DESBOROUGH COLLEGE
SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST:
EXAM RESULTS
MY EUROPEAN
October 2016
ADVENTURE
APPRENTICE-
Dear Parents/Guardians
SHIPS
PARALYMPIC GAMES
OPEN EVENING
GERMAN EXCHANGE
SAILING
MACMILLAN CANCER COFFEE MORNING
A LEVEL BIOLOGY FIELD TRIP
JACK RUTTER VISIT
JOSH MAKES AN IMPRESSION
SPORT
GEOGRAPHY PROJECT YR 8
DRAMA REPORT
MUSIC REPORT
ART REPORT
INFORMATION
This first half-term of the year has flown by very, very speedily. It's difficult to believe that seven weeks have passed since the staff were welcoming over 160 nervous youngsters into Y7. The anxieties that many of them carried into school in that first week seem to have dissipated thanks to the Year 7 Base and the arrangements that we make to ease what is potentially a difficult transition from the primary phase of their education to secondary school. Those same Y7 boys have grown in confidence and are now very comfortable in their "new" surroundings. Indeed, when I've been showing parents of Y6 boys around school the most common observation that is made relates to how happy the boys are. Visitors also remark upon their smart appearance, excellent behaviour, friendliness and confidence. Well done, boys! You really are excellent ambassadors for our school. Unlike last year I do not feel confident of telling parents that their sons will be guaranteed a place at Desborough College if they put us down as their first choice. I say this because of the large numbers who attended our Y6 Open Evening and the subsequent number of tours requested by parents who did not attend the Open Evening. Although we anticipated lots of visitors we hadn't predicted that we would have 700 of them, nor that the overflow carpark across the road at Maidenhead Golf Club would overflow! The probability that we will be over-subscribed next year is, I confess, rather satisfying and attributable to the staff, the governing body and our partners, Radley College. Over- subscription, however, will not provide me with the level of satisfaction that an "Outstanding" Ofsted judgement will. That's the target. Nothing less will do.
FOR PARENTS
DESBOROUGH LEGACY
Regards,
A Level Exam Results—18 August Congratulations to all our students who sat their A Level and GCSE exams in the summer including Year 9 students who took their GCSE Maths early. Please see below some photos taken on Results Days.
2
A Level Exam Results Photos Continued ‌..
3
GCSE Exam Results—25 August
Year 9 Students—Early Entry for Maths GCSE
4
My European Adventure During 8-15th July 2016 I travelled to Bonn with a fellow Brit from Maidenhead. We were selected by the Maidenhead Rotarians to represent the UK in a cross-cultural exchange, spending a week with European students from Italy, France and Germany. We travelled less than a month after the UK voted to leave Europe. I knew that I was privileged to be staying with a German Member of Parliament and I expected to eat sausage most days and be asked why we were leaving EU. What I learnt during my stay was that some stereotypes are sometimes true: the Italians were late for our excursions and the French guy flirted with everyone, but also how beautiful and historic Bonn and the surrounding area is. Even though we had our differences, we were young people interested in each other and the world and realised what a wonderful opportunity for us all this was. We had a packed itinerary, including sightseeing (Cologne Cathedral, Augustusburg Palace in Bruhl), activities (rafting on the Rhine, a trip to Phantasialand and zip wires) and our hosts had arranged for us to eat at different cuisine restaurants every day. Swimming in the Rhine I realised what different attitudes to “health and safety” we all had as our Rotarian coordinator was encouraging us to jump in whilst telling us it’s not strictly allowed! For me this experience of river swimming was one of the highlights of the trip. On our trip to Bruhl to see the rococo style palace we agreed to cycle the 30km there from Bonn. Augustusburg Palace is a World Heritage site and stunning but unfortunately we could not take photographs inside. My host family were very kind and yes, I did get asked frequently why the UK chose to vote for Brexit, and I only ate German sausage once, but it was delicious. With thanks to Maidenhead Rotary Club (who organised everything to the last detail) and especially Tony Hill who was my main contact.
By Roma Kahlon—Year 13
5
Apprenticeships Leo Martin and James Freak, Year 13 students from last year, came back to Desborough to visit staff recently after securing Operations Apprenticeships with British Rail. The boys started their apprenticeship in August and are working at Oxford Station. They both look extremely smart in their new uniform and we are very proud of their success so far.
