Newsletter October 2015

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Message from the Headteacher acknowledge the significant part played by supportive parents and carers. I hope Another productive and it is reassuring to all pareventful term has begun ents to know that our and following the summer young people can do exbreak I trust your children have once again settled into tremely well and achieve the school routines and are superb results, regardless of what teaching group already working diligently, they are in, when pupils, enjoying life and thriving here at St Michael’s. I hope staff, parents and carers work together in such a the contents of the school united manner. newsletter will give you a flavour of life here and an We are looking forward to insight into the range of seeing Year 11 again on enriching extra-curricular Wednesday 25 November activities and events that when Mr Stephen Whithave been happening durtaker, Diocesan Director of ing this action-packed half Education, will be our printerm. cipal guest at Awards EvenOnce again we were all ex- ing, when GCSE certificates and prizes will be distributtremely pleased and proud ed. of every young person in last year’s Year 11 who I would like to just take this gained such outstanding opportunity to inform you GCSE results in August. that following two adverOverall 85% of all pupils actually achieved 5+ A* - C tisements the Governors have unfortunately been grades including English unsuccessful in appointing and Maths. 96% gained at a headteacher and it is least 5+A* - C in total. therefore with great pleas94% of all pupils achieved at least a C grade in English ure that I share with you Language, 88% of all pupils my intentions to continue in achieved at least a C grade this position until summer in Mathematics and 92% of of 2016. We will once all pupils achieved at least 2 again be advertising for a new headteacher in the C grades or the equivalent new year and we trust that in Science. with God’s help, the most Our former Year 11 were a suitable candidate for this very special year group who important position will be appointed. Until then, I had an excellent attitude would like to reassure partowards school and a fanents and carers that during tastic work ethic. I commend the great dedication, my remaining time at St determination and commit- Michael’s I will be no less dedicated or devoted in ment of both pupils and moving this wonderful staff in achieving these school forward. stunning results and I Dear Parents and Carers

HIGHLIGHTS pp3-10 School Golden Jubilee p11 Science Ambassadors p12 Computer Club has a boost p13 Chorley Live p14 Healthy Eating p15 Rounders, Art and baking p16 Holidays galore p17 Karting success p18 E-safety tips p19 Christian Values Enrichment Days p20 National Poetry Day p21 Dancing queen p22 Stained glass artist p23 World BMX Champion!

Our 50th Anniversary celebrations As you may realise this term has marked a significant milestone in the history of St Michael’s as pupils, staff, parents and friends have joined together to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the school. St Michael’s Secondary Modern School was officially opened on October 6 1965 by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Margaret, and was dedicated

by The Lord Archbishop of York. A number of events to mark the anniversary of this prestigious occasion have been held over the past few weeks, including a service of consecration of the new Chapel and library; our magnificent Armstrong Centre, led by the Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Reverend Julian Henderson and funded by the Trust of St Michael’s. Following the service of consecration, the eponymous Chairman of Governors, Mrs Freda Armstrong, along with her husband Governor Geoff Armstrong unveiled a plaque in the new state-of-the-art building which takes their name in recognition of their commitment and unfailing dedication to our school.

Bishop Julian also unveiled a plaque in the school entrance hall and then, watched by pupils around the Quad, planted an oak tree and time capsule … a legacy for future generations!

We have also welcomed back to St Michael’s former pupils, staff and friends on our Open Day held last Saturday. It was delightful to see so many P.T.O.

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Mrs Heaton continues…

familiar faces from over the years who joined us once again to celebrate our outstanding school that continues to provide a first class education within a Christian context. All outstanding establishments are built on excellence, high aspirations and great traditions developed over time. Compared to some other schools in the country St Michael’s is relatively young but no less ambitious for our young people. We are proud of all that has been achieved at St Michael’s over the last half century and all that we hope to achieve in the future.

Year 7 Year 7 pupils have settled in very well and are already accustomed to our routines. They are a delightful group of positive and enthusiastic young people who I know will have very high expectations and aspirations of themselves during their time here at St Michael's. It was excellent to see so many parents and carers of our Year 7 pupils attend the Learning Information Evening and I know Year 7 Tutors and Mr Gow are really looking forward to seeing parents and carers at the Year 7 Tutor’s Consultation Evening on Wednesday 4 November.

Uniform Your sons and daughters look especially smart and I thank you for making sure our school uniform is

worn correctly especially in terms of traditional school trousers (not skinny fit) and traditional leather school shoes (not trainer type, for example VANS).

Smart appearance makes such a difference. Shirts should be tucked in at all times, skirts kept at the regulation length and no jewellery, (except for a wrist watch,) or hair colour which is not of a naturally occurring shade. Also, please may I stress the importance of labelling all items of school uniform, especially PE kit.

New Staff In addition to 233 new Year 7 pupils, (eight pupils gained a place at independent appeal,) we have also welcomed several new staff to the school this half term.

uages. Mrs Amanda Ferguson has recently begun her maternity leave and we wish her well at this most exciting time. Mr Alan Farish will also be leaving us after many years as Technology Technician. We wish him well in all his endeavours.

Thank you once again for your very important support for all we do here at St Michael's and for sending us your wonderful sons and daughters.

As prospective parents look at this time for a secondary school that is right for their sons and daughters, I know the Christian ethos of this school is a major factor influencing them but so is your recommendation and endorsement. This is very much appreciated!

