Welcome
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Welcome to our final Stoke News of this academic year. I am delighted to offer you 36 pages packed of celebratory news of our Summer Term.
Our students and staff have worked tirelessly to achieve the very best academic results. With individual attention and support from staff, students have applied themselves diligently to their studies and revision, and I am sure they will reap the rewards when they collect their examination results, later this summer.
I was delighted to welcome the return of our unique Stoke College River Festival. It was marvellous to see all year groups working together on and around the river developing skills that will transcend their time at Stoke College and fit them for life.
We have been lucky to have spent so much of this term out of doors in the splendour of our beautiful campus. From classroom activity to our fabulous team-building activities, it has been a welcome sight to see our outdoor spaces put to such use.
Sports Day had a very special atmosphere ths year - not just because of Mr Reeves and Madame Henson’s compere skills - as so many Stoke students participated in athletic activities, really giving it their all.
This year saw an exciting first for Stoke College - the Lower School Performing Arts Production. Building on the success of the whole-school production, West Side Story, Miss Davey directed a beautiful production of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. Performed in our Walled Garden, and set off with drinks and canapes for our audience, the production was a very special evening for all.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, the Advisory Council and all the Staff, may I wish you and your families a wonderful summer break.
Warmest wishes, Dr Gareth Lloyd
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Our website stokecollege.co.uk contains links to school information together with a link through to the Parent Portalyour unique space to find information about your child’s school life from timetables to reports.
A celebratory end to a very successful year. I am immensely proud of our students and all of their achievements, recognised over the coming pages.
Great Work Skye: Career Insight for Student
Year 9 student, Skye, stepped up to become a photographic shoot assistant, learning how to transfer creative skills beyond the classroom.
We were delighted to welcome back award-winning photographer Alison McKenny, earlier this term to capture scenes from school life that we will use across our many media platforms.
Preparing for photographic shoots requires insight, planning and creative skills to ensure that everything is in the perfect place, ready for the click of Alison’s camera. Skye was able to join the marketing team for the day, helping to arrange props, ensure that all student ‘models’ were present and assisting with carrying equipment.
“This has been a great opportunity for Skye to gain practical skills and insight into a creative career. It also helps to explain the work that goes into creating the images we see around us everyday.” Miss Rebecca Watson, Deputy Head Pastoral.
Welcome Back Olivia: Old Stokian Flies Stoke Flag
Olivia Monro, Old Stokian 2020, will rejoin the Stoke fold this summer as she flies across the world on a Stoke College adventure.
Olivia, together with Patrick, Year 13, is to undertake a summer internship at two prestigious Chinese colleges. UWC and CWA Changshu are both schools of Stoke College Director, Mark Wang and this will be the first opportunity for a Stoke College internship of this kind.
Olivia and Patrick will be providing deeply appreciated support to the students of these schools in their English, as well as delivering lessons on British Culture.
They will be partipating in a range of very enjoyable activities, not least because of the close proximity to a lake that provides many leisure opportunities.
After their internship, Patrick and Olivia will be visiting numerous sightseeing locations, including the bustling metropolis of Shanghai and the ‘Venice of the East’, Suzhou.
“I’m thrilled to be taking up this opportunity this summer. I am so lucky that my school have been able to support my studies, even during my University chapter”, Olivia Monro.
Olivia joined Stoke College in Year 8. She then went on to study English Literature and Mandarin at Exeter. We wish her the very best with this exciting venture and look forward to hearing about it.
Welcome to Our New Stoke College Students
September will see the start of new Stoke journeys for our Year 7 and Year 12 cohorts together with those we welcome into other years.
Our Admissions and Marketing team have been working hard throughout 2023 to introduce the benefits of a Stoke College education to prospective students and their parents. Throughout the academic year we have placed advertisements with a variety of media across our core catchment and kept our audience up to date with captivating posts on our social media channels.
We have held a series of informative Open Events, including our large Open Classrooms in March that was attended by over 100 visitors. Prospective students have taken a series of assessments to ensure that Stoke offers the best education for them as well as meeting with key staff.
Mrs Lowe led the Lower School Induction Evening this month to formally welcome new parents into the Stoke College family. The new Year 7 and Year 12 students, together with those joining in other years spent a day with us last week to meet their form tutors and prepare them for their next chapter.
We are delighted to welcome Olivia, Isla, Lottie, Max, Xanthe, Frederick, Kirabo, Amy, Sophie, Ethan, Verity, Omar, Freddie, Oliver, Freddie, Finn, Finn, Tess, Jordan, Abigail, Zara, Isabelle, Georgina, Henry and Xiaoyue. We wish you the very best for your Stoke College journey.
Embarking on Adventures: DoE Training Begins
Year 9 students are preparing for their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award with training and workshops lead by Mr Khan.
