The Ocellus - Summer Term 2019

Issue 42 • September 2019 • Record of Summer Term 2019

THE

OCELLUS From the Headmaster

The summer usually brings lots of cricket. This year we had a World Cup, and also the biennial contest for the Ashes. As I write, the England team has already been crowned cricket world champions, thanks in great measure to an extraordinary innings by Ben Stokes. The final day of the Third Test was also exciting, with more Stokes heroics. There have been calls for him to be knighted! It left me pondering about role models, and their value in our lives. My experience as a teacher is that schoolboys do often have role models, and they are very often sportsmen. I say schoolboys because I am not sure I have seen the same feelings about sporting role models in the girls I have taught. Perhaps with the growing success and profile of women’s sport that will change. On the field, these sporting heroes display great dedication and skill, take calculated risks, receive the applause of their team mates and the adulation of the crowd. This often comes with material rewards. There is a lot to admire and aspire to in all that. But we may hope that other character traits are held as being equally attractive. Michelle Obama has been hailed as a great role model specifically, but not only, for girls from black and minority ethnic backgrounds, an example of someone who can strive through adversity to great personal success, yet retain both grace and compassion. There are parallels with sporting heroes, in terms of dedication and, I suspect, risk-taking. But Michelle Obama manifests so many of the other aspects of character that we can admire. I mentioned her evident grace and compassion. Perhaps equally as important is her desire to pass on that sense of aspiration to others, to help others to grow. Sometimes we see in sporting heroes a tremendous ego. Some measure of ego is not to be derided; it is often the engine of success. The fault, I think, is when achievement is something purely selfish. We can think of a relay race. We receive the baton from those before us, we run, and we pass the baton on to those who follow. It is focused both on personal success and also on what we can bequeath. Michelle Obama’s autobiography ‘Becoming’ reflects this idea in a way that makes her a fine role model. She writes of ‘Becoming me, becoming us, and becoming more’. Front Page Photo: World Challenge Madagascar 2019

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Academic Contents

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From the Headmaster 1 Academic 2-7 Junior School 8-13 Sixth Form 14-15 The Arts 16-18 CEW 19 Sport 20-23 Houses 24-25 AOB 26 The Cokethorpe Society 27 Beyond the Classroom 28-29 Wider Community 30 Archives 31 Tail Feathers 32 ‘Ocellus’ (pronounced ‘oh, sell-us’) refers to the eye in the tail feathers of a peacock.

Canadian Leadership Exchange

For a week in June, the Sixth Form welcomed two students from Toronto Montessori School who spent time experiencing life at Cokethorpe. This is the second year of the exchange which centres on student leadership and both students spent the week comparing the differing school systems and opportunities for leadership development with two of our Leadership grant holders, Molly Cockin (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Louis Rawlinson (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh). They immersed themselves into lessons and our leadership committees, offering valuable insights into the student role in their school. Of course it was not just the school day that offered the opportunity to experience student life in the UK. They had the chance to visit London with their exchange partners and also to tour Oxford University and the historic sites of our wonderful city. Molly and Louis will be flying out to Toronto in February to experience life at Toronto Montessori School as well as the Canadian winter. I am sure they will embrace the experience in the same way that our visitors did whilst they were with us.

A Level English Literature Talks

Dr Christy Edwall of New College Oxford delivered the first of three seminars to four English students in preparation for Oxbridge English Literature applications. She placed real intellectual demands on them as they each prepared an analysis of an unseen poem. Once they had delivered their responses, they were subsequently quizzed on their readings in the same way as they might be at any potential interviews they will face. Afterwards, Dr Edwall gave advice on how best to approach unseen texts and how to manage the interviews to their best advantage. There followed a session on how to best prepare their personal statements. Dr Edwall, shortly to move to Lancing College in Brighton, said she found the students engaging, articulate and interesting.

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Senior School Prize Giving

We were blessed with glorious weather for our annual prize giving ceremonies at the start of July. On Friday 5 July, we welcomed the friends and families of our Senior School pupils and Sixth Form students. We were joined by Guest Speaker, Lynne Horner, Chair of The Society of Heads and Principal of Westholme School. We also heard from the Chairman of Governors, Rob Jonckheer and our Headmaster, who gave some words of wisdom for the last time to our leavers. It was heart-warming to see the variety of welldeserved awards received by our pupils and students. Sixth Form leaver, Michaela Logue (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) received a special award for ten years of 100% attendance, for which she received a well-earned rest in a personalised deck chair, holiday attire and a cocktail glass thrust into her hand on the stage for all to see. It was a fantastic and jubilant event for everyone and wonderful to hear of the variety of destinations of our Sixth Form leavers.

Third Form Visit to Williams Advanced Engineering

'On Thursday 20 June, a group of 21 Third Form pupils visited the Williams Advanced Engineering site at Grove. This trip was a reward for those who took part in the competition that Williams ran for the Third Form with the title ‘Engineering a Greener Future’. Five teams each produced a design, a model and marketing campaign which they presented in one of the board rooms at the Williams Conference Centre, followed by a Q&A session from the two members of Williams’s staff. Having completed the presentations we were then taken on a tour of the Museum and part of the Advanced Engineering factory. The Williams Museum is the largest collection of F1 cars held in one place with cars dating back to 1978 when they first started racing.' Mrs Bignell

Academic Second Form Trip the Black Country Living Museum

On Friday 17 May, Second Form pupils visited the Black Country Living Museum. They had been studying the Industrial Revolution in class and the museum really brought the simplistic, primitive way of living to life for them. Their guides for the day served as excellent reminders of the hardships that people had to endure in Industrial Britain and the pupils got to experience this for themselves during their trip down a recreated coal mine. Pupils also got to experience typical games that children would have played, explore what would have been sold in local shops and watch authentic steel chains being made. This was all wrapped up with a trip to an equally authentic sweet shop. They learnt a great deal from the day and had a new-found appreciation for how difficult life must have been for those who lived in Industrial Britain.

GCSE Results

As pupils arrived at School, it soon became clear that the year group had gained an exceptional set of results. With a third of all grades awarded at either 9 or 8, candidates had plenty to celebrate. Over half of the grades awarded in Biology, Chemistry, English Literature, Geography, Ancient Greek, History, Latin, PE, Physics and Spanish were 9-7. The Headmaster expressed his congratulations to the pupils: 'I am delighted that this year’s cohort have acquitted themselves so well and they have every reason to be proud of their achievements. Of course, their success was made possible because of the support they received from their parents and teachers and I am sure they will take time to thank them. A day of celebration - my congratulations to them and indeed all pupils who have shown determination and academic focus throughout their GCSE Studies.' Individually there were some outstanding results with 10 pupils gaining at least 10 grades at either 8 or 9, and one pupil achieving a full suite of grade 9s.

Third Form Leadership Course

‘Our Third Form have been busy over the Summer Term, not only learning about leadership, but also becoming fully fledged leaders. As accredited providers of the Institute of Leadership and Management’s City and Guilds Level 2 Award for Young Leaders, the School has developed and run a highly engaging and practical course in leadership for all of our Third Form pupils. The course started with the fundamentals of self-leadership, including goal setting, handling stress, constructive thinking and resilience. The course moved on to the leadership of others, and this began by identifying the characteristics of leaders, and considering the Cokethorpe leadership characteristics: Integrity; Courage; Empathy; Judgement; Ambition and Responsibility.

The final elements of the course were about a functional approach to leadership. Using the Cokethorpe ASPIRE (Aim; Share; Plan; Initiate; Respond; Encourage) model for actioncentred leadership, pupils learned how to lead a team to achieve a planned goal. They were then able to apply the model to a practical exercise within the school grounds which saw pupils leading their teams in a scenario to attempt to prevent an impending environmental disaster. Having reflected on their learning and performances, Third Form were finally assessed on their ability to lead during curriculum enrichment week. Importantly, pupils were also becoming aware of what it takes to be a valuable and supportive team member.

Spelling Bee

'On Wednesday 24 April, after months of preparations and after their victories in the school competition against their peers. Oscar Luckett (First Form, Vanbrugh) Caellum Sharp (First Form, Vanbrugh) and Rosie Burfield (First Form, Harcourt) faced pupils from more than fifteen other schools in Oxfordshire in the south east regional competition of the Spelling Bee at the University at Southampton. Pupils had to spell as many words as they could in French or Spanish using the alphabet of the language. More than three thousands pupils from across the region initially took part in the competition, but only fifty six managed to get through to the regional final. The competition was fierce and although they did not progress to the next stage of the Spelling Bee, our three finalists had fun and are looking forward to next year when they are hoping to take part in a translation competition and this time to win it!' Miss Mango

Our young leaders showed tremendous qualities during this final phase of the course, not least responsibility, determination and courage. There were many outstanding displays of effective and inspiring leadership during the week. The course for this cohort will be complete in September and certificates will be presented to our successful Young Leaders during Michaelmas Term.' Mr Carter

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Academic Academic Awards 2018-2019

Performing Arts Prize First Form Emily Stewart

Second Form Lily Cannell Third Form Jamie Wehrle

Languages Prize First Form Oscar Luckett

Fourth Form Geography Field Trip

On Friday 10 May, the Fourth Form Geographers set off for a sunny and productive weekend of fieldwork as a part of their GCSE course to FSC Nettlecombe Court in Somerset. Pupils threw themselves whole-heartedly into all aspects of physical and human fieldwork, measuring river processes and their resulting impacts on the channel and valley. Saturday was spent measuring aspects of urban quality of life in a comparison between two areas of the city of Taunton before a similar comparison on Sunday between two sections of the county’s coastline at Porlock Weir and Minehead. After full days of fieldwork, pupils analysed and interpreted their data in evening classes with an impressive work ethic leading to quality write-ups that will be used in their GCSE examinations next summer. Pupils were also able to enjoy the stunning surroundings of Nettlecombe Court and develop friendships in this residential experience. Many thanks to Mrs Webb for arranging such a productive trip and Mrs Statham, Mr Davies and Mr Capel for their support and care.

Second Form Aoife Kirkham Third Form Jamie Wehrle

Sciences Prize First Form Simran Panesar Second Form Aoife Kirkham Third Form Jamie Wehrle

Creative Arts Prize First Form Mae Serjeant

Second Form Anna Pratley Third Form Thomas Woodwards

DT Paddle Testing

On Monday 10 and Tuesday 11 June, despite the rather chilly and wet weather conditions the Second Form had a marvellous time testing out their paddles on the lake at Hardwick Park. The range of designs and in particular the surface decoration was both innovative and applied with skill. The paddles worked with considerable success in both the canoes and on the paddle boards. On both days the pupils were impressive, they were complimented on their excellent behaviour and good manners by staff at the Lake. The DT staff also felt they should be complimented not only for dealing with the weather without a whinge but also coping with forgotten towels, damp socks and spiders in the changing room with no fuss and good humour all round.

Humanities Prize First Form Caellum Sharp Second Form Dee Biles Third Form Claudia Woods-Cano

Fourth Form Prizes For Academic Excellence

Art Rosie Moore Biology Ciara McCarthy Business Studies Rosie Moore Chemistry Hugo Robathan Design Technology Jocelyn Brown Drama Amelia Knight English Alexander Brown English Literature Zoë Smith Geography Emily Mumford Greek Ruari Kirkham History Amelia Knight Latin Ciara McCarthy Mathematics Harrison Procter Modern Foreign Languages (French) Madeleine May Modern Foreign Languages (Spanish) Alexander Brown Music Harrison Procter Physical Education Jenny Allen Physics Ciara McCarthy Psychology Edith Wannell Religious Studies Taliana McIlwrath Jenny Allen 4Textiles

Loughborough Design Degree Show and Inspiring Minds Event

On Friday 15 June, the Sixth Form Design and Technology and Art students visited Loughborough University to see the Product Design Degree show and Art Foundation end of year show. They had the opportunity to take part in workshops and talks as well as a tour of the University to see the sports facilities, halls of residence and the Union buildings. The Product Design show not only gave the students a fantastic insight into the work of a product design student but also some useful inspiration for their own project work, sketching and modelling skills. The show was somewhat stolen by the spectacle of one of the final year students demonstrating the product he had designed and made outside the design building - a jetpack – Ironman style. An impressive and inspirational visit for all.

Academic Rotary Club Technology Tournament

The annual Technology Tournament run by the Rotary Club of Witney and hosted by Cokethorpe’s Design and Technology Department took place in the Sixth Form Centre on Tuesday 25 June. Ten teams from local schools took part, entering teams of four into one of three categories, Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced level. The brief this year, which pupils were introduced to in the morning, required them to design and build a remotely operated vehicle that could transport a crane through a tunnel, retrieve an object then return to its original position. The Intermediate team selected to represent Cokethorpe included Lucas Goodgame, (Fourth Form, Feilden) Harrison Procter, (Fourth Form, Feilden) Ciara McCarthy, (Fourth Form, Feilden) and Theo Serjeant (Fourth Form, Swift). The Foundation team comprised Sam Copping, (Second Form, Vanbrugh) Max Quartley, (Second Form, Swift), Aoife Kirkham (Second Form, Feilden) and Dee Biles (Second Form, Gascoigne). The teams had until lunchtime to devise a solution and produce a design portfolio of sketches and plans. Teams were awarded marks for the design and function of their vehicle and for their teamwork. It was not only a lot of fun but also a great success with Cokethorpe’s two teams taking the Foundation and Intermediate Cups with some outstanding problem solving and Burford School winning the Advanced competition.

Summer Art, DT and Textiles Exhibition

Thank you to all parents and staff who came to the Summer Art, Textiles and DT Exhibition. The A Level student’s work this year responded to the theme ‘Variation and Similarity’. Their responses were indeed hugely varied; Eddie Binnie (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) explored light’s effect on the portrait, Hannah Whitaker (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) painted the variation of the landscape, Scarlett Jewson (Upper Sixth, Swift) used found objects to capture close up architectural details of Woodstock, Georgina Bibby (Upper Sixth, Swift) used intricate French knots to represent the Japanese celebration of spring Hanami, Katie Reid (Upper Sixth, Harcourt) delved into her family history looking at the variety of places she descended from through pattern within family portraits and Ana Plisova (Upper Sixth, Feilden) created a moving film exploring travel and philosophy. We am proud of all their hard work and wish them all good luck in the next stage of their education. The GCSE pupils created a wide variety of work in response to several exam theme options. Birds, Domicile, Mirror and Signs proved particularly popular themes. We look forward to seeing the work they produce in Sixth Form in response to our upcoming trip to Venice.

