Our theme for this issue is Tradition & Culture. We wanted to celebrate the rich diversity of our school, so in this issue you’ll find traditional recipes, cultural clothes around the world and much more
School re-opens for students: Thursday 1st September 2022
School re-opens for students: Tuesday 2 September nd
Autumn Half Term: Mon. 24th October to Fri. 28th October.
October Half Term: 27 - 31 October th st
School re-opens: Mon 31st October
School re-opens: Monday 3 November rd
12 9 6 20 21 24 REVIEWS
@edengirlswf
s a y s
Message from The Principal
Peace be upon you and so may the Mercy of Allaah and His Blessings
All praises to the Almighty, Lord of the Worlds and the Master of our fortunes. Salutations to our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the seal of the Prophets and the guide for all humanity.
The theme of this issue is “Tradition and Culture”, this Qur’aanic teaching seems befitting: “O mankind! We created you from a single pair of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another Verily, the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.” Al-Qur’aan (Surah AlHujurat 49:13)
We can learn three lessons from this verse Firstly, it serves to remind us that we have unity in our diversity, we not only acknowledge but also strive to celebrate the richness of our different cultures and traditions Secondly, it teaches us that the purpose of our diversity is to build mutual understanding and appreciation, not sow seeds of discord. And finally, it affirms that true honour is not found in heritage or nationality, but in Taqwa – God-consciousness and righteousness
I hope you will agree that this issue reflects these values. It celebrates our diversity and uniqueness as individuals, while also highlighting our unity as one community as Eden
This term has also been a significant one for our students. Our Year 11 pupils have shown remarkable resilience and determination as they sat their final exams, even doing so on the day of Eid Their commitment and strength during such a meaningful time is truly commendable. As they now prepare for the next steps beyond Eden, we are incredibly proud of their achievements and the young adults they have become
Our Year 10 students have also risen to the occasion, taking on the challenge of early entry exams with focus, discipline, and a growing sense of responsibility. This experience has not only tested their academic abilities but also helped them develop the confidence and resilience they will need in their final year Many have also taken on leadership roles, participated in enrichment activities, and begun to think more deeply about their future aspirations It has been a pleasure to witness their growth, both as learners and as young people preparing to take on greater responsibilities in the year ahead.
Throughout the term, we have also taken time to mark significant Islamic events with reflection and reverence From the spiritual journey of Hajj and the celebration of Eid al-Adha, to the poignant remembrance of Muharram and Ashura, these moments have offered our students opportunities to deepen their understanding of faith, history, and values These occasions not only connect us to our religious heritage but also remind us of the importance of compassion, sacrifice, and resilience - qualities we strive to nurture in every learner
Beyond the classroom, our students have embraced a wide range of extra-curricular and enrichment opportunities, from sporting events and competitions to leadership programmes such as the Duke of Edinburgh Silver award and community engagement. These experiences are vital in nurturing wellrounded individuals who are confident, compassionate, and curious about the world around them
As we approach the summer holidays, I encourage everyone to take time to rest, reflect, and reconnect with loved ones. May this break be a time of renewal and joy for all – and we look forward to welcoming everyone back in September for a new academic year filled with fresh opportunities, continued growth, and shared success.
Aamena Mayet Principal
CULTURE AND TRADITION Appropriation VS Appreciation
Navigating The Fine Line Between Appreciation and Appropriation in Viral South Asian Trends
In an era of social media and global connectivity, cultural expressions once confined to specific regions have now crossed borders, becoming accessible to all. Nowhere is this more evident than in the way South Asian traditions - particularly clothing, music, food, and festivals - have entered global consciousness. But as bindis sparkle on Coachella fields and lehengas twirl at Western weddings, a crucial question looms: are we witnessing genuine cultural appreciation, or harmful appropriation?
South Asian culture, rich with centuries of history, religion and artistry, has become a global treasure trove for global trendsetters From the intricate patterns of henna to the hypnotic rhythms of Bhangra music and enchanting songs from the Bollywood industry, it's true the aesthetic appeal is undeniable. Yet, when non-South Asians adopt elements of this culture without context, credit, or sensitivity, it often ignites controversy.
A key area of debate is fashion. Traditional South Asian attire - like saris, lehengas, kurtas, and sherwanis - has found its way into music videos, runways, and influencer feeds Celebrities like Beyonce and Kim Kardashian have been both praised and criticised for wearing these garments Critics argue that these displays often strip away the deeper meaning behind the clothes, which are typically tied to cultural events, religious practices, or family heritage. Wearing a lehenga to a Western music festival or donning a bindi as a fashion accessory, ignoring the spiritual and social roots of these items, can come across as insensitive and reductionist.
The use of henna is another hot-button issue. Known as mendhi in South Asian cultures, henna is traditionally applied during weddings, festivals like Eid, Diwali, and other joyous rites of passage When Western influencers use henna purely for aesthetic purposes - calling it “temporary tattoos” or using it to mimic other designs - it erodes the cultural significance tied to its use. Appreciation becomes appropriation when there's no acknowledgment of its origin or meaning.
South Asian music and dance has also gone viral, especially through platforms like TikTok. Choreographies inspired by Bollywood or classical Indian forms are trending, with creators replicating movements and soundtracks without understanding their cultural or spiritual background
Yet, the conversation isn't black and white Many argue that exposure to South Asian culture can foster interest, respect, and possibly a deeper understanding For instance, when a non-South Asian couple wears Bengali attire after being invited and educated about its significance, it leans more toward appreciation than appropriation. The difference often lies in intention, context, and representation. There's also the element of power dynamics to consider. South Asian people have historically been marginalised or mocked for their cultural practices, only to see those same practices praised when adopted by outsiders When young South Asian children were once teased for eating food that “smelled funny” or wearing “weird clothes,” it's painful to watch those same elements turned into exotic novelties by mainstream influencers
The line between cultural appreciation and appropriation is thin, but not invisible. True appreciation involves learning, acknowledgement, and respectful participation. It means crediting sources, understanding the cultural weight of certain practices, and amplifying the voices of those who live and breathe that culture everyday.
