The Crown Winter Edition 2024

ST MARGARET’S SCHOOL MAGAZINE

Social media

WHO WE ARE VS WHO WE WANT TO BE

‘SOMETHING’S COMING, SOMETHING GOOD. IT’S GONNA BE GREAT!’

west side story

THE FERMI PARADOX

WHY ARE WE SO ALONE?

Soundtrack of a generation

HOW MUSIC DEFINED EACH DECADE

NOTE

EDITOR’S

Dear Reader,

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, we are delighted to bring you the Winter Edition of The Crown! This issue is a brilliant representation of the talent, hard work and creativity of our students, who have taken the reins to create their own unique articles on topics which they have taken a particular interest towards. This edition has an array of articles from deep, emotionally led articles such as, “Under the Shadows of Addiction”, to heavily debated topics such as “When Suffering Sells”, exploring the damaging consequences of romanticising dark topics in the media. Our writers tackle big issues with depth and passion. Of course, there’s plenty of lighter content to keep your spirits high this winter too!

The Crown is entirely edited, written and formatted by a team of Senior School Pupils, ranging from Year 7 to Year 13. We are very proud of our contributing pupils and we hope you enjoy this edition of The Crown.

Take a moment to dive in, explore each story, and let the words inspire and entertain you!

Iman, Theo & Izzy - Editors

CONTRIBUTORS

P26

Animals: The Real Victims of Climate Change’s Torture

As ever, the magazine would not be possible without help from a number of contributors. Many thanks to the following students for their contributions:

Editing Team

Iman Mirza (Year 13)

Isabel Lewis (Year 13)

Theo Wolstenholme (Year 13)

Heart Joshua (Year 12)

Moni Olaide-Agboola (Year 12)

Daniella (Year 12)

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of St Margaret's School

List of Contributors

Amy Abrahams

Lana Adejolu

Sophia Aria

Elle-Louise Chan

Avi Chohan

Jacob Cohen

Naomi Daudu

Chloe Esmaeili

Annabelle Fadoju

Deborah Gagea

Daniella Godwin-Etim

Anjana Gowthaman

Darcie Hambury

Heart Joshua

Haydar Khakoo

Eashan Kumar

Max Layton

Isabel Lewis

Starlite Mangaru

Nikhil McCoull

Iman Mirza

Darcey Mudd

Monisola Olaide-Agboola

Morin Olaide-Agboola

Jayden Omoniyi

Lana Patel

Hope Phillips-Rhodes

Charlie Ross-Gower

Zayn Shah

Shaheer Shiraz

Ryan West

Sam Wolstenholme

Theo Wolstenholme

The Fermi Paradox Why are we so alone?

The observable universe is around 90 billion light years across and contains an estimated 2 trillion galaxies, each containing 100 million to 100 trillion stars, most of which have at least one planet in their orbit. Given this, it is statistically impossible for Earth to be the only habitable planet in the universe suitable to sustain life. But if that is the case, then where are all the aliens?

The Fermi Paradox is a thought process detailing the strange discrepancy between the lack of proven evidence for advanced alien life and the likelihood of its existence. The name of Italian-American physicist Enrico Fermi, a major figure in the creation of the atomic bomb, is attributed to the paradox because of a conversation had whilst walking to lunch in the summer of 1950 with physicists Herbert Teller, Edward Teller, and Emil Kopinoski. During lunch, Fermi blurted out,  “But where is everybody?” (Though the exact quote may have been different). According to a letter written by Edward Teller, “The result of his question was general laughter because of the strange fact that, in spite of Fermi's question coming out of the blue, everybody around the table seemed to understand at once that he was talking about extraterrestrial life.”

The thought process of this paradox is simple:

There are billions of stars in the milky way.

Some of these stars have Earth-like planets in their habitable zone.

Many of these stars, and thus their planets, are older than our solar system, meaning that a habitable planet could have developed intelligent life a long time ago.

This intelligent life could have developed interstellar travel.

Since many of the sun-like stars are millions of years older than ours, with comparably aged habitable planets, humans statistically should have seen evidence of extraterrestrial life already. However, there is no proven evidence of aliens.

Many possible explanations for the paradox have been made;  however, the “Rare Earth”  hypothesis argues that intelligent life and the circumstances for it to evolve are extremely rare. The “Firstborn”  hypothesis is similar, arguing that humans may be the very first form of intelligent life in the universe. Other proposed solutions to the paradox include; The “Dark Forest” hypothesis, which proposes that there are many intelligent alien civilisations, but they remain undetected and hostile through fear of being destroyed by another hostile civilisation, The “Technological Singularity”, which is a hypothetical point in which technological growth becomes rapid, uncontrollable, and irreversible, resulting in unknown consequences for a civilisation. Both of these hypotheses lean into the theory that it is the nature of intelligent life to destroy either itself, or others.

Max Layton (Year 9)

Many pieces of literature explore this idea, such as Fred Saberhagen's “Berserker” series, in which self-replicating machines left over from an interstellar war strive to destroy all life, and C. M. Kösemens “All Tomorrows”, in which humans centuries in the future encounter an alien race known as the “Qu”, who are motivated by religion to remake all life through genetic engineering, acting out this goal on humans and bioengineering them into many different species, before leaving after a 40-million-year dominion.  Over the next 520 million years, the genetically modified future-humans wage wars on each other, before finally waging war on the Qu and destroying them.

But what does all this mean? Why does any of it matter? Humans are naturally curious animals. We constantly seek to explore, find new places, and reach new frontiers, but the world is only so big, and there's only so much to find. Now that the earth has been explored, the next step for humanity is space. We have wondered about life on other planets for centuries, and many attempts have been made to contact aliens; The Voyager Golden Records, the Arecibo Message, the Pioneer Plaques, and the Cosmic Call Messages. Of course, each of these have shown us nothing, but we still look to the stars, wondering if there is life out there. For now, though, we are completely alone - trapped on a burning world in the infinite expanse of space. Does that thought scare you? Well, it should. If we allow life to die out on this planet, life would be gone, perhaps forever. The universe would be truly empty. What’s the point of anything if nobody is there to see it? If this is, in fact, the case, then we should see it as our duty to nurture and spread the delicate flame of life until the uncaring, ever forward marching of time steals the universe's final breath and brings everything that ever has been to a close.

Social Media:

Who we are vs who we want to be

There is a high probability that you have YouTube, TikTok or Snapchat making you part of the 5.17 billion people, including us, that use these apps. We are hardwired to want to feel part of a community, including the digital community, so we spend our time trying to fit in with people we see online. We need to remember that billions of people have fabricated unrealistic images of themselves online and these could alter our beliefs in multiple ways.

What are trends?

Why do we feel pressured by them?

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, a trend is a ‘a general development or change in a situation or in the way people are behaving.’

We tend to feel a sense of loneliness when we watch people online perform trends that we may be unable to take part of. This leaves us longing to be included in these trends in order for us to grow in popularity. Here are a few factors to which we think that people might feel pressured to take part in trends: you can see your friends taking part in them, repeatedly watching different trends until it consumes you or not feeling complete unless you join in on ‘the fun.’

Fashion Trends

Annabelle Fadoju and Amy Abrahams

(Year 8)

In our generation, finding yourself, knowing your style and identity, has become a movement. This is most commonly seen in the world of fashion, which dominates our society, causing people to feel obligated to keep up with the ever changing trends. You find many people talking about finding their ‘aesthetic’ and always trying to purchase the latest brands but we need to recognise that this could have multiple effects on people, both positively and negatively. There are many people who are not aware of the consequences of buying expensive clothing just to wear it once or twice in a season. Not only could this cause financial problems, from buying the latest clothes every month, it could also lead to large masses of clothing waste as hundreds throw out the clothes they feel are ‘out of season’.

Unfortunately, we have moved from the idea of finding yourself to the need for popularity. The belief is that if you follow a certain trend you could get noticed by friends, family and even strangers online or in person. But when people make being seen by others their entire personality, this could lead to several other problems.

