The Shield - Michaelmas Term 2020

THE SHIELD

MICHAELMAS 2020

www.stdunstans.org.uk

WELCOME TO THE MICHAELMAS EDITION OF THE SHIELD

New Build Development

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evelopment of the new build – an exciting new Junior School, Sixth Form Centre and STEM block – has continued throughout the Michaelmas term. We have seen the structure finished, the windows installed, and more bricks every week. The build is on schedule so far, and we look forward to moving in soon!

Year 11 Tour the New Build

St Dunstan’s celebrates topping out ceremony

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t Dunstan’s was delighted to officially mark the topping out ceremony for the new development on Friday 2 October. The ceremony, which is traditionally held when the last beam is placed atop of the structure, was due to take place earlier this year but was delayed due to coronavirus.

During the afternoon, a group of junior and senior pupils were given a socially distanced tour of the new build by the Willmott Dixon team and the College’s Bursar, Mrs Wilkins.

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ear 11 pupils have had the opportunity this term to tour the new build site in small, socially distanced groups. During the visit, the Bursar showed the students the Sixth Form Centre including what will be the Sixth Form café and independent learning spaces. The current Year 11 students will be the first students to enjoy the new space, and have been working closely with Mrs Wilkins to design the area and choose the menu options for the exciting new café.

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THE SHIELD I MICHAELMAS NEWSLETTER 2020

Speaking about the event, Mrs Wilkins said: ‘Spending the afternoon with a small group of pupils and senior staff to mark the “topping out” of our new Junior School and STEM building was an absolute delight. The pupils, who brought a buzz of excitement to the construction site, represented every key stage of the College, from Pre-Prep to Year 13. We can’t wait for our next visit, when hopefully coronavirus restrictions will have been lifted and we can really celebrate this huge achievement.’

St Dunstan’s wins Independent Co-Educational School of the Year 2020

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e are delighted to announce that, following our debut entry into the Independent Schools of the Year award, St Dunstan’s College was named Independent Co-Educational School of the Year. David Moncrieff from Independent School Parent Magazine declared St Dunstan’s the winner via a virtual ceremony on 8 October 2020, stating; ‘The winner is…St Dunstan’s College, for their renaissance education, their pupil voice, and their championing of the individual. Many congratulations.’

Mr Hewlett said of the achievement: ‘I am so proud of St Dunstan’s for winning this prestigious award. It is a testament to the incredible journey we have been on as a school and the wonderful community we have here.’

Education Business Awards

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his term, St Dunstan’s was thrilled to be shortlisted for two awards at the Education Business Awards. The College has been shortlisted for the Outstanding Progress Award and the Environment Practice Award at the prestigious ceremony which is now in its 15th year.

The Education Business Magazine’s editorial team praised the College for recent work including the school’s commitment to a more sustainable future.

Admissions Events

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ollowing months of planning from the Admissions and Marketing Department, the College was pleased to be able to host a series of smaller ‘Discover St Dunstan’s’ open events on site, in line with Government regulations.

Prospective families were welcomed into a special marquee constructed in the Sixth Form Garden for an introduction by the Headmaster. Following this, families went on a self-guided tour of the building using a series of QR codes which revealed recordings by current pupils. In late November, our Senior School and Sixth Form admissions closed with recordbreaking numbers.

Thank you to the Facilities Team

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ur greatest challenge this term has been continuing to operate in a Covid-19 safe and secure way. We would not have been able to do so without the monumental efforts of our Facilities Team and House Staff, who have been working tirelessly to keep us all safe. We have been social distancing, wearing masks, transitioning to virtual communication where possible and protected by screens in social areas. The Facilities Team also installed several new hand-washing areas around the College, in addition to dozens of hand sanitation stations, and our Covid-19 response team have been carefully tracking, analysing and adapting to new local and national guidance. We are very grateful for their continued efforts and dedication. www.stdunstans.org.uk

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REMEMBRANCE DAY St Dunstan’s marks Remembrance Day 2020

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t Dunstan’s College’s annual Service of Remembrance took place on Wednesday 11 November. The Headmaster, Chaplain, Head of School and the Chapel Choir gathered in the Great Hall for the ceremony.

For the first time in St Dunstan’s history, the service was live-streamed to pupils in classrooms, parents and Old Dunstonians to ensure that the service was Covid-19 compliant.

