Founded 1642
New H The Best Start
The Avenue New Hall School’s Annual Magazine
2012 - 2013
In this issue: Sports Day Student Views
New York, India & more Examinations Results
Skiing Success Sri Lanka Tour
Dance Show Drama
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From the Principal Welcome to this first edition of ‘The Avenue’, New Hall’s new annual school magazine. You will find here a summary of the highlights of the 2012-13 academic year, as well as contributions from students and staff from across the Senior School. This year, we have seen students broaden their horizons through travel, to countries including Sri Lanka and India. There have been outstanding drama and music performances, in addition to the spectacular annual dance show. The 370th anniversary of the school’s foundation was celebrated at Westminster Cathedral, where the school choirs performed admirably to a vast crowd. We have also seen students achieve international sporting honours and many of the sport departments have boasted at least one county champion team. Every year at New Hall is special, but this year has been truly triumphant. Students have, once again, achieved outstanding examination results, with 76% of our A Level students gaining A*-B grades and 52% of GCSE grades at A*-A. 91% of our outgoing Year 13 students have received offers to study at university or higher education. We wish all our former students every success for the future and I hope that this magazine will serve as a lasting memory of their final year at New Hall. I hope that you enjoy reading ‘The Avenue’, whether as a current parent, student or prospective family. Thank you to all of the staff, students and advertisers who have contributed to making the magazine a success.
Mrs Katherine Jeffrey Principal, New Hall School
Why ‘The Avenue’? New Hall’s new annual school magazine has been given the title of ‘The Avenue’ after the mile-long treelined driveway leading to the school. The Avenue is a Grade II listed Park and Garden, the striking approach to the heritage campus that includes the Grade I listed former Tudor palace of Henry VIII. Students and parents consistently cite the journey down The Avenue as a key element of their special memories of New Hall. The grand façade of the main school building in the distance, together with the estate parkland and countryside on either side of The Avenue, gives a lasting impression when visiting the school. We hope that ‘The Avenue’ magazine will provide a similarly valued memory of school life at New Hall. For more information about New Hall School, visit newhallschool.co.uk.
Head’s Welcome
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Contents 2012-13 Highlights
page 6 - 8
Year 7 student interviews
page 9
Iceland Trip page 10 India Trip page 11 Drama page 12 - 13 Dance Show page 14
Read about the Geography Trip to Iceland on page 58
Creative Writing
page 15
Foundation Day
page 16
Boarding - Campion House
page 28
Design Exhibition
page 17
Boarding - Dennett House
page 29
Staff - Mrs Joy Hopkinson
page 30
Staff - New Staff Profiles
page 31
Royal Artist page 32
Reflections on Mrs Hopkinson’s time at New Hall School on page 30
Celebration of the Visual Arts
page 33
Art Gallery
page 34 - 37
Westminster Mass
page 38 - 39
Chaplaincy page 40 Creative Writing
page 19
Q&A with the Heads of School
page 20 - 21
Music page 22 - 23 Boarding - Earle House
page 24
Boarding - Magdalen House
page 25
Boarding - Petre House
page 26
Boarding - Hawley House
page 27
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New Hall choirs sang at Westminster Cathedral this year - read more on page 38
Sports Day - Poles Do The Double page 52 - 53 Ski Team page 54 Equestrian - National Champions page 55 Cricket page 56
Dominic Morris talks about playing rugby for England on page 58
Rugby page 57 Sporting Star - Dominic Morris
page 58
Sport Dinners page 59 Creative Writing
page 41
New Hall Voluntary Service
page 42
Making a Difference
page 43
Diamond Model Views
page 44
Library Update
page 44
An International Year of Politics
page 45
Duke of Edinburgh
page 46
Normandy Trip
page 47
History Trips page 48 Debating Team
page 48
Creative Writing
page 49
Leavers’ Dinner
page 50 - 51
Hockey page 60
See photos from this years Leavers’ Dinner on pages 50 & 51
Netball page 61 Tennis Champions
page 62
Sailing to Success
page 63
Triathlon - National Honours
page 63
A Level Results 2013
page 64
GCSE Results 2013
page 65
Leavers’ Destinations
page 66
Poles triumphed at Sports Day - read all about it on pages 52 & 53
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2012-13 Highlights September 2012 The new academic year started with an exciting announcement that New Hall School was to occupy a square on the new Chelmsford edition of ‘Monopoly’. The game was sold at school and featured under many Christmas trees!
October 2012 The school celebrated a very special Foundation Day in October - the 370th anniversary of the school’s foundation. The first New Hall Foundation Music Festival took place, with performers of international standing, alongside New Hall’s own musicians, performing in the beautiful school Chapel. The annual House Singing Competition ended the week of musical celebration, with Pole House being crowned victorious [see page 16].
November 2012 Students returned after half term, having travelled to locations including India, New York and Pompeii. Holly Haslam (Year 7) was awarded Young Sports Star of the Year at the Essex Chronicle Sport Awards and Emily Pilling (Year 7) won a prestigious national art competition with her painting of HM The Queen [see page 32].
December 2012 The highly anticipated production of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ took place in December, with various lifesize ‘Audrey II’ plants [see page 12]. To finish the Michaelmas Term, the annual Advent services took place at Brentwood Cathedral. The Senior School choirs helped everyone to wind down after a busy term and get into the festive spirit, with traditional carols and hymns.
January 2013 January brought the first snow of the year, with more yet to follow! Boarders enjoyed building igloos and snowmen around the school grounds. In mid-January we received the great news of two New Hall students receiving unconditional offers from Oxford, as well as news of eleven girls and six boys being selected to represent Essex in hockey and rugby respectively.
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Annual Summary
February 2013 In February, Dominic Morris (Year 11) was selected for the U16 England rugby squad [see page 58]. The Chaplaincy Prefects kicked off their fundraising term by selling pancakes on Shrove Tuesday and Lent began with a special Ash Wednesday Mass.
March 2013 Over the half term break, students travelled to Switzerland for a ski trip and the ski team had an opportunity to train for competitions later in the year [see page 54]. Linguists travelled to Madrid to practise their Spanish and Sixth Form Politics students went to Brussels to visit the institutions of the European Union [see page 45].
April 2013 In April, the Cricket Academy jetted off to Sri Lanka [see page 56] and New Hall geographers went to investigate glaciers in Iceland [see page 10]. A special Mass took place at Westminster Cathedral, with students, staff and friends of New Hall School joining with the founding Religious Community to celebrate the 370th year since the foundation of the Community and school [see page 38].
May 2013 The New Hall Show Jumping Competition took place in May; the New Hall Riding Captain, Madeleine Taylor (Year 12), rounded off the event with a clear round and 1st place in the final class of the day. Also in May, the first New Hall Aquathlon took place with more than 100 athletes from around the county taking part. Catholic and Anglican Confirmations took place with over 30 candidates - a record breaking number.
June 2013 Sports Day took place and all students donned their House colours to compete in the culmination of the annual House competition. This year, Pole House were crowned victorious, continuing their winning streak [see page 52 & 53]. Also in June, the annual New Hall Dance Show took place at the Chelmsford Civic Theatre, featuring dances to music from classic and modern films [see page 14]. We also welcomed 2013’s new Year 7 students for their Induction Days.
Annual Summary
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July 2013 July marked the end of the academic year and Activities Week, with students taking part in a range of educational visits including a trip to Colchester Zoo for Year 7, an outof-this-world experience at the Science Museum for Year 7 and 8 students, a visit to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre for Year 9 English students and a trip to the Tate Modern for Year 8 artists. The week ended with Prize Giving ceremonies and the end of year Mass.
August 2013 GCSE and A Level students returned to school in August to collect their examination results. At GCSE students celebrated remarkable improvement in their attainment at the very highest level compared with the previous year, with a 50% increase in A* grades. As well as 21% of all GCSEs being awarded A*, a record 52% of grades were at A*/A and a record 30 students achieved at least 9-12 A*/A grades. Overall, 94% of grades at A Level were at A*-C and 76% of grades at A*-B. The Head Girl and Boy led the A Level results celebrations, together with their two deputies. They celebrated a remarkable 14 A*/A grades between them. [see page 64 & 65].
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Annual Summary
First Impressions Amelia Rushmore-Perrin interviews two Year 7 students about their experiences during their first year at New Hall School... Jessica Whiley, 7KRX
Alex Groves, 7SMA
What is your favourite school dinner? “Jacket potato with cheese and beans.”
What is your favourite school dinner? “Baguette Day!”
What has been your favourite school trip so far? “Our trip to Mersea. There were team-building activities outside, like wall climbing, which was fun. Also, we found out who we would be in lessons with and I made some friends”.
What has been your favourite school trip so far? “The Year 7 Mersea trip was really fun. It was our first school trip and it was for team-building.”
Who is your favourite teacher and why? “Mr McMillan, my English teacher. I like him because he doesn’t get cross and he is really nice to everyone. Everyone listens to him so the class is usually quiet. He is firm but fair.” Has any lesson been easier than you thought it would be? “I expected Geography to be difficult because it was hard at my Preparatory School, but I have been pleasantly surprised.” What was your biggest fear about joining New Hall? “Making new friends.” Is that fear still an issue or have you solved it? “No, I made lots of new friends within a week.” Did you get lost trying to find your way around? “No. Because I had been to lots of Open Mornings, Educational Days and camps, I knew where to go. They gave us all a map on our first day too.” What is your favourite and least favourite thing about the school? “All the teachers are really nice and easy to talk to, which helps me with my studies. My least favourite thing is probably homework!” Do you do any co-curricular activities? “Yes! I do athletics, running, tennis, rounders, hockey and Spanish club. The clubs are all really good, especially the sport ones as we get to use all of the facilities, like the Fitness Suite.”
Who is your favourite teacher and why? “Definitely Mr Clark! He teaches Chemistry and he lets us do experiments every single week.” Has any lesson been easier than you thought it would be? “Mathematics. I thought it would be harder because it is so confusing. It is still challenging, but Mr Frost is my teacher and at the end of term he plays guitar and sings to us.” What was your biggest fear about joining New Hall? “I thought I would get lost, the buildings are so big.” Is that fear still an issue? “No, the teachers helped me when I got lost”. Did you find it was easy to make friends when you joined the school? “Yes, it was very easy as we were all in the same situation. My best friend is Cameron Isbell.” What is your favourite and least favourite thing about the school? “I love the food but I do not like subjects I am not very good at.” Do you do any co-curricular activities? Yes. I do fitness training and on Wednesdays I go to Redbridge tennis camp. I am on the tennis squad and I have tennis lessons with Mr Bennett. I love how there are so many opportunities for tennis, and the Fitness Suite is really good. Mr Bennett is a great teacher.” Interview
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Iceland Trip By Emilia Turner (Year 12) During the Easter holidays a group of geographers from Years 11 to 13 travelled to Iceland to support their studies. Day 1 – On arrival we began our geographical adventure with a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon, where we experienced the boiling temperatures of the naturally heated geothermal water, amidst the freezing weather conditions of the area. We were all particularly interested in the so-called health minerals - silica and algae - which are said to benefit the skin and aid relaxation. We then enjoyed a special Icelandic burger, which proved to many that the culture Iceland had to offer would be greatly appreciated by its New Hall visitors! Day 2 – We left the Foss Hotel in Reykjavik and travelled the city streets, taking in the new sights. From a 250ft height at Hallgrimur's Church, we were able to enjoy breathtaking views. We then further embraced our new culture when we visited the ‘Perlan’ – a water storage facility which also provided the perfect platform for exceptional views of Reykjavik. A coach journey filled with traditional stories of ‘trolls’ by our Icelandic tour guide led us to the Thingvellir National Park - Iceland’s most cultural heritage site - which was evident through the views of the landscape we admired. Day 3 – With another day full of traditional sights to visit, we left the Hotel Hvolsvollur ready to explore many Icelandic waterfalls and glaciers. Seljandafoss and Skogafoss were astonishing waterfalls, which we examined so closely that there was definitely a need for waterproofs! Similarly, climbing Solheimajokull, a rapidly melting glacier, proved many layers were needed, especially at the following visit to the beaches at Reynishverfi and Dyrholaey in harsh winds. Day 4 – Leaving Hotel Laki at Efri-Vik, we braved the increasingly cold temperatures and visited the famous Laki lavas and Lomagnupur sea cliff. The refreshing walk to Svartifoss, leading to the very impressive Svinafellsjokull glacier proved quite a task, especially considering the extremely steep drops alongside our trail. Bond fans were given a treat as we descended on the Jokulsarlon lagoon, which many remembered from ‘Die Another Day’. Day 5 – Stopping at the Vik Woollen Mill and visiting the Iceland Volcanic Eruption Centre proved entertaining, especially when studying the effects of the Eyjafjallajokull eruption just three years previously. After caving in lava tubes, the much-anticipated “eat-all-you-want” pizza was greatly appreciated! This was followed by an eventful game of bowling, which clearly showed the competitiveness between many students... and the teachers! Day 6 – Departure day proved to be of further excitement as we bravely visited the new ‘geo park’ home to explosion craters, mud pools and sinter pots. It is clear that the locals were not expecting the entire New Hall party to descend upon Reykjavik’s main swimming complex, but everyone seemed to be extremely enthusiastic about enjoying some further leisure activities! A walk through a rift and a visit to the Viking World Museum ended the exciting trip. After returning from Iceland, I had Geography AS Level examinations and the trip greatly enhanced my knowledge, in particular of physical geography. As well as being an exciting recreational trip with the school, I was pleased that it also benefited my studies.
