December high flyer

HIGH FLYER DECEMBER EDITION

VOLUME 2

2015

October 2015

High Flyer is Wycombe High School’s half termly magazine celebrating past and present life at school. If you would like to advertise in this magazine, please contact Mrs Dana Morgan on 01494 523961 or e-mail dmorgan@whs.bucks.sch.uk. Our Finance Office will invoice you upon distribution of the magazine.

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PUBLICATION FORMAT High Flyer A5 Colour – Primarily electronic PDF. Annual Magazine A4 Colour – circa 1500 printed as well as electronic PDF. Our magazine goes out to over 1400 local households and thousands of alumnae and is also online at http://www.whs.bucks.sch.uk/ The High Flyer magazine is predominantly an online publication, distributed by email and published online, the size of the adverts are based on the A5/A4 format of the finished product. However we are happy to accept A4 (or other) sized PDF or JPG files and will resize these accordingly to fit. The publication incorporates margins and therefore does not require provision for a bleed edge.

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February

Wednesday 3 February

Monday 8 February

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Diary dates - Spring Term 2016 5 January

Guild Committee Meeting, 7.00 pm, Conference Room

12 January

PAFA Meeting, 7.30-9.30 pm, The Forum

13 January

Year 8 Parents Evening, 4.30-7.30 pm

29 January

Movie Night, 6.00-8.00 pm, The Hall

30 January

PAFA Burns Night, 7.30-11.00 pm, The Hall and Forum

3 February

Inspirational Women’s Event, 7.00-8.30 pm, The Hall and Forum

4 February

Year 10 Parents Evening, 4.30-7.30 pm

23 February

UCAS Evening, 7.00-8.30 pm, The Hall

25 February

Year 7 Parents Evening, 4.30-7.30 pm

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Table of Contents

Heads of News Crew Emily Morgan Year 13 A3 Saoirse O’Connor Year 13 P3 Year 9 Ana Meechan C10 Year 11 Zainab Alam P5 Ambar Yousuf A2 Year 12 Erin Benee P3 Ellie Tarr P9

Cover Art by Rumaysah Mahmmod Y12 A4 Advertising in High Flyer

Page 2

Diary Dates Spring Term

Page 2

Message From Headteacher

Page 4

Art

Pages 6-9

Business and Economics

Page 10

Charity

Page 11

Development Ambassadors

Pages 12-14

Development Office Update

Pages 15

Dollin Essay Competition

Page 17

Drama

Pages 18-22

English

Pages 23-29

Proofreader Mrs C Wace

Extra Curricular

Pages 30-35

Advertisers

Geography

Page 36

Edent Centre

Page 5

Guild

Pages 37-45

Wycombe High School Events

Page 16

History and Politics

Pages 46-48

Ingenuity IT

Page 24

Houses

Page 49

Nicola Brown ‘Inspire’ Lunchtime

Languages

Pages 50-51

Talk

Page 44

Library

Page 52

Inspiring Women Evening

Page 53

Maths

Pages 54-56

Tea Concert Ad

Page 59

Music

Pages 57-58

LIFE Build Solutions

Page 60

News Crew

Page 61

PAFA Burns Night

Page 69

Original Contributions

Pages 62-64

Hawkins Sport

Page 77

Oxbridge

Pages 65-67

Places For People

Page 78

PAFA

Pages 68

Zenopa

Page 80

PE and Sport

Pages 70-76

Clubbercise

Page 88

Psychology and Sociology

Page 79

Pyramid Fitness

Page 88

Science

Pages 81-83

Wycombe Squash and

Technology

Pages 84-87

Racquet Club

Page 88

Ed Boakes Driving

Page 88

Perton Signs

Page 89

Lead Staff Member Mrs D Morgan

High Flyer is an entirely student-led initiative. A team of students of all ages, led by Sixth Formers, known as the ‘News Crew’ take responsibility for this half-termly publication.

Wycombe Swan ‘Into The Woods’ Page 89

Wycombe High School Marlow Road High Wycombe Buckinghamshire HP11 1TB Tel: 01494 523961 Fax: 01494 510354 office@whs.bucks.sch.uk Should you wish to contact the Headteacher or any other member of staff by email, please do so through the school office at: office@whs.bucks.sch.uk.

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Innovate

Page 90

Letting of School Premises

Page 90

Stagecoach

Page 91

The Fitness Experts

Page 92

Cineworld

Page 93

Connections 500

Page 94

PYP Sport Gift Form

Pages 95-96

Message from the Headteacher As I write, our school community is reflecting on an exceptionally busy and successful term. As you know, High Flyer is a half-termly publication. The fact that this edition runs to over 90 pages tells you quite a lot about our girls! Quite simply this Christmas edition is a testament to Wycombe High School students’ energies, talents and achievements. Indeed, the girls do so much we have had to create a separate monthly sports bulletin to manage the volume of great news we have to share with you!

Europe’: Mrs Honnor, Director of Music has published via Edexcel ‘ Student Guide to Composition for A Level Edexcel Music: Unit 5’.

Continuing on this literary theme our guest speaker at this week’s annual A Level Prize Giving is the novelist, and former WHS student, Shelley Harris. Shelley worked initially as a journalist on the Maidenhead Advertiser, before moving to Paris for a year, training and working as a teacher, and ultimately becoming a writer. Shelley has published two books: Jubilee and Vigilante. The former was shortlisted for the Commonwealth Book Prize and was selected as a Richard and Judy summer read. Vigilante was published to great acclaim in The Times and will be available in paper back in Spring 2016.

At Prize Giving, we are delighted to welcome back all of our 2015 Year 13 leavers to celebrate each of their A Level successes and to catch up on their new adventures, whether university, work or travels.

Almost every subject and aspect of school life is represented in this edition. It is impossible to pick out any single individual or event for particular mention. That said, it is the section on alumnae that perhaps best demonstrates how all these wonderful opportunities, achievements and talents ultimately get put to use in employment.

I am delighted that Carolyn Fairbairn, a former student of Wycombe High, has been appointed as the Director General of the Confederation for British Industry (CBI). Carolyn attended Cambridge University followed by University of Pennsylvania and has worked as a journalist, economist and management consultant. She is also the former Director of Strategy at both the BBC and ITV. This month the girls have also had the opportunity to attend a lecture by Dr Laura Hunter. Laura is a Dentist and Medical Lawyer. Laura has a degree in dentistry and a Masters in Medical Law. She currently works as a Dentist and as a Dento-Legal Advisor. In February we are delighted to welcome former student Nicola Brown to school. Nicola is an airline pilot, indeed a Captain, with British Airways. A fantastic achievement given that only 2% of the aviation industry’s captains are female.

I hope that all of these inspiring women, whether at the start of their university or employment careers, or at the pinnacle of them, demonstrate for our girls exactly where their skills, qualifications and interests could lead. The world is their oyster and all things are possible.

This term to date we have celebrated Eid, Diwali, Sikh festivals, Rosh Hashanah, and Hanukkah. We have enjoyed these celebrations and now look forward to Christmas. I wish you much festive cheer, a Happy Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year. And in so doing I urge you to read the words of our Year 8 poet, Leonie Sergeant, on page 64. Her words epitomise the Wycombe High School ethos. They champion tolerance and humanity, mutual respect and understanding. And highlight perfectly how our girls, who will be the future parents, business and political leaders of the world, can, should and will conduct themselves, shaping a positive society of which we can all be proud.

In the week that Tim Peake has ventured into space and the historic UN Paris Climate deal has been sealed, I must highlight Hilary Wilson, another former student of Wycombe High School. Hilary works in the space industry and is currently living in Germany. She manages a team of 80 staff, building and operating satellites for the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT), an organisation that monitors weather and climate from space. Follow this incredibly exciting work on Twitter: @eumetsat.

Mrs S N Cromie Headteacher

This term we have also seen two members of staff become academic authors. Miss Brash, Assistant Headteacher and Teacher of History has published via Pearson ‘Paper 1&2: Religion and state in early modern

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Art

On the Cornwall trip, we visited various amazing sights! These included the Eden Project, the seaside town of St Ives, The Barbara Hepworth museum, St Michael’s Mount, and the Lost Gardens of Helligan. Whilst at St Ives, when we weren’t exploring the historic town full of quaint gift shops and bakeries, the art students had a workshop with a local artist Hannah , learning new techniques and creating a painting of the local landscape. The Graphics Students used the quaint shops to inspire designs for the frontage of a surf shop.

At St Michael’s Mount, we had a sandcastle competition of epic proportions.

There was such variety of sculptures, ranging from actual castles, sights we’d seen, turtles, and even a bigger than life-sized bed (which managed to fit six people). Unfortunately, these creations did not last long as we had to battle the tide to finish our designs Another highlight of the trip was our t-shirt decorating competition, which we completed during the evenings. After our morning on the beach Mrs Ellis, Mrs Woodward, Miss Davies and Mr Nevard took on the role of judges as we strutted down a fabulous catwalk in the hostel. All the designs were so different and creative, that some students who didn’t place in the top three received special commendations.

Throughout the trip all of us worked on creating a sketchbook in their spare time, recording the places we visited and sights we saw. These sketchbooks all turned out beautifully, and are wonderful mementos of our fun-filled visit to Cornwall.

Emily Brown, Austen 6, Year 10 Paintings by Kitty Smets, Austen 10, Year 11

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Art Drew Smith Curie 6

Maya Bharal Curie 3 Year 12 Art Showcase The theme for Component One of A level Art is ‘Faces, Places and Inner Spaces’ and since Induction Day in July, we have been developing our ideas on this theme. The course structure is the same as GCSE art; analysing the work of other artists, making records of observation and then developing these into a final piece. Here are some of the pieces we have created this term.

Each student has taken the theme in personal direction, using different methods so that it is impossible to see any two people doing anything remotely similar. Art is an enjoyable release despite the heavy workload. We are all drawn to art because of the freedom of expression it offers and the never ending supply of inspiration it creates.

Fern O’ Shaughnessy, Year 12, Pankhurst 1, A level Art student.

Isobel Steel Parks 4

Ellie Tribe Curie 1 8

Rumaysah Mahmood Austen 4

Aimee Hetherington Parks 5

Sophie Richards Parks 3

Isabel Cunningham Parks 6

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Business and Economics Target 2.0 The Year 13 economists who represented WHS were regional runners up at the Bank of England's Target 2.0 competition. The team had to study a wide range of economic data and present a recommendation to executives from the Bank of England as to how they should use monetary policy to help reach the government's target for inflation.

Congratulations to Tomi Oludemi, Maddie Smith, Lydia Denham, Alex Poulton and Munroop Phagura.

Mr Robert Kramer, Teacher of Business Studies

The Year 13 Target 2.0 Team with their teacher Mr Kramer.

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Charity Charities at Wycombe High

a further £890 for breast cancer awareness. In addition to the fair, a ‘Bra Bank’ was also set up and over 1200 bras were donated to the cause!

With the first term here at Wycombe High drawing to an exciting close in the run up to the ever-exciting Christmas period, the Wycombe High community have been pulling together in a tremendous effort to raise money for various wonderful causes including Jeans for Genes, breast bancer awareness and Children In Need.

Last but certainly by no means least – Children in Need. The Children in Need fundraising day was the responsibility of year 10 and 11 students. This year the dress up theme was ‘your favourite superhero’. Both students and staff were encouraged to dress up. The SLT also performed a music concert on the stage in the main hall, which was a great success with fellow students and teachers supporting them.

Children in Need managed to raise an incredible £1200 in total.

The beautiful decoration of the Miller

The incredible efforts from the students here at Wycombe High was first illustrated with Jeans for Genes day that raised money for genetic diseases through a whole school mufti-day where all students and staff donated money to wear jeans of any colour to school for the day.

The Jeans for Genes day managed to raise an amazing £1000 for the charity – whilst the students enjoyed a day of no uniform!

A few members of our ‘super’ SLT team!

Massive congratulations and thank you to everyone that took part and donated, as well as a special mention to the year 10 and 11 students, Sixth Form and members of SLT for giving an extra special effort to raise so much money for wonderful causes

The fundraising this term didn’t stop there, as our Sixth Form took the responsibility of creating the platform for more fundraising with the extremely successful Pink Fair. The Pink Fair enabled students and teachers to raise money for breast cancer awareness with an array of stalls and activities all in the effort of raising as much money as possible. Students from the Sixth Form were on hand to sell goodies from stalls, and offer activities such as henna tattoos and pin the bra on the mermaid. A fantastic effort from Sixth Form enabled Wycombe High to raise

Millie Sepede, Year 13, Nightinagle 7, Head of Charities

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Development Ambassador Update The Custom Card and Gift Tag project was a great success. We received some amazing designs for greeting cards and gift tags and raised £38.00. Congratulations to Emily Marchant from T7, Year 12 who won tasty treats for placing the most orders! We can’t wait to see more, creative designs next year!

For our first Movie Night, showcased ‘Pitch Perfect 2’ on Friday 11 December. It was a great night with 50 students spanning Years 7 through 10 attending and helping to raise an amazing £130.00. The lucky winner of 4 Cineworld tickets was Zoe Evans Year 8 Austen 6.

The Development stall at the Frost Fayre was an incredible success. We sold a huge amount of WHS merchandise as well as having a biscuit decorating stall which was great fun. With your support we managed to raise an incredible £315.30.

So far this year we have raised £120 by collecting 300kg of textiles thanks to your support. Since we began the RagBag recycling scheme in 2010 we have collected over six tonnes of recycling raising nearly £3000 for the school. RagBag is no longer servicing our area, consequently we are moving to a new textiles recycling company - UK Textile Recycling. The new bank will be in use February/ March 2016. In the meantime we are still accepting donations. Donations are to be left under cover around the corner near the entrance to the School Shop. Donations must be, clean, dry and sealed in plastic bags.

Based on the results of the Quiz and Movie Night Survey, this half-term our quiz theme was Pop Culture. The quiz took place on Wednesday 2 December. The winning team was Quizzy Rascal.

Second place went to Crink Squad & Co and third place was awarded to Let’s Get Quizzical, who also received the prize for Best Team Name. It was great fun and we raised an amazing £100!

Thank you for supporting our fundraising events to help reach our target. So far this year we have raised an amazing £1,656. We couldn’t have achieved this without your support.

Our newest piece of merchandise is the 2016 Art Calendar, which showcases the creative talents from students across the school. We have also introduced new 2016 Art Notelets featuring current and former student artwork. If you are looking for unique and beautiful gifts consider buying yourself, friends and family a copy of the calendar and / or sets of cards. Order forms are available on the Development Course in Moodle as well as in this edition of High Flyer.

Munroop Phagura, Year 13, Pankhurst 8, Head of Development

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Development Office Update We are happy to report we have raised £60,930 so far this year. We had a very positive response to our joint presentations with Charity at Parent Conferences which resulted in over £6,000 of donations in the form of one-off gifts and monthly pledges.

Source Future Fund (2015-2016) Student Fundraising Play Your Part Sport Advertising Event Donations Sponsors

When we return from the winter holiday we are launching the ‘New Year New Sport-a-Thon’. We invite the entire Wycombe High School community (current and former students, parents and staff) to complete the distance of a marathon (26.2 miles) in a sport that is not your regular activity over a period of three months.

Amount £ 56,321.50 £ 1,665.74 £ 1,660.37 £ 652.00 £ 540.90 £ 100.00 £ 60,930.52

The Development Ambassadors have raised an incredible £1,665 towards their £3,000 target, and it is only the beginning of the year! The News Crew as well has generated £652 in advertising sales which seems to be increasing with every issue. Both the Development Ambassadors and News Crew are hugely grateful for student, staff, parental and local business support.

