ASA TODAY Issue 40

Bishop Rachel visit

Student Leadership

Students met with the Bishop to discuss body image issues

Our young leaders are announced

ASA TODAY

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Page 3

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

The All Saints’ Academy Newspaper

www.asachelt.org

Sixth Form student Poppy is awarded Lord Lieutenant Cadet

By Miss Wellington CCF Lead Officer IT Teacher Second in House

Sunday was an auspicious day in both the whole school life of All Saints’ Academy and its burgeoning Combined Cadet Force. We were invited to the Officers Mess at Imjin Barracks for the Lords Lieutenant Awards.

All Saints’ Academy were honoured to receive a Defence Employer Recognition Silver award, one of only four handed out on the day. This is handed out to businesses who actively support the armed forces by encouraging employees to be part of the Reserve services (which can include paid time off for tours of duty and training), or by employing ex-service men and women and supporting staff who are adult volunteers in the cadet community. The award was handed to the principal Mr McNiffe by Dame Janet Trotter.

The celebrations did not stop there.

The CCF unit at All Saints’ has only been standalone since September 2015 but we’re delighted to have our senior Cadet Sgt Poppy Slack selected as one of the 9 Lord Lieu-

tenants cadets for Gloucestershire this year. This is a huge honour as this will mean accompanying Dame Janet on many formal engagements, including a Royal visit in November.

Poppy said, “It is a huge honour to be recognised for this.

I love my time in cadets and intend to take all opportunities offered.”

“I am humbled that one of my cadets can get such recognition in our first solo year. Poppy has been instrumental in embedding the CCF at All Saints’ Academy.

Her endless enthusiasm and will to improve have been evidenced throughout her cadet career. I am sure that, with her positive attitude, she will go on to great things in the future” Flight Officer Wellington (All Saints’ Academy contingent commander)

Students amaze at the Cheltenham Literature Festival

By Mrs Edgar

PR & Communications Manager Last year’s Cheltenham Festivals First Story group put on a superb performance at the Cheltenham Literature Festival. Our students read a poem each from their published book ‘My Voice is a Shy Tiger’. There was a fantastic range of poems read; some making the audience laugh, others cry.

Mr Fredrickson, who has been the teacher in charge of the First Story

project, was in attendance and was so incredibly proud of their achievements.

A massive well done to all of the First Story group: Ciara Austin, Jack Large, Jose Lumactod, Mary Villaflor, Sophie Woodman, Olly Ray, Jade Mitchell, Ceri Mavin, Julia Obrebska, Sam Knight, Chantae Sellers, Hope Jones, Ellie Davage, Lilly St Francis, Serena Pepa and Trenton Anderson.

Sixth Form student Ciara Austin was chosen to close the event with another poem which was delivered impeccably.

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

EDITORIAL www.asachelt.org

Bucking the national trend with fantastic exam results

By Mrs Edgar

PR & Communications Manager Chief Editor This term has seen some fantastic student successes such as Poppy Slack being awarded Lord Lieutenant Cadet, exam results and our student leadership team being announced.

We have been busy visting our local partner primary schools to talk to parents about our Open Evening that was on the 3rd October. A number of students represented the Academy during these visits, a big thank you to them!

A group of our students performed at the Cheltenham Literature Festival this year, sharing wonderful poems with a packed audience. Also, as part of the Literature Festival, our Performing Arts students took part in ‘A Way with Words’ at Hester’s Way library; see page 8 for more details.

If you are interested in writing for the Academy newspaper please email asatoday@asachelt.org

ASA TODAY Editorial Team Chief Editor: Mrs Edgar Editor: Miss Smith Proof Reader: Mr Griffin

ly proud that Poppy Slack in Year 13 has also been honoured as Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Cadet for this year. This is an outstanding achievement and well-deserved recognition of her excellent work as a young cadet.

By Mr McNiffe Principal

Welcome to our first edition of ASA Today this year and my very best wishes to you all for this new academic year.

This year we celebrate a record breaking year of examination results at A Level and GCSE. Our Year 13 students achieved a fantastic 100% pass rate at A Level with a 11% improvement in students achieving three or more A*-E passes.

All Saints’ also bucked the national trend by achieving the best ever higher level GCSE grades with a quarter of students achieving 5+ A*-B grades and nearly half of all students achieving at least one A or A* grade.

In a climate where examinations are becoming increasingly demanding, our students and teachers continue to rise and meet the challenge. This year we welcome the introduction of the new Progress 8 measure, as we see this as a positive step in recognising the academic progress of all our students at All Saints’ Academy. We are delighted that our Progress 8 score will be another improvement on last year.

Year 11 student, Teresa Ether-

edge achieved exceptional GCSE results gaining 7 A*s and 4 A grades. Teresa will be studying Chemistry, Biology, Maths and English Literature at A Level. Teresa said ‘I am so happy with my results, I did better than I thought I would.’

Brandon Etheridge exceeded his own expectations with A* grades in both RE and English Literature and A grades in History, Film Studies and Maths as well as doing well in his other subjects. Brandon said ‘I am more than happy with what I have achieved. I did so much better than I expected.

I even got a B in Computing, as subject I was not confident I would pass.’

Emily Slender who achieved 6 A*s, 2 As, 1 B and a C she said ‘I’m really pleased with my results.’ Emily will be studying Chemistry, Biology, Maths and English Literature at A-Level.

Last weekend Her Majesty’s Lord – Lieutenant, Dame Janet Trotter, presented All Saints’ Academy with the Silver Defence Employer Recognition Award for our work with the armed forces in operating our own Combined Cadet Force (CCF). We are immense-

2 Keep up to date with ASA

follow us on

twitter First Story @FirstStory ‘We could think in different ways & express ourselves in ways we couldn’t before’ @cheltfestivals FirstStory student St John’s Primary @StJohnsChelt Beautiful singing from the inspiring @asachelt school choir - great to see former pupils too. Thank you for coming!