As part of their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award preparation, Year 9 students at Stoke College enthusiastically camped overnight. They learned outdoor skills, teamwork, and problem-solving. The experience nurtured resilience, adaptability, and appreciation for nature, leaving lasting memories and a sense of adventure.
Participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award greatly benefits Stoke College’s Year 9 students. It builds leadership, teamwork, and perseverance beyond academic education. Setting goals, planning, and overcoming challenges are integral to personal growth. The programme equips students with confidence, resilience, and a well-rounded education for future success.
Team-Building Skills for Years
9 and 10
Working collaboratively is a life-skill that will benefit students throughout their lives. Miss Coll organised for a team of experts to come and inspire us.
At Stoke College, we recognise the positive role we can play in building skills that were impossible to develop during the pandemic years. For students in Years 9 and 10, whose formative senior school years were interrupted by the pandemic, opportunities to cultivate collaborative working skills are essential.
Miss Coll has developed a wonderful programme that both utilises our outdoor learning environment whilst providing a fun opportunity for students to work together. Stoke College welcomed the WiseUp team onto school grounds for an enrichment day for our Year 9 and Year 10 students.
Under the guidance of WiseUp experts, students developed skills in planning, communication, motivation and working together. Students loved the day and connected with the visiting supervisors, working in teams to build on leadership skills and gain confidence in preparation for their GCSE studies.
From Deadly Dice and Gutter Ball to Human Knot and Crazy Maze, the activities offered on the day challenged students to compete with all of their physical and mental effort to complete the Hub Challenge. There was certainly a spirit of collaborative competition in the air, and we welcomed the sun shining for the day of outdoor activities too.
“the leaders were super nice and supportive. The activities were really exciting.” Year 10 student.
Well done to all students who took part, we hope to welcome the WiseUp team back to Stoke College in the near future!
Years 10 and Year 12 recently visited Clip n Climb in Ipswich for a business skills and team-building workshop. After a morning spent undertaking challenges on the climbing walls the students had lunch together before embarking on their afternoon activity. The two business owners delivered a workshop detailing essential business skills and their transfer into life entitled Reaching New Heights
Thrilling Adventures2023 Residential Success
Our Lower School took an exciting residential trip to PGL Lincolnshire. Working across year groups, teams developed new skills in fun activities.
Mark Wang Scholars: First Cohort Graduates
A glittering ball to mark the graduation of our first cohort of Mark Wang Scholars. Years 11, 12 and 13 gathered in style to celebrate.
There was not a dry eye in the house for our most joyous of Year 13 Leavers’ Assembly on Friday 12th May. Having first enjoyed hearing stories amusing, inspiring and heart-warming about Year 11 before they embark on their GCSEs, Year 13 led us through their own reflections on their time at Stoke College.
We heard first from the OGs (that’s the ‘originals’, who were here before Sixth Form) who spoke eloquently and touchingly about the school’s values and its impact on them.
The Sixth Form Choir then performed a beautiful a Capella rendition of For Good from Wicked, in a magical take on a classic leavers’ song.
Next, we heard from those who had joined us in Year 12 as they shared just how deeply they have been shaped by the school even in two years before the climax of the event: The Stafftas staff awards brilliantly presented by Tom Hearn and Patrick Bond.
Mrs Hunn-Smith, Miss Davey and Mr Swain then led the school through a time-travelling narrative imagining what the future has in store for each of our Year 13 leavers. If things turn out the way I predicted then the planet will be in safe hands!
A roof-raising rendition of Shine, Jesus, Shine brought us towards the end of the celebration, before Year 13 all took to the floor together to sing Thank You For The Music. The sheer joy in the church as these students sang out loud was unforgettable.
River Festival: The Stoke Approach to Learning
The end of May saw the return of Stoke’s infamous River Festival. A whole day devoted to learning in the wild. Character and resilience shone through as students tried new activities, learning new skills while having fun.
We had a wonderful time messing about on the river on Friday 26th May, finishing the half term with a bang, or should that be a splash?
In the morning, students competed in Lions vs Unicorns teams to create the best picnic spread, win the Great Paper Boat Race and then win the stand-up paddleboard races along our stretch of the River Stour. Special mention to the Osborne brothers for capsizing a member of staff each during their sessions!
In the afternoon, students chose from a range of workshops loosely tied to curriculum areas, enabling them to step beyond the classroom and delve deeper into wider knowledge and skills. From Photography and Watercolours, to Bridge-Building, Water Music and Rivers through Civilisation, there were plentiful choices to engage our students and spark a love of learning for its own sake. Special thanks to all the teachers who led these sessions and inspired our students.
The River Festival is made up of different events each year, all tied to the theme of our beautiful campus and the great outdoors more generally. We are already planning next year’s event which promises to offer even more for our school community to enjoy.
Mr Reeves and Mr Misso invited students to deepen their photographic skills in a walking Photography Workshop. Students were taught about micro and macro photographic skills capturing river plant life and views of the Stoke College Campus. View of Stoke-by-Clare church by Alexis, Year 8.
