Q News Q News | Issue 7 | Autumn 2019
Issue 7
Autumn 2019
Les Quennevais School Learning to be your best through excellence and enjoyment
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Q News | Issue 7 | Autumn 2019
HEADTEACHER’S REVIEW September seems a distant memory. As we look back over this action packed Autumn Term in this edition of Q News, you will get not only a sense of how lovely it has been, but also the strong feeling of the “Les Quennevais School Spirit” of which we are immensely proud. Another round of outstanding, record breaking results from last year’s Year 11, sets us all up for a purposeful and ambitious Term. We were all so incredibly proud of the year group and they have truly inspired our current Year 11 students who hit the ground running, and have kept it up to their absolute credit. As a year group they have embodied our school values of Ambition, Respect and Resilience, and they are outstanding examples of characterful Upper School students.
HEADTEACHER’S REVIEW
Our school is a really inspirational and innovative place of learning and we are really lucky to have an impressive collective of committed and talented staff who are constantly raising the bar for your children. This edition of Q News highlights the wider recognition our school is receiving. It is always a real boost when our efforts are celebrated, not just locally, but now nationally and internationally. Make no mistake, fellow professionals and colleagues far and wide are keen to learn from Les Quennevais, and take forward a lot of what we are delivering. This is a real endorsement for our staff whose outstanding and inspirational practice is leading the way. We are incredibly proud of our students, what they are and what they go on to be. Our Alumni of former LQ students is impressive and it is always a thrill to catch up with where they are now, and find out how LQ played a part in their journey. This edition features the wonderful Sam Clarke. His achievements are celebrated in our spotlight interview and as a cover feature. We are immensely proud of him and I can say I was there at the start of it all – his “YMCA” is part of LQ folk law, but as a West End performer, his journey will inspire our current students, many of whom have such a passion for the Arts.
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Q News | Issue 7 | Autumn 2019
When we talk about the “Spirit of Quennevais” we really mean there is something very special about our Community. It has been keenly felt this term as we come together as a community to do something magical for a student receiving treatment in the UK. The charitable dimension of our school is widely known and highly regarded in our Island, with many causes locally and internationally benefitting over the years from the generosity of our students, families and staff. This term to be able to do a small thing for one of our own, has highlighted the “Spirit of Quennevais” in a way after 20 years I cannot recall. We have raised over £4000 to donate to the family and the hospital which is a staggering amount, particularly at this time of the year when expenses are running high. We have been stunned by the kindness, generosity and love that has been shown. Children bringing envelopes and emptying piggybanks, visitors handing over envelopes with generous donations and many students forgoing the traditional secret Santa gifts, to help give gifts to a very special young man.
I can think of no better example of the spirit of Christmas and the spirit of Quennevais. This generosity has spread beyond our school gates with “friends” of the school making wonderful arrangements to deliver something special over Christmas to him and which I know will make him burst with joy. I had the privilege of speaking to Mum about this earlier today and she is overcome with gratitude, joy and a deep sense of belonging to a very special community. The family are immensely grateful. Thank you all, let’s never take what we are part of for granted, count our blessings and have a really wonderful Christmas. With my very best wishes for the New Year ahead. Yours sincerely Mrs S Hague Headteacher
Cover image by Sam Annand of Alumni Sam Clarke playing Joey in Warhorse on the West End. An interview with Sam can be found on page 24.
HEADTEACHER’S REVIEW
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Q News | Issue 7 | Autumn 2019
Head Boy & Head Girl Reflections It’s been a busy term at Les Quennevais School and as Head Boy and Head Girl, we can vouch that this has been an incredibly busy time for all year groups, but certainly for Year 11. September saw us both begin the academic year welcoming and supporting the new Year 7 students settle into secondary school life at Les Quennevais. The senior Student Leadership team has endeavoured to support the Year 7’s where possible and feel that their transition from Primary to Secondary has been a smooth process. House Captains have been out working with all year groups and supporting Year 7s with inter-house football and netball - a competition that seems to get more competitive every year.
As for Year 11, we have already undertaken two GCSE examinations in Business and iGCSE English. The hard work and endeavour of our Year group to prepare for these exams was outstanding and we would like to thank the staff who have given up so much extra time to provide us with the best possible support. 114 students turned out for an English revision session on a Sunday morning highlighting the mantra Mrs Freeman has labelled our year group: #Winnersneverquit Speaking of #Winnersneverquit, our Year 11 boys represented the school with passion and respect and have brought home another football trophy for the school – Mrs Hague we are looking forward to the open-top bus! Open Evening was a huge success and we both felt mixed emotions knowing that this was the last time students would be looking at the current school, as well it being our very last Open Evening, but as we said in our speech, it is certainly an exciting time and community and although we will not be in the new build, we are very excited for the future year groups.
We have led two Parliament meetings discussing topics such as becoming a Respecting Rights School, on-going discussions with Plastics Jersey and Student Voice about changes we would like to see in the school. Next term is going to be even busier for us and when we return in January and will undertake our iGCSE in Mathematics – again we can’t thank the staff enough for the ongoing support and interventions both before and after school. We also have the school production of Annie! Another outstanding contribution that Les Quennevais makes to the wider community and for some Year 11s taking part, this will be their last time to tread the boards! We hope that all staff, students, Governors and parents have a restful and joyful holiday. Best wishes and Merry Christmas Cole and Katie
HEADBOY & HEADGIRL REFLECTIONS
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DT leading the way with new recycling initiative At Les Quennevais we are focused on giving our students the tools, knowledge and information they need to become more effective, more experienced and more efficient. Design and Technology is a progressive subject due to the fast pace of change in industry and developments in new technology. As Head of Technology I am always on the lookout for new resources as I endeavour to provide a tangible experience within an authentic context that reflects what students encounter at home, the local community and in industry, as I find this to be a highly motivating factor.
