Issue Number 25 w/c 1st September 2014 - w/c 9th September 2014 Alleluia, Bricks & Bread The first activity of the new term involving the entire school was a Eucharist in the theatre. The altar was set up in the centre of the room with the seating surrounding it, demonstrating both our equality before God and placing Him at the very centre of our lives. The service started with a House singing competition to warm up our voices after the summer holiday. Special mention must be made of Miss Kay for her valiant effort in the Alleluia chorus which received a spontaneous round of applause. The service focused on John the Baptist and a version of his life story was projected on to the screen through the unusual medium of Lego. Gathering to receive communion, joining with God and joining with each other was the perfect start for the new academic year. Fr Tim Tregunno, Chaplain
Talk by Photographer Jonny Draper Professional wedding photographer Jonny Draper came to Heathfield to take photos in and around the school which we will use for Marketing purposes. Jonny has been taking photographs for the school for the last three years. On this visit he offered to come and talk to the girls and staff who had an interest in photography, focusing on ‘working with people and getting the best out of your subjects’. Throughout his talk Jonny used his own images to put his talk into context. The audience found the talk aspirational and in particular the A Level and AS Level Photography students had plenty to consider when taking photos for their photography courses. Mrs Frost, Marketing Manager
Politics Trip to St Mary’s, Ascot On Friday 12 September girls on the ‘Horizons’ programme were invited to St Mary’s, Ascot for a Cross Party Political Conference. There was a full programme of talks and discussions arranged with various high profile journalists and politicians. The keynote speaker for the day was Theresa May, Home Secretary, and the girls were very excited to hear her speak. The introduction to the event was made by Windsor MP Adam Afriyie, a very personable and interesting man who managed to convey just how difficult becoming a Member of Parliament is. He strongly advocated ‘perseverance’ to those considering politics as a career. Next we were treated to ‘question time’ with a panel including Lord Stoneham of Droxford, a peer from the House of Lords; Labour candidate for Reading West Victoria Groelef; Sky News political correspondent Anouska Asthana; politics blogger Isobel Hardman and political journalist Dan Hodges. The general consensus was that this was the highlight of the day as girls were given a real insight into the lives of politicians and journalists and were given the opportunity to ask them any questions they wished. Sophie, Form V, bravely asked whether there was animosity between the House of Commons and House of Lords. Other interesting questions included those about the future of the UK after the Scottish Referendum and women in politics. This fascinating experience was followed by generous refreshments offered by St Mary’s. After break we were very keen to hear what Ms May had to say and were thrilled to find out that we would be able to ask questions at the end. Again, the rising political star of Heathfield, Sophie, was able to ask a question about the Home Secretary’s feelings about Michael Gove’s education reforms, which raised a laugh in the room. Many other questions were posed but disappointingly not all were answered to our satisfaction, most notably her priorities should she become Prime Minister in future! However, this did not hamper a memorable and worthwhile trip which was enjoyed by all. Mrs Holsgrove-Jones, Subject Leader - History and Politics