Mr Swain and Mr Burridge led a Bridge Design Workshop challenge, asking students to create the strongest bridge. Teams, formed of different year groups, used Physics skills to consider a design that would safely bear the heaviest load.
Stoke Sports Day: Unicorns Seize the Day
The sun shone, the parents sipped Pimms and comperes Madame Henson and Mr Reeves entertained us all. Some close finishes kept everyone on their toes but Unicorns pipped Lions to the post for the final scores.
Stoke Masterchef: Lions V
Unicorns in Culinary Battle
A term of healthy competition between Lion and Unicorn Houses including the inaugural Stoke Masterchef. Read on to discover which house wins!
Nine Year 7 students kicked off the first round of the inaugural 'Stoke Masterchef' House competition. The competition was fierce and you could feel the tension in the room. The standard was high and Mr Khan and I both agreed it was very hard to judge those who were to go through to the finals.
The final winners from this round were Flossy and Hayden with a Spaghetti Bolognaise, great team work shown and attention to detail with layers of flavours. 2nd place was Ted with his classic Victoria Sponge which was very well risen. 3rd was Neema with her Strawberry Roll demonstrating a high skilled technical challenge with the lovely feel of summer.
The winners after much deliberation on the final round were .......to be announced.
House Winners of Academic Year 2022/2023
This term the House’s have been busy competing for the esteemed title of House of the Year. Alongside Stoke Masterchef, we have had competitions in the River Festival, Battle of the Bands, Clip n’ Climb school trips and end of year Sports Day.
Congratulations to Lions House - 7, 531 House Points Unicorns - 7,258 House Points
House Point Year Group Winners of 2022/2023
Year 7: William Jordan Silver Award – Unicorns
Year 8: Alessia Erben Diamond Award – Unicorns
Year 9 : Charlotte Webb Gold Award – Unicorns
Year 10: Madeliene Jordan Gold Award – Unicorns
Year 11: Charlotte Buchan Silver Award- Lions
Year 12: Isla McLaughlin Silver Award – Lions
Year 13: Sienna Folkes-Miller Gold Award – Unicorns
Work, Rest and Play for the Boarding House
Boarding at Stoke College is wonderful way to study, stay and have fun with friends in our home-from-home boarding houses.
Boarding trip to London
We embarked on a delightful day trip, filled with smiles, laughter and lovely weather. Our adventure began as we arrived in London Liverpool street, eager to explore the wonders this vibrant city had to offer. Without wasting any time, we hopped on the tube and made our way directly to South Kensington, where the prestigious Natural History Museum awaited us. The museum’s grandeur and extensive exhibits left us in awe, as we delved into the fascinating world of science and natural wonders.
After immersing ourselves in knowledge and marvels, we made our way to The Embankment. Strolling across one side of the Thames to the other, we were treated to breathtaking views of the London Eye, Houses of Parliament, and the iconic Big Ben. The historical landmarks stood majestically against the backdrop of the serene River Thames. As the clock ticked towards lunchtime, we decided to satisfy Annie and Delia’s longing for their home cuisine. We embarked on a pleasant walk towards Chinatown, crossing the picturesque Westminster Bridge and passing through the bustling Trafalgar Square. Our taste buds were tantalised as we indulged in an authentic Chinese meal, immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture and flavours. Before bidding farewell to Chinatown, we couldn’t resist a visit to the
local supermarket, stocking up on exotic treats. We concluded our day with a visit to Oxford Street to indulge in some retail therapy. Noah came back with plenty of new clothes.
Wednesday Boarding Activity
Mini Golf tournament and awards evening
On Wednesday evening, our activity night unfolded with a series of entertaining events that brought joy, laughter, and recognition to our boarding family. The main highlight of the night was our unique mini golf tournament, creatively set up around the main house, utilising steps and corridors as our challenging course. Participants enthusiastically put their golfing skills to the test, navigating through the twists and turns of our makeshift layout.
Year 13 Boarding Awards
Following the exhilarating tournament, we gathered for the Year 13 Awards Evening, a special tribute to our graduating students before they embarked on their study leave. This occasion allowed us to express our appreciation and look back on our time with the Year 13s.
Awards were presented to all of our Year 13 boarders, each bestowed with a playful and fitting title.
The Honorary Mechanic - Josh
Empty Nest - Reyhan
Interior Decorator - Amir and Patrick
Deserted Island - Georgie
Post Woman Pat - Karena
Dora The Explorer - Eloise
One More Thing - Saffron
Human Vulture - James
Space Time Continuum - Keziah
Sorry Not Sorry - Alisha
Early Bird - Osian
Project M’pappe - Oscar
Bermuda Triangle - Alex
Least Likely to Answer the Phone - Heidi
Empowering Mathematics: Beyond the Classroom
We are celebrating a summer of mathematical triumphs at Stoke College: Reflecting on a term of growth, achievement, and enthusiasm.
