Insight | Summer 2017

Insight | Summer 2017

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Page 3 - Welcome from the Headmaster

Our New Headmistress Page 4 - School News Page 5 - Exam Results Page 6 - Festival Day Page 8 - Prize Winners Page 10 - Farewell to Year 13 Page 12 - Welcome to Cobham Hall Page 14 - Sports Day Page 16 - Weekends of Adventure Page 18 - Curriculum Enhancement Week Page 20 - Round Square International Day Page 22 - Environmental Awareness Page 24 - Summer Art Exhibition &

Music Concert Page 25 - Art Success

Jamaica Page 26 - School Snippets Page 28 - #BoardingLife Page 30 - Sports Round Up Page 32 - What’s the point of a School Production?

Page 35 - Spirit Week

Dancing Shoes Page 36 - Elders’ News Page 37 - Unicorn Association News Page 38 - Did you Know...?

Cobham Hall Dairy Page 39 - Stay in Touch

Forthcoming Events

From the Editor...

Welcome to the bumper Summer edition of Insight magazine! The Summer Term, on paper, looks like it should be a smaller edition - with it being the shortest term of the year, and examinations filling much of the calendar, there shouldn’t be time to squeeze as much into the term.

Yet somehow, the girls manage to make the most of every moment, and with key events taking place in the Summer - such as Sports Day,

Festival Day and the Summer Art and Music Showcase, it’s just as busy as the Spring and Autumn - if not more so!

Now, at the start of a new School year, the highs of the Summer term seem so long ago. However, it’s the perfect time to recap - to congratulate those who passed their examinations, wish the best of luck to those starting the next chapter of their education and finally, to look forward and welcome those about to begin their Cobham Hall journey.

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You may notice that for the first time, Insight has a ‘Contents’ page; I hope you find this a useful addition.

As always, I welcome any feedback you may have: please send to reidt@cobhamhall.com. I’m also happy to receive details of the girls’ achievements if you’d like me to share this in Insight.

Happy reading!

Tracey Reid Marketing Assistant

From the Headmaster

results that place them in the top 7% of pupils in the world, record breaking athletic performances, celebrations of our girls’ creative excellence and, not surprisingly given all that, the record number of girls starting in Year 7 in September, can all be found in the next few pages.

Welcome to this edition of

Besides the pupils, one of the other major attractions of Cobham Hall to me was, and still is, its membership of Round Square. As the first all-girls’ school to join Round Square (back in the days when schools were invited to join rather than chose to apply!), I particularly enjoyed our event to celebrate 50 years of being part of the organisation. Pupils and staff from Round Square schools across theUK (as far apart as Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Box Hill), Germany and Demark joined us for a wonderful day.

Insight for the summer of 2017.

Welcome and also farewell, as this will be the last introduction to The spirit of people from hugely Cobham Hall’s magazine that I will varying backgrounds and cultures write due to my impending combining to celebrate a philosophy retirement. Inevitably, at such a of education that essentially seeks to time, one reflects on the

develop qualities summed past and of course, in

up in the Round Square I have continually my case in particular

IDEALS really summed on the nine years I

up so much that I have been delighted, have spent as

enjoyed about my energised and Headmaster of

time at Cobham Hall. inspired by the Cobham Hall. girls’ achievements

Cobham Hall, along I have gone on record

with all other schools, and attitudes. as saying that one of the

will continue to face main reasons I decided I

challenges in the future wished to work at Cobham Hall was as it seeks to maintain its work of the pupils I had met on my visits preparing young people in the best to the school prior to starting work possible way to face their own future here in September 2008. That has challenges. remained the case and I have continually been delighted, energised Enjoy reading how we have done so and inspired by their achievements most recently and some of our plans and attitudes. In this edition you may for how we will continue doing so in read of the variety of those the future. I am confident further achievements, a feature of the success awaits!

School that I have actively encouraged and one that I have always enjoyed.

Wonderful academic results, including a quarter of our Year 13 obtaining International Baccalaureate

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Mr P Mitchell Headmaster

Our New Headmistress

Following Mr Mitchell’s decision to retire as Headmaster, our Deputy Headmistress, Dr Coates-Smith, will be taking over whilst a permanent replacement is recruited.

Dr Coates-Smith has been working at Cobham Hall since 1991. With a BSc in Chemistry and a PhD in Physics, Dr Coates-Smith enjoys teaching both subjects to all ages and abilities.

“What I value most about Cobham Hall is that we are such an energetic and diverse community,” she explained.

“We welcome girls from all over the world as well as from the local area and we have an academically comprehensive intake. Students of all abilities are challenged to do the very best they can and everybody has such a ‘give it a go’ attitude. As an all-girls school we offer a really first rate education to our students and I am proud of what they achieve.”

Dr Coates-Smith originally applied for a post a Cobham Hall because it is a Round Square school. At the time, both of her parents worked at a Round Square school, and so she knew of the organisation’s ethos.

“My intention this year is to protect our ethos of challenge and diversity and to lay firm foundations for the future of Cobham Hall.”

A Change to the Sixth Form Curriculum

Lord Darnley

We were very saddened to learn of the death of Lord Darnley, the 11th Earl of Darnley.

Cobham Hall was the family home of Lord Darnley for many of the years prior to it becoming a school in 1962.

The names of the families who have lived at Cobham Hall are all commemorated in the names of our School Houses: Clifton, Lenox, Richmond, and of course, Darnley.

Lord Darnley and his younger sister Harriet, who was one of the first pupils at the School and went on to become one of its first Guardians, were both born in the room that is now the Head's Study. Lord Darnley served as a Governor of Cobham Hall for the best part of thirty years and for many of those was the Board of Governors Vice-Chair. He always took a great interest in the School and was incredibly supportive of it. In 1985, he became a founder member of the Cobham Hall Heritage Trust and was tireless in working to achieve its aims of protecting the gardens, grounds and garden buildings of the Cobham Hall estate and to educating the public in their historical significance.

Our Chairman of Governors, Mr Martin Pennell, spoke of the sad news at Festival Day, saying “Lord Darnley had a very personal and deep attachment to Cobham Hall, and maintained very close links. He will be very sadly missed.”

The decision was made this term, following an in-depth review, that from September 2018, students in our Sixth Form will study a broad programme based around the new A-Levels with a range of complementary courses. The course has been designed to develop the skills valued and required by universities and employers. These include those set out by the World Economic Forum as being the top ten skills needed to thrive, such as complex problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, co-ordinating with others, emotional intelligence, and service orientation.

individual girls’ needs and interests while retaining the important and much valued elements of the School’s ethos.

The new course has been developed to provide increased flexibility to suit

If you would like to discuss this, please contact Dr Coates-Smith.

Cobham Hall is committed to remaining a small school with small class sizes, single-sex education, and the principles of Round Square. We strongly believe that this combination, with a continued focus on challenge and the individual, will bring the best out of our girls, provide them with the best opportunities and enable us to strengthen our commitment to service and adventure.

School Developments

The Summer Term opened with the launch of our new website. With increased functionality, mobile responsiveness and a fresh design, we’re thrilled with it. We hope you are too, and would welcome your feedback. Please contact Mrs Reid via reidt@cobhamhall.com.

This term, the decision was taken, effective from September, to move Years 7 to 10 to Bligh House, the Sixth Form to the refurbished Brooke House and keep Year 11 in Main Hall.

Staff Changes

As well as Mr Mitchell retiring as Headmaster of Cobham Hall, this term also saw the retirement of our Teacher of Chinese, Mrs Xing Wei McArthur and our Teacher of Mathematics, Mrs Martine Martin.

Laboratory Technicians Mrs Beryl Reed and Mrs Deborah Weaver also retired this term. We wish them all every happiness in the next chapter of their lives.

We also said goodbye to Teacher of German, Mrs Brigitte Tismer, returning to her native Germany to be closer to family.

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We also wish Head of Lower School Mrs Rebecca Keys the very best as she begins maternity leave for her first child. Mrs Emma Wilkinson will cover her pastoral role. Mrs Keys’ role as Teacher of Geography will be covered by new starter Hollie O’Neill.

We also welcome to the School Cara Sheenan (Teacher of Mathematics), Inga Lincke (Teacher of German), Erika Howard (Laboratory Technician), Delia Williams and Charlotte McAloon (Graduate Housemistresses) and Gaelle Gressier, Anna Belen and Insa Ewen (Language Assistants).

Cobham Hall Girls in top 7% Worldwide and top 3% in UK The Summer Term is synonymous with assessments; the culmination of the academic year, and for some an anxious time as they sit their GCSE and IB examinations. Many at Cobham Hall also choose to take additional exams, for proficiency in English as a Foreign Language, or in Voice, Drama and Communication, and Music. We’ve had excellent results again this year.

We have had fantastic results, as can be seen below, including 25% of our Year 13 girls achieving IB results that put them in the top 7% worldwide, and many girls achieving GCSE grades which put them in the top 3% in the UK. GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) Taken by Year 11 students Cobham Hall was celebrating in August as GCSE results were released.

87.5% of our students achieved at least 5 A* - C grades including the equivalent in the newly graded Mathematics and English. Just under 25% of Mathematics students scored 8 or 9 for (equivalent to A* and above), with 13% of those scoring the highest Grade 9, which has been awarded to only the top 3% in the UK. Of those girls taking the three Sciences of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, 30% achieved A-A* in all three disciplines. Music students were on song, with 100% achieving A or A*, and 80% of Latin students bagged A – A* grades.

In addition, over a third of English students achieved grades 7 – 9 (equivalent to A and above).

IB (International Baccalaureate) Taken by Year 13 students Cobham Hall girls were celebrating at the start of June, after receiving their IB Diploma results. 25% of our girls scored 40+ points, of a maximum 45, placing them in the world’s top 7%.

In testament to our commitment to develop each individual talents, girls are heading off to places as diverse as Cambridge to study English, and The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland to study Music. Find out more on page 11.

82% of grades awarded were 5, 6, and 7, which is equivalent to A* - B at A-Level, and the average score per subject, across the six subjects required for the Diploma, is 5.5 (equivalent to a high B at A-Level) and is compared to the current worldwide average of 4.8. Our average Diploma points, 35.5, is comparable to scoring between AAB and AAA at A-Level.

ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) Eleven pupils from across the School, from Year 7 to Year 12, took ABRSM examinations, ranging from singing to piano and flute. Congratulations to Year 9 pupils Lila (pictured above), who achieved a Distinction in Grade 4 Piano and a Pass in Grade 5 Flute, and Maisy for a Distinction in Grade 3 Singing.

LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) Taken by Voice, Drama and Communication students The LAMDA exams held at the end of term yielded some very pleasing results. 69% of the candidates were awarded a Distinction with the majority of the rest of the candidates awarded a merit. The recent introduction of musical theatre as an area of study offered by the Drama, Voice and Communication Skills teachers bore fruit with the first ever gold medal candidates both being awarded a gold medal with distinction.

FCE & PET (First Certificate in English & Preliminary English Test) Taken by EFL students Congratulations to all EFL pupils who took Cambridge International Examinations this term. There was a 100% pass rate. One pupil achieved a pass in the Cambridge Advanced Examination, five passed their FCE and another their PET.

Well done to everyone for their achievements!

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Festival Day: Community, Dreams and Friendship “Dreams are the driving force of our lives. Everybody has dreams, no matter what class, age, race or gender you are. We live in a society where we focus on our differences, instead of on the distinct, obvious, connections we all have. Our failure to see these similarities can have devastating consequences on our world.”

The words above, spoken by Year took to the podium and echoed 13 pupil, and former Guardian Tilly, that sentiment. He reflected on his opened her speech at this year’s first Festival Day as an invited guest Festival Day. The last day of term, before taking the position, and on his always a celebration of achievement, first Assembly and first Festival Day took on an additional poignancy this as Headmaster, reiterating that year. Not only were we celebrating Cobham Hall is a community, one and saying goodbye to our student where all involved are equally leavers, but also to our Headmaster important. He went on to celebrate of nine years, Mr Paul Mitchell. The the School’s achievements over the day took a more reflective approach, year in Art, Sport – at school, county, and friendships, dreams, opportunities regional, national and international - and the encouragement to follow level - MUN, Wellbeing, Music, them – had a significant presence.

Barnum, as well as academic As well as the traditional awarding achievement, including Year 13 pupil of prizes, and performances by April’s offer to study at Cambridge the girls – including a Harry Potter next year. He gave thanks to all the themed drama sketch involving the staff involved, before introducing Dr spell required to conjure a new Head Coates-Smith, our Deputy – the day was framed around several Headmistress, who will be taking speeches sharing a common theme: over as Headmistress in September. that of the community at Cobham Hall, the friendships formed, the As well as thanking Mr Mitchell, Dr opportunities provided, created, and Coates-Smith’s speech also held the taken by students and the

themes of friendship, importance and

dreams and “One of the things I encouragement to opportunities. really value dream and to follow is our “One of the things international character those dreams. and I really value,” she this is a key part of what makes explained, “is our Cobham Hall a special place. In The Chairman of

international today’s world, understanding Govenors, Mr

character and this each other and learning to Martin Pennell is a key part of live together has never been opened with a what makes more important.” welcoming address,

Cobham Hall a which reflected over

special place. In today’s Mr Mitchell’s time as Head.

world, understanding each Mr Pennell highlighted a key phrase other and learning to live together from a recent CReSTeD report, has never been more important.”

“Cobham Hall imbues its students with confidence, but also with Dr Coates-Smith emphasised to the empathy. I noticed peer support of girls in the audience that even if they the best kind.” This statement are not prize-winners, they could still foreshadowed a Festival Day that have dreams, ambitions and would celebrate the importance of friendships. “Education - good friendship and community. education - is about much, much more than paper qualifications,” she Taking on the role of our guest said. “It is the experiences you have speaker for this year, as tribute to his in these crucial formative years of time as our Headmaster, Mr Mitchell your life; it is the relationships you 6

build with school friends that will last a lifetime.”

your teachers, you can, and I’m sure you will, do great things. Good luck to you all.”

She went on to highlight three Elders who demonstrated that After handing out the prizes, Mr determination and perseverance Mitchell returned to the podium and lead to success, even for those who recounted an occasion when he had aren’t prize-winners. Jenesis, who followed his dreams. “I was working now holds two degrees and is on the full-time,” he began, “and trying to board of the company she works fit in 4-6 hours a day training at for; Rahima, who’s

different locations and photojournalism is

driving 1000 miles a recognised worldwide

week, and it was “Whatever dream you and has won multiple

killing me, quite have, however big or awards; and Anna, a

frankly, and small, cute or crazy, successful knitwear dream, something had to listen to your designer with her

change. I went to start today and do own business, who in

see a sports something about it.” her online profile

psychologist based at quotes Oscar Wilde: “Be

Loughborough yourself – everyone else is

University, to get help with already taken.” Dr Coates-Smith also anxiety, as sometimes I didn’t achieve shared Anna’s advice for anyone the results I was feeling capable of, looking to set up a business, “Do simply because of nerves. It was all a what you love, make a plan, and bit new at the time, but I took the never give up”, and shared the opportunity to see him. At the end parallel of this advice with that given of the session, I told him I’d had this in a recent Lower School Tutor Group ‘crazy, cute idea’ I suppose the Year Assembly: “Whatever dream you 7s might call it, that I’ve not have, however big or small, cute discussed with anyone else, but that or crazy, listen to your dream, start I was thinking of giving up my job, today and do something about it.” and selling my house, to give myself the time to train full-time. He just Dr Coates-Smith closed her speech sat, and listened, and at the end, his by directly addressing Year 13, “I only comment was incredibly simple, know you worked hard on your but for me, literally life changing, examinations and are all waiting ‘Why don’t you? What’s stopping anxiously for results to come out. you?’ and I couldn’t answer. Then he But, I also know, you’ve done much said to me, ‘Look, if you decide not more, and achieved much more, to, that’s fine, it’ll stay within these than it will say on that results slip. four walls. But don’t you dare come It’s now time for you to take those back to me in four years’ time and experiences and friendships away say if, only. If only, I’d done that and with you into the world. Because of taken that chance.’ All the time, what you’ve gained over your time driving home, I asked myself those here, from each other as much as two questions - ‘Why don’t you?

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What’s stopping you?’ – and I still couldn’t answer. The very next day, I put my house on the market, handed my notice in and moved to Oxford. I have never regretted it for a second, and am fully content that I did all I could do to be the best athlete.”

Mr Mitchell was then followed by Tilly, who as well as emphasising the importance of having and following your dreams, spoke of the value of community and friendship. “Although it is important to dream – and to dream big – it is equally important to surround yourself with people who will inspire you to dream bigger. If I could, I would love to personally thank each and every one of the people sitting here today who have helped me and supported me on my Cobham journey. To all of the teachers who inspired my dreams, to the students in the younger years who became my family, to every person that smiled at me in the corridor. You are what makes up Cobham Hall and I am eternally grateful for the dreams you have given me, and the memories that I will cherish forever.”

Take a look overleaf to see all our Festival Day Prize-Winners

Celebrating Achievement: Festival Day Prize-Winners Year prizes for consistently high Subject prizes for examination results outstanding work in Years 7 – 11 Year 7: Alice Year 8: Alexandra & Niu Niu Year 9:

Chioma Year 10: Maria

Art: Biology: Chemistry: Computer Science: Drama: Year prizes for EFL: outstanding attitude English: French: Year 7: Enya Geography: Year 8:

Rebekah & Katie German: Year 9:

Zara History: Year 10: Lilly Latin:

Mathematics: GCSE Shield for Music: excellence of effort Physical Education: Physics: Yune-Seung Spanish:

The House Points Cup for the girl gaining the most academic House Points

Alice

Trinity Hannah Yune-Seung Heather Britta Ana Sofia Hannah Teloni Teshanne Ruqaiyah Alyssa Niu Niu Yune-Seung Harriet Lilly Alyssa Lila

House Awards The House Points Shield for the House gaining the most academic House Points

Lenox

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Subject prizes for outstanding work in Years 12 and 13

Chinese: Economics: English: English B: Film Studies: French: Geography: History: Mathematics: Music: Physics: Psychology: Spanish: Theatre: Visual Arts:

Ruying Ruying Eve Marielle Saskia Saskia Xu Qing Ruying Marielle Elizabeth Marielle Ariane Johanna April Eve

The Alexis Martin Trophy for the overall winner of Inter-House Sports competitions

Darnley

Cups for excellence of effort or progress Biology (The Spencer Phillips Cup):

Brooke Chemistry (The Wainman Cup):

Hannah Chinese: Ruying Computer Science: Lauren English (The Clark Cup): Shakira Environmental Systems

and Societies: Xu Qing Film Studies: Chiara French: Alexandra Geography: Maci German: Lila History (The Timm Cup): Lilly Latin:

Chioma Mathematics (The Erogbogbo Cup):

Jemima Music (The Lorna Currie Cup): Eve Physical Education: Trinity Physics (The Wilkinson Cup): Chiara Psychology: Emily Spanish: Poppy Theatre (The Tennison-Smith Cup): Brooke Theory of Knowledge: Marielle Visual Arts (The Downing Cup):

Ariane English as a Foreign Language

(The Tavassoli Cup): Hanna Student Support Department Prize:

Helena

Junior MUN Debating Cup:

Langa

Senior MUN Debating (Panton & Grimes Trophy):

April

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards Bronze: Silver:

Cara, Jessica, Lilly, Andrea, Pragya and Alessi Britta, Eve, Elizabeth, Isabelle, Alyssa, Emily, Kathryn and Bonnie

Sports Awards The Cawston Cup for Excellence in Swimming: Rebecca The Morton Cup for Commitment to Sport:

Isabelle

Chauveau Cup for Creative Writing: Britta

Uwaifo Cup for Lower School Progress in Chemistry: Katie

Horsfield Trophy for Progress in Art: India

Magenta Trophy for Commitment to Art: Vanessa

Bodie Cup for Outstanding and Sustained Contribution to Drama: Elizabeth

Languages Shield for Achievement in Lower School: Annika

Languages Shield for Achievement in Middle School:

Aurelie

Senior Netball Player of the Year : Cara

Kate Sedgewick Cup for Progress on a Musical Instrument:

Harriet

Junior Netball Player of the Year:

Trinity

Susan Price Cup for Musical Composition:

Hannah

Excellence in Tennis:

Josephine Halsall Cup for Contribution and Commitment to Choir

Lucy

Cups and prizes celebrating the Round Square IDEALS

Zara

Initiative Cup:

Courtesy Cup:

The Balch Trophy for Commitment

to Round Square in

Lower and Middle School:

Niu Niu & Amelia The Unicorn Prize for

Community Service:

General Assembly Prize-Giving

Model United Nations (MUN)

Marielle

Trinity

Voluntary Service Award: Rebekah

McDonald McKinney Cup for Most Improved Swimmer: Rebekah

Unicorn Cup for Most Improved Tennis Player: Yune-Seung

Most Improved Netball Player Junior: Nifemi Intermediate:

Teshanne

Lillie

The Prize for Creativity,

Activity, Service (CAS): Chiara Round Square King Constantine Medal: Chiara

The Husain Cup for Raising Awareness of Environmental Issues: Marielle

Summer Term House Awards House Points Cup: House Points Shield: 9

Enya Clifton

. . . e y oodb

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The Summer Term is often a joyous few weeks, with lots of events and activities, but it’s also bittersweet as each year we say goodbye to Year 13.

