a d v e n t u r e o n t h e " B r i d g e B e t w e e n
T w o C o n t i n e n t s , "
w h i c h s p a n s t h e
E u r a s i a n a n d N o r t h
A m e r i c a n t e c t o n i c
p l a t e s — a n
u n f o r g e t t a b l e s t a r t
t o o u r f i v e - d a y
j o u r n e y .
A t H v e r a g e r d i G e o t h e r m a l P a r k , p u p i l s
e x p e r i e n c e d a u n i q u e c u l i n a r y t r e a t , e n j o y i n g
e g g s b o i l e d t o p e r f e c t i o n i n t h e n a t u r a l h o t
s p r i n g s . W e t h e n e x p l o r e d T h i n g v e l l i r N a t i o n a l
P a r k , a s i t e o f i m m e n s e h i s t o r i c a l s i g n i f i c a n c e ,
a s i t w a s c h o s e n i n 9 3 0 A D a s t h e l o c a t i o n f o r
t h e w o r l d ’ s f i r s t d e m o c r a t i c p a r l i a m e n t , a n
o p e n - a i r a s s e m b l y t h a t s h a p e d I c e l a n d ’ s h i s t o r y .
LAND OF FIRE & ICE.
Next, we visited Efsti-Dalur II, a charming family-run farm, where pupils indulged in delicious homemade ice cream before continuing on to Geysir National Park. There, we witnessed the breathtaking power of Strokkur Geysir, which erupts 20 to 40 meters into the air every 6 to 8 minutes—a truly mesmerizing display of nature.
Our journey then took us to Gullfoss, Iceland’s most famous waterfall. As the mighty Hvítá River plunges 32 meters into a 70-meter canyon, the mist creates stunning rainbows in the sunlight—a picture-perfect moment.
LAND OF FIRE & ICE.
Day 3 saw us visiting the Lava Centre to get a truly amazing interactive journey of nature's epic forces that shape our planet and created Iceland. The LAVA Centre features an interactive exhibition exploring the art and science of geology and the volcanic systems in Iceland. Pupils felt the forces of nature as they experienced an earthquake and explored the wonders of volcanoes through interactive computers and a cinema auditorium
Reynisfjara, near the village of Vík, is home to Iceland’s famous black sand beach, formed from cooled lava that once flowed into the ocean during volcanic eruptions. Over time, the relentless waves have broken down the lava, creating the beach’s distinctive black sand. Renowned for its striking basalt columns and awe-inspiring yet dangerous Atlantic waves, Reynisfjara is a breathtaking but formidable natural wonder.
The breathtaking Skógafoss waterfall, standing an impressive 60 meters high and 25 meters wide, set the scene for our next stop. As the powerful cascade plunged into the pool below, it created a dramatic spray that, when caught by the sunlight, transformed into countless shimmering rainbows. Several pupils braved the 500-step climb to the top of the cliff, where they were rewarded with a spectacular view of the falls from above.
SÓLHEIMAJÖKULL
Solheimajokull Glacier was one of the most spectacular highlights of day 3. About eight kilometres long and two kilometres wide, Sólheimajökull is an impressive outlet glacier of the icecap of Myrdalsjokull. Sólheimajökull is shrinking rapidly and a glacier lagoon at its base reveals how quickly it is receding: the length of an Olympic swimming pool every year.
GLACIER G l a c i e r
Few places on Earth offer the chance to stand at the edge of an ancient frozen realm, but Sólheimajökull glacier makes it possible. Equipped with crampons and ice picks, students ascended this breathtaking glacier, where layers of ashen black from past eruptions contrast sharply against its shimmering white ice. Jagged crevasses and towering ridges carved a surreal landscape, leading to a perfect vantage point to take in the glacier’s immense scale and majesty nestled between the mighty volcanoes of Katla and Eyjafjallajökull.
D S F O S S
S E L J A L A
Our final destination on Day 3 led us to one of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders—the majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Cascading 65 meters, this spectacular waterfall offered our adventurous pupils the thrilling opportunity to navigate the slippery pathway that winds behind the falls into a wide cavern, providing a truly unique and immersive viewing experience.
