WISBECH GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Discover who you are...
Book a personalised tour or attend one of our open days At Wisbech Grammar School, we don’t just focus on academic success but on developing and nurturing young people to reach their full potential. We believe educational development is not simply confined to the classroom or laboratory, but can be found in the art rooms, dance and performing studios, music rooms and sports fields.
Open Days 27 January 2018
17 March 2018
28 April 2018
Prep School Open Morning 10:00-12:30
Whole School Open Morning 10:00- 12:30 (for children aged 4-18)
Prep 5 Taster Day 9:30- 15:00
Come and discover what makes our Prep School so inspiring and how we nurture young minds from Reception through to Prep 6.
Tour our whole school from Prep to 6th Form and discover more about how we offer an all-round education that inspires.
Experience what it is like to be a pupil at Wisbech Grammar School, aimed at children looking for Senior School entry in September 2019.
We have dedicated bus routes throughout Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and now Lincolnshire
01945 586750
admissions@wisbechgrammar.com
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A word from the
Headmaster
When you are young, you spend time wanting to be just that little bit more mature and wishing the time you have away, desperate to be older. When you finally become an adult (whenever that arbitrary moment is) the clichés of ‘Doesn’t time fly?’ and ‘I can’t believe another year has gone by so quickly!’ seem to float in the air of every conversation as pupils and staff make their way to classrooms and parents catch up in the car park on the first day of a new term or year. Yet here we are again – another year has elapsed and it has been a very full one. We have spent a lot of time consolidating our new timetable, new Period 5 activity slot in the lesson after lunch and developing our after-school clubs, societies and sports provision. We continue to operate under the banner of ‘One School’ and the closeness of the working relationship that now exists between Magdalene House, with its harmonised teaching timetable and crossover of Senior and Prep School staff in a number of academic, sporting and co-curricular activities, means we can confidently say that ‘Wisbech Grammar is a school for the entire family’. We have also been clear that pupils perform at their best when we can deliver individualised academic and pastoral care. The end of the 2017 academic year saw the departure of Mike Forrest after 32 years’ loyal service. What Mike hasn’t seen, done and been involved with during his time at the School isn’t worth knowing. He has been an integral part of the steady progress and the change management agenda at the School and he will be greatly missed. We welcome Tansy Castledine, who succeeds Mike as Deputy Head Academic and I wish her and her team every success in the coming years.
Halfway through the last academic year, an ambitious summer programme was planned and developed, with a myriad of projects set to be completed for Michaelmas 2017. We have managed to join the two
These will give current and future pupils and parents a taste of what is to come, and ties in with my ideal of continuous improvement and aim to enhance every pupil’s journey and education as they discover who they are in this fantastic School.
Admissions Department, and converted the old dining hall into a studio and studio classroom (in mezzanine above the old dining hall). These will give current and future pupils and parents a taste of what is to come, and ties in with my ideal of continuous improvement and aim to enhance every pupil’s journey and education as they discover who they are in this fantastic School. Finally, and for those with good memories, it is also 20 years since Magdalene House opened its doors, and we will need to plan something special to celebrate that milestone.
reception spaces (Magdalene House and Wisbech Grammar School) into one Pupil Services Department in the Crush Hall of Magdalene House, put in two new floodlit netball courts, expanded the Marketing and
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Contents Fundraising and Community Spirit
13 Walk All Over Cancer 15 Rugby Team Fundraising 16 Masquerade Ball 18 Senior Prefect Charity Netball Event 19 Race At Your Place 20 Katy Landles 22 The Acorn Fund 23 Harvest Festival & Prep School Bags 24 Miles Mclachlan Piano Recital & Music Challenge 25 Red Nose Day Marie Curie Cancer Care ’
Academic 27 GCSE Results 28 A Level Results 29 Cranmer Recital Challenge 30 Magdalene College,Cambridge 31 Geography Field Trip 32 Young Walter Scott Prize 33 Iron Age Act of Remembrance 35 Head For Numbers 36 Architecture for Resilience
Sport
42 Cricket and Dance 43 Rugby Round Up 44 American Rugby Tour 46 Girls Hockey 47 Boys Hockey 48 Cricket Round Up 50 Netball Round Up 52 Athletics Round Up 54 Mollie Allen 55 Rhianna Regan 56 Eve McInerney 57 Charlotte Beck 58 Clay Shooting Team
Performing Arts, Music and Dance 59 Edinburgh Fringe Festival 60 Taking The Stage 61 Interview with Al Duncan Ed O’Connor 62 Monstrous Regiment 63 Canterbury Tales 64 Wind In The Willows 65 Born In A Barn 66 Studio 19 67 Children In Need & New Recital series
37 Fenland Poet Laureate
68 Trinity College Exams Music Department concert
Books Glorious Books
69 Young Musician of the Year
38 Dedicated Enrichment Programme 40 University Fair
Art and Graphics 74 Art, Graphics and Textiles Exhibition
Food and Nutrition 78 From Seaweed to Scones 79 You’re in The Navy Now Perisian Food Prep School Pizza 80 Festive Creations 81 Taste of Tuscany 83 Ghoul School
70 Dominic Peckham 71 1st Form Trip to Ely Cathedral 72 Rose Fair Concert
Design and Technology Languages
84 Top Design Technology
76 Families In French Language Leaders Out of the classroom 86 Duke of Edinburgh Awards 88 Manor Adventure
77 Language Perfect Championship
85 Young Engineers Old Grammarians 89 Alistair Price 91 Tom Berry
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An all-round education that inspires you to discover who C N Staley, Headmaster you are I have been asked several times over the last three years what it is about a Wisbech Grammar School education that makes it so special.
represented by the co-curricular activities, sports, community service and outdoor education which we positively encourage all pupils to take part in. Why do we put such an emphasis on life outside the classroom? Well, this is where our pupils learn to multitask, to manage their time effectively, to prioritise and add a depth and richness to their education they cannot
My answer is the same now as it was in 2014 and I draw on the analogy of an old-fashioned wagon wheel. Not the chocolate-and-marshmallow snack but the type of wheel you have seen in countless westerns. At the hub of the wagon wheel is academic excellence. Whatever type of pupil Having such a diverse you are, everyone has to study English, Maths, Biology, Physics, range of activities available Chemistry, Geography, History, outside the classroom Religious Studies, French, German, supports the academic hub Spanish, Computer Science, Design and Technology, Art, Textiles, find elsewhere. Time for sport, Music and Performing Arts. The music ensembles, choirs, drama, list goes on and I am pretty sure I dance, Warhammer, chess, poetry, have left a number of subjects out. electronics, Young Engineers, Whether you like it or not, success strength and conditioning, archery, is still measured by examination CREST and Duke of Edinburgh’s results and certificates, grades and, Awards (just to name a handful) are increasingly, numbers over letters. ringfenced so pupils can experience There is no escaping this academic as much of the wider curriculum focus but we make it as inspiring as they can and begin that journey and enjoyable as we possibly can and that is why academic excellence of discovering who they are by uncovering passions for certain is the centrepiece of the wagon subjects, sports and activities. wheel. The outer wheel and the spokes attached to the ‘academic hub’ give it strength. Simply put, the more spokes, the greater the strength of the wheel. The spokes are
These ‘spokes’ do not disappear as a Grammarian goes from 1st Form to 6th Form – in fact, they increase, and ultimately Senior pupils become the leaders in these
fields, passing on their enthusiasm and wisdom to the next cohort of pupils. Having such a diverse range of activities available outside the classroom supports the academic hub and enhances pupils’ abilities to achieve on numerous fronts. It is the starting point for Grammarians to develop those important ‘soft skills’ that employers and universities say are lacking in school leavers today. I often comment to parents and prospective pupils that my pet hate, when it comes to education, can be illustrated by the advert from a few years ago which centred on whether (or not) you were an Apple or a PC person. A Grammarian is both and wouldn’t for a second contemplate being one or the other. They have the skills, resilience, flexibility, adaptability and self-belief to manage anything that comes at them with humour, thought and a reliance on that top-class, all-round education they received at Wisbech Grammar from the ages of 4 to 18. They have studied in an environment that allows them space to develop at their own pace, where they are supported on an individual level both academically and pastorally. On leaving the School they can say, with hand on heart, that they have discovered who they are… and, for me, that is what makes a Wisbech Grammar School education unique.
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Period 5: Development outside the classroom Our clubs and activities offer myriad opportunities to extend life and learning beyond the confines of the curriculum, encouraging pupils to try new things, discover who they are and find their passion. Just a few examples are astronomy, archaeology, debating, photography, young engineers and costume clubs, as well as food competitions. Pupils progressing through the School have the opportunity to lead many of these groups and clubs. Similarly, opportunities to engage in sports abound, at rugby, hockey, netball, cycling, badminton, table-tennis and jogging clubs. Pupils often compete in regional and national competitions, as well as taking part in regular interschool events. Pupils from 3rd to 6th Form also have ample opportunity for adventure with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Schemes. The past year has been exciting and successful for co-curricular clubs and activities. With the introduction of timetabled clubs in Period 5, many more pupils are benefiting from the considerable number of activities we offer. Our co-curricular aims are to ensure that all pupils contribute in a meaningful manner to the wider life of the School and community to further their all-round education. Pupils have helped us meet these aims by contributing ideas and, more importantly, their time, by
Pupils from 3rd to 6th Form also have ample opportunity for adventure with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Schemes. leading and helping to organise clubs. Our pupils enjoy getting stuck into the 100+ activities offered every week, and adding more! Academic clubs that extend and stretch pupils have been very popular, with large numbers attending the self-directed science research club CREST, for instance. Pupils have also been able to tackle academic areas not in the curriculum, such as electronics. Academic support clubs have been well attended too, particularly as exams loomed. Games clubs like chess and Warhammer have been particularly popular, and Senior pupils should be congratulated for helping to lead these. Sports clubs,
which allow pupils to experience sports not usually played in lessons, and strength and conditioning classes, have proved popular and useful, helping teams prepare for the next term well in advance. Pupils have shown great commitment to cultural and creative clubs, investing time in preparation for cultural evenings and developing a Young Enterprise company. A second steel band ensemble had to be started, and art, textiles and D&T workshops have been busy. Many of the pieces produced are on display around the site. After-school clubs have also been well attended, with the usual (and very useful) revision clubs being supplemented with a variety of others, from the Arcadia baroque ensemble to role-playing games.
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House tug of war competition The entire School watched the 2016 House tug of war competition. Ringmaster McConnellWood (minus top hat) oversaw the four Houses’ finest athletic specimens taking to the arena to their chosen theme tune. The competition was fierce. All four Houses were closely matched, clearly showing technique and gamesmanship rather than the traditional ‘grunt’. Many bouts went to the deciding third pull, culminating in a victory for Clarkson, on countback, closely followed by Holmes, Sparks and then Peckover.
Peckover House
Peckover started the 2016/17 year with an enthusiastic group of existing and new members, as well as the ever-encouraging teachers. The first challenge of the year was the hotly contested tug of war. With muscle-bound Senior boys and girls, Peckover won their first pull. Unfortunately, despite George Bone trying his hardest, we lost the following bouts. Peckover has some very talented linguists, resulting in a second place in the language quiz. In the boys’ House rugby and the girls’ House hockey, all participants showed tenacity at both Intermediate and Junior level but, sadly, the results didn’t go their way. One highlight of the term was coming first in the House quiz. Although Peckover had some brilliant entries in the photo competition, a win was not forthcoming. At the end of the Michaelmas Term, Peckover had 16 points. For the Lent Term House music competition, under the guidance of Richeldis France, Peckover
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came first in the House shout and Intermediate solo (Ursula France). Peckover came second overall, earning a vital 6 points. The Senior and Junior debates were fabulous shows of confidence from Peckover speakers: Amy Everall, Jake Chilton, Christopher Lemagnen, Eva Miller and Laurence Alecock. Research into controversial topics meant they came second in the Junior debate. The team just missed some points in the Senior debate. Netball was a great opportunity for the girls to show team spirit, coming fourth in the Intermediate and third in the Senior and Junior events. The Intermediate boys played amazingly in the hockey competition, taking the top spot. Peckover ended the Lent Term with 19 points to add to their tally. The Trinity Term was their most successful, coming first in the archery and Junior girls’
cricket competitions. This boosted morale, with the boys and mixed Intermediate cricket teams gaining more crucial points. Senior athletics had House members in every event. The joint Vitrix Ludorum awarded to Issy Flint and Molly Allen helped the team to come second overall, with these crucial points leading to a total of 21 for the term. This meant a fantastic second place for the term overall. At the end of the year, Peckover had 57 points, which put them in last place. Thanks to departing Upper 6th House officials: Lucy Beelam, Matthew Holden, Molly Allen, Henry Thornton and Richeldis France.
Holmes House
As always, Holmes had a fantastic year due to everyone’s determination and enthusiasm. The fact they came third overall doesn’t reflect their hard work and effort. They came out strong in the tug of war and made it to the final, but just fell short of the top spot. Congratulations and thanks to the team for their excellent effort. First place was swiftly taken in the language quiz, despite the tough competition. Particular thanks go to Harriet Munson and Ben York for securing maximum points. Everyone who took part in the inter-House team sports did an excellent job, with the boys (both Junior and Intermediate) coming second in their respective rugby tournaments. The girls’ hockey Juniors took second place and the Intermediates just missed out on second. The Lent Term was Holmes’ most successful, as they gained more points than any other House. Spirits were high for House music. Holmes won for the first time since 1999! Special thanks to all who participated and congratulations to Faye Thompsett for her breathtaking performance, which landed her the
award of ‘Most Promising Musician’, and to Charlotte Kirby for her winning performance. Also in the Lent Term, the Intermediate and Junior girls’ netball teams picked up first place in the inter-House tournament. It was superb to see the younger years getting involved and securing excellent results! Even though they came third in the debates, everyone did a fantastic job. Well done to Tarn Chamberlain James, Rana Gadir, Maddie Booth and Harriet Munson for the Senior debate and Joseph Kooreman, James Lawson, Keira Wilde and Charley Kirby for the Lower School debate. In the Trinity Term, Holmes took third place overall in the athletics championships. Well done to Bradley Hutler for being awarded Senior Victor Ludorum and Isabella Oldershaw-Ellis for breaking the shot put School record. Big congratulations go to Holmes in Magdalene House since they came first in their athletics championships, not just overall but in each separate year group as well. A special well done goes to Charlotte Beck for getting the Prep 6 Victrix Ludorum.
Clarkson House In the Michaelmas Term, Clarkson came first in the tug of war competition and third in the languages quiz. In rugby, the Juniors achieved first place and the Intermediates came third. The Junior girls secured first place in hockey and the Intermediate girls came second. In the quiz, Clarkson came third overall, and was first in the photo competition. Clarkson’s 34 points overall secured them first place in the Michaelmas Term.
In the Lent Term, Clarkson came third in House music, even though the judicator said that the choir was perfect! Edward O’Connor won the Seniors’ solo section with his super voice. The Lower School came first in the School debate and the Senior School team of Ben Martin and Lee Zachariah narrowly missed
out in the final. Clarkson’s mixed quiz team came third. In netball, the Junior teams unfortunately secured last place but made up for that as the Intermediates came third and the Seniors second. The Intermediate boys, unfortunately, came last in hockey. Overall, Clarkson gained 18 points, leaving the House in fourth position during the Lent Term. In the Trinity Term, Clarkson came last in the Senior athletics but secured second place in House archery. The Junior girls and boys both came second in cricket, and the Intermediate mixed cricket teams came second. Overall, Clarkson achieved third place, scoring 15 points. In total, Clarkson gained 71 points this year, leaving the House in second position.
Sparks House Sparks House was nothing short of the best this year, raising not just the House Trophy, but also the Merit Shield. The journey began with a successful 2016 Michaelmas Term. Victory in the Intermediate hockey and rugby competitions, along with second place in the quiz and photo competition laid a great foundation for the rest of the year. The Lent Term was all about the Seniors. Tom Clabon and Katy Landles managed to clinch first place in the Senior debate, and the Senior netball team, led by Megan Tolliday, also finished first. Success in the lower age groups came with two second places in the Intermediate and Junior netball competitions. By end of the term, Sparks was at the top of the leader board by just a point. The Trinity Term was all about maintaining that lead. They stood strong after smashing House athletics by over 100 points, winning all three age groups and celebrating the achievements of several ‘Sparkies’: Tia Bibeau, Isobel Gowler, Lewis Shipley, Isabella Pope, Will Gowler and Oliver Mann, each of whom won the Victor or Victrix Ludorum in their age groups. Add the victories in both the boys’ and mixed cricket competitions and Sparks finished the year with a victorious 80 points. Looking forward to 2017/2018, Sparks hope to improve areas of weakness such as Congo (congregational singing) and the House music competition, as well as to develop skills for the Junior debate and language quiz. RIVERLINE 2017 |
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Fundraising & Community Spirit Wisbech Grammar School has committed to ‘Walk All Over Cancer’ in support of World Cancer Day 2018 In a life-saving fundraising effort, pupils and staff at WGS are uniting in one incredible #ActOfUnity for World Cancer Day 2018, 4 February. Mr Staley, Headmaster of Wisbech Grammar School, has signed up as the first school committed to supporting the North Cambridgeshire Fundraisers for Cancer Research in their new local project aimed at schools, clubs, and societies. Walk All over Cancer will be officially launched on the 30 October 2017. Sue Simmons, North Cambs Fundraising for Cancer Research UK Group said, “The concept of Walk all Over Cancer is simple. schools, clubs, and societies will be asked to get their pupils, staff and members to walk one mile for £1 in the week leading up to World Cancer Day on the 4 February 2018. With over 35,000 pupils in the area and a high number of clubs, it is hoped that many will join in with this project to raise money for Cancer Research UK. Monies raised will all be donated to local research activity in Cambridge.” Every day around 11 young people in the UK are diagnosed with cancer. Despite improving survival rates, cancer is the leading cause of death in children, teenagers, and young adults.
Every day around 11 young people in the UK are diagnosed with cancer. Despite improving survival rates, cancer is the leading cause of death in children, teenagers, and young adults.
This simple fundraising effort will raise money to help beat cancer sooner, enhance the education of many young people and encourage them to undertake some physical fitness too!
