcomers for Open to the Public days.

She will be very much missed by those that knew her at Cobham Hall.

The knowledge she shared about the history of Cobham Hall with the many visitors to the House was second to none.

Cobham Hall Helps the Community

Kindness is one of Cobham Hall’s core values and it was wonderful to see this in abundance as lockdown descended on the nation.

As a school, we offered the use of Brooke House as accommodation to keyworkers and this offer was taken up by ambulance drivers for the NHS. It continues the House’s history of supporting the nation having been used as a military hospital during World War One. The House again joined the national effort for World War Two, first becoming a home for evacuees and then housing RAF Officers from the Battle of Britain fighter squadron based at the nearby aerodrome in Gravesend.

Individual members of the school community also showed great initiatives to help their local communities.

Year 7 pupil Martha developed and edited a newspaper to share with her mostly elderly neighbours to ensure they stayed updated, and encouraged local primary children to help with writing articles. “I wanted to help my neighbours feel a sense of community, and know they hadn’t been forgotten,” Martha explained.

“I thought asking primary school children to help might mean they don’t get too bored.”

Packed full of puzzles and interesting articles, the weekly newspaper was well received by residents as a way of keeping a sense of community. But Martha didn’t stop there, covering

a walkway with the adopted symbol of lockdown – a rainbow. Threading yarn between her garden fence and a neighbour’s the rainbow-coloured walkway puts a smile on the faces of those who walk beneath it.

Martha produced the newspaper whilst still taking part in lessons remotely, and also produced a similar newsletter for the Cobham Hall community.

Despite the situation being exceptionally tough for Year 11 and Year 13, who saw examinations and end of year celebrations cancelled, Clifton House Captain, Year 13 pupil Lilly, offered help to the PE Department. Sports Scholar and Triathlete Lilly, who has represented Team GB, offered to run a HighIntensity Interval Training (HIIT) session for Lower School girls. “She also played ‘exercise add on’ and ‘Sports Charades!’,” explained PE Teacher Miss Fautley. “The girls said, ‘Miss Gibbs works us hard, but it was also so much fun!’”

Our student-led Round Square Committee had been planning to host a Quiz Night in the Summer Term, but in the spirit of resilience decided not to let a global pandemic stand in their way! They instead hosted fortnightly virtual Quiz Nights, which proved to be popular, whilst the Student Leadership Team joined Ms Roberts for a weekly Head-to-Heads recording and provided weekly challenges to keep girls’ spirits up.

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Supporting the community wasn’t just the remit of our students, with many members of staff also providing support in one way or another.

Geography Teacher Mrs Kipling answered a call for help with supplying face masks, and ended up with an order from Canterbury Dialysis Unit.

Workers at The Huntercombe Group were in need of face masks, and took to Facebook with a tutorial video and a plea to help make them. “I thought they looked easy,” explained Mrs Kipling, “so I volunteered. I ordered some extra materials and set to it!”

Latin teacher Dr Marin knitted pairs of hearts following a request from Darent Valley Hospital; the idea being that patients would keep one heart, and their family - unable to visit - would keep the matching heart.

Spanish teacher Mrs Gutierrez sewed scrub bags to help keyworkers in hospices, care homes, and Medway Maritime Hospital.

Teaching Assistant Miss Frost became a Community Volunteer supporting elderly residents by getting their shopping for them, and English teacher Mrs Bonner organised and encouraged girls to write to residents of a care home who were not receiving visitors, whilst Marketing Assistant Mrs Reid fundraised to purchase activities for care home residents during this time.

Cobham Hall Goes Virtual

As the Covid-19 pandemic swept across the world, it resulted in unprecedented challenges and forced the hand of change. Change to our daily lives, change to our society, and changes to our way of education. At Cobham Hall, our school community had to adjust to working remotely, to new ways of working, of teaching, and of learning.

But one thing didn’t change: the ‘can do’ attitude of the School’s staff and students.

“I am incredibly proud to say,” commented Headmistress Ms Roberts, “that at Cobham Hall we were able to continue to provide uninterrupted remote teaching and learning from day one of lockdown.

We also continued to give the girls pastoral support as well as providing a wide range of co-curricular activities. The staff and students have all shown incredible resilience, creativity and a willingness to adapt.”

Speaking of the online lessons, one parent said “Please can I just say thank you to you and your amazing team for the hard work they are putting into the online classes for our girls. I managed to watch the computer class held this morning and art this afternoon, amazing. I can see all the effort that has been put in by all the teachers and support staff.”

Girls rose to the challenge remarkably with excellent effort going into their work, such as Darcey’s (Year 8) recreated Eco-System, below. Girls were also keen to thank their teachers on National Thank a Teacher Day on 20th May, with messages coming in to show appreciation for a number of teachers for their encouragement and support.

Daisy (Year 9) thanked her Science teachers: “To Mr Abbott, Mrs Thompson & Mr Kirkaldy: Even though we can’t do any experiments or practicals, you still make the sciences easy and fun to learn. Thank you for always answering any

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questions and as many times as it takes for me to understand!”

Lamees, Year 7, thanked a number of teachers to, including Head of Art Mrs Walsh, “To Ms Walsh, ‘Thank you for making every lesson enjoyable to be in, I love how creative you allow us to be and it’s inspired me to look up artists outside of class and try to use their techniques in my art. Until Year 7, I had never used paints, but now I have a whole box full of paints and watercolours that are used for masterpieces. Thank you!”

The School also established their ‘Get Ahead’ programme to provide additional support to those girls in Year 11 and Year 13 to prevent them missing out on vital preparations for the next stage of their education.

Such was the School community’s ability to adapt, that the Music Department was able to continue with the annual Summer Music Concert, producing a number of virtual performances, all filmed individually and edited together by Mr Haas. These are available to view on Cobham Hall’s YouTube channel, and include ‘A Million Dreams’, from ‘The Greatest Showman’, and ‘One’ from ‘A Chorus Line’. An excellent accompanient to an afternoon coffee!

Eleanor, Year 8

Open Morning was also adapted to be hosted online for the first time in the School’s history, complete with a tour of the School, pre-recorded speeches from our Guardian, Aoife, and Year 7’s Martha, as well as Headmistress Ms Roberts. This is now available to view and share via the School website.

Staff also took time to continue Cobham Hall’s co-curricular programme where possible. STEM Club was introduced, challenging the girls to STEM tasks at home, whilst Humanities Forum and Model United Nations continued their debates via Teams. Our Round Square Committee encouraged the whole community to stay connected with fortnightly Zoom Quiz Nights and the Student Leadership Team also encouraged the girls to keep the Cobham Hall spirit with weekly challenges.

Our Art Department maintained the girls creativity with a ‘Transcription Challenge’: encouraging the girls to recreate and dress up as famous paintings, with some fabulous results as displayed here. The standard of work was so high that Mrs Walsh, Ms Lockheart and Ms Bowdery found it so difficult to decide who the winner

should be. Well done to Molly (Year 9), Sophia (Year 9) and Rosie (Year 12).

Creativity was further encouraged later in lockdown with a Wildlife Photography challenge for Lower School, organised by Tutor Mrs Topps. The brief for the competition was to take a series of wildlife photographs from a garden or local open space, and these were judged by international wildlife photographer Sean weekly. Well done Eleanor (Year 8) and Henrietta (Year 7).