So, over the summer, I built various machines that enable us to shred plastic bottles and form them into new materials. The students are very excited about this and are bringing in plastic bottle lids from home. The students sort the lids into colours to enable better design choices. These materials are then used as part of their projects; anything from slippers to Bluetooth amplifiers. I’ve now built an injection moulding machine, so students can create new things like bookmarks for English and put together enterprise projects. This has led to new and exciting ventures for the school, and us as teachers and staff.
Most recently, our new students were involved in a beach project to raise awareness of plastic pollution rolling up on the beaches and in the oceans. This led me to contact our local recycling centre to ask what we could do as a school, to contribute or help out in any way. They explained to us that they were unable to recycle the plastic bottle lids due to safety reasons. We have been very grateful for all the help from Emma Richardson and Kevin Herrick at La Collette for helping to organise the lids for collection and to all those who have used our collection points or sent into the school.
A high quality design education equips students to use creative thinking across a range of subjects to understand and change the world. We are dedicated to ensure that sustainability is embedded into our school ethos to encourage students to look at the environmental, social and cultural impact of a range of products and to allow them to explore their own values around sustainability.
DT RECYCLING
All of our 3D filament at present is sustainable as it is made from plant starch or hemp but to allow us to also recycle single use plastics would be ideal. Our next step is to use our newly developed machine, which is a PET bot allowing us to recycle plastic bottles into new 3D printer filament and to 3D print new items using plastic bottles. Your generous support of collecting bottle tops made the new scheme possible. Thank you! If you are able I hope you will continue your support with a gift to our sustainable campaign to help enable us to make new machines and equipment to create new products from single use plastics. Mr Ferguson, Head of Design Technology
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Q News | Issue 7 | Autumn 2019
Introducing the new 2 i/c in PE Miss Moon Who is Miss Moon? I’m a PE and Maths teacher who’s recently back from teaching in Christchurch, New Zealand. Before that I was travelling for 10 months from Jersey to Bali, through Europe and Asia, without catching a flight. I love the great outdoors and playing many sports which include surfing, netball, show jumping, running and cycling.
How would you describe yourself in three words? Energetic, passionate and smiley.
Why do you teach? I have always wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. I really enjoy helping others and it’s a great feeling when someone you’ve taught understands or can master a task.
Why did you want to teach at Les Quennevais? I was a student at Les Quennevais myself and the ethos of the school, community spirit and energy in the school has always made me want to return to teach here.
What is your main goal with students? For students to enjoy a range of physical activities and sports, or topics, and to realise that they can achieve in many different aspects of both PE and Maths.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? To always find the enjoyment in everything that you do, even if it’s a task you dislike, try to find an aspect of it that you enjoy. What are your likes?
What are your dislikes? Horror films and cheese & onion crisps!
Who is your idol?
I’d have to say that my idol is Bethany Hamilton. Despite losing her arm to a shark attack when she was 13, she returned to professional surfing with sheer effort and determination.
And finally, what excites you about Les Quennevais? The opportunities and vast amount of activities that students can do in school and out of school is endless. There are an exceptional amount of extracurricular clubs and activities, including many Sports, French, Chess, DoE, First Aid, you name it! They’re offered to everyone and anyone to dive into and excel at, which is just awesome.
I like sports, animals, fields, woods, the beach, the sea and chocolate!
STAFF INTERVIEW
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Q News | Issue 7 | Autumn 2019
National recognition and published work for Les Quennevais School topping Amazon educational book list We all know I hope, how special and immensely successful Les Quennevais School is within our Island Community. We share a sense of great pride in everything we do, and particularly in the students we get to work with every day. Our school is a strong learning community where a culture and thirst for learning and developing is embodied in our aim of “Learning to be your best – through excellence and enjoyment”. Our success and tangible spirit is not something we ever take for granted and as an outward facing school, we are always keen to learn from and with others to help us to continue to do the best that we can do for our students. So when interested observers and external experts in their field, take direct interest in what we are doing, and want to share it with the world – you can’t help but feel we are getting a lot right at Les Quennevais School, and so began our association with World renowned Educationalist, Tom Sherrington.
NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR LQS
After visiting and working with Les Quennevais School last year, Tom decided to include our school along with 29 other schools around the world, to highlight inspirational practice, culture and expertise in teaching and learning. Les Quennevais’ entry in “The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook, focuses on the culture for learning we have developed and our strong approach to curriculum structures and the experiences for our students. Emilio Chain Lopez – Head of English, outlines the impressive five year curriculum that he has nurtured and developed at Les Quennevais with our dedicated team of English teachers. The impressive results our school has delivered year on year is testimony to this rich curriculum model. Pete Jones, Assistant Headteacher, Teaching and Learning presents his unique and wonderful Transition project that catapults our Year 6/7 students into the culture of excellence and high expectations we have as a Secondary School. There are delightful and insightful entries from some students, Annabelle and Issac, who discuss their favourite moments in their learning and favourite bits of the curriculum.
