Reigate Grammar School Pilgrim Review Spring/Summer 2019

REVIEW THE PILGRIM

AUTUMN/WINTER 2019

SCHOOL OF THE YEAR FOR PASTORAL CARE AND WELLBEING TES INDEPENDENT SCHOOL AWARDS

AWARD-WINNING DRAMA LEATHERHEAD DRAMA FESTIVAL

NATIONAL HOCKEY CHAMPIONS FOR THE SECOND YEAR RUNNING INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS HOCKEY CUP

"EXTRACURRICULAR LEAVES NO STONE UNTURNED" THE GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE

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HEAD GIRL AND HEAD BOY’S MESSAGE ...HOWEVER YOU DECIDE TO TACKLE YOUR NEXT YEAR, THROW YOURSELF INTO IT AND APPROACH IT WITH A CONFIDENT AND OPEN MIND.

FROM THE HEAD GIRL AND HEAD BOY

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he beginning of a school year is a better time than ever to learn the meaning of our school community.

It is a time to welcome the new as we do the old and work together in uniting all students under kindness and inclusion.

Something both our teachers and fellow students encourage is keeping an open mind.

Push past comfort barriers, challenging yourself with new relationships, new experiences and new surroundings. The welcoming environment in our school allows us to explore these less familiar paths; so don’t let yourself limit your experiences this year because you believe others may pass judgment or think of you in a different way. Leave nothing unexperienced for, if we all join in and enjoy whatever it may be, we shouldn’t worry what others think as you will more than likely earn their respect for you, by simply doing something that you love.

So again, I encourage you not to let the abundance of opportunities pass. Whether this year is a new start at your new school or a continuation of your RGS journey, however you decide to tackle your next year, throw yourself into it and approach it with a confident and open mind.

Best wishes to all, Amy Brill Head Girl

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efore we look towards the future, this vast plain of possibilities that school presents us with, we must review the past. The knowledge, that we have all already reached and surpassed our own personal targets and expectations, reveals that every Reigatian has the potential to achieve so much more than they had originally set out to do.

And it is from our past that we recognise what can be gained through our time at RGS. Dickens portrays these "vessels… ready to have imperial gallons of facts poured into them until they were full to the brim."

We are 'vessels', all individual yet joined in the prospect of our horizons widened. Though trying to learn and remember information from a lesson may seem daunting at first - Dickens alludes to this drip feed of facts that extends from teacher to student - we should do our very best to make sense of things for ourselves. Knowing that everyone else around us is also in the same boat. We shouldn't be afraid because we don’t quite understand. If we just ask and persevere, eventually we will succeed. The seas will calm, and things will work out.

Remember that every person here interlinks with one another and has the capacity to improve others and themselves in some way. Every person here, as the friend of the next, has the capacity to encourage you to try something new… these risks seem smaller when we understand that the community here is supporting us. Offering an arm to those around them. Being a student is being part of a community. Being part of something that is more than yourself and yet equal to every member.

All the best, Mark Jones Head Boy

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HEADMASTER’S WELCOME ...MOST OF ALL, I AM PLEASED THAT THIS EDITION OF THE PILGRIM REVIEW CAPTURES THE SENSE OF FUN THAT I SEE ON THE FACES OF REIGATE GRAMMAR SCHOOL STUDENTS EVERY DAY. FROM THE HEADMASTER

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ne of our younger students has recently spoken about how it feels to become a Reigatian. He quoted Patrick Overton, an American poet, who wrote, “When you walk to the edge of the light you have – and take that first step into the darkness of the unknown – you must believe that one of two things will happen. There will be something solid for you to stand upon or you will be taught to fly.” He told visitors, “At RGS, both of those things happen.

There will be something solid for you to stand upon and you will be taught to fly.” To hear such words spoken, by one of our young students sums up what it is to be a Reigatian.

It is the qualities of a person’s character that make the biggest difference as they pursue life chances, happiness and try to make the world a better place. Of course, examination results may open some doors of opportunity but employers and universities look for more, and being happy and successful in later life is certainly about more than just grades. So, where are those qualities of character formed and tested? We all know, from our own school days, that there is more to a great education than the goings-on of the classroom. So much is learned on the playing fields, from shows and productions, debating and public speaking, in adventurous activities, on school trips, in volunteering, as a cadet, doing DofE, offering community service and all the many wonderful joys of the extracurricular programme at a top school. Those aspects of life bring balance and a sense of joy: they develop teamwork and leadership; help students learn from victory and from defeat. Although true in all aspects of our programme, the Director of Sport talks passionately about his desire to help form good people through sport. That is the Reigate way.

This Pilgrim Review captures the essence of Reigate Grammar School. The opportunities beyond the classroom are the heartbeat of the school. They help to develop our culture, which is about relationships rather than rules. The opportunities hinted at in this publication help students secure lifetime friendships and lifelong memories.

Whilst the students themselves benefit hugely from the opportunities in front of them, it is also worth remembering that Reigate Grammar School students engaged in over 5000 hours of volunteering last year, raised money for dozens of charities and campaigned both within school and the wider community for a more environmentally sustainable world. The tree I planted was just one of hundreds planted by RGS students last year. I believe our students understand that they have a privileged education and, therefore, they have responsibilities to do good in the world.

This year, where Reigatians secured record examination results and where over 95% of our Sixth Form leavers held offers to Oxbridge, medical school, American, European and Russell Group universities, I am particularly proud of each and every one of our students. However, I am also delighted that the quality of care in relationships between staff and students resulted in Reigate Grammar School being the TES School of the Year for Wellbeing and Pastoral Care. I am equally delighted that the amount of volunteering and support for the local community saw RGS awarded the School of the Year award for our community engagement work. Furthermore, RGS was nominated for more School of the Year awards than any other schools in the country.

The Good Schools Guide understood us so well when they spent the day with us writing in their review, “Happy children and great results.” Whilst it is wonderful to receive external validation of our success, most of all, I am pleased that this edition of the Pilgrim Review captures the sense of fun that I see on the faces of Reigate Grammar School students every day.

Shaun Fenton Headmaster

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SCHOOL NEWS

WHAT THE GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE SAYS… HAPPY KIDS AND GREAT RESULTS Reigate Grammar School’s latest review

by The Good Schools Guide, which is updated every five years, was published in June 2019. Schools cannot pay to be included in the guide, and have no influence over what is written.

Freelance journalist Kate Hilpern researched thoroughly and talked to Mr Fenton, staff and parents in order to prepare her comprehensive review of every aspect of the school, from academic matters to atmosphere.

Kate observed “Students a delight – grounded, chatty and refreshingly comfortable in their own skin”, concluding that “Priorities one, two and three for this selective school are pastoral care and this – coupled with fabulous teaching, students’ almost uniquely acute awareness of their own approach to learning and a heavy dose of extra-curricular – makes for happy kids and great results.”

Please contact us if you would like a copy of the review, which can be read in full on our website.

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SCHOOL NEWS

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Priorities one, two and three for this selective school are pastoral care The Good Schools Guide 4

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ENRICHMENT WEEK

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nce again, Enrichment Week was an incredible whirlwind of activities both at school and further afield. From watersports to concerts, escape rooms, charity volunteering, DofE and CCF field trips, a science trip to CERN, Switzerland, adventurous activities, cinema screenings, Modern Languages CarnevĂ le, Japanese drumming, archery, climbing wall, Pram Race, tug-of-war, House Quiz, Tadworth Run, House Swimming, Sports Day, the Art Exhibition... and so much more. As always this fun-filled week was a resounding success and a chance for students to celebrate their achievements before departing for the long summer break.

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MACBETH

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arch saw the Concert Hall transformed into an atmospheric wasteland for a production of Macbeth. Playing in-the-round to packed houses, including a matinÊe for local Fifth Form students getting a head start for their GCSE English exams, the production was an adrenaline-fuelled ride showing Macbeth’s rise to power and fall from grace.