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Rugby team power ahead with fundraising In July 2017, Wisbech Grammar School’s 1st XV Rugby Team powered ahead with fundraising efforts at Tesco Extra, Wisbech, raising £420 for Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby. 25 boys from the team, made up of 5th and 6th Formers, spent their weekend at Tesco Extra. From 7pm to 11pm on Friday 14 July then 8am to 2pm on Saturday 15 July, the boys were busy biking and rowing 385 miles (the length of their tour) to raise money for the charity. Fundraising is a large part of life at Wisbech Grammar School, and the team was keen to support Wooden Spoon. From sensory rooms, specialist playgrounds and sports activity areas to respite, medical and community
care, the charity funds around 70 projects each year that support disadvantaged and disabled children. Since 1983, Wooden Spoon has distributed more than £24 million, helping over a million young people. Oliver Mann, 1st XV 6th Form rugby player said, ‘It is really important that we give back to the community and focus on our fundraising efforts. The values of Wooden Spoon are similar to our own, where the School promotes and inspires all pupils to have passion, integrity and teamwork. I am very proud to be part of the 1st XV rugby team and to represent the School in America on our forthcoming tour.’ We are grateful to Tesco Extra Wisbech for supporting the event. As the saying goes, ‘Every little helps!’
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Masquerade Charity Ball brings a taste of Venice to Wisbech Grammar School As 2016 came to a close, Wisbech Grammar School’s Michaelmas Ball raised a staggering £6,000. In only its second year, the Friends of Wisbech Grammar School Michaelmas Charity Ball was a resounding success, raising money for both the School and local charity, the Arthur Rank Hospice. For the occasion, the School’s multimillion-pound refectory, Skelton Hall, took on a glamorous, Venetian atmosphere as guests enjoyed Prosecco,
and music from The Funtime Frankies and Nightlife Entertainment. A delicious four-course dinner, created by the School’s kitchen, was served by 6th Form pupils. Chair of the Friends’ Committee, Louise O’Connor, said, ‘The evening would not have been possible without the support of a whole range of people from within and outside the School, our generous sponsors and our hardworking committee. A magnificent sum of £6,000 was raised (up from £4,300 last year), half of which will fund new play equipment for the Preparatory School at Wisbech Grammar and half of which will go to the Alan Hudson Day Treatment Centre, a hospice set up by the Arthur Rank Hospice charity, which supports people in Cambridgeshire
who are living with a life-limiting illness.” Headmaster, Chris Staley, added, ‘A sincere thank you to our fantastic Friends’ Committee for all the hard work that went into ensuring that the second Michaelmas Ball was a great success.” Arthur Rank Hospice’s services are provided free of charge and
A sincere thank you to our fantastic Friends’ Committee for all their hard work were inspired by the work of Dame Cicely Saunders, who felt that Cambridgeshire patients needed to spend their remaining time somewhere better than a hospital ward when in the final stages of a terminal illness.
Senior Prefect netball event raises cash for local charity The Senior Prefect team at Wisbech Grammar School put on a fundraising event in March 2017 to support the Alan Hudson Day Treatment Centre at the Arthur Rank Hospice. Organised by the Deputy Head of School, Alex Clabon, with help from the Senior Prefect team, the event raised £430.05, a fantastic sum which made the team proud. The team had been keen to support a local charity that had touched many of them over the years. Based at the North Cambridgeshire Hospital in Wisbech, the treatment centre was considered a very worthy cause since it supports those with life-limiting illnesses, making every moment count by providing patients and their loved ones with free care and support. The match was played on a bright spring day and drew quite a crowd from within the School. The fiercely competitive game turned out to be a high scoring encounter, with a golden goal bringing the final score to 10–9. The spectacle was completed by the Senior Deputy Head, Tim McConnell-Wood, sporting a netball dress to really show his support and get into the mood of the day. Ultimately, the event wouldn’t have been as successful without the support of the teaching staff and the Senior Management Team; all those involved in the organisation
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of the event were deeply grateful for that support. The cheque was presented to Staff Nurse Jane Clarke from the Alan Hudson Day Treatment Centre on a sunny day within the School grounds. Michelle Knight, Matron at the Alan Hudson Day Treatment Centre, said, ‘We are absolutely delighted to receive this cheque for £430.05. We will be using this for the development of our complementary therapy services, which reach over 100 patients and carers locally and are used to enhance quality of life and provide muchneeded support.’
Race at Your Place raises £2,900 for Cancer Research UK The ethos of social responsibility runs deep at Wisbech Grammar School, and in July 2017 we raised a thrilling £2,900 for Cancer Research UK. Keen runner and Head of Maths, Geoff Howes, organised the event with the Friends of Wisbech Grammar School. On a gloriously sunny evening, runners participated in either the 5k or 1k run. Many families who attended were representing loved ones, friends and people they knew affected by cancer. There was only one goal in mind: to raise awareness and money for Cancer Research UK. Runners and spectators were entertained by a tombola stall, BBQ and steel band. The kindness and generosity shown by everyone at the event was truly inspiring, with many people donating money over and above paying their registration fee for the race. Each runner received a medal. Tesco Extra Wisbech kindly donated bottles of water, and Healey’s Print Group printed and donated the numbers. Wisbech Grammar School is grateful to all runners and supporters who made this event a success.
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6th Form pupil, Katy Landles, raises £2,800 for Children & the Arts After months of hard work and planning, 6th Form pupil Katy Landles held an art auction in July 2017 which raised a remarkable £2,800 for Children & the Arts, a charity very close to Katy’s heart. Held in the School’s refectory, Skelton Hall, with the full support of teachers and staff, the auction included work donated by 2016 Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year, Richard Allen, items created by staff, pupils and parents, and pieces from local, national and internationally acclaimed artists. We met with Katy to discover more about her interest in the arts.
Q) How did you get the idea to organise an art auction? A) I have always been passionate about art, having grown up regularly making arts and crafts on the kitchen table or visiting exciting exhibitions and galleries. My dad and uncle also run an auction house, so from an early age I have been involved with helping ‘lot up’ as well as watching auctions take place with bated breath as the bids get higher and higher. Consequently, mixing the two together to create an art auction seemed As the auction day ideal, especially as I would For me, Children & the Arts is an approached I loved love to have a career in the invaluable charity, and I am incredibly hanging the works, art market. Organising and effectively curating an passionate about the work they do running the auction has exhibition of 50 objects. only made my desire to Though challenging, it work in the buzz of the art world even greater! was also exciting to see the works hanging for the first time. I also became quite handy with a screwdriver and Q) How did you find the process of hammer!
organising the art auction?
A) Organising an art auction on top of my A-Levels was at times incredibly stressful; however, for the majority of the time, I absolutely loved it. To start with, I didn’t expect to get more than 25 works, so to end up with 50 was an incredible surprise and achievement.
The School was unbelievably supportive from the moment I started the project in September 2016, making the experience even more enjoyable. And of course, it did help that I have an auctioneer in the family should I ever have been stuck for advice!
I loved communicating and working with the artists, whether they were fellow pupils or international figures, explaining the work of the charity Children & the Arts and persuading makers to donate to this fantastic cause.
Q) Why did you choose to support Children & the Arts?
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A) For me, Children & the Arts is an invaluable charity, and I am incredibly passionate about the work they do.
I strongly believe that having benefited from the arts as a child myself, every child should have the opportunity and the ability to embrace and access the arts. I really feel that the arts have helped to shape the person that I am today and am passionate that every child should have the chance to delve into their imagination and fulfil their creativity as I have been able to do.
Q) Why do you think the work that Children & the Arts does is important?
Q) Can you tell us anything about your own experience of the arts? A) I have always been passionate about art. I visit exhibitions during my holidays and try to surround myself with art as much as I can, whether by attending History of Art Club or relating my coursework to art. I hope to study history of art at university to follow my passion for the subject and hopefully that will lead to a career in the arts! 
A) The charity enables children to access the arts, and this is incredibly important as they support communities and local arts associations to deliver such an essential part of growing up.
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The Acorn Fund: A new initiative announced at Senior School Speech Day Mike Forrest, former Deputy Head Academic, has played a key role at Wisbech Grammar School for 32 years. Throughout his career, one of Mike’s key motivations has been to make a difference and, by donating money to the School at close of the Trinity Term 2017, he will continue to make a difference even now he has retired. His legacy means that pupils can apply for ‘seed’ money as part of his Acorn Project. The aim is to encourage young people to get involved in fundraising for their local community so that they can better understand what it takes to get a fundraising project off the ground. The fund provides seed money to individuals or groups of pupils to help them initiate or work with worthy projects within the Wisbech Grammar School catchment area. For instance, if a pupil puts forward a proposal to support a local community group that wishes to build a playground, they could grow an initial sum of money through fundraising activities to help raise the total amount needed to get their chosen project off the ground.
Pupils are expected to be involved in the final project, rather than just raising money to donate to a third party.
Pupils have been able to apply for £100 seed money Pupils should apply in writing, giving details of their from the Acorn Fund since chosen community project and September 2017. That showing how they would grow the money should be used to money to the full amount The fund provides seed money seed further raise funds for the required. Successful applications to individuals or groups of selected cause through will be shortlisted, and those pupils events or activities. The pupils to help them initiate or who have been selected will give total sum raised can then work with worthy projects within presentations to be used to realise the a panel. the Wisbech Grammar School chosen project, ideally, by Wisbech Grammar School is the following July. Pupils catchment area. passionate about fundraising and should also aim to grow having a positive impact on the the £100 to such an extent local community. Over the last year, that it could also be made pupils and teachers have raised a significant amount available to another project in the next academic year. of money for a variety of charities, including Cancer Two projects are likely to be selected each year, one in Research, Carers Worldwide, Children & the Arts and Wisbech and another elsewhere in the catchment area. Jessie’s Fund.
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Wisbech Grammar School raises bumper crop at harvest festival Activities and food stalls held in October 2016 raised more than £1,130 for the One Water Foundation. In addition, produce gathered from a harvest food collection was divided between the Wisbech Food Bank and the Foyer in Wisbech, which provides shelter and support for homeless young people. One Water is an ethical bottled water brand whose profits fund sustainable water projects for some of the world’s most vulnerable people. Duncan Goose, One Water CEO and former Wisbech Grammar School pupil, came into School to collect the
funds. He gave an assembly on the ethos behind One Water and why he started the project. We are very grateful to all parents, pupils and staff for their continued generous support. Special thanks go to the Friends of Wisbech Grammar School, who helped to collect and deliver the produce from the food collection.
Prep School collects bags for playground equipment Once again, Magdalene House parents and pupils came up trumps by filling a fantastic number of Bag2School bags with unwanted textiles and toys. The Forum Prep Council, a collective group of pupil representatives from each year group assisted by teacher Mrs Kelly, helped bring the bags to a central collection point outside Magdalene House Prep School in May 2017. The collection helped to raise a good sum of money for playground equipment for all pupils to enjoy. The Forum said, ‘A great big thank you to everyone who emptied their wardrobes and contributed to our collection!’
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Music challenge: Raising money for Jessie’s Fund At the end of the Trinity Term 2017, seven Senior School staff and four pupils took part in the Trinity College of Music Grade 1 Challenge. Staff and pupils spent several weeks learning a new instrument to Grade 1 standard so that on 5 July they would be able to take the exam alongside other Trinity Term
music candidates. Apart from having fun and learning new skills, the participants used the challenge to raise money for Jessie’s Fund, a charity which helps children with additional and complex needs or serious illness to communicate via music. Jessie’s Fund supports projects in schools and hospices,
Music pupil Miles raises £1,205 in charity piano recital Upper 6th Form pianist Miles MacLachlan helped raise funds for the Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House Piano Fund by taking part in a June 2017 charity recital. Miles, along with renowned piano teacher, Loc Mai Yuen Brooker, and fellow pupil, Duncan Ford, performed a varied programme of music at Russell Hall, including pieces by Bach, Mozart, Chopin, Rachmaninov and Satie. Each performer gave an insight into each composer’s work, helping the audience to better understand the context in which the music was originally composed. The three performers made wonderful use of our magnificent Steinway piano, demonstrating the wide
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such as funding music therapy and providing specialist equipment. It shows that music is a powerful tool that helps children express themselves and connect with the world. The staff participants included Mrs Neighbour (violin), Mrs Lawrence (flute), Mrs Taylor (flute), Mrs Ayling (saxophone), Mrs Duncan (piano), Mr Whatling (recorder) and Mrs Missin (recorder). Senior School participants included Richeldis France (saxophone), Abigail McGlone (flute), Anna Kober (flute) and Catherine Missin (clarinet). Wisbech Grammar School encourages pupils to discover who they are outside the classroom. Music is just one facet of the School’s ‘all-round education that inspires’, along with the opportunity to raise money for charity.
range of dynamics and sonorities that it can produce. During the interval, the audience were treated to wine and tasty refreshments provided by the Friends of Wisbech Grammar School. Monies raised went towards the purchase of a replacement grand piano at Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House along the Brink in Wisbech.
Red Nose Day raises a staggering £1,319.50 An amazing variety of activities across the School in March 2017 raised a fantastic £1,319.50 for Red Nose Day. Thanks were passed to all pupils, parents and teachers for their ongoing support. The considerable sum of money raised is a great source of pride for the School community, and the event itself was a perfect day for treasure trails, fun runs, name the teddy and cake sales– all in aid of a great cause!
Raising funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care In June 2017, two teams from the 1st and 2nd Forms held cake sales in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care, as part of their end project for the Tour de France Challenge, organised by Routes into Languages. The first cake sale was held in the Alan Salmon Hall and the second in Skelton Hall. Pupils displayed strong leadership and planning skills throughout the phases of preparation, and the sales were well received in both Magdalene House and the Senior School. This exercise contributed to the pupils’ entry and participation in the competition. The Tour de France Challenge comprises 21 stages, and pupils need to complete at least four of them to enter the competition.
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Academic Review Wisbech Grammar School celebrates best GCSE results since 2010 High-achieving pupils at Wisbech Grammar School celebrated their GCSE results in summer 2017. Headmaster Chris Staley said, ‘This has been a vintage year for GCSEs at Wisbech Grammar School and they represent our best results since 2010, which is fantastic news! Considering the curriculum changes, the move to the new 9–1 grading system and the fact that national press headlines have today been talking about the significant drop in top grades awarded this summer, the pupils at Wisbech Grammar have bucked the trend. I am incredibly pleased by their achievements, the dedication of the staff and last, but by no means least, the support from parents and guardians.’
98% of pupils achieved 9-4 in both English and Maths.
can achieve much both inside and outside the classroom.
These results demonstrate that inspiring teaching, providing an environment where top-quality learning can take place, and coupling that to a dedicated staff and motivated and engaged pupils,
Mr Staley added, ‘These results are a ringing endorsement for our overall educational offering and I am very proud of everyone associated with the results the School has produced this year.’
96% of pupils achieved A*-C, 51% of the year group achieved either A*-A or 9-7 in their examinations and
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Celebrating outstanding A-Level results With a pass rate of over 97%, more than 51% of pupils achieving the top grades and more than 76% of the year group receiving A*–Cs, this year’s results have provided the boys and girls with the springboard to go on to university. More than 60% of pupils achieved their first-choice university.
Maddie Booth with two As in Politics and English and a B in Geography, reading Politics and Global Sustainable Development at Warwick.
Headmaster Chris Staley, said, ‘Once again I am really pleased with the A-Level results this year. With so much change in the education and examination system, pupils have managed very well, and their results reflect their resilience and hard work, and the dedication of the teaching staff, plus the unerring support of parents’.
Ben Martin with three As in Politics, German and Spanish, reading German and Spanish at Warwick.
Here are just some of the highlights:
Pass rate of over 97%
Waleed Asif with A* in Maths and two As in Biology and Chemistry, reading Medicine at Liverpool. Mollie Allen with three As in Textiles, Geography and PE, reading Information Management and Business at Loughborough.
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George Bone with A* in Business and two As in Biology and Chemistry, reading Biological Science at Birmingham.
Former Heads of School Ben York and Izzy Hall are at their first-choice universities, reading Physics at Liverpool and Biology at York respectively.
The AS results were a notch or two higher than those from the A-Levels, which is fantastic news. The Lower 6th pupils must be congratulated for their results – top grades were achieved by more than 45% of the year group and the A–C pass rate was in excess of 68%, which is more than a 10% improvement over the year before. Such results bode very well for the future. With so many schools dropping AS completely, our bold decision to stick with AS for this year has been justified, and the Lower 6th can move to their final year with a real feeling of confidence in all they have achieved.
Wisbech Grammar School pupils succeed in Cranmer Recital Challenge For the first time, three Wisbech Grammar School pupils competed with students from Gresham’s, Norwich High School for Girls, Beeston Prep and Terrington St Clements at the annual Prayer Book Society regional round of the Cranmer Awards. Young people read chosen passages from the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, which is considered by many to be the third greatest repository of the English language after the King James Bible and the complete works of Shakespeare. The event was judged by TV presenter Anne Robinson and held at the beautiful historic church of St Lawrence in Castle Rising. Thomas Fox (1C) achieved second place in the Junior section with his recitation of three psalms, and Head Boy Ben York was also awarded second place with his choice of Psalm 27 and St John’s account of Jesus’ first miracle at Cana. Both received certificates and an unexpected cash prize. Subsequently, due to an unexpected absence, Ben was invited to join 23 finalists from as far afield as the Isle of Man, London and Chelmsford for the 28th national finals at the ancient and atmospheric Old
Palace in Worcester. For the final, both Junior and Senior contestants recited their chosen passages and the judges awarded prizes not only on the basis of accuracy, clarity and rhythm, but also on the use of breath control, the effect of pauses and the candidate’s ability to communicate meaning. Although Ben was not among the prize-winners, he was praised for his magnificent voice, his powerful performance and his sincerity. Phoebe Griffith, who won the Senior final in 2011, presented the prizes, making a beautifully considered and witty speech about how the qualities tested in the Cranmer Awards have advanced her academic career and made a positive impact when resilience has been needed in the face of disappointment. She also spoke about the relevance of the texts that require both the reader and the listener to do good deeds, to be kind, and not to rejoice in injustice. It was a thought-provoking day that definitely answered Ben’s original question of ‘How can people deliver the same texts differently?’ The pupils and Mrs Duncan were particularly grateful to Canon Bradbury for his detailed and enthusiastic assistance with their preparations.