Cobham Hall’s excellent pastoral support was also maintained, with a Mindfulness co-curricular activity established, alongside normally timetabled Wellbeing lessons and tutorials. An emphasis was placed on reducing screen time outside of lessons and ensuring girls find time to relax and maintain their health and fitness.

Cobham Hall continued throughout the pandemic to provide girls with an outstanding education and looked forward to the end of term Festival Day. Joining Open Morning and the Summer Music Concert as online events, the end of year highlight 7

Henrietta, Year 7

was also adapted to become a virtual gathering. Keynote speaker Alex Crawford, a Cobham Hall Elder, shared how her Cobham education shaped her and helped her throughout her award-winning career. We were delighted Alex was able to share her experiences and her speech was well received. You can read more about Alex on our Elders page later in this magazine.

Whatever the future holds with the pandemic ongoing, we’re sure that Cobham Hall and its community will always continue to rise to the challenge and adapt, and we would like to thank Parents and Guardians for their continued support.

On the End of Lockdown Artist-in-Residence at the time of Lockdown was Miss Katie Bowdery, who extended her initial one year residency to two years. Miss Bowdery undoubtedly provided the Art Department and the girls with plenty of creative ideas and support.

Although finishing her tenure with us at the end of the Summer Term, Miss Bowdery wanted to share with the School community her reflections on the positives to come out of lockdown.

I think it is safe to say that no

one could have successfully predicted where would all be six months ago.

The chances of such a huge global change like this seemed so small then.

The Summer of 2020 will be forever remembered as the time Covid-19 pushed us all back into our homes, where many were left trying to find different ways to fill up each day. For many, this probably included things like: baking banana bread, redecorating the house, losing at online quizzes or binge-watching new or favourite TV shows. And I am sure it also came with its fair share of arguments and anxiety. We are used to living such fast-paced lives that of course it was going to be difficult to

slow down. But we adapted, because we had to and, I would like to think, started to find unexpected joys in the small pleasures.

Despite all the pain and hardship Covid-19 has undoubtedly caused, it is always important to look for the good that has taken place as well.

How often does the world get to pause? Air pollution has dropped drastically over lockdown, with some cities across the world having clear skies for the first time in years. We have all seen individuals and communities come together in this crisis to help those who need it.

It is funny to think that our ‘new normal’ will be slowly returning back to our ‘old normal’. But let’s not

forget all we have learned during this time. All those things that we may not have done before, that brought us joy during quarantine. Let’s find time to keep doing them.

Let's keep saying hello to people we see on a walk and check in on our neighbours who may need help. Let’s keep discovering new recipes with the food we have in our cupboards, instead of constantly buying more.

Let’s use technology as a tool to educate ourselves instead of as a distraction. Let’s invest time in the people who make us smile, no matter how far away they are.

Let’s keep spreading positivity.

And once this is all over - let’s share a banana bread.

Debating Topical Issues Debating had a strong presence in the Spring Term, with a Cobham Hall Model United Nations Conference attended by a number of local schools. In addition, our MUN delegates also attended a conference at Lady Eleanor Holles School.

Our student-led Debate Club met during the term, and this culminated in midMarch with a discussion around the Covid-19 pandemic.

Finally, Humanities Forum met in School during the Spring and later virtually to continue their debates in the Summer Term. Topics included US intervention in the Middle East, and the effect of coronavirus on globalisation.

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Scholars Head to Oxford Masterclass

Alice, Year 10, with thanks to Enya for the photograph with Dr Christopher O'Neill A small group of students from Year 10 and above were taken to London to listen to a series of lectures given by a number of Oxford professors.

The day consisted of four lectures and a debate. Each of these were very interesting, discussing subjects outside our Middle School curriculum, particularly psychology.

The lectures included “Why I lived as a badger, an otter, a deer and a swift”

by Professor Charles Foster, as well as “Philosophy, Love and Relationships”

by Professor Julie Arliss.

The first lecture, “Knowing What You Know and What You Don’t Know: Examining Epistemology”, was also given by Professor Arliss, an accomplished teacher and writer, and was one of our favourites. She discussed the difference between fact and belief; nature versus nurture; and the difference between people’s personal realities.

“The lecture on Science and the Secret of Happiness was my favourite,” said Enya, Year 10. “I liked it because it was funnier than the others and more relatable.” This lecture was given by Dr Christopher O'Neill, who initiated the MYRIAD research project in Oxford University investigating resilience and wellbeing in young people.

The day was different to any other school trip, and was a very interesting experience. It allowed all of us to think more abstractly and creatively, while learning more about the world together.

Catering Celebrate St Patrick’s Day

A Visit to Bath and Fishbourne

Catering supplied some light relief just before lockdown came into effect, with a celebration of St Patrick’s Day.

Latin Teacher Dr Marin organised and lead a school trip for staff and students to Bath and Fishbourne at the end of February.

Complete with decorations, girls and staff enjoyed an Irish-themed dinner, with Irish Stew, Champ and Colcannon Potatoes. Dessert took a green theme, with jelly, cheesecake and sponge cakes all taking a green hue!

As well as exploring the Roman Palace at Fisbourne, the girls were able to look at and handle artefacts, as well as visiting the Roman Baths in Bath.

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Meet our 2020-2021 Student Leadership Team!

Guardian: Aoife

Deputy Guardian: Mya

Deputy Guardian: Alisha

Aspirations To travel the world, experiencing and discovering new cultures.

Aspirations To be an engineer and entrepreneur; using my skills to inspire and do good in the world.

Aspirations To be the best version of me, inspire others, and create my own clothing brand one day.

Favourite Quotation “Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do!”

– Steve Jobs

Favourite Quotation “Have a good time. Life is too short to be discouraged. Keep moving. Put one foot in front of the other, smile and just keep rolling” - Kobe Bryant

Favourite Quotation “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish” – Michelle Obama

Clifton House Captain: Maci

Darnley House Captain: Mabel

Lenox House Captain: Maisy

Richmond House Captain: Chioma

Aspirations To break glass ceilings.

Aspirations To improve the prospect of people’s lives in developing countries by increasing the basic standard of living.

Aspirations To be the kindest person I can be and run for Great Britain one day.

Aspirations To become a paediatrician; and with that, to make the littlest difference in someone’s life.

Favourite Quotation “If you are the most intelligent person in the room, you are in the wrong room” -Unknown

Favourite Quotation “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any” – Alice Walker

Favourite Quotation “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.”

– Muhammad Ali 10

Favourite Quotation “There is only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving, and that is your own self” – Aldous Huxley

Festival Day This year’s Festival Day took place online, with the School community tuning in to watch on YouTube.

As is tradition, the event opened with a welcome address from our Chair of Governors, Mr Martin Pennell, followed by the Headmistress.

We were delighted that awardwinning Sky News Correspondent Alex Crawford was able to join as our Keynote Speaker. Alex, a Cobham Hall Elder, spoke of her career and how her Cobham Hall education supported her throughout.