It is a real thrill to be included with the other schools in Tom’s book, all committed and united in a common sense of purpose to make a difference to our young people. However, every school is unique and at different stages, and it is thoroughly fascinating to read how each of us is approaching the pursuit of excellence, across the globe. Mrs Hague, Headteacher
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It was such a privilege and a thrill as Headteacher of our school to be able to write about a school that I love and the journey we are on. I am both blessed and lucky to have a team of outstanding and committed professionals around me, because you cannot raise a community alone – you need an army! Sarah Hague, Headteacher
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The school can’t afford to be half-hearted given all the competition it faces, you can tell from these accounts that they don’t ever do things by halves Tom Sherrington
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Q News | Issue 7 | Autumn 2019
Ever since Tom Sherrington stopped working as a head teacher just three years ago, he has been in incredible demand. Travelling the globe to work with schools and educators across every continent. His educational blog has had millions of views and he has written a book, which was inspired by his thoughts and research on teaching. ‘The Learning Rainforest’ was heralded as an important educational book last year. It brought together significant research and educational thinking alongside Tom’s personal experiences as a head teacher and leader on educational thinking.
This book was so successful; he has toured the world sharing the ideas that permeate ‘The Learning Rainforest’. His second book has been inspired by the very best, most inspirational schools he has visited over the past few years. The ‘Learning Rainforest Field Book’ contains a series of case studies of the very best schools he has visited. From International Schools in South Africa, the Far East the US and the UK, each case study depicts how each school has adopted some of the themes of his first book and explores what the theory looks like in reality.
As a school, we were delighted to have our own entry into this new book which is already topping the Amazon Educational book list. Profits from this book are going to a township school in South Africa. Mr P Jones, Assistant Headteacher
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The great community spirit of the school is lovely to experience on a visit. There are some schools you feel you could just hang out in happily all day and this is one of them. I’m delighted to know that their long-promised move to a brand new purpose-built school on a nearby site is in full swing, including a new location for the school’s amazing multiscreen immersive exhibition space - it’s one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen in a school. ‘Joy’ is one of the cornerstones of the Learning Rainforest philosophy so it’s fabulous to see that ‘excellence and enjoyment’ are coupled together in the school’s new motto. I’m certainly looking forward to a return visit when the new buildings open. Tom Sherrington
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NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR LQS
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Q News | Issue 7 | Autumn 2019
Geographers explore the Lake District Day 1 - As we waited in the airport for our flight to Liverpool our students’ mood could best be described as being effervescent. For many of our students they were going to experience their first flight, first trip to England, first time away from parents and first “OH! LOOK! There’s a black and white cow over there?!” A quick picture was had with the Yellow Submarine outside Liverpool Airport before we hopped onto the coach heading towards Castle Head Field Centre. Upon our arrival we were greeted by Sarah who made all the students feel at ease. A quick tour around the site before students were then taken to their rooms for the first difficult task; making their own beds! A struggle for some but hilarity for the staff. Dinner was followed by some classroom based activities to understand why we were here, what we would be doing and how the experiential learning would support their preparations for their Geography GCSE.
YEAR 11 GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIP
Day 2 - Awoken at 7:30am on Friday, students headed down for breakfast, made their lunches for the day and prepped themselves for rivers fieldwork. Hypotheses and geographical theories and models were discussed in the classroom before we headed out in the minibus to the source of the River Eea, listening to “music” of the students’ choice. It’s clear to say that proper music was played on the way back to Castle Head. Walking through bracken towards the source, the sun made an appearance and students became very excited about getting into the river. Given equipment, students had to work out how to reliably and accurately collect data on the river’s width, depth and velocity. It’s a great experience practically learning through trial and error. Now fully understanding how to use the equipment, students systematically collected the data. The thrill of being outside, in wellies, in a river, getting wet and having fun really showed on our students’ faces and it’s in moments like that, that you realise how fantastic it is to be a Geography teacher.
Over 12,000 steps had been walked and it was time for a bit of downtime before dinner. We met back in the classroom to present our data and justify our methods and the buzz in the classroom that evening was electrifying. Our students had become overwhelmed by the Geography and it was only day 2. The evening was filled with table tennis, card games, laughter and our kids just being kids. Day 3 - Late nights + early mornings = tired students (quick Maths). So appropriate siren alarms were needed to wake our students. Once up and fed we headed into the classroom to look at two comparable villages, Staveley and Burneside. The students were given secondary data to investigate the services, transport and the built environment of two rural areas. Once our students had built up a picture of the area, we jumped onto the bus and off we went to explore. Once the data was collected we hopped on the train to take in the wonderful views of the National Park. Back in the classroom; using the data the students collected, we were able to create some visual graphs using GIS which brought it all to life. Students analysed their data, evaluated the reliability of their methods, equipment and results and drew conclusions. The enquiry process of fieldwork was really coming together.
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As the sun set and darkness descended on the green pastures around us we put on our waterproofs, helmets and head torches to tackle the low ropes course. Students were split into two teams (Spencer vs Parkes). Students had to get as much water from one side of the course to the other using cups. It’s fair to say that both teams worked together supporting and encouraging one another. But there could only be one winner. My team did me proud. Day 4 - A good breakfast and warm clothing ready for a day of coastal studies. In the classroom our students were much more able to work independently through the enquiry process with confidence. Students were assessing secondary sources, developing hypotheses, creating risk assessments and making decisions on how to sample the area of Morecambe’s South Beach. After a demonstration on how to use the equipment to measure the width and angle of the beach our students got to work collecting their data, moving along the beach like transported sediment. Once collected we strolled down the promenade assessing the effectiveness of the many coastal defences and students were asked to complete a survey on the efficacy of these.