Yours sincerely J Heaton

Mr Ben Egelnick has joined us as Subject Leader for History, Mrs Lisa Gornall has taken up the position of Second in Technology, Mr Christopher Monks will be teaching Mathematics and Miss Stacey Evans has joined us in the ICT department. In addition to this we also welcome back to school a former bursar, Miss Elisabeth Hulme, who has volunteered to help in Food Technology lessons. Before the summer we also welcomed to school ICT teacher Mr Peter Campbell and Miss Laura Norman who is teaching Modern Foreign Lan-

A message from the Governing Body Dear Parents and Carers, As you are already aware, Mrs Heaton indicated to the governors some time ago her intention to retire in December 2015. The Governing body undertook a robust recruitment process but did not feel that the calibre of applications received thus far offered the school the exceptional Christian leadership that will lead the school forward following Mrs Heaton’s outstanding record. The Governing body have therefore decided to re-advertise the vacancy with a commencement date of September 2016 and Mrs Heaton has kindly agreed to serve a further period until Summer 2016 to enable a smooth and successful handover.

Mrs Freda Armstrong, Chairman of Governors.

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50th Anniversary CELEBRATING 50 years of St Michael’s has been one of the major focuses of this half term with many commemorative events and activities for staff, pupils and friends … both old and new!

Everyone connected to St Michael’s has been invited to join in the various events to remember the date when Princess Margaret first opened school on October 6 1965.

The celebrations kicked off just before summer with the outdoor end of term service which is featured on page 3 of this newsletter.

Pupils and staff then enjoyed a fantastic afternoon as a ’whole school community’ when Princess Margaret being shown around school b y the first headteacher all joined together for a huge full Mr Roy Moore school photograph.

This took place on scaffolding erected on the school field on a sunny Monday afternoon in September.

These photographs are available to purchase and parents should contact their child’s tutor if unsure of how to buy these.

Pupils and staff have been issued with commemorative pin badges and Year 7s have planted bulbs in the Quad as part of the celebrations.

On Tuesday 6 October, the actual date of the school opening, a service was held to not only rededicate the school to God but also to consecrate the new Armstrong Centre. Details of this day are found in the newsletter on page 5.

And on Saturday 10 October anyone connected to St Michael’s could pop into school to see the changes and meet staff past and present.

Time Capsule Contents...

School badges Commemorative bookmark A Purple Pen of Progress St. Michael’s pen, with highlighter 2015 School Tie 2015 Whole School Photograph Two DVD’s photographs/video content 2015 Full set of UK coins with Queen’s fourth portrait Letters to future pupils from Mrs Julie Heaton, Headteacher, Mrs Freda Armstrong, Chairman of Governors, Mr Geoff Thomas, an original member of staff from 1965 and the 2015 Head Boy and Head Girl, Thomas Letch and Melissa Joy A copy of the Order of Service from the Opening and Dedication of the school, 6 October 1965 A 50th Anniversary booklet from 6 October, 2015 A copy of the Chorley Guardian Newspaper, dated 6 October 2015 S A I N T M I C H A E L ’ S N E W S

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50th Anniversary celebration STAFF past and present, nearby residents and friends joined us for the spectacular outdoor service to mark the start of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the foundation of St Michael’s.

And the drizzly weather did not dampen the spirits of those who attended the service held on the playing field at the end of the last term.

Every pupil in Year 9 joined together to depict the school motto, ‘Therefore Choose,’ showing success from all areas of the Curriculum; competitions, challenges, opportunities, trips, visits etc. This took the form of a race, with all reaching the finishing line together, representing all subjects of equal success and the balance of education at St Michael’s.

The youngsters in Year 10 represented the global

Attending were the Rt Reverend Philip North, the Bishop of Burnley, Governors, former staff including Headteachers Mr Bob Hardwick and Mrs Liz Nicholls, and members of the local community.

The service reflected various aspects of school and community life and involved a multitude of the school’s talented dancers, choristers and actors as well as the entirety of certain year groups.

The pupils in Year 8 explored the theme of ‘foundation, growth and outreach’, creating a tree with each tutor group making a branch connected to their tutorial patron and the community, with the roots being Bible quotes.

community, looking at hope for worldwide peace.

And the Year 11 pupils put together their own ‘Olympics style’ celebration of all things British, looking at areas such as British history, heritage, wars, the NHS, royalty, James Bond and the weather, ironically dancing with umbrellas just as the heavens opened!

All tutor groups had also spent the week previous to the service baking a huge cake, with every class making a section, which, when pieced together, carried the school logo – symbolic of the mix of ingredients that make a community.

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The first headboy heads back

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THE FIRST ever St Michael’s head boy headed back to school on October 6 to share in the 50th Anniversary celebrations.

Des Grant remembers his time at St Michael’s, the then brand new Secondary Modern School in Chorley, with a special fondness.

‘My memories of St Michael’s are the happiest in my life,’ he says. ‘And all the time I was here I never had a day off!’

Des attended St Peter’s School in The first ever headboy Des Grant meets the present day Head boy and girl!

Chorley in 1965 but was among the first influx of pupils to come to Des, now a retired teacher himself, was made the new school, following its opening in 1965. St Head Boy in his final year at St Michael’s along with Peter’s was among several schools changing into a Head Girl Sylvia Bretherton. primary school and pupils who were of secondary age were sent to St Michael’s.

‘The area was so different then,’ he continues.

‘We were all new and all came to the school togeth- ‘There was no Astley Village and no Buckshaw Village and just farmland all around. er like one big family,’ he continues. ‘It was really refreshing!’

‘I remember one winter there was a heavy snowfall and they closed the school but we were all taken to At the time there were about 300 pupils attending Astley Park and played football and had a snowball the school and Des remembers with amusement a fight! It was fantastic!’ time when a flu epidemic hit the establishment.

‘There was a big epidemic one year and only 100 pupils were in school,’ he recalls. ‘It felt nearly empty!

Des also remembers with fondness the supportive staff and the many ‘characters’ who patrolled the corridors.

