Riddlesdown Dispatch
Welcome to the inaugural edition of the Riddlesdown Dispatch!
Created from conception to final form by students in the Journalism Club, the RD began in the Winter Term, and our members have worked around the clock to imagine what the school newspaper might look like, what topics might work best for the first edition, and which images might wholly encapsulate the many colleges throughout the Collegiate.
Over the past few months, student journalists interviewed teachers, staff, and peers to get a better understanding of life in Riddlesdown. We wanted to tell the stories of the people who walk through our doors everyday to teach, learn, lead, support and make our community what it is. Every person at Riddlesdown makes a difference, and we look forward to having the opportunity to share all your stories in the future.
We hope you enjoy this first edition, and if it sparks your curiosity - or if you have a story idea of your own - consider joining the club next year! Our aim is to publish one jam-packed edition every term, and we'd love your help in keeping the whole Collegiate in the know.
Lucian Grenham Y10 Phoenix
"Information connects us and connection makes us grow as a community."
Riddlesdown Clubs:
Building Skills, Creativity, and Community
At Riddlesdown, clubs are more than just activities—they are a chance to explore interests, learn new skills, and become part of a vibrant and supportive community. From creative crafts to cultural experiences, imaginative building, and meaningful discussions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the most relaxing and creative Crochet Club. Here, students can learn the art of crochet, using simple tools like a hook and yarn to create a wide range of items, from scarves and blankets to detailed handmade designs. The club welcomes all skill levels, offering guidance for beginners and new challenges for more experienced members. It’s not just about making things—it’s also a great way to unwind, focus, and enjoy a calm, friendly atmosphere.
Marcelina Krasniewska Y10 Aquila
Marcelina Krasniewska Y10 Aquila
Clubs Continued
For those interested in culture and language, the Italian Club offers an exciting opportunity to explore the traditions of Italy. Members can learn basic Italian phrases, practice speaking, and discover more about Italian food, music, and celebrations. Through fun activities like quizzes, films, and themed sessions, students experience la dolce vita while broadening their understanding of another culture.
If you love building and creating, LEGO
Club is the perfect place to let your imagination take over. With endless possibilities, members can design anything from detailed structures to completely original inventions. The club often includes
fun challenges and group projects, encouraging teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills in a lively and engaging environment.
Anime Club brings together fans of Japanese animation to enjoy and discuss a wide variety of shows and styles. From action and fantasy to emotional storytelling, members explore different genres while sharing their thoughts and recommendations. The club also encourages creativity
Marcelina Krasniewska Y10 Aquila
There is something for everyone to enjoy.
through drawing and design, while introducing elements of Japanese culture that inspire anime.
Alongside these creative and cultural opportunities, the Anti-Racism Club plays a vital role in promoting respect, understanding, and equality across the school. It provides a welcoming space where students can learn about different cultures, discuss important issues, and support one another. Through open and respectful conversations, members are encouraged to share their perspectives, listen to others, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Marcelina Krasniewska Y10 Aquila
RIDDLESDOWN CLUBS CONT.
A key focus of the Anti-Racism Club is education. Through discussions, activities, and awareness campaigns, students explore topics such as identity, fairness, and inclusion. The club challenges stereotypes and encourages everyone to think carefully about how their words and actions can impact others. It also takes action within the school community by organising events and promoting messages of diversity and respect. What makes all of these clubs special is the strong sense of community they create. Each one provides a space where students can meet new people,
Every student feels that they belong.
share their interests, and feel confident expressing themselves. Whether you’re learning a new skill, discovering a different culture, building something imaginative, or working to make a positive difference, Riddlesdown’s clubs offer something meaningful for everyone.
Together, these clubs help shape a school environment where creativity thrives, diversity is celebrated, and every student feels that they belong.
Riddlesdown Colleges
Orion
The Atmosphere of Orion
By Lucas Marzahn Bulson
We decided to interview three Orion teachers about Orion as a college: Mr Scott (the head of Orion), Miss Slawikova (an excellence teacher who joined in
September of 2025) and Miss Fletcher (a religion, sociology and world views teacher in Orion). We asked them general questions about their time at Orion, and how it is like teaching/working in Orion college.
Miss Slawikova
Miss Slawikova is an Excellence teacher who (at the time of writing) has only been teaching in Orion for 4 months. Hence, we decided to ask her questions about how she
Lucian Grenham Y10 Phoenix
has been settling into her new role. We were told that she used to work at a primary school and mentioned how big the change was from a relatively small school to such a big school like Riddlesdown. She explained that Orion, although a part of such a big school, has felt supportive and that she has made many friends. A big part of teaching Excellence in Riddlesdown includes teaching only year 7s, who are also new students, just like how she is, which can make it tough, but overall she really enjoys Orion and the teaching experience there.
students she works with. We asked her one word to describe Orion, and she chose: “positive”.
Miss Fletcher
Miss Fletcher is a Worldviews, Religious Education and Sociology teacher in Orion. She has only been in Orion for 3 months; however, she has been teaching at Riddlesdown for 4 years. She mentions Orion is very supportive and overall an extremely positive college to work in. One moment that had shined for her has been meeting the new year 7s and getting to work with them.
Mr Scott
Mr Scott has been working at Riddlesdown Collegiate for 4 years and started as the head of Orion in 2025, hence he feels very proud to be the head of Orion. He said that what inspires him to come to work is the student body, which makes him really happy. He described becoming the Head of Orion as an exciting role, especially with the unique format of
Lucian Grenham Y10 Phoenix
Conclusion
Overall, I can assess that all the teachers working in Orion really enjoy the positive atmosphere, and they also seem to really enjoy teaching and working with the student body.
Phoenix
The Phoenix Way
By Sasha Barrett
Out of the 15 tutors in Phoenix College, we interviewed Mr Walters and asked him to give a true insight into how tutors feel about Phoenix College, how it’s developed, and any issues they have with it. His lyrically-waxed monologues make it clear that tutors have strong opinions on the college, and they all value their tutor group.
How have you seen the college’s development reflected through
"...they all value their tutor group."
your tutees?
“I think overall, if you look at us in comparison to other colleges, we tend to behave on the whole very well by comparison. Our standards are great, and looking at my own tutor group, they really understand when they need to listen to something important. I haven’t had to use the whole ‘one two three eyes on me.’
was on the French trip. I think most trips in general are very fun. Crazily enough, it was when the boat almost capsized, and I had to bring sick bags to everyone - including other passengers not from the school - which was…an interesting time!”
Do you have any issues with anything in the college?
“I don’t think it’s an issue with the college; I have an issue with the fact that The Phoenix Way isn’t
implemented anywhere else. When you have key stage 4 classes which are mixed colleges, you can tell there is a big difference in behaviour between those that come from other colleges because we just do things slightly better.”
Pegasus
Pegasus from Within
By Hollie Leonard, Ella Mallie-Dunham and Zainab Shafi
An insider's perspective into the experiences of Pegasus staff
Within Riddlesdown collegiate, each college has its own character, traditions, and spirit. However, the truth and familial feeling within Pegasus originates in the support and trust that bonds the staff and students.When you speak to the staff and students of Pegasus, you’ll quickly discover a college built on something deeper than the colours of our ties and the competitions. Pegasus is known for its warmth, its teamwork and the
"Pegasus is a family."
Continued
and the strong sense of belonging shared by everyone in it. It is an environment where everyone feels united, supported and appreciated.
That feeling is something Mrs McNally, a long standing member of the Pegasus team, knows well and actively acts to make sure every student feels daily.
“Pegasus is a family,” she said, reflecting on her years in the college. “Everyone supports each other. You see students grow in confidence, and you see friendships form where they uplift each other and grow as individuals.”
One of her favourite traditions is the daily tutoring/study sessions which she is proud to run as they help all students learn and excel at subjects which may be more difficult. “We get to teach, share, and just enjoy being together. Those moments show what Pegasus is all about.”
While Mrs Mcnally describes Pegasus as a family, Miss Philips sees it through a slightly different but equally heartfelt lens.
“For me, Pegasus is a community,” she said. “It’s a place where students and staff come together with shared purpose, unity and the utmost respect for each other.”
Her history class recently took part in several Pegasus projects,
Pegasus is a community.
Pegasus continued which she described as a highlight of the year.
“The students were so engaged. Watching them collaborate and bring ideas to life was really exciting. Those projects helped them feel connected as they got the chance to be creative and learn from each other. They came together and became more connected, not just to the subject,
10 JULY 2026
but to the college as a whole.”
This sense of connection is something that even newcomers feel quickly. Mr Sousa, who joined the Pegasus team this year, has already found himself at home and has fit right in to the welcoming community that Pegasus is proud to be.
“My tutor group has been incredibly welcoming,” he said. “They’ve made my first year here very special.”
Outside the classroom, he’s found joy in something many overlook, his daily walks to and from school. “It gives me time to think and appreciate the day. It’s become one of my favourite parts of the routine.”
Across all three interviews, one message stood out clearly: Pegasus College is built on people — their kindness, their enthusiasm, and their willingness to support one another. Whether described as a family or a community, Pegasus is a place where students and staff feel valued, connected, and proud to belong.
Above all, in a school where every college has its strengths, Pegasus shines brightest in the way it brings people together.
Lucian Grenham Y10 Phoenix
Marcelina Krasniewska Y10 Aquila
Riddlesdown's Toilets: How to keep them clean
By Zainab Shafi
Many students are prevented from going to the toilets because of their terrible state. A few of the toilets at Riddlesdown Collegiate, used by students, are always left unclean, making it stressful for students to use, as well as for the cleaners to clean after school each day.
Firstly, many teachers have been on called to lessons regularly to take students to the toilets. This may affect your learning, and it has been clear that you should only be going to the restrooms if you have a toilet pass. Secondly, you have the opportunity/time to go to the toilets during break or lunchtime. Try to go during these times, or if you know that
you will be going to WC during lessons, use the time you have been given to go then. Many teachers have reported students not being sensible when going to the lavatory.
Thirdly, it can be unpleasant to clean the toilets, so we must be kind to the
resources that the school has provided to us and keep good hygiene. After you use the toilets, please wash your hands and leave as soon as you can – do not stay away from your lesson too long. Do not use the toilets for anything else, like using your phone or checking your appearance.
Finally, here are some top tips to help Riddlesdown keep the toilets clean: Flush the toilets after use; Do not waste tissues or tap water –only use what is necessary; Put all waste into either the bin or, if flushable, into the toilet. Follow these tips if you use the WC again!
Last half-term, the curtains of the Riddlesdown stage were drawn once again for an outstanding showcase of talent. The cast and crew of The Addams Family truly deserve special mention for their exceptional performance. The incredible dedication and hard work that brought this production to life are truly remarkable. To grasp the production's true impact, we must look beyond the spotlight and into the experiences of those who made it happen. This event clearly highlights the power of collaboration and creativity between students and teachers.
Let's look at what experiences shaped and affected them to this day.
For many students, the musical was not just about performance but about personal growth and self-discovery. Stepping into rehearsals and onto the stage required courage, pushing students beyond their comfort zones and allowing them to gradually build confidence over time. Asmara, a Year 9 student who played Wednesday, reflected on her journey, explaining that at the start of Year 7 she was quite shy and hesitant to put herself forward, unsure if musical theatre was something she truly belonged in; however, being part of the CPA allowed her to connect with others who shared her passions, helping her grow in confidence and feel as though she no longer had to hide who she was. Her experience
Addams' Family Cont.
highlights how the musical created a space where students feel accepted, enabling them to express themselves more freely and develop a stronger sense of identity.
Freya, a Year 10 student who played Morticia, also shared that she felt more encouraged and motivated to take part in other opportunities, including dance clubs and choirs, which further support her development in musical theatre. Her experience reflects how involvement in the production can inspire
Helps us understand ourselves as individuals.
students to continue exploring their passions beyond a single performance. Similarly, Daniel, a Year 10 student who played Lucas, noted that the musical allows students to develop and apply their talents in meaningful ways, helping them grow in confidence and better understand themselves as individuals. For many students, it is not only about performing, but
about gaining confidence, discovering their identity, and finding the courage to be themselves, both on and off the stage.
Bringing Characters to Life
During the rehearsal process of the winter musical, The Addams Family, all the students showed exceptional dedication and connected with their characters to perform to the best of
rehearsals due to the technical demands of the production, particularly the choreography, which blended elements of pasodoble and tango and required precision, timing, and strong stage presence from the performers. Such complexity
could adapt and approach the challenges with greater skill and confidence. Sophia, a Year 7 ensemble cast member, took part in her first musical experience this year and mentioned the complexity of the routines as well but praised the teachers for being supportive and making the experience enjoyable and memorable.
Beyond choreography and staging,
Addams' Family Cont.
of performing, reminding them that “remembering why you’re there helps boost morale, as we are all there because we enjoy performing."
Ultimately, The Addams Family stood as a testament to the combined effort of students and staff alike, demonstrating how dedication and collaboration can transform months of rehearsal into a confident and memorable performance on stage.
The Community Behind the Curtain
At the heart of the musical was something just as important as the performance itself: a strong and supportive community that brought the cast and crew together. Following the tradition of previous years, the cast and crew spent months in demanding rehearsals, gradually bringing their vision for the production to life. However, through those rehearsals, they found something even more meaningful than simply preparing for a successful show: friendships and a sense of belonging that extended far beyond the stage.
Freya, reflected on this
experience, explaining that being involved in CPA events such as the production allowed her to meet others who shared the same passions, adding that “friendships are inevitable in this kind of setting.” While the CPA has long been recognised for its strong sense of unity, hearing this directly from one of the performers reveals how genuine the community truly is.
Asmara, shared a similar sentiment, stating that being part of the CPA
...a place where they truly felt they belonged.
Addams' Family Cont.
production and the sense of belonging it created made her feel more confident and at ease.
Moments like these reveal that the impact of the production reaches far beyond the final performance. For many students, the experience was not just about stepping onto the stage but about finding confidence, connection, and a place where they truly felt they belonged.
In many ways, the musical was not just about what happened on stage but about the friendships, and sense of belonging that
grew behind the scenes.
Wider Impact of Musical
The impact...reaches far beyond the final performance
The impact of the musical’s success extends far beyond the final performance, contributing to the growth and development of the drama department. Multiple aspects of performance were included in the musical, which was beneficial for the students to
experience. The production included many different parts of the performing arts, so students could learn a variety of creative skills, such as acting, singing, dancing, and stagecraft.
Elisha emphasised that the musical's success is important for the development of the drama department because it brings together multiple aspects of
performance, from acting and singing to dancing and stagecraft. As a result, rehearsals become more than preparation for a show — they become a space where students grow both artistically and socially.
Sophia S, shared that her favourite part of the production was “enjoying spending time with friends and watching other performers develop their roles." While being part of a professional environment, younger students find inspiration from experienced older students, influencing their knowledge and ideas for musical theatre.
The highly anticipated nature of the school musical also provides students passionate about drama with the chance to fully immerse themselves in musical theatre. Summer and Mia, Year 10 dancers, explained that “being part of the production allows us to explore our personal ambitions, and knowing we are surrounded by friends and
teachers, who make us feel safe and supported, helps us explore our passions confidently.”
Long After the Curtain Falls
Overall, The Addams Family has inflicted a positive remark onto the students who participated. Through gaining personal experience and expanding friendships, students can explore their passions and ambitions and perform more eloquently. Teachers involved have supported peers through pressure, providing a memorable experience, and all participants created an upbeat atmosphere, supporting each other throughout their journey together. As the curtain falls, the impact of this year’s musical doesn’t just end there. It stays with the students: in their confidence, their friendships, and the way they see themselves moving forward. It’s something they’ll carry into future performances and even beyond that.
Riddlesdown Dispatch
Thank you for reading the inaugural issues of the Riddlesdown Dispatch. We hope we have inspired you to contribute to the newspaper next year. Whether you enjoy writing, interviewing, photographing, or idea building, we have a place for you!
A special thanks to our teachers who have given their time to get our club started this
year: Ms Condon, Mr Foney, and Ms Bracht. And an extra special thanks to each student who contributed, and their subjects, for allowing us to include them in this year's edition.
The editors wish everyone a safe and happy summer holiday. See you in the new school year!
Write for us next year!
Lucian Grenham Y10 Phoenix