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Prep School pupils take a step back in time at Magdalene College, Cambridge This included Pepys’ diary, works by Newton and even To coordinate with World Book Day and in a tiny book signed by Sir Francis Drake. After a quick recognition of their reading ability, thirteen lunch in the Ramsay Hall, the group then walked to Magdalene House pupils were selected to take Waterstones bookstore part in the first where they perused the Enrichment Day for Readers. The pupils The pupils visited Magdalene College, latest releases in the children’s section,and visited Magdalene Cambridge, where they were treated to a were able to spend their College, Cambridge tour of the chapel and gardens. World Book Day vouchers. where they were treated All children thoroughly to a tour of the chapel enjoyed their “day of and gardens. The highlight of the day was being able to visit the Samuel Pepys library and view his collection of books.
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books” and Mrs Beck was delighted to hear pupils sharing their stories, trying to predict what they thought would happen next and enjoying reading on the way
1st Form geography field trip to Wells-next-the-Sea On Tuesday 16 May, 1st Form geographers went to Wells-next-the-Sea to investigate the sand dune ecosystem. The pupils took part in a series of activities, including sand dune profiling, vegetation surveys, soil characteristic surveys and field sketching so that they could answer three enquiry questions. These looked at sand dune succession, how stable the sand dunes are at Wells and what threatens their existence. The pupils thoroughly enjoyed the day and learned to use a variety of fieldwork equipment, such as ranging poles, clinometers, quadrats, soil moisture and pH probes, and identification charts. They also tried to work out the type of soil along a transect from the beach to the pine woodland, which involved mixing the soil with water in their hands and trying to form balls and ribbons with the mixture. Back in the classroom, pupils analysed the primary data they had collected to draw conclusions for each enquiry question. They also evaluated their data collection techniques and considered how the investigation could be improved.
Fieldwork is an essential component of the geography curriculum at Wisbech Grammar School. It enables pupils to develop their subject knowledge, experience the environment beyond the classroom and gain important investigative and critical thinking skills. Most importantly it is great fun and supports the enjoyment of geography.
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Budding author Demelza scoops the Young Walter Scott Prize only the day before the entries closed. In fact, the judges In March 2017, Demelza Mason received the had the only copy of the piece because Demelza wrote it wonderful news that she had won the 11 to 15-yearon paper while on holiday at a campsite, where she had old category of the Young Walter Scott Prize. The to use the resources of the local library. Her story was prize is the UK’s first historical fiction writing published in the annual YWSP anthology for everyone to competition for young people that seeks to connect enjoy. young people to their world by asking them to A further aspect of Demelza’s prize was attending the investigate their history, environment and the Borders Book Festival as stories of people. It is guest of the Duke and named after Sir Walter The prize is the UK’s first historical of Buccleuch, Scott who, as a young fiction writing competition for young Duchess the day after her final man, discovered his people that seeks to connect GCSE. She also received inspiration among the a travel grant of £500 to young people to their world hills, people and stories anywhere in the UK. of the Scottish Borders. Demelza’s story was about Cornish smugglers (inspired by ‘The Moonrakers’) and told from the perspective of Zephaniah Job, a lawyer who, as a boy, became the business manager for the Polperro smugglers. The events surrounding entering the competition were themselves dramatic since Demelza submitted her story
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Demelza, who joined Wisbech Gramamar School in 1st form, wrote her winning story while in 5th form and is now enjoying life in the 6th Form. She has enjoyed writing from an early age, and her advice to any budding author is simply to put pen to paper and just let your imagination run free.
Prep 3 pupils journey back in time to the Iron Age On Friday 3 February, Prep 3F went on a journey back in time to an Iron Age hillfort. On top of the Magog Hills, just south of Cambridge, Wandlebury is a scheduled ancient monument steeped in myth and legend. The class first took part in an archaeological evidence workshop, where they explored what had survived from the Iron Age and what that tells us about the past. The
class was then divided into two groups and took part in two practical activities – grinding wheat using a quern and cooking bread over an open fire. Next, they were given a guided tour interpreting evidence from the Iron Age hillfort, discussing tribal life and beliefs. The class looked at old pictures and artefacts that had been found at the site, and were told some gruesome stories. After lunch,pupils were each given the opportunity to weave a small wattle panel to take home, adding to their understanding of what roundhouses were like to live in. Bending and weaving the sticks was hard work!
Act of Remembrance The lives of Wisbech Grammar School past pupils that were cut short by conflicts spanning over 100 years were recalled at an act of remembrance led by Headmaster, Mr Chris Staley. During the service, which took place in the Russell Hall, pupils heard of the horrors faced by soldiers in the battle of the Somme and the huge amount of casualties and lives lost by the British army over the 141 day attack. Headmaster, Chris Staley said: “One of the many problems of war is that it reduces its participants to mere statistics: The most important purpose of remembrance is to turn the statistics back into people: back into names, faces and human stories.”
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Pupils have a head for numbers Wisbech Grammar School pupils excelled in the 2017 Intermediate Maths Challenge with five pupils obtaining gold, 10 silver and 15 bronze awards. Best in school went to Sam Martin (5th Form) with Shravan Sharma (3rd Form) just behind. Sam performed so well that he was invited to a week long National Maths summer school in the summer holiday. Shravan performed extremely well in his year and was just outside the top 100 nationally for his age group. The best 4th Form pupil was James Pearson. Other pupils to achieve gold were Ben Hamilton and Joseph Kooreman and particular congratulations also go to Sourish Sharma who was in Prep 5 at the time but was able to obtain a silver, despite being much younger than the intended age group. The competition was organised by the United Kingdom Maths Trust, based at the University Of Leeds. Head of Maths, Geoff Howes, said, “These are superb performances and will inspire pupils to consider mathematical university courses in years to come.� The large photo shows the Intermediate Maths Challenge certificate winners. The photo of the 4 pupils is the members of the Wisbech Grammar School
Maths Challenge Team who represented the school in the Team Maths Challenge event held at Cambridge University Maths department. These 4 pupils are Lewis Shipley, Harry Davis, Joseph Kooreman and Shravan Sharma.
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6th Form educational development – ‘Architecture for Resilience’ at Cambridge In May 2017, a group of five 6th Form geographers, together with their teacher, Kate Taylor, travelled to Churchill College, University of Cambridge, to attend a lecture given as part of the Cambridge Society for the Application of Research (CSAR) lecture programme. The talk, ‘Architecture for resilience – Surviving earthquakes, tornadoes, fire and floods’, was delivered by Dr Emily So, Director of Cambridge Architectural Research Ltd. The lecture started with an image of the devastation caused by the 2011
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Japanese tsunami and sparked a discussion about the unpredictability of natural hazards and how attempts are made to mitigate the impacts of an event that may take us by surprise. Emphasis was given to the fact that we live in a globalised world so natural hazards do not happen in isolation; what happens in one country often has a direct impact on other countries. The importance was highlighted of learning how best to adapt to living with risk and work to reduce the scale of impacts. Dr So’s engaging talk dealt with issues that the pupils had studied as part of their A-Level course and it was fascinating to hear about current
research at the university. Drawing on the interdisciplinary nature of the subject, architects are collaborating with geographers, geologists, engineers and policy makers to come up with innovative solutions to living with risk. Pupils learned about amphibious houses designed to float during a flood, aseismic construction and the importance of building codes to ensure the building stock is designed to withstand seismic events, and how it is vital that the hazard itself is understood properly so we can cope with its results.
Pupils reach Fenland Poet Laureate Competition finale The 2017 annual Fenland Poet Laureate Competition finale took place on Friday 31 March. Four Wisbech Grammar pupils were shortlisted from hundreds of entries across the Fenland area. The pupils listened to their poems being read aloud before the winners were announced. Three pupils were ‘highly commended’ for their work and one pupil, Oliver Williams, was awarded the runner-up prize. Oliver Williams (2nd Form) Overall second place Thomas Fox (1st Form)
Highly commended
Tia MacNab (1st Form)
Highly commended
Phoebe Oram (2nd Form)
Highly commended
We were delighted with the results and congratulations were given to those who took part.
Books, glorious books! Educating and enthusing young minds is at the heart of our School. As a result, we have been busy buying books for our pupils and want to thank everyone who supported our book fairs. So far, we have purchased £700-worth of books for Prep School from the commission we earned.
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Dedicated enrichment programme supports studies and wellbeing current affairs and important and former pupils of the School, Enrichment sessions encourage issues in society. including former Grammarians 6th Form pupils to better learn Tom Berry, now the CEO of who they are as they extend their Our pupils benefit enormously Chameleon PR, and Duncan knowledge and abilities beyond and the ultimate aim is to Goose, CEO of One Water. broaden their interests and the classroom. The skills learned help them to develop into wellTom Berry gave an enrichment in our dedicated enrichment informed and well-rounded lecture to the 5th and 6th Form on programme support pupils’ communication in studies and the modern world. wellbeing and Our pupils benefit enormously and the ultimate Based in London, help to prepare aim is to broaden their interests and help them Chameleon PR is them for life after to develop into well-informed and well-rounded part of the Global school. PR Network, individuals. There are around which works 15 talks each with companies year on varied subjects which individuals, with the tools they including Google and Unity, the fall outside our curriculum and require for their onward journey. cross-platform gaming company. cross a number of disciplinary Chameleon PR remains true The sessions include a lecture boundaries. The programme to its original 1998 mission to programme that is designed to also includes a Form tutorial ‘transform corporate colours’, educate, challenge, inspire and programme that enables pupils according to three principles: broaden pupils’ horizons. It is to discuss topics related to ‘Think big and inspire,’ ‘Devoted presented by visiting speakers
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to business’ and ‘Passion for people’. Over 140 pupils listened to Tom talk his career in journalism, and the importance of communication in the real world. He touched on ‘fake news’, the need for clarity and accountability in what and how you communicate, and what constitutes an effective conversation.
In line with our focus on sporting excellence, we also welcomed Dr Mike Hislop, University of Bath and RFU Injury Surveillance Researcher. Mike spoke to pupils about injury surveillance and the advances of technology in the medical and physiotherapy area of sport. He then spoke to the Elite Sports Programme
Jeremy Levesley, Professor of Applied Mathematics at the University of Leicester, delivered an inspiring session in the summer. His wonderful in-depth enrichment session was on ‘The amazing square root of 2’.
Developing positive role models and connections outside school is key to the development and measuring of success. Tom Berry himself said We believe that success he was enriched by his The most reassuring thing about coming back to Wisbech Grammar after more is not just measured in return, commenting, the classroom but also ‘The most reassuring than 20 years was the brilliance of the in supporting our pupils thing about coming pupils to find their passion and back to Wisbech discover who they are. Grammar after more Developing positive role than 20 years was models and connections the brilliance of the pupils... the pupils about ways to reduce and outside of school is key to the School challenges the status quo avoid injury, discussing both further development of our and encourages a bright and scientific and practical examples. pupils. successful path for its pupils. It Pupils were greatly interested, was an immense pleasure to talk Alex Laybourne, especially those attracted to to the Upper School and I really Deputy Head of 6th Form medicine and sport. look forward to coming back again soon.’ RIVERLINE 2017 |
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Wisbech Grammar School University Fair: Getting the right advice from experts In June 2017, 4th Form, 5th Form and Lower 6th Form pupils attended a series of workshops to gain an overview of the universities and courses available through higher education. Researching the market is a great starting point for any pupil looking to explore their educational opportunities. Eight universities were represented, including the University of Hertfordshire, University of East Anglia (UEA), Loughborough University, University of Leeds, University of Wembley (UCFB), University of Cambridge (St Catherine’s College), Aston University (Birmingham), and Cardiff University. Workshops delivered covered a number of important topics including placement years and studying abroad, ‘right course, right university’, the benefits of higher
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education, student finance and budgeting, UCAS and the personal statement, choosing A-Levels, interview skills for university and preparing for higher education by making the most of Year 12. Pupils could attend three talks during the morning. Each university had a stand with representatives to talk about the specific institution and courses on offer, and to answer pupils’ questions in more detail. Nick Wilkinson from UCFB was on hand to offer advice on degrees in the football, sport and events sectors. He explained that pupils at UCFB benefit from a unique learning and sporting environment at each campus, with facilities that include classrooms overlooking the turf! The integration of campuses with inspiring stadiums gives UCFB students the unique ability to live, learn and work inside the machinery of the sector.
Melissa Yeoman from UEA gave great advice on selecting the right university. She revealed that the UEA is a pioneering institution that leads the way in fields as diverse as climate change, social work, creative writing, international development and food science. In line with UEA future thinking, Melissa encouraged pupils to ask a series of questions when considering a university to help determine whether it is the right
place for them: • Can you see yourself at the campus? • Can you see yourself living and enjoying the university environment? • Do you like the surrounding location? • Do you have a realistic understanding of what the opportunities are? • What is the student body like? Melissa explained that UEA offers summer schools to help pupils decide whether it was for them. Prospective students can sign up to stay on campus for two days, to attend lectures and immerse themselves in university life. That, she said, is the perfect way to experience university life. 6th Form Pupil Harriet Munson writes: ‘As a pupil approaching the time when choosing which or whether a university is right for me begins
to take over my life, I feel it is indispensably important to obtain as much information as possible about what going to university entails to ensure you make the right decision. I know for myself, the prospect of moving away from home, meeting new people and the inevitable debt is a mixture of excitement and terror, therefore this fair has been incredibly useful in providing lots of valuable information to make the whole process as easy as possible. Even for those preparing for GCSEs who might otherwise think university is too far in the future to worry about, the event was still very useful since looking at potential courses and universities can be crucial in helping pupils choose the right A-Levels, as some of the more specialised courses require qualifications in certain subjects.’ Harriet summarises her top tip for selecting the right university as ‘research, research and more research!’ More specifically, she advises pupils to consider the following points:
1. Choose a subject you are passionate about. 2. Consider the other facets of university life. 3. Think about what type of university you might be interested in attending. Do you want to focus on traditional academic study? Or would you prefer a more vocational slant to what you’re learning? For the latter, a newer university may suit you. 4. Methods of assessment are also important to consider. If you’re good at exams, there will be a course suited to you. However, if you choke during tests and go dizzy at the thought of them, consider a course with more essays, laboratory work or vocational assessments. 5. Consider your own personal needs and aspirations and try not to be swayed by where friends and peers in 6th Form are going. 6. Above all, always remember: every course is unique, just like you.
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Sport Our partnerships for an all-round education Dance opportunities with Studio 19 Our partnership with Studio 19 has brought new and fresh dance opportunities to our pupils, as part of their co-curricular activities. Studio 19 also engages with the wider community, providing evening classes at the School’s studio.
‘Discover who you are… and who you could become’ is the message that we send out to young people and their parents. The School’s ethos of providing an inspiring all-round education sits comfortably with the array of academic, pastoral and co-curricular activities we offer. Part of that all-round education includes our partnerships with external centres of excellence, which provide our pupils with expert support, training and coaching.
Studio 19 was founded by Josh and Vicki Willie in 2014. They met and trained at London’s Central School of Ballet and went on to enjoy successful individual careers. Studio 19’s passion for dance enables young people to explore and build their self-confidence and well-being.
Cricket opportunities with Northants County Cricket Club By partnering with Northants County Cricket Club, the School can now help gifted young cricketers to access professional pathways into the game. The player pathway provides endless opportunities for pupils to experience playing cricket at a professional level. Head of Cricket, Neil Taylor said, ‘There is no doubt cricket in this area is very strong, but I wanted to give our young cricketers the best opportunity by creating a distinct player pathway to the first-class game. This is a really exciting time to be a young cricketer at Wisbech Grammar School, with the opportunities created by this partnership.’ Northants coach, Phil Rowe, said Northants County Cricket Club was delighted to be joining forces with Wisbech Grammar School, and they are keen to promote the club in and around Wisbech.
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On learning of the partnership between the School and Northants Country Cricket Club, KL.FM’s breakfast show presenter, Si, and his colleague, Lisa, took the opportunity to visit the School to find out more, even participating in a coaching session. After receiving some expert advice, and after a little practise, Si managed to hit a few balls.
Rugby round-up U16s. They follow in the footsteps of other Wisbech Grammar School pupils to have represented the Independent Schools National U18 side – Matt Retchless (2013), Pat Webb (2015) and Oliver Short (2016).
Wisbech Grammar School’s rugby programme enjoyed notable success during the 2016–17 academic year. The 1st XV produced a particularly impressive season, winning nine out of 12 matches, with scalps against King’s Ely, Gresham’s, Wymondham and Worksop College, among others. They scored a total of 62 tries, an average of more than five per game, with Oliver Mann scoring 12, Jack Trundley and George Lemon both scoring 11 and Captain Henry Thornton contributing nine. Oliver Mann, named 2017–18 Captain, also scored over 150 points during the season. From this 1st XV squad, George Lemon went on to further honours, representing Scottish Exiles U16s. Two Wisbech Grammar 5th Form pupils, Jack Trundley and George Lemon, represented the English Independent Schools U16 side (the LAMBS) as they faced Irish Exiles. The pair helped the LAMBS to a 17– 15 victory. Jack Trundley was named the U16s ‘Player of the Season’, a truly fantastic achievement when playing at this level of rugby. Jack and George went through a tough selection process for the LAMBS and are the first Wisbech Grammar School pupils to represent the
In the Middle School, the U15s and U14s both had to work hard for results. However, aided by regular coaching from Northampton Saints Academy Coach, Jon Curry, they made significant strides in their organisational play, leading to some excellent results, particularly in the second half of the season. The most impressive wins, based not only on the result but also on their performances, were the U14s against Spalding Grammar and Gresham’s, and the U15s back-toback wins over King’s Ely. There were also individual successes, with Jack Robb, Will Gowler, Luke Fey and Henry Mair all involved in developing player programmes either at Leicester Tigers or Northampton Saints. In the Lower School, the U12s developed as individuals and as a team. Following some tough fixtures and results before the Michaelmas half-term, they came back after the holidays and produced several good wins. This gives them a solid platform from which to develop as they progress through the School. The U13s enjoyed a successful season beating schools such as Oundle, St Hugh’s and King’s Ely. In the Prep School, there were 36 fixtures from U9s through to U11s, allowing every boy the opportunity to play in competitive fixtures. The development of each team was evident, with some exciting rugby players preparing for senior rugby.