In a globalised world, it's natural - and beautiful - for cultures to influence one another But when one group's sacred traditions are reduced to fashion statements or viral trends without context, it's no longer homage, it's erasure The solution isn't cultural segregation, but rather, thoughtful engagement As South Asian culture continues to inspire and enchant globally, it's more important than ever to ask: are we celebrating the culture, or are we just wearing it like a costume?
Tanimah Choudhury
Eden’s Got Talent
Our School Talent Show: A Truly Remarkable Event To Remember
Our school recently held its annual, fantastic talent show, where students shared their amazing talents in front of friends, teachers, and families It was a joyful and exciting morning, filled with a variety of performances
Students recited poems with passion and expression, and others delivered powerful public speeches on meaningful topics A group of students performed a creative and entertaining drama performance, which had the whole audience laughing and left lasting smiles on our faces
There were also beautiful Nasheed performances, where students sang with harmony and heart Some of the most special parts of the morning were the various Qur’an recitations, where students recited verses with clarity, confidence, and respect.
You could tell from each amazing performance how much hard work and practise had gone in to this. The teachers who had played such a big part in this supporting their students reported, “It was rewarding to see them with a boost of confidence and it was a huge relief to see how everything played out seamlessly”.
Our wonderful students reported, “It was a difficult process and exhausting”, but nevertheless they were jaw-dropping and inspiring.
The event was a great success and showcased how talented and hardworking our students truly are, and last but not least our hosts, who this year made the intermissions between each act fun and entertaining, displaying a brilliant attitude and presenting themselves beautifully We are very proud of everyone who took part and can’t wait for the next one!
Tanimah Choudhury
Intergenerational storytelling: Eden Girls’ students retell their families’ migration stories Year 8 drama students at Eden Girls’ School, Waltham Forest explore the topics of immigration, home, belonging and identity in their play ‘The Migration Diaries’ Performed as part of the school end-of-year show ‘Eden’s Got Talent’, ‘The Migration Diaries’ featured a talented cast of year 8 students, each depicting a close relative recollecting aspects of their migration journey to England, in the format of a TV interview
Students recorded and transcribed an interview with a relative before contributing to an exhibition or the onstage performance - ultimately it was most important that ‘everyone was seen in some sort of way’. For their drama teacher, Tata Dimitratou, ‘the journey rather than the end product mattered more’ for this project, but also pride. ‘It was a bit about being proud for me. It was about honouring their relative and to be proud of who they are’.
The exhibition, featured snippets of these interviews combined with images linked to students’ family migration stories, such as personal family photographs or images of things that reminded them of their respective homelands – Pakistan, Ghana, Mauritius and beyond
In Mexico, the Huipil, a sleeveless, loose-fitting tunic that is said to have originated over 2000 years ago, is still widely used as Mexican national dress by women in Mexico and Guatemala.
SUMMER 2025
The Karakou is a long-sleeved, fitted velvet jacket embroidered with golden and silver threads, and it is a traditional Algerian garment originating from Algiers. It was developed in the 19 century, and is an evolution of the Algerian Ghlila, which was part of the local dress of Algeria.
Charmantes are traditional blankets from the central region of Chile, which are woven with double-sided silk and wool thread. The high quality allows them to be inherited from generation to generation.
In Russia, women often wear a dress called a Sarafan. It is a trapezoidal Russian dress consisting of straight, flowing lines, which has a structure inspired by Viking clothing Sarafans were mentioned in chronicles dating back to the year 1376
The Kimono is a wrapped-front garment with square leaves and a rectangular body, and is worn with the left side wrapped over right. The Kimono is traditionally worn with a broad sash (Obi) and originates from Japan.
One of the most popular pieces of Indian attire for women is the Salwar Kameez, which consists of a pair of trousers (Salwar) and a tunic called the Kameez, which was introduced to the Indian subcontinent by Muslims, particularly in the Mughal era
The Dirac is a Somali garment worn by Somali women. It is often made of either chiffon, silk, or velvet. The Dirac was designed for the hot weather of Somalia, hence the name coming from the term, “protector” or “protection”.
This term, a group of year 8 students visited the Black Cultural Archives, on Windrush Square They learned about the Windrush generation - people who arrived in Britain from the Caribbean between 1948 and 1971, being invited to help with labour shortages after World War II Year 8s were split into groups to learn about different amazing artefacts, such as a statue of Sam King (co-founder of the Windrush Foundation and first Black Mayor of Southwark), and a really heavy typewriter that intrigued a lot of students In groups, we then wrote speeches about what we had learned It was fascinating to hear all the groups talking about different ways these people became successful, overcoming all the obstacles in their way, proving that Britain would not be the same without the Windrush generation
In addition to the trip to the Black Cultural Archives, the same group of year 8s experienced a full day of a communication workshop The teacher for the day, Ms Vanessa, lifted the whole class’s energy with her confidence and the way she presented herself She hooked us in by telling us she was going to teach us about a very important skill that we needed for life, and that skill was none other than public speaking
We explored public speaking, guided by the motivational quote: “Life is a stage, so own it ” Using the ‘five S’s’ stride, stand, smile, speak, stay we built confidence We practised mini speeches using the communication triangle: content, structure, and delivery, refining our final speech through peer feedback on a chosen topic
The speeches were performed in a competition in which four students became the finalists: Aisha Hanif (8T), Habiba Shahzad (8A), Sama Mesdoura (8A), and Kiara Acquaah (8R) The students will now edit their speeches, and a couple of these speeches will be sent to the Speakers Trust. Well done to everyone who participated, and always remember to have confidence within yourself, even if people don’t always agree with your opinion If you’re not your biggest fan, who will be?
