Bottisham Summer Newsletter

BVCnews Summer Term 2012

The magazine of Bottisham Village College

Spelling it out loud and clear: Bottisham Village College is top of the class It’s official! Bottisham Village College is an outstanding school. This was the finding of Ofsted inspectors who spent two days at BVC looking at all aspects of college life.

After sampling 40 lessons, watching 39 teachers at work, holding meetings with staff, students and governors, scrutinising documentation and analysing questionnaire responses from staff, students and 132 parents and carers, the inspection team concluded that BVC is outstanding in all areas – achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils and leadership and management.

“This outcome would be pleasing at any time, but especially so as we have been inspected against a new Ofsted framework which was

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only introduced in January this year,” said the Principal, Mrs Evans.

“The framework was very clearly designed by Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Schools to raise the thresholds for each category and in doing so make it significantly more difficult to achieve an outstanding judgement.”

Inspectors highlighted the college’s ‘very strong ethos of community, high quality learning and aspirational academic achievement’.

They said teaching was outstanding with teachers using their expertise and knowledge of their specialisms to meet the needs of all learners.

Attainment for both boys and girls was well above average in a wide range of subjects including English and mathematics.

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Picture courtesy Newmarket Journal

Students got top marks, with inspectors noting ‘behaviour and attitudes to learning are impressive as they are polite and courteous towards each other and staff’. They observed that students were ‘well-motivated’ with a ‘passion for learning’, working together ‘harmoniously’ and ‘freely supporting each other to learn even more’. Students were ‘proud to be ambassadors of the college’.

Ofsted also commented on the strength of leadership across the college.

“The judgement is a cause for celebration for all associated with Bottisham Village College and is recognition of the commitment, enthusiasm and talents of all our staff, students and governors,” said Mrs Evans.

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BOTTISHAM VILLAGE COLLEGE www.bottishamvc.org Lode Road Bottisham Cambridgeshire CB25 9DL Tel: 01223 811250 Fax: 01223 813123 enquiries@bottishamvc.org

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Welcome to our summer newsletter which comes at the end of another incredibly busy and successful school year.

The last few weeks in particular have been especially hectic with a wide range of events including a GCSE art exhibition, our summer concert with over 100 students sharing their musical talents and wonderful performances of A Midsummer Night’s Dream in a marquee on the Principal’s Lawn.

In time-honoured tradition, we also all came together on Friday, June 29, to say farewell to Year 11 students at their Leavers’ Ball.

As you’re aware, in the midst of all this activity, we also found time to welcome a team of Ofsted inspectors. After a gruelling two days of observations and meetings, we were delighted to hear that they judged BVC to be outstanding in all areas.

Not only does this serve as a public acknowledgement of our work, but it also places us in a very strong position for the future, as we will now be able to access a wider range of opportunities for all members of the college community.

A message from the Principal We realise that we are very fortunate to have such strong and consistent support from our wider community, but in particular would want to thank all parents and carers for the crucial role that you play in working alongside us.

We hope that you all have a wonderful summer holiday with your families and look forward to welcoming all students back in September.

Best wishes

Mrs Evans

This is an outstanding college, where a very strong ethos of community, high quality learning and aspirational achievement exists throughout. One student commented: “Bottisham is inspirational. The college helps individuals to shape well, giving us the confidence, determination and skills to succeed.”

Term dates 2012/13 Summer Term July 20 – term ends Autumn Term September 4 – term starts for Year 7 only September 5 – term starts for Years 8, 9, 10 & 11 October 4 – staff professional day and open evening October 29-November 2 – half-term December 21 – term ends for Christmas holiday Spring Term 2013 January 7 – term starts February 11-15 – half term March 28 – term ends We would welcome your feedback on our newsletter, as well as any other suggestions about ways in which we can further improve our work with you. Email us at feedback@bottishamvc.org or by writing to Mrs Evans directly.

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Stage direction: Mr Woodman briefs the cast before the performance

Well-loved play for everyone Shakespeare’s dreamy tale of love, magic and mischief was chosen as the perfect summer production for Bottisham Village College’s 75th anniversary celebrations.

Rehearsals for A Midsummer Night’s Dream began way back in January when nights were long and days were cold, in preparation for a summer performance in a marquee on the Principal’s Lawn.