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Iceland Trip
India Trip By Mr Bray, Head of Theology India truly was a wonderful experience for all of us. The breathtaking sites that we visited in October 2012 will live long in our memory and we learned so much about a country and a culture which is very different to our own. My favourite memory has to be the rickshaw ride in Varanasi which took us through the hustle and bustle of the city to the peaceful and spiritual River Ganges. Although I probably have a few more grey hairs after the ride to get there! The aarti ceremony was truly inspiring and uplifting; it revealed the deep spirituality that exists in this incredible country. We were privileged to experience different world religions during our trip: Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism and Hinduism. Learning from people of different faiths and respecting religious diversity is something that is becoming increasingly important in our world today. Who could forget the various forms of transport we encountered? Aeroplanes, trains, jeeps, rickshaws, a boat ride on the Ganges and, of course, riding on elephant back; we certainly travelled around India in a quite remarkable way. After seeing some of the poverty and deprivation that many people face in India, I hope all the students are able to appreciate the many blessings and opportunities that they have in life. Namaste! Natasha Lindon (Year 12) spoke to students who travelled to India about their favourite memories and experiences of the trip. "My favourite part of the trip was watching the sunrise at the Taj Mahal - probably one of the most inspiring sights I've ever seen. I saw how differently people lived from us and it gave me an insight to what life is really like in India as I didn't have much of an idea before we left. I feel as if I have gained in humility from seeing how unfortunate some people's lives are and how families have to live on very little. It reminded me of how lucky I really am." Henry Lawes (Year 12) "It was culturally enlightening and an experience I will never forget. It was a once-in-a-lifetime trip and we were able to try things we had never done before. Being able to see how other people in the world live reminded me that my lifestyle is really fortunate in comparison to different people around the world." Jessica Belton (Year 12) "India is a beautiful country and I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to visit." Gabriella Oxlade (Year 12)
India Trip
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A Varied Year of Drama By Francesca Rothery (Year 12) & Adam Sammour (Year 12) The Drama Department has staged several spectacular productions this year. Every year the department puts on a performance of a musical in the Michaelmas Term, a Shakespeare piece and a smaller-scale production, of the Drama Prefect’s choice, in the Lent Term, as well as a production specifically for students in Years 7 to 9. This year saw particularly exceptional productions including Little Shop of Horrors, Othello and The Tales of Snow White. Little Shop of Horrors was performed in early December 2012. The story of an orphaned young man called Seymour, played by Head Boy Hayden Munt (Year 12), struggling to survive in a run down suburb. His luck turns upon the discovery of an odd plant, which feeds on blood and turns out to have the power of speech. Things go downhill, however, when the plant’s own agenda takes precedence and Seymour is forced to satisfy the plant’s macabre needs. This all unfolds with the help of a number of catchy tunes and powerful ballads. The show was performed on three nights, in New Hall’s Eaton Theatre, each to a full house. The cast and crew backstage, made up of students from Years 10 to 13, were ecstatic after each performance, having heard of the audience’s enjoyment and their hard work paying off. Teresa Guerrero (Year 12) took the lead female role of Audrey and received praise for her powerful vocals. The two supporting roles, Mushnik and The Dentist, played by Adam Sammour (Year 12) and Henry Lawes (Year 12), also put in a fantastic performance. For the part of Audrey II, the puppeteer, Dominika Soltysik (Year 12), and the vocalist, Olivia Watters (Year 12), worked together with splendid chemistry to give a flawlessly lip-synced performance. Othello was performed in the Drama Studios of Walkfares in March, to a full house of eager audience members. Despite the Shakespearean language barrier, the cast soldiered on and gave impressive performances in a production which garnered rave reviews. Princess Gloria Bajowa (Year 12) gave an exceptional performance, portraying a diverse range of emotions throughout. Powerful performances came from Charlotte Fage (Year 13) as Iago and Jordan Davies (Year 12) as Cassio. Teresa Guerrero (Year 12) also gave a moving portrayal of Desdemona. As well as the outstanding performances on stage, there was plenty happening backstage, with artful production and scene changes.
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Drama
Each year, the Drama Prefect has the opportunity to direct his or her own production, which is performed in the state-of-the-art Walkfares Performing Arts Centre for three nights, in front of a ticketed audience. This year, Charlotte Fage (Year 13) chose to present The Tales of Snow White. Here she gives an insight into her experiences: “Working on The Tales of Snow White has been an incredible experience. Being able to write, stage, direct and design a play, completely on my own, has been a real eye-opener for me and a wonderful opportunity. One that I will never forget! I will admit, it has been a stressful few months, but thoroughly enjoyable at the same time. The support from the Drama Department and my fellow students has been incredible and really helped the show to be a success. Thank you to everyone who came to see the production. I would like to say the biggest thank you of all to the cast, for their hard work and dedication. They pulled it off and it was amazing!”
West End Star Elliot Reeve (Year 8) had a recurring role as Bruce in the West End production Matilda The Musical this year. The show, inspired by the Roald Dahl classic, is written by Dennis Kelly, featuring lyrics by Tim Minchin and has received outstanding reviews. After a standout performance in last year’s school production of Troy, we are sure Elliot has a bright acting future ahead.
The final production of the year was Alice in Wonderland, a Tim Burton-esque performance which involved students from Years 7 to 9. Mariella Dyckhoff (Year 9) gave an outstanding performance as the title character and there were superb performances by Rachael Emery (Year 8) as the Queen and Sophia Moore (Year 8) as the Cheshire Cat.
Drama
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‘Moving Pictures’ This year’s annual dance show at the Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, featured performers from both the Senior and Preparatory School and was entitled ‘Moving Pictures’. The show included dances to music from classic and modern films. The Dance Company gave an outstanding performance of ‘Romeo and Juliet’, the Senior Ballet group enchanted the audience with their performance of ‘Sleeping Beauty’ and there was a standing ovation on every night after the finale of ‘That’s Entertainment’.
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Dance
Creative Writing By Alice Locker (Year 9) Goodbye Mother waves off her only son, And so the waiting has begun. Off to fight for all he’s worth, While mother, she recalls his birth.
He witnesses the filth of war, And questions what they’re fighting for. He’s sick of blood and guts and gore, He longs for the life he had before.
The day she held him oh so tight, But now she waves him off to fight. She feels as if her heart will break, Puts on her brave face for his sake.
One more week he can barely wait, Mother will stand at the garden gate. Never before did he think he’d miss, The smell of home and warmth of her kiss.
Her son has promised that he’ll write, It’ll keep him busy through the night. And mother will wait with bated breath, Dreading the news of her son’s death.
The letter falls upon the floor, Mother runs to her front door. She reads and crumples in a heap, Clutched to her chest, she begins to weep And in her heap she wonders why, God had to choose her son to die. She pounds her fists upon the floor, and curses this wretched thing called war.
Thousands of miles her son has flown, Into a world of the unknown. Hot and tired, frightened and scared, He wonders, is he fully prepared?
Creative Writing
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Foundation Day By Amelia Rushmore-Perrin (Year 12) From the ethos, the mission statement and the warm welcome you receive, you can tell community is a big aspect of our school. Every year this is recognised at ‘Foundation Day’, a day for singing, dancing and celebrations, coming to a climax in the afternoon with a big musical inter-house competition. Two songs are performed on the day - a common song, performed by everyone in their individual houses, and then a different song for each house. This year, Heather Small’s Proud was sung by everyone. Additionally, Owen House started the event off with K’naan’s Waving Flag; Southwell House performed Eric Idle’s Bright Side of Life; Fisher House was alive with movement during The Jackson Five’s ABC and Pole House gave a beautiful rendition of Gary Barlow’s Sing. From the Year 7’s to the teachers, everybody loves Foundation Day. It gives the students an opportunity to ‘go crazy’ for their house, with screams, shouts and house chants filling the hall for the entire afternoon - the applause after a performance is deafening! We must remember also the spiritual side of Foundation Day, amidst the house t-shirts and glitter in the air. In the morning there is a Mass where we are reminded not only of the nuns who founded our school, but also of the ethos of New Hall. This year, Pole House took the title of winner, with Southwell House in second place and Fisher House in third. Owen House won the individual music piece with a live, instrumental mix of The Fratellis’ ‘Chelsea Dagger’, Aerosmith’s ‘Walk This Way’, and Henry Carey’s ‘God Save The Queen’. Next year’s event, with the addition of four more vertical houses, will be double the fun!
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House Competition
Design Exhibition By Mrs Curtis, Head of Design & Technology In June, students, staff and Governors joined the Design and Technology Department to celebrate the success of the Year 11 students at the end-of-year Three Dimensional Design Exhibition. Over these last two academic years at New Hall, GCSE Three Dimensional Design students have been busy experimenting, designing and making innovative and visually dynamic products. The course has also challenged students to research ideas, think creatively and use existing artists, designers and architects to help influence their own work. Students have produced a number of eye-catching products based on three units of work: • Coat rack inspired by ‘Nature’ • Bird Box inspired by ‘Family Trees’ • Light inspired by ‘Journey’ or ‘Fusion’ The Design and Technology Department has given guidance and advice, but ultimately the work produced has been designed and made by the students and we would like to congratulate them on the fantastic work exhibited.
Design Exhibition
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Founded 1642
Founded 1642
New Hall School School Hall The Best Start in Life The Best Start in Life
OPEN MORNINGS Saturday 28 September 2013 & Bank Holiday Monday 5 May 2014 9.00am - 12.00 noon Preparatory School: Tour our facilities, including our PreReception (age 3+). Meet staff, pupils and the Headteacher with activities on offer for children of all ages. Senior School: Student-led tours with talks by the Principal, Head Boy and Head Girl at 9.30, 10.30 and 11.30am. Interactive demonstrations and activities throughout the morning. Sixth Form: See our new Sixth Form Centre, meet students and staff and hear about our forthcoming developments.
Book for Open Morning at newhallschool.co.uk registrar@newhallschool.co.uk | 01245 236 098 “A Catholic foundation and ethos, welcoming all�
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Diamond Model
Creative Writing By Chloe Bull (Year 9) Imagine you are Weaver from ‘A Gathering Light’. Write an account of what happens at the station... A gentle knock at the door took the attention of Mr Sperry as he sat in his office. Weaver peered round the door, expecting to have interrupted a meeting. “Mr Sperry,” he began, as Mr Sperry rose from his dark oak desk to greet his battered visitor. “Mr Sperry,” Weaver repeated, this time continuing, “I was wondering if I could have a word... you see, John didn’t see everything; I didn’t tell him everything either.” “Come in boy. Come in and tell me exactly what happened,” replied Mr Sperry, easing himself back into the great black chair and nodding to Weaver to sit in a chair opposite him. “As John said, the three men were drunk, very drunk,” he began. “They wrongly assumed I was a servant boy and asked me to take them to their next destination. I tried to explain as I was in no mood for a fight but they wouldn’t take it. They accused me of being disloyal and said I ought to be taken away. Nevertheless, I tried to re-explain myself, trying to convince them I worked for a hotel and telling them I was merely waiting for the train. Conveniently, they too decided to wait for the train. They sat down next to me talking; I think possibly trying to whisper about me. A very sinister looking man took the lead and demanded I went and got them a drink. Wrongly, I know, I told him he had had too much. A tall man stood up, pulling me by my collar. I shook free, but he only grabbed my ear, he bundled me to the floor and sat on me; again, the man demanded a drink. Repeating what I said before, I added that I could not get up, so how could I possibly get one? That was it. They shouted at me, kicked me and I pushed the man off me and tried to run away. It was set. I was to be beaten; three fully grown men against a black teenager.” He paused. “Surely, it would have been wise to ignore the men. Weaver, are you listening?” Mr Sperry asked, but Weaver was gone, lost in the agonising pain of remembering his encounter. His emotions fluctuated from utter pain to complete destruction in the moments that followed. Eyes full of anger and distress, a slight whimper edged into his voice. “Words hurt Mr Sperry; they hurt a lot,” he whispered as he traced the wounds on his face with his hands. “Nothing quite like this compares with what I saw as a boy, but pain can always be reintroduced. I can’t help but think of the pain my father was in when he died, much more, much, much more…” Mr Sperry leaned in to catch Weaver’s last words as his voice faded. “That’s where John found me and you know the rest.” Weaver stood up to leave. “Weaver,” Mr Sperry began. Weaver stopped walking. “These things can always be stopped. Don’t try and take it and be brave; you are allowed to feel hurt.” Weaver turned, “I can’t, men like that killed my father, if I let them…” Tears filled his eyes and emotion took over his voice. “If I let them… I can’t leave Mamma, it would kill her and I won’t be responsible for my own Mamma’s death,” he uttered as he left.
Creative Writing
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Q&A
with the Heads of School
Every year a new team of Senior Prefects is appointed, led by the Head Boy and the Head Girl. The Senior Prefects take on a range of roles, from leading the Houses to helping at school events. The Heads of School even have the daunting task of giving a speech at the school’s Open Mornings. Here, Head Boy and Head Girl, Hayden Munt and Ellie Day (both Year 12), give their initial thoughts, a few weeks into the role. Head Boy 2013-14 Hayden Munt
Head Girl 2013-14 Ellie Day
What are you looking forward to the most about being a Head of School? Hayden: “I am most looking forward to acting as a role model for the younger students - having seen former Head Boys and looked up to them myself, I am honoured to find myself in the same position. I enjoy presenting and speaking at events and this is something I hope to do a lot of in the role of Head Boy, having already spoken at the Open Morning in May. I want to maintain the traditions of the school and bring these to the forefront of student life. I think it is important to raise awareness of the Senior Prefects among the younger students, so that they feel they know who we all are, what we do and hopefully each will find something in one of us to which they can aspire.” Ellie: “I’m excited to take on the responsibility of being Head Girl. It’s a role I have aspired to for a very long time and I’m just so excited to get started. I am hoping to develop my leadership skills whilst leading the other Senior Prefects and I look forward to the challenge ahead. I applied for the position with the intention of developing my communication skills and this is something I am very much looking forward to. I want to be a strong role model to younger students and hopefully be someone they can look up to, in the same way that I looked up to former Head Girls.” What do you think will be the hardest thing about being Head Boy/Girl? Ellie: “I expect it to be a challenge to ensure that everything we have to do is done to the highest of standards, whilst balancing everyone’s different expectations within the Senior Prefect team.” Hayden: “I agree. It is daunting to consider that we are tasked with managing a team of Senior Prefects, all of whom are the same age as us and are our friends. To be able to establish ourselves as the leaders of the team, bearing in mind that these are our peers, will be a challenge, but it is one that we are both looking forward to taking on.”
