As we reach the end of a long and busy term, I reflect on this edition of Headlines and feel enormously grateful to the staff and parents who support our young people to engage fully with school life and make the most of all that is available to them.
At the end of this term we have shared with them a reflection of the vast number of opportunities available over term 1 and 2 as well as the day-to-day high quality learning that they have engaged with so purposefully. There is a lot they can feel very proud of and feel some extra self-esteem as they approach a new year and a new term.
We have seen this term, evidence of the high quality outcomes our students achieve through published performance data and we have also seen the integrity students have shown in support of each other and their wider community. They have raised money for local and national charities and foodbanks; they have peer mentored and supported each other in challenging times; they have taken every opportunity and engagement that we have given them and made the most of it. This is what makes them successful, well-rounded and confident young people.
They have done really well, we are very proud of them and I am delighted to wish them and all our families a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
If you need any support with accessing the recommendations then please contact Mr Hatchard. Reading matters and we are happy to support, guide and encourage students as much as possible.
YEAR 7
Mr Holden
Year 7 have continued their fantastic start at Heathfield. There has been great levels of focus and maturity demonstrated with regards to their assessments, which is testament to their positive attitude as a year group.
This term we have started our mentoring programme with our Year 12 mentors, which runs once a week during form time. Year 7 students have reported that this has been hugely beneficial, as it gives them another person in College to talk to. It can be very daunting engaging with older students, however Year 7 have not let this phase them and have been very enthusiastic about this opportunity.
In other news, the Year 7 football team were joint winners out of 8 teams involved. They all put in a sterling performance and were a real credit to the College, well done!
Finally, looking forward to next term we have the Matilda Trip on 15th January, which is great fun every year. I hope you all have a great Christmas and New Year!
Year 8 have been continuing to widen their knowledge outside of the classroom. The Year 8 Spanish Day earlier this term gave students the opportunity to explore the language and culture outside of their normal lesson.
YEAR 8
A group of four Year 8 students also had the opportunity to represent the College at a county wide general knowledge quiz hosted by Bede's school. This was held at Mayfield this year and consisted of 9 teams from across Wealden, who answered questions from 8 rounds ranging from science to dog breeds, music to literature.
Year 8 students are beginning to focus on their upcoming assessments taking place in January. Lessons are beginning to focus on revision of content from both Year 7 and Year 8. This will then help inform students ready to choose their GCSE options in Term 3 and 4.
Mrs Woodland
YEAR 9
Ms Krouwel
This term has been a busy one for Year 9s. In the first week we held the curriculum evening for students and parents to talk through the move into Key Stage 4 and what this will involve and how we can best support students collaboratively.
Interviews have also taken place for students who applied for the role of Value Leaders, with successful applicants now working alongside Year 10 and 11 students on projects across the school to support the wider community.
On 4th December the whole year group watched a performance of ‘Calling it out’ by Loudmouth educational theatre company. The performance focused on the topic of consent and misogyny which will be further discussed during PSHE lessons.
Within lessons, Year 9 have continued to enjoy their new chosen GCSE options and continue to rise to the challenge of the curriculum. There have been many positive comments from staff on how well they are engaging and the positive learning environment created within the classroom.
YEAR 10
Ms Adams
Year 10 have been worked hard this term to complete their first mock exams within their intensives subjects. This has been an excellent opportunity for them to experience revision and explore different techniques that work for them during tutor times and create revision timetables. As students have started to receive their grades back, we see a true reflection of the hard work and I would like to congratulate Year 10 on this and their commitment to their subjects at this early stage. Students can now take time to reflect and consider what strategies they can put in place alongside the support from their teachers to work towards their summer exams.
Students attended an assembly on International Men’s Day, with a focus on men’s mental health. Within PSHE students have been discussing the antibullying theme of respect through discussions around exploitation and consent. Year 10 have shown great maturity during these discussion.
Well done Year 10, have a enjoyable Christmas break and we look forward to next term!
YEAR 11
Mr Richardson
For Year 11, Term 2 offers a moment to reflect and take stock. Students received their mock exam grades in November, and have now had a chance to discuss these with their teachers at subject feedback evening. There is much to celebrate, and plans to be made to maximise success in the coming months.
While it may feel like the first set of mocks have barely finished, it is important to remember that the second round of these will be upon us in February. Term 3 offers a quick six weeks of revision and practice before Year 11s head back to their exam desks at the start of Term 3.
I have been pleased to see so many of the year group focused and more determined than ever to get the marks and grades that they deserve. Attendance stays strong for the vast majority of students, and attitude and focus show a hunger for success.
There is also one eye on the future – many students have submitted applications for post-16 courses and are starting to see invitations to interview, assessment days, tours etc.
It is a busy time for Year 11 students, and as we reach the mid-way point of the year (15 weeks gone of 30 ‘teaching weeks’) at Christmas, students are focused and determined and ready for the push towards the summer exams.
VI FORM
Ms White
Praise Raffle
Over 1300 praise points have been gained by Year 12 and Year 13 this term.
All students who have been rewarded a point will be added to our praise raffle. Prizes will be drawn at the end of term.
Student Voice
UCAS Update
With our internal deadline passing, it is great to see so many students submitting their UCAS applications.