After a series of workshops, students were invited to commit themselves to the performance. Every student who wanted to get involved was involved bringing a cast of well-known Shakespearean characters to dramatic life.

“The whole point of this production was to be inclusive, involving students from all years and all interests and abilities,” explained drama teacher Mr Woodman.

“We wanted something well-loved and liked by many people; something suitable for all the family – it is certainly the nearest Shakespeare gets to a farce.

“This play has not been performed by students here in the last 30 years and it seemed fitting to choose it in the year of the Cultural Olympiad and the World

Shakespeare Festival,” he said.

Students had parts both on and off stage. Teaching and support staff from various departments also did their bit behind the scenes to ensure the two performances were a success.

“All students made a really good effort and achieved all we hoped for. It was a fitting production for a special celebration,” said Mr Woodman who is planning to take a version of the play to the Shakespeare Schools Festival at Cambridge’s Mumford Theatre this autumn.

In the cast were: Mechanicals – Andrew Lamport, Olly Holt, Adam Wright, Samuel Weinberger, Lewis Hatley, Daisy French. Fairies – Roman Armstrong, Helena Pumfrey, Sofia Swenson-Wright, Amy Judge, Ella Joy Beeston, Grace Zeid, Gemma Galletly, Rachel Towers, Lois Weaver, Eleanor Thomas, Emilie Chard, Grace Forsyth, Guilia D’Avino, Lauren Hunt, Abigail Hunt. Nobles – Kit Turner, Maddy Wood, Robin Masih-Hanneghan, Bryony Fordham, Vicki West, James Chambers, Maddy Stewart, Aidan Bayford. Narrators – Dorrie Hartley, Matt Attwood, Jaina Hall.

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Events will mark 75th anniversary

Every one a Hero: Bottisham VC Kick Ash students are pictured with their TSI Hero Award.

Mentors are ‘heroes’ Bottisham VC students have received national recognition for the part they have played in a countywide smoking prevention programme.

The college’s Kick Ash volunteers were invited to a conference in Manchester to receive a Trading Standards Institute (TSI) Hero Award.

This was given for the part the programme’s Trading Standards group played in preventing underage tobacco sales, helping with test purchasing

and spreading the smoke free message.

“The mentors have had a direct impact on preventing underage sales in the county by engaging with businesses,” said Theresa Williams, trading standards officer at Cambridgeshire County Council.

“These young people are heroes because they are standing up for something they believe in, something that isn’t necessarily popular. They spread this important message not only

to their peers but to their communities as well,” she said.

“The potential impact of their work is far-reaching and will save lives.”

Bottisham VC was chosen to pilot a student-centred smoking prevention scheme in 2010. It now operates across the county in four secondary schools and their partner primary schools.

Student mentors join one of three special interest groups – communications, Camquit or trading standards.

Drop-in for help and support A new student break and lunchtime drop-in service has been launched at Bottisham VC. Here for You is the result of an idea from the College’s Student Voice. This group identified a need for a provision for students who would prefer a supported environment at break and lunchtimes.

They met with the College Leadership Team and the proposal was given the go ahead.

The idea has developed from there and follows the original proposal to provide a space for students to have break or lunch

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with someone available to talk to.

“As a team, we all feel it’s a great opportunity for lots of people and we are happy that we have been listened to,” said Year 11 student Mackie Goddard.

Here for You was launched on Monday, June 11. It is based in the Round Room, opposite SIU, and is open at lunchtime on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and at break on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is facilitated by Mrs Bamford and offers students advice, support, information and someone to talk to. All years are welcome.

A curriculum week in September will launch a special series of activities in the autumn term to mark Bottisham Village College’s 75th anniversary.

Students will be working on a range of projects including a time capsule to be opened in the year 2087.

One of the celebration highlights will be an open day on October 20 when visitors will be able to look round the college, share memories and look at displays of archive materials. Other planned events include a balloon launch.

The College was officially opened on May 6, 1937, by the Right Honourable Oliver Stanley – President of the Board of Education. It was the second village college to be opened in this area as part of Henry Morris’ vision.

Team of eight Next year’s Student Leadership Team will be made up of eight students.

