Headlines Term 3 February 2024
Pride . Ambition . Community
Headlines Issue 3 9 February 2024
Head’s Message I am delighted to share this edition of Headlines with you as we approach the halfway point of the academic year. There is a wealth of information and evidence of the vast rich range of opportunities available to students by attending Heathfield. We can be very proud of what is on offer to students and what they manage to achieve through their engagement.
I am also pleased to share with you the confirmed Progress and Attainment outcomes. This is a final check on outcomes from the summer with any alterations taken into account nationally. It confirms our position as the highest performing non-selective school in East Sussex and shows that simply by attending and following staff guidance, students at Heathfield perform over half a GCSE grade better than their peers nationally. In DfE terminology this is “Well Above Average” – very well done to all our students and their teachers. Results only get us so far though and as always we thank and recognise those students who have enhanced our culture and ethos this term through their kindness and support for each other and the College. It is seen and valued. Thank you – have a wonderful Half Term.
YEAR 7
Term 3 has been a busy term for Year 7 as they have now settled into life at Heathfield.
Mrs Woodland
In PSHE this term, students have explored the topic of alcohol. This was accompanied by a performance from 'Smashed Live' who delivered an inspiring live theatre experience about the choices around and effects of alcohol. Students were then given the opportunity to participate in interactive workshops delivered by the Smashed team surrounding social influence and where and how to help yourself and others. Year 7 students engaged incredibly positively in the workshop and offered some fantastic ideas surrounding the impact alcohol can have on decisions being made. Year 7 have also contributed to the wider community of the school with their participation in clubs. Many students participated in putting together the rescheduled Matilda performance and the Year 7 girl's football team enjoyed success in their second fixture against Uckfield and Chailey school. The team showed great confidence and determination, working together to score many goals. Year 7 have made an incredibly positive start to their time at Heathfield and as we approach February half term, we reach the mid-point of the year. This is therefore a good time for students to reflect on their many successes in starting secondary school and how they can make the most of the second half of the year.
This term has been a busy one for Year 8 students. It began with them completing their formal assessments during lesson time across all subject areas. This will provide useful information for them to take forward when selecting their option choices next term.
YEAR 8 Mrs Krouwel
They have had further support around the options process during PSHE lessons when members of the senior leadership team have talked them through the options process. They have also had a number of assemblies on some option choices in subjects they would not have studied during Year 7 or 8. The majority of students took part in the trip to Warner Brother Studios at the end of January. It was an early start for the students but once at the studio they had an interactive lesson about costume design prior to starting their tour around the set production and props. The day provided students with the opportunity to discover the different careers and skills that are available in the film industry. Further support regarding the options process will be provided during the upcoming subject evening and Options fair.
YEAR 9 Ms Adams This term, Year 9 have really been getting into their GCSE courses. Many subjects have completed introductory or foundation units in Terms 1 and 2 and now move on to explicitly examined units. Within GCSE PE students have been taking part in fitness testing, whilst in science they have been involved in dissections of hearts. Alongside the main curriculum, students have been part taking part in a variety of community events such as primary sports events, with Year 9 supporting as sports leaders. Students have been given the opportunity to apply to be sports leaders whilst others have been taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award with practice walks taking place next term. As we approach February half term, we reach the mid-point of the year, and therefore the midpoint of the students’ 5 years at the main college. Now is a good time to reflect on the success of the first half of our secondary school experiences, and start to consider how we can make the most of the next half to strive towards our future careers.
Term 3 means a new year and a new opportunity to make the most of every moment in school. It has been a genuine pleasure to see Year 10 picking up the pace and responding with enthusiasm and maturity to their courses. Following the November mocks, they have reflected carefully and are clearly focused on consolidating success and making improvements.
YEAR 10 Mr Richardson
Year 10 is an intense time for students, and the second set of mocks are on the horizon. Year 10 Council in Term 2 voiced their ideas about revision and homework, and we have made some adjustments to the expectations around homework and what will be set by both intensive and extended and core subjects. It’s always rewarding to work together with students, and coming together to find a compromise and way forward has hopefully given them a sense of voice and ownership of their studies.
As ever, there is always support available for students, especially around times of stress and demand in the school calendar. Please always come forward with any worries and we will work together to help you through. Best of luck in the second round of mocks – all that hard work is already paying off.
YEAR 11 Mr Holden
Year 11 have been deciding on their future and applying for post-16 education over the last term. It has been fantastic to see the range of courses that students are applying for and the quality of the personal statements that have been written. To support with the application process, we have been discussing College interviews in PSHE, so students are aware of how best to prepare for this.