The first group of students to congratulate is all of those who applied for Oxford or Cambridge. A number have progressed onto interviews, however, it is important to highlight the time and effort spent by all those who have applied.
Eight students have already received offers from all of their Universities with a large number starting to receive their offers.
Courses Include
Neuroscience, Criminology
Politics & International
Relations, Psychology
Civil Engineering, Economics Mathematics
At the end of the Induction Period students in Year 12 have reported back to us that they have some of the core skills and habits embedded in their practice.
• 96% of students have said they use their independent study periods effectively and can manage deadlines set.
• 80% of students already say that revision is established or embedded in their independent study with 82% agreeing that their notes are fully organized. It is impressive to see Year 12 continuing to work hard and embed the necessary skills for success.
In Year 13 we asked for feedback on revision methods and habits in place. As students know, regular testing is the most effective way of embedding knowledge into long term memory.
• 85% of students in Year 13 are actively using practice papers and questions as part of their revision with 70% using Flashcards.
• 90% of students have been actively reviewing for their mocks with over a third of students starting this in September this year.
As we move into the New Year these preparations will support students with their mock examinations taking place in January.
• Ask your son/daughter about the
they have experienced
• Encourage them to talk about their understanding and interests with you.
• For more detail on ANY subject look at the Knowledge Organisers on line here: https://www.heathfieldcc.co.uk/?page_id=2446506
What are KS3 students learning in …
English
Year 7 have spent this term exploring David Almond’s fascinating work ‘The Fire Eaters’, which follows Bobby Burns growing up in a tiny northern coastal town against the backdrop of the Cuban Missile Crisis. The novel explores issues around class, adolescence and the treatment of outsiders – themes we will pick up again later on in the year through a range of short stories
Year 8 have been enjoying the murky world of Macbeth as part of their year-long focus on Identity. As well as exploring the poetry and stagecraft of Shakespeare’s brilliant tragedy, they have been asking important questions about how
individuals make choices and about the dangers of greed and an obsession with power. As part of their study, they are exploring ideas held in Jacobean England about the divine right of kings and the role of the supernatural in human life. Through analysis of Lady Macbeth, they have also had the opportunity to explore the role of women in Renaissance England.
X
Maths
Year 7 have been busy learning about angles and fractions this term. Students had fun constructing triangles using mathematical equipment and even tried to construct impossible triangles! Some students were able to attempt constructing a rocket ship using their knowledge of lines and angles.
Did you know that the first drawing compasses were found in the archaeological digging of ancient Rome? Every drawing compass before the eighteenth century didn't have a pen, but a needle, so it scratched the surface. By the twentieth century, drawing compasses were spread widely throughout the world.
Year 8 have been focussing on their algebra skills, such as solving equations and simplifying expressions. We use multiple representations and manipulatives to support understanding in this challenging area of maths. Some Year 8 students have had fun trying to figure out the various percentage changes between various amounts of money.
What are KS3 students learning in …
X Science
Year 7 have been working hard this term studying light and sound, as well as the universe and structure of the Earth. This has involved plenty of practical work using coloured filters, ray boxes, and looking at rock samples. Students were able to use hot and cold glass slides to make intrusive or extrusive crystals and compare how the crystals grow.
Year 8 have been studying the human body by looking at how we breathe and ventilate the lungs, as well as digestion and absorption of food. Students have been able to compare height with lung capacity and spot any trends in their class data. We’ve looked at the energy in food and how to test food samples for sugar, protein, starch and fat. This is involves adding different chemicals to food and looking for a change in colour for a positive result.
History
In Year 7 History, students have just completed their first scheme of learning about Medieval England. Students will now begin an exploration of groups who were persecuted in the Early Modern period. This will include lessons on the Pendle Witch Trials and the English Civil War. Year 7 historians will get to look at
different primary sources, including one portraying Anne Boleyn as a witch!
Our Year 8 historians have been investigating the causes and nature of World War One. They have studied conscription, trench warfare and the very bloody Battle of the Somme. They are now going to use this knowledge to plan and write their own piece of historical fiction set during the First World War.
What are KS3 students learning in …
Geography
We have been studying rivers this term and introducing Year 7s to the landscapes of the River Tees in Northern England. Combined with this we have been learning OS map skills such as grid references, compass directions and scale. Valuable geography skills that will benefit pupils all the way to Year 11 and beyond.
Also, in what is a busy term for Year 7s they have been preparing for their assessments and revising our work on Uganda and the UK.
Year 8 pupils have been learning about Africa over the past few weeks. Africa is a much misunderstood continent and we have been exploring and challenging our perceptions by learning about its human and physical geography. We are currently focusing on development in Africa and are evaluating the potential success of different development projects, Tree Aid in the Sahel region and the controversial Grand Renaissance Dam that has recently been built in Ethiopia.
Computing
This term, Year 7 students have been exploring how computers use binary to store data and to run programs. They've also been learning about the hardware and software components that make up a computer.
Building on their introduction to Python with turtle from Year 7, Year 8 students are expanding their Python skills. This term they've created Ascii art and developed their understanding of programming concepts such as selection and loops.