Head boys are Andy Baker, Ram Lakshman, Lewis Hatley and Andrew Lamport and head girls are Jola Maczkiewicz, Isobel Sanusi-Bartlett, Ellie Raine and Christie Huckin.

Assistant Principal Mrs Rankine said: “The selection process was difficult as so many of the students who applied had various strengths, interests and ideas for improving the College further.”

Taster day Year 10 students got a taste of things to come when they spent a day at sixthform college.

During the taster day at Long Road, Bottisham students attended six lessons, were able to take a good look round the college and ask lots of questions.

“I really enjoyed the day. It was laidback and I felt more grown-up,” said one student.

“The science lessons were great. We had to find out if maggots reacted to light and whether snails could overcome copper strip barriers. And we looked at how much bacteria was actually removed when you wash your hands,” said another.

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A weekend to remember Students recounted their D of E adventures at a special presentation evening.

The bronze participants had to endure driving rain and howling winds when they undertook their expedition to Southwold at the end of April. Camping had to be abandoned after the site was waterlogged and the party took refuge in a Scout hut for the night.

The Year 10 students all had stories to tell and had the chance to tell them.

After a general slide show, each group gave a PowerPoint presentation, giving their own accounts of a weekend they’ll never forget.

Primary visits Year 9 students went back to their primary classes to help pupils make a smooth transition to secondary school.

The BVC students visited Year 6 classes to talk about College and answer any questions.

“They were very helpful and informative as the process was still fresh in their minds. They also enjoyed going back to their old primary schools,” said SENCO Mr Baker.

Year 6 pupils had an induction day at BVC on July 6th, meeting staff and experiencing some lessons.

Down Under More than 300 primary school pupils went Down Under when they took part in the annual multicultural day at BVC. The children from the College’s feeder schools enjoyed a day of Australian activities including a didgeridoo workshop, Aboriginal drama, message stones, jewellery making, dance and storytelling.

Folding stuff The likes of it had never been seen at Bottisham VC before when every student in Year 7 – plus all staff – took on the Origami Challenge during a special Easter assembly.

Simultaneously, they all carefully followed instructions from maths teacher Mrs Reckless and, with help from ‘trained’ members of her form 7.4, made a small box – the perfect receptacle for some Easter chocolate.

Food with facts A series of history lunches proved popular with KS3 students. As they ate their sandwiches they were regaled with great tales from history. Subjects included Che Guevara, Operation Foxley, Agincourt and Cistercian Monks. The sessions may be starting up again in September.

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Katie with her winning entry.

Above: Some of the work produced by textiles students this year.

Katie’s dress design is ‘fit for a princess’ A design ‘fit for a princess’ has won a top ten place in a regional fashion competition for Year 10 textiles student Katie Askham.

Katie impressed the judges in Fashion Challenge 2012, an annual event organised by the College of West Anglia. Entries were judged on ‘originality, flair and sensitivity in response to the design brief’.

The competition asked students to design an outfit for HRH the Duchess of Cambridge to wear at either a charity event or state visit. Katie designed a beautiful dress and jacket in pale lilac shades for her to wear at a garden party for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices, of which the Duchess is patron.

In her description accompanying the design, Katie

wrote: “Kate Middleton, Britain’s new sweetheart, has always got a beautiful new outfit to go alongside her busy schedule full of charity events and fulfilling her princess duties: A beautiful dress for a beautiful princess.

“The dress is cut to just above the knee and drawn in at the waist, drawing attention to her tiny waist and flattering her figure. The low back is a timeless detail that adds elegance.”

Katie’s teacher Miss Price said: “Katie’s design was not over the top but beautiful and sophisticated; she deserved to do well in the competition.”

Katie’s design sheet was on display at last month’s Isle Campus Fashion Show in Wisbech.

Notes on an exhibition . . .

The art and technology exhibition on Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 June was a great success.

Many students, parents and guests came to view the range of two and three-dimensional work on display during the summer concert. The work clearly showed the students had learnt and applied a broad range of techniques in a range of media. They confidently explored imaginative and individual ideas, demonstrating a genuine interest in initial research.

The sketchbooks and design boards helped viewers to trace the students’ ideas from conception to realisation. Parents, visitors, staff and students appreciated the opportunity to celebrate the successes of Year 11 art.