Arriving back at Castle Head with data in hand we described and justified our methods along with analysing, evaluating and concluding our findings. It was clear to see that our students were becoming much more versed with the enquiry process completing the work to a high standard and interlinking what they had learnt from the other enquiries. The day ended with an obstacle course where students had to complete the course and find pieces of a puzzle. All the students pulled together as a team supporting one another. But it must be said that the night was filled with so much laughter and enjoyment. A great way to end the day. Oh, and Mr Parkes still holds the title for most pressups in a minute, 45. Two years in a row. Well done Mr Parkes. Day 5 - A trip back to sunny Morecambe to look at urban regeneration. Students had to ask members of the public a series of questions and take comparison photos of the town centre to see how it has been regenerated. Again our students conducted themselves brilliantly. After a few pictures with Eric Morecambe we went back to Castle Head where students went into the classroom to analyse their data, draw conclusions and evaluate their methods and outcomes. It was great to stand back and observe our students working independently with confidence.
That night we walked up Gummers How to look over Lake Windermere. “Wow” was the general response to the views that we saw. Views that many of our students had never seen before. Sat up high overlooking the beautiful landscape whilst the sun was setting our students sat taking it all in. Many couldn’t believe what they were seeing. Walking back down and into the town of Bowness we had fish and chips, all sat around chatting and talking about the views we had seen and reflecting on the trip. It was a great way to end the day and the fieldwork course. It’s fair to say that both staff and students had an unbelievable trip with many memories and experiences shared that’ll never be forgotten. Thank you for an amazing fieldtrip. Mr Spencer, Mr Parkes and Mrs Roxburgh
YEAR 11 GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIP
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LQS students pushing the boundaries with impressive extended curriculum opportunities - LEAP From the 29th July – Friday 9th August 2019, three Les Quennevais students took part in the international project, LEAP. The Ladies Entrepreneurial Apprenticeship Programme gave our students the opportunity to work with other female students from around the globe to solve third world issues. It was truly an inspirational programme and leadership opportunity and one that will stay with our girls for the rest of their lives. With students from around the world including Taiwan, China, South Korea, India, Thailand, America, Hawaii, Bermuda and Germany our three Les Quennevais girls, (Ellie, Wilma and Natasha) made up the majority of the Jersey representatives – a clear indication of the growing ambition, confidence and support that the students of Les Quennevais School embody.
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It has been so much fun and at the same time incredibly intense to prepare for the Business Dragons. I have made some incredible new friendships with people from around the globe. More people need to do this project in 2020 – it’s life changing! Natasha
LEAP 2019
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Now embarking on the challenges of Year 10, the three girls took the time to reflect on their experiences and highlights of the LEAP project. The Les Quennevais girls were all in separate teams and worked with a range of other girls from different cultures and communities to come together to collaboratively develop their leadership and entrepreneurship skills. They were tasked with developing a social enterprise project to pitch to a team of seven dragons who had kindly committed over £4000 of funding. During their intensive 10 day programme they were trained, inspired, guided and mentored by over 60 leaders from the Jersey community; company owners, CEO’s, CFO’s, charity start-ups and government ministers.
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LEAP has been so much fun. I can’t believe how many new skills I have learnt and developed in a short space of time. I have met some amazing people and made new friendships. Wilma
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Natasha’s team decided to name themselves 195 Stories, recognising that their scheme to promote reading and literacy across the globe linked with the acknowledged 195 countries that are currently part of the United Nations. Natasha and her team developed a website for budding writers and readers to share their own work and work that inspired them with all money being used to then buy literacy resources for primary schools in underdeveloped countries. With her team, Natasha pitched ideas to some of the key financial Business Dragons, who were particularly impressed with the initiative and website design. Natasha’s team were given £500 of funding to secure this idea. Wilma was part of the World EcoProject. Working with students from Bermuda, Thailand, Hawaii and Shanghai, the girls successfully presented to the Business Dragons their ideas for ocean clean-up clubs that can be set up throughout the globe, to ensure that more countries contribute to the growing problem of plastics that exist in the ocean. The Dragons were again impressed with the team’s use of social media platforms that will be used to promote their enterprise.
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The International Impact Worldwide team, saw Ellie pitching with representatives from Bermuda, Taiwan, Thailand and Germany presenting their ideas to buy and sell authentic African jewellery to ensure that all money made will be used to support and buy resources for primary schools in Ghana and Tanzania that specialise in dealing with children who have been rescued from slavery and used as child soldiers. The Business Dragons were incredibly moved by the initiative and the team secured £500 to make this business a reality. Ellie’s enthusiasm for the project was observed by Leslie Dickie, CEO of Durrell Zoo and as a result, Ellie has been offered a volunteering placement at Durrell Zoo when she turns 16.
To say we are incredibly proud of our Les Quennevais students does not do justice to the dedication, maturity and respect that the three girls embodied throughout the project. Their ability to engage and work with students from other countries and cultures and deliver something with such passion in a constructive manner clearly demonstrates the resilience, respect and ambition these students have. They have a very bright future.
LEAP 2020 will initiate in September and over 20 countries, with a total of 60+ delegates. In addition initial discussions are taking place for parallel programmes in Singapore, Phuket and potentially South Africa and China. We look forward to Les Quennevais students being part of this next year! Mr Harris, Assistant Headteacher
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I’m so proud of myself. I can’t believe I have been part of something that is going to make a real difference. Leslie Dickie really inspired me and I think I now want to look at a career in zoology. Ellie
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LEAP 2019
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Year 11 LQS student Eve experiences unique Bio-Medical programme During the summer, Les Quennevais student Eve Bish took part in a Bio-Medical programme where she was exposed to a range of medical professions. This opportunity allowed Eve to witness the range of medical vocational prospects that take place on the island including: Surgical Techniques (Including performing a heart dissection), Pathology (Pathology Department of Jersey General Hospital), Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Biodiversity, Dentistry, Nursing, Medical Imaging (Medical Imaging Department of Jersey General Hospital), Veterinary Sciences (Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust) and Careers and university application advice and exercises.