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Interview
What has been the most useful piece of advice that you have received so far? Hayden: “Daniel Mullens, the previous Head Boy, told me that it is important to be confident in yourself and your ideas. He advised me to not let other people’s doubts prevent me from pursuing an idea for change and that the best way of affirming yourself as a good leader is to pursue your ideas, and prove others wrong.” Ellie: “Grace, the previous Head Girl, told me that we really need to enjoy our time as Head Boy and Head Girl, as the time passes really quickly - this something that seems to be happening already, only half a term into the role! Another good piece of advice I received was to try not to attempt to please every single person, as nothing can be achieved if all the different views and ideas are taken into account. Grace advised me to have faith in my decisions.” How do you think this role will shape your future? Ellie: ”I think that the leadership skills and organisational skills that I hope to develop over the next year will help me to prepare for my future. In particular, being a representative of the school and speaking to parents, students and staff in a professional manner will stand me in good stead for interview situations at university and in my future career. I hope to study History at university and I hope that the role of Head Girl will equip me with the skills I need to go forward after graduation to find a career that I am passionate about and to meet any challenges head-on.” Hayden: “I think that the role of Head Boy will put me into high-pressure situations that I will not otherwise encounter. The sense of responsibility that comes with the role will prepare me for my future and I anticipate learning a lot during my time as a Head of School. I hope to go on to study Classics at university and hope that I can take the lessons I learn as Head Boy to help me find a career that I can succeed in.”
Head Boy 2012-13, Daniel Mullens (Year 13) gives some words of wisdom and reflects on his time as Head Boy, after a full year in the role. “During my time as Head Boy, the most exciting moment was receiving the Chains of Office. On a day-to-day basis it was making the announcements and delivering the ‘thought of the day’ in Chapel every week - despite our regular slip-ups! Being Head Boy gave me the experience of working with a team for a protracted period of time and is an experience that will stay with me. My advice to Hayden and Ellie would be to enjoy their time as Head Boy and Head Girl, as before you know it someone else will have taken your place!”
Interview
21
Music
By Mr Fardell, Director of Music
During this year of events marking the 370th anniversary of the foundation of the Community and School, the Music Department has been fortunate to have been at the heart of many of the celebrations. In October, we held our Inaugural Foundation Music Festival, a long weekend of concerts and events featuring the best of our own musicians. We enjoyed a virtuoso display from our scholars and a humourpacked piano duet concert from Messrs Castell and Wilson, as well as visiting musicians – choral music from the Gallery Choir of Westminster Cathedral Choir School and stunning jazz from the David ReesWilliams Trio. Our workshops included specialist advice from Tim Carey for our pianists and a joyful Gospel workshop from the country’s leading expert Ken Burton, who had all of us singing with authentic style. In November, we made our first CD since 2007. We managed to record performances from all our choirs in the Preparatory and Senior Schools and we were delighted to be joined by Old Fishes for the Saturday recording of some New Hall favourites including All Are Welcome and Tell Out My Soul. Old Fishes were also well represented in the 370th workshop and performance of the Fauré Requiem. But our biggest choral event was the Thanksgiving Mass at Westminster Cathedral in April, which is detailed elsewhere, but at which we were delighted to have been mistaken for the Cathedral’s professional choir! Our School Orchestra and the Wind Band have appeared at concerts throughout the year and have covered a wide repertoire from Handel’s Water Music through to John Williams’s theme for ET. A good number of instrumentalists have been involved in regular chamber music rehearsals, with a particular highlight being The Miniatures by Frank Bridge performed by the Piano Trio. Our pop and rock musicians have excelled themselves once again this year with the Fusion Concert in June, demonstrating the wide range of musical styles that are embraced by our musicians and the dazzling technical skill that they use to perform them. Particular mention should go to Harry White (Year 13), who has been at the heart of these concerts for his seven years in the Senior School. The jazz musicians, too, have had a wonderful year, their fluency and confidence in improvisation drawing admiration from those of us who need to have some notes before we can play! TJI has been much requested as the “house band” at school events. The weekly rehearsals for Year 7 Choirs have been developed to include a “Fibre Optic Choir” – a group that likes to work at a faster speed - and we were delighted that they made a splendid contribution to the Year 7 Concert in June. They have also recorded songs for the national programme “Sing Up”. The concert also featured the joint Year 7 choirs singing a really spirited musical re-telling of Jonah’s adventure inside a whale. Over the past two terms, the Music Department has been delighted to have been working with pupils from Messing Primary School. Mr Castell has been visiting them weekly and we are looking forward to them performing with us at New Hall in November’s St Cecilia’s Concert. Among the very many successes for our individual musicians, we were thrilled that Molly Conrad’s (Year 11)
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Music
Music for a Summer’s Evening, June 2013
fanfare was chosen as a winner in the competition run by the Royal Opera House. The prize was to have the fanfare recorded by The Royal Opera House Orchestra conducted by Music Director Sir Antonio Pappano and then to have the fanfare played as the interval “bell” during performances at the Opera House throughout this season.
Jazz Evening, May 2013 Photographs by Matea Fadiga (Year 12)
Kayleigh McEvoy is a singer who left New Hall a couple of years ago. We knew that she had a remarkable voice and we were pleased that she was able to develop it with our specialist VMT team at New Hall over seven years, however, even we were overwhelmed by her offer of places at all of the conservatoires at which she auditioned. Kayleigh has chosen to accept a place at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and she will be commencing her studies in September with top singers from around the world. The team of specialist visiting music teachers has taught approximately 500 instrumental and vocal lessons per week during this year. In excess of 250 public examinations have been undertaken through the Associated Board and Trinity and students have been performing at our informal concerts at a rate that has required us to increase the frequency of lunchtime concerts to every week. Our plans for 2013-14 are already well advanced with a celebration of the music of Benjamin Britten in November, a fully-booked Choir trip to Rome in February, during which we will sing in St Peter’s and the Pantheon, and our second Foundation Music Festival, with a visit from the world-renowned Choristers of Westminster Cathedral.
St Cecilia’s Concert, November 2012 Scholars’ Concert, October 2012 Music
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Earle By Mr Verry, Earle Housemaster 2012-13 Right back at the beginning of the year, in September, we all had a great afternoon, with the girls from Magdalen, picking blackberries on the edge of the New Hall grounds. With everyone’s fingers dyed purple, we pooled our winnings into one big bucket. We must have picked 5 or 6 kilos, though they did not come free, the price we paid was not in pennies and pounds to a lady behind the checkout but in scratches and insect bites to nature. Armed with our juicy treats, we went to the Cookery Department and made ourselves blackberry and apple crumble. Nothing tastes as good as when you have worked for it. The blackberries, being as fresh as they were, made a wonderful set of crumbles which all the boys enjoyed tremendously. More than ever before, Earle has taken on the nature of a home. It is not uncommon to find boys in Year 8 helping boys in Year 5 with their Mathematics homework. Activities and sports are inclusive across the ages and the use of the pool has seen some of the older boys teaching some of the younger ones to swim. The seasons have had much of a bearing on the happenings within Earle House. When we came back to school in September we were out in the evenings playing ‘prison break’ but as the evenings drew in we retreated to using the Sports Hall, the swimming pool and the kitchens. The NHPA were kind enough to provide funding for gardening equipment - now that the evenings are lengthening, Earle boys will be found digging over the allotment and planning what to grow. During the Trinity Term, the weekends were spent doing a variety of tasks, making the most of the sunshine. Some have spent time fixing up their bikes, others have been cleaning out the fish tank. After Sunday lunch, we would often head over to the tennis courts or take part in rounders’ competitions with the other boarding houses. The Earle boys are very active in student life, representing almost every school team in tennis, cricket, golf, cross-country and rugby. Particular congratulations go to Jonathan Murphy (Year 8), who not only plays at a very high level in all sports but was invited to tour Sri Lanka with the U15 cricket team, playing two years above his age. Michael Hollette (Year 8) is usually to be found playing in the concert halls of London over the weekends and has achieved huge success in his instrument of choice – the violin. To list all of the achievements of Earle boarders would require a whole extra page! There is plenty to read about on the Earle House blog. As we look to the future, Earle House is excited about moving into new accommodation and having the very dynamic Miss Kay taking over as Housemistress in September 2013. From Miss Kay: My aims for Earle House are to ensure that it is an environment where the boys can flourish and progress, feel at ease and make the most of these very important years. I am very keen to put together a range of academic, social, cognitive and spiritual activities for all the boys to be involved in. My active involvement in house life and open door policy will make it easy for the boys to seek out guidance on any matter, be it personal, pastoral or academic. I will be implementing reading and academic tracking systems to ensure the boys are focused on achieving their full potential.
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Boarding
Magdalen By Mrs MacKay, Magdalen Housemistress 2012-13 Entering the newly refurbished house this year was an exciting time for the staff and students. We were all keen to stamp our mark on the new house and make it our own! This involved a wide array of craft, ensuring the girls had the chance to personalise the house and their rooms. I am pleased to say the change has been an incredibly positive move for junior boarding at New Hall. I am proud of the provision we are now able to offer the younger boarders in our care and wish all the best to those moving up to Hawley House, in their future endeavours. The year kicked off with a trip for all the Magdalen and Earle boarders to Harry Potter Studios. This gave the girls a chance to really get to know their fellow boarders and helped them settle really quickly. It was also great fun and we all enjoyed seeing the inner workings of Hogwarts! Constance Day (Year 8) and Lily Langford (Year 8) were elected as our Magdalen boarding prefects for the year. I would like to thank them for their hard work and input into the boarding council meetings. It has been a time of transition for the Year 8 boarders moving from Hawley to Magdalen and I would like to congratulate the whole year group for being so adaptable and making the new house a happy place to live in. One of the highlights of the year was the poetry event held in honour of Robert Burns. Both the Earle and Magdalen boarders produced thoughtful and insightful poems. The very deserving winners were Raphael (Year 6) and Lily Langford (Year 8) with their poetry representations of their homeland, Scotland. They were closely followed by Charlotte Gordon (Year 7) with her moving poem about war on the front line. The boarders were also treated to some musical talent from Anya Cook (Year 7) on the violin. To finish off a very successful evening, the boarders had the opportunity to try haggis for supper - a surprising treat for all! Magdalen has seen a huge influx of boarders joining us from the Preparatory School this year and it has been fantastic to see how well the more experienced boarders have supported them over the course of the year. Our vast and varied activity programme ensures there is an activity on offer to the boarders every evening after study. This has proven to be a big hit with the girls and has enabled them to learn new skills, such as sewing and baking. I would like to finish by thanking the Magdalen staff team, parents and guardians for working so closely with me this year to support the girls in house. It has been an invaluable experience and I have learnt so much this year. Most importantly, I would like to thank the Magdalen boarders for working hard during study, always helping one another out and making the house a “home away from home� for both the staff and other students residing in Magdalen.
Boarding
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Petre By Mr Hanley, Petre Housemaster 2012-13 The legacy established by Petre House’s first cohort of boys is truly remarkable. For many, the establishment of a new boarding House provided the opportunity for a fresh start and the boys have made the most of the year. Led by the inaugural Head of House Joshua Wright (Year 10) and his deputy Harry Lawrence (Year 10), the year has seen the boys establish a House identity and a set of communal values that will endure long after they have left the school. An exceptionally strong set of sportsmen, of our twenty-six boys, twenty-one played either A or B team rugby this year, many of them playing their first ever rugby matches in September. Eleven boys even went on to be members of the Under 15 Daily Mail Cup squad which reached the final thirty two in the country. Again, the summer has seen eleven boys playing A and B team cricket, with Jacob Tan (Year 10) the first Chinese student to represent the school. Leopoldo Rodes Riera (Year 9), Ricardo Manen (Year 10) and Jeremy Chao (Year 9) have all represented the school on the tennis court and Joshua Wright (Year 10) continues his impressive form for Saracens Academy. Finally, a special mention must go to Ethan Harrington (Year 10) for his huge dedication to his swimming training, for which he was rewarded with numerous medals this year. Success on the playing fields has been mirrored by success off it, with the victory in the formal debate against Hawley House a particular highlight - it was a pleasure to see Francis Coker (Year 10) putting his loquaciousness to good use for once. This term has also seen a fruitful mock GCSE examination period which resulted in 21 A*s and 44 As for the Petre boys, a considerable achievement given that half the House were sitting the examinations in their second language. A surprise area of success was the choreographed dance performance that secured Petre House victory in the Christmas talent contest. The substantial Chinese takeaway prize, a significant motivating factor, was much enjoyed. Many thanks to Philipp Gazmanov (Year 10), who used his hereditary pop music credentials to great effect. Musically there has been huge variety, ranging from the amateur, but very well received, Westlife tribute quintet to the magic hands of Jazz pianist Harrison Booth (Year 10). Less impressive was the cacophony of screeching emanating from the showers each morning, but enthusiasm and endeavour is always credited in Petre House. A special thank you must go to the Petre House staff this year, whose dedication has resulted in an exceptionally smooth start to the life of the House. At Christmas we said a very fond farewell to Mr Symes and he has been greatly missed by boys and staff alike. However, Mr Dix has proved a more than capable addition to the team, bringing huge enthusiasm to the role and as a Chief Constable of the volunteer police force he has already deterred several boys from their probable trajectories into juvenile detention! As the most experienced member of the Petre House team, Miss Artamanova has been a constant source of calm during a hectic programme. The boys and I owe her a huge amount and the private viola concert she gave in the school chapel was something very special that will live long in the memory. A final note of thanks to Mr Nedvidek for, amongst other things, attempting to civilise our boys through his talk on “Gentlemanly Conduct” - Hercules himself could not have risen to the task more manfully. Looking ahead, next year’s Petre House boys have a great deal to live up to, particularly since the vast majority of the boys will be leaving us for the rarefied corridors of Campion House. However, with an exceptional group of boys moving up from Earle House and some impressive new additions both from within and outside the school, new Head of House James O’Grady (Year 9) can look forward to overseeing, what I am confident will be, another year of success.