For teenagers and young adults, finding your style and ‘aesthetic’ acts as a self-esteem boost. When some people look into their wardrobe, they see a form of identity and how they are viewed by others. Social media has completely transformed the fashion industry with apps like Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook playing serious roles in shaping and influencing trends affecting the choices of young people.

Social Media’s Impact on Mental Health

When people go online and view others posting their ‘perfect’ lives on social media, many watch for enjoyment, but when some people see these videos, the only things they notice are the things they don’t have.  Social media can overpower people's emotions. Fuelling anxiety, depression and self-hate by seeing the fabricated lives of others online. ‘They are prettier than me’ and ‘Their lives are so much better than mine’ are some of the things that run through their minds. This mindset is what some people live with every day; constantly comparing themselves to the people they see online. Wanting to live the lives of others, changing themselves to be like these people, and never being able to be happy with themselves. In the media, there is something called the ‘Highlight Reel’. This is when users only display the best moments of their life on their accounts. Now, of course that is okay, but having access to view other people’s perfect lives can cause us to feel unsatisfied with our own everyday lives. This could lower our self-esteem, begin social anxiety and increase FOMO (fear of missing out).

Michael R. Solomon, professor and chair of Haub School of Business at St. Joseph's University department of marketing, said to FashionUnited:“The potential is there for fashion to address specific mental health issues. People can use clothing to express their uniqueness and affiliate with other tastes. I once read many years ago that clothing with stripes can help schizophrenic people maintain a sense of identity, but that was very speculative and there has been an absolute lack of research on this. There is certainly a relationship, in my opinion, between expressive cues, like fashion, and the way we feel about ourselves.” This quote is a great example demonstrating how trying to be like other people can make or break us and that we need to find a style that makes us happy. If many people are wearing one thing, it doesn’t mean you have to wear it too. We believe that everyone should find themselves one day and it shouldn't be from the influence of other people we view online.

When Suffering Sells: The Romanticisation of dark topics in the media

The Sensationalisation of Domestic Violence In the Media

It is no secret that the recently released film adaptation of “It Ends With Us” has caused much controversy. From the mixed marketing strategies of the film itself, to the rigid dichotomy between Colleen Hoover fans and Colleen Hoover haters, the question remains: does the good that can come from shedding light on real-world issues and stigmas outweigh the immorality of using trauma as a plot point for financial gain?

On the one hand, one cannot deny that the film has brought about debates on the issue of domestic violence and its portrayal in the media, with Jacob Baldoni in particular using the opportunity opened up by the film’s premier to advocate. As suggested by Natasha Jokic, “meaningful depictions of trauma can literally change lives”. In discussing a topic that causes people from around the world to suffer in silence, having had their voices savagely taken from them by their abusers, we are breaking down boundaries and projecting the message that this cannot continue.

The protagonist, “Lily Bloom”, is forced to confront the abnormality of her relationship with “Ryle”, outwardly acknowledging that his violent behaviour towards her is not okay, that these instances are not just “accidents”, and that it must end here, finding clarity by the end of the film. One may argue that it strikes a perfect balance between the delusion of Lily herself, in believing that what is happening to her is acceptable, the occurrence of lighthearted moments in times of insurmountable darkness, and the raw, cathartic end in breaking the cycle of abuse are all suitable directorial choices, many of which may resonate with individuals affected by domestic violence.

Blake Lively claims that “You really feel like we delivered a story that’s emotional and it’s fun and it’s funny and it’s painful and it’s scary and it's tragic and it's inspiring, and that's what life is”. However, there is something distinctly crude about exploiting such a delicate matter, marketing it as a “romance”, and encouraging its audience “wear their florals”, as if the issues it covers are suitably entertaining for a day out with friends and family, rather than an opportunity to bear witness to the emotional turmoil of an individual subject to domestic violence, and from this, to deduce what should be done.

Indeed, there are other ways of marketing a film of such heavy substance; ones which warn its viewers of the distressing content it conveys so that those directly affected can choose whether they would like to see it or not.

In the same vein, Hoover has acquired a reputation as a romance author, when in reality It Ends With Us is no romance story. Instead, it is a dark, twisted, story of a girl who failed to recognise the signs that her relationship was far from normal. Even labelling it as a “dark romance” romanticises the genre in a vastly unhelpful way.

The matter of its glorification of domestic violence has been heavily contested in recent months. Critiques of the popular novel have suggested that it is exceptionally harmful to the young and impressionable minds of its fanbase. A particular point of reference is its young female audience, in insinuating that it is okay to be complacent at the receiving end of physical violence. Notably, it fails to advocate the importance of pursuing legal action, and, in fact, there are even instances where Lily is dissuaded from doing this, with the book endorsing her decision not to. Although the book could alternatively be read as a deliberately imperfect representation of domestic violence, this does not detract from the impact of its characters’ decisions on the thought processes of young people Ultimately, as a work of fiction, the book misses a perfect opportunity to convey what should be done in these circumstances and inspire the next generation to stand up against domestic abuse.

Isabel Lewis and Theo Wolstenholme (Year 13)

The Romanticisation of Mental Health In the Media

Mental health representation in the media has increased significantly in recent years, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma. While this visibility raises awareness, it can also lead to harmful consequences when mental health struggles are romanticised. The line between creating empathy and glorifying suffering is thin, and many portrayals risk trivialising the real challenges faced by those living with mental illness.

Books like Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow depict mental illness and self-harm in raw, unflinching ways, but they can also unintentionally romanticise suffering. This occurs when mental illness is presented as intrinsic to a person’s identity, making pain seem inevitable or even artistic. Such portrayals may lead audiences to believe that their struggles define them, glorifying self-destructive behaviours rather than encouraging recovery. In contrast, Heartstopper by Alice Oseman offers a healthier, more delicate representation of mental health. The character Charlie, who struggles with anxiety and an eating disorder, is portrayed with sensitivity, focusing on the importance of support, empathy, and professional help. This depiction avoids glorifying his struggles, instead showing that recovery is possible through openness and care.

Romanticising mental health issues can be particularly harmful to vulnerable audiences, especially when media normalises self-harm or suicide, as seen in 13 Reasons Why. Such portrayals can distort the perception of mental illness, making suffering seem noble or inevitable. Authentic portrayals should highlight the complexities of mental health while promoting hope and recovery, as seen in shows like BoJack Horseman and Euphoria.

Ultimately, the media has the power to shape perceptions of mental health. It’s essential that creators strike a balance, depicting struggles honestly without reducing them to tragic spectacles. By facilitating empathy and emphasising healing, media can support more compassionate and responsible portrayals of mental illness, encouraging those in need to seek help.

The Etymology of Slang DATING BACK TO Shakespeare

Slang, or in other words, informal language, is a type of language that consists of words and phrases that are more common in speech (and texting) than writing, and this type of speech has evolved over the ages. In this article we will be looking at the way slang has evolved from the language that Shakespeare would have used, all the way to this generation's new slang, Brain Rot.

Language constantly evolves and changes over time, new words are invented, and become popular, including the recent craze “Brain Rot”.

The earliest language can be seen dating back to 5000 BCE in the form of Sanskrit. Surprisingly they also had slang in the ancient world like भाड (which means buffoon or airhead). This shows that slang has always been a part of our language, it’s integral for language to evolve. Without slang a language would not survive. Language evolves as younger people want to discuss without adults understanding.

It is believed that Shakespeare introduced around 1,700 original words into the language. How did he do this? By changing nouns into verbs, connecting

words that had never been used together before or adding prefixes like un- or – into some pre-existing words, for example; unaware, uneducated, unreal. Shakespeare's influence on the English language is monumental. Beyond coining approximately 1,700 original words, he also popularised many existing words and phrases such as ‘wild goose chase’. Phrases like this and many others would have been used like slang. Insults were also used as slang such as "I'll beat thee, but I would infect my hands.” which was then used as slang.