Mrs Wilkins

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Waving the flag On June 1, the orchestra walked down to Queens Court care home in the village and provided entertainment for the residents’ Jubilee Party.

The music was very well received and there was dancing and much flag waving! The Dambusters March was a real favourite and was requested as an encore. It was wonderful to be part of such a lovely event in the community. We all had a great time!

Mrs Hall

Concert features great music from six decades

This term’s summer concert had a nostalgic theme, celebrating music from the 1950s up to the present day.

We felt this fitted in very well with the Diamond Jubilee celebrations and everyone had a lot of fun choosing music to make sure there was a varied and exciting programme showcasing everyone’s talents.

More than 100 students were involved – performing, designing the programme and poster cover, creating PowerPoint slides to set the scene, providing the lighting for the shows or helping with stage management.

It was a great team effort and a lovely way to celebrate the end of year. The programme was made up of items prepared in the classroom, extended schools sessions and at lunchtimes in the practice rooms.

It has been a great year and we would like to thank the students for all their hard work and dedication and all the parents for their continued support.

Have a wonderful summer holiday!

Mrs Hall and Mrs Rankine

Performers took the audience on a musical journey through the decades.

Diamond tunes – a 60-year musical journey Highlights from the ’50s-’70s Rock around the Clock (Bill Hailey and the Comets) What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong) Respect (Aretha Franklin) I’m a Believer (Neil Diamond/

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Monkees) Eleanor Rigby (Beatles) Brown Sugar (Rolling Stones) Imagine (John Lennon) 1980s to the present day Michael Jackson Medley

True Colours (Cyndi Lauper) Eye of the Tiger (Survivor) Times like these (The Foo Fighters) Seven Nation Army (White Stripes) Ooh La (The Kooks) Paradise (Coldplay) Sherlock (Hauser/ Arnold)

Making the grade This academic year has been a busy one for those students taking music grade exams on their instrument or music theory. Over 60 students have been entered for exams from the ABRSM, Trinity and Rock School boards, including several pupils from our partner primary schools who are part of our instrumental provision. Congratulations to all students for their hard work and success in these exams.

Around 150 students take the opportunity to learn a musical instrument in school time with our team of dedicated instrumental staff.

For anyone thinking about taking up an instrument, please contact Mr Minchin or the school finance office for more information.

Parents of children already learning an instrument in school may be interested to know about the Assisted Instrument Purchase Scheme (AIPS), approved by HM Customs and Excise, which enables students at LEA and Academy schools to purchase an instrument without paying VAT. This can represent quite a saving on the purchase of an expensive item. Please contact Mr Minchin for information about how the scheme works.

Mr Minchin

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Getting in to 2012 pledge earns a visit to stadium

Students get the call for artwork Students’ Olympics-themed artwork has been on public display – in a Burwell phone box!

The unusual venue, near the village post office, came about through the College’s Head of Art Mrs Wilkins, who is also vice-chairman of Burwell Parish Council. She leapt at the chance to give her students’ work a wider audience.

“Burwell Parish Council adopted two phone boxes recently – BT was offering an adoption scheme at £1 per box,” explained Mrs Wilkins.

“The parish council has paid for the boxes to be

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painted and re-glazed where necessary and they are now lockable.

“The parish council was then considering ideas of what to do with the boxes, local info etc, and I suggested a display.”

The first exhibition is KS3 work from a recent project to design an Olympics logo. All classes took part with a prize for the best five in each form.

Work was then selected from this group.

The parish council would like further work to be displayed in the telephone boxes and is open to ideas for other possible uses.

In the run up to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games, Bottisham Village College pledged to cover a distance of 2012km before the opening ceremony, as part of the Gold Challenge raising money for the charity Cancer Research UK. As a thank you for our commitment to the Challenge, we were given a fantastic opportunity to be part of one of the key test events being held at the Olympic Stadium as part of the legacy for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Almost 50 students from Years 7 to 11, together with six members of staff, took part in a parade at the Olympic stadium with students from schools all over the country, mirroring that of the Opening Ceremony, alongside Team GB Legends and celebrity ambassadors. Walking on the track that world class athletes will be running on in the next few weeks

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Every form in the College was asked to produce flags and information about the 216 countries represented in the Olympics – and they did just that. The colourful results have been put on display in the maths corridor.