When discussing her experiences of the programme, Eve was very complimentary for the opportunity that this gave her.
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“I loved the dissections and looking at tissues under microscopes. My favourite part however, was studying Neuroscience and Psychology. – I was fascinated by how certain experiences can disturb a person’s behaviour. This links very much to the topics of Criminology and Sociology and has certainly made me think about potential courses and opportunities in the future.” Eve
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A huge congratulations to Eve for dedicating and committing her own time to this programme. BioMedical 2020 will be available for more students with further information to follow in the New Year.
BIO-MEDICAL
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Year 11 are football champions again Tuesday 19th November is a date that some of the Year 11 boys will not forget in a hurry. Their last game of football for the majority of the squad, representing Les Quennevais after in most cases 5 years of playing. To reach the final, the 1st XI have had two extremely tough Cup ties against De La Salle and Haute Vallee. De La Salle were certainly the strongest opposition we have played all year. As a result, this gave the squad the opportunity to play with strength, skill and togetherness that they have not been able to produce for a long time. The fact that they were so good certainly gave them the confidence to move onto the semi-final and final knowing that if they play like that again no one would be able to beat them. As previously done with other finalists the preparation started with a late breakfast provided by the Monterey Hotel, an opportunity to fuel up, talk and relax away from the school environment and only a short walking distance from Springfield.
Moving onto the game saw the team wearing a new kit made for the day and a momento no matter what the result may be. In sky blue and white the game started with a coach load of Les Quennevais supporters including the vocal Mrs Ashley and Mr Morris as well as family and friends. Also making an appearance were the 2017 winning team many of which studying at Hautlieu (the opponents) in order to support the sky blue, and on hand to remind us #alwaysquennevais! The game itself was not a classic and neither side were able to settle into any rhythm or retain possession for a sustained period. Keepers at both ends were required to make good solid saves but the first and second half passed rather uneventfully. Extra time began and Les Quennevais seemed to settle quickest and decided to play some football. The game was determined by one moment of magic with a long distance strike from Noah passing the keeper and nestling in the top right corner of the goal.
The final score of 1:0 the Year 11s achieving the goal set in Year 7 that 5 years are about learning to play so that you win the Cup in your final year as it is simply the best year to win, and the one that everyone remembers! As well as lifting the trophy, Mrs Hague will now have to make good on her promise with an open top bus ride to prom after the victorious result. Congratulations boys, enjoy the ride. Mr C Jones, Teacher of PE
YEAR 11 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS
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Les Quennevais artists take over Harbour Gallery for Festival of the Arts On Monday 4th November we were delighted to hold our exhibition private view and school fashion show at The Harbour Gallery. Having our events in such a public and prolific gallery gave our students a sense of real pride that the work that they produced in art, photography, sculpture, fashion and jewellery could be displayed alongside professional artists and designers. Our fashion show, ‘Nature vs Pollution’ showcased the work of Key Stage 3 students who had produced corsets and skirts inspired by natural forms, anti-pollution face masks, hand painted and embellished cloaks and conceptual pieces showing the plastic pollution found on our shores. For the first time we included work from Year 7 transition projects as the wonderful sculptures, textiles and jewellery emphasises the environmental theme of the show.
FESTIVAL OF ARTS 2019
Our 34 student models walked the catwalk with poise and confidence and showed future models and fashion designers of the future. Year 11 cookery students produced wonderful canapés for the audience and were great ambassadors for the school. The exhibition had many visitors from the public who were amazed at the incredibly high standard of painting and photography from our students and could not believe that it was work at GCSE level hanging in the gallery. Our special thanks go to Pat Robson and the Art in the Frame charitable foundation for sponsoring the show. Mrs Croke, Head of Art
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Photo by Josh, Year 11
Photo by Taylor, Year 11
Photo by Brooke, Year 11
Photo by Phoenix, Year 11
FESTIVAL OF ARTS 2019
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Year 7 fly out of the blocks in an action packed first term at LQS What a wonderful first term the Year 7s have had at Les Quennevais. From the outset they have proved themselves to be an ambitious year group; early in the term the Year 7 girls football team came away with a trophy, they are set to be a formidable team and we look forward to celebrating their success in the future.
In November Les Quennevais entered the Speech and Drama Eisteddfod for the first time, we came away with two class winners Perry in the verse speaking for boys and Laila in the first time ever 10-11 category. Ruby came runner up in the 12 years and under Solo acting class against very tough competition.
We were wowed by the transition beach projects, such an eclectic collection of projects and ideas. Mrs Hague presented a staggering 19 Headteacher’s Award certificates and the winning students were invited to a tea with Mrs Hague to discuss their projects before heading to view the new school site.
We completed the year with a trip to see ‘Aladdin’ at the Radisson Blu, a fantastic ending to an even better term. It has been wonderful to see how the Year 7s confidence has grown since starting in September and now they are a part of the Les Quennevais School community.
All Year 7s took to the stage in their form groups for the annual Poetry Slam. Each form delivered a unique, self-written poem to the rest of the year group, they showed such bravery and commitment to their form, the winning form was 7L ‘as a form [they were] united.’
