The New Wittonian - Winter 2022/23

Meet the teams representing SJD in the North West College’s League

PLUS Celebrating Black History Month

The New Wittonian

Issue 4, Winter 2022/23

Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ College receives highest possible Ofsted rating

Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College has been judged “outstanding” by Ofsted, maintaining the highest possible rating, following an inspection in October.

In the report, published on Friday 25th November, the College was rated ‘outstanding’ in all areas, including quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and education programmes.

Amongst many highlights, the report states how students do “exceptionally well” and are well looked after due to an ambitious curriculum, outstanding teaching and learning and tailored support.

Quality of education

Behaviour & attitudes

Personal development

Leadership & management

Education programmes for young people

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The official newsletter of Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College

continued from front page

The report noted: “Teachers are exceedingly passionate about the subjects they teach. Teachers work cohesively with mentors to provide excellent teaching and support for students.

“Students are proud to study at the college and feel part of a community. They are highly motivated, caring and conscientious individuals, who consistently demonstrate exemplary behaviours.”

The report also highlighted the opportunities for students beyond the classroom, listing the huge range of co-curricular activities available, personal development curriculum and careers guidance.

Principal, Christopher Atherton, said: “In an era when it is becoming increasingly difficult to retain an “outstanding” judgement, we are incredibly proud that Sir John Deane’s remains “outstanding” in all areas and has done so for the last 15 years.

“I am very grateful to my colleagues for the many years of hard work that have gone in to making Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College such a special place to study and work.”

The full report by Ofsted is now available to download on the Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College website.

Manchester provides inspiration for photography students

Photography students put their camera skills to the test on a recent visit to Manchester.

Students were asked to consider the architecture, people and culture of the city in their work.

Teacher, Jonathan Murray, said: “For many Year 12 students this was their first time shooting in this kind of environment so it was great for them to experience the exciting vibe of the city.

“They have all created some incredible work and edited their shots to perfection.”

www.sjdphoto.format.com

Young poet wins top prize in international competition

A Sir John Deane’s student has been listed amongst the winners of an international poetry competition.

Mia Scattergood recieved a Highly Commended prize, featuring in the top 100 winners of the Foyle Young Poets Award.

Mia’s poem was one of 13,500 entries to the competition, which saw young people from

100 countries across the globe particpate. The competition was judged by Anthony Anaxagorou and Mona Arshi.

Mia attended the awards ceremony at the National Theatre in November.

All winning poems will appear in an online anthology in Spring 2023.

Photo credit: Libby Beattie A portfolio of all the students best shots from the trip is available to view online, visit:

Students meet stars of the stage and screen

Performing Arts students experienced an insight into the professional industry when they took part in workshops led by stars of the stage and screen.

Year 13 students participated in a screen acting workshop led by actor and director Scott Vickers, who has over 25 years industry experience and is best known for roles on Foyles War and Boogie Nights the Musical.

For the residents of Skid Row, life is full of broken dreams and dead ends. But there’s hope on the horizon for flower shop assistant, Seymour, when he discovers a mysterious new plant with killer potential. Will his newfound fame and fortune win the attention of kind, sweet, delicate Audrey? Or has Seymour bitten off more than he can chew?

Join our wickedly talented cast, band and technical crew as they bring the deliciously devious cult musical to life… if you dare!

Year 12 students learnt more about the world of musical theatre with Toby Hinson, whose career has seen him perform in London’s West End and around the globe.

Toby then spent time with both year groups answering questions about the Institute for Contemporary Theatre, Manchester, where he currently lectures.

Not suitable for very young children

Based on the film by Roger Corman, Screenplay by Charles Griffith

Originally produced by the WPA Theatre (Kyle Renick, Producing Director)

Originally produced at the Orpheum Theatre, New York City by the WPA Theatre, David Geffen, Cameron Mackintosh and the Shubert Organization

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International

All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI www.mtishows.co.uk

Book and Lyrics by HOWARD ASHMAN, Music by ALAN MENKEN

Young musicians shine in classical musical soirée

Young musicians delighted a packed out audience for the first event in the College’s 2022/23 music and performing arts calendar.

The annual Musical Soirée, held in the College’s historic Brunner Hall, saw 35 gifted and talented musicians perform a mix of solo and small ensemble pieces.

The audience were treated to a number of classical pieces, from the likes of Debussy and Haydn as well as more contemporary favourites from Neil Diamond, Frank Sinatra and Billy Joel.

Harry Dichmont, Director of Music at the College, said: “I’d

like to thank everyone who joined us for this very special event and the first in an exciting programme of music and performing arts this year.

“I was so impressed with the level of talent and commitment from all our young musicians and we are all now looking forward to our next performance.”

Rehearsals are now in full swing ahead of the College’s traditional Spirit of Christmas concert on Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th December.

Tickets cost £5 and are available from the College’s website.

Nina Martin, Liberty Prince, Rea Gaskill, Kate Andrews, Jake Ashbrook-Hughes, Bradley Dawson

Next page, clockwise from top:

Nina Martin

Thomas Bracegirdle, Oskar Warren, Eloise Wiseman, Mary Smith, James Mottram, Naomi Rushton, Kian Gadsby

Nina Martin, Liberty Prince, Connor Bruce, Eli Winter-Roach, Rea Gaskill, Kate Andrews

Joshua Evett

Zoe Povey

Pictured above, from left:

Month long celebrations shine spotlight on black history

Students and staff at Sir John Deane’s shone a spotlight on black heroes and idols during the College’s Black History Month celebrations in October.