Slang has greatly evolved from Shakespearean times and has given us the current ‘Brain Rot’ we have today. Brain rot, a term used to describe new generations slang, is often associated with YouTube Shorts and TikTok attached children with tablets permanently attached to their hands. The word “brain rot” suggests that someone's ability to function or pay attention is worse. It started being used in online communities and social media to describe the feeling of being overwhelmed by too much information or content. People have been using it online since at least 2007, and it became more popular in the 2010s and 2020s. The term highlights worries about how internet culture can affect mental health, making people feel tired and distracted from work. There are two ways that the internet generally likes to use brain rot terms, these being, ironically and unique.

Brain rot has had a massive impact on the younger generations as more and more 3 - 8 year olds continue to immerse themselves in more content containing brain rot. It has become such a worldwide problem that kids around the world would watch the famous internet sensation known as skibidi toilet and then crawl into a bin, box, or anything of the like and pretend to be the iconic creature itself. This is known as “Skibidi Toilet Syndrome”.

As we can see, through the ages things come and go just like slang, except slang develops into new things. All of the factors we have explained contribute to the idea of an ever evolving slang, this article exemplifies the idea that the ways that people speak align with the combined elements that make their time unique and so because of this the words that whole generations pioneer are never ending, showing the sheer creativity of whole generations . Many people can be highly critical of slang however without this, slang language itself would never evolve. As well as this, for many young people, slang shows expression and unique communication. The lovely thing is that everybody in every generation has  slang. Perhaps you can ask your parents about any slang they used when they were your age.

Charlie Ross-Gower, Lana Adejolu, Avi Chohan and Shaheer Shiraz (Year 9)

Under the shadows of Addiction

P.J. O’Rouke, an American author and journalist, famously said, ‘If I give up drinking, smoking, and fatty food, I can add ten years to my life. Trouble is, I’ll add it to the wrong end’. This witty quote cleverly addresses the very unsettling indifference society presents to very extreme topics like drug and alcohol abuse. Despite the fact that they frequently result in tragic and even fatal outcomes for individuals and families, we regard them as the ‘social lubricants’ to enjoying our lives. When will we put a stop to these idealised and normalised behaviours? In this article, we will explore the rate at which society accepts substance abuse and its detrimental effects on people. Hopefully, you’ll decide for yourself whether the excitement is truly worth the suffering.

Alcohol consumption is frequently glamorised and presented as ‘hip’ or an intriguing experience on television. Although we wouldn't realise it, a persistent perception from this angle would gradually persuade us that drinking alcohol is necessary for happiness or to fit in. Television programs geared towards a younger demographic, such as Euphoria, have a profound impact on the mentality of teenagers. This is because teenagers may relate to this since the main character herself is a teenager.  Imagine the experience of a teenager who doesn't do these things, but feels compelled to engage in drug or alcohol consumption activities just because so many other teenagers in their age group do. This is how normalisation of drugs is introduced from a young age.

Peer pressure is defined as the influence on a person from members of one’s peer group. It is so common these days that it can be difficult to recognise when you are a victim of it. It may occur over an extended period of time, and since these things are all around you, you feel obligated to accept it. Parties and concerts are examples of social gatherings that may be significant sources of peer pressure. People feel the need to get into the "mood" during these events, which leads to them using drugs or alcohol. Continuous exposure to this could be interpreted as peer pressure, but keep in mind that it doesn't need to come from coercion.

Although alcoholism can be portrayed as a negative thing towards children, adults often see it as something to reward themselves with. Alcohol, even though in the long run is bad for anyone, short term, it’s pictured as something to relieve stress or sadness. It can be seen as something good in some instances. However alcohol being advertised as something good might do more damage than good if it reaches the wrong audience. Around the ages of your young teenage years till 25, your brain is still developing and so are your routines. For older people with jobs and children alcohol might be seen as something you can use for relief, but for younger adults who might not have as much going on other than school, when they begin to consume alcohol for these same reasons they are easily addicted. Their brains automatically add it to their routines and they easily start to depend on alcohol more.

Alcohol and drugs in the long term have detrimental impacts to all aspects of a person’s life. Alcohol and drug use in families have destabilised many families affecting communication and growth within their home. Drugs affect a person’s physical capabilities which causes neglect of responsibilities or inability to perform important duties. For a parent, this stunts growth within their relationship with their child, as the child feels they are less important to their parents.

Use of drugs and alcohol clouds one’s cognitive function which may ultimately lead to domestic violence, where the user abuses those around them, as they are unable to rationalise their emotions. This will cause a huge divide in one’s family as the individuals on the receiving end of the abuse begin to avoid the abuser due to fear. This trauma may stay with the abusee and they may adopt this unhealthy relationship with drugs. Lastly, a key impact of alcohol and drugs is the negative impact it has on a person’s financial situation. More money is invested in feeding their addiction than into more important expenditures. It is particularly worse if they have a family as they have less money to spend on taking care of the welfare of the household and may only be left with one source of income if the abuser of the drugs loses their job. This creates a strain on the family and can cause resentment towards the abuser.

Shameless, a tv show, perfectly models the negative impacts the use of drugs and alcohol by parental figures have on the rest of the family. The show follows an older sister who is left to take care of her 4 siblings as both her parents abuse drugs and eventually leave the family to fend for their own. The children encounter: financial problems as they only lean on the income of their sister, run-ins with the law as the sister is unable to look after her siblings and some develop mental health issues due to the trauma caused by their parents' addiction. This represents how the misuse of alcohol and drugs only causes disadvantages in the lives of those around them.

Overall, society has failed to give the essential education and resources to the appropriate audience for substance abuse prevention. Instead of focusing on preventative measures, the emphasis has switched to dealing with the effects of addiction once it has taken hold. While providing assistance to people who have fallen victim to drug abuse is unquestionably vital, it is also critical to focus attention on those who have not yet been impacted in order to keep them from becoming victims in the first place.

Agboola, Daniella Godwin-Etim (Year 12)

This absence of early intervention is most obvious among people of colour (POCs), notably in countries such as the United States. In these communities, the dominant narrative is that any engagement with drugs—whether through possession, use, or association—will result in harsh legal consequences, such as incarceration or community service. This fear encourages individuals growing up in houses with drug abuse to keep their suffering and troubles hidden rather than seek help. Over time, this silence might have a domino effect, adding to the breakdown of that person's life. Such effects could be prevented by implementing accessible support systems that promote open communication and early intervention.

In conclusion, we think that communities that experience a great deal of abuse require support, as it is ridiculous enough that we must state this. Our society has clearly failed to protect thousands of victims from abuse, but we cannot give up too quickly. Even in the smallest environment, family counselling, school lectures and community events have a significant impact. In order to discourage the younger generation from living that way and to motivate them to discover more healthy coping mechanisms, it is imperative that they get education on abuse. Rehab should also be promoted in society as well. Although some people disagree with the idea, we have very few options, but with the help of technology, various programs, and investment, we should be able to prevent substance abuse from taking millions of lives.

HOW MUSIC DEFINED THE DECADES SOUNDTRACK OF A GENERATION

Music has always been a mirror to the soul of society, reflecting the highs and lows, the celebrations, and the struggles of each era. Through its lyrics, rhythms, and melodies, it encapsulates the mood and values of a generation. As I explored the iconic sounds of the past decades, I discovered not only the evolution of music but also its role as a storyteller of history.

The 1960s: A Revolution of Change

The 1960s are often regarded as the decade of change, and the music was no exception. Artists used their platforms to challenge norms and inspire movements. Among the defining tracks of the decade was ‘Hey Jude’ (1968) by The Beatles. The song became a cultural anthem that continues to resonate with audiences today.with its timeless message of hope and encouragement. Tracks like Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” became a defining anthem of the 1960s, deeply intertwined with the social and political movements of the time. Its deceptively simple lyrics posed profound questions about peace and freedom. Motown, founded by Berry Gordy in 1959, also played a pivotal role in shaping the music and culture, crafting a distinctive sound that blended soul, pop, and R&B. This “Motown Sound” became instantly recognisable and not only brought Black culture into the mainstream but also provided a platform for political expression, with songs like Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” addressing the social issues of war, poverty, and civil rights.

