The New Wittonian, Winter 2023

Sports News NETBALL: Sir John Deane's enjoy undefeated league run and earn place in second round of the National Schools Tournament

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

Issue 7, Winter 2023

Students earn coveted Eco-Schools Green Flag Sir John Deane’s students have earned an international accreditation, recognising their work in raising eco-awareness and contributing to a more environmentally friendly College.

including the first College-wide Environmental Week, a litter pick, and developing the College community garden, growing food which was later donated and served to students in the College canteen.

Students from the College’s Environmental Committee collaborated with Senior Leaders to conduct an environmental review of the College, assessing how eco-friendly it is. They considered everything from biodiversity within the College grounds to how students and staff members travel to College each day.

Year 13 student Cole Brautigam, who leads the Environmental Committee, said: " We are all delighted to have achieved the Eco Schools Green Flag award (with Merit). It has been extremely fulfilling to see our plans come to fruition around the College, and we developed lots of valuable skills along the way.

Building on their findings, they then planned a year of action designed to advance the College’s green credentials, improve the local environment and protect the planet, connecting their work to three green topics; global citizenship, healthy living and litter. The committee organised a variety of projects

"We are currently working towards renewing our EcoSchools Green Flag award. This academic year, we aspire to achieve the award with Distinction, ensuring that the College’s transition towards sustainability continues to be driven forward – there are always more improvements that can be made."

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Pictured clockwise from top: Simon Davies, Head of Art and Design at Sir John Deane's with Emily, Lillian and Samuele; Emily, with her prize winning piece 'The Blue Bridge'; Lillian and 'Portrait of a Friend'; Samuele with his prize winning portrait 'Lisa'; Katie Shepherd's 'Commuters'.

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Issue 7, Winter 2023

Young artist swoops top prize in prestigious Chester art awards

Talented young artists from Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College have been recognised by a prestigious arts foundation at an awards ceremony in Chester.

The Sovereign Art Foundation (SAF) hosted the Students Prize Chester Awards at the city’s Cathedral on Wednesday 22nd November.

Former Sir John Deane’s student, Emily Peacock was announced the Judges Prize Winner for her complex and beautifully coloured painting of a well-known Northwich landmark, 'The Blue Bridge'.

Emily, who is now studying Art at the University of Leeds, said: "I completed this piece as part of my Art A-level and it features Hartford Bridge, which I cross regularly. I was drawn to all the clean lines and

angles it has. Lots of people have asked if it is a photograph and are surprised it is a painting."

Simon Davies, Head of Art and Design at Sir John Deane’s, said: "Watching Emily paint this picture was amazing. It only took small words of encouragement and direction to see her strike on with confidence. The painting of the bolts on the bridge almost proved to be one detail too far but again she was able to master the processes needed to great effect.”

The judging panel included internationally acclaimed artists Kevin Francis Gray and David Mach as well as Louise Shannon, Head of Programme Delivery at Tate Liverpool, artist Jim Wheat and Howard Bilton,Sovereign Group Chairman.

Emily received £800 in prize

money as well as £2,000 for the College’s art department. A special commendation of £250 was also awarded to former Sir John Deane’s student Samuele Giavedoni for his painting ‘Lisa’, while students Katie Sheppard and Lillian Tait also exhibited pieces that impressed the judges.

All four students have gone on to study art-based subjects at university this year.

The College plans to spend some of the £2,000 prize fund on an art exhibition, showcasing the work of all students, at the end of the year.

SAF runs 11 student prizes around the world, with Chester joining the portfolio this year. The winners will be automatically entered into the annual SAF Global Students Prize in 2024, showcasing their talent on an international stage.

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News

Students and staff show racism the RED CARD Students and staff at Sir John Deane's Sixth Form College were united in a stance against all forms of racism as part of the College's Black History Month celebrations in October.

Now in its third year, the annual event sees the College community come together and wear red as a symbol of anti-racism.

Tracy Foy, Deputy Principal for People and Culture at the College, said: "We are extremely proud to be an actively anti-racist College and it has been amazing to see this event grow so much over the last three years.

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"We are always so moved by the sea of red moving around the College when we celebrate this day and to hear students discussing anti-racism, not just in their lessons and personal development sessions, but amongst friends in the corridors."

The College marks Black History Month each year by celebrating the achievements and contributions of black people throughout history during subject lessons and a specialist personal development programme designed to educate students on the issues of anti-racism.

