The Independent Wolverhampton Grammar School Newsletter
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
The Right Honourable Stuart Lawrence, Patron of the Black Curriculum, encouraged us to be the best version of ourselves.
Winter 2023
ALSO IN THIS EDITION:
TOP 10 RANKING FOR ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE NEW STORY GARDEN OPENING INAUGURAL APPRENTICESHIPS EVENING ON TOUR IN SOUTH AFRICA
The Independent
Head’s Welcome As the term drew to a close, we were ranked by the Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2024 as one of the top 10 independent schools for academic performance in the West Midlands. Widely acknowledged as the most authoritative survey of the UK’s top schools, we were the only school in Wolverhampton to be highlighted. We were 8th in the region and 152nd nationally out of a pool of over 1,000 schools. The league table is based on this year’s GCSE and A Level results, as well as extra-curricular, pastoral and wellbeing provision. What a time then to have been offered
As you will read in this magazine, we have
It has been a busy term and the tiredness
the permanent headship of this amazing
had no shortage of OWs helping at Open
is now setting in! Please ensure your
school! Since my appointment as
Days, speaking at Careers events, running
children rest well over the Christmas
Acting Head on 1st September, it has
masterclasses, or simply dropping in for a
holidays and come back full of energy
been my privilege to lead WGS into the
cup of tea with our Development Team.
for the New Year. For those studying
new academic year. I have enjoyed the opportunity to meet and speak to parents and students, and I hope you have enjoyed my half-termly video updates. At the beginning of December, I was honoured to have been offered the permanent headship which I had no hesitation in accepting.
This term our students have been leading discussions on equity, diversity and inclusion. Our Diversity Champions
a good balance between study and enjoying the festivities.
have worked enthusiastically with staff
Thank you for your support this term.
to open discussion and debate and
I wish you a very Happy Christmas.
to encourage every individual to feel that they have an identity within our
Ahead of this, our Founder’s Day Service at
school community. Thank you to David,
St Peter’s Church was a poignant moment
Favour, and Kyla for leading our Black
for me, having attended many years ago
History Month assemblies in the senior
as a young Year 7 student. This time,
school, and to Mr Wood, Mrs Keeley
however, I was addressing you as the
and Mrs Abbi for raising awareness of
Acting Head, a moment which filled me
International Men’s Day, Disability History
with great pride. Back in the 16th century,
Month, World Mental Health Day, Diwali
WGS would have been small enough to fit
and much more. We have a wonderfully
on the gallery where some of our students
diverse community at WGS and we will
were seated. Fast-forward to the present
continue to talk to students about what
day and we find ourselves a successful
makes them happy and feel at home. Our
and much bigger school, spanning the
Senior House system plays an important
age range of 4 to 18 years. We will shortly
part in students’ sense of belonging
be celebrating 150 years since our move
and it has been wonderful to see the
from the city centre to Compton Road.
continued healthy competition, as well as
Do look out for further information about
House charity and social action projects
the celebrations, which will include a
take place.
fundraising campaign for future bursaries.
for mock examinations, do try and find
Nic Anderson Head
In our last edition, we mentioned that
Another source of pride for me is our links
the Merchant Taylors’ Foundation had
with my fellow Old Wulfrunians, some of
awarded us funding for three new
whom I have taught and others who were
projects. Along with WGS students, 242
at school with me or before. I believe we
students from eight local schools have
are quite unique in the frequency with
already benefited from new events this
which former students and staff return to
term organised by the Jenyns Library,
school to give back to current students.
Wellbeing and Careers Departments.
www.wgs.org.uk
Celebrating top grades This year the much-publicised return to
A week after celebrating A Level results
82 students sat GCSEs in 19 different
pre-pandemic grading was predicted to
it was the turn of our Year 11 students to
subjects including Drama, Computer
reduce the number of students achieving
rejoice as WGS once again defied national
Science, Design Technology and
the very best grades at A Level and GCSE.
trends. 83% of the cohort were awarded a
Business, alongside the usual
Not so at WGS!
bumper crop of top GCSE grades 9 – 6 (A*-
combination of Sciences, English and
B). The number of students achieving the
Maths. The percentage of the cohort
very best 9 – 7 grades (A*/A equivalent)
achieving 9s and 8s was also up 9% on
was up by 15% on 2019. Two students
pre-covid results, as well as over one
achieved a fantastic 11 straight 9s and
third of students coming away with nine
nine students got 10 or 11 9s and 8s each.
or more grade 7s and above.
Wolverhampton Grammar School clearly bucked the national trend with a stellar crop of results which put a smile on everyone’s face. Speculation was rife that the move to bring back pre-Covid grade distributions would affect grades
Head, Nic Anderson proudly commented,
negatively across the country but in fact
“Our students undoubtedly still feel the
the percentage of Upper Sixth students at
effects of the lockdown years but at
WGS awarded with the top A* to A grades
WGS we have ensured that there has
was 46% of this year’s cohort, up 13% on
been no lost learning and that students
2019 gradings.
have been fully prepared for the return
An impressive 19% of students this year were awarded an A* with five students achieving straight A*s. Two of these were awarded a remarkable four
to formal examinations. Our A Level and GCSE results are up significantly on prepandemic levels, and we are extremely proud of all our students.
straight A* grades and secured their
We offer a real breadth of subjects at
places to study Maths and Engineering
WGS which continues into our Sixth Form
at Oxford University. All students
with over 20 A Levels and 2 Cambridge
studying the vocational Cambridge
Technicals. We look forward to welcoming
Technicals achieved a Merit or higher.
our GCSE students into our thriving Sixth
We congratulate all our Sixth Formers on
Form and continuing their onward journey
their outstanding results at A Level and
to higher education or the workplace. We
Cambridge Technical. 100% of students
say a fond farewell to the Class of 2023 but
also achieved A* - B in their Extended
we look forward to inviting them back to
Project Qualification (EPQ).
School and following their future progress.”
3
The Bennett Story Garden was established
We were delighted to welcome children’s
Going forward the aim of the story garden
by Mrs Rowley, Head Librarian, thanks
author and friend of Carrie, Kate Innes, to
is to provide the WGS community with an
to a generous grant from the Merchant
the Opening. Kate led a creative writing
outdoor space where visitors can immerse
Taylors’ Foundation. In memory of our
workshop for students in Year 3 to inspire
themselves in the world of literature. For
much-loved colleague, Carrie Bennett, the
them to create a story themed around
students and staff who wish to read or
story garden was opened by members of
nature, Year 3 were also introduced
enjoy time for quiet contemplation away
her family on 28th September 2023.
to a hedgehog, an owl and a frog in a
from the hustle and bustle of everyday
workshop with the Animal Man. By the end
school life, The Bennett Story Garden will
of the day, children left enthused to create
act as an extension of the Jenyns Library.
Carrie was Director of Marketing and Communications at Wolverhampton Grammar School from 2014 to 2021. She sadly lost her battle against cancer just before Christmas last year at the
their own stories and inspired to look at ways to make their own gardens more wildlife friendly.
age of 49. Not only did Carrie lead an effective Marketing Team, she was also heavily involved in school life, running extra-curricular clubs to share her passion for debating, public speaking and gardening. The literary garden fittingly remembers her passion for reading, gardening and wellbeing.
In a new gardening-based book club, children from Years 3 to Upper Sixth are working with Mrs Rowley to select plants, seeds and other features linked to children’s literature to be showcased in the garden. This unique space incorporates a QR code system enabling staff, students and visitors to listen to book excerpts read by our students whilst visiting the garden. A competition has been running this term to write a story for inclusion in the garden: https://wgs.org.uk/the-bennett-story-garden
4
The Independent Summer 2023
Future plans include inviting local primary and secondary schools to visit The Bennett Story Garden for experiential workshops that bring reading for pleasure to life. A Just Giving page is running to seek further funding to enable us to purchase additional items for the garden, including sensory elements to support students with SEND or ECHP profiles. You can still support by visiting: https://www.justgiving.com/ page/the-bennett-story-garden
Story Garden hosts Christmas Book Show On Monday, 18th December, we delivered a Christmas Book Show to children from Reception to Year 2. During the event, children took part in an interactive story and craft session themed around the book, The Robin Who Stole Christmas. After meeting Rotten the Robin in our Jenyns Library, children visited The Bennett Story Garden, where they took part in a treasure hunt linked to the book. Finally, children were challenged to paint a bird house for Rotten the Robin. Everyone left the event inspired to read for pleasure and with a greater appreciation for enjoying outdoor spaces in all seasons.