Year 12 Further Mathematicians:
The year twelve further maths group (Ruby and Scarlet) have demonstrated a tremendous work ethic and have subsequently completed the entire A Level Mathematics specification in a single year. They have been preparing to take their A Level Mathematics examinations a year early and have sat them alongside the Year 13s. We wish them all the very best of luck.
Having sat their examinations, our intrepid Year 12s will commence the Core Pure1 content of the Further Mathematics course: investigating complex numbers and solving any quadratics, cubics or quartics with real coefficients whilst also beginning to construct proofs using mathematical induction.
Years 7-10 Assessments
Students have had their assessments returned, have examined their feedback in detail and have made their corrections. Students have then worked on feedback tasks to ensure a thorough understanding of topics that they have covered this year.
In their final lesson of the year with Mr. Brooker, some of our Key Stage 3 students have been challenged with some fun problem-solving tasks. We have been impressed with the teamwork, communication skills and commitment demonstrated by our students as they rose to this challenge.
Year 9
Year 9 made use of the the improving summer weather and took their revision outside, practising Pythagoras and Trigonometry out on the playground with the aid of chalk, metre rules and giant protractors. Each student devised an exam style question, calculated their solution on a mini whiteboard, had it checked by Mrs Beatham-McDonald and then chalked it out onto the playground. They then challenged other students to solve their problem using trigonometric and pythagorean methods. Great excitement was had over who could create and then solve the most difficult challenge. Students had enormous fun whilst learning to solve complex problems and also communicating through reasoning and explanations with their peers.
Year 7 Students continue to excel in the Numeracy Ninjas Scheme. We are delighted to announce that our Year 7 students have demonstrated outstanding dedication and progress, as each and every one of them has advanced at least one belt level since the program’s inception.
Congratulations, Year 7! Your hard work has not gone unnoticed, and be sure to anticipate an array of well-deserved certificates that will be presented to you in the near future.
Cultivating Curiosity and Exploration: Stoke Science
The summer term has taken our science students into new realms of discovery from technological advances to outdoor expeditions.
The picturesque and expansive grounds of Stoke College serve as a wonderful natural classroom, providing us with an invaluable resource right at our doorstep. We are fortunate to have a range of habitats and ecosystems within the school campus giving us countless opportunity for wider study without the need of organising a school trip. From the meandering river to the enchanting woodlands, we embrace these natural spaces as integral components of our science curriculum, spanning from Year 7 all the way up to A-Level.
Innovative Learning with iPads and Apple Pencils in Year 12 Physics lessons
This year, our physics lessons have taken a digital leap with the integration of iPads and Apple Pencils into our classroom. The results have been truly remarkable! Our students have been producing stunning notes and completing practice papers effortlessly using the GoodNotes app. With the Apple Pencil’s precise touch, they have unleashed their creativity and transformed their learning experience. What makes it even more exciting is that all their work is instantly shared with the teacher, who can provide real-time feedback and monitor their progress. This powerful combination of technology and education has revolutionised how we learn physics, fostering collaboration, engagement, and improved organisation.
Key Stage 4 Science
At Stoke College, we prioritise the success and growth of our students in their scientific journey. One of the key aspects that sets our science curriculum apart is the dedicated expertise of individual subject specialists. Each science subject is taught by passionate educators who enable students to build upon the solid foundation laid during Key Stage 3, thoroughly preparing them for future progression beyond the classroom or into further academic study at A Level or degree level.
At Key Stage 4, students particularly enjoy intriguing topics such as DNA, the Electromagnetic Spectrum, and Crystal Preparations. These captivating areas of study ignite their curiosity, encouraging them to delve deeper into the wonders of science. By exploring these fascinating topics, students gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate workings of the natural world and develop the critical thinking skills necessary to thrive in scientific pursuits.
We asked Key Stge 4 students to describe their Stoke scientific journey:
“I like how the science subjects are all separate because you can go into greater detail with deeperer understanding”, Eden, Year 10.
“The experiments are fun and provide active learning”, Thomas, Year 10.
“Our teachers are very understanding and approachable”, Maddie J, Year 10.
English Lessons Soar at Stoke College
We hear from Mrs Becca Parsons as she reviews her first term as Head of English at Stoke College.
Key Stage 3
Mrs Parsons, new Head of English at Stoke College, reviews the summer term for Key Stage 3 English.
Year 7s have immersed themselves in the fundamentals of stories via the medium of Lego, Pixar short films and Disney characters. They now have an excellent knowledge of how stories are structured (ask them about Freytag’s Pyramid!) and have proved themselves to be wonderfully creative writers.
Heroes and villains have been top of the bill for Year 8 students: we’ve been looking at what makes a hero, some heroic (and not-so heroic) characters in Shakespeare, and will be moving on to look at more modern heroes and heroines, such as Katniss Everdeen and the heroes of war poetry, in the final weeks of term.