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Boarding
Hawley
By Mrs Goodall, Hawley Housemistress 2012-13 The year began on a very good note for Hawley House, as the Year 9 and 10 girls moved into a newly decorated, bright and cheerful home from home. Myself, Miss Kay, Miss Tait, Miss Parish and Mrs Amos were on hand to give a warm welcome to the girls, new and old, upon their arrival in September. The girls very quickly settled into the routine of a new House and both they and the staff soon found themselves very much at home. Chloe Smithyes (Year 10) was appointed as Head of House and Nerea Mateo Guarch (Year 10) as Deputy. The Michaelmas Term was a busy one and the months between September and December flew by. Plenty of hard work was interspersed with lots of activities. Cookery evening on a Tuesday was well attended and appreciated by many of the girls, whilst swimming on a Thursday evening also proved quite popular. A ‘Mocktail’ night with Petre House was thoroughly enjoyed by all and the girls certainly did themselves proud in their finery. An inter-house debate also ensured some fierce competition with Petre House. The arrival of Miss Kay’s puppy Coco in early October brought much happiness and chaos to the house and many of the girls were soon queuing up to walk her. Pumpkin carving prior to half term was great fun and of course decorating the Christmas tree in December had to be accompanied by chocolates and sweets in abundance. The end of the Michaelmas Term saw the girls rehearsing for their roles in ‘Little Shop of Horrors’, the Carol Service and the end of year inter-house talent show! Everyone was well and truly ready for a good rest over the Christmas holidays. We also had to say goodbye to Meiyu, Eve and Alex this term and of course Marni from the boarding house. Miss Tait and Miss Parish also left Hawley House. January saw the girls returning fresh and cheerful. Miss Aczel and Mr Goodall joined the boarding team and life was soon hectic again. Miss Kay began her Zumba sessions with the girls in order to fight the Christmas excesses and Mr Goodall used every opportunity to get the girls building igloos when the snow fell. A ‘speed-friending’ evening in February ensured that the Petre boys had a chance to get to know the Hawley girls a little better and was certainly enjoyed, all the more thanks to the lovely nibbles that went with it. A quiz night held in the Barn was also hugely entertaining and yet again fiercely competitive. The Trinity Term had a fast and furious pace. The Year 10 girls had examinations but managed to take the pressure in their stride. They busily prepared for their work experience in June, whilst the Year 9 girls prepared for their examinations. A number of the Hawley House girls received the sacrament of Confirmation this term and the support shown from all the girls in the house was wonderful to see. It has also been fantastic to see how well our new arrival Karla has been welcomed into the house and made to feel very much at home. The girls in Hawley House are so diverse in where they come from, their talents, their likes and their dislikes and yet they have formed such a cohesive, loyal and delightful group of young women. There have been many ups, and of course a few downs, but the girls have supported one another in an exemplary fashion. Friendships have been made or consolidated, and whilst some of the girls will leave New Hall at the end of the year, many of these friendships will inevitably last a lifetime. It has been a great year in Hawley House. Boarding
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Campion By Mr James, Campion Housemaster 2012-13 The senior boys’ boarding house is made up of 61 boys aged 16 to 18, representing 14 countries. The boys have their own rooms and share the use of toilets, showers and baths. Due to the nature of the school years that we represent, our study facilities both independent within boys rooms and the communal areas, Sixth Form Centre and Library - are fully equipped to tackle every student’s needs. The 2012-13 academic year has been another busy one within the boarding house. The highlights of the year have certainly been our trips out to The Lion King in the West End, the Christmas market and ice skating at London’s Somerset House, the Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatown and the founding of the Sixth Form Priory Club. These activities, along with many more, have given the boys a great balance between school, independent learning and making the most of what boarding at New Hall has to offer. The House Cup is in its second year and has been even more popular, with a record number of events ranging from football to pancake tossing and an open mic night. The leader board is very tight with only a few events left this year. As we reach the end of the academic year, our focus now turns to the weeks of exams to come before our very well deserved summer break , when we will also say goodbye to our Year 13 boys - some of whom have been involved in Campion House for four years.
2012-13 Prefect Team with former HM Mr Sidwell (left) and current HM Mr James (right)
Ice skating at Somerset House with Dennett boarders, December 2012
Abi Wood (Year 12) and Matea Fadiga (Year 12) interviewed students after their first year boarding at New Hall School. A Year 8 boy described his first day: “It was a bit scary leaving my parents but I soon got used to it and it’s really fun living with my friends.” A Year 12 student said “I took the decision myself to board this year so that I will be prepared when starting at university when I finish school. I love boarding and would definitely recommend it.”
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Boarding
Dennett By Miss Tait, Dennett Housemistress 2012-13 This has been a most productive year for Dennett House. We were ushered into our new quarters by Mrs Bennett and her team in September. We welcomed a number of new Year 12 students in September, including three scholars from Eastern Europe, and Year 11 joined Dennett House. Mrs Bennett went on maternity leave at the end of the Michaelmas Term and has since had a baby boy, Raphael. In January, I stepped in as Acting Housemistress. I have held the fort in what turned out to be quite a difficult term. We were buffeted by snow and winter seemed to be interminable. We enjoyed a novel interpretation of ‘Othello’ with Princess Gloria Bajowa (Year 12) playing the tragic warrior and Teresa Guerrero (Year 12) as Desdemona. Madame Hamilton organised an International Quiz and dinner on a French theme which was great fun. Grace Fairbairn (Year 13) stepped down as Head Girl and Portia McEwan (Year 13), Antonia Dajak (Year 13) and Amy Gatfield (Year 13) also relinquished their Prefect duties. We all appreciated their dedication and hard work. Again the Head Girl for 2013-14 is a Dennett boarder – Ellouise Day (Year 12). Also from Dennett House: Princess Gloria Bajowa (Year 12) is Chaplaincy Prefect, Annabel Hockley (Year 12) is NHVS Prefect, Teresa Guerrero (Year 12) is Drama Prefect, Fleur Langford (Year 12) is Boarding Prefect, Dominika Soltysik (Year 12) is Library Prefect and Joann Burton (Year 12) and Phoebe Kent (Year 12) are House Prefects – Dennett boarders are certainly at the centre of school life! Dennett mathematicians have excelled themselves this year, with Lexi Zhao (Year 13) being awarded gold in the Maths Challenge, Dominika Soltysik (Year 12) silver and Catherine Lin (Year 12) and Christy Cheng (Year 11) taking bronze. Christy has also been awarded her Grade 8 piano. Princess Gloria Bajowa (Year 12) obtained a Distinction in Jazz and Grade 4 Tap dancing. She and Isabel Miller de Vega (Year 11) are in the finals of The British Arts Festival and we wish them every success. Tilly Robb (Year 11), Hannah Gardner (Year 11) and Annabel Hockley (Year 12) were members of the New Hall hockey team and won the Essex Championship. A number of hearty Year 12 and Year 11 students participated in the character building Duke of Edinburgh scheme – Charlotte Chambers-Farah (Year 11) climbed Croagh Patrick in Mayo, a feat of which she is rightly very proud. Inevitably, the Trinity Term has been overshadowed by the impending examinations; a purposeful atmosphere of revision prevails. On a rare free evening, our new kitchen was opened with a party and we are all now enjoying a state-of-the-art area in which to cook, socialise and even revise! The annual school Dance Show took place at the end of June. Thank you to Mrs Bennett, Mrs Bowlen, Mrs La Roche, Zoe and Elaine for looking after all of us with sensitivity and tolerance. Dennett House provides a truly excellent boarding experience and a stepping stone to university and adult life.
Boarding
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Mrs Hopkinson Brings Joy to the World! At the end of the 2012-13 academic year we say ‘thank you’ to someone who has been at the heart of New Hall School for over 25 years. Here, Mrs Jeffrey looks back on Mrs Hopkinson’s quarter of a century at New Hall. Mrs Hopkinson embodies our ethos. Students describe her on internet sites as “the real McCoy” and “always there for you”. Former students write in and tell us how she has shaped their lives and successes long after they leave: just this year, we received a copy of Old Fish Dominique Tobbell’s new book, Pills, Power and Policy, which has its dedication to “my high school biology teacher, Joy Hopkinson”. On the cover, Dominque writes: “Dear Joy, Thank you for being such an inspirational teacher. You have indelibly influenced my scholarship and my life. For that I will always be thankful. All my love, Dominique.” Mrs Hopkinson is not leaving us; she is in a whole category of her own! We thank her for her 27 years of unstinting service to New Hall in teaching and leadership and management roles, and welcome her to her new role this September, as she steps down from the senior team to become our full-time Chaplaincy Co-ordinator. Popular wisdom is that Mrs Hopkinson’s involvement at New Hall started around 1642! However, school records do not stretch back that far, so I would have to begin with 1986, when she was Teacher of Biology, soon after this being promoted to Head of Biology. Mrs Hopkinson has the greatest number of badges of any member of staff at New Hall, having also held roles as varied as Head of Sixth Form, Reporting, Recording & Assessment Co-ordinator, Sixth Form Housemistress, Head of Boarding, Chair of NHVS, Child Protection Officer, Chaplaincy Co-ordinator and HMC Projects Co-ordinator. We know Mrs Hopkinson is highly versatile and willing to help out where there is a gap; though apparently our Chair of Governors, Professor Alder, was a little surprised to discover Mrs Hopkinson once held the position here, not so very long ago, of Head of Athletics! …But this is a woman who also accepted a two-year stint as Head of Riding, despite being allergic to horses! When in 2005 the creation of the Boys’ Division was first announced, and John Westnedge, Governor, was guiding us through the creation of our facilities expansion plan, he emphasised the importance of ensuring that key facilities kept pace with rising student numbers. Mrs Hopkinson came out of that Strategy Day as Head of Toilet Audit! On the senior team, Mrs Hopkinson has been Assistant Principal, Vice Principal, Acting Principal, Deputy Principal …but first time round never getting to wear the badge due to immediate promotion to Headteacher; then to her current role of Deputy Principal. Thank you, Joy, for all you have given so generously to New Hall. We are delighted you are continuing on our team and know that the New Hall Chaplaincy will continue to flourish under your care.
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Staff
Mrs Hopkinson at the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace
New Beginnings A very warm welcome to all new staff who join New Hall this September. Here’s a little more about some of them. Mr Douglas Johnson - Vice Principal (academic) Mr Johnson joins New Hall from King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford, where he was Assistant Head. Prior to this, he taught Theology at St Catherine’s College, Cambridge. Mr Johnson has a love of computer programming and enjoys taking part in family concerts at the Barbican. He is currently translating an ancient book into modern English. Mr Johnson will take on the role of Vice Principal (academic) from September 2013, in place of Mrs Storey, who will now be Deputy Principal. Mr Andrew Bowman – Head of Politics and Teacher of History Mr Bowman joins New Hall having been Head of Government & Politics and a Teacher of English at St Benedict’s School, London. He studied Politics and History (Philosophy) at Lancaster University and enjoys playing cricket, golf and football during his spare time. Mr Bowman has a love of travel and enjoys skiing - another addition to the growing New Hall Ski Team perhaps! Mr David Rutter - Head of Drama Mr Rutter was previously the Learning Leader at Colne Community School, Essex. He holds a BA Hons degree in Performing Arts and is a member of many musical and operatic societies. Mr Rutter is also a keen sportsman and lead singer in a band. Dr Stephanie Foster - Head of English Dr Foster obtained her doctorate in Philosophy and English Literature at Loughborough University. Before joining New Hall, she was Head of English at West Hatch High School, Essex. She is a keen netball player and enjoys theatre, in particular attending the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Mrs Stephanie Reid - Head of Modern Languages Mrs Reid was previously an Advanced Skills Teacher of Modern Foreign Languages at Seven Kings High School, Essex. She has a joint BA Hons degree in French and Music from the University of Bristol. In her spare time Mrs Reid is very musical and enjoys singing and playing piano, violin and bass guitar. Mrs Jacqueline Palmer - Housemistress, Hawley House Mrs Palmer joins New Hall from Dover College, Kent, where she was Housemistress, a Teacher of Art and Photography and also Director of Weekend Activities. She holds a Masters degree in Fine Art from Northumbria University and is currently researching for a PhD in Embroidered Icons. Mrs Palmer enjoys outdoor pursuits during her spare time so Hawley House boarders may find themselves taking part in some abseiling or rock climbing soon! Mrs Lara Price - Housemistress, Dennett House Mrs Price studied Librarianship and Classical Studies at the University of Wales. She is now studying for her Professional Development and Pastoral Practice certificates. Before joining New Hall, Mrs Price was a House Parent at Harefield Academy, Middlesex. She loves baking - something that we are sure will please Dennett House boarders who share this passion.
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Royal Artist Emily Pilling (Year 7) entered a national art competition this year and won the under-12 category. Here she writes about her exciting time taking part in the competition and very nearly meeting the Queen... “I entered a portrait of the Queen into a competition in 2012 to mark The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year. My painting won the under-12 category and as part of my prize I recently visited the National Portrait Gallery and the Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace. I was guided by artists and discovered different aspects of painting in discussion with them. The day concluded with a visit to an artists’ studio in Kensington where I experimented in drawing using different media. We were later told that the Queen was going to come a view the artwork - I hope that she liked my portrait of her. The final part of my prize is to have my own portrait painted by an artist; I am very excited to see the result!”