In May, Soho Theatre Walthamstow opened its doors on Hoe Street after a year of construction Local residents eagerly awaited the new venue, which quickly gained praise for its stunning architecture and welcoming foyer. With over 960 seats, the theatre offers spacious legroom and drink holders, ensuring audience comfort. The friendly atmosphere invites families and friends to enjoy a variety of performances together Its diverse programme reflects the richness of London’s communities, offering a welcome break from screens and a chance to reconnect with local culture Soho Theatre has been a staple of London’s performing arts scene for 25 years at its Dean Street location. Known nationwide, it showcases top names in comedy, theatre, music, and more. It also champions emerging artists, with The Guardian praising it as one of the few venues consistently promoting original work by lesser-known writers and performers Soho Theatre Walthamstow continues this legacy in a building once frequented by Alfred Hitchcock Rated 4 8 out of 5, the venue’s vibrant environment and stunning auditorium are quickly winning hearts. I highly recommend booking tickets especially for December’s pantomime, Aladdin, which is expected to be a sell-out.
Aisha Hanif
Aisha Hanif and Habiba Shahzad
Spirituality & Faith
Tradition vs. Culture in Islam
In Islam, the distinction between tradition and culture is vital Islamic tradition refers to practices rooted in the Qur'an and Sunnah timeless, divine guidance revealed by Allah and exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ These include daily prayers, fasting in Ramadan, and principles of justice, modesty, and compassion Culture, on the other hand, encompasses local customs, languages, clothing, and rituals shaped by geography and history. While Islam respects cultural diversity, it draws a clear line when cultural practices conflict with Islamic teachings For instance, honouring parents is a shared cultural and religious value, but harmful traditions like forced marriage or gender-based injustice have no place in Islam, even if culturally accepted. Muslims are encouraged to preserve their cultural identity as long as it aligns with Islamic ethics The Prophet ﷺ said, “I was sent to perfect good character” (Musnad Ahmad), which includes refining culture with divine morals. True Islamic tradition uplifts, while harmful cultural practices must be reassessed
The Qur'an says: “O mankind, We have created you from male and female and made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another Verily, the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you” (Qur'an 49:13) This verse highlights that diversity in race, culture, and ethnicity is part of God's divine plan It is not a cause for division but a means for understanding and cooperation Superiority is not based on race or status but on piety and righteousness. Islam thus promotes equality, diversity, culture, mutual respect, and unity amongst all people In short, Islam embraces beneficial culture but remains rooted in the unchanging guidance of divine tradition Mr Jasat
Year 8 Faith Trail Trip
On 10th July, year 8 students were lucky enough to experience both church and Masjid, comparing the differences and similarities between the two religious spaces and how people pray in both environments We were kindly welcomed in by Reverend William at St Mark’s Church who spoke to us about the history of the church. We were shown how babies are baptised and a person’s journey in the church throughout their life The main thing that we took away from this visit was the love the people had for the church We had a great time and loved all the activities they had prepared for us!
Thereafter, we made our way to London Central Mosque, where we were warmly welcomed by the staff We began with a tour of the mosque, thoroughly looking at the intricate designs and architecture, and later, we made our way to the Central Mosque ground to have a delicious lunch in the sun, which was provided by the restaurant downstairs! Later, we made our way to the basement, where an exhibition was held, summing up the story of Islam Shortly after, congregational prayer was taking place and a lecture from the imam was being held There were even some shops within the mosque, that sold everything from keychains to books, and even perfumes. Despite it being a very hot day in the sun, we all had an amazing time on the trip with all our staff members!
Year 8 Interfaith Trip
It was an exciting time for year 8 students at both Eden and Willowfield, as they got together for an interfaith workshop at both schools Interfaith week was an amazing opportunity, as they were able to discuss and take part in different activities regarding their culture and background The first meet day was held at Eden and the day started off with an icebreaker, where students were able to interact with each other and learn about each other’s backgrounds We then paired up, wrote stories about our cultures, and played some games together (spoiler alert, Eden won!) We then took Willowfield students on a tour of our school, ate lunch together, and took them to the sports hall for salah We then wrapped up the day by bringing out our special items, talking about their value and, finally, we created a wall of identity, where we could freely express what identity meant to us We all had an amazing time!
During the second meeting of the interfaith project, we visited Willowfield School for a memorable day of learning more about each other We were welcomed into one of their classrooms where we met the Willowfield students and began our activities We were given world maps, and we located where we are from, where we have been and where we would like to go We were then taken on a school tour, and we realised that their school was very big! After the tour, we ate lunch in the canteen with all the students. Then, we created flags in groups that we felt represented us and reflected our identities At the end of the day, it was time to say goodbye and we thanked Willowfield for a very fun day.
Afifah Ashraff and Aroush Akif
Afifah Ashraff and Aroush Akif
Year 7 went on a faith trail trip to London Islamic Cultural Society, a famous mosque that has been visited by Queen Consort Camilla and our mayor Sadiq Khan As part of being a faith school and embracing our religion, we want our pupils to see Islam beyond our school
When they arrived they were met by Imam Kazi Abdul Qadir, who lead a lecture about how the mosque has supported the community for decades and will continue to do its charity work to support the less fortunate Year 7s learnt that the mosque was built because the local community used to congregate in their houses for prayer, but due to the increasing numbers there wasn’t enough space, so the community decided to take action and open up a mosque Mr Jasat has also been an Imam at the mosque for over 10 years, so our school has close connections to this particular place of worship. The sight of the mosque was beautiful, as it architectural work has been carefully constructed, leaving passers-by in awe But inside the mosque, the atmosphere is very peaceful, and it is open to all members of the public.