The All Saints’ Academy Open Evening took place on the 3rd of October; we were delighted to see so many parents coming from a wide range of local schools to experience our great Academy. All really enjoyed their experience and had so many positive things to say. Here are some of the lovely comments we received: ‘The academy has fantastic facilities’; ‘staff and students are very welcoming’; ‘our tour guide was informative and friendly, my child would like to come here next year’; ‘I was surprised with the amount of extra curricular clubs on offer for All Saints’ students, this looks great!’

We are looking forward to celebrating another bumper year of achievements and successes over this academic year.

Pictures: Open Evening

Wessex RFCA @WRFCA @asachelt recognised for outstanding support to the #ArmedForcesCommunity at Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire’s Award Ceremony.

Address: Blaisdon Way Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL51 0WH Phone: 01242 711200 Absences: 01242 711203 Email: admin@asachelt.org www.asachelt.org

@asachelt Photographed by Ewan Harris

Photographed by Mrs Edgar

Photographed by Megan Roberts

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

NEWS Student Leadership www.asachelt.org

SIXTH FORM LEADERS

Ciara Austin

Josh Domm

Sixth Form Head Student

Sixth Form Head Student

I’m passionate about welcoming and enabling diversity and acceptance within the Sixth Form. I put a lot of effort into fighting negative attitudes towards minorities and those who can’t defend themselves.

Come and talk to me if you want my help increasing diversity and culture with the school.

I applied to be a head student because I want to make a real connection between staff and students.

I am approachable and empathetic so feel free to email jdomm@ asachelt.org or approach me and bring up any concerns or suggestions you may have.

YEAR 11 LEADERS

Ceri Mavin Head Girl

Alex Regan

Josh Hale Head Boy

Erykah Cameron

Canterbury House Captain

Kerryanne Bill

Sixth Form Head Student

Sixth Form Head Student

My aim as one of ASA’s Head Students, is to make your time in Sixth Form as enjoyable as possible. I also aim to dynamically engage with you by running and being involved in as many events as possible. Therefore, if you have an idea that you think will help integrate us with Lower School, or perhaps a fundraiser for a charity close to you, email me and I’ll get back to you.

Also, I wish to make positive changes to the school, all for your benefit. I want to further develop and help us as a Sixth Form to be more active and involved in decisions made within the Academy. So if you see any issues within the Academy that you think haven’t be aptly addressed, tell me. I can then bring the issue forward and try to help resolve it.

I love empowering students and making a difference to the school. I aim to actively engage with you by involving you as much as possible with events and getting you to find your voice and stand up for what you believe too. The reason why I decided to become a head student is to create an awareness of mental health illnesses and provide support and help to as many students as possible.

I am empathetic, approachable, passionate and enthusiastic which I believe makes me a good role model. I hope that you feel that you can talk to me about any problems that you have or anything that you feel should be changed about the school to make it better for you and other students to study.

I am always available to talk to, so please don’t hesitate to send me an e-mail kbill@asachelt.org or drop into the common room!

Boriana Nacheva Deputy Head Girl

Nikoletta Wiecek

Lewis Brooks

Deputy Head Boy

Leah Wright

Durham House Captain

Durham House Captain

Julia Obrebska

Magdalena Kroliczak

York House Captain

York House Captain

Colby Kelly

Canterbury House Captain

Jakub Sprenger

Westminster House Captain

Sophie Woodman

Westminster House Captain

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Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

SPIRITUALITY

Education Sunday

By Mrs Spence

Roman Catholic Lay Chaplain

Anglican Chaplain Mr M Pinless organised a joint service at ASA with the congregations of St Mark and St Aiden and St Silas churches. On this Sunday these were the only worship service s happening in these churches. A part of this worship was hosted by St Mark whilst Rev. Philip Smith (St Aiden’s & St Silas) led prayers. The theme of these services was on ‘Education in the community’ with the aim of promoting issues in education and raising the profile of

Anglican Communion

By Mrs Spence

Roman Catholic Lay Chaplain

Rev P Smith vicar of St Aidan and St Silas celebrated an Anglican Communion service on Thursday 22nd Sept at 8.15am in the Chapel.

Future Dates

By Mrs Spence

Roman Catholic Lay Chaplain

Anglican Communion Time: 8.15am 6th October 24th November 8th December Roman Catholic Masses Time: 12.10pm 13th October 3rd November Time: 7.00pm 16th November

ASA within the Parish. Julian Simcox (Assistant Vice principal, Ethos) spoke at the service on the theme of ‘speaking and acting wisely in our actions towards others’. He also used this as a platform to encourage further involvement with the Academy from the Parish.

To celebrate Education Sunday, Fr David Mills, parish priest of St Gregory the Great with St Thomas More, Cheltenham invited Academy Principle Mr D McNiffe to speak at all the Masses on the subject of Education.

All Saints’ also provided readers for all the Masses and our Academy Choir led the singing at the 11.15am Mass.

To see the news report that has aired on ITV news please go to

http://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/2016-09-26/ bishop-talks-to-studentsabout-self-esteem/

By Mr Pinless

Sixth Form Chaplain Teacher of RE

I think we have all at times glanced in the mirror and sometimes not liked what we have seen. For whatever reason, these feelings can at best be fleeting and at worst quite painful, causing deep upset.

This is an issue that the bishop of Gloucester, Rev. Rachel Treweek, believes requires urgent thought and discussion and as such on the Monday 19th September she visited the Aacademy to launch her campaign to try and encourage greater self-esteem regarding self-image.