Once again we encourage you to set up a fundraising page on our new WHS Sport-a-thon!

Just Giving Campaign here: https:// campaign.justgiving.com/charity/wycombehighschool/playyourpartsport/view

‘Play Your Part’ Sport Campaign Update Our first event of the year was the Marlow Santa Fun Run on Sunday 6 December. This was ‘Team Wycombe High School’s’ first event to fundraise for our new dual all-weather pitch facility. We had over 40 parents, students and staff participate and raise much needed funds.

So far we have raised £1,129 from off and online donations. It’s not too late to sponsor a staff team member here: http://campaign.justgiving.com/ charity/wycombe-highschool/playyourpartsport

Everyone needs to get on board, attend and participate in events and most importantly donate to the school’s Play Your Part Sport Campaign in order for us to achiever our target. If you feel able to support us with a financial gift, please complete the Gift form in this edition of High Flyer. Any gift, of any size is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your support.

Wishing you and your family season’s greetings and a very Happy New Year.

Mrs Dana Morgan, Director of Development and Alumnae Relations

Click on the Team WHS Santa Fun Run photo above to see more photos from the day.

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Dollin Essay Competition 2016 On Monday 7 December Governor Mike Dollin, who generously sponsors the competition, presented prizes and certificates to this year’s winners and highly commended particpants.

This summer we relaunched our prestigious essay competition, with the theme of ‘Now and what’s in the News’.

Students were asked to write 1000 - 2000 words from a choice of twentyone subject-specific titles.

Twenty-seven students, from Years 8 - 13 took part, and the standard was incredibly high.

Miss Brash and Mrs Pruszewicz shortlisted five essays, which were judged by Oxford historian Hazel Tubman.

Becky Howitt , Year 11, Park 10, was awarded First Prize of £150 for her essay on ‘Why the recent Ebola outbreak in West Africa was so deadly..’. Amelia Kemp, Year 12, Nightingale 8, was the Runner-Up , and received £50 for her essay on ‘Is social media responsible for the increase in mental health issues in young people?’

Highly Commended essays were written by Anna Yarwood, Year 8 Austen 3, Saoirse O'Connor Year 13 Parks 3 and Paris Spencer Year 13 Curie 4.

You can read all five shortlisted essays in the Competitions section of the Library Course on Moodle, by clicking on the Dollin Essay Competition Button on this page, or in a folder in the Library, next to the EPQ files.

Mrs Pruszewicz, Oxbridge Co-ordinator

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Drama Hamlet The supporting cast had highs and lows.

Gertrude, while describing Ophelia’s death was particularly poignant. The soliloquy can create questions in the audience, namely why didn’t Gertrude throw the drowning Ophelia a life ring?

Gertrude here gave the lines as a woman restrained and feeble though not by choice. This was particularly so after the audience had seen the queen struggle after Ophelia, sending tiny bits of grit flying in her wake, in a desperate attempt to prevent her death. I’m not sure I would have made the effort.

Ophelia, was slightly disappointing, particularly in the first half; though slightly better after she goes crazy. Or maybe it was the audience that was driven mad by her reedy crooning.

Last half term I went to the Barbican Theatre to watch Shakespeare’s Hamlet, starring Benedict Cumberbatch.

The play centres around Prince Hamlet of Denmark who discovers that his father has been murdered by his uncle Claudius, who since poisoning the old king has married his widow. Spoiler alert, it’s not a happy ending.

Benedict Cumberbatch himself was awe inspiring as Hamlet, and the audience followed him around the stage. The clear petulance of Benedict Cumberbatch’s Hamlet could clearly be seen, and certainly I saw him as a lost little boy trying to stand against a gargantuan task of avenging his father.

All in all the performance was a fantastic experience, and I immensely enjoyed Hamlet. I hope that Benedict Cumberbatch returns to Hamlet at some point in the future, hopefully with a stronger avenging fury.

Saoirse O’Connor, Year 13, Parks 3, Head of News Crew

Cumberbatch was mesmerising, but his Hamlet didn’t seem convincingly mad. There wasn’t any driving fury behind Hamlet, instead a lost child soldiering on.

The set was simply gorgeous. A large, grand country house, with ancient ancestors peering down from portraits. The house becomes covered in grit for the second half, which is an obvious symbol for the corruption of the Danish Monarchy, but a striking visual one nonetheless.

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The play was breath-taking. Performed in a truly epic style, the director chose to add musicality to the performance with poignant songs, as well as indigenous dialect for the character of the Aborigine.

Theatre Trip to ‘Our Country’s Good’ On Thursday 15 October, the Year 12 and 13 Drama students were lucky enough to attend ‘Our Country’s Good’ at the National Theatre.

Set in the 1780’s, ‘Our Country’s Good’, written by the incredible Timberlake Wertenbaker, tells of one of the first penal colony’s in Australia.

The story concerns a group of convicts, and the Royal Marines in charge of them, and their journey to creating a community and finding redemption through the power of theatre as they endeavour to perform ‘The Recruiting Officer’ for their fellow colonials.

Liz Morden ( Portrayed by Jodie McNee)

For the Year 13’s, this performance was particularly moving as we had been studying the play as one of our set texts this year. Over the first term we had fallen in love with the story and the characters, feeling their pain and triumph as closely as we might our own.

Needless to say, some tears were shed and our passions were sparked, something which led to much heated discussion in the following lesson.

The Aborigine (Portrayed by Gary Wood)

As a whole, the performance was a triumph and I feel very privileged to have been able to witness such an incredible event.

Emily Morgan, Year 13, Austen 3, Head of News Crew

‘Visiting Hours’ - one of the most emotional scenes in the play. A true triumph.

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Drama Year 12 and 13 Theatre Visit to ‘The Notebook’: It’s not what you think…

On Thursday 5 November, the A Level Drama Students went on the second theatre trip of this year to see ‘The Notebook’ from Forced Entertainment. If your mind jumped to Nicholas Sparks and kissing in the rain, be aware, it’s not what you think.

For a play that shares its title with one of the most well-known love stories to date, they are nothing alike.

The play focuses on two men who spend the entirety of the two hour performance reading from a notebook, hence the title.

The show had no interval, something which had us all a little concerned from the start, and was daring in its bold choice of extremely minimal staging, solely two wooden chairs, and narrative acting style.

Although such a format might sound boring, believe me when I say it jolted you into awareness. The story centred around twin boys and the way growing up during the Second World War changed them.

The children were refugees and for the entire performance it was unclear where they came from, something which I believe added to the poignancy of the play’s meaning. The events that were relayed to the audience were shocking and cruelly delivered in a deadpan manner which was hauntingly uncomfortable for all those who attended.

Despite it not being what we expected, I think it’s safe to say the political relevance and intriguing style will certainly stay with us, and give the Year 13 students plenty to think about for their upcoming practical exam.

Emily Morgan, Year 13, Austen 3, Head of News Crew

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‘Lord of the Flies’

Of course, the actors were the ones who really drew in the crowds. The young cast were There have been several adaptations of William incredibly talented and showed incredible Golding’s harrowing novel, from film to ballet, and command of the stage. They seamlessly slipped this latest version certainly lives up to its between childlike innocence and predatory anger predecessors. I was lucky enough to go see it within moments of each other in a way that had with my family, and was thoroughly impressed the audience on the edge of their seats. with what I experienced.

But what was truly haunting for me was the beautifully On first walking choreographed in, your eyes movement. are immediately Choreographer drawn to the and fight incredible set director, Kate that has been Waters truly put together for captured the this production. animalistic There is no nature of the better word for predator, it than breathmelded taking, for I am together with a delighted to say tribal essence I felt as though I that felt had truly altogether walked in on a entirely eerie. crash site I would buried in the recommend The Lord of the Flies set as seen at the Wycombe Swan Theatre. jungle. Half of this show to the plane, anyone as which had highly as I crashed with would the book, the characters it is thoroughly on board, took worth the up the majority watch. of the stage and served as a playground for the actors to work on.

Strewn across the rest of the stage were suitcases and estranged belongings, giving the atmosphere An example of one of the more savage moments in the play, as that extra the children’s society descends into chaos. feeling of the loss these Emily Morgan, Year 13, Austen 3, Head of children were suffering.

News Crew

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Drama ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream ‘

meticulously laid out flower petals that decorated the stage. The whole production smacked of professionalism and you should feel very proud.

This term, Wycombe High School’s own production of ‘Midsummer Night’s Dreams’ opened to great applause.

With a superb cast and crew, including the News Crew’s own Emily Morgan, there is nothing that I can say to make you feel better about having missed this event. Sorry.

A special mention to the Production Team which included: Directors Mrs Vikki Jonsmyth-Clarke, Miss Sophie Mann and Miss Lani Strange; Artistic Director Emilie Kraft; Producer Lotty Clare; Stage Manager Leea Smith; Musical Director Scarlet Halton; Choreography: and Make Up Dominique Hamilton; and Assistant Stage Manager Libby Ward.

The play centres around the fairy kingdom of Oberon and Tatiana in turmoil, lovers lost and won, and the hilarious mechanicals play to boot. The production was funny to the point the audience were about to start rolling in the aisles, and the cast were extremely talented.

Well done to everyone involved.

If you missed this production, I would encourage you to book your tickets well in advance for the next one, I’m sure it will be a sold out event.

Saoirse O’Connor, Year 13, Parks 3, Head of News Crew With Sarah Favager, a mischievous Puck, Lucy Price a superb Bottom, and a plethora of fairy folk littering the frankly gorgeous stage, this was a visual feast. The cast was incredibly strong, and I thoroughly enjoyed all the performances.

Something must be said about the individual hard work of all the crew, who not only assembled the swing set, and individual bit of stage, but 22

English A Day in Shakespeare Land

could read ‘Hamlet’ in a font size a mouse would struggle to read with our new pocket sized copies, and could provide anyone in a second with one of nine notable Shakespeare quotes printed on badges, if the situation ever arose.

On Wednesday 18 November 2015, 40 or so Year 13 girls, including myself, eagerly gave up their day off to spend the day in Shakespeare Land (Stratford-Upon-Avon). Unlike any other regular morning, we sprung out of bed at 6:30 am unbearable with excitement for A WHOLE DAY dedicated to the playwright himself. After registering in the forum we experienced the embarrassing realisation that we are childish enough still to have a scramble for the back row seats on the coach. Once the fights were resolved, wounds bandaged up (I’m kidding…) and the successful ones proudly took their back row seats, we set off.

Having left the shop with armfuls of useless tat and only wishing we could purchase ‘I <3 Shakespeare’ t-shirts, we headed off to Shakespeare’s house (or we would do after the compulsory stop-off at Costa for coffee and cake).

Standing in Shakespeare’s house on Henley Street was slightly surreal, and we had to forcefully compose ourselves after thinking about where we were. It was truly fascinating to walk through the parlour and the dining-room, and to find out about Shakespeare’s father’s glove business which was managed from the family home. We also ventured upstairs to see the boys’ and girls’ bedrooms, and the room where William Shakespeare was born.

Greeted by the statue of Shakespeare.

The Royal Shakespeare Company where our inner Shakespeare fangirls were released.

Arriving in Stratford was a similar experience to arriving in Alaska. We walked through the quaint and beautiful streets huddled together like penguins and trying to maintain our footing in the strong gales. We reached the river and saw The Gower Memorial which – I was reliably informed – featured in one of Shakespeare’s most famous works, ‘Gnomeo and Juliet’.

At the end of the brief tour of the house, we were greeted by in-house actors who brilliantly reenacted the opening Witches scene of ‘Macbeth’ on request (although imagination was needed as there were only two actors, and one looked rather male-like).

There was no better way to begin the fun than with the Royal Shakespeare Theatre gift shop.

Finally we could let out our inner Shakespeare fangirls. We picked up endless amounts of merchandise and spent ridiculous amounts of money, but left safe in the knowledge that we

/Cont’d...

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English The day ended with a talk on ‘Macbeth’ in relation to the Gothic genre. Our speaker, Lisa Peter, provided us with many insightful ideas about the creation of Gothic setting and violence in the play, which will help us in our study of ‘Macbeth’.

We were then treated with a well-deserved tea break – having endured the blistering winds of Stratford for the day – before reconvening for part two of the talk on film and theatre adaptations. This was equally interesting as we were able to consider the differences between portrayals from a modern-day film and Blackfriars Theatre in the 17th century.

Without a doubt, our day in Stratford-Upon-Avon was extremely enjoyable and a fair trade for our usual Wednesdays in bed…working of course. I leave you with the words of the World’s Greatest Playwright, taken straight from the pocket copy itself…

Posing with the Globe Theatre Model

“There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so” Prince Hamlet, Hamlet Harriet Ferguson, Year 13, Curie 10

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‘War Horse’ Theatre Visit The Warhorse visit was excellent and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

The actors and actresses put a lot of effort into their performance, especially the people playing the horse. It was amazing how the horses looked so realistic and now I can’t help but wonder how they made them.

The war scenes were stunning. I was really shocked at the first gun shot and jumped, along with Mrs Ellis.

It was fascinating when the actors had to freeze amongst the chaos of the war scene and stand still like statues in the darkness. I did not see one of them wobble.

The humour came along when the goose was introduced. It was amazing when the small colt turned into a giant horse emerging from the mists.

I would like to thank all the teachers that came with us so that we could all go. I enjoyed it very much and I want to say a big THANK YOU!

Aminah Faisal, Year 7, Pankhurst 2

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English Welcome to High Flyer’s first ever serial! We are immensely excited to present you Lauren Campbell’s ‘Stereotypes’ through a series of instalments. The News Crew senses another Dickens in our midst.

‘good morning Posy’ or ‘how are you today darling’. But might as well do as he says anyway.

I quickly grab my blue long sleeve school top, and pull it on over my head, over my pastel pink leotard, the buttons already done up. I grab my side bag filled with all of the stuff I need today; before grabbing my iPod out of the dock lying on the floor, and making my way into the dingy living room.

‘Stereotypes’ Chapter 1: Music and car keys Music. That’s all I hear right now. But I suppose it’s all I should be hearing. Though, not exactly what you would be expecting. Sure there’s the traditional Russian song played by a world famous orchestra and that’s normal, but the music over powering it isn’t as normal. All the way from the other side of the house, and I can still hear my brother’s heavy metal, alternative music.

I would like to say we live in a clean house with a perfect family, but that would be a lie. Clothes strewn everywhere, and coffee stains on the couch, meet my eyes as I make my way into the untidy living room. Time to put on that smile that everybody knows, and the one that I live by. Grinning, I flop down on to the sofa, at the very edge of the right hand side so that if Oscar sits on the couch he will be right next to me. I turn my head to the right, and see my baby brother looking at Mum and Dad run around the house looking for Mum’s keys, with a bored expression on his face and a thermometer placed between his teeth. “What’s up baby bro?” I tease, reaching my hand out to ruffle his matted blonde-brown hair, before he smacks my hand away.

“Fever.” He answers, simply. I nod in understanding. Ever since Oscar’s accident, if he had even the slightest temperature, Mum and Dad go crazy and book a doctor’s appointment. I mean, I know that since he’s in a wheelchair that a fever could be lethal, but we are frequent visitors at the surgery, every other week.

It is actually quite good.

Well, if you are into all that stuff. Which I’m not.