Congratulations boys!
Student’s Family Member Wins Gold in the Paralympic Games On the 9th September my family and I went to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This was because my Auntie had managed to work hard enough to gain her place in the GB Paralympics team… Again. Before, she had competed in swimming Paralympics at Seoul, Barcelona, Sydney, Atlanta and Athens (I went to Athens when I was only 1). In Brazil it was very different to England, for starters it always seemed to be really sunny. On the 14th of September it was my Auntie’s qualifiers, we were all there cheering her on as she cruised to the final. The next day it was the finals, it was her chance to show the world what she could do, and with a screaming support of GB fans she inched (quite literally) over the line in first place! We were so proud and happy for her, words couldn't explain! Jeanette Chippington, the first ever paracanoe gold-medalist! After the thrilling two days we went to see some of the best tourist attractions in Rio including Cristo Redentor and Sugarloaf Mountain. The views were simply amazing. Then, on our last night we went to the Maracana and saw the closing ceremony! I couldn't wish for a better week of my life, I will always remember it. Edward Esling—Year 9
6
Open Evening—29 September 2016 Desborough’s Open Evening this year was a huge success. The hall was full for both speeches by the Principal. Parents enjoyed viewing our curriculum areas and commented on the positivity and how they were made to feel welcome.
7
German Exchange 2016
My time on the German exchange trip was a rare and fantastic time. Leading up to the trip I didn’t really want to spend time with a family I have never met. However, once I got settled in I had a great time. Participating on this exchange did not only teach me more German vocabulary but helped me speak German in day-to-day life. I’m not saying I’m fluent, but I have seen an improvement and so has my teacher. There was only one other boy in my year and seventeen Newlands girls. However, I wasn’t complaining. As a group we did several different activities such as attend an aqua park, a mining factory and a chocolate museum which was very tasty. On Tuesday and Thursday we went to a school which was an interesting experience. The school we went to was very different as they have more lessons but they are shorter. Overall, I had an extremely great time on the German exchange trip which benefitted me a lot. I would recommend the trip to your sons when the opportunity is available, as they will enjoy the culture and learning new German.
Louis Rainford—Year 10
8
Continued Success for Leo Wilkinson With Sailing
Well done to Leo Wilkinson in Year 8 who continues with his success at sailing. Since last October, Leo has been a member of both the RYA South East Topper Regional Zone Squad and the 4.2 Topper National Squad. Through the zone programme Leo has completed 6 weekends of training. Through the 4.2 National Squad programme, Leo has attended 5 additional squad weekends all over the country as well as committing to compete at National Events throughout 2016. At the National Events Leo has performed brilliantly. In the 4.2 National Series, which consisted of 6 events, Leo finished in second place overall , and 1st 12 year old. Leo has now progressed across to the larger sail known as the 5.3 and in the 1st event of the 2016-17 season finished as 4th 12 year old. Leo will be participating in the Topper World Championships next summer. The photos show Leo recently at squad selection events. 9
MacMillan Cancer Coffee Morning We had a very successful year again with the Macmillan coffee morning. It was a great event that was run by the Year 9 team and also the sixth formers who dedicated their time to setting up the event from presenting in assembly, collecting in cakes, setting up the hall and then the big tidy up at the end. It was a very enjoyable morning which saw the hall packed with students ready and willing to donate to such an important cause. We managed to raise a total of £582.02 which was higher than last year. Thank you once again for all your donations and I’m hoping that next year will be able to beat our total again.