Year 9 have worked hard on honing their writing craft this
term, both creatively and persuasively. We’ve looked at the elements of great persuasive rhetoric and put these to use in drafting speeches on topics we are passionate about.
Key Stage 4
Year 10 have spent this term looking at the Power and Conflict Anthology poems as well as refreshing our ‘A Christmas Carol’ knowledge ready for the end of year exams. All students will be given some preparatory tasks to complete over the summer so that we are ready to launch into our modern play as soon as we come back: ‘An Inspector Calls’ - a play about politics, striking workers and improving the lives of people struggling with the cost of living. For some, this will strike a chord with the current political landscape.
Year 11 have been busily working away at revising for their GCSE examinations and we have been extremely proud of the way they have conducted themselves throughout this process. Well done, Year 11!
Stoke Summer Reads
We asked Mrs Parsons to recommend some brilliant books to read over the long summer holiday.
This is a bit of a stereotypical choice for an English teacher, I know, but on my long but beautiful commute to Stoke College this term I have really enjoyed listening to the (free) audio version of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. I am growing particularly fond of Pip and each morning I look forward to hearing about his coming of age in and around London in the mid nineteenth century.
If Dickens isn’t your thing then perhaps About Grace by Anthony Doerr might be? Doerr is famed for his later novel, All The Light We Cannot See - a truly magnificent book - but About Grace is his first and it deals with identity, family and finding solace. It had me gripped at times, and reflective at others - what makes a family and what does it take to heal from the unknown?
“As a new member of staff to Stoke College I have absolutely loved getting to know all of the students, and I look forward to developing our curriculum for them to explore from September.”
Mrs B Parsons, Head of English.
and Geography
Humanities:Analytical Skills and Critical Thinking
We take a look back through the Summer Term of learning in History and Geography. Subjects that deepen our world view, develop critical skills for learning and open up a wide range of career opportunities.
Year 7 – Medieval Knights
Since Easter Year 7 have been learning all about Medieval Knights. From the stages of training a medieval person had to go through to become one, to the Code of Chivalry they had to live by, moving onto the tournaments they participated in and the armour they wore. We finished the term by learning about how knights chose their coats of arms to represent themselves. After planning out their own designs, Year 7 brought their creations to life turning them into shields. Why not ask them what the colours and symbol they have chosen says about them? Perhaps you have a brave warrior, or a trustworthy soul in your home!
Year 8 - Suffragettes
“Words not deeds” are the words Year 8 have been studying this last term. We began with looking at what life was like for Victorian women compared to modern day and then moving through to the Suffrage movement at the beginning of the 20th century together with the campaign for equal rights for women, including the right to vote. The class got to grips with multiple viewpoints exploring why some women did not want the vote (Queen Victoria) and why many men helped women on their journey to more equal rights (Manchester Men’s League of Women’s Suffrage). We hope that Year 8 have taken away from this topic that whether you are a homemaker, go out to work, or a combination of the two it is thanks to the tireless work of the Suffrage movement which means women now have the choice!
Year 9 – The Holocaust
Year 9 have continued their study of the Holocaust and have approached this emotional topic with great maturity. A catastrophic event of 20th century history it follows on from their study of Rise of the Nazis and the Second World War. This term they have been diving into case studies of the mass shooting at Babi Yar and death camps such as Auschwitz, reading first hand accounts of survivors and witnesses and thinking about their experiences and the impact of these events. We then brought this study to a close by looking at the liberation of the remaining prisoners in the death camps and how freedom unfortunately came too late for many.
Year 7 – Settlement
What type of settlement do you live in? Why has a village sprung up where it has? What makes a megacity? These our questions that our Year 7 students will be able to answer after their hard work this term. With a step into human Geography the class have been learning all about different types of settlements from hamlets to towns and what thought goes behind choosing a location for a new settlement. How close should it be built to water? Do mountains offer protection? If natural resources exist how does this inform a place’s purpose? For example, beautiful coastlines will often become tourist spots and areas rich in coal or minerals lend themselves to industrial towns. What could you say about where you live?
Year 8 - Brazil
Moving across the globe Year 8 students’ journey has taken them to South America this term. Exploring Brazil, they have been learning about its physical environment and the natural resources it possesses. We then took a dive into the Amazon Rainforest, exploring the different layers in the foliage and the types of animals that live there. We had a class competition to create a new animal with adaptations to allow it to live in the rainforest and with some creative entries such as the Capypho, Green and Mogan (see right)! An incredibly important part of our planet, we also looked at the threats that deforestation presents to the Rainforest and why we depend on it so much for some many of our everyday items.