I extend my leg up alongside my head. I put both hands on my foot and then start pirouetting. Round and round, keeping my leg up in the air, trying to see if I can break my record of twenty six pirouettes in a row.

But I don’t get the chance to even see if I can do it as the door to my messy room bursts open.

Knocking over my iPod dock, and making me lose my balance, as I was only supporting my entire body weight on the very tips of my left toes. But, luckily I manage to lean onto the wall to make sure I don’t end up falling over.

“Posy, have you seen your mum’s car keys?”

Dad asks opening my door, not even caring he just interrupted my dance. As usual.

“No Dad.” I answer sighing; I was a little closer today at least. I managed nineteen, whereas yesterday was only fifteen. At least there was a little improvement.

My grin widens, as I see my other brother Jordan enter the room in his usual Goth clothes. Yep, my brother’s a Goth. But I’m not, the opposite in fact.

At least in public, I’m the opposite.

I don’t have anything against Goth’s, how could I when my brother is one, I’m just not one myself.

“What’s going on?” he asks. Although, why I don’t know, as my darling brother surely should know by now that the normal morning routine is where dear Mother and Father search the house top to bottom, for something that is right in front of their eyes. Guess I’m really getting good at knowing what comes next, though I wish once there would be a change in schedule and we might actually get some breakfast. Even if it was

“Well hurry up and help us look.” He says before closing the door and leaving the room again. No 26

Mum’s horrid oat meal. Eh, a girl can only hope.

“Lost car keys.” Oscar and I reply, in perfect sync.

Mum cries out to Dad that they weren’t in the fish tank. We don’t even have fish.

his skin, but now he is like a ghost! How do you even make yourself that pale, or any pale?! Maybe it’s like concealer, or he takes a special type of tablet. But who would even think of making a tablet to make a person’s face pale? He does have a slight button nose, but that doesn’t make him look any less terrifying to young children.

“You guys are creepy.” Jordan eyes us warily, referring to our word sync.

“Yeah, we’re the creepy ones?” I drag out, motioning to his outfit with my accusatory finger.

Jordan looks down at his outfit then back up at me before eyeing my clothes just as I had eyed his.

“You do know you can wear anything you like today, right?” He asks me, raising his eyebrows,. Ohh yeah…

Kind of forgot about that.

He wears a black and white top that looks like the fuzz that comes up on your TV screen when you have no reception, skinny, ripped jeans ,and a chain he always wears around his neck that appears to have some kind of animal bone hanging off the end.

Where he got the animal bone, I don’t even want to know. He also has a big black jacket on over the top, which has pockets scattered randomly around and a side bag identical to my purple one except grey.

“Yeah, well, I’m wearing leggings, and my leotard underneath, so ha! In your face!” I exclaim with a triumphant smile, standing up. I didn’t realise how close he was to where I was sitting, so our noses are only about two inches from each other. He stares at me for a minute longer, before letting out a few chuckles and shaking his head at my eccentric antics.

What makes him look even scarier are his lip, nose and ear piercings. I remember when one day, he just came home with them and acted like nothing had ever happened. Got a giant earful from Mum and Dad though.

Jordan has a lanky figure, he’s very thin but also quite tall, with natural mousy brown hair, but he dyes it black to make him look more gothic and is trying to grow it. But so far it has only made it to his shoulders, or maybe about a centimetre above. He is also extremely pale, I don’t know how he does that.

Before the accident he had quite a bit of colour to

/Cont’d...

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English Chapter 2: School and excursions

There’s also a sports block next to the car park, that has four changing rooms – two for each gender since one isn’t big enough – and we have a small gym there too. The sport’s block is probably the second smallest building in the school, after the woodwork block, so we do most of our P.E. lessons outside on the basketball or football pitches and only really ever go in there when we’re changing before and after a lesson.

Our school was actually rather small; it had only one floor but there were a few buildings. We go to Bremen High; it’s the only high school around here for quite some miles. There’s an elementary school about ten minutes away, and then there are the local shops around the area. Bremen High has a large car park for all the teachers and parents dropping their children off, but we have no cafeteria – you have to bring your own lunch and then eat outside. There are five buildings, and they all only have one floor except for one, which has three floors, although one of those floors is reserved for teachers only. The buildings are named after the first five letters of the alphabet: A, B, C, and D. Next to B, the one with three floors is the car park, and then behind C is where we eat lunch. There are loads of benches, but most people tend to just sit on the grass. We also have a basket ball court, and a large soft pitch area where you can play football or another sport. These are usually reserved for the school jocks, and they don’t like to share.

Then lastly – my personal favourite – the library.

That’s behind A and I go there every lunch time. I just find the atmosphere very relaxing and calming, you can almost feel the knowledge radiating off anyone there; you feel so stimulated yourself. There are so many interesting books, filled with stuff you would never need to know. I know I should probably be studying during my lunch times but they’ll always be time for that later. So many delectable facts to absorb, why would you waste that.

As we walk through the school gates the only thing different that really stands out is that everyone in my year is wearing their own clothing instead of the school uniform, apart from a few who have either forgotten or woke up too late to pick out an outfit of their own choice. I guess I was one of those people too though, but I actually like the school uniform so that’s my excuse…and I forgot. People send me smiles as Jordan and I go in separate directions; Sarah stays at Jordan’s side. He never really wants to be seen with me – but not for a bad reason. Jordan gets a lot of hassle at school for dressing like a Goth and for being a ‘freak’ and ‘witch’, and he doesn’t want me to get the same hassle as his sister. People really are surprised when they find out we are siblings – he is the gloomy, dark, sarcastic guy of the school, and I am the happy, always smiling, cheerful girl of the school. I can understand why they are so

Then there is the one building that always seems to be empty when there isn’t a class - the woodwork block. That is between C and D and it’s an old school myth that one girl was once working alone on a homework project, when she accidentally sawed off her own leg. Apparently the girl bled to death in that very room. It’s so obviously rubbish, but people here are stupid enough to believe it and avoid the woodwork block at all costs. I don’t go in there too often either to be honest, but not because I’m worried about some limping ghost girl; it’s because I’m just really bad at woodwork so there s actually a reasonably high chance that I’ll cut off my own leg.

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surprised, but I sometimes wish Jordan didn’t separate himself from me at school, it’s like he’s ashamed of who he is and thinks I should be too.

But I’m not. I understand.

will always do her best to help you. But her charming and sweet personality doesn’t stop all the other girls being jealous of her. Even I hold a smidge of jealousy for her gorgeous looks and undying popularity. She even has the most perfect of boyfriends, well sort of, but more about that later. Charlotte Grace just seems oblivious to every other girl wanting her life, as if it was an absurdity and her life is not as full of perfection as it seems. She is very, as I already said, modest. I frequently wish I had her beauty, glamour and when it comes down it all, luck in life.

I suddenly stumble to the side as somebody a few inches taller than me bashes into my left shoulder as they walk by. “Oh I’m so sorry!” said the person, who I now see is a girl, as they lean down to pick up some of the dropped books. Why doesn’t she just put them in her bag? “No, no, I should have been looking where I was going.” I dismiss her apology, also reaching for a book on the floor to help the girl. As we both straighten up again I realise the girl is Charlotte Grace, the school sweetheart.

We bid our good byes before she carries on walking in her direction and I walk off in mine.

The bus is nearly full now, excited yells radiating off from the inside. Walking to the bus, I am careful not to bash into anyone else’s shoulders, like I did with Charlotte Grace, because surely not everybody will be so understanding. But I doubt anyone would be too annoyed. Just as I lift my foot to step onto the rowdy coach, another pair of feet is placed in front of mine. I looked up to see Mr Sanders, our current Science teacher, staring sternly down at me.

Uh, what have I done now? “Permission slip, Miss Beach?”

Charlotte Grace has marvellous, rich chocolate brown hair in ringlets down to her mid back; they bounce as she walks.

She also has beautiful olive skin free from any imperfections. Her appearance is all round just perfect, as is her amazing personality. She is one of the most popular girls in the school, and yet she is still kind and modest and a pleasure to be around. Sure, our School has the kind of girls you read about, populars that enjoy embarrassing the ‘nerds’, trying to make themselves look beautiful by caking their faces in make up and being just generally horrible to anyone not in their little ‘posse’. But Charlotte Grace isn’t one of them; she is lovely and if you have a problem she 29

Extra Curricular Debating Matters On 5 November, a team from Senior Debating Society entered Debating Matters, a national debating competition for Sixth Form students. The team comprised the Head of Debating Society, Shahla Saeed-Barrett from Year 13, and three debators from Year 12, Jacky Jacob Pankhurst 8, Emily Atkinson Curie 1 and Lauren Goswell Parks 2.

The final debate was 'The TV licence fee should be abolished' and Lauren Goswell and Jacky Jacob argued against the motion for this debate.

The debate was very close with both sides arguing extremely well and gaining a great deal of positive feedback from the judges but John Hampden just managed to take the victory due to their excellent rebuttals and questions.

The event, held at John Hampden, was the qualifying round of the competition and included four schools from the Buckingham area; Wycombe High School, St Mary's School, The Piggott School and John Hampden Grammar School. The winner from this event would progress through to the regional round.

The team was very happy with their performance in the debate and look forward to future internal and external debates.

Senior Debating Society runs every Thursday lunchtime in the Lecture Theatre and everyone is welcome. If you have any interest in debating, politics or social issues come along and have a go!

The team, supported by Mrs Knight and Mr Bowden-Green, took part in two debates. The first debate was 'The UK should ban sex selective abortion' and Emily Atkinson and Shahla SaeedBarrett successfully argued against the motion winning this debate against The Piggott School.

Shahla Saeed-Barrett, Year 13, Pankhurst 9

The team then progressed to the final against John Hampden who had won their first round against St Mary's School in which they debated whether or not western countries should agree to repatriate cultural artefacts.

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Gold Duke of Edinburgh

slightly confused as to what field we were in.

However, once this was sorted we took our time with our dinner as we had arrived early. On this evening’s menu was a stir fry which was thoroughly scrummy. Even so we made sure we were in our tents at about seven o’clock as we have an early start tomorrow.

On October 24 two Gold Duke of Edinburgh groups, the Alpacas and the Blister Sisters, set off on an adventure to the wildest wilderness of Wales. Would they survive? Would they be eaten by carnivorous sheep? Would the tent blow away with them in it?

Day Three Our first night’s camp is over and it’s fair to say it was an extremely windy one. There were a lot of prayers that night that we had pegged the tent down correctly. This doesn’t bode to well for today as were going up Pen y Fan, the highest mountain in the Brecon Beacons. As we were going to Pen y Fan a hurricane blew through, minor exaggeration, but it was very, very windy. This meant that, combined with the weight our rucksacks, a lot of falling over. Which is funny the first 20 times not so much the 105th time. Visibility was extremely poor, so thinking positively, if we can navigate that - we can navigate anything. Once we got down from the mountain we were told that we still had another four hours to go until that evening’s pleasures, a wild camp. For those who aren’t aware a wild camp is a field in the middle of nowhere, in other words no toilet, but fear not because we had been provided with a poo shovel.

After arriving at our camp for the evening we quickly split into team tent and team food, wanting

Day One It’s one o’clock and we’re finally on our way to the Brecon Beacons for our final Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition. We arrived at our Hostel for our first night, a last night with hot water, beds and chairs for a while. We had a briefing from our assessor, James, and our instructor, Lucy who are going to be watching us for the next few days. The first aid briefing seemed to focus a tad too much on impalement and decapitation but it never hurts to be prepared.

Day Two Despite a very comfortable bed, I think everyone had a bit of a nervous night with anticipation for the next four days. We set off from the hostel at nine o’clock after a full fry up. Today’s walk looks fairly pleasant, so a good way to start a hard four days. Halfway up a very large hill we had the pleasure of meeting James’ five year old daughter, who was happily trotting along like a little mountain goat. Something tells me she is going to smash her Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition when she Is older. We arrived at our campsite but were

/Cont’d...

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Extra Curricular Day Five Oh dear, apparently midnight is party hour for the sheep of Wales but as it’s the last morning we all seemed to wake up with boundless energy to reach the minibus anyway. We have a lot of height to climb but the end is in sight. Getting to the top of today’s mountain was so satisfying we’re so nearly there. The moment the minibus was actually in sight was a beautiful one. We all screamed and quickly marched towards it.

Arriving at the minibus is a feeling that no words can describe, we’re all elated but a part of us can’t believe that it’s over. We quickly scrubbed our trangeas and cleaned the tent before going to have our final sit down with our assessor and instructor. We had passed, thank God! Now to the service station which we had all been fantasising about for days. I can honestly say that three Paninis from Costa have never tasted so good.

to get into bed as quickly as possible - another night in bed at 7seven o’clock. Tonight, thinking of our bowels and absence of toilet, we had spaghetti; wisely leaving the curry for tomorrow night.

Day Four Wild camping was surprisingly peaceful and, bar the absence of a toilet, I would be extremely happy to do it again. Today looks rather chilly so it might be a bit of a slog. As we were walking we found a cave and large rock mound. So, tradition dictated that one person had to climb inside the cave and pretend to be Gollum and another two had to stand on top of the hill and do Titanic. It just had to be done. Unfortunately, soon after this it began to drizzle, not even proper rain just the kind that slowly soaks you through. Today’s camp is supposed to be extremely luxurious; it has a toilet! However, once we arrived there we did need someone to translate the Welsh farmer as he was extremely Welsh. Morale was a bit low when we first arrived as everyone was quickly getting cold and the prospect of cooking outside was not a pleasant one. However, the farmer was very kind as he allowed us to spend the evening cooking and chatting in a sheep shed, meaning that we didn’t have to be out in the cold. This evening was really nice, just a chance to chill and stuff ourselves with all of the food we weren’t eating tomorrow.

Laura Kay, Year 13, Nightingale 10

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Roalfe, Year 9 were asked to walk on (roughly) metre high stilts. The entire cast was also tasked with the brick chase, which meant throwing and catching wooden bricks in time, while singing harmonies. All these challenges were stepped up to and performed with a lot of gusto.

‘Barnum’ 2015 This year a handful of girls in Years 9 -12 from WHS took part in the John Hampden production of ‘Barnum’.

Having never heard of the musical before, after doing some research I was excited to find it was all about a circus. When rehearsals began, we all started practicing circus tricks, including ribbon twirling, plate spinning, using the Diablo, juggling and even stilt walking. The play also witnessed the main character flawlessly cross the stage via tightrope.

I have now taken part in three productions at John Hampden, and undoubtedly this has been the most challenging, but the most fun. The atmosphere of the cast, band and crew was always so cheery and positive; the entire experience was so very enjoyable.

According to Mr Rogers, the Musical Director at John Hampden, he was told 'schools don't do Barnum' and I think it's safe to say we proved that to be wrong.

Barnum is such a lively musical, with multiple upbeat songs, which came with some very energetic dance numbers. Despite my initial difficulties in learning the routines, due to my decided lack of coordination, we all soon picked it up. In our bright and outrageously colourful clown outfits, the songs really seemed to thrill the audience.

Emma Wace, Year 12, Austen 10 (Photo credits to Gary Wolff Photography).

Everyone who was involved in the production worked tirelessly to make it as good as possible.