This year, the girls marked the occasion with a Leavers’ Ball, and an informal party in Bligh House. The gathering at Bligh House was opportunity to reflect and share fond memories before the glitz and glamour of the Ball the following night. The Ball had a theme of ‘Masquerade’, and our first Prom Queen was announced - congratulations, Yasmin!

Former Lenox House Captain Kamsy described the celebrations in Bligh House, “It was a wonderful experience to be recognised by both teachers and students not only for your academic achievements but also for your personality. Miss Lambert was extraordinary as she gave speeches specifically tailored to each student, reminding us that we are all stars.”

I’m glad I met so many intelligent, genuine , truthful and supportive people that have different opinions which broadened my perspective on life – this is what Cobham has taught me; to respect other people and listen . *Yasmin* 10

I love the fact that the Sixth Form feels like a family that I willforever love and cherish . *Hafsat*

Starting the next chapter Year 13 received their International Baccalaureate results in mid-July. A summary of the results can be found on page 5. The girls did incredibly well and now go on to the stage of their education.

April English sity of Univer dge Cambri

Ruying Sustain able Develo pment Univer sity of Edinbu rgh

Evie Audio Tammy itics Record In testament to our determination l ing & Prod phy, Po s o to provide opportunities to develop s o l i u h c U tion P c every aspect of their characters, the niversity of conomi ty E d n H a ertford myriad of courses the girls are about niversi shire U k c i to embark on is varied, some of Warw which can be seen here.

Hafsat hy & Geograp cs i Econom eading R sity of r e v i n U Isabel Zoology Univer sity of Roeham pton

Tilly Mu Royal C sic onserv of Scotl atoire and

Vero levision e T & s ent Live Ev sity of Arts, Univer London

A message to Year 13 from Mrs Thompson, Head of Sixth Form: “Year 13, you may have occasionally driven me crazy but at the same time you have been an absolute joy to teach and to support through your transition from student to young adult. Watching you grow in confidence, work with great positivity and enthusiasm has been a delight and I hope you take these attributes with you to the next stage of your lives. Take every opportunity available to you – and of course stay in touch.

Remember, always believe in yourselves - you’re fabulous!”

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...and ! k c u L d Goo

. . . o l l He

This term, we welcomed many guests to our School: prospective parents and their daughters at Open Morning; those joining us in September for a Familiarisation Morning; and pupils from local Prep School pupils enjoying their events in our School and Grounds. Find out more on these pages.

School brimming with Visitors at Open Morning The penultimate weekend of the Summer Term saw Cobham Hall open the doors and welcome many prospective girls and their families to our School.

It began on Friday afternoon, when Year 5 pupils took over the Science labs, and became detectives for the afternoon to solve a murder mystery. Using scientific techniques, the girls, with the help of Head of Science Mr Fryer and Physics teacher Mr Hosford, were able to effectively solve the case and establish who the ‘murderer’ was. The girls tested and compared soil samples, used chromatography to compare ink from the murder note and pens taken from the suspects, and finally, fingerprinted the suspects.

After the lesson ended, our Boarding team, along with Head of Lower School Mrs Keys, kept them entertained and looked after the girls. Hunting Pokémon around the School, the girls had to complete physical and mental challenges to capture them. They then settled down to make felt unicorns with Housemistress Miss Caro before enjoying a hot chocolate at bedtime.

Saturday was our Open Morning, and we welcomed our Taster girls’ families back to tour the School. Joined by many more families, the School was incredibly busy. There was a great buzz in the English room as for the second year running, the English Department set a creative writing challenge. Head of English Miss West explained, “Our visitors had to design their own monster, based on Caliban in Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest’. The challenge was to design a monster using great description and vocabulary. We had some fantastic entries, but had two favourites.”

The runner-up was Ayo, who described her creature as: “A vicious monster; the devil’s pet, a witch’s daughter, an enchantress. The most hideous thing ever, an evil Caliban.” However, our winner was Christabel, who wrote: “’Thou poisonous slave,’ A malicious conniving tortoise living on an island of magic. A most ridiculous monster, engrossed by the devil himself.” We will be sending a signed copy of Francis Hardinge’s book, ‘The Lie Tree’, to our winner!

As well as the excitement of touring the various Departments and seeing the activities, there was a speech by the Headmaster, Mr Mitchell, two students, Alicia (Year 7) and Lille (our Guardian and Year 13 pupil), as well as our Deputy Headmistress, Dr Coates-Smith.

Visiting parents also had the opportunity to speak with girls, senior staff, governors and current parents.

Our tour guides were a credit to the School, with many receiving glowing praise from our visitors. Their knowledge, enthusiasm and passion for their School was impressive, and commented on by both staff and visitors alike. Well done to all girls!

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Getting to know you!

Year 6 girls who will be joining Year 7 at Cobham Hall in September had the chance this term to meet their Big Sisters at Familiarisation Morning.

Year 8 pupils led a variety of activities for the girls, based on the Round Square IDEALS. These included: Internationalism: Girls did a blind food taste-test, and had to guess where in the world the food originated.

Environmentalism: Pupils tried to see how many different leaves they could identify in the School grounds.

Adventure and Leadership: Girls had to collect coloured sticks from Year 8 pupils hidden in the grounds.

Service: A ‘Dragon’s Den’-style game where the girls had to come up with a good idea for a charity and design a logo. They then had to persuade the judges to donate a pound to their charity.

Our current Year 7 presented a role play, ‘A Day in the Life of a Cobham Hall Student’, which told the girls about what happens on a typical school day with funny role plays of different lessons.

The morning was followed by a picnic hosted by Unicorn, our Parent-Teacher Association, for the girls and their families. You can find out more about this on page 37, which details Unicorn’s past and forthcoming events.

Cobham Hall hosts local Prep Schools The Summer Term is one of celebration for most schools; a time to celebrate the achievements of the academic year, as well as say goodbye to pupils moving on to the next stage of their education. Cobham Hall was honoured again this year to host three local Prep Schools as they held key events in their calendar here.

“We had an extremely enjoyable afternoon in the wonderful Lady Darnley Gardens and we are grateful to Cobham Hall for their help and support. We are already looking forward to next year!”

St Andrew’s hosted their annual Prize-Giving in our Gilt Hall. Principal Mrs Emma Steinmann-Gilbert said, “‘For the second year in a row, Cobham Hall have allowed us to use their beautiful Gilt Hall as the venue for our annual Year 6 Prize-Giving. A highlight for the children was being allowed to throw their hats and caps in the air to mark the end of their time at St Andrew’s School. We are already looking forward to hosting the event at Cobham Hall next year!’

The first was Bronte School, who held their Festival Day, and a few days later their Sports Day, in our Grounds.

Headmistress Mrs Emma Wood commented after their Festival Day, “Bronte School and Nursery Festival Day was a resounding success, with sunshine and smiles in abundance. Many stalls kept adults and children occupied and the stage was filled with talent throughout the afternoon - from Bronte School’s Bhangra Group, to our very own Rock Band. Bronte Nursery had a Graduation Ceremony for those children leaving for ‘big school’ and an iPad was up for grabs in our Grand Raffle Draw (along with many other exciting prizes).

Finally, the Gilt Hall also became the setting for ‘Pirates of Penzance’, the 2017 Steephill School production. The event was also a success, and we look forward to welcoming everyone again next year.

Prep & Primary LAMDA Workshops

Congratulations to Leah and Katie; our two Year 6 Primary pupils who took their LAMDA examination at Cobham Hall. Both girls achieved an outstanding Pass with Distinction in Grade 1 Acting; one of which was an incredible 96/100.

On the road!

Cobham Hall representatives visited several school shows this term, including Dulwich Prep, King’s Hill and a GSA event held at Broomwood Hall.

o t e m o c l e W d n ll! a ...a H m a h b Co

Leah and Katie attend a workshop of 10 classes with Teacher of Drama Miss Boyle after school and worked diligently to prepare for their examination. Miss Boyle said that they were a “joy to teach.”

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Track Results 100m

Year 7: Sofia Year 8: Eimear Year 9: Teshanne *Years 10-13: Teloni*

200m

*Year 7: Harmony* Year 8: Anna Year 9: Temi Years 10-13: Lilly

800m

Year 7: Isabella Year 8: Ruqiahah *Year 9: Lucia* Years 10-13: Rosie

1500m (curtailed at 800m due to heat) Year 7: Enya Year 8: Alice *Year 9: Maisy* *Years 10-13: Lilly*

Relay

Years 7 & 8 – Darnley Year 9 – Lenox Years 10 - 13 - Clifton Staff – Clifton

Rain doesn’t dampen Cobham Girl Spirits

It was bound to happen… the last two occasions were bathed in sunshine, so Cobham Hall was probably due for a Sports Day rain shower. Thankfully, it came at the moment track and field events had largely finished, and so was a welcome break before the relays commenced.

