The Independent - Spring 2024

The Independent Wolverhampton Grammar School Newsletter

WE ARE WGS DAY

A fantastic celebration of our beautifully diverse school community.

Spring 2024

ALSO IN THIS EDITION:

World Book Day with Dame Jacqueline Wilson Senior production of Twelfth Night

Lower Sixth students enter F1 in Schools competition

The Independent

Head’s Welcome I really enjoy this time of year. The summer is about to start and that brings the students out onto Moreton’s Piece at lunchtime to enjoy the sunshine. It is a great spectacle at WGS. All our students have been busy this term

was once again, really impressed

and as I edit the script for my end of term

by the lively, comedic modernised

assembly, I am reminded just how much

version of the Medieval Mystery play

goes on in School week after week.

Everyman, performed by our Upper Sixth

Recently we held our first ever ‘We are WGS Day’, celebrating culture and identity within our school community. This was preceded by an inaugural Community Iftar and what a success it was. We look forward to observing and celebrating many other occasions that are important

Theatre Studies group. I am always so amazed by the quality of our drama here at WGS. Next term, look out for the sale of tickets to our Lower School production of The Chrysalids, based on the novel by John Wyndham. Performances will take place just before May half term.

and representative of our diverse school

In the Junior School, our youngest have

community in the future; this was just

had a productive term with plenty of

the starting point for learning more about

extra-curricular opportunities in sport

each other’s cultural heritage. Thank you

and music on top of fantastic work

to Mr Wood, Mrs Keeley, Mrs Worsey,

in the classroom. Year 6 were able to

Miss Grew and Miss Kailey for all their

test their resilience and teamwork on a

hard work.

residential trip to Wales, and we were

Some of our Year 8 and 9 students had the opportunity to be ball assistants at Wembley for the EFL Cup. They were all great ambassadors for us and I know the FA are keen to use our students again in the future.

In the Senior School, staff, Year 11 and Upper Sixth students have been particularly busy finishing off specifications as they enter the final push towards external examinations.

As Easter is so early this year, it really is important to make a good start at

honoured to welcome Dame Jacqueline Wilson and current Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho, to mark World Book Day at WGS. Thank you to Mrs Rowley who works tirelessly to secure the very best opportunities for our children to ignite their passion for reading.

As always, it is impossible to fit everything into this termly edition of The Independent but I hope you enjoy reading about all the marvellous things that our students have been doing.

With best wishes

revision so that students make the most of their time in front of the teachers next term – we want them to check their understanding and learning of the work covered before the GCSE and A Level

Nic Anderson Head

period gains momentum.

You can read about Twelfth Night in this magazine, and last week I

www.wgs.org.uk

Connect, Reflect, Protect On Tuesday 6th February we celebrated Safer Internet Day and joined the nation in

WGS Smile Day Blue Monday is generally the name given to the third Monday in January, so coined due to a combination of

advocating for a safe and positive online experience for all, especially our students.

Junior School pupils had a busy day using resources from the UKSIC (UK Safer Internet Centre) to learn how to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

factors including post-Christmas

Digital Ambassadors began their work alongside Mrs Keeley and Mr Langford, to represent Student Voice on the themes of digital wellbeing, online safety and

debt, broken New Year’s resolutions

technological progress. Digital Wellbeing

and miserable weather. Luckily the

includes how to keep children safe online

WGS Wellbeing Team came to the

and also how to successfully embrace

rescue and the Monday blues were

the potential benefits to learning and

chased away with our first ever WGS

health. From consulting on whole school

Smile Day! Mrs Rowley and Mrs

policies to highlighting advancements in

Keeley welcomed students to the

technology such as artificial intelligence,

Jenyns Library for lots of positive

our student Digital Ambassadors have

activities to ensure everyone left with

had a busy start to their new roles!

a smile on their face.

Using Technology Responsibly Mrs Keeley, Head of Wellbeing, was delighted to welcome parents from

National Accreditation Congratulations to our Wellbeing

across the School to our annual

teachers who along with a group of

Wellbeing Evening on Tuesday 5th March.

other key staff, successfully completed

This year’s focus was on understanding

the City and Guilds Training about

how technology can benefit young

Gambling and Gaming Education. This

people and how we can take measures

has led to the School gaining a new

to protect them against potential harm.

nationally recognised accreditation.

Mrs Keeley, Mr Yarnley, Miss Jones and Mr Phillips, from the charity yGam,

In the Senior School, newly appointed

gave presentations on the Wellbeing curriculum at WGS, the use of technology to aid revision, digital wellbeing, as well as gaming and screen addiction awareness. It was also an opportunity for Miss Kailey, Head of Careers, and Mrs Worsey, Head of Psychology, to talk about careers in Mental Health and Wellbeing. A special mention must go to our Digital Ambassadors who presented to parents on what it feels like to be a young person in the Digital Age. We hope all our parents found this a useful evening. To find out more about Wellbeing at WGS, please visit Firefly or our School website.

Our Wellbeing staff are dedicated to protecting our students from the dangers of the online world and continue to be passionate about keeping them safe, healthy and happy. Together with our student Digital Ambassadors they will be creating a short film for the Gambling Education Hub to increase awareness about the harm of online gambling.

Three student ambassadors have been invited to represent WGS at the Merchant Taylors’ Digital Wellbeing Conference in May.

3

We are WGS WGS: Where culture and identity take centre stage!

Fast forward several months and the sterling work of our Diversity Champions and staff has created a more inclusive environment for our students. This term,

in clothes reflecting their culture or

the school calendar has been peppered

interests. A school-wide fashion show

Imagine a school where you can celebrate

with celebrations to recognise the varied

in Big School saw students and staff

who you are, in a community that is

make-up our WGS community. These

take to the catwalk to showcase outfits

welcoming, warm and supportive. That’s

have included marking LGBTQ+ History

from stunning sarees to karategi and

exactly what WGS is all about!