GCSE Prizes

Art Elen Moore Biology Samuel Carter Business Studies Ewan Short Chemistry Poppy Wehrle Design Technology George London Drama Samuel Carter English Elen Moore English Literature Lauren Thomas Geography Tiego Logan Greek Samuel Carter History Samuel Carter Latin Mae Topley Mathematics Samuel Elek MFL - French Poppy Wehrle MFL - Spanish Samuel Elek Music Poppy Wehrle Physical Education Joseph Sydenham Physics Samuel Elek Psychology Amelia Leslie Textiles Lydia Dale

Lower Sixth Prizes For Academic Excellence

Art Sasha Palfreyman Biology Francesca Brown BTEC Business Ezme Pickford Business Studies Maximillian Gunn Chemistry Charlie Clarke Classical Civilisation Tallulah Kelly Design Technology James Shaw Drama and Theatre Hayden Camidge Economics Neve Macken English Lang/Lit Tenisha Aparo Iboch English Literature Katie Procter Geography James Shaw History Ciara Thatcher Latin Neve Macken Mathematics Benjamin McDonald Mathematics (Further) Matthew Christensen MFL - French Ciara Thatcher MFL - Spanish Hayden Camidge Music Oliver Charles Physical Education Leonie Watson Physics Hollie Jackson Politics Maximillian Gunn Psychology Molly Cockin Religious Studies Tallulah Kelly Sociology Hannah King Textiles Alexia Zamani

Upper Sixth A Level Prizes

Art Edward Binnie Biology Hannah Berry BTEC Business Alice Scrimshaw-Wright Business Studies William Riman Chemistry Hannah Berry Classical Civilisation Annabel Davies Design Technology Harrison Brown Drama and Theatre Georgie Vallance Economics Felix Checksfield English Language/Literature Georgie Vallance English Literature Molly Symonds Geography Molly Symonds History Isobel Ponsford Latin Isobel Ponsford Mathematics Hannah Berry Mathematics (Further) Jingya Zhao MFL - French Michaela Logue MFL - Spanish Michaela Logue Music Lukas Russell Physical Education Archie Fulbrook Physics Felix Checksfield Politics Harley Colsell Psychology Sophie Wheeler Religious Studies Ruby Plumridge Textiles Katie Reid

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Academic Open Awards

The Peter Small Theatre Design Hayden Camidge The Cranham Prize

Dominic House

The Lancia Fulvia Prize Scarlett Howard The Stephen Cookson Memorial Prize Grace Bartle The Grove Prize

Lukas Russell

The Sonia Tollady Memorial Prize Annabel Page The Kate Perritt Prize

Emma Foster

The Martin Browne Memorial Prize Elliott Swancott The Gordon Dennis Memorial Prize Austin Bowsher The Daniel Sumpter Sportsman of the Year George Williams The Boggis Rosebowl Sportswoman of the Year Amelia Davies The Richard Reah Prize Harley Colsell and Georgie Vallance The Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Prize Jessica Foster The Headmaster’s Prize Ruby Plumridge

Junior Maths Challenge Results

Second Form Best in School, Best in Second Form, Qualified for Junior Kangaroo - Freddie Murfitt Freddie Murfitt Max Quartley Morgan Thomas Charlotte Griffiths James Stiger Anthony Skelly Amy Goodgame Florence Adepoju Anna Pratley Rosie Clitherow Molly Grinham Felix Horby Malachy Brown Rachael Elliott Jasmine Mellor Hemza Karrouchi Sam Copping

Gold Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze

First Form Best in First Form - Archie Wilkinson Archie Wilkinson Gold Ella Goffe Silver Simran Panesar Silver Caellum Sharp Silver Patrick West Silver Julian Graf Bronze James Harris Bronze Max Dalton Bronze Nathan Robertson Bronze Rebecca Pratley Bronze Oscar Luckett Bronze Zachary Galliford Bronze Qihao Sun Bronze Toby Lu Bronze Oliver Davies Bronze

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Royal Academy of Engineering STEM Event

We were delighted to be able to welcome KS3 pupils from a number of schools on the Royal Academy of Engineering Sponsored STEM challenge day. The competition developed by Miss Clarke and the RAF, challenged eleven teams of pupils to take on Operation Peacock. Through a combination of programming and construction, pupils were tasked with the scenario of using a robotic vehicle to find their way through the jungle, build a bridge that allows them to cross the heavily infested river and deliver humanitarian aid to a village that had been damaged in an earthquake. Many of the pupils were not familiar with the block code used to program a Micro:Bit. Once attached to a vehicle, they were able to guide their Robo:Bot with accuracy and carry out the mission. The First Form team from Cokethorpe of Mae Serjeant (First Form, Swift) Freddy Masters (First Form, Harcourt), George Keates (First Form, Vanbrugh), Poppy Symonds (First Form, Vanbrugh) and Eloise Smith (First Form, Vanbrugh) showed excellent creativity and teamwork to win the challenge.

Fourth Form Enterprise Day

'I really enjoyed participating in the Ryman National Enterprise Competition, where the challenge we were set was to encourage women to play football. Throughout the day we watched videos explaining the activities we would carry out, including instructions and advice from people. After watching the video we had a short amount of time set by the facilitators to complete the activities. The challenge really pushed everyone and needed strong team work to produce excellent presentations. It was a really interesting day, we learnt a lot whilst also having fun. I am proud to have performed in front of the whole year group and to do so well. It will be a challenge to go to Wembley and pitch our idea but it is a challenge we want to take on.' Thomas Taylor (Fourth Form, Swift)

Creative Writing Workshops

All members of the Fourth Form attended a two day creative writing workshop run by Miss Jackson. The workshop supported the required creative coursework element of their English GCSE and was based around the ancient burial mound of Wayland’s Smithy on the Ridgeway. Pupils spent the first day at Warwick Hall in Burford engaged in activities to give inspiration and ideas for their writing including language games, hearing the history of the Ridgeway, myth telling and handling ancient artefacts. The second day was spent walking from Dragon Hill to Uffington Fort to Wayland’s Smithy where pupils engaged in immersive writing, paying attention to the physicality of this spiritual place. Some exceptional writing has been produced as a result.

Academic A Level Geography Field Trip

'The Lower Sixth Geographers visited the Snowdonia National Park for five days from Wednesday 12 to Sunday 16 June to plan and carry out the fieldwork for their Geography independent investigation coursework which makes up 20% of their A Level. We spent a day at Cwm Idwal, one of the best examples of a glacial corrie in the UK, looking at data collection techniques for investigating the direction of ice flow, mapping glacial features and recording striation and corrie orientation data. The low cloud cover made this iconic location incredibly atmospheric; it was an absolute pleasure to be in beautiful surroundings with amazing geography in all directions. The following day was spent in the town of Llanberis at the foot of Mount Snowdon; a location which once employed 3,500 people in the slate mining industry.

We learned how to apply a range of creative data collection techniques to help us investigate the impacts on Llanberis’s sense of place and identity. After designing their own investigations, the students spent Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning collecting data. It was a memorable trip not least for the breath-taking landscapes but also a pleasure to see the teamwork and friendship amongst the Lower Sixth students. As Geography teachers, we could not be more proud of how the students approached their field trip and how the students have picked up the bug for the feeling you get from spending time in awe-inspiring landscapes, as the students have plans to return to the National Park to climb Mount Snowdon together in the summer. Have a wonderful time Geographers! No clipboards needed this time!' Mrs Webb

First Form Technology Day

First Form certainly rose to the challenges set for them on a day of problem solving, team work and fun. Half the day was spent in the Design and Technology workshop where teams of pupils designed and built marble runs aiming to have three marbles arriving at the bottom at different times and crossing paths on the way down. A wide range of ingenious solutions were devised with a range of success. The second challenge required the teams to set up a company making paper hats, designing a production line, managing cash flow and dealing with the fluctuating markets of supply and demand. Pupils were quick to see that there was a clear correlation between good team work and financial success. Meanwhile, at the School’s Boat House pupils were challenged to cross a flooded river to take supplies to a village that had been cut off on the opposite bank by the flood waters. This involved not only designing and making a trailer for a remote control vehicle to carry the supplies but also programming the vehicle and building the bridge. The teams were judged on a number of criteria including team work and ingenuity. The pupils worked with enthusiasm and determination and staff were very impressed with the results.

Transfer Day

'Towards the end of the Summer Term, the Admissions team welcome all our newest recruits from Reception through to First Form to spend a day experiencing life at Cokethorpe. We never under-estimate the relief of pupils knowing where to hang their coat, stash their bag and, possibly most importantly; where they find the toilets! The excitement of knowing who else is going to be in your House begins the moment our new pupils step through the double doors into the bright and welcoming Dining Hall. In no small part thanks to the calming influence of our Lower Sixth who help our new First Form navigate their way through – many willingly repaying the same service they received on their own Transfer Day – conversations soon begin to flow. With sample lessons in Maths, History, Geography and Science, and with the chance to express their inner artist, musician, rock-climber, engineer or marksman through the AOBs on offer, there is something for everyone to enjoy on Transfer Day. Throw in an orientation challenge and a hearty lunch, and First Form 2019 are ready for their welcome assembly, courtesy of Mr O’Connor.' Mrs Sheer

75th Anniversary of D-Day

Lower Sixth historians commemorated D-Day on Thursday 6 June by delivering a presentation to an audience which included Junior and Senior School pupils. Barney (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Louis (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) carried out extensive research on D-Day, to deliver a fascinating insight into the planning and events of this most significant operation of The Second World War. The audience were delighted to learn some little known facts, not least about the deception plan before Operation Overlord, and the surprisingly light casualty numbers that British paratroops experienced. Given the importance of the 75th anniversary of D-Day, the presentation was especially poignant and generated a great deal of interest. Barney and Louis should be congratulated for their detailed preparation and entertaining delivery.

First Form Technology Day

Congratulations to the winning team: Mae Serjeant Edward Harris Nathan Robertson Benjamin Charlesworth James Harris Poppy Symonds Thanks also go to the DT Sixth Formers who helped throughout the day: James Benali Rowan Paton Charlie Fletcher Tom Alford Henry Kerton

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Junior School Last Impressions

Here are some thoughts and reflections from our Year 6 children as they move up to Senior School, on their time in the Junior School. We wish them all the best of luck!

Life Education Bus

The Life Education Bus visited the Junior School for a week in May. It provides additional opportunities for the children in Reception Class up to Year 6 to discuss health and well-being. The younger children met Harold the giraffe and learnt about how to look after their bodies and manage their feelings. The older children were able to talk about making choices and accepting consequences as well as understanding relationships.

'When I joined, I walked in to the classroom and got a lovely welcome from Mrs Peace. I still remember the chocolate rocks and starbursts in Year 3.' Lucy Webber (Year 6, Baker) 'I stepped out of the car on to the amazing grounds. Walking up the tall wooden stairs I gripped my Mum’s hand tight, but as soon as I entered the classroom I felt right at home.' Connie Quartley (Year 6, Lockwood) 'I entered Reception Class not knowing what adventures the school had in store. All the teachers have been amazing and I just want to say thank you.' Jack Turner (Year 6, Baker) 'I only joined in Year 6 but I have really enjoyed it. I have made loads of new friends. PGL was fun and is something I will never forget.' Luke Flemming (Year 6, Lockwood) 'I joined in Year 3. I went in to the classroom and I saw the class smiling at me. I sat down and my buddy was Grace. I will never forget the Junior School. I am looking forward to First Form.' Rosie Doland (Year 6, Baker) 'This year has been the best by far because of Mr G and Miss Fagan! I also remember in Reception Class when Ms Turner put the tidy up song on and we all tidied up to the music.' Edward Allen (Year 6, Gwyn) 'My best memory was at PGL, standing on top of the abseiling tower and leaning over the edge.' Nathan Hunt (Year 6, Lockwood) 'I have only been at Cokethorpe for one year, but it has been one of the best years of my life!' Jonathan Webster (Year 6, Gwyn) 'I joined Cokethorpe in Year 5 and have loved it here with the long games sessions and science experiments - I wouldn’t change a thing. I have learnt so much since I have been at Cokethorpe that I never want to leave!' Archie Clarke (Year 6, Gwyn) 'My first teacher was Mrs Peace – she was my favourite Year 3 teacher. I have so many memories, but some of my favourites are: being wrapped up in a bubble in Year 4, dressing up as evacuees, and Bushcraft in Year 5 where I watched people struggle to eat fish eyes!' Bryony Wyatt (Year 6, Gwyn)

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Year 4 Trip to Milestones Museum

On Wednesday 5 June, the Year 4 classes dressed up as children from the 1940’s and with labels tied to their clothes, pretended that they were to be evacuated. Their destination was Milestones Museum in Basingstoke. The museum is ‘A Living History Museum’, set out as real streets with a variety of buildings and vehicles. Whilst at the museum there were interesting talks from characters in costume. Back at School, the trip has helped to bring the History topic of World War 2 alive and enhanced the children’s understanding of this period in time.

Year 5 Residential Trip

'On Wednesday 22 May, Year 5 departed on their incredible Bushcraft adventure deep in the Wychwood forest. After a trek into the heart of the picturesque and peaceful woods, we arrived at Willow Camp, our home for the next three days. The children's first task was to make their own lunch over open fires and then build shelters using tarpaulins. With no running water, the children cleaned their teeth from Jerry cans and took turns at washing-up in large soapy buckets of water! In addition, a plethora of outdoor challenges were experienced such as; archery, axe throwing, a tree identification ramble and the very cold swim in the beautiful natural lake. The children had a fantastic time being ‘at one’ with nature, away from electricity, WiFi, mobile phones and screens. It is safe to say nobody missed their iPads while we were away! We are all going to miss waking up to the glorious birdsong and gazing through the lime green foliage above us. We have got closer to understanding the characters in our novel, Wolf Brother and learnt a great deal more about the wonders of nature which surround us.' Mrs Davis

Junior School Year 6 Evolution in Action Workshop

Year 6 have been studying Inheritance and Evolution as part of their Science curriculum. On Wednesday 8 May, they took part in a workshop run by Ian Snell from Science Oxford, called Evolution in Action. The children learned about variation, natural selection, adaptation and evolution through a series of practical and discussion activities that really helped to develop and consolidate their understanding.

Year 3 Visit to Sulgrave Manor

On Monday 17 June, Year 3 visited Sulgrave Manor, a superb example of a modest manor house of Shakespeare’s time. The children dressed as Tudor children and each took an authentic packed lunch. The visit tied in with their History topic, Rich and Poor in Tudor England. They explored the house and used replica objects to investigate how life was different for the Washington family and the people who served them. Each child also learned to write their name using the Tudor alphabet, with quill and ink!