But it certainly didn’t dampen spirits!

competitors Rosie, Kathryn and Britta achieved their maximum heights, for Teloni, the bar slowly crept higher.

Clearing easily with space to spare as the bar was set at 1.50m, it was raised, and again, and again as Teloni not only smashed her personal best, but also the record, by clearing a massive 1.60m!

Girls, staff and parents arrived early with sunhats and sunglasses at the ready, and settled into the stands to cheer on the competitors. As ever, the morning was action-packed, with records tumbling in both track and field events.

It wasn’t long after that the rumble of thunder could be heard, and streaks of lightning flashed across the sky. With everyone taking cover in the stand, soundman Mr Hillier played a familiar number and it wasn’t long before the girls were on their feet singing and dancing to the Macarena. The rain may have stopped play, but it wasn’t about to stop Cobham’s girls – and some of their teachers! – from having a little fun in the break. Cha Cha Slide swiftly followed Macarena, and then ‘Let it Go’ – resoundingly being belted out at the tops of the girls’ voices. After

Perhaps most exciting was watching Year 10’s Teloni tackle the High Jump.

With a school record set by Billy-Jayne Kidd in 2010 at a height of 1.50m, Teloni was determined to beat it. She had previously jumped a personal best of 1.52m so expectation was set. As fellow

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Field Results Javelin

Year 7: Alicia Year 8: Annika *Year 9: Teshanne* Year 10-13: Britta

Shot

Year 7: Alice Year 8: Nifemi Year 9: Chioma Year 10-13: Tami

Long Jump

the short musical interlude, the rain lifted and the relays began.

Scores were close across the four Houses all morning, with first place changing hands frequently. With the relays finished, girls and staff gathered eagerly to see if they were in the winning House. Would last year’s winners, Richmond, take the glory again, or would Darnley – so dominant in House competitions all year – win the ultimate Inter-House Sports competition?

“Well done, girls,” complimented Head of PE Mrs Hooper before announcing the winner. “There’s been fantastic House spirit, which is always great to see.” Asking for a drum roll, Mrs Hooper announced the results in reverse order.

4th – Richmond 3rd – Lenox 2nd – Clifton 1st – Darnley Headmaster Mr Mitchell rounded off the proceedings, “We’ve had a wonderful day today, the weather tried to spoil our fun, but in many ways made the day even better than a normal Sports Day – your reaction was an absolutely wonderful example of our spirit. It was also wonderful to see more and more of you are getting better at your sports, well done all.”

Congratulations to all who competed and well done Darnley House!

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Year 7: Sofia Year 8: Niu Niu Year 9: Kim Year 10-13: Bonnie

High Jump

Year 7: Sofia Year 8: Trinity Year 9: Teshanne *Year 10-13: Teloni*

Victrix Ludorum

Year 7: Harmony Year 8: Nifemi Year 9: Teshanne Year 10-13: Lilly and Teloni Overall Victrix Ludorum Winners Junior: Teshanne Senior: Lilly and Teloni *Denotes new School Record

Weekends of

e r tu

n e dv

A

Each half-term has a Round Square theme, taken from one of the IDEALS. For the second half of the Summer Term, it was ‘Adventure’ - a theme that was embraced across the School!

From camping in the grounds, to zipwire and laser tag, through The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to a Round Square Conference, girls from Year 7 to Year 12 discovered there was more in them than they thought!

Lower and Middle School Adventures Lower and Middle School pupils fully embraced the Round Square pillar of Adventure over a busy weekend.

Lower School girls, joined by several of their tutors, camped out on the School’s North Lawn. Sleeping in teepees and with pizza and marshmallows before bed, the girls then had to cook their own breakfasts on camping stoves.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, Middle School girls headed to Kingswood Activity Centre, where they took to the skies on the zipwire, and planned surprise ambushes in the laser arena.

‘Beyond your Limits’ Lower School pupils Arwen, Francesca, Harmony and Poppy, accompanied by Miss Boyle, enjoyed a Round Square Conference entitled ‘Beyond your Limits’, an adventure-based long weekend in Nottinghamshire hosted by fellow Round Square school, The Samworth Church Academy.

Over the five days, delegates were involved in many collaborative activities which encouraged team-work and effective communication. Days 2-4 were particularly challenging and adventurous as they travelled to Cholmondeley Castle for a Bush Craft Camp. Pupils from across Europe worked together to create shelters, make fires safely within their 'tribes'; learn how to cope with medical emergencies in the wild and, amongst an array of other fabulous tasks and activities, learn about cutting tools and safe handling techniques.

The delegates were given the opportunity to cook their own food and ultimately have fun! When not involved in workshops and skills exercises, they were singing, laughing and playing games! We were particularly thrilled that Arwen was named ‘Tribeswoman of Tribe Two’ for her enthusiasm.

The final night and day were spent back at The Samworth Church Academy, where pupils enjoyed a disco, climbing, archery and laser clay pigeon shooting. The weekend also included a tour of Chatsworth House.

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Bronze Duke of e dinburgh The majority of girls in Year 9, along with several from Year 10, successfully completed their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Expedition in the final week of term.

’s award

The DofE Assessor commented afterwards, “It is always a pleasure working with Cobham Hall D of E groups as they are so well prepared.”

Congratulations to Mya, Aoife, Hannah, Lucy, Zara, Helena, Paige, Teshanne, Maia, Chioma, Lila, Mabel, Maisy, Alisha, Holly, Temilouwa, Amelia, Kimberley, Maria, Teloni, Anna, India, Lauren and Amrit!

ard Silver w a s ’ rgh u b n i d f e Seven girls from Years 10 and 12 took Duke o part in the Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Expedition.

Following a practice walk in May, the girls passed their Qualifying Expedition in early June with flying colours. The DofE Assessor said, “The team showed an effortless process from start to finish. They worked well together and showed competency in the key parts: navigation, camp craft and teamwork.”

Congratulations to Rosie, Carla, Lillie, Saskia, Victoria, Emily and Vanessa!

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Curriculum Enhancement Week: The now traditional annual end of term Curriculum Enhancement Week began with lots of adventures!

Whilst Year 9 were out completing their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition, as detailed on the previous page, Years 7 and 8 joined together to learn how to sail, windsurf and paddle-board at nearby Bewl Water.

Head of Lower School Mrs Keys said, “All day, all I could hear was laughing.

It was great to see the girls so eager to try the watersports!”

Midweek focused on educational visits for Lower School, with Years 7 and 8 splitting on Wednesday.

Year 7 headed to the Tate Britain, which for many was their first visit to an Art Gallery, whilst Year 8 took part in a treasure hunt at Lullingstone Villa. Overall winners were Dami, Millie and Ruqaiyah with honourable mentions to Rebekah and Alice; even Mr Haas had fun navigating the minibus through narrow lanes and a small flood near the villa!

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Thursday and Friday saw the Years 7 to 9 reunite to enjoy a visit from the Happy Puzzle Company before an afternoon of Model United Nations.

The week ended with Years 7 and 8 hosting a Community Party for around 40 local residents and grandparents. The girls spent Friday morning decorating the Gilt Hall, baking and preparing the entertainment before guests arrived after lunch. Head of Lower School Mrs Keys explained, “It is all about

service, learning to

socialise with

people in the

New Adventures, New Challenges community, teamwork and events management.” Meanwhile, Year 9 explored media with a computing workshop enabling them to create a magazine-style TV show.

Girls in Year 10 and on our Pre-IB course were getting a taste of working life by undertaking work experience placements, ranging from nursery and pre-schools to animal management.

Year 12 were knuckling down to work on their Extended Essays, Mathematics Internal Assessments and Personal Statements, although they were treated to a trip to Creams, the nearby dessert bar!

Head of Sixth Form Mrs Thompson explained, “The visit to Creams provided a break from Extended Essays and Mathematics coursework by consuming copious amounts of ice cream, waffles and pancakes! It

was fabulous to watch the girls relax and laugh, celebrating the end of an extremely busy year.”

A dedicated programme was also developed for our short stay EFL students, who had a morning of lessons before enjoying afternoon cultural visits including Hastings, Rochester and Chartwell. Ibuki, studying on our Intensive English Support Programme said, “I really enjoyed this week. I could learn lots of history and talk to new people.”

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“What a really

Sun Shines on Round Square This term, Cobham Hall celebrated 50 years of being a Round Square School. Round Square is the essence of who we are as a school – the ethos of education being more than simply the academic results – and that was something well worth celebrating. The weather was beautiful: perfect for merriment and games on the South Lawn.

The celebrations began on Friday with students joining us from fellow Round Square schools Abbotsholme, Beaconhurst, Box Hill, Herlufsholm, Louisenlund, Samworth Church Academy and Westfield. Camping on North Lawn, the pupils enjoyed games and a film before turning in for the night. Saturday morning was given over to ice-breaking activities, a treasure hunt and a guided tour of the House before the afternoon event began.

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Joined by our pupils, staff, Elders and friends and family, our visitors gathered on South Lawn. As a school with a diverse mix of nationalities, the Round Square pillar of Internationalism is a key component at Cobham Hall, and so this is the pillar our celebrations centred around. Opened by Round Square CEO Rachael Westgarth, activities on Saturday afternoon included African Drumming, Henna tattoos, drama and dancing. There was an English Fête, complete with Maypole, hooka-duck, a coconut shy, welly-wanging, both sack and egg-and-spoon races and apple-bobbing. For the more active, there was a range of inflatables - the traditional bouncy castle of course, but also gladiator jousting, sumo suits - hats off to those brave enough to try these in the near 30o heat! - and an obstacle course. A host of live music was

y happy day!”

e Celebration at Cobham Hall soundtrack to the afternoon, with performances from local bands Rags & Tatters, Fat Penguins and Horizon.