As Eden emphasises learning about a wide variety of beliefs, the year 7s were also invited to St John’s Baptist Church to deepen their understanding of other religions. The volunteers were very welcoming and the church had many interesting elementsincluding a wall with various names of countries, and it was explained to year 7s that this was to remember all the countries that are currently experiencing war Not only did the group see beautiful statues and stained-glass windows, they also looked at bibles and learned about the old and new testament. It was very exciting to explore and learn about a new religion, and hopefully they remember this for their R.E GCSEs!
In May, our school had a faith inspection – and we’re proud to say that Eden retained its Outstanding judgement! As a student, it was a proud moment to see how our Islamic ethos shines through everything we do, from lessons to wider school life Inspectors saw how we start lessons by reading Surah Fatiha and end with the Dua for forgiveness, helping us stay connected to our faith while learning They also noticed how our school celebrates and includes all faiths, and how we promote British values like respect, tolerance, and responsibility.
I was one of the students chosen to speak to the inspectors They asked how Eden makes us feel safe, included, and valued It was easy to answer – our school feels like one family, where everyone is respected They were also impressed by our faith-based activities: Qur’an competitions, Nasheed performances, charity hampers, fundraisers, and listening to Surah Kahf every Friday. In RE and Humanities, we learn about different religions, which helps us understand and appreciate the diversity around us
Overall, it was a reminder of how special Eden is – a place where faith, learning, and community go hand in hand
Aisha Hanif and Habiba Shahzad
Although this year has been full of lots of fun and excitement, we also have to say goodbye to some friends and teachers, who we will miss very much.
First, we would like to thank Mr Islam, who was a great teacher, he always encouraged us to explore more into geography and always motivated us to keep trying. We always enjoyed hearing his motorcycle stories, especially the ones where he crashed! Thank you for all your funny stories and for encouraging us to be good eco ambassadors for the school We wish you the best on your journey to Qatar!
We will also be saying goodbye to Miss al-Mamun, who was an amazing English and History teacher It was amazing having you as 8R’s form tutor and you will be missed so much Thank you for teaching us and always encouraging us to keep a positive mindset in whatever we do Even when times were hard, you always reminded us that everything is in Allah’s hands and that our Iman must remain strong Thank you so much and good luck in the future!
We would like to thank all our teachers who worked exceptionally hard this year, and especially the teachers that are leaving Eden – we will also be saying goodbye to Miss Patel, Miss Attas, Miss Tasmin, Miss Kadas, Miss Akintade and our amazing librarian, Miss Shaddock. All of your hard work hasn’t gone unrecognised. We wish you luck for everything in the future, and please do come back and visit soon!
Aroush Akif
year 6 transition year 6 transition year 6 transition
We welcomed our new year 6 students to Eden this July They took part in taster lessons and even got to try the school lunch We look forward to welcoming them in September
KS3 CELEBRATION
We celebrated the end of KS3 for Year 9 this year Pupils sat GCSE style assessments with other schools in the trust. Special congratulations are in order to Sumaiya Khan (2nd) and Zaara Hussain (1st) who ranked 1st and 2nd out of 3000 pupils across all schools in English
World Earth Day takes place every year on the 22nd of April. It was first founded in 1970 and is a chance to appreciate the Earth and celebrate its many amazing qualities. The day is dedicated as a reminder of Earth’s importance and honour the environmental movement. Those who celebrate take part in multiple activities- such as marches or making posters on the importance of environmental awareness. Along with the celebrations, World Earth Day is a pivotal day on spreading awareness on the dangers of global warming, and how necessary it is for people to work together to reduce climate change, before it’s too late
Aaliyah Patel
DUKEOF DUKEOF EEDINBURGH DINBURGH WORLD WORLD WORLD
Jaysha Siddiqui
Looking for adventure , fun and fresh air? Even if it’s not for you’ it’s great for making new friends and learning new things. This summer, year 9 and year 10 stepped out of their comfort zone to spend four days in the forest camping and walking for six hours everyday.
The qualification: Apart from the expedition, we also had to do 6 weeks worth of physical, volunteering and skillbased activities in our community to help us learn about new experiences and meet new people.
In our practice, for the first two days, we took a coach to the amazing countryside of Eastbourne: we learned about first aid, how to navigate maps and pack our bags, and we took a short walk on the first day We camped out at night and cooked our food in portable stovessome meals better than others but we all improved over the duration of our stay
(thankfully)
In the real expedition we were completely left to use our own resources to find our way. The first day was 11km and the second was 9km, as we traversed the beauty of the South Downs.
RILLIANTCLUB
DISEASE DETECTIVES
A group of year 8’s and 9’s were very fortunate to participate in the Brilliant Club Scholars Programme where they had the opportunity to experience university-like learning. They explored the topic of infectious diseases with their PHD tutor, Dr. Becky Wells. The students were split into 2 groups and each had weekly tutorials. They began with their baseline assignment which helped them to develop their essay writing skills, in preparation for their 2,000word final essay, which would be marked at an undergraduate level. The pupils also made very creative presentations where there was role-playing and and even a rap about pathogens! In every tutorial, they had homework to hand in to the hub where they would get feedback and learn how to improve their writing skills. Eventually came the final essay, where everyone thoroughly prepared, using the draft essay and the feedback to specially craft the paragraphs. As a celebration of all their hard work, they were lucky enough to get the chance to explore UCL university for their graduation trip
Habiba Shahzad
PUPPET SHOW
Year 7 Drama students spent this term working on a puppet show performance called “The Three Little Wolves” They designed sets, rehearsed lines and worked collaboratively to put on a great show They debuted their show at Hillyfield Primary School to pupils in Reception and followed it up with another performance to year 7.