Month, Chinese New Year, International

everything in between, the outfits were a

Day of Women in Science, Ramadan, Holi,

vibrant reflection of our WGS community.

Last summer we held our first EDI Day, a day centred around equity, diversity and inclusion, where students took part in a range of activities that spanned many

Easter and Neurodiversity Week, with plans already underway for a Vaisakhi celebration and more in the Summer term.

At lunch time, there was a chance to taste foods from all over the world, learn to tie a turban, take part in mehndi and face

aspects of cultural life, including sport,

painting or dance along to some dhol

languages, art and religion. We also created

drumming. With some geek culture, a USA

our own WGS Diversity mural which proudly

and Cornish corner and storytelling from

sits alongside Moreton’s Piece.

around the world over tea, spirits were high and everyone had a fantastic time.

Later that afternoon there was zentangle art and an African drumming workshop in the Hutton, plus breakdancing, kabaddi

4

The launch of ‘We are WGS Day’, was a

and inclusive volleyball in the Sports

culmination of our EDI celebrations, and

Hall. The Sixth Form Common Room was

what a joyous day it was - a jam-packed

taken over by DJ Nick Singh and students

day of activities that celebrated the

learnt the art of Bhangra dancing. A huge

many cultures and identities that make

thank you to Mr Wood, Mrs Keeley and

up our student and staff body. Students

Mrs Worsey for masterminding the day

were invited to express themselves

which was a true celebration of what

through fashion and came to school

makes WGS such a special place.

The Independent Spring 2024

5

Spotlight on Jenyns During the Spring term we have welcomed

Paul’s talk concentrated mainly on the

102 finalists from WGS and eight local

12 visiting schools and over 200 visiting

lives of Jewish refugees in Britain and

schools were invited to hear this year’s

pupils to WGS to inspire a love of reading.

how attitudes towards them evolved

winners announced, and celebrate

As part of World Book Day we welcomed

over time. His fascinating insights were

their story writing skills, creativity and

not one but two Children’s Laureates! It

complemented by readings from his

imagination. Paul recorded the prize-winning

was a privilege to welcome best-selling

latest adult non-fiction book, Aliens: The

stories as audiobooks after the final. These

author Dame Jacqueline Wilson on World

Chequered History of Britain’s Wartime

are available to listen to on the School

Book Day itself, and the following week our

Refugees. Many thanks to Paul for an

website: https://wgs.org.uk/wyap2024

infants were captivated by an interactive

informative presentation.

session with the current Waterstones

Congratulations to our winners:

Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho, author

Years 3, 4 and 5:

of the Luna Loves series with his illustrator Fiona Lumbers.

Winner – Jayden, Wolverhampton Grammar Junior School

To encourage reading throughout World

Runner-up – Edward, Christ Church Junior School

Book Day month, the Jenyns Library

Highly Commended – Farah, Woodthorne Primary School

hosted a Scholastic Book Fair with many tempting reads. Thank you to all parents

Years 6, 7 and 8

who supported our Book Fair which has

Winner – Karina, Goldthorn Park Primary School

generated £500 worth of new books for the library, as a result of the total

Runner-up – Maya, St Peter’s Collegiate Academy

amount purchased.

Runner-up – Jessica, Wolverhampton Grammar School

It was lovely to focus on our older

Wolverhampton Young Authors’ Prize

students as part of our latest author

Paul Dowswell, kindly returned to

events programme. Award-winning writer

WGS for the Grand Final of this year’s

and historian Paul Dowswell visited WGS

Wolverhampton Young Authors’ Prize.

Highly Commended – Pelumi, Blue Coat Academy

on Thursday, 18th January to talk to Year

Hundreds of children in Years 3-11 from

Years 9, 10 and 11

10 IGCSE History students about the

across Wolverhampton were challenged to write an original 400-word story based

Winner – Ellie-Mai, Beacon Hill Academy

plight of refugees in Britain before, during and after the Second World War.

around this year’s theme of ‘Heroes’.

6

Highly Commended – Sophie, Codsall Community High School

www.wgs.org.uk

The Bennett Story Garden Luna Loves Gardening, the newly published children’s book by Joseph Coelho, was the perfect way to entice our infants into our newly established Bennett Story Garden. Together with Mrs Rowley and Mr McAllister, Reception, Year 1 and 2 thoroughly enjoyed making insect houses, sowing seeds and decorating their own plant pots.

Thank you to Waterstones Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho and illustrator, Fiona Lumbers, who helped us to continue our World Book Day celebrations, enthusing our youngest pupils with an interactive storytelling and drawing session which included fun facts about gardening, all inspired by Luna’s latest adventure. Luna loves tending plants, learning about insects and sharing her love for the community garden. In the book, Luna finds out about plants from across the world and learns that every seed tells its own story.

WGJS were joined by 63 pupils from Goldthorn Park Primary School, Merridale Primary School, St Mary and St Chad CE First School and St Bartholomew’s Primary School.

Towards the end of term, The Bennett Story Garden hosted a special picnic to celebrate the latest stories to be included in the garden. Children in Years 1- 3 from across Wolverhampton were challenged to write an original story about a common garden animal set in The Bennett Story Garden. The winning entries have been made into audio files for students, staff and visitors to listen to within the Garden, all narrated by a children’s author, Kate Innes. Each story has been digitally added using a QR code, along with their illustrations, to signage in the Garden.

Congratulations to our winners: Samarth – Hedgy the Hedgehog, Jasmyn – Isabella the Bunny and Maisie – Ruby’s Leafy Catastrophe.

Two of our winners: Samarth and Maisie, plus members of their families, enjoyed a picnic tea at which the winning stories were heard and their artwork seen. They also enjoyed a seed planting workshop in The Bennett Story Garden and received a bespoke goody bag.