Year Prizes for Consistently High Examination Results

Year 7: Year 8: Year 9: Year 10:

Martha Poppy Leena Enya

Year Prizes for Outstanding Attitude

Year 7: Year 8:

Year 9:

Year 10:

Elizabeth Keira Amy-Rose Amber

Subject Prizes for Outstanding Work in Years 7 – 11

Art: Biology: Chemistry: Drama: EFL: English: French: Geography: German: History: Mathematics: Music: Physical Education: Physics: Spanish:

Florence Jessica Tife Amelia Lily Niu-Niu Jena Rebekah Alice Alexandra Martha Jena Rebecca Niu-Niu Keira

GCSE Shield for Excellence of Effort Niu-Niu

Model United Nations (MUN)

Junior MUN Debating Cup: Martha Senior MUN Debating Cup (Panton & Grimes Trophy): Heather

Subject Prizes for Outstanding Work in Years 12 and 13 Biology:

Chemistry: English: EFL: EPQ: Film Studies: French: Geography: History: Mathematics: Physical Education: Physics: Politics: Psychology: Spanish: Theatre: Visual Arts:

Lok Yi Lok Man Alessandra Clara Lilly Christine Clara Anna Anna Harisha Lilly Harisha Teloni Teloni Jessica Alisha Christine

Cups for Excellence of Effort or Progress Biology (The Spencer Phillips Cup): Keira Chemistry (The Wainman Cup): Rebekah Computer Science: Olivia Economics: Aoife English (The Clark Cup): Darcey EPQ: Julia French: Amber Geography: Amy-Rose German: Francesca History (The Timm Cup): Lilly Mathematics (The Erogbogbo Cup): Poppy Music (The Lorna Currie Cup): Lucy Physical Education: Poppy Physics (The Wilkinson Cup): Lilly Politics: Alessandra Psychology: Aoife Spanish: Xin Yao Theatre (The Tennison-Smith Cup): Maci Visual Arts (The Downing Cup): Amelia English as a Foreign Language (The Tavassoli Cup): Nijia Student Support Department Prize: Keira and Jasmine 11

Festival Day Speaker Alex Crawford

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards

Bronze:

Nifemi, Ezara, Trinity, Enya, Francesca, Tife, Hannah, Loantrang, Jessica, Alice, Felicity, Amber, Rachel, Rhiannon, Isabella, Sophie, Selina, Ella, Alice Silver: Jessica, Niu-Niu, Hannah, Lok Man, Teloni, Joey, Tina, Trinity, Lilly, Lok Yi, Alexandra

Sports Awards

The Cawston Cup for Excellence in Swimming: Natasha The Morton Cup for Commitment to Sport:

Lilly

Netball Player of the Year

Senior:

Junior:

Trinity Poppy

Excellence in Tennis:

Christine

Cups and Prizes Celebrating Round Square IDEALS

The Balch Trophy for Commitment to Round Square in Lower and Middle School: Adele The Unicorn Prize for Community

Service: Martha Round Square King Constantine Medal: Aoife The Husain Cup for Raising Awareness of Environmental Issues:

Maci

Something Wonderful This Way Comes!

Cobham Hall became Hogwarts for the day to celebrate Bloomsbury Publishing’s Harry Potter Book Night in early February. Local primary school children were able to enjoy Potions class, Frog Choir and even try their hand at retrieving the Philosopher’s Stone!

After enjoying a roast beef lunch with our Year 7 and 8 girls, the children were rewarded with certificates and a goody bag of Bertie Botts’ Every Flavour Beans and a Chocolate Frog. Mrs Joshua, Cobham Primary’s Year 4 class teacher who accompanied the children, said afterwards, “Thank you for a magical day, it really was special and the children thoroughly enjoyed themselves.”

Each year in February, Bloomsbury Publishing celebrate Harry Potter Book Night and this year we decided to become Hogwarts for the day. The whole of Year 4 from nearby Cobham Primary, along with a number of girls from Steephill Prep School, were invited to take part in a day of spells and magic.

A huge congratulations must go to Graduate Housemistress Miss Tomlin, who’s creativity and ingenuity created a magical day for the youngsters.

The children, who arrived bedecked in capes, lightning bolt scars on their foreheads and wizard hats, gasped as they entered Cobham Hall’s Gilt Hall to the sound of music from the films. They were greeted by LAMDA teacher ‘Professor’ Mangan, who became Head of Muggle Relations for the day. In a performance that had the children spellbound, Professor Mangan oversaw the Sorting Ceremony, which split the group into their Houses.

Once sorted, the children had their first chance to show their wizarding potential by solving puzzles to break into a box containing the Philosopher’s Stone. They coped marvellously with the challenges, which included a visit to the ‘Restricted Section’ of the library. They were supported by their House Prefect – one of our Sixth Form pupils – and were rewarded with a treat when the box was finally opened. The children then split into two groups, with the first heading to their Potions Class, where they created a number of potions, using ingredients such as ground unicorn horn, dragon’s drool and powdered basilisk skin! The second group took part in Frog Choir, learning and performing “Something Wicked This Way Comes”.

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MP’s Visit Inspires Future Politicians

- Izzy, Year 12

I met Adam Holloway, Gravesham’s MP, at an event last term and asked him if he would come into school to talk to us about his experiences as a politician. I’ve always been interested in Politics and am now studying it as one of my A Level subjects. I wanted to hear from someone who works in this area and I knew that other students would also be interested.

Adam Holloway came to our first ever Humanities Forum Xtra, an extension to our regular half-termly debates. A group of about 30 students from Years 10 to 13 gathered in Clifton Common Room and Mr Holloway allowed us to ask any questions we wanted. He brought with him his friend, Vygaudas Ušackas, a Lithuanian diplomat who served as the EU’s Special Representative for Afghanistan and later EU Ambassador to Russia.

In a free flowing question session both speakers explained why they wanted to get into Politics and discussed questions about foreign aid, the role of military intervention and reform of the parliamentary system. Mr Holloway has been a very vocal supporter of Brexit, whilst Mr Ušackas is a keen supporter of the EU and their differing views made for a lively and thought-provoking debate. It was good to see how robust debate and differing opinions are no barrier to a good friendship: an important reminder to us all in the somewhat divisive political atmosphere we have experienced recently.

Both speakers were very engaging and we all felt we could have spent much longer discussing these questions had time allowed. The evening made for a strong start to our planned programme of Humanities Forum Xtra events and it was great that so many students were present to be challenged by different views and inspired to get involved in Politics in the future.

Celebrations for First EPQ

Years 11 and 12, along with staff members, were invited to join Year 13 to celebrate the completion of their Extended Project Qualification.

Taking place in the ILC, artefacts and essays were on display and several girls gave their advice and tips for undertaking the EPQ. This year’s cohort produced fabulous projects, including a Triathlon magazine, a dress, and a Model United Nations Conference. They were well rewarded with 29% of students acheived A*- A and 50% A*- B. 13

Wellbeing at Cobham Hall A round-up of wellbeing initiatives from across the School this term

Young Carers The Spring Term saw a new support group established by Mrs Bonner for Young Carers.

It is often the case that students do not realise that they are a young carer, especially if the care they offer is to a sibling or other relative. Young carers do an amazing job and it is this group of young people we are keen to identify and ensure that their needs are met.

Mrs Bonner meets with the Young Carers every fortnight with her Therapy dog Ted. The group is a supportive place where they can get to know other young carers and chat freely about their role if they’d like to, as well as having activities to get involved with and focus on rather than their responsibilities.

We are pleased that despite launching just prior to the nationwide lockdown, Mrs Bonner was able to establish an online group via Teams to enable the girls to continue to support one another.

Anti-Bullying Upskill Training We were delighted to welcome The Diana Award back to host an AntiBullying Upskill Training session for both our Anti-Bullying Ambassadors and those from other local schools.