Through assemblies and workshops, Year 11 have been informed about what options are available to them post-16, in terms of apprenticeships, A-Levels and T-levels. The aim of this is to ensure that students are aware of all of the options, so they can make the best choice for them. In Term 4, Year 11 will have their final set of mocks. All students have been encouraged to start revision early and seek help from their teachers if they are unsure about anything. It has been clear that they understand the importance of these upcoming mock exams, as there has been a sense of focus and determination to achieve the best they possibly can.
FEBRUARY HALF TERM REVISION Year 11 students in the Library Support Sessions have had guidance on how to make a Revision Timetable. This is available to all on the website: https://www.heathfieldcc.co.uk/?page_id=997924 Revision timetables are a tool for all students sitting exams to help manage study time and exam preparation. It represents a study plan or day-by-day breakdown of the content you intend to cover, in order to be prepared for your exams. It provides reassurance that you cover what you need to in time for each exam and helps you manage well-being through the next few months.
Information available covers: - Different options for how to make a timetable - Distractions and how to avoid them - Making sure revision strategies you use are effective
VI FORM Ms White
Final judging resulted in a tie across all teams with Seaford Head Sixth Form coming first. Well done to all!
Sixth Form Trips
Year 12 Progression We are supporting Year 12 exploring their progression routes post 18. So far assemblies have focussed on how to approach the changing jobs market and the importance of seeking and taking up opportunities to learn about the worlds of work and education to make informed choices. More information on Apprenticeships at 18 and work experience will follow next erm with our Wider Curriculum Progression Day also planned. A Parent Information Evening will also be run with dates being emailed to you in due course.
Wealden Cup = Bake Off and Debating Competition
Parliament and Supreme Court Trip Read more on Page 32.
Spanish Theatre Trip Read more on Page 32.
Sixth Form Debating Teams
Heathfield students Hannah Lawrence, George Nicholson, Hivda Aydogan and Josh De Jongh impressed in a challenging debating competition against equally impressive teams from Seaford, Hailsham and Uckfield Sixth Forms. The Heathfield students displayed excellent Sixth Form Bake Off Teams debating skills, with robust reasoning, welljudged rebuttal and eloquent, persuasiveness delivery. All debaters were polite, supportive of other teams and careful to observe the rules at all times. The competition was close, with Heathfield securing second place after an especially tough final debate on the efficacy of climate protests. In Food Technology our own version of the Bake Off took place with students from three Colleges taking part producing a technical Victoria Sponge and a show stopper sweet treat.
Focus on Key Stage 3 How can I help my child learn? • Ask your son/daughter about the topics 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=24465 06
Pride . Ambition . Community
What are KS3 students learning in … English
Year 7 are studying Shakespeare's most magical play, 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.' They have enjoyed the everchanging love quadrant that the teenage characters are involved in and enjoyed the humour of the mechanicals, mostly driven by Bottom. Using SE Hinton's 'The Outsiders’, Year 8 students have been developing their knowledge of plot and character and learning about 1950s America. They continue to develop their vocabulary and analytical skills X
Maths
Year 7s have started solving equations this term, learning all about balancing. Anything you do to one side of an equation must be replicated on the other side so the equation remains balanced. Students are able to create their own equations from mystery number problems and use this method to guess the numbers that others are thinking of. Year 8s have had the exciting opportunity to visit Harry Potter studios This term. As well as learning about all the careers within the film industry, they also had a look at set design and some original scale drawings of the sets. This image below shows a scale drawing of Hagrid’s Hut. The maths involved in these drawings includes ratio and proportion; plan views, side and front elevations; angles and bearings and even Pythagoras and trigonometry!
What are KS3 students learning in … X
Science Year 7 have been studying electricity this term building series and parallel circuits and comparing their uses, finding links between current, voltage, and resistance. They have also been looking at particle behaviour with solids, liquids and gases, and completing practical work to explore melting and boiling point. Year 8 have been looking at magnetism; exploring how magnetic fields work and how they can be manipulated by using electricity. They have also been looking at evolution and the work of Charles Darwin.
X
History
In year 7 History, students are beginning their study of persecution in Early Modern England. Students are being introduced to source skills, with an investigation into whether Anne Boleyn was really a witch. They will investigate the Pendle Witch Trials in 1612 and an enquiry into why the women were accused of witchcraft.