Oli S and Ella W brought intense energy and charisma to the eponymous couple and were ably supported by Tom B as Macduff, JJ S as Malcolm, Mia P as Ross and Lauren M-K as Banquo. Hannah G, Aleisha H and Maddie P were suitably sinister as the triumvirate of witches, and Imogen C made her RGS debut as the ghostly Holly.

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H O N K!

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he Concert Hall became a farmyard in June for the junior production; Mr Jackson's version of the Olivier Award-winning musical Honk! The story is a reworking of Hans Christian Andersen's Ugly Duckling and has a brilliant message about inclusion, diversity and inner beauty. Eibhlin G as Ugly, Liberty T as Ida and Etalie C as Cat led an ensemble cast brilliantly, and the show was held together by Miranda S coordinating live music, sound, lighting and video projection as Deputy Stage Manager.

All week, sold-out audiences left the show singing the catchy songs and hoping that one day maybe...***spoiler alert***...they too could become swans.

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DRAMA LEATHERHEAD DRAMA FESTIVAL SUCCESS RGS was awarded the overall prize for Best Junior Production for its production of Find Me by Olwen Wymark at the Leatherhead Drama Festival, competing against 18 other schools.

Along with this, Emelye K-B won the Best Actress award and teacher Marianne Hare won Best Director.

At the Gala Awards night, RGS students were delighted to perform the winning production for a special audience including comedian Nick Hancock, who handed out the awards.

The adjudicator commented on the piece: "A number of audience members told me (after both performances) that they cried at the end or at least shed a tear. That is a testament to the power of the performance.

I have seen versions of Find Me before as have the festival organisers at Leatherhead.

We all agreed that yours was by far the best."

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...I HAVE SEEN VERSIONS OF FIND ME BEFORE AS HAVE THE FESTIVAL ORGANISERS AT LEATHERHEAD. WE ALL AGREED THAT YOURS WAS BY FAR THE BEST.

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DRAMA PENDLEY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL - THEATRICAL INTERNSHIP FOR STUDENTS Students and staff at RGS took part in the 70th annual Pendley Shakespeare Festival hosted at The Pendley Manor Hotel in Tring. This three-week open-air festival is run by RGS's Director of Drama, Sarah Branston, who curates a company of actors and technicians each year to stage two plays in repertory, performing to 400 people per night. It is one of the best theatre companies for emerging creatives in the country and has shaped the theatrical careers of many actors Hermione Norris, Stephen Campbell Moore and Caroline Quentin to name a few. Former RGS students Kai Everington, Helen Mumby, Will Edwards and Amy Johnson have all gone on to run the Festival as its Producer.

This year saw Macbeth and The Merry Wives of Windsor being performed. RGS Director of Theatre, Hugh Edwards,

brought his considerable gravitas to the role of Banquo and much hilarity was had as he interpreted Falstaff as a fading Elvis impersonator at a holiday resort in Benidorm!

Three RGS Sixth Formers also took part performing alongside professional actors and stage-crew. Jarrett M took on the roles of Fleance and the aptly named character of Fenton in Merry Wives, whilst Mark J and Sam A worked alongside professional Stage Management teams as an Assistant Stage Manager and Deputy Stage Manager.

Jarrett will now be working for emerging theatre company So It Goes on their adaptation of Moby Dick to be performed in October. The festival continues to provide students with a superb opportunity for widening their theatrical expertise and giving them an insight into the machinations of professional theatre.

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DRAMA DARE TO BE DIFFERENT Celebrating difference was the theme of the evening as the entire First Form took part in the annual First Form production this year at the beautiful Leatherhead Theatre. Devised by students and staff, the show told the story of seven real figures from history who have fought against the odds to change the world in some way. We heard the stories of Malala, Alan Turing, Elizabeth I, Jim Henson, Nathaniel Newman, Billy Jean King and Beethoven, all brought to life with energy and commitment by the spirited cast.

NISDA CONFERENCE RGS hosted the National Independent Schools' Drama Association (NISDA) conference with a range of workshops and masterclasses. A highlight of the weekend was the visit of Reece Shearsmith, star of stage, screen and TV from shows including The League of Gentlemen, Doctor Who, The Widower and Psychoville. He has BAFTA and other awards galore and it was great for students and staff to benefit from his wisdom and advice, gained through his own journey through life in the performing arts arena.

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DRAMA CHOREOSLAM Entrants from the First to Sixth Forms competed in the annual RGS Choreography Slam, this year held in the new Drama Studio. From ballet to street, Irish to contemporary, the range of styles and disciplines was extremely impressive.

The evening also featured two dances from RSM dance troupes, proving that the future of dance at RGS is in good hands.

Yoli M took the prize for Best Dance Performance for an astonishing solo piece, with Amelia D taking time out from exam revision to win Best Original Choreography for a haunting and inventive piece. Special mention was also given to Aisling G and Grace G for their Irish dance piece, and to an original piece from Anna G, Sophie F, Angelina L, Rebecca E and Etalie C. The evening was hosted brilliantly by Isabel A from the Performing Arts Council, and was expertly judged by guest professional Kiera Marner (Billy Elliot, The Sound of Music, Flashdance, The Wedding Singer) who provided helpful and constructive feedback to all performers.

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RGS IN CONCERT AT CADOGAN HALL

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triumphant return to Cadogon Hall saw over two hundred musicians from First Form to Upper Sixth Form perform to a capacity crowd at the beautiful Cadogan Hall in Chelsea. The musicians provided a range of choral, ensemble and orchestral music of a quality that would not be out of place in any concert by the Cadogan Hall’s resident orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic.

Highlights included a mesmerising violin solo by Gabby B, the RGS Senior Chorus performing Vivaldi’s Gloria and the Swing Band with vocalists Freddy G and Sophie H who brought the first half of the concert to a barnstorming close with their rendition of the Gershwin classic They Can’t Take That Away From Me.

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ART AND DESIGN TECHNOLOGY EXHIBITION

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The Art and Design Technology exhibition was outstanding yet again this year, showing just how talented students at RGS are. The Wright Gallery displayed work by A Level Fine Artists and Photography students; it is clear from this space alone that there is immense diversity in the work produced, with installation work, large paintings exploring abstract and more realistic themes, and stitching and embroidery work all on display.

The Sports Hall was filled to the brim with exciting works. Pieces from all year groups including A Level, GCSE and the Lower School showed dynamism and energy. It is astonishing how much work can be produced in one year, leaving the Art department wondering how we manage to store it all!

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ART - NOTABLE WORK

Alex M

Anna M-F

Sasha H

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Asmaa A

Sereena P

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Charlotte B

Charlie H

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ART - PHOTOGRAPHY Photography A Level students have given their projects huge amounts of activity and enthusiasm. Students have produced beautiful works using all sorts of creative techniques such as Laura B-L’s intriguing time-lapse flowers and Genevieve C’s beautiful woodland photo-montage.

There are too many amazing pieces to showcase here, but the few examples shown give an idea of the impressive array of photographic content that has been produced.

Genevieve C

Sofia T

Sofia T Genevieve C

Sofia T

Laura B-L 27

Genevieve C

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ART PROSTHETIC MAKE-UP AND CASUALTY EFFECTS Prosthetic Make-up and Casualty Effects students drew inspiration from their favourite movies and applied ideas to their work with some interesting and fun outcomes.

Throughout the duration of the course students developed their technique and learnt how to sculpt, apply and paint their own silicone appliance.

FIRST FORM ART NATURAL FORM The students have been inspired by the work of artist and beekeeper, Ladislav Hanka. His work is fascinating; he puts his drawings on wax and then puts them in his beehives. The bees collect nectar and pollen as usual and use the wax drawings to build the honeycomb on. The students' drawings have been shrunk to reflect his pieces.