Rugby VIIs programme continues to go from strength to strength. The 1st VII began the season by winning the Shield at Reed’s VIIs, before making the Cup quarterfinals at Stoneyhurst, where they were knocked out by the hosts and eventual winners. The team then made the Cup semi-finals at their Home VIIs, losing in the last play of the game. A narrow loss to Marlborough College by one try at Rosslyn Park Nationals meant they missed out on progressing to the second day on points difference. The girls’ 1st VII travelled to Berkhamsted, Reigate and the Rosslyn Park Nationals but, despite some good performances, they struggled to be consistent in some very strong tournaments. The young side has stayed together into the 2017–18 season and is in a strong position to turn performances into results. The U16s had similar luck to the girls’ 1st VII, although they did record a third place finish at their Home VIIs. Once again, the group have stayed together into next season and are primed for success. In the Lower School, the U13s won 15 of their 23 games, securing the Cup title at their Home 7s before narrowly losing to Kirkham in the Cup Final of Stoneyhurst. They also secured silverware at Packwood Haugh, winning the shield after overcoming Sedbergh School in the final. The Rosslyn Park Nationals ran as a ‘waterfall’ tournament, where they recorded two wins and two losses. Overall, the Rugby VIIs programme saw Wisbech Grammar win three trophies, take four sides to the Rosslyn Park Nationals and host four home tournaments.
Alex Laybourne, Head of Rugby
Rugby VIIs The Wisbech Grammar School
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American rugby tour The adventure started in July 2017 for 25 boys from our rugby team. The 5th and 6th Formers spent a weekend at Tesco Extra Wisbech biking and rowing 385 miles (the length of the tour) to raise money for Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, and to contribute towards the cost of the USA rugby tour. The opportunity to give something back to the local community and to raise £420 for Wooden Spoon, encouraged a sense of pride that the team took with them as they represented Wisbech Grammar School in America. The rugby team started their tour in San Francisco and ended it in Los Angeles, where they played four fixtures. This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the School worked hard planning and fundraising for the trip.
Trip report by Oliver Mann, 1st XV 6th Form player The first part of the journey meant that we left for London Gatwick on Wednesday 19 July at 4am. We departed for San Francisco with a layover in Vancouver for 6 hours. Eventually, we reached our hotel in Cupertino; after a whole day of travelling, this was a huge relief. On the first full day, we got up early and travelled to a local school to have our first training session, which was hard considering the jetlag and the 30-degree heat. Later that day we went into San Francisco to bike over the Golden Gate Bridge. What the teachers had failed to tell us, however, was that it would be a 30-minute bike ride to the bridge in a headwind. Even though it took a long time to get there it was worth it as the views were breathtaking. One sight to behold was Matthew Holden and Henry Thornton riding a tandem bicycle. The next day we played our first game against a select side from San Francisco. Wisbech started well, scoring first from under the posts in the first 5 minutes, but the size and athletic ability of our opponents seemed too
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much for Wisbech, who succumbed to a 103–10 loss. That left a bitter feeling, but going to Alcatraz later in the afternoon picked up everyone’s spirits. That visit was one of the most interesting of the whole tour, thanks to the headphone tour which gave an insight into what really went on there. The following day started with a light training session then a trip to do some shopping in the afternoon; this gave us some good rest for the game the next day. The second game day arrived, for which we had to travel to Sacramento. Arriving at Motherlode Rugby Club at 4pm, the whole team was very determined to win this match, considering what had happened in the last game. The game began, and it was not the perfect start as Motherlode scored an early try but Wisbech fought back to gain the lead and didn’t let Motherlode back into the game, the score ending 33–22 to Wisbech. After that, we all parted to go and stay with our host families for two nights. At first, that was very daunting, but after we got to know our hosts it became a lot easier. The following day we went white-water rafting, which was very exhilarating, and then we all went for a BBQ at one of the host family’s homes. The following morning, having really enjoyed staying with our hosts, we said our ‘goodbyes’ with gifts and then departed. We travelled to San Luis Obispo, with an excursion to Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery before arriving at our hotel. That night we also went to see a baseball game, which was exciting for us as many had never seen a baseball game before. The next day was our third game day, against a tri-county side with a win of 20–5. Post-match we went to a farmers market where most of the team tried the local delicacy of tri-tip steak. The following day we had a light training session, where we also played a little American football and had a trip to the beach for some well-earned rest. We continued with our tour, heading to Los Angeles with a stop at the USS Iowa, which was thoroughly enjoyed by Ben York, before going to UCLA where we stayed for
the rest of our tour. On our first day in LA, we went to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where we saw big names such as Walt Disney, before travelling to the final match, which ended up being played in the evening, so we took a little trip to the beach beforehand. That was the final game of the tour, and for a lot of players it would be their last ever game for Wisbech, which made everyone play with great passion and team morale; the singing of the National Anthem at the start also helped us to get fired up. This truly was one of the best games ever to be played by Wisbech Grammar School. We came up against a much larger and more physical side than our own, so we shut out the game and came away with a 42–14 victory. The end of the game was very emotional for all the leavers, and it was the perfect way to send them off and to say goodbye to Mr Berg, who has done so much for the 1st XV over his short period of time at the School. The reality began to set in that the tour was nearly over as there was no more rugby to be played. But we still
had some fantastic activities to enjoy and the day after the game we went to Universal Studios Hollywood, which was enjoyed by all. The final two days were spent on the beach or shopping. We ended the tour with a meal at a local Italian restaurant. Travelling back from the restaurant to UCLA, Mr Berg and Mr Laybourne sang beautifully on the microphones on the bus. On Wednesday 2 August, we left UCLA with some trouble as our bus broke down. We only just made our flight to Vancouver, from where we then flew to London Gatwick and arrived back at School at 3pm on the Thursday. The tour truly was a lifetime experience, and what a great experience! Our gratitude to Mr Laybourne is huge for organising such a fantastic trip, and thanks are also due to Mr Berg, Mrs Ogston and Dr Miller for accompanying us. Also, a huge thank you to all our sponsors, who provided us with such incredible kit, and to everyone who donated at our fundraiser events.
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Girls’ hockey The girls’ hockey term started in earnest with a Senior pre-season tour to Hertfordshire for fixtures against Haileybury College and Hereford HC. The Junior teams enjoyed their pre-term sessions, showing encouraging signs for the coming season. The 1st XI squad had a mixed start to their season, losing their first fixture to Bedford before gaining valuable wins against Leicester and Oundle. In what historically have proved to be well-contested matches, the squad drew against Ratcliffe and King’s Ely, showing the resilience needed to bounce back after conceding an early goal in each game. Despite their best efforts, they lost their remaining games, with small mistakes being punished by the opposition teams. Thanks must go to all the Senior players who have given so much to the squad and the School over the years. The Greyhounds squad supported the 1st XI well throughout the year, providing both players and off-pitch support. On the pitch, every player showed their worth, with some creditable team and individual performances, in particular when they came up against strong opposition.
With many players new to the sport, the U12 teams worked hard throughout the term to improve their technical skills and game understanding, with successes against Ratcliffe College, Kimbolton and Thomas Deacon Academy. Credit must go to all the players for their enthusiasm and commitment throughout the term.
The U11 teams had a somewhat mixed set of results, Following on from their impressive season in 2015, the gaining excellent wins against strong opposition while U15A squad again stood suffering frustrating out as the team of the losses in matches we year, producing a superb have historically won. At run of seven winning Thanks must go to all the Senior players the Independent Schools matches, all of which were Competition, the U11A who have given so much to the squad and against strong opposition. squad played their best the School over the years. In a season that saw only hockey of the season, two losses, all the squad, missing out by a solitary including their coach goal from progressing to (Miss Gomm), should be the latter stages of the immensely proud of their achievements. competition. The U11Bs showed progression throughout the term, ably supported by coaches and parents alike. Overall, the U14 squad had a very good season, conjuring wins against Bedford Modern, Stamford, King’s School Ely, Oakham and Culford. Despite their losses, every player gave their worth throughout all the matches, displaying tenacity and a willingness to learn, showing promise for the future.
Playing with enthusiasm, the U9 squads thoroughly enjoyed their term matches. In particular, their early season festivals helped them gain an understanding of match play and valuable experience that helped them to secure some excellent wins later in the term.
Both the U13 sides experienced highs and lows throughout the season, with the U13A squad securing wins against King’s Ely and Stamford, coupled with a hard-fought draw against Gresham’s. The U13Bs saw success against Gresham’s before securing a valuable draw against Kimbolton after being two goals down for most of the match. Both the squads adapted well to the transfer into 11-aside matches, giving them valuable experience for the coming years.
While every team has suffered losses, what cannot be questioned is their commitment to both the sport and the School. Every single pupil played with enthusiasm, resulting in them all gaining a better understanding of hockey’s core skills, coupled with enhancing their tactical knowledge – all attributes that should help them improve in the coming years.
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Mark Jarvis, Head of Hockey
Boys’ hockey After a welcome Christmas break, the boys’ sports teams transferred from the rugby field to the hockey pitches in preparation for the full programme of matches. Having gone through a pre-term training programme, the squads were ready to implement their game plans. With new players in the squad, the 1st XI were confident as they stepped onto the pitch for their match away at Ratcliffe College, after abandonment of their first planned fixture. Historically a very tight affair, this year was no different: both sides managed to find the back of the net once in each half, with Ratcliffe scoring a lastminute goal to take the win. Next up was an Uppingham Academy and Loughborough. The squad finished their Senior team, who presented some early challenges for season against Bedford Modern, in what proved to be an the Wisbech Grammar team, but sticking to the game extremely tight affair. A last-minute penalty corner goal plan was key to gaining their first win of the season, proved to be the winning goal for Bedford. It was a tough with a score of 5–2. The squad then faced a tough run result, though the team showed excellent attacking play. of fixtures, suffering losses in their next four matches against Kimbolton, Gresham’s, Pelicans HC and Long Both the U13 teams struggled throughout the season, Sutton. However, much was gained from these losses, with both teams coming up against stronger opposition. with the team refusing to admit defeat until the final Despite their losses, all the players remained positive, whistle. The final two games of the term saw the squad and both teams went on to gain wins in their penultimate gain well-deserved wins against Saffron Walden School games, with the A team beating Bedford Modern 1–0 and Bedford Modern, where they produced their best and the B team beating Loughborough 8–0. hockey of the season to win 8–0. With eight players With many pupils new to the sport, both the U12 teams due to leave the squad, credit must go to them for their struggled to get going support and the efforts With new players in the squad, the 1st XI in the early part of the they have made for the To their credit, School in all areas. were confident as they stepped onto the season. excellent attendance The Greyhounds squad pitch for their match away at training helped them suffered the same fate to learn skills quickly, in their first game of the season, succumbing to a late leading to both teams gaining wins against Bedford winning goal for Ratcliffe. They gained two draws against Modern, along with the B team gaining a hard-fought strong opposition over the next two weeks, before draw against Gresham’s. beating Thomas Deacon Academy 1st XI 5–2 to secure The U11 teams had a very good season, suffering only their first win of the season. Their final game was against three losses between them, all against Gresham’s. Gresham’s, which proved to be the toughest. While they suffered a 3–2 loss, the squad should take credit for their They secured valuable wins against all our local rivals, including Beeston Hall, Witham Hall, Kimbolton and efforts. With several Senior players leaving the School, Stamford. we are looking for Greyhounds players to step up to the 1st XI squad. With many players never having picked up a hockey stick, the U9 teams were introduced to match-style The U15A team started the season well, with a 4–0 hockey for the first time. By attending a number of victory over the Uppingham side, demonstrating good festivals, all the players gained valuable pitch time, with team tactical play. This, unfortunately, was their only an emphasis on enjoying the experience, while learning win of the season, as they came up against stronger some of the basic technical and tactical skills. teams from local schools. They should be commended for their efforts in improving their understanding of both the tactical and technical skills of the game. The U15B squad suffered a similar fate, losing their first two games, before gaining a well-deserved draw against Loughborough in their final game.
The U14A team started the term slowly, losing their first two games. They then secured a draw and two valuable wins against sides from Oakham, Thomas Deacon
Being such a short term with fewer match and training opportunities, the Lent Term presents challenges in preparing the teams for matches. To their credit, all the pupils have taken this in their stride, showing excellent commitment. There have been some losses, but all the players have learned a great deal.
Mark Jarvis, Head of Hockey
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1st XI versus staff match produced an enjoyable day and a comfortable win for the boys. I would like to wish leavers Henry Thornton and Alexander Clabon all the best for their future cricketing careers.
1st XI girls
The girls started the third year of cricket at Wisbech Grammar School with great enthusiasm. The team was made up of pupils across the 4th, 5th and Lower 6th Forms. Pre-season training went exceptionally well, and it was clear that there were many talented and enthusiastic cricketers.
Cricket round-up
1st XI enjoy unbeaten season in 2017
Having been a lead coach for County Age Group cricket for many years, it was with great excitement that I took on the role of Head of Cricket. I would like to thank the 1st XI squad for making me feel welcome and being open to the challenges I presented to them.
The squad consisted of Harriet Munson (Captain), Isobel Flint, Lianne Goates, Asena Yendley, Charlotte Brett, Leena Hussain, Alice Newman, Eleanor Payne-English, Jennifer Robinson, Rachael White, Catherine Missin, Annie Bennett, Hannah Lemmon, Eliza McDonald, Isabella Oldershaw-Ellis, Molly Sears, Liu Sim Lim and Eliza Smith. The team made a fantastic start to the season with a six-wicket win against a strong Stamford High School team, followed by an eight-wicket win against Leicester Grammar School.
It was clear to me from the first pre-season training session that this was an exceptional group of players. The Captain, Henry Thornton, was a natural leader who The performance of the season was capable of winning a game was a fantastic nine-run win with both bat or ball. The Viceagainst Oundle School. Wisbech Captain, Alexander Clabon, was The girls ended with an Grammar School batted first and a good technician who gave us outstanding record of five wins posted 89–9 off their 20 overs. solidity at the top of the order. When Oundle batted, they were The batting looked strong with pegged back by good bowling Oliver Mann, Frazer Brown, from the Wisbech Grammar attack. Hannah, Issy, Ellie George Lemon and Arran Shipley displaying talent. and Asena all took wickets. It was a great win for us. The bowling attack was led by 15-year-old fast bowler William Gowler, who was well supported by seamers The girls ended with an outstanding record of five wins Jack Trundley, Arran Shipley and Frazer Brown. It is and one loss. All the components were there for an rare to have a quality leg-spinner in a School team, so to encouraging season. discover we had two, in Joe Mayes and Charles KermanU15 boys Staley, was a welcome surprise. Bradley Hutler kept The U15 boys worked hard in their training sessions and wicket to a high standard throughout the season. All the components were there and so the season commenced. made good technical progress. They went on to gain victories against TDA and Carre’s Grammar School. Unfortunately, our first match against the MCC was Against Carre’s, they posted a prestigious total of 176 abandoned after just three overs due to heavy rain, so off their 20 overs. Will Gowler top scored with a superb our first competitive match was a win by 38 runs against 90 runs. The Wisbech Grammar bowling attack then Wymondham College. Frazer Brown (71 not out) and performed well to restrict Carre’s to 103 runs, capping off Joseph Mayes (69) starred with the bat to produce a a wonderful performance with a superb win. There was 121-run partnership to set up the win. William Gowler also a thrilling tied match against Wymondham College. (two wickets) and Charles Kerman-Staley (three wickets) Will Gowler played regularly for the 1st XI and Geoff ensured Wymondham College fell short of the target. Kirby and Ross Clarke also played for the 1st XI at the Frazer Brown also took two wickets to seal Man of the end of the season. Will Gowler played for the County U17 Match. team and Geoff Kirby played for the U15 XI. Wins followed against King’s Ely (by eight wickets), U15 girls Bedford Modern (by two wickets) and King’s Ely again (by four wickets). The thrilling finale to the season was The U15 girls’ team had some very talented players, a win against Bradford Grammar in which Oliver Mann six of whom stepped up to the 1st XI this season. They made a match-winning half-century. Finally, the annual had very pleasing wins against Stephen Perse and Wymondham, and a hard-fought victory against Oundle.
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U14 boy
U11 boys
The U14 side enjoyed a good season, winning half of their matches, including an outstanding five-wicket win against King’s Ely. They performed well to bowl Carre’s out for 80 runs in their allotted overs and gained a comfortable win. They have made good strides technically. Joshua Porter was selected for the County U14 cricket team.
The U11 boys’ team worked enthusiastically this season, producing good performances, winning half of their matches, the highlights of which were eight-wicket victories against Wymondham College and Beeston Hall, together with a five-run win against King’s Ely. This bodes well for the future.
U14 girls
U11 girls
The U14 girls had a very enjoyable season with several close matches, including a tie against Stephen Perse. The highlight of the season was a win against King’s Ely, where Izzy Pope scored 74 not out. Good contributions also came from Ellie Padmore and Charlotte Mair.
This was the first full season of girls’ U11 cricket. We were delighted that so many girls were keen to take part and they competed hard for places on the team. They showed huge improvement during the season and managed to win our own Festival and finished the season well with a 20-run victory over King’s Ely.
U13 boys
U11B boys
The U13 team worked hard during pre-season training and this paid dividends. They went on to win six of their eight matches, with comprehensive wins against Culford School and Bedford Modern. They are a talented group and their performances bodes well for the future. George Gowler represented the Cambridgeshire U13 cricket team this summer and Lewis Shipley continued to show great promise.
U13 girls
The girls started the term playing softball cricket but, due to popular demand, soon moved to hardball cricket. They all made great strides technically, producing excellent wins against Stephen Perse and The Perse School. The effort and determination of all the players bodes well for next season and all players should be congratulated.
U12 boys
The U12 boys worked hard in training sessions and made good strides in improving the technical side of their game. Particularly pleasing was the progress of Bradley Rideout and Mason Slender. The highlight of the season was an eight-wicket win against Beeston, where Ashton Webb scored 69 not out, including eight sixes.
U12 girls
The U11B boys’ cricket team enjoyed a successful season, playing some good cricket and developing their skills. They won three out of their four matches, with victories over Beeston Hall, St Hugh’s and King’s Ely.
U11B girls
The B team improved tremendously during the season, with players pushing for a team selection. The highlight of their season was a hard-fought victory over King’s Ely.
U9 boys
The boys’ U9 A and B teams worked hard during the training sessions to develop both their batting and bowling form for their pairs matches. All pupils batted and bowled in these matches and we look forward to seeing them make further progress next season.
U9 girls
This was the first year of cricket for the U9 girls in the Prep School. They worked well as a group to try to master the skills of batting and bowling. The highlight of their first season was a win against Beeston Hall. We look forward to seeing the pupils’ continued development next season.