For me, the biggest challenge was taking on the role of a 160year-old woman, while Katie Parry in Year 12 was required to sing opera in Swedish, and Abi Pinner, Year 11 and Lib 33

Extra Curricular The Music of ‘Barnum’ This year I have had the privilege of taking part in John Hampden Grammar School’s production of ‘Barnum’ on the 3_5 December that follows the life of showman P.T. Barnum. Admittedly, I had never heard of the show before taking part but I quickly became consumed by it. Countless circus acts accompanied by fast paced and lively carnival music is hard to resist! Although the music was technically challenging at times I can speak on behalf of the band and myself and say with confidence that we all thoroughly enjoyed every second of it.

There were many WHS girls who got involved in the music for the production with Chloë Langham and Olivia Edwards playing Violin, Catriona McTavish on Cello, Charlie Brockington playing the Flute, Hannah Boddy on Piano, Megan Peters playing the Soprano Saxophone and Alice Law and myself playing the Tenor Saxophone. Rehearsals began in October where lots of hard work and long hours have been put towards piecing together a wonderful ensemble with unforgettable songs such as ‘There is a Sucker Born Ev'ry Minute’, ‘The Colours of my Life’, ‘Black and White’ and ‘The Prince of Humbug’.

This of course could not have been possible without Mr. Roger’s enthusiasm and commitment and the support of Miss Mullington who have both succeeded in directing and producing an unforgettable show. It has been a truly fun and enjoyable experience and one which I will take with me when I leave next year.

Well done to everyone who was involved in the cast, crew and band for a fabulous production and don’t forget to ‘come follow the band!’

Josiane Wilson, Year 13, Bronte 3

A quick look at the musical behind the scenes!

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International School Award 2015-2018 Wycombe High has successfully been reaccredited with the International School Award from the British Council for another three years Mrs Lindsey-Clark, our International Schools Co-ordinator, collected the award at a ceremony in London on Monday 16 November.

The award recognises the impact of our global learning across the curriculum. A large part of this involves working with our partnership school, Southlands College in Sri Lanka.

Each year we run collaborative projects within each subject area working with teachers at Southlands College to enable girls at each school to broaden their understanding of each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture and environment.

Mrs Helen Lindsey-Clark, International Schools Co-ordinator and Food Tech Teacher

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Geography On the 19 and 20 October, GCSE Geographers made their way to the River Chess in order to collect data for their coursework. As much as the majority of the group couldn’t bear the idea of climbing into a river, in the wet weather conditions, we had to do it in order to complete our coursework on the study of rivers (which forms 25% of our overall Geography grade). With the motivation from teachers, I think all of us managed to get our wellington boots on and jump in the river to start the fieldwork.

When we arrived we were told that we were visiting two sites along the river, the upper course and the lower course, in order to collect the relevant data such as the depth, width, velocity of the river, size and shape of the rocks and wetted perimeter. We had to visit two points along the river in order to compare our measurements and use them as evidence on how the River Chess changes with distance downstream, linking back to the theory of the Bradshaw model. Each group was also provided with the appropriate equipment to record all the data as accurately as we could.

The equipment included: measuring tapes, rulers, ranging poles, stopwatches, clinometer (to measure the gradient of the river) and most importantly, oranges to measure the velocity!

After collecting data from site one, we took a coach to site two and started to collect the remaining data (after having lunch of course)! We came to realise that site two was significantly deeper and we all got wet - some people slightly more than others! Despite this, we persevered and managed to collect the data needed to complete the fieldwork. Although by the end we were extremely wet and slightly tired, I have to admit that it wasn’t as bad as I envisaged because we all tried to stay positive and also helped each other as a team. The hard work pay off as everyone obtained all the data needed to start the coursework.

This trip was also extremely beneficial as it helped us to understand rivers in “depth” because we applied all the textbook study to real life.

Overall, the fieldtrip turned out to be rather enjoyable and extremely informative. Let’s just say chilling in a river on a wet day was extremely beneficial!

Zainab Alam, Year 11, Parks 4, News Crew 36

Guild Subject Wine and Cheese Evening On 11 November Wycombe High organised a Guild Wine and Cheese evening to welcome former students and staff back to the school. The evening was held in the renovated Sixth Form Study Area where guests were able to reminisce, treat themselves to refreshments followed by a welcome by Mrs Cromie and tours of the site conducted by Heads of Guild and SLT Members.

It was lovely for everyone who came to see familiar faces from their days at Wycombe High and to share memories from their time here.

I am Sophie Richards, a student in Year 12 and I am one of the Heads of Guild. Throughout the evening I talked to many people who had very interesting experiences. Here are some of their stories...

building known today as Clock House in Frogmoor, High Wycombe where the building still stands today. Miss Mary Christie M.A. was the first headteacher.

In 1906 the school moved to Benjamin Road for 50 years, only to be evacuated during the First World War to the old grammar school so that the Benjamin Road buildings could be used as a

military hospital.

By 1922 the school had 300 pupils and was rapidly expanding. The school acquired its status as a Voluntary Controlled Girl's Grammar School in 1944. By September 1956, so many students wanted to attend the school that it had to open a new site on Marlow Hill.

Two former students remember their first day at the new site however, it was not the school that we recognise today. There was no Library, Sports or Drama Blocks. The Sixth Form Library was on the top floor of Downs. With the builders still working around them the students completed their O levels in the Main Hall.

These two lovely women, Jill Boyd and Rachel Sutcliffe, help to keep the school archive up to date. Jill has created a beautiful display in the cabinets at the back of the library – showing off the school’s history throughout the years. Jill and Rachel are in the library on Wednesday mornings if you ever have any questions about the school’s history they would be more than happy to answer them.

Wycombe High School first opened its doors in September 1901 when there were only 18 fee paying students and three members of staff in a

In 1993, new buildings were added to allow for the extra 300 pupils and staff that arrived when Lady Verney High School merged with Wycombe High including new Technology, Sport and Drama Blocks.

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Guild /

Cont’d...

Anne-Marie Pringle, a more recent student of Wycombe High, who left after completing her GCSEs in 2000, told me about her experiences here. Something that I found the most interesting was her memories of when the Internet was introduced to Wycombe High in 1997! Before this there was one computer in the Library which you had to reserve to use - very different from the media orientated society we live in today.

Something else that was very different was the uniform. The girls had to wear blue and white striped shirts and navy pleated skirts. The girls were not allowed to wear trousers which AnneMarie did not like. There was also a list of six ‘approved’ shoes that the school deemed appropriate for the girls to wear. On the first day at school everyone looked almost identical.

April 2015. We are currently raising funds to kit out the recording studio and will be landscaping the area around the building in the coming months.

Meanwhile, the old music centre has been turned into two Drama and Dance studios complete with sprung flooring, mirrors and bars.

Overall, the evening was a lovely event and a wonderful opportunity for former students to revisit the school as some had not been back since they had left.

The more recent additions to the school are the Wainwright Learning Centre, which was opened in 2006. This houses our well-resourced library, conference facilities, the school archive and Careers Library and Pathway Advisor’s Office.

The ‘Play your Part’ campaign was launched in 2012 raising enough money to build and partially equip our new Music Centre which was opened in 38

Sophie Richards, Year 12, Parks 3, Head of Guild

Alumnae In the News Former student Lorene Farrugia (Baldwin), Class of 1998, has just published her first children’s book ‘The Tickle Monster’ in the Monsters Book series.

On Lorene’s blog she explains that ‘The Tickle Monster’ has been ‘published with the purity and passion’ and that ‘it was written and illustrated with enjoyment, love and affection’.

The first book in her Monsters Book series is selling really well at the moment and they have just put in an extra order of the books to her printer.

In addition, Lorene has just had her book confirmed for distribution by Gardners Book Wholesalers and there will also be an application to sell ‘The Tickle Monster’ to Waterstones in the near future which they are thoroughly hoping is accepted.

In the meantime, the book is being sold through the website and they are currently waiting for order confirmation from two local independent bookshops to stock The Tickle Monster. Lorene said that ‘things are certainly moving faster than I thought they would!’. Moreover, their Facebook and Twitter will continually be updated with news and events, along with the website blog too. You can buy it here at http://www.themonsterbooks.com/ We wish Lorene every success.

Kelsey Farrell, Year 12, Parks 2, Head of Guild

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Alumnae in the News Former student Carolyn Fairbairn is the Director General of CBI (Confederation for British Industry). She has recently been featured in an article, in the Daily Mail, surrounding her view that working mothers have a severe disadvantage in the professional world. She claims that often mothers miss out on promotions as they forego networking opportunities in the evenings to be at home with their families and that many women feel isolated by male bonding out of the working hours.

You can find the article here: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3329722/Working-mothersskip-boozy-dinners-family-don-t-jobs-t-network-ahead-says-CBIchief.html

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Former Student Profile Former Student Current Staff Profile Maddy Harris Attended WHS 2004-2011

I then did a year at Canterbury Christ Church University straight after. There I did a PGCE in Physical Education - a teacher training year so that I could become a PE teacher.

What did you get up to at WHS in terms of study and extracurricular activities?

What do you know now that you didn’t in Year 13 that you’d like to share with current students?

At Wycombe High I studied PE, History, Geography and French at GCSE along with English, Maths and the Sciences. At A-level I studied PE, Psychology and History. I enjoyed doing A-levels, but did find them challenging. I was always involved in sport inside and outside of school. In school I was part of the swimming team. However, this was all the extra-curricular sport I did at school because my sports outside of school took up a lot of my time. I did a lot of swimming outside of school; it was definitely my main sport growing up. In addition to this, I also did Tae Kwon Do which I enjoyed, and it really drove me to do GCSE PE. Do you have any fond memories you’d like to share?

My advice to students in Year 13 is to work really hard this year because I definitely found A Levels the hardest two years of study and if you work hard it will really pay off. You will find university will be a lot easier and your hard work in Year 13 will do you good for the rest of your life.

It’s really hard to pin down particularly specific special memories because I loved it here. I have to say school trips were always amazing. Two particularly great trips have to be the Year 9 ski trip to Utah in 2007 and the French homestay trip which I really enjoyed. Another fond memory of which I am really proud was when the school swimming team got through to the national finals after getting through the previous regional rounds.

Unfortunately we couldn't actually attend them as they were snowed off! It was still a great achievement that we got that far.

What brought you back to WHS and what is your role?

I am a PE teacher at WHS now. In some of the other schools I've worked at I found the student behaviour very challenging. Consequently, when the job opportunity arose at WHS I went for it straightaway. When I was at other schools I realised how privileged I was to have attended Wycombe High. I appreciated how well behaved the students were and how much the teachers cared about them. I really wanted to be a part of this again. The students here are so polite. You don't realise what a big difference this makes, until you've worked in other schools.

The students here are really a pleasure to teach.

Everyone wants to learn and work hard.

Ultimately I loved it here as a student. Everyone was so friendly and it’s brilliant that you can build personal relationships between the students and staff.

What did you do after school? Gap year, straight into business or Uni? After Wycombe High School I went straight into university. I went to the University of Kent to study Sports Management for three years.

/Cont’d...

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What has changed?

The biggest change since I’ve left has definitely been the introduction of vertical tutoring. The last year I was here was when it was being proposed and, consequently, was the last year without it. I remember my friends were very against it being introduced but, on returning, I was very pleased to see how well it has worked. I also think the idea of having a Big Sister is great, for younger students to have an older friend to go to for advice and help, it’s a brilliant idea. The evidence of how well VT has worked is everywhere; the school is definitely more integrated than when I was a student.

Having done sport at an all-girls school, constantly seeing others succeed, it sent me off to uni with a very driven mindset. Since being at uni I've given up swimming but I have taken up weightlifting and now compete at a national level. I like to think I could inspire girls to do sports that are perhaps typically male orientated - pushing the boundaries of what is a ‘usual girl’s sport’. It was a direct result of WHS’s teaching and encouragement that sent me to university with that drive to go the extra mile and successfully get to that next level. A lot of my friends at uni quit extra-curricular sports, but WHS push you to have goals outside of your studies as well. Therefore my final advice to all students is to continue with extra-circular activities, especially sport. It will set you up for success later in life, in particular in disciplining yourself, which is a very important skill.

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Former Student Profile Former Student Profile Mrs Nicola Brown Attended WHS 1986 - 1992

What do you know now that you didn't in Year 13 that you'd like to share with current students?

Wow where to begin……..We are all unique and

What did you get up to at WHS in terms of study and extracurricular activities?

I studied nine GCSE’s and three A-levels (Physics, Chemistry and Geography). I was part of the Tennis team and Sixth Form Ball Committee. Outside of school I was part of a Badminton club and the Marlow Air Cadets

individual and that should be celebrated and encouraged. Wycombe High provided me with an amazing grounding and platform from which to move forward, but it is just the beginning. We must always strive to continue learning and developing so that whichever path you choose to take, or whatever life throws at you, you can adapt and thrive. Also remember that if your job is doing something you truly love then it rarely feels like just a job.

Do you have any fond memories you'd like to share?

I remember my time at school very fondly and loved the friendships and challenges that I experienced. I was very pleased to be chosen to be part of the Sixth Form Ball Committee and enjoyed being part of this team for two years. I remember being very bad at Art and Music lessons but enjoying Geography and Science classes. I loved all summer sports but dreaded doing games outside in the winter at the top of the hill, especially cross country! I remember my very small school skirt, which first got taken in, then got taken up and I refused to get a new one for about three years!

That and we can 'have it all'- but only with the help of a cleaner, nanny, family and a supportive partner!

Save the date!

What did you do after school? Gap year, straight into business or Uni. I went to university and studied a BSc Geography degree at Portsmouth University. My original plan was to go straight into an airline and not attend university but unfortunately the Gulf War started and all airlines immediately stopped any recruitment. I then decided to go to university and study Geography. With no particular university in mind I needed a way to help me choose one. I then decided to only apply to universities which were linked to University Air Squadrons (UAS’s).

On Thursday 11 February at 1.45 pm in the Learning Centre Nicola Brown will be delivering an ‘Inspire’ Lunchtime Talk entitled ‘Are you the captain?!’ All are welcome. To RSVP email guild@whs.bucks.sch.uk.

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Laura Hunter’s ‘Inspire’ Lunchtime Talk Dentist and Medical Lawyer, Dr Laura Hunter (class of 2004) visited Wycombe High on Thursday 3 December to deliver an ’Inspire’ Lunchtime Talk sponsored by the Guild. Mrs Morgan together with our Careers and Pathways Office organises the annual series of talks led by successful former students.

people in need. At the moment the legal side of dentistry is a growing area as a lot of cases taken to court over concerns about negligence. Dental implants is another area of growth.

Laura is a successful Dentist and Medical Lawyer who completed her dental degree in 2010 and successfully graduated with a masters degree in Medical Law in 2015. She is an active member of the Oxfordshire Local Dental Committee, supporting newly qualified dentists and providing expert advice on dental standards to the NHS.

Laura’s advice for taking on a career in Medicine would be to always be enthusiastic and confident about what you are doing. The confidence you show is mirrored by the people you present yourself to and if you show your love for a certain career then that will have a huge impact on your success. Take opportunities. Employers are looking for people with experience, so create your Her talk was entitled ‘Choosing the right path for own opportunities to show your worth. Lastly, you’ and consisted of her career, the field in which never give up! You might fail but maybe that just she works and how working hard and finding your wasn't for you and it will help you learn to be niche brings success and happiness. In Laura’s better in the future. words “In my experience being successful is often Sophie Richards, Year 12, Parks 3 Head of not about being the best person in one area but Guild about the combination of all your talents.”

At Wycombe High School Laura studied Biology, Chemistry, Physics and History as A Levels. She loved history but it wasn't her strong point. She was focused on a career in medicine. After high school she took a gap year and went travelling her last year of freedom to do what she wanted before five years of Dental school.