SECOND FORM ENTOMOLOGY The students have been inspired by the vibrant work of Christopher Marley.

His work is not only beautiful; he also wants to raise awareness of dying insect habitats. He is helping to fund local projects to ensure these insects thrive.

Students observed beetles and butterflies and produced their own watercolour entomology specimens.

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DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

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esign Technology students have had another busy year with students in the Third Form taking part in an enterprise project where they designed, manufactured and marketed their design ideas with all proceeds raised going to charity. The students' combined total was just over ÂŁ750, which went to local charity George and the Giant Pledge.

This year saw record attendance levels at DT club with students benefitting from Mr Oates’s new projects, which were well received by Lower School students.

GCSE students were the first cohort through the new reformed course and were tasked with designing products based around sport or sustainability. There was a wide variety of design ideas from golf putting aids to some amazing lighting using recycled materials. Once again the exam board was amazed at the variety and creativity of students' work.

A Level students were also hard at work developing new ideas based around historical influences. One of the main focus points was to ensure that the end user was at the centre of their design work through careful study and relationship building within their target markets. Both the function and form of prototype products were key to success and the moderators' comments related to the quality of all the work on display. The highlight this year has been seeing how engaged students were in their quest to design the best possible solution to their market need.

The quality of the work was clear to see at the Art and Design Technology Exhibition in June and students, parents and the wider community were able to see first-hand the impressive array of design ideas and prototypes.

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OUTDOOR PURSUITS Reigate Grammar School continues to set the standard when it comes to the Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) scheme. This Summer Term was no different with numerous activities and expeditions at each level and a varied and extensive volunteering programme.

BRONZE

Third Form students were trained by Lower Sixth Form Gold DofE award leaders who taught them navigation skills and campcraft which they put to excellent use on their hike across the North Downs. After walking with their student award leaders during the first day, the Third Formers successfully completed the second day independently.

Two groups also completed their Bronze canoeing expedition.

For many, this was their first opportunity to try canoeing and all excelled at it during their expedition.

SILVER

Students completed their Silver practice expedition in late June, which took place across the Surrey Hills. The three-day hike was over 60km long and involved demanding climbs totalling 1500m.

They proficiently navigated across the challenging terrain which included forests, steep slopes and a multitude of paths. During the final night, students overcame hot conditions and heavy rain successfully to finish their expedition.

Three Silver groups completed a canoeing expedition instead of the hike. They were one of the fastest developing groups their leaders had ever had, highlighting their incredible determination

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and teamwork. A significant step-up from Bronze for many of the hikers and canoeists, the Silver experience was especially rewarding.

GOLD

Groups of Lower Sixth Form students completed their Gold expeditions in Wales, including one canoe group. After travelling to Mid Wales, students hiked for four days across challenging and steep terrain, including climbing up Plynlimon, the highest point of the Cambrian Mountains and the highest point in Mid Wales.

The area was far more remote than previously navigated terrain from students' Bronze and Silver expeditions, and staying at wild campsites with no facilities offered new challenges. Students finished their expedition on the Welsh coast, where many enjoyed a welcome dip in the sea.

VOLUNTEERING

RGS students typically find the volunteering section of their DofE the most rewarding. They volunteer in a variety of ways and places, including in local charity shops and care homes where they enjoy making a real impact on local communities. Other students choose to become involved in conservation around the Reigate area in partnership with the Surrey Wildlife Trust.

Students have engaged in conservation in a variety of areas, such as Reigate Heath, Redhill Common and Nutfield Marsh. Through participation in conservation, students engage with nature and wildlife whilst learning about their importance.

Emily C

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HOUSE NEWS

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Williamson did exceptionally well, finding themselves victorious in both events.

House Chess kicked things off in a round-robin style tournament. It was great to see students from all year groups taking each other on. Congratulations to Cranston on their victory.

In the final assembly of term the school gathered to find out who had clinched this year’s House Cup. For 2018-2019 the winners' table was:

he House Cup runs from Easter to Easter and once again, going into the Spring Term, the competition was close. Hodgson began the term in 4th place with Cranston in 3rd, Bird in 2nd and Williamson up front in 1st.

Lower School House Debating was a great event to watch as students spoke on topics including Schools should not offer single use food containers in these days of environmental awareness and School uniform is outdated and should be abolished in the UK. Speakers did a fabulous job and impressed with their confidence and knowledge on the chosen topics. The final saw Bird take on Cranston as they debated on the topic This House believes that it is time for the British Monarchy to be abolished. Well done to Bird who were judged to be the winning team thanks to high quality speeches against the motion.

Mr Davies and Mr Saunders took on the roles of quiz-masters for the Senior House Quiz in front of a packed Concert Hall. The knowledge of competing students was astounding, leading to a much closer run affair than in previous years. Bird continued their run of superb quiz form to be crowned winners.

House Netball and House Hockey saw nearly all students representing their Houses in close-run competitions.

Excellent House spirit was shown by all and there was a feeling that having a go was the most important thing.

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House Golf took place in rather windy conditions but was incredibly close with Cranston and Williamson joint winners at one under par.

Williamson - 1st Bird - Joint 2nd Cranston - Joint 2nd Hodgson - 4th

The 2019-2020 House Cup began with the Senior events. Bird won an exciting Ultimate (Frisbee) event as well as House Swimming which was hotly contested with some excellent swimming on display.

For the first time First and Second Form House Cricket had mixed teams with A, B and C teams, reflecting the growth of Cricket at RGS. The Senior contest saw a three-way tie for first place between Cranston, Hodgson and Williamson but it was Cranston that came out on top overall.

All Houses had a good day in the House Rounders event with different Houses winning the different form group competitions. With all of the individual contests added up Cranston were crowned winners.

Like Rounders, House Tennis was close with Williamson eventual winners.

House Athletics was the closest run contest so far. In the year group competitions Hodgson won the First and Third Form, Williamson the Second Form and Seniors and Cranston the Fourth Form.

The Junior Quiz and Tug of War took place on the final morning of the Summer Term. After a close start in the quiz Bird eventually took the win. The four-way Tug of War had an abundance of cheering as students gave their all to win valuable points for their House. The results for each year group are added to the Sixth Form results from House Sports Day which left Williamson on top as overall winners.

With all the scores added up the Sports Shield placings for the Summer Term were: Cranston - 1st Bird - 2nd Williamson - 3rd Hodgson - 4th The Competitions Cup placings were: Bird - Joint 1st Williamson - Joint 1st Cranston - Joint 3rd Hodgson - Joint 3rd At the end of the first of three terms in this year’s cup the current placings are: Bird - Joint 1st Williamson - Joint 2nd Cranston - Joint 2nd Hodgson - Joint 4rth

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HISTORY

THE HISTORY OF BERLIN

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he 2019 Berlin trip was great. We explored aspects of Germany, broadening our cultural knowledge through visits to the German Reichstag and memorials for people persecuted by the Nazis. This trip really enhanced and enriched our history experience and gave us an invaluable insight into the German course. The tour guides were so helpful with their extensive insider knowledge and information about the city.

One of our favourite places visited was Sachsenhausen concentration camp because, despite its tragic connotations, it was a really interesting and eye-opening experience. We learnt of the horrific treatment of the prisoners and the huge extent of Hitler’s drive to eliminate all those deemed ‘undesirable’. We also visited the Platform 17 memorial on an

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abandoned railway, commemorating all the Jews sent to ghettos and concentration camps from this location.

It was particularly shocking to see how Hitler continued to send thousands of Jews each week to Auschwitz and Treblinka despite the imminent end of World War II. The trip also combined an element of fun and relaxation. On the second day we went bowling in the evening and had a meal out with some tasty burgers.

