The Stag, Issue 19. Michaelmas Term 1 2023

THE

STAG

Issue 19, Michaelmas Term 1, 2023

The Stag

CONTENTS PAGE The 3 Ts:

School Events and Sport:

The Turner Prize - pg 1 Tracking Trump’s Indictments - pg 2 Welcome to Tim’s - pg 3

The Aquathlon - pg 23 The Year 13 business trip - pg 24 Mr Torri‘s Blue and White Army - pg 25 Wargrave House Concert - pg 26

Creative Arts: The Slow Fashion Show - pg 5 Fashion Week - pg 6 An Interview with Sweeny and Lovett pg 8 Year 9 Drama - pg 9 Is this art? - pg 10 Is Film Bro Cinema that good? - pg 11 Nave - Janis Rozentals - pg 13

Politics: What is being done about the cost of living crisis? - pg 15 Is Labour on course for election victory?

- pg 16

International Affairs: The Niger coup calamity - pg 17 Has China ‘banned‘ the iPhone? - pg 19 Japan‘s radioactive water - pg 20

Futures: Choosing a university for you - pg 21 University of Cambridge trip - pg 22

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House Reports: Blackwater - pg 27 Craig - pg 28 Gonville - pg 29 Nugent - pg 30 Pennell - pg 31 Powell - pg 32 Reeves - pg 33 School - pg 34 Wargrave - pg 35 Watt - pg 36

Interactive: The perfect Hallowe‘en weekend - pg 37 Apple jam - pg 38 Autumn quiz - pg 39 E-Safety poster - pg 40 Horoscopes - pg 41 The Slow Fashion Show poster - pg 42 This magazine is written for pupils by the pupils of Eastbourne College. It is not an official College publication and is not meant to be an accurate reflection of every activity or event across the College; nor (obviously) is every pupil mentioned. The magazine is for the Eastbourne College community only, so please do not send it on to friends or family. We hope you enjoy reading our magazine!

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THE 3 T’S

THE TURNER PRIZE

By Missy Richardson

What is the Turner Prize?

Each year, only four artists from across the United Kingdom are chosen to compete in the ‘Turner Prize’ to become the annual British Contemporary Visual Artist.

With support from Eastbourne Borough Council and East Sussex County Council, this year’s 2023 Turner Prize is proud to announce that the exhibition is going to be held in Eastbourne’s Towner Art Gallery as the centrepiece of the gallery’s centenary programme, less than a five minute walk away from school!

Leung is a conceptual artist which takes a critical look at the socio-political and spatial conditions of art production. Pilgrim is a multidisciplinary artist working across a broad range of mediums like song writing, composition, films, text and paintings, aiming to share awareness about emancipatory concerns.

We highly recommend you visit the Towner Art Gallery to witness their beautiful creations yourself.

Walker’s work

Leung’s work

Pilgrim’s work

Darling’s work

On Wednesday 28th September, hundreds of people around the world started queuing outside the Towner Art Gallery to see the opening of the exhibition. It has continuously been immensely busy, helping local businesses nearby.

This year’s four shortlisted artists are: Barbara Walker, Jesse Darling, Ghislaine Leung and Rory Pilgrim. The winner will be announced in the school’s Birley Centre.

This year’s decision to decipher the winner will be incredibly difficult from the way they broadly contrast each other’s primary art forms.

The winner will be announced in the Birley Centre on the 5th December so make sure to buy tickets to see each artist’s talk!

Walker specialises in creating figurative drawings which target hinged stories from historical moments, whilst Darling focuses on sculptures, installations, text and the use of sound.

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THE 3 T’S

TRACKING TRUMP’S INDICTMENTS

By Annabel McKenna

For the initial 234 years of the nation’s history, there had been no American president or former president to have ever been indicted. That changed this year.

Former president (2016-2020) Donald Trump has been charged in four criminal cases over less than a five month span.

In New York, he faces 34 felony counts in connection with payments to an adult film star. In Florida, he faces 40 felony counts for impeding efforts to obtain classified documents. In Washington DC, he faces four felony counts for his effots to overturn the 2020 election. Finally, in Georgia, he faces thirteen felony counts for his election interference in that state.

An indictment in the US Government means a grand jury has ruled that there is ‘more likely than not’ enough evidence (based on testimony) to move forward with charging someone.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR TRUMP‘S 2024 CAMPAIGN? Despite these recent indictments, Trump still enjoys strong support among Republicans, even joking about his voting popularity by saying he needs one more Indictment to win the next election. While to most, it would seem sensible to not show support for the candidate with criminal charges, nearly 63% of Republicans now say they want the former President to run again.

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This is up from the 55% who said the same in April 2023 when Trump first began facing a series of criminal charges.

HOWEVER Trump is now facing glaring vulnerabilities heading towards the general election, with many Americans posing against him. Based on a study run by The Assocciated PressNORC Centre for Public Affairs Research, while near half of traditional Republicans say they would still support him in the actual November 2024 election, 53% of Americans admit they would definitely not support him if he is the nominee, with the remaining still unsure.

WHY IS TRUMP STILL RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT? Because Trump‘s charges are all federal crimes, if he gets re-elected as president, he would be able to pardon himself (although the valididty of a president self-pardoning is unsettled). This is one of the reasons why it is assumed Trump is attempting to delay his trials until after the election; he is aware of his impending negative state and knows reelection is possibly the only hope he has for being pardoned for all his crimes.

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THE 3 T’S

WELCOME TO TIM`S We interviewed Liz and Alison from the café everyone at Eastbourne College knows and loves! Liz started in Tim`s in June 2022 and Alison in April 2022, and since then the two of them and their team have built a wonderful community atmosphere in the café with both students and teachers! Tim’s has also succeeded in becoming a zero waste café.

By Ella Stevenson and Grace King What is something most people wouldn't know about the café?

There are often events such as meetings or quiz nights held in the café and Liz is always open to suggestions!

What are your opening and closing times?

Tim`s is open 10:00am to 4:55pm Mondays and Fridays, 10:00am - 5:30pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and 10:00am4:00pm on Saturdays.

What is your most popular drink?

Rubicons and Radnor fruit drinks are always popular and low in calories. Iced coffees are also a well-received favourite Describe your working day Tim`s opens at 10:00am, but Liz arrives at 9, and she and Alison work behind the scenes with pre-opening fridges and stock checks and ensuring that the café is clean and tidy.

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What would you like new students to know about the café?

Liz invites all new pupils to visit Tim`s, whether to study, socialise or grab a quick drink. She has found all the new Year 9s have come across very well “but could they please remember to queue nicely, clear their rubbish away, push their chairs in and not be so noisy (Year 9s!)”.

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THE 3 T’S

What is your favourite drink on the menu?

Liz: I like an iced matcha with oat milk and vanilla.

Alison: I like the turmeric latte!

What is your favourite time of day in the café?

Liz: I like doing the opening with Alison in the morning. We always have a catch up!

The cafe is really clean and tidy, immaculate from the night before, and we’re fully stocked and ready.

Alison: The first break is very busy but good fun. It’s lively.

What is your favourite staff recommendation?

Miss Salway is a breath of fresh air every time she comes in, and loves a matcha with oat milk!

What is the highest café bill you've ever seen? £1,500 - they know who they are!

Seasonal Drinks Tim’s has recently welcomed back their popular pumpkin spiced lattes and introduced brand new turmeric lattes! It is the season for hot chocolate and chai.

The gingerbread lattes will be coming back soon.