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was a magical experience for all, and we received our very own gold medal as a souvenir of the occasion!

Back at College, all students were given the opportunity to engage with the Games and feel part of the excitement in the build-up whilst raising money for Cancer Research UK at the same time. During a designated PE lesson, students cycled, ran, walked or rowed laps of a marked out circuit. Everyone’s efforts count towards our school’s Gold Challenge final total. Money is still coming in and we hoping to reach a target of £1,000!

Ms Martell

Musical Sean has top score A composition by Year 9 student Sean Irving was music to the judges’ ears and resulted in him winning an Olympics-themed competition.

Students were asked to compose celebratory music for the Olympics and Sean captured the mood and occasion perfectly with his orchestral piece, Victorious Mankind London 2012.

“Sean is a worthy winner. The piece is patriotic – a fanfare in a march style. It is of a very high standard – a great piece of work showing excellent potential,” said arts development officer Mr Minchin.

Sean, who plays French horn, piano and trumpet, planned his composition on a keyboard before moving on to the computer programme MuseScore.

“I wanted to sum up the Olympic values in a formal piece of music.

I am definitely pleased with the final effect. It’s as I wanted it,”he said.

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the Olympic spirit

Successful trio Cameron, Aaron and Yasmin took the medals in the Olympics poetry competition.

Aaron’s sonnet wins gold An Olympics poetry competition resulted in some gold standard writing performances from around 50 students.

But the judges, Miss Bolton and Mr Alvey, agreed that Year 8 poet Aaron Bone, should take the top prize with his sonnet, Olympics Poem.

“We were really impressed with Aaron’s work. He not only wrote a sonnet but used iambic pentameter,” said Miss Bolton.

Students from all years were asked to write a poem – preferably a sonnet – about anything relating to the Olympics such as sports, courage, cultures of the world, determination, commitment and sportsmanship.

The silver medal place went to Yasmin Revell (Yr 8), while Cameron Mayes (Yr 9) took the bronze.

Olympics Poem The Olympics is coming to London this year, I’ve got some tickets and can’t wait to go.

I’ll be in the crowd when they all start to cheer, As the runners all wait for the whistle to blow.

I like the athletics, the discus, the hammer, All the team sports like football and hockey.

The showjumping ring brings an element of glamour, With a rosette for the horse and a gold for the jockey.

Triathletes run hard and they try to keep cool, They jump on their bikes and push on the pedals.

Then like sharks hunting prey they race down the pool, All with the same goal of winning the medals.

Through all the events burning brightly the flames, The shining star from Greece watching over our games.

Aaron Bone 8.7

Students inspired by park venues As part of the Government’s new School Games initiative the first ever School Games National Finals were held on Wednesday May 9, in the Olympic Park, as a precursor to the London 2012 Games.

Bottisham Village College successfully secured a limited number of tickets to this fantastic event.

On Wednesday, May 9, 17 Year 9 students went to visit the Olympic Park.

On arrival, we took in the sights of all the amazing venues and took part in a host of activities testing sporting prowess.

After lunch, we saw the country’s best young people compete in swimming events at the Aquatics Centre.

Despite the rain, a wonderful day was had by all,

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and we were truly inspired by both the park and the competitors.

Ms Martell

Wii! What a player.

Super Ian is College Wii champion Wii! It was fast, it was furious, it was the final of the Olympics 100m sprint – and no sign of Usain Bolt!? Instead, competitors included Knuckles, Wario, Luigi, Yoshi and Dr Eggman as students took on the Mario and Sonic Olympics Challenge.

Grabbing their Wii controllers, ‘athletes’ powered their characters to the finishing line, cheered on by enthusiastic spectators.

Four representatives per form took part in the heats with the winning duo from each year – plus a couple of teachers – getting through to the final rounds.

It was close, it was tense, but in the end Year 11 student Ian Chard was declared competition winner beating Matthew Butler-Finbow (Year 7) and Charlotte Elston and James Cahill (Year 10) in the grand live final.

The delighted champion said: “I feel so proud. Finally, I’ve won something.”