As we look to the spring term, the Year 7s have got so much to look forward to; some students will be taking part in the upcoming performance of ‘Annie’, as always, the production is set to be a stellar show. Students will also have the opportunity to enter the Student Business Challenge led by Mrs Griffiths where they will compete against students from other schools in a business enterprise competition. There will be plenty more sporting matches and competitions, watch this space. Mrs Goodchild, Head of Year 7
YEAR 7
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Corporate sponsor blown away by Year 7 Transition Exhibition This year’s exhibition day was something quite extraordinary. Not only was the work produced by Year 7 quite simply the best we have seen, but their attitude and enthusiasm on the day was exemplary. Every year, Mr Jones gives Mrs Hague between 10 and 20 very special golden certificates for the very best, most inspiring and unique work created.
Sometimes, there are a few left at the end of the judging, but this year the quality of work and effort which students had gone to made the judging an absolute joy. The certificates were all used up and several more had to be printed such was the astonishing standard of work this year.
John Assiter from JT Global with Headteacher Sarah Hague and award winner Declan
This is clearly a very special year group, which is brim-filled with talent, inquisitiveness, determination and imagination. There were so many highlights, but Declan’s wonderful driftwood guitar and Jack’s incredible beach map and top trumps were just two of a very large handful of work, which just blew us all away. The exhibition is also a great reminder for all our staff of the dedication and talent that we need to nurture and thrive at Les Quennevais. What an incredible start for the new Year 7 cohort. These opportunities are greatly enhanced due to the generous sponsorship and partnership we have established with JT Global. Mr P Jones, Assistant Headteacher
SPONSORED BY GOLD PARTNER JT Global
TRANSITION EXHIBITION
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TURKEY | HORSE RIDING | SURFING | LONDON | COASTEERING | FARM
Activity Week 2019 in pictures
ACTIVITY WEEK
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SCHOOL | SUP | PARIS | HIGH ROPES | HISTORY WEEK | FISHING | PAD
Incredible memories made, passions awakened through journeys near and far...
ACTIVITY WEEK
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New MFL Student Ambassadors It is an exciting time for the Modern Foreign Languages Department as they have recently recruited some Year 9 Student Ambassadors who will be working with Miss Farnham and Ms Samson to promote languages around the school and the community. We have a group of students on the Communications Team who will use Social Media and other platforms to let the community know what we have been up to in our MFL Department.
The other team are the Teaching and Learning Team. This group of students will be visiting local primary schools in the New Year and reporting to the MFL Department. We are hoping that both groups will bring lots of fantastic ideas and new initiatives to the Department. Watch this space!
“I wanted to be an MFL ambassador because it is a good opportunity to display my knowledge and skills and help others to enjoy another language as much as I do.” Ruby
“Having a grasp of another language makes you more approachable and interesting. It also makes you learn about other cultures which I love.” Lauren
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MFL AMBASSADORS
Miss Farnham, 2i/c Modern Foreign Languages
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“I find languages fascinating and would like to spread awareness for how important it is to learn a language. I have a bunch of ideas of how we can promote languages in the school and community” Oliver
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“I think it’s important to study languages because it shows respect if you are able to communicate with someone in his or her own language.” Samuel
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Alumni Interview Sam Clarke Sam left Les Quennevais in 2005 after completing Year 11 and went on to study his A levels at Hautlieu, before going to London to train as an actor at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Sam is currently living in London working as an actor, puppeteer and deviser in theatre, film and outdoor arts. Over the years Sam has been involved with various projects and fell into puppetry when he joined the West End production of War Horse in 2011, playing Joey. Which years were you at Les Quennevais? 2000-2005 What was your biggest challenge at school? I loved my time at Les Quennevais, but one thing I struggled with was home economic classes. Most weeks I’d even forget to collect and bring home what I’d made, sadly I think most of it probably ended up in the bin. Though in hindsight that was probably for the best.
ALUMNI INTERVIEW
What was your greatest achievement at school? One of the last school shows we did when I was in year 10 or 11 was Macbeth, and I was the lead. I think maybe that show was one of the first times I thought to myself, “I really might be able to do this as a career”. It’s still one of my favourite roles and even now I can remember some of the lines. It’s right up there in my list of characters I’d love to have another go at, one day... Song/band/album that defined your school years? I remember The Killers first album coming out and those massive anthem songs getting played everywhere! When I learnt to drive shortly afterwards I always had the first couple of Killers albums in my car. But I also remember dressing up one Red Nose Day with some mates as the Village People. We did a routine to Y.M.C.A at the talent show and as far as I can remember people loved it, (I think we even did an encore...)
Which aspects of life at Les Quennevais helped you become the person you are today? I just remember feeling like there was so much going on. There were all kinds of bands and shows, events and activities, sports teams and competitions. That’s what I love about living in London and working in the arts, anything you want to explore is out there, you just have to seek it out. Favourite memory of Les Quennevais? When we were in Year 8 my friend Jay and I entered the Drama Eisteddfod, and together with our drama teacher devised a mime piece about a pair of hapless builders with the Bob the Builder song as its soundtrack. It was one of the first times I’d got involved in something like that, and I was thrilled when we went on to win our category. That certainly gave me the bug, and from there I really got involved in performing. Jay had persuaded me to do it, and was my old friend from primary school. We’re still best friends now, both working as actors and often reminisce about where it all began for us.
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Favourite lesson or activity?
Favourite aspect of your job?
I loved Maths, I always have. I was quite good with numbers and always liked figuring things out. My plan was to go on and study that or physics at university until at the last minute I decided to go ahead and audition for drama school.