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Emily Pilling’s winning portrait
370 Celebration of the Visual Arts th
By Mr Hughes, Head of Art In readiness for the academic year 2012-13, it was important to celebrate the illustrious history of Art and Design practice at New Hall over the many years. An immediate budget was provided to purchase a large number of display easels that now show a variety of student artworks in the Senior School. In February, we staged a special event on one Saturday, involving 29 pupils from a variety of local primary and preparatory schools. The children undertook the tricky medium of oil painting, to come up with a very large sectioned painting of the historic frontage of New Hall. Such an event was important to the future of Art at New Hall and we received much positive feedback after the event. One parent wrote: “My daughter attended your Art Day on Saturday 9 February, which she thoroughly enjoyed. She has been so inspired by it that she has requested some canvases and oil paints for her upcoming birthday and wants to clear a space in the garage so she can paint.” In the same term, the Art Department delivered an assembly in which some of our students compared their practice to a variety of Old Fishes, such as the famous surrealist painter Leonora Carrington and the fashion designer Anya Hindmarch. In the same assembly, we were delighted to welcome back Sister Mary Stephen CRSS who had served as Head of Art for many years. Sister Mary Stephen talked about the changes that have taken place since her time teaching at New Hall as well as the important role that Art has played for countless former New Hall students. One of our Year 7 students, Emily Pilling, painted a wonderful depiction of New Hall which has resided in the Senior School Reception for most of the year. The impressionistic image will be converted into poster size as a reminder of the anniversary year. The celebration of the visual arts for the anniversary year culminated dramatically on Sunday 30 June when a host of Old Fishes delivered an exciting range of art workshops based upon their own specialisms, alongside the school’s current staff. The gathering included the sculptor Siobhan Coppinger and the wildlife film-maker Cindy Buxton, amongst many others.
Art
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Art Gallery
Aiden Lee (Year 8)
Amy-Beth Ellice (Year 10)
Richard Osho (Year 13)
Antonia Dajak (Year 13)
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Art Gallery
Charlize Spriggs (Year 7)
Evangelina Fisher (Year 13)
Gabriella Oxlade (Year 12)
Emily Church (Year 9)
Georgie Bright (Year 7)
Emily Pilling (Year 7)
Art Gallery
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Art Gallery
Gregor Petrikovic (Year 12)
Gabriella Oxlade (Year 12)
Joann Burton (Year 12)
Lucia Pirozekova (Year 12)
Phillipp Gazmanov (Year 10)
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Art Gallery
Liam Merrigan (Year 13)
Shing-on Ho (Year 12)
Sam Odell (Year 12)
Isabelle Davies (Year 10) Art Gallery
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Westminster Mass On Saturday 29 April, students, staff, family and friends of New Hall School joined together with the founding Religious Community for a thanksgiving Mass at Westminster Cathedral to celebrate the 370th year since the school’s foundation. The cathedral was filled to capacity in what was a glorious day of celebration. Rt Rev Thomas McMahon, Bishop of Brentwood, was the celebrant on the day and Rt Rev Mgr John Armitage, celebrated the rich history and the future of the Religious Community and school in the homily. The magnificent choir of New Hall Senior School, conducted by Director of Music Andrew Fardell, sang beautifully and relished the opportunity to perform in such a prestigious venue. Here are a few students’ impressions of the day: Teresa Guerrero (Year 12) said: “As part of the choir, the opportunity to sing in such a beautiful place as Westminster was amazing.” Fleur Langford (Year 12) said: “For me it was a wonderful experience, especially to see all the Old Fishes return, including my mum and auntie. It made me realise that New Hall can never be forgotten.” Kacper Gorski (Year 12), who gave a reading at the Mass as a Chaplaincy Prefect, said: “ I was very nervous at the thought of reading to such a large congregation, but soon the atmosphere in the cathedral and the wonderful choir calmed my nerves and made me realise what a special occasion it was.” Pheobe Fardell (Year 12) said: “It was both a proud and moving day for all those involved in every aspect of school life, past and present.” Isabella Miller de Vega said: “Being part of the choir in such a special location was an unforgettable experience.”
Quotes collected by Sophie Thompson-Hyland (Year 12)
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370th Celebrations
New Hall’s Senior Choir at Westminster Cathedral
Chaplaincy Chaplaincy continues to thrive at New Hall and this is reflected in the number of students who applied for the Chaplaincy role in the Senior Prefect selection process this year. After rigorous interviews, Princess Gloria Bajowa (Year 12) and Kacper Gorski (Year 12) were selected for the role. They have worked with the outgoing prefects in order for there to be a smooth transition and weekly meetings of the staff Chaplaincy team and the student team have continued. The student Chaplaincy team organises the Willow Group - Sixth Form students attach themselves to the tutor groups in Years 7, 8 and 9 and visit the groups at tutorial time each Thursday. Here they befriend the students and form a link between staff and these younger students. Several issues have been raised through this group such as settling into a new school, friendship problems and other potential issues, which have all been dealt with and resolved. The Chaplaincy Prefects have organised several fundraising initiatives this year including a Christmas Card design competition, which involved both Preparatory and Senior Schools. Subsequently they arranged for the winning designs to be printed and then sold, both in and outside school. Through this they raised several hundred pounds for the charity ‘TeensUnite’, which supports teenagers with cancer. They were inspired to support this by an Old Fish who works for the charity. During the Lent Term, the school’s annual term of fundraising, the school supported the Religious Community’s work in Africa and also CAFOD. The annual fair at the end of the Lent Term acts as a climax to events, and ‘soup and roll lunches’ throughout the year reminded staff and students about the plight of others across the world. There are several prayer groups running at the school including The Oratory (Gospel reading and reflection), Emmaus (prayer, reflection and discussion), The Rosary and Bible Bashers (a Bible study session and discussion). Boarders also have sessions available to them for prayer, if they so wish. Wednesday lunchtime Mass is optional for staff and students. Each week a different tutor group provides the readers and helps to write the Bidding Prayers. On Ash Wednesday, the Mass (which included ‘ashing’) was attended by many staff and students as well as members of the Parish. Sunday Mass, which is also a Parish Mass, is organised each week by the Boarding Houses. The school liturgical choir provide the music, together with staff from the Music Department. The Confirmation group meets each week and over 30 students were confirmed this year, both Catholic and Anglican.
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Chaplaincy
Creative Writing By Chloe Bull (Year 9) Poem – Imagine you are Mattie from ‘A Gathering Light’. Write a poem about deciding whether or not to go to college and leave your family. If I had a list of all the names of people who bask in strife, you will find my name is very high, I’d rather burn and simmer in hell, Than be stuck here when my pa has his head in the clouds high in the sky. I may be a girl, is that such a sin? I don’t just stand and twirl, I want to learn and embrace my future, no matter where I go, even if I marry the Earl. If college is so bad, then why am I so keen? If I stay, my pa would be glad, but I would not and it’s my road to choose. Weaver, my good friend, always so supportive, I don’t want the relationship to end, by letting him go all by himself. Many paths there are to choose from, why is this so hard? I am unhappy here, but why won’t I leave it? How will they bear it? They will find it ineffable. I’m not his baby, I am the oldest of the lot! If Lawton was here, he would tell me to go but he left when Beth was still a tot. He has had his life, no matter how screwed up, he is nice when I make his lunch, but when that’s gone, the thought of no son overpowers his mind. He’s not so nice any more. I have made my choice, I’ll tell pa today, I must go now, I must be saving my voice.
Creative Writing
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Helping the Community By Benjamin Bruce-Smith (Year 12) The New Hall Voluntary Service (NHVS) is a voluntary organisation in which students are encouraged to take part in ten weekly Action Groups, which help people in the local area such as the elderly, young children and adults with specific learning difficulties. The groups are organised by dedicated staff and adult volunteers without whom the service could not be as successful as it is today, almost 35 years since its creation. Throughout the year, NHVS organises various events, either to further the aid given to the local people, or to raise funds for the continuation of the service. One of these events is the NHVS Fashion Show, which took place on Wednesday 13 March. The clothing used in the show was kindly donated by Mrs Susan Brennan at Bravado and after the Catwalk Show had finished most of the items of clothing were sold. The models’ hair was professionally styled by Old Fish, Hayley, and her creative team, led by Philly, at David John, Chelmsford. The show also included entertainment provided by the New Hall Dance Company. At the end of the night over £3,500 had been raised, which goes towards the NHVS Children’s Holiday. Once again the event was a great success and there are many people who should be thanked for such a great evening, in particular: Mrs Ashfield, Mrs Wilson, Imogen Ovenden, Alex Bird, Mrs Mead, Mrs Panayiotou, Mr and Mrs Treacher, and all of the Sixth Form students who worked so hard on the night. Thanks also go to the Cookery Department, who produced 200 individual cakes with a festival theme. The Children’s Holiday, which is funded by the money raised from the Fashion Show, has been running for over 30 years. The holiday provides approximately 25 children, from deprived areas both in Chelmsford and London, with an opportunity to have a holiday that they would not otherwise have. The holiday takes place during the summer and lasts for a week. The children stay in the school’s boarding houses and they use many of the other facilities around the school during their week-long stay, such as the swimming pool and gardens. They are also paired up with a New Hall student volunteer, who gives up a week of their holiday to help. Jordan Davies (Year 12), a student who volunteered for the holiday, said that it was “a very enjoyable week, and I would recommend it to anybody interested in doing it”. Along with the New Hall students’ parents, adults and former students also volunteer to help give these children a much-needed holiday. The annual Christmas Lunch is another important event in the NHVS calendar. This year’s lunch took place on Wednesday 5 December in the Jubilee Hall and, despite the snow that had fallen, many people still managed to enjoy a great meal. The lunch is aimed at the elderly, as many of them may not have a Christmas meal on Christmas Day. The visitors were entertained by pupils from Years 1 and 2 from New Hall Preparatory School, who sang a selection of Christmas songs. At the end of the meal all the visitors were presented with a Christmas hamper.
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Charity & Community
Making a Difference This year, Madeleine Leathley (Year 13) was awarded The Canon Manning Trophy, which recognises commitment to others. The award was presented, in a special assembly, by the Knights of St Columba, a Catholic order of laymen. In the past year, Madeleine has helped to organise a student Christmas card design competition to raise money for TeensUnite, a charity that works with young people with cancer. Through the cards and other events in the school, she helped to raised ÂŁ5,000 in just five weeks last term. In May, Madeleine and Hanik Kotecha (Year 13) received Catholic Diocesan Citizenship Awards at Brentwood Cathedral in recognition of their tireless work raising money for charity, creating community and promoting prayer and reflection in school. These students and their achievements are a testament to the school and an example of students bringing the ethos of New Hall to life.
New Hall Voluntary Service
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Diamond Views New Hall School teaches using the pioneering ‘diamond model’ of education. Students are educated co-educationally in the Preparatory School (ages 3-11), in single-sex classes in the Senior School (ages 11-16) and co-educationally again at Sixth Form (ages 16-18). In this way, students benefit from a “best of both worlds” approach the academic advantages of single-sex teaching during the Senior School with the social advantages of a co-educational campus and teaching during the formative and pre-university years.
But what do the students really think about the diamond model, and does it make a difference to them? Natasha McKinnon (Year 12) finds out...
"It's interesting and different from my time before New Hall. It's given me a chance to make friends with more people and I'm not as shy as I used to be" - Year 8 "I wasn't sure what to expect when I came to New Hall but the diamond model has helped me feel more confident in class" - Year 9 "The diamond model has actually prepared me for Sixth Form really well. I feel more confident and I'm not afraid to speak my mind" - Year 12
When was the last time you went to the Library? Dominika Soltysik (Year 12), Library Prefect, suggests a few reasons to go to the Library today... The New Hall School Library is a very warm and inviting place. Many students enjoy spending their time there thanks to our great staff, led by Miss Tait. The welcoming atmosphere sparks the interests of younger students – the biggest numbers of loans this year have been from Year 8 and 10 students. Older students appreciate the library as a quiet place where they can focus and make use of materials to help them along with their studies. All of these factors make pupils feel comfortable and that is shown by the numbers of visitors everyday – if not studying, there are many people reading the newspapers or just chatting to the staff about the new interesting things they can discover in the books and other materials available, linked to their areas of interest. And there is a variety of interests among the students at New Hall – that can be seen by the most often borrowed books: from The Hunger Games series and The Fault in our Stars to more serious and down-to-earth titles like The Economist and Philosophy Now magazines.
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Diamond Model & Library
An International Year of Politics By Adam Sammour (Year 12) Trip to Brussels and the European Parliament The highlight of the Politics Department’s year has been the trip that the school put on for a few of the Sixth Form students studying Government and Politics at AS and A2 level. The students were taken around Brussels, through the majority of the European Parliament buildings. Whilst there they learnt of the workings of the EU and how it functions, and also some of the responsibilities and jobs of the individual Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), from speaking to one of the local MEPs, Geoffrey Van Orden, a leading member of the Conservative Party. Model United Nations Another significant event for the Politics Department was the Model United Nations convention at Felsted School. New Hall sent delegations for three countries - the Security Council member, the Russian Federation, as well as an Italian and Omani delegation - with several of the students from each delegation returning with commendations for their contribution to the event. The students were invited to propose resolutions for each committee to debate upon and then respond to a global catastrophe - an epidemic spreading from China on which the delegations were then invited to offer further resolutions. EU Membership and Decriminalization of Hate Speech Debates In the wake of the EU trip, four students were chosen to debate the current contentious topic of whether or not the UK should remain part of the EU or become a fully independent nation, away from the EU. After a good and close debate, the floor was open to questions from the audience. After further good contributions, the audience was invited to vote on which side had offered the more convincing case, which ended up in a narrow victory for the pro-EU debate team. Another debate was organised to deliberate on the legalisation, or decriminalisation, of the problem of Hate Speech. The debate followed similarly, with two strong cases put forward and then the floor asking more penetrating questions. The result, however, was in favour of the anti-Hate Speech team, the outgoing Head Boy, Daniel Mullens (Year 13), and outgoing Deputy Head Boy Taha Khan (Year 13).