The 1970s: Musical Innovation and Rock Rebellion

The 1970s were a decade of musical experimentation and transformation, with artists pushing genre boundaries and redefining popular music. Queen emerged as one of the most innovative bands of the era, blending rock, opera, and theatricality. Their 1975 masterpiece Bohemian Rhapsody defied conventional song structure and became a groundbreaking hit, cementing their status as rock legends. Fleetwood’s Mac blend of rock, pop, and folk elements reached its peak with Rumours (1977), one of the best-selling albums of all time. Elton John’s flamboyant persona and eclectic musical style made him a household name. His album Goodbye

Yellow Brick Road (1973) was a milestone in his career, blending rock, pop, and glam influences into a cohesive and innovative sound. David Bowie’s ever-evolving personas, particularly during his Ziggy Stardust era, made him a glam rock icon and a pioneer in challenging gender and sexuality norms. The disco era also flourished, with artists like Donna Summer and the Bee Gees dominating the charts. Disco’s upbeat rhythms offered escapism and celebration amid political tensions. Tracks like “Stayin’ Alive” and “I Will Survive” became anthems of both the disco movement and the LGBTQ+ community, soundtracking the vibrant nightlife of the time.

The 1980s: The Rise of Technology and Iconic Icons

The 1980s was a transformative decade for music, driven by new genres, ground-breaking technology, and iconic moments. The launch of MTV in 1981 revolutionised the industry, making music videos central to an artist’s success and transforming how music was consumed. Events like the 1985 Live Aid concert showcased music’s power to unite, with legendary performances from Queen, David Bowie, and U2. Michael Jackson’s Thriller (1982), the bestselling album of all time, cemented his global icon status, while Madonna became the “Queen of Pop” with her empowering album Like a Virgin (1984). Synth-pop and new wave also defined the era, with bands like Duran Duran popularising electronic music through the use of synthesisers and drum machines, shaping the future of pop.

The 1990s: Grunge, Hip-Hop, and Pop Culture Explosion

The 1990s were a pivotal decade for music, marked by new genres and the rise of global pop culture. Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (1991) became an anthem for the grunge movement and marked the mainstream arrival of alternative rock. Meanwhile, hip-hop became the dominant genre, with artists like

Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Dr. Dre, and Snoop Dogg bringing rap to the forefront. The Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” (1996) symbolised the “girl power” movement and became a global pop phenomenon, while boy bands like the Backstreet Boys and NSYNC captured millions with infectious pop hits. Britney Spears emerged as the “Princess of Pop,” with “…Baby One More Time” launching her to superstardom. Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill (1995) blended rock with raw, confessional lyrics, becoming a defining album of the decade. Mariah Carey’s five-octave vocal range and chart-topping hits made her one of the decade’s best-selling artists, while Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” (1992) cemented her legacy.

The 2000s and Beyond: A Digital Revolution and Modern Icons

The 2000s and beyond have been marked by dramatic shifts in the music industry and the explosion of hip-hop to the dominance of pop superstars. The launch of iTunes in 2001 and the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music transformed how music was consumed, while YouTube allowed artists to connect directly with fans, leading to viral moments like Psy’s “Gangnam Style” (2012), the first video to reach 1 billion views. In addition, music festivals like Coachella starting in 1999, quickly grew into one of the largest and most influential music festivals in the world. Pop has thrived, with Taylor Swift leading the charge.

Her ever-evolving sound, showcased in albums like 1989, Folklore, and Midnights, and her record-breaking Eras Tour have cemented her as a cultural icon. Justin Bieber, who rose to fame with hits like “Baby,” has evolved into a global superstar with tracks like “Sorry” and “Peaches.” Beyoncé remains one of music’s most influential figures, redefining pop and R&B with visual albums like Lemonade (2016) and Renaissance (2022) celebrating house music and Black queer culture. One Direction redefined boy bands in the early 2010s with hits like “What Makes You Beautiful.” Following their hiatus, Harry Styles has become a cultural icon with hits like “As It Was” from albums such as Fine Line and Harry’s House. Pop’s leading ladies also shine, with Sabrina Carpenter gaining acclaim for her vulnerable 2024 album Short N Sweet, and Chappell Roan building a cult following with theatrical tracks like “Pink Pony Club.” Icons like Ariana Grande (thank u, next) and Dua Lipa (Future Nostalgia) remain dominant forces, while Billie Eilish’s haunting debut When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? established her as a Gen Z voice. K-pop’s global rise, led by BTS and BLACKPINK, has expanded the boundaries of pop music, making this era one of the most dynamic and exciting in music history.

Looking back, it’s clear that music doesn’t just define each decade, but rather it unites us, challenges us, and gives us a voice. As we listen to the soundtracks of the past, we can better understand where we’ve been and where we’re headed. Perhaps that’s the true magic of music: its ability to capture not only a moment in time but the essence of who we are.

Iman Mirza (Year 13)

Who Are You Really? Unpacking the 16 Personalities Test

Do you want to learn more about yourself? Well, this article will cover everything you need to know about your own personality, how to improve yourself as a person using cognitive functions and also how to identify the personalities of your friends!

To put it simply, a psychologist named Carl Jung said that there were four principal psychological functions: sensing, feeling, intuition and thinking. This was taken further to make sixteen personality types, which are separated between introverted and extroverted, sensing and intuition, thinking and feeling, and prospecting and judging.

When taking the test, you should answer honestly and with no bias. Many people have been mistyped because they haven’t taken the test properly. The personality type you are given may change over time, so don’t be too surprised if you find that you have a different personality to what you were originally given!

Each personality type has four main cognitive functions which are the Dominant, Auxiliary, Tertiary and Inferior. They each have a unique set of these functions and they make up the personality types. These personalities provide a treasure trove of insights, from career compatibility to relationship dynamics, and help individuals to understand how to navigate their lives better.

Take note that the personality type test on the 16personalities website is not perfect and gives you a personality type depending upon which you are closest to - the personality type you are given does not define who you are as all people are different and unique in their own way!

The Analysts

The Analysts are the personality types with Intuitive and Thinking, known for their rationality and intellectual excellence

Sam Wolstenholme (Year 10)

The Diplomats

The Diplomats are personality types with Intuitive and Feeling, known for their idealism, empathy and diplomatic skills.

The Sentinels

The Sentinels are personality types with Sensing and Judging, known for their practicality and focus, security and stability

The Explorers

The Explorers are personality types with Sensing and Prospecting, known for their spontaneity, ingenuity and flexibility

Beauty standards or standardised beauty?

Is it right for a teenager to drown themselves in makeup and others’ opinions?

Beauty standards have plagued our society for centuries, taking a wide variety of different forms but maintaining one consistent trend; they make people feel like a lesser version of themselves. This is a universal experience and we must recognise that what we see on social media is not always the truth.

The effects of a beauty standard

Darcey Mudd (Year 8)

Teenagers in this current age are expected to look like people they see online. Tiktok is a social media app where people are free to post videos of themselves dancing, getting ready for the day, marketing and so much more. Young children and teenagers often watch videos of people lip syncing to famous songs and audios. This leads people of all ages to believe that the people in these videos are a standard, something they have to match and fit into. However, it's often not very truthful…

Filters

People tend to believe whatever they see onlineespecially when it comes to appearances. However, what happens behind the scenes is a different story. When we see influencers, content creators or other teenagers making a video, most people believe that now they have to go and cover themselves in the most expensive, trending makeup and expect the same results. Things are not as they seem. What people normally forget is that influencers get paid to promote products and the results they show are often deceptive.

How has this started?

