Worth Knowing September 2018

edition four

THE JOURNEY

WORTH KNOWING IN THIS ISSUE

HOUSE LIFE ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT A LEVEL VS. IB

YEAR 7

journey STRAPPED IN? Sitting comfortably? Ready to go? We are about to take you on a journey; a journey in the life of a Worthian from the day a child starts at the School and through a lifetime of experiences in adulthood. In the ISI Inspection carried out at the end of 2017 Worth was judged to be excellent – the highest possible grade – for the quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements and personal development. ‘The journey’ is the theme of the latest edition of Worth Knowing and we aim to showcase not only why the School was given such an outstanding rating but also how the Worthian experience extends beyond school through university, careers and retirement. We hope you enjoy the journey.

04 26

HOWARD GRIGGS, EDITOR

YEAR 9

SPORTING SUCCESS

20

WHAT’S INSIDE WORTH KNOWING EDITION FOUR

10 14 17 24 34 35 38 39 40

Inspection 2017 Music Co-curricular A moving experience The Pre-IB course Academic enrichment Meeting the Pope Coming for Sixth Form Why IB? Why A Level?

46 48 49 52 54 56 59 63

Drama Community work Help with university The next step Charitable work Worth Society Worth Revisited Wonderful Worth

>

AT WORTH we understand that education should be as much about the journey as the destination, but with all the pressure on schools these days to provide something tangible, even saleable, to young people there is a risk that we end up offering ‘arewe-there-yet’ education that does not encourage young people to enjoy the ride. When our leaving pupils come to reflect on their time at Worth, it probably will not be the exam preparation, practice essays, mock exams, grades, marks and targets that stay with them. Important as all those things are, it will be the relationships, the friendships they have made, the guest speakers they have heard, the peace of the Abbey Church, the invitation to a life of Faith that remain in their memories.

Worth Knowing

02

This edition of Worth Knowing focuses on all the people and experiences that make up the journey our pupils go on while they are with us.

We encourage all our pupils to get involved in as many aspects of school life as they possibly can, to challenge themselves in new ways and become part of the vibrant sense of community that lies at the heart of school life.

Teachers at Worth know that to be part of the journey of education is a great privilege; we work every day to bring about for our pupils that moment where what did not seem possible yesterday has somehow become possible today.

That is the joy of education.

While schools are rightly focused on ‘educational outcomes’, we should never lose sight of the true purpose of education, which is to help us ‘see into the life of things’ and become our true selves in the process.

STUART MCPHERSON, MA HEAD MASTER

03

Edition Four: The Journey

year 7

ON THE COVER year 7

HOUSE LIFE

Worth Knowing

04

IT IS about building friendships, developing an enthusiasm for learning, seizing the great opportunities on offer and laying foundations for a positive journey through school life.

At the same time, for Years 7 and 8 it is also a chance to enjoy your childhood in a great environment. Those are the thoughts of Austin Housemaster Mr Liam Richman who is responsible for the students in Years 7 and 8. Mr Richman wants the children in his care to enjoy their studies and achieve their academic

>

05

Edition Four: The Journey

THE TEAM

potential and he believes the first step towards that is by making sure they feel happy, comfortable, settled and part of school life from the moment they arrive at Worth.

Austin House is for Years 7 and 8 and is the only co-ed House in the School. Mr Richman and his House staff work hard to offer an introduction to senior school life which ensures all children can make excellent progress through the School. He said: “What is really important for me is creating a platform which allows students to come into a senior school environment which is welcoming and where we set a strong foundation for their teenage years of schooling. As a co-ed House, Austin allows boys and girls to integrate and to build friendships which will last throughout their Worth experience. The Year 8s play a key part in making the new children feel settled because they are so welcoming.

“One thing we have looked to grow in Austin this year is our leadership, trying to create some responsibility and independence for the students.

They are allowed to have their say in House life and some decisions we make.

Worth Knowing

“Our structure very much mimics senior school as we have five main prefects – a mixture of boys and girls – plus sports prefects, environment prefects and safeguarding prefects. We promote academic merits and behaviour merits. On our noticeboard we have a weekly digest with a running total of points and lists of the top five in each, which all the students want to get on.

“The opportunities at Worth are phenomenal and we encourage students to grasp these. Everything they do is recorded and adds to their personal portfolios as they progress through the school. We also have a great team of House staff including Mrs Chaudhuri (Head of Year 8) who has been here for many years, Siobhan Isaacs (Head of Year 7) and a great mix of tutors. The tutor groups are also small compared to elsewhere and that helps the children.

Mrs Minu Chaudhuri (Head of Year 8) Mrs Chaudhuri has been part of the Austin House team for 14 years in a number of roles, currently as Deputy to the Housemaster and Head of Year 8, having also been Head of Year 7.

Her primary role is to help the children both pastorally and academically, getting them used to Worth as a way of life.

AUSTIN HOUSE THE BOND between Austin House students is enhanced in a number of ways.

“I know we are in senior school and the academic side is incredibly important but we want the students to be children too.”

Mrs Siobhan Isaacs (Head of Year 7) Mrs Isaacs joined Austin House four years ago, first as a tutor and then becoming an Assistant Housemistress. For the last two years she has been a Head of Year, focusing on the academic and pastoral progress of the students.

As the Assistant Director of Sport, she has also been able to see them develop and blossom in a different school environment.

06

In the Autumn Term each year, the House holds an art, music and drama evening which showcases a wide range of talents. The evening is attended by parents and gives students the opportunity to both perform and support their peers. Last year’s event was a wonderful evening which included ballet, sketches and comedy, plus performances featuring numerous different musical instruments.

Austin students also eat their lunch as a House and away from the rest of the School, with meals more tailored to their age group. This enables them a smooth integration into Worth and birthdays are celebrated on a monthly basis at lunchtime, with cakes prepared by the catering team. The range of co-curricular activities – both weekday and weekend – is outstanding and sets Worth apart from others. A number of the weekend activities are specifically for Years 7 and 8 including Cineworld, ice skating, paintballing, footgolf, bowling, table tennis, quiz and pizza nights.

07

Edition Four: The Journey

should see our time at " We the School as a journey and

even though I feel that I’m still at the start of that journey, I feel that it will bring lots of great challenges and great memories along the way"

Before coming to Worth I went to a small prep in Caterham called Oakhyrst Grange School. Leaving in Year 6 as the oldest pupil at the school and joining Worth as one of the youngest in a much bigger environment felt quite daunting, but I was also looking forward to meeting and making new friends and learning new subjects.

Now that I’ve been at Worth for several months I really feel like I’ve settled in and feel very happy that I am a pupil at the School. The cocurricular activities (Junior History Club, Design and Photography and Junior Science) that I have selected while I’ve been at Worth are inspiring and have given me even more opportunity to get involved, learn about new subjects and try new things.

As a sports scholar I have especially loved the various training sessions and learning new skills, such as Rugby Union and Rugby Sevens and have been proud to represent the school in lots of fixtures home and away.

I remember Mr McPherson telling us at Welcome Week when we joined that we should see our time at the School as a journey and even though I feel that I’m still at the start of that journey, I feel that it will bring lots of great challenges and great memories along the way. I’ve made great friends, not only in Year 7 but across the other years, who have given me even more confidence and helped me feel that I belong as a pupil at Worth. The teachers have all been a great support too and I’m enjoying all subjects equally.

JAKE (YEAR 7)

Worth Knowing

08

09

Edition Four: The Journey

“The pupils’ strong “The school values a positive attitude achievements in both rather than pure outcomes.” curricular and co curricular areas are the result of a distinctive focus on the individual.” "THE CAMPUS OFFERS A HAVEN OF PEACE."

INSPECTION 2017

“Much emphasis is placed on community life at Worth.”