Congratulationstothegraduates!
Khadega Abdalmageed (8T), Ameerah Abdul-Hye (8T), Nusaiba Ahmad (8T)
Leavers Day took place on the 16 of June 2025, and was an afternoon of fun for our year 11s. Students designed the back of their leavers shirts, which were then signed by staff and peers. The day gave students an opportunity to say goodbye to their teachers and classmates, before they leave Eden, and go on to study A levels Teachers also came together to give an assembly to the students to highlight their appreciation for their hard work, and wish them the best th
Prom Prom Prom
Three days later, on the 19 of June, Eden held their annual prom. Students arrived at 6:30 PM, dressed in th beautiful dresses. Prom is a night of celebration - dedicated to reward and honour the hard work put in by our year 11s over the course of their time at Eden Teachers, and the head and deputy head girls gave speeches wishing the year group well in their future aspirations Students received awards such as “most independent” and “most likely to be a Bollywood actress”, among many others. After this, two prom queens were selected and one prom king. The night ended with students playing games amongst each other, before officially leaving Eden. We wish them all the best in their future.
Aaliyah Patel
CAREERS & LEADERSHIP
This year, Year 9 took part in Career Interviews, where they were given the opportunity to explore different careers and what they can do in the future Students were given an insight into different jobs they could have and how they can gain qualifications to achieve their goals.
Career interviews for students can be an impactful experience that provides numerous benefits By discussing career options with professionals in various fields, students can gain a better understanding of the skills and qualifications required for success in their desired occupations, as well as the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges associated with different positions Additionally, interviews can also provide valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to build professional relationships and potentially open doors for future job opportunities. Participating in interviews can also help students to develop their communication skills, improve their critical thinking abilities, and boost their confidence levels.
Boss Day Boss Day Boss Day
On Wednesday 19 July, year 10 had their annual Boss Day Students dressed in formal attire and took part in many workshops, with the aim of preparing them for life after secondary. These included a CV writing workshop - in which students learnt about the do’s and don’ts of making a CV, and an "All about Me” workshop - in which students were given a list of weaknesses (such as punctuality) - that can impact your likelihood of receiving a job, and how to combat them. Year 10s were also given the opportunity to have a mock interview with people from a range of companies, and get feedback about what they could improve on Lastly, year 10s had the Careers Fair, in which they could meet with students/ professors of various sixth forms and colleges to learn about the different options available to them, and give them an idea of what they could do in their future
Aaliyah Patel
Recipes
Recipes
How to make Sugar Handesh! How to make Sugar Handesh! How to make Sugar Handesh!
Ingredients
2 cups plain flour
1/2 cup rice flour (optional)
1 cup muscovado sugar
1/4 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
Water as needed
1: In a bowl measure the plain flour, rice flour (if using it) Muscovado sugar and granulated sugar. Whisk together.
2: Gradually add water to the ingredients until you have a smooth batter, not too thick or too thin Leave the batter covered to rest for 1 hour before frying
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cup yoghurt
1 can evaporated milk
1 can condensed milk
a pinch of cardamom powder (optional) For garnish
Chopped pistachios
3: Heat oil in a round pan suitable for deep frying Test oil by dropping a little bit of batter: if it rises immediately it's hot enough. Using a small cup or ladle, pour batter into the hot oil: let it rise, pour oil over to puff up, then flip and fry until golden brown on both sides.
4: Remove and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve with hot tea (or eat it by itself) and enjoy.
1: In a mixing bowl combine yoghurt, evaporated and condensed milk. Whisk thoroughly.
2:Pour it into a baking dish or ramekins.
3:Sprinkle cardamom powder over it.
4:Bake it at 350 degrees for 30 minutes (ramekins)
Few strands of saffron (optional)
45 minutes if using a baking dish.
5: Remove from oven and set aside. Once cooled, garnish with chopped pistachios and saffron threads
6: Refrigerate for 2 - 3 hours before serving
Recipes
Ingredients:
Base:
Recipes
1: Butter the cake tin Crush the digestive biscuits in a food bag with a rolling pin (or a shoe?)
110g digestive biscuits (7 or 8)
50g butter
25g light brown soft sugar
Topping:
500g soft cheese
100g icing sugar
5 drops vanilla essence
280ml double cream
Topping 2:
1tsp vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream (240g)
30g icing sugar
Ingredients:
500g beef/lamb/chicken mince
Pinch of salt
1 heaped tsp garlic paste
1 heaped tsp ginger paste
1 heaped tsp green chutney (coriander and green chillies blitzed)
1 heaped tsp garam masala
¾ medium onion, finely chopped
1-3 green chillies, finely chopped (add more chillies if you like it spicy)
1 small handful of coriander leaves, chopped
2 eggs, beaten
2: Melt the butter in a saucepan, then take off the heat and stir in the brown sugar and biscuit crumbs.
3: Add to the cake tin and then chill in the freezer.
4: Whisk together the soft cheese, sugar, and vanilla drops until smooth and creamy Then whisk in the double cream
5: Add to the base and let it chill for a couple of hours.
6: Mix together the sour cream, icing sugar, and vanilla. Spread the mixture over the top of the cooled cheesecake, and refrigerate until ready to serve
The perfect summer snack! The perfect summer snack! The perfect summer snack!