This is a topic that is currently receiving much attention as it follows a report from the Children’s Society last month that found one out of three girls aged 10 to 15 was unhappy with her appearance.

www.asachelt.org

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The Year began with welcome services on the induction day for Year 7 led by Mrs Spence, Roman Catholic Lay Chaplain and Year 12 led by Mr Pinless, Anglican Chaplain.

Whole School Assembly

By Mrs Spence

Students were invited to reflect on what ‘fullness of life’ may mean for them

Roman Catholic Lay Chaplain Chaplains led the Collective worship on the theme of New Beginnings. At All Saints’ Academy a new academic year represents: a fresh start, a blank slate and a new opportunity to excel. As a Christian Academy we are committed to excellence in studies, in character and in spirituality. In one of the bible quotations seen around the building Jesus tells us ‘I have come so that you may have life in all its fullness.’ John 10:10.

The final prayer gave thanks for our school community and we asked for God’s blessings for this new academic year.

• • • • • •

Maybe fullness is not being afraid to try new things?

Maybe fullness is not being held back by past mistakes?

Maybe fullness of life is not resenting failures but learning from them?

Maybe fullness of life is about perseverance in the face of extreme odds.

Maybe fullness of life is about asking for help rather than running from it.

Maybe fullness of life is the understanding that we are more than just the sum of our physical parts.

Bishop Rachel talks about Self Esteem and Body Image

The study highlighted the growing pressure of social media with regard to body image. The proportion of girls with negative feelings about their bodies increased from 30% to 34% over five years; among boys it remained unchanged at 20%.

As part of the morning Bishop Rachel met with a broad range of students across year groups and asked them to reflect on how they, themselves particularly felt about this topic. The Bishop challenged the students to really reflect on whether magazines and media made an impact on how they want to look. In order to do this the students viewed various different viral adverts that addressed the topic of ‘What is real beauty?’

The responses from the students were honest and insightful, with the overall feeling that many of the students believing that there is an expectation to match up to what they see in magazines and on TV. They were particularly shocked when they saw a clip that demonstrated quite how male and female models can be photo shopped to give a different appearance. A general consensus was taken that this was wrong as it gave an unrealistic and unattainable target for young people.

The whole morning was a great success culminating with the opportunity for some students in school be interviewed for ITV news regarding the issue. The Bishop and her team gained thought for the planning of the next

stages of the campaign. She said in her interview “I want to challenge the subconscious messages we’re giving…For example, when adults engage with girls, nearly always the first thing we say is a comment on appearance. We need to find out who they are, what they enjoy, what they’re good at, what makes their souls sing.”

She added: “I don’t want to say to girls: ‘Don’t worry about hair or nails or fashion’ – I want them to enjoy those things. But I want these things to be an expression of who they are, not their starting place.”

All Saints looks forward to working further on this project with Bishop Rachel in the near future.

DEPARTMENT NEWS

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

www.asachelt.org

Cheltenham Festivals - A Way with Words

By Mr Fredrickson Second in English

European Languages Day

By Mrs Le Maréchal

Two public events during Cheltenham’s Literature Festival featured 15 stellar talents from Years 8-11 who spent two hours with Katy Costigan, a Theatre Director and Impresario, to contribute to a project called A Way With Words.

Katy could not speak highly enough of our students. ‘All Saints’ kids almost burst with excitement, energy and ideas. I have worked with a lot of students and these guys really are second to none. I would like to take them with me everywhere.’

One of these public performances took place three times at two-hourly intervals from 1.30pm at Hester’s Way Primary on Saturday 8th October. The other was a multimedia installation in Cheltenham Library from Friday 7th – Monday 10th October.

A Way With Words interviewed Cheltonians of all ages about memories. Memories of how their ways of life have altered and endured over time. The project was for the ages whose hour in the sun is all too short.

We hope you managed to catch the performances and related to the stories about your home town.

Head of Modern Foreign Languages

Students celebrated our European Day of Languages where students had the opportunity to consider and reflect upon our global community and teachers used the opportunity to explore wider elements of the curriculum in their individual lessons.

Science, Health and Social Care, Careers and Geography to name a few subjects helped the Modern Languages Department to celebrate - a variety of taster languages were taught alongside learning about the European Community. Our Loaves and Fishes restaurant were also serving European foods at break and lunch time.

Cheltenham Festivals - Young Writers Festival

By Mr Fredrickson Second in English

14 All Saints’ students joined 40 UKwide schools for the annual Young Writers’ Festival at a marquee in Oxford University on 22nd September.

The Festival kick-started the Academy’s involvement in the Cheltenham Literature Festival’s First Story project this year. By June a group of students will be able to call themselves published authors, thanks to the support of not only Cheltenham Festivals and First Story but also Miss Kidson, Mr McNiffe and Mr Nicklin. To this end, every week from mid-October to late May a professional writer will be providing our students with expert tuition and support.

The day itself was wonderful, despite the traffic-jams. Our students produced and read out their own pieces, were performed to and ‘workshopped’.

Poppie Rann also discovered a surprising connection from the Emerald Isle.

Best of all perhaps, our very own Lottie Farmer was one of a chosen few to regale the entire gathering with a poem she had written that very day!

“Languages plays a key part in the development of young people as they prepare themselves to be part of the global economy. We have been very impressed with the manner in which our students seek to develop their own knowledge and understanding and this week has provided a further opportunity to engage in this.”

Mrs Le Maréchal Head of Modern Foreign Languages

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TRIPS

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

www.asachelt.org

Year 7 Trip to Croft Farm Park

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Year 11 Oxford University Trip

By Miss Wellington CCF Lead Officer IT Teacher Second in House

On Thursday 29th September all of Year 7 got the amazing opportunity to attend an all-day team building trip to Croft Farm.