We would say that this was one of our favourite school trips due to the memorable time spent with friends and the invaluable revision of the German history course, consolidating existing knowledge whilst learning new things.

Freya R and Rosie B (Fourth Form)

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EXPLORING YPRES

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he trip to Ypres was a fascinating insight into what happened in World War I. It started with a visit to Lijssenthoek Cemetery, the second largest military cemetery in Belgium with 10,000 graves and thousands of names of the missing. It was sad to see the names without graves but it was inspiring to see that this many men had laid down their lives for their country. Also, seeing the grave of Nellie Spindler was interesting as it shows that some people had devoted themselves to the war so much that they wanted to be buried there.

Tom N (Second Form)

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he last place we went to was Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery in the world.

There are an astonishing 12,000 people buried there from WW1. We were told about a young man who came from RGS and a boy who at just 14 was the youngest ever to join the army. He was from Dorking. Both of these stories suddenly brought the war a lot closer to home. In Tyne Cot there was also a very long wall with all the names of missing soldiers. There were so many and it was moving to lay a wreath in memory of these innocent people. It is definitely a trip I will remember.

Emma T (Second Form)

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his year's ReiMUN conferences, both Junior and Senior, were enormously successful with nearly 30 other schools involved. Visiting schools across the southeast brought delegates from countries including Belgium, China and Equatorial Guinea. Speaking about the Junior conference, Kaylen P said: “It was an amazing opportunity to meet MUN delegates from other schools and have the experience of being at a real MUN conference.” Owen D added: “The conference was a great way to develop my skills in MUN and was loads of fun.”

RGS students went to a range of other external conferences from Haileybury to Paris and Dublin, to nearer to home in Croydon. The weekly Junior and Senior clubs have welcomed new and very promising students this year who have gained skills in debating, collaboration, knowledge of world events, awareness of cultural diversity and public speaking.

BTGMUN CONFERENCE On a sweltering day in June, the Junior ReiMUN team involved themselves enthusiastically in the heat of the debate at the Bishop Thomas Grant School Model United Nations event (BTGMUN) representing the USA and Indonesia. The team took part in the Environment, Social, Humanitarian and Cultural (SOCHUM) and Disarmament and International Security (DISEC) committees, as well as the all-important Security Council. A wide range of issues was discussed such as chemical warfare, human trafficking and the mental health of the military.

All students were involved in the debates and for some this was their first opportunity to speak at an external conference. Piers C was rewarded for his effort in the Environment Committee at the end of the conference with the Most Distinguished Delegate Award; a stunning achievement for him and for those who had supported him in preparing for the conference.

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MUN IMO TRIP Senior MUNers sat in during a session of the Technical Cooperation Committee of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). The IMO is tasked with delivering strategies to facilitate the implementation of an efficient shipping industry in countries which lack the technical resources. We had the opportunity to listen to UN delegates pose questions about new programmes. We were treated to coffee and Danish pastries by

the Philippines’ delegation before being shown around the organisation’s London headquarters, with lunch on the terrace overlooking the House of Commons included! We were dazzled by the IMO’s artefacts collection which included a re-constructed lens from a Victorian lighthouse.

Louis C (Sixth Form) Secretary General, RGS MUN

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GEOGRAPHY

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he Geography department's field trip to Iceland was amazing. Students had a fabulous time visiting top Icelandic attractions along the south coast including the famous black beaches, glaciers, volcanoes and waterfalls. They also had the opportunity to explore Hellisheidi geothermal power station and watched flowing molten lava at the new Lava Centre.

open avenues of curiosity, bringing geography to life. Closer to home, local fieldwork such as looking at the carbon content of local trees, the impact of gentrification in Brixton, dune succession at Studland, infiltration at Box Hill and environmental quality in Dorking are also excellent opportunities to broaden understanding of the subject.

The group's Icelandic guide brought every location to life with his extensive knowledge and illustrative stories. The weather was typically Icelandic - a good mix of bright and sunny sub-zero temperatures with snow followed quickly by warmer Atlantic weather with cloud and rain.

In school, GeogSoc, run by the students themselves, has offered topical discussion and debate on a broad range of issues from ocean acidification to ethical websites, from coral reefs to 'factfulness'. The Eco Committee has also been active in encouraging us all to reduce, re-use and recycle. Practical measures to reduce food waste and plastic bottles were considered all the more pressing after a visit to Grundon’s waste processing plant to witness the scale of the problem.

The school's geography trips to destinations such as Iceland and Shanghai provide students with unique experiences which

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GEOGRAPHY MISSING MAPS CLUB The newly established Missing Maps Club is part of a humanitarian project founded

by Médecins Sans Frontières. Students map areas of the world vulnerable to natural disasters, disease and conflict.

This has been a great way for students to apply technology and support agencies responding to crises.

STUDENTS PLANT 250 TREES TO OFFSET THEIR CARBON FOOTPRINT Every student in last year's First Form has planted one of 250 trees donated to the school by Carbon Footprint Ltd. This formed part of their Geography lessons giving them valuable hands-on experience of carbon offsetting and conservation.

The Geography department applied to become part of the programme as a way to give students an insight into conservation and carbon offsetting. They were delighted to receive saplings of native British trees including varieties of English Oak and Crab Apple.

As well as the First Form, students across the school got involved - some of the saplings were planted by the Eco Committee and others as part of the school’s Wellbeing initiative. The Headmaster also took part, planting his own tree as part of a large border on Broadfield Lawn. As they grow, the trees will form an attractive hedge as well as providing valuable habitats and food for wildlife.

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ECO COMMITTEE

ECO COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES Theresa May committed the UK to a ‘net zero’ greenhouse gases target by 2050, but at school students are focussed on making an impact long before that.

For the first time, a group of Senior Prefects has been appointed whose remit is the environment agenda. They are already causing trouble, and the Headmaster is delighted! They stole all the disposable cups in the staff common room and made a plea that we have a 'bring a mug to school day' to reduce the use of disposable cups. A day became a week and is now permanent. They are now focussing on asking students to bring in reusable bottles and mugs to play their part in reducing single use plastics.

The school had a Food Waste House Competition to encourage the reduction of waste. Although noisy and disruptive, it

made staff and students think twice about how much food to pile on a plate and about the environmental impact of waste.

Waste reduction is a simple but effective change with long-reaching impacts.

The Eco Committee has also contributed to the Governors’ School Development Plan, successfully challenging issues such as ground-source heating, leading the school to change energy suppliers. Next the team will campaign within school for a new approach to recycling, reusing and reducing resources, for the use of an environmentally friendly search engine (Ecosia) and the introduction of meat-free alternatives as one of a range of catering initiatives. Outside of school students will take part in plogging (a combination of litter picking whilst jogging), lobbying for cycle lanes and persuading loved ones to adopt sustainable lifestyles.

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ECONOMICS ECONOMICS AND GEOGRAPHY TRIP TO SHANGHAI Economics and Geography students had the enviable opportunity to travel to Shanghai, China where they were able to witness first-hand the meteoric rise of this global player and visit a number of sites across China’s largest city. Visits to Yakult, VW, and Bao Steel gave an insight into the scale of production and impacts of globalisation. At Unilever, management trainees discussed career paths and opportunities.

An evening river cruise on the Huangpu, negotiating prices in a local market and a visit to a model socialist (and China’s richest) village offered a very different

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perspective; in the latter case from the newly opened 518m glass-floored bridge suspended 100 metres above the ground in Huaxi World Adventure Park. The experience was even more memorable thanks to the bridge's broken glass special effect – when you stand on it, the sound of shattering glass and a spider pattern appears on the glass - not something for the faint-hearted!

Students were treated to a rich diversity of sights and experiences, ensuring the trip will no doubt be a highlight of their school career.