Year 8 historians have just finished studying World War One and are now moving on to the Holocaust, which will coincide with Holocaust Memorial Day 2024. Students begin by investigating the history of Anti-Semitism and how the Holocaust developed. They then look at Anne Frank's life, as well as her diary, as evidence of the impact of the Holocaust on individuals.
What are KS3 students learning in … X
Geography Year 7 have completed a module called ‘Shaping the Land’ where they studied the different landforms created by rivers by erosion, transportation and deposition. They also practiced important OS map skills and should now know how to use grid references, compass directions and scale. Pupils are moving on to study migration with a focus on the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa). We will be investigating different aspects of migration which is one of the biggest and most topical issues in geography. We will soon focus on a mini fieldwork module where pupils will be mapping noise pollution levels using GIS which combines technology and mapping skills. More to come soon!
Year 8 have completed a unit on Africa where they should have had their perceptions of the continent challenged and updated. They have also recently sat an assessment on tectonics so will have been revising hard at home. The next module for year 8 is all about Haiti which allows pupils to study development in depth. We will combine human and physical geography to find out more about Haiti and why it struggles to develop.
X
Computing
Year 7 students have being learning to code with Python, using the Turtle library to bring their programs to life. Python provides an excellent foundation for understanding fundamental coding concepts, allowing students to learn the basic skills needed to make their own programs.
Meanwhile, our Year 8 students have being exploring HTML. HTML forms the backbone of web pages, and understanding its principles is crucial for anyone aspiring to create content for the internet. Our Year 8s are mastering the art of HTML coding and gaining insights into the world of web design.
What are KS3 students learning in … X
Design & Technology Year 7 have been learning about woods, their properties and working characteristics alongside developing workshop skills including accurate marking out and cutting to make a wooden door wedge. Year 8 have been learning about electronic components and circuits and have used practical soldering skills to make a colour changing USB circuit.
X
Year 7 have been learning about Healthy food choices by exploring Food Labelling. We have been examining the Traffic Light system and what this means in terms of RDI (Recommended Daily Intake). In practical lessons, we have made Pizza toast, Pasta Sauce and Fruit Muffins.
Year 8 have been learning about different kinds of raising agents and have looked at this through practical lessons making both scones and pizza. Our assessment this term focusses on meal planning and pupils have made a Bolognese sauce and then looked at ways of making this into a family meal.
What are KS3 students learning in … X
French
Year 7 are now familiar with French phonics, introducing and describing themselves, their free time and daily routine, in preparation for their pretend time in France, Year 7s have "arrived in France” and have met their host family". They have practised speaking to Customs: talking about themselves and why they are travelling, as well as describing their family and arranging to go out. This has allowed them to use different subject pronouns and verbs forms to master French Grammar. Year 7s should feel empowered to give their opinions loud and clear! It is great to see that many Year 8s students are comfortable in their assessments speaking French, with good understanding of questions and a very good level of pronunciation. We then moved on to settling down in a French school, now that we "live in Toulouse" and know everything the town has to offer. X
Spanish
In Term 3, Year 7 students have been developing their Spanish knowledge and grammar focussed on the topic of ‘En mi insti’ talking about their school. They can now explain what subjects they learn at school, which subjects they like and what facilities their school has. They can use opinion phrases and can use phrases such as ‘Me gusta el español porque es útil’. (I like Spanish because it is useful). In Year 8 this term, students will be discussing food and drink ítems, reviewing the use of opinion phrases and developing a wider range of opinions. They will be developing their grammar knowledge by using the infinitive verb with ‘gustar’ and will be able to order food and drink from a Spanish restaurant. Their cultural awareness will be shaped by discussions around cities in Spain and regional dishes. ¡Delicioso!
What are KS3 students learning in … X
Physical Education Students have been continuing to rotate on a 3-week carousel around different activities, designed to build confidence and awareness of skills, rules and tactics that should seek them to be able to compete beyond the school gates, and to represent the school in various sports teams run at Heathfield. These include; Badminton, Basketball, Dance, Football, Gymnastics, Hockey, Netball and Rugby. This gives students the knowledge and understanding to take a sport they enjoy further.
This term has seen a strong showing from our sports teams across Football (Boys and Girls), Rugby and Netball, alongside one off competitions such as X-country, Basketball and Climbing. Many students competing have reached the latter rounds of county competitions, with some excellent performances from our Year 8 rugby team who await the winners of Brighton College or Beacon, our Year 8 netball team, who lost narrowly to Roedean, and our Year 8 football team who lost 3-2 in the quarter final of the county cup to a strong Regis school team. Students should keep attending clubs that will continue after half-term. X
Drama
Year 7 students study extracts from Roald Dahl scripts leading on from the trip to see ‘Matilda’. We look at how to physically and vocally develop larger than life characters and also the importance of stage positioning. This unit will help to build essential skills of using memory, interpreting text, teamwork and self-confidence.