S I M P LY “A GREAT EMPHASIS IS PLACED ON THE INDIVIDUAL JOURNEY.”

EXCELLENT IN THE Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) Report produced following an inspection at the end of 2017 Worth was judged to be excellent – the highest possible grade – for the quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements and personal development.

Here are a few sound bites of what the inspectors said about the School.

Worth Knowing

10

“The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent.”

“PUPILS ARE VERY PROUD OF THE CONTRIBUTION THAT THEY AND THE SCHOOL MAKE TO THE WIDER COMMUNITY.”

“Pupils do not feel pressured to fit into a certain mould.”

“Academic scholarship beyond the classroom is OUTSTANDING."

“The social development of pupils is EXCELLENT.”

“PUPILS LEAVE THE SCHOOL AS READY FOR THE SELF-CONFIDENT YOUNG ADULTS NEXT CHALLENGE.”

11

Edition Four: The Journey

FOOD THE CATERING department has served up a whole new dining experience in the last year with a delicious range of eating options.

One new addition is theatre cooking in the form of ‘Worth Woks’, offering mouth-watering dishes such as chicken fajitas, sweet and sour prawn noodles, Thai green curry and beef in black bean sauce.

‘The Bread Shed’ is the new, improved sandwich bar for those wanting something lighter and there is now a ‘Pots and Tops’ option with a range of tasty toppings to put on jacket potatoes, while our chefs continue to provide a varied choice of healthy, well-balanced meals using red tractor meat and sustainable fish including lots of vegetable and fruit options.

In December, the improved dining experience was recognised with our catering team winning the Gold Award for healthy eating from the Sussex Partnership Trust.

Worth Knowing

12

13

Edition Four: The Journey

MUSIC THE HIGHLIGHT of this year’s Summer Concert at Worth was the first performance of Sir James MacMillan’s anthem, ‘Sing Joyfully to the Lord’.

Worth Knowing

14

15

Edition Four: The Journey

Sir James is one of the world’s most important composers and is also internationally renowned as a conductor.

The piece was commissioned by the School and Abbey in honour of Director of Music, Mr Michael Oakley, who retired at the end of the academic year after 26 years at Worth School.

'Sing Joyfully to the Lord’ was performed by the Schola Cantorum, Worthian musicians and Worth Abbey Consort.

The Choir was directed

by Tom HammondDavies, one of the country’s leading choral

Worth Knowing

conductors, who was in Chapman House at Worth from 1995 to 2003. The anthem’s text – verses from Psalm 33 – was suggested by another Worthian prominent in the musical world, Mark Spyropolous, a chorister in the Sistine Chapel Choir.

During his time at Worth, Mr Oakley has worked tirelessly to influence the lives and propel the musical careers of countless Worth students. Fr Stephen, who was Head Master when he was appointed in 1992, said Mr Oakley had made a “transfiguring effect on music at Worth”.

Across the year at Worth there are many chances for musicians of all genres to perform, whether in the regular instrumental and vocal concerts, through to larger orchestral and choral concerts in the wonderful acoustic of the Abbey Church.

These include the 55-member Orchestra, Concert Band, Jazz Band, various woodwind, brass, percussion and string ensembles, Choral Society and Abbey Consort and Schola Cantorum, while the annual Battle of the Bands, Worth Unplugged and House Music competitions provide further opportunities.

16

The 2017-18 academic year also included the choir signing evensong at Westminster Abbey, Chichester Cathedral and Southwark Cathedral, three Lent concerts, two large carol services and Mass at Westminster Cathedral, before concluding with a Choir trip to Rome in July. In addition, individuals have made notable achievements, including harpist Elizabeth MartinDrew who was awarded the position of section leader of the National Youth Harp Orchestra.

CO-CURRICULAR THE DEBATING Society is just one of many co-curricular activities students can get involved in at Worth. But do not be mistaken into thinking debating is an activity only open to or suitable for older students.

At Worth, pupils are encouraged to get involved from a young age.

Last November Worth’s Junior Debating team performed superbly to win the intermediate category in the first round of the local Youth Speaks competition. The Year 8 team’s speech was “Are we washing our hands of good sense?”, which linked the use of hand sanitizer to over protectionism and finally a lack of risk taking and opportunity to develop resilience. Growing interest in the Debating Society led to the first Inter-House Debating Society competition being held in May.

From September 2018, Mr Lewis Brito-Babapulle takes over as Director of Music.

17

Edition Four: The Journey

BOOK G C S CH CERAM RATA/C L C I CONSE LUB C MBING OIR CL ICS CH WRITINRVATIONOMMUN CODE ASSICS E COUN G CRE COOKE ITY SERV BREAKICL DEBATTRY DRAST BRON RY CREAICE CONNG ECO-WING SOCI MA DU ZE AWA TIVE AR CE KE OF RD C TS AWAR ORTH EETY DRAM R E I D CKET D I X N A T B E FITNES FENCIN NDED E-SAFE URGH FOOTG S AND G FIN ECONO TY ECO- D GARDE OLF FR CONDITI ANCIAL MMICS GEO HEALT NING GENCH FILONING F ARKETSFAIRE HOCKEHY RELAT LOBAL IMM CLUB IVE-A-SID FIR KAYAK Y HO IONSHIP PACTS GSCE S E FO BACKS ING KNI RSE RIDI S HEBRE GOLF KETCH TAGE TTING NG J W HI GYMN CLUB M S A L T P L I O N A I F R I G N E UNITE CROBI Y U E D S S I S R O E T A I W T C D J S M A I MUSIC NATIO NG LI Z I N Z L E I T C E R G N R NAVIG MUSIC S MO AFT MO ARY M HTING PAINTI ATION TECHNOLUNTAIN DEL MA ATHS PU KART DNG TECH OASIS OGY M BIKING KING MO PHOTO ESIGN P NIQUES ORCHES Y MATHS MULTI-G DRAW SHOP PHHILOSOP PEACE ATRA OR NATIO MAKINING PR YSICS SO HY FILM ND JUS IENTEER READI G PSYCIMARY S CIETY PO CLUB PHTICE PE I COUN NG CLUB HOLOGY CHOOL ETRY PO OTOGRA D L P M O LNGUACIL SCI RUGBY E P N O P T RESTO GE SPORENCE C SEVEYNTSHON PROORING RPTRRA SUMD RATION TS SCHOLUB SC SAILINGRAMM IN S O LARS S UBA D G SC IN T G R T E O S E U W T > Worth has 132 CH H Q A I I M V O N U I R M O D A N T U S G I M activities on offer.

R N G H I O B G A S Y D T S T A E FrenchY Film Club isTHLO T I E G R E I N D A N N O E N M T D D UNG E just one of them.

A B A U L G U N K MEIS 3 NTERPLTIMATE FILDING T19S TABLE CE SUBILASS ANIMA D DESIG RISE YOURISBEE ENNIS TETENNIS TACO V N

ACTIVITIES

Worth Knowing

18

Edition Four: The Journey

W

year 9

AS PART of the academic expectations set out in Year 9, students are asked to write a letter – to themselves! In fact, the letter is to their future self, outlining what they want to achieve in the short, mid and long-term future and the purpose is to nurture passions into real ambitions.

This is one of a number of initiatives which Head of Year 9 Mrs Sheena Nasim and Deputy Head Academic, Mr Simon Fisher, believe are important in shaping pupils in an academically critical year and preparing them for the next part of their journey at the School.

Mrs Nasim, who joined Worth last summer, said: “Part of the academic journey for Year 9 involves building up the dreams and passions of the pupils and ensuring that they feel everything is possible.