At the University of Birmingham Dental School Laura always loved the public health and legal side to Dentistry. While everyone else was bored, she was ‘the sad one who sat at the front enjoying it’. She liked the academic rigour and although it was hard work it was worth it to do something she loved.

Currently Laura works as a Dentist and on the legal side of dentistry as a Dento-Legal Advisor.

She also volunteers with a homeless charity called CRISIS helping to give oral health and hygiene to 45

History and Politics principal naval commander, Admiral Nelson, had been killed by a stray cannonball.

Remembering the Bicentenary of Waterloo As the clock struck eleven on 18 June 1815, a small province in Belgium was to be witness to one of the bloodiest battles the world had ever seen: the Battle of Waterloo, fought between the two superpowers Britain and France.

Though he had lost the battle, Napoleon was determined to win the war. Ten years later, he broke free from his exile, determined to wreak his revenge.

France, during the late eighteenth century, was a turbulent place. A divide between rich and poor paved the way for a revolution, in which the disgruntled proletariats would stand up to their bourgeoisie oppressors.

The conditions for battle were not ideal; the air was foggy and the ground incredibly waterlogged. It failed to dampen morale though, and Britain and France were similarly determined to fight for cause and country.

The figurehead of this campaign against totalitarianism was a young man called Napoleon Bonaparte. Born into a Corsican noble family, Napoleon was determined to prove his worth.

Each sideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s military force was formidable: 170,000 men would fight for their countries, but a tenth of these would never return home.

The British forces, commanded by the Duke of Wellington, had taken to using the nearby Hougoumont farm as their base. Many footsoldiers were stationed there, guarding the baggage train and field hospital. It became the heart of the British battle efforts.

As the laconic Iron Duke rallied his troops, Napoleon's men assembled across the field. The French dispersed, trying to unnerve the British by separating them. But the sheer numbers of the British kept them back.

At ten minutes to twelve, the French began stoking and firing their plentiful cannons. The guns were a dangerous obstacle for the British, many of whom were struck down by cannon-fire.

But Napoleon would have been foolish to celebrate. Unbeknownst to him, Britain had an ally, and they were only hours away.

However, with the king and queen guillotined, Napoleon now turned his gaze away from punishing the upper-classes, and towards the rest of Europe. His mind was set on restoring France's place as a dominant world power. In the country's way stood Great Britain, which had its claws dug firmly into many countries, its influence achieved through slavery and trade.

Fierce fighting broke out between the French and the British infantries, and continued for some time. Both forces were equally matched in mettle and skill, but were likewise impaired by the dank weather and the deafening rumble of all-round cannon-fire. As muskets misfired, gunpowder would float up and blackness would encompass the scene. So ineffective were the firearms, that swords were commonly drawn.

In 1799, Napoleon appointed himself Dictator of France, and Britain grew uneasy at seeing its enemy thrive. A treaty was drawn up to keep the countries at bay, but it favoured France, and so the British declared war on the country. What ensued was more than a decade of violence in Europe.

The most feared weapon of the Napoleonic Wars was the long sword, which was capable of slicing both sinew and bone in two.

The first major victory for Britain came in 1805, with the Battle of Trafalgar. A naval battle, it saw Napoleon's fleets obliterated so that he was forced into exile. The British victory came at a price; its navy was severely depleted and its

Wellingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commanders could see that, unless something was done, the melee would continue.

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Their response was to order their combined cavalry to charge. The French were oblivious.

Any hope of victory that Napoleon might have had were put to the sword as the last of his Imperial Guard crumbled. Defeated, the Emperor fled the battlefield, leaving behind his trademark hat.

With thousands of determined cavalry galloping towards them, the French footsoldiers would have stood little chance. Some of the horses, however, were not built for endurance, and fell before the French lines.

Early morning, the next day, soldiers returned to the battlefield, hoping to find injured comrades, but most efforts were futile. The field was a bloodbath, and human vultures had picked the bodies clean of clothes and teeth and valuables.

Separated and out of formation, the British cavalry had nothing but air between them and the French guns.

Feeling the hope of victory slip away, Wellington ordered the cannons be fired.

The disgraced Napoleon was forced to abdicate, and was exiled to the island of St Helena, where he would remain until his death. The Iron Duke was hailed a hero, and would go on to serve as Prime Minister.

Interestingly, what is remembered of the battle is Napoleon the Loser, as opposed to Wellington the Victor.

In tight formation, the French cavalry now began their charge.

After hours of toing and froing between the belligerents, it seemed that victory was now promised to the French.

Recognising the necessity for organisation, Wellington's infantry were ordered to assemble in the shape of squares.

Separated from society, Napoleon wrote a two thousand page memoir of his life and reign, and it is this which romanticised him and turned the battle into the legend that it is today.

Ellie Tarr, Year 12, Parks 9, News Crew

Shouts of 'Vive l'Empereur!' echoed about the battlefield as the cavalry charged at the British infantry squares. Napoleon's idea was to have his artillery and cavalry attack simultaneously; cooperation between the two was poor, but they were nonetheless formidable. The British stood their ground, but were unable to prevent the French capture of an important British base, La Haye Saint.

The outcome of the battle hung in the balance until the Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long-awaited allies, the Prussians, finally arrived. As soon as their long march had ended, they set about disrupting the French lines. Now the French were facing assaults on two sides.

Desperate, Napoleon ordered his veteran Imperial Guard to attack. Despite suffering heavy losses, the Guard were steadfast in their cause, many of whom preferred death to surrender.

Working together, the British and the Prussians were able to subdue any further French assaults.

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History and Politics Steve Baker Visit

Secondly, a student raised the debate over the Tampon Tax. Currently, tampons are classed by the EU as a luxury product and are therefore taxed by the UK at 5%. This is the lowest rate of tax allowed under EU law. After understandable uproar from the public, this topic was debated in the House of Commons and a vote was held, Conservative MPs including Steve Baker supported the party and voted against any change in the tax rate. The question was aimed at asking why he voted against such an obvious injustice. He replied that due to the fact that we are a member of the EU, the UK has no immediate power to alter the judgement. The vote against the change in the House of Commons was to also stop the Conservatives from having a double defeat in both the House of Lords and Commons in the same week; this would have had consequences for the party’s image in the media.

Furthermore this aided the MPs argument for leaving the European Union. Steve Baker is cochairman of the Conservatives for Britain campaign, which advocates for the UK to leave the EU. Consequently, he argued that the resolution to the Tampon Tax would be to leave the EU.

On Friday 20 November, Wycombe High School welcomed Steve Baker to a question and answer session organised by Amelia Twitchen and Radeyah Ullah. Held through the lunch break, our local MP answered prepared questions on a variety of current issues.

One of the major issues discussed was ISIS. This was a topic of great interest after the horrific actions committed by the radical group, only a week before on Friday 13 November in the wellloved city of Paris. The question to Mr Baker was asking for his stance on immediate air strikes in Syria. Mr Baker replied with a well thought through response and described his approach to be one of sheer anger and horror with the activities of ISIS and he said that action needs to be taken. However, he detailed the complexities in doing so, through outlining Russia’s involvement in Syria and their support for the Assad Regime. Mr Baker emphasised how difficult it would be for the UK and any other Western State to enforce air strikes on Syria and not agitate Russia. This is something that needs to be avoided. Our MP explained that if the country is ever to impose air strikes, then discussions must be held with Russia to persuade and to explain why the West wants to act against ISIS, especially after the recent events in Paris.

Many Sixth Form and upper-school students thoroughly enjoyed Mr Baker’s visit, and all valued his answers, which inspired conversations inside and outside the classrooms.

Annie Halhead, Year 13, Austen 1 & Amelia Twitchen, Year 13, Parks 2

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Houses - Nightingale Nightingale House Assembly Nightingale 9 have long wanted to lead a House assembly remotely by an App known as ‘Periscope’.

The idea for this came on Sports Day when a race was broadcast to Wycombe High School’s Twitter feed by simple means of an iPad. It is a genuine live stream as long as you do not tune in exactly when the broadcast is taking place.

Our opportunity came when it looked as if an assembly was about to be cancelled owing to unforeseen circumstances. We stepped in, however, extremely rapidly preparing an assembly on safety. With simplicity as the goal, we read poems from a 200 year old German children’s book containing cautionary tales about various vices such as playing with matches. Some of the stories are quite gruesome and have therefore made their way into popular culture. The story about sucking thumbs, for example, is mentioned in the TV series The Office.

Having told all the Nightingale tutor groups to stay in their rooms and tune in at 11.00 am we were very nervous as the hour approached. However things went very well indeed on the poetry front and quite well on the technological front. There was a little bit of buffering but mainly people could understand what was being said and they could certainly see just enough (but thankfully not too much) of the horrible pictures in the book. It was quite a relief when it was over.

Our thanks go to Grace Noakes’ dad, who helped us familiarize ourselves with Periscope Mr Patrick Mackerras, Subject Leader RS, Philosophy and Thinking Skills and Nightingale 9 Tutor

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Languages Espana 2015

castle. There was lots of history to this part of Spain and we were all very keen to know more. There were ruins of old Arab buildings below the castle. The gardens of the Alcazar were breathtaking.

There were flowers of every colour and many spectacular water fountains. Next, we visited the mezquita. This was a very interesting place to visit as it incorporated both a cathedral and a mosque in one. There were the Arabic scriptures and mosque pillars alongside many pictures of Mary and Jesus and the many statues around the cathedral / mosque.

After exploring the mezquita, we had a chance to do some shopping in Cordoba and purchase souvenirs. Later on that evening, we were taken by coach to a Flamenco show. This was very exciting as flamenco dancing is a key part of Spanish culture. The dancers were fabulous and the show they put together was brilliant.

The trip to Spain was a delightful experience over the October half term break. We all got to experience the culture and flavour that Spain has to offer. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an opportunity to speak the Spanish language in real life situations and has immensely improved our spoken Spanish.

Day One: The warmth of Spain was a pleasant surprise.

We were welcomed with blue skies and satisfying heat.

The first day of our trip was a lovely exploration of the local area of Benalmadena in AndalucĂ­a.

Most of us got to experience our first time travelling by cable car.

The cable car left from the bottom near to the beach and took us all the way to the top of the mountains. The views were spectacular on the way up, the deep blue sea and quaint whitewashed houses. The mountains were very high. At the top we got to get out and take in the view. We could clearly make out the shape of Spain. And on a clear day one can see Africa over the seas beyond. Later on in the evening we were taken out to try Spanish tapas. We were served a selection of many tapas, including prawns, which were exquisite, Russian salad, tuna and many more. It was an exciting time to get to know the Spanish culture and traditional foods.

Day Three: We visited the area of Seville. Firstly we went to the Plaza de Espana. This was a large square which consisted of all the different cities in Spain.

Many people come there to take pictures of the shield of their town and take pictures alongside it.

We were then given a chance to shop in Seville and purchase some more souvenirs. Next we visited another castle, but this time located in Seville. This was also amazing and the architectural work was fantastic. There were many mosaics carved into the stone all around the castle. After lunch, we went to visit the cathedral of Seville, this was amazing as there were many areas of which famous people such as

Day Two: There was an early set off to Cordoba. Once we arrived in Cordoba we were taken to the Alcazar

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Christopher Columbus were buried. There was also more amazing architectural work in the cathedral.

This cathedral had many floors and we got a chance to climb up one of the towers. There was floor after floor but right at the top there was a very picturesque view of the city below.

Day Four: On day four we visited Granada in the north of Spain. Firstly we visited the Alhambra palace and gardens. This palace was amazing and we were told stories of the people who lived here and legends about them. The royal family of Spain stay in the Alhambra when they come to stay in Granada.

This palace had a very regal feel to it and was rich with history. The palace gardens were also very plush and luxurious with lots of beautiful flowers and bushes extremely well kept. There were also many fountains adding to the beauty of the place. After this we were given a chance to shop in the area.

There were lots of shopping opportunities in Granada and lovely alleyways of Arabic style stalls and shops.

Day Five: This was our last day in Spain and we were all very sad to leave. We started off the last day with a flamenco dance lesson. It was incredibly fun and we all enjoyed mimicking the moves of the dance teacher. After this, it was definitely time to leave and even the weather was imitating our sadness, as the beautiful heat turned to rain during our departure. We made our way to the airport, boarded the plane and then finally landed back in England. Everyone was extremely sad to have to leave, but knew that they had spent an amazing couple of days.

Overall, it was a spectacular experience and we got so much out of the few days that we were there. With no doubt the majority of the people who went would want to go again and we all strongly recommend it.

Hannah Ali, Year 12, Austen 7

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Library Our team of 20 Student Librarians has worked tirelessly this term to help promote our books and other resources, and to help refresh our displays. Thanks as well to our volunteers, Mrs Kyle, Mrs Young and Ms Mitcheson.

Borrowing rates are very high .

Over the first three months of this term, students borrowed more than 2300 books - that’s an average of 2 books for every student from Years 7-13!

New displays this half-term include: Medical Books, following a presentation in October by parent and local GP, Dr Sarah Abbas, and medical student, Giles Neal; Thanksgiving which featured American authors and non-fiction, and Foreign Languages DVDs which includes films on the new A Level syllabus. Here is a selection:

As BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) is rolled out across the school, we have introduced new, supervised sessions, to allow Years 9 and 10 to use their devices for school work at lunchtimes.

This frees up more of our desk-top computers for others.

We have also introduced a new ticketing system at lunchtime, to enable more students to get access to computers for work and printing.

In November, all of our Year 7 students were invited to an author visit at John Hampden’s with Charlie Higson. Charlie has written a number of best-selling teen books, including the ‘Young Bond’ and ‘The Enemy’ series. Most recently, he wrote the script for the new ITV series of ‘Jekyll and Hyde’.

Our Christmas Reading includes classic and contemporary fiction, as well as craft and baking ideas, so please stock up for the holidays.

And calling all writers, artists and photographers … your entries to our Celebrations Competition must be submitted by Friday 8 January.

Thank you for supporting the Library by buying books from Scholastic’s Teen Book Club through Moodle. They sell a great range of new books at discounted prices, and for every purchase, we get money towards new books for the Library. The next catalogue is due out in January.

Happy Christmas, from Mrs Pruszewicz and Mrs Warner.

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Maths Bletchley Park Trip: A Day of Code Cracking, Enigma and Fun

After the exciting tour with the tour guide we ventured into the warmth of the museums. We all split up to see the different exhibits including a 3D film clip of the many recordings of the codes and Alan Turin's teddy bear!

Wednesday 25 November was the day when everything was revealed. The Year 9s headed out to what we thought was just a fun school trip but we were about to find out a whole lot morse...

After this we went to crack some code! It was pretty hard but being the geniuses we are, we managed. We saw all different types of code and enigma and finally a live working enigma machine, it was amazing! After we managed to find the lunch hall we ate, went to more incredible exhibitions and explored the Manor House. Then we got to the part everyone was waiting for... The GIFT SHOP! After we'd all had a look and bought something we headed back home after a cracking day of codes.

We arrived by coach in the freezing cold to split off into the two groups from the coaches; firstly my group went on a tour. We all perked up as some of the story was revealed about the history and how amazing these women of Bletchley Park were during the war. As we went along we saw some of the jobs the women did, where they stayed and what they did for leisure...