S K Y L A G O O N
Day 4 started with a visit to Hveradalir. A high temperature geothermal area that is part of the Hengill volcanic system. Walkways across the geothermal field allowed pupils to take in the sights, sounds and smells of this active geothermal area, consisting of steaming fumaroles, boiling hot springs and bubbling mud pools.
Next, we visited the Sky Lagoon, a stunning geothermal spa just outside Reykjavík. Students immersed themselves in the serene infinity pool and sauna, both offering breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean. Some embraced the challenge of the icy plunge part of the seven-step Skjól ritual of Icelandic bathing culture. This immersive experience also included a revitalizing mist, evoking Iceland’s ancient winds and gentle rain, a detoxifying body scrub, the soothing heat of a steam room, and a refreshing krækiber berry elixir to conclude the journey.
Photo credits: Sky Lagoon by Pursuit
K
After unwinding at the Sky Lagoon, we headed to The LAVA SHOW the only live lava show in the world. This incredible experience recreates a volcanic eruption by superheating real lava to a blistering 1,100°C (2,000°F) before pouring it into a showroom filled with spectators Students felt the searing heat radiating from the molten rock and listened as the lava crackled and moved, bringing the raw power of nature to life before their eyes.
Y K J A V
E
R
On to Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital and largest city—a vibrant and charming destination that blends rich cultural attractions with a distinct Nordic atmosphere. One of the highlights was visiting the striking Hallgrímskirkja, Iceland’s largest church and one of the tallest structures in the country, standing at an impressive 74.5 meters.
Students also explored Reykjavík’s bustling shopping streets, seizing the opportunity to pick up souvenirs before we embarked on our journey home on Day 5 to conclude our Icelandic Adventure.
On the 6th March we marked World Book Day with a series of engaging reading activities that brought the joy of books to life. This annual celebration honours authors, illustrators, and literature while inspiring children and families to embrace the magic of reading because the pleasure of reading has the power to transform lives.
Reading for pleasure has the power to transform pupils’ academic success and personal well-being, sparking their imagination and excitement for learning In March, the English Department launched the Imagination in Ink pop-up Book Fair, bringing a variety of books directly to the students.
Pupils had the opportunity to visit the fair during their English lessons or at lunchtime, where they could browse a diverse selection of books and discover new stories to enjoy.
In March we invited parents and carers to our Pies, Peas, and GCSEs Evening, a key event designed to support both students and families as we approach this crucial stage of the academic year
This evening provided essential information on exam arrangements and key updates to help support students through their GCSE journey. It was also an opportunity to celebrate the hard work and achievements of our Year 11 students so far. And of course, no good gathering would be complete without a warm serving of pies and peas!
Year 11’s Get a Sneak Peek at Success! Mock GCSE Results Land Just in Time for Easter Prep
Year 11’s attended their Mock GCSE Results ceremony in March. We could not be prouder of our Year 11 pupils and hope that this opportunity will allow pupils to examine how they will move forward in preparation for their upcoming exams after Easter
YEAR
Year 10 pupils embarked on a field trip to Liverpool’s Albert Docks in March as part of their Geography GCSE studies. They conducted
we celebrated ‘Enrichment Day’! The day was packed with awesome curriculum-based activities, thrilling Bingo games, creative Easter crafts, and exciting prize draws. The canteen served up delicious hot dogs and pies, keeping everyone fuelled for the fun, and we welcomed the much-anticipated return of Charlie’s Whippy, serving
Other lucky pupils were in for a day of thrills and non-stop excitement as they escaped for Alton Towers theme park, while another expedition departed for a wild adventure to explore Chester Zoo, coming face-to-face with incredible animals and discovering the amazing world of conservation From thrilling rides to roaring wildlife, it was a day packed with unforgettable memories!
Sp r ingSucc s
CHEER CHAMP HEADS TO FLORIDA FOR GLOBAL GLORY!