The day was full of excitement where students got to try out a variety of different fun and challenging activities.

It certainly was a “soggy encounter” for those who took part in the raft building and Kayaking adventures. Laughs were had all around, even when things got a little more than damp.

This taught the groups the importance of working like a team (otherwise the kayak goes around in circles).

The other groups got the opportunity to try their hands at archery (I wonder if there are any potential Robin Hood’s at All Saints’) and Go-Karting (remember, that is how Lewis Hamilton started). They also played some great team building games.

“I am really proud of the resilience and attitude of our year 7 students.

Some were a little scared to take part in the activities but were glad they did.”

Mrs Mitchell Head of Westminster

By Mr Ferguson

Assistant Vice Principal Head of Year 11

“I actually fell of our raft but it was still really fun.”

Skye Norval

Year 11 students who had shown an outstanding attitude to learning in the final term of Year 10 were invited to attend an open day at the prestigious Oxford University. Students got a real feeling for university life, visiting key areas such as the grand hall, Student union, libraries, recreational facilities and halls

of residence. Our guides explained what university life was like, what courses could be studied and relayed any fears or concerns students had over going to a university.

The day did not just end there, the students also visited the Asmolean museum and the Natural History museum where they encountered many interactive exhibits and were taken through a ‘hands on’ experience through time, discovering and working out the history and use of artefacts.

Africa Fundraising Update

By Miss Wellington CCF Lead Officer IT Teacher Second in House

Fundraising for Africa is in full swing!

After the epic end to last year with the mammoth row and the amazing efforts at the School Carnival, we start this year with fresh enthusiasm.

Chloe Betteridge held a fundraising Zumbathon with the help of her zumba teacher Natalie. Chloe raised a fantastic £521 from this event!

Members of the Africa team were asked to speak at the Education Sunday event. Many members of the

various church congregations were impressed with the dedication of our young people and donated on the day.

There was also a very surprising donation of £500 from an anonymous mem-

ber of the public via our Just Giving page.

See next edition for information on the Car Boot Sale at St Gregory’s Primary School on Saturday 15th

October 2016.

News to follow on this year’s 24 hour Fast!

It’s great to hear about the trip to Tanzania during the St Aidan’s & St Silas and St Mark “Education Sunday” service today - and meet some of the amazing pupils. With our prayers - have a great trip!

TECHNOLOGY

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

www.asachelt.org

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An Introduction to Mr Kerr Throughout school I never had a clue what job I wanted to do, I only knew that I had to get decent grades to get decent jobs. I worked hard through School, College and University getting good grades without really knowing what job I was going to get with them. Along the way I found an interest in Business Studies, I liked the way I could relate my learning to the outside world and I thought it would be useful for life. I carried my studies of business from GCSE, through A Level into Degree level and loved it. Businesses have such a huge impact on the entire world on a day to day basis and it pays to understand how they think and work.

No matter what job you end up doing, it will be a business so it’s useful to know how it operates and what part you play as an employee.

It wasn’t until I started to follow my interests in outdoor pursuits that I really started thinking about teaching as a possible career. I joined a 6 week expedition to the Himalayan Mountains with the British Exploring Society, leading young people on a life changing trip and teaching them all sorts of technical as well as life skills. I enjoyed that experience so much, alongside other experiences helping young people, that it got me thinking about making a living out of helping young people to achieve their

dreams. I haven’t looked back since, and I hope that I might make some sort of positive impact here at All Saints’.

One of my role models as I was growing up was my Sunday league football coach Paul – he gave us his time and respect and showed us that he cared about us as a team and how to be humble in victory and learn from defeat. Thinking of Paul reminds me how I should treat others and what great things can be achieved when you take the time to care for each other.

My favourite thing about being a teacher is that you learn just as much from the pupils as you teach them. I find it a real privilege to be a part of that two-way learning process; every day is different when you work at a school and the pupils make my job interesting and enjoyable – most of the time!

In the past I have worked as an activity leader at a language school for exchange students, I have worked in a very posh marina on the south coast driving boats. I also ran my own business as an outdoor fitness instructor for a short while. If I couldn’t be a teacher, I would love to be a ski instructor or run my own outdoor adventure centre for young people from all backgrounds to use and enjoy.

A couple of interesting facts about Mr Kerr

1) I have sat in a hot tub with the legendary Eric Cantona.

2) I have climbed a Himalayan mountain at the height of 5797m.

3) I have driven a 1965 Ford Mustang around Goodwood Race Track.

TWEETS

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@ASABusinessdept

ENTERPRISE DAY

ASABusinessDept @ASABusinessDept

Cheltenham, England Joined May 2015

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ASABusinessDept @ASABusinessDept Looking forward to the US debate here in the UK who’s going to come out on top? #debatenight

ASABusinessDept @ASABusinessDept 6th form catch up sessions running this week on THURSDAY! Malvern First Floor #bethere

ASABusinessDept @ASABusinessDept U of G Business taster day! #aspirations #uni #business

ASABusinessDept @ASABusinessDept The Year 9 Business students enjoying their educational talk at Cadbury... A break from all the choc!!

@ASABusinessdept @ASABusinessDept An Interview with Mr Shergold Business Update What have students taught you that you could not have learnt in any other profession?

Resilience. Some of the things our young people deal with on a day to day basis and come out smiling really does put a lot of adults to shame.

A different outlook on things – sometimes it’s very easy to get too wound up in what in reality is not worth getting wound up about at all…

What is your favourite film?

Django Unchained.

What in your opinion are the most compelling challenges with today’s education system?

Maintaining a wholesome and rounded education system when there are so many external pressures on both schools and the young people themselves.