Emily Lloyd, Year 9, Bronte 8

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England-China Maths Exchange Programme

Cheng Hui and Li Pin, two of the teachers we worked with in Shanghai, came to Wycombe High School on the return leg of the programme this November. This part of the research programme involved them teaching some of our Y7 & 8 classes in the same style they use in Shanghai. While they were here about sixty people from outside our school came to watch them teach and learn more about teaching for mastery.

At the start of this term Miss Walker and I visited Shanghai as part of a delegation of 68 teachers representing Maths Hubs across England. We spent ten days visiting a primary and secondary school in Shanghai and spending time at Shanghai Normal University where we learnt about how they teach maths and how Shanghai has managed to become one of the top performing states in the PISA world rankings.

We were also joined by a researcher in Mathematics from Shanghai Normal University who watched the Chinese teachers but was also interested in how we teach Maths. Dr Huang was particularly interested in GCSE and was very impressed by our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ability to solve problems, something the Shanghai teachers are trying to improve in their schools. He commented that while the Chinese are good at the skills and procedures they are not so creative in their mathematical thinking and good mathematicians need to be able to do both. It was a very busy few weeks as we were also visited by Nick Gibb MP, Minister of Education, who has a particular interest in Maths teaching. He was accompanied by members of the Department for Education and a delegation from the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission. The visitors from Shanghai were all very impressed by the way our students discuss mathematical ideas in their lessons, explain their answers and demonstrate their ability to reason; we saw little discussion amongst students in classes in Shanghai.

We watched a number of maths lessons in a junior high school (the equivalent of our Y7-10) and in a primary school, where the older year groups were doing some of the topics we teach in Y7. There were some similarities and many differences between our schools; in Shanghai they have shorter lessons, maths is taught every day with a short homework after every lesson and calculators are not allowed! All the teachers and students we visited were so welcoming, particularly when we spent an afternoon visiting their extra-curricular activities, where the teachers gave us gifts such as decorations and calligraphy pictures which they were making with their groups. Extra-curricular activities are timetabled in Shanghai on a Tuesday afternoon, which is culture day when no homework is set.

Following the exchange we are talking with student focus groups and teachers to examine what we could do differently to help our students learn more effectively We will then be implementing some of the best practice in school and other teachers will come and visit to see what can be learned. We have picked up a number of useful ideas which we will be trialling to examine /Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d...

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Maths their impact on student understanding, and of course continuing to use the best practice which we already have.

are used, not all students use their own personal technology (i.e. laptops or ipads) in school. Like us, it seems only select years have that privilege.

As this visit was about trialling Chinese methods of teaching with our students, naturally the teachers were subjected to observation. Although this can be a nerve-racking experience, the teachers took it in their stride and used the opportunity to discuss problems and methods of teaching with their observers. They were also able to discuss this with Minister for Schools, Nick Gibb when he came on a visit to the school, a very interesting day!

Not only did we discuss teaching, but we also talked about the many different things they visited around London! Some of their favourite experiences were visiting Hyde Park and Oxford, as well as the wonderful British Museum.

At the end of the day, this has been a learning experience on both sides. Mrs Cheng Hui and Mrs Li Pin mentioned the importance of students asking questions in class, something the children in Shanghai cannot do as they work more independently. They also highlighted the importance of the balance between independent work and helping those around them, something which I believe is key to any learning environment.

This exchange provided a great opportunity to see in depth how Maths can be taught differently and teachers from both countries have learnt much and taken away different approaches to try. Our own students behaviour and attitude towards our visitors was exemplary throughout. As teachers we appreciate how difficult it would be to teach in another language and our students were really helpful and supportive when at times Cheng Hui and Li Pin found ideas difficult to express or had difficulties with our technology. Cheng Hui and Li Pin enjoyed their time at WHS and working with our students and were very moved by the thank you cards presented by our students at the end of their stay.

Emily Morgan, Year 13, Austen 3, Head of News Crew

Mrs Julia Brown, Assistant Headteacher and Bucks, Berks & Oxon Maths Hub Lead Interview with Visiting Shanghai Teachers On Wednesday 25 November, I had the pleasure of interviewing Mrs Cheng Hui and Mrs Li Pin, the maths teachers on exchange from Shanghai, about the experience of teaching Wycombe High School Students.

I learnt many interesting things about the differences between English and Chinese schools. For example, students in Shanghai have shorter days than we do, their lessons last only 35 minutes, and work in much larger classes, up to 40 students. However, their homework allocations are quite similar, around 20 minutes per subject.

Like us, schools in Shanghai use a large amount of technology. I discovered that while computers 56

Music Autumn Concert On the 4 November, the WHS Music Department showcased the fantastic diversity of music making that occurs in our school community. All of the performances displayed the hard work and dedication that our girls have demonstrated in their ensemble rehearsals so far this year! From Orchestra to Wind Band, Guitar Ensemble to Flute and Clarinet Groups, there was something for everyone!

Some highlights included the conducting debut at WHS for our new leader of Concert Band, Mr Andy Rogers (Chiltern Music Academy). Concert Band opened the night with three incredibly contrasting pieces which included an arrangement of ‘Lux Arumque’, a choral work by the contemporary composer Eric Whitacre, and the highly entertaining ‘Shrek Dance Party’! Senior Orchestra took on the challenge of Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances from ‘Prince Igor’ to start the second half and must be commended for tackling such difficult repertoire this early in the year! Other highlights included the brand new African Drumming Ensemble led by Georgia Ayew (Year 8, Parks 3) as well as the grand finale with all of the WHS choirs combining for a Michael Jackson ‘Mega-Mix’!

The Music Department would like to thank all of the additional students and staff who helped with the wide array of ensembles from this concert and for their excellent continued support throughout the year!

Everyone really appreciates the time and effort that goes into the concert preparations!

Mr Matthew Snodden, Teacher of Music

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Music Review of ‘Student Guide to Composition for A Level Edexcel Music: Unit 5’ by Mrs Honnor, Director of Music

themselves! The concerts have a relaxed atmosphere and involve as you might expect, tea and cake!

Mrs Honnor's book offers invaluable advice on a complex unit of the A2 course. The step-by-step approach gradually builds up the skills required to have an in-depth understanding of how to achieve top marks in both composition and technical study.

This is the first in a series of concerts which are open to all students who want to show something they are currently working on and receive some encouraging and constructive advice from their parents, teachers and peers. All are welcome!

The next concert in the series is on January 26. If you are interested in performing in this concert please contact any of the Music staff via email or by calling into the Music office. Hopefully we will see many of you at the next concert in Music room 1!

The use of visual examples throughout is very beneficial because it allows you to check your progress and see where you are making mistakes in exam-style questions.

Overall, this book is very useful to anyone studying A-level music because even though it is very challenging, it covers all the key skills needed to not only succeed at unit 5, but understand it and use these skills effectively in other areas too.

Mr Matthew Snodden, Music Teacher

Hannah Boddy Year 13 Pankhurst 7

To purchase a copy of Mrs Honnor’s book visit: http://goo.gl/e4FP79

Tea Concert The Music department kicked off the first of their new student led ‘Tea concerts’ on 30 November.

This new style of concert featured a range of students from Y7-13 performing ‘works in progress’.

This exciting new informal performance opportunity allows students to demonstrate why they love music making and so far has included some compositions written by the students 58

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News Crew Hello everybody!

The scintillating tones of Mariah Carey are in the air, final rehearsals for the Panto are in session, Christmas jumpers are littering Miller, it must be the Winter term!

With a heavy heart, I am sad to report that this is my last ever Wycombe High School Christmas, though it is with no small degree of joy that we present this festive edition of High Flyer. With original festive contributions, this edition should definitely get you in the holiday spirit.

What a busy term we have had, from EPQ presentations to Midsummer Night’s Dream. Visits from politicians to sporting success, Wycombe High School is busier than Father Christmas on 24 December.

While Year 13s are shedding a tear for their last ever Wycombe High School Winter, the News Crew have been working hard on the December edition of High Flyer. This edition could not have been put together without the tireless efforts of Mrs Morgan and the members of News Crew, thank all you so much for your hard work.

Work continues of this year’s annual magazine. This year’s magazine is a look back upon the past seven years for those who are leaving, and will be looking forward to the future for those who are staying at Wycombe High School. We have many fun and interesting competitions in the works and are excited for the contributions to start rolling in. These include several short story competitions - Historical, Supernatural and Fantasy. Short stories must be between 500 and 1,000 words. We also have a Comic Strip Competition for a Full or Half Page A4 containing original artwork. The deadline for all contributions is 29 January, so get those pens working over the holidays and help make magazine the best it can possibly be. All contributions must be in elctronic format and sent to Mrs Morgan at dmorgan@whs.bucks.sch.uk Thank you so much to everyone who contributed, we couldn’t have created this edition without your help.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night Saoirse O’Connor, Head of News Crew, Parks 3, Year 13 Featured Cover Artist This piece was done in oil bars, which are like oil paintings but in blocks. This piece was completed for my GCSE topic of journeys. I decided to concentrate on the journey of seasons. With in the theme of seasons I wanted to focus on the season winter. This was because I enjoyed the colours and texture that winter brings. This lead to me concentrating on ice and the process of how it creates unique shapes. I chose to paint this piece as it shows my theme, and also I was drawn to the contrast of the colours of blue and red.

Rumaysah Mahmood, Year 12, Austen 4

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Original Contributions Burnham Library Arts Competition Katherine Benatar in 7F has won first prize in the Burnham Library Arts Festival competition for her poem about Greek gods, in the 11-18 years category. She collected her prize from Sir Terry Wogan at the awards evening. Katherine attends the Creative Writing lunchtime club at school, which she really enjoys.

Poem of the Greek Gods Three thousand years or more ago, Before Jesus came to live, There were some gods, they lived in Greece, That's what people believe.

Zeus was the eldest, King of gods and ruler of the sky.

He was powerful, brave and strong, And he would never die.

Apollo was the god of archery and prophecy, Healing, music, sun and light.

Dionysus was the god of wine, And Ares loved to fight.

Hera was the queen of gods, And also Zeus' wife.

Eris was the goddess of Trouble, and of strife.

Aphrodite was the goddess Of beauty and of love.

She was born from the blood of Ouranous, Her symbol was a dove.

Demeter was the goddess Of plants and agriculture.

Her daughter, Persephone, Meant everything to her.

Hermes was the messenger, And the naughty one too, Athene was the wisest one, Inventor of the flute.

Artemis was the hunter, A daughter of Zeus and Leto.

The Romans named her Diana, Her twin brother was Apollo.

Poseidon was water, Hephaestus was fire, Hades was people when they expire.

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Christmas!

What is that you said? Santa is not real? You have seen your parents put the presents in your room?

Your parents definitely do not put the presents in your room - my rough and worked hands disprove your empty allegations! These worn and neglected nails will tell you themselves. You fool! Santa is not stupid enough to let anyone see him. He wears a cloaking device to look like your parents. Actually, I should probably admit to the fact that Santa does not deliver presents any more. It is yet another job for us! And do not get me started on the Reindeer…

C- Is for the chiming bells ringing out across the village on Christmas day.

H- Is for the hatred that is lost during this time of merriment.

R- Is for the reindeer bells jingling in the night sky.

I- is for the invitation to your house for turkey lunch.

S- Is for the wonderful carollers singing the snowy night away.

T- Is for the times of sharing and giving.

M- Is for the mistletoe hanging above our heads waiting for those in love.

A- Is for the anxious children excited to open their presents S- Is for the snow which glistens magically in the light.

The twelve original ones? They are ancient, but Santa has been feeding them with life prolonging food so they will never die. However, Rudolph has started to take a stand! He refuses point blank to eat or drink anything brought to him by Santa, which means that his old age is starting to creep up on him. He can’t stand or play, let alone fly! His nose has almost completely lost its glow. So, each night I have been sneaking him food from my secret garden patch in the woods.

It is keeping him going, but it isn’t enough! I have never seen him so weak in all the years I have been here, and that’s an extremely long time: 1……7….. 9 months… add five minutes…. X3 years…

7seconds and 5… that’s…. roughly….256 years, 46 minutes and 8.27 seconds since I was brought here as a child.

Masha Follett, Year 8, Austen 9

Selfless Elves Everybody loves Christmas!

Am I right or am I right? I mean, there are all the presents and the food and the family and the magic and the singing and the dancing… Everyone loves Christmas. Except for us; the elves.

I will also mention that we are not born elves.

We are selected as the chosen ones! We walk into Santa’s grotto and are selected as the chosen elves. Just like that - I didn’t even want to be an elf! This is a disgrace. I wanted to lie on a sunny beach in Barbados – not in this desolate landscape of never ending snow.

I’m writing this note because it’s time our voices were heard- us selfless elves! I need to put our story out there and to tell people what is really going on up here in the bitter North Pole!

I have made two copies of this message. One for here, and one for home. I will expose that so called ‘saint’ to the world. /Cont’d...

You see, Father Christmas may have originally been called ‘Saint Nicholas’ but let me tell you something – he is no ‘saint’! All year-round we work our fingers to the bone trying to finish making all the presents for billions of children.

And what do we get in return? Nothing! Nothing but more work for next year.

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Original Contributions Tonight I have planned a journey. Rudolf and I will fly home… to wherever that is… to Barbados possibly.

It is time we went into retirement, sipped coconut water from their shells and slapped some sun cream on.

Oh, and … Merry Christmas you all!

Leila Ashraff, Year 8, Parks 10 Untitled Could everyone be peaceful for Christmas?

Hold fire and celebrate in safety?

Reach out to family and friends?

Instil peace in our inflicted world?

Set down our guns for the holiday?

Talk, instead of kill?

Make decorations out of love, not in remembrance?

Ask ourselves if we need to fight?

Say ‘I love you’, but not on the edge of death?

Apparently, we can’t.

Hide presents not guns.

Open gifts not fire.

Light candles, but not out of grief.

Invite people around to celebrate.

Dance to music, And shout Yay! I hope we can.

Leonie Sargeant, Year 8, Curie 3

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Oxbridge showcase for Cambridge and Harvard under and post-graduates! Full details are on Moodle.

Wycombe High School student, Widad Abdelrahman (class of 2015) came 2nd in 2014, so we have a great track record.

December is when our Year 13 Oxbridge applicants find out if they have been selected for interviews at Oxford or Cambridge. For Cambridge applicants, it’s usually one day, but students applying to Oxford have their interviews spread over several days. (See Oxford and Cambridge Moodle button on Moodle for an overview of the Oxford interview timetable).

Good luck to everyone in their interviews!

More details on all of the competitions may be found in the News Section of the Oxford and Cambridge Moodle Course. Deadlines vary between February and March 2016.

Year 12 Competitions A number of colleges have already launched their annual essay competitions aimed at Year 12 aspiring Oxbridge applicants. The idea is to encourage students to think and work at a university level and in a university style.

The competitions cover a wide range of subject areas and the colleges offer generous cash prizes. These will be presented in Cambridge at the end of the summer term.

Mrs Pruszewicz, Oxbridge Co-Ordinator

Peterhouse, Cambridge’s oldest college, offers prizes in history, science and English.

Newnham College, offers a wide range of subjects, including a new feminism prize.

Corpus Christi, Cambridge’s smallest undergraduate college has launched its competitions in Biological sciences, English, Psychology, Medical Sciences and Computer Science.