Beauty standards have had a domino effect on the social world and tiktok. People will regularly check for new trends - whether it's in makeup, fashion or even the way we act around others. Famous influencers like Katie Fang will promote products and the results they show might not always be completely honest.

Is this unusual?

This is an extremely common theme. People are easily influenced by others around them; from the way people style their hair to how clear their skin is, social media only makes this issue worse, projecting standards and ways of living that are unattainable to the everyday person.

In conclusion, beauty standards have developed significantly, with this having a serious impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of the whole population.

Acolyte: Smashing success or burning mess?

On the 4th of June, Disney released a show that sparked debates across the entire globe, especially Star Wars fans. The Acolyte. The $180 million dollar project, directed by Leslye Headland, was a highly anticipated show Star Wars fans were yearning for. As soon as the first episode was released, fans rushed to watch due to the excitement built over countless advertisements and promotions. However, there was severe backlash. While investigating this show, I made several discoveries as to why The Acolyte was so far from a smashing success amongst the Star Wars community.

First of all, The Acolyte reviews are far from good. On IMDB, the reviews for the show were shocking with an average 4.5 rating. This is for many reasons. For a start, many fans disliked the story. One fan claimed that the show was, “A horrible, horrible show.” Some say it was bland and dull and leaves the audience underwhelmed and disappointed. Also, many agreed that the writing for The Acolyte was very poor quality. The dialogue used by the characters of the show was incredibly boring and lacked imagination. And lastly: the story. It was very incomprehensible and was extremely difficult to understand . Unlike other Star Wars shows which could be considered smashing successes such as The Mandalorian, the Acolyte’s story could be considered extremely dull and lacking potential.

Although the Acolyte made many mistakes and left Star War fans highly disappointed, the show did provide the viewers with a few successful moments. The sequel films of Star Wars made fans increasingly bored with repetitive lightsaber fights, however the Acolyte makes up for this. The choreography is well crafted and the fights tense and fast paced. Another great feature was the new type of story. Many Disney made Star Wars shows revolve around one time period, but the Acolyte is set 100 years before the first film, The Phantom Menace, providing an interesting backstory for the famous films. Another heavily debated topic with the Acolyte was the cost of creation. It was estimated that each episode of the Acolyte cost $22.5 million dollars. So, being 8 episodes in total, it took a staggering $180 million dollars to create. Some fans would rather the money go towards other projects such as the upcoming Mandalorian series or Andor Season 2.

Overall, the Acolyte looked great on paper and Star Wars fans were highly anticipating new Star Wars content. However, the Acolyte was unable to deliver. Many fans couldn't even believe that this series was part of the Star Wars series. Viewers are hoping that the upcoming Disney Star Wars series such as Andor Season 2 be a success and blow that lacklustre show straight out the water!

Ryan West (Year 8)

Is there life on Mars? Could there be?

Scientists predict the earth will end in 7.59 billion years and that earth’s greenhouse effects will spin out of control, leading to all the water on the planet evaporating and ending all life forms as we know it.

Why are people so interested in mars?

The earth is dying and humans need a new hope. Something to keep in faith with as some people believe that the Earth will die if we continue to mistreat our planet by continuing oor polluting and destructive ways. Death.. is inevitable, so be ready!!

People are interested in planet mars because it is a lot like the Earth. Mars is the only planet where humans have sent rovers to roam its surface. Mars used to have water like Earth flowing everywhere. Mars could have mysteries and could tell us more about the Universe. It is one of the only places in the universe where we know life could have existed. Mars is also partly in the habitable zone of the Sun just like the Earth.

What is Terraformation

Terraforming is the process of transforming a planet/moon to resemble Earth, especially so human life can thrive on it. In this case, instead of letting natural processes take their place we forcefully make Mars habitable.

What research has been done on Mars about living there?

Mars remains our horizon goal for human exploration because what other options do we have? Humanity has done a great deal of research into the possibility of terraforming the planet. For example, we have sent the following rovers to investigate : Sojourner(sent in 1997), Spirit (sent in 2003), Opportunity (sent in 2003), Curiosity (sent in 2011) and Perseverance (sent in 2021). They have not found any life but there have been discoveries on some of the rocks that have had chemicals that could have supported life billions of years ago. Space X is a space company that was founded by Elon Musk in 2002 and they say that in 2026, they will launch 5 uncrewed starship rockets to Mars and if it all goes well, they will launch crewed flights to Mars 4 years later. NASA is advancing their technologies so that astronauts can be sent to Mars as early as the 2030s.

With the current technology we have right now, we might not be able to terraform Mars and make it like Earth. However, since we know quite a lot about Mars and even have robots on it all the time, it is not entirely impossible. Maybe in the next few decades when our technology is far more advanced we will be able to see Mars as our future home? But what if there are people hungry for money, greed and power. People who would do anything in their power to achieve their goals; maybe, just maybe they would be ready to sabotage the plans for terraformation…

Eashan Kumar and Jayden Omoniyi (Year 8)

Loss: How to help

When life gets a little sad for someone you love it is hard to know what to say or do. What if I say something wrong and I trigger them? What if I can't be the shoulder they need? All of these things are very reasonable problems to have. Those that are bereaved will usually have many mood swings filled with sadness and depression. If they don't have someone they can speak to then usually they spiral out of control. Emotions flying left and right as you stand there the first to be preyed on by ugly angry emotions. This makes people uncomfortable with offering a helping hand.  That is why this article is here to give the best tips!

Helping Tip 1: Respect their grieving process

If it’s making dark jokes to shutting people out, be there whenever they need it. Don't judge how they grieve just because you wouldn’t do it. It could be being helpful to you but to them you are being unnecessarily pushy. There is never a right or wrong way to grieve. No one grieves the same way as another. The better you personally understand grief and loss the better help you are to them. Never expect them to grieve at a particular time no matter what you read online no one has a timetable they follow when they are depressed. Yes, perhaps they will get over it quicker than you expected, but bringing it up often will just send them spiralling again. If they are taking really long then don't rush their process as it could actually elongate their healing process.

Helping Tip 2: What to say

Sometimes you don't even need to say much, just listen to what they have to say. Usually people avoid the subject and steer away any conversations about it. And if they know whatever they say won't make any difference they stay away from the person. Whereas mature people will deliberately bring it up so that the person grieving can have some time to talk about it. Maybe they want to go over memories, sit in silence, vent or cry on your shoulder. Either way, listening and holding them up will really show who you are as a person. The better you react around them the better the person will get.

Elle-Louise Chan (Year 9)

Things to avoid saying

‘He/She is in a better place now’ Maybe the person grieving doesn’t believe that and won’t understand why they were not happy here.

‘Look at what you have to be thankful for’ A person robbed by death usually knows that they have so many things to be grateful for but that would never be in mind when they are sad.

‘It's part of god's plan’  What plan were they talking about? They might be religious and find this angering and unhelpful.

‘What happened is behind you, you should get on with you life’ usually the bereaved feel guilty as if, if they moved on, the person that passed would be forgotten. A memory to be forgotten. Everything is much easier said than done.

Stay away from things starting ‘you should’ or’ you will’. It makes you sound arrogant. I suggest saying things like ‘have you thought about’ or ‘you might try’ as they are less direct.

Helping Tip 3: Offer your assistance

Sometimes it is hard to talk about your feelings without feeling like a burden or maybe you can be too depressed to ask for help. Instead of letting them know that  if they want to talk to you there you can be more demanding like ‘I have tickets to a film, let me know when you're free as soon as you can’. Staying consistent will let the person know that you will be there for them without them even trying.

Here are some suggestions:

Running their errands with them

You could go to support groups together

Stay with them for a few nights for fun (if you’re comfortable to)

If they have kids or pets you could help look after them

Clean and do housework with or for them

Have food or do fun activities together  Make food or drop it off for them

Helping Tip 4: Watch for any signs of depression or mental illness

It can be hard to diagnose actual illnesses as you probably aren't a therapist or doctor. But sometimes regular sadness can evolve into something worse like clinical depression and that can hurt the bereaved mental illness a lot. If their symptoms don't slowly start to fade away or even get worse then they may be dealing with depression.