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CREATIVE ARTS

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GOLD ARTS FASHION SHOW On the 12th of October, Liv Reade is hosting a fashion show in the JWA for her Gold Arts Award. I had the opportunity to interview her to find out more about it and what you can expect to see.

What is the fashion show called?

My fashion show is called ‘The Slow Fashion Show‘ because I am trying to emphasize how bad fast fashion is for the environment and highlight the benefits of slow fashion over fast fashion.

By Sophie Stevens How long have you been working towards this?

It has taken me a while to make all the garments the models are going to wear so I would probably say a few months.

Who do you look up to in the fashion industry?

I admire fashion designers like Iris Van Herpen and Alexander McQueen. I’m very inspired by their work in the industry!

When is ‘The Slow Fashion Show’ and how can we attend?

Is there a theme to the show?

I am hosting the show on the 12th of October 2023 in the JWA. Refreshments are served from 18:00 pm and the show will start at 18:15 pm. The ‘Slow Fashion Show’ is also in aid of the St Wilfrid’s Hospice, so any donations would be greatly appreciated!

I am focusing on denim, leather and cotton as they are the top contributors to the global textile pollution. I am also sticking to a theme of white, black and blue, so I have created unique garments to fit this theme!

What inspired you to put on a fashion show?

I have always wanted to work as a fashion designer or in the fashion industry and I love making things from scratch as I am quite a creative person so I find it satisfying to see my work come to life.

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CREATIVE ARTS

FASHION WEEK

By Mandy Luo Earlier in September, fashion weeks took place across fashion capitals New York, London, Milan, and Paris to present designers' new and proudest collections for the forthcoming season.

Paris Fashion Week pushed the boundaries of fashion once again as many were impressed by the Anrealage show titled “Invisible”, utilizing photochromic technology which is patented by the brand.

The collection evolved around the idea of futuristic fashion with transparent PVC and special fabrics that change colour. As models stepped into the spotlight under ultraviolet lights, the colours of fabrics shifted dramatically to reveal an array of vibrant monogram patterns. With the addition of the transparent character of the PVC material, rainbow hues were present, ranging from the boldest to the most subdued shades.

The magic of the design unfolds as it changes colour like a chameleon’s skin.

In Milan Fashion Week, Prada revisited their “fluid form” collection in which they had silver pink slime pouring down onto the catwalk as models marched their way through. “Abstract walls” or interruptions were formed by the slightly disturbing slime oozing down. This was not only a memorable visual experience for the audience, but it also enhanced the message Miuccia Prada hopes to convey that beauty is much more compelling with a little ugliness thrown in.

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CREATIVE ARTS

The London Underground was temporarily renamed “Burberry Street” as part of the London Fashion Week marketing campaign for the British luxury brand.

In London Fashion Week, the designer Simone Rocha, known for her signature sense of subversive femininity, revealed a surprise collaboration with Crocs featured in her collection entitled “Dress Rehearsal”.

Emerging the comfortable rubber shoe with every girl’s dream of Rocha’s prominent pearls, crystals and jet beading, the outcome appears new but iconic. Simone herself describes it as a “creative juxtaposition of femininity and utilitarianism”. Another outstanding piece is the sheer tulle dress revealing real roses trapped underneath. This rose motif, which is noticeable throughout the show, is reminiscent of romance and beauty. It adds enchantment and fragrance to complete the overall presentation.

The collection was crafted with a range of textural materials to imbue the chaos and conflict.

The American designer Elena Velez had models dredge through layers of mud to showcase her reflective collection in New York Fashion Week. The models brawled and dragged each other through the sludge as if Velez wanted to present beyond the catwalk and impose performance art.

Although it might have been a discomforting and raw performance or show to watch, it made one contemplate contemporary society’s saturated view of womanhood, and how it leaves no room for the multiplicity women deserve. The show almost screams for itself that being a woman isn’t always pretty; however, this should not take away the meaning of what they pursue as architects of interior lives.

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CREATIVE ARTS

The Stag

AN INTERVIEW WITH SWEENEY AND LOVETT

By Esteban Boruel-Lopez As we enter Michaelmas Term, one thing is on everyones’ mind in the Drama Department: the annual College performance! Coming this December is the thrilling musical by the legendary Steven Sondheim, Sweeney Todd. I met up with this year’s two leading actors, Herbie Sleep and Leticia Nare, to get a brief insight on what to expect!

How did you feel about the auditions?

The audition can seem daunting, but as soon as you step in the room you are supported by Mr Russell. It feels more like a fun workshop, where you work with Mr Russell to try different versions of your performance.

As the two main protagonists, how are you preparing for your roles?

(Leticia) I listen to the soundtrack every morning to keep it in my head constantly! I watch many versions of Mrs Lovett to figure out what works best for my portrayal of her.

Sweeney Todd in three words?

Razors, pies and revenge How do you feel about this production compared to previous ones?

(Leticia) I’m more excited for this production because of how ambitious it is, from the characters to the set design. Mrs Lovett is one of the most complicated characters I’ve played, so it’s been interesting figuring out what goes on in her head.

What makes Sweeney Todd stand out compared to other musicals?

The Sweeney Todd soundtrack is incredibly unique, intricate, and sinister sounding.

Anything by Sondheim automatically stands out. It also stands out for its intense storyline of a barber, who kills his customers, all while singing about it!

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Without spoiling the plot, describe Sweeney Todd in three words.

Razors, pies and revenge How would you convince non-musical fans to come and watch Sweeney Todd?

Sweeney Todd is dark and gory. Anyone who likes horror would love this production.

As this is your last ever whole College production, is there anything you are nervous about?

We are not necessarily nervous (yet), but just want it to be perfect. We have high expectations for ourselves and want this college production to be the best!

Finally, what advice would you give to the younger pupils when it comes to College performances?

Always get involved!! The performances aren't just amazing, but the rehearsal process leaves you with so many memories and friends from various year groups. Being a part of the college productions made it so much easier for us to fit into the college.

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CREATIVE ARTS

YEAR 9 DRAMA

By Esteban Boruel-Lopez As the start of Michaelmas Term arrives, the heavily anticipated annual House Drama Competition returns to the stage once again, bringing with it an entertaining watch for all and highlighting new talent to add to the Drama Department’s already exceptional roster.

So how does it work? Well, each house is given an extract from a play, this year being the childhood classic: ‘Charlie and The Chocolate Factory’. Each house’s cast consists of the entirety of their respective Year 9 squadron and a couple of Year 12 pupils tasked with the notoriously gruelling job of directing them. Day and boarding houses will be judged separately, and therefore perform on separate dates: the 23rd of November for day houses, the 24th for boarding houses.

Before this time, each house will be conducting many a rehearsal, scouting their next DiCaprio or Stone and giving them the character with the most lines (if that’s you, commiserations in advance). During these weekly rehearsals, the cast will set out their scenes and attempt to learn their lines. The directors are also allowed free rein to change up the script, as long as there is still a chocolate factory owned by Willy Wonka.

‘The directors are also allowed free rein to change up the script, as long as there is still a chocolate factory owned by Willy Wonka’ When it comes to the dreaded (for some) date of performance, each house will perform their scene to a swelling sea of parents, teachers and friends alike, but most importantly, to the judges, who will name the winning house.

However, it has been noted that there are many individual prizes ranging from best directors, actors, and my personal favourite: best Oompaloompa! Good luck to all those involved and may the best house win!

