The Cockerel - May 2024

The Cockerel

BOLTON SCHOOL BOYS’ DIVISION NEWSLETTER

ISSUE 46 - MAY 2024

Chapter 1

Boys’ Senior and Junior Schools

Boys’ Senior and Junior Schools Celebrate Inspection Success

The pupils and staff of Bolton School's Boys' Division and Junior School, Park Road, are celebrating after they received a glowing report from the Independent Schools Inspectorate's (ISI) inspection visit to the two schools in February 2024.

In their report, the inspectors assessed both schools as having met all five of the standards upon which they were judged, and identified their programmes of extra-curricular and outdoor learning activities as being a 'significant strength', a plaudit which recognises the School's national leadership in this area of education.

The inspection was the first undertaken at the Foundation since the introduction in September 2023 of the ISI's new inspection framework. This framework replaced the inspectorate's previous methodology, of providing a one-word judgement of a school, with an evaluation of how successfully a school meets five specific standards, relating to leadership, management and governance; the quality of education, training and recreation; pupils' physical and mental health and emotional wellbeing; pupils' social and economic education and their contribution to

society; and safeguarding. The new framework also now allows for a school to be designated as having a 'significant strength', to recognise those schools deemed to be demonstrating significant excellence within those five standards, in comparison with other schools nationally.

During their three-day visit, the team of eight inspectors observed lessons, assemblies and extra-curricular activities; met with pupils, teachers, the Schools' leadership teams and the Chair and other Governors; scrutinised samples of pupils' work; reviewed a range of policies and other documentation; and considered the views of pupils, staff and parents who had responded to their pre-inspection survey, in order to reach the conclusions which form the report.

Key findings from the report included:

• The Schools' academic curricula and extra-curricular programmes instil a culture of high expectations, mutual support, inclusivity and tolerance within the school community

• The schools offer an extensive programme of extracurricular and outdoor learning activities in which pupils of all ages participate enthusiastically and gain new interests and skills

• Pupils of all ages make good academic progress, develop creative and critical thinking skills and demonstrate determination and self-discipline

• Pupils' behaviour and attitudes to learning are respectful, focused and constructive, and there is a tangible culture of mutual support

• All school premises and accommodation are suitably maintained, well-resourced and secure

• There are effective arrangements for safeguarding, which promote the safety and welfare of pupils

"The inspectors' description of the 'positive and supportive environment' provided by both schools, 'which allows pupils to grow in confidence and self-esteem', is a point of particular pride, as it reflects the significant impact our post-pandemic focus upon pupil wellbeing and behaviour has had on the lives and experiences of our pupils. Equally pleasing is the inspectors' description of pupils' understanding that 'the school is an inclusive community [where] differences are accepted and diversity is celebrated', and the acknowledgement that provides the warm and welcoming community we work hard to foster across the Bolton School Foundation. I am delighted to offer my congratulations and thanks to the leadership teams and colleagues of both schools, as they celebrate such a hugely successful outcome to the inspection."

Head of Boys' Division, Nic Ford, noted:

Reflecting upon the inspection report, Head of Foundation Philip Britton, MBE, commented:

"The ISI's new inspection framework aims 'to capture what is distinctive about a school's culture and ethos', and I am delighted with how successfully the inspectors have recognised all that makes both the Boys' Division and Park Road so special in this report.

"The inspectors' report is testament to the tremendous commitment of my colleagues and leadership team, and I am overjoyed that their efforts have been recognised with such fulsome praise. Their designation of our extra-curricular programme as being a 'significant strength' is of particular note, placing us in a highly select group of schools nationally who have achieved such a commendation, and more importantly, recognising the value this programme adds in our work to develop pupils' 'character and resilience', providing 'leadership

and teamwork opportunities', which impact positively upon their 'attitudes and behaviour'.

"I am equally as delighted by the inspectors' recognition of my 'enthusiastic and knowledgeable' colleagues, whose 'effective teaching' promotes a 'positive attitude to learning amongst pupils, and a desire to succeed in their academic studies'. As the report so rightly identifies, it is my colleagues' efforts which 'enable good progress for pupils' throughout their Boys' Division careers, and which ultimately leads to our pupils achieving GCSE and A Level results that are above the national average on an annual basis.”

Head of Primary Division and Head of Park Road, Sue Faulkner, added:

"I am exceptionally proud of my colleagues at Park Road, whose dedication and excellence the inspectors have described so meticulously in their report. In particular, their description of the 'atmosphere of mutual respect' captures perfectly the 'calm and purposeful working environment' which makes Park Road such a special school. I believe that a junior education at Park Road gives boys the strongest possible foundation to their senior school career, and I am therefore especially pleased by the inspectors' observation that pupils leave Park Road 'well prepared for their next stage of learning and … provided with the skills to succeed in later life'.

Chair of Governors, Ian Riley, concluded:

"I am incredibly pleased that the recent ISI inspection of the Boys' Division and Park Road has documented so positively the culture of high expectation and mutual support which exists at both schools, and which produces rounded, confident boys, who are 'well prepared for life beyond school'.

"The inspectors' description of the Boys' Division and Park Road as each being a 'positive and supportive environment which allows pupils to grow in confidence and self-esteem', within 'an atmosphere where intellect and high academic performance are promoted', summarises perfectly how both schools are achieving the Foundation's aim to develop self-confident young people equipped with the knowledge, skills and attributes that will allow them to lead a happy and fulfilled life and to make a difference for good in the wider community.

"On behalf of the Governing Body, I would like to pay particular tribute to Philip Britton, MBE, Head of Foundation; Nic Ford, Head of Boys' Division; and Sue Faulkner, Head of Primary Division and Head of Park Road, whose exceptional leadership of the two schools has resulted in this outstanding inspection report and whose commitment is documented so clearly throughout."

School

Bolton School Shortlisted for the Tes Awards 2024

Schools and teachers across the country have been shortlisted in this year’s Tes Schools Awards. The Tes Schools Awards, which have been dubbed the ‘Oscars of education’, is a prestigious awards programme which celebrates the best of education across the UK. It has now been revealed that Bolton School has been shortlisted in the category of Excellence in Creative Arts.

The School’s application focused on its inclusivity, ambition and community engagement – it is a cultural influencer in the town. Its vision is to ensure that every child in Bolton has access to arts and culture. Within and beyond the classroom, the School emphasises holistic learning, using arts, culture and creativity to explore the good life and support self-actualisation. Collaborative high-quality arts experiences with local schools and community arts organisations, of which there are over 50 sessions annually, extend the reach of the programme. Through pupilled initiatives, such as the organisation of town youth open art exhibitions and town arts collectives, Bolton School celebrates diversity, heritage, and personal expression, enriching the cultural landscape of the town and nurturing the artistic talents of its pupils.

Bolton School operates at Artsmark Platinum standard and objectively measures its success in the creative arts through pupil-centred and multi-modal evaluation methods. Grounded in a comprehensive creative and cultural development ethos, initiatives wrap around and underpin the entire educational journey, from Early Years to Sixth Form. The uptake of art, DTE, music and drama at KS4 and 5 is good and the results are excellent. Pupils engage in various theatre options, including large-scale productions, pupil-directed festivals, musicals and outdoor theatre festivals. Music programmes offer over 20 concerts and recitals annually, with many pupils opting for individual music lessons and participation in competitions. The art curriculum includes trips to galleries, exhibitions and sculpture parks, fostering creativity and cultural appreciation. Over the last three years, pupils have been regional finalists in the ESU Performing Shakespeare Competition, and the music programme boasts a participation rate of over 600 pupils in individual music. The School’s arts and culture impact is reflected in excellent examination results, participation in optional certifications and competitions, and high engagement in co-curricular and community enrichment activities. Its commitment to creative health is evidenced by the use of wellbeing scales and trackers,

ensuring emotionally healthy environments through initiatives like BeeWell.

The Tes Schools Awards recognises the very best teachers and schools from UK state and independent schools, across early years settings, primary and secondary.

The shortlist was compiled by a panel of expert judges, including school leaders and experts. The schools and teachers they chose showcase the best of education across the sector within 21 award categories, covering all areas of school education.

Head of Foundation at Bolton School, Philip Britton, said: 'I am delighted that our work in this field has been recognised. Creative opportunities help young people understand the world around them. As well as the benefits these activities bring for our own pupils, we have very deliberately focused on our outreach and connections to make an impact for all local students.'

Jon Severs, Editor of Tes Magazine said, ‘Congratulations to all the shortlisted entries – the standard was so high this year despite the challenges schools face. It is critical we celebrate excellence and share it widely so we can ensure that the fantastic work happening in education is properly recognised.’

Winners will be announced on 21stst June at a glittering gala awards night at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, in London.

Chapter 3 Boys’ Division Celebrates Founders’ Day

Boys’ Division Celebrates Founders’ Day

The School’s founders were recently celebrated in a Full assembly, led by Head of Foundation Mr. Britton. Each year, as near as possible to the date of the death of Lord Leverhulme, 7th May 1925, the school flag flies and Founders’ Day celebrates those that, since its inception in 1516, have contributed to the history of the School.

Pupils were taken back to 1982 and there was a focus on the contribution of Philip Lever, the 3rd Viscount Leverhulme. Born in 1915, the Viscount was born in the same year that the Foundation came into existence and he went on to become Chairman of Governors from 1949 to 1990. 1982 was the year of his benefaction of the new Leverhulme Pavilion to the school; it had been 60 years earlier that his father had bought the land there and erected the first building.

Each assembly saw Sixth Form students reflect on how the world was, how Bolton was and how life in school was in 1982. It was noted that the Falklands War took place in which a dozen Bolton School alumni fought but none were lost in action. It was also the year in which CDs, emoticons, the first computer virus, the film ET and Michael Jackson’s Thriller were introduced and Prince William was born.

Bolton itself was an industrial town in decline. Most of the cotton mills had shut down and Fred Dibnah was making a name for himself as the steeplejack who

knocked chimneys down. Forty-five manufacturing companies had recently closed and there was high unemployment in the town. In the coalfields to the south, pits were beginning to close ahead of the miners’ strikes.

The School Song Forty Years On was sung before consideration was given to how the school was faring in 1982. It was Mr. Baggley’s final year as Headmaster in the Boys’ Division after 16 years in charge. He had a significant national reputation, leading HMC. He held a passion for an inclusive school and helped shape the assisted places scheme that had begun in 1979. The 3rd Viscount Leverhulme opened the Leverhulme Pavilion on 11th May.

Mr. Britton then spoke about the 3rd Viscount, Philip Lever, and his contribution to Bolton School in more detail. He told how Lever did not have to take on the project of his grandfather nor did he have to show the commitment that he did over the 40 years that he spent as Chairman of Governors. Besides the Pavilion, he informed school life financially and through his energy and leadership.

Born in 1915, soap was not for Philip Lever and he had no great interest in the family firm. His was a life of civic engagement. He was made a Knight of the Garter in 1988 for his contributions to national life, which saw him become Chancellor of Liverpool University and Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire. He served in the Middle East during the Second World War and then worked on

the Sandringham estate for the King before taking over his father’s viscountcy. He liked to spring surprises, particularly on Presentation Evenings in the Girls’ Division where he had three daughters. On one such occasion, he chose to announce that he had bought a horse and named it Girls’ Division; it went on to win its first race 18 months later. Two other horses, named Boys’ Division and Bolton School, never won any of their races! Mr. Britton said the 3rd Viscount shaped what our school is today, explaining how as Direct Grant funding died out, he led the Governing Body in deciding we would be an independent school not a state school. Lever pushed Assisted Places in the late 1970s and took the maximum number of places that the school could. He was vindicated in his decision as the scheme lasted 21 years and led into the School’s present day bursary scheme.

Pupils then sang Jerusalem before closing reflections from the Captain of School and from the Head Mr. Ford. Tribute was paid to John Barton, Robert Lever and William Hesketh Lever. The Head spoke about the board outside his office that details the headteachers that have served across the Boys’ Division since 1516. He told too how the school has always sought to employ first rate scholars and teachers with a passion for intellectual curiosity and has strived to send out young adults equipped to make a difference in the world.

Watch the Boys’ Division Founders’ Day Assembly held on 8th May here.

Senior Quiz Team wins National Final

Senior Quiz Team wins National Final

The School’s Senior Quiz team have been triumphant in the national final of the Schools’ Challenge Quiz Competition in winning the Senior Plate competition. In so doing, they secured the School’s first trophy in this competition by reaching its first national final.

George Houghton and Ben Rimmer in Year 13 and Adam Berisford and Will Martin in Year 12 began their contest back in December when over 130 teams entered the first round of the competition. They successfully fought their way through a series of online matches with a number of schools across the country to earn themselves a place on finals day.

The general knowledge competition started over 50 years ago and follows the format of the popular television quiz programme University Challenge. Pupils demonstrate rapid-thinking and individual knowledge by buzzing in on starter questions, which

are then followed up with a series of bonus questions which showcase their teamwork. The competition is divided into matches for juniors, intermediates and seniors and although the School has regularly competed at all levels, this was the first time a team had made a final.

On a sunny May bank holiday weekend, the team met at school to compete in their final two matches, which were held online. A confident victory over KES Birmingham in the Semi-final saw them sail into the Final, where they met Hampton School. Their commitment to the School’s weekly quiz clubs came to its climax as their well-honed speedy buzzing, first-rate teamwork and individual areas of expertise proved the perfect combination. After showcasing their knowledge on a host of subjects, including politics, history, sport and culture, they took the final question on the buzzer with a 100 point lead and secured the School’s first ever trophy in this competition.

This is a very fitting and well-deserved reward for a team who have shown exemplary commitment to school quizzing and have done themselves proud in securing this terrific achievement for themselves and for the School. Hopefully this will inspire the next generation of Bolton School quizzers.

Chapter 5

Under 12s and Under 13s are Town Football Champions

Under 12s and Under 13s are Town Football Champions

Both the Under 12s and the Under 13s Football teams at Bolton School have won their respective Town Cups.

The Under 12s overcame Turton High School 5-0 in the Final, having secured an unassailable 4-0 lead at half-time. Noah Dandy scored a brace and there were goals from Matt Howarth, Benji Houghton and Ronnie Wood. The team had overcome Thornleigh in the Semi-final and St. Catherine’s and St. James’ in earlier rounds.

Head of Academic PE

in the Boys’ Division, Mr. Matt Johnson, said: ‘The lads have had a very successful season, and this was a great way to end. This team are the most talented group of footballers that we have had for quite some time.’

Just a few days later, the Under 13s team also won their Town Cup Final, beating St. James’ High School 3-0. Two goals from Meical Thomas in the first half gave the Under 13s a muchneeded advantage against a resolute St. James’ side, and goalkeeper Harry Roach made some impressive saves to maintain the 2-0 lead during the second half. A late third goal from Charlie Highton sealed the victory. Coach Mr. Craig Hunt said: ‘Both sides should be congratulated for the spirit in which the game was played.’

Bolton School Under 13s overcame Essa Academy, St. Joseph’s, Ladybridge and Turton en route to the Final.

Four of the Under 13 side – Ben Howarth, Daniel Bleakley, Harry Roach and Brig Harkness – also recently celebrated being selected to represent the Independent Schools’ Football Association (ISFA) Under 13s’ North West team in the regional Easter Football Festival at Shrewsbury School.

Chapter 6 Boys’ Division celebrates Eco Week

Boys’ Division celebrates Eco Week

World Earth Day on Monday 22nd April, and the whole of Eco Week, has seen pupils and staff from across the Bolton School Foundation join together to reflect, make changes and understand more about sustainability and the impact of climate change.

In the Boys’ Division, Climate Club members enjoyed a fascinating documentary about the members of the Citizens Assembly representing the UK population to influence climate policy. Students also learnt about environmental awareness through a special Eco assembly, which focused on how attitudes and actions have changed over the past 40 years. There were further film screenings, litter picks, Form time quizzes, a virtual reality event and Year 7 forms were involved in activities around the school grounds during form times. An Eco flag flew in the Centre Quad of the School and batteries were also brought into school for recycling. The Boys’ Division continues to support the planet through meat-free meals, green energy, recycling and rewilding.

Each day during Eco Week, the winners and runners-up of the biennial Bolton School Earthshot competition were announced. The competition, which was open to all, had some very high-

quality entries from Lower School students in particular. The winning posters and those which were highly commended are displayed on A corridor and in Bolton Town Centre. They provide innovative solutions for improving biodiversity on a small budget.

Year 7 Winner: Louis Ball

Year 8 Winner: George Glover

Year 9 Winning Entry: Joint effort by Ibraheem Almoukaed, Usman Ahsan and Faheem Akram

Highly commended entries: Yohaan Bhalme and Ambrose Zheng

In other Eco news, teams of Year 9 boys have taken part in the Big Bang in Bolton competition. This involved them working together as a team and thinking of creative ways to improve our environment with innovative designs.

The students that entered were: Neeraj Patel, Will Richardson, Ibrahim Gul, Akshay Kallat, Krishnan Velayutham, Philip Tsang, Ian So, Rory Freestone, Tony Chen, Marton Lange, Yasir Shobowale, Louis Ferguson, Jacob Jones, Roman Doherty and Ambrose Zheng.

They all won at least one section, but the overall winners were Jamie Chen and Charlie Butler on their design to improve the efficiency of the traditional turbofan engine.

Chapter 7

Boys set new School Athletics records

Boys set new School Athletics records

Pupils from Bolton School Boys’ Division enjoyed a very successful day at Longford Park, Manchester, competing in the Greater Manchester Schools’ Athletic Championships.

Three pupils posted new school records: Seb Casey recorded a time of 13.2 seconds in the Year 7 Hurdles and Jack Fletcher a time of 13.5 seconds in the Year 8 Hurdles; Chris Frank, a Year 9 pupil, ran the 300m in 38.7 seconds.

Five pupils qualified for the Junior (Year 8 and 9) Bolton team and were eligible to compete at the Greater Manchester Schools’ Championships. Charlie Simpson and David Kurlovic, both Year 9 pupils, ran times of 11.9 seconds and 12.1 seconds respectively in the 100m. Lucas Bishop, another Year 9 pupil, ran a 24.9 seconds 200m which saw him qualify to represent Bolton at the same Greater Manchester Championships.

The School’s Junior team (Year 7 and 8) has qualified for the English Schools’ Track and Field Cup, which will take place after the half-term break, while the Intermediate team (Year 9 and 10) has qualified for the ‘B’ Finals.

Chapter 8

Swimming Siblings in training for British and English Nationals

Swimming Siblings in training for British and English Nationals

Swimming siblings, Lucy and James Vaughan have begun training for British and English national competitions at the end of July, having recently cemented their positions in national rankings.

Year 9 pupil James and his sister, Year 11 pupil Lucy, both competed at the Swim North West Regional Championships over the last three weekends, representing their swim squad Wigan BEST. James was Regional Champion in the 200m and 400m individual medley and 100m breaststroke. He was also runner-up in the 200m breaststroke and took bronze in the 200m backstroke. Lucy was runner up in the 200m butterfly and finished 4th in the 100m butterfly.

Chapter 9

School hosts Regional Final of the UK Maths Trust Junior Team Challenge

School hosts Regional Final of UK Maths Trust Junior Team Challenge

Bolton School hosted twenty schools taking part in the Regional Final of the UK Maths Trust Junior Team Challenge.

Working in teams of four, Year 8 and Year 9 pupils competed in a challenging but fun day spread across four 45-minute rounds: a group round, a cross number round, a shuttle round and finishing on a relay round. All participants received a certificate for their endeavours.

Team Maths Challenges give students the opportunity to tackle a variety of engaging mathematical activities while developing teamwork and communication skills.

Chapter 10

Musicians entertain at school events

Musicians entertain at school events

Our musicians have continued to be active since returning after the Easter holidays.

Organ Scholar Rith Narla performed on the Boys’ Division Great Hall organ to visitors to school for the ‘4 Class Reunion Event on 20th April. Guests enjoyed reminiscing about their time as pupils as they toured the buildings, with the organ sounds bringing back many happy memories of assemblies and other occasions.

‘Lunaticus’, and 17 solos on guitar, electric guitar, marimba, clarinet, flute, trumpet, violin, vocal and piano. Well done to all of the performers!

On 30th April, 23 pupils from Years 7-13 delighted an appreciative audience in a Musical Evening in the Great Hall. The musical items included Tuned Percussion Ensemble pieces, the band

The final concert prior to the start of external and internal exams was the Girls’ Division May Serenade, at which a number of boys performed as members of the Senior Orchestra and Chamber Choir. At the end of the concert, Mrs. Kyle, Head of the Girls’ Division, said ‘Wow! I am in awe and stunned at the level of performances tonight’ and went on to thank all of the participants.

Kesh wins the Hindley Trophy

Kesh wins the Hindley Trophy

Year 13 student

Keshana

Fonseka is this year’s winner of the Hindley Trophy at Bolton School Boys’ Division, which marks the outstanding sporting performance of the year.

Kesh was rewarded after representing England Under 19s, scoring a century with

121 in his first innings against Ireland. Sadly, during his second innings, whilst on 76, he tore his meniscus, which would eventually require surgery. This dashed his hopes of making the Under 19 World Cup in South Africa earlier this year, but he has showed tremendous resilience to work his way back to full strength. As a member of the Lancashire Academy, Kesh was recently selected for the 2nd Xl and has eyes on turning professional next year.

Other outstanding nominations for the coveted award included; Joe Nicholson and Oliver Hatton, who played football for England ISFA Under16s, Joe also received a Scholarship at Huddersfield Town; Kieran Holt and Oscar Hatton, who represented England ISFA Under 15s and Under 14s respectively, Oscar also trained with the Welsh National side; Harry Roach and Daniel Bleakley, who were selected for the

national side having represented the Under 13 North West ISFA side, alongside Ben Howarth and Brig Harkness; Benji Houghton, who played for Manchester United Under 12s and also played up for the Under 13s, recently playing in the Easter European Cup tournament against the likes of Juventus, Real Madrid and Barcelona, where he was named in the team of the tournament; Ashton Morrissey, who won the Year 7 Bolton Town Cross Country race; Dev Hasija and Corey Morgan, who were both selected for the Scottish Exiles Rugby programme, Dev, along with a further 7 boys, was also selected for the Sale Sharks DPP; Cooper Atherton, who was selected for the GB American Football side as well as representing Warrington Wolves at rugby league; Sam Fitzsimons, who represented England Water polo; and Toby Hazelton, who finished 5th in the British Under 15s Gymnastics Championships, winning Bronze on the Floor. Team nominations included: the Year 7 football team who are Town Champions; the Year 8 football team who are Town Champions; and the Under 14 rugby side, who won two 7s' competitions with their Lancashire Plate Final still to be played.

Kesh’s award was part of an assembly which saw Half and Full Colours awarded to boys across a wide range of sports. Mr. Chilton, Director of Sport, explained how nominations are carefully considered by the Colours’ Committee, comprising Heads of the School’s various sporting programmes. Students earning Full School Colours also received a gold pin badge to wear proudly on their blazer lapel. Those who earned Half

Colours received a silver pin. Mr. Chilton told pupils that: ‘These badges are a symbol of your commitment, skill and contribution to your sport and to our school. Congratulations to all of our winners.’

Starting with Hockey, the role of Mr. Robson, who has led this sport for the last 26 years was recognised – his efforts and dedication were in evidence by the number of Hockey Colours awarded. Awards were then made for strong contributions to Water polo. It had been another successful season with a young Under 18s side finishing in fourth place at the Nationals while the Under 15s won the National Plate. The Under 13s’ Finals will take place later this term. Sam Fitzsimons continued in a long line of Bolton School Water polo players to receive international honours. Swimmers received their Colours after successfully retaining the famous Cutty Sark Trophy and winning the Junior and Intermediate Town Championships. Awards were also made for pupil contributions to Outdoor Learning, an area that continues to grow under the expert guidance of Mr. Bradley and his team. Colours too went to strong performers in Paddle sports and Climbing as well as Rowing, Badminton, Chess and Golf.

In Cricket, School Cricket Captain Kesh Fonseka, along with numerous boys, are involved in the county programmes at Lancashire, Cheshire and Yorkshire. Colours were bestowed upon players and more will be awarded later in the season at the annual MCC match. In Rugby, boys received awards after the

School’s Under 14, Under 15 and Under 18 teams all reached the Lancashire Plate Finals, with the Under 15s and Under 18s unfortunately falling short. The Under 14 Final will be played this term and the team hopes to add to the two 7s tournaments they won earlier in the season at Bolton School and Bury Grammar School. The Under 13s and Under 14s enjoyed a successful end of season tour to Bath. A number of boys have been selected for the Sale Sharks DPP and Scottish Qualified programmes.

In Football, where more awards were made, the Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 teams all reached the Town Cup Finals. Although the Year 9s narrowly lost, the Year 7 and Year 8 teams won their finals 5-0 and 3-0 respectively. The Under 15s ended the season winning the MGS Eights just before Easter. Various boys across the School are currently signed to professional academies and

the School has seen at least one boy per year group represent ISFA at Under 13, Under 14, Under 15 and Under 16 level.

The Trevor Pledger Award for volunteering in sport went to Kevin Longthorne who, having received a rugby injury which excluded him from playing, turned his hand to refereeing, where he has given up many hours both at School and for the Manchester Rugby Referees' Society.

Chapter 12

Bolton School Football Squads unbeaten in Portugal

Bolton School Football Squads unbeaten in Portugal

Bolton School’s Under 13 and Under 14 football squads travelled to Lisbon over the Easter break. Across the six-day tour, 39 pupils were involved in training, recovery, gym and fitness sessions in between testing themselves in fixtures against some of Lisbon's top football clubs including Belenenses and SRD Negrais.

All Bolton sides remained unbeaten during the week, winning an impressive six out of six matches. There was also chance to tour the professional surroundings of SL Benfica and to watch FC Porto in live Primeira Liga action at Estoril Praia.

The tour was not entirely football-related and there was plenty of time to soak up the local Portuguese culture with tours of historic Lisbon and local towns such as Cascais. There were also lots of activities for the boys to enjoy, including beach football, table tennis and bowling.

The tour was sponsored by electricals retailer, AO, who provided funding for the touring team’s playing and training kits, as well as grants to enable bursary pupils to enjoy the tour, too.

Chapter 13

More Primary School Pupils than ever enjoy Football Festival

More Primary School Pupils than ever enjoy Football Festival

Anew match-day dedicated to girls’ football meant that Bolton School’s annual Football Festival for local primary schools ran over three nights this year rather than the usual two. In total, 1200 young people took part in small-sided football games over the course of the event: 57 teams comprising of Year 3 and 4 pupils on night one; 62 girls’ teams, 16 female referees and one WSL Everton Women’s player on night two; and over 60 teams on the final evening of action, made up of 40 Year 5 and 6 teams in the ‘A’ competition and 20 Year 5/6 teams in the ‘B’ competition.

The hugely popular event, which was attended by hundreds of families, provided much fun and also some serious competition. The girls’ final saw St. Andrew’s Over Hulton draw 1-1 with Eatock and the teams deciding to share the trophy rather than go to sudden-death penalties. On the final match day, Red Lane beat St. Brendan’s 2-1 in the ‘A’ Competition final, whilst Egerton and Mytham competed in the ‘B’ Competition final with Egerton running out 1-0 winners.

The Festival is organised by Keith Branagan, former Bolton Wanderers' goalkeeper and football coach at Bolton, along with the Bolton Sports Alliance. This year the games were refereed by players from Bolton School's Year 8, 9 and 10 football squads as well as volunteer girls from Ladybridge High School, Thornleigh and Bolton School Girls' Division. The event also runs courtesy of the Estates and Grounds teams at Bolton School and teaching sta

Chapter 14

Pupils enjoy Classical myth in Hadestown

Pupils enjoy Classical myth in Hadestown

Pupils recently enjoyed the opportunity to visit London to watch the highly acclaimed production of Hadestown, a musical set in the world of classical mythology.

First stop was a trip to the British Museum, which was a chance for the pupils to immerse themselves in the ancient galleries. Many admired the Rosetta Stone, the key to Egyptian Hieroglyphics and many marvelled at the spectacular ‘Elgin Marbles’ the highly controversial marble sculptures that once adorned the Parthenon in Athens. This was a fantastic opportunity for the GCSE Classical Civilisation students to view up close the ancient art that they had studied. After a wander through the Greek vase galleries, in which many admired the various drinking paraphernalia used at Greek symposia (drinking parties), it was time for lunch.

Pupils enjoyed a vast choice of street food within the Seven Dials Market before heading to the West End to enjoy the Tony awardnominated musical. During the show, the audience was transported to the eerie setting of the Greek Underworld, or ‘Hadestown’, and taken on a journey of discovery, loss and love

experienced by the Greek hero Orpheus, as he strove to retrieve Eurydice, his wife who had died far too young, from the king and queen of the Underworld Hades and Persephone. The staging was sparse, but inventive and the band was scattered around the stage as the auditorium was filled with a mixture of NewOrleans-inspired jazz and modern American folk. Hermes acted as a formidable narrator and the actress struck a commanding presence as she unfurled the myth for her audience. The actor who played Orpheus, a hero known for his musical talent, adopted a chilling falsetto against a strong-willed and determined performance from Eurydice. Hades had a menacing and imposing stage presence alongside his long-suffering wife Persephone who awaited the life and colour of Spring and her chance to escape from the murky depths until Autumn. The pupils were transported, and many talked eagerly about the various aspects of the performance that they had enjoyed. For many, it was a first trip to a musical and a first trip to London – a most enjoyable day

Chapter 15

A snapshot of extra-curricular school life

A snapshot of extra-curricular school life

The Chemistry Olympiad is designed to challenge and inspire. Students must display excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills to creatively apply their knowledge in unfamiliar real-world situations. The following pupils received Bronze awards:

Owan Ahmad, Ramez Alio, Adam Faulkner, Jonathan Frank, Khushal Gola, James Logan, Anish Patel and Arun Patel.

Yusuf Ali, Ray Adewale, Amaar Butt, Diyan Challa, Luke Cotton, Tanishq Das, George Glover, Shoaib Ismail, Junaid Jusab, Saif

Karim, Tadi Mambongo, Hashim Masood, Aleks Neklesa-Ford, Mohammed Owais Jiva, Faaz Sajid and James Williams for reading one million words; Dawar Hassan, Ethan Singh and Archie Warren for reading two million words and Sebastian Chen for reading four million words.

Several pupils recently took part in the UKMT Junior Maths Challenge, achieving Gold Awards and scoring high enough to be invited to take part in the follow on, Junior Kangaroo challenge. The winners were Huzaifah Adam, Abu Huraira Ali, Taran Guduru and Ibrahim Iqbal in Year 7 and Tanishq Das, Calvin King, Derek Leong, Justin Li, Nicky Ling and Jack Richardson in Year 8.

Congratulations to the following pupils who have gained the top number of commendations in their year group:

Dawar Hassan 7b 214 commendations

Hussain Al Hakim 8a 158 commendations

Lucas Bishop 9e 147 commendations

Fin Wyatt 10a 91 commendations

Muhammad-Mikaeel Patel 11b 79 commendations

William Martin 12f 68 commendations

Ben Rimmer 13a 57 commendations

Congratulations to the following pupils who achieved millionaire status in their Reading Awards:

Congratulations to the following musicians on their splendid results in recent music examinations:

Advaith Govindu (Year 10) - ABRSM Grade 7 Piano Distinction

Nathan Pierson (Year 11) - ABRSM Grade 7 Singing Distinction

Matthew Yeung (Year 10) - Trinity Rock & Pop Grade 7 Drum Kit Merit

Alexander McKie (Year 13) - Trinity Grade 6 Singing Distinction

Krishnan Velayutham (Year 9) – ABRSM Grade 6 Piano Merit

Aashrith Govindu (Year 7) - ABRSM Grade 4 Piano Merit.

Oliver Zhu (Year 7) – Trinity Grade 2 Piano Distinction

Abbas Khambalia (Year 8) - Trinity Rock & Pop Grade 2 Drum Kit Merit

Congratulations to Harry Butler, who won a Bronze medal with City of Manchester Water Polo Under 17s recently; the team beat Caledonia 16-9.

The team competed well in the Semi-final, but lost another close match to the eventual winners before going on to lose the Bronze medal game 4-3 to City of London School in another game of tight margins.

It has been great to see the Senior players doing such a good job of working with the Juniors in the team, with lots of promise shown by the younger members of the team throughout.

The Boys’ Division Climbing Team won the Greater Manchester Climbing competition on the last day before Easter. The team was as follows:

Zayd Adam, Zaid Ahmed, Adam Bakker, Tristan Harris, Louie Healey, Jenson Heath, Ethan Knight, Sasha Milne, Cipri Prasad and Cyrus Wong

In the KS3 category, Tristan Harris and Sasha Milne were awarded third place.

In the KS4 caategory, Cyrus Wong was placed third, Zaid Ahmed was placed second and Zayd Adam was placed first.

The Under 13 boys beat Warwick School and Bedford Modern during the week, but lost to King Edward’s School Birmingham, meaning that they finished in second place in the group and have not qualified for the national finals, but very well done to them.

Congratulations to the Under 18 boys’ team, who finished 4th at the Under 18 ESSA Water polo Championships. A victory against Dulwich College followed by a close loss to MGS in the group stages meant a Semi-final match-up against Trinity School.

A huge thanks to the Year 13 students who competed for the School for their final time, some of whom have been playing since they were in Park Road and have shown huge commitment to School Water polo over the years.

Congratulations to swimmer Matthew Yeung, who won a Silver medal for the 200m breaststroke and a Bronze medal for the 100m breaststroke in the SENW Regional Summer Championships 2024.

Ned Manock, Rory Freestone and Harry Farrington took part in the RYA North West Junior Traveller Series 2024 held at Delph Sailing Club on Saturday 27th April. The event involved a mixed fleet of single and double handed sailing dinghies. All three boys sailed the single-handed Topper class and finished in 11th, 21st and 26th place respectively out of 35. Well done to all.

– Marcus Fung, Leon McGuigan-Lazo, Marlon Wen and Marcus Lam – finished 10th out of 18 (three places above their original ranking).

Our Under 19s now look forward to the finals of The English Schools Chess Championship at Nottingham University on 27th and 28th of June – this is the third time running we have qualified for these finals.

Finally, Year 7’s Edward Chu will be representing England Under 13 in the Glorney Cup, which will take place in Hull towards the end of July. We wish him the best of luck!

Well done to our four Year 8 boys representing ISFA Football Under 13 North West side in the Regional festival at Shrewsbury School – Daniel Bleakley, Harry Roach, Ben Howarth and Brigg Harkness – following a long line of previous Bolton School boys to represent ISFA.

Congratulations also go to Zac Walsh from Year 10, who has been selected to play for Greater Manchester Chess team against Kent in the Quarter-final of the English County Championship in May. We wish him the best of luck.

Attendance continues to be strong at the After School Hockey training, which continues throughout the Summer Term.

On Saturday 20th April, our Under 14 and Under 19 Chess teams made a decent showing at their respective finals of the ECF Team Chess Challenge. Both finals were played simultaneously at King Edward VI Grammar School, in the West Midlands.

After five rounds, our Under 14 team – Ashton Morrissey, Edward Chu, Ryan Hung, Daniel Titiloye and Ibrahim Iqbal – finished in a very respectable 6th place out of 18 teams; whilst our Under 19s

It was great to see so many boys and girls receiving recognition for all their hard work and commitment in their Silver and Gold

Duke of Edinburgh Awards Evening. This shows great resilience, commitment, leadership and teamwork and thanks to staff,

leaders, parents and carers for supporting our pupils. It is also very encouraging to see so many boys in current Year 9 and 10 who are well underway with their Bronze Award, with many having already completed most sections. Their expeditions will take place later this term.

Working alongside the UK based charity Great Minds Bright Futures, Bolton School intends to build a secondary school to facilitate Malawian orphans to have an education post 11 years. Currently, orphans are able to attend Chunzu Primary School; however, when they finish their primary education, often there are no secondary school places on offer or they find the government boarding schools are

many miles from the communities they have grown up in and they are faced with expensive school fees that their carers cannot afford. As a consequence, Malawi orphans do not attend secondary school and are set to work in the fields from as young as 11 years old.

This year, the Bolton School Foundation set an ambitious target at the start of the year to raise sixty thousand pounds; these funds will provide a block consisting of two large classrooms that will give every orphan who attends a future. All monies raised from this year’s Foundation Charity Walk will be donated to this very worthwhile cause.

Money from the Spring House Day went to the following charities:

• Bolton Cancer Voices

• Dementia UK

• Refuge - women and children against domestic violence

• Greater Manchester Youth Network

A massive thank you to the Charities committee.