1: In a pan, add the minced meat and, using the back of your spoon, break up all the clumps
2: Add in the salt, garlic paste, ginger paste, and green chutney, and mix it up Leave this to cook on a medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat starts to brown and dry up.
3: Once the mince is almost dry, add in the onions, green chillies and coriander leaves. Stir this in and turn off the heat. Leave this to sit for a few minutes, and in the meantime, remove your puff pastry roll from the fridge and preheat your oven to 200C/180C Fan/Gas
Mark 6
4: Assembling the pastry: Cut your puff pastry sheet into 3 large rectangles Dip your fingers into a bowl of water and rub it against one of the long sides of the pastry rectangle. Place your meat mixture on the opposite side of the pastry.
5: Drizzle your beaten eggs into the meat mixture and then start to roll up the pastry.
6: Be sure to fill up the ends of the rolled up pastry tube with more mince and a little egg drizzle
7: Slice up the pastry roll and place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper Using a pastry brush, brush each pastry with the egg mixture and place in the oven to cook
8: Cook until golden and serve with a chutney of your choice.
SPORTS & ENRICHMENT
IThis term has been filled with incredible sporting opportunities at Eden, and we would like to begin by thanking our dedicated PE team – Ms Ashraff, Ms Kadas and Ms Akintade – for their unwavering commitment to sports leadership and enrichment across the school.
From competitive events to confidence-building activities, our pupils have had the chance to shine. In May, Year 8 students were treated to a memorable trip to Lee Valley Ice Rink, organised by Miss Ashraff and Miss Kadas. For many, it was their first time on the ice, but they showed great perseverance and teamwork. It was inspiring to see students encouraging one another, getting back up after a fall, and supporting their friends A few experienced skaters, such as Aaishah Bintjamal and Sarah Haque, amazed everyone with their elegant glides across the rink.
Beyond the rink, a group of Year 7 and 8 students were selected to take part in leadership training through an after-school cricket club, coached by professionals from Essex Cricket These sessions helped pupils build communication, planning and reflection skills through the STEP model: Space, Task, Equipment and People. Pupils created minigames to help younger children enjoy and understand the basics of cricket – a brilliant way to develop their own leadership and mentoring abilities.
In addition, our sports leaders supported Key Stage 2 pupils in multi-sport activities and helped run events for younger pupils with confidence and maturity. Football training sessions in partnership with AFC Leyton have also been a highlight, offering girls the opportunity to develop their football skills with expert coaching.
We ended the term with a vibrant Sports Day for Years 7, 8 and 9 – a celebration of effort, energy and team spirit
We are proud of all our pupils who took part in sports this term and look forward to more exciting opportunities in the new academic year!
Writing Competition:
What is Grim tales?
Grim Tales is a competition for young writers to provide a challenge for 11–18-year-olds It is a national competition available for all students to enter. This year ’ s theme was ‘eerie echoes’, and students had to create an original, 100-word short story using a range of literary methods and a frightening plot We had a variety of topics we could write about, such as turning a universally recognised heroic character into a villain, or twisting a classic fairytale into one where unexpected events take place. We had a few weeks to craft our remarkable sagas, and we used all our potential and creativity The winners will have a lasting memory to show for it, as their stories will be published in an anthology, and they can mention the experience for future references and on their CVs!
Grim Tales was a challenging task; trying to keep the story concise and thorough, while competing against thousands of other contestants nationwide. The competition boosts students’ confidence and encourages them to enjoy writing In the end, we were extremely lucky to have four participants from year 8 that were selected to be published in a book and receive a few prizes too! Congratulations to Aroush Akif (8R), Aisha Hanif (8T), Hannah Salahuddin (8A) and Samia Siad (8T)! They will now be published in the new edition of Grim Tales: Eerie Echoes Congratulations again to all those who participated!
National WritingDay National WritingDay
What is National Writing Day all about?
National Writing Day is an engaging, annual celebration that invites the people of the UK to experience and appreciate the joys of creative writing This occasion aims to kindle a spark of passion and talent into those who are interested in being able to craft their own stories The charity First Story works hard to ensure every person, especially children and young adults, develops a love for writing
This day is so significant because it allows one’s imagination to explode with ideas that can be formed through written masterpieces Writing can boost creativity, help form connections with others and improve mental heath; it can also be the key to finding one’s inner voice
How can you celebrate national Writing Day?
You can express your creativity and passion for writing in many different ways: sculpting paragraphs with the resources around you, putting together a heartfelt letter, or even entering into a writing competition! A few examples of renowned authors who rose to success through local writing contests are Kate Atkinson, Gail Honeyman, and even Mary Shelley.
Aroush Akif and Aisha Hanif
Asma Pirbhai
What Is Mental Awareness Week?
Mental Health Awareness Week MentalHealth AwarenessWeek
(12 - 18 May 2025)
(12 - 18 May 2025)
Mental Health Awareness Week is a time of the year dedicated to spreading helpful information about the subject and eradicating any stigmas within it The week usually involves funded activities and workshops led by the Mental Health Foundation to focus solely on this serious topic while maintaining an engaging session of education The internationally recognised symbol is a green ribbon that can be displayed or worn as a form of awareness of disorders such as bipolar disorder and depression.
How can you celebrate Mental Heath Awareness Week?
You can celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week by taking part in the events hosted by your local community, such as wearing the signature colour green on certain days There are also workshops available, as well as work from the charity itself Even a post on social media counts!
Every year, the week presents itself with a new theme as representation for the coming activities The theme for this year is ‘COMMUNITY’ which was chosen to champion the importance of those around us and how a world of unity is extremely vital. Mental Health Awareness Week is a refreshing period of time strengthened by empowering people who ensure the knowledge and understanding of the natural human mind can reach and support every human being.