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CREATIVE ARTS

IS THIS ART? We decided to start this Is This Art column last year in order to introduce more people to art and show how art history is important when looking at a piece of work; art doesn’t exist in a vacuum! Our aim is to help you reflect upon an art piece that you might be initially inclined to reject, and instead to ask the question: if that isn’t art, then what is?

For this issue of The Stag, we will be looking at reverse graffiti, which is a method of creating temporary or semi-permanent images on walls or other surfaces by removing dirt from a surface. Authorities across the world are yet undecided if this is illegal, which is part of where the controversy comes to play.

By Missy Richardson and Hannah Sewell

In São Paulo, street artist Alexandre Orion embarked on a project to awaken people to the dangers of their polluting engines by doing reverse graffiti on the walls of the Max Feiffer Tunnel. He worked on removing layers of soot, leaving images of human skulls in the newly cleaned negative space.

The police came, but could do nothing as he hadn’t broken any laws. Eventually, the authorities returned with hoses and washed Orion’s work away, exactly what he had intended. Is this art or merely political activism?

Curtis’s work

Is this art or merely political activism?

English artist Paul Curtis became the first street artist to use the ‘reverse graffiti technique.’ He first discovered the technique whilst washing up dishes when he worked at a restaurant. He initially attempted to wipe away a mark from a wall, only to realise that the wall was actually white and the brown stain came from nicotine smoke.

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CREATIVE ARTS

IS FILM BRO CINEMA THAT GOOD?

By Layla Cluskey El Jishi

MAJOR FILM BRO FILMS The major film bro films may include: The Joker, The Dark Night trilogy, Donnie Darko, Pulp Fiction (or any Tarantino), Fight Club, Apocalypse Now, Inception, Interstellar, The Wolf of Wall Street, Nightcrawler, American Psycho, Drive, Se7en, Taxi Driver and many more.

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ARE THESE FILMS ACTUALLY GOOD? I will review three of the major films which ‘cinephiles’ rage about to consider if they really are as good as film bros insist they are

The Narrator and Tyler Durden - Fight club

WHAT IS A FILM BRO? A film bro is someone who might refer to themselves as a 'cinephile', a person who may have a singular taste in films. These films may be overpopulated with ideas of toxic masculinity, grey morals and other key traits. We all know a few film bros, those who get offended when you say you didn’t like films such as Drive and especially Fight Club, or who may lecture you about the art of Nolan, Scorsese or Tarantino. Some may be offended by this term and consider it an insult. However, it can be taken another way, as someone who simply loves film.

FIGHT CLUB - David Fincher (1999) 4.5/5 Fight Club stars Brad Pitt, Edward Norton and Helena Bonham-Carter. This film is an amazing study of masculinity, society's expectations and even capitalism all bundled into one. I will give it to cinephiles and film bros alike: this film is amazing and I recommend it to anyone looking for a film to get them into cinema. This film’s use of cinematography and stylisation is fascinating and features captivating performances from everyone starring in the film. This one is definitely a must-see.

However, it can get slow at parts, especially in the middle, and has extreme levels of gore and lots of fighting. However, it is a brilliant watch for all and the film picks itself up with a brilliant ending; you just need to push through.

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Jordan Belfort - Wolf of Wall Street

CREATIVE ARTS

TAXI DRIVER - Martin Scorsese (1976) 4/5 This 1976 cult classic follows a mentally unstable Vietnam war veteran, Travis Bickle, played by the iconic and brilliant Robert De Nero. This film is also incredible: we follow another movie showing how capitalism and western society can affect an already unstable person (common in 'film bro' cinema). I thoroughly enjoyed De Nero's acting and the score is next level. I did find that, similar to Fight Club, this is a very slow film with some random plots and many untied ends. I see why this is film is so popular: it is enjoyable and intriguing as we watch De Nero's character unfold as his mental state decays. However, I think it is slightly over-hyped.

The score is next level

Travis Bickle - Taxi Driver

WOLF OF WALL STREET - Martin Scorsese (2013) 3.5/5 This 2013 biopic is a fascinating insight into the world of stock and how easily people like Jordan Belfort are able to manipulate the system. All performances in this film are amazing, with a stunning style and perfect speed, showing Scorsese's talent. This film is very good and interesting. However, it is not the "best film ever" or life-changing. This film is not like the others that I would highly recommend and is average compared to some of Scorsese's other works. This film is for those who are interested in the world of stock and money laundering or want to watch the brilliant acting of Margot Robbie, Jonah Hill and Leonardo DiCaprio (just to name a few).

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It is not the ‘best film ever" CONCLUSION Overall, I think a lot of film bro cinema is very good. However, it is massively over-rated. I would recommend these films if you are trying to get into movies but besides that, you shouldn’t feel pressured at all into watching them.

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CREATIVE ARTS

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NĀVE-JANIS ROZENTĀLS

By Tian O’Leary

She wears white as she raises her slender, milky- white face towards the flittering sunlight dappling her gentle skin, drinking in the enveloping warmth pouring from the open arms of the trees. Engraved with lines deep and twisting, they gracefully outstretch to bask in the coolness of the sky, their serene, earthy tones stark against the brilliant blue. It seems to stretch on endlessly in her peripheral vision, the heavy emptiness reflecting on her few features. An occasional lost remnant of a cloud, once whole, hazily sweeping across, interrupts its smooth surface, though this flaw does not Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

hinder the practices of life being breathed into the ancient secrets of the natural world as rays cascade onto the mossy, damp forest floor, blessing it with hope. She soaks it all in, hungry and kind. She stays like this for a while, the supple folds of her dress rippling softly in the light breeze.

Still, her body, but time is not: the sky is soon painted with a deep gold when she picks up a new, fresh scent infused in the sudden gust that pierces her wandering trail of thought.

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CREATIVE ARTS

It is not a scent of evening lulls, but one of an end. Of a death.

Quickly she moves, padding noiselessly across the ground as she follows berceuses of agonising cries, a deep, melodious sound a sustenance not unfamiliar to her. Yet she is entranced, and longs to dance to the tragedy of fate. Her long, thin fingers tenderly brush over those who are more ambitious of the tall grass: they wither almost immediately at her touch.

The old path is rough underneath her feet when she steps onto it once more; old, unfathomably old, but it belongs to her.

Along the path, hunched over, is a woman of a broad stature, her shoulders shaking violently as she cradles a child in her arms, a child chillingly still. Her eyelashes hold fresh tears like morning dew on cobwebs, and after each fearful tremble a cluster falls onto her bare skin with her sleeves roughly rolled up as if she is in a state of panic. Loose strands of hair fall into her eyes, failing to conceal the red, hot flush in her cheeks.

Though what are truly terrifying are the wails ripping from her throat, wails overflowing with love and anguish: this is death.

Slowly, cautiously, the woman is approached. Her head jolts up almost immediately. She knows. The drowning misery and despair in her eyes are gone: a climbing fury and desperation is evident through the furrowing of her eyebrows and the clenching of her fist. Pounding frantically behind her ribcage is her erratic heart, threatening to burst out of its constraining cage. Her breath came in short, rapid gasps. She is scared, so terribly scared,

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because she is not ready to let go.

She wears white as she watches the woman warily glaring at her like as if she can really see what is to inevitably come, noticing how she recoils from her. So, she gives her time and simply stands and observes the consequences of loving a person and the grief that comes with it.

Ah, how beautiful and human the heart is.

She wears white as she stoops down low, placing a tender kiss upon the child’s brow.

The child is warm to touch, cocooned with motherly endearment. With the scythe in her hand lowered towards the ground, she continues to bend over, averting her gaze, waiting, waiting.