Mrs Holyoake-Lloyd—Raising Achievement Leader for Year 9 10
A Level Biology Field Trip—7-10 October 10 Year 13 students travelled to Nettlecombe Court in Somerset to carry out their Ecology studies. As a residential trip, for many this was the first time they had been away from home for such a period of time. Every morning started with a substantial breakfast followed by a teaching session in a classroom. Then the students would be off into the field to investigate the local area: nearby Watchet Bay provided a rocky shore environment, Exmoor allowed a detailed look at a freshwater stream and the immediate grounds of Nettlecombe were used for terrestrial grassland work. A return back to Nettlecombe in time for the daily afternoon cake was welcome after a busy day in the field! The days were long with lessons continuing after supper and finishing at 8pm. It was a tired but successful group that returned to Desborough -well done to everyone for their hard work. Mr Brockett—Head of Biology
Watchet Bay
Setting mammal traps
Investigating the slope at Nettlecombe
Embercombe Stream, Exmoor
11
Visit from Jack Rutter, Captain of the GB Football Team At the Recent Paralympic Games—12 October Our students were fortunate to meet Jack Rutter, Captain of the GB Football Team at the recent Paralympic games held in Brazil following his visit to Desborough recently. Jack provided a talk to the students and took part in some activities which can be seen in the photographs. The boys thoroughly enjoyed the day and we would like to thank Jack for taking the time to visit Desborough.
12
13
Josh Makes An Impression! What an impact Josh had on his fellow friends and students of Sixth Form when he spoke to them last Friday about his experiences as an apprentice with the IT company, Ultima, based in Reading. Josh left Sixth Form at the end of Year 13, this summer, and a more confident and assured young man it would be hard to find. Expertly guiding this Year’s 12s and 13s through the processes of how his apprenticeship actually works and the career opportunities Ultima give him, galvanised many in his audience. This very effective presentation is just the start of a busy and varied calendar of events throughout the year groups, where our students will be encouraged to think about their futures beyond school days and how the choices they make now and the application they are willing to give will be very significant to their lives. Mrs Sansom Careers Co-Ordinator
14
Sport: Rugby Report for Term 1 This term saw all year groups go out onto the field and represent the school in competitive rugby fixtures. The Year 7’s have seen huge numbers attending training with great strides being made by all who have worked hard and attended sessions. The fixtures have been challenging for the year group, with the A team beating John Hampden and losing a close fought battle against Claire’s Court. The second half term will see the boys represent the school in the County Cup and continue to play against local schools. Year 8 coaches have also seen large numbers of boys training. This has made Mr Furmage’s job of picking the team particularly challenging. The side played well at the U13 County Tournament, finishing 5th overall. The U15 side have been under the stewardship of Mr Jones this season. They have had a number of challenging fixtures in the County Cup and, at the time of writing, have progressed to the 2 nd round. Notable performers have been Morgan Peck, Ollie Jones, Will Craythorne, Toby Dann-Muirhead and Jimmy March who have all stepped up to the challenge of playing U15 rugby when currently in Year 9. The 1st XV have started the season well with a huge number of new players joining the squad. Last season’s success was built on a strong core of Year 13’s with 13 of the starting 15 leaving us in the summer. In their place are the current Year 11’s. The learning curve has been steep as the boys learn the physicality and concentration required for 1st XV rugby. This has led to notable performances in beating Leighton Park and Park House. The one blip in the season came against a well drilled Reading School side. From this performance the side learnt a great deal and they are looking forward to continuing this process in the second half of term. Overall, Desborough Rugby continues to grow in popularity and is a strength of school life during the Autumn terms. Mr Allen Head of Rugby
Referee Tag Rugby Tournament Year 10 and 11 boys refereed and helped organise the ‘Maidenhead Year 3/4 Tag Rugby Tournament’ held at the end of September. This was run in conjunction with the School Sports Partnership headed by Emma Fitzgerald and Maidenhead RFC. The day was hugely enjoyable and played in an excellent spirit. The standard of refereeing was exceptional with all boys ensuring that games ran on time and that all rules were fully adhered to. Jules Rainford, Berkshire RFU referee and parent, gave the boys an excellent briefing before the tournament to ensure all were fully up-to-date with the latest rules. The boys took a huge amount of responsibility and were rightly praised for the efforts they made. They were great ambassadors for Desborough College and showed the maturity needed. The tournament was a huge success. Huge thanks must go to all who helped run the tournament. Mr Allen Head of Rugby
15