7

Discover Reading Project Our successful Discover Reading Project in partnership with Southern Connecticut State University continued this term, with families being gifted the books One Snowy Night by Nick Butterworth, in which Percy the Park Keeper’s desire for a good night’s sleep is interrupted by a host of animal visitors, and Paddington’s Easter Egg Hunt

by Michael Bond and Karen Jankel, in which Paddington organises an Easter egg hunt for his neighbours.

Families have enjoyed making and decorating their own snowmen and Easter eggs, writing original diary entries and solving clues in their very own Easter egg hunt. The project has continued to develop both their literacy skills and a love of reading with the help of our trained group of Sixth Form students.

BBC Young Reporter Could WGS score a hat trick? After Luke became our second

O’Toole, members of

consecutive winner last year, with his report on Tackling

the UK Space Agency

the Issue of Concussion in Grassroots Football, eight new

and local GP, Dr Hynes.

hopefuls have stepped up to enter this year’s competition.

Congratulations and good luck to Alex Hynes, Omar Khan,

Their topics include The Danger of Space Debris, Making Swimming More Affordable and Accessible to Young People

8

Lola Moore and Harry Talbot in Year 7 and Nalin Atmakur, Mason Holles, Ajeet Sumal and Harry Wade in Year 12.

and Encouraging Boys into Ballet. As well as researching their

Luke Hemmings, 2023 West Midlands winner worked with the

own topics, the students conducted interviews in person and

BBC this term in creating his video report which was aired in

virtually with a host of experts in their field, such as Poppy

February. Read more about his experience on page 20.

The Independent Spring 2024

World Book Day World Book Day at WGS is always an

Jacqueline’s event was extra special, as

occasion to remember for children across

it marked the release date of her latest

the City. In previous years, children have

book: The Girl Who Wasn’t There. In the

been on a Turbo-charged mission with

book, Luna and her little sister Aurora go

David Baddiel, on a Gruffalo adventure

to live in a tower. It’s almost like they’ve

in one. My child narrator Luna isn’t sure

with Julia Donaldson and transported to

stepped inside a fairytale. But everything is

about her new home, especially when her

magical worlds by Cressida Cowell.

not as magical as it first seems. The tower

little sister Aurora starts talking about her

needs patching up, their Dad still doesn’t

mysterious new friend…. It was great fun

have a job and they’re not even allowed in

to write a ghost story with a modern twist.”

World Book Day 2024 at WGS welcomed Dame Jacqueline Wilson to Big School to meet 450 excited children from 12 schools, many of whom were dressed as well-known characters from Jacqueline’s

the room up at the very top. Luna starts to suspect if there really is a curse on the tower – and will she be able to break it?

Children left Jacqueline’s event thoroughly entertained and eager to read their signed copies of The Girl Who

books. Jacqueline is a former Children’s

When asked about her spine-tingling new

Wasn’t There. Thank you to Mrs Rowley,

Laureate, and in 2008 she was appointed

book, Jacqueline Wilson said: ”I’ve always

Mr McAllister and Authors Aloud UK for

a Dame. As one of Britain’s bestselling

been fascinated by Follies, especially

making this event possible; this was

and most beloved children’s authors,

those towers built in the middle of

certainly another World Book Day that will

she has written over 100 books and is

nowhere with no apparent purpose.

inspire children to explore the magic of

the creator of characters such as Tracy

I wondered what it would be like to live

reading for years to come.

Beaker and Hetty Feather. More than forty million copies of her books have been sold worldwide.

WBD Reporters Thank you to Alex and Mya who spent the day on work experience with the Marketing Department. They had a fantastic time speaking to students and staff about their favourite books and capturing the magic of World Book Day through photos and video. Not only did the event take place in Big School, but it was also live streamed to classrooms around the school. Our WBD reporters were kept busy covering the whole school, including calling into the Junior School to spot lots of different book characters. They edited their content and posted these on our social media channels attracting lots of likes!

9

Twelfth Night

THE HUTTON THEATRE

by William Shakespeare

One of our highlights of the academic

attended the Old Wulfrunians’ Drama

calendar, the Senior School production,

Reunion at the beginning of half-term.

made its return to the Hutton Theatre

Thank you to the Development team for

for three outstanding performances

digging out lots of photos, videos and

in February. This year, our incredibly

programmes of earlier WGS productions,

talented students and staff took on

these were enjoyed by our returning OWs.

Shakespeare’s classic comedy of

We are now looking forward to our Lower

mistaken identity: Twelfth Night.

School Production of The Chrysalids,

Thank you, as always, to our dedicated

based on the novel by John Wyndham. The

students, many of whom were performing

In the history of WGS productions, this

production will run for three nights from

for their last time at School, and the

was actually the sixth production of

Wednesday 22nd May to Friday 24th May.

wonderful Creative Team: Ian Tyler,

Twelfth Night. The first took place in 1954

Director; Ray Curran, Musical Director;

in Big School. Later productions moved

Jon Wood, Production Coordinator;

to the Derry Hall in 1962, 2002 and 2003.

Lighting Design by Josh Joyner,

The purpose-built Hutton Theatre opened

Costumes and Prop Design by Mary

in Autumn 2007 and the first production

Mullock, and Set Construction and Design

of Twelfth Night was performed in Spring

by Kevin Petford, Michelle Harris and

term 2015. Former students enjoyed

Liam Taylor.

returning to see the current set when they

10

www.wgs.org.uk

“Better a witty fool than a foolish wit.”

A ship is wrecked on the rocks. Viola is washed ashore but her twin brother Sebastian is lost. Determined to survive on her own, she steps out to explore a new land. So begins a whirlwind of mistaken identity and unrequited love. The nearby households of Olivia and Orsino are overrun with passion. Even Olivia’s upright housekeeper Malvolio is swept up in the madness. Where music is the food of love, and nobody is quite what they seem, anything proves possible.