Scintillating stars blanket the veil of darkness when the mother succumbs to a deep and dreamless slumber. They stand among the silver luminescent disc illuminating a path for the lost travellers in the world below. A delicate silence had settled around the child, both soothing, comforting, yet brutally deafening. It trickles into the encompassing darkness, calming the sway of the trees, the quiet murmur of the night breeze, the glimmer of the stars. All other presences vanish: it is time.

Death wears white as she gathers and carries another soul down the old path once more.

Janis Rozentāls Latvian painter Page 14

POLITICS

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WHAT IS BEING DONE ABOUT THE COST OF LIVING CRISIS?

By Dory Lee-Potter

What is the cost of living crisis?

What is being done about it?

The cost-of-living crisis refers to a period of time during which the cost of everyday essentials increases more quickly than average household income and has been affecting the UK since late 2021.

However, the Government scheme ‘The Households Support Fund’ provides support to households through the winter with a payment of £350 to households in need such as residents with disabilities, lone parents, survivors of domestic abuse or those leaving care or hospital. Additionally, food prices have fallen in September 2023 for the first time in more than two years, serving as a very much welcomed relief for households. Overall, food inflation slowed down to 9.9% in September marking a drop from 11.5% In August.

How is it affecting the UK? The cost-of-living crisis is continuing to affect households all over Britain as prices and costs surge. According to a survey, out of a thousand UK parents, over a third of them feel this crisis puts them under significant financial pressure. Overall, 61% say the cost of living has impacted their healthy eating habits in some way due to the costly risk of getting sick. Additionally, the cost of living is negatively affecting students with some 86% of new students say the costs of living made them more worried about university and funding according to a survey. The current crisis can be felt by all, but the impact is disproportionally felt by those who may already struggle to make ends meet, especially the potential homeless due to lower wages, rising rents and a lack of affordable housing.

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Over a third of UK parents feel this crisis puts them under significant financial pressure

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POLITICS

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IS LABOUR ON COURSE FOR ELECTION VICTORY?

By Suki Sheraton As a general election, held no later than January 2025, looms over the UK, all eyes are on the two front running parties: the Conservatives and the Labour Party. Press speculation and recent opinion polls seem to suggest that Labour is on the pathway to an election landslide, but how plausible is this really?

What do the public think?

Most people agree that Labour is most likely to win the next election, but by a less convincing majority than previously speculated. British voters who think Labour will win with an overwhelming majority have fallen from 24% down to only 10%, with nearly a quarter of voters predicting that it will be a Labour victory but by a small majority. Additionally, 30% of voters predict a hung parliament.

Who says the Conservatives don’t still have a chance?

The Labour Party have been the victims of some very public defeats, for example their party leader Sir Keir Starmer’s failure to secure former Tory Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s old constituency of Uxbridge, which has widely been regarded as disappointing for the Labour Party.

Furthermore, the UK’s socio-economic position seems somewhat fragile recently due to the current cost-of-living crisis, which politicians claim may affect Labour’s chances in the polls. This is because throughout the UK’s political history, Labour only seems to get voted into power when the country is feeling economically strong, which is evidently not the case as of right now.

What are some Labour successes to support this idea?

The recent Labour victory in the constituency of Selby and Ainsty leaves it represented by Labour MP Keir Mather. This has been described as an “off the scale big” success for the party.

What do the experts say?

The latest prediction from ‘The New Statesman’ predicts a Labour majority of 180 seats, which would have the Conservatives lose 212 constituencies, the SNP lose 18 and the Liberal Democrats gaining 17.

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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

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THE NIGER COUP CALAMITY

By Reuben Mace It was a regional success story. A beacon of hope bisecting a swathe of suppression, a young democracy breaking free from the shackles of colonialism, a nation hungry for prosperity. It seemed as if Niger's longendured decades of turmoil were finally concluding.

On July 26th 2023, catastrophe struck.

Bazoum's own presidential guard turned against him all of a sudden, seemingly with little warning. After claiming that President Bazoum was a threat to Nigerien security, General Abdourahamane Tchiani led those whom Bazoum trusted most against him.

After successfully overrunning the capital Niamey, General Tchiani placed Bazoum and his family under house arrest and thus declared himself the leader of Niger's new military junta. Such a tumultuous upset in the governance of Niger ultimately polarised public opinion and though it may be difficult to find reliable data on the matter, it is The election of president Mohammed Bazoum certainly true that the coup has severely in 2021 was a turning point in the country's hampered both Niger's international and violent history, since it represented the first regional relations. Niger, like its military ruled peaceful transfer of power that Niger had ever neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso, was experienced. Such stability was unique for suspended from ECOWAS, the economic Africa's Sahel region, which therefore allowed block of West African nation, with immediate Niger to make firm political alliances with the effect. As a result of this, Niger has lost west. Subsequently, this allowed for Niger to touch with crucial regional partners such as develop at an unprecedented rate, practically Nigeria, Africa's largest nation in terms of double that of its junta-governed neighbours both population and GDP. Without such Mali and Burkina Faso. It was this that allowed support as this, Niger along with Mali and Bazoum to negotiate the COVID-19 pandemic Burkina Faso find themselves at a with relative efficiency, even despite Niger's disadvantage since they are essentially an limited supply of resources such as island in the centre of an ECOWAS ocean, vaccinations and hand sanitiser. It was also allies turned foes. In such a vulnerable under Bazoum that Nigerian extremist group position, Niger is little more than a Boko Haram was finally forced out of Nigerien geopolitical sitting duck. The consequences territory, aided by the United States' hugely of the coup reach far beyond both Niger's successful counter terrorism operations in the border and ECOWAS as a whole. A wave of country. Nigerien citizens, for the first time in anti-western sentiment has swept across a decade, could live normal lives, free from the Niger in recent years over increased threat of being the victim of such brutal frustration at French influence in the violence. The future seemed hopeful for this country's affairs. Once Niger's European young nation, but the fate of its neighbours colonial power, France is still its most was nailed on for Niger. important trade partner as a whole.

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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Niger's currency, the CFA Franc, still continues to be printed in France to this day. 90% of Niger's uranium exports go to France for use in nuclear power, a vital lifeline to the country's economy. However, with a decreased French presence in the region, mercenaries of the Russian Wagner Group have started encroaching into Niger's territory in a similar fashion to the way in which they have done in nearby Chad and the Central African Republic, further destablising rural Niger and creating internal displacement. Furthermore, the Russian flag has been repeatedly used as an antiwestern symbol and has been paraded on the streets of Niamey by supporters of the coup. This may be another attempt by Russia to gain influence in the fast developing world, thus allowing them to have a foothold in African affairs and potentially stimulate a change in the western sympathy that has been demonstrated in Niger over the past decade.

The turmoil created by the coup in Niger has also caused an international uproar, particularly among members of NATO. The American secretary of state Anthony Blinken openly announced his support for President Bazoum to be reinstated "as the democratically elected president of Niger" for a start, likewise with France who are keen to defend their ties with their former colony.

Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

The Stag

However, not all leaders of NATO member states have adopted this pro-Bazoumist stance, most notably Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has accused France of continuing to act as if it were still a colonial power in West Africa, with a particular focus on Niger following the coup.

Furthermore, this means that Turkey as a whole is trying to prise regional influence away from France, marketing itself as an "anti-colonial alternative", and hence why the Niger coup was the perfect opportunity for them to be able to do this. It is also in Erdogan's interests to gain the trust of the Muslim-majority nations in both north and west Africa, Niger included. This is largely due to the fact that ever since the various uprisings of the Arab Spring of 2011, Erdogan has tried to act as a unifier by portraying himself as the "Leader of the Muslim World".