The Chapel Choir opened the service with a stunning performance of John Ireland’s ‘Greater Love Hath No Man’, which was followed by the opening prayer by the

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College’s Chaplain, Canon Boswell. During the First World War, more than 877 Dunstonians served in the forces, and St Dunstan’s suffered one of the highest percentage losses of any school in the country. Tragically 277 pupils and teachers lost their lives during the war.

Canon Boswell reflected on this loss, saying: ‘Those former pupils and teachers will be remembered today, they once walked these corridors, they once sat in this Great Hall as you do now. They were once here, having fun, playing football and rugby, and they faced war with courage and dignity.’

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Anti-Bullying Week

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n November, the College marked AntiBullying Week. Throughout the week, pupils focused on the issue, thinking about how they can help and support others to reduce bullying and its negative effects. Ms Karmock Golds, Head of Lower School, said: ‘It’s been a jam-packed week with our AntiBullying awareness with pupils participating in a range of activities and competitions.

It was wonderful to see so many ‘Helping Hands’ from pupils indicating when they have helped or been offered help, as well as being able to share ‘The Big Anti-Bullying Assembly’ along with 1.7 million other pupils nationwide in our tutor times.

‘We continue to champion compassion as one of our core values and it has clearly been embraced by all year groups in their response to this Theme of the Week.’

Hello Yellow Day

Wear Blue Day

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n Friday 20 November, pupils and staff came to school wearing blue in aid of Stand Up to Bullying, each donating a pound towards the charity.

Ms Butler, Head of English, said: ‘A huge thank you to all St Dunstan’s pupils and staff who have today donated to Stand Up to Bullying. It was wonderful to see so many shades of blue worn in support of this excellent charity, which does such important work helping to tackle the serious issue of bullying.’ The Senior School raised £656.30 for this charity.

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS AND ANTI-BULLYING WEEK Mental Health Awareness Week

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n the first week of October, our College theme was Mental Health Awareness. A variety of assemblies, form time activities and skills for life lessons took place to help pupils understand how to promote positive mental health and how to access support if they are worried about themselves or someone else.

We decorated the lobby yellow, posted messages of positivity and signposted support on our video wall. In the Junior

School, pupils made bunting out of positive messages and top tips for positive mental health.

Our younger pupils met an alien and told them all about feelings. Mrs Carmichael-Line was pleased to be able to inform pupils in the Junior School that a member of staff who is Youth Mental Health First Aid trained will be on duty during break each day and available for pupils to talk to.

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n the Friday of Mental Health Awareness week, we celebrated Hello Yellow Day. The College community came together to raise money and awareness for Young Minds, a charity committed to improving children’s wellbeing and mental health. The theme for this year was hope and both pupils and staff wore yellow to show young people that they are not alone. We are working as a community, to demonstrate compassion and support young people to feel comfortable about talking to someone if they are struggling. The message of hope is particularly important in light of the pandemic, and each tutor group has raised enough money to ensure a Young Minds helpline volunteer is on the end of the phone to provide information and support.

Together we managed to raise £691.91. www.stdunstans.org.uk

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International Week of Languages

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t Dunstan’s kicked off International Week of Languages on Monday 21 September. A myriad of activities was enjoyed, celebrating

languages across the world. Years 7-9 enjoyed an international music contest, where they judged songs selected from around the world.

The winning song was ‘London Thurmakda’ by Labh Janjua. Years 7-10 had special lessons on why we learn languages. These included case studies of polyglots and the techniques

they use to learn language.

Pupils also worked on a carousel of activities that included writing in Indian script, translating into languages from all over the world, and a sing-a-long to ‘Let it Go’ from Frozen, in Japanese!

SENIOR SCHOOL NEWS Music in the marquee

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n Thursday 15 October, we were treated to our first tea-time concert of the academic year, in a new outdoor venue of the Marketing marquee. These concerts are an informal opportunity for groups and soloists to trial new repertoire, with many of them preparing music for upcoming ABRSM exams.

The concert saw performances by our Big Band and Jazz Ensemble, led by Mr Oldfield and Mr Harrison respectively. The Big Band performed their established favourites, ‘Tequila’ and ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing’, and

premiered an especially funky rendition of ‘Play that Funky Music’. The Jazz Ensemble presented an open workshop of their process in producing a performance of Horace Silver’s ‘Song for My Father’, showcasing the fluid arrangement of the song components.