Politics
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Duke of Edinburgh By Benjamin Bruce-Smith (Year 12) New Hall School offers many students from Year 10 upwards the opportunity to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme. This year students from both Year 10 and Year 12 attended weekly sessions with dedicated staff to work towards achieving either their Bronze or Silver Award. In these sessions students learn important skills, such as map reading, teamwork and organisation, which are crucial to complete the expedition. Students are required to complete a Physical Activity, Voluntary Work and a Skill for a certain period of time before going on the expedition. Alexandra Marler (Year 13) completed the Bronze Award at New Hall and decided to take on the further challenge of the Gold Award. Here she gives an insight into the challenges that faced her: “Having enjoyed completing my Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award in Year 11, I decided I would like to complete the Gold Award before I left school. As it was not available through the school last year, I decided to skip Silver and go straight to the Gold Award with an independent company. I chose an expedition that took place in the Isle of Arran, which threw all the elements at us! We had wind, rain and more rain, which added to the challenge, but despite this it was really worthwhile and I met some great people. For the Gold Award, it is necessary to complete a Residential which I combined with the expedition. This included a further three nights away, in the relative luxury of a hostel though, and enabled me to also gain the John Muir Discovery Award. New Hall was a great base to complete this award as I was able to do the other sections of it whilst at school, by taking the LAMDA exam and through NHVS, which was very rewarding. I would really recommend taking this award, and I am looking forward to going to St James’ Palace for the presentation.”
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Duke of Edinburgh
Normandy 2013 By Madame Hamilton, Teacher of French and Spanish In June, sixty-one Year 8 students, accompanied by eight teachers, headed for “la douce Normandy”. The first port of call was Boulogne to visit “Nausicaa” aquarium. Next, it was on to the Château de Chantereine in Criel-sur-mer just in time for their first French evening meal. On Saturday, the students visited the French market at Dieppe, 40 km away, where they admired all the local fresh produce and used their French speaking skills to purchase mouth-watering fruit, honey, cheeses and presents for their families. Everyone then enjoyed a picnic lunch on the beach, and an afternoon of games at the Château. There was also the opportunity to visit the local “cidrerie”, set in a beautiful orchard, where they were told about the process of making cider, a local product for which Normandy is famous. The following day as they arrived in Rouen, the capital of Normandy, it was discovered that the Armada festival was taking place - with a very impressive flotilla of vessels moored in its port along the Seine. The students visited Rouen Cathedral, the medieval quarter and Saint Joan church and square. On the final day, awards were given for the keenest commitment to French culture and language to Florence Lawes (Year 8), Sophie Morrish (Year 8), Ellie Edmeades (Year 8), Drew Mead (Year 8), Warren Selby (Year 8) and Liam Rayner (Year 8). Liam was also named “Monsieur Escargot” for sampling the greatest number of snails! On the journey back home, everyone enjoyed a visit to a French chocolate factory.
“Out of all the trips I’ve been on, this is the best trip. The food was lovely, the activities were really exciting and enjoyable. I had so much fun with my best friends.”
Modern Languages
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From Tudors to Monks As part of Activities Week, the annual week of educational visits and activities at the end of the Trinity Term, historians travelled to The Tower of London to explore the 1,000-year-old historical site and find out more about the Tudor period, which they have studied in their History lessons this year. Students were taken on imaginative tours by medieval and Tudor characters, and learned about topics including imprisonment and execution, siege warfare and Tudor religion. They were also able to see the famous Crown Jewels and the supposedly haunted execution sites of Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. History students also visited St Albans Cathedral where they took part in a variety of workshops. After looking at brasses in the cathedral and how to use them as historical sources, they then made their own brass rubbings from replica brasses. Others discovered how the medieval monks made paper, pens and coloured inks. Dressed as monks working in the medieval scriptorium, the students explored the development of beautiful styles of writing and decoration over the centuries and produced their own illuminated letter.
Debating Team By Miss Garside, Head of Debating and Teacher of History This year some of our Sixth Form students who regularly attend Debating Club have been involved in a number of high-profile debating competitions to develop a range of important skills including constructing an argument and confident public speaking. Daniel Mullens (Year 13) and Taha Khan (Year 13) competed as a team in the English Speaking Union Schools Mace competition, as well as the Oxford and Cambridge debating competitions. New Hall School successfully hosted the first round of the ESU competition and proceeded to the second round, debating the motion ‘This house would prosecute parents for the crimes of their children’. They performed confidently, making good use of humour and analogies and it was a close contest against Westcliff High School for Boys, who continued to the third round. Conor Moylan (Year 11) and Richard Osho (Year 13) made their debating debuts in the Oxford Schools Debating Competition, and Adam Sammour (Year 12) and Darius Roohi (Year 12) debuted in the Cambridge Schools Debating Competition, with all four students performing well in their first competitive debates and gaining valuable experience.
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History & Debating
Creative Writing By Jonjo McMahon (Year 7) No sign of spring was even teetering over the hilltops. The horizon, still murky and gripped with winter. It was as if Jack Frost had seized the sun as his throne. Bitter gales swept through the land, like a farmer harvesting his crop. Cobras of frost lurched, sending the formidable venom of cold pumping through thick jackets and into their system. Snow crunched underfoot, leaving it to engulf them and suck down like quicksand. There wasn’t a droplet of water in sight - only ice. Ice, so slippery that people clung on to anything near to avoid cascading down. Even the trees, once dancing with life, had frozen as rigid as Thor’s hammer. There were no more birds, animals, insects - even to see a household pest would be reassuring. But no, everything was held like a fort by winter. But they could make it through, starving as they were. As thirsty as they were. As petrified and doubtful as they were. They could survive. They had to persevere, as severe as their situation was. Surely, soon, the livid, seething spring sun rays would pierce the blank, dark sky. Spring - the season of life. But all hopes of life now were slowly decreasing, as day by day, the odds were rapidly growing against them. Their lives were in the hands of one force of treachery, stronger than all - winter.
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Leavers’ Dinner On Saturday 29 June, the annual Leavers’ Dinner took place. The dinner is an opportunity to say goodbye to the out-going Year 13 students, before the busy final week of term, and to celebrate the students time at New Hall. This year’s dinner had a theme of ‘a garden of lights’ and it was Mrs O’Riley’s task, as the School Events Manager, to make the students’ idea come to life. The students were blown away when they entered the Sports Hall for dinner and saw that it had been transformed into something beyond their wildest expectations. Real-life trees adorned the hall, with twinkling fairy lights and crystal centrepieces adding a magical effect to the room. To start the celebrations, students, parents and staff enjoyed drinks on the Cedar Plot and marvelled at each other’s finery for the evening. Everyone then entered the Sports Hall for speeches and dinner. The out-going Head Boy and Head Girl, Daniel Mullens (Year 13) and Grace Fairbairn (Year 13), gave emotional speeches to their peers and reflected on their time at New Hall and all that lay ahead of them. Mr Alderson, Head of Sixth Form, wished all of the students every success in their future lives. We were honoured to welcome Mary Curnock Cook OBE, Chief Executive of UCAS, as the guest speaker for the evening. She gave an inspiring speech to the students, which set them in good stead for the anxious time of waiting for A Level results. It was a wonderful evening and we hope that all of the students are now enjoying their time after New Hall, whether at university or beginning their careers, and look back fondly on their time here.
Learn how to think, not what to think For almost 50 years, students at Essex have been inspired, challenged and supported by some of the world’s leading academics and researchers. Our commitment to cutting-edge research has established us as a top-rated academic institution, ranked ninth in the UK for research excellence, and our ethos of research-led teaching means bringing that research into the classroom, providing a unique and exceptional learning experience for our students.
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For further information, Leavers’ Dinner please visit www.essex.ac.uk/ads/newhall
Leavers’ Dinner
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Poles Do The Double By Jordan Davies (Year 12) With the bright and exciting prospects heading New Hall’s way in the new year, this year’s Sports Day embraced a range of emotions and represented a tribute to our ever-present house spirit and a goodbye to the four-house competition. The introduction of four additional houses in the new academic year, will give the chances and odds of the prestigious House Cup an all new feel. Heading into the highly anticipated Sports Day of 2013, the buzz on who had the upper hand was at full throttle, knowing full well that, based on previous years, Sports Day ultimately would decide the outcome of the House Cup. Jordan Davies’ (Year 12) Southwell House came into the competition in fine form, claiming well-deserved victories in numerous sub-activities, whilst firmly cementing themselves in the top two overall. Jess Belton’s (Year 12) Pole House were unsurprisingly feeling confident, after never looking like losing the previous Sports Day, and having gained confidence through momentum from previous events, notably Foundation Day. Jack Robinson’s (Year 12) Fisher House were quietly gaining valuable points from their inter-house challenges, after a disappointing Foundation Day. However as any student will tell you, “Never underestimate the Fishers.” And lastly the ever-energetic Owen House, led by Joann Burton (Year 12), were maintaining their noisy status with mass participation since the beginning of the New Year, and going into Sports Day as one of the favourites to challenge for the top spot. As the day finally arrived, early signs suggested the weather had forgotten that Sports Day was on this year, as clouds filled the skies. In true New Hall spirit, however, the teams prepared the masses of face paint, banners and chants and strolled up to the athletics track in a sea of yellow, blue, red and green. As expected, the parents lay waiting with their coffees, only to be pleasantly bombarded with the footsteps of the competitors, eager to make an entrance. The final checks were being made, with the arrival of the much-loved Mr Clark in his commentary position, looking a bit too eager to edge towards the hot dog van.
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Sports Day
Despite the drizzle, the events began, with the technique of the hurdles followed by the suffering of the long distance running, as Owens gained early door points to the delight of Joann, as both Southwells and Fishers struggled to pick up vital wins. The introduction of the crowd-pleasing 100m saw Poles strut their stuff, picking up wins, whilst Fisher House seemed to be crawling back into contention with some tricky field event wins in wet conditions. The high jump attracted attention once again after last year’s dramatic finale, which saw Southwell House edging it, - they looked to do the same this year with midway points being crucially earned. At the halfway point, Pole House seemed to be fingernails in front of Owens on points, whilst the unorthodox but highly entertaining skipping relay earned some smiles in the crowd. With the relays fast approaching, Jordan’s Southwell House finally clicked into gear, dominating the baton-passing with record times. Unfortunately, this appeared too late for the Yellow Lions, despite their victories in the staff relay, led by Mr James, Head of Cricket, and the mascot relay, seeing Larry the Lion roar to victory. After an exhausting and challenging day, for both staff and students, there seemed to be only one real winner, despite the tight finale on points. As predicted from their brilliant and consistent efforts, Jess Belton’s Pole House made history by lifting the Sports Day cup, presented by Mrs Jeffrey, for the second year running. Once again, New Hall’s sportsmanship, and healthy competitiveness were on show for all to see, making for a great year of sport and House spirit in the coming term. Will Pole House make it three years running, or will a new house take the trophy?
Sports Day
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Ski Team
This year we saw the launch of the New Hall Ski Team. Under the tutelage of Mr Phil Brown, former head coach of the British Children’s Ski Team and head coach of Hemel Race Club, forty-eight New Hall skiers took part in trials last summer at The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead. They were also able to take inspiration from current British team member, Matt Thompson, ensuring that the students received the best training possible. The enthusiasm and skill of the New Hall skiers was astounding and, after much consultation, Phil and his staff selected a number of skiers to train through the autumn with a view to taking part in the Inter-schools Ski Challenge in Les Houches, France during March 2013. After months of training and a very successful ski trip in February 2013, the New Hall ski team set out on their first Ski Challenge in March. The students travelled to Les Houches for the Inter-schools Ski Challenge and produced some exceptional results, considering they have only been together for six months. Daisy Perez Bullough (Year 11) earned a medal for second place, coming in only 0.31 seconds behind the winner. Ski team member George Day (Year 10) said: “To be able to be part of the ski team at New Hall School is a real privilege. The experiences so far have been amazing. We have become a really strong group and it has been a great opportunity to form a team in an unusual sport, other than the usual sports played at school, such as rugby, tennis, hockey or cricket.”
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Skiing
National Champions The academic year started well for the New Hall equestrian team - they were crowned Essex champions at the annual New Hall Inter-School Dressage Competition in October. Madeleine Taylor (Year 12) also became Essex Individual Novice Champion, having been named overall individual champion in the Open Class at the National Schools’ Equestrian Association Championship Finals. The New Hall Team were Reserve National Champions. Madeleine is no stranger to success in the equestrian field, having spent the summer competing for Great Britain in the Pony European Eventing Championships, achieving Team Silver. There have been many other exciting events in the equestrian team’s calendar this year - the New Hall Show Jumping Competition in May, the NSEA Jumping with Style Competition in April and others that have seen New Hall students come out on top. At the National Schools’ Equestrian Association Jumping with Style Competition, Joanna Thorogood (Year 9) did particularly well with her ride Arctic Monkey, winning both the 80cm class and the 1metre class, and placing 4th on Monkey Puzzle. The 90cm team qualified at the competition for the final, and Joanna also qualified as an individual. Members of the equestrian team with Michael Pavely, Director of Riding at New Hall
Katie Ockendon Evans competing
Katie Ockendon-Evans (Year 12) has also seen national success, competing at the National Side Saddle Championships at Addington Manor in September. Katie finished 10th in the class, up against some of the top show rider/horse combinations in the country. In August, Katie and her horse Cheyenne Little Elk had a very successful Side Saddle National Championships at Addington Manor and finished the competition as National Champions in the prestigious Open Junior Equitation Competition. They also won the Junior Freestyle Dressage to Music class.
New Hall riders are often in the top 10 of the competitions they enter and all of their successes are to be applauded. We look forward to seeing their talents progress over the coming year and wish them all the best in their forthcoming competitions. For more information about Riding at New Hall, contact Mrs Tame, Head of Riding via riding@newhallschool.co.uk.