Year 9 – Conflict Geography
The Ilisu Dam. Somalian Pirates. Blood Diamonds. Child Soldiers. Year 9 have been exploring different sources of conflict across the world. From conflict over water and who owns the rights to rivers to modern day piracy and the impact it has
on global trade. Blood diamonds provided an opportunity for students to reflect on whether they know where the items they use and buy actually come from and how they are sourced. Finally child soldiers was a sobering reminder that whilst in the UK all children are able to be children and get an education, this is not true for many young people in Sierra Leone who get caught up in war.
Performing Arts 2023: A New Key Stage 3 Venture
The strength of Performing Arts at Stoke College has long been celebrated with a focus on equipping students with skills that will bring life-long benefits across a wide range of future careers. Summer 2023 sees a new addition to Performing Arts calendar - the Key Stage 3 production.
This term has seen Stoke College’s Performing Arts department take on the tremendous success of West Side Story and build a new found confidence. For the first time Stoke College has introduced a Key Stage 3 production. Offering an opportunity for younger students to take on lead roles and develop their confidence, team work and self-expression. This years’ first production is The Jungle Book. With design from Isla, Year 12 (see right), backstage and design led by Miss Coll and music led by Dr Olyver this is a fantastic team achievement in a very short term. Miss Davey has loved directing the younger year groups, seeing the talent and interest promises for an exciting future within the Performing Arts at Stoke College.
Alongside The Jungle Book we have just finished our annual Arts Festival, where we said goodbye to our Year 13 students who passed their passion for the arts on to the younger year groups. It was a night of joy, celebration and fun. Supported by the PTA it showcases the best of Stoke as a family working together.
In other areas it is important to mention LAMDA and the fantastic work happening, taught by Miss Wieland. We are thrilled to report that this year all our students have been awarded with a distinction. Ellie Lytton inspired us all, achieving 100% in her final grade 8 examination. This is rare and is an example of the calibre of students who are progressing through the Performing Arts Department.
‘I have grown so much as a person from participating in Performing Arts at Stoke. The wide variety of opportunities on offer, including Musicals, Drama Evenings, Choir and LAMDA, have built my confidence and creativity and taught me how to take risks to keep improving. Most of all I have loved the experience of being part of a whole school team working on every aspect of a production. It was an incredible feeling when all our hard work came together in our recent performance of West Side Story. Without the amazing support of the staff and the encouraging Stoke environment I might not have considered Performing Arts as a potential career and I can’t wait to take my next step studying Musical Theatre at Drama School.’, Ellie L, Year 13.
Ellie has been studying Drama at Stoke College since Year 7 and now looks forward to taking her skills and talent to the prestigious Leeds Conservatoire to study Musical Theatre.
Congratulations to two Year 8 students, Lily and Harriet for their stunning designs for the Stoke College Showcase publicity. Miss Coll chose their work to be used to promote our traditional end-of-year performance because, together, they encapsulate the excitement of the Stoke College Permorming Arts faculty.
Artwork of the Week
The Artwork of the Week award celebrates the creative excellence of pupils throughout all years at Stoke College. The Award is presented at the whole-school church assembly, every week.
In a very busy start to our Summer term, we have still managed to celebrate the wonderful artwork created by students at Stoke College with the Artwork of the Week award.
Exhibited in our beautiful church, the first student whose work was displayed in front of the whole school was Year 13 art student Angus, for his detailed interior collage and acrylic illustration. This piece was inspired by artist Patrick Caulfield, who Angus researched whilst visiting Tate Liverpool for his A-Level studies.
Then, GCSE student Henry won this award for the second time this year, for his monoprint and colouring pencil surreal landscape. It felt particularly fitting that Henry’s work was on display the week of his GCSE art examination, to celebrate his continued effort and creativity in the arts.
Next, new Stoke student Emily in Year 9 was celebrated for her fantastic demonstration of imagination and in class analysis skills that lead to her disproportionate cityscape collage. Well done Emily for making such a strong impression in the Art department.
Finally for this half term, a huge congratulations to Angus who won the award for the second time. This time for his colouring pencil self-portraits. Just two were selected from his final component of his A-Level Art & Design, a strong body of work that contributed to the end of his qualification in a final three-day exam. Well done to all students who have accomplished new levels of imagination, creativity and skill in the Art department already this term, I look forward to seeing what work is made in the near future! To see all previous winners of the academic year 2022-23, make sure to pay a visit to Hambling to see Miss Coll’s display of all past and present winners.
What’s Been Happening in Hambling?
Art education at Stoke College cultivates critical thinking, creativity and communication skills whilst developing cultural understanding. Miss Coll reports on the term’s key focus areas and the exciting results produced.
In the classroom that bursts with creativity, Key Stage 3 students have enjoyed their new topics, expanding their explorations in a new wave of themes.
Year 7
Year 7 students have been exploring the world around them, trying new materials including oil pastel and watercolour resist, pen and wash and tonal pencil. After creating a landscape collage using images of our campus budlings, students choose which motif will be in what medium. Year 7, can you tell your parents what compositional techniques create an effective landscape? And what is the effect of painting watercolour over oil pastel marks?