These factors combined have not only angered France, but also further alienated Turkey from the rest of NATO and created unnecessary schisms in the organisation at a time when unity is of paramount importance. Franco-Turkish relations will not only take a lot of diplomatic effort to repair, but also a lot of time and resources that perhaps didn't need to be spent.

Niger is little more than a geopolitical sitting duck The coup in Niger became something far greater than it ever should have been. In fact, the coup should never have occurred in the first place, that is the unfortunate reality. Not so long ago, a young and hopeful Nigerien nation was optimistic for the future, but it was not to be. For now, at least, the ambitions and dreams of this Saharaswathed nation must be put on hold.

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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

HAS CHINA ‘BANNED’ THE IPHONE?

By Emma Birch

What now?

China is one of Apple’s biggest markets, generating nearly a fifth of its revenue.

However, in early September 2023 China’s central government placed restrictions on government workers, state-owned companies and central government employees on bringing iPhones to work after “security incidents related to Apple iPhones”.

Since 2018, China’s central government has imposed restrictions on the use of foreign technology in the workplace. Many believe this greater tightening on the use of smartphones, and specifically Apple products, is a sign of Beijing becoming more independent from US technology, with Apple’s shares falling more than 6% and a loss of a disconcerting $200 billion only two days after these limitations.

Did they really ban the iPhone?

Although these restrictions seem like China is ‘banning’ the iPhone, with more than 150,000 state-owned companies having to comply, the foreign ministry of China has said that “China has not enacted any laws, regulations or policy documents prohibiting the purchase and use of foreign brand phones, including Apple”. According to the Financial Times, a senior official in a Chinese provincial-level government said that although no official banning of the iPhone was made and that the rules were oral, the restrictions were nevertheless “mandatory”.

Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

Other US technology companies, like Google and Meta, have also previously had their products restricted or banned in China, but Apple still maintains its strong relations with the Chinese government. Despite this, the US has begun to diversify its supply chain to China’s rivals. For example, we will now be able to buy ‘Made-in-India’ iPhones, somewhat differentiating themselves from China.

There is also tension between China and the US as the US works with allies to block China’s access to certain equipment, and China limits shipments from leading firms in the US.

What does it mean for us?

This is likely to have no effect for us or Apple as it is believed that roughly 45 million iPhones are expected to be sold in China over the coming year, even with the limitations of the use of Apple products in China‘s public sector, owing to such a high demand for Apple products in China, and therefore will have negligible impact on Apple and consequently us. So, don‘t worry, you can still enjoy an iPhone as before!

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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

The Stag

JAPAN’S RADIOACTIVE WATER

By Anya Rai

On March 11th, 2011, Japan was hit with a tsunami that was the aftermath of a 9.1 magnitude earthquake. The tsunami devastated many communities, but one of the worst effects it had was the major nuclear meltdown at Fukushima, said to be the worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986.

The colossal amount of water swept through the nuclear power plant destroying multiple reactors. The damaged reactors continued to overheat, so for the last 12 years cool water has been pumped around them and this has meant that the water has become contaminated with the residual radioactive matter. Japan has then been storing this radioactive water since 2011, accumulating over 1 million tonnes.

Subsequently, Japan has now announced that they will begin to start releasing the treated wastewater to clear space and protect from leaks, as they currently have more than 1000 tanks of the contaminated water. The first release of the water into the Pacific was on August 24th this year, after many months of anticipation.

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However, this decision has caused a fair amount of backlash around the world and internally in Japan. Since the plans were released, there have been protests, both internally in Japan and from neighbouring countries such as South Korea. Dozens of protesters gathered in Tokyo and some in Seoul were even arrested after trying to enter the Japanese embassy. Many people are worried about what the wastewater will mean for the Pacific Ocean and its marine life, and the plans have caught the attention of many climate activists and fishing communities.

China have taken a slightly more drastic approach as they have fiercely opposed the plans, by banning all aquatic imports from Japan. This has the potential to be devastating for Japan’s economy, as every year China and Hong Kong import more than £866m of seafood, which is nearly half of Japan’s seafood exports. Even though many do not think that this decision will be permanent for China, it’s clear that even with the nuclear watchdog’s support, there are still many conflicted opinions on Japan’s decision to release their radioactive water.

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FUTURES

The Stag

CHOOSING A UNIVERSITY FOR YOU

By Claudia Schroder- Smith

If you are planning on going to university, this how-to guide will help you choose the correct university for you!

1. Location It may be important to you that your university of choice is relatively close to home, so make sure to plot on a map all places you are considering and compare.

Alternatively, if being close to home is not as important to you, you may want to consider looking abroad or further across the UK. If you are more drawn to bustling cities such as London, take into account where exactly the university campus is in terms of proximity to shops, supermarkets, train stations, clubs, etc.

2. Courses The difference between modules of the same course at different universities can be vast. Check the websites of the universities that appeal to you and take a deep look into the mandatory and optional modules and reading materials.

3. Be realistic!

Although it is great to be ambitious, you may want to be cautious of applying to only aspirational universities. It would be sensible to also look at ones that are safe and even asking for a couple grades below what you are hoping for.

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4. Be proactive Attending open days to see universities is a great way to gauge whether it is the right location, vibe or city for you. You are often able to gain a sense of student life and your chosen course through mini lectures.

Virtual tours are also great ways to explore universities where you have either missed the open days or can’t attend!

Attend university open days to gauge whether it is the right location, vibe or city for you 5. Look at student satisfaction rates Every year all universities are ranked by which had the best and worst rates of student satisfaction considering all factors such as courses and teaching.

It is a good idea to look through these lists with a specific course in mind.

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FUTURES

UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE TRIP On the 14th of September, twenty pupils had the opportunity to visit the University of Cambridge to gather an insight into university life, giving us the chance to consider future pathways, and overall to gain an exciting experience, as we were given freedom to explore various colleges across the city. Exploring the facilities it offered, we also saw magnificent sights in Cambridge: the picturesque River Cam, the intricate gothic architecture, and the modern touches too. We were grateful to be welcomed in by Churchill College, before

Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

By Tian O’Leary and Reuben Mace

enjoying a charming guided tour that highlighted the city’s historical significance, then independently branched off to attend meetings for our individual subjects that we were interested in, such as Classics, Mathematics, Law, and English Literature.

The students were eager to ask questions and participate in the trip. Overall, it was very insightful and beneficial, and inspired all those who went about the future prospects of university.

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SCHOOL EVENTS AND SPORT

THE AQUATHLON

By Poppy Thomas On Thursday the 14th of September, several senior and junior boys and girls took part in The Aquathlon which consisted of a 250m swim followed by a 3km run.

Well done to everyone who took part in this event.

The swim began from beneath the bandstand and ended beneath the Wish Tower. The lifeguards floated out on their paddleboards to mark how far we had to swim out before turning right towards the exit beach. Everyone lined up along the edge of the shore ready to start the swim, starting with the senior girls and boys, followed by the intermediates and then the juniors.