What are KS3 students learning in …
Design & Technology
Year 7 have been learning about levers and taking part in a team challenge to build a small wooden trebuchet. These were tested against each other to see who could fire a paper ball the furthest.
Year 8 have been developing their computer aided design and manufacturing skills by designing and making a lamp shade for a USB lamp using the laser cutter.
Since half term, Year 7 students have been exploring food science and looking at the way ingredients work. They have been investigating the science behind Shortening and Gelatinisation and have used this knowledge in making pastry and sauces. When working independently, students have looked at budgeting and how to cost a recipe. They have also enjoyed learning about different food cultures from around the world.
Year 8 have spent time learning about how our food has an impact on the environment and how we can make changes. We have looked at different types of packaging and different types of diets that could make a difference. Students have also been exploring special diets and meal planning, particularly with a focus on macro-nutrients to ensure that we stay healthy. Practical lessons this term have included fajitas, bolognese and lemon tart.
What are KS3 students learning in …
French
Year 7 have had a fantastic time this term learning how to describe themselves. The enthusiasm in class continues and it is wonderful to see our students really get to grips with the grammar and be able to hold real conversations with each other. Having every single student speaking in French, and completing a survey, is wonderful to both see and hear! Students are now learning how to express their opinions, which they are really enjoying. We've been really impressed by students' diligence in preparing for their first set of assessments - bonne chance!
In French, Year 8 have been building on their descriptions of French towns and have now begun to describe houses, using a wide range of adjectives and opinions. We are now moving on to look at La Cité de l'Espace - a famous French museum all about space. On our French curriculum day, students had a great time exploring French in their different subjects, including playing traditional French board games, as well as the opportunity to watch a play in French, which used vocabulary they knew to tell a farcical tale. The students had a great laugh and then asked the actors some really thoughtful questions.
Bonnes vacances et Joyeux Noël à tous!
X
Spanish
In Term 2, Spanish lessons for Year 7 students have continued to focus on the topic of ‘Mi Vida’ giving students the opportunity to talk and write about personal details including their birthdays and what pets they have. In this unit students have been introduced to the new concept of making sure adjectives agree with the nouns they describe and seeing that word order in Spanish is different to English. Students are more recently being supported through revision to support their outcomes in the forthcoming Assessments. Students will be supported with their learning using Knowledge Organisers and Sentence Builders which will be on their Google Classrooms. We wish them all the very best with these!
This term Year 8 students have made progress explaining about their preferences on different music styles and singers as well as what they prefer to watch on television. This has given them lots of practice of using opinion phrases to share their very different preferences on these topics! Students have also been engaged in a wide range of activities including Sentence stealer games and dice games to support target language communication skills and developing confidence with spoken skills. Students are supported with their learning using Knowledge Organisers and Sentence Builders which are uploaded on Google Classroom.
What are KS3 students learning in …
Drama
Year 7 began Term 2 performing the monologues they had written over half term in response to an improvisation stimulus. After seeing Matilda at the theatre, we are now looking at how to interpret Dahls' larger than life characters. Students will be exploring a variety of Roald Dahl plays and performing scripted extracts. Year 7 will also have a written
Physical Education
This term, our PE students in Year 7 have been rotating around different activities and developing key habits and practices needed to succeed in Heathfield PE lessons. Through learning and developing skills in a particular activity, they are able to transfer it to a competitive environment. These activities include; Football, Rugby, Netball, Basketball, Hockey, Badminton, Dance and Gymnastics.
Alongside our carousel of practical lessons, our Year 8 students have engaged in some practical and theoretical understanding about basic first aid. Through practically engaging on responding to injuries sustained, students understand how to act accordingly.
assessment, based on an extract from Matilda, where they will analyse how effectively the actor playing Ms Trunchball terrifies Bruce Bogtrotter.
In Year 8 we are continuing to explore melodrama and the conventions of stock characters and an exaggerated acting style. Having focused on the physical, non-verbal aspects of melodrama last term, we are now exploring and performing extracts from melodrama plays such as Sweeney Todd the Demon Barber.
What are KS3 students learning in
After a strong start with mark making, Year 7 are now moving off into tonal explorations. The production of these tonal charts helps students to understand how to achieve a range of tones, using a variety of different media. During the next phase of their scheme of work, students will combine the knowledge gained from mark making with the knowledge gained from the tonal strips to produced more observational based studies. The first of these will be a bird drawing using expressive mark making. It is wonderful to see their work developing and students engaging so enthusiastically with the topic.
Year 8 have seen a change to the usual scheme of work this year and we have very much enjoyed watching them engage with it. We have seem some outstanding observational drawings of an eye, a nose and a mouth and we have now started to explore portraiture. This is a challenging topic and student have had to really push themselves to apply their knowledge of tone and the structure of the features, into their drawings. Despite the challenging nature of the topic, students are showing real engagement and enjoyment and we have some incredible outcomes. Once the pencil portrait is complete, students will start to explore how it can be adapted in the style of other artists and art movements.
Music Art
Year 7 have carried on this term with looking at the musical elements and understanding how to read music notation. It has been great to students’ focus all the way through this topic and we are sure this hard work will reflect the marks the students will get in their assessments. Well done Year 7 for a fantastic term.