The competition was organised by Mr Hall, Head of Learning for Year 11.

“Those involved were competitive and brilliant in their efforts. Well done to Ian and thanks to all those who supported and participated,” he said.

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It was a day of excitement and joy tinged with poignancy and remembrance when Year 11s marked their last official day at Bottisham VC. There was plenty of time for fun during the day, but there was also a time for sadness and reflection as a mauve hydrangea was planted in memory of former student, Ayesha Williams, witnessed by both the school community and members of her family.

Leavers’ Day began with students arriving at College in their Sunday best – girls in dresses and boys in shirts and ties.

They enjoyed a continental breakfast and an opportunity to have photos taken with their friends and to write thank you messages to teachers.

This was followed by activities in form groups before a formal assembly, barbecue lunch and a talent show featuring musicians and dancers and a special performance of YMCA by staff.

The day ended on a genteel note as afternoon tea was served and final goodbyes were said.

All smiles as Year 11s enjoyed their last official day at Bottisham Village College.

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Goodbye BVC, hello New York

“Once again the Year 11s showed what a lovely year group they are, looking beautiful and handsome and naturally behaving brilliantly. There were tears aplenty and many hugs at the end as we all celebrated five fantastic years together,” said Mr Hall, Year 11 Head of Learning.

The theme was New York Broadway and as the ‘stars’ arrived they were whisked up the red carpet to the marquee on the Principal’s Lawn – venue for the eagerly anticipated Leavers’ Ball.

A crowd of well-wishers packed Lode Road outside the College to cheer the Year 11s as they arrived in a succession of impressive vehicles. The fleet included posh cars, vintage cars, sports cars and retro cars, plus quite a few surprises with a milk float,

tank, Harley Davidson motorbikes and even a pony dropping off the young guests.

Months of hard work paid off for Mrs Cook and her team who had organised fund-raising events plus the evening itself and made props and decorations to ensure the marquee and route to the marquee looked the part in its colour theme of red, gold and black.

There were yellow New York taxis, the Big Apple skyline, a large US flag, a Statue of Liberty, Broadway posters and glitter galore as they brought the Ball’s theme – chosen by students – to life.

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The Year 11s, all looking their very best, enjoyed a buffet meal, a magician and dancing to their favourite tunes.

It was a fitting end to their five years at Bottisham VC and a fitting beginning to their future lives.

It was the tenth year of Mrs Cook’s involvement in the event.

“Ten years ago I started helping out – this gradually built up and for the last six years I have been in charge.

“I really enjoy it and this year I was helped by a lovely group of girls who worked really hard to put it all together,” she said.

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Money goes to good causes in Kenya Last term’s fund-raising for Kenya raised more than £800 – and the money has now been divided between three worthy causes.

The College’s links with the African country began last year through the Brooker family – Toby is currently in Year 10.

Toby’s grandparents live in Kenya and are involved in local projects.

Some of the money, collected on a non-uniform day, was used to sponsor a Sunday meal for around 1,500 children at a feeding station in the coastal region of Kikambala.

“It was as always, a moving and humbling experience and such a worthwhile cause. For many of these children, it is the only

hot meal that they receive each week,” said Toby’s father Mark, a BVC governor.

A further £220 was donated to the Good Life Orphanage to buy chickens for egg production with some of them being used to feed the orphanage’s 59 children and some sold to surrounding villages for a small profit.

A donation was also made to the Shariani Medical Centre to buy an autoclave for sterilising equipment and a suction machine used at baby deliveries.

“It was a great achievement for the students and staff to raise £800. We are very grateful for your continued support,” said Mr Brooker.

The message from these young Kenyan children couldn’t be plainer...

Packed itinerary for exchange students At the beginning of May, 17 Year 10 students welcomed their German exchange partners from the Erich Kästner Realschule to Bottisham.

After a fantastic visit to Kempen during February half-term, we were very excited about introducing our partners to BVC and the local area.

With so much to see and do during the five-day stay, we wasted no time and took our visitors straight away to London to visit Tower Bridge (currently showing an Olympic exhibition in the walkway) and take a boat on the River Thames. A walkabout followed, taking in the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Bridge and London Eye. Friday was spent introducing our German visitors to college life at BVC, attending lessons with their exchange partners and sampling a school lunch.