‘I remember also there was only one uniform shop in town at the time and uniforms were so expensive and my parents must have really struggled to pay. I had a blazer with very long sleeves to grow into.

‘Mrs Dowding was such a character,’ he says, biting his cheek in the way she did!

‘One day I had hung up my blazer on a coat hook and someone took it and replaced it with theirs. My sleeves were way up my arm, but I had to keep wearing it!’

He adds about the consecration service: ‘The standard at St Michael’s here is so high now. I was so emotional when I was listening to the singing!

‘It has been a pleasure to come back and see the changes.’

Make more of Moodle!

Parents are welcome to browse the school's Moodle at http://moodle.saintmichaels.lanc.sch.uk Click on Parent Zone > Log in as Guest User > Agree Site Policy > and there you are! Parents do not need a username for the public areas of Moodle.

The areas accessible to parents include weekly prayers, worship, weekly listings of clubs, revision advice, technical support and occasional questionnaires to give feedback on events.

Pupils can visit Moodle Club in H7 on any day of the week at lunchtime throughout the year for advice, support in accessing home learning, and the resolution of password concerns.

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50th anniversary celebrations

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A WHOLE host of St Michael’s headteachers, governors, former and present staff, pupils and friends gathered for a touching commemorative service to mark 50 years of our school.

The Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Reverend Julian Henderson, led the celebratory service of rededication to the congregation.

Members of the Chapel Choir provided a beautiful backdrop of music, singing from the mezzanine of the Centre, during the prayers and as the guests entered the building.

All smiles celebrating the opening of the Armstrong Centre The service was followed by the official opening of the school’s new ‘Armstrong Centre,’ where our Chair of Governors, Mrs Freda Armstrong and her husband and governor, Mr Geoff Armstrong, unveiled a plaque.

Guests then gathered in the entrance hall for a second unveiling of a plaque; this time to commemorate the 50th anniversary, above the plaque originally unveiled by Princess Margaret so many years ago and next to the stone commemorating 25 years.

Pupils watched at the windows as the guests then made their way to the Quad, where the Bishop was kind enough to plant an oak tree and time capsule containing.

Following this, guests once again gathered in the Annie Hilton Training Suite where Mrs Armstrong cut the commemorative cake.

Mrs Julie Heaton, headteacher who has worked at St Michael’s for some 33 years, comments: ‘All outstanding establishments are built on excellence, high aspirations and great traditions developed over time. Compared to some other schools in the country St Michael’s is relatively young but no less ambitious for our young people.

‘We are proud of all that has been achieved at St Michael’s over the last half century and all that we hope to achieve in the future.’

Bishop Julian plants the oak tree

The 50th anniversary cake

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Headteachers .. past and present

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Open Day—magical memories

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“NEVER has going ‘back to school’ been so much fun!”

“It’s just like coming home!”

These were the sentiments expressed repeatedly by more than 500 past pupils, parents, staff and friends of St Michael’s who flocked to the building with a vengeance making the 50th Anniversary Open Day a resounding success!

Past pupils and their teachers were reunited, memories shared and the good times recalled as our school threw open its doors to warmly welcome guests who have had any connection to St Michael’s over the years.

Among the visitors were many pupils from the first ever intake at the school, students from every decade and some more ‘notorious’ former teachers!

Guests wandered freely around the building, noting the changes and bumping into old friends on the special day which was to commemorate the school’s Golden Jubilee.

The ICT facilities, Dance and Drama studios, Art block and, of course, the brand new Armstrong Centre were the focus of much attention, being built in recent years and being declared many times as ‘much more modern than when we were at school!’

Mrs Heaton, headteacher, who was delighted with the success of the day, said: ‘This day celebrated the real history of the last 50 years of St Michael’s.

‘There were so many people renewing old friendships, sharing memories and reliving the past. It was a wonderful occasion and marvellous that so many people were able to attend.’

On the following pages some past pupils share their experiences of St Michael’s, their fond memories and fun times!

DARREN Nicholson left St Michael’s in 1987 and recalls the school productions and trips as the most memorable experiences of his time here.

He played ‘Jesus’ in the school musical Godspell and was also a member of the Chapel Choir.

‘I remember going to Malham really well,’ he said. ‘We were taken on a night walk and we were Former teachers Mr Jackson and Mr Tattersall sharsitting there under a rock telling stories and then ing memories with ex-pupil Darren Nicholson. from the top of Malham Cove Mr Watson shouted at us from out of nowhere, scaring the living daylights Darren, like many other former pupils, also rememout of us all!’ bers Mrs Dowding with fondness.

Darren also recalls playing in the Ollerton Cup final with the school football team.

‘I remember playing at Preston North End against a Blackburn team when we were been beaten 4-0.’

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‘She was such a character,’ he said. ‘I can remember her sitting on the stage chewing her cheek and all the boys would be in the hall at lunch and break until she discovered who had been bad!’

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Open Day memories continued...

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From those who met Princess Margaret ...

KATHLEEN Fairclough (née Alston) was delighted when the maroon cushion that she had made in sewing class was presented to the Princess as she made her way round St Michael’s on October 6 1965.

SHEILA Entwistle (née Tyrer) and Julie Jones (née Roscoe) were also the first pupils to come to St Michael’s and share memories of meeting the Princess.

Julie and Sheila holding her original school photo!

‘I was about 13 at the time and was with the choir on stage. I remember we had to shake her hand and curtsey,’ recalls Julie. ‘My mum and aunty came to watch it where we were showing it on the big TV screen.

‘I remember she was wearing tangerine, with a black hat!’

Sheila also remembers the deputy headteacher, Mr Strickland, at the time.