Evolution Workshop Thoughts

‘I found it interesting that when animals move to a new environment, they evolve new features to suit it.’ Archie Clarke (Year 6, Gwyn) ‘I really enjoyed playing the fun games that taught us about evolution. I also found the talk given by Ian Snell very engaging.’ Molly Ferrier (Year 6, Baker) ‘Yesterday I had one of the best afternoons of my life. Ian Snell gave us a very inspiring talk on evolution. We did lots of fun activities while learning tons of information!’ Daniel Elliott (Year 6, Baker) ‘The evolution workshop was really good. I had never experienced anything like it before. The best thing was this game where we had to get these beans using tiny, small, medium and large spring clips. Then depending on how many you got, you either died, survived or lived and reproduced.’ Oscar Keates (Year 6, Baker)

Year 1 Trip to the Steam Museum

On Wednesday 15 May, Year 1 visited Steam, The Museum of the Great Western Railway. The children dressed up as characters from the early development of the railways. They were most excited to look under an old steam locomotive and see the ‘North Star’, one of the first locomotives. Paying close attention, they were able to label the parts of the train and imagine what it might have been like to travel in a bumpy old open-top carriage in third class.

Reception Class Diver Visit

On Monday 20 May, Mr Cranmer, an exdiving instructor for the Army, came to the Reception Class to talk about deep sea diving. The children have been learning about the ocean this term. They learnt some hand signals, looked for different sea creatures, tried on fins, masks and even tried to breathe through a mouthpiece. As an experienced diver, he taught the children about diving safety and also about the importance of keeping our oceans clean.

‘The speaker was very cheerful and showed a positive attitude. I learned a lot.’ Maia Brewer (Year 6, Symonds) ‘I really enjoyed the part when we were collecting the beans. I was surprised to learn that a whale evolved from a wolflike creature.’ Amelia Atkinson (Year 6, Symonds) ‘I really enjoyed the workshop, it was really engaging. I learnt lots about how different animals evolve.’ Grace Clear (Year 6, Lockwood) ‘The workshop was great fun, especially the Springbeaks on Clippy Island.’ Jack Turner (Year 6, Baker) ‘It is extraordinary how human-like hand bones are in a whale’s fin’. Jack Hammond (Year 6, Symonds) ‘I enjoyed doing the workshop. It was very creative and fun. My favourite bit was Springbeaks on Clippy Island. I only died once. The Duck game was also great fun and interesting. I think it’s great the way he engaged us into learning whilst having fun!’ Connie Quartley (Year 6, Lockwood)

Pre-Prep Trip to Cotswold Wildlife Park

On Thursday 27 June, the Pre-Prep children had a lovely trip out to The Cotswold Wildlife Park. They enjoyed the opportunity to ride on the train around the parkland on a beautifully sunny day. They also met some of the keepers who talked to them about the African animals and Endangered Species that they look after as part of their topic work on animals. Later in the day everyone enjoyed a tasty picnic and went to play in the Adventure Playground on the Skywalk. It was the perfect end to the Summer Term!

‘I thought it was one of the best things we have done in Science’. Austin Hunt (Year 6, Gwyn)

Kwik Cricket Festival

On Thursday 6 June, after a short spell of rain, the weather improved to make ideal conditions for a few games of kwik cricket! Milton Keynes Prep were crowned champions, winning all of their games. At the end of the festival Mr Davies presented the teams with their certificates and participants, staff, family and friends were treated to a wonderful array of summery refreshments.

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Junior School Grey Partridges

Grey Partridges Hatching Programme

Through Incredible Eggs the School could be a part of this breeding and release program to help increase numbers across the UK.

Once fluffed up and dry the ten grey partridge chicks were moved to the brooder box; a much larger space for them to run around, with food, water and a warming plate to snuggle under. Over the week that followed the chicks grew rapidly and children throughout the School frequently visited to check up on them. The project was a golden opportunity for the children to gain a very real and meaningful understanding of the impact humans have on the environment. Our ten grey partridge chicks will be released into wild in the autumn.

The majority of people have only seen grey partridges on the front of Christmas cards and not in real life. This is because numbers have dramatically declined in the UK due to modern, intensive farming methods. This once common native bird is now on the Birds Conservation Concern ‘Red List’, with red being the highest priority and the species needing urgent action.

There was an atmosphere of anticipation in the air following the arrival of the grey partridge eggs in the Junior School. The ten tiny eggs were kept warm and humid in an incubator. Visiting children peered through the incubator glass, listening to the muffled cheeping noises coming from within, hoping to catch a glimpse of a crack. They did not have to wait long for the excitement to begin as the first chick hatched after two days, and the rest followed in quick succession. Many children were lucky enough to see a hatching and watched in wonder as the newly-hatched chicks already appeared to be bigger than their shells.

Junior Sports Report

'The Junior School boys have had an intermittent cricket season due to the inclement weather meaning that quite a few fixtures were cancelled, but in true Cokethorpe spirit they did not let the weather dampen their desire to play the game.

Year 2 and 3 Trip to the Living Rainforest The boys as always played with determination, which was demonstrated through their tight fielding which of course is an essential skill required to win games. It has also been pleasing to see the batting across all teams improving, but notably their communication and advice in both batting and fielding and the improvements made in this area have been exemplary.

'Year 2 have enjoyed learning all about the world’s rainforests and the animals and plants that live and grow there. They were excited to visit The Living Rainforest to enrich their learning and took part in a workshop called The Edible Forest. It was a surprise to some that the tropical rainforests provide us with many foods. As well as the educational tour the children spent time wandering around the bio domes and meeting lots of creatures who also roam free. Luigi the curasso was a particular favourite as was Godzilla the tarantula!' Miss Oliff

Reception Class Trip to Farmer Gow's

‘On Tuesday 4 June the children in Reception visited Farmer Gow's Activity Farm. They had a wonderful time feeding milk to the kids and lambs and the older animals took food from their hands. Holding the baby animals was a particular highlight, but the most popular activity was playing on the bale climb.The children were learning about caring for animals and the things they need.' Mrs Brash

As always a huge thank you goes to all the staff that supported through coaching and umpiring this year, as well as the Catering and Maintenance Departments for their continued support enabling all the fixtures to run. Hopefully next season we will have more luck with the British summer weather so we can play more fixtures!' Mr Davies

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Junior School Year 6 Residential Trip to PGL Swindon

On Monday 13 May, the Year 6 group left on their residential week at Liddington PGL to enjoy the many challenges facing them. The children had to overcome their fears when taking a leap of faith as they jumped into open air for a trapeze; felt the force of gravity on the 3G swing or abseiled down a climbing wall. Their raft building skills were tested in the rather chilly lake, but they were able to warm up when learning the techniques needed for a fencing contest. Collaborative skills were tested when blindfolded groups entered the sensory trail, and when encountering the crate building challenge. The week had wonderful sunshine for most days, and the instructors were very complimentary of everyone’s positive attitude and conduct as a group.

Forthcoming Events

Junior School Parent Information Evening Monday 9 September 2019 7.00pm - 8.30pm Cokethorpe School, Corinthian Room Languages Day Wednesday 25 September 2019 9.30am - 12.00pm Cokethorpe School Junior School Parents' Evening Wednesday 6 November 2019 5.30pm - 8.00pm Cokethorpe School, Corinthian Room Junior School Christmas Performance Wednesday 27 November 2019 5.30pm - 7.00pm Thursday 28 November 2019 5.30pm - 7.00pm Cokethorpe School, The Shed Pre-Prep Nativity Friday 6 December 2019 9.30am - 10.00am Friday 6 December 2019 2.30pm - 3.00pm Cokethorpe School, Corinthian Room Christingle Service Monday 9 December 2019 3.15pm - 4.00pm Cokethorpe School, The Chapel Pre-Prep Trip to Pantomime Wednesday 11 December 2019 1.00pm - 4.00pm Chipping Norton Theatre

Charity Week

The blustery weather in June did not dampen the spirits of the resilient Junior School children, as they participated in a very successful Charity Week. Homeless Oxfordshire was the chosen charity, and the children supported it by holding a variety of events during the week beginning 10 June. These events included a variety of stalls such as ‘Guess the name of the teacher’, ‘Hook a Bag’, ‘Park a Car’ and ‘Guess the number of sweets in the jar.’ There were also toy, jewel, lolly and cake sales, as well as an amazing, inventive collection of Year 6 stalls; planned and managed by the children themselves! Exciting tasks such as apple bobbing, target shooting and archery kept us all busy, whilst the money added up! A House Day, where the children wore their House colours, concluded with an afternoon of fun sports and some delicious cakes and biscuits.Thank you to all who supported the events and made donations. Your support has been very much appreciated.

Charity Week Presentation

On Monday 1 July, the Junior School welcomed Lorraine Emms-Clements from the charity Homeless Oxfordshire. She met with Megan Hunt (Year 5, Symonds) who presented the charity with a cheque for £1496.42.

It had been Megan’s idea to raise money for this charity, after she had noticed people sleeping in shop doorways in Oxford. Megan inspired the Junior School to raise money for the charity in the school’s Charity Week in June. Megan also donated an extra cheque for £20, which was her own birthday money.

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Junior School Junior School Sports Day Results 1st - Lockwood - 446pts 2nd - Gwyn - 438pts 3rd - Symonds - 418pts 4th - Baker - 408pts

Congratulations to Bryony Wyatt (Year 6, Gwyn) who won the Athlete of the day winning in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 600m, 200m Relay, Vortex, Speed Bounce and Long Jump.

Junior School Sports Inter-House Final Standings 2018-2019 Inter-House Rugby 2018 1st - Symonds 2nd - Gwyn 3rd - Baker 4th - Lockwood

Inter-House Netball 2019 1st - Gwyn 2nd - Symonds 3rd - Lockwood 4th - Baker Inter-House Football 2019 1st - Gwyn 2nd - Lockwood 3rd - Symonds 4th - Baker

Junior School Sports Day and Mini-Olympics

'On Thursday 20 June, we held our annual Junior School Sports Day. This eagerly anticipated event provides an excellent opportunity for our children to demonstrate the sporting progress they have made this year. The afternoon started with one of the highlights of the day, the Reception Class 50m dash followed by every child in the Junior School performing in the 100m. The Pre-Prep then headed off for their Mini-Olympics, featuring throwing for distance, throwing for accuracy, batting challenge and then races over obstacles, in sacks, carrying eggs on spoons and finally, the other highlight of the day, the scooter races and relay! The children performed exceptionally well, cheered on by their peers and our ever supportive parents. Similar support and encouragement could be found on the main track for Year 3 to Year 6. They competed in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 600m, Long Jump, Speed Bounce, Cricket Ball Throwing and Vortex Throwing. The whole event culminated with the four 200m relays. Every race position counts towards the coveted Inter House Sports Day trophy with double points for the relays.' Mr Davies

Inter-House Cross Country 2019 1st - Gwyn 2nd - Symonds 3rd - Lockwood 4th - Baker

Year 6 Leavers

Edward Allen Pippa Allen Amelia Atkinson Cohen Bowles Jackson Brewer Maia Brewer Archie Clarke Grace Clear Wilfred Curran-KĂśvesi Rosie Doland Daniel Elliott Molly Ferrier Luke Flemming Oliver Grenville-Jones Jack Hammond Austin Hunt Nathan Hunt Oscar Keates Jude Kelly Amy Maguire Alexander McGibbon Lydia Monaghan Frederick Morlock Felix Pool Connie Quartley Alexandra ‘t Hart Luke Taylor Jack Turner Thomas Underwood Matilda Walker Lucy Webber Jonathan Webster Zachary Wheeler Bryony Wyatt

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Year 6 Lego Workshop

On Wednesday 26 June, the Year 6 children took part in a Lego building workshop. They were led by Mr Garside, a Lego expert, who has over 80,000 pieces and years of experience in teaching children the skills behind successful design. The purpose of the afternoon was to develop team building skills within the groups and to use electrical circuits within their design. The children were initially given the task of constructing a building that had windows and doors and was lit from the inside by a combination of bulbs and batteries. All four Houses successfully built a variety of different buildings.

Year 6 Leavers

Junior School Junior School Prize Giving

On the morning of Junior School Prize Giving, after parents had filed into the marquee, a long line of excited children snaked out of the Mansion. Their wonderful costumes gleamed in the sunshine, lovingly created by our Cokethorpe costumiere, Mrs Mace. Pre-Prep welcomed everyone to a farm with all its bustle and noise. The performance took the audience on a tour through the changing seasons of the year as Apple the Pony tried to find a suitable hat for the weather. The children performed delightfully and looked incredible in their costumes. The acting, dancing and very catchy songs were a triumph and Hats Off! was a definite highlight of the morning. Next, Years 3, 4 and 5 performed a thrilling World War II espionage musical, entitled Treachery at Traitor’s Quay. The five Dawson children (Year 5) were evacuated to the coast to stay at the large home of Eggin-Drake, Minister of Information, along with some other evacuees (Year 3). Everyone did a remarkable job of capturing the atmosphere of the 1940s and the dramatic mystery included several standout performances. The emotional songs with solos, dance numbers and harmonies from the Chamber Choir, made for a hugely memorable production. Year 6 children put on a stunning adaptation of Shakespeare’s As You Like It, the play that examines the family rivalries between siblings, and the role that love can play in overcoming disputes. All the cast excelled in learning difficult Shakespearean lines, and once again, the standard of acting was impressive. Each Year 6 class was responsible for half of the play which took us to different settings including the formal court, a wrestling match then finally to the restorative Forest of Arden. This version of As You Like It will certainly be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. The inventive adaptations and direction from Mrs Du Feu, along with excellent performances throughout the Junior School, ensured that this year’s Prize Giving entertainment was a great success.

Corinthian Partnership STEM Event

On Wednesday 12 June, 98 Year 6 children from Cokethorpe Junior School, Aston and Cote, Ducklington and Combe Primary Schools all spent the day immersed in a carousel of STEM activities as part of The Corinthian Partnership initiative. The children had the opportunity to design and engineer boats to collect plastic floating in our oceans. They made biodegradable candles in the Senior School science labs before designing biodegradable packaging for their candle. At the end of the day each child took home their finished product. Code cracking activities provided an opportunity to learn more about the impact humans have on the environment and how they could make the planet greener going forwards. The day raised children’s awareness of plastic and the damage we are doing to our planet. Many children returned to their school determined to make a positive difference.