The session opened with a brief refresher on the students’ knowledge of bullying and looked at developing their skills to tackle it.

Throughout the day, activities were undertaken to enable students to not only develop practical skills to tackle bullying but also soft skills of confidence and public speaking.

The workshop also allowed students to network with other peer AntiBullying Ambassadors to share good practice and to inspire one another with new ideas. The session ended by creating an action plan to

implement these ideas.

The Diana Award is the only charity set up in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales and her belief that young people have the power to change the world.

Their Anti-Bullying Ambassador Programme empowers students and staff to change the attitudes, behaviours, and cultures of bullying by building skills and confidence to address different situations both on and offline.

At Cobham Hall, our Anti-Bullying Ambassadors are encouraged to be proactive in raising awareness. By becoming an Ambassador, they receive the training needed to spot potential issues and speak to staff, as well as supporting their peers.

Children’s Mental Health Week Miss Fenice, our Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead, encouraged students to mark Children’s Mental Health Week in February.

A range of activities took place to support the week’s message: ‘Find your Brave’, including sharing stories of when they were brave.

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Girls were also encouraged to wear an item of their uniform inside out for a day to remind us all to think about how others maybe feeling on the inside and to always be kind.

Grils were also invited to enjoy a lunchtime hot chocolate in the Wellbeing Centre.

#BoardingLife Despite the Summer Term taking place remotely, the Boarding Housemistresses created video challenges for the girls to take part in, including baking tutorials, rock painting and calligraphy doodling.

Prior to lockdown, the Spring Term however was packed with activity.

As well as celebrating numerous birthdays, the girls enjoyed Mini Golf, baking, bowling and Pancake Day!

Keep up-to-date with all the adventures on Twitter:

@CobhamBoarding

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The DofE The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a key part of life at Cobham Hall. Forming part of Year 9’s timetable, as well as being an element of our Sixth Form Programme, the DofE provides balance to academic study.

A Royal Visit for Celebrate The Duke o It may have been a cold, rainy Wednesday afternoon in early March, but the atmosphere at Cobham Hall was far from dreary!

Self-discovery and personal development is something Cobham Hall aspires to support in each of our students. The DofE provides plenty of opportunity for this.

With Lower School waving Union Flags, we were thrilled to welcome HRH The Earl of Wessex to Cobham Hall. Visiting to spend time with young people doing their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), The Earl was able to speak with young people from Cobham Hall, as well as a number of local schools.

Made up of three levels Bronze, Silver and Gold participants are encouraged to develop new skills, enhance interests and push themselves beyond their comfort zone.

The Earl stopped to speak to our Lower School girls before entering the Activity Centre to be formally welcomed by dignitaries, Headmistress Ms Roberts, Deputy Headmistress Mrs Barrett and DofE

As well as learning practical skills such as campcraft, first aid and navigation, the DofE also promotes development of crucial skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership.

Bronze and Silver Level Awards comprise of the following: 1. Physical - participating in a sport, dance or fitness activity regularly.

2. Skills - Learning a new skill 3. Volunteering - giving time to help people, the community, the environment or animals 4. Expedition - plan, train for and complete an unaccompanied, self-reliant expedition with an agreed aim.

Those undertaking Gold also need to complete an additional section: A Residential.

We were delighted to receive news in the Spring Term that Emily, who finished Year 13 last summer, has completed her Gold DofE Award and will be invited to a Royal Palace to receive her certificate. Well done, Emily.

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r Cobham Hall to of Edinburgh’s Award Representatives. During his visit, he was able to speak to young people about the vital skills needed, and indeed developed, during the Physical and Expedition sections of the DofE. The Earl watched demonstrations of CPR and first aid, as well as orienteering, rugby drills, circuit training and cooking on trangias.

Playing host for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Cobham Hall also welcomed representatives from this charity, as well as young people, staff and volunteers from 13 local schools, with each putting on displays either in the Activity Centre, or out on South Lawn. Despite the incessant rain, spirits were high as The Earl conversed with each group,

asking about the activities and the impact of taking part in the DofE. Ms Roberts said, after the event, “We would like to thank The Earl for his visit to Cobham Hall. The DofE is an integral part of life at the School due to the vital skills it develops, such as perseverance and resilience, which are skills required for a successful future.”

At Cobham Hall, DofE lessons are timetabled for Year 9. This allows an introduction to the DofE, and the chance to start developing the necessary skills to take part. DofE also forms a fundamental part of our Sixth Form curriculum, providing balance to the academic A Level element.

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Computing for All

Computer Science Teacher and Head of Middle School Mr Eyers has been encouraging the school community to discover more about computing.

In early February, Mr Eyers invited Parents to join him for a lesson in Coding. A number of parents took this up, eager to learn more about what their daughters have been doing in their classes.

Birds of Prey Visit Lower School

Years 7 and 8 were treated to a display from wildlife foundation Eagle Heights. Bringing along a number of their Birds of Prey, Eagle Heights could demonstration the difference between the birds and how their unique variations and adaptations better suited them to

Following shortly after was Safer Internet Day, a global campaign with the aim of encouraging a positive use of the internet. Mr Eyers gave an assembly and encouraged Tutors to extend the discussion into Tutorial time, around the idea of being yourself online, as well as cyberbullying.

Year 9 pupil Tunmise commented afterwards that “Safer Internet Day really inspired me to think before I click: to consider what I post and most importantly to think before I type, because nothing ever goes away once it’s posted online.”

Exploring Medicine with Pfizer

Year 9 were visited by Pfizer for an all day workshop to discover how medicines are made.

‘Molecules to Medicine’ included puzzles, games and activities designed to engage the girls and encourage them to consider careers in the field as they approach their GCSE years.

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their environments. Year 8 student Anya commented afterwards, "Birds of Prey was a great experience. I found it scary but exciting when they flew over our heads! We learned about the habitats, bodies and rescues of an owl, a hawk and a massive eagle!"

Celebrating Maths The Spring Term saw a celebration of Mathematics, with four Year 10 students - Siqi, Enya, Toni and Jessica - representing Cobham Hall in the AMSP Maths Feast. They competed against 13 other schools, over four gruelling rounds testing their Mathematical reasoning, problemsolving and collaborative skills, and were recognised as displaying excellent team work and were awarded a prize.

Sculpture Workshop with Ty Locke

- Miss Bowdery, Artist-in-Residence

Years 10 and 11 were lucky enough to have a full day workshop with upcoming artist Ty Locke.

Ty Locke has had an incredibly successful art career since graduating from UCA Canterbury in 2018 and shows work in multiple exhibitions every year. He has been a part of the Margate Art Festival for the past two years, took part in and then ran the CRATE graduate programme, worked as an Artist Assistant for a successful sculptor, before moving to London in September to begin his Masters in Sculpture at Slade School of Fine Art. During our workshop students learned about what an artist can do and were encouraged by his enthusiastic and charismatic persona.

The day began with an artist talk, learning about Ty’s practice and the unconventional logic behind the creation of his sculptures, starting from his work at university and seeing how it has progressed in the past four years. Then we moved onto four different material/sculpture workshops, each time the students were limited to only one material chosen by the artist. Firstly pegs, then zip ties, hangers and finally sellotape. By limiting the students to a specific object, they had to carefully consider the material and work with it to make something that was aesthetically appealing. From here they had complete creative freedom to make a sculpture using the

material. Taking it apart, bending, balancing, twisting, all the while being encouraged to push the boundaries of each material given. With each object arose a specific problem ‘How do you make a zip tie into a 3D structure without support?’ The students were encouraged to work through and figure out their own solutions to these problems and bring that knowledge into the next sculpture.