Year 8 are completing a written assessment evaluating how tension and suspense is built through the design elements of lighting and sound in an extract from ‘Woman in Black’. This leads into their practical exploration of creating atmosphere using these design elements to create their own ghost stories.
What are KS3 students learning in … X Year 7 are now at the point of the mark making project where we introduce colour. Using just the three primary coloured pencils, students create a colour wheel of the primary, secondary and tertiary colours. Year 7 also completed assessments, producing some outstanding observational drawings of bulls.
Art
Year 8 are working on Pop Art food Paintings. Last term students did observational drawings of sweets and other food items in a range of media. They have been learning about Pop Art artists Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol, looking at use of colour primarily and have a good understanding of the visual characteristics of Pop Art. Students used digital technologies to create edits of their own favourite food items in a poster style and they made Warhol style grids of celebrities using the Pixlr app.
X
Music
Year 7 have been working hard on learning how to play the keyboard. It has been great to see how they have developed with their confidence and all students have performed in some way in front of their peers. We have focused particularly on hand position and ensuring that the students have the correct technique before moving onto harder pieces. If this has been something your child has particularly enjoyed please get in contact with Create Music to enquire about keyboard lessons. Year 8 started the term with their assessment which went really well. We then looked at film music and what the role of music is in films. We have explored emotions and how music can support a location within a film. The last lesson Year 8 have had was linked to careers in Music to support them with what potential job roles they could do with a GCSE within music.
What are KS3 students learning in … X
PSHEe This term, Year 7 students are learning about the drug alcohol. Students will be increasing learning begun at primary school to ensure they have the knowledge of alcohol’s effects and its status within UK Law as well as developing skills to navigate its use and effects on their lives in adult years.
Year 8 students are focussing on Career Education this term. This includes reflection about their own strengths and areas to improve. There will also be a lesson where a member of the College’s Leadership Team will present this year’s options process and answer questions they may have. These sessions will be in the run up to the Options Fair on 22 nd February. Subsequent lessons explore the links between subjects and potential career pathways. X
Philosophy and Religion
Year 7s have been pondering the existence of God this term. Discussing the reasons why people would be a theist, atheist or agnostic before asking whether we could prove or disprove the existence of God using logical thinking alone. They have enjoyed exploring the different philosophical arguments put forward to prove the existence of God. From a secular perspective, students have been interested to understand the concept of philosophical materialism, humanism and explore the works of Richard Dawkins. Year 8 students have began looking at the conflict between Israel and Palestine surrounding control of Jerusalem. We began by looking at the history of Jerusalem, before exploring why this place steeped in history is so important to three major religions. Students have been able to apply this to the very real ongoing conflict that they have heard about on the news.
Focus on Key Stage 4 and 5 Business & Economics History & Politics French & Spanish
Pride . Ambition . Community
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
Business & Economics Key Stage 4 Year 9 extended students have just finished the introductory unit of work on Business Enterprise and are now working on a topic about spotting business opportunities. Year 9 intensive students are working on a different topic with each of their two teachers. They study the topic “Putting Business Ideas into Practice” and “Making the Business Effective” which gives them the basics they need for future units
Year 10 and Year 11 This term brings Year 10 to the completion of the topic on the external environment of business and moves onto a topic on the issues surrounding the implications of businesses growing in size. In Year 11 Students will have finished “Operations Decision Making”, looked “Financial Decision Making” and covered “Human Resourcing Decision Making” as well as their mocks
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
Business & Economics Key Stage 5 Year 12 are preparing for the upcoming mocks in March.
Business students are studying: finance, including business objectives, budgeting, cashflow forecasting, sources of finance, measuring profit and profitability, the impact of timing cash inflows and outflows differently; measuring and interpreting human resourcing data; the HR flow and employee engagement. For Economics students, this means studying: government failure in micro economics, government policies and starting the Macro economics part of the course.
Year 13 have just learn completed their mock exams and are implementing How I can help my child in Business & Economics ? ✓feedback. Talk to them about what is happening in the outside world e.g. inflation; Bank of England interest rate changes and how do these have an impact on you.