Signs of depression:

Uncalled for bursts of anger or bitterness

Withdrawal from others

Talking about death or suicide

Difficulty with functioning in daily life

Neglecting personal hygiene

Using alcohol and drugs

Unable to enjoy life

I hope that this article will help you with whoever you are helping through these hard times. Thank you for taking your time to read this and I hope that you never actually  have to use these facts. Remember to stay positive and not to give up. You will be helping that bereaved person more than you know!

From food to fitness: Nikocado Avocado

Nicklos Perrys also known as Nikocado Avocado is a staple in the influencer world at large. He went from being a classical musician to one of the best figures in the world of online content. Also known as the king of mukbangs, his YouTube videos blew up in 2016 as he was known for his unhealthy eating habits.

A Mukbang is a video, especially one that is live streamed, that features a person eating a large quantity of food and addressing the audience. Mukbangs played a pivotal role in streaming as it has an unsettling way of engaging the viewer. The honest truth is that it is a form of an eating disorder. We, as a society, chose to ignore this, as these ASMR-like videos entertain us but the longer we ignore this, the more detrimental it becomes to people who engage with the videos.

What are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders, according to the Oxford Dictionary, are behavioural conditions identified by serious and persistent disturbance in eating behaviours and associated distressing thoughts and feelings.

Social media plays a huge role in the incentivisation of eating disorders. After gaining popularity, Nikocado Avocado was persuaded to do more extreme content. Viewers push for bigger quantities of food with higher calories and more dramatic and emotional reactions which would push him to attain all these unrealistic expectations.  These videos push and promote unhealthy diets not only on him but on the individuals watching the videos.

Years after his fame, Nikocado Avocado became dangerously overweight and this drastic change in his weight gained attention from his 4.5 million followers and unfortunately, he received backlash from his once loyal followers. They called him names: fat, sick, boring and irrelevant. All of which would have an intense effect on his life. Soon after, he began to crave for these comments, likes and subscriptions from his viewers and this took a toll on his mental and physical health. These body shaming comments lead to high body dysmorphia which leads to very extreme measures being taken by Nikocado Avocado to cause immense and instant change to his weight.

In September 2024, he announced that he had lost a lot of weight over two years. Nikocado Avocado, once weighing 411 pounds, had lost 253 pounds and now weighed 158 pounds. His weight loss journey shocked fans as he revealed his body transformation in recent times.

Deborah Gagea, Naomi Daudu, Lana Patel, Anjana Gowthaman (Year 8)

His Journey

Nikocado Avocado said he started his journey around two years ago when he started eating healthier and exercising. He took drastic measures like shaving his head so he would remain hidden in the eyes of the public.

He expressed his realisation for the criticism that his Mukbang got. He said that he felt like he was promoting unhealthy eating habits and disorders, animal cruelty, and food waste. He said he had noticed a change in his mood that made him easily agitated and he wasn’t satisfied with his behaviour.

Although the process of losing weight wasn’t easy for him, he said he realised he had to push himself. He was already struggling with various mental conditions like Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD. He said that he had realised that eating became emotional to him and took over his lifestyle.

There was a lot of criticism around his weight loss as fans believed that he had staged his journey with some even saying that his transformation was made by taking drugs but he made sure to tell everyone that taking that much of a weight loss drug would result in fatal

illnesses. He said that now he sees his critics as ‘ants’ who stick to their online story. He also famously said, ‘People are the most messed up creatures on the entire planet.’

His journey and message shows the perseverance and self-awareness that he has built up to reach where he is. We believe that Nikocado Avocado should prove as a message to anyone out there that resilience and perseverance can lead to astonishing changes in the lives of people who need it.

Nikhil McCoull (Year

7)

Animals: The Real Victims of Climate Change

Mahatma Gandhi once said, ‘Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's need, but not every man’s greed.’ I agree with the quote because I think it's a good representation of the world right now. We, as humans, always want more and now, as a consequence, we have climate change. Climate change is long term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. It has drastic effects on many things in our environment like wildfires, a rise in sea levels and glaciers but the one thing I would like to talk about is the immense effect of climate change on animals.

Causes of climate change

There are two causes of climate change: Natural and Human causes. The media informs us about how things like greenhouse gases and deforestation can have huge impacts on climate change but I believe that there is a wider variety of things that have an impact on climate change.

The natural causes of climate change are geological factors like Volcanoes, Earthquakes and other natural disasters that cause the earth to heat up whilst the human causes of climate change are social factors like burning fossil fuels, cutting down forests and farming livestock. All of these cause an average rise in temperature of 1.5ºC on Earth annually.

What animals are affected by climate change?

Endangerment is the action of putting someone or something at risk of danger. Many animals are endangered because of climate change. Animals are becoming extinct because of a rise in the temperature, even animals like Elephants in Africa and Camels in the Sahara that are used to the heat now find it unbearable.

Both animals on land and in the sea are affected by climate change. Some examples of animals on land affected by climate change are Tigers, Giraffes, Polar bears, Penguins and Bees.

Tigers are endangered because of rising sea levels which is causing them to leave their homes and if they have nowhere to live, then they can’t survive. Scientists are noticing that Giraffes are losing more and more of their species every day. Due to Antarctica melting, Penguins are losing their homes and falling into the sea where they cannot survive for very long. Warmer temperatures can affect Emperor chick hatching times, and they may hatch at times when food is more scarce. Seals are affected because as the ice falls apart, it can hit the seals as it drops into the sea. This hurts the seals and can kill them depending on how heavy and how hard the ice is. Bees are being affected by the frequent shifting season caused by climate change. They are finding it hard to manage the less predictable season which includes more drought and cold springs. The loss of these animals will have a huge impact on how the world will operate.

The North Atlantic is home to many endangered animals like the Polar bear and Whales. Polar bears have to rely on the thinnest ice to survive and eventually that ice will melt because of global warming from greenhouse gases whilst Whales are losing their source of food, Krill, due to the rising temperatures in the ocean and are getting attacked daily by reckless disposal of fishing gear in the ocean. These animals affect the ecosystem in the North Atlantic. If we lose these animals, we are at risk of having a detrimental change in the ecosystem. We may all dismiss these important issues but these animals are very important in countless functions of our world.

The Future

The future doesn’t look great for us right now. We have rising sea levels, drastic changes to precipitation patterns and a warmer and more acidic ocean. If we don't do anything about this, places of great sentiment to us like Antarctica will look very different. Physical changes to the size and composition will cause a change to be made on an updated map. More animals will die and some may even go extinct.  We would have to find new ways to work as a population without these animals but have we ever thought, what if we don't find new ways?

How we can stop this:

Scientists have a thorough understanding of the changes we need to make as a society to increase the lifespan of our home, Earth. These changes include:

Putting a stop to littering

Encourage the use of electric cars

Encouraging carpooling

Recycling

Reduce the use of fossil fuels.

Eat more Vegetarian food and less meat.

By the year 2050, we are hoping to get to zero emissions and if, by some luck, we manage to do this, the world might just be saved.

Catfish: Is anything real?

Catfishing” is when someone creates a false image of themselves (typically online) to trick someone into believing something that is not true. A catfish refers to someone who takes information and images, typically from other people and uses them to create a new identity for themselves.

There are many different ways in which people can ‘catfish’, but the one we want to speak about today is online. We all know how difficult it is to deal with people online. Is this person really my friend? Are they lying to me? How do I even know if they are a real person? Are they trying to deceive me? All these questions concern the public. This article will inform people about how to be aware of the things that go on online. Catfishes can be complete strangers or your best friend. Sometimes you’’l never be able to tell until you meet them in person.

Apps

Tiktok and Instagram are popular social media apps that contain multiple pictures and videos that are photoshopped or edited.This is possible with the help of apps such as Adobe, Photopea, and FaceTune, which edit pictures and videos for free and can be used to alter someone's appearance creating a catfish.