By the end of the day, the students had each created and documented five unique sculptures and came out with a better understanding of what can be done with everyday objects.

No longer being able to look at a peg in the same way without considering, ‘What happens if I take this apart?’, ‘What would happen if I balanced these here?’

They discovered the joy in realising anything can be used for art if you think about it in a different way.

Both Mrs Walsh (Head of Art) and I were very pleased with the outcomes of the workshop. The Art students learnt many new skills that will be transferred into their own course work. In particular they have learnt that they need to take creative risks and have resilience to solve problems and truly develop ideas effectively.

We look forward to our next workshop.

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Later in the term, on 14th March, known as Pi Day (as the date would read 3.14) Head of Maths Mrs Afolayan challenged students to recite Pi to as many numbers as they could, as well as encouraging them to take part in Pi themed Bake-Off! Well done to the Maths Feast students, and to Maddie (Year 8) who was able to recite Pi to 98 digits, and to Amber, Lamees and Liz for their delicious chocolate Pi cake that won the Bake-Off!

Careers in STEM During Science Week in early March, a series of lectures were organised open to the whole School community.

These lunch time sessions included topics like ‘Running a STEAM Business’, ‘Precision Agriculture in the 21st Century’, ‘Digital Forensics and Policing in the Digital Age’ and ‘Women in Computing’.

Science Week also saw students in Years 7 and 8 working towards the CREST Award, as well as creating hand sanitiser.

Sharing the Love of Reading As well as School-wide initiatives, there were also several other opportunities for sharing the joy of reading for pleasure.

A number of girls went to the Southern Schools Book Awards Ceremony. The girls were able to hear from four of the five shortlisted authors, M A Bennett (‘The Island’); Siobhan Curham (‘Don’t Stop Thinking About Tomorrow’); Malcolm Duffy (‘Me Mam, Me Dad, Me’) and Nicky Singer (‘The Survival Game’), as well as Chris Riddell, illustrator and former Children’s Laureate.

The girls were delighted to hear that the winning book was MA Bennett’s ‘The Island’, and were pleased to receive some book tokens.

The Staff and Sixth Form Book Club continued to meet, and were able to discuss ‘My Sister, the Serial Killer’ by Oyinkan Braithwaite.

Suggested by English Teacher Mrs Bonner, staff were also encouraged to share their love of reading by noting on their whiteboards the books they were currently reading to open dialogue about the books. In addition, Mrs Bonner also filmed a short video for an assembly where staff members spoke about the book or books which influenced them the most.

Year 7 had a visit to Meopham Library to show them around and to encourage girls to sign up to the Kent Library Service. This will give the girls access to a greater range of books both in print and digitally.

From the ILC...

Our Librarian, Mrs Geater, has been busy this term, with several initiatives to encourage a love of reading. From World Book Day to Drop Everything And Read, reading for pleasure has been promoted and fostered throughout the School. Have a read of these pages and find out more.

DEAR Books...

A silence descended across the School during a Tutorial as Cobham Hall took part in a national celebration of reading: DEAR. ‘Drop Everything and Read’ (DEAR for short) encourages everyone to stop what they are doing and read for 30 minutes.

Some classes opted to read individually but Mrs Hooper’s Tutor Group opted to read as a group with everyone taking turns to read parts of ‘George’s Marvellous Medicine’ by Roald Dahl. Mrs Hooper said, “We all read a page each, trying hard to bring the story to life with the characters’ voices. There were many different variations of Grandma, and we all enjoyed it.”

Mrs Geater placed boxes of books around the School for those who may have forgotten their book, or who may have wanted to try something new.

Later in the term, Mrs Geater also offered extended library loans to encourage girls to take several books home to help boost their mood and provide some escapism and relief from life in lockdown. She also provided girls with a list of review sites, including ‘Love Reading 4 Kids’, ‘Carnegie Medal Shortlisted Books’, and ‘Epic Reads’.

Additionally, English Teacher Mrs Bonner set up a Cobham Hall Book Club using Microsoft Teams for those who wanted to share their opinions of the books they had been reading throughout lockdown.

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Celebrating World Book Day

- Alice, Year 10 Early March saw World Book Day celebrated at Cobham Hall! Events took place in the Independent Learning Centre throughout the week, including a ‘Who’s Reading?’ competition (in which students were able to guess from a number of photos which members of staff were reading each book); a cupcake sale and costume competition (the winners being the Year 10 dictionary and the Year 11 crayons); and ‘Booky Bingo’. Many students took part in the activities, and enjoyed bonding with each other along the way. Isis and Loantrang in Year 10 answered some questions about their experiences of World Book Day 2020.

What was your favourite part of dressing up for World Book Day?

Isis: I would say representing our Year Group as a community, and everyone getting together to participate in

something that some people might not find as interesting usually.

Loantrang: It was pretty good to all work together in the Year Group because usually it’s not as creative doing single pieces, and a lot of people don’t even dress up because they don’t know what to do, but as a group it’s better.

What’s your favourite part of World Book Day in general?

Isis: My favourite part of World Book Day is seeing who won the costume competition because obviously if you

put all your time and effort into making your costume, and getting everybody together and getting your ideas, and making it happen, you want it to pay off and want to win! Also, it’s nice to see what characters people do decide to do because in your Year Group, there’s going to be some people you talk to more than others, so to see other people dress up and their inspiration behind it, I think that’s pretty cool.

Loantrang: I like when you can just be in the Year Group. The fact that we did a group one was really nice because you can spend time together and do different activities with each other, and so you’re around each other all day and not as disconnected as usual. It’s also nice to see different characters and people out of their normal clothes, because rather than a normal tag day, this has a theme and you can go together in groups.

Do you feel like World Book Day gives you the opportunity to be creative and inspires your imagination?

Isis: Yes, because it’s all about how you represent the character, it’s your favourite bits and what you take the character as personally, and you can put it into your own idea. If you take two simple characters, for example Thing One and Thing Two, you could represent them as rival siblings or really best friends, so it really just depends on you.

Loantrang: Absolutely, because even though you’re taking it from a book, it’s your own twist and conception of how the character is meant to look.

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Women Supporting Women Raising Awareness for Period Poverty

Female Lead Society

The death of popular TV presenter Caroline Flack in mid-February lead to an outpouring of calls for more kindness in a society where social media’s keyboard warriors attack a woman’s appearance or actions without fact, knowledge or consideration for the consequences.

However, once the #BeKind trend subsided, ‘normal’ service seemed to have resumed. It is, therefore, refreshing to see Cobham Hall girls carrying the value of kindness and taking it upon themselves to offer kindness wherever and whenever they are able.

Last year, we piloted a new programme from the Female Lead. Named The Female Lead Society, schools were encouraged to launch a co-curricular club to enable girls to discuss issues faced by women, such as the portrayal of women in media, gender equality, and women in Science. The programme hopes to build resilience and courage in young women. The Pilot Programme resulted in 83% of girls feeling more optimistic about their future careers.

This term saw girls from The Female Lead Society embrace International Women’s Day and produce a video encouraging their peers as well as female staff members to explore why they are proud to be a woman and share the struggles faced as women. The video was shared on social media, with The Female Lead sharing it with their audience saying ‘This is incredible!’