5
Spotlight on Jenyns This Autumn term we have been lucky to
launch its sequel, The Secret of the Blood-
witness a number of acclaimed authors
Red Key. Students in Years 5 and 7 were
step onto the Big School stage, including
joined by St Peter’s, Beacon Hill Academy
Katie Kirby, Gary Northfield, David Farr,
and Pool Hayes Academy to hear David
Sathnam Sanghera (OW 1995), BREIS,
read from both of his books. David gave
the Right Honourable Stuart Lawrence,
some excellent creative writing advice and
Derek Keilty and Steve Cole.
challenged his audience to come up with an original sentence starter.
Katie Kirby, the best-selling author of the hilarious Lottie Brooks series of books, was our first author event of the academic year. Year 6 students at WGS were joined by Christ Church Junior School, Goldthorn Primary, Merridale Primary and Perton Middle School in meeting Katie as she introduced her latest book, Lottie Brooks’s Totally Disastrous School-Trip.
Years 3 and 4 and students from St Bartholomew’s and Bantock Park Primary met Gary Northfield, the author and illustrator of the acclaimed Julius Zebra book series. Gary encouraged budding cartoonists in the audience to create their own comics to share with friends and family, and brought Norse mythology to life with a superb draw-along.
Sathnam Sanghera, Old Wulfrunian and former Head Boy in the 1990s, shared his first foray into children’s books, Stolen History, with Year 8 students. Sathnam’s interactive event was both informative and humorous, and all students in attendance, including those from Highfields, Pool Hayes Academy and
6
David Farr, author of the fantastic The
St Peter’s, left curious to learn more
Book of Stolen Dreams, returned to WGS to
about Britain’s imperial past.
The Independent Summer 2023
National Poetry Day We were privileged to welcome back hip hop educator and poet BREIS to join us in celebrating National Poetry Day 2023. Breis led some exciting hip hop and poetry workshops for students in Years 4 and 8, and was then joined by Mr Payne in judging our Poetry Live Final. This saw students in Years 6 - 13 from schools across Wolverhampton produce original poems on the theme of ‘Uniquely Me’. Twenty students from WGS and Codsall High School were chosen to perform their poems in Big School to friends and family. Many congratulations go to Ollie (Y6), Noah (Y7) and Ammar (Y9) for their winning poems.
The Right Honorable Stuart Lawrence, author, consultant and motivational speaker, visited us during Black History Month to talk to students in Years 6 - 10, along with a dozen local state schools. Whilst touching on the tragic murder of his brother, Stephen, in 1993, Stuart’s talks empowered his audience to go out and change the world by becoming better people one day at a time. Stuart talked about his two books, Growing Up Black in Britain and Find Your Voice and Be Your Best Self: Silence is not an Option, both of which contain many inspirational life lessons for our students.
Bestselling author, Steve Cole, launched his latest book series, Prey Zone, to Year 7 students. Steve spoke passionately to students from WGS, Pool Hayes Academy, Highfields School and Beacon Hill Academy about his journey to becoming a writer. As part of the event, Steve guided students on a virtual journey through the wildlife of South Africa before engaging them in a fun and interactive word building workshop.
Derek Keilty brought Halloween to life during half-term. He was joined by students in Years 1, 2 and 3 and their families. Derek’s fun event was a great hit with WGS students as well as our visitors from Penn Fields School and Westfield Community Primary School. His fantastic magic show was a particular highlight.
The Discover Reading Project
The Discover Reading project has proven so successful in enhancing
During the past twelve months, families
literacy skills and a love of reading that
from Merridale Primary School and
it is being re-launched with a new group
Caldmore Primary Academy have
of families from local state schools.
taken part in a range of interactive sessions designed to boost literacy skills and inspire reading for pleasure. The Discover Reading Project has been expertly supported by a trained group of Sixth Form students.
It was a pleasure to welcome these families back to the Jenyns Library for their final event. Families enjoyed a storytime and rhyming pumpkin craft activity, themed around We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt by Martha Mumford. In order to bring this book to life, the Animal Man also introduced our guests to several of the animals featured in the story, which included an owl, a hedgehog and a toad.
7
King Edward’s School in Edgbaston and Wolverhampton Grammar School came together to run the Two Cities Book Award for the second year running. Aimed at inspiring young people aged 14 – 18 to read for pleasure, this year’s shortlisted titles were: • When Shadows Fall by Sita Brahmachari (Little Tiger) • Fight Back by A.M. Dassu (Scholastic) • Twin Crowns by Catherine Doyle and Katherine Webber (HarperCollins) • The Last Whale by Chris Vick (Bloomsbury)
At the Award Ceremony hosted by WGS in partnership with Authors Aloud UK, the shortlisted authors were invited to deliver presentations to young people from WGS, Pool Hayes Academy, Codsall Community High School, St Peter’s Collegiate Academy, Beacon Hill Academy, King Edward’s School, Camp Hill School for Girls and King Edward’s High School. In addition, this year’s Birmingham Young Poet Laureate and West Midlands BBC Young
Congratulations to A.M. Dassu, our
Reporter winner each gave a presentation.
2023 winner.
BBC Young Reporter A group of Sixth Form students who are part of our BBC Young Reporter Club were invited to the Midlands Art Centre in Birmingham to share their views and experiences linked to being a teenager in 2023, as part of the 5Live Teen Summit. Our students began their day on 5Live Breakfast with presenter Rachel Burden. They spoke passionately about future career prospects, family life and Internet safety. Two of our students, Jaipal and Luke, also shared their experiences of becoming the regional winners of the BBC Young Reporter Competition. Following their radio show, our students joined conversations taking place with teenagers from across Birmingham on Nicky Campbell’s Show. Well done to Jaipal, Luke, Harry, Taran and Andrew for their fantastic contribution to the 5LIVE Teen 23 Summit. BBC Young Reporter Club has continued to meet weekly with students honing their reporting skills and deciding which topics they feel passionate about. Topics this year include raising awareness of retinitis pigmentosa, the dangers of space debris and the benefits of doing ballet. To support research linked to these topics, BBC Young Reporter Club undertook a special visit to see the Space Agency site at Harwell on 15th December.
8
As part of their visit students toured a satellite clean room, where they met key members of staff who are working to develop space hardware designed to capture space debris. Students have also conducted several interviews this term to support their video reports. Thank you to Miss Manning, Bob and his guide dog, Tom, and all the team at the Space Agency for volunteering to be interviewed by our BBC Young Reporters. We look forward to seeing their final video entries in March 2024.
The Independent Summer 2023
Lest We Forget This Remembrance, Mr David, Head of
Auncre. His body was never recovered
History, led a thought-provoking assembly
but his name is inscribed on the Thiepval
which drew upon his research into his own
Memorial. He was awarded the 1915 Star,
family connections with the Great War. It
the War Medal, and the Victory Medal.
was in fact Mr David’s great, great, great uncle, a man called Alfred Leete, who created the infamous propaganda image
Alfred Ernest Bendall, during the Year 10
of Lord Kitchener, the Secretary of State
Battlefields Trip in July, led by Mr David.
for War. The image appeared on posters
To read more about our WGS fallen,
which successfully encouraged around
please visit our First World War Memorial
2.5 million men to volunteer to go to war
website: https://wgs.cook.websds.net/.
for their country.