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ENGLISH

WORLD BOOK DAY 2019 Blake, Milton, Murakami, tragic heroes, murderous women, graphic novels and inspirational climbers. To top it all off, a wander through the world according to Philomena Cunk. World Book Day certainly had a varied flavour to its topics this year. At lunchtime, the Harrison Centre was turned over to a mini-literary festival with students able to attend up to three different talks on such wide and enriching topics as Three Books Everyone Should Have Read, The Ancient Hero in Modern Fiction, What does it take to be an awesome climber? and Learning from biographies. The atmosphere was electric as students fully embraced this year’s slogan: Reading is Power.

REIGATE AND BANSTEAD WRITES COMPETITION Congratulations to Ellie B who, whilst in the First Form, was awarded a Highly Commended prize in the Reigate and Banstead Writes competition. Ellie's story was ranked in the top 20 of 450 entries in this local short story competition, open to all Year 5 to Year 9 students who go to school in the borough.

SECOND FORM VISIT TO CANTERBURY The whole of the Second Form went on an exciting trip to Canterbury where they visited Canterbury Cathedral and enjoyed an interactive workshop. In Canterbury Cathedral, students went on a tour which highlighted the beautiful architecture and the gory history, including the murder of Thomas Becket.

In the workshop, students heard a series of stories from The Canterbury Tales presented by lifelike models.

LONDON LECTURE DAY Lower Sixth Form English Literature students travelled to London to hear a sequence of challenging, engaging and wide-ranging lectures on their set text A Streetcar Named Desire. The collection of academics gave students an insight into topics such as the role of villains in the play, tragedy as the key to understanding the play, dramatic techniques in the play, the symbolic use of clothing in the play and the American South as the most important context to consider.

Students took copious amounts of notes for their revision and will visit the lectures in 2019/20 to see the topics the academics present them with.

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MFL HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FRENCH EXCHANGE Did you know that French people have a special name for the people from the North? They say ch’ti. Incredible.

I had an exceptional time with my pen pal both in England and France. I loved how friendly and respectful people were in France. It was a wonderful atmosphere and the rural village area was magnificent and very refreshing.

I was lucky to have a very sweet host family and everybody at the school was very welcoming including the teachers who set out the activities especially at the Koezio. I enjoyed going to see the historical sites and the cathedral with its amazing views and it was really good practice for our French listening skills.

I was extremely happy and pleased because I could finally use all the French I have been learning for the last few years in actual conversation and it wasn’t actually that difficult to communicate. I

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just had to put myself out there and get involved in the action.

Over the weekend my partner took me over to Belgium hence I also experienced another French speaking country as we crossed the border. I still had chocolates left weeks later. We also went to the beach which was lovely and the food was very delicious.

This trip was beneficial in many ways as I learnt so much new French vocabulary and made new connections as well as discovering a new culture. I know that both of us had so much fun and I would love to go back and visit her again.

I would definitely recommend going on this trip as it was such an extraordinary, relaxing and educational trip. This experience is something I know I won’t forget.

Sucharita P (Fourth Form)

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SPANISH TRIP Second Form Spanish students enjoyed five days in the beautiful Andalusian region of southern Spain. During their stay they enjoyed a packed schedule including a paella making class, a tapas lunch, a visit to the beautiful Alhambra Palace in Granada, a day at a theme park, a chocolate making masterclass and a visit to historic city of Mรกlaga.

LA CASA DE BERNARDA ALBA - SPANISH THEATRE TRIP Spanish students enjoyed a performance of La Casa de Bernarda Alba, performed by the Cervantes Theatre Company, in preparation for their literature studies in the Upper Sixth Form.

The play was written by Federico Garcia Lorca and is set it in a provincial village

in rural Spain. The author died just two months after its completion at the hands of Spanish nationalist militia.

The play reflects on some very dark places in the human soul and brings forth what Lorca saw as our 'eternal edification and education'.

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THEOLOGY AND PHILOSOPHY SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL During the First Form's trip to London's Southwark Cathedral, students discovered the different parts of the cathedral and the symbols that represent the Christian faith. The guides kept everyone engaged by putting out clothes that members of the church would wear, and there were some dramatic performances demonstrating what would happen in baptism and communion. Christian practices were brought alive through reenactment and in the afternoon students made and decorated clay tiles with the Christian symbols they had learnt earlier in the day.

MOSQUE TRIP Students had the wonderful opportunity to visit The Shah Jahan Mosque in Woking and the Baitul Futuh Mosque in Morden.

Students study what it means to be a Muslim in the UK today, and visiting these places of worship enables them to ask questions face-to-face to religious believers and to learn of the key beliefs of

different branches of Islam. Students were wowed by the architecture and design of the mosques, particularly in Shah Jahan which is the oldest mosque in the UK. Visits here are always hugely popular so students felt very lucky to have a chance to visit a place of such historical and religious significance.

THE ACADEMY The Academy debating society enjoyed another successful year with debates that ranged from ethical issues, including whether bankers should be paid less than nurses to the question of whether citizenship can ever be forfeited.

Such thought-provoking debates attract many informed and opinionated students who always come prepared with convincing arguments.

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Bankers should be paid less than nurses!

Can you forfeit citizenship?

The NHS should refuse care for self inflicted illness

Refusing to vaccinate your children is neglect

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COMPUTING EPQ CYBER SECURITY SUCCESS Upper Sixth Form Cyber Security Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) students attended their graduation ceremony at The National Museum of Computing at Bletchley Park. Jack R, Gemma B, Thomas B, Ethan T and Daniel F were the first RGS students to participate in and complete this unique Qufaro and City & Guilds course, between them achieving four A*s and a B. As part of their graduation and in recognition of their achievement they were granted honorary membership to the prestigious Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec).

Daniel F’s project on Cryptojacking was given further recognition by the course sponsors, Deloitte, who were impressed by his writing skills and knowledge. Having produced one of the five best essays from the 2018-2019 cohort, Daniel was awarded a prize and cash voucher.

Nationally, only six A* grades were awarded. At the ceremony, students had the opportunity to network with representatives from Deloitte and CIISec.

• • •

• •

Evaluating methods of obtaining, analysing and preserving digital evidence using digital forensics.

Cryptojacking: To what extent can this new form of malware damage and disrupt an organisation and what steps can be taken to minimise these dangers?

To what extent should developers of devices that are part of the ‘Internet of Things’ improve device security against attack, and how does their security compare with regular computers?

The ethical considerations of penetration testing and the tools used.

Evaluating the effectiveness of current intrusion detection methods and how effective they actually are in preventing and identifying intrusions.

The EPQ is a Level 3 qualification, certified by City & Guilds, worth up to 28 UCAS points.

In the Lower Sixth Form students follow a course of independent study which may lead to a qualification. The EPQ in Cyber Security was offered for the first time in 2018-2019. This unique qualification was developed by a consortium of education and cyber security partners to help provide a starting point for those considering a career or with an interest in the field, with its content guided by the National Occupational Standards and CIISec Framework.

Students learn about elements of cyber security, including cryptography and penetration testing (ethical hacking), before going on to choose an area of focus. For the inaugural year, the students completed the course choosing to write investigative and evaluative projects on the following:

RGS students receive their awards from Amanda Finch, CIISec, with Mr McCarten

Daniel F receiving his award from Androulla Karanicola, Deloitte 48

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AMY WICKHAM

ARUN MCCARTEN

TRAILBLAZERS

JUDO

HOCKEY

Surrey Judo Squad

England Hockey’s DiSE Programme and Futures Cup

RGS Cricket, Hockey, Rugby and Tennis

RGS 1st Team Hockey Captain

Twelve years old and in the Second Form, Arun started Judo when he was just four years old and began competing regularly when he turned eight, the earliest age possible.