The Triple Helix Society of Cambridge runs a prestigious essay competition for scientists. The winner ‘s article will be published in the Science in Society Review, and its online version, which is a 65

Oxbridge YEAR 12 OXBRIDGE TASTER DAYS 2016 Next term the focus is on our Year 12 students. Many departments in Oxford and Cambridge arrange subject taster days during the spring term. Details will be displayed on Moodle and on the Oxbridge board outside the Library. Year 12 students are allowed three days out for individual university visits or taster days.

Spring Term is when most of the Oxford and Cambridge subject taster days take place. Here are the ones that have already been advertised.

LAW - MON 14 / TUES 15 / WED 16 MARCH 2016 Oxford is holding three Law open days. Applications open on Wednesday 6 January and close on 29 January. Full details and how to apply on Moodle or https://www.law.ox.ac.uk/content/more-information-faculty-open-days-2016 CLASSICS - FRIDAY 18 MARCH 2016 Oxford and Cambridge hold a joint Classics day annually. This year it takes place in Cambridge. Full details and how to apply on Moodle or http://www.greeksromansus.classics.cam.ac.uk/events/oxbridge2016

Mrs Pruszewicz, Oxbridge Co-ordinator

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Somerville College, Oxford

all over the world, and grouped by their functions, and not by age or where they came from.

At the start of November, 19 Year 12 students, who are interested in applying to Oxford or Cambridge, visited Somerville College in Oxford.

The day started with an introductory session on the Oxbridge admission process. Somerville’s Schools Liaison Officer, Dr Foteini Dimirouli, gave an overview of both universities’ unique college system, one-to-one tuition and offered guidance on how to apply.

There are some fascinating items, including shrunken skulls and a ‘witch in a bottle’. This was donated by a woman from Sussex who told the museum that it contained a witch, and whoever opened the bottle would be cursed! Scientists have scanned the bottle using Xrays and have found there is some unknown substance living in the bottle.

Then we had an academic session – on astrophysics.. for all students, even the non-scientists.

It was run by a lecturer from the Physics department, and two post-graduate students.

Our task was to learn how to calculate the distance between the earth and another galaxy.

Sounds daunting… but we were given formulae and specific data, including the intensity of light being emitted from the other galaxy. And we all managed to get reasonable results.

The trip was lots of fun, but also extremely helpful in making me think about future options.

Yaqing Luo, Nightingale 4, Year 12

After that, we’d all earned our lunch. We ate in the wood-panelled dining hall, where students at Somerville normally eat all of their meals.

An undergraduate medical student gave us a college tour, including the Library, and the junior common room.

In the afternoon we went for an educational session in the Pitt Rivers Anthropological Museum. The museum houses a collection of more than 500,000 everyday items gathered from 67

PAFA PAFA UPDATE

The next PAFA event will be the Burns Night Supper and Barn Dance which takes place on Saturday 30 January and last year was a total sell out! Tickets for this (and all future PAFA events) can now be booked on line at thelittleboxoffice.com/whspafa, priced at £7 per student, £10 per adult and £30 for a family of four, with friends and family members of all ages very welcome.

PAFA is the Parents and Friends Association for Wycombe High School.

All parents automatically become members when your daughter joins the school, and everyone is always very welcome to join our meetings. Our role is to organise a wide variety of fun events for parents and students, and to help raise money to support facilities the school is unable to fund.

You will be pleased to know that the Committee have liaised with Mrs Cromie, parents and now students about the most appropriate items for PAFA to fundraise for throughout this academic

PAFA have had a very busy half term, providing refreshments at school events including the Autumn Concert and the production of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, as well as organising the terrifically successful ‘Frost Fayre’, which hosted more than 50 stalls and raised over £2,000! Not only were there more stalls than ever before, there was also the highest attendance rate we’ve seen to date, resulting in a most enjoyable evening and great feedback from shoppers and stall holders alike.

year. All pupils will shortly be receiving a survey inviting them to nominate one of the following as their preferred choice: more benches and seating on the field ; another mini bus to make transport easier for sporting fixtures or floodlights or other facilities for the new sports astro turf.

We were also able to secure great value tickets to performances of Giselle and the Nutcracker at the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury, raising a further £370 for the school. Both ballets were well attended and we hope to organise many more local theatre trips during 2016.

We will up-date you on the results in the next edition of High Flyer.

None of the above events would have been possible without the amazing support of the PAFA Committee and the many other parent volunteers who give up their time to help, thank you so very much to everyone that has supported an event this year.

And finally, we are delighted to share the exciting news that from January 2016, PAFA will have our very own Facebook and Twitter Accounts, enabling us to keep parents up-dated about events and activities across the year. In the meantime, your feedback about current events and ideas for new ones is always very welcome so please feel free to get in touch via email at pafa@whs.bucks.sch.uk.

Wishing you all a peaceful Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

Sonia Holloway, Chair of PAFA

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PE and Sport Outstanding Golf Success for Allie Holtom, Year 7, Bronte 7

of wind, muddy ground… and torrential downpours, most particularly for the 2.4k’s that the Junior team fought through and the 2.8 k for the Inters.

Allie Holtom, one of our youngest sporting protégé’s, won the Nicola Sparks Memorial 9 hole Stableford Trophy on Thursday 29 October, as pictured! The event was staged by Burford Golf Club and the Oxfordshire Ladies County Golf Association.

We didn’t progress to the National final, but then Bucks is a tough county and East central is a tough region and let’s face it, we got both our teams to the regional final. The Junior team, fraught with illness and injury, finished a commendable 7th place and the Inter team finished in 5th, narrowly missing out on a place in the National finals by four excruciating points!

This was Allie's second win this year, having finished 1st in the Oxfordshire Girls Championships at Hadden Hill, and also finishing 2nd in the Henley Girls Open.

During the summer holidays, Allie and her father, Mr Holtom also attended a ‘Dads and Daughters day’ with professional golfer Mel Reid at The Buckinghamshire Golf Club (where Allie is a member). This was televised on Sky Sports and you can see Allie's first TV interview by following the link below!

Our sincere praise and gratitude goes to Y10 students Ana Montgomery and Lucy Wheeler for their last English Schools’ Cross Country Cup as this is a competition for Y7-10 students. The ESAA Cup has seen the likes of Paula Radcliffe and Mo Farah compete so they have indeed been part of something very special.

Well done Team WHS!

http://on.aol.com/video/gw-inside-the-game-dadsand-daughters-day-519039901

Ana Montgomery Y10 T9, Lucy Wheeler Y10 N4, Amelia Jarvis Y9 C1, Mia Waterhouse Y9 A7, Jemima Copeman Y9 T1, Emily Westwood Y9 T10, Mei-ya Lambert, Y8 B7 Tina MacAulay Y8 B10, Josie Empringham Y7 T2, Skye Axford Y7 N1, Emily Sanderson Y8 C3 and Megan Harris Y 7 N10 supported by Mia Caddell Y 7 C9.

Miss Snook, Teacher of PE Regional Round of ESAA Cross Country Cup The Regional Round of the ESAA Cross Country Cup was held at Beauchamp Middle School, Bedford, on Saturday 7 November.

Never has so much rain fallen during a cross country race! A great course, mild temperatures, amazing team, amusing journey (ask about the team song!), lots

Cross Country club takes place on a Wednesday lunchtime with Miss Snook, Mr Houston and our resident expert coaches Alan Hewson and Helen Hinde from WSEH. Let’s be prompt, team!

School - Club Link: Bucks Speed Demons.

Contact Alan Hewson www.wseh.info Upcoming INDOOR ATHLETICS competition at BNU Sat 19 and Sun 20 December – why not drop off your daughters and go Christmas shopping!

Miss Snook, Teacher of PE 70

Dawn Harper’s Karate Achievement On Sunday 11 October, Dawn Harper (Year 10, Bronte 10) achieved the grade of black belt in karate for under 16s and won a bronze medal in a recent national tournament.

The national event was the Seido Karate Organisation's yearly tournament with dojos from across the country held in High Wycombe. For her black belt grading Dawn had to do a 90 minute session blindfold and a three hour session culminating in 25 fights, one straight after the other.

WHS U19 Squash vs Downe House B .

On Wednesday 11 November, Wycombe High took on the Downe House B team in a heated Under 19 Squash match. The match was significantly closer than the previous two, though Wycombe High pulled through in the end with three matches to Downe House’s two.

All of the girls played brilliantly in this match, and really put in their full effort. However, special commendation must go to Lauren Allington, who played the longest of us all in having to complete the full five games. Although, unfortunately, her opponent bested her in the end, her resilience was outstanding and we all felt the tension of that final game.

A special thanks to Tim Morgan for driving us the long way, and for his help in coaching us to our three wins. Well played, Downe House. Well played.

WHS U19 Squash vs Aylesbury High School On the 20 October 2015 Wycombe High School Girls U19 squash team played to a fantastic standard against Aylesbury High School, sweeping up a 4-1 victory. The team consisted of Cassie Green Y11 N5, Alysha Martin Y10 N1, Lauren Allington Y12 C5, Jessica Martin Y12 N9 and Emily Morgan Y13 A3. Playing number one was Cassie who had a show stopping performance bringing in a 3-0 win, thrashing her opponent 11-1, 11-2 and 11-4. Our number two player was Alysha who played an intense five game match against Sam Elson.

Alysha is part of our U15 team so to give their number two such a competitive match and take two games off them was inspirational. Despite this she unfortunately lost 2-3 to Sam but the spectators were all on the edge of their seats as it could’ve gone either way. Playing number three was Lauren who also had a competitive match against Molly Woods. Lauren picked up an amazing 3-2 win. Jess played Aylesbury High’s number four and beat her 3-0. Our number five was Emily Morgan who effortlessly won her match 3-0. This led to our incredible 4-1 victory against Aylesbury High School - the girls should all be very proud of their achievement.

Jessica Martin, Year 12, Nightingale 9

Emily Morgan, Year 13, Austen 3, Head of News Crew

Volleyball Club Previously Published in the Bucks Free Press Online Edition Monday 2 November by Harry Grey, Reporter of the Bucks Free Press.

A group of High Wycombe volleyball fans are hoping to bring a club to the brand new Wycombe Leisure Centre early next year. Currently there are no volleyball clubs in the High Wycombe area with the closest clubs being in Newbury, Watford and Oxford.

Local volleyball players have been using Bucks New University’s successful volleyball program and hope this will continue to supplement the new club once it is operational. Lauren Tucker is one of those involved in the project and was inspired to help start it after her 11-year-old daughter Isabelle had to travel to Oxford in order to play the sport she loved. /Cont’d...

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PE and Sport Isabelle, who is in Year 7 at Wycombe High, first got into volleyball after her family moved to Lauren’s native America four years ago. With Lauren running a YMCA volleyball group while in the States that ballooned from 24 members to 108, she has experience of running a successful volleyball club and hopes to do the same in England. It was during this time in America that Isabelle developed her skills and made it into the Orlando Volleyball Academy under-10s team that finished 14th in the US National Volleyball Championships.

Alisa has been doing judo for almost five years now and participates in a lot of competitions. Her recent win – “silver” medal in category “Orange and Yellow” belts at Southend International Judo competition – was quite a big event and she won 4 out of her 5 fights. She also won a “bronze” medal at the “Harrow Green Belt and Under” judo competition.

Alisa competes regularly and is a quite successful judoka.

Mr Sydykova, Parent U15 Squash Match Report - Kenilworth On 18 November 2015 the Wycombe High School Under 15 Squash Team consisting of Alysha Martin Y10 B1, Gina Mullis Y8 N9, Lucy Herritty Y10 T1, Hannah Krasner Y9 A9, Abbie Sumner Y9 B5, and Kassia Goosen Y7 A2 as reserve, played a game at Wycombe Abbey against Kenilworth.

However, the lack of junior volleyball teams in England has meant that since the Tucker’s return to the UK she has had to play against women’s teams for the Oxford Wolves. This absence of age appropriate opposition and an appetite to bring volleyball to the High Wycombe community has led to the target of forming the new volleyball club.

The club will aim to attract both junior and adult members and Lauren is keen for as many people as possible to get involved. While no official date has been set for when the club will be operational the fact that the new leisure centre will be equipped to host volleyball means they will be able to start with little disruption.

Lucy Herritty was first on court playing as number 3. The first game was close, but she unfortunately lost 11-6. However, Lucy came back fighting winning the second game 11-7. The next game was also close but she lost 11-6.

However, she came back winning the fourth game 11-5. The last match was the decider. Lucy played excellent squash and smashed her opponent winning 11-3.

Anybody who would like to register interest in playing, coaching or refereeing volleyball should contact Jess Turner on jessturner@pfpleisure.org .

Alisa’s Judo Achievements

Next was Abbie Sumner playing as number 5.

She did extremely well, also taking the match to 5 games, winning the first, third, and fifth game 119, 12-10, and 11-4. Due to her exceptional performance she was given the girl of the match.

Then it was Hannah Krasner playing as number 4. She won her games with ease, 11-1, 11-2, 110. Gina Mullis played next as number 2. She lost her first game 11-5. The second game was extremely close but she unfortunately lost 14-12.

The last game Gina lost 11-7, but she played extremely well.

Alisa Sydykova Year 9 Pankhurst 7, has won a “gold” in British Schools Judo Qualifier competition that was held in London, therefore qualifying her to represent the school at the British Schools Judo championship in March next year.

Last was Alysha Martin playing as number 1. She 72

also lost 11-4, 11-3, 11-1. Overall, the team won 3-2. This is an excellent result and the team should be very proud of their excellent play!

Alysha Martin, Year 10, Nightingale 1 Football Overall our U12, U13 and U15 football teams have had some huge success this term. With the U12â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new to the soccer scene it was key they would get some experience and none better than to play against Pipers Corner. This was a great competition for them all and kept a clean sheet in both their matches!

At the very start of the year the U13 team took part in a tournament at Chesham Grammar School placing second overall. There were a lot of positives to take forward from this first tournament to carry on throughout the season.

The U15 team have battled hard as well having competed in a variety of matches with local teams, drawn and won both their games!

Hoping in the new year more games for all teams!! Keep up the great work fab footballers!

Miss Saint-Smith, PE Teacher

Year 7 squad v Pipers Corner School. The inaugural match on their newly laid astro!

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PE and Sports Wycombe High School Silver Medal Success at We are absolutely delighted and very proud of National Finals . their success. The whole squad work tremendously hard with the training they do at Wycombe High School have much to celebrate Wycombe District Swimming Club and it is after an outstanding silver medal win at the fantastic to see that effort rewarded in an National Relay Swimming Finals held at the esteemed National Final at the Olympic pool.

Aquatic Centre in the Olympic Park on Saturday 21 November.

The girls embraced the challenge of swimming in this iconic venue and swam very competitively.

The Intermediate team of Millie Sansome Y10 T4 We are full of admiration for them, delighted by (Backstroke), Harriet Pugh Y10 N4 (Breaststroke), their success and very grateful to Wycombe Izzy Shea Y10 P8(Fly) and Lucy Wheeler Y10 N4 District Swimming Club with whom they train at (Freestyle) came 2nd in their heat with a time of least five times a week. Schools and students 2.08.18 but smashed that by nearly two seconds benefit enormously from excellent community to take the Silver Medal in the final with a time of clubs such as Wycombe District. We can all be 2.06.56. proud of the opportunities and facilities available to the young people of High Wycombe.

After winning the divisional championships for a second year in a row with yet further records All of the students who train and compete for broken, the squad had high hopes.

Wycombe District Swimming Club are looking forward to their move into the new Swimming Pool at Handy Cross.