Year 8 have been looking at either EDM music and creating their own EDM tracks using garageband, or have been looking at Blues Music and the history behind this genre of music. As well as learning about Blues music, students have been challenging themselves by playing different Blues ideas on the Keyboard. Well done Year 8 for a great term.
What are KS3 students learning in …
PSHEe
In Year 7 this term, learning has been focussed on Anti Bullying. We have celebrated the work of the Values Leaders in marking this year’s Anti Bullying Alliance theme of: Reach Out by discussing the role of bystanders and
Year 8 have spent a lesson on this year’s AntiBullying Week theme: Reach Out, ensuring that all students know they are supported both at the College and in their community and discussing how important it is they look out for and support each other. Alongside this key lesson we have been exploring the topic of smoking: focussing on tobacco use continuing to
upstanders and the importance of letting a trusted adult know if they are concerned about what might happen to them or what they might witness decrease in both the adult and young people’s statistics; but also exploring the risks around the rise in popularity of vaping.
X Philosophy and Religion
The overarching topic in Term 2 for Year 7 has been ‘The Nature of God’. In this topic, students have learned the different ways some of the main religions understand God. Students were thoroughly engaged and challenged by the introduction of key terminology at the beginning of the term, which they shall continually use in their lessons. So far we’ve studied the Christian concept of the Trinity and the Islamic 99 Beautiful Names of Allah, and will also be looking at the Hindu beliefs of Brahman and the lesser known Bahá'í faith.
The overall question for our Year 8 students this term is 'does the world need prophets today?' In order to answer this question, we've been exploring some of the major prophets of the Abrahamic faiths. We began the term by looking into the story of Moses and applying the stories from Exodus to the historical context, in order for students to gain a greater understanding of the significance of Moses as a prophet. We then examined why Christians believe that Jesus is God on earth and explored what made him a radical figure at the time. We followed this by looking into the significance of Muhammed and revisiting the story of Abraham. Students were interested to make links between the prophets and the Abrahamic religions.
Focus on Key Stage 4 and 5
Pride . Ambition . Community Art & Photography Computing Maths Science
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
Key Stage 4 – GCSE Extended Art & Design
Year 9 GCSE art students, in both extended and intensive groups, have fully engaged with the curriculum and made an excellent start to their courses. It has been a busy time for all of them as they work wy through the introduction project, which develops observational recording skills in a range of monochrome and colour media as well as some photography. All students are currently exploring colour theory through the colour circle and neutral colour mixing. This prepares them for end of project painting.
Art
During the introduction project, students identify subject matter they enjoy and some of the materials and processes they would like to work with, which helps them make informed decisions about their next project, the personal portfolio, which forms the majority of their coursework. Some students excel with observational drawing, while others have a love of colour and pattern. It is essential to us that students follow a scheme that really encourages their enjoyment and success. The work we have seen so far is exceptional, with students showing well developed skills and a confident, mature approach. We are impressed by how the students have challenged themselves and the excellent work they have produced so far.
Year 10 extended students are now fully into their chosen scheme of work; either develop and explore, or personal landscape. The outcomes being produced during lesson time are outstanding and the quality of homework is of an exceptional standard.
Currently, both groups are looking at the topic of cells, referencing the artists David Goodsell and Lea Anderson in the development of their A3 cell compositions. They are demonstrating a strong understanding of composition, layout and colour that is resulting in high quality and visually exciting outcomes.
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
Art
Year 11 are in the last stage of their coursework and will begin on their final finished piece. This is the culmination of the Develop and Explore OR Personal landscape projects they have been studying over the last year. The subject matter they are exploring is now their own and students have full ownership over the direction their project is taking. While this is challenging for students and many of them worry over the choices they are making, so far the progression of their work is showing students who are keen, hard working and who want to do well and produce a final piece they will be proud of. By Christmas, all final outcomes will be finished and students will be able to enjoy rest and recuperation, ready for the release of their exam in January.
Year 12 are working through the ‘Skills Based Workshop’ project. This is very similar to the introduction project in Year 9, where students are introduced to a wider, more diverse range of skills and techniques. In Year 12, the processes and techniques explored are more advanced and diverse. As students work through each of the materials and processes, they evaluate and assess, through experience and written annotation, their suitability for subsequent projects. There is a real sense of enjoyment and engagement amongst students and the books are already demonstrating understanding and a willingness to take risks and explore these new process.
The two Year 12 groups we had last year have now been combined into one and this has created a vibrant, exciting and creative working environment for Year 13. They will also shortly be starting their final outcomes for the Personal Portfolio project. Their ideas are unique, creative And diverse and it is wonderful to watch the individuality of our students coming through in their work.
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
Photography
GCSE Photography (Year 9 and 10)
Year 9 and 10 photography students are working through their first and second mini projects based on the theme of ‘Identity. These projects focus on ‘Identity of Place’ and ‘Personal Identity’ and involve a range of photographer research, photo shoots and editing techniques to help students develop their camera and Photoshop techniques. The work across both year groups has been of a really high standard with some excellent photographs taken inside and outside of the college environment.
A Level Photography
Year 12 visited London’s Tate Modern and the Southbank earlier in the term, where they captured a range of photographs, including images of Anthony McCall’s Solid Light exhibition. Students then selected their best photographs and created a collection of images that represented their experience of the day. Students then focused on a range of digital techniques to develop and enhance their images including blur, pixelation and solarise.