In order to allow us to nurture these passions into real ambitions, we ask our pupils to write a letter to their future self at the start of the year. This provides us an insight into what it is the pupils really want to achieve in the short, mid and long-term future. To further bolster this, we are rolling out a comprehensive Careers programme which, aided by the Head of Careers and Higher Education, will help us make these dreams a reality for our Year 9s.

year 9

LOOKING FORWARD Worth Knowing

20

“Year 9 is a special year. It is a year that pupils are encouraged to try something new, take on new challenges before the GCSE and A Level years force pupils to specialise more and more into a certain area. Pick up a new musical instrument, learn a different language, enjoy our new Design and Technology courses – there is so much that all pupils get the opportunity to try. This then sets them up to make better informed decisions about which GCSEs they wish to specialise in.

“As a year group there has also been an emphasis on really celebrating achievements. The Active Learning Reports are a good indication of pupil performance in school and in Year 9 those who achieve outstanding reports, alongside those who

WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT

YEAR 9?

I joined Worth as a Year 9 last September, coming here having had siblings attend the school before. Worth is quite far away from where I live, which to be honest was one of my biggest fears of coming as it meant that I had to board and I had never boarded before. However, my fears were very quickly put to rest. After the first week the boarding house felt like a second home. It has such a friendly atmosphere and gives you a chance to socialise with different nationalities and girls in the older years.

As well as the amazing boarding house, Worth is also filled with teachers who are always willing to help; they encourage you to do your best while guiding you in the right direction. After working hard in the classroom, it is nice to go out and do some activities. Worth offers such a wide range, from horse riding and golf to cooking and photography, it is hard to find a club you won’t like! This wide range also gives you a chance to try something new and move out of your comfort zone.

Going to Worth reminds me of how lucky I am every day. I love it here and I finally understand what my siblings were all going on about!

Anna (Year 9)

21

Edition Four: The Journey

have improved the most during that report cycle, are invited to a get-together where they are treated to a spread of goodies, a certificate of achievement with the Head Master’s recognition and a chance for the Head of Year to say well done and keep it up.

"

Part of the academic journey for Year 9 involves building up the dreams and passions of the pupils and ensuring that they feel everything is possible

“Year 9 is an academically critical year for our pupils because it is the year where we prepare them to start learning the higher level skills required to be successful at GCSE level and beyond. So this preparation, coupled with the vast array of academic curriculum choices which face the pupils, means that the Year 9s build up their academic resilience and awareness which are pivotal to a successful and allrounded school experience.”

"

There have been new initiatives this year to really formulate a meaningful Year 9 identity, to bring the year group together through having a common spiritual, moral, social and cultural programme

The key points the programme of initiatives seek to achieve are: • To celebrate achievement • To build up the dreams and passions of the pupils in a way that they feel everything is possible • To use the Benedictine tradition of reflection to help pupils achieve better outcomes in the classroom • To encourage students to try something new and take on different challenges before the GCSE and A Level years • To build up academic resilience and awareness • To create a Year 9 identity through academic and social means to ensure the children integrate well into the School

together through having a common SMSC (spiritual, moral, social and cultural) programme and also, importantly, having Year Group assemblies and socials.

“This enables pupils to share experiences with others in the same position as they are as well as benefit from the experience from those in House who have been through Year 9 and thus offer valuable advice.

While the number of Year 7 and 8 pupils at Worth This ensures that the pupils integrate well into the is growing, Year 9 provides the biggest intake of students. This is why Mrs Nasim insists it is important School – particularly those for whom Year 9 is the first year with us at Worth.” to create a Year 9 identity. She said: “There have been new initiatives this year to really formulate a meaningful Year 9 identity, to bring the year group

Worth Knowing

22

23

Edition Four: The Journey

The Battlefields trip was an enlightening and moving experience. So much was revealed to me about lives of soldiers fighting in the war and the huge sacrifice they had to make for their country, in such terrible conditions.

A MOVING EXPERIENCE TRIPS PLAY a valuable part in the learning experience of students, complementing studies in the classroom. In November, the whole of Year 9 visited the First World War battlefields of the Ypres Salient in Belgium.

One of the students, Tommy Whitlock, wrote this account of the trip.

During the trip, we visited a WW1 museum and three cemeteries (two Commonwealth and one German). Both the museums and the cemeteries evoked different emotions and thoughts in me.

In particular, the museum gave me an insight into the advancement of warfare as the war progressed and how this was beneficial and detrimental for both sides.

In contrast, the cemeteries evoked feelings of sorrow and despair in me. The first time you embrace the sight of a WW1 cemetery it is truly jaw-dropping.

The extent of the gravestones is unbelievable. They felt never ending, just rows and rows of names, some of the soldiers as young as 17 or 18. At Tyne Cot Commonwealth Cemetery, this feeling was particularly striking, with almost 12,000 soldiers and servicemen buried here, from across the Commonwealth. This outlines just how terrible the sacrifices of each soldier must have been.

Apart from being a moving experience, this trip was also beneficial for classwork. It contributed to an essay written in class entitled: ‘Was WW1 a total war?’ This covered the advances in warfare and global conflict during the war, of which I took much of my information from the museum visit at Passchendaele.

We also studied a soldier who had died in the war and lived in Turners Hill near Worth. This made the effects of the war feel more apparent to me. During the trip, we got the opportunity to see his grave and this was directly relevant to the study.

Above all, this trip allowed us to experience the effects of the war first hand and gain an in-depth insight into WW1.

25

Edition Four: The Journey

SPORTING SUCCESS is celebrated at Worth and seen as a valuable part of shaping an individual. For those students striving for excellence in their chosen field the School knows the value of helping them achieve success.

SPORTING SUCCESS

Whether it is winning competitions, reaching finals or progress in national competitions, sporting success can improve an individual’s sense of wellbeing and confidence, and often goes hand in hand with a drive to achieve in other areas of school life including academic studies.

At Worth, it is not all about results at first team level, it is about installing in students the right values, the necessary encouragement and giving them the expert coaching they need to achieve their goals from a young age.

in British Cycling events. Anthony secured a place in National Youth Omnium Track Championship finals in August, after finishing in the top four.

He has also been totally dominant in the Herne Hill Youth Track League, an event previously won by Sir Bradley Wiggins. Other results meant his place in the prestigious British Cycling Regional School of Racing seems secure.

Last summer the U14 cricket team won not one but two county competitions, with a team featuring both boys and girls, while the U15 tennis girls were also Sussex champions.

In March, the U15 rugby squad reached the final of the National The importance of Bowl, which was the participation and first time a team from inclusion is part of the the School had reached Worth ethos, hence the final of a national Worth has four teams competition. The representing the School team performed well in a number of different in the final at Sixways sporting age groups.

Stadium, the home of However, the strive for English Premiership club excellence – and the Worcester Warriers, added value that brings but had to settle for to students – is a driving runners-up medals. force which is evident in Reaching the final was the sporting success our At Worth, it is not all about results a huge achievement students are achieving. at first team level, it is about installing for Worth and this in students the right values... success was a reward for In 2017-18, 87% of working with individuals students represented in a team environment the School in 14 from those first days at the School. different sports. With new sports being added to the curriculum and so many more students playing But it is not just pitch-based sports in the School competitive sport, the standards will continue to rise where are our pupils succeed. Year 9 student Anthony and Worth can expect to be celebrating a lot more Morris continued to chalk up a string of successes success in the coming years. >

"

Worth Knowing

26

27

Edition Four: The Journey

THE GIRLS at Worth have been making their own contribution to the sporting successes celebrated by the School.

This is a combination of the increased number of girls at Worth, growing participation and a greater number of sporting options.

In the last academic year, girls’ football was introduced at Worth in response to interest from parents and, under the patient coaching of Head of Football Mr Daniel Collins, the newly-formed girls’ 1st XI went unbeaten in their first four fixtures against Christ’s Hospital, Ardingly College, Sackville School and Brighton College.