Miss Saint Smith, PE teacher

The Senior team consisting of Christy Sadler Y13 N2, Lara Reed Y13 C5, Sophie Millen, Y12 P7 and Emily Cannon Y12 N7 fought hard in their heats for the Freestyle and Medley to place 12th in both, just missing out on the finals.

The intermediate team didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disappoint in their heats where they progressed to the finals in both their medley and freestyle relays. In the freestyle relay, the team of Millie, Lucy, Izzy and Naveesha Karunanayaka Y9 P2 fought hard in the final but just missed out on the medals to place 4th. The medley relay was one of the last of the day and was a truly exciting finish with the top three positions changing throughout the race, but eventually the strength and talent of the team shone through and they comfortably swam through to gain their silver medal to make them the 2nd fastest Inter medley relay team in the country!

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Colours .

The PE department decided to introduce a colours system to Wycombe High School so that we could formally recognise not only sporting talent, but commitment, attitude, attendance and contribution to school sport across all key stages. We are committed to celebrating our students’ success and dedication to school sport. We want to recognise and reward this by enabling students to develop a culture of pride in their own achievements. There are two categories of award, which are escalated as students progress through the school.

Half-Colours are awarded generally in Year 9 (or lower years if exceptiona). It is for students who have represented their school in sport, shown a high level of performance, commitment, attitude and attendance since Year 7 with regular participation to clubs over a sustained period of time. It is for those who go over and above what is required of them. Full Colours are generally awarded in Year 11 or 13 and reflect the half-colours remit, alongside regular participation to clubs and teams since Year 9.

Whilst we want to create a culture of pride in participating in school sport, we also want to recognise the amazing things our students do outside of school. Believe it or not, we rarely get told about student successes outside of school, so can I make a plea for you to tell us if your daughter gains any representative honours at Regional, National or International level?

We give the Exceptional Performance Award to those who have excelled in their sport, represented their country and made an outstanding overall contribution to school sport. This, and the Sportswoman of the year award, are the highest Wycombe High School sporting honours that can be achieved and we will celebrate them for years to come by having their names on honours boards which will adorn the walls next year – we hope they will be our stars of the future.

Miss Saint Smith, PE teacher Half Colours:

Name:

Yr:

Sport:

Polly Campanini

9

Netball

Izzie Keeley

9

Netball

Lucy Herritty

9

Netball

Mia Pierce

9

Netball

Lucy Young

9

Hockey

Jess Harrison

9

Hockey

Kate Lees

9

Swimming

Millie Sansome

9

Swimming

Rachel Cox

10

Swimming

Anna Hunter

9

Gymnastics

Cleo Pryor

9

Cross country

Athletics

Ana Montgomery

9

Cross country

Athletics

Lucy Wheeler

9

Cross country

Athletics

Ciara Higley

9

Athletics

Maisey Woodisse

9

Athletics

Jemima Copeman

8

Athletics

Athletics

Hockey

Athletics Gymnastics

/Cont’d...

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Full Colours: .

Jo Richards

13

Gymnastics

Emily Webb

13

Gymnastics

Nat Daly

13

Netball

Bex Herritty

13

Netball

Amy Gant

12

Cross Country

Hannah Thear

Cross Country

Emma Smith

13

Dance

Frankie Low

13

Dance

Celine Callow

13

Dance

Athletics

Exeptional Performance Award

Erica Holmes

13

GB Rowing

Tabi Caroe

12

GB U20 Frisbee

Ciara Bignell

12

GB U20 Frisbee

Emilia Gaka

12

GB U20 Frisbee

Freya Elliott

11

GB U17 Frisbee

Ciara Higley

9

UK in Gym Club Champs

Anna Hunter

9

UK in Gym Club Champs

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Psychology and Sociology Overall, I enjoyed the event thoroughly. However, I feel that it could have been improved by making some of the lectures more interactive and prompting audience participation, as teenagers are hard to entertain! In saying this, it was an interesting experience and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m glad I took the opportunity. The event was particularly relevant for me as I am hoping to obtain a career as a police officer and study a psychology and crime course at university. The experience has lead me to be even more enthusiastic about the subject.

Sixth Form Psychology and Sociology Criminology Conference On Wednesday 2 December, Year 12 and 13 embarked on a trip to Birmingham to attend a series of talks regarding criminology and criminals. The talks involved discussions and PowerPoints on topics such as terrorism, crime myths, punishment, and at the end we had the opportunity to ask questions to an ex-convict. We learned countless facts, including shocking ones; the annual cost per prison place in England and Wales is ÂŁ36,237! Moreover, between 1990 and 2013, 4,500 people died in prison. Facts such as these were fascinating to me and in fact much of the audience.

Olivia Irvin, Year 12, Bronte 4

Personally, the most interesting part of the whole trip was the final talk at the end with Andrew, the ex-convict. He began by describing what he was arrested for. After being drunk and ending up in a fight with a man who was flirting with him, Andrew punched the male and after three weeks in hospital, the victim died. Andrew was initially charged for GBH (grievous bodily harm) and manslaughter, but it was concluded that he would be put in jail for murder. Andrew then spent 12 years in jail, in his 20s. It was particularly interesting to hear, from a criminal himself, what the conditions of prisons were like and what his experiences inside were like. I was surprised at how genuine, remorseful and open Andrew was about his experiences. I even started to feel sympathetic for him.

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Science Year 7 Experimenting at Home

Year 11 Making Motors

One of the topics Year 7 have been studying in Science this year is Acids and Alkalis. As many of these are colourless and have no smell, Year 7 have been investigating indicators, which are substances that show whether a liquid is an acid or an alkali and how strong or weak it is, by changing colour.

The principles of how a motor works can be one of the trickiest concepts for GCSE students to understand. So Physics Subject Leader Dr Mills has given all Year 11 pupils the opportunity to make their own motor from scratch to help understand the functions of the component parts.

Using a small magnet, coils of wire and a lot of patience, girls were able to see their motors whizzing round!

Mrs Amanda Roberts, Teacher of Physics

One homework was to see if there was anything at home that could be used as an indicator and then do experiments with it on household acids and alkalis such as vinegar and soap, with parental permission of course!

Alexia Galsworthy of 7D took up this challenge and produced a set of experiments and results that went beyond KS3 standards.

She tried out and compared the results from substances such as tea, juices and crushed fruit using rigorous scientific procedures. Thanks to Alexiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family for their help and we hope she cleared up after herself!

Mrs Amanda Roberts, Teacher of Science 81

Science roommates and room-keys, before we took a relaxing walk along the banks of Lake Geneva.

The lake is just as magical in the daytime as it is at night (as we would discover on the following day), and it is easy to see how it inspired the poets Shelley and Byron in their works. The centre of the lake is characterised by a quaint lighthouse at the end of the pier.

Year 12 and 13 Trip to CERN At 11.00 am on Thursday 29 October, I was one in a group of Sixth Formers who arrived at the glass corridor, luggage in hand and rearing to board our flight to Geneva. Once the slightly troublesome issue of registering everyone and removing sharp objects from bags was over, we boarded the coach for the short journey to Heathrow. The coach arrived early, which only added to the four hour wait that we would have before we could board the plane. Every student was given some money for lunch at the airport, by our accompanying teachers (Mrs Roberts, Miss Dziewulski and Mr Jasper), and most of the Year 12s settled themselves with a WHSmiths meal deal.

Once the walk was done, we were acquainted with the canteen of the hostel, and ate the dinners supplied by our meal tickets. Then we departed for our rooms and welcomed a much-deserved rest.

The following day, we woke up bright and early, ready to enjoy our only full day in Geneva. After we breakfasted, we embarked on a quick trip to the CERN Museum, which held fascinating examples of the previous century’s efforts to disentangle the mysteries of particle physics.

After our hour-long visit to the museum we took a quick jaunt over the Swiss-French border and soon found ourselves in a different country.

After a peaceful walk in La Jardin Botanique, we took a tram to the United Nations Office, where the likes of David Cameron and Barack Obama discuss world issues. The building is majestic, almost a century old and guarded by flags from every single member state.

The time that followed was my favourite experience of the trip. We were allowed to disperse and have free time in the city.

Switzerland itself is beautiful, and no more so is this evident than in its capital city. The centre is flanked by the high-reaching mountain range.

The Alps, and the city itself is caught in a dance between old and new. The residents call the classical part of the city ‘the Old Town’, and here the architecture is reminiscent of the

As three o’clock struck, we gathered our luggage (and left-over meal deals) and made for the gate.

A nice surprise greeted us when we boarded the aeroplane; the cabin crew made a special announcement about our school’s impending trip to CERN. The plane journey was without turbulence, though that is little reassurance for an inexperienced flier like myself, and we landed at Geneva Airport on schedule.

Queuing is a uniquely British thing, as I discovered at the passport checkpoint. Having past that vaguely harrowing experience, we passed the nearby train station, whereupon we made the mistake of sitting in first class (and were subsequently removed to second). From then on, we walked to the hostel which would be our home for the next few days.

We were given a few minutes to unpack our luggage and familiarise ourselves with our 82

Renaissance; one expected Michelangelo to be painting a fresco somewhere nearby.

Our flight was to leave at seven o'clock, so we had about four hours to while away in the duty-free shops. After a slight hiccup at the gate, we were allowed to board our plane, an Airbus A319, whereupon we received another warm welcome from the cabin crew. The aeroplane touched down twenty minutes ahead of schedule, which meant that some of us were left lingering about in front of the school gates for a little while!

My mission was to find that definitively Swiss object, the cuckoo clock, and I was successful in my venture. Also high on my agenda was to buy some chocolate, and it was in the Old Town that I found it. I should be disappointed in myself for choosing a dish as English as a cheese burger, but the quality of the food was too good to resist.

As if that was not enough, my group and I were determined to try Swiss ice cream.

Overall, the trip was one that shan't be forgotten any time soon. The visit to CERN was wondrously engaging and interesting, and Geneva as a whole is a beautiful amalgamation of old and new. Our trip was rounded off well by a blood-red waning gibbous moon.

Still clasping our ice creams, we made our way back to the hostel to play a physics-orientated game devised by Mr Jasper, with our team names being the six different ‘flavours’ of quarks, an elementary particle of both protons and neutrons.

One of my friends who was unable to join us on the trip made a special guest appearance by way of Skype and participated in the game.

Ellie Tarr, Year 12, Parks 9, News Crew

The next day was to be our last in Geneva. It would have been filled with woe (not least because of the sharp six o’clock wake up) if we weren't to have a tour of CERN that day.

The French abbreviation for 'The European Organisation of Nuclear Research', CERN is an eye-opening place. Here, the thin line between science fiction and fact becomes even more blurred. A lecture from one of the world's foremost authorities on particle physics enlightened us further on the role of the centre in nuclear research. Then, we took a coach to a museum across the border in France, where we discovered more about Europe's efforts in the space and nuclear sciences. Afterwards, we were treated to a meal in the CERN cafe, before we made our journey back to the hostel, where we collected our suitcases.

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Technology NET Packaging – Cornwall Design

Bottle Label Project

As part of the Cornwall trip this year, GCSE Graphic students had to undertake a follow up design project that allowed to develop their card net packaging skills as well as familiarising themselves with the laser cutter again.

As part of the first project, students were required to research and design a new type of bottle label for a company of their choice.

They spent time investigating existing products, hand designing a logo and label design using both pens and pencils and then developing to a professional finish on a CAD package, 2D design.

Each of the girls had to hand design an item that could be laser cut to go inside their packaging.

This could be something small like a key ring or a desk tidy.

The competition has been tough and the standard extremely high. The winners of the competition will be posted on the school’s Technology Twitter site, follow us to track the winners of all the projects we complete, @WycHighTech.

Once complete, they then planned and constructed a customised card net design unique to their project, rendering to completion.

Graphic Designers from left to right: Bamboo Cheeseman Y9 A6 Cerys Robson Y9 T8 Emily Dean Y9 T9

As you can see, some of the results were fantastic and have given the girls a great base for their controlled assessment work that will follow next year.

Craig Nevard, Teacher of Design and Technology

“Before the project I couldn’t remember how to use the laser cutter and didn’t understand how to scale my card net design to ensure it wasn’t oversized. Now I feel confident I can produce intricate card net designs and manufacture them with ease for future project” – Alice Fletcher Y9 B9.

Graphic Designers from left to right: Natasha Chase Y9 A9 Emily Dean Y9 T9 Alice Fletcher Y9 B9

Craig Nevard, Teacher of Design and Technology 84

Graphics Skills Day for GCSE students: On Thursday 26 November, Year 9 and 10 first year GCSE Graphics students participated in a Skills Day working with professional designers Milestone, a Graphic design company based in Wycombe. The main objective of the skills day was to design a new branding for High Wycombe that would be presented to the council as part of a proposal to update and rejuvenate Wycombe as a whole.

First of all, we talked about how companies use graphics in different ways and how a typeface, colour or logo can be associated with a brand easily without being told the company. After that we discussed who the logo would need to appeal to, for example families, businesses, young people and why they would come to High Wycombe.

Then we were given the task of designing a new logo for High Wycombe, they wanted us to update the old logo into something more modern that represents High Wycombe. Many people opted to keep the Swan featured in the current High Wycombe logo as it is so significant, but others modernised it or completely changed it so it would appeal to everyone.

We then presented the two or three best designs in our group and explained to Milestone and the rest of the class why our designs where the best and what they represent. From there, the best group, the best designs, and the most imaginative designs were chosen.

I am pleased to say that my design idea won an award for the most unique idea, but some of the others has been included for you to view Polly Wright, Year 10, Bronte 5

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Technology Rotary Young Chef Competition 2015 On Monday 23 November nine Wycombe High School girls from Year 9 competed in the annual Rotary Young Chef Competition. The competition started at 4.00 pm when all of the girls started to prepare and lay their tables.

At 4.30 pm the heat started and all hands were on deck. After just one hour of cooking and preparing time the girls presented their dishes, a starter and main course for two, to the judges.

Once the food was tasted, the judges gave their verdict.

Two girls were chosen to go through to the next round and were as follows, Kristin Light (Bronte 4) and myself. Despite only two girls going forward to the next round, all the courses presented to the judges were fantastic.

It was a great evening for all and Kristen and I are looking forward to the next Area round on Monday 25 January when we compete against students from other local schools.

Chloe Dove, Year 9, Bronte 2

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London Fashion Week Skills Day The students had to design and create a garment that will be on show down a catwalk at London Fashion Week next February. Their brief was to design and make a garment with an inspirational theme of Red Carpet Glamour. They had periods 1-4 and an after school session to complete their pieces and their work is simply stunning.

On Thursday 26 November a group of students were selected to take part in a skills day workshop with award winning designer Debbie Wingham.

Saoirse Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor, Head of News Crew, Parks 3, Year 13

Debbie has made many pieces for high profile clients, but her biggest success was the world's most expensive black diamond dress, valued at a staggering 3.5 million pounds.

The dress boasted 50 separate two carat flawless black diamonds, 25 on the peplum, 25 framing the shoulders and a centre piece of five carat flawless black diamonds which framed the bustier. Debbie Wingham attracted worldwide media coverage and was the talk of Hollywood, with the launch of the world's most expensive black diamond dress and subsequent World Tour.

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Letting of School Premises One way in which we can raise funds is to hire out various areas and facilities of Wycombe High School, for example, Sports Hall, Lecture Theatre, Conference Room, The Forum, classrooms etc.

For details of availability, charges and a booking form, please contact Reception on 01494 523961 or email Reception@whs.bucks.sch.uk.

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