Academic Prize Winners 1KP 2LO 3JD 4GL 4MM 5LD 5VM 6KF 6BG

Molly Sheer Samuel Young-Gale Molly Harding Maggie West Merryn Tattersall Emmeline Black Hugo Mellor Frederick Morlock Bryony Wyatt

Pupil of the Year 1KP 2LO 3JD 4GL 4MM 5LD 5VM 6KF 6BG

Oliver Mettrick Joshua Crumlish Darcy Atkinson Heather Homewood Benjamin Longman Josh King Antonio Virk Connie Quartley Amelia Atkinson

End of Year Awards for Effort 1KP 2LO 3JD 4GL 4MM 5LD 5VM 6KF 6BG

Harry Skeen Mya Demain Sienna Timms Stanley Harris Daisy Drake Audrey McCormick Jack Harris Cohen Bowles Archie Clarke

Cup Winners

Julie Stormont Art Cup Pippa Allen Claire Hooper Drama Cup Archie Clarke Louise Bridge French Cup Grace Clear Improvement and Progress Shield Rosie Doland

Music Cup Edward Allen Sports Cups Bryony Wyatt Luke Taylor Junior School Cup Edward Allen

Year 6 Leavers' Barbecue and Rounders On Saturday 22 June, teachers, parents and the children from Year 6 enjoyed an afternoon of rounders, refreshments and barbecue. There was a pleasingly high level of competitiveness in all the matches and many younger siblings made valuable contributions both in the field and when batting. The weather was wonderful, and everyone enjoyed the afternoon. Many thanks to the Year 6 parents for organising the event!

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Sixth Form University Destinations

ALLEN, William UWL - Airline and Airport Management ALLUM, Lucas A Birmingham - Business Management AYRES, Tobias Bournemouth - Business Studies BARTLE, Grace C R Bath Spa - Creative Writing BERRY, Hannah E Edinburgh - Veterinary Medicine BINNIE, Edward H Oxford Brookes - Art Foundation BOWSHER, Austin C Exeter - English BROWN, Harrison Loughborough - Product Design and Tech CHECKSFIELD, Felix Deck Officer Cadetship CLARKE, Ellie Fashion and Retail Academy - Buying and Merchandising for Fashion COLSELL, Harley Alexander Reading - History and Politics COSSEY, Christopher Bristol - Economics COUSE, Elliott T Liverpool - Marketing CRUTTENDEN, Ben O Birmingham - Economics DAVIES, Amelia B AECC - Chiropractic Studies DAVIES, Annabel B Birmingham - Classical Lit and Civilisation DAVIS, James A Sussex - Law with International Relations DODIMEAD, Rachel J Exeter - Politics, Philosophy and Economics EMERSON, Hamish G Brighton - Project Mgmt for Construction FARAH, Sebastian Cardiff - Accounting and Finance FELLOWS, Lottie R Winchester - Primary Education FINLAY, William D Bournemouth - Business Studies FOSTER, Emma C Southampton - Marine Biology FULBROOK, Archie G Exeter - Law GAMBLE, Jack C Lancaster - Accounting and Finance GRAY, Frederick G Newcastle - Ancient History and Archaeology GUJRAL, Saffron A Bath - Sport and Exercise Science HOBBS, Jack S Bournemouth - Sport Dev and Coaching HORNER, Rachel L Sheffield - Chemistry HOUSE, Dominic M Kent - Military History JACKSON, Luke D Bournemouth - Marketing Comms JEWSON, Scarlett Oxford Brookes - Art Foundation KING, George A Reading - Spanish and Mgmt Studies LOGUE, Michaela E Swansea - Law and Criminology LOVETT, Annabel J Birmingham - Business Management MACKEN, Felix J Bournemouth - Product Design MASON, Samuel O Liverpool John Moores - Business Mgmt MCBRIDE, Joe D Portsmouth - International Business MOORE, Alex J Winchester - English Lit and History NEWPORT, Benjamin W JCB apprenticeship O'BRIEN, John J UWL- Aviation Management with Commercial Pilot Licence

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Sixth Form Service Week

Sixth Form students organised a number of events for Sixth Form Service Week which forms part of the School’s leadership programme. The week consisted of three main events; an afternoon of entertainment held for visitors to the Witney Day Centre at the Lord Kitchener pub, wildlife and gardening activities for the children of Combe Primary School and a fundraising competition where the students competed against each other in their Houses. The proceeds of these, including a cake sale and an ice-cream stall raised funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. A local volunteer launched a new day centre and was invited to a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace to honour the work she has done in the community. To share this lovely gesture she organised a ‘Palace style’ Garden Party of her own for the Day Centre visitors and Cokethorpe Sixth Form provided the entertainment. Lower Sixth students Frankie Brown (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) and Jinda Sancar (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne) arranged for musicians from Cokethorpe to perform a selection of songs, from modern hits to more classic numbers, to keep the garden party guests entertained. The music was warmly received by the audience, with Elvis proving to be a particular favourite! The concert was such a success that the students were invited by the Mayor to attend the Witney Carnival.

Prefects' Dinner

'On Thursday 16 May, the Prefects enjoyed a dinner to celebrate the past year. This created a really nice break from studies and was enjoyed by all. After a lovely meal prepared by the Catering Department the evening continued with a quiz (complied by Mr Uglow) which demanded a competitive spirit. Particular pressure was on Georgie Vallance (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), Harley Colsell (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) and me because, as part of Mr Stevens’s and Mr Sheer’s team, we had to add to their five year winning streak. With it all to play for going into the last round entitled ‘Brexit’ we felt sure with Harley’s expertise we could secure the win and sure enough, by only three points we managed it! It is definitely another memory we shall all take with us when we leave in July.' Ruby Plumridge (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne)

Sixth Form Summer Ball

The annual Peacock Ball, on the evening of Senior School Prize Giving day, saw over 230 guests made up of upper sixth form leavers, their parents, grandparents and staff arrive to the beautiful setting of the marquee on the Mansion House lawns. Guests were welcomed with a Cokethorpe Leavers festival wristband to set the tone for the festival themed decoration. The marquee, also including The Shandy Shack, ‘Hetty’ the vintage van, gin bar, ice cream bar and photo booth, looked beautiful with beautiful decorations and flowers on the tables. Following the delicious three-course dinner came the vote of thanks from Georgie Vallance (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh), everyone gathered around the big screen to watch the leavers film. This was performed to This is Me from The Greatest Showman, with big cheers for all the staff involved. Special thanks go to Hayden Camidge (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) for producing it. After the amazing fireworks, ending in the Class of 2019, dancing to the sounds of !DAFT! and a disco continued to the early morning, with the dance floor being full, from start to end. There were lots of opportunities for reminiscing, socialising and it was a most fitting end for the leavers of the class of 2019. This really is a lovely way to end life as a Cokethorpe student - from all the CPA, good luck to all the leavers.

A Level Results

Sixth Form students returned to Cokethorpe on the morning of Thursday 15 August to collect their eagerly anticipated A Level Results. The Dining Hall was full of smiles as students discovered the results of their hard work over the last two years. The Headmaster said 'Congratulations go to all our students who have demonstrated the importance of sustained and ambitious application.This year group has always been a very engaged and hard-working group, who have not only succeeded academically but have also fully contributed to the life of the School over many years. Underpinning their successes are the talented teachers and supportive parents and my heartfelt thanks go to them for their dedication and commitment.' With a substantial proportion of our students progressing to courses at the most prestigious universities in the Russell Group, students are set to continue to their education in a diverse range of subjects, from Veterinary Science and Classics, to Aviation and Airport Management and Chiropractic Studies.

Heads of School from September 2019

Deputy Head of School Hayden Camidge (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

Head of School Jinda Sancar (Lower Sixth, Queen Anne)

Deputy Head of School Molly Cockin (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh)

University Destinations

PLUMRIDGE, Ruby E York - Psychology in Education PONSFORD, Isobel J Edinburgh - Philosophy and Psychology REID, Katie M Sheffield Hallam - Marketing Communications and Advertising RUSSELL, Lukas J Choral Studies at Blackburn Cathedral SCRIMSHAW-WRIGHT, Alice Cardiff - Fashion Marketing Management SIMONS, Matt A Reading - Mathematics with Finance and Investment Banking SMITH, Jack J Northumbria - Sport and Exercise Science SMITH, Luke Exeter - Law STANLEY BRANDT, Sophia D Oxford Brookes - Education Studies SUMMERLEY, Charlie Leeds Beckett - Business Management and Marketing SWANCOTT, Alexander University of Bristol - Economics SWANCOTT, Elliott N UWL - Aviation Management with Commercial Pilot Licence SYMONDS, Molly H Bath Spa - Human Geography TAYLOR, Jonathan Bristol - History TAYLOR, Ruaidhri Birmingham City - Biomedical Engineering TRAISH, Frédéric H Birmingham - Modern Languages VALLANCE, Georgie G A Bristol - Theatre and English WHEELER, Sophie Birmingham - Psychology in Education WHITAKER, Hannah Harper Adams - Agri-Business WILDE, Alexander P Nottingham Trent - Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management WILLIAMS, George E UWE - Economics ZHAO, Jingya Bristol - Mathematics WHITE, Natalie Derby - International Relations and Diplomacy

Prefects for 2019 - 2020

Feilden Katie Procter (Head of House) Ben Wannell Gascoigne Ollie Charles (Junior School Prefect) Arthur Eve Teo Loeffen (Head of House) Harcourt Charlie Clarke Hannah King George Kinniburgh Louis Rawlinson James Shaw (Head of House) Queen Anne Jinda Sancar (Head of School) Finley Wightman (Head of House) Swift Tom Alford (Head of House) Matthew Christensen Vanbrugh Barney Bolton Frankie Brown (Head of House) Hayden Camidge (Deputy Head of School) Molly Cockin (Deputy Head of School) Orlando Cox (Head of Lower House) Neve Macken

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The Arts May Day Madrigals

On the morning of Wednesday 1 May, the whole School gathered in front of the Mansion House to listen to the School Choir perform a selection of traditional May Day Madrigals from the balcony. The choir performed Now is the Month of Maying by Thomas Morley, Strike it up, Tabor by Thomas Weelkes and Come Again by John Dowland.

Performing Arts Showcase

The Performing Arts Showcase on Wednesday 22 May featured some of Cokethorpe’s finest musical and dramatic performers who presented a variety of highlights from the past year, as well some newer pieces. The combination of both disciplines made for an excellent evening of accomplished entertainment. Congratulations go to all performers with a special mention to Hayden Camidge (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), who was not only responsible for lighting the show, but also took part and adeptly compered the evening. This event has become one of the highlights of the School calendar and we look forward to seeing what next year will bring.

Drama Trip to the Old Fire Station

On Thursday 16 May, the A Level Drama students enjoyed the fast-paced and highly creative performance of Virginia Woolf’s Orlando by Marvellous Machine Theatre Company at the Old Fire Station. One particular treat was seeing Cokethorpe Alumni Ella Ashdown (OC 2012, Vanbrugh) in the title role. This beautiful and thought-provoking production achieved so much with a clever use of multi-roling, beautiful costume and sound design and Ella was outstanding as the gender-fluid, immortal protagonist. This was an inspirational experience for our students as they got the chance to see one of their Drama predecessors achieve success on the boards. We wish her well for the forthcoming run of the play in London.

Jazz Night

'On Wednesday 26 June the Cokethorpe School jazz band treated their audience to a fantastic night of jazz, performing a mixture of old and modern jazz tunes. Guests also enjoyed a delicious curry provided by the Catering Department.

A Level Devised Performance

Lower Sixth Drama students Hayden Camidge (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), Molly Cockin (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh), Ella Dalton (Lower Sixth, Swift), George Kinniburgh (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) and Claudia Townson (Lower Sixth, Feilden) presented their A Level devised work entitled The Ties that Bind in The Shed on Tuesday 11 June. Using the methodologies of theatre practitioners ‘Gecko’ and exploring the theme of ‘memory’ the audience were taken on a journey that exposed the ever changing dynamics of the family and the devastating effects that dementia has on all. This was an outstanding, skilful and inspired performance that was both comic and profoundly moving.

All of the band members gave excellent performances each with fantastic solos. I would like to thank the Maintenance and Catering Departments, Mr Hughes and Hayden Camidge (Lower Sixth, Vanbrugh) for their help in making itsuch an enjoyable evening.' Mr Mullin

GCSE and A Level Music Recital On Thursday 23 May pupils from the Fourth Form and Lower Sixth took to the stage to perform in the GCSE and A Level Music Recital. This concert gave everyone an opportunity to perform a solo piece from their repertoire, ranging from Baroque to pop music, which will form part of their assessment next year.

Tom Orton (Fourth Form, Swift) opened the concert with a captivating performance, whilst Oscar Penney (Fourth Form, Feilden) made his debut performance on piano. The concert concluded with Harrison Procter (Fourth Form, Feilden) showcasing his talents in a mesmerising violin solo.

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First Form Production

The First Form performance of The Canterbury Tales was a hilarious journey through some of Chaucer’s most famous satirical stories and nefarious characters. We were treated to the noble, yet ridiculous extremes of chivalry in The Knight’s Tale, the perils of playing practical jokes in the Millers Tale and the danger of a cockerel’s vanity in the Prioress Tale. Our Chaucerian smorgasbord continued with The Wife of Bath's guide to feminism for the medieval age, a cautionary sermon on the - sometimes fatal - consequences of greed in the Pardoner's Tale and the Alchemist's Apprentice's Tale and a damning indictment of medieval religious practice of extortion in the Friar's Tale. This was a challenging production with a large, but energised and talented cast. As ever the costumes were splendidly detailed and brought the middle ages to life in The Shed. The comic performances were excellent, but too many to name individually. Suffice to say that this was a treat for all who were lucky enough to witness these uproarious and timeless tales brought to life so vivaciously by this talented year group.