Geography Project for Year 8 Students Earlier this term, Year 8 students were set a homework task to research and build a model replica of a volcano. I can honestly say that the standard of volcanoes has improved year on year and this year was no different. The boys produced outstanding models, cakes and write ups on a wide range of volcanoes from across the globe. Not only did many of the volcanoes erupt, fizz and pop, but alongside the madness of the eruptions we all enjoyed a variety of different volcanic cakes. Well done to all the boys for the amazing effort shown. Mr Myatt – Teacher of Geography “When the class started, everyone went around to look at the others. They were all different but were all interesting. Some, like mine, were made out of cake. This made it double the fun; making it for homework and the eating it at the end of the lesson. After this, we went outside to erupt some of the models. A few people had made erupting volcanoes using vinegar and baking soda, and others had used coke and Mentos. Not all of them shot up into the air but they all looked good”. Josh Crook – Year 8
16
Drama Report Theatre Trips Galore How lucky we are to be situated in the midst of so many quality theatre makers! The GCSE and A Level Drama groups have taken full advantage of the fruits on offer, attending three theatre trips and one professional workshop in the last five weeks. A big well done to all students who attended, for your enthusiasm and exemplary behaviour whilst off-site representing the college. The term commenced with Commedia dell’arte workshops, led by Scene Productions, where students explored this traditional 15th Century art form through collaborative improvisation. Learning about the stock commedia characters, boys demonstrated confidence and a willingness to experiment with the comedy genre. A trip to Norden Farm to see ‘Layla’s Room’, a devised piece by Theatre Centre Company, closely followed. This was a thought provoking playlet that explored the themes of sexism, bullying and the nature of friendship. Using the drama conventions of storytelling and multi-rolling, the actors told an emotional story of Layla’s relationship struggles at school. The students shared many perceptive insights and opinions in the post-show Q&A session
‘Things I Know to be True’ by Andrew Bovell, performed at the Oxford Playhouse was the highlight of the term. This performance by Frantic Assembly sits firmly at the top of theatre’s premier league! A stunning, creatively intelligent and unpredictable fusion of dialogue, movement and music; this show combined hard-hitting psychological realism with moments of emotional expressionism that gripped us all. The themes included the fragility of family life, dysfunctional relationships, love, growing up and growing old, death, gender identity; this was not a comfortable performance. In a packed auditorium, there were moments of collective shock and tension where everyone seemed to hold their breath and our students were no exception. I was impressed that students recognised and tackled the challenging themes and subsequent thoughts and emotions with maturity and discernment.
17
Drama Report Continued ... The final outing for the term was to Theatre Royal Windsor to see ‘The Woman in Black’ by Susan Hill, adapted by Stephen Mallatratt. With a sense of intrepid anticipation students braved the eerie, supernatural atmosphere created by the director Robert Herford as we settled in the front stalls for this familiar ghost story. The themes of isolation, fear and influences of the past were communicated artistically through clever lighting and sound effects that successfully created atmosphere and dramatic tension. Skilful multi-rolling from the two performers was like watching a master class in action, exploring how an actor needs to adapt voice, physicality and costume to communicate character. A thoroughly enjoyable and spooky afternoon was had by all!
These varied and valuable experiences will influence students’ own practical devised assessments next term and their written theatre evaluations and tests this term. Year 10 GCSE boys are already asking when their next theatre trip is; such enthusiasm is tremendous! Many thanks to Mrs Holyoake, Ms Hutchison, Mr Hall and Mrs Hillier for helping out with the events.
Katie Turner—Curriculum Leader Drama
18
Music Department News—Term 1 There has been plenty happening in Music this half–term, from the great vocal performances from Year 7, blues music from Year 8, solo work from Year 9’s and composition coursework from Year 11. I have been really impressed with the outcomes and work so far this academic year. Canteen Concerts The canteen concerts have taken off really well with the boys being entertained in the canteen every Monday break by different musicians. We have heard solo performances from many pupils, including Thulani in Year 13 and Luke Chester in Year 9 (see photo). Next term, more pupils will be playing in the canteen concerts and we would like other pupils to come along and watch during break on a Monday. If other pupils would like to perform in the future they should come and speak to me next term.
Visitors The music boys have been treated to a variety of talks and visitors this term. The BTEC Year 9, 10 and 13 pupils were given an exciting talk from a representative from the Musicians Union. During this talk they were informed about how to be paid as a working musician and teacher, the legal side to the music business including wages and tax and were given an opportunity to ask questions about the industry to a professional. This not only was useful in a practical way for the boys’ futures and careers but also linked to the examination unit of the course.