Congratulations to Megan in Year 10 for her incredible achievements at the Cheer City Winter Spectacular in Stoke-on-Trent in February! Her team secured 1st Place, earning the title of Grand Champions, and Allstar Worlds Bid winners! An outstanding accomplishment!
Megan will also take on some of the world’s top cheerleading teams when she travels to Florida in April to represent Crimson Heat Phoenix Hydra at the All-Star World Championships. We wish her the very best of luck!
OSCAR RACES TO GLORY!
YEAR 8 STAR SPRINTS, JUMPS & CONQUERS HIS WAY TO NATIONAL XC & TRIPLE GOLD WINS!
Huge congratulations to Oscar in Year 8 for his incredible achievement! He was selected to represent Greater Manchester in the inter-county XC final in Nottingham, competing against 451 of the best young runners from across the UK. The competition was fierce, and Oscar delivered an outstanding performance, finishing 87th overall, placing 2nd in the Greater Manchester team, and securing a prestigious top 100 ranking.
Earlier this year, in January, Oscar also dominated his sports hall events, winning gold and being crowned Greater Manchester champion in the standing triple jump, long jump, and 6-lap race a phenomenal achievement that showcases his all-around athletic talent. Well done, Oscar!
JOSHUA KICKS IT UP A NOTCH!
A huge congratulations to Joshua in Year 10 for his outstanding achievement over the weekend! He participated in the Kyu gradings at the Sei-Do-Kan Shotokan Karate Club, showcasing incredible determination and dedication throughout the afternoon. By the end of the day, Joshua earned his red belt and was honoured with a trophy for the Best Kata Performance. Well done, Joshua!
TIASCORESBIG:PLAYE MATCHFORENGLAN AGAINSTSPAI
Congratulations to Tia who has play for the U15 England Women's Footba against both the Scottish and Spani teams and on securing the award of the match in the Spanish fixture wit the game .This is an outstanding ac at an International level . Well done
CAMERON CALLS THE SHOTS!
YEAR 10 PUPIL STEPS UP AS TOUCH JUDGE FOR MAJOR WOMEN’S FINAL!
Congratulations to Cameron in Year 10 for being selected as t h j d f th W ' R b L A i ti
Miss Clegg’s Year 10 food technology pupils showcased their culinary skills, this time by baking irresistibly buttery brioche buns and pairing them with oven-cooked breaded chicken and crisp salad to craft a mouthwatering chicken burger.
This time pupils prepared incredible cheesecake desserts. By blending delicious ingredients with their creativity, they crafted desserts that are not only mouthwatering but also true works of art.
YEAR8SAY "BONJOUR!"
Our Year 8 French students were over the moon to exchange letters with their pen pals in Paris! After getting their first letters from their French friends, they put in lots of effort to write back with thoughtful responses and are now counting down the days to hear from them again!
MFL PUPILS PEN THEIR WAY TO FRIENDSHIPS!
STEINBECK’S STORY STEALS THE SPOTLIGHT:
Year 9 Pupils Experience Of Mice and Men at the Octagon!
Pupils were in for a theatrical treat in April when the English department took year 9s to the Octagon Theatre in Bolton to see a gripping tale of hope and friendship in a production based on JOHN STEINBECK's 'Of Mice and Men.' First published in 1937, this timeless tale of friendship, migration, and prejudice continues to captivate audiences The play delivered a gripping and emotionally charged performance that left a lasting impression on all who attended
Egg-straEffortPaysOff!
Congratulations to our five lucky Easte competition winners: Mia Rose, Gaile, Jade, Mason, and Lily! These dedicate pupils earned a delicious Easter egg b attending the most extracurricular club between March 24th and 28th. Well do to all!
PupilsandStaffHatcha ColourfulEasterDisplay
As part of the Enrichment Day activities, pupils and pastoral staff embraced their creativity to craft this beautifully vibrant Easter display Soon, it will be showcased at St. Catherine of Siena and All Saints Church in Golborne, just in time for Easter Sunday