Cases of Catfishing in real life

One example of catfishing can be seen in the case of the famous celebrity “Thomas Gibson”, who had an online affair for two years before learning that the person he was going out with was lying to him. She said that she was a fan of his show, “Criminal Minds”, and found the actor on Twitter. They continued to contact one another and formed a relationship, according to TMZ. This escalated two years later, when Gibson (who was legally married at the time), learned that she wasn't the woman in her photos. A letter was sent to her telling her not to contact him again. The catfisher found out and leaked texts between them online. This only further embarrassed Gibson. Fortunately, by 2016 he was able to return to normality.

This just goes to show how easy it is to be manipulated, as even celebrities are not exempt.

This is further seen in a story from a site called “Vice” :

According to the anonymous writer, “Last year, I matched with this girl on Bumble. We hit it off quite well and everything seemed fine, so I suggested meeting for a meal. That’s when things started getting weird. After I asked her out, she would go on about how she had friends that would treat her to exorbitant meals. To me it was like “Weird flex, but OK,” She was hot in her photos and I was feeling the chemistry between us over text. She’d also suggest expensive places to me for our meal and even mentioned omakase, but I just brushed it off. We decided on a sushi place in town. She was an hour late and kept warning me about how she might look different. I didn’t think too much about it but when she finally arrived, I wanted to bail. I genuinely didn’t recognize her. She didn’t look bad in real life, but her photos were not an honest representation of how she looked. When we arrived at the sushi restaurant, she started ordering expensive sashimi cuts and drinks while not really engaging in the conversation, that’s when I realised what was happening. After the meal, she looked to be in a rush to go somewhere and I decided to just leave as well. She stopped replying to my texts and after a few days, I figured that she was ghosting me.”

Unfortunately, this happens to a lot of people who think they are finding true love when really they are just being used and taken advantage of. This behaviour is never acceptable.

How do you stay safe online?

It can be very difficult to navigate your way around the modern world .One of the main things to remember is to never share any personal information online. This includes your address, phone number and email address. Using a good password and securing your devices can help protect your personal details from strangers and hackers online. Never talk to anyone you've never seen in real life or you don’t know. Be careful who you talk to and what apps you spend time on or use. To protect your wellbeing, make sure you do not spend too much time on social media and find other activities or hobbies. If you are using social media be aware that whatever you post will stay online forever  - even if you delete it and anyone could find it.

Some people online are real and some people are fake but we all should not forget what social media was created for and how it can change your perception of real life. In conclusion we believe that you should always be aware of who you talk to and what apps you are using. It is incredibly easy to be catfished and it is essential that you take measures to keep yourself safe, as you may think someone is being sincere with you but they may be somebody completely different to who you think they are.

Football: The Beautiful Game

It’s hard to believe that a stuffed pig's bladder kicked about has become one of the world's driving forces for social and political change. From humble beginnings to a force for good: you guessed it, it's none other than the beautiful game, the most played sport in the world: Football.

It was the late great Nelson Mandela, revered President of South Africa, who said, ‘Sport has the power to change the world, it has the power to inspire and the power to unite people in a way that little else does - it speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport can create hope where there was once only despair - it is more powerful than government in breaking down racial barriers: it laughs in the face of all types of discrimination - sport is the game of lovers.” And we, as ambassadors of the sport, wish to tell you that we believe wholeheartedly in the power of football to unify, break down barriers and create collaboration between diverse pockets of society (even in the playground).

Haydar Khakoo, Jacob Cohen, Zayn Shah (Year 8)

The idea that football has been a balm to soothe social injustice and create harmony when there was only pain is not new. Let us cast our minds back to ‘The Christmas Truce of 1914’ Picture this: the beleaguered British troops are deep in a bitter war with the tired German soldiers. Legend has it that on Christmas Eve the soldiers decided to exchange gifts and started socialising with one another. Astonishingly, one man had the idea to play a friendly football match to create peace between the two rival forces.

And they played.

This is the power of the beautiful game.

In modern times, Fifa has been proactive in creating cohesion and collaboration so that we can live in a world where we share the values of unity and diversity. Most recently, they have stood up against racism, homophobia (supporting LGBTQ +) and anti-semitism; even breaking protocol to accommodate Islamic players who were fasting during Ramadan: in one magical match between Sheffield United and Liverpool, the referee blew the whistle to stop the game to enable Mo Salah, Ibrahima Konate and Anel Ahmedhozic to break their fast - this was a beautiful moment showing the power of connection. When you model this in front of the world, you create unity. There is nothing more powerful in creating world peace than football. Well, we believe that football is trying to create world peace.

The sport grew from humble beginnings - The first football was made of a pig bladder covered with pieces of leather, possibly from a deer. This inspired many to love the game in a way that can’t be described by just playing.The game was first played in 1860, but the English Football Association, originating in Edinburgh, was founded in 1863 and was where the real rules of football were established. It started with over 800,000 people wanting to play and over 40,000 clubs joining, resulting in the game being split into over 600 leagues with the first team being Sheffield FC (later split into Wednesday and United). Now, other versions of the game exist in numerous countries around the world like Japan, Egypt and Greece. The popularity of football skyrocketed after the founding of FIFA in 1904. FIFA or International Federation of Association Football is the international self-regulatory governing body of association football, beach soccer or futsal.

The best example of the way in which football has created unity across the globe is through the World Cup. President Jules Rimet created the first ever World Cup in France in 1921 and Countries all over the world expressed immense interest in the idea. In 1930, Uruguay won the first ever world cup. The cup is made of 4,927 grams of pure gold making it worth $161,000. It holds huge value to fans all over the world who travel far and wide to support their countries at the game. FIFA, now in charge of the World Cup organisation, allocated a total of $440 million in prize money for the last World Cup. Most of us cannot even begin to imagine such huge sums of money; however, to the majority of fans, the World Cup represents more than money, it is an opportunity to bring nations and fans together in the spirit of competition and camaraderie. Football really does have the power to change the world and that is why it is called ‘The Beautiful Game’.

Do you know the true treatment of the animals you consume everyday? Are you aware of horrific conditions these animals are forced to endure for our benefit? We have looked into factory farming as a process and explored the immense impact it has on animals trapped in this problematic system, the environment and on humans who consume its produce. We hope to raise awareness of the truth behind this unethical form of production, and in the process, inspire you to make a positive change not only for yourself, but for the animals you eat.

The true treatment of animals living in factory farms is shocking to say the least. Animals are forced to live in cages not much bigger than their own bodies, and are injected with antibiotics and brutally slaughtered in terrible conditions. Hundreds of millions of animals are killed or driven insane by the brutal treatment and confinement.

In Britain, factory farming first began in the 1940’s as a way of coping with post-war shortages and to guarantee food supply for as many people as possible. During the war, meat was seen as a privilege as there was continuous shortages due to the majority of financing being used to supply weapons, the meat industry was neglected and not seen as a main priority. However, after the war ended more money began to be funnelled into industries not prioritised before, including the production of meat. This is how factory farming grew as it provided a quick, efficient way of supplying large amounts of meat to a significant number of people. The change was immense and happened at a rapid rate, and today, ⅔ of all agricultural animals globally are factory farmed.

Around 10 million pigs are farmed and killed each year, and at least 60 percent of these are factory farmed. Sows are forcibly impregnated from the age of six months, and kept in “farrowing crates” for up to five weeks after giving birth. One report reveals that UK supermarkets are supplying meat from pigs that have had their tails and teeth painfully cut to prevent them from causing injury and biting each other in frustration when crammed together on factory farms. These animals have to endure an excruciating death, some cows are shot inaccurately and have to be shot a second time, some are even conscious when they bleed out. This despicable treatment of animals needs to be stopped, and raising awareness of this huge issue is incredibly important in order to make a change and to improve animal welfare in the UK. Organic and free-range farming is drastically much more ethical than the process of factory farming, allowing animals to live free of pain, with access to fresh air and a considerable amount of space. The welfare of these animals is crucial to their wellbeing and happiness and factory farming completely strips these innocent creatures of their freedom and sanity. There are many small changes you can make to be more sustainable and reduce the amount of suffering these animals are forced to endure.