The Arts Music Tour to Paris Blog

Saturday 6 July to Wednesday 10 July 'After a pleasant ferry crossing and smooth drive to Paris, the tour party arrived at their accommodation. We unwound in the evening sunshine with a game of football.' Mr Hughes 'On the second day of our trip, we headed to the Eiffel Tower. Every person went to at least the first floor, with a few going to the next floor to see the magnificent views of Paris. We then journeyed to the bandstand of the Parc de Luxembourg in the tour bus and set up for our first concert of the trip, where all of the ensembles and choir performed. Back at the accommodation we competed for the Rudesheim Cup at Dr Winkley's infamous Quiz night.' Ollie Charles (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne) 'Our third day of the tour was action packed, beginning with a panoramic viewing of the city of Paris from the Montparnasse Tower. We then enjoyed a visit to the Pompidou Centre, visited the Sacré Cœur, then headed to the Hard Rock Café. The day ended with a concert in NotreDame-des-Manteaux church, including performances from the orchestra, choir, concert band and string orchestra along with numerous solos.' Poppy Wehrle (Fifth Form, Queen Anne)

'On Tuesday we arrived at Saint Sulpice. We participated in a Catholic Mass conducted entirely in french, then the choir performed Angus Dei. Soon after, we arrived at Parc de Choisy where the orchestra got a chance to perform. After another bus journey, we were back on the road, but this time the destination was the bowling alley.' Julian Graf (First Form, Vanbrugh) 'It was an early start on Wednesday as we headed off to Disneyland. Everyone was so excited, we sang along to Disney songs on the way there! After an amazing day we had to depart for the hotel to get a good night's sleep for the journey home the following day.' Grace Gunn (Second Form, Gascoigne)

Choral Society Concert

'This year the Choral Society undertook their most ambitious challenge to date, with a performance of Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas. It was a true collaboration with soloists taken from both the adult and pupil choirs. The part of Aeneas was expertly handled by Lukas Russell (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) with the part of Dido being shared between Scarlett Howard (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) and Alice Woodwards (Fifth Form, Swift). The choir performed outstandingly, giving their finest concert I have witnessed in my time at the School; they gave their all in a committed and assured performance. We encourage any members of the School community who would like to take part to get in touch with the Director of Music.' Mr Hughes

LAMDA Examination Results

Grade 8 – Gold Medal Samuel Bird Acting – Solo - Merit Isobel Ponsford Acting – Solo - Merit Lydia Wannell Acting – Solo - Merit Grade 7 – Silver Medal Grace Bartle Acting – Solo - Pass Michaela Logue Acting – Duo - Pass Ruby Plumridge Acting – Duo - Merit Grade 6 – Bronze Medal Benjamin Wardell-Yerburgh Acting – Duo - Pass Elliot Stagg Acting – Duo - Pass Elizabeth Summers Acting – Duo - Pass Tallulah Kelly Acting – Duo - Pass James Shaw Acting – Duo - Merit Thomas Flory Acting – Duo - Merit Sasha Palfreyman Acting – Duo - Pass Abbey Malin Acting – Duo - Merit Tenisha Aparo Iboch Acting – Solo - Distinction Ella Dalton Acting – Solo - Distinction Jack Harding Acting – Solo - Distinction Lucy Marshall Acting – Solo - Merit Grade 5 Jemima Rumsby Acting – Duo - Pass Louise Smith Acting – Duo - Pass Jocelyn Brown Acting – Duo - Distinction Rebecca Hutchinson Acting – Duo - Distinction Calan Curtis Acting – Solo - Merit Joseph Ponsford Acting – Solo - Distinction Grade 4 Amy Goodgame Acting – Solo - Distinction Harry Phipps Acting – Solo - Distinction Katie Connolly Acting – Duo - Distinction Cristina Ward-Naranjo Acting – Duo - Distinction Emma Whittenbury Group Acting - Merit Mae Topley Group Acting - Merit Alexander Brown Group Acting - Merit Kaitlyn Lu Group Acting - Merit Lyla Simpson Group Acting - Merit Lily Cannell Group Acting - Merit Poppy Stewart Group Acting - Distinction Isabella Clarke Group Acting - Distinction Jasmine Mellor Group Acting - Distinction Dylan Morris Group Acting - Distinction Madeleine Abbs-Woodd Group Acting - Distinction Lucy Marshall Group Acting - Distinction Emelia Dobson Group Acting - Distinction Jessica Davies Group Acting - Distinction Jamie Wehrle Group Acting - Distinction Zoë Smith Group Acting - Distinction Grade 2 Freddie Fellows Acting – Duo - Distinction Max Quartley Acting – Duo - Distinction

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The Arts Choral Evensong

'On Thursday 13 June, pupils staff and parents gathered together to celebrate our Termly Choral Eucharist in the week of Pentecost. Pentecost (meaning 50th in Ancient Greek) celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Christian Church 50 days after Easter. We focussed on the theme of ‘moving on and not looking back’ – an appropriate theme for every year group at Cokethorpe, as we revise for examinations and seek to ‘move on’ to the next level, whatever that may be. Very memorably Lukas Russell (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne), who is about to take up a Choral Scholarship at Blackburn Cathedral in September, also intoned the Responses and sang the Collects for us. I would like to thank all our School musicians very much for another memorable Choral Evensong.' Revd Ian Howard, School Chaplain

Michaelmas Term Arts Events Award Holders' Recital Monday 23 September 2019 4.15pm - 5.00pm, Corinthian Room LAMDA Showcase Tuesday 24 September 2019 4.15pm - 5.00pm, The Shed Fifth Form GCSE Devised Performances Thursday 26 September 2019 7.00pm - 8.30pm, The Shed CPA Murder Mystery Evening Saturday 5 October 2019 7.00pm - 11.00pm, The Shed

Theatre in Education

The pinnacle of each Third Form Drama year is the Theatre in Education project - a superb opportunity for older pupils to delight Junior School audiences. Occurring on consecutive days, and tailored for either Pre-Prep or Year 4, each piece challenged the Third Form to focus on their respective audience, and had artfully considered what would engage pupils younger than themselves. They had to combine exciting entertainment with an educational message and the performances were thoroughly enjoyed by the Junior School pupils. With themes as diverse as making friends, accepting difference, being grateful as well as kind, never giving up and also the importance of recycling; our younger pupils were enraptured by interactivity, lively energy and vivid narratives. Each issue was sensitively and thoughtfully considered and presented with a clear and positive message.

Second Form Production

The annals and origins of the science fiction genre were explored by the Second Form cohort, revealing the sagacity and foresight of Victorian author H G Wells and 1920s Czech writer Karel Capek, in accurately reflecting the science fact of our present and near future. Using physical theatre techniques explored during this year's challenging programme of study, the pupils successful engaged and delighted their audience. The Time Machine propelled the audience into the distant future - stopping for comic vignettes in the 50s, 60s and present day. Although time travel is not yet attainable, the pupils relished exploring the themes of divisions and inequality in a society driven to excess. The performance, full of lights, sound and colour saw the pupils physically embodying the time machine - a buzzing, booming, frantically spinning contraption. A slick and accomplished performance that impressed all with their team work and focus on the night. Rossum’s Universal Robots took the audience on a journey into the near future where the creation of synthetic organic roboti is set to replace the human workforce. The cast played multiple roles and managed to convincingly convey the blinkered arrogance of the scientists. This was a minimalist production with futuristic lighting design and a pulsing soundtrack. There were some exceptionally accomplished individual performances and it reminded the audience of the complacency of our dangerous relationship with technology.

House Singing Competition Friday 11 October 2019 2.00pm - 5.00pm, Sports Hall Choral Evensong Monday 14 October 2019 4.15pm - 5.00pm, The Chapel Afternoon Music Recital Monday 11 November 2019 4.15pm - 5.00pm, Corinthian Room First Form Mime Presentations Monday 18 November 2019 4.15pm - 5.00pm, The Shed St Cecilia Concert Thursday 21 November 2019 7.00pm - 8.15pm, The Shed GCSE Music Recital Monday 25 November 2019 4.15pm - 5.00pm, Corinthian Room Advent Service Monday 2 and Tuesday 3 December 2019 6.30pm - 7.30pm, St Mary's Church, Witney Senior School Christmas Production Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 December 2019 7.00pm - 8.30pm, The Shed

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Music for Mind

'Sixteen million people in the UK suffer with mental illness and 75% of those people are not receiving the treatment they need. ‘Mind’ the mental health charity are working tirelessly to change this, on Thursday 25 April, Izzy Ponsford (Upper Sixth, Gascoigne) and I introduced ‘Music For Mind', an evening dedicated to raising money to help change those statistics. Cokethorpe’s sensational musicians packed out the fairy-lit Shed with their incredible talent. With the help of Mr Mullin’s inimitable style as compère, the CPA’s wine bar and mesmerising acts, we managed to create an atmospheric, inspiring and entertaining evening, whilst also raising an impressive donation for Mind. I hope that the Sixth Formers next year run a similar event for a charity that is close to their hearts.' Grace Bartle (Upper Sixth, Harcourt)

Curriculum Enrichment Week First Form

'Curriculum Enrichment Week was the perfect opportunity for the MFL department to invite our First Form pupils on a French journey, taking them through the culture and history, with creative thinking and unique experiences. On Monday 1 July, pupils did team building activities followed by a French cinema experience in The Shed. The following day, we all embarked on a French adventure to Boulogne. Our pupils were eager to interact with natives and went on a town trail, discovering cultural differences for themselves. They have been true ambassadors of Cokethorpe, making the most of their French phrase booklets and collecting a variety of details to gather in their French journals. On Wednesday morning, admiring the seaside architecture and picturesque landscape, we travelled back in time for a short while. Visiting the largest Commonwealth cemetery, our pupils were introduced to the terrible tragedy of WW1. We even re-enacted the famous football match dating from December 1914, a glimpse of humanity taking over the horror of war. After this moving visit, we stopped en route for our last French meal on the beach, enjoying the view of la Manche and stretching our legs in the water before our journey back to Cokethorpe. We hope that this short and wonderful trip has enriched their skills and perception of the French language!' Miss Garitey

Second Form

During Curriculum Enrichment Week, Second Form pupils spent a wonderful four days in Devon with Reach Outdoors, specialists in outdoor education. The weather was very kind, which only served to enhance the enjoyment of a fun-packed week! The courage and co-operation skills from the pupils were very evident as they participated in a range of water sports activities, including Coasteering, Hiking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Kayaking and team games which took place in and around Torbay. They also completed a challenging walk on a very hot day. Their laughter and enjoyment of the week along with their care for one another made it a joy to be part of.

Fourth Form

After a hard two days completing their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award, the Fourth Form were treated to two days of fun and relaxation. Day one was spent in the snow learning to ski and take park in a sledge session, making memories and bonding the group as they prepare for their final GCSE year. The next day was spent at Hardwick Park. The group were treated to a day in the sun; swimming, using the stand up paddle boards as well as taking as taking time to canoe round the lake. Lunch was a barbecue cooked by staff as the afternoon allowed the pupils to ride on ringos. A throughly enjoyable time was had by all, the pupils should be commended for their enthusiasm and behaviour throughout.

Third Form

Country Pursuits The Third Form engaged in country pursuits with a day of activities provided by the Oxfordshire Shooting School. Every pupil tried their hand at clay pigeon shooting, air rifles and archery, as well as enjoying an impressive demonstration of antique ‘black powder’ guns and a superb falconry display. This was a highly memorable trip with many pupils discovering something new about themselves and enjoying these activities in a safe, professional environment. Some were so taken by the experience that they have signed up to join our highly successful shooting team next year.

Watersports On Monday 1 July, the whole of the Third Form enjoyed a variety of watersports from sailing, windsurfing and paddle boarding to raft building and caneoing. The weather (thankfully) was kind and so good that Mr Rudge, Mr Hughes and Dr Winkley were even tempted to join in the fun. They sailed the 'HMS Common Room' out onto the lake at lunchtime.

Paintballing On Wednesday 3 July, Feilden, Gascoigne and Harcourt Houses from the Third Form enjoyed a variety of paintballing tasks. Several brave moments of 'capturing the flag' or 'poisoning the well' meant that the games were won by each House. Skillful Generals like Mr Johnson, Mr Mason, Dr Winkley and Mrs Lamb brought order to the battlefields and the day was enjoyed by all!

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Sport Sports Colours

The awarding of Sports Colours in recognition for exceptional playing standards at Senior level and awarded as either half or full colours. Full Colours

Clays Hannah Whitaker Sailing: Emma Foster Cricket George Williams Jack Hobbs Half Colours Climbing Ben Newport Jess Foster Cricket Sam Mason Tom Jackson Tennis Elliott Swancott Hannah Craig Saffy Gujral Clays Katherine Geralt Hannah Berry

Senior Captains

Congratulations to this term’s Senior Sports Captains. Cricket: George Williams Tennis: Saffy Gujral Being awarded the position of Senior Captain is a great privilege and having the responsibility of being a role model to the younger pupils in the School. It has been pleasing to see such a mature and professional approach to this task.

Players of the Season

Congratulations to the following pupils for their exceptional sporting performance during the Summer Term. Senior Girls Isobel Kirby Becky Waite Gemma Croker Jessica Davies Ella Shaw Jossy Brown Senior Boys George Williams Jacob Knight Dan Lockhart Ross Gray Oscar Talbott Felix Batchelor

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British Schools and Young Shots Champions

The Cokethorpe shooting squad entered the prestigious British Schools and Young Shots championship held at Atkin Grant and Lang shooting ground. The best teams from around the country competed on tough and challenging courses which demanded absolute discipline, focus and teamwork in high winds and hail. The boys shot admirably well with some excellent personal scores and superb camaraderie. It was the Ladies team who triumphed on the day, beating indomitable rivals such as Millfield and Kings Hill Warwick. This is a historic win for Cokethorpe Ladies. Captain Hannah Whitaker (Upper Sixth, Harcourt), Kat Geralt (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne), Izzy Kirby (Third Form, Queen Anne) and supporting gun Hannah Berry (Upper Sixth, Feilden) to collect their trophy from the Headmaster as National Champions 2019.

Tennis Report

‘This term, we entered teams in the LTA tennis leagues from the U13 category through to the U19s. There were some great performances across the board, but the U13 girls in particular had an exceptional season, finishing second in their league. The year culminated in the prestigious Independent Schools Tennis Association Tournament, which is always a popular way to end the tennis season. Every player that competed represented the School exceptionally well. Congratulations must go to two of our U15 girls players - Chloe Elliott (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh) and Holly Craig (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) who performed outstandingly well making it into the main draw, but were unfortunate to be knocked out in the second round.' Mr Gibbons

Itchenor Sailing Regatta

'During the last week of the Summer Term, eight of our most experienced sailors ventured to the sunny climes of Chichester harbour for the Schools Week Fleet-Racing Regatta. Over 100 students from sailing schools all over the country took part in the event. Our sailors had one day to practice before the races began which consisted of six very competitive races in light winds. Our sailors responded quickly to the changing conditions created by the harbour, claiming many top ten finishes. During the two days of main series racing, the team fought hard to read the winds, respond to the changing tides and think tactically using the knowledge and experience gained from the practice races. Light winds prevailed and tested the physical and mental metal of all competitors. The races created some nail biting finishes which brought some very close results. Overall, Barty Gray (Fifth Form, Gascoigne) and Adela Wilson (Fifth Form, Feilden) finished second in the practice day mini-series and fifth in the main series, congratulations to both of them and the entire Cokethorpe sailing team who conducted themselves with maturity and a great competitive spirit. The team and I would also like to thank George and Harry Barker for their coaching both on and off the water.' Mrs Statham

Sport Individual Congratulations Congratulations to the Cokethorpe Crusaders Sailing Team for winning the team racing regatta with Radley and Warwick School. The team comprised: Joe Cantwell Katherine Stevenson Henry Kerton Emma Foster Harrison Procter Ciara McCarthy Congratulations also go to Jamie, Jasmine and Jack Hammond who have all qualified for the British Solo Ice Dance Championships.