Kathleen enjoying her day looking round school.

‘I didn’t get to present it to her,’ she recalls, ‘but she came to ask me how I had made it.

‘It was round and pleated with a button in the middle and smocking round the sides.

‘I remember being very scared when I met her.

‘We had been told how to address her and how to curtsey but I kept thinking I’d forget!.’

Kathleen was 14 when first came to St Michael’s and enjoyed looking round the building again on the Open Day. ‘It’s really changed a lot,’ she says. ‘It’s so much bigger!

‘I used to get lost then but I would definitely get lost now!’

‘He was very strict,’ she remembers. ‘When he came into your classroom you had to stand up and say good morning or good afternoon. I remember he had a false hand and he used to bang it on the desk!’

Julie adds: ‘We used to have to leave assembly singing ‘Jerusalem’ over and over again until we had left and he used to watch us!

‘And I remember Mrs Dowding. She was so lovely and still remembered your name even years after you had left.’

Both remember that there were only about eight classrooms when the school first opened and recall that they all had big shelves that you had to climb onto to open the window.

‘There are just so many buildings now,’ says Julie.

‘Building upon building wherever you look!

‘It’s like, wow, I would never get used to it! And there are so many computers!’

Sheila adds: ‘It’s got bigger and more modern.

‘We both have such fond memories of it here!’

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The memories live on!

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Meeting Princess Margaret ...

ALAN Fishwick attended St Michael’s from 19659 and was lucky enough to speak to Princess Margaret on the opening day.

He was located in the Science department on the day and had to explain an experiment to the Princess which involved heating and expanding metal.

He also remembers being in the football team, but never actually playing and always being the ‘sub.’

‘There was also a particular teacher at the time that used to have a famous plimsole which he called Excalibur!’ he laughs.

Alan in front of the 50th Anniversary commemorative board

‘Everyone was always really frightened of it!’

Alan adds about looking round the school on Open Day: ‘I have really enjoyed my day today. I can see where the original building was but everything else has really changed!’

Elaine Shuttleworth (née Houghton) came to St Michael’s from Brinscall Methodist Church and was another of the first ever pupils to attend school.

She was also involved in experiments in the Science laboratory and was making coal gas when Princess Margaret opened school.

‘She spoke to me briefly,’ says Elaine,’ ‘and it felt like such a great honour!’

Elaine Shuttleworth (née Houghton) and Tom Rigby (featured on the following page) enjoying a cup of tea on the Open Day.

She explains: ‘Everybody moved to St Michael’s en masse when I came here. I was about 14 or 15. Coming back today has been very interesting. I can still see the initial footprint but I am astonished at how much it has grown.

‘With the dining hall and the hall when I was here could be yesterday but everything else is so magnificent. The children are so lucky!’

She continues: ‘When I came here I took everything they threw at me and made the most of it. I was the captain of the swimming team, the hockey and netball teams and loved all sports. Where I lived in Brinscall we, of course, had the pool, and all the pupils from Brinscall were in Fry house so it was expected that we would win at swimming!’

Elaine recalls with fondness camping trips with Mr Tattersall and a former PE teacher, an aptly named Miss Stretch!

‘We went to Castlerigg Campsite in Keswick in the back of a Baines Removal Van,’ she says. ‘It was all fun and games!

‘I loved every minute of my time here. It was just brilliant!’

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More lasting memories TOM Rigby attended St Michael’s between 1970-75 and, although he has been back to school to help with the Booth’s Project, he says he has enjoyed a wander around his former alma mater and a trip down memory lane!

‘Coming back to school has given me a tremendous buzz,’ he says.

He shared his fond memories of his former teachers.

‘I remember I adored Mr Hughes,’ he says, ‘and I also remember a certain PE teacher, Mr Watson, who was in his first year of teaching at the time.

‘I was in the cricket team and we had just won the Gillette Cup and I remember him saying to us, “Lads, if I could, I’d take you all out for a pint!” ’ (A picture of Tom Rigby is included on the previous page.)

How a telephone call to a former ‘heart-throb’ teacher made the day go with a swing for four former pupils!

LIANE and Jenna Mount left St Michael ’s in 2000 and 2002 respectiv ely and both have enjoyed attending the Open Day.

Both girls were members of the Chapel Choir when they were pupils and were surprised by how much bigger the school has become.

‘The music block is so big,’ says Liane. ‘And there’s a Dance studio and everything. We used to have to go into the hall for Dance. There are more Maths classrooms too.’

Classmates reunite!

FORMER pupils had a ‘welcome’ shock when they happened to mention to English teacher Mr Gow that when at St Michael’s they all had a bit of a crush on PE teacher Mr Watson.

Mr Gow proceeded to call the recently retired ‘heart-throb’ PE teacher and insisted they all spoke to him on the telephone because they all used to ‘fancy’ him!

Vicki Clarkson (née Cardwell), Karen Laidler (née Mercer), Jayne Nicholson (née Beaumont) and Joanne Freemantle were all pupils at St Michael’s in the 1980s and were quite overcome at talking to their former PE teacher.

Darren Nicholson, Joanne Freemantle, Karen Laidler, Vicki Clarkson and Jane Nicholson ‘I used to have really long hair and I remember the one day he flicked my pigtails!’ said Joanne.

The girls spent an enjoyable morning wandering the corridors reminiscing about the old times. They were all very excited about now being able to walk down the, then forbidden, corridor near A6!

They also recalled, with a chuckle, how Mrs Dowding had all the girls repeatedly in the hall at break to look

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Stained glass artist TALENETED artist Sally has now has now seen her winning stained glass window design come to life!