As well as paying our respects in School,
Mr David also discovered on his mother’s side a man called Michael Kelly, his great, great uncle. Michael joined 6th (Service) Battalion, of the Yorkshire Regiment, the Green Howards. Michael moved to Belton Park, a training camp near Grantham and in April 1915 moved to Witley Camp in Surrey where the Division was inspected on the 1st May by the King and Lord Kitchener himself.
our Head boy and Head girl visited the Students were encouraged to ask their
Cenotaph in Wolverhampton with Mr
relatives whether any of their own
Anderson. George’s recitation of The Soldier
ancestors had fought in WWI. They were
by Rupert Brooke allowed for a poignant
also reminded that as members of the
moment of reflection. The poem written
WGS community, we are all connected
in the first year of the First World War
to the 102 former teachers and pupils
captures the spirit of a young soldier who
who fought and gave their lives for us.
gives his life for his country. Its message
The memorial boards in Big School serve
of patriotism and sacrifice resonates
Michael sadly lost his life at the Battle
to remind us of their huge sacrifice.
deeply during the time of remembrance.
of the Somme whilst attacking German
Wreaths were laid at the graves of two of
Izzy then laid a wreath on behalf of all at
entrenched positions along the River
these OWs, Frank Rhodes Armitage and
Wolverhampton Grammar School.
Founder’s Day On Friday 20th October we gathered
of London three years before he founded
at St Peter’s Church for our annual
Wolverhampton Grammar School, (the
celebration of the founding of
same year as King Henry VIII’s coronation).
Wolverhampton Grammar School by Sir Stephen Jenyns in 1512.
Wolverhampton Grammar School is the
fees and funding wellbeing, careers
second oldest of the current group of
and literacy outreach projects.
Sir Stephen Jenyns was born in
25 Merchant Taylors’ Schools. These
Wolverhampton c.1450. Beginning his
schools were all founded by members of
career as a wool merchant, he moved
the Company and have been supported
to London to join the Merchant Taylors’
over many years. To this day WGS is
Company, where he was elected Master
supported through educational grants
in 1489. Jenyns was elected Lord Mayor
which include support for a student with
To mark the 500th anniversary of Sir Stephen’s death on 6th May 1523, School Archivist and former Maths teacher, Dr Chris O’Brien, has produced an account of his life, that draws on a wider range of sources than were available to Gerald Mander when he wrote The History of the Wolverhampton Grammar School, which was published in 1913. This can be read here: https://issuu. com/wolverhamptongrammarschool/ docs/sir_stephen_jenyns_
9
CEIAG Over the last year Miss Kailey, Head
lessons they challenged the gender
of Careers, has been working hard to
stereotypes of those working in Green
embed our CEIAG programme (Careers
“I never would have considered a
roles, as well as learning about the
Education, Information, Advice and
career in IT if it wasn’t for this trip.
different career routes including Higher
Guidance). Our CEIAG programme meets
I didn’t think it was for me. After
Education and Apprenticeships.
all the Gatsby benchmarks and fulfils the
visiting the company, I am now
CDI criteria for career development. We
interested in working towards a
are also proud to be working towards the
career in IT, technology or business.”
Quality in Careers Standard.
Davina
Thanks to generous funding from the Merchant Taylors’ Foundation we are extending our careers education to the local community. Several schools have participated in events organised for WGS students and the funding has enabled us to offer additional opportunities to all students.
a local Technology Management company. 16 WGS students in Year 9 were joined by 13 students from Smestow Academy and to explore roles in IT and Tech, learn about the history of women’s achievements
The first partnership event was a ‘Girls in
in IT, and network with a variety of
Tech’ event in conjunction with Tecman,
professionals. They enjoyed a workplace tour and discussed why a career in IT would be a good pathway to choose.
10
Following on from a successful visit last October, we returned to Sky Studios in London. 32 Year 8 students had an
During Green Careers Week, a national
insightful day exploring careers in TV
initiative aimed at raising awareness
and broadcasting. They also learnt
about professional opportunities within
about Sky’s commitment to Net Zero
the ‘Green’ sector. Year 8 immersed
and created their own short films about
themselves in looking at the wealth
climate change. The group were excited
of roles that contribute towards
to catch up with Jonathan Parker (OW
sustainability and the preservation of
2005) who spoke about his role as Head
our environment. As part of their Aspire
of Documentary Development at Sky.
The Independent Summer 2023
Our students discovered that international travel can be a fantastic benefit of a career “I enjoyed hearing about the different
in engineering. Most of our returning OWs
job roles with Sky. There is more
are employed by global companies which
to a career in the Digital and Media
offers them opportunities to work with
industry than just the presenting or
teams in other countries, as well as visits
the filming side of things. I also loved
to overseas branches.
using Sky’s filming equipment to make a short news report on Climate Change. We learnt how to use a
Keynote speeches were given by
green screen.”
Warwick University, a leading provider of degree apprenticeships, Jemima Cooke
Louis
(OW 2018) who was amongst the first WGS students to complete a degree apprenticeship, and Ben Ward (OW 2021) who is currently at the beginning of his
We were delighted to welcome six more
degree apprenticeship journey with PwC,
OWs to a Careers in Engineering event
whilst studying at Birmingham University.
organised by Head of D&T, Mr O’Malley.
Afterwards, there was the opportunity to
Students from St. Edmund’s School and Smestow Academy and our GCSE and A Level D&T students were able to find out more about a range of engineering careers, from injection moulding to automotive engineering including vehicle crash testing, hawk-eye technology and heat interface units.
Our six returning OWs were able to speak from a diverse background in engineering, as well as sharing the perspective of being a female in what is still quite a heavily
network with apprenticeship providers in a multitude of sectors, including; Finance, Law, Real Estate, Armed Forces, Engineering, IT and Tech.
male-dominated workplace. Many thanks to John Crawford (OW 2014), Fran Hopson (OW 2016), Holly Langston (OW 2017) Anna Herritty, Mike Hopson and Mitchell Porter-Keel (OWs 2018). Our students’ interest in apprenticeships has been growing year on year, and our inaugural Apprenticeships Information Evening held on 29th November, allowed over 100 of our students and parents to obtain information, advice and guidance from current apprenticeships providers.
Huge thanks to all our industry partners who attended to share their expertise and to our OWs Jemima and Ben, who were also joined by Mike Round (OW 2006), Abacus Wealth Services, Oliver Unitt (OW 2014), Deloitte, and Max Rumble (OW 2017), currently at Savills.
11
Work Experience Life as a Vet Since I was little, I’ve always had a dream of becoming a Vet. I would take my pets to the veterinary practice and was inspired by how the Vets not only helped the animals but helped the owner in looking after their pets at home. WGS has provided me with plentiful careers support to achieve my ambition. In Year 11, I had my 1:1 career advice and guidance meeting, which aided my decision making for my A Level options. I am now studying Biology, Chemistry and English Literature. In Year 12, I have already received extensive Higher Education advice with regards to making a successful university application for Veterinary. With the help of WGS, I have completed two useful work placements. At Vets4Pets, a local veterinary practice, my duties included shadowing veterinary nurses and surgeons as they carried out roles from consultations to surgeries in theatre. My second placement was on a dairy farm where my duties included milking cows twice a day, helping the cows with calving, aiding Tuberculosis injections, and learning about artificial insemination
in cattle. My favourite of these experiences was helping and watching the cows calve, as after learning about the origins of the calf by artificial insemination, it was amazing to see the beautiful result. These experiences have reassured me that the Veterinary profession is definitely right for me. I have also learnt about the diverse range of roles within the veterinary profession. Vets can specialise in small animal care, large animal care, zoo animal care and much more. Following my experience, I am aspiring to specialise in large animal care. Sophie
A career in Geography Whilst I don’t have a specific career aspiration, I know that I would like to have a role that involves Geography. All types of careers in Geography appeal to me, including the renewable energy sector, humanitarian development and geopolitics to name a few. From working on establishing new green energy infrastructures, to being on the UN panel, my potential career possibilities are quite broad. Working towards my future career, I’ve had regular 1:1 advice and guidance from our in-house careers adviser (a fellow geographer), as well as 1:1 support from the Sixth Form team and my Form Tutor. I have applied to study Geography at university. I have already received offers from Sheffield, York and Birmingham, but I am hoping to secure an offer at Cambridge. Using the Careers Department’s work experience bank, I have completed two Geography-related placements. My first placement was at Atkins Global during Activities week in the Lower Sixth. Atkins Global is a world leading design, engineering and project management organisation. I was immersed in exploring the various departments of the organisation. My favourite department was land planning because it was fascinating to see how they surveyed the Birmingham area to plan the new route for the tram system.