“If music be the food of love play on.”

11

CEIAG – Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance This term our Year 9s and Year 11s have

secured work experience placements with

been busy consulting with the Careers

Collins Aerospace in the Business, IT and

Department about their career aspirations

Engineering Departments. Congratulations

and the all-important decisions for their

to Harjai, Rebecca, David, Sienna, Davina,

next steps in education.

Haleen and Zara (Year 9), Vishwa (Year 10), Harvir, Malaika, Reuben (Year 11) and

As well as 1:1 advice, Head of Careers,

William (Lower Sixth).

Miss Kailey, has also ensured that a number of educational visits have taken place covering a variety of disciplines.

These have ranged from exploring fashion and design at the Jimmy Choo Academy in London to networking with sports professionals at Edgbaston Cricket Ground and exploring animal anatomy and skeletal systems with Meducators UK

During National Apprenticeships Week in February, students from Years 11, 12 and 13 had the opportunity to hear directly from employers who visited the School about their current apprenticeship vacancies.

and Mei Mei Fung, final year student at the

It was a pleasure to welcome back Gillis

Royal Veterinary College.

Robbie (OW 2021) to talk to students in Years 10 - 13 about apprenticeship opportunities with Kennedys Law. Gillis is currently working towards a career as a solicitor, specialising in Medical Law via We welcomed Brittney and Jake, current

12

the apprenticeship route.

apprentices at Collins Aerospace to share

Another highlight of the term was

their journeys, as well as to talk about

National Careers Week in March, a UK

the current apprenticeship opportunities

wide initiative that promotes careers

available within various departments at

guidance across all schools. WGS offered

Collins Aerospace. As we go to print, we

workshops to students in Years 7 to 12,

are delighted to learn that 12 WGS students

to further enhance their careers related

from Years 9 to 12 have subsequently

learning and employability skills.

The Independent Spring 2024

The week began with a Year 8 Enterprise Day which saw students working in teams to create a solution to a real life business problem. Their mission: design a sustainable JCB machine of the future for a specific sector. Congratulations to winning team ‘The H1ve’ (Nechells) for their futuristic agricultural machine!

The workshop included a performance

Thank you to Nikki and Caroline from The

telling the story of eight inspirational women,

Inspirational Learning Group for hosting a

who have achieved incredible things despite

fantastic day.

gender and societal bias, a fitting way to also mark International Women’s Day. Many thanks to Sophie, Saskia and Alicia for working with our students.

Work Experience We continue to promote work experience opportunities and seek business partners.

Please do contact Miss Kailey if you are able to welcome a WGS student, even for

Across the week other activities included:

one day of work placement. The Marketing

a Finance Taster Day at Aston University

department hosted two work experience

attended by 13 Lower Sixth students who

students, Mya in the Lower Sixth and Alex,

were able to sample taster lectures in

from Thomas Telford School. They gained

degree level Accountancy and Finance;

real life work experience in marketing our

a careers in photography showcase by

World Book Day activities and promoted

Head of Art and former professional

these on our social media channels.

photographer, Mr Taplin; a careers in Maths focus for Year 7 and guided careers research for Year 8.

Thank you to Willows Dental Practice for providing a careers insight day to six of our students. Well done to Sachi, Jasraaj,

Harry and Priya joined the cast and crew of

Arjun and Jai in the Lower Sixth, and

Harlequin Pantomime Productions to gain

Amber and Dami in Year 10, all of whom

valuable work experience. They used their

got hands-on with 3D scanning, milling,

The week ended with a visit from ‘See Her

A Level Theatre Studies skills to work in key

printing dental appliances, fillings and

Potential’ who provided a thought-provoking

technical roles and impressed so much that

practising stitches. They were also lucky

theatre workshop on gender equality in

they have both been invited to audition for

enough to meet a variety of professionals

the workplace for our Year 9 students.

next year’s production… Oh yes they have!

within the practice.

Bridging the Gender Gap in Computer Science Have you ever wondered why there aren’t

This programme equips teachers with

more girls taking Computer Science? It’s

the resources they need to break down

a fact: Computer Science is still a male-

stereotypes and empower our female

dominated field, and that’s something we’re working to change at WGS. We believe that Computer Science is for everyone, and we’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where

tech pioneers of the future. “From AI to healthcare technology, Computer Science is the fastest growing STEM subject and holds the key to solving some of humanity’s greatest challenges.

Are you ready to join the next generation

Hence, facilitating diversity in the

of tech innovators? Why not come along

the National Centre for Computing

workforce is crucial.” says Mr Langford,

to Code Club and put your skills to the

Education’s ‘I Belong: encouraging girls

‘I Belong’ Champion and Teacher of IT &

test: Tuesdays, 1.05pm in room 47, open

into computer science’ programme.

Computer Science at WGS.

to all senior students.

girls feel welcome and supported.

That’s why WGS is participating in

13

Life in Junior School Pre-Historic Adventures

able to bring their teddy bear tops to

Did anyone spot a Triceratops and T-Rex

knew teddy bears could be so stylish?

life. The topic ended with a teddy bear fashion show and a chance to show off their amazing work to each other. Who

stomping around the Junior School

Well done Year 1!

towards the end of January? Fear not -

Sensational Safari

they were here with Katherine from the Education Group to teach Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 all about dinosaurs, fossils

On a mission to learn all about Kenya, Year

and prehistoric life!

2 have been busy brainstorming everything

Pawsome Teddy Bear Fashion!