Amy is a member of our Upper Sixth Form and has played hockey since she joined the school in the First Form.

2018/2019 has been an exceptional year for her, and she has exceeded her own expectations as a player.

Recently, Arun was delighted to win a silver medal at the HMC Independent Schools National Judo Tournament, where he was representing Reigate Grammar School. He is also a Surrey Judo Squad member and has competed at the British Schools Championships.

Arun trains three to four times a week at the Ray Stevens Judo Academy, run by the Olympic silver medallist in the 1992 Barcelona games.

“This year, I am looking forward to the British Championships and the British Schools competition and of course the HMC Independent Schools tournament. My target is to get into the Regional England Development (RED) squad.

Judo is a great sport; it’s fun, great exercise, suitable for everyone and can be used for self-defence. It also teaches you to follow through once you commit: your throws won’t work unless you commit fully to them. At the same time, you have to be humble, and to learn to fall and pick yourself up again. It teaches you a lot about life and I think everyone should give it a go!”

At school, Arun has very much enjoyed playing rugby, cricket and hockey for the first time, not having played them at his primary school and looks forward to developing his skills over the coming years.

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“Some personal highlights for me were being selected for England Hockey’s DiSE (Diploma in Sporting Excellence) programme, being invited to the Futures Cup, and playing in an England Home Nations International Tournament. I was also chosen as the 1st XI Hockey Captain at RGS, and I can’t wait to start training with the girls.”

In the England Hockey Futures Cup, the best GB players come together to play in a residential tournament under the watchful eye of the England selectors; Amy represented the South in a team called the Saxon Tigers, finishing with a silver medal in the final. As part of the DiSE Programme, Amy gained an insight into the life of an elite athlete, and played as England White in the Home Nations Tournament.

She says that “putting on an England shirt was such an honour and something I will remember forever.”

In her final year in the school, alongside maintaining her exceptionally high standards of hockey playing, Amy is looking forward to achieving a great set of A Level results, and says that she “hopes to progress to a strong university, in terms of both academics and sports.”

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ISSY HAYES

HENRY RUSS

#TeamReigate

FOOTBALL

TRIATHLON

AFC Wimbledon U14

British Triathlon Academy

RGS Cricket, Hockey and Rugby

RGS Netball

Henry is currently in the Third Form and is 13 years old, but has been playing for AFC Wimbledon’s U14 squad for two years. Training multiple times a week with weekend matches, Henry says that he has experienced mental and physical challenges as a younger player playing up a year.

Fifteen year old Issy qualified as one of only two athletes to represent SE England in the Triathlon England Championships in 2019.

“I play RW (Right Wing) or CAM (Centre Attacking Midfield) and am up against players who are often a lot taller than I am, and often quicker too. I have learnt to remember that I am there for a reason, and I must concentrate on the coaches’ feedback: after training sessions I have been taught to reflect on my performance.”

With Wimbledon, Henry has played premiership teams including Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham, Fulham, Brighton and Southampton. He has also played in international tournaments in Denmark, Lithuania and Italy.

“One of my favourites was the Gallini World cup in Italy: in the quarter finals we beat S.P.A.L (a Serie A Academy) 1-0 to get to the finals, where we played Udinese, losing out on penalties.”

In addition to his football, Henry plays rugby, cricket and hockey at RGS and this year he has been selected for the Harlequins Rugby Academy.

“I hope that I can pursue my dream of becoming a professional footballer and pay my teachers at RGS back for all of their support.”

Issy has won the title of National Champion at the British Schools’ Modern Biathlon Championships two years running (2017 and 2018) and she was offered a place on the GB Pentathlon team. However, with her main focus being triathlon, she turned it down.

Issy has competed at three World Championships for Biathle in Florida, Spain and Egypt, and one European Championships in Germany. She has won a total of five silver medals and a bronze medal.

In August 2019, Issy won the open age group Chantilly Triathlon Super Sprint, the longest triathlon she has ever competed in by far. The course consisted of a 400m swim, 20k bike and 4k run. Finishing in a time of just 70 minutes, she beat her closest rival by four minutes despite them being in their twenties!

In addition, Issy swims at a regional level (fly and long distance front crawl), missing out on the nationals by 0.3 seconds. She runs at a regional level and competed at the national final for the Track and Field Cup last year.

“I currently swim four mornings and four evenings a week. I run three times a week and try to fit cycling in twice a week. As well as my individual sport, I play for the school netball team.”

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CRICKET

RGS cricketers had another great season, achieving considerable success and with more students, both boys and girls, representing the school than ever before.

The British summer delivered, facilitating lots of cricket. The boys had a number of good performances against Kingston Grammar, Caterham, City of London Freeman’s and Eltham College. The season ended with very successful and competitive blocks against KCS Wimbledon, Epsom College and Emanuel.

The U12 and U13 boys' teams had a very successful half-term tour of Jersey, with both sides victorious against the Island Board XI and old friends De La Salle.

Despite the boys' excellent season, this year it was the girls who stole the show. There have been more girls' fixtures that ever before, with even more planned in the summer of 2020. Whilst a number played

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for the boys' sides, the U15 girls achieved unprecedented success. In the National Cup, they overcame St Swithun’s, St George’s Weybridge and defeated Kingston Grammar - a side that had not lost for four years!

They took out Colfe’s School in the last 16 before finally succumbing to the incredibly impressive Bede’s School – a thoroughly respectable finishing position and a tremendous achievement for a first season.

Their achievement on the national stage propelled them towards County Cup success. Having defeated Emanuel and Ibstock Place in the initial rounds, the girls overcame St George’s Weybridge and Surbiton High School before defeating Kingston Grammar in the final.

Well done to both the boys and girls on an outstanding season. We look forward to seeing what 2020 has in store.

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#TeamReigate

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RUGBY

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#TeamReigate

RGS rugby enjoyed a full Sevens season and despite a young squad primarily made up of Lower Sixth Form boys, the 1st VII went from strength to strength. They fought on all the way to the end and were rewarded for their efforts, winning the trophy at the Worth Sevens with notable victories over KCS Wimbledon and Hurstpierpoint College.

The squad went on to win their first three group games at the National Rosslyn Park Sevens and looked set to progress to the final 32. Unfortunately on this occasion it wasn't to be; in the last play of the fourth group game, King's Canterbury scored a breakaway try, putting RGS out on points difference. Despite this narrow loss it has been a great season for the boys. The future looks bright and we look forward

to what will no doubt be a successful and exciting 2019-2020 season.

The girls' 1st VII maintained its great run of form, winning the Surrey Sevens with several dominant performances and progressing to the final in the Rosslyn Park National Sevens Plate competition.

The U14 Sevens squad won a trophy at the Reigate Sevens tournament and then reached the semi-final of the Rosslyn Park Plate. This huge achievement was well deserved - the squad trained exceptionally hard throughout the Spring Term, no matter the weather, and their success proves that with hard work and determination it really is possible to achieve great things.

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HOCKEY

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#TeamReigate Participation and performance are words which encapsulate the boys' hockey season. Many had the opportunity to represent the school with A to E teams in many of the regular fixtures. The season also saw more boys participating than ever before.

In addition to a packed schedule at home, a large party of seniors travelled to Barcelona where they experienced superb facilities, great hospitality and a different style of play. They also had the opportunity to participate in training sessions run by some of the top coaches in Europe.

It was a season of success with the U15s reaching the last 16 of the Independent Schools Hockey Cup (ISHC) and the U12s and U14s becoming England Hockey South finalists, the U14s narrowly missing out on a chance to go through to the national finals in the last minute of play.

In girls' hockey, Reigate Grammar School is once again the national champion! The season saw the U12s qualify for the south finals along with Surrey Champions, the U13s, who achieved a third place - narrowly missing out on the nationals. The highlight for the girls, however, was reaching the finals day of the ISHC where they won a hard fought semi-final and went on to win the final, retaining the title for the second year running!