When you are working with a good team on a strong project the whole process just feels like play, there’s lots of laughter and creativity. That’s always my favourite time, when you’re in the rehearsal room and the ideas are sparking from everywhere and everyone. That’s when you know that the show you’re making is going to have that electric energy when it does get in front of an audience.
What path did you take and who inspired you along the way to get you where you are today? Certainly going to drama school gave me the opportunities to try and carve out a career in a very challenging industry. I wouldn’t have had the confidence to audition for drama school or the passion to persevere without the support I received when first started out. I certainly owe a great deal to my drama teachers from back then.
What advice would you give to students looking at their career options? I think it’s so valuable to gather a wide range of experience around the field of work you’re interested in. I know that I learnt a lot about acting and theatre not just from my drama classes, but also from music lessons, art, history and English studies and of course extra curricular activities. By exploring lots of angles you can form a more specific idea of the type of work you’d like to do, and give yourself more versatility as you find your way into the career that you really want.
ALUMNI INTERVIEW
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Year 11 students rock the States Chambers in annual Peace Debate
On Friday 15th November this year, we participated at our sixth Rotary Student Peace Debate at the States’ Chamber. This year’s theme was chosen in recognition of the Government’s declaration of a Climate Change Emergency and publication of their initial report. Our Year 11 Debate Team, Brooke, Cole, Marley, Darcy, Katie, Bella, Robyn and Kiera worked relentlessly in the weeks leading up to the debate, researching and constructing a speech about the impact of climate change. The debate was presided over by the Bailiff, Mr Tim Le Cocq with a keynote speech to start the debate from the Environment Minister, Deputy John Young. Representatives from each school gave a speech based around the topic and the platform was opened up to other schools to question and debate the motion presented.
The schools engaged in a plethora of motions from ‘Renewable Energy versus the Jersey Way’ to ‘Funding the Climate Change Emergency.’ Les Quennevais delivered their chosen motion; ‘Climate Change is the symptom, our Consumer Culture is the disease.’ Les Quennevais students explained that Jersey tackling climate change by becoming carbon neutral by 2030 does not go far enough; ‘The States are publicising this as if being carbon neutral in 11 years’ time is going to be the elixir of life. This empty promise is merely pretending to treat the symptoms of climate change and not the disease, which is us.’ Marley stated that, ‘We must find a cure, not a carbon neutral band aid for this fatal epidemic, in order to save our planet, our species and our Island.’ Brooke argued that the government are not supporting islanders in their efforts to change their lifestyles, ‘Our school will be charged £3.25 per month for every kilowatt of energy produced from our solar panels. How is this an incentive? Charging a school to be more eco-friendly? Our Government has clearly, thus far, failed to tackle the real disease and has settled for basic and easily achievable green credentials, a mere tick box, rather than finding the antidote to our Island’s sickness.
We must find sustainable substitutes that will satisfy our hunger for consumption.’ Our students explored many solutions, all of which must be encouraged and enabled by Government. Cole concluded that: ‘Without a stable, selfless and sustainable Government, it is impossible to change. This cancerous tumour of our consumer culture is being enabled, no, encouraged by you, our Government.’ Victoria College had mentioned earlier in the proceedings that the States would have spent a total of £32.9 million on surveying sites for the new hospital, money that they argued could have funded 11 wind turbines, meeting 64% of energy of Jersey’s household energy consumption. JCG later ended the speeches by reminding us that: ‘The Paris Agreement states that in order to become carbon neutral, countries will be required to spend 1 per cent of their G.D.P. per annum. 1 per cent of Jersey’s GDP is £46.24 million.’ This led to, after summing up the debate, the Bailiff inviting the Assembly to vote on the proposition ‘Jersey should become a model of the best climate protection practice, no matter what the cost.’ The proposition was accepted, with 29 students voting ‘pour’, for the motion. Miss Finney, Head Of RS
PEACE DEBATE CONTENTS
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PEACE DEBATE
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It’s game on after an action packed Autumn term of House Events The Inter-House competition is underway at Les Quennevais and after 2018-2019 witnessed the closest contest in recent years, it is safe to say the competitiveness and hunger for the new academic year has already begun! After being top dog for numerous years, Watts fell away and it was McKeon and Tranter who were fighting it out for the House cup in the summer, with Tranter eventually crowned as champions. This seems to have rejuvenated Watts House who have come out fighting and currently lead after this first term, with McKeon in second and Tranter in third place.
Points have already been awarded for House music and the Year 9 team-building day, as well as behaviour, the Reading Challenge, Year 9 Physical Theatre Drama and inter-house football and netball. Some particular highlights have been the stunning interpretations presented by the Year 9 Drama students in the physical theatre competition, won by McKeon as well as the Year 8 McKeon girls who stood firm and resilient when coming up against a strong Watts team. The new Year 7 boys in Watts showed a commanding display in inter-house football, winning all of their games by a convincing score-line, whilst there were also some stunning musical performances in Watts, the eventual winners of House music. Simon Ward of Year 10 in Tranter put in a man of the match display in every inter-house match, scoring a plethora of goals along the way, whilst Dante Chain-Lopes read over 30 books to ensure Tranter picked up points in the Reading Challenge. 2020 is going to be an interesting year with more House competitions along the way. Keep your eyes posted to see how the rivalries unfold throughout the New Year!