The Year 9 pupil was delighted when she discovered that she had won the competition to design the new stained glass window in our magnificent Armstrong Centre.

Her picture of a dove was selected to be in pride of place near to the door to the entrance to the new library resource area and chapel.

‘A lot of thought had gone into the picture and I was excited when I was announced as winner,’ she said.

‘It’s a nice feeling knowing that a piece of me will stay at school for a long time!’

Sally with her winning design

Join the 200 Club MORE than 200 parents and carers are now involved in our 200 Club Lottery but we are still keen to invite more to join in!

The 200 Club exists to benefit pupils by providing money for equipment and resources and also people involved have that chance to win cash prizes!

And with more people involved it means a bigger prize share out for this academic year.

Anyone can join at a cost of £12.00 per year with a lottery number drawn out at the end of each month with the winners announced on Moodle.

Please could all participating parents return their subscription payments as soon as possible.

Contact Mrs A M Dean via the school office for further details.

Update your data!

IT IS VITAL that school is kept up to date with any changes of address or telephone numbers!

Parents and carers are reminded of the importance of bringing in updated details to tutors, should situations change.

If your child is taken ill in school or if there is an emergency we need to be able to make contact!

Thank you

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Computer Club proves popular AN INFLUX of keen Year 7 pupils has had Computer Club tripling in size this half term, with enthusiastic youngsters focused on improving their technology skills.

The club takes place every Friday after school until 4.00pm in H7 and everyone is welcome to come along and learn the core principles of how computers work.

Talented members are now working as mentors with the younger pupils, guiding and assisting them as they embark on new challenges.

Organiser Mr Hooley said: ‘I’m really pleased to see so many new recruits who are already finding their feet and beginning to understand the fundamentals of computing.’

Older members showing Year 7 the ropes!

Shakespeare experience LITERATURE lovers in Year 9 will soon have the chance to sign up for the Shakespeare Experience.

Pupils in Year 9 will be invited to take part in the trip which will see students visiting both London and the home of Shakespeare, Stratford upon Avon.

The party will leave St Michael’s on Sunday 3 July, spend time on the South Bank in London, before enjoying a Shakespeare play (to be decided) at the famous Globe Theatre in Southwark.

The following day pupils will depart for Stratford visiting a number of Shakespeare linked sites and pupils will be allowed time for shopping with their friends.

The exact price and details for this trip are presently being considered.

For updates and reminders or just to keep in touch...

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@SaintMichaelsCE S A I N T M I C H A E L ’ S N E W S

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Former pupils rock Chorley Live TOTALLY talented former St Michael’s pupils took the town by storm when they performed at local venues as part of Chorley Live.

Former member of Chapel Choir Sarah Mullarkey wowed audiences with her operatic classical style of singing, performing pieces in a multitude of languages at venues including St Laurence’s Church and the Hyatt Indian Restaurant.

Millie Weaver

Singer songwriter and also Hughes tutorial Charlotte Newman member Charlotte Newman was warmly received at Chorley Little Theatre and also at The George playing guitar and singing contemporary songs and former favourites to an enthusiastic audience.

Another former St Michael’s songstress, Millie Weaver, was also spotted out and about, singing her own songs and playing the guitar. Similarly Sarah Beattie entertained audiences at the local venues.

Talented guitarist Jonny Oates and his band also played their own compositions in venues including The Railway in Steeley Lane.

And ex pupils John Worthington and Owen Davies got the rhythms pounding playing with Brazilian / African band SambAfriq, making people dance in the street, when they played in Market Street and then at Applejax nightclub.

Jonny Oates and his band The African and Brazilian rhythms of SambAfriq

Scarecrow support SINGING and dancing with the Scarecrows was the order of the day when our talented performers attended this local festival.

Members of the St Michael’s Dance Academy, Year 10 dancers and Hughes tutorial supported Charnock Richard CE Primary School and their annual parish Scarecrow Festival in September.

The Year 10 dancers performed an assessment piece they had recently completed called ‘School Daze,’ based on a school day. Hughes and the Dance Academy performed together to ‘Footprints’ by Leona Lewis.

Head of Dance, Mrs Gough, said: ‘Despite being a damp day these pupils really lifted the spirits of the festival goers with their superb performances.

‘Well done to all involved and thank you for giving up your time to support this event.’

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Eat healthier!

PUPILS are encouraged to eat healthy food and have school meals at lunchtime.

At St Michael’s we are taking part in the national “School Food Champions Programme;” a programme aimed at increasing the uptake of school meals and educating pupils on making healthy food choices.

The School Food Champion Programme aims to:  Provide excellent nutrition with the meals compliant with the new School Food Standards to ensure they get all the nutrients a growing body needs. 

Link the students’ learning in the classroom to the options they chose.

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Allow pupils and parents to have a say on the types of meals available.

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Create a strong link between pupils’ attention and attainment and healthy nutritious food.

Check your Easter holiday dates We just wish to draw your attention to the dates for the Easter holidays next year. We break up on Thursday 28 March (the day before Good Friday) and return to school on Monday 11 April. Some primary schools in the region do NOT have the same holiday pattern and we ask that you would prepare for this accordingly.

St Michael’s newsletter needs YOU! IF YOU are a swashbuckling fencer, a superfast swimmer or a relentless runner you might have a story to entertain and capture the interest of other pupils at St Michael’s.

Do not hide your light under a bushel! Come and tell Miss Sephton about your achievements, challenges and interests and maybe motivate others to get active.

Rambert Dance KEEN dancers from Years 8-11 enjoyed an evening at the Lowry in Salford Quays watching the famous Rambert Dance Company.

Pupils were treated to three pieces that evening based on a range of concepts; The Coal Industry, art work by Pablo Picasso and Journeys/Maps portrayed through a fusion of Indian Dance and Contemporary Dance.