19
Music Department News—Term 1 Continued ... The music Year 9, 10, 11 and some selected Year 7 and 8 pupils were also treated to a workshop and performance by X-Factor and ex-Desborough pupil Nate Simpson. He visited the school recently and sang to the boys as well as answering questions about his music, school life, singing and time on the X-Factor show. Charles Mulford sang a duet with Nate which was fantastic and Nic Crossa, Wallace Goremusandu and Luke Chester all got to show Nate and the pupils their musical talent too in small performances. This was a big treat for the boys and they managed to hear some fantastic singing as well as see how far an ex-Desborough pupil has come with his music.
There are many additional music opportunities coming up! Mrs Redman has also started the Year 7 Arts Award Club on Mondays after school in the Music Department. This is a qualification and fun creative course that allows Year 7’s to focus, improve and learn a skill in music, for example playing the guitar. If any Year 7 students want to sign up for this exciting club please come and see us. There are many other exciting things being planned for the boys, including a trip to see the musical “Wicked” next term, a studio visit to Norden Farm for Year 10 and workshops for lower school pupils to look forward too. Not forgetting of course, the Christmas Celebration on 14 December in the Drama block, 7pm… see you there for a festive evening! Mrs McFarlane Head of Music
20
21
Follow us on Twitter/Instagram @ ArtDesborough
22
Miss Rhodes—Curriculum Leader—Art & Photography 23
Information for Parents Our mobile App is now live on both Apple and Google Play Stores; you can stay in touch with our Events, News and receive free push notifications from us!
To download visit the Apple or Google App Stores and use the Username: Desborough Pin/Password: 6345
24
Information for Parents Continued .. DESBOROUGH LEGACY
DESBOROUGH LEGACY DESBOROUGH COLLEGE EMAIL: legacy@desborough-college.net TEL: 01628 762552
DESBOROUGH STANDING ORDER AUTHORITY 2016 -2017 Please return this form to the school office for the attention of Nuria White STUDENT NAME:____________________________________FORM:_____________________ PLEASE COMPLETE IN BLOCK CAPITALS, SIGN AND RETURN TO MRS NURIA WHITE. I WISH TO ESTABLISH A NEW STANDING ORDER AS FOLLOWS: PARENT/GUARDIAN DETAILS:_________________________________________________________ ACCOUNT IN THE NAME OF :__________________________________________________________ BANK & BRANCH NAME:__________________________________________________________________ BRANCH ADRESS:_________________________________________________________________ SORT CODE:______________________________________________________________________ ACCOUNT NO.:____________________________________________________________________
TO PAY: FRIENDS OF DESBOROUGH HSBC : ACCOUNT 90559261 : SORT CODE 40-31-05 AMOUNT PER MONTH:__________________________________ DATE OF FIRST PAYMENT:________________________________ I AM A UK TAX PAYER AND WOULD LIKE TO GIFT AID MY MONTHLY DONATION
SIGNATURE:___________________________________DATE:___________________________
25
Information for Parents Continued ... Desborough Legacy
A big thank you to all members of The Desborough Legacy whose meeting I attended last Thursday evening. I couldn't help but be very impressed by their enthusiasm and determination to raise funds to provide additional opportunities and resources for the boys. They are a great asset to our school. There were some very creative ideas for projects that we could never afford from the school budget and I am confident that their drive and ambition will bring additional benefits to our boys. The meeting, while businesslike, had its lighthearted moments and new members were made to feel very welcome. Could I extend an invitation to all parents who would like to become involved in The Desborough Legacy. It's good fun and you will be raising funds that will enhance the education of your sons.
School Uniform Desborough College now has a tracksuit available to pupils to buy from Goyals in Maidenhead. This can be used during PE sessions, particularly when the colder weather arrives and as part of the boys’ team kit when they compete.
Second Hand Uniform If parents have any second hand uniform, in good condition and would have no objection to donating this to the school, please contact Nuria White in Student Services. Thank you.