Despite the inclement weather, a very stoic group of BVC students persuaded their German guests

to show up for the planned picnic in Cambridge on Saturday (much to the relief of Mrs Hill and Herr Müller who had 12 bags of picnic food in tow!). Their dedication was rewarded, as the rain stopped in time to enjoy lunch and a few games on Parker’s Piece. The BVC students took good care of their guests during the rest of the May Day bank holiday weekend, with punting, swimming, riding and trips to Thetford among the activities kindly provided by host families.

By the time we waved our guests off on Tuesday morning, some strong friendships had been made and everybody agreed that the experience had been interesting and enriching. We look forward to the next German exchange programme and building ever stronger links with the Erich-Kästner Realschule.

Many thanks to all of the students, families and staff who helped make this year’s exchange such a success.

Mrs Hill

Hitting the heights with Alpine link We are delighted to let you know that we have made contact with a French school, Collège Henri Corbet, in St Jean d’Aulps in the Alps, and that we have set up an exciting new project for some of our students in Year 10. The excitement was high when we received our first letters and students from three classes have already written back. Our students have worked collaboratively to reply in French and improve their confidence in writing and using the language in a real-life context (great skills to develop for those controlled assessments).

During the course of the year, we hope to find out more about what it is like to live in the heart of the Alps where most children are born practically wearing skis already! Most importantly we hope to establish long lasting links and friendships between our two schools.

Ms Larrieu

Friends in urgent appeal for volunteers The Friends of Bottisham Village College are making an urgent appeal for volunteers – or risk losing the fund-raising group.

The Friends, a charity, have organised many successful events over the years, including quiz nights, race nights, an auction of promises, Christmas market and the Bottisham Ball.

This year’s glamorous black tie ball was held on June 30 in the marquee on the Principal’s Lawn.

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“Without a committee and your support, these events and the funds raised from them, would no longer be available,” said a Friends’ spokesman.

“Over the last few years, the Friends of Bottisham Village College Committee has gradually dwindled as Year 11s have left and parent volunteers have moved on with them. We are in desperate need for volunteers to step forward to join the committee and help continue Friends’ fantastic contribution to the College in the years to come.”

Anyone interested in joining the Friends can contact the committee at friends@ bottishamvc.org

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Prizewinners for 2011/12 Year 7 Principal’s Prize: Gareth Edwards, Erin Henry.

Achievement: Arts – Scarlet Delanoy; English – Lewis Renni; Humanities – Joel Thomson; ICT – Will Christie; Learning Support – Will Hardy; Maths – Alice Lingley; Modern Foreign Languages – Eleanor Langham; Physical Education – Lily Turner; Science – Emma Walters; Technology – Oliver Saunders; Endeavour: Ayesha Williams Prize for Endeavour – Joshua Jones; Arts – Olly Holt; English – Georgia Delaune; Humanities – Shane Covill; ICT – Abbie Lawler; Learning Support – Angela Warder; Maths – Ewan Stewart; Modern Foreign Languages – Lewis Joslin; Physical Education – Jaye Manaois; Science – Conor Radziszewski; Technology – Olivia Bruno.

Year 8 Principal’s Prize: Emily Brown, Cameron Wylde.

Achievement: Arts – Sofia Swenson-Wright; English – Hope Zeid; Humanities – Jonah Spindel; ICT – Isobel Tarff; Learning Support – Madeleine Gregory; Maths – John Doak; Modern Foreign Languages – Susie Tucker; Physical Education – Luke Crisp; Science – Ben Nash; Technology – Nick Staaf.

Endeavour: Arts – Eloise Stringer; English – Harry Taylor; Humanities – Poppy Corbett; ICT – Tyler Clennell; Learning Support – William McCarthy Powell; Maths – Emily Brown; Modern Foreign Languages – Alex Hindle-Smith; Physical Education – Yasmin Woodfield; Science – Charlie Compton; Technology – Lois Weaver.

Year 9 Principal’s Prize: Roman Armstrong, Emily Mackness.