12
My second work experience was at Balfour Beatty Living places, which I have just completed. This company specialises in highways maintenance, street lighting and public realms services. I shadowed different teams within the company, both in the office and off site. I also completed the Bronze Industrial Cadets Award at this placement. This involved writing a 1500word presentation on the flood defences at Ironbridge – one of the sites that Balfour Beatty are responsible for. All of the careers support I’ve had so far has been incredibly helpful in giving me an insight into the working world. It has also enabled me to delve further into my favourite subject and experience it in the real world. David
The Independent Summer 2023
Junior Houses Congratulations to our Junior House
Then followed the House Timetables
Captains: Evelyn, Amara, Annie, Aarav,
Rockstar, House Poetry, Bake Off and
Willow, Harry G, Hattie and Dylan, who
House Diwali and lastly the House hockey
were elected earlier this term. They
fixtures. Well done to all the children who
will hold office until Spring half term
put themselves forward to represent
and have been leading and motivating
their Houses and and showed wonderful
their respective House teams: Attwood,
sportsmanship.
Barnes, Campbell and Derry, through a number of competitions. The first event was a fiercely contested House Tug of war. Blessed with glorious sunshine, parents came to lend their support as teeth were gritted and the children gave their all to pull the rope towards them.
The House points at the end of term were: Attwood 36 Derry 46 Campbell 47 This term’s winners are Barnes with 51 points. Congratulations!
13
Senior Houses “Our House has the core values of community, kindness and respect.” Ryan and Catherine, Offley
“We have great team spirit demonstrated through our three core values: togetherness, empathy and respect.” Dan and Keira, Nechells
“We are currently the reigning House champions and have a real House family spirit – and of course we have the fabulous Ninja turtle as our mascot!” Favour and Jaipal, Moreton
“We are named after our founder which makes us extra special! We celebrate all our achievements and are good all-rounders at sport, music and the arts.” James and Rebecca, Jenyns
14
The Independent Summer 2023
Great House spirit was shown at our events this term. These included: Tug of war, Ready Steady Cook, Apple Bobbing, House Poetry, House Shout and sporting fixtures. The competition was so close that two houses tied for first place. Congratulations to our joint winners for Autumn 2023 – Offley and Nechells!
15
International Trips South Africa Sports Tour Twenty-one years to the date of the first ever WGS South Africa Tour, 50 students and eight members of staff assembled on the steps of Big School, ready to embark on an exciting 5640-mile adventure across the world. Not since 2003 had WGS ventured as far as South Africa for a sports tour but it was to prove to be one
fantastic fun. The boys competed
of the most memorable and thoroughly
A highlight for many was the visit to Langa
excellently, winning and losing some tight,
rewarding experiences for all.
Township, one of South Africa’s oldest
well-fought football games. On the netball
townships. The students toured round and
and hockey front, both sides won most
saw a different side to what living in South
of their games and we were truly thankful
Africa can be, as well as undertaking
to the schools who hosted us for their
some coaching with local school children.
generous and kind-hearted welcome.
Many of the tour group wished they were
Accompanying the sport was a rich tapestry of South African culture and the tour group took in many memorable
able to spend longer with the local children and look back fondly on the experience as one of the most memorable.
sites: Robben Island opened the eyes of the students and reminded them of the sacrifice Nelson Mandela made in fighting
“Exploring Langa, which is the oldest
South Africa welcomed us with open arms
for equality; Table Mountain provided
township in Cape Town, was a truly
and the hospitality and warmth shown by
striking views and a reminder of how
fascinating and educational experience
those we encountered endeared the tour
powerful Mother Nature can be, whilst the
and one I will never forget.”
party to the ‘Safa’ charm. The sporting
V&A Waterfront enabled students to shop,
encounters were competitive, hard-fought,
eat and socialise in a safe but scenic
evenly matched and most importantly,
environment at the foot of Table Mountain.
16
Edward (U6)
The Independent Summer 2023
Heading north to Johannesburg and Bela Bela, the tour group headed out on safari. Tasting the unique luxury of the African bushveld at Mabula Game lodge, the 4x4 vehicles allowed us to get up close and personal with the wonder of the African bush: lions, hippos, elephants, antelope and more, the safari experience was one the students and staff will never forget. Sundowner drinks with the African sunset fading behind us, only metres away from wildlife; memories that cannot ever be taken away.
But, as ever, all good things come to an end and as the tour group visited
scenes ensuring everything was as it
the Winnie Mabaso Foundation
needed to be, the Sports Department’s
on the final day of the tour, the
first venture outside of Europe for well
students saw the impact that their
over a decade was, without a doubt,
month-long fundraising would
worth every minute of the preparation
have. Handing over a cheque
and hard work. Thank you to the students
for over £4000 and seeing the
for their impeccable behaviour and to my
genuine appreciation in the eyes
fellow colleagues, Dr Pounder, Mr Jones,
of the women and children was a
Mr Villafrati, Mrs Powell, Mrs Dyer, Miss
stand-out moment.
Jones and Miss Gibbons. South Africa
Two years in the planning, hours and hours spent behind the
was incredible and we can’t wait to return! Mr Clancy, Tour Leader.
17
Battlefields Trip Charlotte, Nathan, Natasha and Simran recall their experience and memorable moments... Sunday began with an early start at school and a long journey to Belgium, we arrived at our hotel in the centre of Ypres on Sunday afternoon. Before long we had already gathered again to enjoy the music that would begin the march to the Menin Gate to carry out the daily Last Post ceremony. We then walked as a group to this hugely symbolic landmark, giving us chance to reflect on its powerful meaning, which our tour guide explained.
We spent Tuesday studying the Battle
boarded the coach to take us to Tyne Cot
of the Somme in France. We visited the
British Cemetery. When we arrived we
Indian Memorial at Neuve-Chappelle and
were welcomed with a warm sense of
the Ayette Indian and Chinese cemetery
a British country garden and everything
and we learnt about the soldiers that had
looked so well kept and peaceful. We
given their lives for the British Empire.
were surrounded by colourful flowers and
Our guide led us on a journey to retrace
the white clear marble head stones of
the path of the Tyneside Scottish and
the commemorated soldiers. Afterwards
Irish regiments of the 34th Division on 1st
we went to the Passchendaele Museum
July 1916. Here we gained a sense of the
and we got to experience what it was like
reality of what the brave soldiers had to go
going into the trenches and we saw how
through. We learned about the first day of
the soldiers dressed and the weapons
the Somme, Kitchener’s army, as well as
they carried.
the military disaster that happened here. We stopped for a lunch break at the Ulster Tower Café, before continuing our tour to Thiepval. It was here that we laid a wreath to an Old Wulfrunian who died in the war: Alfred Bendall.
Monday was our first full day venturing out in Belgium. It was an early start, but we were all excited for the day ahead of us. First we stopped off at the Bayernwald German Trenches which gave us an insight into how the Germans developed and constructed trenches differently to the British. An hour later we arrived at Spanbroekmolen Crater which is the site of the largest of 19 mines blown by the British Army on 7th June 1917. This crater today is filled with water, so passersby may just see a simple lake, yet it is actually the effect of a horrific, but effective, military strategy. Later that day we walked to Menin Gate where the daily act of Remembrance
On the last day we first woke up at
takes place, including a two-minute
7:30am and had a lovely breakfast.
silence and the playing of The Last Post.