Year 13 students have been focussing on refining their ideas for the final outcome of their personal project. These outcomes are broad and diverse, including magazine and poster design, promotional campaigns and three dimensional final pieces. The themes and subject matter are also extremely varied including fashion editorial, architecture, nature and portrait photography.
Year 13 have shown they can combine the influence of other photographers to create more personal, individual and original interpretations. All students have developed fluent digital editing skills, utilising Photoshop to create subtle, sensitive image enhancing edits or more complex manipulations to help in realising individual visual ideas.
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in …
Key Stage 4
Year 9 students have been learning how computers communicate over a network. They have explored the various protocols which enable devices to communicate and studied the layers of the TCP/IP stack. Alongside this, they have continued to build on their Python programming skills.
Computing
The term began with Year 10 students demonstrating their knowledge in their mock exams. Following this, they delved into how computers compress data to save storage space. They've learnt about lossy and lossless compression methods, including how to create a Huffman tree from datasets and using them to compress data. They've also studied run-length encoding as another data compression technique.
Key Stage 5
Year 12 have been taking their Python programming skills to new levels. They've explored abstract data structures such as stacks and queues, and have begun working with object orientated programming. To put their new skills into practice, they've been creating and manipulating monster objects.
Year 13 are working hard on their NEA projects, showing superb creativity and technical skills. Highlights include Dora's DNA analyser, which provides a toolkit for analysing DNA, RNA and protein strings using advanced bioinformatic techniques. Ewan’s project is impressive, enabling users to find routes between London Underground Stops. Josh is developing an educational program that teaches users about birds and their songs. It’s very exciting to see these fantastic projects coming to life!
What are KS4 and 5
students learning in…
Key Stage 4
Maths
Maths has a cyclic curriculum so we are constantly recapping skills and building on them to extend students knowledge and confidence. Every year group starts with Number Skills and Algebra Skills so we can ensure there are strong foundations to build on throughout the year.
Year 10 start the year with Algebra and Circles, before being introduced to the exciting world of Simultaneous Equations and Ratio and Proportion.
In Year 9, we spend a lot of time focussing on Algebra, Sequences and Graphs as well as the numerical topics such as Ratio, Proportion and Percentages.
Year 11s start with Algebra before moving on to Finance (including every-day topics such as interest rates and value for money). They then move onto Pythagoras, Trigonometry, Probability and Data Representation, as well as furthering their algebra skills looking at equations and graphs.
Key Stage 5
Year 12 start their course looking at the largest part of the A Level coursePure Mathematics. This includes Quadratic equations and their application (the trajectory of a ball being thrown for example). In Year 13, students study Differentiation which involves finding the “Gradient Function”, leading to finding the rate of change for a graph, for example, finding the speed of an object from a distance time graph. Once the students finish the Pure Maths, they then move on to the applied Maths, which includes Mechanics and Statistics.
What are KS4 & KS5 students learning in..
Key Stage 4
Science
Students in Year 9 have just started learning GCSE content, which is an exciting transition for them from KS3. Students are currently learning the foundations of Biology and Physics through the topics of ‘Organisation’ and ‘Energy’. Students are carrying out their first required practicals, developing skills in method writing and handling data.
In Year 10, students are continuing with the GCSE course, learning about chemical changes, developing their practical skills investigating electrolysis and neutralisation reactions. Triple scientists have explored chemical titrations as a recap linking to acids and alkalis.
Year 11 continue to work hard on their independent study skills, completing a weekly exam question and learning about ecology, waves and chemistry of the atmosphere. Students have spent some of this term reviewing their recent mocks and focusing on exam technique following teacher feedback.
Key Stage 5
Year 12 chemists are currently learning about Developing Fuels –What are they? How are they made? The work of chemists on improving fuels for motor vehicles and in developing alternative fuels and sustainable energy sources for the future.
Year 13 chemists are currently learning about the importance of metals to society, both ancient and modern, with emphasis on the d-block transition metals.
Year 12 Physicists have been learning about the amazing and sometimes surprising world of particles - we have investigated sub-sub atomic particles, learned about the standard model which explains how the basic building blocks
What are KS5 students learning in..
of matter interact, governed by four fundamental forces. They have also got to grips with mechanics and delved into the world of materials as well.
Year 13 Physicists have been experimenting around the concepts of fields - including gravitational, electric and magnetic! Focussing on areas such as Coulombs Law, Capacitors and electromagnetic induction.
All A level Physicists enjoyed an incredibly inspiring and educational day out to Physics Live! In London to hear world class Physicists talk about their work and love of the subject.
In Biology, Y12 students have been studying, Immunity, the structure of DNA, Protein synthesis and transport in and out of Cells. This has also involved building up practical skills, with the exam boards required practicals.
Year 13 have been studying, Energy through ecosystems, genetics, populations and evolution, the control of gene expression and organisms responding to their environment- as demonstrated by the Y13 classes drama production of ‘The Synapse.’
Term 3 Wider Curriculum
These pages include details of the wider curriculum events followed by all year groups over the course of the last term.