Students also gave performances from dance, through instrumental to singing. A parent of a visiting student commented afterwards, “My son from Beaconhurst School had the most amazing weekend, thank you so much. I still cannot believe he sang with the band!” Pimms, cordial, scones and ice-cream were available on the Lawn, along with international cuisine including paella, curry and a barbeque, in the evening.

the English Fête. “I ran a stall where if you could hit a target you won a coconut.” Tami explained. “Our German visitors were competitive and knocked down 5 coconuts. This was the highest number all day!”

For Year 10’s Tami, the event was exciting, “I enjoyed the Round Square Festival because I got to mix with new people, find out about different countries’ traditions and make lots of new friends.” Tami was one of several students helping Miss Williams and Mrs von Bredow run

There were a huge number of positive comments from visitors from both the UK and overseas, and from Elders, parents and pupils. The event was perhaps best summed up by Ann Hansen, Deputy Head of Herlufsholm school in Denmark: “What a really happy day.”

A highlight of the afternoon was the unveiling of our Round Square video project. Co-ordinated by Voice and Piano Tutor Mr Haas, fellow Round Square schools were invited to participate in the production of a video of students performing ‘We are the World’. This can be found on our YouTube channel.

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Photo: Miss Rebecca Knight

Environmental Fieldwork Girls studying Environmental Systems and Societies, Biology and Geography got their hands dirty this term with fieldwork at Camber Sands and Horton Kirby. As well as learning and developing physical fieldwork techniques, the girls were also able to explore wider issues such as conservation and the impact of tourism.

Year 12 Geography and ESS students were out first, visiting Camber Sands. Geography pupils were collecting data for their Internal Assessments, investigating the question: “To what extent do sand dunes at Camber Sands represent sand dune succession theory with regard to plant height, plant species diversity, percentage cover and pH?� For ESS girls, the trip allowed them to develop their sampling techniques: discovering what organisms were present, and how many, as well as seeing if they can relate it to abiotic (non-living) factors such as distance from the shore, height of the dune, pH of the sand, and wind speed. The trip also ties in with the topic of conservation: Camber has protected and non-protected dune areas, enabling the girls to look at conservation strategies, and the extent to which tourism damages the dunes.

ESS girls later joined Year 12 Biology students for a River Study at Horton Kirby, a site later visited by Year 9 Geography pupils. Horton Kirby provides students with the opportunity to practise and evaluate sampling techniques. Girls were also able to look at the distribution of organisms and whether they are affected by river speed, type of substrate, and depth of water. They also explored food chains/ food webs and the wider impact this may have if part of the food chain becomes damaged by natural events such as floods, or human impact, such as pollution, damming, and tourism.

Year 9 girls investigated how the River Darent changes downstream, with the trip providing the chance to develop fieldwork skills in readiness for the iGCSE course. The girls wrote up their findings for their final assessed piece of work this year.

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Eco-Club Host World Week

Earlier this term, our Eco-Club hosted ‘World Week’ – a week of activities dedicated to the Club’s aim of reducing waste in School. “It’s an opportunity to highlight environmental issues and give everyone a chance to take part,” explained Club member Emily, Year 12.

The aims of the week were: •To reduce waste •To try to go plastic-free •To recycle more •To reduce electricity use

•To reuse rather than waste old items •To reduce littering To fulfil these aims, the girls organised activities such as litterpicking, and an electricity-free day, which saw some lessons without use of computers and most of the Teaching Block using natural sunlight as opposed to lights.

In a bid to reduce the number of disposable bottles of mineral water being purchased, the girls developed

and sold water bottles bearing the School logo, and with lids in the four House colours. These proved very popular, with Darnley being the House that sold the most this term!

Nature: Close-Up! Girls in Years 7 and 8 got closer to nature this term with a variety of avian visitors, from new-born chicks to a soaring eagle!

It started with the delivery of several fertilised chicken eggs, which began to hatch almost immediately. The girls were astounded by the chicks’ rapid development. “It’s a real eye-opener for the girls,” explains Head of Science Mr Fryer. “Respect for the animals is a priority and discussion extended beyond the development of the chicks to wider issues such as farming, the care of animals, and even of the benefits of a vegetarian diet.”

The girls also learned more about themselves; handling such young chicks is a big thing for some students.

Some have to overcome a fear of being pecked, and others a fear of hurting the chicks. A few of our Sixth Formers couldn’t resist the chance to hold the chicks either, with Deputy Guardian Victoria delighting in the cuteness of the chicks!

The excitement of the new-born chicks was swiftly followed by a demonstration of Birds of Prey by Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation.

Mr Fryer explained, “The birds allow students to appreciate that different species have different adaptations.

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The girls were able to witness the silent flight of the owl and learn about the nictitating membrane of the eye, which enables vision while flying at high speed.”

The visit coincided with a ‘Blast from the Past’ themed non-uniform day, raising funds for The Rainforest Trust.

Both activities allowed students to get up close to some extraordinary creatures, and hold them – from the gentle touch required for the chicks to the strength needed to hold the weight of an eagle - and appreciate the adaptations each have to suit their environment.

A Spectacular Summer Showcase of Art and Music Over 120 parents and students joined us to celebrate the talent flourishing within our Art and Music Department, at our annual Summer Art Exhibition and Music Concert.

After enjoying artworks produced across the School, from Lower School through GCSE Art to IB Visual Arts, guests filtered into the Gilt Hall for a concert of World Music.

The atmosphere of joy and excitement was driven by the delight the girls had in discussing their work. Art teacher Ms Lockheart commented, “This year’s artists have been a delight to work with. They demonstrate thoughtfulness, creativity and a determination to work through the visual process with such a diverse range of approaches. It’s something that the Department has really excelled at and continues to push forward: bringing out the best in our students artistically.”

Head of Music Miss Penny Clements explained, “We sang in Chinese, Tamil, Mauri and Hungarian among others. I was very proud of the girls and their responsiveness to new world music sounds. It was energetic and fun! It was also the last concert for the Year 13s and some of the Year 11s, and so was a poignant reminder of how far they had come. I’m incredibly proud that the Choir’s Year 13s are both off to study music!”

The evening is best summed up by the reaction of some parents who commented afterwards:

The girls’ work has been developed and inspired by a variety of experiences, from the input of outside artists running workshops, to taking the students to galleries to experience work in the flesh.

“Fabulous!

Every time the girls perform, I think “now top that”...and they do...every time!

Dedicated performers and dedicated staff, amazing.”

Head of Art Mrs Karen Walsh spoke at the event, passionately explaining the necessity of a balanced curriculum, to prepare students for life in modern Britain, and that the Arts are a key part.

She highlighted London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s recent interview where he insisted that it is a “false economy” to make cutbacks that affect the Arts, at a time when countries such as China and Singapore are introducing them.

“Just a note to say congratulations on tonight’s show.

Speaking as a musician, I can say there are not many music teachers that could have put a ‘World Music’ show of that quality together. The girls’ stage presence shows that they genuinely love working with you both too and because of this give everything.”

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Congratulations to artists across the School!

The Art Department were thrilled this term to learn that not one, but two students won prestigious art competitions.

In the previous edition of Insight, we announced that Poppy, Year 8, had been shortlisted for ‘Portfolio’, a national competition run by the Turner Contemporary. This term, we learned that she was placed in the top six of the Key Stage 3 category.

This was followed by Year 13’s Evie having her work selected as one of just 49 pieces, from over 2400 submissions, to be exhibited in the Royal Academy A-level Summer Exhibition Online. This makes it now seven years in a row that Cobham Hall girls have succeeded in this annual competition.

Previous entries to the Royal Academy have featured on the back cover of the last two editions of the Summer Insight magazine. Evie’s

successful piece can be seen on this page, and another of her pieces - a blurry self-portrait (part of her IB Portfolio) is on the back cover.

In addition to the success of these Lower School and Sixth Form artists, one student from Middle School exhibited her work over the Summer, resulting in a complete sell out!

Amelia, Year 9, displayed her work for the first time at a local exhibition in July. She displayed seven pieces using a range of mediums. All seven sold, and she was commissioned to paint two further pieces.

Volunteering in Jamaica

For the third time in four years Cobham Hall students visited Jamaica during the Summer, a trip organised by Mr Pattison, enabling students to volunteer their service in two orphanages.

At the first orphanage, run by Missionaries of the Poor for physically and mentally disabled children, Keely, Louise, Alyssa and Hannah assisted in looking after the welfare of children from six months up until sixteen years old. In the second home, an orphanage for boys born with HIV, the girls organised a Summer School offering a range of lessons for the boys, aged between 8 to 17.

Mr Pattison commented: “Both homes were located in the downtown ghetto areas of Kingston where working conditions are difficult, however, all of the girls tried to embraced the work in a positive vein and with a cheerful spirit.”

During the second week of the trip the group changed location to Ocho Rios on the north coast where the girls were able to enjoy the delights of Jamaica.

The accommodation, located on the beach, gave the girls ample time to enjoy one of Jamaica's premier resorts. From here they visited some of the country’s highlights including: Montego Bay, Falmouth, Dunns River Falls, Blue Hole and the rural areas of St Ann and St Mary including the Jamaican homes of both Noel Coward and Ian Fleming.

The trip was certainly memorable for the girls; first enjoying the delights of a beautiful tropical like Jamaica, but secondly experiencing the disparity in living conditions of those less fortunate than themselves.

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An Awfully Big Adventure

Congratulations to Lucy, Year 9, who over the Easter break played the principal role in Peter Pan at Chatham Central Theatre. Lucy successfully went from her three nights in Barnum to this lead role the week after, juggling rehearsals for the two shows since January. Lucy enjoyed the experience of developing the character of Peter Pan and the fun of the show!

School Snippets

Exploring Shakespeare

Creative Crepes

In mid-May, Creative Writing Club rewarded themselves with an off-site trip to ‘Crêpes and Co’ in Rochester.

News Quiz Victors

Congratulations to Miss West’s Tutor Group, who won this term’s Sixth Form News Quiz.

LAMDA Sharing

Teachers of Drama, Voice and Communication hosted a 'LAMDA Sharing Evening' this term. The event was to recognise and celebrate the hard work of the pupils; provide parents the opportunity to see some of the excellent work produced, and to further prepare pupils for their examinations. The evening was rich and varied, with work from across the year groups being shown. There was a wonderful array of monologues, duologues, poetry, speaking in public and musical theatre!