A year earlier, lacrosse was introduced on to the sports programme for girls at Worth, alongside the more traditional sports of hockey, netball, tennis and athletics. The lacrosse team showed remarkable progress as they claimed two wins and a draw from six games at a tournament at Rendcomb College in Cirencester in March.

However, the success stories are not just about the new sports. At the annual Sussex Independent Schools Netball Association tournament, all the participating Worth teams showed year-on-year improvement with the highlight being the U15 squad that won four out of six games.

As a commonly used phrase here goes: Worth girls can.

Worth Knowing

28

WO RTH GIRLS CAN 29

Edition Four: The Journey

MAKING US PROUD

Athletics: Athletics has been something of a success story for Worth during the Summer Term with a string of excellent results. Three students won medals at the Sussex County Championships and another claimed gold and silver at the Surrey Championships, all performing close to the National Standard.

Meanwhile, more girls and boys than ever before were selected to represent North Sussex at the County Schools Championships.

Tom Mitchell: Former Worth School Head Boy Tom Mitchell captained England to rugby sevens bronze medals at the Commonwealth Games in April. Mitchell scored the winning try as England beat South Africa 21-14 to ensure they finished third at the competition. Mitchell, whose father Alan still teaches sport at the School, also captained Great Britain to silver medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Futsal: The Worth team put up an extremely strong showing at the annual Sevenoaks futsal tournament in January. The side lost just two games, to the eventual champions and runnersup, but that only tells a small part of the story, as Worth led both matches with just moments left on the clock.

The squad recorded victories against Tonbridge, King’s School Canterbury and St Dunstan’s, drawing with Sevenoaks and Colfe’s.

Worth Knowing

Tom Davies: Year 11 student Tom Davies competed in three disciplines at the Independent Schools Climbing Competition, claiming a first place in the most demanding of the events. The ISCC competition took place at Big Rock in Milton Keynes in March and Worth representative Tom competed well against some tough opposition including a Team GB climber.

He was highly ranked for both Bouldering and Top Rope and was placed first in Lead Climbing, which was a huge achievement in such a high calibre competition.

Cricket representative honours: 1st XI cricket captain Krishan Nayee made his debut for Surrey Academy in May, scoring an excellent 41. First team colleagues Mali Bardouille-Lewis and Anish Padalkar were selected to represent Sussex U15s, while Anish also attended a selection trial for the South of England U15 squad.

Equestrian team: For the first time, a team under the banner of ‘Worth School’ was entered into a regional show jumping competition in February. Although Natasha (Year 11) had to withdraw, Alice (Year 11) and Andrew (Year 10) rode superbly.

In another competition in January, Year 9 student Annie claimed two class wins, plus a second and a third place. A week later, Annie secured two more seconds and a third.

Girls’ hockey successes: Year 11 hockey player Claudie Cooper helped her adult club side, East Grinstead Ladies II, reach a national cup final, which meant she got to play at the Lee Valley National Stadium in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London.

Amber Buggins and Ciara Halpin helped East Grinstead U16s win the Home Counties League, from an initial entry of 60 teams. Trying to keep up with these achievement, Worth’s Assistant Director of Sport, Mrs Siobhan Isaacs, won the Sussex Cup with Horsham Hockey Club.

Edition Four: The Journey

W WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT

YEAR 11?

year 11

Worth has a very friendly atmosphere because of the warmth from both the staff and fellow students. There is definitely a sense of community and belonging within each of the houses as well as throughout the whole school.

At Worth, opportunities are offered so that every pupil can academically thrive.

The small class sizes are beneficial as there are more possibilities to ask questions and have one to one discussions with the teacher. Our teachers are excellent as they have strong subject knowledge and are always willing and available to help in and out of class.

There is a wide range of co-curricular activities at school, which complement our academic work. Year 11 pupils are encouraged to try new activities within the School’s rich activity programme as well as being allowed to build on the skills we already have developed.

year 11

PRE-IB Worth Knowing

32

The School has supported and helped me develop my equestrian passion and I have the opportunity to ride for Worth School. I am also completing my Young Equestrian Leaders Award, which has been a hugely rewarding experience and has given me a great sense of achievement.

Zara (Year 11)

33

Edition Four: The Journey

A PRE-IB course is available in Year 11 for non-UK students. So, why would a student opt to take this course as opposed to GCSEs? One Year 11 student explains...

When joining Worth School in September 2017 for the Pre-IB program (Year 11), I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to stay for the Sixth Form or return to Germany. However, a few weeks later, I was certain that Worth was the place where I wanted to finish school. Worth made me feel at home and the Pre-IB programme helped me settle in very quickly.

This programme involves a wide range of subjects: six being compulsory (English, Maths, Geography, Religious Studies, one science and one additional language) and others optional (additional sciences and foreign languages) according to your personal interests and talents. Hence, for me, enjoying modern languages, it was possible to choose French and Spanish in addition to English and German.

The Pre-IB is a challenge and a chance for students since it offers the possibility to cover the large course of the GCSEs and the final exams in only one year.

Therefore, you have some classes in a separate group of international students, but at the same time you spend a lot of time with the English students doing and achievements, but equally, or even more, in my the regular Year 11 programme when attending personality and passions. language and sports lessons as well as activities.

This feeling has not changed since I have started The Pre-IB programme is a perfect preparation school here. Teachers are incredibly interested and for the IB programme, due to the intense study of enthusiastic about their subjects and make classes the subjects and techniques required in the Sixth very interesting. But it is not only the academic Form and the IB examinations. According to the life that makes Worth special. The combination of recognition requirements of the IB in Germany (I school, extra-curricular activities and pastoral care want to study law in Germany), my IB subjects will makes Worth a home from home. Whether you be German Literature, English and Biology at higher are interested in music, sports, drama or service level and Economics, Mathematics and French at activities, Worth offers a large variety of possibilities. standard level.

I have made lots of friends at Worth and I am happy I visited different schools, but from the very first and proud to be part of this school. Coming to Worth moment Worth School was my number one. is definitely worth it!

Everyone made me feel welcome and teachers were not only interested in my academic abilities ISABELL (YEAR 11)

Worth Knowing

34

ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT AT WORTH, the aim is to help our students achieve the best they possibly can. There is a vibrant range of academic enrichment opportunities provided by the School. These are designed to sharpen students’ academic knowledge, skills and study habits in order to bring out the best in them. Here are 12 few ways Worth does that. >

35

Edition Four: The Journey

1

ABLE, GIFTED AND TALENTED PROGRAMME We recognise there are able, gifted and talented students with the potential for higher level performance across a range of activities. The aim in all cases is to ensure pupils receive an education appropriate to their needs, to foster an achievement culture, to support self-esteem and to provide opportunities to develop specific skills and talents. From January 2018, Mr Philip Towler, Head of Classics, took over as Able, Gifted and Talented Coordinator and has a number of exciting plans to strengthen our existing provision.

3

KEY STAGE READING LISTS All pupils receive reading lists appropriate to their Key Stage of education which contain recommendations from each department.

They are updated and distributed for use during the summer holidays. In addition, the Learning Resources Centre (LRC) boasts a wealth of resources and e-resources available to students.

2

LUCET GROUPS In Latin, Lucet means he or she shines or excels. There are two junior Lucet groups for potential Oxbridge candidates, one for Years 7-8 and one for Years 9-11. There are halftermly meetings. Pupils write essays on topics which interest them, share essays they have written and enjoy occasional talks from guest speakers.

four OXBRIDGE PREPARATION Following on from the Lucet groups, for those pupils wanting to apply to Oxford or Cambridge Worth offers an individualised preparation programme which is overseen by a subject-specialist from the relevant department. Support may include talks by current Oxbridge students, extra reading and classes, debates, attending an open day, mock interviews or undertaking an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) to demonstrate research capabilities in the chosen area of study. The EPQ is available to all Sixth Form students.