Pride . Ambition . Community
Year 8 Wider Curriculum
Spanish Language Day
On 27th November Year 8 students studying Spanish spent the morning engaging in a number of lessons with a Spanish theme and the afternoon watching a live production of a Spanish play about a first date.
Students and Teachers engaged in speaking lots of Spanish and learning new facts about Spain and Spanish culture! In Music students had fun creating music tracks using Reggaeton music, in Geography students were inspired to travel in Spain, in Art students created Picasso inspired art work and in Spanish they learnt about all the different countries that speak Spanish! All Teachers used Spanish in their lessons and showed students how important it is to ‘have a go’ and not be worried about making mistakes. The play in the afternoon, performed solely in Spanish, was the perfect ending to a thoroughly enjoyable day! Students were even invited on stage throughout the play as additional characters, they had to engage in the Spanish dialogue and they definitely entertained their fellow students! Well done to Dylan Branden and Archie Retter for being the
students on stage!
Student feedback was extremely positive and we were thrilled they enjoyed the day. We were so impressed at how determined they were to speak Spanish, even when they didn’t feel confident. Students were particularly keen to get involved with the audience participation
in the play and the actors were very impressed with their confidence.
As Year 8 students will be picking their Options later this year, we asked if the day had helped them in their decision-making process and the vast majority said yes. One student fed back that the day had made them keener to take up Spanish GCSE. The play was hugely entertaining and students surprised themselves with how much they understood - “I enjoyed figuring out what they were saying and it was very funny”.
Year 9 Wider Curriculum
On 16th and 17th December, Year 9 students were off timetable engaging in a variety of activities which included the opportunity to visit London and to learn from specialist teachers in a series of workshops in College.
The day in London involved either a visit to The London Dungeon or Tate Modern, and a cultural walk along London’s
The day in College comprised of three workshops, led by specialist teachers, on areas outside of the GCSE curriculum. The day was designed to give students the opportunity to experience engaging and accessible sessions to inspire them that education in these subjects does not have to stop, just Southbank. Students also benefitted from seeing some of the London Christmas lights and had the opportunity to visit Christmas markets along the Southbank. Mr Howard led the walk around the Southbank which involved historical talks about Westminster Abbey, The River Thames and Parliament Square. Students were also amazed to the see the famous graffiti tunnels in Leake Street.
The trip to The London Dungeon was engaging and thrilling and students particularly enjoyed seeing their teachers involve themselves in the shows! Mr Flower and Mrs Damazer led the trip to Tate Modern which also involved students visiting Burough Market. One student described the day as ‘epic, I loved it’.
because they are not doing an exam in it. Prior to the day, students saw personal stories from a variety of people, in different careers, who shared information about what their job entails and the skills they use, some of which may have surprised the students. This was to inspire the students that keeping all their doors open leads to more exciting opportunities in the future.
Year 13 Wider Curriculum
‘I cannot believe how mature and together the young people I interviewed today were. I would not have been so when I was their age.’
We held our annual Year 13 Interview Day this term, which is when all students in Year 13 receive one-to-one interviews to prepare them for their next steps.
This year we were delighted to host 25 interviewers from. a wide variety of professional backgrounds. We were incredibly impressed by students’ engagement in the day and it was clear that the preparation in PSHEE, and their own independent research, supported them with being confident in what for many of them was first formal interview.
‘The process was very supportive. I was able to talk about my skills and received some great feedback, which means I know where my strengths are for future interviews’ - Emily
‘It was good to develop on-the-spot thinking and also use planned responses. This has supported me in considering how I approach interviews in the future’ - Alfie
‘A Christmas Carol’
School Production
Heathfield Community College performed a lively and colourful production of A Christmas Carol on Thursday 5th and Friday 6th December. Students from all year groups worked together really well to bring this timeless Christmas Classic to life on stage.
This year’s school performance had a direct link to the English Literature GCSE curriculum as it is a set text. The audience were transported back to Victorian England with the authentic and vibrant costumes and this classic text was brought to life with great energy and aplomb. The audience loved the theatrical spectacle of the ghosts and found the production highly entertaining and amusing as well as deeply moving in parts.
School Production
“I loved the opportunity to play such a famous, iconic character and thoroughly enjoyed being part of such a wonderful cast.” – Sasha Hammond (Scrooge)
“It was lovely to have a sense of belonging to this dramatic community and to spend time in rehearsal with like-minded individuals.” – Mabb Norris (Mrs Fezziwig)
The Cookie Club
Wider-Curriculum
Pupils have been attending our first cooking club after school known as' The Cookie Club'. They have been exploring different baking recipes this term with Mrs Conti and have finished with some fabulous spider cookies. Next
term's club will see the start of Christmas cooking.
‘The Cookie Club’ takes place every Thursday from 3.10pm to 4pm in T5 for students in Years 8 and 9.
Cranmer Awards Success
The Cranmer Awards is a prestigious competition run by the Prayer Book Society. Candidates are required to present their own choice of passages from the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, lasting between 3-5 minutes.
We are very proud of Year 8 students, Aaron, Mya and James, who took part in the local Junior heats at St Mary’s Church in Battle this term. Mya and James received a highly commended certificate, whilst Aaron was awarded third place.