Year 8
Similarly, exploring our surroundings, Year 8 have focused on the theme of natural forms, refining their watercolour painting techniques to replicate a botanical photograph from the infamous Irving Penn. You could ask your child, what ratio of pigment to water is needed to achieve the bleeding effect when using watercolour? Students have also been working on the skill of controlled mark making.
Year 9
Year 9 students have enjoyed their new architectural based theme, after first exploring surreal cityscape collages, their investigations have led them outside of the classroom and into the sun (see main picture above) to develop their observational drawing techniques. Students have enjoyed sunny afternoons in the church garden, understanding illustrative qualities of buildings. Year 9, can you remember the different pencils and their qualities? How can we show form in a building illustration?
Unlocking Music Potential with Pioneering Lessons
Stoke Students of music are benefitting from the guidance and instruction of some of the country’s finest music teachers, including those of the Royal Academy in an exciting new scheme. Dr Olyver explains.
Learning an instrument can often require time and travel in order to reach the very best teachers available. For busy parents this can result in long after-school or weekend round trips that eat into homework and evening time schedules, impacting other members of the family too.
Since his arrival at Stoke College, Dr Olyver has been looking for a solution to this problem. As a PhD/MADipRAM (for outstanding MA portfolio) graduate and former Manson Fellow of the Royal Academy of Music (London) Dr Olyver knows the value of working with the very best music teachers and also the challenges of reaching these teachers from a rural location.
Dr Olyver has introduced a range of peripatetic music lessons delivered by some of the best music teachers in the UK via a trailblazing online system. Using technology used by many during the recent pandemic, Stoke College students are able to access one-to-one lessons with incredible teachers from the familiar surroundings of the Stoke College music department.
Parents are thrilled with the introduction of the new system and welcome the many benefits of the scheme.
“I believe passionately that high quality music tuition should be available to all those who wish to take it. For years geographical location has impacted opportunities for learning and it made complete sense to myself and my colleagues within the Performing Arts department to find a workable solution. Technological advances in online communication have enabled us to bring students face-to-face with some of the best music teachers in the country. I am excited to see the impact that this will have on our musicians and their future musical journeys.”, Dr Matthew Olyver,
Head of Music.If you would like to explore opportunities for peripatetic music lessons at Stoke College, please contact Dr Olyver at m.olyver@stokecollege.co.uk
ISA Art Competition
Stoke Students create Artwork to enter into the Independent Schools Association Creative Competition. Miss Coll describes the selected pieces for entry below.
Immersion Students Flourish in Stoke Arts
Our Immersion Students have been enjoying the opportunity to study art with the their Stoke College peers in the Hambling Art studio. Under the guidance of Miss Coll, the students have been developing styles. For some this is the first time they have taken an art lesson during the school day - a fantastic example of the enrichment of the Immersion experience.
The Independent Schools Association, the non-profit organisation that supports Independent Schools across the UK, launched its own Creative Competition. Miss Coll approached Art students and asked those wishing to enter to propose themed works. The breadth of work presented to Miss Coll demonstrates the commitment of students to creativity at Stoke College.
“These are fantastic opportunities for students of any age to contribute to the art department to show their imaginative designs and outcomes.”, Miss G Coll, Art Teacher.
Congratulations to Year 9 students Bebe (above left) and Tabby (above right) and Year 8, Lily (right), whose sports designs were chosen and submitted for the ISA Sports Cover Design.
A further congratulations to Amelia and Alexis in Year 8, Astrid and Daisy in Year 7, and Emily, Connie and Flossie in Year 7 for their group submissions for the ISA Recycled Art Challenge. This challenge invited students to create artwork out of recycled materials relating
to the theme of ‘Planet Earth’. We look forward to hearing the results from both ISA competitions, but in the meantime, a huge well done to all who submitted. If you wish to get involved in the next art challenge, Miss Coll will announce the next competition in school assembly in the new year, but you can always check with Miss Coll when or what the next event is.
Sports News from the Stoke College Pavilion
The benefits in sports participation at school are numerous from physical fitness and personal growth to stress relief and social interaction. The Stoke College sports department celebrate a successful year of growth and development of skills that will take students beyond the sports field.
This year has seen sport at the college grow immensely both on and off the sports field. The curriculum has been widened to now include orienteering, table tennis and POP lacrosse and we are excited to have the use of the pool shortly for both lessons and co-curricular activities. A big thank you to the Stoke College PTA who have supported the refurbishment of our old table tennis tables and purchasing of new ones which will enable us to host ISA events in the future.
This year saw us win four gold medals in the ISA East Region Gala and have 4 swimmers qualify for ISA Nationals at the Olympic Pool, London where we won a gold, silver and bronze, a fantastic achievement!
In cross-country we had students with 2nd, 4th and 5th place finishes which meant three national qualifiers where one of our runners came in an immense 5th position. ISA Athletics is always a major highlight in the calendar and this year saw us pick up a number of medals including 1 silver, 1 bronze and 3 golds.
In hockey and rugby we saw some big wins against some of our local rivals but a special mention must go to our U18 rugby team who went unbeaten this season including a mammoth victory at home against Gosfield whilst our U13s ended the season with a superb win in a triangular tournament. We would also have attended the national ISA 7s this year for the first time had the March snowstorms not gotten the better of us on our journey down to London.
Our U13 Netball team improved hugely as the spring term went on and this culminated with a 9th place finish in the whole of the East region, well done to them whilst our U15’s also showed what they are capable of with a big win against Brookes. Our U18 netball team also improved greatly as term progressed and had a resounding win against Gosfield.
We would like to welcome Tom H and Kitty B, Year 12, into their roles as Sports Captains. We would like to wish our departing Year 13 sports students the very best for their exciting futures. The drive and determination this year of students has been exciting to see and we look forward to building on this in the comming academic year. The sporting future is bright here at Stoke!
“Défilé de mode” – Fashion show
Madame Henson brings a little inspiration from Paris Fashion Week into the language classrooms of Stoke College. Students were able to practise their French clothing vocabulary whilst designing their own beautiful couture creations.
Year 7 students have been learning about clothing “les vêtements” in French. They have created outfits for a fashion show which have been beautifully labelled in French using a range of descriptive words.
Within the department,we strive to make the learning experience both engaging and enjoyable, igniting a passion for modern foreign languages within each student. We use methods that encourage creative learning. The Year 7 students have really enjoyed this challenge, taking their creativity and French to the next level.
Feast your eyes on their outfits and decide whether you think it may be something you would wear!
Cook Up a Delicious Summer Salmon Dish
Mrs Connelly delights the tastebuds again with this quick light dish that is perfect for the summer months. For an evening meal make it as below creating a white sauce base to reduce the fat content. Transform the dish for a special occasion by swapping the white sauce base to cream. You could also add in some other favourites like some prawns or asparagus.
Summer Smoke Salmon, Lemon and Pea Pasta
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon flour
150-200ml milk (150ml will give a thicker sauce and 200 a thinner one)
½ stock cube
Lemon zest (and a little juice)
1 fillet hot smoked
Salmon (lemon and herb) (cooked)
Handful of peas
½ Onion diced
Clove garlic
Spaghetti (120-140g)
Parsley
Parmesan cheese
Method - preheat oven to 180°c
1) Place a pan of salted water on the boil ready for the spaghetti. When it boils add the pasta and cook.
2) Add a tablespoon of oil to a frying pan and gently fry the onion and garlic until soft.
3) Add an extra spoon of oil, a tablespoon of flour and gradually add the milk stirring. Add stock cubes, zest, juice and some parsley.
4) Add the salmon in flaking it as you go and double checking there are no bones.
5) Add a handful of peas. Gently simmer for a few minutes so the salmon gets hot.
6) Drain the pasta and mix with the sauce.
7) Serve with a grind of pepper and sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Design Technology Project Success
Mr Reeves reports on the highly productive Design Technology work of Key Stages Three and Four. The Design Technology workshop, as well as being a hub of practical activity, allows students to express themselves creatively and develop key team-working skills.
Key Stage Three - Year 7
Year 7 Have completed their acrylic stand project and have moved onto a smaller endeavour learning about the physical properties and characteristics of aluminum. I have been pleased to see students take real care and attention to get the best possible finish and listen to them comment positively on each other’s work as they progress.
Year 8
Year 8 have now completed the focussed practical part of their MP3 amplifier project and have tested the soldered circuit. It now remains for the product to be assembled with different adhesion methods, permanent and non-permanent fixings, with final sanding and painting to effect. It has been great to see students working together in small groups, helping each other to get work completed safely and accurately, demonstrating excellent teamwork.
Year 9
Year 9 have been working on their Horology project and have analysed lots of existing design products. As they progress through the Key Stage they are encouraged to be experimental in their work, drawing and designing outside of the normal expectations. The results have been highly creative and are now putting together their layer clock design in a mixed media format. I have been very impressed how the students are
Key Stage Four - Year 10
Year 10 Have completed multiple small projects involving mixed media and have been preparing to embark on their component 2 NEA project for their GCSE in Design and Technology. They have been developing investigation techniques ready to receive the Exam Board set contexts for examination in 2024.
Year 11
It is easy to imagine that the summer term is stressful for Year 11 with the impending deadlines to complete their practical projects. With essential end-of-project tasks to complete like corrections to surface finishes and double checking the accompanying written work, there is a time management challenge for Year 11. I am delighted to share that all students presented their projects on time and I am very proud of their achievements.