Business students will be on the final parts of the A level study and Talk to them about the positi8ves and challenges of your job / the business that you work preparing theiryou final for / thefor business run. exams. Economics students will be studying the
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remaining elements of macro economics
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Ask them “what’s the opportunity cost of that decision?”
What are KS4 students learning in..
History
Key Stage 4 GCSE History students study four topics throughout their course: • Anglo Saxon & Norman England, 1060- 88, • Medicine & Health 1250-present, • Weimar & Nazi Germany, 1918-1939 • Superpower Relations & the Cold War, 1941-1991. A breadth of social, political and military history, exploring events that have affected both Britain and the wider world.
Every student learning the Anglo Saxon & Norman England and the Cold War units this year has been given a copy of the CGP Edexcel Topic Guides to complement their learning. During lessons, students use these to add precision to their answers, highlight key terms or write in further facts to the revision guide that they have been taught by their teachers. Each student has an individual code that gives access to an electronic version for use at home. Students have been very positive; they find the resource accessible and they can revisit anything that they are unsure about independently.
In Terms 2 and 3 Year 10 Extended History students took part in an online session delivered by the National Archives about Medicine on the Western Front during the First World War. Students were able to look at copies of WW1 evidence, making inferences from them about the nature of serious injuries that plagued soldiers during the war (such as trench foot).
What are KS5 students learning in..
History & Politics Key Stage 5
A Level History students complete three examined units: • The Early Stuarts and the English Civil War, • The American Revolution and • Civil Rights in the USA, 1865-1992. Students also complete an non- examined essay, worth 20 % of the final grade. The A Level Politics qualification is 100% examination with three taught units: • UK Politics and Core Political Ideas, • UK Government and Non-core Political Ideas and • Comparative Politics (comparing UK and US politics). Trips and events deepen knowledge and understanding of the courses. At the start of Term 3, History and Politics students went to Westminster to take a tour of the Houses of Parliament, visit the Supreme Court and take in Stuart portraits in the National Portrait Gallery. In Term 2, Politics students had a chance to meet with local MP Huw Merriman to discuss current issues. History students will visit the National Archives and the National Army Museum to explore, source material from the 17th Century and develop their knowledge of the events of the English Civil War.
What are KS5 students learning in..
History & Politics The College’s Debating Society runs on a weekly basis and is open to all students (KS4 and 5) who wish to discuss and debate topical issues such as climate change, the future of the monarchy and equality in sport.
How I can help my child learn in Politics? ✓
Discuss with them what is going on in the news.
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Encourage them to complete the Super Curricular activities for Politics.
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Encourage them to attend the debating society (If Key stage 4 or 5).
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
French
Key Stage 4 Year 9 started their GCSE Language journey by revisiting topics from Year 7 and 8 under the first Theme: My Personal World. Students become independent and confident Linguists able to communicate with others. We have also studied the second Theme: Lifestyle and Well Being, during which students have the opportunities to talk about their hobbies, discussing what a healthy lifestyle looks like, eating out including food from French gastronomy, of course! Since Year 10 have continued practicing role-plays and photo card tasks- which are the first two parts of the speaking exams, and it is great to see how many have mastered these skills. We have also focused our efforts on being able to write, at ease, they keep their banks of questions up to date, use varied vocabulary and grammatical structures
Year 11 study the topic of International and Global Dimension- bringing many important social, economic and environmental issues into their study of the French language. We are so very proud of the dedication several of them have shown attending support sessions, challenging themselves and responding to staff feedback to constantly improve. We hope some of them have really enjoyed mastering French and wish to continue at A-Level.
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
French
Key Stage 5 Year 12 have studied several topics, including family & marriage, music & festivals as well as education, which will form part of their first A-Level mock exam. ‘La Vie en Rose’, the biopic of the famous singer Edith Piaf is the film students are studying for their A level. They will continue diving into the course contents moving onto studying the World of Work - where they will learn about the strong feelings French people have about working hours and retirement age, and Freedom of Speech. Our students have made great stride in improving their confidence and grasp of studying languages, not just to communicate, but to respond critically and analytically to aspects of culture and society. Bravo! Last, but not least, Year 13 have completed a full mock exam including their Independent Research Project, which they feel extremely passionate about, and boy, does it show! We are continuing the course with the topics of Immigration and the War, which, together with their study of these topics in Geography and History at Key Stage 4, really supports student's background knowledge and understanding. It is with much pride that both Mrs Maguire and Mrs Fox think so highly of our student's dedication, hard work and impeccable work ethics and communication which explains their amazing progress and fluency. Félicitations!