Pupils and staff were also lucky enough to 'celebrity spot' Rambert's Artistic Director, Mark Baldwin, who was sitting very close to them.

Mrs Burgess led the trip, supported by Miss Forrest, Mr Roe and Mrs Gough.

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Rounders victories OUR ROUNDERS teams have run rings round the other schools in Chorley once again this half term!

The Year 9 team took part in the district competition and were victorious in winning all of their games, emerging as champions.

The Year 8 team of players also came second in their competition.

PE teacher, Miss Makinson, said: ‘The teams were outstanding showing real maturity and great communication on the field. The Year 8s fully deserve their title as District Champions and we were equally as proud of our Year 8 team, so congratulations to all of the girls who participated!

‘Also we would like to thank all the parents for their help and support throughout the preparation and tournament.’

Brilliant baking!

GINGER bread, cupcakes and shortbread have been the baking challenges facing the new members of the Year 7 Cookery Club this half term.

The talented young chefs have been perfecting their products at the club which allows pupils to bake goods they may not get the opportunity to make in school or at home.

Miss Burns runs the club and says there will be more exciting recipes and baking on the way!

Imaginative artwork GREAT attention to detail and imaginative composition are the skills which have won Year 9 pupil, Ella Koole, the title of ‘Artwork of the Month.’

This colourful masterpiece was chosen by Mrs Cardwell, Curriculum Leader for Technology.

Well done Ella!

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Geysers and volcanoes INTREPID exploring geographers with a thirst for all things geothermal will have the chance to experience a trip of a lifetime when a school educational visit to Iceland is finalised.

The five day trip is set to take place during the first week of the October half-term 2017 and is open to the current Year 9 students who will be in Year 11 at the time of the trip.

Organiser and Geography teacher, Mr Demet, said: ‘The aim of the trip is to provide our students with the opportunity to visit and experience first-hand some of the geographical features that we study in Geography.

The stunning Blue Lagoon

‘We hope that this will inspire them further in their appreciation and understanding of the world, and provide them with a memorable learning opportunity.

‘As such, the trip will complement the GCSE Geography course that many of the students will opt to follow at the end of this current academic year.’

Pupils will be staying full-board at the Skalinn Center in the village of Hvolsvollur. This has good access to many of the landscapes and attractions in Iceland's Golden Triangle such as: the Gulfoss, Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls; the geothermal area of Geysir; and the Thingvellir National Park.

The Geothermal region of Geysir

Pupils will walk onto the Solheimajokull Glacier and look at the spectacular glacial

and fluvial landforms.

And of course, no visit to Iceland would be complete without a swim in the geothermally heated Blue Lagoon which pupils will visit either on arrival or departure.

Pupils will be informed of the price and availability of the trip when they are finalised … coming soon!

The spectacular Gulfoss Waterfall

Germany holiday

PUPILS in Years 7 and 8 are soon to be invited to take part in this year’s annual Germany holiday.

The trip is set to take place during the half term in May and pupils will stay in the magnificent city of Cologne.

Phantasialand

Attractions visited will include Cologne Cathedral and Zoo, Cochem Castle, the Moselbad fun pool and Phantasialand Theme Park, one of the best theme parks in the country.

Pupils will travel by luxury coach and will drive through the beautiful scenery of the Moselle Valley en route.

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Karting success COOL karters past and present are once again celebrating success in a national competition this half term.

Three trophies were added to the team’s collection following their fine individual performances at the race meeting in Fulbeck, Lincolnshire.

Sam Palmer and Zoe Mather drove in class 7 (TKM 100cc engines) with Sam producing a number of good results from his heats to pick up his first ever trophy with a fifth place from a grid of 18 karts.

The meeting had another big grid in class 11 (Junior Honda GX 160 engines) which saw Leo Crabtree, Rowan Mackley and Nathan Howard competing. Nathan continued his recent run of good form which resulted in him getting his first ever trophy with a 5th place, while Leo and Rowan drove consistently throughout the day resulting in them gaining an 6th and 8th place respectively.

Class 14 (Restricted TKM engines) saw Josh Fish just missing out on a trophy with a fourth place, followed by team mate James Harbot.

The club had three drivers competing in class 15 (Junior Rotax), with James Scanlon picking up a trophy with a 2nd place, Cameron Livesey just missed out with 6th place and Merrick Crook was in 13th place.

Eleanor Mackley also competed in the Honda novices.

The next race meeting is at Whilton Mill in Northamptonshire on the October 17.

Traffic reminder PARENTS and carers are once again kindly reminded not to drop pupils off in the school car parks, on the East Drive or on Astley Road directly outside school.

The safety and wellbeing of our pupils is our utmost concern and it can be extremely hazardous THIRTY talented thespians are taking part in this year’s Shakespeare festival and will be for pupils being left where cars and other vehicles are parking and manoeuvring, and buses are performing The Tempest very soon! arriving or departing.

Please also show consideration for residents of Astley Road and St Michael’s Close by not blocking their driveways.

If you bring your child to school, we would appreciate it if you could drop them a short distance away, ideally on adjoining Rookwood Avenue.

Similarly we would ask that at peak times you could use the one-way system of driving down Millfield Road and up Astley Road, once again to ease congestion, especially at the time of the buses.

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Tickets to see our young actors perform at the Charter Theatre in Preston are now on sale and we would be delighted if parents, carers and friends came to support them as they take part in the Shakespeare for Schools Festival.

The 30 young Drama enthusiasts and assorted dancers have been practising hard for what promises to be another show-stopping performance on Friday 6 November.