We then checked out of the hotel and
18
The Independent Summer 2023
Berlin Trip 39 students visited Berlin during October half-term. The trip encompassed two parts of the curriculum, with one group focused on history and another one looking at art. The historians led by Mr Mason, Mr Taylor and Mr Jeavons were fascinated to learn more about Berlin’s past. They visited a Stasi prison camp and were moved by a personal recount from their tour guide. They also explored a World War II bunker. At the Jewish museum they viewed plentiful historical artefacts and a visit to the Topography of Terror informed them
Our WGS artists led by Mrs Waddell and
about the central institutions of the SS
Mrs Harris enjoyed visiting stunning
and police in the ‘Third Reich’, as well as
museums including the C/O Berlin
the crimes committed by them throughout
photography museum, the Hamburger
Europe. They also visited the Palace of
Bahnhof contemporary art museum,
Tears (Tränenpalast) which is the former
the medical museum based at the
train station and a crossing place between
world-famous Berlin Charité hospital,
East and West Germany. Citizens from the
and the computer games museum
west part of the country were allowed to
(Computerspielemuseum).
travel and this was the place where they said their goodbyes to their friends and family in the east. In 2011, an exhibition was set up, explaining the consequences and the daily life of those who were affected by this event in history.
Both groups enjoyed a full cultural experience around the many sights of Berlin, including the Jewish memorial, Brandenburg Gate, the stunning Reichstag building and the East Side Gallery, which is an open-air gallery of famous street art murals painted along the longest surviving
“It was such a fun learning experience
stretch of the Berlin Wall
for me! From seeing the gorgeous
With accommodation just a short
Reichstag building, both groups loved
10-minute walk from the underground
having moments together when
our students enjoyed navigating the city
seeing the splendid architecture and
like residents and sampling a wonderful
food Berlin had to offer.”
selection of German food. Many memories were made, and friendships
Brandenburg Gate to the stunning
Priya
forged across the different year groups.
19
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion We recently asked ourselves if our
Our Staff and Student EDI Champions
We have also launched Student Voice,
staff and students were leaving a part
have been working together to explore
run by a group of Sixth Form students
of their identities at the school gates.
how we may improve the visibility of
who meet with advocates from every
Commissioning Staff and Student
every member of the School community,
form group to discuss themes and issues
Belonging surveys helped to give voice
resulting in a diverse range of activities
relevant to our students. We also hope
to every member of our community,
and events (masterminded by our
to launch some “Big Conversations”
enabling us to make sure everyone is
committed and caring students) that
during the course of this academic year,
both seen and heard. Students and staff
acknowledge and celebrate our unique
where students come together to discuss
came together to draw up the following
characteristics, cultures and backgrounds.
the issues related to the nine protected
values statement:
characteristics that they all learn about in their Wellbeing lessons. The idea
“WGS is an inclusive and inspiring
behind this is to talk more openly about
community built on individuality,
the difficulties people face and to
respect, equity and kindness.”
explore ways we can be more accepting, understanding, and supportive. We celebrated the theme ‘Mental health is a universal human right’ with wellness activities and wore green accessories in support of World Mental Health Day.
This term our Diversity Champions and staff have been busy leading celebrations which have included: Yom Kippur, Black History Month, Dyslexia Awareness Week, World Mental Health Day, World Sight Day, Diwali, Disability History Month, International Men’s Day and Christmas.
20
The Independent Summer 2023
Some of our male teachers and Head boy, George, shared their views on mental health, toxic masculinity and being a positive male role model in an interview with our Diversity Champions to mark International Men’s Day. Year 7 were privileged to welcome Nath
We celebrated Diwali with a saree dressing-up session in Big School and a House competition to make tea lights. Junior School transformed their playground into a vibrant canvas of rangoli patterns.
Fernandes who delivered an inspiring and interactive Wellbeing session. Nath was born with Cerebral Palsy affecting his speech and limbs and he aims to challenge perceptions about impairment and disability.
Anti-Bullying Week Thank you to Georgie and Shaun from Loudmouth Theatre for helping us to ‘Make a Noise About Bullying’. Year 8 were captivated by their powerful and engaging workshop which explored different types of bullying and explored strategies for coping and preventing bullying. Students were able to pose questions to both actors whilst they were still in character, which really helped our students to empathise with the situation and to be able to speak more freely.
21
Black History Month We were privileged to welcome The Right
other people how he wants to be treated –
Honourable Stuart Lawrence to WGS
make sure you’re super polite, make sure
during Black History Month. Stuart is the
you’re super friendly to everyone.
brother of Stephen Lawrence who was
Arjun: What advice would you offer to a
tragically murdered as a result of a racist
young person who is facing discrimination?
attack in London in 1993.
Stuart: Sometimes you can deal with it
As Patron of the Black Curriculum, Stuart’s
by yourself and you can speak up and
main goal is to equip young people with
advocate, but sometimes it can be quite
the mindset to believe and achieve what they want in life, no matter the challenges many of them may face due to factors including ethnicity and religion. Through knowledge, self-worth, determination and unity, Stuart believes our young people have the power to push for change in
difficult. There’s lots of ways to deal with Our Diversity Champions had the honour
problems. There’s a top-down approach
of interviewing Stuart and discussing the
and a bottom-up approach, and, if both
legacy they want to leave behind at WGS
are working together then we can meet
to ensure their progress, like Stuart’s, lasts
in the middle and find better solutions
a lifetime.
and outcomes.
Here is an extract from the interview:
So I would definitely say try to stand up for
Arjun: As a father what do you hope your child will be able to say in the years to come about being a young black person in Britain? Stuart: I try not to drill down too much on
yourself, but I don’t believe we should hit out and be violent towards people; violence will only promote more violence. We are all articulate enough to be able to speak and say how we are feeling and how other people make us feel. If you’re not able to,
colour or ethnicity, or where you’re situated, because I feel sometimes that can develop our society. Stuart spent the morning
into an attitude or a mindset. I don’t want
speaking to WGS students and visiting
him to have a complex or that negativity,
students from Codsall High and Smestow
or a ‘chip on the shoulder’ attitude. I am
Academy, encouraging them to be the
always encouraging him to be a good, kind
best version of themselves.
person, to work his hardest, and to treat
22
The Independent Summer 2023
go and find someone you can trust and say,
Stuart: Yes 100%. Your headmaster can
“this has happened to me, how do I deal
come and do an assembly, that has one
with it, can you help me deal with this?” I
sort of effect, but as pupils, a pupil voice,
really believe that a problem shared is a
that’s what I was talking about before, top
problem solved.
down, bottom up, then you’re meeting in
Stuart: What is the one legacy, especially to all the Year 13 students, that you would like to leave behind?
the middle – that’s beautiful because your peers will listen to you more than they listen to adults. Junior School children had a dedicated
Favour: Joining in Year 7 being one of the
Black History Day during which Year 4
only black girls in the school I wasn’t sure
explored the challenges and triumphs
about fitting in but, now I’ve gone through
of the Windrush Generation. Meanwhile,
the school and I’ve seen how the school
Year 5 were researching black inventors
reacted to the whole inclusion talk, I want
like Garrett Morgan and learning about
younger people to know that they can be
their ground-breaking discoveries that
open, that they can talk to other people,
changed the world.
whether they’re the same race or not. Just leaving and knowing that they are comfortable in their own skin is going to be something I’d be happy to see.
Other Black History Month activities included a themed lunch with Nigerian
Kyla: When we were in our younger years,
beef stew and Jollof rice, provided by
there wasn’t a way that students could
our wonderful Holroyd Howe catering
show that they are proud of their heritage.
team, and inspirational and informative
When we were doing the BHM assembly
assemblies delivered by Sixth Form
we could see that children were smiling
students Favour, David, and Kyla.
and we want to keep that as a tradition.