U18 Society of Heads Football Champions

Congratulations to the First XI Football team who won the Society of Heads' Cup. 'The team beat LVS Ascot 2 - 0 in the final to be crowned champions of the tournament. Alex Wheeler (Lower Sixth, Swift) scoring his fifteenth goal of the season. This was a fantastic end to this team’s Cokethorpe journey and a victory built on teamwork, effort and real quality. The Society of Heads' Cup has sixteen schools entered into the tournament, so to win this national tournament is a fantastic achievement. Most of the players began their A Level examinations immediately after, but with a trophy to cap a tremendous season. The team played twelve games, lost only two, scored 45 goals with only 21 conceded.' Mr Capel, Head of Football

Cricket Report

Much of this term has unfortunately been affected by the weather and as such, a substantial amount of fixtures where called off due to rain. Despite this, this cricket term has seen more boys and girls participating in school training and matches than ever before, from U12 to First team level. There have been very successful seasons for the U12 and U15 boys who both reached the County Cup Semi Finals – as well as the U13s who have reached their age group final (which is to be played in September). The school again looked to defend its title in this years expanded version of the U13 Society of Heads' T10 trophy, narrowly losing in the final to worthy winners this time around from Cathedral School, Cardiff. Girls Cricket continues to flourish with more girls than ever playing cricket during games afternoons. We have also had many of these girls represent Cokethorpe in hard ball matches which is a testament to how successful this venture has been and how well this bodes for future years. Well done in particular to Izzy Kirby (Third Form, Queen Anne) and Becky Waite (Third Form, Harcourt) who have represented Oxfordshire Ladies teams this summer. Other individuals that deserve a mention for their consistent standout performances throughout this term in their respective teams are: Jacob Knight (Fourth Form, Vanbrugh), Dan Lockhart (Fourth Form, Harcourt), Jossy Brown (Fourth Form, Harcourt) Ed Davies (Third Form, Vanbrugh), Charlie Slatter (Third Form, Feilden), Gemma Croker (Third Form, Gascoigne), Oscar Talbott (Second Form, Gascoigne), Ross Gray (Second Form, Feilden), Felix Batchelor (First Form, Harcourt) and Louis Stanfield (First Form, Swift).

Cokethorpe Rugby Camps

During the summer holidays, Head of Rugby Mr Robinson held the Cokethorpe Rugby Camps for Senior School boys. The camps were designed to focus on a specific skill set, individual to each player. The aim was to enable the players to recognise their areas of strength, and identify areas of weakness in order to target them for improvement. Players also participated in fitness and movement tests, which contributed to their preparation for the upcoming rugby season.

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Sport Sports Achievements 2018-19 (County, Regional* or National Representatives**) Badminton Hannah Craig Holly Craig

Cricket Felix Batchelor Isobel Kirby Dan Lockhart Louis Stanfield Oscar Talbot Thomas Taylor William Taylor Rebecca Waite Calla Whitby Dance Tatianna White* Equestrian Ella Cammack Oliver Fletcher** Faith Jolleys Ezme Pickford Luke Smith** Isabella Smith Freya Soden Football Samuel Caffyn Ruby Colleton Philip Croker Harry Furlong Zachary Galliford Benedict Orton Riley Weston Futsal Jason Moore* Thomas Taylor* Golf Edward Alexander Freya Coughlan* Hockey Priya Ahluwalia Tenisha Aparo Iboch Jonty Atkins Francesca Brown* Jocelyn Brown Sam Copping Gemma Croker* Charlotte Griffiths Oliver Hodgson Isobel Kirby Neve Macken Navid Mowat Emily Mumford Finn Rumsby Jemima Rumsby Mae Serjeant Rebecca Waite Ice Hockey Luke Reid** Katie Reid** Judo Elizabeth Tompkins** Kayaking Hollie Jackson Hannah King Lacrosse Eva Maslin**

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Climbing Trips

‘On Wednesday 22 May, nine Cokethorpe climbers visited Symonds Yat in the Wye Valley. For most of the pupils this was their first taste of climbing outdoors on rock, and they all showed a great deal of courage and took on the challenge with great spirit. Some of our more experienced climbers were on hand to give advice, known in climbing as the ‘beta’ on the various routes on offer. The day was capped off with a significant test for some, who successfully climbed two huge 30 metre high routes in a spectacular setting overlooking the beautiful Wye Valley below. On Wednesday 12 June our First Form to Lower Sixth climbers visited the Wye Valley again to try their hand at some challenging sport climbing on rock in Wyndcliffe Quarry. While the wet weather held off for the afternoon, the rock was not perfectly dry which added to the challenges of the already steep and even over-hanging limestone. Our climbers worked extremely hard, and most learned that the secret to climbing well on rock is perfect footwork! Well done to our climbers for a fantastic afternoon’s sport.' Mr Carter

Independent Schools Golf Junior Finals

'On Thursday 20 June, Freya Coughlan (Third Form, Harcourt) and Freddie Murfitt (Second Form, Queen Anne) competed in the Independent Schools Golf Association National Junior finals held at Radley College. Facing them were 21 other teams who had all qualified from their respective regions across the country as the top two teams in their region. Several of these school teams were from golf academies whose main sporting focus is golf and whose pupils have competed internationally so the competition was fierce. Both Freya and Freddie competed superbly and produced some excellent golf under a great deal of pressure. I am delighted to say that they achieved a 6th place finish overall beating teams from Millfield, Rossall School, the Reed’s School and Whitgift amongst others, all of whom have dedicated elite golf academies. Both Freya and Freddie should be very proud to have competed so successfully and a final finishing position of 6th in the country is an outstanding result.' Mr Rudge

North Oxon Athletics

A group of Senior School pupils were entered into North Oxfordshire Track and Field Trials on Wednesday 15 May, four of those pupils made it into the North Team (NO) and represented the North in the Final Championships on Sunday 9 June. In the trials, Isobel Kirby (Third Form, Queen Anne) reigned supreme in the throws, gaining first place in the discus and shot and second in the javelin, gaining a Silver in the shot putt in the final. In the Intermediate Girls, Lucia Scott (Fourth Form, Feilden) ran a perfect 100m and 200m, and was awarded first place in both races gaining immediate entry into North Schools Team. In an impressive run in the finals Lucia was awarded 3rd place in the 200m. Ben Orton (Third Form, Swift) was absolutely sublime in the 200m and 300m, with a brilliant time of 25.0, not only gaining entrance into the NO team, but also placing him in the top ten in the South East of England. Tom's outstanding performances saw him being awarded Silver medals in both the 200m and 300m in the final. Kian Lay (Third Form, Vanbrugh) easily and impressively won the shot putt and javelin which got him in a place in the NO team and secured him 4th place in the final. Special mention must also go to Robin t'Hart (Second Form, Feilden) who is new to athletics and performed exceptionally well running against a group of club athletes in the Junior Boys category. He also achieved third place in the Long Jump with an impressive 4.35m jump. Every competitor represented the School exceptionally well. Their appreciation for each other was lovely to watch as they cheered each other on and walked to meet each other at the finish line.

Sport Sports Achievements 2018-19 (County, Regional* or National Representatives**) Netball Milly Pittaway* Rowing Lara Haward

Senior School Sports Day

The sun was out in full force, as were each House for the annual Inter-House Sports Day which took place on Thursday 27 June. Excitement was in the air which created a vibrant and competitive display of athletics and a hive of activity from start to finish. The introduction of the team events such as cricket bowling and the obstacle relay were a huge success and created a fantastic spectacle in the centre of the track. Congratulations to Leonie Watson (Lower Sixth, Feilden) who won the Burfitt Cup as the most outstanding athlete of the day and to Swift House who were crowned Sports Day champions of 2019.

U15s Football

The U15 football team celebrated a successful year of football, winning in both the County Cup against The Bartholomew School and the Society of Heads final against St James Boys' School. The County Cup final was the first of the two matches and was played at Oxford City Football Club. The Cokethorpe U15 boys dominated the game without much success in front of goal. Eventually a goal from Harvey Gould (Fourth Form, Gascoigne) and a great last minute save from Joe Wright (Fourth Form, Swift) was good enough for the win. The Society of Heads game followed a couple of weeks later and was played at Bedfont Sports Football Club. The Cokethorpe boys once again dominated the game, this time probably even more so. The possession based football was too much for St James team on what was a hot and muggy afternoon. A fantastic 4-1 win, with two goals from Ben Orton (Third Form, Swift) and two further goals from Harry Furlong (Third Form, Vanbrugh) and Felix Miller (Fourth Form, Swift) completed the double!

Rugby Edward Alexander Joshua Algar William Allen* Oliver Artus Barnaby Bolton Casper Bolton Jack Bull James Chapman Joseph Charlesworth Benjamin Clarke Jacob Cuffe Frederick Gray* Dominic House* Tiego Logan Cameron MacDonald Samuel Mason* Felix Miller James Minns Angus Morton Zachary Newcombe Thomas Orton Harrison Phipps Thomas Riman Hugo Robathan Anna-Lucia Scott Archie Scott Charlie Slatter Charlie Symonds FrĂŠdĂŠric Traish Benjamin Wannell Alfred Weaving Sailing Bartholomew Gray** Synchronised Swimming Katherine Stevenson* Tennis Hannah Craig Holly Craig Chloe Elliott** Saffron Gujral Wind Surfing Patrick West

Sports Day Results 2019 1st Swift 2nd Feilden 3rd Vanbrugh 4th Gascoigne 5th Queen Anne 6th Harcourt

North Oxon Athletics Results Ben Orton 200m - 2nd place (Silver) 300m - 2nd place (Silver) Kian Lay - Shot Putt - 4th place Izzy Kirby Shot Putt - 2nd place (Silver) Lucia Scott - 200m - 3rd place

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Houses Inter-House Cricket

Cokethorpe Characters

Cokethorpe Characters are selected for reasons such as good behaviour, positive contributions to School life or receiving a high number of recommendations. Below is the list of Cokethorpe Characters for the Summer Term.

Across a number of dates in June, the U12 and U13 boys and girls combined to compete in the first ever ‘mixed’ house cricket competition. Despite the weather, event was a great success and following the group stages, the Houses battled it out in the final. Congratulations to Feilden who were crowned the winners.

Feilden: Harry Kendall Gascoigne: Philip Croker Harcourt: Isabella Davies Queen Anne: Eddie Hawes Swift: Monica Campos Vanbrugh: Monty Bolton

The Pratley Shield

Every term the total recommendations in Lower House are calculated. The average amount per tutor group is counted and the Form with the best average is awarded the Pratley Shield. The Pratley Shield winners for this term are Gascoigne.

Inter-House Competition Winners 2018-2019

To have boys and girls of different year groups, all representing their House together for the afternoon was an excellent spectacle. Well done to everyone who took part in this event.

Inter-House Tug-of-War

This year's Inter-House Tug-of-War was met with gusto and enthusiasm, which resulted in some epic battles. The initial group rounds took place on Monday 17 June on the Mansion Lawn and the finalists Gascoigne and Queen Anne had their final show down on Sports Day. The final did not disappoint, entering the arena to battle songs to get the crowd excited for the main event, the first round was gruelling and lasted around two minutes. Gascoigne were victorious, winning 2-1 and clinched the Maskery Cup for the third year running.

House Cup Feilden

Recommendations Cup Michaelmas Term Harcourt Lent Term Harcourt Summer Term Vanbrugh Athletics Swift Climbing Feilden Drama

Harcourt

Football Swift Hockey Feilden Inter-House Singing Gascoigne Netball

Queen Anne

Rugby

Feilden

Sailing Michaelmas Term Lent Term Summer Term

Queen Anne Swift Gascoigne

Crawford Relay

Queen Anne

Lower House Environmental Assembly First and Second Form pupils from the Maptivists AOB prepared a presentation on palm oil to the whole of First Form. Next year the groups have plans to organise a single-use plastic free day to raise awareness of this really important issue. Watch this space!

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Inter-House DT Competition

This year’s Inter-House Design and Technology competition took place across four days in the middle of May. The competition saw each House pit their wits against another tough design brief. This year’s brief was to design and make an outcome that would launch a capsule remotely into the air and through a hoop by at least three metres. The capsule would then need to separate and for it to return with a control landing, as close to the launch site as possible. All teams worked hard throughout the week’s lunchtimes to devise something that met the brief showing excellent teamwork, design skills, and imagination in their final solution. However it was Vanbrugh that came out the eventual victors showing excellent ingenuity in their solution. All those pupils who took part in the challenge should be highly commended, we look forward to each of the houses showing their engineering prowess next year!

Houses A Swift Picnic on the Lawn

On Tuesday 21 May, Swift House was blessed with glorious sunshine as pupils from across the year groups gathered for a House picnic in lieu of their last House assembly before half term break. It was the last time most of the Fifth Form and Upper Sixth were able to be part of a House activity before Prize Giving due to their examinations. All of the pupils enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by the Catering Department and basked in the sunshine on the field afterwards.

Inter-House Sailing

'On Wednesday 26 June, the Cokethorpe sailors took part in the last termly House sailing regatta. Sailing in our firefly dinghies the sailing conditions were challenging with high wind speed and changing wind direction. The races were closely fought with many twists and turns as teams competed for the best place in a series of four races. Well done to all sailors involved and to Gascoigne for claiming first place. These results draw the 2018-2019 house sailing to a close. Queen Anne reigned supreme in the Michaelmas Term, Swift taking the helm in the Lent Term and now Gascoigne making a dash for the finish line in the Summer Term. There has been clear progress shown by all sailors throughout the year and we look forward to another year of exciting sailing in 2019-2020. This event was also an opportunity to say a fond farewell to Emma Foster (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) our sailing captain for the past two years, but also for the new captains to take the helm, James Shaw (Lower Sixth, Harcourt) Henry Kerton (Lower Sixth, Gascoigne) and Joe Cantwell (Lower Sixth, Swift). Emma has done so much for the sport during her time at Cokethorpe and we hope she manages to continue sailing in the future!'