This term, Year 1 have been designing and creating fabulous outfits for their favourite teddy bears. It all started with a detective mission – they became fashion inspectors, checking out outfits on all different kinds of teddies. Mrs D’Arcy even Not fangs this time but teeth of a smaller variety as Reception discussed the importance of dental hygiene and learnt

brought in her very own Paddington bear, who shared stories of his adventures (and possibly some secret fashion tips!).

how to look after their teeth by using

Next, the designers got to work. They

proper brushing techniques and making

brought in their own special teddies from

good food choices. Thank you to Dr

home and used them to create perfect-

Wingrove for her tips to ensure Reception

fit templates. Using colourful felt and

smiles keep on sparkling!

sparkling decorations they were soon

14

they know and everything they want to discover about this exciting country as part of their topic ‘Sensational Safari’.

First stop: They explored a giant map of Africa, pinpointing Kenya’s location and spotting mountains, lakes, and cities. Just like real explorers, they zoomed in on Kenya to get a closer look at its amazing features.

Next up: Working in pairs, they became

The children learnt some Latin phrases

junior explorers, writing and answering

whilst marching in formation and re-

questions about Kenya on post-it notes.

enacted a Roman army attack. Their

They answered each other’s questions and

Roman adventure didn’t stop there. They

discovered lots of fascinating new facts.

discovered more about everyday life in Ancient Rome, from chariot racing to gladiators. They even learned a surprising fact – both the Celts and Romans used urine to make blue paint, wash clothes, and even brush their teeth!

The most exciting part of the day was the chance to handle real Roman armour and weapons. This really brought their topic to life.

The children have really enjoyed their studies and were especially excited to see

using cardboard, newspaper, tissue, paint

some of the animals that can be found

and other materials, they created some

in Kenya whilst making their own West

fantastic models which helped them to

Midlands Safari trip.

create a glossary to define the different features of a river, such as the source, tributaries and the mouth.

Their studies have covered where water

A day in Ancient Rome Spring term welcomed back the popular Humanities topic of the Romans, the highlight being a day spent with Roman Officer, Dominic, learning all about the

River Experts

comes from, the water cycle and where

Learning about rivers can be a lot of fun,

Centre to conduct a river case study was

especially when you get to build a 3D model

the perfect way to put all their learning

of one! This is exactly what Year 4 did;

into practice.

some of the world’s major rivers are located. A field trip to the Wolseley

Young Shakespeare Company Brings History to Life As part of their enrichment, Year 5 and 6

Throughout the performance

enjoyed a visit by the Young Shakespeare

the children were actively involved

Company. Four actors performed

and encouraged to explore the

Shakespeare’s all-involving historical

motives, thoughts and feelings of the

story of Henry V in a fast-moving fully-

characters. A thoroughly enjoyable

knowledge to the test with a game of

costumed interactive production.

morning was spent in the Hutton

Delta, using replica Roman coins. Just like

The play was brought vividly to life

Roman Empire.

The day started with a re-enactment of the story of a tyrannical king and the founding of the city of Rome. Next, Year 3 put their

the Romans themselves they had to use their numeracy skills to win!

around and among the children, at times including the whole audience to

Theatre and our thanks go to the Young Shakespeare Company for their energetic performance.

create such dramatic scenes as the coronation of King Henry V with the rousing cheer “God for Harry, England and St George!”, the preparations of the English soldiers as they get ready to set sail for France and the precisely staged Battle of Agincourt.

15

Arthog As the end of January approached, the excitement in Year 6 was mounting. The much anticipated outdoor adventures in Arthog were just around the corner…

Monday 29th January After a journey with plenty of twists, turns and lots of rain, Year 6 finally arrived in

Mr Griffiths’ group enjoyed an exciting

Wales and set about preparing their bunks

trip to the old Wrsygan slate mine near

and finding out who their room mates were

Blaenau Ffestiniog; hiking up the beautiful

to be for the trip. Much-needed waterproofs

hills and climbing up the chambers within

and rucksacks were handed out and it was soon time for the first activity.

the mine.

Tuesday 30th January

Perhaps the greatest views of the day

What a difference a day makes! The

were afforded to Mrs Jones’ group who

torrential rain had disappeared and

climbed ‘the Barmouth slabs’ above the

a beautiful sunrise and blue skies

Mawddach Estuary with some roped

greeted our happy explorers. It was a

pitches and belaying to challenge them.

welcome surprise, alongside an almost unprecedented, good first night’s sleep.

The day was rounded off with some orienteering in the dark before an early night.

Chef Cath’s legendary breakfast (catering expertly for the many dietary requirements) Team building was the name of the game

was devoured by 42 hungry children and

for the first day. Pupils were challenged to

this set them up perfectly for the day.

communicate, trust and care for each other whilst completing tasks. One group then managed to pop to the beach before dinner!

Mr Palmer’s and Mrs Parkes’ groups alternated between canoeing and gorge walking, with many pupils bravely opting

Fun was had on the night line before it

for either the ‘lake dip’ or ‘gorge splash’ at

was time to get some rest.

the end of the session.

16

The Independent Spring 2024

Wednesday 31st January Mr Palmer was in his element carrying out his room inspections for the second day. The competition to award points for the tidiest room involved a thorough group room tidy followed by a rigorous

This new-found confidence led to reaching new heights and performing more technically demanding skills such as stand-up canoeing, assisting belaying when rope climbing, and confident roped ascents inside the slate mines.

inspection after breakfast. Extra points

Lunchtime inside the mine was eaten

were awarded for: shoes lined up neatly

by candlelight, allowing the pupils to

and quilts with an ‘ironed’ appearance.

imagine what life might have been like for

Singing songs to Mr Palmer also proved a

12-year-olds who worked there during the

way to score a few bonus points!

Victorian era.

Although the sun didn’t shine, the children wrapped up warm and dived headfirst (some literally) into their new experiences.

What a privilege it was to see the children being brave, kind, funny, helpful and resilient on their residential.