This was the first public concert of the year and it was all the more a cause for celebration that we have found a Covidsecure way for our ensembles to perform to their parents, peers and staff.

Poetry Competition Winner

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ear 7 student Veronica has recently celebrated a fantastic win in the 2019 Barbados Heritage UK Poetry competition (U-16 category). As a student of the diaspora, she is enthusiastic about celebrating and sharing her culture. She enjoys learning to play the saxophone, song-writing, and performing poetry and verse through competitions and performances organised by the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

Veronica shared these positive and impactful words for young people who enjoy writing and performance but might be afraid to let their talent shine: ‘Just be you because you never know how much your words could inspire others. We all have a different viewpoint on life and experiences that someone else could relate to.’

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National Youth Choirs NYDC Performance at Sadler’s Wells of Britain Success

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e are delighted to congratulate Ruby on her successful audition into the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain.

Feedback from Lucy Joy Morris and Neil Ferris of the NYCGB was incredibly positive.

They said, to Ruby: ‘We enjoyed chatting to you about your musical tastes and activities, and you spoke with real passion about your love for singing.

You stayed beautifully in tune and there were some lovely colours in your voice.’

Director of Music, Dominic Oldfield, is delighted by this achievement and hopes that more of our pupils might audition in the future, to increase national representation in the National Youth Choirs.

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ur Year 13 student Willow has been a part of the National Youth Dance Company (NYDC) since 2019. NYDC is a diverse company, with dancers from a range of backgrounds, styles and experiences. The group aims to create and perform innovative and influential dance, bringing together some of the brightest dance talent from across England to work with Sadler’s Wells’ internationally renowned associate artists and visiting companies.

During what should have been a busy year of rehearsals and performances, Covid-19 brought unique challenges to this group.

They rose to the challenge, however, rehearsing together through Zoom from their living rooms, and eventually coming

together under Covid-secure and socially distanced measures to put on a performance at Sadler’s Wells.

Speaking about the experience, Willow explained: ‘We moved into a hotel near Sadler’s Wells for three days and worked in the studio to create a short piece to be performed at the end of the residency. Time was really tight, but we were able to draw on the work we had created when we had been together in the previous residencies in October, December and February. We were lucky to be able to work on the Sadler’s Wells stage with incredible sound and lighting designers and to be supported by the dedicated NYDC team.’

Physics Olympiad

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t the end of Michaelmas 1, nine Year 13 Physicists took part in Oxford University’s British Physics Olympiad Challenge. We congratulate Ethan, Piotr and Aqil for earning merits.

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH 13 colleagues had the opportunity to put together the plan for the week and they did a fantastic job. The main entrance was decorated in celebration of black culture and the plans for the week were set.

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his October, the College celebrated Black History Month. Last year, pupils reflected that they wanted to take more of a leading role in shaping the plans for the week. They were keen for the activities to be more focused on their lived experiences rather than historical figures and events.

As well as acknowledging it for the whole month, we made celebrating Black History one of our Themes of the Week. The AfroCaribbean Society and some of their Year

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A virtual assembly was led by an Old Dunstonian, Andrew Osayemi, who left a very successful career in investment banking to set up a TV production company.

He produced the comedy show, Meet the Adebanjos, which was loosely based on his life as a British child growing up in London with African parents. The show is now available on Netflix and we would encourage you all to give it a try.

He encouraged pupils to be a part of the change that they want to see, and make a contribution! We were delighted that he was also able to come in later in the week

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to deliver live, socially distanced assemblies to individual year groups. He shared his life experiences and challenged pupils not to give up on their hopes and dreams when confronted with the word ‘no’. We are sure the pupils will remember the phrase, ‘Don’t dwell on no, focus on earning your yes’ long after they leave the College.

Another highlight was the ‘Celebrating Diversity at St Dunstan’s’ video that the ACS produced for viewing as a part of form time, in which the pupils spoke passionately about their pride of being part of such a diverse community. A recurring message that came across was the pupils’ desire for this celebration of not just black history, but the richness and diversity of all cultures to be something that we continue to do right through the year.

Who could disagree with them!