Individually, many students gained county, regional and national honours in hockey and the school now has two national champions: Steph W – U18 National Champion with Surbiton Hockey Club Matt W – Fifth in European U14 Hockey League and National Champion with Surbiton Hockey Club

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NETBALL In January, the U13 and U14 teams travelled to Manchester for four days of intense training with sessions led by England Internationals Ellie Cardwell and Jodie Gibson, along with Manchester Thunder's Head Coach Karen Grieg. The girls also played a number of fixtures against local teams including Manchester Thunder Juniors, previous national champions Stockport Grammar School and Oldham Hulme Grammar School.

RGS Netball found success on the national stage this year with the U12 and U14 girls finishing in the final 12 nationally and the 1st VII finishing third in the Independent Schools Netball Cup. With all RGS teams successfully reaching the Surrey finals there was a lot to celebrate and great potential for the year ahead.

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SWIMMING RGS swimmers have continued their amazing run of success, once again going from strength to strength in the pool.

They kicked off the year at the Trinity Group mixed U12 and U13 gala where good efforts from the whole team resulted in a win for the girls and a close second place for the boys.

At the Surrey Schools Individual Championships, Daisy G (100m backstroke), Ruby J (100m freestyle) and Issy H (200m individual medley) won silver medals for the girls. Toby S (100m Back) won gold and Noah D-T (100m Breaststroke) won silver for the boys. The junior boys' cumulative scores secured them the overall team trophy.

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#TeamReigate Loveworks and Crawley Open House were this year's chosen charity for RGS swimmers at the Dorking Deepdene Rotary Club Swimathon. RGS's speed race team swam 222 lengths in a continuous 6x50m relay over 55 minutes which is a school record. The team placed second behind a very strong Dorking Swimming Club performance team. RGS's junior teams secured 146 and 182 laps with the latter also awarded the Senior School Trophy for the most laps swum by a Senior School outside of the Speed Race. This thoroughly enjoyable day raised over ÂŁ550 to for the students' chosen charities.

At the British Schools Modern Biathlon Championships the team of Issy H, Clara A and Lauren D were crowned U15 British Schools Biathlon Team Champions.

A flurry of fine performances from the boys saw all of them achieving personal bests in either their swims or runs and in some cases both.

The Individual Swimming Cup was an opportunity for top talent to attempt to break school records. New 50m records were set by Ellie H, Eva M, Issy H and Noah D-T and new 25m records were achieved by Gabi H, Antonia H, Ellie H, Eva M, Lauren D, Issy H, Clara A, Daisy G, Emily W, Noah D-T, Toby S, Owen K and Charlie J. The Individual Cup competitions were close with the eventual winners being Gabi H, Noah D-T, Antonia H, Lauren D, Myles H, Issy H and Toby S. Well done to all #TeamReigate swimmers on a superb year.

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PSHEE RGS has had the privilege of hosting an array of guest speakers addressing various PSHEE ( Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) themes throughout the year ranging from alcohol awareness to road safety. All Lower and Upper School students have had an opportunity to consider, engage and explore key topics in areas of health and wellbeing, relationships, and living in the wider world.

The passionate, in-depth and insightful topics delivered by keynote speakers over the year have been invaluable in helping to equip students throughout the school with essential life skills. PSHEE education at RGS has included not only talks but also interactive hands-on activities in dedicated form times and lessons, helping students to put into practice what they have learned.

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LEAVERS’ DAY 2019 Leavers' Day is a key milestone in every Reigatian's life - a celebration of their time at school, an opportunity to unwind before focussing on their all-important revision and of course, a time for the whole school to come together and wish them well in their exams and in their lives beyond.

A fun-fair, team challenges, fancy dress, ice cream, a BBQ and of course, the final assembly in their school career. A fitting end and fun-packed, emotional day for all.

R EI G AT E G R A M M A R SC H OO L

RGS CAREERS PUBLIC CAREERS EVENTS Throughout the year the RGS Careers department organises a series of events which are open to the local community as well as RGS students.

These events attract a lot of attention and see continually increasing numbers of attendees, keen to hear and meet with the visiting speakers and representatives.

The Digital Careers evening was attended by almost 200 guests and included insightful talks from Nicky Dunderdale from Psyon, Paul Featherstone from Capita SIMS, Marcus Thornley, Alex Upstone, Simon Knibbs, John Hosegood, Josh Gallager, Phil Maryland, Shirisha Musthyala and Pippa Lewty.

At the Careers in Engineering Evening Rob Thatcher from the University of Surrey spoke to students about engineering programmes and gave advice on A Level choices and how to become an excellent candidate. Hossein Saidpour from the University of Hertfordshire presented on degree apprenticeships before Kerry George from Thales

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spoke about the employer side of apprenticeships/degree apprenticeships.

Finally there was a truly inspirational talk from Chris Binns, RGS parent and Crossrail Chief Engineer. Between talks, a panel discussion involving the speakers along with Sue Caccavones, a safety risk engineer from local engineering firm Black and Veatch, helped to explore the pros and cons of the various routes into engineering, as well as providing the chance to look more closely into the skills required to be a successful engineer.

A panel of guests representing a wide range of experiences within the world of law attended the Careers in Law evening. These included barrister Wayne Beglan, University of Surrey lecturer in law Katy Peters, undergraduate student of law at the University of Exeter Sam Brill, in-house solicitor for Direct Line Group Catherine Carter Shaw and Mark Elsey, lawyer and partner at Ashurst LLP accompanied by his daughter Izzy Elsey, a specialist in graduate recruitment for the Stephenson Harwood Law firm.

In addition, Mr Chevalier, the school’s law contact, offered expertise from the school’s perspective.

The Higher Education Convention gave students the opportunity to speak to representatives from a wide range of universities, degree apprenticeships, school leaver schemes and gap schemes.

Kristin Dreazen addressed students on the American university application process; Mark Huntington, spoke about studying in Europe; Ben Adey (OR), explained how the PwC degree at University of Nottingham works; and Lily Akerman (OR), currently working for M&S, looked at sandwich courses and graduate schemes.

At the Higher Education Evening a talk on How to become an excellent candidate for university by Mike Nicholson from University of Bath, and previously of Oxford University, provided many useful insights. Mike delivered an entertaining and very informative talk, much enjoyed by all.

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CAREERS TALKS Students have benefitted from a number of lunchtime careers speakers this year including: Natasha Rees (OR) What is out there after university’?

Piers-Rex Murray (OR) Training to be a pilot Dr Sandeep Cliff (RGS parent) Medical Interviews Steve Brookes (RGS parent) Life as a vet Mrs Budden Oxbridge Applications Alex Iqbal and Harry Kernick (ORs) Douse Associates Gap Schemes in Finance Cara McGoogan (OR) Careers in Journalism Dr Adrian Banks Psychology as a degree Dr Mark Byrne, Lucy Harris (RGS parents) Careers in Dentistry Rachna Patel, Hasan Hussein (ORs) Workshops on degrees in dentistry

WEEKLY EVENTS The weekly Medical Discussion Group is a forum for students who are interested in medicine, veterinary science or dentistry to discuss current issues in these fields, present and listen to presentations from each other and from outside speakers and to share experiences of interviews and applications.

The group has been an important factor in the school's continued success at helping students to get into university to study these subjects.

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SCHOOL NEWS SEATS OF LEARNING MUSIC RECITAL We were delighted to welcome sponsors of our Seats of Learning initiative to a special music recital. The initiative is designed to help provide life-changing opportunities for talented children through the sponsorship of chairs in the refurbished Old Library. We are grateful to all in our community who have collectively helped to raise funds for bursaries through this initiative and it was a delight to show off students’ talents to them in the recital.