Throughout the trip, visits to the site’s mini shop guaranteed the usual souvenirs that fill pencil cases and hopefully some gifts will have come home to brothers and sisters, lucky enough to receive an Thursday 1st February Pinch, punch, first of the month!

‘Arthog bear’.

As the last evening’s activity got underway, the children happily reflected

According to the instructors, after ‘Moody

on an amazing few days. Thank you to

Wednesday’ often comes ‘Amazing

Mr Griffiths, Mr Cothey, Mr Palmer, Mrs

Thursday’. Indeed, Thursday represented

Parkes and Mrs Jones for taking the

the turning point in the week, where the

children on such a life-changing trip. Great

children discovered that they are far more

memories were made and we are sure

capable than they had previously believed

that the children will look back on their

they were.

experiences with fondness and pride.

17

RE Day On Monday 26th February, the Junior

we were exceptionally privileged to

and first-hand experiences shared by our

School participated in their second

be joined by visitors from six different

guest speakers. Throughout the day, the

annual RE Day. This year’s theme,

faiths: Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism,

whole school was engaged in a range of

‘Special Places’, allowed the children

Islam, Judaism and Sikhism, all of whom

exciting, creative and reflective activities,

in our younger years to learn about

generously gave up their time to share

all of which were designed to broaden

places of worship, while students in

their knowledge, expertise and insight

our students’ understanding of, and

Key Stage Two focused on the concept

with us. Children and staff alike were

respect for, the beliefs held within our

of pilgrimage. As part of this event,

enthralled by the artefacts, explanations

wider community.

18

www.wgs.org.uk

Ski Trip

By Luke Hemmings, Lower Sixth As we broke up for half-term 46 students and six teachers were headed for Bad Gastein in Austria for the 2024 Ski Trip.

Despite the extremely long journey of 16 hours, buoyed by anticipation and with a little help from George’s playlist, the excitement levels didn’t wane and our skiers arrived exhausted but full of enthusiasm for the skiing ahead.

The following morning after collecting skis, boots and poles, the students were introduced to the instructors. Firstly there were test runs to sort out the ski groups and then the skiing began in earnest.

Luckily there was plenty of snow affording good runs for all levels. The first evening was a Tyrolean treat, a highlight for many.

This was an opportunity to experience local music and dancing and to try out the many different instruments that were on offer, such as a ‘singing saw’.

For everyone, skiing was an enjoyable experience, littered with many stand-out moments and views to last a lifetime.

Spirits were kept high with a daily ‘No I-Deer of The Day’ competition which involved the recipient having to wear a silly deer hat over their helmet for the entire day of skiing. There were some honourable winners throughout the week but Dr Pounder was a popular choice to wear the hat in the airport and on the plane home after boasting about his slalom skills and subsequently falling

Aside of skiing, other evening activities

over at least twice!

including a swimming session, an ice hockey match, a quiz night and an awards presentation. Perhaps, the most special part of the ski trip is the bonds that are formed between students of all ages that last beyond the trip and continue after the return to school.

Thank you to Mrs Dyer and Miss Jones for leading this year’s trip, along with Dr Pounder, Mr Martin, Mr Munson and Miss Gibbons.

19

Articulation Prize 2024 Huge congratulations to Lower Sixth

other 16-19 year-

student, Eve, for delivering a fantastic

olds from the

presentation on ‘The Danger of

region. This is

Minimalism’ at the West Midlands

a wonderful

regional final of the Articulation Prize

achievement

2024 in January.

and we are all very proud

Eve was invited to deliver a ten minute

of Eve.

presentation at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum in Coventry, alongside nine

Future Sports Journalist in the Making 2023 BBC Young Reporter and West Midlands Regional Winner, Luke Hemmings, recently had a dream come true when he joined Sports Presenter, Dan Pallett, and Senior Presenter/Journalist, Nicola Beckford at the BBC Studios in Birmingham. He also spoke with Breakfast Presenter Rakeem Omar live on BBC Radio WM. A keen footballer since a young age, Luke is now a qualified referee and enjoys refereeing local matches for the Stourbridge District Youth Football League. The Wolves fan was inspired to make his winning report after watching Raúl Jiménez suffer a fractured skull following a header during a match against Arsenal in November 2020. During his recent filming debut Luke was lucky enough to speak to Dr Matt Perry who featured in the BBC’s Code Red documentary about Raúl’s injury.

Luke shares with us, “Being chosen as the West Midlands winner gives me hope for the future and the experience of recording my report with a professional crew was amazing. I really hope that you will see me on the TV or hear me on the radio again one day!”

Physics Students Excel in National Competition This year, 13 Year 12 students entered

students with opportunities to

the Senior Physics Challenge, part of

challenge themselves and deepen their

the UK Physics Olympiad run by Oxford

understanding of the subject.

University, and 16 Year 11 students entered the Intermediate Challenge.

Out of nearly 5,000+ students in each Challenge, six WGS students secured the Gold Award meaning they were placed in

Many thanks to Mrs Wainwright for co-ordinating and supporting this year’s entries and congratulations to all our students on a successful competition!

the top 16.8% of the country. A further 14 students gained a Silver Award and 10 their Bronze Award.