Issue 7, Winter 2023

Celebrating self-care week

Students at Sir John Deane's came together to promote a culture of positivity to mark national Self Care Week, in November. Personal development tutorials focused on the important topics of growth, fixed mindsets, boundaries and healthy relationships.

Students handed out positive affirmations during break time and created a self care board to inspire

others. Stacey Hunter, Wellbeing and Mental Health Lead at the College, said: "The students were asked to dig deep and think beyond just cups of tea and bubble baths as to what really helps them and why it is important. They have been open and honest about sharing their self care practices which was great to see".

Charities Committee launch fundraising efforts for Headway The College's Charities Committee has launched its new fundraising appeal for 2023/24 with a Halloween themed bake sale, raising £175 for brain charity Headway.

Headway is a UK-wide charity that works to improve life after brain injury providing vital support and guidance for those who need it most.

The Charities Committee involves more than 35 students who meet each week to plan fundraising and awareness activities. Last year, the committee raised £1,000 for their chosen charity, Women for Afghan Women.

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News

Students brave the elements for D of E Silver

Sir John Deane's students have put their teamwork and endurance skills to the test as they work towards their Duke of Edinburgh's Silver Award.

90 students took part in one of two practice expeditions in Llangollen in October. Whilst students on the first expedition enjoyed fine weather and spectacular views across the Eglwyseg escarpment, the second group arrived at camp during storm Babet, which brought with it torrential rain and high winds. However, the weather quickly passed and by the second day the sun arrived along with a magnificent double rainbow.

The month ended with 41 students completing their qualifying expedition in the Peak District, navigating the distinctive landscape of Shutlingsloe and the Roaches.

Richard Bailey, who leads the Duke of Edinburgh's Award at Sir John Deane's, said: "D of E has been extremely popular this year. Students have really embraced the opportunity to get out there and have enjoyed meeting new people and fostering new friendships.

"They've picked up navigation skills, using OS maps, learnt camp craft and, for some, it was their first time cooking pasta. Most importantly, they all demonstrated excellent team work skills, decision making and perseverance."

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Issue 7, Winter 2023

Students strike gold in Cambridge challenge Young chemists have been awarded for their participation in the prestigious Cambridge Chemistry Challenge.

Students from Sir John Deane’s sat the challenging 90-minute paper earlier this year, with 39 students successful in achieving Gold, Silver and Copper standard certificates Set by a team of university chemists, the competition aims to stretch and challenge students studying chemistry, taking them significantly beyond the A level syllabus.

Laurence Potts, Head of Chemistry at Sir John Deane’s, said: “This competition is renowned for its difficulty, so to receive an award reflects the genuine enthusiasm

and ambition our students have in the subject beyond their A level studies.”

Three students from the College, Cole Brautigam, Sian Baird and Toby Oliver, were amongst the UK’s highest scorers achieving Gold certificates - placing them in the top 10% nationally.

2023 Certificates Gold: Cole Brautigam, Sian Baird, Toby Oliver Silver: Abi Wallace, Alana Maddock, Angela Joseph, Carla Nancollas, Charis Wong, Evana Ritchie, Eve Entwistle, Hannah Sweeney, Jacob Tran, Joshua Massey, Lola Kemp-Young, Oliver Lyons, Patrick Scott, Rosie Duckhouse, Samuel Zhao, Zac

Crick, Zoe Andrews Copper: Alan Mekwinski, Charlotte Mullett, Eliza Johnson-Burras, Franklyn Tate, Harriet Carrs, Isla Lewis, Jack O’Reilly, James Pace, James Brindle, Katy Prew, Kayla Nancollas, Lewis Turner, Megan Hughes, Mia Clark, Noah Freeman, Roisin McGrath, Sam Atkin, Savannah Bolland, William Bagley

2023/24 College Production

Almost, Maine,

by John Cariani

One cold night. Nine stories of love. Almost.

On a cold, clear, moonless night in the middle of winter, all is not quite what it seems in the remote, mythical town of Almost, Maine. As the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, Almost’s residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and often hilarious ways. Knees are bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises heal, and the hearts mend - almost - in this delightful midwinter night’s dream.