Keeping up with Industry, making sure we are teaching people what they actually need to know to allow them to do what they want in the modern world.

What was your favourite subject at school?

Technology or PE, PE probably as I had a lot of energy that I needed to use!

Tell us something interesting about yourself..

I race mountain bikes all over the world, my last big event was Belgium to Turkey on a road bike See: http://www.transcontinental.cc/

What degree did you do?

Computer aided product Design at Cardiff MET What led you into teaching? Did you always want to be a teacher?

Before teaching I was a design engineer for a company that made bits for Jaguars and Land Rovers, I decided that sitting behind a desk driving a computer for 8 hours a day designing something that very few people knew existed wasn’t going to keep me interested for very long. I have always worked with young people either through scouts or coaching people on mountain bikes.

How long have you been a teacher?

Five years, although I have been teaching people to ride bikes for 10+ Who was your idol growing up and why?

Didn’t really have one I don’t think,

Students in Year 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13 Business classes must attend extra booster sessions after school where students can practice exam questions / exam technique to ensure they maximise exam success. This is also an opportunity to catch up on coursework;

Mon 3.10pm NCFE catch up Wed 3.10pm GCE Business catch up Thurs 3.10pm A-level Catch Up

Congratulations are in order

By Mr Kelly

Head of Faculty

maybe my dad?

A massive well done for our best ever AS Business Results, which saw 40% of students achieve A*- B and 100% A*- E. Miss Pettit and I are extremely proud of these results and the students successes. We look forward to you exceeding these achievements in Year 13!

A special shout out to; Huy Do, Sydney Fitzsimmons, Kayley Griffin, Toby Jenkins, Rey Lluisma, Patryk Miasek, Charlie Pockett, Chloe Walker, Hannah Whelan, Sophie Whelan, and Beth Wiltshire.

PERFORMING ARTS

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

www.asachelt.org

A Way with Shakespeare Schools Words Festival Rehearsals

By Mrs Austin Head of Music

By Seamus Bonner Student Reporter

It was with excitement and a little bit of curiosity that 15 drama club members arrived at Coronation Square on a chilly Saturday morning at the start of the Cheltenham Literature Festival.

They were ready to contribute their flash mob to a Cheltenham Festivals’ community outreach project in the area.

This was the culmination of a project in which stories and experiences of local people were gathered and woven into a series of scenes called “A Way With Words” that celebrated the richness and diversity of the local community.

The students had worked with Mr Aitchison and a professional choreographer over four half hour sessions during lunchtimes and after school to devise their segment but it was only during the first performance that all of the different pieces of the jigsaw were drawn together.

The flash mob was tight, exciting and confident and after the first performance word obviously got out that something interesting was taking place at “The Square” because the audiences grew for the second two performances. This was a fantastic opportunity for all of the students to be part of the prestigious Cheltenham Festival of Literature and I am sure that it is an experience that will stay with them for a long time.

Like us on facebook:

www.facebook.com/ asacheltperfarts

We have been rehearsing for our ‘Taming of the Shrew’ show at The Roses Theatre. People always think it

is amazing and great for practice for many things like GCSE. Taming of the Shrew is a crazy, interesting play and has a scene for everybody. It is an ageless story that keeps repeating itself. We tried to put ourselves into the characters and even walk and stand like them. This helps us with acting out the characters to the best of our ability.

Reflections of a Music Teacher

By Mrs Austin Head of Music

Why get involved with Performing Arts?

Many students tell me that they would love to get involved with choir and drama club or learn an instrument but that they are “no good at it” or they are shy. Well, I would like to let everyone into a secret… I wasn’t very good at music when I started out and I have always been a bit shy and anxious. Learning to play a musical instrument taught me that if you practise and work hard at something you can achieve things that you didn’t think you could. Drama activities taught me to speak clearly and to control my nerves when speaking in public. But the most important thing that getting involved with Performing Arts has given me is friends.

Lots and lots of friends of all different ages with different talents and abilities.

Music, drama and dance groups are all about supporting and encouraging each other and having fun. In the last week 15 members of the choir have taken over a McDonalds in Gloucester after a performance and 15 drama club members have had a great day enjoying biscuits, meals and ice cream in between performances of A Way With Words. The Shakespeare Festival crew have enjoyed watching Mr Aitchison demonstrating how an “untamed shrew” would behave and the choir have started preparing for anti-bullying week by learning “Popular” from the musical Wicked. Guitar club had a record number of students and 20 students advanced their skills with Brass, Woodwind, String and Keyboard lessons.

What are you waiting for? Come and join us!

Choir primary performances

By Ciara Austin Student Reporter

All Saints’ Academy choir raised the profile of the school in the community further by singing at local primary schools, demonstrating both the extra-curricular activities on offer and the confidence exuded by those who

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have the perserverance and initiative to take part in the activities on offer as supplements to the curriculum.

The choir also displayed Christian values and community spirit by taking part in the important ceremony of confirmation at St Gregory’s which made the occasion particularly special for the many students and families of the school who were taking part in the ceremony.

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

EVENTS www.asachelt.org

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By Demi Wheeler Work Experience Reporter

The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury Monday 7th November 2016

Shakespeare’s School Festival is an annual festival launched in 2000 by founder Chris Grace. The festival involves months of preparation for young people and teachers, leading up to an exhilarating performance evening in a professional theatre.

The festival aims to “engage pupils in their education, inspire teachers in their jobs and create community ties.” This year throughout the autumn, 1,000 schools will perform in 138 theatres in the world’s largest youth drama festival.

This is the fourth time All Saints’ Academy students will take part in the festival. In previous years they have performed: Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet and Merchant of Venice.

The show will begin at 7pm with a cast of 32 students and a student production team of 4.