These outstanding results are a testament to the dedication of our students and the commitment of our Physics department in providing

20

The Independent Spring 2024

Recently members of the Lower Sixth

Our first order of business was the

took part in the final of the F1 in Schools

welcome presentation. As we all

regional competition hosted at Aston

gathered in the large hall nerves began

University. Two teams were entered:

to surface as the host discussed all

Polaris (pictured in pink tops) and

the undertakings of the day. Each team

Allcures Racing (white tops). Thank you

had their own personalised itinerary. Up

Once we had discovered that Emmanuel

to Mr Villafrati for supporting the teams

first, Allcures Racing had to give their

had the fastest reaction time he was

throughout the process. We are extremely

verbal presentation which they used as

given the job of firing the Polaris car down

proud of both teams for their dedication,

an opportunity to describe their journey

the track. The whole team was tense.

innovation and above all, superb

and purpose for entering the engineering

Excitement raged through us all as the

teamwork. Kyla shares here report on this

competition. Meanwhile, my team Polaris,

Polaris car rocketed down the track in

exciting opportunity:

had to submit our enterprise portfolio

record time. Celebrations flooded through

which outlined all the finances and

the team as it was initially shown on the

sponsorship that we had gained to fund

leader board that Polaris had the total

our entry into the competition. Next for

fastest race time as well as the fastest

Allcures, was their race which put them

reaction speed. The Polaris Racing car

into 6th place at that moment, with a total

recorded a total time of 1.533 seconds.

It was WGS’s debut into the competition which meant we had no idea what to expect. As we entered the main competition room to set up our pit displays, we analysed and engaged with all the other teams present. We were all

time of 1.742 seconds.

As soon as the racing was over, Polaris

immediately taken aback by the level of

had to take to the stage again and give an

competition around us. There were 27

engineering and design presentation to

teams in the development class (the class

a panel of judges. We then finally had to

that both Polaris Racing and Allcures

give our Brand Identity presentation. This

Racing entered) and there were 39 teams

included describing the team’s ethos, the

overall. As it was a regional competition,

purpose for our logo and uniform, as well

all the competing racing teams had

as the community action and advertising

ventured far and wide from Silverstone to

that we had done.

London. There was certainly a wide variety of teams present.

Lastly, it was time for the Award Throughout the day there were various

Ceremony; we all sat eagerly awaiting

As we assembled our pit display board

breaks which allowed each team a little

the results. Allcures Racing achieved an

we aimed to ensure its presentability

respite from the competition’s intense

honourable 20th place overall. The Polaris

and make sure we worked together to

nature. During this time, we took the

team finished at an impressive 6th place

efficiently get the job done. Our car had to

initiative to do some much needed

with a nomination for the best brand

be sent off for ‘scrutineering’ at 8:30am,

reaction time practice. Each member of

identity, as well as having the second

along with any engineering drawings or

Polaris took turns to discover who had

fastest reaction time overall. Unfortunately,

renderings. This process was one of the

the quickest reaction time. This was

WGS did not take home a trophy this time

most nerve racking due to the judges

important as during the race the reaction

but we learnt and absorbed invaluable

meticulously scrutinising our car against

time can make a significant difference in

knowledge to strengthen the teams for

the F1 in Schools’ regulations.

the total time for the car to finish its sprint.

future competitions.

21

Sports Round-Up A taste of the big time at Wembley

Mr Martin took over from Mr Mason who also recently celebrated his own 10 years

20 Year 9 students have been chosen

of service. We are incredibly grateful to

to represent the School as Ball Kids at

them both, and all the staff who have been

several major EFL Cup events taking

involved with DofE at WGS over the years.

place at Wembley Stadium over the coming months. This exciting opportunity comes courtesy of former professional footballer and Chair of the English Schools’ Football Association Council, Marvin Robinson (OW 1998).

around the pitch to minimise delays and keep the action moving. What a once-ina-lifetime opportunity!

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award As we approach the end of term, over 100 WGS students have spent a collective 2,015 hours undertaking physical activity towards the physical section of their Gold, Silver and Bronze awards since this time last year. From hours spent in the swimming pool to the hockey pitch, we are so proud of their dedication and efforts.

Students were selected for this

Congratulations to our DofE Leader,

prestigious opportunity based on their

Mr Martin, who recently celebrated a

commitment to football at WGS and

phenomenal 10 years of service to the Duke

knowledge of the game. The group have

of Edinburgh Award. Mr Martin’s dedication

been trained by the EFL to deliver the

has helped countless students achieve their

new multiple ball system, which involves

DofE goals, not only at WGS, but also at his

placing eight balls at strategic points

previous school, Beacon Hill Academy.

22

Junior Netball Festival On Tuesday 12th March we hosted the U11 2nds Netball Festival. Players received coaching and had the opportunity to play a number of short games against visiting schools: Prestfelde, Old Hall, Birchfield, Stafford and Hallfield. Great fun was had by all and special congratulations to those players that received the most improved and best teamwork awards!

Coast 2 Coast 2024 Meet our Coast 2 Coast team 2024!

Jack, Krish, Will, Sophia, Ella, Lily, James, Mia, Isla, Charlie and Daniel will be running the 170-mile relay from St Bees to Robin’s Hood Bay at the beginning of May half-term. The annual challenge which celebrated its 25th year last year has raised in excess of £100,000 over the years.

This year’s team have chosen to

Tournament Successes

support the eating disorder charity Beat. The first fundraiser took place

Congratulations to our U13 and U15

in the final week term with a samosa

Boys’ Indoor Cricket team for winning the

sale. Please do show your support by

South Staffordshire competition. They went on to represent South Staffordshire in the County Finals with the U13s being crowned County Champions. Well done!

visiting the Just Giving page: https:// Spring Fun Run Our annual fun run had a colourful make

www.justgiving.com/page/wgscoast2coast2024

over this year in celebration of the Hindu festival of Holi, which marks the arrival of spring and the end of winter. Junior and senior students and staff really entered into the spirit of the occasion and crossed the finishing line in a kaleidoscope of colour, a joyous way to welcome spring! The fastest boys and girls went home with an Easter egg treat.

In the final week of term the U13A Netballers gave an outstanding performance to win all their games convincingly and take the City crown.

Additionally the U13Bs performed fantastically, securing third place overall after narrowly losing the semi-final by just one goal. Congratulations also go to our U16s who came third in the City Tournament and the U14s who came second.