The Dark Side of the V&A Year 8 headed to the Victoria and Albert Museum this term for two exhibitions; ‘Pink Floyd: Their Mortal Remains’ and ‘Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion’.

Accompanied by Mrs Jakso and Miss West - as well as an assortment of strawberries, ice cream, maltesers, cream, drizzled honey, crêpes, waffles, oreo milkshakes and more – our writers brought some of their best writing from the year, to read, feedback and enjoy together. Each student chose a different historical period to set their writing in.

Amongst them we had Paleolithic; Greek; Roman; Victorian; 1920s; First World War with some beautiful writing and fascinating insights into life in those times.

Lower School enjoyed a fabulous Saturday outing at The Globe this term. The day began with a guided tour of the theatre, where the unique architecture of the building was explained, as well as the ‘horrible history’ of Shakespeare’s time.

Later, the students attended two live demonstrations. The first explained how books were made before modern printers and revealed just how valuable and what a status symbol they once were. Then our very own Georgina was chosen to model the typical outfits of an Elizabethan Lady, including some particularly itchy undergarments!

Year 13 Comedy and Meal Blast from the Past

Our new SLT organised a Tag Day to raise money for The Rainforest Trust; a charity voted for by the school community. Girls dressed in fashions from bygone decades.

Donating Unwanted Books As a reward for their hard work over two years (and with the somewhat flimsy pretext of observing the ‘Language of Comedy’!), the Year 13 English Language and Literature students went for a social outing to Greenwich. After enjoying pizza, the girls, along with Miss West and Miss Boyle headed to ‘Up the Creek’ Comedy Club for a ‘BLACK OUT’ event, where new comedians try out their material with the hopes of surviving on stage before the audience vote them off stage!

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Following a plea from Librarian Mrs Jakso, an incredible 13 boxes of unwanted books were collected to help South African Schools.

Learning: Live

Year 10 and Year 12 Drama and Theatre Studies pupils enjoyed a trip to see the award-winning 'Bucket List' by Theatre Ad Infinitum.

The company's highly energised, physical style, empathetic storytelling and use of live music was particularly enjoyed by the girls.

Inspired to Write Christopher Edge, author of popular children’s books ‘The Many Worlds of Albie Bright’, ‘Twelve Minutes to Midnight’ and latest novel, ‘The Jamie Drake Equation’, visited Cobham Hall this term. With his assertion that “if you can read, you can write”, many girls were inspired to start reading more, as well as trying their hand at creative writing.

Introducing his latest novel, Christopher’s talk for Years 7 to 9 focused on his scientific inspiration. Many of the girls were surprised to get an introduction to quantum physics, complete with a comedic interactive display of the principles behind the famous thought-experiment ‘Schrodinger’s Cat’! It was this theory that led to the ideas featured in ‘The Many Worlds of Albie Bright’.

Years 7 and 8 were further inspired by a creative writing workshop, where opening lines were discussed and dissected.

“We were shown different techniques that could be used to start a story,” Sofia, Year 7, explained, “and, if we were unsure, he was very good at giving advice.”

The event was organised by School Librarian Mrs Jakso, who said afterwards, “I felt his talk was entertaining and the workshop inspired the Year 7 students.” The girls completed and submitted the writing they started during the workshop for a competition, to be judged by Head of English Miss West.

Inspired to Read

Hot Topic

This term, Cobham Hall girls raised almost £400 by completing their Readathon challenges.

Our Humantities Forum met this term ahead of the General Election in June to discuss the following motion:

Readathon is a national sponsored reading event designed to encourage students to read for pleasure whilst helping children in hospital at the same time. Librarian Mrs Jakso explained, “Reading for pleasure should be encouraged whenever possible; research regularly shows that young people who read for pleasure are more likely to do well throughout their lives. Furthermore, the money raised from Readathon helps seriously ill children in the UK, and helps to provide books and storytellers to children in hospital.”

“Elections and referendums are merely operations to placate the masses, the will of the ‘bourgeoisie’ always prevails.”

Congratulations to all who took part and in particular to: Arwen (Year 7): for raising the most money, and, along with Harmony (Year 7): for reading the most books, and to Clara (Year 10) for setting the best challenge.

Well done, girls!

For the first time, Year 12 students took to the podium, rather than our seasoned Year 13 debators.

Economics student Emma argued for

Future Planning

Year 12 took full advantage of their opportunity to visit a UCAS Fair held at Greenwich University, Medway Campus. They asked numerous questions, enquiring about the courses available at the different universities, the accommodation, the clubs and societies and entry requirements. They returned with a plethora of goody bags and, more importantly, the knowledge to help them make informed decisions about the opportunities available to them after life at Cobham Hall.

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the motion, whilst History student Louise argued against. Both girls showed exceptional evidence of having researched their position, and discussion turned to topics such as Brexit, the impact of technology, the influence of the media, standards of education, and social class.

MUN Success

Our Model United Nations group had much to celebrate at their End of Year celebrations this term, including Maria (Year 10) receiving 'Best Delegate in Human Rights Committee' at The Royal Hospital School’s conference this term.

#BoardingLife It may have been time for examinations and revision, but there was still plenty of opportunity for Boarders to relax and simply have fun this summer.

Girls enjoyed Sunday trips to Howletts Wild Animal Park, Brighton, and Thorpe Park, as well as evening outings to a local dessert parlour, and toboganning. That’s in addition to an array of on-site activities, from baking to BBQs! The Summer Term is also award season. A time to celebrate each of the characters that make up life in the Boarding Houses, from the most sought after ‘Boarder of the Year’ through ‘Most Welcoming Boarder and ‘Most organised’, to the more tongue-in-cheek honours of ‘Drama Queen’ and ‘Cheekiest Boarder’!

Congratulations to Chiara (Year 13) and Sarah (Year 10) for receiving

‘Boarder of the Year’ for Sixth Form and Main Hall respectively.

The penultimate week of term was our annual ‘Boarding Week’, when Year 7 Day Girls are invited to join Boarders to experience Boarding life.

This year, at the suggestion of our current Student Leadership Team, Year 12 also joined in, with a series of activities organised by the SLT. Both Year groups joined together on Monday evening for paintballing.

Guardian Lillie said, “The paint balling was a great chance to bond with the Lower School girls. I think both year groups enjoyed it very

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much.” It would seem Year 7’s Harmony agreed, “It was really exciting since I have never paintballed before. At the end my clothes were covered in paint!”

For the rest of the week, Year 7 had a film night, a toboganning outing, and play-dough making. For Year 12, a pool party and BBQ were on the agenda.

Lillie summed the week up, saying, “All in all, ‘Boarding Week’ was a great way to celebrate the last week of lessons and begin the summer excitement. Day Girls got a glimpse of life in boarding and especially loved waking up later!”

Congratulations to Marielle, Year 12, who has been named as Head of House for Brooke House.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how we all settle into Brooke after the summer,” she said. “As well as how the new Year 12s adjust to the IB Programme. I want to help to make the start as easy as possible.

“I’m a very curious person, so for me it’s always great to meet new people and learn new stories, and I hope I will hear lots of those.

“My favourite pastimes are reading and writing.”

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

@CobhamBoarding

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Sports Round Up As well as Sports Day and the many matches against local schools this term, the results of which can be seen opposite, this term also featured Inter-House events for Rounders and Swimming. Inter-House Badminton and Tennis tournaments, which took place during PE lessons, were also concluded.

Speaking of Badminton, Head of PE Mrs Hooper explained, “Every girl in Year 7 to 11 took part during lessons and every year group showed great House spirit. The standard of play has really improved this year due to Miss Lambert’s Badminton Club being so well attended.” Lenox House took the Badminton victory.

Tennis was contested by girls in Years 7 to 9 only, with Clifton scoring the win.

Clifton also took the win in an exciting end to the first half of the Summer Term, when swim teams took to the pool on a Friday afternoon.

The penultimate Inter-House event before Sports Day was a Rounders Tournament. Taking place on South and West Lawns, the round robin event was held on a sunny June day.

Lower years played before lunch, and Upper years after. Lenox took the win, with Darnley a close second.

Well done to all who competed this term, whether for their House, or representing the School.

2016/17 Inter-House Competitions In addition to the Inter-House events above, this term also saw the pinnacle of Inter-House Sports events - Sports Day; the Inter-House Athletics.

These events add to those already taken place this year: the Autumn Term’s Hockey and Cross-Country competitions, and the Spring Term’s Netball.

The table opposite shows the full results. Well done to all girls who competed for their House this year.

Clifton

Darnley

Lenox

Richmond

Cross-Country

3rd

1st

2nd

4th

Hockey Netball Badminton Swimming Rounders Tennis Athletics

4th 4th =3rd 1st 3rd 1st 2nd

1st 2nd =3rd 2nd 2nd 3rd 1st

3rd 3rd 1st 3rd 1st 4th 3rd

2nd 1st 2nd 4th 4th 2nd 4th

Overall

3rd

1st

2nd

4th

Congratulations, Darnley! Overall Inter-House Sports Competition Winners 30

Open Morning, the girls were up for a 5am start on Sunday to compete at Denston’s College in the Independent Schools’ National Triathlon.

Enya was up first, and despite the heavy rain, she was determined to place well for Cobham Hall. Lilly, a seasoned triathlete, competed next and once finished said it was the hardest Triathlon she’d competed in.

Sisters on the Podium Huge congratulations to sisters Lilly and Enya, who represented Cobham Hall at the Independent Schools’ National Triathlon. Enya finished third, and was later upgraded to second, in the 13-15 age group and big sister Lilly came second in the 15-18 category.

Despite it being the last weekend before the Summer Term ended, and having spent Saturday at the School’s

For Lilly, this followed an Easter holiday packed with competition.

Following a 15th place in the British Schools’ Biathlon, Lilly took part in the British Elite Triathlon, where after two days of seminars and action, she was ranked 14th nationally. An incredible achievement out of 63 athletes!