Junior School Black History Month

Astro Pi Mission Zero

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or Black History Month, Reception explored history and culture. They learned about the bravery of 6-year-old Ruby Bridges, the first African-American child to integrate into an elementary school in the Southern states, in 1960.

They were challenged to think about a time that they had been brave and tried to be brave like Ruby all week.

They also made African necklaces using paper plates and learnt all about carnival. They tried on some real carnival headdresses that were worn at the Notting Hill Carnival and made their own.

They then had a mini carnival procession around the playground wearing their hats and African necklaces.

ver Exeat nine Year 7 and 8 pupils entered the Astro Pi Mission Zero Competition and successfully wrote a piece of code in Python which will be run on the International Space Station. The code will make use of a sensor array and communicate with the astronauts on board.

Year 6 Scholars’ Taster Day

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n November 17, ten Year 6 Scholars visited the Senior School for a taster day of the St Dunstan’s scholarship programme. After a thought-provoking Religion, Philosophy and Ethics lesson with Ms Karmock Golds, pupils met with Mr Burke, the Head of Scholars, and were introduced to the exciting programme of trips, lectures and Scholars Teas that run every academic year. Their final taster session involved an explosive experiment with Ms Jordon in the Chemistry labs. It was a pleasure to meet the Year 6 Scholars, and we very much look forward to seeing them take part in the academic scholarship programme next year.

Sixth Form Scholars’ Symposium

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e were delighted to hold our annual Sixth Form Scholars Symposium, where our scholars presented projects they have been working on for months. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, we unfortunately couldn’t hold the usual celebrations with parents and carers, however we managed to hold a smaller scale event in our special marquee, where Sixth Formers were able to view the projects. All our scholars put forth incredible research projects, but the winning entry was Understanding the rise of the eco-fascist movement from its conception in the 19th century, by Amelia. The projects were judged by Dunstonian and Archives volunteer Mr Iain Macdowall.

A special mention goes to short-listed entries from Leo, Ruby, Willow and Denise.

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Year 7 Bushcraft Trip

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t the beginning of the Michaelmas term, our new Year 7 pupils got the chance to experience life in the wild on the annual Bushcraft trip. The usual 3-day camping adventure was unfortunately compromised due to the pandemic, and the pupils were only able to go for day trips. However, this didn’t compromise the fun as the pupils still managed to explore the wilderness, make fires and put up tents. We hope that it was the first of many trips at St Dunstan’s for this year group.

TRIPS & EVENTS Taking on Storm Alex for Silver DofE

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fter a disappointing summer of postponements and cancellations, our Silver Duke of Edinburgh cohort took on Storm Alex in early September to complete their qualifying expedition.

Participants spent the Friday evening planning their route for the weekend ahead as well as any last-minute preparations. Before they knew it, they were heading out into the Surrey countryside to showcase their knowledge and skills. After a turbulent few months of being largely indoors, participants finally had the chance to get back into the great outdoors, and the weather certainly didn’t disappoint!

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Divided into two groups, the pupils set off on their planned routes early Saturday morning making their way across the North Downs area. Seven hours and many hot drinks later they had returned – ready to go again on Sunday.

Where Saturday afternoon offered some respite from the rain, Sunday wasn’t so forgiving. The ground had turned to mud, tracks had turned to streams and the pupils were turning into hardened walkers. The weekend concluded with a congratulatory debrief and after 3 days, 30km and some treacherous conditions, all the participants successfully completed their expedition.

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Foodbank Collection

CHRISTMAS EVENTS House Christmas Card Competition

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e continued our Foodbank drive this year, encouraging students to bring in non-perishable foods and essential items to donate to Lewisham Foodbank. In the last week of term Year 7 students helped to deliver the goods. We hope the donation helps the community this Christmas.

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his Michaelmas Term, the Art Department launched a Christmas card competition to all pupils from Year 5 to Year 13. Their task was to design the new St Dunstan’s Christmas card that is to be sent out to Governors and friends of the school. Congratulations to Mei Lin in Year 9, whose beautiful winter

landscape was chosen as the winning design and features on the front cover of this edition of The Shield. Runners up were Mia and Zadie in Year 5, with some fantastic digital art, and Millie in Year 8, with a festive colourful pencil drawing. All pupils received House points for their participation. Art Technician, Miss Adkins, said: ‘Merry Christmas from the Art Department.

May your holidays be filled with colour, joy and glitter!’