How I can help my child learn in French? ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Show your interest, appreciation and pride for the subject they study Use/find interactive resources to improve their vocabulary knowledge beyond the classroom Offer your support with their practice of vocabulary, banks of questions and projects Provide opportunities to speak French and/or learn about the culture with a monthly French night at home, meeting up with French-speaking friends, going on a trip abroad if possible Encourage them to ask for our help, or email us yourselves, when they are struggling
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
Spanish
Key Stage 4 In Year 9, students are developing their phonics skills and are now able to use a sophisticated range of tenses. They will shortly be discussing role models and the people that inspire them. In Year 10 students are evaluating the pros and cons of their town and local area. They are becoming more independent and can list a range of tenses and structures to express opinions about what there is to do in their town and can use a variety of tenses to discuss appropriate answers to exam questions. Year 11 students have now completed two mock exams and have received extensive feedback. They are now preparing for their speaking exams in April, and then intensive revision and exam practise on listening, reading, translation and writing skills.
Key Stage 5 Year 12 watch Guilermo del Toro’s Film ‘El laberinto del Fauno’ (Pan’s Labyrinth) and write a critical essay at A level. They also study the play ‘La casa de Bernarda Alba’ a play by Federcio Garcia Lorca. It is a powerful depiction of rural Spanish life raising themes of class divide, honour, jealousy, sexual freedom and the desire to be free. Year 13 students are studying ‘La dictadura franquista’ covering the history and politics of 1939-1975 and the death of Francisco Franco. They explore issues faced by the Spanish population immediately after the Civil War under a strict dictatorship which imposed censorship. They also learn about ‘La transición hacia la democracia’ which spotlights the fragile transition from dictatorship to democracy in Spain from 1975-1983. The focus then will be to embed techniques for the remaining exams including particular attention on their imminent Speaking exam. A highlight in Term 3 will be the much anticipated trip to London to watch the play ‘La Casa de Bernarda Alba’ by Federico García Lorca. We wish all candidates ‘mucha suerte en los exámenes’.
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 My best bits were looking at the effects and jobs of the tour and the costumes - Ben
This term, Year 8 students visited the Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour. The purpose of the visit was to see all the different career opportunities in the creative industries and in particular the different roles that go into making films. We began our visit with a lesson learning about different roles that come together to make a film from plasterers and electricians, prop makers , cameras, casting, production to stunt artists and of course actors. The main part of the lesson explored costume design in more detail. Students were introduced to the idea of how stereotypes can affect how we perceive character and how this leads to development of character and costume designs to emphasise a character’s attributes. Students discussed characteristics of characters using textile samples initially and then went on to invent their own character and costume design on their own moodboard with their chosen fabric swatches. Year 8 were particularly engaged with the lesson activity and were proud of their designs. One of the highlights of the lesson was when we got to see actual costumes used in the films from Luna Lovegood’s party dress to the enormous tunic worn by Hagrid. Really contrasting costumes for contrasting characters. The tour of the studio sets and props was enlightening for many students as they realised they were looking at the actual sets used in the Harry Potter film series. Seeing how concept artists create initial idea imagery from their interpretation of text, models and then actual full size sets helped students to appreciate the many different contributions to bring a book to the screen. Students were impressed by the animatronics and engineering in the creature effects display and were particularly amazed by the dragon in Gringott’s Bank.
YEAR 8 WIDER CURRICULUM
Students attended lessons in the careers that are available in the creative arts industries
My favourite bit was seeing the costumes and the dragon was really cool - Amelia
Matilda Production This year Heathfield Community College created a wonderful production of Roald Dahl’s ‘Matilda Jr. The Musical’. Students from Years 7 to entertained audiences on Thursday, 11th January and Friday, 12th January 2024. Embarking on a production of any kind is never easy: it takes time, dedication, a sense of humour and camaraderie. In the cast of Matilda, we had that in spades. Little did this exceptional group of students know, when we started rehearsing in September, that we would have to postpone the show until after Christmas. What these children managed to pull together - after nearly three weeks away from rehearsals - is nothing short of the miraculous. They faced every obstacle with good grace and good humour and pulled off an epic comeback in the second week of term. We are so proud of them being able to display their collective talents. The audience laughed, cheered and shed a tear. Special mention, though, must go to Lucy Coombs (Mrs Wormwood) and Corin Banfield (Ms Trunchbull) who are so unlike their characters in real life, they deserve an Oscar!