The Spring Term saw lots of initiatives aimed at supporting women and girls. From celebrating International Women’s Day and marking the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, students have also been embarking on their own initiatives. Whether it’s our Anti-Bullying or Wellbeing Ambassadors looking out for their peers, or Big Sisters supporting new students, kindness is shown to one another across the School.

We can’t wait to see what this Society does next!

That kindness also extends beyond Cobham Hall, such as Martha’s support and consideration for her community during lockdown. However, in School our Sixth Form Representatives in the Round Square Committee chose to raise awareness and fundraise for the charity ‘Bloody Good Period’.

“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”

Michelle Obama

The charity aims to raise awareness of period poverty and the girls gave an informative assembly, explaining what it is and the issues that come with it. They hosted a doughnut sale to raise money, and requested a donation of sealed sanitary items. As well as raising awareness, ‘Bloody Good Period’ distributes sanitary products around the world and in the UK to those who cannot afford it.

SLT Supports Students Virtually During Lockdown, our Student Leadership Team (SLT) established a presence on Microsoft Teams, to enable girls to contact them if they needed to and to maintain the interaction between Year Groups that is so ingrained within the school community.

The SLT posted activities in the Team, to encourage and promote House spirit by setting games and challenges such as a ‘Family Games Night’, Baking, and Movie Nights.

In addition, the girls joined the Headmistress for a weekly ‘Heads to Head’ Podcast in place of assmebly, and would announce challenges such as ‘Bring your Pets to Lessons’ and ‘On Wednesdays We Wear Pink’.

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International Women's Day was marked this year on Sunday, 8th March. As a School, we supported the #EachforEqual campaign by creating the themed pose after assembly. But what does it mean to be a woman, and why is celebrating International Women's Day so important? Year 11's Dami had this to say.

In a world designed for men, how do women push at the constraints of society?

With Sunday 8th March marking International Women's Day, I could not think of a better time to delve deeper into the history of everything women.

However, when first approaching this topic, despite it being something I feel very passionate about, I was aware that it is one that often draws a sigh, or a groan quickly followed by the words “not again” or something not dissimilar.

But the battle for women's rights is far from over: it is just as relevant today as it was during the time of the liberating movement of the Suffragettes. Just because we have now seen the beginnings of change, we must not neglect it at the prime of the movement.

Empowered women empower women

Feminism is literally defined as “the advocacy of women's rights on the ground of the equality of the sexes”. It is not a group of women vehemently hating the existence of men. It is not women fervently trying to overcome men, thus becoming the superior sex. Nor is it fighting for the removal of men from society. Feminism is simply the fight for equality. Although the title may seem misleading, feminism can help to destroy the stereotypes not only posed on women but men too. That’s the issue with mainstream feminism: it seems that the most attention goes to feminists who completely disregard the concept of intersectional feminism, thus creating an even bigger barrier in the provision of true gender equality.

Many of my friends often question why feminism is still relevant today. Why is it, that now women can vote, or work in stereotypically male jobs or even the fact it's now socially acceptable for a women's ankles to be seen in public, we continue to feel the need to identify as feminists? Well, currently over 650 million girls were married as children because women are often seen as burdens and marrying them early can ease that burden. 1 in 4 women over the age of 18 experience domestic abuse by their partner, along with 70% of women in India. This is happening today: in the 21st Century. The battle we as feminists fight is much bigger than what it initially appears to be or what people scoff or sigh at. We are fighting for every single person that has ever faced discrimination solely due to their gender.

Prior to the Suffragette movement, despite the population being roughly 50% women, laws were still passed that impacted women without them having any say on them whatsoever. The Suffragette movement is undoubtedly one of the most profound movements in history for women. When we were finally able to vote, the fuse for a change in the attitudes towards women was sparked. They understood that they were at a point where they had to commit themselves fully to their cause in order to spark real change, and so they did. The Suffragettes believed in “deeds not words” and their actions showed women today that it is not always enough to talk about the change you want to make, one must take action.

As an all-girls school I feel that there's an even bigger emphasis placed on feminism. Here, we are given the prime environment, support and motivation to want to succeed, especially as a woman. We aren't taught about how women are stifled because of their gender but instead how women have every right to be as successful as they choose. Recently, a club called ‘The Female Lead Society’ came to fruition and so this year to mark International Women's Day we encouraged every girl to really think about what makes them proud to be a woman. Using some of their responses, we created a video. This Club has really given us, as a student body, the opportunity to focus on all the things that make being a woman great.

So, a happy International Women's Day to all, and a thank you to all the inspirational women in our lives.

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Match Results Sadly, during the Spring term, many fixtures were cancelled due to poor weather and, later, growing concerns around the increasing threat of Coronavirus. However, results of fixtures that did go ahead are below.

Sporting Success at Cobham Hall

Netball U12s and U13s vs Kings Rochester U12s lost 12 - 10 Player of the Match: Alana U13s lost Player of the Match: Poppy and Lily Year 11 vs Wilmington Grammar Year 11 won 35 - 5 Player of the Match: Rebecca Mrs Hooper said “The girls looked like club players. Their teamwork, communication, defence and shooting were amazing! They also demonstrated excellent stamina maintaining a very high skill level throughout the full 40 minute match.”

U12s and U13s vs Benenden U12s lost 8 - 11 Player of the Match: Amber U13s won 15 - 8 Player of the Match: Poppy U15s A and B Teams vs Kings Rochester A Team lost 20 - 17 Player of the Match: Selina B Team won 15 - 11 Player of the Match: Ola U12s and U13s vs Wilmington Grammar U12s won 10 - 6 Player of the Match: Amber

Postponed from its usual Autumn Term slot, the annual Inter-House CrossCountry took place in the Spring Term, with fantastic effort from the girls.

The 3km course had to be cleared by our gardeners following some fallen branches thanks to February’s storms, but the competition went ahead successfully. Making use of the School’s vast grounds, the course crosses lawns and runs through woodland. Girls from Years 7 to 13 compete, with it being optional for Years 11 and 13.

Our Year 7 Kent Schools’ Cross-Country champion Amber took first place, representing Richmond, with Year 9’s Natasha (Darnley) and Year 8’s Hannah (Lenox) completing the top three. Clifton House, who came third in the event last year gave a storming performance to take the win this year, pushing last year’s winners Darnley into second place.

The top ten were as follows: 1. Amber, Year 7 2. Natasha, Year 9 3. Hannah, Year 8 4. Lilly, Year 13 5. Marie, Year 11 6. Poppy, Year 8 7. Keira, Year 8 8. Anna, Year 7 9. Alice, Year 11 10. Annabel, Year 7

U13s won 21 - 3 Player of the Match: Poppy

Swimming vs Dartford Grammar Cobham Hall won 50 - 48 24

The House results were: 1. Clifton 2. Darnley 3. Lenox 4. Richmond Head of PE Mrs Hooper said, “This year’s cross-country was a great success, with an excellent feeling of pride and satisfaction amongst the girls during the prize giving.”

Kent Schools’ Cross-Country Champion 2020!

We are delighted to share the news that Year 7 pupil Amber took part in the Kent Schools’ Cross Country Finals in January, and after a commanding race with a highly competitive field, stormed home in first place!