FESTIVE JUNIOR SCHOOL Junior Christmas Challenge

Reception and Key Stage 1

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However, through the virtual competition this year, pupils from Pre-Prep and the wider St Dunstan’s community were able to celebrate with us. Junior School Teacher, Mr May, said: ‘We were overwhelmed by the number of festive entries, which truly highlighted the sense of fun and Christmas spirit our pupils, parents and even pets share. All the entries were watched by pupils during form times on the final days of term and really did kick off the Christmas Season for us all. Thank you to all the children and parents who got involved and we wish you a very Merry Christmas!’

Nursery’s Virtual Nativity

ven with current restrictions, the Junior School House Christmas Challenge was able to go ahead. Traditionally, the event involves children from Year 3 to Year 6 coming together in Houses to create an all-singing, all-dancing performance of a famous Christmas song.

ue to challenges presented by the pandemic, the Christmas performance was filmed and streamed via Firefly. It was exciting to find a new way of doing things, and instead of performing to a live audience, our pupils adapted, performing instead for three cameras.

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ur Nursery pupils put on a showstopping performance on Friday 4 December for their annual Nativity.

Nursery pupils rose to the challenge, and for the first time in St Dunstan’s history the performance was streamed live for parents, carers and staff to watch. It was a resounding success, and we congratulate the pupils on their hard work and the Christmas cheer they spread throughout the school.

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Forder Chemistry

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order sessions are an opportunity for pupils to guide their own learning, exploring things outside of the main curriculum. In Chemistry Forder sessions, our pupils often have fun with new and exciting experiments. Early in the term, Chemistry teacher Mr Kimuli, said: ‘When I asked the pupils what they would like to do next week, their answer was “Fire and explosions!” So with that to go on, we set up some demonstrations and a practical.’

The pupils enjoyed a variety of exciting experiments including hydrogen reactions, the ‘Promethean Match’ and the Sugar Cube Flame Test.

During another Chemistry Forder session Year 7 and 8 cooked up some weird and wonderful things. Chemistry teacher, Ms Kaur explained: ‘The Year 7 and 8s were making slime using diluted glue PVC (25% concentration) with borax. They were able to customise their own designs using colouring.’

These sessions are an opportunity to learn and practise some exciting experiments.

They encourage scientific curiosity and give the pupils an opportunity to put theory into practice.

THE FORDER PROGRAMME Magic: the Gathering

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ur Magic: The Gathering group is back for its second year. There have been alterations made, due to the current Covid-19 situation, but this has not got in the way of having fun. Speaking about the new group, Ms Bocarro said: ‘Pupils are now used to wearing masks to play matches competitively. Bringing in their own decks, they play friendly matches against each other, from a variety of year groups. If you have a passion for mythical trading card games, then join us from next term! We have a welcoming and friendly atmosphere with pupils of all ages teaching others how to play.’

Forder Book Club

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very Wednesday in the LRC, Room 323, we have a Forder Book Club.

Pupils work through a list of books nominated for the Trinity Schools Book Award. Now in its sixth year, the TSBA was launched by librarians from 22 independent senior schools in the Trinity group, with the aim of celebrating quality writing in both new and older fiction.

A new theme is decided each year, and

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pupils read through the nominated shortlist, casting a vote for their favourite in February. The winner is announced in March, at a ceremony that the pupils get to attend.

In this Forder club the pupils are encouraged to analyse the books in a variety of ways. They discuss their first impressions, if the books met their expectations, and even what they would change, if they were to re-write it.

Clay Club

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n the Forder Clay Club, pupils were making their own bowls. They used water to create a smooth effect, and a variety of tools to carve into the clay to form patterns. This is one of the many clubs where the pupils have the chance to learn a new artistic skill, guided by our excellent art teachers. They also benefit from the use of our very own kiln, where they will be able to bake their creations and afterwards, take them home.

JUNIOR SCHOOL FORDER

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very Friday before lunch, our Junior school pupils enjoy Forder time.

There is a plethora of activities to choose from, ranging from sports to art, and meditation to coding. These sessions are an incredible opportunity to learn new skills, gain inspiration for new activities, and encourage creativity: In Nuts about Knots our pupils learn about different types of knots that can be tied and enjoy testing them out.

In Synchronised Swimming the pupils learn how to dance to music – in the water!