Tickets are available by contacting: 01772 80 44 44

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Our young people continue to use a wide range of technologies within their everyday life. Although these digital devices have countless benefits, we all know, they also involve multiple risks and dangers.

E-safety Our E-Safety Top Tips for this half term are;

* Enrol on the ‘Parents E-Safety’ section on our school Moodle page if you haven’t done so already. There is a range of help and advice available on this page, covering a During each newsletter we range of topics. are going to continue to provide you with top tips * Know who your child is talking to online – Young people don’t think for each half term, which of the people they have met online through social networking sites and online games as ‘strangers’, they’re just their online we hope you will continue friends. It is vital to try to keep track of who your child is talking to find useful.

to. You could try asking questions like the ones below to start the conversation: Who do they know that has the most online friends?

How can they know so many people?

How do they choose who to accept to become their friends online? * Create your own Facebook, Twitter and Instagram account – You could create your own profile on a range of social networking sites and add/follow your child. By doing this you will gain access to their profile and posts. * Create a home agreement together – it is useful to agree on some ground rules together so you are sure they completely understand the rules that have been set. The rules will vary depending on your young person’s age, but some rules you might want to consider are: The amount of time they can spend online per day/week The websites they can visit or activities they can take part in Sharing images and videos If you would like additional information that isn’t yet on the Moodle Parents page, please get in touch

Christian Values Enrichment Day

This half term, to celebrate St Michael’s Day, pupils in all years took a day off timetable to participate in a number of different exciting and motivational activities, all based on Christian Values.

PUPILS in Year 9 visited a Mosque during their recent Christian Values Enrichment day.

Curriculum Leader for Humanities, Mrs Berry, writes: ‘Pupils explored the mosque premises and discussed aspects of Muslim life on their Enrichment Day. ‘Building bridges between different faith communities is an important part of our commitment as a church school and in doing so we are following the loving example of Jesus who also engaged in inter-faith dialogue, for example, with a Samaritan woman.

Pupils visiting the Mosque

‘The rest of the day was spent reflecting on British Values, in particular, democracy and respect for people of other faiths and beliefs.

‘Pupils had further opportunities to engage in discussion with Muslim visitors, to explore what is meant by democracy and to engage in creative work.’

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More Enrichment Day activities...

Year 7 pupils explored the themes of ‘good’ and ‘evil’ with activities based on the school motto ‘Therefore Choose.’

They were involved in tasks including drama pieces and making a comic strip, working in teams within their tutorials and making new friends.

Their day culminated in a massive fashion show, with pupils dressing up nominated members of their tutorial as ‘good’ and ‘evil,’ but only using aluminium foil, toilet roll and bin bags!

Some of the ‘good’ and ‘evil’ creations YEAR 8 pupils spent the day exploring the theme of Human Rights through various Arts activities.

Pupils took part in three out of four practical based activities within Dance, Drama, Art and Music.

The day began with the showing of a short film telling the story of Charlotte Salomon, a German Jewish painter, who died in Auschwitz concentration camp in 1943.

Organiser, Mrs Cunningham, said: ‘The film uses a unique blend of animation, film, original music, stage footage and documentary, placing Charlotte’s extraordinary life in the tragic context of her times.

‘This piece clearly demonstrates how the Performing Arts can integrate to communicate such a poignant and powerful message.’

Pupils exploring the life of Martin Luther King within Dance Year 10 had a day in two halves, learning about financial management for half the day and exploring sensitive issues such as bereavement, sexuality, anxiety and stress and social media and pornography for the other half.

Pupils moved round the different speakers and activities, taking part in activities and discussions and learning how to manage their finances, look at budgets and taking part in an enterprise activity.

Thanks go to the outside speakers and representatives from local banks.

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Penning the poems LIGHT—an acrostic poem by Ben Green

Loving Infinite Glowing Honourable Transforming

Light, by Ben Lamb

Light, my light, the world filling light, The eye kissing light, Heart sweetening light, All the light dances, my darling, at the centre of my life, The light strikes, my darling, the chords of my love.

The sky opens, the wind runs wild, laughter passes over the earth.

A Poem about choosing the right path…by Annabelle Holden

There are choices to make every day, Right choices, Wront choices, Either way, There is a path we have to take.

Choices to make.

Some we hate, BUDDING young poets gathBut we must choose right from wrong. ered in the new Armstrong Centre to celebrate thei crea- We might do wrong for right, tivity and pen poems as part of Or right for wrong, But the light is the way.

Any day, Here are some of their com- At the end of the day.

The light of Christ is the way. positions.

National Poetry Day I’m a moth to a flame.

Darkness tricks.

I’m a moth to a flame.

Darkness hates me.

I’m a moth to a flame.

Darkness won’t let me go.

But no matter what, Though hell and shadow, I will all the way be a moth to a flame.

So no matter what, I will all the way find the light.

Even if I go through the depth of darkness, I’m a moth to a flame.

By Joe Collier Young poets hard at work!

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Your real friends, by Pheonix Melia Are they a wall?

Or are they a door that lets you in When you fall?

Will they help you up or leave you there?

Your real friend are the ones that stay by your side when you’re down.

The ones that laugh when you cry, And call you names till you cry even more They’re not your real friends if they take things from you.

Your real friends protect you when you’re in trouble.

Your real friends are in the light.

They are good.

The other friends are in the darkness, they are the ones who need to see the LIGHT!

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POETRY lover and keen member of Poetry Club Finty Royle has written a large number of poems and shares this one with us:

You can’t ask for happiness, it comes and goes.

It comes when it likes, only one knows.

You can pretend to be happy, in expression and voice But to be truly happy, is a matter of choice.

Why be sad, you only live once, Live life to the full, do what one wants.