23

Urban Photography Competition We were delighted by the response to our first every Urban Photography Competition held this term. The idea was first mooted by former Head of Art, Emma Bowater, and taken on by her successor Christopher Taplin as one of his first projects at WGS. Last year, some of our WGS Artists were lucky enough to accompany artist Tom Hicks on one of his famous photo walks around Wolverhampton to capture their own unique urban images. Using his work as inspiration, students, parents, staff and OWs were invited to ‘submit a digital image that captures your urban environment’ and to explain briefly why their chosen image had been captured.

The competition and resulting exhibition were held in memory of Keith Powell (OW 1948). Keith who sadly passed in 2020, was a keen photographer and cine film maker. His family made a generous donation in his memory to fund a £1,000 Digital Arts Scholarship to be awarded to a Sixth Form leaver pursuing a related degree at university, the Keith Powell Prize for Digital Arts to be awarded at Senior Prizegiving, and £100 in prize money for the student winner of this year’s inaugural competition.

As part of the exhibition, it was also

24

wonderful to feature some poetry

Thank you to Tom Hicks who chose

inspired by the shortlisted photographs.

our winners and to Keith’s daughter,

Many thanks to Mr Payne for working

Elizabeth, who were both able to join

with his English students to create

us for the Exhibition. Well done to

these beautiful poetic illustrations.

everyone who submitted an entry and

All the entries were recorded in a

helped to create such a fabulous display;

commemorative catalogue which can be

congratulations to our winners and

viewed online.

runners-up.

The Independent Spring 2024

Student Winner Maxwell Jones

Highly Commended Ajeet Sumal

Highly Commended

Highly Commended

James Margetts

Elianna Botchway

Highly Commended Catherine Chung

OW Winner Richard Shortridge

Parent Winner Bhavna Abbi

Staff Winner Mark Blything

25

Musical Notes Year 6 pupils had the thrill of performing

Two highly successful Teatime Concerts

alongside a staggering 5,000 - 8,000

were held this term. The Junior Concert

other school children at the annual

was very well attended and delighted the

Young Voices Concert held at the

audience with a record 28 performances

Resorts World Arena, Birmingham.

including piano, trumpet, violin, flute,

Young Voices started in 1997 and has

xylophone and drum kit. The Recital

since become the largest children’s

Hall was at full capacity for the Senior

choir concert in the world, breaking

Teatime Concert involving students from

four Guinness world records. It was a

Year 7 up to Upper Sixth, many of whom

wonderful experience for all the children who were wowed by the sheer scale of the production and all the amazing professional artists that performed.

Willows set to the music of Elgar and included sections from Salut d’amour, La Capricieuse, Pomp and Circumstance No 1 and 4, Nimrod, Troyte, Serenade for Strings, Nursery Suite, Cello Concerto and Bavarian Dances. Mr Peters will be pleased to learn that the children recognised a few of the pieces because they had already heard him playing them!

Another Junior School highlight was the return of the Toscana Strings for a day of Music enrichment. The quintet all studied at the Birmingham Conservatoire and adapt stories to music. This year’s performance was Wind in the

26

were performing for the first time. Well done to all our musicians!

Another performance opportunity came

Over the course of the the Spring

with the Dudley Festival of Music. This

term 18 students were entered for the

year we entered 62 students across the

ABRSM, Trinity, Rock School and LCM

Junior and Senior Schools in a highly

examinations. Early congratulations

competitive competition held over two

go to: Sophie Adams (Violin, Grade 8

weekends in March. Congratulations to

Distinction), Olivia Woodall (Violin, Grade

our 34 prize winners, including 18 class

7 Distinction), Esha Dudrah and Charlotte

winners. Special mention must go to

Salmon (Musical Theatre, Grade 8 Merit)

Catherine Chung who won all three of her

and Summer Bloor (Musical Theatre,

vocal classes, competing against adult

Grade 7 Distinction). We wish our

vocalists in two of them. An impressive

remaining students good luck for their

haul of trophies came back to WGS!

forthcoming results.

Amongst the Class Winners, our Big Band received a Distinction and the following comments from their judge, “Playing had energy, real focus and a convincing performance – toe-tappingly good!”

At the end of term we awarded the prestigious Music Honours’ ties to Favour Apata, Esha Dudrah, Leah Gopal, Uttiyo Raychaudhuri, Dharam Sangha and Sophie Adams.

We also congratulate Ms Guidotti on her MA in Music Psychology in Education, Performance and Wellbeing. Ms Guidotti graduated in January after spending two years studying and researching how music affects human behaviour, emotions, cognition, and perception; deepening her understanding of the complex relationship between music and the human mind in a variety of settings.

The Spring Concert brought the term to a grand finale and entertained with exquisite performances. The evening featured solos from Catherine, Favour, Esha, Uttiyo and Dharam and a spectacular performance from David Osamudiamen as Hamilton, supported by the newly formed Musical Theatre Ensemble.

27

House Competitions were competitively fought over the Spring term across the Junior and Senior schools!

Summer Term Key Dates Tuesday 9th April Term begins for all students Saturday 27th April Year 5 Secondary School Discovery Day Thursday 2nd May New Year 7 Parents’ Evening

If you would like to hear more about anything featured in this edition of The Independent please contact the School email: marketing@wgs-sch.net Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road Wolverhampton WV3 9RB 01902 421326 www.wgs.org.uk @WGS1512 Wolverhampton Grammar School Official Wolverhampton Grammar School Wolverhampton Grammar School

Monday 5th May Bank Holiday (school closed) Monday 27th May to Friday 31st May Half-Term Thursday 20th June Sixth Form Open Evening Monday 8th July New Junior School Parents’ Evening Thursday 11th July Term ends (School finishes at 12.30pm) Support The Friends via online shopping: