Creative News Issue 4 . September 2015
News, views and information about Bethnal Green Academy
Welcome to issue 4 of Creative News – keeping you informed about the creative learning opportunities and activities offered to students at BGA.
Best Ever Results for BGA “Education. It’s what remains when everything we’ve been taught has been forgotten.”
The new academic year is well underway. Last year’s results at both A Level and GCSE were exceptional. With 88% of Year 11 achieving 5 or more GCSEs at A* to C including English and maths we’ve set a new benchmark for the Academy. And just as our former Year 13 students are settling into university and college for the next adventure we have a new Year 7 just beginning their journey. So much can change in the seven years of secondary education but some things about our Academy remain constant. We have a commitment to ensuring that we provide the best education for every young person in the Academy. By the door to the staffroom there’s a sign to remind all of us who work here that the recipe for success is deceptively simple: •
High expectations
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Clear boundaries
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Hard work
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Excellent learning and teaching
These principles have helped make us an Ofsted outstanding school with exceptional results. Most importantly it means that we can help our young people gain the qualifications, skills and experiences that will enable them to thrive in today’s ever evolving society. But there’s more to BGA than that. Examination results are crucial but they aren’t everything. Last year more of our students than ever before became involved in our social action projects and our Arts and Culture programmes. Through music, drama and volunteering to help others our young people develop confidence, learn how to work with others and crucially understand how their actions can make a positive difference. Now that’s education. Mark Keary Principal, Bethnal Green Academy
SoLFest, a Festival of Arts, Culture and Learning The arts have a special place at Bethnal Green Academy and our Summer of Learning Festival was a culmination of many creative learning experiences that had taken place through the year. Students had the opportunity to watch and to participate in innovative live performances across all the art forms. In addition, they were able to problem solve, think creatively and collaborate effectively with others. Highlights include: opera at lunchtime, a poet in residence, a production of The Tempest, Critical Thinking Week and Music in the Street.We shall build on the outstanding work that has already taken place and look forward to the year ahead.
Issue 4 . September 2015
Art and Design at BGA
Conscientiousness, curiosity and focus
Summer Exhibition The summer exhibition was a great success, showcasing the work of art and photography students from all key stages.
Ask Our Teacher Name: Ms Austin
Subject: Teacher of Art One interesting fact about yourself: In my spare time I am a practising ceramic artist and I make very large ceramic coil pots.
A Year 10 student said: “I loved Yasmin Khatun’s main piece of the zoomed out doll then the same doll but zoomed in. I really liked the colour, texture and tone. We were joined by staff, governors, students and parents.”
What do you like about BGA? I am always amazed by the appreciation that the students and staff show for the art work produced by the students. What would you like to achieve in a year’s time? This year I would like to be selected for the London Potters annual exhibition. I would also love to see more of our talented young artists going on to foundation courses and university to study art.
Derek Cox said: “It was truly excellent. I am very proud as a governor to have been there. Please pass on my thanks and congratulations to the “artist students” and the staff. Those who couldn’t attend missed something special!”
Sculpture in the City This year BGA students were invited again to participate in the Sculpture in the City workshops run by Open City.
Art beyond BGA The art department would like to congratulate Mazhar Hussain, Year 13, who will be joining the prestigious Royal Drawing School Foundation Year in September 2015. We are very proud of Mazhar’s achievement and wish him the best of luck in his artistic endeavours. We also look forward to seeing his future exhibitions.
Art with Virginia The art department were visited by Virginia Primary School and the Year 9 students led an identity project, where the Year 6 students made a small painting to take home with them. The students planned and demonstrated the task to the students. The Year 6 students were very proud of their art work and thanked the Year 9 students for an exciting two day workshop.
25 Year 8 students, who are interested in taking GCSE art, took part and worked with a team of architects and designers. They explored different sites around the Gherkin building in the City of London and witnessed the installation of new sculptures by leading artists. The project ended with the students creating scale models of the buildings and making viewing structures for members of the public to view the sculptures through. The project gave students an insight into architecture and the built environment as a career.
Brush Bot Design Year 7 and 8 students have had a very productive term in technology. Suomona in Year 8 recently created a crocodile themed brush bot which was featured in a presentation by the Design and Technology Association. The students learned cutting and finishing techniques for plastic, and engineered their own cams to make the bots move.
Supporting Shakespeare set design
The art department supported SoLFest by making props. We made a large cactus, some dream catchers and painted feathers at lunch time with students and Taz Khan and Ms Austin made the Calaban mask for Shakespeare Day.
Artbeat 2015 with Allen & Overy 30 students took part in a ten-week art project working with Allen & Overy. With the help and guidance of two professional artists, Sarah Douglas and Fabiane Lee-Perrella, students explored new media and techniques that culminated in a collaborative exhibition at Allen & Overy’s London offices. On Wednesday 25th February students and staff were invited to the preview evening which showcased their work in a professional public environment. Artbeat is a community arts and enterprise initiative that harnesses the artistic talents and entrepreneurial spirit of students at BGA, with the aim of breaking down barriers between the City and the local community. We look forward to collaborating with Allen & Overy on a new, exciting project for 2015 and will be working with Allen & Overy to secure the help of practising artists to inspire students to produce outstanding creative work. 2
Year 7 have studied plastics and electronics this term and have made either a paint spinner or a wheel of fortune game to help them make choices. They have learned how to solder and connect components in a circuit. Mrs Fantuzzi’s top picks are from Humayra and Kausar Ali. Humayra’s wheel chooses between scarf designs, and Kausar’s chooses how to get to school in the morning. Well done!
Issue 4 . September 2015
Drama and Dance at BGA
Honesty, integrity and dignity
XLP Performing Arts Competition
This year, I have had many opportunities within the arts. One of them was getting through to XLP and being able to perform at Spotlight Theatre and the Mermaid, which was amazing! I was able to work with qualified mentors and met ‘Wizdom’, who was the presenter and organiser of the whole event. By taking part in XLP I have gained a lot of valuable experience in rehearsal and performance, which has led to me gaining a place at a prestigious drama school. It was a great experience and I appreciate the fact that I got to show my talent outside of school. The scene we performed was about two sisters who had different fathers. Myself and Gemma Pearman won the first showcase, in which we competed against eight other boroughs. We did not win the second showcase, but there’s always next year! Bayleigh Campbell Clark - Year 9
Musical Moments
In November 2014, fifty students auditioned for the show Musical Moments. From November to April students rehearsed every week after school to prepare a trilogy of musicals, Phantom of the Opera, Bugsy Malone and Blood Brothers. It was a real challenge to perform such a diverse range of musicals, which were all very different styles. Mr Slater and a professional band accompanied the students, who worked tirelessly on the production to make it a success. The audience were moved to tears during the performance of Blood Brothers, which has a tragic ending. It was amazing to see students across all year groups working together and developing the challenging skills of acting, singing and dancing.
My Audition by Asiatu
I auditioned for the role of ‘Sonia’ for a soap opera called ‘Hollyoaks’. Drama school prepared me for the demands of the business in many respects, but it isn’t until you leave that bubble of training that you fully understand what being an actor really involves. I’m far from being an expert, but nonetheless I’ve gleaned a few pearls of wisdom along the way and this is only from auditions. One of the first things I learned was, everybody who is auditioning with you for the part(s) is talented and competition is really tough but having confidence is vital if you want to get through and have a good audition. I also learned that being you in an audition can be difficult but is very useful. It is hard because you want to present yourself in the best possible light but this can result in you being robotic so I learned that being myself is the way to be in an audition I got a call back two days later and I was ecstatic! The second was just as, if not more nerve wracking, than the first one and this time I auditioned with other people who were up for the same role and they were very talented but I remained confident within myself. I learned that by channelling yourself into the character you’re reading and by understanding the character, you end up sounding more genuine and make the scene more realistic for people who may be watching. Almost a week later I found out that I had been given the part of ‘Sonia’ and I was so happy I couldn’t even begin to comprehend the journey I was about to take. I also learned to remain humble at all times. I always knew this but now it’s being applied into a situation where it is really needed and I’m very thankful for this opportunity that I’ve been given. If I could go back and change anything that has happened in the last few years, I wouldn’t. We are all a product of our experiences, and we are who we are today because of them. I may feel relieved I’ve got the part now but I’m in for a lot of hard work when I begin filming.
Coming Soon
The Tempest
At the end of the Summer Term our students dedicated their time to work tirelessly on this year’s interpretation of the famous Shakespearian tale, The Tempest. Throughout the process our cast dedicated hours of rehearsal to devise scenes of physical theatre, movement sequences, Greek inspired choral scenes and unique musical accompaniment with our very own live band. This year The Tempest was located on a magical island, within South America. Ariel and Caliban inhabited the island for hundreds of years, until one day Prospero colonised the island, taking away their freedom and with that, their lives and everything they once knew. As Ariel describes, “There in the distance my master is said, To be causing a great storm to wake our people from our beds. Just when I had escaped the clutches of Sycorax, I became imprisoned again by Prospero. Where he went, I had to follow. I must ensure these men lay save upon the shore as he is causing a storm that will lay King Alonso to rest, as every man fights to catch their last breath.” A huge thank you to the amazing cast and all involved in this impressive production.
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Issue 4 . September 2015
Science at BGA
BGA Butterflies The BGA caterpillars arrived in March this year, and students of all ages made excellent carers and keepers. The students diligently watched them transform over the month from tiny caterpillars into great big hairy caterpillars that built themselves cocoons and eventually emerged as beautiful butterflies. The students were amazed and truly enjoyed looking into the nets every lesson to observe changes as they occurred. The cocoon stage seemed to cause the most interest, as students learnt the caterpillars liquefied inside the cocoon before reforming as butterflies, and that the butterflies could remember events right through the transformation!!
Motivation, drive and ambition
Science Club News
Science club has continued to involve exciting experiments, where students have been using the time to practice their scientific practical skills whist having fun. KS3 science club thoroughly enjoyed making lava lamps, racing CD hovercrafts, testing the laws of gravity with water, titrations, looking at and sorting elements into the periodic table, UV light sources and many more. The KS3 science clubbers’ favourite experiment was to make instant hot ice that crystallised creating patterns similar to those made by Elsa in Frozen! The Sixth Form science club enjoyed many experiments throughout the year, with a common theme of favourites being based around fire, including the highly popular dancing flame experiment! The Sixth Form science club
improved many practical skills required for science based university courses. They also wisely used their time at science club as additional laboratory time, in preparation for their practical exams. I am sure results will be amazing, as practice makes perfect and the 6th form were amazingly dedicated with their practice, ensuring they were confident and competent when the exam rolled around. I have thoroughly enjoyed science club over the year, watching the budding scientists from both age groups enjoy fun science and expand their confidence, skills and knowledge. I look forward to science club continuing its success next year.
TeenTech Awards On the 14th of July I and some of my peers were chosen to take part in an all-day project called STEM. Engineers who had volunteered came in and told us about their jobs. We were then split into groups of four and six and were shown a presentation on possible theories of what the world may be like in 2050. In our groups we then created a mind map of problems that the world may be facing in 2050. Later on we were then shown another presentation about different ways we currently make energy and the effects it had on the world. Later on we were asked to think of inventions that will be useful to people in the future if population had destroyed the world. We created a mind map of possible inventions and decided which one we should create. My group decided on skates that would contain a battery pack which would charge as you skate. You could then take the battery out and use it to power your home.
Samiul Basar 9PGi TeenTech was a wonderful opportunity to improve our scientific collaboration and team working skills and thanks to a good team and perfect set of teachers, we made it to the finals!!! It was great to meet and talk to schools from all over the UK and share our TeenTech experiences. During the event, it was great to show off our ideas to judges, fellow students and our potential future employers such as National Grid, Airbus and Samsung. James May was present at the event and I also had the chance to talk to the Duke of York, Prince Andrew. We were also interviewed by the Newsround team. We narrowly missed out on winning, hopefully next time!
We were then asked to create a presentation that we would later present to the class. My favourite part of the day was getting to work with people that I usually do not get the chance to work with regularly. Year 10 student
Humanities at BGA
Fairtrade
Critical Thinking Week It has been a busy time in the humanities department this year, but from 22nd June our students led the school in slowing down for a moment and stopping to think about what we can see and encounter around us. The week began with a set of thought provoking statements provided by Mr Ramaiah. Discussions such as ‘How much would you sell your sense of humour for?’, ‘Are teachers also students?’, and ‘What is the internet made of?’ gave many people the opportunity in the Street to write down their opinion and discuss it in form time. Tuesday saw Miss Robertson set up a camera workshop in the LRC for enthusiastic writers, and in humanities next year we are taking this even further with our own termly magazine that will be put together by students in humanities club. The whole school stopped during form time to watch the day’s news, and many forms have continued this activity in order to keep up with world events. On Wednesday the ‘Debate mate’ team led by English held a thrilling teacher/student debate, with a notable student performance from Abdillahi Nur, whilst Thursday 4
saw the macro image competition launch and students hunting for the objects Mr Marston had photographed around the school. Finally, and perhaps my favourite event of the week, students and teachers came together in fifteen different teams and battled it out, pitting their minds against one another to try and win the first BGA Mastermind. With four rounds, and hosted by Mr Patterson, the knowledge of all was stretched and the event meant both teachers and students working together in teams of all ages to get as many right answers as possible. The winning students, Babor Karim and Samin Yasar, both won shopping vouchers and can now be seen wearing new watches as a result of their brain power and contribution to Critical Thinking Week. Overall the week was a huge success, and humanities are looking forward to hosting more weeks of alternative opinions, perspectives and interpretations in the years to come.
Once again students in Year 7 battled it out to be the most IT’S form by selling FAIRTRADE generous Fairtrade products in the FORTNIGHT Street. Under the expertly created awning, and looking BUY DELICIOUS like a Ridley Road market forms were divided into FAIRTRADE stall, selling teams and pricing teams in a bid to take the BREAK AND LUNCHTIME title of ‘Most produce sold’ for their group this year. 7Tal CHOOSE PRODUCTS THAT CHANGE LIVES FAIRTRADE.ORG.UK/FORTNIGHT won overall, raking in an impressive £50 just at break and lunchtime, bartering with teachers and students to ensure the best deal for their charity. Additionally, amongst the selling of twig pencils, chocolate raisins and apple juice, all humanities classes looked at the impact of Fairtrade and the reasons for buying Fairtrade produce. Without a doubt the fortnight was a huge success and highlighted the need to think about those less fortunate than ourselves around the world.
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Issue 4 . September 2015
MFL at BGA
Perseverence, resilience and grit
Pompeii and Herculaneum On Wednesday 25th March students and teachers from Bethnal Green Academy started out on what was to be an epic trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum. To set the destruction of these ancient Roman towns in context, we first visited Mount Vesuvius, the volcano which still looms menacingly over the whole Bay of Naples. Students and teachers raced to the top to be the first to see the stunning views from the summit and the stream of gas escaping from the crater. Next came Herculaneum, a wealthy seaside resort at the time, which had been buried under 20 metres of ash. This preserved the town and protected the brilliant colours of mosaics and wall paintings still in situ. It was amazing for us all to wander the streets of a city frozen in time and students loved discovering the villas, Roman thermopolia (fast-food shops) and Roman inscriptions and even had a go at translating these! Pompeii the next day was equally impressive: standing in the huge amphitheatre where hundreds of
gladiators had stood before us and imagining fighting before a crowd of 20,000 spectators was magical. Another highlight was exploring the Roman baths, with the hypocaust (under-floor heating system), changing room and different baths clearly visible. On our final day, we sailed across to Capri and explored this beautiful island. A long, winding walk led us to the Villa of Jupiter, which Emperor Tiberius had built because of his fear of assassination in Rome. From here we could peer over the edge of the villa to see where Tiberius would hurl those who had fallen out of favour. The day ended with a wonderful boat trip around the island, on which we discovered shimmering coves and admired the sparkling water. All in all, the BGA trip to Pompeii was a huge success: students were really engaged, always asking questions and most importantly enjoying learning. This trip has brought students’ study of Latin and Roman culture to life! “During the trip to Italy, the best moment for me was having the chance to witness Mount Vesuvius and also being one of the few to reach the top first. It was an amazing experience.” Savio Samuel “I think that the best part of the trip was going to Capri - I really loved it. Capri is an amazing place! I really enjoyed the boat trip around the island and when we went to Tiberius’ villa. I found this very interesting and the views were amazing.” Alexandra Timpani
Year 7 and the Peruvian Project
“I most liked climbing Vesuvius and the beautiful views from the top.” Theo Gilbert
This Summer Term, Year 7 have been discovering the world of Peru during their Spanish lessons. They have explored Peruvian history, geography, the monuments (including one of the seven wonders of the world) as well as the intriguing story about the Peruvian fizzy drink Inca Kola!
“My favourite part of the trip was the tour of Pompeii. We saw Caecilius’ house and being able to see the remains of that city was amazing.” Abdulrahim Mohamed
Fortnight
The planning for next year has already begun, with Fairtrade competitions being proposed outside of the Street and more prizes to be won at the same time as supporting an excellent cause.
Humanities Club
And finally...in anticipation of exciting new topics being studied in humanities next year, the department are looking to recruit a small group of enthusiasts to join them every week in investigating the world around us, both past and present. As a humanities club member you will help with our focus weeks in the Street, writing the humanities magazine ‘World Matters’ and going on reward trips to events like the Horrible Histories production at Hackney Empire and the Museum of London. If you are interested in giving up one evening a week to learn about Brazil, The History of London, Artefacts from the Arab world and many more topics, please see Miss Davis or Miss Quick to express your interest!
Trip to Seville
After the success of our trip to Pompeii, our students will embark on an amazing trip to some of Spain’s most beautiful cities in March 2016. This visit will bring students’ Spanish studies to life, giving them the exciting chance to use their Spanish in a real life context. We will visit the world-renowned Alhambra palace, set in the mountains overlooking Granada, where students will see the stunning Ottoman architecture and gardens, which grace this palace. Students will also explore the famous cities of Seville and Córdoba, with their grand plazas and historical churches and mosques.
In addition to these lessons, they have had the opportunity to talk to Bella Lane, a Peruvian who grew up in the Amazon rainforest as well as a Peruvian puppeteer and a Peruvian expert from the British Museum. A few lucky students will have the opportunity to visit a Peruvian restaurant and there will be a celebration of events during the Peruvian showcase on the 8th July. It has been a really exciting project: “The people from Peru treated us with respect, helping us to learn about their language and their way of life.” Mohammed Ali Mohammed, Year 7 “I like learning about countries and it’s been fun to learn about other countries from their own mouths.” Aslihan Yildirim, Year 7 “I enjoyed watching the Peruvian puppets because they were funny and looked a little weird.” Alex Tran Year 7
Placing students’ learning in its historical and geographical context is vital if our students are to appreciate fully the value of studying a language and its culture. This trip will be a wonderful opportunity for students to enhance their knowledge and broaden their horizons!
Arsenal Double Club
Some Spanish students from Year 8 have had the opportunity to explore the Spanish they have learnt through the world of football, with the chance to complete some of their Spanish lessons in the sports hall. The use of PE and Spanish has helped the students increase their speaking skills as well as learn about football in Spanish! 5
Issue 4 . September 2015
Music at BGA
Confidence and optimism
Urban Vani Project On the 22nd May Year 8 students performed at the Southbank Centre as part of the Urban Vani project. The project combined Indian classical dance styles with contemporary singing and beat boxing and was a great success. Our students had a great day out on the Southbank and got to rehearse and perform at the Royal Festival Hall in an exciting original project.
BGA Summer Concert
This term’s music concert was the grand finale of our Summer of Learning Festival. Parents, staff and students celebrated all things music with some amazing performances. Stand out soloists included Victorine Tuka (Year 7), Yusra Abdirahman (Year 8) and Esther De Oliveira (Year 10). The audience even joined in with a sing-a-long at the end! A lovely way to round up the term for the music department – well done to all involved!
Year 9 GCSE Showcase
Our Year 9 GCSE students have worked hard this year and many have really developed their performance skills on their chosen instrument. This was a real chance for them to shine in front of an audience full of staff, family and friends. The show saw several bands and soloists performing – many for the first time. Students should be proud of their performances and we look forward to next term’s show of their latest work.
SoLFest Music Week
During the last two weeks of term the music department took over the Street for a series of lunchtime performances. Highlights included the samba band, Year 7 vocal group, Year 8 vocal group, a whole range of talented soloists and of course our staff choir. Audiences grew daily and there was a real buzz throughout the school. A big thank you to all of our performers who made it such a unique series of events.
SoLFest Opera Workshop
This year, as part of SoLFest, we were visited by a trio of professional opera singers who serenaded an audience of students and staff in the Street. All who witnessed this spectacular performance were left stunned by the sounds of Verdi, Delibes and Bizet. 30 of our singers took part in a follow up workshop learning more about opera, singing technique and singing in French and Italian. A very memorable afternoon!
Maths at BGA
Neighbourliness and community spirit
Ask Our Teacher Name: Mr Patterson Subject: Teacher of Maths
Maths at Royal Holloway
The Year 12 mathematics cohort took part in a trip to a conference at Royal Holloway (University of London) on Friday the 3rd of July. The conference included lectures from successful practising mathematicians, small group talks on various topics, a quiz, and a campus tour. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to find out about university life, whilst being introduced to some of the many exciting applications of mathematics. A particular
highlight was the lecture on the mathematics of juggling, in which as well as explaining how mathematics could be used to discover new juggling patterns, the lecturer also demonstrated these fantastic tricks himself. Students had a great time, saying ‘the lecture on the mathematics of juggling was new and shows how interesting the subject is’ and ‘the day was productive and entertaining’.
Joe counts 48 heads and 134 legs amongst the chickens and dogs on his farm. How many chickens and dogs does Joe have?
One interesting fact about yourself: I went to school with Prince William and saved one of his penalties in a crucial penalty shootout. What do you like about BGA? I love that whatever you want to try your hand at, or wherever your interests lie, there are opportunities here to do them and stretch yourself creatively, academically, athletically or however you want. What would you like to achieve in a year’s time? In a year’s time I want to still be here in a school that continues to have a real buzz about it, with loads going on and everyone with a smile on their face.
Issue 4 . September 2015
Sixth Form at BGA
Motivation, drive and ambition
Secure My Future
KPMG Skills Workshop for Sixth Form Students
Kieran
1. How did you hear about BGA Sixth Form? I attended Bethnal Green Academy, and heard lots of good things about it from teachers. 2. What made you want to come here? I know and understand the school systems already, this means that settling in come September will be much easier. Also, I think I thrive when I have more independence but also guidance and support from teachers who I know very well!
The Makinson Cowell team from KPMG were delighted to come along to Bethnal Green Academy to give a workshop covering general employability and career insights. The workshop was designed to increase young people’s awareness of the importance of developing an “employable mindset”, and covered three main areas – CV writing, interview tips and techniques, and networking skills.
Maimuna 1. How did you hear about BGA Sixth Form? Well I attended BGA! I know lots of Sixth Formers and they wouldn’t stop talking about how great Sixth Form is! 2. What made you want to come here? There are loads of exciting opportunities on offer at BGA and I know all the teachers! 3. What subjects are you thinking of studying and why? I’m definitely going to study biology, chemistry and maths. Although I’m not too sure yet, I know I want to study one of these at university. I’m also going to do English. I love reading, so it’s a really great way to learn more about one of my passions!
3. What subjects are you thinking of studying and why? I’m definitely going to go for maths, chemistry and physics. I hope to take chemistry on to university and ultimately become an academic. I’m also really tempted by drama. I participate in lots of extra-curricular activities to do with it but would really like to get a proper qualification in a subject that I am so passionate about.
4. How have you found the Head Start taster sessions? I’ve really enjoyed them all. They’ve given me an insight into what life will be like at Sixth Form and I’m excited!
4. How have you found the head start sessions? They have been extremely interesting! I’ve gained an insight into subjects that I’d have never considered studying before - sociology, for example. Talking about the 2011 riots showed me how relevant the subject was. I also really enjoyed talking about Othello in the English taster session.
5. What are you most excited about for September? Starting chemistry! Definitely! 6. Where do you see yourself after Sixth Form? I’m not too sure at the moment, but I know I want to go to university and study something related to the natural sciences.
5. What are you most excited about for September? Just getting started really! I’m going to be performing at Edinburgh Fringe Festival this summer, so I’ve got that to get out of the way first.
Maimuna achieved 1A* and 8Bs
6. Where do you see yourself after Sixth Form? In university, hopefully on my way to becoming an academic. Ciaran achieved 7A*s and 4As
High Achievers Programme From 29th June – 1st July we delivered the summer High Achievers programme for Year 11 and 12 pupils who’ll be aiming to apply to the most selective courses at the most selective universities. The programme centred around four key events: Trip to the University of Cambridge, Clare College Students took part in a lecture, a tour of the college and admissions Q&A session. Our survey found that over 91% of students developed a better understanding of the degree courses available, entry Neighbourliness and community spirit
requirements, admissions process and how to prepare for interviews as a result of the visit. Leadership and Politics Masterclass The Leadership and Politics Masterclass was delivered by the National Union of Students (NUS) and our pupils learned how, as university students, they can partake in democratic politics in order to campaign for causes they are passionate about. Prior to the session less than 10% of our students had even heard of the NUS, but by the end of it more than 84% agreed or strongly agreed that they had leadership potential, could engage in student politics and were more confident about campaigning for causes they cared about. Careers Conference Our panel included: Anbreen Khan (Partner, Deloitte), Taufiq Dawood & Rumana Lasker (NHS, Junior Doctors) and Noor Khan (Analyst, National Citizenship Service)
Anbreen, as the first British-Kenyan Partner at Deloitte, spoke about the value of diversity in the workplace as well as career opportunities within the Professional Services sector. Taufiq and Rumana shared their experiences of getting into medicine at UCL and the different pathways available once qualified. Noor spoke about the reasons behind his transition from an investment banker to working in the charity. Oxbridge and Medicine personal statement sessions. Dr Mohit Misra and Rousseau Dasgupta delivered sessions that resonated with our pupils; all students agreed or strongly agreed that they could now write an Oxbridge/medicine personal statement and felt confident they could get a first draft done before the end of term. Prior to these sessions only 11% of students felt they could do so.
English at BGA
Shakespeare Day 2015
For the sixth year running Shakespeare Day, one of the highlights of SoLFest, was a big success. A series of dynamic, exciting workshops helped students to develop their understanding of Shakespeare’s stormy classic The Tempest! Groups of students from Year 7 and Year 6 were truly immersed in the interactive and interesting sessions which culminated in a colourful and inspirational performance of The Tempest in the main hall.