Neil Taylor, Head of Cricket
The U12 lost their early matches but worked very hard during the term. They also worked with enthusiasm and they developed their bowling techniques, an area in which they made massive strides. They won their last two matches against The Perse School and King’s Ely. Congratulations go to all the players.
U13/12B girls The girls worked hard during the training sessions and improved their batting and bowling. They played well as a team at the Wisbech Grammar School Eight-a-Side Festival, which they won. They then produced other good performances, including a 10-run win against The Perse School.
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Netball round-up 1st VII
It was a promising opening weekend to the season for the new 1st team, involving a combination of players from across three years, including three players from the 5th Form. They achieved fifth place in the Bedford tournament, beating opponents Mill Hill, Stamford and Kimbolton. They went on to make excellent progress in training and match play throughout the term and put in outstanding performances against the 1st teams of schools such as Ratcliffe, Oundle and Gresham’s. Two highlights included a 31–22 victory over Uppingham and an exciting comeback against Wymondham College when, despite losing 43–41, the team played assertive netball and contested every ball. Particular mention goes to the departing Upper 6th players: Megan Tolliday, who has been an excellent Captain, Megan Fey, Amber Jones, Lucy Beelam and Isabelle Hall.
Greyhounds
The Greyhounds have worked hard in training to bring together a new set of players and produce a very quick style of play. They beat Gresham’s 25–19 and Wymondham College 28–25. They also showed perseverance and contested for every ball against Stamford and Bedford Modern, despite losing those matches. Lydia Plumb captained the side admirably in her final year.
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U15
The U15A and B teams have also shown excellent commitment to training and worked extremely hard to improve their fitness, skills and tactical knowledge under their coach Mrs Eggleton. The A team made an impressive start, beating King’s Ely 21–5. With a new combination of players, the attacking end of the court tried hard to produce fluent netball and, despite losing their next two games by one goal, beat TDA 41–3. The B team enjoyed the Uppingham tournament and improved their performance with each game played.
U14
The U14A has been the most successful netball team this season, with an amazing unbeaten record. They won all eight of their fixtures against formidable opponents including Gresham’s, Oundle, Stamford, Wymondham and Bedford. They scored 235 goals, proving an unstoppable force in attack. Their defence was equally as strong, only letting in 95, and as a team have played some extremely skilful netball. Huge congratulations go to the team and Miss Cook on an outstanding accomplishment.
U14
The U14B team has shown real progress this term and their improved strength on the court has been important to their performances. Despite a number of losses, they never gave up and always fought to the final whistle.
U13
The U13A team started the season with promise, beating Uppingham 19–9 and Beeston Hall 19–16. They worked really hard to make improvements to their tactical knowledge and produced skilled performances on the court as individuals and as a team. Their final match saw them produce a hard-fought 14–14 draw against Stamford. The pool of talent in the U13s also meant the B team won four of their seven matches against Uppingham, Beeston Hall, St Hugh’s and Gresham’s.
U12
The U12As was a completely new team at the start of the term and endeavoured to build up their teamwork and skills. They played with enthusiasm and commitment in training and all made good progress. Despite some early losses, their match against Gresham’s was the turning point. Using space intelligently and fighting hard for the ball, they won their last match against Stamford 18–16. The B and C teams have also had a busy term and it is pleasing and promising that nearly every pupil played competitive netball for the School and grew in confidence. They enjoyed match play and, even if results have not gone their way, never gave up and always learned from their experience.
U11
The U11A team from Magdalene House grew in confidence as the netball term went on, working hard in training to improve their strength, skills and understanding of team tactics. They worked well as a team, always supporting each other and approached every match with an excellent attitude. They played skilfully against other schools, beating St Hugh’s 5–3 and drawing 3–3 with Bedford. The U11B team also enjoyed their fixtures, beating St Hugh’s School 6–0. Many of these players will go on to play in the U11A team next year and we look forward to further success.
U10
The U10A team were runners-up at the Stamford tournament and received medals for their outstanding performance. The U9 teams learned a great deal about the game and the skills needed to be successful. They enjoyed the tournament at Laxton School, where they won two matches and gained valuable experience. We look forward to building on this next year as many of the pupils move up to the U11 teams.
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Athletics round-up The Junior athletes made a great start to the season during their first outing at the Ely Mini Meet in May 2017. The U13 and U14 athletes all performed well, with some pupils achieving personal bests in qualifying times and distances for the IAPS Regional Athletics Championships. Many of the U15 and U16 athletes who attended the Ely Mini Meet also won events, achieved personal bests and qualified for the IAPS Regional Athletics Championships. On Tuesday 23 May, Wisbech Grammar School took 53 pupils to compete in the District Athletics Championships at Lynnsport. There were some excellent performances both on the track and in the field, with some athletes achieving personal bests. New School records were achieved by Lily Amps jumping 1.30m in the high jump, Jack Robb running 800m in 2m20, Isabella Oldershaw-Ellis throwing 8.93m in shot and Lewis Shipley equalling a record for 800m with a time of 2m20, and breaking a 100m record which had been held for 27 years, with a time of 12.1s. All the athletes’ hard work on the track and field paid off as Wisbech Grammar School won the District Athletic Championships. The following pupils were selected to go to the County Athletics Championships at Cambridge: Lily Amps, Tia Bideau, Annie Bennett, Haydn Buffham, Oliver Coles, George Dady, Luke Fey, Isabel Gowler, Will Gowler, Lana Hayes, Harvey King, Matvei Kokina, Hannah Lemmon, Lucy Lim, Charlotte Mair, Rosie Muspratt, Isabella Oldershaw-Ellis, Isabella Pope, Jack Robb, Lewis Shipley, Kenzie Whyatt and Maciej Wisniewski. 18 Wisbech Grammar School pupils competed for the Isle District Athletics Team in the County Athletics
Championships at the Cambridge University Athletics Stadium on Saturday 27 May. Ten athletes achieved podium places, with two athletes becoming county champions and five breaking or setting new School records. The whole squad performed well on the day, placing well in the county championships. We are extremely proud of all those who competed and the effort they put in to get there.
Podium places Junior girls Lily Amps High jump, 2nd, equalling her School record of 1.30m Tia Bideau 75m hurdles, 3rd: 13.2s
Junior boys
Matvei Kokina 300m, 2nd: 44.1s, a new 3rd Form School record
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Jack Robb 800m, 3rd: 2m16.2s, a new 3rd Form School record Lewis Shipley 100m, 1st: 12.3s Lewis Shipley 800m, 2nd: 2m14.2s, a new 2nd Form School record
Intermediate girls
Hannah Lemmon Triple jump, 1st 9.32 metres, a new
4th Form School record Isabella Oldershaw-Ellis Discus, 2nd: 21.38 metres Isabella Oldershaw-Ellis Shot put, 3rd: 8.91 metres
Intermediate boys
Haydn Buffham 100m hurdles, 2nd: 15.9s George Dady Shot put, 3rd: 9.67 metres
Following their success at the County Athletics coming second in her heat and making it through to the Championships, the following athletes were selected final, where she finished fourth in 13.4 seconds. to compete for the Abby Piccaver won her Cambridgeshire U14 200m heat in a time Lewis did well to achieve two podium Athletics Team of 29.7 seconds. She also positions and is now the fastest U14 boy in the Anglian came fifth in the 300m Championships in the country for 800m! final, with a new School on 18 June, at record of 49.6 seconds. the Cambridge Joseph Bly came third in University Stadium. the U12 discus with a throw of 14.96 metres. Lily Amps Junior girls’ high jump The U14 boys’ relay team won their heat and made it Haydn Buffham Intermediate boys’ 100m hurdles through to the final. George Dady Intermediate boys’ shot put A major highlight for the team came in July with 2nd Matvei Kokina Junior boys’ 300m Form pupils Lewis Shipley and Lucy Prior qualifying for the IAPS National Prep School Athletics Championship in Hannah Lemmon Intermediate girls’ triple jump Birmingham. Lucy Prior competed in the triple jump with Issy Oldershaw-Ellis Intermediate girls’ discus 17 other girls. After three jumps, Lucy made it through to the last nine girls who were then allowed one more jump. Lewis Shipley Junior boys’ 100m and 800m Her best jump was 9.06 metres, which was a personal On 9 June, 27 pupils who had achieved the qualifying best and put her in seventh place. standard competed in the East Area Athletics Lewis Shipley competed in the 100m and 800m races. Championships at the International Stadium in Bedford. The 100m was split into three heats and Lewis won heat 51 schools participated and we took pupils from Prep 6, 2 in 12.07s to qualify for the 100m final. He came second the 1st Form and 2nd Form. in the final with a time of 11.95s, a new East Area record. The young athletes competed well, in what for some was The 800m was split into two races and Lewis, despite a their first major competition. Several pupils were placed strained quadricep, won the 800m overall with a time of in the first six in field events, while others achieved 2m11s. personal bests on the track. Lewis did well to achieve two podium positions and is Tia Bideau competed well in the Girls’ U14 hurdles, now the fastest U14 boy in the country for 800m!
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6th Form pupil, Mollie Allen, excels at British Championship Swimming 6th Form pupil and Wimblington local Mollie Allen, 18, celebrated success in July 2017 at the British Swimming Championships, held at Ponds Forge pool in Sheffield. Each event had heats to enable swimmers to qualify for the finals – the ‘A’ final was for selecting a squad for the World Championships in Budapest, while a ‘target Tokyo’ final was for swimmers aged over 18 with the potential to be selected for the next Olympic Games in 2020. Although close to sitting her A-Levels, Mollie led the way for her club, City of Peterborough Swimming Club (COPS), with her coach Ben Negus, and made it through to four target Tokyo finals and one ‘A’ final. Her best result came in the 50m butterfly target final where she finished third with a new personal best time of 27.61. In the 100m backstroke, again a target final, a personal best of 1.02.71 gave Mollie sixth position. Day three saw her
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swim in the 50m freestyle, where she got into the target Tokyo final with a new personal best of 26.15, while day five saw her complete the
I am delighted to have reached these finals and all the hard work is starting to pay off 200m individual medley target final in seventh place. Mollie’s best performance was to reach the ‘A’ final of the 50m backstroke. Although she finished eighth, she was up against Georgia Davies (Team GB and Commonwealth Games 50m backstroke champion), Kathleen Dawson (Team GB and bronze medallist at the European Championships) and Lauren Quigley (Team GB and silver medallist at the Commonwealth Games).
Mollie said, ‘I am delighted to have reached these finals and all the hard work is starting to pay off. I was pleased with my overall performance that week.’ Subsequently, Mollie completed nine events at the East Regional Championships at Luton, winning gold for each. She achieved a personal best in the 50m backstroke and beat her own East regional record.
3rd Form pupil, Rhianna Regan, wins 90 CC Go-Kart British Championship With support from her family, this quietly unassuming 13-yearold 3rd Form pupil has followed her passion for karting over two years. Rhianna’s initial interest in the sport was ignited by watching go-karting with her dad, who encouraged her to take up the sport and made her first go-kart.
Behind the wheel, Rhianna takes on a confident presence. That steely determination and commitment to compete in her number 14 red and blue go-kart led her to take on and win the challenge of 90cc on grass in July 2017 – what an inspiration!
Record-breaking Eve glides to the European Inline Skating Championship
4th Form pupil and inline skater, Eve McInerney, was the youngest and the only female to represent the UK at the European Inline Skating Championship held in Portugal in July 2017. Part of the 1st Year Junior B Team, Eve competed in a gruelling schedule covering a series of sprints and marathons over ten days.
to start skating when she was two years old and she has not looked back. The competitive spirit certainly runs in the family and Eve successfully juggles her school work with her inline skating.
Eve’s achievements and her
Eve’s coach and father, commitment to combining who is a previous European champion, inline skating with her academic was fully aware of the studies is exemplary. challenge that faced his daughter and had The 2017 European Inline thoroughly supported and trained Eve in Skating Championship took preparation for the championship. Eve’s place in Lagos, Portugal, coaching schedule was full-on, with training where skaters enjoyed a new speed up to three times a day, including sessions track previously used for the international on a bicycle in her dad’s greenhouse. She tournament of Terra do Infante. also travelled to London once a week to Eve’s achievements and her commitment to train on an inline skating track. combining inline skating with her academic Eve was inspired by her father’s success studies is exemplary.
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Prep pupil, Charlotte Beck, competes in Welsh Open Taekwondo Championships In May 2017, Charlotte Beck, Magdalene House Prep 6 pupil, travelled to Cardiff to take part in the Welsh Open Taekwondo Championships. On the back of her recent second place at the English finals, she was keen to go one step further at this bigger competition. A near-faultless performance in the first round saw Charlotte secure automatic qualification for the yellowbelt finals. She showed excellent skill, power and precision and was delighted to be awarded second place, beaten only by the reigning English champion. Charlotte took up taekwondo at a Magdalene House after-school club. Her coach encouraged her to start competing and she trains twice a week with the Mark Farnham School of Taekwondo in Wisbech.
High-flying Clay Shooting Team May 2017 saw the Wisbech Grammar Shooting Team attend the Clay Shooting British Schools and Young Shots Championship, to defend their 2016 victory in the U14s competition. The defending team again consisted of William Gilbert and Thomas Newby, as well as a new member, Mason Slender.
early shoot time and, after a few practice shots, made their way to the competition courses. The U14 side eased their way into the competition, progressing at each stand to finish confidently. The Senior side, having set off slightly earlier, made light work of their route, finishing in time to support the younger team on their final stand. The U14 side narrowly missed out on retaining the trophy, finishing in third place overall, with William Gilbert being two clays away from the high shot award. Although the Senior team did not manage a podium place this year, it was a great experience which will no doubt stand them in good stead for future competitions.
May 2017 saw the Wisbech Grammar Shooting Team attend the Clay Shooting British Schools and Young Shots Championship
This year also saw a Wisbech Grammar School Senior team entering the competition. This newly formed side of six included Cameron Brown, William Lankfer, Frazer Brown, Samuel Murphy, Charles Brown and Henry Mair. With afternoon commitments, both teams entered the
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Performing Arts Pupils take Life - To Go to 2017 Edinburgh Fringe Festival Ten Performing Arts pupils from the 5th and 6th Form, together with their teachers, had the amazing opportunity to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with On The Brink Theatre Company in August. Much more than The Proclaimers’ ‘500 miles’, the return journey to the 70th Edinburgh Fringe Festival was more like 654 miles. We took with us the musical theatre comedy Life – To Go that features the hopes, dreams and mishaps of characters in the week of a mythical coffee shop, complete with resident pianist. The idea came out of an original desire to re-stage some of The Canterbury Tales from the Michaelmas Term. The collaborative artistic endeavour was roughly mapped out, with original music and lots of Gershwin underscoring, in the final four days of the Trinity Term. The company then regrouped for three days of intensive creativity at the beginning of August before setting off. Harriet Munson played a finalyear law student barista, inspiring Julian Hardy’s busking balladeer while gently bickering with the house musician, played by Miles MacLachlan. She served repeated and predictable coffee choices to Tyler Goates’ career-changing teacher, Tom Clabon’s personalityaltered estate agent, Ellie Sloan’s mollified feminist, Amy Everall’s hopelessly over-targeted charity
worker, Ed O’Connor’s relentlessly positive actor and James Hyland’s generous-hearted but parking-deficit plumber. All this was sensitively lit and operated by Callum Duncan. We all exceeded 15,000 steps a day in our bid to immerse ourselves in everything that Edinburgh could show us. We handed out 5,000 flyers and drummed up a sizeable audience for each of our six performances. In the process, we raised £900 for cats’ charity Paws for Thought. We collectively enjoyed, tolerated or were inspired by 27 different forms of theatre; many more hours were spent watching street theatre on the Royal Mile or similarly invigorating environ. All those shows for which we parted with big money, or gave a donation or enjoyed for free, meant that we spent over 3375 hours in darkened churches, purpose-built auditoriums or spaces created specifically for the Fringe from hotel conference suites to reclaimed parkland. We enjoyed diverse delights, such as candlelit classical music, actor/writer solo performances, both dubious and successful stand-up comedy routines, improvised musicals, Antipodean cabaret, Korean ghost stories, Scottish biography, scientific history, mime and imaginative film adaptations. Shows were performed by polished professionals, university students, inveterate risk takers, international travellers and
committed entertainers. Mrs Sloan fed us all to total satisfaction in challenging kitchen facilities. Mr Duncan led us bravely through crowded streets to venue hubs and fudge shops and Mrs Duncan spent a lot of time in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with a broken wrist. It was an aweinspiring trip that was made even more successful by the support and attendance of many parents and at least one Old Grammarian from 2004 who was stunned to discover that the School now boasts such an exciting and energetic drama department. And of the show? Audiences loved Life – To Go: ‘A surprisingly enjoyable performance from a young cast. Catchy tunes, funny moments and a poignant story. You could feel the enthusiasm and energy behind the small team. An excellent and goodvalue way to spend 50 minutes at the Fringe. Well done.’ Sonja Taylor ‘Impulse purchase as the rain started and I loved it. Well written, enthusiastically performed. Really fun experience. Must go, ‘I’m parked on a double yellow line...’ Colin Morris
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Taking the stage A new initiative by Mrs Duncan in the performing arts informal entertainment schedule, ‘Taking The Stage’, encouraged pupils from across the School to create pieces for an early evening, essentially unplugged, show in the intimate surroundings of Room 77 on 3 March 2017.
emotion through the beautifully sustained line and strong technique. Zach Lee’s surprising tenor tone, in contrast to his deeper spoken voice, soared through Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Music of the Night’ and illustrated exactly why these performances are so exciting for the audience when we see pupils
epic rap with flair and confidence. Ellie Sloan took the opportunity to introduce a monologue from John Osborne’s The Entertainer. Ellie had recently seen the Kenneth Branagh production in London and had been inspired to study the play in greater depth and prepare the text for her Trinity speech and drama examination.