Crest Awards
23 students completed their CREST award last year. 20 of them completed the bronze award, a STEM project that requires at least 10 hours of work.
There were 2 silver awards given, both of those testing the effects of alcohol on cress growth, requiring an investigation of at least 30 hours work. One student submitted a silver and the assessor was so impressed that it was increased to a gold award! The student looked at ‘a study of the effect of microplastic on mortality, motility and cardiovascular system of Daphnia magna.
Future Makers
Wider Curriculum
Year 7 students had a fantastic time @futuremakers on Wednesday 6th November. It was amazing to see such young talent performing original songs at @AlbertHall. One student said ‘The day was really fun. There were lots of different genres of music to listen to and we all had different favourites. There were loads of flashing lights and we even got a chance to stand up and dance to the winner. Amazing experience.’
Duke of Edinburgh
We are celebrating the success of students who have completed their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze and Silver Awards. These students started their awards last year and are now ready to progress to the next award level.
All students have successfully completed a minimum of 3-6 months on their three individual sections: learning a new skill; volunteering in the community; and regularly participating in a physical activity. They have also completed the required multiday assessed expedition. For Bronze this is two days and one night and for Silver three days and two nights.
This term is also the start of all three award levels for this year. There was a phenomenal response from Year 9 to the launch of the Bronze Award. The DofE team received over sixty expressions of interest. Many of these students will start their expedition training session this week. Year 10 students who successfully completed their Bronze Award have also been invited to return to Silver where they will take on an extra level of challenge across all parts of the award. Year 12 have already signed up and started Gold as part of 6th Form Enrichment and will be heading to the Lake District for their practice expedition during the summer term.
The DofE team looks forward to welcoming new and continuing students to this year’s programme.
Wider-Curriculum
Christmas Jumper Day
Heathfield’s students showed their festive spirit on Friday 13 December, wearing a dazzling array of Christmas Jumpers. The day was held in aid of Hailsham Foodbank and our students demonstrated a huge amount of compassion. Collectively, students donated a tremendous amount that will support many families in our local area over the festive period. Thank you to the Batemans prefects for organising the event and to all for your support of the day.
Inspire Programme
We are exited to have been selected to be part of the Inspire Scholars programme from St Johns College, Oxford. This programme is being launched with current Year 9 students who have received communication.
The Inspire Scholars Programme is designed to help you explore your interests, expand your academic horizons, and enable you to take part in a range of exciting opportunities, from classes in subjects you may not have studied before, to residential summer schools at St John’s College, University of Oxford!
We look forward to updating you in the future about the activities students will be involved in.
Wider Curriculum
KS5 Economics Conference 2024
Year 12 & Year 13 Economics students attended an online conference organised jointly by the Economics & Business Education Association and The Bank of England.
There was some superb self- development and careers advice, including reference to the growth of degree apprenticeships, which applies across all subjects, not just Economics.
Into Optics Careers Workshop
Year 12 Biology and Physics students were given the chance to have a careers workshop about going into Optics, with a focus on optometry and dispensing optics by Into Optics partnered with Barracloughs the Opticians. Students learned about routes into optometry, through university or by starting a career as a dispensing optician and then doing a conversion course.
Year 12 were engaged and actively took part in the activities, matching different styles of glasses to patients, trying on glasses that showed them what it is like for people with reduced vision and glaucoma, having a look at contact lenses and taking part in short quizzes.
The students said they enjoyed the session and found it fun and engaging. They all also said they now know more about a career in optics, with 42% saying they would now like to explore a career in optometry and optics as a Result of the activity.
We are always aiming to inspire students about their future careers and provide opportunities that will enable them to find the right career path for them. These networks and connections are invaluable to help them on their way.
A -Level Physics Live
Wider Curriculum
Sixth Form Physicists attended A-Level Physics Live, a showcase of some of Britain’s most exciting physicists at the cutting edge of their specialism. There was also a chief examiner in attendance, who provided some top tips for answering questions in the physics exams.
The students were blown away and engaged by all the talks, the one on astrophysics by Dr Emma Chapman being a highlight with students saying how the talk was their ‘favourite talk’ as they found it ‘incredibly interesting and insightful’. It was a brilliant day that provided useful exam information, inspiring students to think about future careers.
EMAG Conference
Year 12 and 13 English Language students attended a linguistics conference in London held by the English and Media Centre. Students experienced what life could be like as a university student, the post-sixth form route that a significant number of these students are planning to follow.
Five expert speakers gave talks on topics that are part of their A level course, deepening their understanding on topics such as cultural diversity in language and how children learn to form questions. Two favourites amongst the students were Dr Aimee Bailey, who gave a fascinating speech on how the topic of gender is discussed in the media, and journalist Victoria Turk, who gave us an insight into how the world of technology is shaping our language.
The conference was enriching and inspiring for these budding linguists! It has definitely given them new insights into not just their studies, but the world around them and the language we use every day.
Wider Curriculum
Christmas Market Trip to Bruges
This term, Year 9-13 French students had the opportunity to travel to Bruges to experience the true magic of a Christmas market. This allowed them to discover more aspects of the French culture, often mentioned in the French curriculum and exam content, as well as to put their language skills to the test.