Inter-House Sport Final Standings 2018-2019 Inter-House Climbing 1st Feilden 2nd Queen Anne 3rd Harcourt 4th Vanbrugh 5th Swift 6th Gascoigne

Inter-House Sailing (Michaelmas Term) 1st Queen Anne 2nd Harcourt 3rd Gascoigne 4th Swift 5th Feilden 6th Vanbrugh Inter-House Sailing (Lent Term) 1st Swift 2nd Feilden 3rd Harcourt 4th Gascoigne 5th Queen Anne 6th Vanbrugh Inter-House Sailing (Summer Term) 1st Gascoigne 2nd Swift 3rd Feilden =4th Harcourt and Vanbrugh 6th Queen Anne Senior Inter-House Hockey 1st Feilden 2nd Gascoigne 3rd Swift 4th Vanbrugh 5th Harcourt 6th Queen Anne Inter-House Rugby 1st Feilden 2nd Queen Anne 3rd Harcourt =4th Gascoigne and Vanbrugh 6th Swift Senior Inter-House Netball 1st Queen Anne 2nd Swift 3rd Feilden 4th Harcourt 5th Vanbrugh 6th Gascoigne

Inter-House Golf

The first House golf event in recent years took place on Thursday on the immaculate school golf course. Each House did sterling work in recruitment to ensure that each house was represented by a full team. Although there was a wide spectrum of experience on show several pupils should be congratulated on being prepared to represent their House and give it a go. At the business end of the event, standards were high and two Houses stood out in producing particularly high quality golf. Harcourt, represented by Freya Coughlan and James Harris, fought off Swift House, Ollie Webb and Ben Collier, to win by a solitary point. Just three points further back came Gascoigne represented by Max Gunn and Ruby Colleton to round off the top three. An event played with great enthusiasm and particular thanks should go to the ground staff for their work in preparing such a beautifully manicured golf course.

Senior Inter-House Football 1st Swift 2nd Vanbrugh 3rd Harcourt 4th Feilden 5th Gascoigne 6th Queen Anne Inter-House Golf 1st Harcourt 2nd Swift 3rd Gascoigne 4th Queen Anne 5th Vanbrugh 6th Feilden Inter-House U12/U13 Mixed Cricket 1st Feilden 2nd Queen Anne 3rd Swift 4th Gascoigne 5th Vanbrugh 6th Harcourt

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AOB Michaelmas Term AOB Options

Ace your exams Advanced CAD Amateur Radio Club Ancient Greek Art Award Holders Badminton Basketball Below the Line Build-A-Bike Carry-A-Bag Campaign Chess Club Clay Club Climbing Club Cokethorpe Shooting Club Concert Band C-SALT Debating and Discussion Club Digital Art Dissection Club Drama Academy Drama Award Holders Drama Michaelmas Production Drawing Club DT - Award Holders Duke of Edinburgh Award Eco Warriors Everyday Economics Exam Art Exploring Christianity F1 in Schools Competition Fifth Form Triple Science First Aid French Speaking GCSE Ancient Greek Girls Football Golf Grow It, Eat It. Guided Reading History Club Hockey Summer League Homework, Study and Silent Reading IFS Student Investor Challenge Italian for Beginners Kids Lit Quiz Maptivists Maths πrates Metalwork Club News of the Week Pre-Season Cricket Quantum Chromodynamics Robotics Sailing Club Sci-Fi Symposium Senior Football AOB So You Think You Can Maths? Spanish Speaking Sports Award Holders Strategy Games String Orchestra Table Tennis Textiles Club The Scholars' Club The Wellbeing Club Top up your Maths Touch Typing Tycoon in Schools

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Jazz Improvisation

The jazz improvisation AOB held by Mr Mullin this term has been exploring improvisation from a blues perspective, as blues is the spring board for jazz improvisation. The pupils have been learning how to build blues scales and how to use them when improvising over chord sequences by playing along with backing tracks and jazz play-along books.

Triathlon Training

Maptivists AOB

In a cold miserable January, a group of brave Lower Sixth students started training to compete in the Blenheim Triathlon. Training consisted of swimming lengths to build speed and endurance, spinning sessions on the bikes and of course running... miles and miles. With three disciplines to train for, everyone had to put in maximum effort and the students should be congratulated on their ability to balance work and the need to hit the gym. On Sunday 2 June all our hard work paid off and everyone completed the race and thoroughly enjoyed it. Roll on next year....

The Maptivists have embraced the good and bad weather carrying out fun guerrilla geography missions around the School. This term we have been learning how to use ArcGIS, an online software platform that allows you to view amazing maps that other people around the world have made, as well as making our own maps. We also carried out an Environmental Quality Assessment and learned how to create a .CSV file in Excel with latitude and longitude details of our survey points. We have also enjoyed making maps for a chocolate treasure hunt!

Touch Typing

Touch-typing is one of the most useful skills we can ever learn in life. Throughout this academic year, pupils in First and Second Form have had the opportunity to do just that. Through the online programme, ‘Typing Club’, our committed pupils have learnt to never look down! Pupils have familiarised themselves with the standard layout of the QWERTY keyboard. In the process they have learnt the value of accuracy, capitalisation and body posture. They have also learnt that one hand is always faster than the other…

Pre-Season Rugby Training

The main focus of the Pre-Season Rugby Training AOB was to prepare the Third Form boys for the law changes of rugby as they enter the Fourth Form. Mr Sheer was involved in teaching the forwards how to lift technically in the lineout and Mr Robinson coached the backs to play more expansive, intelligent rugby. Even with the interruption of senior school exams, the U14 boys showed their potential and demonstrated what a talented group they are if they work as a team.

The Cokethorpe Society OC Cricket Festival

'On Friday 21 June, the Staff XI took on the Old Boys XI in their annual cricketing extravaganza. Opting to bowl first, the Staff attack kept the pressure on the batsmen in the early exchanges, with Mr Robinson's pace and aggression a particular feature. In the middle overs the Old Boys got into their stride, however, finding the boundary often, despite Mr Laver's and Dr Winkley's heroism in the field. Up stepped Mr Purdie, whose apparently nonchalant catch off his own bowling made The Flash's reactions look pedestrian. The Staff managed to restrict the Old Boys to 168-9 in their 20 overs. Led by Mr Lewis's supreme hitting, the Staff made a quick start in response. The Old Boys' expertise, exemplified by Man of the Match George Talbot (OC 2009, Swift), left too much to do to win the game. Even though Dr Winkley notched the first boundary of his young career to great acclaim from the spectators, the Staff were left to enjoy the sumptuous refreshments while ruing missed chances leading to their total of 128 all out. The Staff would like to thank the Foundation Office and the Catering Department for a wonderful occasion, and the Old Boys for their sportsmanship and camaraderie.'

OC Reunion Dinner

On Saturday 22 June, the Cokethorpe Society held their biennial Reunion Dinner in the Dining Hall. We were thrilled to welcome back almost 80 OCs and former members of staff, who were entertained by the University of Oxford Jazz Society and magician Richard Young, a member of the Inner Magic Circle. New Society Chairman Tom Biggs (OC 2008, Feilden) welcomed guests, followed by grace from the Headmaster. This year, the dinner was preceded by the Cokethorpe Society AGM. It was lovely to see so many OCs arriving early to attend the meeting. We look forward to welcoming you all back to the Reunion Dinner in two years’ time.

Forthcoming Events

CPA Murder Mystery Cokethorpe School Saturday 5 October 2019, 7.00pm 11.00pm CPA Fireworks Extravaganza Cokethorpe School Friday 8 November 2019, 7.00pm – 9.00pm OC stand with mulled wine CPA Christmas Fair Cokethorpe School Thursday 5 December 2019, 3.00pm 6.00pm Christmas Wreath Workshops Cokethorpe School Thursday 5 December 2019, 6.30pm – 9.00pm, Saturday 7 December 2019, 10.00am – 12.30pm, Saturday 7 December 2019, 1.30pm – 4.00pm Tickets £30 including mulled wine and mince pies OC Sports Festival Cokethorpe School Friday 19 June 2020, 6.00pm – 9.30pm Football, Cricket, Tennis and Shooting A BBQ will follow

Richard Maisey

It is with deep sadness that we inform you of the passing of Mr Richard Maisey (OC 1961, Swift) on Wednesday 5 June. The funeral was held on Thursday 20 June at Willow Chapel, Cheltenham Crematorium.

Joe Bulman

OC Profile

'When I left Cokethorpe in 1980 I did not know what I wanted to do, but within two years I had joined the Foreign Office (FCO). I spent several years developing my career anchor, helping arrange official incoming visits, Summits and Royal Visits overseas. It certainly helped me develop my interpersonal skills. In 2004 I was sent to Jamaica as Vice Consul, this was a 'people' job with multiple challenges. One job could see you working on disaster response, the next being the policy officer for Mexico or working on Forced Marriage cases. It is a very varied career. More recently I have had roles in London such as accompanying a President at the 2012 Olympics (complete with armed protection!) working on a NATO Summit and helping run a Scholarship Programme. In my present role in the Overseas Territories Directorate, I have been to Montserrat for a Royal Navy Ship and Defence Minister’s visit. In 2017 I was in Singapore helping organise a visit by The Prince of Wales and in March 2019 was in the Cayman Islands, again, for a visit by Prince Charles. This is only a taste of what the Diplomatic Service can offer. You do not have to know everything to join as there is a lot of on the job training and you learn as you go along. So if you like a challenge and change this may be a career you might like to consider.' Alex Curtis (OC 1980, Swift)

Congratulations to Joe Bulman (OC 2015, Feilden) who has just graduated from Brighton University with a First Class Honours degree in Three Dimensional Design and Craft. He left Cokethorpe four years ago, completed the Art and Design Foundation Course at Oxford Brookes University and was then accepted to the University of Brighton.

Cokethorpe Society Donations

If you have any old photos, videos or stories you would like to share with the Society, we would be delighted to receive them for our archives and to share on social media. Please email any scanned documents to society@cokethorpe.org or, if sending by post, please address any packages to: Cokethorpe Society Cokethorpe School Witney, OX29 7PU

Cokethorpe Society Committee

Chair: Tom Biggs (2008) Treasurer: Tony Baker (1964) Secretary: Charles Bartlett (2008)

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Beyond the Classroom Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards

Congratulations to Ben Foster (OC 2017, Vanbrugh), Emma Foster (Upper Sixth, Queen Anne) and Elliott Swancott (Upper Sixth, Vanbrugh) who have all been awarded the Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award, in a ceremony which took place at Buckingham Palace on Friday 17 May 2019. The certificates were presented by Ronan Keating in the presence of HRH The Countess of Wessex. The Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award takes twelve months to complete and includes the following elements: Volunteering – service to others or the community Physical – achieve a certain standard of health and fitness Skills – develop practical skills and nurture personal interests and talents Expeditions – execution of an outdoor challenge Residential – undertake a shared activity in a residential setting away from home

Fifth Form Dinner

What better way to celebrate the end of GCSE’s than dressing up in black tie and enjoying a fantastic steak dinner with one’s peers. The Fifth Form enjoyed a lovely evening with their tutors, Housemasters, Housemistresses and the Deputy Head. Lively conversations ranged from that morning’s Additional Maths paper to televised social experiments (Love Island) alongside fond memories of the previous five years in the Senior School. The evening rounded off with a speech from a representative of each tutor group before the pupils made their way into the long summer…

World Challenge Madagascar Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Expeditions

'The Bronze Assessed Expedition went well - we had glorious weather, but mostly cool enough to avoid the dangers of heat stroke and dehydration. The groups all worked well together, and all groups successfully completed at least six hours of activity on each day, walking between 12 and 20km in a day! One particularly robust group managed to make a few navigational errors and in the end they were out walking for nine hours (including rests). Camping went well, with the only other campers present being the resident red kites, always keen to snatch food from the unwary.' Mr Steventon

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'On the first Monday of the Summer holidays sixteen excited students and three staff left for our three and half week World Challenge expedition to Madagascar. Every member of the team was challenged to lead the team for a day, to organise our budgets, itinerary, accommodation, transport and food and all rose to these challenges admirably starting from the moment we arrived in country. We trekked in two rainforest locations camping in forest, cooking meals for twenty people and buying ingredients in busy roadside markets. After initial difficulties such as beating rice for three hours out of the husk (making us see microwave rice in a totally different light) we became better at these techniques. We observed lemurs in their natural environment, learnt how to cook amazing banana bread steamed in leaves, bathed in rivers and enjoyed our camp mongoose (nicknamed Maurice) visitor. Between these treks we had the pleasure of spending four incredible days on project with the Ankizy Gasy charity in a school in Antananarivo building an IT classroom, clearing litter and providing bins to challenge the plastic waste issue and best of all, interacting with children who were given access to education by this amazing charity. Perhaps our proudest moment was donating enough funds to buy enough exercise books for students for a whole academic year. The last week was spent crossing the vast savanna landscape to the Indian ocean coastline learning about mangrove ecosystems, snorkelling on a coral reef and watching whales. Our students were an absolute credit to themselves and the school.' Mr Capel

Beyond the Classroom Parent Wellbeing Talk

It is tough being a teenager today. Young people are constantly under pressure in ways that many adults do not fully understand. So, as part of our pastoral programme, parents and teachers met together to share ideas about how best to support teenage pupils struggling with a number of key areas: gaming, pornography, sexting and instant messaging.

World Challenge Norway

'During the first week of the holidays, 20 Third Form pupils and four staff headed off to Norway to complete their one week long World Challenge Expedition. Having flown into Kristiansand in the southern part of the country, the first four days were spent trekking through the Fjords over some very challenging terrain. The scenery was spectacular and the weather was kind, and the group slowly got to grips with catering for all 24 people on a budget, with porridge and rice and beans becoming the norm. Having spent the first four days trekking for between 15-20km a day, day 5 saw us embark on a spectacular 25km canoe trip down the River Otra, weaving our way through the rolling mountains. We set up camp on an island in the middle of the River that night, an experience few will forget. Our final full day was time for our RnR, with the group deciding to embark on some white water rafting which was a highlight for many and rounded off a brilliant week. It was great to see the group really come together as the week went on, learning to work together and overcome the challenges along the way, particularly when hunger and fatigue set in. I would like to extend a massive thanks to Karen, our leader from World Challenge, as well as Mr Cook and Miss Bertholle for the accompanying the group on what was a memorable week for all involved.' Mr Joiner

In a frank and moving presentation Mr Lapwood shared some of the feedback he had personally received from pupils about the reality of their day to day struggles. This led on to a series of thoughtful discussions in small groups and the pooling of ideas. As one parent wrote 'Whilst shocking, it was incredibly useful'. We hope this will be one step of many towards more effective collaboration between Cokethorpe parents and teachers in the area of pupil welfare – an area which affects us all.