Having received her national ranking, Lilly went on to first place wins at the London and South England Aquathon and the Medway Tri Duathlon.

Well done, girls!

Congratulations, Mr Haas!

Tennis

vs Mayfield Grammar

Won 51 - 13 (Games) 7 - 1 (Matches) After this match, Tennis coach Mr Bradshaw commented, “A brilliant display from our Tennis Team. A big thank you to the girls, the majority of whom had never played a match before today.” vs Benenden

Lost 20 - 17 (Games) 3-2 (Matches) vs U14 PEA Tournament

2nd (Won 6 matches, Lost 2) vs Tournament 1st Wimington Grammar: 13 - 2 (Games) 5 - 0 (Matches) Mayfield Grammar: 17 - 3 (Games) 7 - 0 (Matches)

Rounders

Cobham Hall was celebrating the achievements of Voice and Piano Tutor Mr Haas this term, having completed three Marathons since the start of April.

The first was in Rome. Completed in a personal best time of 3:39:06, Mr Haas said he enjoyed the experience and it made him excited for running the London Marathon later the same month, a dream of his since starting a personal challenge to run 10 marathons over two years. The London course was the penultimate run of this challenge. Completing the 26.2 miles in 3:46:44, Mr Haas

Match Results

vs Wilmington Grammar Year 8 Won 6 - 5.5 Player of the Match: Rebecca Year 9 Won 14 - 0 Player of the Match: Mya vs Wilmington Grammar Year 7 Won 9.5-1 Player of the Match: Alicia Year 8 Won 3.5 - 5.5 Player of the Match: Rebecca said afterwards, “It was a brilliant day with amazing crowd support. I want to get back out there and run it again next year if I can. I made a point this year of wanting to enjoy the experience, so I’m not worried I didn’t make a personal best.”

The Edinburgh Marathon was a little slower; a result of hot weather and a pulled muscle resulting in a sevenmile hobble to the finish. However, this marathon does take his total to 10 in two years – an incredible achievement!

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vs Benenden 1st Team Lost Player of the Match: 2nd Team Won Player of the Match:

9-8 Saskia 8 - 7 Lucia

vs St George’s Year 8 Won 13 - 4.5 Player of the Match: Trinity Head of PE, Mrs Hooper was extremely pleased with the girls this term, “They were determined and focused throughout the matches.”

What ’s the point of a School Production ...?

Head of Music at Cobham Hall, Miss Penny Clements, champions the value of the Performing Arts

Private schools have a tradition of

strong discipline, high standards and a healthy sense of competition. Many of these go hand in hand; the House system, sports teams, and issuing of colours, trophies and awards all promote healthy competition. High expectations and the refusal to sacrifice them create discipline. So, if private schools pride themselves on offering a “rounded education”, what purpose does the school production serve, and why, when state schools are having the Arts cut, do private schools continue to stand by their productions?

Private schools promote a healthy and natural sense of ambition and excellence and just auditioning for the school production demonstrates this.

The production can be more inclusive than sport; even if you can't or won't perform for the proud parents, there is always a role for you in costume or set design, or even the band. The chance to get on stage and perform one’s heart out to the delight of audiences is an incredible way for students to gain a stronger and more lasting sense of both self-confidence and self-esteem (Alburger, 2017). To hear the appreciation of an applauding audience, cheering peers and admiring parents all around them, is a wonderful affirmation of hard work and perseverance. Taking part in drama requires students to view things from different perspectives, inviting them to share control of a narrative between different players. These are abilities far beyond regular problem-solving or test-taking, and therefore, should be encouraged. An actor has the artistic license to bring new elements and characteristics to their role and to think creatively. This is how they differentiate themselves from others and demonstrate their “style.”

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Translated into life and future, this is fundamentally the ability to make oneself stand out from their peers, something that is crucial in the everincreasing competitive nature of the world of university applications.

Acting and music enables young people to overcome gender stereotypes at a time rife with exploring sexuality. Young people gain the skills to become successful negotiators and communicators (Yassa, A Study of the Effect of Drama Education on Social Interaction in High School), again a vital life-skill that could not come at a better time than during hormonal teenage years.

Just because one doesn’t become a famous actor or politician doesn’t mean that we won’t ever need the skill of public speaking. Let’s face it; is there anything more demoralising than the speaker who mumbles, can’t make eye-contact, doesn’t gesticulate or has no intonation? We perhaps don’t realize the important role such abilities can play in our lives, and how much we can advance these skills through drama performance. Years down the line, you might be delivering a proposal to your employer, contributing to a team project, or even giving a Best Man’s (or Woman’s!) speech at your friend’s wedding. There’s just no saying where these skills can take you.

“To hear the appreciation of an applauding audience , cheering peers and admiring parents all around them, is a wonderful affirmation of hard work and perseverance .”

And music? While British state school funding continues to decrease from £82.5m in 2010-11 to £58m in 2014-15 (Burns, 2013), Harvard University continue to find overwhelming evidence of the positive impact of music education; according to their study singing decreases stress levels and increases the functionality of our immune system as well as our hearts – vital for today’s young people living with modern pressures (Chicago, 2014).

The impact of music on the brain is something Harvard have studied closely: musicians learn and repeatedly practice the association of motor actions with specific sound and visual patterns (musical notation) while receiving continuous multisensory feedback. This association learning can strengthen connections between auditory and motor regions while activating multimodal integration regions in the brain. They argue that training of this neural network may produce cross-modal effects on other behavioural or cognitive operations that draw on this network (Chicago, 2014). For example, children who undergo musical training have better verbal memory, second language pronunciation accuracy, reading ability and executive functions.

Learning to play an instrument as a child may even predict academic performance and IQ in young adulthood. We conclude that musical training uniquely engenders near 33

and far transfer effects, preparing a foundation for a range of skills, and thus fostering cognitive development (Trost, 2013).

It is also proven that singing together brings us together socially and emotionally: A study of almost one thousand Finnish pupils who took part in extended music classes, found they reported higher satisfaction at school in almost every area, even those not related to the music classes themselves (Eerola, 2013). Explaining the results, lead researcher Päivi-Sisko Eerola, said “Singing in a choir and ensemble performance are popular activities at extended music classes. Other studies have established that people find it very satisfying to synchronize with one another. That increases group affiliation and may even make people like each other more than before.”

Through the participation in something like a production that has long-term goals, students learn organisation, resilience and dedication. Through collaborating they learn how listen, how to ask the right questions, how to deal with stress and how to support and encourage each other. Through their own participation they learn concentration, enthusiasm and self-confidence. Through participating in the success of an event greater than the sum of its parts they gain self-esteem and build invaluable

relationships with the adults involved. Within the tight-knit school community and camaraderie prevalent in school productions, students form close relationships with their teachers who commonly act as role models (Maga, 2017).

Yet some staff question the validity of juggling of homework and the tiredness student’s encounter in the process, particularly in the examination years. But surely, if there was a medicine that stated “For the provision of immense pride, feeling appreciated, feeling depended upon & happiness. Side effects may include tiredness” would we hesitate to offer it to young people? Perhaps we should remind them that it is proven and well established that drama promotes reading and literacy, vocabulary acquisition (Güngör, 2008), and that musical training results in better achievement in domains other than mere music performance, such as verbal abilities, second language learning, non-verbal reasoning and general intelligence (10 Magical Effects Music Has On the Mind, 2017).

Is it any wonder then that those who are involved in a wide range of activities are usually more successful?

Indeed, all Cobham Hall’s Guardians in my time (7 years) have been keen advocates of school plays – Lillie, Tilly, Steph, Siun, Isla, Chloe, Issi and Katy were all participants in shows and various other music and drama opportunities. This involvement helps stimulate students in their studies, as noted in a study at Stanford University that found that students involved in the arts are more

motivated to learn and are three times more likely to win a school attendance award (Maga, 2017).

The evidence is out there and rather significant, and begs the question just what are British Politicians thinking when continuing to cut the Arts? Which, merrily and somewhat ironically, brings me to my last argument: Eton – the school which has produced 19 British Prime Ministers. Eton puts on up to twentyfive shows a year and hosts three performance spaces (Wilson, 2012).

It’s no wonder then that since the 1980’s, Eton has produced 1 writer, 6 sportsmen, 6 notable other professionals (two of whom are magicians!), 6 musicians, and 14 famous actors! (Eton college List of Old Etonions, 2011). Among the list of successful thespians; Dominic West, Damian Lewis, Tom Hiddlestone and Eddie Redmayne.

The latter of whom was described as being a “notable joiner-in: head chorister, house captain, great at tennis, a decent rugby player, and threw himself at everything”.

(Neicho, 2015) It is also known, that like many private schools who have the time and space to really know their students, that Eton puts a premium on individualism: "You're encouraged to pursue any dream you might have” (Moss, 2010).

So, “here’s to the ones who dream! The painters and poets and plays” (Hurwitz, 2016). May the school production continue to thrive and produce a generation of “well-rounded” joiners-in… or perhaps even Prime Ministers!

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Works Cited

10 Magical Effects Music Has On the Mind.

(2017, Mar 29). Retrieved from PsyBlog: http://www.spring.org.uk/2013/09/10magical-effects-music-has-on-the-mind.php Alburger, S. (2017, March 28). What are the benefits of theatre in schools. Retrieved from E How. Chicago, U. o. (2014, Apr 18). Why Every Student should be in Choir. Retrieved from School of Theatre and Music: http://theatreandmusic.uic.edu/newsdetails/130/123 Eerola, P.-S. E. (2013, Jul). Extended music education enhances the quality of school life. Music Education Research , 88-104.

Retrieved from T and F online.

Eton college List of Old Etonions. (2011, September). Retrieved from Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ Old_Etonians_born_in_the_20th_century Güngör, A. F. (2008). Effects of Drama on the Use of reading, Comprehension Strategies and on Attitudes towards Reading. Journal for Learning through the arts, 4(1).

Hurwitz, J. (2016). Audition song. LaLa Land.

Maga, C. (2017, March 28). Benefits of private schools. Retrieved from Our kids.net.