This incredible achievement followed a fantastic performance at the District Qualifying races. There are 12 districts across Kent, and a number of Cobham Hall girls competed at the Dartford and Gravesham District Championships.

In the Year 7 heat, Amber led from the front and won the 2.2km race in 8.18, nearly a minute ahead of the girl in 2nd, qualifying for the the Kent Schools’ Championship in Dover on Saturday, 18th January.

Amber joined fellow Year 7s Olivia G, Anna, Olivia T and Alana in a field of 115 runners. After an explosive start, Amber held a commanding second for the first half of the race, and then went for the break. The leader held on, and Amber had to dig in to get past her, which eventually she did, romping home to take a convincing win in a highly competitive field. We’re delighted to say that Cobham Hall once again has a Kent Schools’ Cross-Country Champion! Well done, Amber!

Trampolinists Bounce to Success The Spring Term saw enormous success in Trampolining.

Overall, 19 students competed for Cobham Hall in the Kent Schools Trampolining Qualifier. The competition is known to be very competitive in the North Kent area.

We were delighted to hear that three students, Jenna, Isabelle and Felicity qualified for the individual finals! All three girls came second in their categories.

Our teams also did fantastically well, with two teams qualifying. Year 7/8 Intermediate Team (Anna, Grace, Jenna, and Olivia G) won, and the Year 7/8 Novice Team (Amber, Isabelle, Mille and Olivia T) came third.

PBs and Medal for Swimmer Natasha Fantastic news came from the pool too this term, with Year 9’s Natasha competing in the Kent Schools’ Swimming Championships.

Natasha earned several medals and scored multiple Personal Best times in events including 800m Freestyle, 400m Freestyle and the 400m Individual Medley.

Well done, Natasha!

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Kent Hockey Squad for Hannah We would like to congratulate Hannah, Year 10, who was selected for the U15 Kent Hockey squad. She has worked very hard in her training over the past seven years at Holcombe Hockey Club. Hannah, at the age of 14, is now playing in the 1A’s Ladies Team. Her determination and persistence has paid off. Well done Hannah, we are so proud of you!

Cobham Hall’s Past Uncovered...

Latin Teacher and keen Historian Dr Marin recently took an Advanced Diploma (Local History) at Cambridge University. Wonderfully, she received 765 - a 1st - for her dissertation on Mary I, Thomas Wyatt and the Cobhams. Here, Dr Marin shares her findings.

The history of Cobham Hall is rich with tales from the past; one of the most celebrated is its connection with Elizabeth I, who visited in 1559 and 1572. However, many are not aware of the role of the Brooke family to the earlier Tudor monarchs - Henry VIII, Edward and Mary - and to a rebellion that threatened the monarchy itself.

The Brookes began their ascent in the later years of Henry VIII, with the 9th Baron Cobham one of the jurors in the trial against Anne Boleyn (to whom they were distant cousins). However, it wasreally under Edward VI that the

Cobhams gained significant power, as a member of his Privy Council but alas, they supported Jane Grey as Queen in the succession crisis of July

1553, so by the time that

Mary came to the throne,

the Cobhams had not yet

regained her trust.

A nephew of the

Cobhams - Sir

Thomas Wyatt the

Younger - had

supported Mary as

queen but became

increasingly

worried about the

proposed Spanish

marriage of Mary to Philip II of Spain - and gathered men around him to lead a rebellion against Mary. The idea being to overthrow Mary, install her

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younger half-sister Elizabeth and then marry her off to an English duke, Edward Courtney.

Unfortunately, the Cobhams were drawn into the rebellion in January 1554.

In the National Archives, the state papers of Mary have been preserved and it is a treasure trove of correspondence, official proclamations and other minutiae of early modern history. In the case of the Cobhams, there are invaluable documents, including the original letters sent by the 9th Baron Cobham to Queen Mary professing his loyalty and offering whatever assistance he could give. This was followed up by another letter recounting an attack that his nephew made against his other residence Cooling Castle, which ultimately led

Elders’ Association Chair Welcomes Year 7 Year 7 had the opportunity to meet with Chair of the Elders’ Association, Mrs Tracey Balch in mid-March when she came in to let them know about the alumnae network and the benfits of being a Cobham girl. She left them with a little gift - a delightful book entitled ‘Be a Unicorn’!

‘Be a Unicorn’ is a little book of positivity. Illustrated with adorable unicorns, it’s full of funny and inspiring quotes reminding you to follow your dreams, and always be positive.

to the Brookes moving into Cobham Hall full-time from 1556, and rebuilding it under his son, the 10th Baron Cobham.

of the group that welcomed Reginald Pole back from Italy to be installed as the last Catholic Archbishop of Canterbury in 1555.

Mary didn't particularly believe the 9th Baron, nor his sons - several of whom had joined with their cousin, Thomas Wyatt - and they were all imprisoned in the Tower of London.

Although the 9th Baron and two of his sons were pardoned in March 1554, one son remained until the following summer and had time to etch his name in the infamous Beauchamp Tower (see picture above). It appears that Mary did forgive the 9th Baron as he was part

As for Elizabeth herself? She was implicated and held in the Tower of London for several months, but released under house arrest for another year. Wyatt was convicted and beheaded on Tower Hill. Mary, Pole and the 9th Baron Cobham and his wife all died within weeks of each other in the autumn of 1558, quite possibly from the influenza epidemic that swept through England from 1557 to 1560.

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Year 7 took the opportunity to ask Mrs Balch about her time at the School and she happily obliged, regaling the girls with her memories, often with much laughter from the Year 7s. Mrs Balch also asked the girls about their thoughts about the school and what they enjoy.

w

Elders’ News

Cobham Hall’s Elders follow a variety of paths after school, and we always enjoy hearing of their successes. Here are some recent good news stories.

If you are an Elder and have news you’d like to share, please submit via our website: www.cobhamhall.com/elders.

Alex Crawford Inspires with Festival Day Speech It was an absolute delight to be able to include award winning Sky News Correspondent Alex Crawford in our Festival Day celebrations this year.

As the event was held online, Alex was able was able to send a video speech, which was enjoyed by all.

Alex attended Cobham Hall from 1976 to 1980, and during that time was elected as Guardian.

Alex is an unprecedented five times winner of the Royal Television Society Journalist of the Year award.

She has also won numerous awards, including two Emmy’s and a BAFTA for coverage of the Ebola crisis, a report she reflected on in her Festival Day speech, in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic. Alex was awarded an (OBE) in the 2012 New Year Honours for services to broadcast journalism.

Alex is Special Correspondent for Sky News, and during her 30 year career has been arrested, detained, abducted, interrogated and faced live bullets, tear-gas, IEDs, and mortar shells as she reports on major stories

around the world. Alex was the first correspondent to independently access Myanmar’s Rakhine State, and get first-hand evidence of what the UN called ‘ethnic cleansing’ of the Rohingya.

how lucky you are to have an education, and such an excellent one at that, because no matter the grades you have or the subjects you’ve taken, learning is about so much more than that.”

During her Festival Day speech, Alex spoke of her time at Cobham Hall, from her election campaign to be voted Guardian to creating the early seeds of a school newspaper. Alex spoke of her career and related her achievements and experiences to skills and attitudes developed and inspired at Cobham Hall.

Speaking directly to Year 13, about to embark on the next chapter in their lives, Alex said, “You are just about to realise just how well prepared you are to take on everything that’s coming your way outside the school gates,” before closing at the end of her speech by saying “Good luck in whatever you decide to do next, throw your all at it. I know you will, because you are Cobham girls.”