Thursday 25th & Friday 26th January, 7pm Venue: Hopkins Theatre, Sir John Deane's Sixth Form College Price: £8 (£5 concessions)

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International on behalf of Josef Weinberger Ltd. www.mtishows.co.uk I www.joseph-weinberger.com

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Musicians shine in annual soirée Young, classical musicians took to the stage for the College’s celebrated annual Musical Soirée in November.

also shared their individual flair and talent and are well-set for their final recital performances in March.

The audience were treated to a mix of solo and small ensemble performances, including SaintSaens violin concerto, a selection of songs from Bernstein’s musical ‘West Side Story’ and even a Coldplay woodwind arrangement.

“Thank you to everyone who came to support our young musicians.”

Harry Dichmont, Director of Music at Sir John Deane’s, said: “’We were all so impressed by the standard of musicianship across the entire programme.

The student-run ensembles were fantastic, showcasing the creativity and commitment of our student leaders.

“The Year 13 A level Music students

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The Soirée was the first event in the College’s exciting programme of music and performing arts for 2023/24, which also includes the traditional Spirit of Christmas Concert, Jazz Night, College Theatre Production, Battle of the Bands and a Performing Arts Showcase.

Tickets for all of the events will be available to purchase via the College website.

Issue 7, Winter 2023

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Young scientist inspired by College visit Budding young scientists from Middlewich High School embraced the opportunity to experience the subject beyond GCSE during a taster day at Sir John Deane's.

Students enjoyed practical lessons in Biology, Physics and Chemistry, learning more about the specific topics studied in each subject and the careers they could lead to.

Julie Stephens, Head of Science at Middlewich High School, said: "Our students were so excited

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to have a taster of A Level Sciences - they were challenged beyond GCSE level and had the opportunity to solve problems and develop investigative skills with the inspirational teachers and students at Sir John Deane's.

"They all came back to school so excited to select Science A levels as their options - thank you to all the staff and students who helped out on the day to give us an unforgettable experience!"

Issue 7, Winter 2023

SJD Christmas Foodbank Appeal As part of the College's annual Christmas Appeal students and staff generously donated items to the Mid Cheshire Foodbank, which relies on the goodwill and support of the public to provide balanced and nutritious food to those who need it most.

Kerry Galvin, School Liaison Officer, who organises the collection each year, said: " Thank you to all our students, staff and parents who have so kindly donated this year. We are always blown away by the amount of support we receive and know it will make a real difference in our local community."

Top employers support college careers event

Sir John Deane's Sixth Form College welcomed representatives from some of the region's top employers to put student's through their paces during a mock interview day in December.

Danielle Oultram, Careers Manager, said: "The feedback from industry representatives has been fantastic, they commented how well-prepared and professional the students were.

Airbus, Science and Technology Facilities Council (UKRI) and Butcher and Barlow LLP were among some of the organisations interviewing more than 90 students who are considering higher and degree level apprenticeships next year.

"This is such an important event in preparing for degree apprenticeship applications and a great opportunity for students to gain some invaluable feedback."

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Sports News

Issue 7, Winter 2023

Netball team flying high in undefeated run The College's netball team have got their season off to a flying start, remaining undefeated in the North West Colleges League and earning a place in the regional round of the National Schools Tournament.

The squad have been in fine form since their season began, with some impressive wins against Xaverian, Cheadle Hulme, Cardinal Newman and Loreto College in the schools league.

The team were also crowned Cheshire champions in the first round of the National Schools Tournament in November, at Kings School in Macclesfield, securing

their place in the regional round on January 27th.

Additionally, they have been invited to play in a competition hosted by Manchester Metropolitan University and Netball Super League star Paige Kindred, which takes place in the New Year.

Coach Lauren Watson, said: "Congratulations to the whole team. This has been a classy and exceptional start for the squad; unbeaten so far and National Schools Cheshire Champions. In 2024 we're aiming to get to the England Netball National finals in Oundle and take the Cheshire U19 schools title ."

Young athlete secures top US scholarship PE student and up and coming track and field star Emma Holmes has secured a full athletics scholarship for the University of Memphis Tigers. Emma, who previously attended The County High School Leftwich studies A level PE, Psychology and Business. Jenny Thorp, Head of PE and Sport at Sir John Deane's, said: "This is an amazing opportunity for Emma to continue her academic and athletic journey at a high quality university and world class sporting facility. We wish her all the best." Emma will be competing in the 200m and 400m in January in a bid to represent Great Britain in 2024.

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