HEADWAY LECTURES Every week all Sixth Formers attend Worth’s Headway Lectures, during which notable guest speakers from a wide variety of backgrounds deliver talks and take questions.

In addition, academic prefects organise and attend talks as part of the “Academic Prefects’ Lecture Programme”.

6

ART AND DRAMA Drama scholars get the opportunity to join ‘Inspire’ a theatre company which puts on performances for the wider community. Last year they toured ‘The Wizard of Oz’ at Chailey Heritage School, a school for children with complex physical disabilities. Sixth Form Art students are encouraged to compete for the Roche Court ARTiculation Prize, a national competition designed to give young people a forum in which they are able to express their ideas. It is run in partnership with the University of Cambridge.

Worth Knowing

36

7

MUSIC There are a number of forms of enrichment for Music scholars including services sung in cathedrals, choir tours, competitions, auditions for various choral and orchestral groups including the National Children’s Orchestra and the National Youth Choir, solo work with the School’s orchestra or with a professional orchestra, conducting and diploma work. Recently Year 11 student Elizabeth Martin-Drew was chosen as section leader for the National Youth Harp Orchestra after a competitive audition.

ON THE COVER LEADERSHIP QUALIFICATIONS Students have the opportunity to gain Levels 1-3 leadership qualifications from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Also, Sixth Formers undertake Worth’s own Leadership Formation Course (LFC) during which they learn about ‘habitudes’.

911

MONITORING Careful monitoring of progress through all these initiatives provides valuable data on how the School is supporting students through the academic enrichment opportunities.

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES There are numerous academic clubs and societies to get involved with as part of the co-curricular programme. They include Chemistry Club, Creative Writing, Debating Society, Financial Markets, Human Rights Club, IB Theory of Knowledge, Italian Society, Japanese Club, Junior History Club, Junior Philosophy Club, Junior Poetry Club, Mandarin Club, MyMaths, Physics Society, TED talks and Young Medics.

WORTH CHALLENGE The Worth Challenge is a programme of lectures and interactive workshops open to all able and interested members of Years 9 and 10. The aim is to stimulate intellectual curiosity by introducing students to areas of study beyond the curriculum. The Worth Challenge runs for the first two terms of the school year and in the Summer Term gives way to a prize essay competition.

12

IDENTITY Pupils get the chance to become involved with the student-led publication ‘Identity’. There are also Chaplaincy initiatives including Oasis and Subiaco.

37

Edition Four: The Journey

"

Two Worth students travelled to Rome where they met Pope Francis

IN THE NEWS Opportunities present themselves at every corner at Worth – and sometimes they are most unexpected.

In April, two Worth students were chosen to go on a trip of a lifetime to Rome where they met Pope Francis. It came about after Worth was selected to represent the English Benedictine Schools at the Saint Anselmo 125th anniversary celebration.

Saint Anselmo is a monastery and university built at the request of Leo XIII as a place where Benedictines and other students from all over the world can study.

Worth was chosen from the four English Benedictine schools and joined up with nine other students chosen from the 180 Benedictine schools around the world, representing America, Chile, Germany and South Africa.

The two Worth students were accompanied by Mr Conal O’Callaghan, one of the Forerunners at the School.

Worth Knowing

38

39

Edition Four: The Journey

ON THE COVER year 12

year 12

PRIMROSE SPARKES (Year 12 A Level student) The decision between A Level and IB was something I deliberated with greatly while selecting my Sixth Form choices. I loved the majority of my subjects at GCSE and there were not necessarily ones that immediately stood out over others. My plan, at one time, was to take the IB course. However, for me what swayed my decision was partly the fact that Drama at the time was not offered in the same capacity as it was in the A Level course. I not only wanted the opportunity to study my chosen subjects in great depth, but given the flexibility of the timetable I wanted ample time to carry out wider reading on my interests within these subjects and take part in extracurricular activities as well.

Now, I am currently studying Politics, English Literature, Drama and French. I really love the fact that I can deeply explore these subjects and uncover the links between them as the course progresses. The ability to read and analyse classical novels and link them contextually to the political climate has been an enriching experience. The process of learning a foreign language has also been invaluable. I am currently looking into studying English Literature or Law at university with the prospect of studying abroad in France. After that, I am interested in potentially going into International or Human Rights Law.

WHY A LEVEL? WHY IB? Worth Knowing

SIXTH FORM students at Worth can elect to follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme or study A Levels. For many, it is a tough choice as both courses have their merits. So, why IB? Why A Level?

Here, four students – two Year 12 students and two who moved on to university last summer – discuss the choices they made.

40

TIMEO SCHMIDT (Year 12 IB student) What I especially enjoy about the IB is the more international and out-of-the-box teaching approach, which challenges me to think on my own on how to solve a problem. Throughout the course, students are engaged in a number of research projects and this has allowed me to explore new, interesting

areas in my subjects and to engage with the subjects in more depth.

In the IB programme, presentations and projects form a significant part of the final grade, so that the pressure is not building up on the final exam so much as it is with the A Levels. Due to my interest in technology, robotics and computer science, my subject selection is very Physics and Mathematics focused and after finishing my IB at Worth I will be pursuing a degree in Engineering.

OLIVIA WILSON (former A Level student who gained two A* and two A grades in 2017; now studying Theology at Oxford University) Before I settled on the A Level route of study I did consider the IB, but for me the choice of four subjects was a better fit than the broader baccalaureate. A Levels enabled me to study the diverse range of subjects I wanted - Biology, Chemistry, Maths and History - without having to balance six subjects.

I had a variety of practical work in Biology that allowed me to develop my independent thinking and a very varied History course that kept me engaged and improved my general knowledge. The A Levels I chose gave me an eclectic mix of lessons so my education never felt monotonous or repetitive, they also left me with enough time to do the EPQ and keep up my extracurricular activities.

Although my university course did not require me to have a specific A Level course, I do believe my choices helped me to develop a number of skills including essay writing and analytical thinking that have aided my transition to university. >

41

Edition Four: The Journey

"

Subjects outside my comfort zone posed an additional challenge, better preparing me for the more difficult subject material at university PATRYK KULIK (former IB student who gained the maximum 45 points in 2017; now studying Aeronautical Engineering at Imperial College London) Before coming to Worth I had already experienced the International Baccalaureate teaching system in a Pre-IB class, so making the big choice of IB over A Level seems like the only logical decision to make, yet for me it came with great difficulty. As someone with a clear interest in Science, A Levels provided an opportunity for clear focus on subjects directly related to my future university degree, while IB seemed to force me to take subjects I was not so keen on pursuing in the Sixth Form.

Having finished Sixth Form, I now believe that what seemed like a disadvantage lays the foundation for IB teaching. Subjects outside my comfort zone posed an additional challenge, better preparing me for the more difficult subject material at university, while the sheer quantity of assignments, things to learn and CAS activities now helps me cope with the undergraduate workload, which some still find daunting.

Occasionally I found that IB subjects did not fully match their A Level equivalents in the depth of material covered; nonetheless, I am convinced that while A Level teaches students what they need to know, IB teaches them how to think and how to reflect on your past experiences so as to be able to develop. IB teaching helped me to get through many unexpected and new situations such as university life or a job application, and I believe that it is the people who actively seek such situations who will truly thrive in the IB programme.

Worth Knowing

45 W WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT

YEAR 12?

In July 17, Worth IB student Patryk Kulik was awarded 45 points – the maximum score possible.