What is National Art Week?
national weekART
National Art Week is an occasion which champions the boundless creativity and beauty within art Celebrating this week means you get to immerse yourself in the wonderful world of drawing, painting, sculpting or carving. It can also be a way of expressing your feelings and perceptions towards many different things.
For this term, National Art Week is recognised through a range of exciting factors that everyone is able to enjoy These include Create Week, Access All Arts Week, and Birkbeck Arts Week Despite the array of stimulating activities, each component ensures the entire week revolves around the joys of creativity and having a technicoloured imagination
What do we celebrate?
Create Week is all about experimenting through painting, crafting, film making, and more. This event was funded by ‘Create’, an arts charity, and it also hosts an interactive social media challenge that provides the winner with £100 worth of art supplies
Access All Arts Week is all about learning and absorbing the knowledge of photography, drawing, producing, and more, live from well-known professionals
Birkbeck Arts Week is all about showcasing the talents of several students, scholars, practitioners and associates. The event is hosted by the art school itself, providing thrilling masterclasses and workshops for every enthusiast
People generally celebrate by going to art museums, conventions, competitions and more Some even create their own pieces and foster a new talent or skill
Asma Pirbhai
Bletchley Park
LOCATION: Milton Keynes
MISSION: To break enemy codes and gather secret intelligence to help win WWII
Historical importance
DecodingtheWar
Impact on today
During WW2, Bletchley Park was Britain’s top-secret codebreaking centre: thousands who worked there were sworn to silence - not even their family were aware It was only until 1970, 25 years after the war had ended, that the role of Bletchley was publicly known Young people, most of them women, were recruited to help with the codebreaking efforts Historians believe this work shortened the war by two years They broke complex codes like Enigma and Lorenz, providing crucial information to the allies
International contributions
Bletchley Park’s success actually started with crucial help from Polish codebreakers, who shared early breakthroughs on the Enigma machine prior to the war The Polish Cipher Bureau had already built replicas of the Enigma and had developed key methods for cracking it (passed to Britain and France in 1939) One memorable figure is Marian Rejewski, who used advanced mathematics to understand the Enigma machine and designed a previous version of the Bombe Encryption machine by Alan Turing. People from many allied nations like France, the US and the Commonwealth contributed quite a bit to the codebreaking effort
The UK Mathematics Trust held their annual maths competition for KS3, for students across the globe to foster a passion for engaging math challenges Participants are tested in various aspects of maths to test their skills and logic, and UKMT aims to promote a widespread maths education
Once the competition is completed, students receive bronze for the top 30 per cent, silver for the top 20 per cent, and gold for the highest achievers that get into the top 10 per cent Students who tried their best but did not receive a ranking are gifted with participation Privileged students with great mathematical potential are invited to the ‘junior kangaroos’, where they are given an even bigger challenge Then comes the maths Olympiad, for pupils who get an exceptional result on the junior kangaroos
In conclusion, the UKMT challenge allows students to fulfil their hidden potential in maths It entices the students to learn from their past mistakes and incorrect answers, to understand which topics they should try to focus on, so next time they see progress and better results. The UKMT is used to build on a maths foundation but also instils vital life skills such as confidence and perseverance
The work carried out at Bletchley laid the foundations for modern computing and cybersecurity, and inspired the early development of the first computers: the colossus, built to break the Lorenz cipher, is considered one of the first programmable electronic computers in history Bletchley employed thousands of people from diverse backgrounds, showing that varied teams get better results Today, Bletchley Park is a museum and educational centre inspiring visitors to learn more about WW2 history, computing and critical thinking through handson engagement It champions the legacy of those who worked behind the scenes to help our country and would otherwise have remained unknown, such as Alan Turing. Over 75 per cent of Bletchley Park’s workforce were women, many of whom played key roles in codebreaking, operating machines, and analysis
Our visit
As a part of our Computer Science learning, year 9 explored and learned about Bletchley Park: we took part in a Lorenz codebreaking activity, and explored multiple museums and exhibitions about WW2, the history of computers and the history and future of the digital world: where it started and what’s to come. On our self-guided tour we passed through a beautiful landscape full of lakes, greenery, gardens, leisure and grand architecture The overall experience combined history, technology, and nature in a unique way
Congratulations to our winners!
Bronze:
Samarah Abdullah (Yr7) Momina Ali (Yr7) Yusra Asad (Yr7) Hafsa Rahman (Yr7) Aaisha Latif (Yr7) Afifah Ashraff (Yr8) Alishba Aziz (Yr8) Syeda Fatima (Yr8) Aiza Khalid (Yr8) Ayesha Khan (Yr8) Hamna Mir (Yr8) Iman Muntala (Yr8) Maisara Zohir (Yr8)
Silver:
Zahra Imran (Yr7) Zainah Hasan (Yr7) Aroush Akif (Yr8) Khadega Abdalmageed (Yr8) Sana Khan (Yr8)
Rahmah Salahuddin (Yr8)
Gold:
Ruqayyah Javid (Yr8)
Aisha Hanif (Yr8) - invited to the junior Kangaroo
Habiba Shahzad (Yr8) - invited to the junior Kangaroo
Aisha Hanif
Jaysha Siddiqui
Triptastic
To celebrate a year of hard work, Year 8 were treated to an exciting end-of-year trip to Southend-on-Sea, organised by our SLT and staff Despite the heat and long journey, spirits were high as we arrived to sunny views of the beach, murals – and of course, thrilling rollercoasters! As soon as the gates opened, the fun began Students enjoyed rides, arcade games, slushies and food to keep cool, and even managed to get some of the teachers and SLT on the rides! A special thank you to Mr Ahmed for surprising us with delicious cinnamon doughnuts – a real highlight of the day. It was wonderful to see everyone enjoying themselves, from water slides to rollercoasters. Thank you to the staff who organised such a fun and memorable day. It was the perfect way to end the school year and celebrate everything we’ve achieved together.
