Issue Number 23 w/c 2nd June 2014 and 9th June 2014 Examination Time Silence stalks the corridors and the fields outside are empty. The library is full to bursting and the sound of hushed voices, the scratch of pens and the piles of paper build in the classroom. It is examination time at Heathfield. As the A Level and GCSE examinations move to linear modes where all papers are taken at the end of the year, so the Final end of year examinations become more and more important. The girls were exemplary in their attitude to examinations this year. Girls were working and reviewing key points in their papers and the skills which had been introduced in tutor times were put to good use as mind maps were made, flashcards flashed and notes viewed and reviewed. In PSHE the girls were prepared for their exams by learning how to make a revision timetable as well as key strategies which help to make the material stick. From the key facts to the manipulation of the information the girls rose to the challenge with verve and gusto. Examinations, however, are not just an end in themselves. Like the god Janus at the start of a new year, they are a review of the year just been as well as a harbinger of the year to come. Several girls have come out of their papers realising exactly what they need to do when they face the year ahead. Folders have been reorganised, notes reviewed and the girls are busy making themselves ready for the year ahead. For many, this is a time when long summer evenings beckon. Who can’t remember those days where one tries to revise outside only to wake up with grass marks or, worse, book print down your face? These are the days of summer, exams and all. What is clear from conversations with the girls is how the new assessment schedule we have introduced at Heathfield has helped this final preparation for exams. The increased rigour and demand on the girls has meant that these examinations were, if not exactly welcomed, certainly prepared for. As we move to terminal assessment, the girls will need to be ‘re-educated’ to manipulate the system. The process has started well and we may ride forward into the battle with confidence. Once more unto the breach, once more! Mrs M Furniss-Roe, Director of Studies
Form I Independent Learning Project Form I successfully carried out their Independent Learning Project. The theme this year was ‘Dragons’ Den’ and the girls were asked to create a product that ‘every Heathfield girl could use’. Working in groups comprised of a project manager, a creative director and a marketing manager, the girls demonstrated imagination, resilience and teamwork to meet the Monday morning deadline. Mrs Frost delivered a wonderful 15 minute masterclass on marketing and Mr Moore inspired the girls with a 15 minute masterclass on inventing. The girls only had one day to develop their product and then present to the Dragons, Mrs Heywood, Mrs Furniss-Roe, Mrs de Ferrer and Liz Pointon. Ideas included a food spray that changes the taste of your meal, for example making Brussels sprouts taste like chocolate, and a super-pen that meets all of your stationery needs! Mrs Heywood particularly liked the idea of the HLC tracking app so that the school would know exactly where the girls are whilst out on trips. The winning team was Amber, Tansy and Ana with their idea of a Heathfield Electronic Calendar watch, which could alert girls to be on time for all of their lessons. The Dragons felt that this group in particular demonstrated excellent team work and had a created a solution to a real-life problem. Well done to all the girls and the staff for their help and support! Mrs R Reeves, Head of Lower School and Teacher of Religious Studies