Homework Club All students are welcome to attend Homework Club which takes place Monday-Friday from 3.15 until 5.00 pm in Room B10. Maths Sixth Form Tutors attend the session every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday
26
Information for Parents Continued ... Parentview Gives you the chance To tell Ofsted what you think about It would be helpful if you could share your views of Desborough College with Ofsted. Please visit the website below even if you have done this previously.
http://parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/
27
Information for Parents Continued ... Free Hot Meals For Students If you are in receipt of state benefits or you work less than 16 hours per week your son may be entitled to free schools meals. We believe that the FSM is a crucial entitlement to help ensure that all children, independent of their family income should be able to get a nutritious meal in the middle of the day. They also have important health and educational benefits for the children that receive them. All school providers are encouraged to introduce cashless systems so that children in receipt of FSM get this funding automatically. This was one of the reasons to improve our catering service. If you have any further questions, please contact the school on 01628 634505
Cashless Catering for Students Desborough has a cashless catering system in place for all our students and staff. We are working in partnership with Catering Academy to ensure a healthier delivery of food to all its students and staff. Our dining room is open from breakfast onwards and offers hot and cold drinks, snacks, and home cooked meals created by the chef on our site. Samples of the Catering Academy menus can be found on the school website. Once your child is registered for our cashless catering system he/she will be able to buy food in our dining room without the worry of remembering to ensure they have cash with them. The cashless facility has allowed us to provide the students with a quicker service as no money and change is being handled. Please be aware that there is no cash facility at the tills. In addition parents can pay for trips and take advantage of other offers available on-line. Desborough now has a brand new sQuidOnline portal that is quicker and easier to use with a whole host of new features. From 20 October 2016 parents will no longer log in through the old system and will be able to access the website through https://portal.squidcard.com/loginPortal/ To download the sQuid App go to squidcard.com/app. If parents require further information please contact the school.
Next Principal’s Surgery Parents wishing to have a private conversation with me about any issues relating to school are invited to attend my Principal’s surgery. The next one will be held on 25 November 2016 from 8 am to 11 am. These sessions are 10 minute slots. If you wish to have a longer conversation then please book a separate appointment via Nicola Humphries on 01628 762521.
Desborough College Shoppenhangers Road Maidenhead Berkshire SL6 2QB Tel: 01628 634505 Fax: 01628 639263 E-Mail: info@desborough-college.net
28
Information for Parents Continued ...
29
Halloween 2016 A Police message for parents from PC Graham Slater
It may seem as if we’ve only just left the summer holidays behind however Halloween will soon be upon us again on 31st October, which this year falls on the Monday after half term break. In previous years, we have had a few problems in the local area with anti-social behaviour caused by a small number of teenagers who think this period is an excuse to behave in a disorderly way. Examples include vandalism, egg & flour throwing, underage drinking and illegal use of fireworks.Parents,
Parents, please speak with your children if they are planning to go out on Halloween night and evenings across the holiday week. Make sure you know where they will be going, who they will be with and what they plan to do !
In the lead up to this period there has again been a combined effort between a number of local agencies including Police, Berks Fire & Rescue Service and Local Authority staff to try reduce any such problems across the half term week. There will also be increased Police and Community Warden patrols during this period to reassure residents and deter any antisocial acts. Those that do decide to behave in this way will be dealt with firmly.
Please also consider the safety of your children. Trick or Treat is really an activity for younger children who should always be escorted by a responsible adult .Ideally; arrangements should be made in advance with householders that are happy to receive them. Teenagers should know that going around in large groups can be intimidating to many residents, road users and pedestrians. Elderly and vulnerable members of the community can find Halloween a particularly worrying time when they receive repeated calls at their door. Many residents do not want to receive Trick or Treaters at this time and their privacy and peace should be respected and not result in them becoming targets for abuse and vandalism.
You may have also seen recent reports in the national media concerning the issue of “creepy clowns” causing alarm and behaving in a distressing way. Thames Valley Police is treating any such reports very seriously, so again please don’t allow your children to get involved in anything of this nature and please report anything of concern immediately.
For further Halloween advice please contact the Schools Officer or your local Neighbourhood Policing Team via the central police number : 101 Further details can be found on the Thames Valley Police website at : http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/crime-prevention/seasonal-events/seasonal-events-halloween.htm http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/newsevents-pressreleases-item.htm?id=342790
30