First Form Oasis Leisure Centre Trip

On a slightly warmer day than we had in February, the rearranged Lower House trip to the Oasis Leisure Centre departed after the Headmaster’s assembly on Friday 14 June. 64 excited pupils and nine, even more excited Sixth Formers, enjoyed the slides, the floats and the wave machine, as well as just relaxing in the pool after a hard week at School. For some though, including the teachers, the highlight of the evening was the pizza that was delivered after the swimming had finished. It rounded off a great, funfilled trip.

Fourth Form Elite Skills Day

Campus Manilla Swedish Exchange

It cannot be underestimated how much pupils benefit from experiencing life in a different school and in a different culture. The Swedish Exchange programme aims to do just that. Nine pupils spent the first week of June as guests of Third Form students at Campus Manilla, a state secondary school in Stockholm, Sweden. They experienced two mornings of lessons, including Swedish Poetry, Textiles, RS and Spanish. They also shared in some brilliant school lunches, enjoyed a fascinating visit to the Vasa museum and spent a morning in an Adventure Park. Perhaps the most significant experience our pupils had was learning to surf the public transport system in Stockholm accompanied just by their host students. They learned to navigate the trams and underground - and they also enjoyed having ‘fika’, sweet snacks over coffee, with other teenagers. This was a memorable trip which enabled many of our Cokethorpe pupils to move up several notches in the journey towards becoming independent young adults.

Friday 7 June came with a wet weather warning, and yet we had the Army Outreach team in to work with the Fourth Form delivering the Elite Skills programme. Throughout the day there were a number of challenges which required the groups to work as a team, communicate with each other and bring out any leadership skills. Having put these skills to the test the previous day in a classroom situation, these were very definitely tested in the wet weather outside on the Ha-Ha. The Fourth Form completed these tasks, and came up with solutions that the Army outreach team had not previously seen.

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Wider Community Buttle UK

Buttle's mission and values statement taken from their website, https://www. buttleuk.org Our mission The maintenance, education and advancement
in life of children and young people who through poverty and family circumstances are in need of, and will benefit significantly from, Buttle UK’s support. Our values Non-judgmental Expert Personal Practical Connected Entrepreneurial Buttle UK is named after Reverend Frank Buttle, a remarkable man whose hard work and personal sacrifice helped to establish our grant programmes, which have been helping children and young people in need across the UK since 1953.

An Evening with... Jamie Roberts and Wayne Barnes

On Saturday 6 July 2019 Cokethorpe hosted its second annual ‘An Evening with . . .’ After the huge success of the previous event twelve months earlier with Sir Clive Woodward, this time around the School welcomed international Rugby referee Wayne Barnes and Wales and British and Irish Lions player Jamie Roberts. After a delicious three-course meal guests were treated to a fascinating, entertaining and revealing Q&A session. Who knew that in 2007 Wayne Barnes was the third most hated man in New Zealand – behind Osama bin Laden and Saddam Hussein? The evening culminated with a charity auction containing a wide and varied list of auction items – from a signed Lionel Messi shirt to four hospitality tickets to the Cricket World Cup Final at Lords. Special thanks go to the event sponsors North Oxford BMW, NFU Mutual and Priority 6. Proceeds from the night went to Cokethorpe Sport and the children’s charity Buttle UK.

Buttle UK Statistics for Last Year In the UK last year, Buttle: Helped 35,439 children With 13,513 grants And a total of £4,606,856 given

Some of the most common grants provided included: 3,191 beds and bedding 2,226 cookers 2,060 washing machines

Use of Cokethorpe Facilities

This term, the School has supported a number of local groups, businesses, associations and sports clubs, including: Adventure Plus Appleton Cricket Club Aston and Cote Primary School Ducklington Primary School Lower Windrush Choral Society Opera Anywhere Oxford Downs Cricket Club Oxfordshire Junior Hockey Oxfordshire Youth Cricket Rover Hockey Festival Society of Finsbury Archers Standlake Badgers Standlake Explorers Standlake Scouts Wychwood Badgers Hockey Club Wychwood Hockey Club

Opera Anywhere

For further information on Opera Anywhere visit their website: https:// operaanywhere.com/

The Society of Finsbury Archers For further information on the Association, or to inquire about membership, please email contact@ longbow-archers-association.org

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The Society of Finsbury Archers

On the weekend of Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 May, the School welcomed the Society of Finsbury Archers, in affiliation with The International Longbow Archers Association, who held their Lord Francis Lovell Shoot in the School grounds. The Association covers the history of the Longbow, teaching the traditional forms of shooting as practiced in the 16th Century when it took place as a form of training and/or in battle.

Opera Anywhere

‘n April we were delighted to host the first performances in what we hope will be a long-term relationship with Opera Anywhere. The School’s Chapel was the venue for two nights of Puccini. On each occasion the performance combined a selection of numbers featuring some of his most wellknown heroines as well as his one act Opera, Sister Angelica. They returned to the School in the summer holidays for three nights, performing The Pirates of Penzance, The Mikado and The Magic Flute. They also made a guest appearance at Prize Giving day performing for parents, pupils and staff.

Archives Then and Now World Challenge 2005 - Peru After weeks of tough training and fundraising the World Challenge Team spent four weeks in Northern Peru. This involved trekking at an altitude of 3000m, a project in the local community and a trip up the Amazon.

World Challenge 2013 - Thailand and Cambodia

Cokethorpe’s intrepid group of ‘Challengers’ departed for Thailand and Cambodia on Sunday 14 July, arriving five airports, four countries, three planes and sixteen hours later in Phnom Penh. After a night in a questionable guest house, the group journeyed to the orphanage in Kai, where they undertook their project for the next six days. Having raised $1,200 for the project, the Challengers built new tracks and roads, worked on the farm and taught classes in the outdoor classroom. They formed unforgettable bonds with the children, leading to some emotional goodbyes at the end of their stay. The group then journeyed to Siam Reap and the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat before leaving Cambodia behind on a ten-hour bus journey to Thailand, heading north to Mae Sot to begin their six-day trek through the jungle. All of the Challengers performed magnificently, working incredibly hard and staying consistently motivated to contribute in any way they could. Mr Stuart and Miss Giraldo are very proud of their achievements, but have not missed their singing since arriving home!

World Challenge 2016 Ecuador

At 2.30 on a Sunday morning fifteen students, two teachers and Jono, our expedition leader, departed for Heathrow airport. Although bleary eyed, we were excited that two years of fundraising and preparation was about to pay off. The expedition to Ecuador was a huge success with students planning every aspect of budgeting, transport and accommodation as well as successfully negotiating life in Quito, an exciting and historical South American capital city. After a few single day acclimatisation treks up volcanoes with amazing views of the city and experience of coping with the effects of altitude, we completed an incredible four day trek in the Northern Andes. For the community project we stayed only two hours outside of Quito but in another world of ‘cloud forest’ with higher temperatures and plenty of giant bugs. As well as integrating with the local community, our group completed hard manual labour digging trenches, mixing cement and laying foundations for a new lodge building in the blazing sunshine.

Turning Back the Pages Below are news items from past issues of The Bell Tower, The Peacock and The Ocellus. 50 Years Ago (1969) 0A284 Has a narrow escape. As I walked down the departure ramp at London Airport the bleak December night air met me. I was now on the last leg of my journey to Cyprus to spend Christmas with my parents. The sound of the engines straining at full power was the sign that we were about to go. The brakes were released and we sped down the runway. The nose lifted, we were about to become airborne but . . .there was a sudden crack. A woman screamed. The captain came down to see us. He explained that a window had cracked and blown in. He had a small graze below his left eye. The captain now returned to tell us, as we taxied back, that the window had cracked because it had been heated too quickly after the 'plane had come in from Athens an hour or so before. He said that if this had happened when we were at a great height we should have been killed or, at the very least, our eardrums would have burst. I looked at my watch. The space of nine minutes had seemed like hours. S. R. THOMSON 30 Years Ago (1989) Once again a small party went to Chamrousse in France to celebrate the New Year. It was led by EJF, with the help this time of PJRR, and was a pleasant mixture of old lags and new hands. For the second year running it was a poor winter for snow but we were lucky in that most of the resort was open and we certainly had a full week's skiing. Colin Taylor moved upmarket somewhat and joined with a party of adults travelling independently who were also beginners. PJRR and a group of intermediates under the never expert leadership of Julian ("Kamikaze") Benfield terrorised the resort, whilst EJF and company in the advanced group led Fiona Dowding a merry dance as they practised flying on skis. Most reached breakneck speeds and heights over the jumps except EJF (too fat), Fiona (too scared) and Bamber (no excuse). Some landed in control — sometimes! 10 Years Ago (2009) Sixth Form Trip to Washington 2009 has already been a heady year for Washington DC; the first black President has been sworn in, the largest bail-out package ever has been approved, and 23 students from Cokethorpe School have made their first visit to the Capital. Put them in whatever order you will. Led by Mr Schofield, the group took in each of the major institutions of the Federal Government, including a guided tour of Congress and a talk given in the Courtroom of the Supreme Court building. Outside the White House the group came across politics in action, with a demonstration against the continued use of Guantanamo Bay, and were able to ask questions both about the issue specifically and about political lobbying in the US more generally. 31

Tail Feathers Staff News

Open Morning

Mrs J Holmes

Friday 5 July 2019 was a day full of ‘last moments’ - having been at Cokethorpe for nearly 19 years. I have enjoyed a rewarding teaching career whilst at the School and will keep fond memories of the students I have taught, my tutees that I have supported and of course, my colleagues. The journey into our workplace, through the beautiful grounds each day has made me feel very fortunate and even when leaving work you just never know what you may get held up by... ducks, peacocks or golf buggies! My thanks go to the Headmaster for enabling me to develop in this profession over the years and to my colleagues for making Cokethorpe such a supportive and warm place to work. I shall look forward to seeing the School continue to grow and thrive in the future.

Mrs A B Hughes

Whilst the decision to leave Cokethorpe to retrain as a counsellor was never going to be an easy one, I do so with only happy memories of the fantastic people I have Mrs J Gregory-Newman worked with, both past and present. Having It has given me great pleasure and pride to have been able to set up the BTEC Business been a teacher at Cokethorpe for many as an A level alternative; for the 43 students years, part of the CPA and president of the Common Room, as well as all three of my who have taken this option, we have children being pupils at the School, I have had offers from Exeter, York, Newcastle, been able to see all aspects of the positive Southampton, Bath, Cardiff and the list continues. I am so proud of all of the students learning and social environment the School provides to allow our pupils to flourish. It is to regardless of whether they have taken the University or apprenticeship route. Following my pupils, particularly my Sixth Form tutees and Psychology students that I would like a teaching career that spans more than 22 to say my biggest thank you. I will miss the years, I have decided to put into practice laughter (and occasionally tears) along with what I teach and am taking the plunge into the bonds formed through this important setting up my own business. stage of their lives.

Mr P A R Goulding

For six years I had the privilege of teaching at Cokethorpe School, and I will cherish the friendships and the memories that stem therefrom. The School is a special place, and just as much as I will miss the beauty of the grounds, I will miss the students, from my tutees (even the one that supports Arsenal), through to those dedicating their A Level studies to the Classics. The Classics Department has been a wonderful environment in which to teach, with exceptionally talented colleagues being generous enough to offer humour and camaraderie in measure equal to their expertise. Now embedded at New Hall School in Essex, I wish everyone at Cokethorpe only the very best, albeit from afar. I will see some of you, however, at the Murder Mystery in October…

List of Leavers

Mrs C E Matthews (History), Mrs A B Hughes (Drama), Dr R A Innes (Physics), Miss M N G Smith (English), Mrs J Gregory-Newman (BTEC), Mr P A R Goulding (Classics) and Mrs J Holmes (Business Studies) Congratulations to Congratulations to Head of Maths Mr Classics Teacher Ladell-Stuart and Ms Murray and her Physics Teacher Ms husband Jacob, on Ladell-Stuart, on the birth of their son the birth of their son David Murray Francis Oliver Cameron, born Coates born on on Wednesday 17 Wednesday 26 June July weighing 3.7kg. weighing 8lb.

Saturday 21 September 2019 9.30am to 12.00pm Prospective parents interested in entry at any age are warmly invited to attend. All departments will be open, and there will be refreshments and activities. All welcome. For personal visits at other times, for a tour, discussion with the Registrar, Mrs S Sheer, or the Head of Junior School if appropriate, or to meet the Headmaster, please contact the Admissions Secretary, Ms C Bowerman (admissions@cokethorpe.org or 01993 703921).

Contact Information

Headmaster Email correspondence with Mr Ettinger (dje@cokethorpe.org) is particularly welcomed during the Headmaster ‘Live’ hour (8.00pm – 9.00pm on the first Monday of each month during term time). At other times please contact the Headmaster’s Secretary (01993 892325 or hmsec@cokethorpe.org). Senior Management Team Bursar: Mrs H Stapleton bursar@cokethorpe.org Deputy Headmaster: Mr J C Stevens jcs@cokethorpe.org Head of Junior School: Mrs N Black nab@cokethorpe.org Director of Studies: Mr A E Uglow aeu@cokethorpe.org Director of Co-Curricular: Mr G J Sheer gjs@cokethorpe.org Housemasters and Housemistresses Lower House: Mr M J P O'Connor mjoc@cokethorpe.org Feilden: Mr S G Carter sgc@cokethorpe.org Gascoigne: Mrs E Semenzato es@cokethorpe.org Harcourt: Mr W G Lawson wgl@cokethorpe.org Queen Anne: Mrs S A Orton sao@cokethorpe.org Swift: Mrs M H Cooper mhdc@cokethorpe.org Vanbrugh: Ms L A Mountain lam@cokethorpe.org

Editor’s Notes

The icon indicates that a longer write-up and/or further photographs are available on the School website. THE OCELLUS is edited and typeset by the Foundation Office. It is published by Cokethorpe School.

Cokethorpe School Witney, Oxon OX29 7PU Tel: 01993 703921 Email: admin@cokethorpe.org

www.cokethorpe.org.uk 32