23
Sports Round-Up During the first week of term we were
In Hockey, the U18 and U14 girls
thrilled to welcome England Hockey
achieved second place in the County
Player, Nick Bandurak (OW 2011), back
tournament and qualified for the
to WGS. Nick brought along his bronze
Midlands zone tier 2 competition where
medal from the 2022 Commonwealth
they were placed third overall. The U16
Games and kindly gifted a signed England
girls just missed out on the Midlands,
shirt to Mr Anderson which is now proudly
coming third in their County tournament.
on display in the Sports Hall! Students
Well done girls and good luck to the boys
were able to benefit from a fantastic
who will compete in January.
coaching session with Nick. The U16 netballers finished third in the City tournament and competed in the county rounds in November.
The U12 and U13 boys are through to Congratulations to our U19 netballers
the quarter finals of the City Cup and
who were crowned City Champions and
remain in the third round of the ESFA Cup.
went on to win the County tournament.
Congratulations to the U16 girls’ futsal
We wish them the best of luck for the
team (pictured above) who were runners
regionals in January.
up at the recent City tournament.
24
The Independent Summer 2023
Another talented karate champion is Asiya in Year 4 who represented England at a recent competition in Belgium. Asiya came away with an amazing four gold medals in the individual Kata 8 - 9 years, the team Kata 8 - 11 years and the individual and team Kumite 8 - 9 years’ competitions. Well done Asiya! Meet our Sports Scholar We are delighted to introduce our
At the very end of term the U13 and U15
2023 Sixth Form Sports Scholar,
girls competed in the indoor County
Sheena, who joined us from The
Cricket finals.
Royal School in September.
In other sport, we were crowned Rounders
A talented all-rounder, Sheena is
District Champions in Years 7 through to
already a valuable member of the 1st
10. WGS were winners in the City Cross
XI hockey team and 1st VII netball
Country U13/U14 Boys, U14/U15 girls and
team. Sheena recently played a
U14/U15s boys. Congratulations to our
pivotal role in securing WGS’ victory in
Year 7 medallists Harry Bunn who came
the U19 netball county tournament to
1st and George Hay who finished 3rd.
progress to the regional finals. Outside of school, Sheena’s sporting achievements are equally impressive. Since the age of 13, she has represented England in Rounders; a commitment that requires yearround training. Sheena also plays for The WGS Basketball programme has got off to a flying start this year. After the Senior team’s victorious debut, the U13s and U15s have followed suit with wins against St Edmund’s Catholic School.
Dudley Netball Club and is currently undergoing training to join the women’s league. During the weekends, when not training or competing, Sheena volunteers as a lifeguard and also umpires netball matches.
Phoebe in Year 7 was presented
The U13s led by Louis Baker dominated
with a WGS Sports Colours tie after
from start to finish whilst the U15s led
Despite her demanding sporting
representing England at an international
by Somto Okafor had to battle hard to
schedule, Sheena remains a dedicated
karate competition in Luxembourg at the
achieve their victory with just a 4-point
student, pursuing her studies in
beginning of October. Phoebe competed
margin. Thank you to our Sixth Formers
Biology, Chemistry, and German, with
in the U12 Kata and U12 -40kg Kumite
for coaching and refereeing.
her sights set on attending university
categories. Congratulations!
after completing her A Levels. Students wishing to join our Sixth Form and become a Sports Scholar are reminded to apply by Friday 12th January. To be eligible for this meanstested award, students should live in a Wolverhampton postcode (WV) and be playing at county, regional or national level in their chosen sport. Contact Admissions for more information on 01902 422939.
25
TAG Rugby Across two days this term, local state and independent schools visited WGJS for some exciting TAG rugby festivals. The U11 event, which has been running since 2016, was this year joined by the
awarded medals for: most creative player, most improved player and a fair play award. Congratulations to: Bertie Dixon, Ranveer Adhana, Yuvraj Sangha, Franklin Westwood, Armaan Gill and Arun Kohli who were our WGS medallists.
inaugural U9 Learn and Play TAG Rugby Festival in which local schools joined us, with prior experience in TAG rugby not being necessary. On Tuesday 14th November, joined by fantastic local coaches James Ridout and Robert Chivers from Dudley Kingswinford RFC, the U9 festival saw 40 children learning the essentials of the game before playing a round-robin competition, with matches ably refereed by senior students Max Thompson, Will Hamill, William Ridout and Ruben Lalli. Pupils were then
The following day, 96 pupils from Years 5 and 6 enjoyed a 7-match tournament with Stafford Grammar, Warwick School, Lichfield Cathedral School, Tettenhall College and Old Hall, playing almost nonstop from 1pm - 3pm! Whilst this was a friendly festival, it was good to see the WGJS A team playing some particularly attractive attacking rugby, whilst many players in the B team staked their claims
A Trip to the Molineux Year 11 Business students went on a fascinating trip to the Molineux. Whilst gaining an insight into the inner workings of the Wolves Foundation, their eyes were opened to all the different roles associated with running a football club. Many thanks to our host, Marnie Richards, and to Mr Smith, Mr Langford, Ms Keys and Miss Lewis, who helped make the day so memorable. Here is what some of our students had to say: “Whether it was hearing from financial experts, university students or seeing the spectacular Wolves pitch with hundreds of £1000 light bulbs heating the grass on a freezing December wintry day, our trip to the Molineux was nothing short of exciting!
26
for places on the A team this time next
Our thanks, as ever, go to the wonderful
year. Medals were awarded to: William
grounds staff for their hard work
Humphrey, Oliver Morley and Sebastian
preparing the pitches, the estates team
Tapper (A team); Dylan Midha, Jayden Xue
for their support in setting up the event,
and Mason Randhawa (B team).
and Mrs Ray’s Senior Sports Leaders.
Throughout the day, we got to hear from a wide range of people and their journeys through education and work. Closely followed by a grand tour of the stadium involving a trip to the luxurious changing rooms of top-class players, and lastly a walk through the tunnel onto the renowned football pitch. This trip was incredibly informative and gave us insight into the diverse jobs needed to run the football club. It was an experience we won’t forget.”
“It was interesting to hear that
Keisha
Club provides such a broad range of
Wolverhampton Wanderers Football opportunities in many careers. These include: player development; sports science; coaching; marketing and human resources. These careers all play a role in the success of the club and provide much food for thought for us in our future careers.” Ibrahim
The Independent Summer 2023
£163 was raised for the charity that helps
Charity Action
the promotion of social inclusion for the sight-loss community in Wolverhampton.
Following the tragic news of the 6.8
Well done to Sophie Adams in Lower Sixth
magnitude earthquake that struck
who organised a donation to Birmingham
Morocco on 8th September, WGS
Dogs Home, Wolverhampton Centre, an
students quickly launched a fundraising
animal rescue service located in Coven.
appeal for the British Red Cross Morocco
Sophie who wants to be a vet, collected
Earthquake Appeal.
blankets, towels, dog toys, beds, leads and treats on behalf of Nechells House social There were pudsey ears galore as students
action project.
came in non-school uniform to support Children in Need. A samosa sale and Dizzy goals competition helped to raise a fantastic £1,111.14, which was split between Children in Need and the British Red Cross. Students wanted to support both vulnerable children and teenagers dealing with challenging circumstances, as well as responding to the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. On the same day, Junior School raised over £200 for their school charities: Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House and Tigers 4 Ever. The campaign was the idea of Upper Sixth student, Esha, who was part of a group of ten students and three staff who in February this year embarked on a volunteering expedition to Morocco in partnership with educational charity, Association Aghbalou. The group visited L’École de Douar Shib, a primary school
The final House charity event was a
15 miles outside of Marrakech, to teach
Christmas Market hosted by Moreton in
English, Art, Music and Sport to pupils. The fundraising was a huge success and over
Jenyns House organised a sell-out event
Big School raising £418.75 for Compton
£1000 was raised.
to raise money for Eyecan. Big School was
Care. Stalls included guess the number
packed to the rafters as students and staff
of sweets in a jar, pin the nose on the
gathered to watch ‘WGS does X Factor’.
reindeer, a dizzy basketball competition
Thank you to our brave volunteers who
and an extremely popular pie face stall.
crooned away on stage much to everyone’s
Thank you to the teachers for being such
delight: Mr Reddish, Mr Payne, Mrs Keeley,
great sports and ending up covered in
Mrs Worsey, Miss Grew, Mr Jackson-
cream! Thank you also to Holroyd Howe
Turnbull and House Head, Mr Crust.
who donated 200 cakes/cookies to sell.