Our first stop was a 3-course meal at a French restaurant, before travelling to the beautiful and extremely Christmassy town of Bruges. Students discovered a little more about the town with a visit to the Historium, followed by some free time in the two Christmas markets of Bruges.
On day two, we were given the chance to taste some Belgian chocolate and fries at Choco-Story and the Frietmuseum. Students had time to purchase a few gifts to take home, before a hypermarket dash, where students discovered more French Christmas traditions, the famous stationery aisle and explored the joy of many shops in one place.
We were extremely pleased with the incredible sense of responsibility and independence the students showed during the two days. This trip gives our exam students that much needed practice in real life and show them how adventurous life can be with the knowledge of a foreign language!
Heathfield Journalism
Heathfield Vine
Each term, the College publishes an edition of its online magazine, The Heathfield Vine. It is truly student-led with Hivda, one of our Sixth formers, in the role of editor this year, and other students with roles to ensure it is a welledited and timely publication.
Any student is able to submit an article to the editorial team. This team will then read the article, ensure it fits with the messaging of The Heathfield Vine and proofread and edit out any errors or tautology.
The Heathfield Vine is an award-winning publication and students involved in Heathfield Journalism student leadership have the opportunity to enter the annual Shine awards which recognise the best student newspapers and magazines across the UK.
If students wish to become regular contributors to The Heathfield Vine, or take a role on the editorial team, they should go along to Room 13 on a Tuesday lunchtime. We are always happy for more students to join the Heathfield Journalism student leadership strand (or just enter a piece for publication if they do not wish to commit to regularly contributing).
Send your writing to csavage@heathfieldcc. co.uk if you’d like it considered for publishing and please see this link here for our most recent edition of The Heathfield Vine: https://heathfieldcolle genewspaper.weebly.co m/.
Inter-House PE Competition
This term saw a return to inter-house competitions within PE lessons, and a huge collective by competitors, helpers and teachers to make it a week of highly competitive sport across rugby, netball and benchball, which all students in Years 7-11 engaged in.
A special thanks goes to our Year 11 Sports leaders, who helped manage the competition across the different year groups this.
Results are below, with a special congratulations to Heffle as overall winners of the competition this term. Look out for information for girls and boys football, along with a table-tennis competition in the new year!
Heffle
Alumni News
This term, we have received some exciting news about our alumni making waves in their respective fields.
Tate Willis, a 2022 graduate, was selected to represent the England Women’s National Amputee Football Team at an international competition in Colombia, which took place in November. Tate was named Captain for the match against Peru, leading the team to a commanding 6-0 victory. Though England was eventually knocked out in the quarter-finals, they secured a commendable 5th place overall a tremendous achievement for Tate and her team.
We are thrilled to celebrate the academic success of Jasmine Grant, who graduated with a BSc in Adult Nursing this September. Jaz earned a First Class Honours degree and was named to the Dean’s List for Outstanding Achievement. Her nursing dissertation, titled ‘Exploring the Lived Experiences of Adults Who Have Faced the Unexpected Loss of a Family Member Due to Sudden Cardiac Death: A Qualitative Systematic Review,’ demonstrates her dedication to research and the healthcare field. Jaz’s success is a true testament to her hard work and passion for making a difference in the world.
We were delighted to welcome two of our Summer 2024 leavers, Artem and Luke, back to the college. Both Students are currently pursuing degrees in Computing and Cybersecurity, and they took time out of their studies to speak with Key Stage 4 and 5 students about their academic journeys. Artem and Luke shared valuable insights on their experiences during GCSEs and A-Levels, as well as tips for navigating the university application process.
We are incredibly proud of our alumni and love hearing updates about life beyond Heathfield. Your achievements continue to inspire our current students, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for you! Please get in touch using the QR code or by emailing alumni@heathfieldcc.co.uk.
Monday, 6 January
Dates for your Diary
Start of Term 3
Start of Year 10 Classroom Assessments – English, Maths, Science
Start of Year Assessment Fortnight 1
Wednesday, 8 January Year 12 History & Politics Trip: Parliament and Supreme Court
Start of Year 13 Mocks
Wednesday, 15 January
Year 7 Theatre Trip: Matilda
Year 8 Assembly - Talent Accelerator
Saturday, 18 January Year 12 & 13 Spanish Theatre Trip
Wednesday, 22 January RAF Careers in Armed Forces Talk (Year 11, 12 & 13)
Thursday, 23 January Interschool Climbing Competition
Monday, 27 January
Start of Year 8 Harry Potter Trip
Tuesday, 28 January Year 11 Apprenticeship Assembly + optional Search & Apply Workshop
Wednesday, 29 January
Intermediate Maths Challenge
Thursday, 30 January Year 11 Plumpton Guidance Interviews
Monday, 3 February
Tuesday, 4 February A Level English Trip: Birdsong, Brighton
Thursday, 6 February Year 8 Subject Feedback Evening
Friday, 7 February
Monday, 10 February
Thursday, 13 February
Friday, 14 February
Careers Fair at Claverham Community College
Charity Event: Care Packages for Care Homes
GCSE Science Live Trip, Brighton Dome
Broadbridges Uniform Sale, 3.15pm – 4.15pm, Link Hall