The short answer is: there is something for everyone. Worth seems to be an amalgamation of people from all walks of life; the multiculturalism means there is a huge mix of personalities from a range of backgrounds, from which any person could find someone they connect with.

• This is equivalent to five A* grades at A Level.

• Only 0.3% of students globally achieve this standard.

• The highest number of points possible for each individual subject is seven and, therefore, for six subjects a maximum of 42 points is possible, which can then be augmented by a further three (one point each for successful completion of CAS, Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge).

School life also offers opportunities of nearly every kind; the societies system allows students to develop their passions (be they music, academics or sport) with a teacher to encourage them along. There is a strong emphasis on extra-curricular life with musicals, sports fixtures, debating and much more; no matter your interest, Worth will help you discover it.

• Last year 67,492 students from 2,211 schools sat the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Of these, only 4.6% managed more than 40 points.

In addition Worth, at both IB and A Level, offers avenues to extend their students to achieve the best they can. If a Year 12 student shows interest in a subject they will not leave unfulfilled. Students take on essay and public-speaking competitions, even swimming across the Channel! I believe that Worth life is great because, like everything in life, you get out what you put in.

• 20% of Worth students achieved 40 points or more, which is the equivalent to four A* grades at A Level.

• 40% of Worth students achieved 38 points or more, which is the equivalent to five A grades at A Level.

• Worth students achieved an average of 35.7 points per candidate – equivalent to one A* and two A grades at A Level – compared to a global average of 30.2 per candidate.

Charles (Year 12)

43

Edition Four: The Journey

was astounded by the warmth " Iwith which I was met on my

arrival; everyone was so friendly and welcoming, making the transition so much easier"

I JOINED in Year 12 having transferred from a large comprehensive school. Having been at my last school for five years, I thought that a change would be beneficial as it would allow me to meet new people and have different opportunities, which certainly has been the case. I also felt that moving schools at this stage in my education would help prepare me for university, as that too will be an experience of moving to an environment where I will probably not know anyone.

Joining Worth was a daunting prospect; I was going into a community where everyone had known each other for years, many had been at Worth since Year 7 and I would be joining just for the last leg. There were four girls going into St Anne’s. This made things somewhat easier as the fear of being the ‘only one’ joining was banished. I was astounded by the warmth with which I was met on my arrival; everyone was so friendly and welcoming, making the transition so much easier.

When deciding where I wanted to go for Sixth Form, my parents gave me numerous options and after attending an Open Day I decided Worth was the place where I wanted to spend the next two years of my education. The friendliness and the setting were the decisive factors which drew me to Worth.

The place of religion and the monastery were also very different to what I had experienced in my previous school, with religion not playing a large part in our education, but I have found this part of school life very therapeutic.

Since being at Worth, I have had the opportunity to learn sign language, which is a precious life skill, and have also had the chance to be part of a volunteering group for disadvantaged children in Brighton. My experience at Worth has been so positive that my younger sister has decided to join the Lower Sixth in September.

GEORGIA BARBER, YEAR 13

Worth Knowing

44

45

Edition Four: The Journey

DRAMA BEING PART of a school production can be an extremely rewarding experience.

Worth allows the opportunity for pupils of all ages to appear on stage through its regular productions in the PAC Theatre, which are widely considered to be outstanding. Some students will be involved in a number of shows during their time at the School and when the drama journey at Worth nears an end it only serves to make the performance even more special.

That was very much the case with the Senior School production of Rock of Ages in December, when a number of regular cast members were appearing on stage for the last time at Worth. As well as being richly entertaining, it was also plenty of fun and the audience over three nights was able to appreciate from the smiling faces how much being involved in a production at Worth means to the individual students.

Whether it is as part of the cast, the sound and lighting team, helping with costumes or make-up, memories and bonds are created which last a lifetime.

47

Edition Four: The Journey

community is key “Individual commitment to a group effort - that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilisation work.”

THIS QUOTATION may have originated far away from Worth, in the sporting world of 1960s America, but it is one which can be applied to any task, any challenge, anywhere in the world. It is also one that forms the bedrock of so much that students and staff do here at this School.

The community service programme at Worth provides pupils with a chance to volunteer their time to benefit the School or wider community. There is lots of choice, both within the Wednesday afternoon activities programme and at other times.

These opportunities teach our students so much: commitment to a project; how a small gift of service can make a difference to the lives of others; how people can come together to achieve something good; the rewards and fulfilment of volunteering.

So much of this work goes unseen, but certainly not unnoticed...

Such as when primary school children from City Academy Whitehawk have spent days at Worth, building dens in the woods on the Worth estate and taking part in a ceramics workshop in the Art department. Whitehawk, on the outskirts of the city of Brighton and Hove, is one of the most deprived areas in the country and for these children it was an opportunity to have fun in open areas and try activities which they would not otherwise get an opportunity to do.

The visiting children were joined by Year 12 students at Worth, for whom it was also an enriching experience. One said: “I really enjoyed getting to know them all individually and seeing their creative sides in the pottery session.”

Worth Knowing

48

This is just one example of community and leadership formation work that Worth students get involved with. Others include: • Age Concern Shopping – pupils accompany

the elderly to the supermarket • Residential Homes for the Elderly – pupils

provide companionship for residents • Assisting in local charity shops • Fundraising – various activities within the

School and the local community raise money

for a variety of projects • Gardening – pupils provide assistance for the

elderly by tending to their gardens • Various wildlife conservation projects within

the School grounds • Lourdes Pilgrimage – pupils assist pilgrims

with special needs • Primary School Support – pupils work with

children from a local primary school to help

with their sporting and ICT skills • Homeless Hostel – pupils visit the hostel

on a weekly basis to provide support to

these disadvantaged members of the

community, as well as fortnightly to help

serve supper • Recycling – pupils raise awareness of the

need for recycling and are actively involved

in ensuring that Worth is as carbon-neutral

as possible

49

Edition Four: The Journey

and connecting students to the wider world of the workplace, apprenticeships and tertiary level study.

morally and educationally. In its broadest sense, a Worth education aims to teach pupils to be caring, intellectually independent, inquiring and open-minded – well-equipped to take their place successfully in the wider world. In terms of explicit guidance on careers and higher education, there are many members of staff involved, including the Head of Careers, Year Heads and tutors, all of whom have a significant role in preparing students for their lives outside Worth.

Our tutors work with small groups and are able to give individual attention to all pupils to support them as they make important life choices. The Worth Society, which Sixth Form students are encouraged to join as they leave the school, offers valuable professional networking through formal contacts and social events.

AS DIRECTOR of Careers and Higher Education, AMANDA BROOKFIELD plays a key role in the life of every student who passes through Worth School. Ms Brookfield explains how Worth prepares young men and women for the next part of their life journey.

At Worth, it is all about the individual. Is that how you view your work? I fully agree. Every pupil is unique and needs individual care and attention. Identifying a career path is a process that requires time for ideas to germinate and mature.

&

What do you see as the key features of your role at Worth?

My role is to ensure that our pupils receive the best possible guidance and information as they prepare for their lives beyond Worth. I am working with a committed team to develop our Careers and Higher Education strategy to ensure that all our pupils gain access to information, contacts with professional bodies and significant encounters with the work place. I am particularly keen to keep doors wide open to all our girls and boys, to fire their ambition and raise their aspirations, irrespective of their background or experience to date. The journey that our pupils take, as they identify their interests and aptitudes, and choose their professional path, is one that my colleagues and I support in every way possible.

Worth Knowing

What stands out at Worth in terms of preparing students for making the next step in life? Worth offers a highly supportive environment that stimulates real ambition and challenges youngsters to aim high.