Alex spoke of reporting on the abuction of Nigerian schoolgirls by Boko Haram and reminded Cobham’s current students, “Never ever forget

Harriet Accepts Oxford University Place

Congratulations to Elder Harriet Tubb, who accepted a place at Oxford University to study Music. Harriet finished Cobham Hall at the end of Year 13 in Summer 2019, and although held an offer from King’s College, London, chose to take a Gap Year.

Explaining her experiences since leaving school, Harriet said, “During my gap year, I’ve been able to explore various aspects of music relevant to what I want to pursue in the future, and learn new skills.”

In Memoriam

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Sarah Powell earlier in 2020.

Sarah was an Elder of the School, as were her parents, Nick and Gail, who held the roles of Bursar, Head of Boarding and School Nurse.

Having worked for Cancer Research UK and featured in a film for them about her battle and her positivity, Sarah leaves a husband and son.

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Former Guardian Stephanie Receives Prestigious Diana Award We’re delighted to hear former Guardian Stephanie Allen was recognised with The Diana Award. This Award, in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, is awarded to young people who are selflessly creating and sustaining positive social change.

Born with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis and Scoliosis of the spine, Stephanie hasn’t let anything stop her from excelling in all areas of her volunteering and career path.

Stephanie is a volunteer judo coach and Child Protection Officer for ‘Adaptive Judo’ in Wales.

“My time at Cobham Hall 100% helped me become who I am today,” Stephanie explains. “Both the experiences in school and going to the Round Square Conference in Singapore has had an enormous impact on the development of who I am today. I have always volunteered and tried to make a difference, but Cobham opened opportunity and doors for me to be able to expand on this.

“At my previous school, the Careers Advisor was certain I wouldn’t make anything of myself and that coming from a deprived area of Wales and a single parent family, leaving school in Year 11 would be a mistake. She didn’t know that I had contacted Cobham Hall and held an offer of a Sports Scholarship and Bursary! Within five months of joining Cobham Hall, I was lucky enough to be voted Guardian and this is where my journey as a role model began. I managed to demonstrate the importance of positivity to girls from all sorts of backgrounds and tried to teach all girls to be kind, courageous and humble.”

Stephanie is passionate about raising awareness and fundraising for both children in Wales and internationally.

Continuing the skills and ideas she discovered within herself as Guardian, Stephanie has increased the self-esteem of the girls she coaches, whilst developing their sense of empathy, and showing parents how their children can reach their potential.

She still wants to make an even bigger impact, and is currently continuing her education by working towards a Masters degree in Special Educational Needs and Additional Learning Needs.

We're proud of Stephanie’s achievements, and of continuing her education whilst having a huge impact on her community. Well done, Stephanie!

Tilly’s Musical Project

In early April, Elder Tilly Green, now in her final year at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, contacted us to share the news about a book/ musical project about Ada Lovelace.

She said, “Cobham taught me so many things, most important of all to work hard and always remain positive.

“It’s because of this that I’ve been able to take part in projects such as this. I’ve been able to pursue my dream of singing because of all the support Cobham gave me!”

Elder Amelia Gives Photography Workshop

It was a great pleasure to welcome back Cobham Hall Elder and Professional Photographer Amelia Troubridge to lead a workshop for A Level Photography and Art students.

the need for strength and conviction.

She spoke about the necessity to engage with nature (less with the screen) and also about the need to look inwards for one’s inspiration.

She spoke to the girls with great passion about her photography and how she started her career but more importantly how she has developed her business whilst being a single parent of a 10-year old boy. She spoke with enthusiasm about being a woman in the 21st Century and 29

Amelia also showed her work to the class, in particular her Manchester photography, taken from her now published book.

The workshop was practical, with Amelia getting the girls on site and directing their own photo shoots.

Unicorn News and Events

Cobham Hall’s Parent-Teacher Association, Unicorn, is dedicated to raising funds and running events for the benefit of all at Cobham Hall. To find out more, you can email the Committee: unicorn@cobhamhall.com or visit www.cobhamhall.com/unicorn

Candlelit Ball: Event of the Year Taking place in early March, the Unicorn Association’s flagship findraising event, the Candlelit Ball, was able to go ahead, one of the final in-school events before lockdown came into effect and schools were forced to adapt to remote learning.

The event was, as always, a popular night. The parent of a Year 7 pupil recounts the evening.

The Unicorn Association

held its annual Candlelit Ball on Saturday 14th March. The event began at 6:45pm with a welcome aperitif, served in the Library. The Library would make a perfect setting for a life-like game of Cluedo! The guests were dressed in their finest evening attire: long gowns, dinner jackets and one guest who wore a sparkly all-in-one which deserved a mention!

There was a seating plan between the Library and the Gilt Hall, prettily perched on an easel which informed guests of their table.

More guests started to arrive as we moved to the opulent and beautifully decorated Gilt Hall. Socially distanced, elbow-bumping greetings light-hearted introductions and conversation took place before dinner.

Shortly afterwards, the DJ announced that dinner would be served, and so we took our seats at the stunningly dressed tables. A QR code, details of the guest Wi-Fi and our menu choices had been positioned carefully among our place settings. Dinner was served by table, three courses, cooked to perfection. More chatter over dinner, soft music playing in the background, friendly and professional waitresses mulling around making sure that all of our needs were met.

A raffle followed, where guests had the opportunity to win a variety of prizes. These included a rather desirable inflatable unicorn, wine, and gift vouchers as well as many more. An auction also took place, where guests were able to bid on a variety of wonderful items. The DJ announced the dance floor was officially open, and we sang and danced the night away to a multi-era, eclectic mix of music until carriages arrived at midnight....

...This event is an absolute must for your 2021 calendar!

Valentine’s Raffle The Unicorn Association extended a huge thank you to the Murray, Rice, Fry, Stevens and Massar families for the donation of items to the Pupils’ Valentine’s Raffle, as well as those who bought tickets.

Members of the Unicorn Association sold raffle tickets throughout the week of Valentine’s Day for the chance to win a variety of love and heart themed items.

These included Love Heart sweets, a chocolate ‘Connect 4’, a heart-shaped mug, lots of chocolate, cupcakes and, of course, a giant teddy holding a love heart!

Raffle tickets were sold all week, with pupils and staff purchasing in the hopes of winning when the raffle was drawn at the end of the week.

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Stay in touch with Cobham Hall!

Website: www.cobhamhall.com

Keep updated with the latest news, and access term dates, forthcoming events and more!

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See pictures, share achievements, join in with celebrations, catch the latest news, ask questions and more.

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Catch daily snippets from all aspects of school life.

www.youtube.com/ cobhamhalluk Subscribe to our YouTube channel!

See videos of school life, and watch our Music, Drama, Art and Sports Departments in action.

To keep in touch and up-to-date with Elders’ news and events, visit: www.cobhamhall.com/elders Cobham Hall’s Parent-Teacher Association.

To find out about upcoming Unicorn events, visit: www.cobhamhall.com/unicorn

Open Mornings Virtual Open Morning

Saturday 3rd October 2020

For information on any of the above event, or to register your interest in attending, please email enquiries@cobhamhall.com 31

Cobham, Kent, DA12 3BL, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1474 823371 enquiries@cobhamhall.com www.cobhamhall.com

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