Our Charities & Social Action Co-ordinator, Mrs Bev Young, who was one of the three members on the Morocco Expedition said:
“I’m very proud of our students for their quick thinking and compassion. They have shown great initiative and determination to raise money for the Morocco Earthquake Appeal. Their efforts are a testament to the strong values of our school community.”
27
Life in Junior School Autumnal Fun Charles Macintosh
This half term, Reception have been exploring and investigating the seasonal changes that are occurring around us.
Year 2 have been honing their computer
They had great fun donning their red
skills whilst learning about a famous
jumpsuits and heading outdoors to
scientist. They learnt that Charles
investigate the mountains of leaves that
Macintosh was a Scottish scientist who
had fallen to the ground. They hunted for
invented waterproof cloth. He discovered
leaves of different colours, shapes and sizes and compared them with each other. Perhaps the most fun was had whilst attempting to bury each other under piles of fallen leaves!
how to turn rubber into a liquid and mixed
The power of magnets
it with cloth. Macintosh then used this new
Year 1 have been learning about magnets
The children created their own PowerPoint
in Science. They were able to predict what might happen to magnetic objects and use magnets to identify magnetic objects around the classroom. The children discussed games which use magnets and then used a variety of resources to
material to make the first waterproof coats.
presentation to share their research. They learnt how to add new slides, change backgrounds, alter fonts as well as copying and pasting images from the internet. Well done to Mia and Mason (pictured), who produced some particularly impressive work.
create their own game by applying their understanding of magnets. Working in pairs, they also challenged themselves to move a paper clip from the bottom of a jar of water to the top using the magnetic field to attract the paper clip up the jar. To end their topic, Year 1 learnt about the uses for magnets in toys and had a go at making their own magnetic toy.
28
The Independent Summer 2023
Lights, Camera, Action! Year 5 have been getting creative and enjoyed making their very own movie
Time Travel to Ancient Egypt
trailer! After discussing the purpose of a
and then worked in groups to create a
Year 6 enjoyed some spectacular views
Year 3 have been full of enthusiasm for
storyboard before filming.
at the top of The Wrekin at the beginning
movie trailer, the children highlighted the
What a View!
features they would want to see included
of term. The annual Year 6 Wrekin Walk is
their Humanities topic: Ancient Egypt.
just one example of the many ways that we
The subject was brought to life via an
encourage our students to be active and
online session with an expert from
explore nature and the world around them.
the Birmingham Museum. During the
Mrs Jones and Mr Cothey were impressed
interactive session the children handled
by their resilience and determination to
a range of real ancient Egyptian artefacts
reach the summit, and it was a lovely
that had been sent into school for them
occasion to mark the beginning of term.
to study. They also took part in drama activities and designed their own amulets. The children remembered to use a variety of different camera angles for their shots and had great fun using props and filming in different locations around school. It was then time to view their footage and to learn how to edit the recorded clips in iMovie to create an engaging film trailer. Well done to Year 5 who worked well to communicate
Just after half-term, Year 6 enjoyed an
their ideas and take on board each other’s
action-packed immersion day in the
In their Art lessons, continuing with their
suggestions. Who knows, we may even
Senior School. They tried lots of different
Egyptian theme, Year 3 researched and
have a future Spielberg in our midst?
activities in the specialist facilities such as
designed their own version of a canopic jar.
the Hutton Theatre, DT Studio and Science
These were used to store the organs that
Laboratories. As well as a Q&A session with
were removed from the body in the process
the Year 7 tutors, pupils were able to hear
of mummification. Just like the ancient
from former WGJS students Izzy Mason
Egyptians, they made sure that the lids were
and Serena Ram about their experiences
designed to look like a head of an animal
higher up the school at a Transition to
or human and patterns or hieroglyphs
Senior School evening. Excitement about
were used to decorate the base of the jars.
the move to Year 7 is already palpable!
Viking Studies Year 4 have really enjoyed learning about the Vikings in their History lessons. They developed their knowledge of Anglo-Saxon and Viking housing producing some fantastic posters filled with information and illustrations. The children thought about the similarities and differences between living in these houses compared to where they live today. They also studied Viking runes and used clay to create their own messages for each other to decipher. Viking longships were a fascinating part of their studies. After researching more about materials and buoyancy, the children designed their own longships using foil, plastic and card. Great fun was had testing whether their ships would stay afloat and for how long!
29
Musical Notes In September we welcomed three new
The term continued with an uplifting
Visiting Music Teachers – Vera Willis
performance from Soul Choir at
and Sally Oak on Piano and Julianne
Founder’s Day, performing One Moment
Bourne to teach Violin. We said a fond
in Time, first sung by Whitney Houston
farewell and send our good wishes with
at the 1988 Summer Olympic games.
Karolina Tomaszewicz as she moves to a
Soloists Favour Apata and Esha Dudrah
full-time teaching position at the British
embraced their inner diva to inspire all
School in Kuwait.
the younger students to strive to be the best version of themselves.
Our first major event was the prestigious Music Scholars’ Concert showcasing
This half term has seen two Teatime
the very best of WGS musical talent. We
concerts across the Junior and Senior
welcomed our new Sixth Form Music
Schools. These events were expertly
Scholars, Sachi Bhambra and Mason
run by Lower Sixth music students
Holles and our Year 7 Exhibitioners, Arjjun
Shalom Nderiyamana and Harry Wade,
Hayre, Harry Pang and Serena Ram. It
with packed audiences for both events.
was a wonderful evening, packed with
It was wonderful to see some of our
high-quality performances from all.
youngest musicians performing to the most experienced. An honourable On the 10th October, we took a large group of Year 6 students to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre to see Annie, The Musical. It was a sensational show with dazzling
30
mention goes to Bobby Wilson in Year 11, who gave our first orchestral Xylophone performance, playing Morning Sunlight by A.C.Lipner.
costumes and amazing dance routines.
We thank the Dhol Club led by Dharam
Craig Revel Horwood was very entertaining
Sangha, for performing to Reception
as Miss Hannigan but it was the young
pupils at Diwali, Sixth Former, Nacardo,
cast that stole the show. A huge thank you
who performed The Last Post to Junior
to Ms Guidotti for organising this trip and
School students at Remembrance and
to the Year 6 students and staff who were
Freddie Hodgetts who gave a performance
an absolute pleasure to be with.
recital on the drum kit to Year 8.
The Independent Summer 2023
Instrumental lessons continue to be an integral part of our Junior School curriculum from Years 4 to 6, with all children from Year 2 upwards experiencing recorder lessons. As a recent visit to the whole class string teaching in Year 4 showed, our young musicians are making great progress and we hope many will progress to individual lessons later!
We are extremely proud of our talented students who are excelling in their music both in and outside school. Huge congratulations go to Year 9 student, Davina, who has been accepted into the Junior Provision of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. Davina has been attending their Saturday School since September to study piano, saxophone and composition.
Torrential rainstorms didn’t prevent members of Big Band from performing at the Light Up a Life event at Compton Hospice on Sunday 10th December. They performed a set of light jazz numbers including Mack the Knife and Somewhere Over the Rainbow. A huge thank you to all of the musicians for giving up their weekend to support our local community. We were also delighted to pass on £445.89 raised at the Senior Christmas Concert for Compton Care.