Once the swim was over, everyone climbed out to reach the beach where all of our stuff was laid out in individual boxes so we could dry off and change into running clothes. We started the run from the Wish Tower, ran to the beach huts at Holywell, up the hill by the Holywell Tea Chalet and down to continue back the way we came. We then ended the run on the lawn outside the Wish Tower and the results were announced once everyone had completed the event. The results were as followed:

RESULTS Senior Girls: 1) Sophie Fellows 2) Ella Panayiotou 3) Kirsty Williams

Inter Girls: 1) Poppy Campion 2) Isla Heath 3) Bertie Cooke

Junior Girls: 1) B-Belle Gorrill 2) Isola Crawford 3) Iso Pennington Legh

Senior Boys: 1) Charlie Evans-Sheppard 2) Barney Revill 3) Jasper Simpson

Inter Boys: 1) Lucas Gorrill 2) Nate Cahill 3) Will Fellows

Junior Boys: 1) Jack Jordan 2) Stanley Yeats 3) Seb Bailey

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SCHOOL EVENTS AND SPORT

YEAR 13 BUSINESS TRIP On Tuesday 12th September, all Year 13 Business pupils gathered on Blackwater Road to head off to the Long Man Brewery.

By Rohan Van De Ven

As we arrived we were split off into groups.

One group went off to learn how the business operates, looking at the businesses subject relevant balance sheets and income statements as well as having a tour of how the beer is made regarding the fermenting process etc. The other group were taken on a bumpy field trip where we discovered where all the ingredients such as barley and hops were grown.

Whilst in the heart of the South Downs National Park, we learnt that the brewery pride themselves on environmental sustainability, stating that it is at the ‘core’ of everything they do. Because of this, the brewery has developed a core competency as they can give back to the land and the community they rely on to sustain their businesses.

On the tour we also learnt that Long Man Brewery won six major honours at World Beer Awards, including the ‘World’s Best Beer’ for the second time. At the end of our stay, we were lucky enough to go into the merchandise shop as well as taste some of the products! (Not a session!!). We were all lucky enough to taste Long Man’s Best Bitter, Pale Ale, Pilsner and a Crafty Blonde.

All in all, it was a successful way to end a brilliant trip!

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SCHOOL EVENTS AND SPORT

MR TORRI’S BLUE AND WHITE ARMY

By Jamie Gordon

After a solid 2022-23 season with the First XV winning the regional finals of the national cup before losing to rivals Sutton Valence, the new season has started well for the First XV. After a tough fixture against an incredibly strong Cardinal Newman side, the team have progressed to the third round of the National Vase Competition, after a dominant victory over Cranbrook. Next, they will look to obtain another big win against Gravesend Grammar in the third round of the National Vase, having recorded another big win over Sevenoaks this weekend (40-0).

The team started well despite losing many key players at the end of last season.

The new Year 12 and 13 players in the team have stepped up and are playing confidently in their roles, with debuts this season from Paddy Cooper, Ross Seavill, Tom McDonald, Marcus Skyrme, Will Coleman and Michael Abourous. In block fixtures, the First XV narrowly lost to Sutton Valence, in the first block fixture of the term; despite a strong second-half comeback, the game ended 1926 to Sutton Valence. However, the second block fixture of the year against Cranleigh ended in a dominant win for Eastbourne.

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Overall, we have had a positive start to the rugby season. Maintaining momentum is key throughout the season, so banking large wins early in national competitions will help the team gain momentum as they progress through the tournament’s latter stages and hopefully go on to win the Vase. Cup games usually kick-off at 3pm on Wednesday afternoons, so come down to College Field to cheer on the team!

With the new tackle laws being implemented this year (tackles must be ‘below the base of the sternum’), the schoolboy rugby scene has been thrown something of a curveball. Referees are under more pressure than ever to preserve player safety; it will be interesting to see how rugby at Eastbourne College deals with this throughout the season, and hopefully look to capitalise on other teams’ failure to adhere to these game-changing laws.

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SCHOOL EVENTS AND SPORT

The Stag

WARGRAVE HOUSE CONCERT The Wargrave House Concert was a huge success. The hard work that all the pupils in house put in has paid off.

The Year 9s and 10s have demonstrated both their humorous and confident qualities by performing their live sketches on stage. They delivered the performances with charisma and enthusiasm. The Year 11 and 13 videos were brilliant too. It was evident that a lot of effort had been put in the filming and editing process. We were delighted to see that the videos have brought joy to the audience who filled the theatre with laughter and jubilation. The Year 12s’ dance was exuberant. This year, we have managed again to arrange a variety of dance moves, which were strenuously mastered and impeccably delivered by the Year 12 pupils.

By Ian Tam It was wonderful to witness a success from our house once again. We hope it was an unforgettable evening for the visitors, teachers and pupils from other houses. As a result of the House Concert, the pupils in Wargrave House are very proud of their success.

The Year 12s’ dance was exuberant ... strenuously mastered and impeccably delivered

Before the concert came to a close, we performed the House Song together. It sounded promising, especially as we are heading towards the House Singing Competition before half term.

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HOUSE REPORT

BLACKWATER HOUSE RFEPORT

By Anya Rai

Blackwater have made a great start to the new school year! All the new pupils in house are settling in seamlessly, with help from the inhouse prefect team.

The Year 9s have had a busy start to their college lives, from Just Dance and hot chocolate in the common room, to trips to the beach and ice creams. They have also been hard at work preparing for their performance of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for the House Drama Competition at the end of half term. The common room has recently been turned into an art studio of sorts, as many girls have been painting canvases to decorate the house, from flowers to Blackwater’s version of The Starry Night.

The start of the of term has also seen many sports competitions for the Blackwater girls, with many playing in various house competitions. September’s Aquathlon saw our Head of House, Kirsty Williams, finish third in the senior girls. More recently, Blackwater had a ‘pink sweep’ at House Hockey, with every team winning from all age groups: an amazing result!

The Year 12s have been enjoying their start to the Sixth Form by attending the Year 12 Dinner in September. They had a great time dressing up and meeting the rest of their new year. They have also been preparing their year group act, like all the other girls in house, for our house review on the 14th of October.

Preparations are well underway!

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HOUSE REPORT

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CRAIG HOUSE REPORT Craig House has hardly missed a beat during the change over of its housemaster. The Year 9s have been practising hard for their House Drama, which for this year is Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Hopes are high to win the competition after a few years of coming close. House Song is off to a flying start with rehearsals well underway after a very close second last year.

It has been a busy half term for sport, with five students from Craig representing the firsts rugby team in their 40-10 against Cranleigh. All Craig students are currently participating in pool and table tennis tournaments in their years, to eventually crown one winner from each year who will then go on to play each other. Matteo Chu played in the golf team that recently beat Hurstpierpoint Collage, and Kyle Tsawayo was part of the basketball team that beat Claremont 100-24. The Aquathlon went well for Craig, with Jack Jordan coming first in his year and Nate Cahill coming second in his year. Jasper Simpson came third overall.

House Rugby also went well, with Craig coming second in Year 9 and third overall.

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By Dan Clark

In CCF, Ben Clark was promoted to section leader for the RAF section and led the RAF cadets in 75th anniversary of the Cadet Force at St Clements Dames church in London. House song rehearsals are also well under way and we are looking forward to performing it at the end of the half term.

The whole of Craig House would like to congratulate Mr and Mrs Kutcha on the birth of their child

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HOUSE REPORT

GONVILLE HOUSE REPORT

By Rohan Van De Ven

The Gonville boys have settled into this term rapidly and it is very much all hands on deck

‘Success started early on in the term for the Pink Army’

This Michaelmas Term, Gonville has indeed been very busy; from house concert and singing rehearsals to GCSEs, A levels and sports, for all it has been an eventful term for the Gonvillian cohort so far.