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

SIXTH FORM www.asachelt.org

Houses of Parliament Trip

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Year 12 Bright Futures event

By Mr Bradley

Assistant Vice Principal Head of Year 12

By Nicola Crawford Student Reporter

On the 12th of September, 26 Year 12 students visited the Houses of Parliament in London. This trip was a reward trip for completing all the summer tasks we were set in preparation for the start of A-Levels. First of all we took a tour around the building and had a talk with our tour guides about current affairs in parliament (something about a new Prime Minister). On the tour we went into both the House of Lords and the House of Commons.

In the House of Lords we were able to see the throne which the Queen sits in during the State Opening of Parliament every year. I loved this throne, all of it was covered in gold leaf apart from a few elements of the angels which were made from solid gold. After this we went into the House of Commons and saw where both the leader of the Conservative and Labour Party sat.

There is also a chair at the front of the commons where the Speaker sits; the Speaker’s job is to present the topic for a session and also keep the order during the debates.

After the tour round Parliament we went into a room and did a 360° workshop. In this workshop we talked about what it took to create a good campaign and then we split into groups and we created our own minicampaign. We watched a video on the suffragette movement and then our group created a campaign to lower uni fees. I found the workshop really interesting and engaging.

Overall, I found the trip really interesting because it made me realise how interesting the politics of our Country really is. I also loved the interior of the building and seeing where the Queen fits into our modern day government.

Two weeks into the new academic year the whole of Year 12 experienced their first taste of how to study as a sixth former as well as preparing for the world of work. Bright Futures Ltd, returned to the academy, to deliver and fully engage students with their workrelated and enterprise programmes.

Bright Futures’ motto is to ‘excite, inspire and educate’. They certainly left Year 12 with new skills to develop and adapt as they embark on their new courses. The feedback from students was highly positive.

‘I found out useful methods of how to prioritise my time’; ‘Developing my team working skills was really beneficial’; ‘I now know different methods of taking notes that will become very useful when revising.’

Year 12 have made an excellent start to life in the Sixth Form.

I have been very impressed with the commitment to learning, both in lessons and during study periods. This could be another record-breaking year group for A-level results in 2018.

I look forward to updating you in the future with the events and successes that Year 12 students proudly achieve.

Year 13 Celebration Evening

By Mr Simcox

Assistant Vice Principal Head of Year 13 On 29th September Year 13 students and their parents were invited to attend or second annual Celebration Evening.

We had a lot to celebrate because Year 13 achieved our improved percentage of

high grade AS and BTEC results when these students were in Year 12.

Emily Towle a former Head Student came and spoke of her experience in the Sixth Form. She spoke highly of the relationships she made with staff and how that helped her achieve.

She also gave advice about private study and the need to meet deadlines.

Emily is in her second year at Worcester University and she described the

benefits of university life.

The evening also included a presentation for parents on helping students choose a career and/or a university. Help was also given about the financial implications of university.

Parents and students commented on the how informative this talk was and how it had motivated them to apply for university.

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

By Jacqueline Taylor

Personal Education Coordinator

CAREERS www.asachelt.org

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By Mrs Parr Pastoral Manager

The Annual Education and Careers Advice booklet from Gloucestershire County Council, ‘What’s Next?’, has been distributed to all Year 8-11s.

The booklet covers all the education options, from GCSEs, to apprenticeships, A-Levels to BTECs. Please look out for this, encourage your child to read it and discuss the various options with them.

You’re invited to FIND YOUR FUTURE Book your tickets now and get ready to Find Your Future!

Spaces are limited so book your FREE tickets today.

By booking your tickets you will receive a fantastic goody bag, delicious packed lunch and entry to a prize draw where you could win £100 gift certificate for a family meal out in Cheltenham or Gloucester!

The world is full of possibilities, it’s time to start the adventure!

Have a go at inspiring hands-on activities, listen to awesome real life stories and get top tips from experts.

Find out if you could be a Creative Genius, Life Saver, Brilliant Inventor or something Completely Unique! Visit the Inspiration Zone with your family to hear amazing stories and find out what you can do right now to start your journey. There will be a whole range of Gloucestershire organisations waiting to tell you how they can help and give you some brilliant opportunities right on your doorstep!

This event is the perfect place to start your journey towards your future career and find out how you can make it happen.

Parents/Carers: Come along to get information about what you can do to support your child in achieving their dreams. Be inspired, be informed, be supported and find their future, together.

HOUSE NEWS Principal Award

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

www.asachelt.org

Canterbury

Joe Almond

Joe is a star to have in 5CH and in the Academy. His ATL is outstanding across the board, he works hard and is an excellent role model for our younger students in the way he commits himself to life in the Academy. He earned himself a place on the Africa 2017 trip and has made us very proud. We look forward to the future.

Westminster

Stephanie Odokara

Stephanie only joined the Academy in September 2015 and during that time she has proven to be an outstanding student as well as a great ambassador for both the House and the Academy.

Her attitude to learning is outstanding, which has enabled her to make continual progress. She is a shining example to others and we have been extremely impressed with the fact that she has proven this through collecting the most amount of house points we have ever seen!

Stephanie is an exemplary student and an excellent role model to her peers. She is always willing to go the extra mile and will strive to succeed in every aspect of school life.

You are an absolute credit to the Academy; congratulations Stephanie.

TERM 6

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Durham

Leah Wright

Leah is a wonderful person and an outstanding student; she has maintained all of her qualities throughout her time at the academy. Leah is honest, polite and resilient, she thinks before she speaks or acts and is always willing try. Leah’s personality is reflected through her actions and words. She is helpful, understanding, patient and kind. She is diligent and intuitive as well as dependable.