In Sewing club the pupils enjoy quiet time learning this intricate skill.

In Ukulele club the pupils have a great time learning this instrument and making music together.

Warhammer Club

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his term, Warhammer club has been as popular as ever. Pupils either bring in their own models – painting and assembling them – or play strategic battle games against opponents.

In the Lego and Board Games session, pupils work together to build new and exciting structures, and play new games.

The skills learned are numerous, and it is fun for the pupils to create their models and compete against each other. Ms Bocarro, Mathematics teacher, says: ‘Whether you’re into Warhammer 40K or Warhammer Age of Sigmar (or both!) all are welcome. Bring your own models, paints and paintbrushes and delve into another world.

Open to Year 7 – 11.’ www.stdunstans.org.uk

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Year 5 Greek Day To mark the end of their IPC topic The Great, the Bold and the Brave, Year 5 celebrated with Greek Day. The pupils came in dressed as Ancient Greeks, decorated their own ceramic pots in the Greek style, and participated in Greek theatre and storytelling.

It was great fun to see warriors and Greek gods running around the playground at breaktime.

JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS

Languages Day

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his year, Languages Day was a bit different in the Junior School, but we still had a great time learning about other countries and cultures.

Unfortunately, visitors were not allowed in person, so some of our parents found other ways to share their culture.

The children had a great time learning about Italy, Argentina, Wales, and many more countries. Some of our teachers also shared some language skills they had developed on their various adventures. In the same building you could practise Thai, Spanish, Khmer, and even British Sign Language. Every phrase embraced the challenge of a remote ‘Languages Day’, and some lovely storytelling and singing could also be heard in the corridors.

Year 5 Teach Microbit Coding

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n November, Year 5 pupils Alex, Evadne and Jasmine delivered ICT coding lessons to each Year 5 class. Mr May, Year 5 teacher, said: ‘The children had asked if they could share their passion and interest for the Microbit at the start of the year, and as we were covering it at the start of Michaelmas 2, I thought it would be great if they could introduce the Microbit to their classmates.

The children volunteered to plan a session and worked hard to rehearse it before delivering.’

During the session, they introduced the

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Microbit and took the children through a step-by-step guide to the coding and the reasons why each code was used. Each child in Year 5 learned what the Microbit can be programmed to do, the key properties it has (sensors) and then were taught how to code it using the online software.

At the end of the session, all children were able to set a code for the Microbit to be used as a ‘Flood Detector’, recognising and sounding an alarm when the sensors come into contact with water.

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Trips were not possible this year, but we still managed to bring a bit of the Goethe Institute to St Dunstan’s when some children watched a German movie in their classrooms. In short, it was a busy and eventful remote Languages Day.

Nursery make Diwali lamps

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his term, Nursery pupils had the opportunity to learn about Diwali.

They love the story of Rama and Sita and have been asking lots of questions about how Diwali is celebrated. They have made fireworks and Rangoli patterns using different materials.

Nursery Teacher Ms Leane said: ‘We decided to make our own Diya lamps using salt dough. First we made the dough, measuring the ingredients and mixing them all together. The children came up with

lots of great words to describe how the salt dough felt including squashy, squishy, sticky and soft.’

Each child then fashioned their own lamp out of the salt dough, and the lamps were put into the oven. The next day the children painted them, requesting bright colours and glitter.

Ms Leane reported: ‘They are really excited about taking their Diya lamps home to show their families.’

Year 4 make Volcanoes

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s the exit point to their Active Planet topic, this term Year 4 designed, made and exploded volcanoes. Year 4 teachers Mr Hindes and Mrs Ogden said: ‘Using their learning from earlier in the topic, the pupils were able to make accurate volcanoes, including an array of geographical features, before exploding them with mini eruptions!’

Junior School Council

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he Junior School were thrilled to begin School Council meetings this term.

In the first meeting of Michaelmas 1, the new group of voted representatives from Years 2–6 introduced themselves and discussed their aims for the year. Mrs Murphy, who is the College lead on Pupil Voice, explained how the weekly meetings would work and we agreed on the agenda for next week.

We look forward to seeing how the Junior School Council will contribute to school life this year.