Try a smile, it’s worthwhile, If you frown, turn it upside down.

When life gives you trouble, your mind feels a muddle, You must not fail, face hardship that does prevail.

In mind, spirit and soul, keep one main focus and goal, To stay happy in all aspects of life, it is your aim and your strive!

THE TRIP to Berlin, Krakow and Dresden has now reached capacity and is definitely set to go ahead in the October half term of 2016.

Pupils in Years 8-10 are taking part in the valuable experience which takes in Auschwitz Concentration Camp and Colditz Castle among other infamous sights of the Second World War and Cold War. We can still fit up to 5 more pupils on the coach and anyone still thinking about this trip should see Miss Sephton.

Dancing queen!

STREET dancer Amelia is celebrating success after scooping a plethora of accolades at a recent dance competition.

The talented Year 10 pupil dances for Sanderson's Dance Academy and entered a competition called Dance Factor Championships.

She came 1st in a qualifying round and then in U16 Street Dance and a U16 Contemporary Dance Duo. Amelia was then entered in a Contemporary Elite category where she came 4th against older girls and finally in the Grand Final she came 6th overall.

Subject leader for Dance, Mrs Gough, said: ‘Super achievement, well done Ameila!

ARE you eligible to claim for Free School Meals?

Parents are encouraged to check the criteria below to ascertain if they are able to claim:

Are you claiming: Income Support (IS) Income Related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA-IR) Income Based Jobseeker's Allowance (IB-JSA) Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 Guarantee element of State Pension Credit Child Tax Credit and are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and your annual income, as assessed by the Inland Revenue, does not exceed £16,190 Working Tax Credit 'run on'- the payment you receive for a further four weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit Universal Credit Information and forms are available by contacting the local area education office on: 01772 254868 or by downloading the forms from www.lancashire.gov.uk/children-education-families/schools/help-with-schoolcosts/free-school-meals.aspx

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Bringing Science to all

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SUPER Scientists are spreading their passion for all things Biology, Physics and Chemistry to primary school children in the region.

The Science department has once again selected Science Ambassadors; a group of pupils who have an enthusiasm for Science, who want to share this with others and raise the profile of Science.

These enthusiastic youngsters from Year 8 and 9, as well as helping out on Open Evening,

have already been ‘Science busking,’ visiting Charnock Richard Primary School to work with Year 4 pupils.

They spent an hour there presenting and demonstrating some simple Science activities with the Year 4 pupils taking part in experiments they, otherwise, would not have been able to do.

Science teacher and organiser, Mrs Ashurst, said: ‘Our pupils were absolutely fantastic! They interacted with the pupils in a mature and sensible manner and

really did Saint Michael’s proud.

‘The pupils at Charnock Richard were equally brilliant. They were enthusiastic and enjoyed the activities, and their behaviour was exemplary. A great morning was had by all.’

The plan is for Science Ambassadors to visit one primary school each half term and any schools that would like to book a visit from our Science Ambassadors can contact Mrs Ashurst directly at school and we can make arrangements.

Alton Towers fun!

AS A SPECIAL treat on the Christian Values Enrichment Day the pupils in Year 11 enjoyed a visit to the well-known theme park Alton Towers.

The entire year group spent the day at the popular Stafford park, spending the day on rides including Nemesis, Oblivion and Rita.

And many staff and pupils were treated to an extra special ride ‘just for them’ on the Ripsaw after Mr Kennedy mentioned to park staff to ‘do their worst!’

They underwent a super long, extra wet soaking … some staff even attending the staff Eucharist in the evening, still in wet clothes!

All pupils declared the day a resounding success and a great break from the pressures of Year 11.

Fun at Alton Towers

Have you handed in your admission forms?

PARENTS and carers are reminded that the date for returning the supplementary admission forms is October 31.

Please bring them into the front office, preferably before half term, to ensure they arrive safely in school.

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World Champion BMX-er!

BMX Champion Ross Cullen has his sights firmly set on the future … and the Olympics.

This super talented Year 10 cyclist is celebrating winning the World Championships in Belgium and is also the British Champion!

He is also 2nd in the national series and is presently leading in points for the European series.

Ross started BMX racing nine years ago and has gone from strength to strength, gaining experience and skill at the Preston Pirates BMX track.

His ultimate dream is to take part in either the 2020 or 2024 Olympics and is currently on the Olympic Develoment Apprenticeship; a series of different programmes leading to the ultimate games!

Ross travels all round the world with his sport and this year alone has competed in countries including Switzerland, France, Germany and Belgium.

He says the most exciting trip so far took him to the USA last year.

And next year he intends to compete in Colombia.

Ross said: ‘I love BMX racing because it is just so fun to be a part of.

‘We are like a BMX family which is quite hard to leave when you get into it.’

We wish Ross the best of luck achieving his goal!

A tribute to Year 7 transition Mr Gow, Pupil Manager for Year 7, writes...

It has been great to witness so many Year 7 pupils joining in with so many extra-curricular activities and clubs during their first term at St.Michael’s.

After-school events such as Football training, Netball practice, Climbing Club, Dance Club have all been crammed with enthusiastic Year 7 students, keen to take part.

The result of such participation has meant that the majority of pupils have either made new friends or gained in confidence, which has helped them come to terms with such a massive change in their lives.

Inevitably, there will be some students who take a little longer to adapt to such a change, and I would ask parents and carers to continue encouraging them to try out clubs or activities.

The students have a timetable of activities available, but if they are unsure, they only need to ask someone.

Once again, a big thankyou to all Year 7, their parents and carers, for their continuous support this term and in the terms to come.

Saint Michael’s News

Saint Michael's CE High School, Astley Road, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 1RS