Leah is: light-hearted yet sincere; passionate yet calm; decisive, but adaptable and well led. There are so many words we could use to describe Leah, but what it all comes down to is the fact she is an outstanding person. D2 are very lucky to have her in their tutor group and we know that she will go far in whatever she chooses to do.

York

Lilly St Francis

Lilly is an outstanding student who has developed her self confidence both in and outside of lessons, which is reflected in the huge number of House Points and praise she gets from her teachers.

She has truly started to spread her wings and it is fantastic to see her stepping up.

Her ATL and attendance are outstanding and she always strives to do her best. This is reflected in all aspects of her Academy life.

She has represented the school as part of the First Story group with Mr Fredrickson.

She is a fine asset to her tutor group. She is always passionate about everything we do and never needs to be asked twice to complete set work or take part. She helped prepare and deliver the 8YH assembly and represented the House in interhouse events and on Sports day.

Lilly is a great role model and she has shown that you can do it. You just need to take a deep breath and do the first thing. To be brave and tackle an unknown, after that it gets easier. I am sure that as she moves through the Academy she will develop these leadership skills further.

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

ASPENS www.asachelt.org

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DEALS!DEALS!DEALS!

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

ASA SPORT

Year 9 Rugby Vs Chipping Campden

Year 8 Football Vs Churchdown Won 8-4

www.asachelt.org

By Mr Ferguson

Assistant Vice Principal

A fantastic performance from the team, particularly in the second half! After an end to end first half with both teams having a number of chances the score was tight with goals from Jdante CaineLee and Abdul Jabar giving us a 2-1 lead.

The second half started at a frantic pace and both teams could have scored before Luke Walsh hit a specula-

By Mr Pierce PE Teacher Second in House

tive but accurate shot which glanced the underside of the bar as it left the keeper rooted to the ground. Chances came and went as the visitors three times hit the ball over the top and exposed Sammi Azzouz with their pace, Jayden Wiltshire found it hard to keep hold of the ball without his gloves in goal and some clinical finishing form the centre forward let Churchdown keep close. Abdul Jabar, Conor Hargreave and Matt Hunt kept the score ticking over and ASA pulled away to a reasonably comfortable victory in the end.

Year 8 Rugby Vs Cotswold

By Mr Ferguson

Assistant Vice Principal

Hoping to bounce back from the defeat at the hands of Chipping Campden, the team hosted Cotswold. Still missing a fit talismanic figure of CJ Peelo and several other key players the prospect was a rather daunting prospect.

The game started at a frantic pace and once again Jabar, Walsh and Jeanes led the way with some excellent tackling. Ayenew, suddenly finding

By Mr Ferguson

Assistant Vice Principal

The Year 10 Rugby team turned up in full to play in the annul rugby tournament held at Cheltenham North Rugby Club. The Year 10 boys started well, demonstrating an amazing defensive performance and only loosing to Cleeve School by one try.

The second game started with some strong and well disciplined scrummaging from All Saints'. Princes Henry's kept applying the pressure and All Saints' were again forced to defensive duties. After some crunching tackles All Saints' were rewarded a penalty.

They managed to move the ball into the centres where Tom Chamberlin broke through Prince Henry's defensive line

Year 8 Football Vs Bournside (10-4) Assistant Vice Principal

An opening round fixture vs the undefeated district Champions was not the way we hoped the draw would go. With the back four decimated through illness and attendance, changes had to be made at 3.30, again not a great start and a real let down to the team.

The game started badly with Bournside creating chances from the off and kept the scores tied at 0-0. Within 6 minutes the team found themselves 2-0 down and themselves unable to cater for the pace of the opposition attack. With some quick changes and advice from myself on the side-line we covered the holes and there was excellent play on the pitch which saw us draw level on 25 minutes. It could have been much better if we had taken our other chances in the half with three one on ones missed!

It could also have been much worse as Bournside also missed a fair few! In the

a love for Rugby, made a great impact looking to run and explode into space.

The return of Poppleton to the ranks also gave a new dimension to our play.

Despite a fantastic break in midfield and off load to Jabar, who then ran in from half way to place the ball under the post for Walsh to convert meticulously and Jabar also touching down in the corner the game was out of reach and Cotswold won 42 – 12.

An improving performance from the squad and still great numbers, with 21 students involved. Well done!

Cheltenham North RFC Annual U15 Rugby Tournament

Year 9 boys first Rugby game of the season got off to a strong defensive start with some good tackles from Aiden Smith and Archie Lillis preventing Chipping Campden from scoring tries.

After conceding two tries, the year 9 boys rugby team stepped up their game and applied the pressure. At the start of the second half, Richmond went on a smashing run but unluckily turned over just before scoring a try. Chipping Campden kept up their performance throughout the game and All Saints Academy maintained their discipline.

With some last attempts of scoring a try, Ryley Kelly and Jordan Pearce unluckily were second best. Now plenty to work on with the Year 9 boys. Looking forward to the challenge and potentially winning in future games.

By Mr Ferguson

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dying seconds of the first half Bournside capitalised on some inability to clear the ball and scored to make it 3-2 at half time.

The second half started in much the same way as the first ended, with Bournside chipping the keeper to make it 4-2 after only seconds. Soon we were back in it again after a great finish in a carbon copy move of the first two efforts. Bournside were awoken by this and came back with an effort of their own making it 5-3, we responded with a great move down the right and a cut back and finish to reduce the deficit to 5-4, could we knick a win? Be the first to beat the side in two years? Unfortunately not, the hosts turned on the style and were more clinical in front of goal scoring five more in the last ten minutes as we looked to push forward and get back in the game.

A disappointing start to the season – but a question of what could have been with a full complement of players.

and scored the match winning try. Great performance by all and great results against a strong opposition.