Ed O’Connor opened After a swift placing of a proceedings with an section of hard flooring, impressive display of One audience member dubbed the show Charley Kirby returned looping technology with an upbeat tap ‘the hottest ticket in town’ to create an assured routine entitled ‘You’re rendition of ‘Wayfaring Never Fully Dressed Stranger’. Charley Kirby Without a Smile’. As and Keira Wilde used the sharing previously unseen talent in a always, a smile really does enhance simple staging to move hauntingly school environment. We considered Charley’s stage presence and we, as from darkness to light in their ourselves privileged that Catherine an audience, appreciated her skills. duet. As they sang, they grew in confidence and their voices blended Missin chose this night to play her One audience member dubbed the own composition as a solo pianist for harmoniously. show ‘the hottest ticket in town’, and the first time. I heartily recommend it to potential Faye Thompsett overcame the performers and audiences eager to strangeness of her first time dancing Callum Duncan, unaccompanied due to technical difficulties, enjoy something new and at school to enchant us with a sneak undertook a challenging rendition of spine-tinglingly exciting next time preview of the choreography that ‘Shot’ from the multi-award-winning round. she was about to take to the Festival musical Hamilton. He managed the of Dance at Disneyland Paris. Al Duncan, demanding pace and diction of this Her eloquent style communicated
Head of Performing Arts
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An Interview with Head of Performing Arts, Al Duncan How have you come to be at Wisbech Grammar School? After completing my training at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), I was lucky enough to gain experience of working on all forms of performance: theatre, film, tv and radio. I was able to experience many genres of performance and I worked with many inspirational directors. Then, one day, I was offered a teaching job at my old school which, being between jobs, I took and, although I still tread the boards if given the opportunity, I have never looked back.
achievement. Introducing dance with Studio 19 and helping with the creation of The Studio was great. Having said all that, I think that the highlights have been to do with the classroom – watching my 4th form
There is so much talent here, whether it is dance, music or drama perform their mock devised piece in front of the entire school, seeing 1W finally master Zip-Zap-Boing and seeing pupils begin to come out of their shell and experiment with confidence and courage. Those are the real highlights.
What have been your highlights of the first year at our School? What is your ethos in the It is a bit of cliché but there have classroom/studio? almost been too many to count. The productions are always special, even if that means changing venue at a few hours’ notice due to the world-famous Wisbech monsoon (!). Getting a show up to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival was a real
If I can pass on to the pupils at least a smidgeon of my passion for live performance then it has been a success. However, much of what I teach is about communication and empathy. In an increasingly
technical age, the ability to communicate person to person is becoming a struggle for many young people. It could be summed up as being creative and supportive in everything we do.
What is your vision for performing arts at the School? There is so much talent here, whether it is dance, music or drama, and I would love to be able to utilise it all. A massive musical is on the horizon and it would be great to see it as a truly whole-school affair. It is a goal of mine for the School to be a regular supplier to the top drama, dance and music colleges in the country. In order to achieve that we will need to provide every opportunity to perform. Oh yes, and on my wish list a specific performing arts venue!
Ed O’Connor - future star Having appeared in a number of School productions over the years, playing parts such as Galileo in Queen’s classic musical We Will Rock You, Ed spent November through to April preparing his applications and audition pieces for studying Musical Theatre at some of the UK’s top drama colleges. Ed was auditioned on his acting, dancing and singing skills, and took part in some rigorous routines that tested his co-ordination and stamina. It is widely acknowledged that drama schools do not usually accept students straight from school and so it was an astonishing achievement for Ed to be offered a place on the Foundation course at the Mountview Academy, one of the best Musical Theatre courses in the country. Early mornings, long days and late nights await him on this thrilling training and we await the call to inform us of his first West End role. Break a leg, Ed!
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They marched, they staggered, they strolled and they sneaked! Congratulations to the 40 1st to 4th Form pupils who marched, staggered, strolled and sneaked their way across the stage in Stephen Briggs’ adaptation of Sir Terry Pratchett’s Monstrous Regiment in July 2017. It really was a production on the move, with the first performance set in a field camp, where audience members enjoyed a typical midsummer festival atmosphere with rugs and picnics. The weather on the last two performance dates, however, resembled more South Asian monsoon rather than balmy British summer’s evening, so the production ‘upped sticks’ and moved into the relative safety of the Russell Hall. The cast had one rehearsal in the new venue before the show and deserve a huge amount of credit for managing such disruption almost effortlessly. Monstrous Regiment, from Sir Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series, is his take on the conflict between nations and the issue of gender equality. The regiment consisted of soldiers of nearly every category: human, vampire, Igor, troll, to name but a few. However, they all had the same secret that they were trying to hide: that they were female. They all had their reasons for joining up and their urges to quash, setting fire to things
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and drinking coffee being high on the list. Eleanor Sloan’s resourceful human Polly, Arina Kokina’s troll and Faye
The future is bright for School productions over the next few years. Thompsett’s caffeine-deprived vampire Maladict were standout performances, executed with confidence and superb comic
timing. TJ Bisla followed up his superb debut in The Canterbury Tales with another accomplished performance and looks to be one to watch for the future, as does Thomas Fox whose blithering officer in drag was a particular highlight, and Ethan Croker’s unnerving ability to turn up at unexpected moments. There was a real company feel to the piece, shown by the timing of the performances and the cast working to support each other. This was very exciting to see and suggests that the future is bright for School productions over the next few years.
Riotous comedy at our annual production, The Canterbury Tales As the 2016 Michaelmas Term came to an end, the Russell Hall was transformed into a traverse stage for the annual School production, a riotous and romping contemporary adaptation of Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, by Phil Woods and Michael Bogdanov. Pupils from 1st to 6th Form came together as a group of travelling story-tellers to recreate the classic tales of ‘The Wife of Bath’, ‘The Pardoner’, ‘The Nun’s Priest’, ‘The Franklyn’, ‘The Knight’ and ‘The Merchant’. The original pilgrims were encouraged by the landlord of The Tabard Inn to enliven the journey by telling diverting tales, so Tyler Goates, as the larger-than-life leader of a group of gap-year backpackers, set the tone for a raucous evening. Stage manager Felicity Sheard, assisted by Millie Oram, once more ably led the stage crew by sourcing numerous iconic pop songs to colour and enhance the contemporary style of the production, and oversaw many hours of rehearsal. This choice of director’s style, along with the multilevel traverse staging in the Russell Hall, gave the cast plenty of opportunities to create a sense of
travel through both time and space.
‘The Knight’s Tale’ pitted Zach Lee and Ed O’Connor as rival lovestruck brothers clamouring for the frankly fey Faye Thompsett as Aurelius; there was a stylised prison cell, some imposing royal parents (Joe Bunker and Amy Everall) and an expert silly battle in fine Pythonesque style. This was not representative of a classic education but enabled the audience to relax from their anxious preconceptions of a ‘worthy’ evening. James Hyland as pantomime dame (memorable costumes generously created by Mrs Sheard) kept the nervous fowls from Chanticleer and Pertelote’s coop safe from ghosts, and Emma Ran Tai as Fox quite literally swept Ed O’Connor off his feet and ran away with her catch in a feat of agile weightlifting. As well-equipped backpackers, the cast had many small props and costume elements in their bags to aid swift changes between character and location. Harriet Munson’s ridiculous witch’s nose and allencompassing black cloak happily revealed a more pleasing aspect for Julian Harding’s jaded knight in ‘The Merchant’s Tale’, which was mellifluously narrated by Tom
Clabon. It was, however, TJ Bisla as King of the Fairies in a somewhat striking crown that left a little magic in the air. ‘The Franklyn’s Tale’ saw Ellie Sloan, Faye Thompsett and Amy Everall playing the argumentative and self-destructive Tom, Dick and Harry. Their greedy quest for gold was unsuccessful but Death (Louisa Maria Parker) found them easily enough, by way of another of Mr Duncan’s homages to television history. These references wittily peppered the whole production and gave the entire company a consummate education in popular culture, enhancing their imaginative storytelling techniques. For this reason, the company were busy playing various farmyard animals, rocks, ghosts and spectral party girls. The surprising production enlisted cast and crew from every year group, creating and enjoying an ensemble piece that warmed and cheered our winter evenings. The audience enjoyed the eclectic mix of theatre styles, the delicious interval hospitality supplied by Mrs Sloan and her Food and Nutrition pupils, the incidental music from the Music Department’s own Medieval Babes and the art displays from Mr Stump’s RIVERLINE 2017 |
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Prep School pupils wow audience with The Wind in the Willows In March 2017, Prep 3 to Prep 6 School pupils put on an amazing production of The Wind in the Willows, featuring the main characters from the children’s novel by Kenneth Grahame, first published in 1908. The heart-warming performance by the pupils left the audience feeling inspired by their acting abilities, brilliant costumes and makeup characterisation. The main characters included: Mole (played by Nicole Newman) Known as “Moly” to his friends. An altruistic, humble, loyal, polite, homeloving animal, and the first character introduced in the story. Rat (played by Imogen Suiter) known as “Ratty” to his friends (though actually a water vole). A cultured, relaxed and friendly who enjoys a life of leisure; when not spending time on the river, he composes doggerel. Mr Toad (played by Miles Whittaker) known as “Toady” to his friends, the wealthy scion of Toad Hall who inherited his wealth from his late father. Although goodhearted and optimistic, he is also arrogant, conceited, and impulsive. Several chapters of the book chronicle his daring escape from prison. Mr Badger (played by Alfie Hoyles) a gruff but benevolent soul; Badger embodies the “wise hermit” figure. A friend of Toad’s deceased father, he is
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uncompromising with the irresponsible Toad, yet hopes that his good qualities will prevail. A brave and a skilled fighter, Badger helps clear the Wild Wooders from Toad Hall with his large stick. A big thank you to all parents for their ongoing support and to Mrs Connell and Mrs Duncan. We can’t wait to see the next production in 2018!
There is room at the Magdalene House inn! Magdalene House pupils from Reception, Prep 1 and Prep 2 charmed audiences in December 2016 with their nativity play, Born in a Barn, by Nikki Lewis. The Prep pupils sang and danced their way through the story, which is based on the excitement of the animals realising there is a baby in their Bethlehem stable. The cows, sheep, cat and cockerel all learn about their special guest from the donkey that brought him and the guests that follow. As more and more visitors arrive to greet the new king, the animals slowly realise what a privilege it is to share their home with such an important baby. Hearts melted and the tissues came out as the children gathered for the nativity tableau. Senior Deputy Head of Magdalene House, Mrs Neaves, said, ‘My thanks to all the staff involved in such a wonderful production and a special ‘well done’ to all the children!’
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Fresh and exciting dance opportunities at Wisbech Grammar School We were thrilled to announce a partnership with Studio 19 in 2017, providing dance opportunities to pupils as part of their co-curricular activities. Studio 19 offers dance to the wider community of Wisbech and surrounding areas, with evening classes at the new studio at our School.
drama and dance studios, sports fields and music rooms. We go beyond the narrow boundaries of exam specifications, giving an inspiring all-round education. Our co-curricular timetable reflects this and includes Period 5, which is devoted to pupils exploring their interests and finding their passion.
The new performing arts studio Studio 19 was founded by Josh opened in September 2017. and Vicki Willie in 2014. They The whole school and the wider met and trained at London’s community can take advantage Central School of Ballet and went on to enjoy successful individual careers Studio 19 is passionate about before they offering opportunities to young married. Studio 19 is passionate people to explore dance and build about offering confidence and wellbeing. opportunities to young people to explore dance of all that Studio 19 offer through and build confidence and wellbeing. This ethos mirrors that scheduled evening classes and other events. of Wisbech Grammar School in that we believe that educational development is not confined to the classroom or laboratory but is also found in the art rooms,
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Our progressive music and performing arts programme is also taking advantage of the new studio.
Musicians hit high notes at Michaelmas Term concert, raising £200 for Children in Need In late 2016, an audience of parents, friends and staff were treated to a superb evening of music at the Michaelmas Term concert, which musicians perform a varied repertoire from Bach to Gershwin. The School orchestra started the evening with movements from Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’. The newly formed Arcadia Ensemble, under the directorship of Mrs Harding, gave renditions of music from the eighteenth century with a harpsichord, loaned by local professional musician David Wright, as a centrepiece.
The Steel Pan Quartet and Steel on Steel groups gave proceedings a flavour of the Caribbean with their performances of ‘Your Song’ and ‘Liquor Store Blues’. Impressive solo pieces were performed by 6th Form pupils. Richeldis France, preparing for her flute diploma, played the virtuosic ‘Rondo’ by Mozart, Miles MacLachlan showed off his harpsichord skills with a dazzling rendition of Handel’s ‘Passacaglia’, and Max Eales soared his way through Bach’s contrapuntal ‘Sonata in G minor’ on the saxophone.
Visiting soprano launches new recital series Wisbech Grammar School held a series of recitals by professional musicians. Performers included Helen Groves and Jill Morton, concert pianist Natalia Williams-Wandoch, and David Wright, who is a musician of international acclaim and specialises in early keyboard instruments Pupils were treated to a recital of songs ranging from the Baroque to jazz eras by Helen Groves (soprano) and Jill Morton (piano). The recital in the Russell Hall was the first in the newly launched recital series, which
Vocal performances from the Barbershop (‘Goodnight sweetheart’) and Cantus (‘Fly me to the moon’) choirs, directed by Mrs Larkin, went down well. Sax Pack and So What?, led by Mr Garford, brought a touch of cool jazz to the evening. The audience was very appreciative of the hard work that went into preparing for each performance, the result of many hours of practice. So appreciative, in fact, that the retiring collection for Children in Need raised an impressive £200.
sees a variety of musicians coming into school to share their expertise. Helen Groves, who has sung with some of the most prestigious English and European vocal consorts, was joined by Jill Morton, herself a highly sought-after pianist. Pupils were left feeling uplifted and in awe at the whole performance – in particular by some of Helen’shigh notes and also by one singer filling the Russell Hall with so much sound without the aid of a
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Pupils celebrate 100% pass rate in Trinity College Speech and Drama exams The first Wisbech Grammar School and Magdalene House Prep pupils recently undertook Trinity College Speech and Drama exams and were delighted to achieve a 100% pass rate. The 13 pupils celebrated an impressive three Merits and 10 Distinctions, achieved with combinations of poems, devised scenes, improvisations, monologues and prepared readings .The pupils covered a broad range of the syllabus, entering for solo and paired work in the three disciplines of Speech and Drama, Performing Text, and Individual Acting Skills. Following these excellent results, the Board asked the School for permission to film our students so
that their work could be posted to the Trinity YouTube channel as exemplar material for teachers. Mr John Gardyne, Head of Drama and Performance at Trinity College, and his production team spent a day with the pupils, putting them at their ease and guiding them through individual tasks as the camera rolled. In response to the interest and enthusiasm generated by this new provision in the performing arts,further disciplines were offered in Communication Skills and Musical
Theatre for the examination in June. Both Magdalene House and Wisbech Grammar School pupils rose to the challenge and sustained their high standards, being awarded Distinctions and Merits in all disciplines, including Musical Theatre (Groups and Pairs), where they performed text extracts and contrasting songs supported with appropriate choreography ranging from classics such as Oliver to the current trendsetter Hamilton.
Lent Term Music Department concert The Lent Term concert in March 2017 was an excellent celebration of the musical talents, commitment and hard work of pupils from all year groups. The audience was treated to performances by the various ensembles that had rehearsed tirelessly throughout the busy Lent Term. The orchestra opened the first half with Boyce’s ‘Gavot’ and the second half with Purcell’s majestic ‘Rondeau’.
Love’, arranged by their director Mrs Larkin. Steel on Steel entertained with arrangements of ‘It’s Raining Men’ and ‘You Can Call Me Al’, while Steel Pan Quartet’s version of ‘Eine Kleine Nachtmusik’ was Mozart as never heard before!
Flautadors, under the expert guidance of Mrs Garford, dazzled with Kohler’s ‘Quartet’. The effortlessly smooth Sax Pack, led by Mrs Harding, was joined by Tom Cork on We are extremely grateful to the drums, who later shone as a soloist and provided the rhythm performers who conveyed so much section in Jazz Band.
Sadly, the evening marked the last appearance of our Upper 6th musicians. Traditionally, the ‘leavers’ concert’ is an energy to the evening opportunity to showcase the Mr Steward played with and musical prowess of those pupils directed Brass Ensemble in who have contributed so much to the Music Department their rendition of the ‘Thunderbirds’ theme’, and Mr Garford’s during their time at the School. This evening was no Jazz Band’s, ‘So What’, stylishly rounding off each half of the exception. Miles MacLachlan’s interpretation of Mozart’s programme. ‘Fantasia in D minor’ was full of bravura. Thomas Cork’s seemingly effortless performance of ‘Mission Rock’ filled Voices were much in evidence, with Barbershop’s cool the Russell Hall. Richeldis France was joined by Miles for a performance of ‘Hit the Road, Jack’ featuring an impressive spellbinding performance of ‘Danse Macabre’. Kimberley top line from Julian Harding. Charley Kirby’s solo opened Calleja drew some magical sounds from the magnificent Cantus Choir’s version of the Queen hit ‘Somebody to
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Wisbech Grammar School Young Musician of the Year Competition 2017 Musicians from Prep 3 to Upper 6th took part in the first Wisbech Grammar School Young Musician Competition over three days in March. Performances were organised into different classes, depending on the level of difficulty of the music. Three enthusiastic pupils from Prep 3, who had only been learning violin for two months, performed ‘St Anthony Chorale’. Michael Scott, Aayush Rajhans and Scarlet McEwan showed-off their new skills, accompanied by their teacher Mr Williams-Wandoch, and were rewarded with certificates and Easter eggs. Meanwhile, Prep 5 pupil Olexandra Klibinecz was placed first in her class for a confident performance of ‘Shepherd’s Hey’ on clarinet. In the Intermediate Class, Nicole Newman (Prep 6) gave a winning performance of ‘Criss Cross’ on piano. Winners in the Senior School were Sam Fairbrother (1W) who gave an assured performance of ‘A-Roving’ on clarinet and Edward Phillips (1W) with his musical rendition of ‘Smoke Gets in Your Eyes’ on violin.
Steinway grand in Debussy’s ‘Claire de Lune’. The drumkit was brought to life by Joseph Kooreman (3rd Form) in his final performance at the School of the intriguingly entitled ‘Cold Pants’. Edward O’Connor sang with passion in ‘Waving Through the Window’, expertly accompanied by Miles MacLachlan. We are extremely grateful to the performers who conveyed so much energy to the evening, and to the dedicated team of teaching staff who inspire and motivate our young musicians to achieve such high standards. The audience left the Russell Hall buzzing with enthusiasm and praise for all they had heard, and looking forward to the next musical event.