After a busy term and stressful exams, the long-awaited Thorpe Park trip finally took place on Thursday 10th July 2025
Year 9 and 10 students set off, buzzing with excitement. On arrival, we were met with towering thrill rides – especially Hyperia, which some say is visible from Heathrow!
The park had something for everyone Some braved Stealth, the UK’s fastest coaster, launching from 0 to 80 mph in under two seconds Others screamed through Saw’s terrifying drops, while many got drenched on Tidal Wave Beyond the adrenaline, the day gave us time to relax, laugh, and bond with friends before the summer break. As we returned, exhausted but happy, we reflected on a day full of unforgettable memories
Year 7 pupils headed across the English channel to Boulogne They visited a quaint French street, relaxed on the beach and for most it was their first time on a ferry
Aroush Akif
Ashalina Haider
R E V I E W S
This Story is a Lie by Benjamin Dean
This Story is a Lie is a Young Adult novel written by Benjamin Dean, with themes such as deception, friendship and competition Part of the World Book Day 2025 collection, the story begins with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for pupils to achieve their dream career. There are only a few spaces, and most of the school assumes that a talented group called The Perfect Four will get in, but only three of them are nominated, leaving one space open. Harley Matthews, the main character, is surprisingly given a place in the competition, but is adjusting to suddenly being in the school’s spotlight, after years of hiding in the background He soon faces lifethreatening situations as he’s targeted by envious classmates
Later on in the novel, many mysterious events occur that cause each of the nominees to be kicked out of the competition, except for Harley, leading him to win. As the book progresses, the reasons behind the the mysterious acts happening around the school are revealed, as well as who the true villain of the story
In this short book, Dean successfully covers difficult themes such as betrayal and having faith in your abilities. It empowers people to persevere when you have a goal you want to achieve. One criticism is that the story at the end doesn’t quite seem finished, which makes the reader question why there wasn’t a more gripping cliffhanger.
Aisha Hanif
When Life Gives You Tangerines
When Life GIves You Tangerines is a rare gem that manages to be both emotionally stirring and quietly powerful Set against the scenic backdrop of Jeju island, this K-drama offers more than just beautiful cinematography - it delivers a poignant story about growth, healing and second chances.
At the heart of the series is the endearing relationship between the two leads, whose chemistry is so natural and raw it makes every moment between them feel deeply personal The characters are flawed yet lovable, and their journeys are portrayed with a subtle realism that never feels forced or overly dramatic. What sets this drama apart is how it weaves small, everyday struggles - family tensions, lost dreams, and the search for identity - into a story that feels universally relatable The use of tangerines as a metaphor for resilience and sweetness in adversity is surprisingly moving, and the writing is laced with gentle wisdom and moments of quiet humour.
The supporting cast is equally compelling, the soundtrack is soulful, and the pacing is just right, unfolding slowly, like a good cup of tea. It's the kind of show that leaves you thinking about life a little differently, and maybe even inspires you to slow down and appreciate the simple joys
Whether you're a seasoned K-drama fan or a newcomer looking for something meaningful, When Life Gives You Tangerines is a deeply satisfying watch that stays with you long after the final episode Tanimah Choudhury
R E V I E W S
Sunrise on the Reaping
Sunrise on the Reaping is the latest book in Suzanne Collins’ Hunger Games series, and is set 24 years before the events of the original trilogy The book focuses on the life of 16-year-old Haymitch, who takes part in the Second Quarter Quell of the Games, and his journey to becoming the victor of District 12 It features many plot twists and betrayals, highlighting the brutality of Panem’s leadership, and the struggles faced by the districts after the rebellion.
In my opinion, Sunrise on the Reaping is an amazing book, which highlights the desperation of survival, and the detrimental effects it has on those forced to go through it. The pain and suffering showcased through Haymitch’s character, and the destruction his character faces after the Games, provides a depth to his character, which aids in understanding his behaviour in the original trilogy
Overall, Sunrise on the Reaping is a thrilling and devastating book, which highlights the severity of corruption prominent within Panem, and the way despair can transform people into killers who are forced to do whatever it takes to survive...
Aaliyah Patel
20th Century Girl
20th Century Girl, set in 1999, is a bittersweet high school movie that follows the first love and friendships of a teenage girl, Na Bo-ra Na Bo-ra has her eyes set on a boy for her lovesick best friend, called Baek Hyun-jin. However, things become complicated when she falls in love with Hyun-jin’s best friend, Poong Woon-hoo, who is introduced when he and Hyun-jin join the broadcasting club. As Bo-ra and Woon-hoo become closer, they enter a battle between love and friendship, as confusion and heartbreak takes place.
This heart-warming drama captures youthful friendships perfectly, while also tugging at your heartstrings with its bittersweet final arcs, as it blurs between romance and tragedy as Bo-ra is separated from her first love This movie depicts how Bo-ra will forever be a ‘20th-century girl’ because of how she is unable to move on from her first relationship, and the beauty of how love still prevails even beyond their lifetime.
In my opinion, this movie was an emotional rollercoaster; the aesthetics of the 90s, along with the nostalgic presentation of a Korean high school, emphasised a passionate atmosphere, which felt comforting to watch The characters represented high school love and the relationships you develop in those vulnerable but exciting years. This is just one of those movies with the perfect appeal that overwhelms you with reminiscence and nostalgia. Hajar Hateb