Ollie Kendrick (Michael) “The whole Matilda experience was incredible. It has really helped build my confidence in acting and just in general. The whole vibe was really nice and we all supported each other when one of us struggled. I got to meet and work with people that are so nice. It was such a surreal experience and the hard work we all put in was so effective and I will remember this for a long time.”
Matilda Production
Matilda Production
Wider-Curriculum GCSE Science Live! Year 10 & 11 Triple Science students attended GCSE Science Live and witnessed 5 of Britain’s top scientists, at the cutting edge of their field, demonstrating the passion and enthusiasm they had for science. Lectures covered topics such as genetics, embryology, science of laughter, space and chemical reactions. The students were also given some great tips on how to answer questions in their science exams by a chief examiner.
Year 12 History and Politics trip to Parliament and Supreme Court On Friday 5th January, 40 Sixth form History and Politics students visited the Houses of Parliament, Supreme Court of the United Kingdom and the National Portrait Gallery. They had an enriching and informative day where they could see the how and where decisions are made within our Democracy and the impact of these decisions on our Politics today and our history in the past.
A Level French: Cervantes Theatre Trip students a credit to the College Year 12 & 13 Spanish A Level students enjoyed a trip to London to see the Spanish play ‘La casa de Bernarda Alba’ by Federico García Lorca. The Cervantes theatre provided the perfect, intimate location for this most dramatic and compelling play which documents what life was like especially for women in 1930’s Andalucía, Spain. Sitting only inches away from the performers, students were able to fully appreciate the themes and symbolism this work explores.
Wider Curriculum Latin trip to Fishbourne Roman Palace On Thursday 1st February, Latin students in years 9, 10, and 11 visited Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens, offering fun and engaging activities taking back in time to Roman Britain. Who doesn’t love the chance to dress up as a Roman soldier? The day’s itinerary was filled with archaeological delights: handling real, two-thousand-year-old artefacts and interpreting their uses in domestic, Roman-British life; seeing replicas of Roman armour, weaponry, and demonstrations of warfare strategy; a film documenting the discovery and restoration of the Palace’s stunning grounds. Everyone had a chance to run around the beautiful gardens– replanted based on botanical evidence– and hold real fragments of roof tiles and glassware.
LAMDA Results Students from Years 8 to 13 recently took the first LAMDA Solo Acting Exams at College from 3 to Grade 8 (Gold Medal) there was a 100% pass rate with candidates being awarded 12 Distinctions and 3 Merits. Those students taking their Bronze, Silver and Gold Medal grades also achieved UCAS points. Well done! Year 7 Author Talk and Workshop
Year 7 were visited by author Julian Sedgwick and manga illustrator Chie Kutsawada this term. Together they wrote 'Tsunami Girl,' and the recently released, '100 Tales from the Tokyo Ghost Cafe.' Julian and Chie gave a presentation on the backstory to their books, and following this, Chie and Julian hosted workshops for some of our students. Julian discussed the creative writing process with students and Chie provided a manga drawing workshop. We saw some excellent drawings and creative ideas from students, who were attentive, asked fantastic questions and lined up very patiently to have their books signed.
Wider Curriculum GCSE Drama Trip: Blood Brothers All GCSE Drama students were fortunate enough to go and see the text “Blood Brothers” by Willy Russell at The Victoria Theatre in Woking. It was an exciting and enthralling production of this timeless classic that moved us to tears and made us jump out of our seats with the loud gun shots at the end. As we have studied this play in depth, it was a great experience to see it off the page and excellent preparation for the written part of the GCSE Drama exam.
Radio Heathfield Every day, a dedicated team of students play out radio programmes at break and lunch. Students around the school can hear Radio Heathfield on air thanks to our speaker system and you often hear them singing along to the songs that are played. The Radio Heathfield students range from Year 7 students to 6th formers. They create their own programme content and learn how to use the 'desk' independently. If you're interested in being on the airwaves Radio Heathfield meet on a Thursday in Room 14 after school.