Success started early on in the term for the Pink Army as the boys saw off all the opposition at the inaugural Wargrave House Olympics to be crowned winners on a brisk Sunday morning. The Olympics consisted of all sorts of activities such as a three-legged race, egg and spoon race and many more!

‘House Spirit is very much in full flow’ The boys have been further indulging in lots of fun house bonding activities, earlier on there was a trip to Bewl Water and soon a paint balling trip as well! House spirit is very much in full flow as we speak as the boys are hard at work preparing for our house concert (11th November), book your tickets!

must go to Seb Bailey for finishing third in the junior boys race as well. A huge effort from all involved!

Ethan Ajikobi, Harry Doe and Rowley Emus are impressing in the U16 A rugby team who are looking very strong indeed, recording strong wins over Newman College and Sutton Valence School.

‘We are hard at work preparing for our House Concert’ Sporting success has been one of great prevalence for the boys with the triathlete wizard Lucas Gorrill winning the boys’ intermediate Aquathalon. Special mentions Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

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NUGENT HOUSE REPORT

By Suki Sheraton

‘Nugent has had a brilliant start to the new academic year’ Nugent has had a brilliant start to the new academic year, with all new pupils receiving a friendly welcome from the house and lots of support from the girls and staff. The Nugent year 12s had a great time at their year 12 dinner, getting dressed up and meeting new people in their year group. We also brought lots of house spirit to the house hockey competition and were very proud of our Nugent players! Everyone is very excited to show the other houses our performance of Super Trouper at the upcoming house song competition, and preparations are already underway for our house showcase.

Additionally, sport in Nugent House has been very strong, with many of the girls getting involved in the Aquathlon, and Nugent Year 12 pupil Emma Grantham winning first place at the under 18s regional tennis tournament at Billinghurst. Well done to everyone involved in Nugent sport this term!

‘Well done to everyone involved in Nugent sport this term!’

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HOUSE REPORT

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PENNELL HOUSE REPORT

By Fergus Lawson Johnston Michaelmas Term as always has started with a rush, including new Year 9s excited for the time ahead of them and becoming accustomed to the grounds by playing badminton in the Pennell quad and latenight football in the cage.

Representing Pennellian sport, Ross Seavil and Will Allen have both had their debut in the 1st XV team both performing well, with Ross scoring a try in the match against Cranbrook. We wish them luck in their upcoming games.

Also starting new journeys are the Year 12s who have started their A-levels, and Mr Holgate has smashed his first weeks and embraced his new footings within the community of Pennell, offering BBQs on weekends and general house spirit all over.

The house is looking forward to the competitive House Song coming closer.

Regular rehearsals of the iconic Miley Cyrus song ‘Party in the USA’ is putting all the Pennellian boys in full house spirit ready to perform.

On the 16th Sep, the Year 12s had the Year 12 Dinner where lots of colourful dresses and smart suits were seen. The night was accompanied with speeches from the Head Boy and Girl sharing their advice and wisdom to the new A-level students and wishing them luck on their journey.

Mr Holgate has smashed his first weeks After a hot couple of weeks, the Pennell boys got involved with the yearly Aquathlon. A special mention to Barney Revill for coming second in the senior boys section, and well done to all others who competed.

As with every year, the recurring Year 9 Drama has begun its preparations and excited to perform a scene from the nostalgic childhood film of ‘Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory’. We wish them luck and hope to see many supporting faces on the day of performing.

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POWELL HOUSE REPORT It has been a busy start to Michaelmas Term for Powell and, as always, we have been throwing ourselves at every opportunity thrown our way, be it sport, academics and everything else!

On the 9th of September, the Powellians gathered on mass with rugby boots and water bottles in hand on College Field to compete in House Rugby. While not winning, it proved to be a great effort from all, most noteably Year 11 with an impressive win record.

By Esteban Boruel-Lopez Congratulations must be given to George and Archie Shakespeare for their selection in the U18 England Regional Golf Squad.

Well done also to Charlie Evans-Shephard for his impressive 1st place finish in the whole school Aquathlon!

The whole of Powell has also been involved in an internal House Pool competition with each year group playing to decide who the best player is. With finals yet to be played, all are ready to see the final winners.

As for academics, plaudits must be awarded to Oliver Rivett for his impressive GCSE results, an 8.5 average which resulted in an honorary academic scholarship!

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HOUSE REPORT

The Stag

REEVES HOUSE REPORT Though the academic year may still be young, the Reeves boys have already begun to thrive and yield early success whilst at the same time indulging themselves fully in all that college life has to offer. With events such as House Singing and the house concert fast approaching, the house has been more lively and motivated than I can ever remember.

By Reuben Mace

Following a momentous Sports Day overall victory last summer, Reeves has continued to build on this success. After a solid House Rugby performance to start the year, several Reevians tried their hand at the Aquathlon. Particular credit must go to Will Fellows, who picked up a 3rd place finish in the inter boys category.

A huge honourable mention must also go to Karam Al-Robaie who, even though he has now left the College, achieved an astounding 4 A*s at A level and has been accepted to read maths at Oxford!

The Year 12 Dinner was also a highlight of the year so far. The event was a great chance to socialise, meet new people and reconnect with old friends alongside an exquisitely prepared three course meal for good measure. All in all, the event was a huge success and it certainly was a Saturday evening better spent than staying inside and watching TikTok.

Preparations for Year 9 House Drama are also well under way, with some of the sixth formers volunteering to help get the final production to the best it can be. This has been instrumental in the Year 9s settling in smoothly and comfortably.

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SCHOOL HOUSE REPORT What a start to the school year it has been for School House! It has been fantastic to welcome everyone back into the house after a long and well-deserved summer, but it has been even more incredible meeting so many new people who have joined our great community, all of whom seemed to have settled down very well.

Something that helped these new pupils discover their hidden talents is the School House Concert that took place on the 7th of October. With brilliant videos, sketches, dances, and individual acts taking place, it was a fantastic success!

However, for the Year 9s, there is something else that is enabling them to step outside of their comfort zone and put on their creative hats. This is the Year 9 Drama Competition that will take place in the second half of this term. Although it has taken some effort from us Year 12 Directors, the Year 9s are finally starting to come through in their roles and out of their shells.

Although these are exciting things coming up, there have already been lots of events that have taken place in this busy term, such as the Aquathlon, in which six School House pupils took part.

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By Tiggy Tutt

As always, this was a great event, and we are very proud of all those brave enough to take part. However, I would like to congratulate Ella Panayiotou and Iso Pennington Legh, who did especially well in their categories.

Another event that took place was the Year 12 Dinner, which was a great an opportunity to get to know lots of new Year 12s as well as mixing with people you might not normally speak to, and it was a great success.

As well as this, House Hockey took place on the 30th of September, in which the seniors came 2nd and the juniors came 3rd.

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WARGRAVE HOUSE REPORT Off the back of our successful house concert on Saturday 30th September, which featured a number of exciting exciting performances and videos, a massive thank you goes to all the staff members who were involved and made it so great. Special mention to Jack Evans, who was an integral part in editing the Year 13 video, and Luca who gave up his time to compere the house concert alongside Jack as well. Ian Tam also gets a mention for his amazing duet with Jack and for being lead singer in ‘The Passenger’

by Iggy Pop in the house band. The boys gave it all their efforts and it has so far received amazing reviews. We are all looking forward to House Singing where we will be singing ‘I Want You Back’ by The Jackson 5.

‘This has been an exciting start to the Michaelmas Term’ HOUSE BBQ After a well rested summer, Wargrave are happy to be back in house and get back into the swing of school life. The first weekend was a great opportunity for the new pupils including the Year 9s to get to know each other.