Moss, P. (2010, May 12). Why has Eton produced so many Prime Ministers. Retrieved from BBC.co.uk: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/ hi/uk_politics/election_2010/8622933.stm Neicho, J. (2015, Feb 20 ). Why Eton produces so many top actors like Eddie Redmayne.

Retrieved from The Evening Standard : http://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/london-life/why-eton-produces-so-many-topthespians-like-eddie-redmayne-10059118. html top-5-advantages-of-taking-part-in-drama-productions-at-schoo. (2016, Mar 3).

Retrieved from Bejing City International School : http://www.bcis.cn/blog/2016/03/ top-5-advantages-of-taking-part-in-dramaproductions-at-school/ Trost, E. a. (2013). How musical training affects cognitive development; rhythm, reward and other modulating variables.

Frontiers in Neurscience Vol7.

Wilson, A. (2012, Jul 14). Eton's class act how the renowned school is turning out a new generation of actors. Retrieved from Daily Mail: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/ home/moslive/article-2172578/Etons-classact--renowned-school-turning-new-generation-actors.html Yassa, N. (n.d.). A Study of the effect of drama education on social interaction in High school. Lakehead University.

Spirit Week This term, Spirit Week coincided with the Year 7 and Year 12 Boarding Week, so what better opportunity for a week of activities designed to make people smile?

Surprises included an ice-cream van at lunch time, activities in the grounds, and of course the week ended with the annual Staff vs Students Rounders match.

After a competitive game, the result was close, and the students took the win. Well done, girls!

Dancing Shoes!

Year 13 were not the only Year Group having a Ball this term. Their Leavers’ Ball marked the start of party season, and many of the girls must have worn their dancing shoes out!

There was a Spring Ball for Years 10 to 13, to which other local schools were invited, and Year 11 also held their Ball, to celebrate the end of GCSEs and to say goodbye to those leaving Cobham Hall.

Year 11 crowned Alyssa ‘Prom Queen’, with other awards such as ‘Best Double Act’ (Olivia and Connie), ‘Most Likely to be in the Olympics’ (Emily) and ‘Most Likely to be Prime Minister’ (Hannah).

Photobooth pictures: photobooth360plus.com

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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’re an Elder and have news you’d like to share, please contact Julia Booth via boothj@cobhamhall.com or submit via our website at: www.cobhamhall.com/978/submit-your-news.

Katy Jackson wins Prestigious Dickens Prize

Back to School for Former Guardian Isla

Congratulations to Elder and former Guardian Katy Jackson, who recently won the prestigious Partlow Prize, awarded by The Dickens Society.

The prize, named in honour of Robert Partlow, one of the founding members of the Dickens Society, celebrates academic essays on any aspects of Dickens’ life or work. The winner is awarded a monetary sum and the opportunity to have their essay published in Dickens Quarterly.

Katy, who was Guardian from 2010 to 2011, is currently studying for her PhD at Royal Holloway, where she has already completed her BA and MA in Victorian Literature, Art and Culture. Deputy Headmistress Dr Sandra Coates-Smith said, “Having taught Katy from Year 7 through to Sixth Form, I’m thrilled and incredibly proud to hear her wonderful news. She was always eager to make the most of every opportunity that came her way.”

Dickens himself was a regular visitor to Cobham Hall, and as a friend of the 6th Earl of Darnley held the key to the estate. After his death, his now-famous writing chalet stood in the grounds for a period of time before being moved to its current home in Rochester.

This term, we welcomed back former Guardian Isla Murphy for a work experience placement. Explaining why she chose Cobham Hall for her placement, Isla said, “Cobham Hall has always held a wealth of memories for me and it always feels very nostalgic whenever I visit. However, the main reason was purely because it’s an amazing school, run by some equally amazing people! I knew that the experience they could offer me would be invaluable in comparison to any other school where they would not know me nor trust me as much.”

Isla, who was Guardian in 2013, is aiming to pursue a career as a teacher for children with learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dyspraxia. As a student who received such support herself here at Cobham Hall, she said, “I found the experience incredibly informative and useful. Cobham Hall was an ideal place to start shadowing teachers both in the Student Support Department, as well as in the English Department.”

Headmistress’s Memoirs Founding Headmistress Brenda Hancock’s memoir, ‘EverWidening Circles or Road to BABA’, was recently published by Page Publishing, Inc., New York.

Brenda recalls her memories from early childhood in China, through growing up in England during World War II and after; her years in East Africa and then the founding of Cobham Hall.

In the second part of her book she describes the impact on her life of a silent spiritual Master whom she first met while visiting India: the BABA referred to in her title.

The book is available through Amazon, or by order through bookstores.

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Education is Forbidden

Congratulations to Rahima Gambo, who won the 2017 Fourthwall Books Photobook Award.

The winning work, ‘Education is Forbidden’, is a multimedia narrative documenting the experience of students attending schools and universities in the midst of the Boko Haram insurgency in North-East Nigeria. The project shines a light on religious fundamentalism and the status of girls and women in society.

See more at www.educationisforbidden.com

Chairman Visits

Chairman Tracey Balch visited the School this term to introduce the Elders’ Association to Year 11 and Year 13 Leavers.

...and Finally...

Wonderful to see Elder, and now Junior Doctor, Freda Amoakwa-Adu in the news in July, for saving the lives of a heavily pregnant mother and her baby.

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. Here are details of their recent activities. To find out more, or if you are interested in joining the Committee, please email unicorn@cobhamhall.com. You can also find out more via www.cobhamhall.com/unicorn

Forthcoming Events Quiz Night: Friday 22nd September

Current Fundraising Project The Unicorn Association work tirelessly to raise funds to benefit the School. Their current project is focusing on raising money to refurbish the School’s fitness suite.

Located in the Activities Centre, the Gym was originally funded by the Association. Frequent use as well as advances in equipment, means the facility is due to be enhanced.

Unicorn are aiming to raise the funds required to repaint the room, as well as install new LED lighting and new mirrors. New equipment will be purchased for the gym, including a cross trainer, rowing machine, treadmill, recumbent bike, an abductor machine, new kettlebells, dumbells, mats and benches. The installation of a water dispenser and CCTV is also planned.

The Quiz Night has moved! Now at the start of the School year in September, there’s also a new team of Quizmasters to test your skills: Geof, Liz, Daryl and Richard are looking forward to testing your knowledge in a variety of subjects.

To book tickets, please visit www.cobhamhall.com/unicorn

Big Breakfast Saturday 14th October

Welcome Picnic This term, following the annual Familiarisation morning for new students, Unicorn held a ‘Picnic and Pimms’ meet and greet for new Year 7 girls, and their families, in Lady Darnley’s Garden. Unicorn Committee member Mrs Massar writes, “This event did a spectacular job of allowing the girls that will be joining Cobham Hall as Year 7 students in

September to run, laugh and play on the grounds that will become like a second home. Incoming student Ella said, “I have made friends I’m looking forward to seeing on the first day of school.” The picnic also allowed parents and guardians the opportunity to socialise in a less structured, outdoor environment.

Due to the positive feedback, I’m sure this new event will be repeated for years to come.”

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Followed this year by optional Internet Safety Training, the Big Breakfast is a chance to share ideas and feedback with the Committee.

Fireworks Saturday 11th November

James Wyatt’s Dairy in a view of the 1820s

Did you know...?

• The Gilt Hall was originally a banqueting hall, built between 1662-70.

• It was later converted to a music room in 1773-79 for the 3rd Earl of Darnley.

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The Restoration of Cobham Hall’s Dairy The Cobham Hall estate is dotted with several buildings and structures, many of which have been restored following extensive works to preserve them.

These include Repton’s seat, destroyed by a Cedar crashing through the original during the hurricane of 1987, the Pump House, and the Aviary amongst others.

The final building to be restored is the Dairy. Already derelict when Cobham Hall became a school in 1962, work was subsequently undertaken by the The Snetzler organ installed at Cobham Hall Heritage Trust, aided by an English Heritage grant, to re-roof that time on the northerly and board up the Dairy. Now, The Landmark Trust has stepped in to preserve balcony is the only one of its kind this architectural gem. in working order in the country.

Designed by James Wyatt, one of the most popular and influential architects There are two false doors - one of his age, the Dairy at Cobham Hall was designed in 1794-5 to resemble an on the southerly balcony, and the Italianate chapel, complete with a bell tower disguising the chimney, four other beneath the balcony. corner pavillions and cloistered front. As well as providing living quarters for the dairy maid, and space for making butter and cheeses, the gothic strucThe figures on the marble ture also provided a picturesque view from the South side of the House. fireplace represent music and Dairies were popular in the 18th Century, and the supervising of such activity dance, whilst the central plaque was a popular hobby for Georgian ladies. depicts Apollo, the Sun God, in his chariot, chasing Aurora, Goddess Using Wyatt’s original plans, The Landmark Trust aims to retain as much of of the Dawn, across the sky. the original design as possible. They are currently fundraising for the project.

With a target of £950,000, they are just £150,000 short and hope to be able Doubled as a room in Buckingham to begin work this Autumn.

Palace for a fight scene between Frankie Muniz and Keith Allen in the film Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London.

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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!

/CobhamHall Like us on Facebook and Instagram!

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

@CobhamHall @CobhamBoarding @CobhamLearning

www.youtube.com/ cobhamhalluk

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Catch daily snippets from all aspects of school life.

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

Forthcoming Events

Tasters and Open Mornings

Headmistress’s Drinks Party

Lower & Middle School Taster Afternoon & Sleepover

Friday 15 September th

Friday 6th/Saturday 7th October

Ice-Breaker Event for all Students Friday 15th September

Open Morning

Unicorn Quiz Night

Saturday 7th October

Friday 22nd September

Sixth Form Open Day (by appointment)

Unicorn Big Breakfast

Wednesday 18th October

Saturday 14th October

Year 5 Taster Afternoon & Sleepover

Unicorn Bonfire Evening

(for September 2019 Entry)

Saturday 11th November

Friday 27th/Saturday 28th April

Round Square Christmas Fair and Carols by Candlelight

Open Morning

Friday 8th December

Saturday 28th April

For information on any of the above events, or to register your interest in attending, please email enquiries@cobhamhall.com 39

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

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