Teachers are excellent roles models to girls and boys, and they are skilled and dedicated, supportive and encouraging. The Careers and Higher Education team has an important role in raising aspirations

50

One-to-one meetings can often give rise to those thrilling flashes of inspiration that can develop an existing ambition or stimulate new interests. If pupils want to discuss their research into degree courses and apprenticeships, to ask about the merits of taking a gap year, or about how to apply to US universities, there is always someone who will listen. Teachers, tutors and the Careers and HE team are available and willing to talk ideas through.

Individual attention is also essential in supporting an application process at Sixth Form level. An effective Personal Statement or application letter will arise out of guidance, discussion and critical feedback. A good CV, with real impact, requires some focused work so that a student can target the required skills outlined in a job description. Once the application is submitted, students can also count on support with subsequent choices and decisions.

What support pillars are in place at Worth to make the transition from school life to beyond as smooth as possible? The central pillar of our provision at Worth is the quality of the education that we offer. Our ideal is to help all our students to realise their fullest potential – spiritually,

WORTH OFFERS A HIGHLY SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT THAT STIMULATES REAL AMBITION AND CHALLENGES YOUNGSTERS TO AIM HIGH Finally, I cannot forbear to mention the Headway Lecture programme, with its wide range of speakers, that offers exciting insights into different opportunities for future study, work and volunteering.

How does it make you feel when you see so many Worth students going on to do well at university and/or in careers? It is always thrilling to hear what our leavers are up to. They go off in so many different directions, take so many different routes and do such exciting things. I feel something verging on parental pride, when I learn about their successes and achievements. It is a real privilege to work with such talented and interesting young people who carry with them, wherever they go, something of the Worth spirit.

51

Edition Four: The Journey

beyond worth

MAKING THE NEXT STEP WHEN THE time comes to move on from Worth, leavers do so fully equipped for the next stage of their lives. While some will take up apprenticeships, the majority will go on to university, be it in the United Kingdom or around the world.

It may be at Oxford University, it may be at Cambridge, Harvard, Trinity College Dublin or top Russell Group universities; wherever they go, Worth students will be ready and prepared thanks to the help they have been given during their time at the School.

SUCCESS STORY Oliver Pateman, who left the School in 2013, achieved a First Class in Classical Archaeology and Ancient History from Oxford University in 2017. His former Housemaster at Worth, Dr Duncan Pring, said: “Oliver was a very talented individual and he has obviously thrived at Oxford. My own degree was in Archaeology and we often used to discuss these matters, so I am delighted that he has done so well at university.”

Michal Graczyk is one such example as he prepares to study Medicine at Cambridge University from this September. Michal, who is from Poland, has spent just two years at Worth, having joined for Sixth Form in 2016 but he will be forever grateful for the path the School has put him on.

His final year at Worth was an incredibly busy time.

Not only was Michal studying for his IB exams, he was preparing his personal statement, going through the application process for Cambridge University, getting ready for interviews and taking entrance exams. For some, this is a period which can become overwhelming but that is where the support at Worth makes a difference.

beyond

Michal said: “We had the OxfordCambridge group, Young Medics, where we met with Ms Brookfield on a regular basis and that is where we would keep track of things to help us with our application process.

"There was always someone I could go and talk to, whether it was about that tear of disappointment or the joy of success. With the interviews, the teachers were an amazing help.

I talked with Ms Chamberlain, Dr Scott and Mr Doggett and it was so beneficial. I got a lot out of those talks and it really helped me to prepare for my interview.

“It has been a good experience coming to Worth.

It has been an amazing journey and Worth is the reason why I am now aiming for Cambridge.”

Edition Four: The Journey

When the Head Master, Mr Stuart McPherson, challenged students and staff to run The Big Half, a new half marathon created by London Marathon Events, on behalf of a primary school in east London, the response was impressive.

GOING THE EXTRA MILE ASKED WHY he wanted to put himself through weeks of training followed by a 13-mile run through London’s streets, his answer was simple: “I wanted to give something back.” If you ask any of the numerous students or staff at Worth who get involved in charitable challenges, the response is generally the same. That is because there is a great sense of community at the School and a genuine will to help others.

Worth is developing a relationship with Manorfield Primary School in Tower Hamlets – one of the most deprived areas in the country – and it is hoped the partnership between the schools will have mutual ongoing benefits.

Those challenged to run in The Big Half were asked to raise money towards a new nursery Manorfield Primary School is building.

On accepting the challenge, Year 12 student Charlie said: “I want to do something to give back because I have got so much from being at Worth since Year 7. I want to help other communities, especially a place so deprived of money.”

behalf of Manorfield.

Miss Reynolds said: “Manorfield School is in one of the most deprived parts of the country and serves an underprivileged community. We want to help give the children at the school the best experience possible, to support them in their mission to overcome the barriers they face and enable them to achieve both academically and in all that they do.”

Many pupils get involved in charitable ventures, be it through the School or as individuals.

One Year 13 student created a small piece of history in April when he became the youngest person this millennium to run the London Marathon. Tom Roberts, a pupil in Farwell House, was one of three runners who turned 18 on the day of the 2018 London Marathon which took place in sweltering conditions.

He was running almost 20 years after his father first ran the London Worth teachers Miss Kate Marathon – in 1999, the Reynolds and Mr Simon year before Tom was Faulkner also decided born. Tom said: “I knew to run in The Big Half on the London Marathon

Worth Knowing

54

would be on my birthday and it was something I wanted to do. It was very hard, especially in the heat which we had not been able to train for, but the atmosphere was brilliant.”

Tom was running in aid of Whizz-Kidz, a charity providing disabled children and young people with vital mobility equipment, opportunities to meet and have fun plus training to help them gain skills and look forward to a brighter future.

55

Edition Four: The Journey

Connecting the Worthian Network Keeping Worthians in touch with one another is one of the most important aspects of the Society’s work.

By keeping the Worthian database up-to-date the Society is able to put people in touch; linking old school friends and alumni who can offer assistance when relocating or travelling around the world.

The Society also frequently plays a ‘detective’ role, searching for lost Worthians for reunion events.

CONNECTING WORTHIANS

WORTH IS incredibly lucky to have a busy and thriving alumni association in the form of Worth Society. Run on a day-to-day basis by Mary Lou Burge, she reports to a committee of former pupils, the Head Master, teaching staff and members of the monastic community, headed

by Worth Society chairman, Jeremy Fletcher G’72, who all meet once a term.

Worth Knowing

56

Events and Reunions The Society’s key annual events are their St Benedict’s Day Mass and Supper held in London each March and their magical London Carol Service in December. They also organise various dinners and events covering individual sections of the network and assist co-ordinators with the annual 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 year reunions, the latter of which is always held at Worth in June when Worth is looking its best.

Careers Support Another key event in the Society’s annual calendar is its Careers Networking Evening held in a London wine-bar each spring. The aim is to bring recent leavers in need of help and advice together with experienced professionals over informal drinks. This can often lead to work experience opportunities and the Society helps and encourages young Worthians to find work shadowing through the network.

Worthian professionals come back each year to talk to current students at the School’s Careers Fair during ACE Week and the Society can now boast more than 1,400 connections on LinkedIn, the professional networking site.

Funding Voluntary Work Worth Society’s charitable arm, The Worthians Charitable Trust, funds the Society’s Global Action Award Programme. Global Action Awards can provide funding to Year 13 students and Worthians at any stage of their life who wish to undertake a period of voluntary work with a recognised charity anywhere in the world.

Reconnecting Worthians through Sport With Worthian Cricket, Football, Golf, Rugby, Squash, Netball and Real Tennis Clubs there are plenty of sporting fixtures for Worthians to link up through some competitive sport.