Poet in residence Writer and poet, Malika Booker came to BGA to deliver a series of poetry workshops to English classes which were inspired by the themes in The Tempest. The workshops were part of SoLFest, our annual festival of Arts, Culture and Learning. She then worked with students to perform their poetry on stage in The Street to an appreciative audience during lunchtime on June 24th. 7
Issue 4 . September 2015
Sport at BGA
Perseverence, resilience and grit
Students pass Bronze DofE
Cricket at Eton The 16th June was our annual cricket trip to Eton. The U13’s and U16’s played a 30 over game. Both teams lost but the margin was far less than last year - less than 50 runs. It was a competitive game in which the U13’s were ahead for the best part of the game but dropped off at the end. The students represented the school very well and the highlight was Samir Yassir (Year 9) getting the Man of the Match award in the U13 game. He was the top scoring batsman making 64 runs, taking 3 wickets, two catches and two run outs a fantastic achievement.
The bronze Duke of Edinburgh group successfully passed their assessment expedition on the weekend of 13th - 14th June. Students really impressed the external Duke of Edinburgh assessor, demonstrating the wide ranging skills they have developed including map reading, orienteering, teamwork, leadership and practical skills such as setting up tents and cooking outdoors using trangiers. I was so impressed with the students’ attitude and effort all weekend and it was very nice to hear several positive comments from the assessor and locals who encountered the students. Congratulations to all for achieving their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award! “Let me just say that the pupils worked very hard, they were very impressive and they were a pleasure to assess.” Jane Venn - Tower Hamlets Duke of Edinburgh Assessor “It was good to have you and Sam (our resident who camped beside you) said your children had very good Karma and beautiful manners so hats off to them!” James Buthcher - Owner of Kitts Campsite
Lords Cricket Trip
Moeen Ali visits BGA On Wednesday 13 May, cricket charity Chance to Shine and England international Moeen Ali visited Bethnal Green Academy to hold a range of activities with students, as part of its tenth anniversary celebrations. The charity was formed at Bethnal Green Academy in 2005 and this visit acted as a fitting tribute to the role that the Academy has played in Chance to Shine’s success in bringing cricket to 2.5 million young people in state schools in England. Joining Moeen at the event was cricket broadcaster Mark Nicholas, who co-founded Chance to Shine with former Governor of the Bank of England Lord King and renowned bat manufacturer Duncan Fearnley. Academy students teamed up with pupils from Hague Primary School, taking part in a range of cricketing activities with Moeen. This represented a unique chance to hone their skills and gain tips on how to improve from one of England’s brightest talents.
A small group of students were invited to Lords Cricket Ground during half term to watch England vs New Zealand. The tickets were given via the Chance to Shine initiative and followed England Cricket star Moeen Ali’s visit to BGA. From playing with Moeen the previous week, students got to see him star at Lords as he took 3 wickets. Students represented the school very well enjoying this one off experience.
In addition to the activities with the students, Chance to Shine representatives unveiled a plaque at the Academy to commemorate the charity’s milestone and where it had its roots.
U15 boys cricket team win regional McKinsey & Company Cup!
This winter Bethnal Green Academy will be helping Tower Hamlets Foodbank to help people in crisis in our local community...
Tower Hamlets
The U15 boys cricket team competed in the regional McKinsey & Company Cup on 2nd June. Competing against 12 other schools in an all day competition, our U15 team produced some sensational cricket, winning 4 games in a range of thrilling 7 over games. After beating several schools, we needed to beat St.Pauls Way to win the competition and did so in emphatic fashion! A big well done to Savio Samuel, Imran Ali, Samin Yassir, Yash Parssottam, Shiplu Miah Kamali, Ariful Islam, Shane Mahbeer and Kamrul Islam. We now qualify for next week’s London finals held at Regents Park.
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Bethnal Green Academy . Gosset Street . London E2 6NW . Tel: 020 7920 7900 . Email: info@bethnalgreenacademy.co.uk