Subject lessons explored the achievements and contributions of black people throughout history, while students also used personal development tutorials to discuss anti-racism.

Head student, Sharon FadipeDavids, shared her passion and knowledge of Nigerian culture by showcasing a selection of Ankara dresses, the traditional dress of the Yoruba people, as well as a display on the country’s modern history and some of its most famous citizens.

The College’s music department compiled a playlist of music by black artists, played each morning for the whole of October, while the cafeteria served up an exciting menu of traditional African and

Caribbean food during lunch periods.

Students and staff also particpated in the College’s annual ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ day, by wearing red as a symbol of the College’s anti-racist stance.

Senior students held a cake sale and sold anti-racism pin badges to rasie funds and awareness for the Antony Walker Foundation, which campaigns to end racism and hate crimes.

Tracy Foy, Deputy Principal, said: “At Sir John Deane’s we celebrate and value our unique diversity and are committed to creating a culture of inclusion and belonging everyday.

“We are proud to be an anti-racist College, actively working to ensure that all students, of all races and ethnicities, can learn as equals.

“Black History Month is another

opportunity to raise awareness and educate on how to contribute to a fairer and more equal society.”

Sharon Fadipe-Davids celebrates her Nigerian heritage

SJD shows racism the red card

Students have sights set on silver

Students complete their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award qualifying expedition

The College’s popular Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme was in full swing during October as Year 12 students worked towards their Silver Award.

More than 50 students are now on track to complete their Silver Award, after taking part in a three day practice expedition in North Wales before completing their qualifying expedition in the Peak District.

Students set off from Tegg’s Nose, walking 55km over three days before finishing at Rudyard Train Station.

Working in small teams, the students were responsible for planning and navigating their own routes, using skills they learnt during the practice expedition.

Students will now be working towards other elements of the Silver Award, which includes a regular physical activity, a skill, such as driving, and volunteering.

Charities Committee near fundraising target with bake sale and raffle

This year, the College’s Charities Committee are continuing to raise funds for the WONDER Foundation, who work with organizations around the world to provide long-lasting education and training projects for women and girls.

A Halloween bake sale and Christmas raffle have raised £300 this term, bringing the grand total of money raised to £900, close to the committee’s £1,000 target.

Year 12 student Maja Kabzinska, said: “Thank you to all students, staff and parents who have supported our fundraising efforts this year.

“We are delighted to have raised so much money for a charity that empowers women and girls across the globe.”

Keep an eye out for more fundraising events in the New Year!

Sir John Deane’s students picked up Silver and Copper awards in this year’s Cambridge Chemistry Challenge. The prestigious competition aims to stretch and challenge Year 12 chemistry students, providing an excellent experience for anyone considering taking their studies in the subject beyond A level.

Sports News

Meet the sports teams representing Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College in the North West College’s League 2022/23

Back row, from left: Matt Spears, Harry Crisp, Nevan Kiernan, Tom Baines, Myles HarrisonStirling. Front row, from left: Zac Williams, Alex Quinton, Tommy Dawson, Will Towers, Rahul Minocha.

Back row, from left: Emma Thornhill, Alfie Jerman, Isabel Robinson, Aiden Austin, Bronte Neary, Harry Lewis, Clare Davis, Ben Semple, Alice Webster. Front row, from left: Elena Simpson, Callum Rayner, Darcey Pawezowski, James Dixon, Georgia Henderson, Lily Bolton, Peter Haffenden.

Team captain, Ben Semple

Team captain, Zac Williams

Northwich Autumn Head

Congratulations to Isabelle Wishart, Erin Murray, Gabrielle Taylor and Tilly Little who were representing Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College and Northwich Rowing Club at the Northwich Autumn Head in November. The girls raced to victory in the Women’s Junior 18 coxed four event, beating off tough competition from Queen’s Park High School.

Back row, from left: Niamh Hardwick, Erin Curryer, Eve Ranson, Evie Bradley, Bella Baxter, Ellie Davies, Sophie Grainger. Front row, from left: Emma Hornby, Ella Buckley, Sally Gwyther, Grace Merrick, Jocelyn Carr, Caitlin Price.

Back row, from left: Ethan Walsh, Fynn Arnold, Noah Bradley, Hayden Hudson, Antonio CostaVeysey, Leo Emmerson, Leo Cheung, Oliver Spence , Toby Oliver , Harry Bugg , Christian Sutton. Front row, from left: Mitchell Stewart, Harry Flanagan, Thomas Holmes, Louie Clague, Jamie Crofts, Raul Greavey, Connor McVicar.

Team captain, Ellie Davies

Team Captain, Louie Clague

Thank you to all students, parents and colleagues who generously donated items to the Mid Cheshire Foodbank and the Salvation Army, in Northwich, as part of our Christmas appeal this year.

Both charities do an incredible amount of work to support local people during difficult times, and once again we have been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown across the whole College community.

Thank you

On behalf of everyone at Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College, we would like to wish you a peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year.