Bruised Reeds “Let the abbot temper all things so that the strong may have something to strive for but that the bruised reed may not be broken.” From the Rule of St Benedict, Chapter 64. One of Worth’s strengths is its aftercare and the Society provides confidential support to former pupils who may have fallen on hard times and need some support at a particularly difficult time in their lives.

And finally….keeping the flag flying!

Worth Society ensures that Worthians continue to wear the Worth School colours with pride. The Society’s online shop sells the leavers’ cross and crown tie as well as Society ties, cufflinks, silver charms, socks and more.

Keeping Alumni in contact with Worth As well as keeping alumni informed of network news, it also keeps them up-to-date with ‘The Old Place’, with school and monastery news shared on its website, Facebook page, in regular e-newsletters and through its annual 76-page alumni magazine, The Blue Paper.

Edition Four: The Journey

CAROL SERVICE

General Eisenhower visited Worth in 1944

THE WORTH Society Carol Service in London is becoming one of the highlights of the year for the Worth community.

More than 250 people were in attendance for the second annual carol service at St Patrick’s Church, Soho Square, London, in December 2017.

The service included a welcome from Abbot Luke, a number of readings including Mr Jeremy Fletcher, chairman of the Worth Society, Head Master Mr Stuart McPherson and invited Worthians. There was also a reception after the service, plus a retiring collection for St Patrick’s Outreach programme.

WORTH REVISITING JEREMY BEST was the first boy across the threshold when the Senior School at Worth was founded in 1959. He remained at Worth until 1964 and to this day retains close links with the School. Here, he recalls his time at Worth and explains why being a Worthian is a lifelong pleasure.

Worth Knowing

58

59

Edition Four: The Journey

Vredenburg. Not only did we learn the etiquette of bridge, but we also learnt how to appreciate stilton cheese. The Colonel was a great Maths Master and got me through my O Level Maths a year early. He had a habit of standing behind you in class and, if you got something wrong, he would get you to repeat that you were ‘a lazy little man, Sir’!

the Matron, whose catchphase if you needed something was ‘Go to Harrods’.

LIVING IN 1959

“ WORTH TAUGHT ME A LOT. THE CATHOLIC EDUCATION HAS STOOD ME IN GOOD STEAD THROUGHOUT MY LIFE"

In 1959...

The average pint of beer cost 8p; the average loaf of bread cost 5p; the average house price was £2,077; the average salary was £535 per annum; the average cost of a car was £780, the average cost of a gallon of petrol was

In 1959 my parents were based in Gibraltar, where my father was an Army Officer on a three-year posting. I had been entered for Downside, but when Worth the average cost of a announced that they pint of milk was 3p. were to form an Upper School, I was entered for there instead. The Prep School students reported back five days before the Senior School and my brother, Nicholas, was among the new intake. As my parents were abroad, I stayed with my aunt until we were due to report. My aunt, not wishing to get into trouble as she had on a previous occasion by getting me back a few minutes late from an exeat while at the Prep School and having to face up to the Head Master Fr Maurice Bell, delivered me to the School early and that is how I was met by Fr Kevin Taggart as the first boy to cross the threshold of the new Senior School.

with James Pontifex and Rodney Bligh. I soon made friends with Peter Campbell, who was a new boy to Worth, and we shared an interest in music – he played the flute and I the trombone. I remember Peter getting very exasperated with his flute practice one day and bending the instrument around the metal bar at the bottom of his bed.

About half the boys had been at the Prep School and half were new to Worth. My best friend at the Prep School had been David Bell and he was amongst those who moved up to the Senior School, together

When the Upper School first started Harrods were the official school outfitters and once a year a tailor would come down to Worth to measure us up. All matters of clothing were handled by Angela Hollins,

22p;

Worth Knowing

All matters medical were handled by Sister Joan Edey, very much a friend to me if I needed an excuse to get off games. Believe it or not, I hated cross country running whilst I was at school and would do my utmost to avoid it. In later life running over six miles a day became part of my routine until my hips gave out.

Some of us were lucky enough to be invited to North Lodge to play bridge with ‘The Colonel’ – Hugh

Because of my behaviour at times, I was not selected as a prefect. My House Master in Chapman House was Fr Fabian Glencross and in his penultimate report on me in April 1964 he expressed his view that I was not showing myself in my true light and that perhaps I would have made a good prefect after all.

However, I don’t think that this adversely affected my life after Worth. I had set my mind on a career in the Royal Navy, passed the Officer entrance selection, but failed on eyesight. I therefore pursued a career with Barclays Bank, initially working around Berkshire, but for the last 14 years of my career

We were treated extremely well by Fr Kevin and Fr Dominic Gaisford, the new young Head Master. Both were young men and it must have been extremely daunting for them to suddenly have responsibility for about 30 teenagers in a new school. I remember once when Fr Dominic addressed us all, he reminded us that Worth was not a ‘Country Club’ and that we should stop acting like a load of dilettantes!

A few of us who liked a smoke would ask John Bonner, the Monks Butler, to purchase us cigarettes – the going rate then for 10 Players Gold Leaf was 2s 3d (11p in today’s money). I don’t know that anyone in authority ever rumbled this arrangement!

60

61

Edition Four: The Journey

1959 AND ALL THAT

Other notable events in 1959... Harold Macmillan was British Prime Minister; the first Mini went on sale; Barclays became the first bank to install a computer; the first section of the M1 motorway was opened; Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper were killed in a plane crash near Iowa; Simon Cowell was born; Ian Fleming’s novel Goldfinger was published.

WONDERFUL WORTH THE WORTH estate has always been a unique place to photograph. While many cosmetic changes have taken place over the years, the beauty of the setting has not diminished. The next two pages provide a selection of pictures taken by staff members at various locations around the campus during the last few months.

serving as Resident Inspector in the Bahamas, Senior Inspector in Ghana, and Head of Audit for Africa in Kenya. I am married to Bronwen, my wife of 44 years to date.

I have kept in touch with Worth and most recently attended the 50th celebration of Fr Stephen’s ordination. I look forward to the 60th anniversary celebration of the School in 2019!

Worth taught me a lot. The Catholic education has stood me in good stead throughout my life and I remain an active parishioner at Corpus Christi, Wokingham, in Berkshire, as well as being very involved in assisting in raising funds for a primary school in one of Nairobi’s largest slums – so far we have raised over £300,000 over the past 12 years.

STAY IN TOUCH

When I retired from Barclays in 2003 and returned to live in the UK, I applied to become a Justice of the Peace and served 10 years on the Berkshire Bench,

Worth Knowing

and sitting as a chairman, before having to step down in 2016 due to the mandatory age retirement at 70.

If you want to stay in touch or re-engage with former classmates, please email Mary Lou Burge at worthsociety@worth.org.uk

62

63

Edition Four: The Journey

THE CLOCK TOWER THEN AND NOW

There have been many changes and improvements to the Worth campus in recent years, but the history and character of this wonderful place remains. The Clock Tower (see here and page 63) is a permanent reminder of this, a link between the past, the present and the future.

“SET IN 500 ACRES OF BEAUTIFUL SUSSEX COUNTRYSIDE”

Worth Knowing

64

65

Edition Four: The Journey

EDITORIAL TEAM Editors Howard Griggs and Gordon Pearce Design Hannah Condry, Mercer Design www.mercerdesign.co.uk Photography Howard Griggs, Paul Cheeseman, Ellie Chidgey, Simon Dack, Emma Duggan, Eaton & Woods, John Everest, Simon Fisher, Edward Latham, Oliver Paisley, Richard Parsons, Dominic Ryan.

Cover photograph: Elliot Hartley

Worth School, Paddockhurst Road, Turners Hill, West Sussex RH10 4SD 01342 710200 admissions@worth.org.uk www.worthschool.org.uk Charity number: 1093914 Company registration number: 4476558 Worth Knowing

66