How you can help

Interview with Head of Catering Staff at St Margarets about the meat you eat

Q: What type of meat do you usually buy from your suppliers?

A: We have a corporate sustainability responsibility (CSR), and also audit our own health and safety supply chain, which will go out and visit our farms and abattoirs and butchers. The type of meat most commonly brought to school, due to the diversity of the community, is chicken.

Q: Are the animals reared as free range or from a factory farm?

A: We have free-range as much as possible and we do not use factory chickens. We do not do organic as that can refer to the type of food consumed by the animals, and not considering the treatment of them. Many of our birds are brought inside for their own protection due to diseases such as Bird Flu and Avian Flu. But yes, all of our meat is farm assured.

Q: How much meat do you buy from the suppliers each week?

A: We go through about 45 kilograms of meat per lunch service (per day), which is between 110-130 grams of meat per child. We also try to incorporate plant proteins to reduce the amount of meat consumed.

Q: How much would you say you spend on meat a week?

A: We spend probably around £3000-£3500 a week on meat for the school.

Q: Would you consider meat free days at school, maybe once a week to cut down. Would that be viable or would there be issues with this?

A: We have trialed it in this school before, (meat free mondays,) however we got a lot of negative feedback as students were not comfortable with the vegetarian options, primarily soya, which is said to negatively affect boys and their growth due to levels of oestrogen. If over 50% of the school gave feedback and requested meat free monday, we would be happy to bring it back.

There are many ways you can help reduce the amount of factory farmed meat you consume. Opt for Pasture-Raised or Grass-Fed, select meat products labelled as "pasture-raised" or "grass-fed" since these methods are typically more ethically raised than factory farming. You can also consider Organic Options as organic meat is often raised with strict standards, which improves the welfare of the animals as well are your personal health. You might consider meat-free days, whether at school or at home, attempt a day where you do not consume meat.

Try Quorn or meat substitutes, which are high in protein, and can help to significantly lower bad cholesterol and blood glucose levels. Buying a vegetarian cookbook is a great way to experiment in the kitchen and learn new sustainable recipes for yourself and family.

Overall, society has a duty to do a better job at reducing the amount of factory farmed meat consumed. This method of mass production is highly unethical and completely ignores the welfare of the animals, forced to suffer for our own happiness and consumption. We have to reflect and realise the damage we are making to the world of animal welfare, and must start to consider the treatment of the meat we eat and the lives which are sacrificed to benefit ourselves.

Darcie Hambury and Hope Phillips-Rhodes (Year 13)

Something’s Coming, Something Good

“An unforgettable theatrical triumph, this production of West Side Story delivered a West End-calibre spectacle, showcasing extraordinary talent, passion, and artistry on every level.”

(Year 13)

Iman Mirza and Theo Wolstenholme

The recent production of West Side Story: School Edition was an unforgettable triumph, showcasing extraordinary talent on every level. From the incredible acting and singing to dazzling technical achievements, this performance delivered a West End-calibre spectacle that captivated audiences and left them cheering for more.

At the heart of the production was its outstanding cast. Marley Brown, as Tony, delivered a commanding and heartfelt performance that truly brought the show to life. His portrayal of Tony was both tender and powerful, capturing the character’s deep passion and vulnerability with remarkable nuance. His powerful voice made numbers like “Maria” and “Tonight” soar with emotion leaving the audience hanging on every note. Opposite him, Sophie Sardar brought a delicate yet fiery presence to Maria, captivating the audience with her stunning vocal range and raw emotional depth. Sophie’s performance was powerful, blending her pitch-perfect voice with a profound emotional connection to the character. It’s no surprise that Sophie has been nominated for Best Musical Theatre Actress at the National Theatre awardsan honour she has more than earned!

Charles Kerley brought charisma and intensity to Riff delivering a standout performance with the Jets which set the tone for the entire production. His portrayal was filled with confidence and charisma which drew the audience into the world of the Jets and Sharks. Fyfe Skinner commanded the stage as Bernardo bringing both strength and depth to the character. One of the most memorable moments was his breathtaking dance with Shira Miller during ‘Maria’. Constantine, in the role of Action, shone as he led the hilarious and crowd-pleasing number “Gee, Officer Krupke.” His comedic timing, confidence, and dedication made the scene one of the evening’s standout moments. Emily Radley delivered a mesmerising performance as Anita, blending sass, vulnerability, and strength with ease. Her sharp, electric

presence was fully unleashed during “America,” a show stopping number performed by the entire ensemble of dancers. Her rendition of ‘A Boy Like That’ was equally powerful as she showcased her incredible vocals and emotional depth. As a whole, the dances, choreographed by Shira Miller, Ms. Dolan, and Sophia, were nothing short of masterful. Each dance number, from electrifying gang face-offs to tender duets, was executed with stunning precision and passion.

Shira Miller’s choreography was exceptional, skilfully blending raw energy with emotional depth. Her work has rightfully earned her a nomination for Best Choreography by a Student at the National Theatre Awards, and her choreography truly elevated the production.

The debut of the school’s dance company added an extra layer of excitement, with standout moments like Anna’s jaw-dropping acrobatics that left the audience in awe. The stage combat was equally impressive, combining intense choreography with seamless execution, heightening the tension in pivotal scenes like the Rumble.

Behind the scenes, the technical team brought the world of West Side Story to life with dazzling precision. The lighting and sound created an immersive atmosphere and the seamless set changes and the tireless work of the backstage crew ensured the production flowed effortlessly, keeping the audience fully immersed from start to finish. The production’s visual brilliance was enhanced by its incredible costumes, designed by Mrs. Hooper and Ms. Weldon. Every outfit perfectly captured the essence of 1950s New York and brought each character to life in vivid detail. Furthermore, the musical numbers were elevated by the brilliant live band, whose work brought Leonard Bernstein’s iconic score to life. The show featured an incredible 30-piece orchestra, whose rich, dynamic sound provided a powerful backdrop to every song. What made this band even more remarkable was the inclusion of students playing alongside professional musicians, showcasing an extraordinary level of talent and collaboration.

None of this would have been possible without the incredible support and dedication of the teaching staff. Mrs. Montalvan, Mr. Redfern, Ms. Dolan, Ms. Murray, Mrs. Burman, and Mr. Dichmont gave up countless weekends and evenings, investing an extraordinary amount of time and effort to ensure this production reached its full potential. Their unwavering commitment to the cast and crew, both on and off the stage, was truly inspiring. Each of them poured their hearts into guiding and supporting the students, providing invaluable direction, encouragement, and expertise. Their leadership and passion set the foundation for this ambitious production, shaping every rehearsal, every performance, and every detail. It’s impossible to overstate just how much their dedication contributed to the show’s success, and their tireless work behind the scenes made this unforgettable performance a reality. What made this production truly special was the joy and enthusiasm radiating from everyone involved.

The students’ hard work was evident in every

performance, and their pride and excitement was contagious. It was a beautiful thing to witness—seeing not only the students giving their all on stage but also the families, friends, and classmates in the audience, sharing in the pride and excitement of the cast’s remarkable achievements. The faces of the students in the audience, watching their friends perform, were filled with admiration and joy, further highlighting the sense of community and support that made this show so memorable.

The audience, moved by the raw emotion and talent on display, responded with thunderous standing ovations each night, cementing this West Side Story as an unforgettable theatrical triumph. Congratulations to everyone involved in this phenomenal performance. From the music to the choreography, acting, and technical brilliance, it was a shining example of what passion, collaboration, and artistry can achieve. Truly, it was a night to remember! On behalf of the entire audience, we look forward to seeing what these brilliant, talented stars have in store for us next.