The highlight of the tournament was by far the victory against Winchcombe School which saw Brad Cluterbuck amongst other scoring a series of tries. All ran well with the ball in hands and managed to break through defensive lines. Jack Dix managed to seal the win by converting three of the tries scored.

All students demonstrated outstanding discipline and a solid commitment to representing our Academy.

‘The highlight of the tournament was by far the victory’

- Mr Ferguson

Year 8 Rugby Vs Chipping Campden (42-0)

By Mr Ferguson

Assistant Vice Principal

An excellent turn out and display from the team in the opening game of the season. It was unfortunate that the result was not as positive!

All Saints’ welcomed a very strong Chipping Campden side but had to delay kick off as the visitors encountered travel issues. The boys used the time well to train and prepare for the game.

The Campden team were strong and quick and our tackling had to be at it’s very best. Jayden Jeanes, Luke Walsh and Abdul Jabar led our defence and made tackle after tackle to keep the scores level. It was, however, only a matter of time before the line was broken and the visitors scored.

Harry Kempson set out some excellent restarts to put the pressure on the opposition and set up play in their half. Two quick break away tries gave a

disappointing half time lead to our visitors. Stalwart defence and tackling prevented an avalanche of tries as we held our line firm in the second half.

The game ended at 6.30pm with fatigue setting in. The team fought

to the end and displayed excellent sportsmanship and etiquette throughout. A disappointing result but without any shame in our opening fixture. Let’s keep practicing and training!

Great numbers - Well done!

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

ASA SPORT www.asachelt.org

Powerchair Football

From the 12th - 18th September 2016 the Gloucestershire Football Association and Goals Beyond Grass (GBG) will be joining forces to promote the exciting sport of powerchair football.

GBG is a registered charity that is dedicated to delivering powerchair football to those who want to play the game.

Powerchair football is a team sport for people with a disability who use power wheelchairs. The game is played in a sports hall on a regulation basketball court. Two teams of four players use powerchairs equipped with

ASA V Winchcombe

Year 7

By Mrs Minto Head of PE

The year 7's made an excellent start in their first Netball match against Winchcombe. We dominated the passing and control of the ball in the first quarter and Dionne Motta scored the first goal.

We continued our strong start in the second quarter winning 3-2. Winchcombe came back fighting and dominated the third quarter winning 6-4. All Saints’ girls didn't give up and continued to fight and defend, but our movement to get free wasn't quite as good as Winchcombe and ended in a 9-7 defeat. Precious Odokara was nominated by Winchcombe for player of the match for her defending skills, well done to her and all the girls, looking forward to our next match.

is a fast growing sport within Gloucestershire. The first club in the county, Cheltenham Powerchair Football Club, was set up 2 seasons ago.

The club has gone from strength to strength thanks to the tireless work of Brian Dix, Jenny Rutter and the clubs committee. Now, in partnership with GBG, they are offering outreach sessions in Bristol.

By delivering Powerchair Week we hope to increase the profile of this form of the sport we all love and encourage people to come and have a go.’

Brian Dix, CEO of GBG, noted: ‘Powerchair week is the culmi-

Under 13’s Girls Football ESFA Cup vs Ribston Hall

By Miss Barrett PE Teacher

The year 8 girls started the year with a brilliant win against Winchcombe.

The girls worked really hard throughout the game. They won the first half 5-1 against a good Winchcombe team but dominated the second half of the match with the final result being 114. Kara Heaney and Alex Smyth had a brilliant game in the shooting positions, Kara winning player of the match was nominated by the other team.

A really good start to the year girls.

nation of the last two years for me. I played football at Bristol City as a kid and to now see the sport I love come to Bristol and the surrounding area with the help of Gloucestershire Football Association is fantastic.

Powerchair week is about showing the progress that disability sport has made. We firmly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to play football and powerchair football is the ideal vehicle as we hope people will see during Powerchair Week.’

footguards to attack, defend and spinkick a football in an attempt to score goals.

This week has been chosen as it is the final week of the Paralympics, which means that disability sport will be in the mainstream media. This is a chance to show that disability sport is a vibrant part of everyone’s community and does not just appear every four years.

Powerchair week is a week full of events to showcase the sport of powerchair football. The week will culminate in the first-ever live broadcast of the sport as the South West All Stars take on Cheltenham Powerchair Football Team.

A visit to All Saints' Academy saw some students having the opportunity to play football in a powerchair.

The students really enjoyed the experience and were surprised at the complexities of the chair.

Gloucestershire FA Disability Development Officer, Jason Lee, said of Powerchair week: ‘Powerchair football

Year 8

By Mr Pierce PE Teacher Second in House

With a substitute manager and two assistant coaches the under 13 girls were confident with the challenge ahead. After a strong start, Ribston proved worthy of a good competition. The pressure unfortunately became too much which led to Ribston with the first goal of the game. Luckily, this boosted the girls to

quickly equalise with Danielle Lusmore scoring. As the game progressed Ribston managed to find theirselves on top again from a few defensive errors. Their lead didn't effect the girls' determination and persevered to get one more late goal. The score ended in a 4-2 loss but the girls still held their heads high as this was the first time they'd played together. They represented the school very well showing values of sportsmanship and teamwork throughout.

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SPORTS TEAMS

Issue 40, Term 1, 2016

Year 7 Football

www.asachelt.org

Year 7 Netball

Year 8 Rugby

Year 8 Gymnastics

Year 7 Rugby

Year 8 Netball

Year 9 Rugby

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Year 8 Football

Year 8 Football

Year 9 Football

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Year 10 Football

Year 10 Netball

Year 10 Football SCAN TO ACCESS OUR WEBSITE

Year 10 Gymnastics