Congratulations also go to Year 9 musician, Isaaq, who was awarded first place in the Class C4 13 - 15 years Piano Solo category at the Lichfield Festival of Music. Well done to everyone who has taken a
The following night Year 5 and 6
music examination this term, we anticipate the results will start coming in over the holidays and we look forward to hearing how our students have fared. Early congratulations to Millie Kelly who has achieved a Distinction in her Grade 8 Music Theatre exam, a fantastic achievement.
enjoyed their Christmas Concert with The Christmas Concert was once
performances from Chamber Choir, Mass
again an evening of Christmas cheer,
Recorders, Junior School Orchestra
bringing together collaborations between
and String Ensemble. The music was
groups such as I Ragazzi and Orchestra,
interspersed with poems and songs.
readings and carols. A huge thank you
What a lovely way to end the year!
to all the performers and staff and especially our soloists. New ensembles this term include our Music Theatre Group, who are working on a medley of songs from Hamilton. Watch this space as Karaoke Club will be coming in the New Year!
31
Meet The Friends The Friends of WGS is our Parent,
The Friends organise a range of
Jonathan were raffled at the end of the
Teacher Association. Chair, Katherine
fundraising events to provide vital funds
evening to raise £285 in support of The
Griffiths Wyant, has been a committee
for school projects. Popular events
Bennett Story Garden.
member since 2018 and has two children
include the Junior School movie nights, a
at WGS, both started in the Junior School
whole school quiz night, summer fair and
and are now in Years 7 and 10. Many of
mother’s and father’s day pop-up shops.
you will recognise Katherine as a member of the Reception team across both the junior and senior schools.
This term a new Festive Floristry event with award-winning floral expert Jonathan Moseley provided a truly
Assistant Chair, Raj Dhaliwal and Secretary,
wonderful evening in the Hutton Theatre.
Karen Thacker, both have two sons at WGS
Jonathan is an internationally celebrated
and Treasurer, Kash Hare is mum to Arjjan
floral designer based in Derbyshire.
in Year 7. They are supported by several
He regularly appears on TV shows
dedicated committee members: Jo Hayes;
including ITV’s Love your Weekend with
El Wright; Helen O’Neill: Liz Larner; Kam
Alan Titchmarsh and as a judge on
Gill; Sara Morris; Nicky MacDuff, as well as
Channel 4’s The Big Allotment Challenge.
by members of staff.
The stunning arrangements made by
Katherine Griffiths Wyant
Raj Dhaliwal
Karen Thacker
Kash Hare
Chair
Assistant Chair
Secretary
Treasurer
32
The Independent Summer 2023
Autumn term is a particularly busy one for the Friends with the run up to Christmas. Once again Katherine and her team have masterminded the Junior School Christmas Fair and hamper raffle, Christmas cookie decorating and a magical Santa’s grotto experience. We are so grateful to The Friends for their tireless dedication and wish them a well-deserved rest over the holidays. The committee are always in need of ad hoc helpers for different events so please do email friends@wgs-sch.net if you would like to volunteer or find out more.
Pre-Loved Uniform Parents are able to purchase pre-loved uniform via The Friends by emailing friends@wgs-sch.net. They have also teamed up with Stikins Name Labels. One pack of stick-on name labels can label pretty much everything and anything! Simply visit https://www.stikins.co.uk/ and add the code 35504 at checkout to generate a commission payable to the Friends.
Thank you! We would like to thank The Friends for their recent fundraising which has enabled
Look out for more news about upcoming events: • Mother’s Day pop-up shop – March (date tbc) (Junior School)
the School to purchase ground sheets for the four gazebos they bought in 2021, day sacks for the Coast2Coast team, Upper Sixth and Year 6 Leavers’ hoodies, board games for Junior School board
• Junior School Movie Night – March (date tbc) • Quiz Night – Friday, 19th April (Junior & Senior School)
games club, new face paint for Junior School productions and a gazebo for our
• Father’s Day pop-up shop –
Reception class.
Friday, 14th June (Junior School)
Easy Fundraising to Support The Friends Help raise funds for Wolverhampton Grammar School whilst doing your online shopping! Visit https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/wgsfriends/ and sign up to support WGS. Once you have an account set up on easyfundraising, you will have the option to install a browser extension which will pop up on every retailer site where a donation is available which means you don’t have to remember to come to easyfundraising first! The Friends are currently raising money for much needed storage solutions in the Junior School.
33
Eco-Poetry Winner Congratulations to Upper Sixth student,
The first day I mourned your loss
Jasmin, who been chosen as a winner
the sun cried with me. Each cloud
of the Wild Words national eco-poetry
wept your disappearance only to find some
competition. Jasmin’s poem, titled First Time, will be published in the Wild Words Anthology, a collection of eco-poetry by young people aged 18 and under. Wild Words is a charity that uses the power of words to connect young people with
remnants of you in everything they saw. The days grew longer and the nights too, and I couldn’t bear the thought of not seeing you when the stars screamed your name.
nature. The competition is one of many
Only time can tell which one of us will be
initiatives that the charity runs to encourage
gone before the day has ended, but my soul has
young people to explore and celebrate the natural world. This encouraged young writers to connect with nature using a ‘co-writer’. Jasmin chose space as the co-writer for her winning poem.
become yours. The Earth looks like it’s crying and the soil held the secrets of our love that were lost in history and one day
Jasmin’s win comes just a few months
when all the world is turned to dust
after she was named a runner-up in the
and all semblance of truth is wiped from the Earth
Under 18 category of the 2023 Chiltern
the only thing, the only shred of truth that will remain
Arts Poetry Competition. Jasmin has undoubtedly proven to be a rising star in the poetry world, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.
is what the moon has kept of you. My love, we are mosaics of what the other left behind. First Time by Jasmin and Space.
Nalin to be our next Arkwright Scholar Congratulations to Lower Sixth student, Nalin, who has been awarded the prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, sponsored by the Royal
Soaring to Success!
Air Force. The scholarship recognises individuals with outstanding potential as a future leader in engineering and
Congratulations to Year 9 students Harjai,
provides them with support for their
Hriman, Faris, Gurjot and Tom who won
future studies and career development.
‘Best Project Pitch’ at the KS3 RAF Glider Challenge held at RAF Cosford. Students were tasked with creating a glider from a single A3 sheet of polyfoam board that would fly as far as possible when released from a launcher. Ahead of the final challenge day, the team of students spent six weeks researching glider concepts and flight patterns; along with designing, testing and then redesigning their glider.
On the final challenge day at the RAF
As they approached their final design, the
Museum Cosford, all attending schools
team also put together their research and
were judged across three categories:
design ideas into a presentation board
Furthest Flight; Innovative Design; and
and pitch to illustrate the work they had
Best Project Pitch. With an overall winner
completed and to explain the choices they
being decided too. A huge congratulations
had made for their final design.
to the team on their well-deserved award.
34
The Independent Summer 2023
A Christmas Carol Years 3 and 4 put on a wonderful Christmas production of the well-known Victorian Christmas ghost story – A Christmas Carol. Our talented Mr Peters adapted the script and wrote the music and lyrics for this wonderful performance, as well as playing the piano! Congratulations to all the cast who worked extremely hard to learn their lines, lyrics and choreography. Our Year 6 Crew were superb with stage set, lighting and sound. Thanks also go to Miss Bassett, Mrs Jones and Mrs Whyton (Costumes), Mrs Cooper and Mrs Hill (Props) and Miss Johnson (Choreography).
35
The Independent Wolverhampton Grammar School Newsletter
Winter 2023
Spring Term and Key Admissions Dates Tuesday 9th January Term begins for all students Friday 12th January Sixth Form Application deadline (external students)
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
Thursday 18th and Friday 19th January Senior School Entrance Test Days (external students) Saturday 27th January Junior School Open Morning (Years 1-6) Saturday 3rd February Reception Open Morning Wednesday 7th February Sixth Form Options deadline Monday 12th February to Friday 16th February Half-Term Friday 15th March GCSE Options deadline Friday 22nd March End of term (School finishes at 12.30pm)