In the Middle School, Millie Smith (4th Form) was commended for her flute performance and Kevin Huang (2S) won the category with ‘Ragamuffin’, an energetic, jazz-influenced piece on the trumpet. Natasha Richardson (2G) played one of her own compositions, ‘Tranquil Skies’, on piano and won a special award for best original composition. An ensemble performance of ‘Love Me Again’ was given by four 2nd Form pupils – Mary Naylor, Hannah Smith, Emily Thomas and Natasha Richardson – who were commended by adjudicator, Mrs Claire Harding. The standard of musicianship in the Advanced Class impressed the adjudicator, Mrs Connell (the music teacher in Magdalene House). She found it difficult to choose a winner from the performances given by Catherine Missin (5L, flute), Zara Jutsum (6T, voice), Abigail McGlone (6T, flute), Miles MacLachlan (6C, piano) and Richeldis France (6H, flute). Mrs Connell gave excellent feedback to each performer, with some suggestions on how to improve further. In the end, Catherine Missin was awarded the first prize for her performance of Rutter’s ‘Waltz’ from ‘Suite Antique’. Congratulations to all performers who took part and we look forward to the next competition in Lent 2018.
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Pupils, parents and staff enjoy interactive choral workshop with Dominic Peckham In September 2016, Wisbech Grammar School hosted one of the UK’s finest conductors and choral specialists, Dominic Peckham. Dominic is a young and dynamic orchestral and choral conductor. Hailed as ‘one of the most exciting conductors of his generation’, he has been commended at home and abroad for his ‘freshness and vitality’, directing orchestras and choirs to deliver ‘gutsy, raw and exciting performances’. A conductor of immense energy and focus, he is renowned for his dedication to the Renaissance and Baroque eras, while also passionate about new works and inspirational collaborations. He has worked with orchestras including BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the London Mozart Players, the British
Federation of Youth Orchestras, the Meridian Sinfonia and Scottish Opera. He has marked his debut at the Royal Albert Hall, Barbican, Birmingham Symphony Hall, Usher Hall, Bridgewater Hall and Wigmore Hall. Dominic is widely regarded as a leading light in music education. His sessions for adults and young people alike have been described as innovative, eye-opening and empowering; with Peckham using the voice as a way to develop not only musical skills but also teamwork, leadership and confidence through interactive, fun and insightful masterclasses and workshops. All 1st to 6th Form pupils, no matter their experience, had the opportunity to take part in this truly inspirational day. Parents who wished to be involved could join a workshop later that afternoon. The day rounded off with an exciting final performance in the Russell Hall,
1st Form trip to Ely Cathedral In November 2016, the entire 1st Form was taken on a combined music and religious studies trip to Ely Cathedral to look at how music is used in cathedral worship. Pupils were given the opportunity to dress as Benedictine monks and listen to some plainsong while learning about the history and development of music in the cathedral.
Pupils were then encouraged to explore the incredible acoustics of the Lady Chapel and were treated to a singing lesson, during which they were taught the mechanics of correct breathing and confident note production.
Edmund Aldhouse, the cathedral organist, gave the pupils a fascinating insight into how the cathedral organ works, as well as treating them to a spectacular demonstration of its range through a medley of church music.
Despite it being rather cold, an enjoyable time was had by all. Cathedral staff were deeply impressed by the way in which our pupils conducted themselves, and we have been invited to run the trip again.
After a quick break for tea, they went back into the cathedral for the beautiful service of evensong, led by the cathedral choir.
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Rose Fair concert and choral evensong showcase talented pupils In June 2017, 20 of our talented musicians presented music to an enthusiastic audience at the Church of St Peter and St Paul, Wisbech, as part of the annual Rose Fair celebrations. The church looked beautiful, decked out with stunning floral displays on the theme of ‘The Artist’s Palette’. The performers ranged from 1st Form all the way to Upper 6th. The audience was treated to music that was diverse in genre and period, from the traditional tune ‘What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor?’, played by the Folk Band, to an original composition, ‘Tranquil Skies’, performed by its composer Natasha Richardson. There were solos from an array of
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instruments – piano, ukulele, flute, cornet, violin, voice, organ – as well as a quartet playing Pachelbel’s famous ‘Canon in D’. Two pieces were excerpts from shows, from some of our Music Theatre pupils: ‘Alone in the Universe’, performed by Callum Duncan and Emily Thomas, and ‘Just One Person’, performed by Ethan Croker, Charley Kirby and Louisa Marie Parker.
It was a wonderful occasion that really showcased the many talents of our pupils. One of the highlights of the Rose Fair is the choral evensong service held at the Church of St Peter and
St Paul. The liturgy dates back hundreds of years and is still going strong in churches and cathedrals all over the country. Eight of our pupils joined the combined choirs from various churches in the area – Tydd St Giles, Leverington and St Peter and St Paul, Wisbech – to sing the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, as well as traditional settings of a psalm. Joined by David Wright on organ, the choir performed Bach’s wonderful setting of ‘Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring’, conducted by Jane Missin, Head of Music. The Reverend Canon, Matthew Bradbury, commented on how impressed he was with our choristers’ contribution to the service and plans are already being made for next year.
www.fact-cambs.co.uk joanne@cotransport.org
Arts & Graphics Stunning sights at art, graphics and textiles exhibitions Hugely talented pupils continue to reveal their artistic skills across a range of creative arts, graphics and textiles in impressive exhibitions for GCSE and A-Levels.
pupils continued to exploit a wide range of creative outcomes. For example, Mollie Allen presented a quirky combination of collage and fashion, with cellular structures as her theme, and completed using a mixed media approach that combined stitch, batik and print. Francesca Tibbett related her geographical knowledge of rock strata, weathering and erosion to an ambitious wall hanging, incorporating stitch, print glue and
During summer 2017, the old dining hall became an art gallery showcasing the creative endeavours of Wisbech Grammar School pupils with the annual exhibition of GCSE Fine Art, Graphics and Textiles work, followed by an Each pupil displayed their final exhibition of A-Level pieces. It project pieces and folders containing was great to see their developmental background so many pupils, material. parents, friends and staff enjoying the work. The displays set up in May showed examples of the variety of techniques and methods used in the GCSE courses. Each pupil displayed their final project pieces and folders containing their developmental background material. Work included silk screen printing, abstract and figurative painting, constructed textiles and digital graphics. Some of the textiles work had been made into garments, and the artwork ranged from 3D mixed media constructions to oil paintings. The work reflects each pupil’s personal choice and interests. This year, the GCSE Textiles
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hand-dyed fabric very successfully. The theme of fairgrounds was used as inspiration by Lydia Plumb to exploit the geometric structural elements of the rides, with a particular focus on capturing speed and looking through. Megan Tolliday began her research closer to home, using three generations of her family as starting point to produce a collage piece. She combined several textile techniques such as weave, free embroidery and reverse appliquĂŠ. As soon as the GCSE work came down, the AS and A-Level work went on display and was enjoyed
by all who attended an evening viewing in June. The A-Level Fine Art pupils also chose personal themes for their coursework. Will Davis developed a set of large, curved canvases based on his love of walking in the countryside, using what he found on these walks to include in his project. Harry Delph explored more abstract areas, focusing on line and colour in a semi-surreal canvas that included both realism and experimental use of paint. The AS Textiles displays by Dina Aldrich, Faye Edwards, Lianne Goates, Zara Jutsum, Helena Parkinson, Matilda Suiter, Jennifer Ross and Emma Tai represented an equally wide range of outcomes.
While some pupils opted to develop fashion pieces, others used surface pattern for interior design, collage, alongside more fine art textile pieces. The fine artists, Dina Aldrich, Zara Jutsum and Emma Tai, created individual projects that, in the spirit of the course, pushed boundaries and tested techniques. The graphics piece by Zara Jutsum is a print that merges digital work with hand drawing. Mr Stump, Head of Art, said that the exhibitions were thoroughly enjoyable occasions where parents, friends and visitors were able to see what talented and hardworking art and textiles pupils we have.
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Languages L’apprentissage du Français est amusant Prep 1 pupils learn about families in their French lessons. As part of their studies, in June 2017, they gathered all the words and phrases they had learned into a mini-book, which they personalised I was very impressed with with illustrations and their enthusiasm cards describing their own family. Mrs Neighbour, French teacher, said, ’I was very impressed with their enthusiasm and the way in which they remembered all the words we had learned. They worked really hard on that project, and it is a nice memento for them to take home. Très bien!’
Language leaders - a new way of learning languages Our Language Leaders Scheme empowers our 6th Formers to learn the basic skills of language teaching, such as motivation, planning, body language, behaviour management and evaluation, to help them prepare and co-teach lessons for our younger pupils. This has been hugely successful, enabling students not only to gain valuable experience as leaders, which is highly regarded by universities and employers alike, but also to help them reflect on the range of skills needed to
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teach and learn a foreign language. This enables them to progress in their own language acquisition. The scheme is open to anyone with a passion for languages, whether or not they study a particular language, and will be rolled out to our 3rd and 4th Formers in a simplified format. Our Language Leaders have also planned and delivered language festivals for local primary schools, helping others to develop and celebrate language learning.
Language Perfect Championship Over ten days in May 2017, schools from around the globe battled to get points across a range of languages and climb up the Language Perfect Championship leaderboard. Wisbech Grammar School finished 13th in the country. The battle for first place was fierce and even Mrs Neighbour was slightly terrified at Wisbech Grammar School times at the lengths some finished 13th in the country. competitors would go to in order to get ahead. In the end, winning in the small hours of the Thursday morning, Shravan Sharma (3rd Form) came out on top with 7,777 points. Runner-up, Ursula France with 7,278 points, must be highly commended for an astonishing effort. Shravan, Ursula and Jamie Lawson, who finished third with 5,350 points, all won Amazon vouchers with the congratulations of the School.
Certificate Level (500 points): Harry Milton (achieved in just two days) Bronze Level (1,000 points): Lily Amps, Kasia Ringwood, Samuel Healey, Ansh Desai, Callum Duncan Gold Level (3,000 points): Silvi Rathod, Anton MacNab, Ivan Kokin, Ellessia Orfeo, James Lawson, Shravan Sharma
Laurence Alecock, Arina Kokina, Matvei Kokin, William Hamilton, Ursula France, & Mrs Neighbour
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Food & Nutrition
From seaweed to scones… Prep School pupils explore the world of food Head of Food & Nutrition, Alison Sloan, is very keen to ensure our Prep children (Prep 3-6) learn all about food and healthy eating; this enables them to make wiser choices as young adults and learn more about the importance of a nutritionally balanced diet and the effects poor nutrition can have on mind and body. Taking into account core competencies for children, published by the British Nutrition Foundation and the Food Standards Agency, Alison and her team deliver regular lessons and events aimed at younger pupils that provide the opportunity to get involved in different foodrelated trips and events. Taste-testing has been a big part of the scheme and pupils have embraced this experience, tasting different types of seafood, including seaweed. As well as taste testing, the pupils have been working on an ‘eat well plate’ and the importance of water in their diet.
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“We have been so impressed with our younger pupils and their willingness to taste an array of food for the first time!”
Alison Sloan, Head of Food & Nutrition The importance of basic cooking skills is a life skill and understanding the effect of food and healthy eating is an important part of the curriculum at WGS.
You’re in the Navy now! A Royal Navy chef visited Wisbech Grammar School in 2017 to give a cookery demonstration and discuss careers in the Navy. He produced some delicious food and gave a wonderful insight into what day-to-day life is like as a Navy chef. It was a fantastic opportunity for pupils interested in a career in food, engineering, logistics, humanitarian aid or the Royal Marines.
Passion for Persian food cookery day: A mouth-watering experience Head of Food and Nutrition, Alison Sloan, organised a delectable day of Persian cooking in June 2017 for parents, pupils and staff. With all ingredients provided at a prepaid price, lucky participants, working in pairs, spent a day cooking and eating Persian food. The morning commenced with a tasting of date biscuits with coffee, after which the chefs worked
to produce a range of dishes for lunch.
with radish and mint.
Freshly made hummus and baba ganoush (aubergine dip) with warm flatbreads were served to begin with, followed by an array of colourful savoury dishes such as saffron and lemon chicken, lamb and apricot tagine, spiced salmon, tomatoes with pomegranate molasses, turmeric roast potatoes, tabbouleh, beetroot with walnut pesto and cucumber
For dessert, the group produced a delicious honeyed baklava stuffed with pistachios and almonds, alongside a carrot and nut cake, and an orange and almond cake, all served with rosewater cream. Having experienced an Italian cookery day the previous year, and now the Persian day, everyone is looking forward to next year’s culinary destination.
Prep School pupils make pizza On a glorious July day, Magdalene House Prep pupils made their own pizzas in our outdoor wood-fired pizza oven. All Prep pupils have Food and Nutrition in their weekly curriculum.
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Festive creations The festive spirit was in abundance at Wisbech Grammar School in December 2016 as parents and staff took part in Alison Sloan’s Christmas cake and wreath-making course. For the eighth year running, Mrs Sloan, Head of Food and Nutrition, served festive biscuits and tarts along with mulled wine to everyone before they got to work baking their Christmas cakes and making mincemeat. Participants were then treated to a delicious lunch of homemade soup and cheese scones followed by a chocolate roulade for dessert.
The concentration in the room was such that you could hear a pin drop! The afternoon wreath-making session was led with the expert guidance of a parent, Lorraine Hodgkinson. The concentration in the room was such that you could hear a pin drop as participants worked on their festive creations! The occasion complemented the School coming together for a full Christmas lunch in the multi-million-pound refectory, Skelton Hall. To further underscore the spirit of giving, pupils and staff donned their festive jumpers for charity, Save the Children.
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A taste of Tuscany Parents, friends and pupils enjoyed a cultural evening in May, with some wonderful pizza ordered from their waiters (our pupils) using Italian phrases they had learned during the evening. Pupils in the Senior School had also had the opportunity to learn some basic Italian phrases in a Period 5 Italian club. It was the perfect opportunity to showcase our new outdoor
language and one that almost sounds like a song. I am very proud of our pupils, who managed to learn a lot and perform very well in a very short length of time.’ Head of Food and Nutrition, Mrs Sloan, was very pleased with our brand-new pizza oven and said: ‘It is a wonderful addition to the School and something which raises a lot of interest. Our pupils were keen to try their skills as pizzaiolo
It is a wonderful addition to the School and something which raises a lot of interest. wood-fired pizza oven, recently acquired for the Food and Nutrition Department, and fired up for the first time that evening. As well as fantastic food, entertainment was provided by our Prep 4 pupils, who performed a beautiful song, as well as a comical rendition of ‘Vengo anch’io. No, tu no’ by Enzo Jannacci and a quiz written by pupils. Head of Modern Languages, Mrs Neighbour, who introduced Italian to the co-curricular Period 5 in the Senior School, said: ‘It was a delightful evening, and I am thrilled that our pupils are willing to try and learn another language in addition to the three already in the curriculum. Italian is a very ‘bouncy’
tonight and did very well, expertly stretching the dough and then deftly placing each pizza in the back of the wood-burning oven. When the sun set at the end of a lovely warm summer evening, with a gelato al pistachio in one hand and un bicchiere di Prosecco in the other, you might have been forgiven for thinking you really were somewhere in Tuscany.’ The evening was hosted by Hallgarten Druitt & Novum from Luton, in conjunction with Seasoned By Chefs Magazine. Hallgarten Druitt & Novum is one of the oldest established wine companies in the UK. Adults were offered the chance to purchase the champagne and wine being showcased at the event.
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Halloween spooktacular at ‘Ghoul School’ A spooktacular Halloween ‘Ghoul School’ saw more than 120 plucky youngsters and their parents enjoy a torchlit tour of the darker sides of our historic School. Having been founded by the Wisbech Guild of the Holy Trinity in 1379, Wisbech Grammar School is one of the oldest in the country. Our setting in Harecroft House on the historic Georgian North Brink provided the ideal backdrop for terrifying tours through basements and on winding staircases, and tales of ghosts that stretch back as far as the 1700s. The sell-out event, now in its fifth year, sent shivers down the spine of the bravest. Pupils used their skills to provide ghostly thrills, with help from creepy costumes, styled by the School’s Technical Theatre Manager, Susan Duncan, and mortifying make-up supplied by School play director Alison Clayton and expertly applied by talented 6th Formers. Games for all ages were supplied and run by the Young Enterprise Club. The event was topped off with a fearsome feast of hot dogs, pumpkin soup and apple cake, washed down with a blood-red brew of cranberry juice, fruit juices and spices. Alison Sloan, Head of Food and Nutrition, said, ‘This annual event is now a sell-out and great fun and allows our pupils to showcase their delicious homemade food.’
Design Technology
Top Design Technology pupils celebrate success During September 2016, Wisbech Grammar School celebrated the high-quality coursework completed by pupils as part of their GCSE, AS-Level and A-Level Design Technology (DT) examinations. The evening was attended by over 50 parents, pupils and invited guests, who enjoyed an interesting and informative insight into the diverse projects that the pupils had created. The Designer of the Year Awards went to James Horsburgh for GCSE, William Davis for AS-Level, Charles Pindar for A-Level, and Most Improved Pupil went to Ethan Jutsum.
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Prizes, consisting of a trophy and a £20 gift voucher, were sponsored and presented by Andy and Elaine Woods (managing directors of TAM Engineering Wisbech), Tim Smith (CEO of Williams Refrigeration, King’s Lynn), Gerry Ellis (on behalf of FT Nixon and Son timber merchants, Wisbech), and Lee Roger (on behalf of BAE Systems, Marham, Norfolk). Head of DT, Mr Rob Frost, said, ‘On behalf of the DT Department and the Headmaster we would like to thank all who attended once again for their many positive comments and for giving up their time to support all the pupils, who have worked very hard this year to create innovative and well-crafted products.’
Young engineers steam ahead... with horsepower! Young Engineer Club pupils from 1st to 4th Form spent their 2016/17 Period 5 co-curricular time building a 4.5 horsepower, 163cc petrol go-kart. The project involved fabricating a steel-framed roll cage and chassis. The pupils had to weld the frame and roll cage together, adapt a moped brake system, and design and make a set of control pedals and all the related fittings and fixtures for such a vehicle.
members would like to extend their sincere gratitude to those sponsors who enhanced the budget. Robin Hall from eSheet (Wisbech) supplied the buggy with new tyres and Phil Hurst of Optima Stainless (King’s Lynn) manufactured and donated the cool laser-cut stainless steel side logo panels and various other components.