Right: The 90cm team at the NSEA Jumping with Style Competition
Equestrian
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Cricket By Mr James, Head of Cricket The 2013 cricket season at New Hall has been busier than ever before, with more than 125 fixtures for teams from U12C to our now established 1st XI. Opponents have included the likes of Whitgift, Dulwich College, Eton College, Haileybury, Caterham and many more. These fixtures have brought about some outstanding individual performances, such as that of Thomas Styles (Year 13) scoring 142 to chase down 264 at Forest School early in the summer term. We have also had another year of excellent runs in the county and national cup competitions, with our U12’s looking for a hat-trick of county cups and the chance to qualify for the U13 David English National U13 cup. The current U13’s are in the regional semi of this competition and the U12’s in the semi final of the county cup. Our block fixture list is now unrecognisable from when cricket first started at the school in 2009. The same can be said for our cricket facilities, which now include a 1st XI pavilion, 5 grass squares and stateof-the-art practice facilities. This has also led to the school being asked to host Essex County Cricket Club youth fixtures against the age groups.
Sri Lanka – U15 Academy Tour, Easter 2013
Essex CCC U9-U17 Representatives
During the Easter holidays in 2013, the New Hall Cricket Academy travelled to Sri Lanka to develop their skills. The students played matches against Sri Lankan teams, including fixtures at Hambantota Stadium and Dambulla International Stadium. A particular highlight for the students was facing the District XI for the South at Rajapaksa International Stadium, the biggest cricket stadium in Asia.
2013 has seen another record number of New Hall boys go on to represent Essex CCC at their age groups. Throughout the school, fourteen boys have represented their county this year with great success. A special mention must go to Sean Sullivan (Year 7) and Charlie Lockhart (Year 8) who have progressed onto the Essex CCC Emerging Players Programme.
The students also visited the Foundation of Goodness, a charity working to improve the lives of the people living in the surrounding areas through sport, education and healthcare. It was an emotional day for everyone when the foundation opened the New Hall School IT suite, with 10 new computers generously donated on behalf of the school.
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Cricket
1st XI Captain Thomas Styles (Year 13) receiving his school cap after winning 142 v Forest School
Rugby, A New Era By Mr Taylor, Head of Rugby I joined New Hall this year, at an exciting time to be involved in a school that prides itself on producing high standard rugby teams. The position of the school is immensely promising, which is clearly evident from the schools we are beating, the competitions we are not only doing well in but winning and the teams that would now like to play us as a result. During the season, the school managed to collate a number of impressive feats. For the second year running, two Year 9 boys went on a rugby exchange to Glenwood High School in South Africa and we look forward to hosting two of their Year 10 rugby players at the start of the new academic year. Results-wise, the U12 and U15 rugby teams really took the plaudits. The U12 side lost only three fixtures in two terms of rugby and for the first time won the New Hall sevens competition, which was the starting point of their run, winning 19 out of 20 games in the condensed version of the game. The U15 team played in the last 32 of the U15 Daily Mail Cup, which is the furthest position the school has achieved. Amongst this team was centre Joshua Wright (Year 10) who, a year young, gained a place in the South of England U16 team alongside Dominic Morris (Year 11), who went on to play for the England U16 team against Italy and Wales over the Easter break. Further achievements included 19 boys representing Essex RFU between U13-U18; six players representing the Saracens Elite player group; Rory Inwood (Year 8), Oliver Bluck (Year 8) and Gregory Oxlade (Year 8) playing for the U13 Midlands team in the Independent Schools Rugby Trials. At this trial, Gregory was selected for the full England side in their tour to France. What is most pleasing is that as a school we reached our target of wining over 70% of all matches played. Next year a significant challenge has been set, as the quality of schools we will be playing will increase dramatically to fulfil more block fixtures against the likes of St Joseph’s, Coopers Coburn, Norwich and St Benedict’s.
Several New Hall Rugby players were selected to represent Essex this year
Dominic Morris, who was selected to represent England at U16 level
U12 Sevens Winners
Rugby
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Sporting Star Hayden Munt (Year 12) interviews Dominic Morris (Year 11) who has been selected to represent England... Describe the selection process for England Rugby? It was long and tiring, but definitely worth it in the end. It started by playing matches for my county, and with those I managed to impress the right people, who put me through to play for London South East. Finally I had the honour of being picked for the England Under 16 team, which was a truly overwhelming experience. What games have you played so far? I have played two games for England so far. The first one was against Wales. It was a thrilling game and as a team we managed to make an extraordinary comeback to win the game. The match was exciting and it was amazing to see the whole crowd cheering for your victory. The second game was not as exciting. The Under 17 Italian team unfortunately beat the English, due to their pure size and presence. What was the most special moment? I would have to say, realising that I have the support of my friends and family. Putting on the England shirt for the first time was the most surreal experience. Previously, I had not realised how big a deal this was, as I had no time to think about what was actually happening, however, as I sang the National Anthem, so that “Mummy Morrisâ€? could hear me in the top stand, the moment really became real. What contribution has New Hall made towards your rugby success? New Hall has amazing facilities and top class rugby staff for all ages. They have been very supportive throughout my whole journey and it was nice to have people who I knew were right by my side. New Hall rugby was not only very enjoyable, but it also helped my performance a great deal. Do you want to become a professional rugby player when you are older? Being so young, I am not sure what I want at the moment, however, I would almost definitely not turn down the opportunity to play rugby professionally. I would be most interested in playing sevens rugby, as you get to travel the world at the same time, which is something I would love to do. Do you have any advice for young players? I would just say enjoy your rugby and if you want to be a professional or just play at a high standard, work hard if you really want it and be willing to go through ups and downs. You may get injuries, like me, but if you really desire it, let nothing get in your way. No pain no gain‌ no pain no gain.
58
Sporting Star - Dominic Morris
Sports Dinners Every year, New Hall hosts a series of Sports Dinners for each of the main school teams. These events serve as an opportunity to celebrate the end of the season and reflect on the achievements of the players. This year we were delighted to welcome some special guests to give speeches to our sporting teams. Chloe Rogers, London 2012 Olympic bronze medallist representing Team GB Hockey at both Beijing and London Olympics, attended the Girls’ Sport Dinner and John Hart, former Wasps Captain and back row forward attended the Rugby Dinner.
Sports Dinners
59
Hockey By Mrs Sidwell, Head of Hockey A total of 150 fixtures were organised, including those played at various tournaments throughout the year. The season was incredibly successful with the New Hall girls teams winning or drawing 75% of the matches. The New Hall teams scored a total of 363 goals and conceded 186. Special mention must go to the U12A team, which scored 68 goals, with Holly Haslam (Year 8) getting 26 of those. Alex Marler (Year 13) achieved top goal scorer for the 1st XI with 12, Ellie McCaffrey (Year 10) for the U16XI and for the U15XI with 24, Alice Aldridge (Year 9) for the U14XI with 21, Connie Day (Year 8) for the U13A with 10, Mimi Gable (Year 8) for the U13B with 13, and Alice Birch (Year 7) for the U12B with 18 goals. There were many highlights this season, but one that must be mentioned is the fantastic success in the Essex Cup this year at both U14 and U16 level. The U16XI became Essex Cup champions for the very first time this year, beating the previous holders Newport Free Grammar school 3-1 in the final. The U14XI also retained the Plate won by New Hall last year, beating Alex Hunter Humanities College 6-0 in the final to become Plate Champions. A great day was enjoyed by all and it was so fantastic to see such a high level of hockey being played and so many parents and supporters coming to watch the girls at the finals, held at Chelmsford Hockey Club. In addition, the U12A team also added to the silverware by winning the CESSSA tournament again for the third year in a row, sharing the trophy honourably with Brentwood School. U16 Essex Cup Winners This hockey season we have developed a partnership with Chelmsford Hockey Club that we are hoping to evolve over the next couple of years. Mr Owen Thom has joined our coaching team and worked hard to attend training sessions with all age groups. He has also introduced the concept of indoor hockey and the benefits this game can have on skills outside. Last summer saw the first girls’ Hockey tour abroad, to Barcelona, and both the pupils and staff experienced the high standard of hockey in Spain and the very hot playing conditions. In addition to a trip abroad, the U12A and B teams experienced a three-day tour to Canterbury, playing some high calibre opposition which included Sutton Valence School and Kent College, Canterbury. The teams impressed both schools, who have asked to be included on our fixture list next year. At representative level, New Hall has produced eleven Essex County Hockey players. Congratulations to the all of the girls and we wish them all the best of luck representing the county. I would like to say a big thank you to the staff and coaches who have trained each individual team and, specifically, I wish Miss Woodgate all the best in her role as the new Head of Hockey from September 2013. I have no doubt that she will build upon the girls’ successes in hockey so far and reach those elusive National finals!
60
Hockey
Netball By Mrs Jones, Head of Netball This is the second year that New Hall has entered teams at both U16 and U14 age group in the Essex Netball Knock-Out cup. Over 55 teams from Essex enter this netball competition and the Essex schools in particular are renowned for their high standard at national level. The New Hall U16 team, already having beaten St Mark’s School, Harlow and William Edward’s in Grays faced Brentwood School in the fourth round. It was a tough match and the girls faced challenging opposition. Their performance was a credit to the school and despite narrowly losing, the New Hall team never gave up and should be congratulated for their skilful and determined performance in this match. The U14 New Hall team went one better and beat Mark Hall, Musselborough to reach the quarter final. They faced Coopers Coburn School in what was a fast and physical game. This is the first time that a New Hall team has reached this stage of the competition and they should be congratulated for this achievement. New Hall performed well in the District Netball tournaments this year. Our U12 team reached the semi final of the competition, losing to Great Baddow, the eventual winners in a great contest. The U13 having beaten Boswells in a riveting semi final game were runners up to Great Baddow by just four goals. The U13 team played amazingly well and deserved to reach this stage in the competition. The U16 teams and U14 teams came third in their district competitions, all team members giving committed performances. The wealth of talented netball players is very pleasing to see and several girls have achieved regional, county, county plus or satellite development status. Phoebe Kent (Year 12) is a regional netball player. Ellie McCaffrey (Year 10), Freya Pelling (Year 10), Lucy Cracknell (Year 10) and Amelia Davison (Year 10) have all played at county level and Jessica Whiley (Year 7) was recently selected for the County Development squad.
Netball
61
Tennis Champions This year, the New Hall U13 girls’ tennis team won the national championship of the Independent Schools Tennis Association competition. The finals were played at Eton College at the end of term. The boys U13 team are to try to mirror the success of the girls, and are through to the semi finals of the national championships, with the final result pending at the time of going to print. This rounded off a fantastic season for New Hall’s tennis teams. The U15 boys’ tennis team won their AEGON county final against Chigwell winning 12-0. Earlier in the year, the U13 boys’ tennis team were crowned AEGON county champions, meaning that New Hall won both the U13 and U15 boys’ county championships in the same season. Both teams will now progress to the regional knock-out stage in September. As well as all of this success, Tom Styles was selected to play for the Independent Schools Representative Team against the All England Club, which in previous years have fielded the likes of Tim Henman in their team. Tom was one of six boys nationwide to be selected to compete at the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Club in July. The final score was 5-4 to the All England Club, although Tom and his partner won two out of their three matches.
Tom Styles, front right, at the All England Tennis Club
U13 Boys & Girls County Champions
Tom Styles competes at the home of Wimbledon
U13 Girls National Champions
62
Tennis
Sailing to Success It has been another outstanding year for sailing at New Hall, with students competing around the world. At the beginning of the academic year, Harriet Ayre (Year 11) competed in the Cadet National Sailing Championships in Torquay, where she achieved a number of top ten results. She ended the week-long competition in 10th place overall and won the trophy for top ‘All Girl Boat’. As a result of her combined results across all the events, Harriet was placed 10th in the country and was invited to travel to Australia in December as part of the team representing Great Britain. Also at the beginning of the academic year, James Hutton-Penman (Year 12) and Kathryn HuttonPenman (Year 10) competed at the RS Feva World Championships held at Hayling Island where they both did well, getting into the Gold Fleet from an initial entry of nearly 200 boats. James placed 7th and 4th British boat and Kathryn came 26th, which were great results in the tough conditions. They then travelled to Italy where James and Kathryn, along with Lucy Greenwood (Year 8), competed against teams from Italy, Holland, Germany, Spain, Czech Republic and South Africa in the RS Tera World Championship. In the Pro Fleet, James fought hard in a difficult fleet, and narrowly missed out on Gold to take Silver. Kathryn won the Bronze medal for 3rd placed girl, and was 7th overall. In the Sport Fleet, Lucy Greenwood won Bronze and was 18th overall.