HOUSE COMPETITION
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Year 10 students team up with Bosdet Foundation to make a difference in their Island When the Bosdet Foundation first approached Les Quennevais with the idea for a student initiative to use funds for an idea, it was unclear the path or outcome that would develop. After several meetings between members of the foundation and our students (Maisey, Darcey, Miriam, Finlay, Dylan, Ethan, Fin and Amelia), it became clear that the students had a very clear idea of how they wanted the funds to be used.
Students identified that mental health was an ever-increasing issue amongst youngsters and the links to social media is an important message that needed to be explored and shared amongst other youngsters on island. The students of Les Quennevais School recognised that the rapid and developing world of social media has a strong link to mental health and wanted to raise awareness.
Through the money provided by Bosdet, training is to be provided to tackle First Aid Mental Health, to ensure that any students struggling with any issues can be identified and supported. The students also wanted this to be a bigger message and so, working with Love Theatre, have collaborated and presented ideas for the company to turn this into a production that will tour schools in Jersey in 2020 - the students are very keen to see how this will eventually look when all ideas eventually take to the stage. Well done to all the students who have been involved with this project and continue to support the charity. Mr Harris
RANGE OF SERVICES OFFERED INCLUDE: • • • • • •
STATIC GUARDS CONCIERGE OR FRONT OF HOUSE PERSONNEL KEY HOLDING (HOME & BUSINESS) ALARM RESPONSE (HOME & BUSINESS) OPEN & LOCK UP SERVICES PATROL CHECKS
• • • • • •
EVENT SECURITY HOME VISITS (ELDERLY/VULNERABLE PERSONS JDRS DOOR SUPERVISORS NIGHT SECURITY PORTERS PARKING CONTROL & MONITORING SECURITY ESCORT SERVICES YEAR 10 STUDENTS - BOSDET
ALL SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE ON A 24/7 BASIS
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SCHOOL LAUNCH ALUMNI PATHWAY SCHEME FOR NEW SCHOOL “
Attending Les Quennevais School has shaped the people that they have become. It has been, and will continue to be, a special place for the community of the west of Jersey. Mr Letch
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Experiences and memories of time spent at Les Quennevais School define who we are. Les Quennevais students are a distinctive group of people who are often commended for having become well-rounded, hardworking, caring adults who are an asset to any community they have settled in. We are regularly visited by ex-students who want to share their memories and recognise the place the school has played in their lives. To recognise this and the move to a new building we are creating an opportunity for all our ex-students and staff to remain a part of the school, whilst helping to ensure the students of today have access to the most cutting-edge learning and facilities. In November we officially launched our ‘Buy A Brick’ scheme and invited Les Quennevais alumni to leave their mark on the new school. For £35 past students will be able to buy a personalised brick which will be laid in our ‘Alumni Pathway’ at the front of the new school.
There will also be an area of the pathway for anyone from the local community and staff past and present who wish to buy a brick even if they did not go the school. The pathway will be located at the front of the new building in a plaza in front of the main entrance. All bricks ordered before Easter will be laid in time for the first day of school at the new building in September 2020. Bricks will have the name of the alumni and the years that they attended Les Quennevais etched into them. At the time of writing we have had an extremely positive take up of the scheme and orders are coming in daily. If you would like to place an order simply photocopy the order form on the next page and send into school with payment. For more information or to order bricks visit www.lesquennevais.sch.je/alumni
#ALWAYSQUENNEVAIS ALUMNI PATHWAY
ORDER FORM Your details: Name................................................................................................................................... Address.............................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................. Post Code.......................................................................................................................... Tel No. ................................................................................................................................ Email address....................................................................................................................
Each brick allows a personalised message of two lines with a maximum of 16 characters per line. The lettering is in Black. See examples for layout on Page 2. Price per brick: £35.00 Please print your message clearly. Space and punctuation count as characters. There is no need to centre your text as the engraving process does this automatically. If you wish to buy more bricks please photocopy this form.
TERMS & CONDITIONS • •
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All bricks remain the sole property of Les Quennevais School In their pursuit of correctness and uniformity, Les Quennevais School reserves the right to approve all lettering and ask for any unsuitable inscription to be amended. If, regrettably, Les Quennevais School has to refuse any application, there will be no obligation for Les Quennevais School to have to cite the reason. Every effort will be undertaken by Les Quennevais School to reproduce every inscription set out on the order form. Amendments necessitated by an error on the part of Les Quennevais School, will be made free of charge. However, if the donor requests a change after the original order has been confirmed, then a reasonable amendment charge may be made. No refunds will be given by Les Quennevais School Les Quennevais School will have complete control over the location and installation date of the bricks.
www.lesquennevais.sch.je/alumni
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Xmas comes to LQS!
EXPERIENCE
A DOOR
IMMERSIVE XMAS
NEARLY XMAS
D E C O R A T E
CONCERT
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ROCK ‘N’ ROLL B I N G O
SANTA DASH
YEAR 10 BUSINESS VENTURE
LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SERVICING All makes serviced
COMMERCIAL • PARTS • SERVICE • VEHICLE SALES Rabeys Commercial Vehicles Five Oaks, St Saviour, Jersey, JE2 7GR Tel: 01534 862304
www.rabeys.com
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THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS We would like to thank our corporate partners for their generous financial support. We are proud to have these companies associated as Corporate Partners of Les Quennevais School, working with us to make a difference and invest in our young people. If you’d like to become one of our partners, please get in touch with our Business Manager Mr Richardson.
CORPORATE PARTNERS
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JERSEY’S PREMIER PRINTER Mailmate Signage Barette Commercial Centre, Unit 7a St John Tel: 01534 495 837 e-mail: gareth@mailmateprint.com CONTENTS www.mailmateprint.com
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