Pupils had to overcome many design challenges, including making the steering transmission and rear axle, but they all persevered and remained focused and determined to complete the task. The result was a fully working buggy which many people have now enjoyed testing and driving, including Mr McConnell-Wood, Mr Johnson and Dr Mann. The buggy performed well and it was great to see those that had worked so hard having so much fun. Mr Frost, Mr Staley and the Young Engineers Club
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Outside of the classroom Seven current 6th Form pupils and two leavers from 2016 demonstrated a great deal of resilience and commitment to achieve their Gold Awards. Committing themselves to 12 months of activity while completing the physical, skill and volunteering sections of the award, they also undertook a four-day expedition, which for some was in the Julian Alps of Slovenia. They also completed a five-day residential, where participants live with a group of peers outside their friendship group while achieving a shared objective. Throughout, the
Another successful year for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award participants were encouraged to show independence, and develop self-confidence and new skills, all of which are key to success while at school and in life beyond.
delivers the Bronze and Silver Awards to the lower year groups. We are delighted that this academic year we awarded a further 38 Bronze Awards and 24 Silver Awards.
Gold Award recipients
We are extremely proud of the achievement of all award holders, particularly those who have achieved their Gold Awards. Holding a Gold Award says a great deal about the personal qualities of a pupil and will have an impact when they embark on their chosen careers in future life.
Harry Beresford-Pierse Alexander Bly Lee Clark Max Eales Kevin Guneskara Hannah Guze Amber Jones James Thompson Megan Tolliday The Gold Award is the pinnacle of the scheme, but the School also
Gold
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Silver and Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Expeditions 44 members of the 3rd Form embarked on their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze assessed expedition in July 2017, a task made more challenging by blazing sunshine and soaring temperatures. Trekking through the heathland of Thetford carrying a large backpack, the pupils coped extremely well with the heat and extra weight, completing what is, for many, the final part of their Bronze award.
Earlier in the summer of 2017, 31 pupils and four staff enjoyed the stunning scenery during the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Silver practice expedition to the Peak District. Starting in the Bakewell area and finishing at Tissington, the three-day expedition saw the pupils experience brilliant sunshine throughout the day and chilly nights as temperatures struggled to get above freezing, making a slow and frosty start in the
mornings. All pupils coped well with the expedition, which was essential experience ahead of their qualifying expedition in July. Subsequently, 31 4th Form and six staff had an early start in July, boarding a coach at 7am as the Silver Award assessed expedition departed for the Peak District. This time, the expedition started from Millers Dale, just outside Bakewell, and took the pupils through the rolling hills of the Derbyshire countryside over the subsequent three days. The groups’ routes took in such features as Mam Tor, the Edale Valley, Lose Hill, Win Hill and Curbar Edge, which, although not the biggest obstacles, provided a suitable challenge compared to our local landscape. The manner in which all participants approached and coped with the challenges of the landscape,
Silver
the weight of their backpacks and navigation was extremely impressive. All participants passed their expedition section. On completion of the expedition report and outstanding sections, several pupils received Silver Awards in the Michaelmas Term 2017.
Dominic Garfoot, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Co-ordinator
Bronze
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Manor Adventure at Norfolk Lakes The 1st Form returned from their 2016 trip to Norfolk, tired maybe, but with amazing memories of a fantastic weekend. They tried out a new centre for the first time, which more than lived up to its name of Manor Adventure at Norfolk Lakes. The venue combines all the benefits of the previous centre with even more activities to choose from. As one might expect from such a location, there were plenty of opportunities for willing pupils to get wet. In fact, many of the 1st Form seemed to want to spend more time in the
water than on the boats! Apologies to those parents whose pupils came home with a black bag full of wet clothes. Pupils could practice old skills and acquire new ones, including sailing and raft building, combined with climbing, caving, rifle shooting and fencing and more besides. As always, it was great to see pupils get stuck in and work together. Teambuilding and supporting each other are all part of this fantastic learning opportunity, which is offered to all 1st Form pupils.
Old Grammarians Former Wisbech Grammar School pupil, George Russell, signs with Mercedes
Alistair Price, former Wisbech Grammar School pupil, joins rugby line-up for Scotland In November 2016, the Glasgow Warriors scrum-half Alistair Price was included on the replacements bench for Scotland against Australia. Alistair left Wisbech Grammar School in 2011. He played for Bedford Blues, where he was part of the Saracens Storm ‘A’ league, playing for them in the Premiership Sevens Series. In April 2014, he signed a professional contract with Glasgow Warriors to continue with the club for a further two years after graduating from the Scottish Rugby Academy system. Director of Sport at Wisbech Grammar School, Phil Webb said, ‘We are delighted for Alistair and wish him every success for the future.’
In January 2017, just one month before his 19th birthday, George Russell signed to Lewis Hamilton’s World Championship-winning Mercedes team junior programme. Part of the karting circuit since toddlerhood, George has breathed motorsport most of his life and has always set his sights on the top spot in each category he competes in. George’s career to date is an unbroken record of success in both race and championship wins. This success was achieved early on at all levels in karting, when George won honours such as the MSA Cadet British Championship, Minimax British Championship, Kartmasters Grand Prix Championships (three times), and the KFJ European Championships (twice). His debut season in cars saw him take the 2014 BRDC Formula 4 Championship title. He was later victorious in the most coveted award for UK junior drivers, the McLaren Autosport Award, after competing with six nominated drivers in a variety of tasks in front of selected members of the BRDC. In 2015, George entered the hugely competitive FIA Formula 3 European Championship with Carlin Racing, one of the most successful junior teams in the world. George became a member of the highly selective BRDC Superstars in early 2017 in recognition of his racing career so far. With George’s natural ability, increasing knowledge and experience, his ultimate ambition of becoming a Formula One driver is well within his means. RIVERLINE 2017 |
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Tom Berry: How I fell in love with learning at Wisbech Grammar School ‘Wisbech Grammar School challenges the status quo and encourages a bright and successful path for its pupils,’ says former pupil and CEO of Chameleon PR, Tom Berry. He talks about his passion for his former school with Alex Laybourne, Deputy Head of 6th Form.
1. What did you love about Wisbech Grammar School? I remember clearly the open day when I asked my parents if I could come to Wisbech Grammar School. The Chemistry Department was conducting a simple experiment – burning magnesium ribbon in oxygen. That intense light and the mystery of how metals can behave made a lasting impression. That’s when I really fell in love with learning and Wisbech Grammar School.
2. What subjects did you take in 6th Form? I studied English, Chemistry, Biology and AS History of Art. I was also on the editorial committee of Riverline, was actively involved in drama (yet truly terrible at it) and played in the School orchestra. Academically, I was probably better at sciences, but the arts subjects were a great balance and made me think differently. Honestly, I had very little idea of what I wanted to study at university when I selected my options, so I took those subjects that I really enjoyed. If we’re counting, I got As in everything except English, which I had decided to read at university. I didn’t know what I wanted to be, so why not go with my weakest subject? I can only imagine what my parents thought!
company this year [2017]. Essentially, we specialise in working with technology companies to help them tell their stories, get better media coverage and market themselves more effectively. Our clients are based all over the world, but many of them are the fast-growing tech businesses from the west coast of the US. We are growing and our work has recently been nominated for several awards. This success is all about having the right kind of people and the right attitude.
5. What general advice do you have for young people when choosing A-Levels if they want a career in PR or communications? I don’t think PR is one of those careers that children growing up are desperate to do, so I would choose what feels right for you and see how it goes. PR and communications is a great job, but it is not a vocation you can train for, so don’t try to second-guess A-Level choices. You only really get the opportunity to study once, so do what you love. You can then transition into any communications role you like with a bit of tenacity and lots of energy.
6. What are your top tips for making 3. How did 6th Form help to shape your the most of 6th Form at Wisbech Grammar School? career choice? That’s a difficult question, as your whole school experience makes you what you are, but I think I began to find my own voice most clearly in the 6th Form. I think I was also most comfortable in myself in those last two years. Having independence is very important – not being actively taught, but teaching yourself.
4. What are you doing now? I got my first job in journalism at Financial Times Business while I was studying for an MA in London. I moved from sales to the editorial department by making a nuisance of myself and convincing one of the department heads to give me a job. I went through a number of editorial and writing jobs over the next ten years, but moved into PR, marketing and communications in 2005. I joined Chameleon as CEO in 2013 and bought the
It sounds very clichéd, but try to learn something every day – not just academically, but about yourself. You will make mistakes, you will make friendships for life, you will fall out with people, you will take the odd wrong turn, but you will also come out of school better prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the wider world.
7. What were your initial reactions when you came back to run one of our enrichment sessions? The most reassuring thing about coming back after more than 20 years was the brilliance and enthusiasm of the pupils. The School challenges the status quo and encourages a bright and successful path for its pupils. It was an immense pleasure to talk to the Upper School and I really look forward to coming back again soon. RIVERLINE 2017 |
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New starters: 2016/17 academic year TEACHERS / PERIPATETIC STAFF
Peter Timmis Head of 6th Form Physics & German Ivan Garford Peripatetic Music Teacher Rhodri William-Wandoch Peripatetic Music Teacher Emma Brown Sports Coach Andrea Eggleton Sports Coach Rebecca Bradshaw Sports Coach Sarah Oldham Sports Coach Heidi Milton Sports Coach Sam Coe Strength and Conditioning Coach Victoria Collins Science Technician
SUPPORT STAFF
Clare Hunt Kelly Lewis Christine Moore Paul Smith Sandra Taylor
Mark Arnold Amy Beck Thomas Calow Al Duncan Susan Duncan Karen Fairbrother Victoria Garment Keryn Neaves Kate Timmis
Head Computer Science Preparatory School Teacher Head of Middle School Head of Performing Arts Technical Theatre Manager Preparatory School Teacher, Now Assistant Deputy Head Head of Economics and Business + Digital Literacy Deputy Head MH now Senior Deputy Head Head of English
Richard Blower Cleaner Angela Cooper Cleaner Christine Easthall Nurse Jennifer Grief Catering Assistant
Cleaner Catering Assistant Catering Assistant & Cleaner Senior Mini Bus Driver Head of Marketing & Admissions
Leavers: 2016/17 academic year Mike Forrest – Deputy Head Academic 22 years’ service
Mike Forrest started at the School on 12 September 1985. Mike held a number of roles, including Head of General Studies, Head of Lower School Science, Sports Coach, Director of Studies and, most recently, Deputy Head Academic. Mike has seen significant changes. When he joined, there was no internet or Google, a mobile was a ‘temporary’ classroom, and the net was that bit of string hanging between two goalposts. A tablet was something you went to reception for if you had a headache and an iPad (eye-pad) was a bandage you put on your face if you had been unlucky enough to be struck by the ball playing hockey (on grass)! One of Mike’s key motivations, not just education but also in life, has been to make a difference. In that vein, Mike has generously started the ‘Acorn Fund’, so that pupils can apply for ‘seed’ money to try to help their local community. If, for example, a local community group wants to build a playground, pupils could take this seed money and grow it through fundraising to reach the amount they need to get that project off the ground. The concept is simple and the reasoning just ‘so Mike’. Why Acorn? Well, from acorns you get trees, and lots of trees make a Forrest!
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TEACHERS Jane Bates Netball Coach and Umpire, 2 years’ service Kei Bergh PE and Sports, 2 years’ service Jane Braybrook Modern Foreign Languages 8.5 years’ service in total Adrian Jarvis Head of English, 10 years’ service Christina O’Connell Music Teacher, 1 year’s service Jane Reavell PE and Sports, 16 years’ service Sarah Wheeler Peripatetic Music Teacher 9 years’ service
Steve Harris Estates Bursar 12.5 years’ service
Pam Putterill Catering 43 years’ service
Steve arrived at Wisbech Grammar School on 22 November 2004 and retired on 31 May 2017. He started as Site Manager. Anecdotally, that job was initially advertised as Clerk of Works but nobody applied because they did not know what that was. After the job titles was changed, Steve arrived, and his role included looking after and managing caretaking, maintenance, grounds and housekeeping. Having successfully helped to project-manage the construction of our refectory (the Skelton Hall), Steve became Estates Bursar in 2015.
Pam Putterill has cooked and baked her way through 43 years at Wisbech Grammar School. She commenced employment with the School in 1983 and received a Governors’ Commendation Award in June 2015
SUPPORT STAFF
Pam is married to John and has 2 children, and 2 grandchildren. The School was a large part of her life and she still pops in to help support the catering team at events and open days.
Jayne Abrams Cleaner 3 years’ service
Jo Bullimore Catering 7 years’ service
Anna Agius Cleaner 4 years’ service
Darren Griffiths Cleaner 3 months’ service
Felicity Allen Classroom Assistant 4 years’ service
Ros Reeve Cleaner 40 years’ service
Harriet Anker Marketing & Design Assistant 2 years’ service
Ollie Short (temporary support for rugby) 3 months’ service
Karen Barclay Registrar 2 years’ service
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Speech Day Introduction
Speech Day is a time to reflect, celebrate and acknowledge all Wisbech Grammar School’s pupils across Prep and Senior School. It is also a time to say goodbye to 6th Formers who are taking their next steps into the world and to Prep 6 pupils as they prepare to move up to Senior School. In true tradition, the focus is on celebrating pupils’ achievements over the year and building on relationships in the community with Reverend Canon Matthew Bradbury from the Church of St Peter and St Paul; where the first scholars met in 1379 in a small room over the south porch of the church.
Senior School Speech Day The Headmaster, Chris Staley, welcomed former pupil and Head Boy, Tom Berry, who attended Wisbech Grammar School from 1987 to 1994. Tom had the honour of presenting awards of achievement to pupils and to deliver the Speech Day address. Tom was named Business Journalist of the Year and Magazine Writer of the Year at national journalism awards. In 2005, he moved into communications, building the UK’s fastest-growing PR agency, Inferno. Tom is currently CEO and owner of Chameleon, recently named EMEA finalist in the Technology Consultancy of the Year. ‘Be brilliant and don’t give up,’ Tom advised, his speech reflecting his own experience at Wisbech Grammar School. His further advice to current and departing 6th Formers was not to be afraid or worried and to embrace all opportunities and technology. The Headmaster, in his speech, highlighted pupils’ and staff’s successful fundraising. The idea of social responsibility runs deep at the School, and this year saw pupils and staff engage in various charitable activities, raising not just money but also awareness of great causes. Collectively, pupils, staff, and Friends of Wisbech Grammar School raised well over £16,000 this year via clothes collections, cake sales, cookie-baking, candy canes and Christmas shoe boxes to name just a few events. Pupils and staff have run even halfmarathons and marathons, all in the name of charities which they have felt drawn to support. Departing Heads of Senior School Benjamin York and Isabelle Hall reflected on their journeys and the relationships they established, opportunities presented, and encouragement from teaching staff, likening the School to ‘one big family’. Their successor Heads of School, Oliver Mann and Tarn Chamberlain James, and Deputies, James Horsburgh and Katy Landles, continue the great tradition with dedication, passion and commitment.
The Headmaster paid tribute to, and thanked, all parents who place their greatest trust in the School to care for, educate and inspire their children. He said, ‘We recognise the responsibility we bear, and the privilege we enjoy in contributing to your children’s lives. Thank you for joining us. I hope you will feel inspired by the achievements of all pupils, the commitment of their teachers and enjoy the special ambience of a Wisbech Grammar School Speech Day.’ The list of achievements across both Prep and Senior School is always lengthy, encompassing academic, sports, performing arts, languages, fundraising and much more. It’s clear indication of the breadth and depth of the all-round pupils that excel at Wisbech Grammar School. RIVERLINE 2017 |
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Prep School Speech Day Children’s Author, Jennifer Killick, was the special guest invited to attend the Prep School celebrations, and she certainly offered creative inspiration to Magdalene House Prep pupils. Having had her first ‘laugh out loud’ children’s book ‘Alex Sparrow and the Really Big Stink’ published in May her work has been included in the Book Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge for 2017.
role as Head of Pre-Prep music at The Dragon School, Oxford. Miss Allen is also leaving us after 4 years as a dedicated teaching assistant in Prep School. Pupils have thrived under her careful focus, blossoming from 1:1 or small group care. Her skills with vibrant and colourful displays will also be missed, but we know that these talents will be used to good effect as she finishes her teacher training.”
The pupils also enjoyed creative writing workshops before Speech Day with Mrs Neaves also made reference to Jennifer. They had the opportunity to ask her lots of questions and “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I may discover what it takes remember. Involve me and I learn.” to be an author. Her advice to pupils was “If developing greater links with the Senior at first you don’t succeed keeping trying School and the opportunities for Prep until you do.” pupils to get more involved in the arts Jennifer had the honour of presenting awards of achievement to pupils from each class recognising achievement, progress, and effort. There were also special awards recognising pupils who demonstrated the Spirit of Magdalene House, Speech & Drama Award, Music Award, The Alan Salmon Award for Endeavour and an award for Governors’ Magdalene House Prize. The day was filled with celebrations and also saying goodbye to Prep 6 pupils, moving onto the Senior School, and staff across the Prep School.
and food and nutrition, receiving expert teaching from Senior School staff; making their transition into Senior School seamless. Mrs Neaves summed up Prep School Speech Day beautifully with words from Benjamin Franklin, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I may remember. Involve me and I learn.”
Senior Deputy Head, Mrs Keryn Neaves said, “This year the Prep School has really benefitted from Mrs Connell’s Music leadership. She has encouraged and inspired the children to make music with instruments and with their voices, and though we shall miss her, we wish her all the very best in her new
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Leavers’ Celebrations On the final day of term, when Speech Day celebrations had finished, parents and teachers accompanied the Upper 6th pupils as they walked to St Peter and St Paul Church in Wisbech for the Leavers’ Service. Celebrations, hymns and prayers were shared and lots of photographs were taken as the leavers and their guests returned to the School. Awaiting them on a gloriously sunny and warm day was a drinks reception on the Headmaster’s lawn. Moving speeches from the Head of 6th Form, Peter Timmis, and Tim McConnellWood, Senior Deputy Head, were made along with more photos and the signing of memory books which had been presented to the pupils. To finalise the day, a spectacular formal dinner was held in the Skelton Hall, where the leavers, their parents, tutors and teachers shared fabulous food and drinks as the leavers formally became Old Grammarians.
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