National Honours At the beginning of the year, we were excited to discover that two New Hall athletes had been selected to represent Team GB for triathlon at the European Championships in Turkey this year. Oliver Swallow (Year 10) gained selection, having competed in the Worthing Adults’ Sprint Triathlon. With an overall time of 1hour 14minutes, he achieved 1st place in the Under 16 category. He came 5th in the Under 19 age group and gained a 3rd place selection to represent Team GB in Turkey. In September, Arran Rae (Year 12) competed in the European Sprint Triathlon Championship Qualifier in Rother Valley, Yorkshire and finished the race 8th with a time of 1hour 21minutes. This gained Arran selection to represent Team GB alongside Oliver. In July, the European Championships took place and Oliver and Arran set off to represent their country. Both students were a credit to themselves and the school, with the Team Manager for Great Britain commenting after the race that the competition was the hardest she had seen and the performances of the young New Hall athletes was outstanding. Oliver achieved 4th place overall in the age 15-19 category, with all of the other athletes considerably older than him. Arran took 6th place - probably his best result in all his years of racing, beating top athletes who normally just pip him at the post. Sailing & Triathlon
63
A Level Results 2013 We are proud of all our students and delighted to hear that they have secured places at Oxford University to read Classics, Politics, Philosophy and Economics, as well as at other leading Russell Group universities, such as Edinburgh, Exeter and Queen Mary, University of London, to read competitive subjects including Law, Engineering and Medicine. Katherine Jeffrey, Principal
A Level 2013 Subject
Number of Students
New Hall
National
A*
A
B
C
D
E
Total
A*-E Pass %
A*-B%
A*-B%
Art
3
1
2
0
0
0
6
100%
100%
57.80%
Biology
4
6
3
3
1
0
17
100%
76.47%
52.50%
Business Studies
3
7
10
1
1
0
22
100%
90.91%
42.50%
Chemistry
1
5
4
3
1
0
14
100%
71.43%
60.40%
Chinese
0
10
3
0
0
0
13
100%
100%
79.30%
Classics
0
0
1
3
1
0
5
100%
20.00%
65.40%
Classical Greek
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
100%
100%
79.30%
Critical Thinking
0
3
4
2
1
0
10
100%
70.00%
38.50%
Dance
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
100%
100%
50.00%
Drama
0
0
2
4
0
0
6
100%
33.33%
47.00%
Economics
1
7
6
3
0
0
17
100%
82.35%
61.70%
English Literature
0
1
7
4
1
0
13
100%
61.54%
48.60%
Extended Project
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
0
0
4.5
100%
100%
51.50%
French
0
2
3
0
0
0
5
100%
100%
69.40%
Further Mathematics
1
1
0
0
0
0
2
100%
100%
78.30%
German
1
1
0
0
0
0
2
100%
100%
67.80%
Geography
3
4
11
7
2
0
27
100%
66.67%
58.40%
Government & Politics
2
4
3
5
1
1
16
100%
56.25%
58.50%
History
1
2
5
3
0
0
11
100%
72.73%
56.00%
ICT
4
5
4
0
0
0
13
100%
100%
33.60%
Latin
1
0
0
1
0
0
2
100%
50.00%
65.40%
Mathematics
5
12
10
5
2
0
34
100%
79.41%
64.90%
Music
0
1
2
1
0
0
4
100%
75.00%
41.57%
Photography
0
1
3
1
0
0
5
100%
80.00%
57.80%
Physical Education
0
1
2
3
0
1
7
100%
42.86%
38.20%
Physics
0
0
4
1
1
1
7
100%
57.14%
54.60%
Psychology
1
2
4
2
2
0
11
100%
63.64%
43.30%
Russian
5
1
0
0
0
0
6
100%
100%
79.30%
Spanish
0
2
2
0
0
0
4
100%
100%
66.50%
Theology
2
1
3
0
0
0
6
100%
100%
54.70%
Includes out of age candidates
64
A Level Results 2013
• 76% of grades at A*-B • 94% of grades at A*-C • Student Heads of School earn 14 A*/A grades between them • 100% success rate • Students win places at Oxbridge to study Classics, Politics, Philosophy and Economics • On average, every A Level grade almost half a grade better than the predicted grades, according to national baseline statistics
GCSE Results 2013 The entire year group should be immensely proud of their achievements. We believe these results are a testament to the success of New Hall’s pioneering ‘Diamond Model’, which provides the benefits of a co-educational environment together with the advantages of girls and boys being taught separately at Key Stage 3 and for GCSE. Katherine Jeffrey, Principal
QUOTE ONE
GCSE 2013 Subject
Number of Students
New Hall New Hall National
A*
A
B
C
D
E
Total
3D Design
3
6
5
4
1
0
19
47%
74%
38%
Art
5
5
8
2
0
0
20
50%
90%
48%
Astronomy
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0%
0%
33%
Biology
13
10
2
0
0
0
25
92%
100%
69%
Chemistry
16
7
2
0
0
0
25
92%
100%
69%
Chinese (iGCSE)
11
0
0
0
0
0
11
100%
100%
n/a
Classical Greek
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
100%
100%
76%
A*-A%
A*-B%
A*-B%
Drama
0
2
8
7
7
0
24
8%
42%
49%
English Language
10
41
37
18
3
0
109
47%
81%
35%
English Literature
7
26
50
17
0
0
100
33%
83%
52%
French
9
11
10
10
7
3
50
40%
60%
44%
Geography
11
24
27
11
3
1
77
45%
81%
47%
German
1
1
0
0
0
0
2
100%
100%
47%
History
21
12
6
2
1
0
42
79%
93%
49%
ICT
0
10
8
2
0
0
20
50%
90%
49%
Italian
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
100%
100%
76%
Latin
5
10
1
1
1
0
18
83%
89%
77%
Mathematics
29
24
28
21
6
3
111
48%
73%
31%
Music
2
7
3
0
0
0
12
75%
100%
58%
Photography
3
4
16
6
0
0
29
24%
79%
79%
Physical Education
2
15
13
5
7
0
42
40%
71%
45%
Physics
11
11
2
1
0
0
25
88%
96%
69%
Russian
3
0
0
0
0
0
3
100%
100%
76%
Spanish
11
16
7
11
8
0
53
51%
64%
48%
Theology
41
52
11
5
1
0
110
85%
95%
53%
Universal Science
6
16
37
24
4
0
87
25%
68%
24%
Universal Science (Ad)
6
21
21
20
2
2
72
38%
67%
35%
• Record 52% of grades at A*/A • Record 21% of grades at A* • 50% increase in A* grades on previous year • Top achievers gain 12 A*/A grades each • 100% success rate • Year 8 student achieves A* in GCSE Mathematics • Record 30 students achieved at least 9 A*/A grades • 23 Distinctions and 1 Merit in Thinking & Reasoning
Includes out of age candidates
GCSE Results 2013
65
Year 13 Leavers’ Destinations We wish all of the students who left New Hall Senior School at the end of the year all the best with their future endeavours and hope that they will keep in touch. We acknowledge the foundation laid by teachers in the earlier years of the students education by naming, where available, their previous school in brackets. Nicola Ahmed (Maldon Court)
GAP Year
Ella Alderton (Moulsham High)
Oxford Brookes
Yi Ba (International) Lucy Bacon (St John’s)
Taha Khan (International)
Queen Mary, University of London
Medicine
History
William Kitteridge (St Margaret’s, Gosfield)
Clearing
Sheffield
Urban Studies
Essex
Loughborough
Information Management & Business Studies
Hanik Kotecha (International)
Philosophy, Politics & Economics
Maria Krupska
Durham
Psychology
Edinburgh
Law & Business Studies
Frederick Benson (Heathcote)
Nottingham Trent
Real Estate
Andrew Kundin (International)
Alexander Bird (Woodlands)
Manchester
Geography
Sai Lai (International)
International University
Hoi-Ting Cheung (International)
UCL
Statistics
Madeleine Leathley (Ursuline Prep)
Essex
Joseph Clark
UEA
Marketing & Management
Cheuk Him Lee (International)
Hong Kong University of Science & Technology
Victoria Crisp (FKS)
Roehampton
Business Management
Cheuk Yan Lee (International)
UCL
Psychology
Antonia Dajak
Edinburgh
Architecture
Catherine Leighton (Widford Lodge)
Nottingham
Veterinary Medicine
Hugo Delaune
Edinburgh
Architecture
English
UCL
Law
Siobhan Lewis (Brentwood Ursuline)
Brunel
Klaudia Domanska
Lincoln
Criminology
Lauren Liddell (St Peter’s, South Weald)
Loughborough
Charlotte Fage (FKS)
International Relations
Grace Fairbairn (Cathedral School)
UEA
Midwifery
Morolake Macaulay
University of West England
Marketing
Evangelina Fisher (New Hall Prep)
Bath
Sport (Sport Performance)
Ting-Kit Man (International)
International
Caroline Flechtner (St John, Pebmarsh)
Re-applying
Medicine
Alexandra Marler (New Hall Prep)
Durham
Anthropology & Archaeology
Callum Fletcher (The Bishops)
Loughborough
Banking, Finance & Management
Portia McEwan (FKS)
Southampton
Psychology
UCL
Architecture
Ivan Frolov (International)
Edinburgh
International Business with a language
Liam Merrigan (Brentwood School) Samuel Milchem (Moulsham High)
UEA
Amy Gatfield (St Margaret’s, Gosfield)
Cardiff
Optometry
Geography & International Development
Oxford
Classics
Chardae Gill-Anderson (St Nicholas, Codsall)
Exeter
Sociology & Criminology
Daniel Mullens (Felsted Prep)
Product Design
UEA
Biological Science
Henry Nation (Brentwood School)
Bournemouth
Lani Graham (Widford Lodge)
Winchester
Primary Education
Anna Green (International)
Royal Holloway
History
Laura Olsen (Trinity, St Marys, SWF)
Criminology
Loughborough
Economics
Richard Osho (International)
York
Dominic Hitchins (Swanbourne House)
UCL
Biological Science
Jack Oven (St Johns, Billericay)
Reading
Chun Cheng Huang
Business & Management
Kai Ming Hung
Royal Holloway
Biomedical Sciences
Nottingham
Medicine
Alex James (FitzWimarc)
Nottingham
International Relations & Global Issues
Imogen Ovenden (Westcliff High School for Girls)
Laura Johnson (Grays Convent)
Leeds
Philosophy
Matthew Perry (International)
Loughborough
Sports Technology
Emma Johnston (Brentwood School)
Westminster
Fashion Buying Management
Talia Playle (New Hall Prep)
Kingston
Drama
Hannah Jones (Woodlands, Warley)
Loughborough
Information Management & Business Studies
Harry Pratt (Maldon Court)
Oxford Brookes
Real Estate Management
UEA
Computing Science
Samuel Jones (Brentwood Prep)
Employed
Samuel Prebble (St Peter’s, South Weald) Jodie Preston (Brentwood School)
Clearing
66
Leavers
Insurance
Politics
Jack Richardson (Helena Romanes)
York
English
Harry Roberts (Stowmarket Middle School)
Clearing
Adil Safarov (International)
Queen Mary, University of London
Business Management
Elizabeth Shiers (Heathcote School)
Cardiff
Physics
Thomas Styles (Caterham School)
Employment
Finance
Michael Sudders (Woodlands, Warley)
Portsmouth
Palaeontology
Huw Swettenham (Shenfield High)
Glasgow
History / Politics
Tobias Tay-Smith (St Peter’s)
UEA
Law
Arthur Tessier (Anglo European)
Southampton
Geology
Year 11 Congratulations to all Year 11 students on their achievements. We wish them the very best for the next stage of their education. Anna-Maria Acevedo
Izabela Pagano
Charlie Neal
Ruth Alderton
Renee Panayiotou
Christopher Nicholls
Lucy Ashfield
Amy Parker
Oliver Peck
Harriet Ayre
Ashleigh Pemberton
Nicholas Penny
Harriett Bartram-Baird
Margot Perez Bullough
Jamie Pollitt
Alice Baxter
Matilda Robb
Ruidi Qu
Francesca Bazley
Dominie Rodino
Tommy Richardson
Deborah Beach
Natalie Rose
Henri Skeens
Olivia Bugden
Alana Sahadevan
George Styles
Chloe ShepperdLancaster
James Summers
Hannah Thorpe (St Peter’s)
Hertfordshire
Psychology
Amelia Cano-Lopez
George Thurgood (Westcliff)
Essex
Biological Sciences
Charlotte ChambersFarah
Megan Staines
Kit Fung Sun
Wing Shan Ting
LSE
Accounting & Finance
Lucy Chapman
Francesca Stevens
Matthew Tann
Yee Ting Cheng
Amelia Tew
Edwin Taylor
Josephine Clackson
Hei Yu Tsoi
Charlie Thompson
Molly Conrad
Joe Lam Wong
Samuel Turner
Rebecca Coughlan
Oliver Allain
Dominic Walmsley
Emma Dickinson
Coran Allen
Harry Warwick
Elysia Farrell
James Anderson
Joshua Wheal
Annabel Gardiner
Max Barker
Connor Whetstone
Hannah Gardner
Jack Jospeh Brown
Yavor Yotov
Eliza Garty
Louis Brown
Catherine Gilbert
Michael Brummitt
Olivia Gills-Galpin
Max Burton Jonathan Chao
Tsun Ki To
Keele
Psychology
Anna Tsymbalist
Edinburgh
Russian Studies
Felipe Von Stieglitz
Surrey
International Hospitality and Tourism Management
Joanna Wells (New Hall Prep)
Hertfordshire
Business / Information Systems
Nadia Wheadon (St Philip’s Priory)
Loughborough
Geography
Harry White (St Margarets, Gosfield)
Westminster
Commercial Music Performance
Bradley Wilson (Elm Green)
Kent
International Business
Haorui Wu
Durham
Business & Management
Melissa Greaves Eva Leila Haselhuber
Benjamin Chilvers
Angelica Zambelis (Maylandsea Primary)
Anglia Ruskin
Forensic Science
Arabella Ho You
Nathan Collins
Ran Zhao (International)
UCL
Statistics, Economics & Finance
Emily Holloway
Daniel Cotton
Ailish Hunt
Andrew Court
Harry Zweering (International)
Exeter
Isabel James
Matthew Crawley
Tara King
Felix Flechtner
Cherie Knight
William Freake
Katie Lampshire
Samuel Gasper
Grace Langley
Olexandr Gorodnytskyi
Cheuk Man Lee
Nikita Grigoriev
Alice Lerwill
Alexander Harker
Wing Sum Leung
Zi Teng Huang
Shun Yan Li
Matthew Jahanfar
Caron Magee
Nathan Lambert
Emma Marler
Thomas Macfarlane
Isabel Miller de Vega
Luke Marshall
Stephanie MorenoBeck
Christopher Maude
Sophie Nixon
Robert McKay
Hope O’Brien
Oliver Morgan
Pippa O’Riley
Dominic Morris
Isobel Ovenden
Conor Moylan
Prize Giving 2013
Business Economics
67
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