Barbecues for the Year 9 boarders were hosted in Nugent House and there has been amazing feedback.

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By Kachi Edet

BOARDER’S SPORTS DAY The second weekend back saw Wargrave hosting the House Olympics which featured a number of unconventional sports such as the egg and spoon race, medicine ball bowling, vortex throwing, the three-legged race and more. It was a great way to bring boarders from different year groups together. Special thanks to Mr Roberts for putting in the effort to bring us all together.

YEAR 12 DINNER For the Year 12s in particular, this has been an exciting start to the Michaelmas Term, getting the chance to dress up in suits and have a sit down dinner with the rest of their year group - a great opportunity, especially for new sixth formers, to meet the rest of their year group.

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HOUSE REPORT

WATT HOUSE REPORT With Watt House having a large intake of new pupils, there were many opportunities to get to know one another. The Year 9s all had a Year 10 and 13 buddy and the new Year 12s had a Year 12 buddy who were looking out for them, particularly throughout their first week at their new school. The Year 9s also had an evening with each year group to enjoy fun and games, including Just Dance, air hockey and pool.

The Year 12s had their formal dinner which was a helpful way of getting to know others in the year and it was a night full of smiles and a great quiz organised by Mr Smit.

By Emma Birch show their team spirit by swimming in the sea and running along the sea front on quite a windy day - well done for getting through it. A big congratulations goes to Sophie Fellows who won in the senior girls and Poppy Campion who won in the inter girls!

There has also been the House Hockey Competition which, although we did not win, the girls found extremely fun.

We have also had our sponsored walk with money going to a mental health charity, You Raise Me Up. Although the walk began windy and cold, the 14 mile walk from Seaford back to Watt House was challenging but equally rewarding.

Although the year has only just started, lots of changes and exciting achievements have already happened in house The house council has been having meetings with there being demands for hot chocolate, more white bread and blankets in the house which have now been implemented into the house. Unfortunately, the Year 10s’ suggestion for towels, shampoo and conditioner was not granted!

It was great to see many of the newly arrived girls participating in some of the house sport competitions too. The Aquathlon was very popular with the spaces going in a day, and the girls were able to Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

There have also been some achievements in the performing arts sector of the school, with Leticia Nare, Katie Hillyer, Xanthe Lawson and Alice Caroe getting main roles within the upcoming school play, Sweeney Todd, and Emma Birch, Ella Horne and Poppy Campion getting principal soloist positions. Many other girls in the house also auditioned and are in the company too.

Congratulations if you got in!

Keeping our crown...

With the House Singing Competition approaching, practice for our song is well under way and we are hoping to keep our winning streak and win it again this year.

The song is starting to come together and we sound amazing once again.

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INTERACTIVE

The Stag

THE PERFECT HALLOWE’EN WEEKEND Now we are in October, it's time start the preparations and get into the Hallowe’en spirit! If you need ideas on how to spend the best Hallowe’en weekend, look no further: the Stag Team are big fans of Hallowe’en, and experts in how to enjoy this spookylicious event.

GET DECORATING The best way is to get into the Hallowe’en spirt is to get decorating and carving pumpkins with some friends. Try picking designs on Pinterest or from your favourite Hallowe’en movie! Don't forget to decorate the front of your house and place a pumpkin outside to let trick or treaters know you are giving out sweets!

THINK ABOUT COSTUME IDEAS If you have any parties coming up, going trick or treating or simply dressing up for the fun of it, it might be time to start planning your costume to get yourself into the Hallowe’en spirt. Think about characters from films or popular costumes. Try thinking of group costumes or some original and creative ideas.

It is better to go all out than basic or boring costumes. It is Hallowe’en: you have to give it your all!

Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

By Layla Cluskey El Jishi

FIND A GOOD SCARY MOVIE TO WATCH Pick some classic horror or Hallowe’en movies to get into the spooky spirit.

SOME MOVIES I RECOMMEND ARE: Scream, Scary Movie, Heathers, Carrie, Coraline, Sinister, Silence of the Lambs, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Donnie Darko and Beatle Juice.

TO CONCLUDE For me the best Hallowe’en weekend is taking in as much Hallowe’en media as possible. I love watching scary movies, baking, decorating, planning a costume and gatherings with friends. Hallowe’en is my personal favourite season and so I need to do as much Hallowe’en stuff as possible, and you should too!

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INTERACTIVE

APPLE JAM RECIPE

By Sophie Stevens

Ingredients: 1kg Bramley Apples, peeled, cored and chopped 250g of caster sugar 1/2 of a lemon, juiced 1 cinnamon stick

4. Remove the small plate from the freezer and drop a little of the mix onto it. Leave for a few seconds - it should be fairly firm. If it’s still a little runny, put the pan back on the heat and simmer for another 10-15 minutes.

Put the plate back in the freezer and test again, it should be ready now.

Method: 1. Put a small plate in the freezer. Tip the chopped apple and caster sugar into a large saucepan along with 350ml of water and bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar

5. Divide between clean, sterilised jars and seal. The jam should keep for three months in a cool, dry place. Once opened, chill and use within one month.

6. Enjoy!

2. Cook gently, stirring regularly for 30 minutes until the apples have collapsed.

3. Stir in the lemon juice, add the cinnamon stick and gently simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is thick and glossy.

Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

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INTERACTIVE

AUTUMN QUIZ

By Ella Stevenson

1. Which species of tree does not lose its leaves during Autumn? a) Elm b) Evergreen c) Maple 2. Which of the following is a spice in the popular spiced latte drink? a) Cinnamon b) Turmeric c) Nutmeg

4. Which Hindu festival is celebrated in Autumn? a) The festival of light b) Diwali c) Halloween 5. In which year did Guy Fawkes attempt to blow up Parliament? a) 1649 b) 1705 c) 1605 6. Which fruit is commonly picked from a bramble in early Autumn? a) Blackberries b) Strawberries c) Mulberries

Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

7. In Australia, in which month does Autumn begin? a) March b) September c) April 8. Which poet wrote “To Autumn”? a) TS Eliot b) John Keats c) William Wordsworth

Answers : 1) B 2) C 3) A 4) B 5) C 6) A 7) A 8) B

3. Which vegetable was traditionally used for carving in the UK? a) Turnips b) Pumpkins c) Sweet Potatoes

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INTERACTIVE

The Stag

HOROSCOPES

By Grace King

Pisces

Aquarius (Jan 20th - Feb 18th) It’s time to move on from your summer and get excited for the new year.

(Feb 19th- March20th) (March 21st-April 19th) Be prepared to cut Switch up your routine people out of your life and appreciate those and meet new friends. around you.

Cancer

Gemini (May 21st - June 20th) It’s almost time to tell that person what you want to say.

Libra (Sep 23rd - Oct 22nd) Rest, relax, and prioritise your wellbeing.

Aries

Leo

(June 21st - July 22nd) (July 23rd - Aug 22nd) Don’t give up! Be ready to Know your worth and make a big decision in the persuade them you’re coming months. right.

Taurus (April 20th-May 20th) Change might be difficult but you can handle it!

Virgo (Aug 23rd-Sep 22nd) Reflect on and reassess some of the choices you have made.

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

(Oct 23rd - Nov 21st) Be confident, network, and take advantage of opportunities.

(Nov 22nd - Dec 21st) Work hard towards your goals - success is coming.

(Dec 22nd-Jan 19th Expect the unexpected.

Your future will become clearer soon.

Michaelmas Term 1 Edition | 2023

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