Bike to school campaign

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unior School bike racks were filled to the brim with pupils supporting the ‘Bike to School’ campaign. Part of our focus on the environment and sustainability is to encourage eco-friendly ways to travel to and from school, where possible. The Junior School pupils really rose to the occasion and enjoyed the challenge of trying a new mode of transportation to school!

Mrs Carmichael-Line said: ‘Well done to Year 1, who won the competition for the most biking/scooting to school during the week.’ www.stdunstans.org.uk

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Rugby

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ne of the most exciting sporting moments of this term was the Year 7 House Rugby Tournament. This year the final match was between Hecker and Usherwood, resulting in a Hecker win. Miss Watkins said: ‘The Year 7s have worked tremendously hard, and all of their progress really showed throughout this.’

SPORTING HIGHLIGHTS SENIOR SCHOOL

Swimming

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his term in aquatic club the pupils have been learning the art of synchronised swimming.

We saw some excellent performances from all involved, and a special mention must go to Hayden, Sophie, Jasmine and Em in Year 7 who put on a fantastic show. James and Max in Year 9 displayed some very technical elements, and Milla, Alex, Lisle, Sian and Mya in Year 8 put on an aesthetically pleasing routine.

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Cricket

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n the second half of the Michaelmas term, we held our Year 8 House Swimming Gala. It was a fantastic, competitive event, and everyone gave it their all. A special mention goes to Myriam, who was the only swimmer from Hecker, and swam nearly every race to try and give Hecker as many points as possible. The overall winner was Stuart House, who were not only fantastic in the pool but exceptional with cheering, celebrating and commitment to their House on the poolside too.

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ell done to Sam in Year 10 who has been selected for the London Schools Cricket Under 15 winter training squad. We wish him the best of luck as he ventures into Under 15 territory, and applaud his progress.

JUNIOR SCHOOL

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riday Forder sessions provide the opportunity to participate in extra sports clubs.

Year 3 are enjoying cross-country and learning all about perfect running technique. Year 4 are doing Aqua-Fun in the swimming pool. Year 5 are playing rounders, learning the rules of the sport and incorporating them into competitive matches. Year 6 have the opportunity to learn a new sport – Aussie Rules.

Nursery pupils have been working with quoits, using them to catch, balance and roll. They have also learnt how to keep a ball under control in their own area. They have been rolling, spinning and throwing, with some children being able to catch them too.

In Prep PE pupils have been learning how

to play basketball, improving their dribbling, passing and shooting skills. They have all had the chance to use these skills in matches and the PE staff have been very impressed with the sportsmanship shown by all pupils.

In Prep netball and rugby all years have been learning the rules of the games and practising different skills. In netball pupils have been working on footwork and different types of passes. In rugby they covered some basic ‘catch-pass’ skills, oneon-one attacking and defending and tackling technique.

Pre-prep pupils have been working on their throwing and catching skills; individually and within a team. They have worked in pairs and in small groups to see how many successful passes they complete under time pressure and when challenged to ‘beat their own record’.

Junior School Cross Country

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t the beginning of term, our House events were kicked off with Cross Country.

Despite the weather being rather gloomy, the pupils all got into it and tried their best.

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Year 11 Royal Navy Instructor Course

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hilst the Michaelmas term has proven to be a challenge for many activities, the CCF has remained a steadfast part of the co-curricular programme with significant procedures having been put in place to allow training to continue.

Members of the Year 10 Navy section, who began their Discover Scuba Diving in the summer, progressed into the lakes to complete their PADI Open Water Qualification.

The Year 11s also completed their Cadet Instructor Course – developing the skills needed to instruct younger cadets.

The Army section overcame any disappointment of having to cancel the annual Senior Skills Weekend by bringing the event to the College itself. Friday was a day

of consolidating old skills and learning new ones, Saturday put those skills to the test with a whole College game of laser tag.

The annual CCF Christmas Tree Sale was a resounding success, selling out extremely quickly. The CCF decided to donate the extra money to the charity Crisis, to help the homeless this Christmas. Thank you to everyone who supported this cause, we are very happy to have been able to support our organisation and help those in need this year.

As we move into the Lent term the CCF is in a position of strength; a lot has been achieved this term and we have an exciting, ambitious programme ahead – a testament to the dedication and hard work of all involved.