Careers Year 11 Apprenticeships Assembly and Workshops Following up from a presentation to Year 11 families in Term 1, Lawrie Alford, who is a STEM Ambassador and works for CXK, promoted apprenticeships in a whole year group assembly followed by a search and apply workshop. The workshop, attended by 31 Year 11 students, allowed them to search for live apprenticeships. Students can create an account on: https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/
Lawrie also gave them tips on what will make an application stand out. The workshop was supported by our Careers advisor, Mrs Kite, and Mr Crozier, the Pastoral Manager for Year 11. De La Warr Accelerator Programme Kim Byford, who promotes the brilliant De La Warr Pavilion initiative ‘Talent Accelerator’, was in school all day on Thursday, 25th January 2024. The day began with an assembly for all Year 8 students, drawing their attention to the massive number of careers in the creative industry, both in East Sussex and across the UK. This was specifically linked to their After the workshop, 9 Year 13 students upcoming Wider Curriculum Days and one Year 11 student had a one-toto visit the Warner Bros Harry Potter one careers session arranged with Kim. Studios. Kim then ran an hour long Students have varying hopes for their workshop, promoting and offering creative careers ranging from: street practical tips to access the creative fashion, music production, industries to students in Year 11,12 architecture and photography. and 13.
HOUSES Table Tennis Competition During January our Houses competed against each other in the House Table Tennis Competition. We were delighted with the participation of well over 100 of our students in the competition over the course of the week. It was really pleasing to see our students enjoying themselves and engaging in friendly house-tohouse competition. Throughout the week, the competition was supported by our Year 11 prefects who made sure that the event ran smoothly. The results were close throughout the week, but the following houses were victorious per year group: Well done to Heffle who won the Year 7 competition, Cade won the Year 8 competition and congratulations to Batemans who won the Year 9, 10 and 11 competitions. The final results were: Winners Batemans, 2nd Tower, 3rd Heffle, 4th Cade. Thank you and well done to all our participants.
Winner!
Batemans
Alumni News The college welcomed back many of our 2023 leavers to collect their exam certificates before the Christmas holiday. The 6th form team hosted Christmas treats, warm drinks, and Christmas tunes. Alumni were impressed with recent work done enhancing the 6th form common room space. Staff enjoyed the exciting stories of gap year travels, university and career successes, and were amazed at how these young people have matured and come into their own since continuing their journey on from Heathfield. They continue to impress us, make us proud, and put smiles on our faces. We were pleased to hear an update from Eloise Matthews, studying at Loughborough University. Eloise left in 2021 and is halfway through her industrial placement with Mercedes-AMG F1 Team, a great part of her maths degree. She is working in the Cost Analysis department and recently attended the end of season team meeting led by Toto Woolf, Lewis Hamilton and Mick Schumacher to mark Eloise pictured with the 3rd place trophy, won their second place in the by George Russell at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Constructor’s Championship
Whenever you left Heathfield and whatever stage of your education or career, please get in touch using the QR code or by emailing alumni@heathfieldcc.co.uk.
Find out more and try out over half term: https://heathfieldcc.fireflycloud.net/super-curricular-1
Dates for your Diary Monday, 19 February
Start of Term 4
Start of Year 10 and Year 11 Mock 2 Exams Tuesday, 20 February
Year 12 History Trip - National Archives, Kew, National Army Museum
Thursday, 22 February
Year 8 Options Fair
Saturday, 24 February
Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Practice Walk 1
Tuesday, 27 February
Glyndebourne Open Doors - careers in creative sectors
Wednesday, 28 February
NFER English and Maths Tests (Yr11)
Thursday, 29 February
GCSE Drama Scripts - Tech Rehearsal to parents
Friday, 1 March
Year 8 HPV Vaccinations
Monday, 4 March Thursday, 7 March
Year 8 Wild Science Event House Competition Term 4 - Battle of the Boards GCSE Drama Script to Examiner World Book Day
Friday, 8 March
GCSE Drama Exam Performance to Examiner (TBC)
Saturday, 9 March
Brighton Children's Parade Mas Camp
Monday, 11 March Tuesday, 12 March Friday, 15 March
Monday, 18 March
Art Trip to Kew Start of Year 12 MFL Mock Oral Exams Year 12 Wider Curriculum - Progression Day Year 12 Politics trip to European Youth Parliament Year 8 Author Visit (Chris Bradford) Broadbridges Uniform Sale, Link Hall, 3.15pm – 4.30pm Year 9 & 10 Photography Trip to Brighton
Wednesday, 19 March
"Text Your School Nurse" (Promotion by East Sussex School Health Service) Year 12 Progression Evening
Thursday, 21 March
Year 10 Subject Feedback Evening
Friday, 22 March
A Level Drama Scripted Performance to Examiner
Saturday, 23 March
Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Practice Walk 2
Tuesday, 26 March
Let's Dance, Congress Theatre, Eastbourne
Wednesday, 27 March
Year 9 Employability Skills Wider Curriculum Day
Thursday, 28 March
End of Term 4
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