The performance was a wonderful way to thank sponsors. Many of the chairs are sponsored in memory of a loved one and it was lovely to welcome these families to the school.

“I can’t tell you how much my daughter, son-in-law and I enjoyed the recital today.

It brought tears to my eyes to hear how professional all the musicians are and especially to know that Laurie had probably spent some time in that very room so many years ago too. He would have loved the recital too as he was a great music lover.”

Performances covered a range of tastes and students from across all forms performed. The audience was impressed and delighted with the exceptionally high quality of talent on display.

HENRY SMITH CLUB DINNER 2019 Sir Peter Gershon (RGS 1958-1965), Henry Smith Club President, hosted the annual Henry Smith Club Dinner at the award-winning M Restaurant Victoria Street with special guest and keynote speaker Andrew Cooper, Baron Cooper of Windrush (RGS 1973-1982). Lord Cooper is the co-founder of the research and strategy consultancy Populus Ltd and former Director of Strategy for the Prime Minister’s Office.

Lord Cooper gave an entertaining and informative after-dinner speech about his work and opinions on the current political climate, Brexit and what may happen in the near future. He also spoke about his schooling at RGS where he was fortunate 65

to have an assisted place allowing him to attend the school.

“No one in my family had been to grammar school before and no one in my family had been to university. I was the penultimate year of the 11+ entry at Reigate Grammar School… it was only because the fees were covered at that stage that I was able to stay. My parents could not have afforded to pay and, therefore, I strongly support the idea, purpose and achievements of the Henry Smith Club and the Changing Lives Campaign.”

The Henry Smith Club is a very special group. Established five years ago, the club is a key driver of our important social

mobility work. Currently, through their collective support, Henry Smith Club members are sponsoring eleven children at RGS who would otherwise not be able to attend.

One of the highlights of the evening came from Cindy, a foster mother of a student currently supported by Henry Smith Club members. Cindy spoke of her heartfelt gratitude, the life-changing journey they have been on at RGS and the wonderful opportunities made available to her foster son.

“I was blown away at how open and welcoming the school was. RGS offered him a place and told me there were people out

T H E PI LG R I M R E V I E W AUTU M N / W I NTE R 2 019

rgs.foundation RGS FOUNDATION: OUR ROLE, OUR WORK WE REACH OUT

in friendship to engage and build relationships

WE CONNECT

our community and develop the Reigatian network

WE INFORM

through communications and raising awareness

WE ASK

for support to make a philanthropic impact “We exist to support the school and its aim of providing students with an outstanding educational experience. True to our ethos and moral purpose, we have an Open Access vision, where Reigate Grammar School is able to provide opportunities to any talented child no matter what their background.”

Sean Davey, Head of Foundation and International Business Development

THANK YOU! The first of May saw the inaugural Changing Lives Giving Day and what a day it was! The response from the Reigatian community over the 24 hour period was overwhelming. In excess of 90 donations raised over £13,000; a phenomenal collective achievement.

Thank you to all who supported us.

A former bursary recipient’s story reminds us why these donations are so important:

“Having been brought up on a council estate with no money and losing my parents at a young age, I managed to achieve a senior executive position within a major bank.”

Everyone should have this opportunity and Changing Lives helps with this ambition.

If you can dream it, you can do it.

there who could offer funding. I couldn’t tell you how humbled we both were. I knew he was in the best hands that a parent could want for their child, thanks to you.

“I can’t ever thank you enough for all you do for us and the amazing children you support. Our son is showing other children in care that they can achieve high and be the best they can. Thank you for taking the time to listen to our story, and for your ongoing generosity.”

If you would like to learn more about joining the Henry Smith Club, contact the RGS Foundation.

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THE CHANGING LIVES campaign...

CELEBRATING 5 years Impact 50 £5M+ THANK YOU!

Launched January 2014

bursary recipients to date

raised so far

1675 BURSARY FUND

T H E PI LG R I M R E V I E W AUTU M N / W I NTE R 2 019

PFA PFA

ENHANCE THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY PROVIDE SOCIAL LINKS FOR THE PARENT COMMUNITY UNDERTAKE FUND RAISING ACTIVITIES FOR QUALITY EXTRAS TO BENEFIT THE WHOLE SCHOOL

T

he PFA has been incredibly busy as always. It continues to run a wide variety of events for both parents and students and in doing so has raised funds for a number of important projects for the school.

Continuing to work alongside Sandra Clarke, Head of Learning Support, the PFA finalised its support by providing further funds to finish the snug. Additional soft furnishings, furniture, posters and mood lighting has further improved the area, which has become an integral part of many students' daily lives.

The Drama department is in receipt of a new lighting and sound system, which has enhanced the many exciting and innovative productions throughout the year. The Music department received funds allowing it to purchase a brand new piano and trolley, enabling musicians to play anywhere in the school. Funds donated to the Sports department have gone towards new hockey goalkeepers’ kits.

Fund raising events have included: the New Parents’ Party; the ever popular Ball, our biggest fund raiser; the Christmas Tree Sale; the Lower School Discos; and with record income, the hugely popular Nearly New Sales. Sports Day saw the team selling a wide variety of drinks, snacks and cakes to students throughout the day and was a fabulous day enjoyed by all!

The objectives of the PFA are: to enhance the school community; to

develop strong social links between the school and parents; and to fund raise for quality extras that will benefit students throughout the school. This can only be achieved with a solid team of parents who give up their valuable time to support activities. The PFA generally meets once per term and is always keen to welcome new members.

The coming academic year will see fund raising events that include: the New Parents’ Party - a chance for new parents to meet in a relaxed social setting; the PFA Ball; the Christmas Tree Sale; the hilarious Comedy Night; the extremely successful Nearly New Sales; the Junior Discos; and our exciting new event – Family Firework Night! Watch out for further details in the weekly bulletin.

Dates for all meetings and events are in the school calendar and on the PFA website. It is always great to see large numbers of parents and friends of the school at these events. As well as fund raising, they give parents the opportunity to meet and socialise with each other outside of more formal school activities.

As always, we thank all the parents and staff who continue to support the team in various capacities. Without their generosity these events could not take place.

Polly Millard (PFA Chair) Helen Fadai (PFA Deputy Chair)

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RGS Hartswood Sports Ground

CATCH UP ONLINE As this Review illustrates, RGS is an action-packed school with a wealth of news and activities happening around the clock. To keep up to date, visit our website or join in with RGS online:



facebook.com/reigategrammarschool

 Follow our news and views on Twitter: Headmaster @rgsheadmaster

RGS Cricket @RGScricket

RGS Hodgson @RGS_Hodgson

RGS Science @ScienceRGS

Reigate Grammar @ReigateGrammar

RGS Drama @RGSDrama

RGS Library @RGSlib

RGS Sixth Form @RGS_SixthForm

RGS Art Department @ArtDeptRGS

RGS Economics @EconomicsRGS

RGS Lower School @RGSLowerSchool

RGS Sport @RGSSport

RGS Bird @RGS_Bird

RGS English @RGSEnglish

RGS Maths @RGSMaths

RGS Swimming @SwimmingRGS

RGS Careers @RGSCareers

RGS Foundation @foundationRGS

RGS Music @rgs_music

RGS Ultimate @RGSUltimate

RGS Classics @ClassicsRGS

RGS Geography @RGSGeography

RGS Netball @RGSNetball

RGS Upper School @RGSUpperSchool

RGS Computing @RGSComputing

RGS History @History_RGS

RGS Rugby @ReigateGSrugby

RGS Williamson @RGS_Williamson

RGS Cranston @RGS_Cranston

RGS Hockey @HockeyRGS

RGS Scholarships @RGSScholars

RGS Weather @RGSweather

Reigate Grammar School, Reigate Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0QS 01737 222231 info@reigategrammar.org

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