D

uring the October Exeat, a group of our Year 11 Royal Navy Cadets attended a four-day Cadet Instructor Course. The course, which took place at the Jubilee Ground, is usually run as a residential course and is an opportunity for promotion of the cadets. Despite the ongoing pandemic, the course was able to go ahead at the Jubilee Ground within Covid-19 safety restrictions.

Speaking about the course, Royal Navy Officer in Charge, Mr Edward Main said: ‘The course provided the opportunity for the cadets to develop various skills that they have acquired during their CCF training and prepare them for the more senior ranks in the section.

‘The busy course included preparing and delivering practical and theory lessons, drill instruction, raising their levels of general RN knowledge, discussion on leadership and snap talks.

‘Following on quite quickly from their demanding AC1* assessments, the cadets are to be congratulated on their effort, enthusiasm and commitment. Well done to all concerned.’

Padi Diving Course

A

head of the start of term, our Year 10 Navy cadets embarked on the first part of their PADI Open Water course with the Nemes Diving Academy.

They spent two days learning the key skills of scuba diving underwater as well as understanding the theory behind diving. Before getting in the water, cadets learnt about the basic safety guidelines for diving, and went over the scuba equipment before finding out what it’s like to breathe underwater.

Once underwater, cadets learnt key skills such as how to clear their masks, how to signal underwater and how to check their oxygen. All 14 cadets passed their theory and are now set to go to Holborough lakes in Kent to complete four open water dives, which will culminate in them achieving their qualification.

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THE SHIELD I MICHAELMAS NEWSLETTER 2020

SDC Connect & Dunstonian Association Talks

T

he Alumni platform was launched a year ago and now has over 700 registered Dunstonians. We have also launched a series of online Dunstonian Talks with our first one being held via Facebook on 1 December by Greg Holder.

DUNSTONIAN LECTURE Sharks AND Marine Conservation Join DUNSTONIAN Greg HOLDER, Free-diver and Scuba Instructor, as he talks about the importance of sharks in the ocean and marine conservation. how can WE help turn the tide on the decline of these incredible animals?

TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER

1830 GMT

LIVE STREAMED ON FACEBOOK

www.facebook.com/DunstonianAssociation

TALK FOLLOWED BY A LIVE Q&A The

Dunstonian Association

Results Day & Year 13 Leavers

W

e were delighted to welcome back our incredible Year 13s following a virtual results day, and their absence during their last term at the College. Although it wasn’t the end that any of us had foreseen, we are so proud of their diligence, hard work and understanding throughout this difficult time. Before they dispersed for pastures new, they were invited back to the College to receive their leaving gifts, and take a few – socially distanced – photos. We wish them all the best of luck for their future endeavours.

SDCONNECT Congratulations After leaving St Dunstan’s College I went straight into a Sports and Exercise Science degree at the University of Exeter. After a stint as a personal trainer in London I decided to pursue a career focused around the ocean and wildlife: I became a scuba dive instructor in Mozambique before becoming a Shark Educator for a Shark conservation organisation in South Africa where I taught interns and visitors the importance of sharks in the ocean life cycle as well as shark’s anatomy, behaviour and identification of species.

On returning to the UK in March 2020 I started up Gingeunderthesea, my personal marine conservation brand, where I have been giving live talks to schools, groups and organisations and sharing as much knowledge and information on sharks and marine conservation as I can.

YOU ARE NOW A MEMBER OF OUR THRIVING WORLDWIDE DUNSTONIAN COMMUNITY!

https://dunstonians.org.uk.

SDConnect will allow you to connect or reunite online with the wider St Dunstan’s Community

SDC Enterprises

E

nterprises is the commercial arm of St Dunstan’s College and is based at the Jubilee Ground, next to Catford Bridge. The grounds are regularly used by local football clubs and state schools but can also be hired privately for parties, wakes or wedding ceremonies.

The Great Hall of the College also holds a wedding licence should you wish to get married at the College itself.

Please contact our Enterprise Manager, Mr Gavin Halil at: ents@stdunstans.org.uk For more information or visit St Dunstan’s Enterprise website at: www.stdunstansenterprises.org.uk.

Please quote DUNST20 to receive a 20% discount on all bookings.

www.stdunstans.org.uk

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Stanstead Road, London SE6 4TY Charity number: 312747 A co-educational, independent College for ages 3 to 18 www.stdunstans.org.uk 020 8516 7200

THE SHIELD I MICHAELMAS NEWSLETTER 2020