Achievement: Arts – James Chambers; English – Sean Irving; Humanities – Rachel Towers; ICT – Grace Zeid; Learning Support – Peter Schiller; Maths – Ben Campbell; Modern Foreign Languages – Millie Tipple; Physical Education – Rebecca Edwards; Science – Milly Parry; Rank Prize for Achievement in Technology – Lauren Price.

Endeavour: Arts – Mia Adam; English – Gemma Galletly; Humanities – Brody Cullum; ICT –Alex Corridan-Brown; Learning Support – Cleo McGregor; Maths – Chloe Hill; Modern Foreign Languages – Jourdan Ellis; Physical Education – Samuel Wade; Science – Jed Hawkins: Rank Prize for Endeavour in Technology – C J Hilborn.

Year 10 Principal’s Prize: George Miller, Ellie Raine.

Achievement: Core Science – Henry Kingsmill; Art & Design – Xanthe Polaine; BTEC Science – Charlie Barry; BTEC Sport – Robyn Wilson; BTEC Travel and Tourism – Mary Dean; Catering – Harry Martin; Citizenship – Cameron Mackay; Construction – Rory Williams; Drama – Madeleine Stewart; English – Jola Maczkiewicz; French – Ellie Raine; GCSE PE – Catriona Marriott; GCSE RS – Hayley Rasdall; Geography – William Perks; German – Alex Claydon; Health & Social Care – Abigail Minton; History – Charlotte Elston; Horticulture – Dana Burton; ICT – Jamie Wicksted; Learning Support – Eleanor Norman; Maths – Ramganesh Lakshman; Media – Joshua Cowie; Music – Oscar Rayment; Product Design – Amy Neville; Religion, Ethics & Philosophy – Ben Scholan; Textiles – Katie Smith; Triple

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‘You are proud ambassadors of the college.’ – Ofsted 2012.

Congratulations to all of you who were awarded prizes at our annual prizegiving celebration and thank you for the immense contribution that you make to the life of the college. As ever, this is an overwhelmingly positive occasion which marks your outstanding endeavours and successes, in and out of the classroom. You are true ambassadors for the school, whose efforts, talents and determination never fail to impress and inspire us all.

Our guest speaker at this year’s celebration was a longstanding friend and

colleague of our school, Jon Pratt. Over many years, Jon has worked with us to support and deliver many aspects of our Personal Social and Health Education (PSHE) programme, motivating both staff and students with his depth of knowledge and inspirational style. Jon is passionate about promoting the health and wellbeing of children and young people both locally and nationally. His teaching career began as an English teacher, then as head of department, before being appointed as senior advisor in the Cambridgeshire Advisory Service and then Head of PSHE for the Cambridgeshire local authority.

Science, Biology – Kate McGrath; Triple Science, Chemistry – Freya Donohue-Hall; Triple Science, Physics – Samuel Weinberger; Work Skills – Liam Courtenay-Moore.

Endeavour: Art & Design – Will Matlock; BTEC Science – Toby Brooker; BTEC Sport – Reece Jones; BTEC Travel and Tourism – Eleanor Vesey; Catering – Casey Drayton; Citizenship – Robert Challinor; Construction – Jake Clennell; Core Science – Sebastian Poloka; Drama – Lewis Hatley; English – Angellina Cao; French – Saffron Sparks; GCSE PE – Emma Loker; GCSE RS – Matteo Grillenzoni; Geography – Kai Liang; German – Andrew Baker; Product Design – Charlotte Rollin; History – Ben Beaumont; Horticulture – Jamie Bruce; ICT – Jamie Wing; Learning Support – Toby Richardson; Maths – Daniel Blocksage; Media – Sarah Taylor; Music – Tara Cross; Product Design – Joshua Steggles; Religion, Ethics & Philosophy – Andrew Lamport; Textiles – Jade Ellam; Triple Science, Biology – Hannah Gracie; Triple Science, Chemistry – Matthew Mayne; Triple Science, Physics – Kit Turner; Work Skills – Ben McLean; James Fisher Prize for Music – Charlotte Read.

Year 11 Principal’s Prize: Jacob Fordham, Holly Krombacher.

Achievement: Additional Science – Julianna Barker; Art & Design – Jaz Turner; BTEC Science – Holly Parker; BTEC Sport – Nathan Buckle; BTEC Travel and Tourism – Matthew Fuller; Catering – Emma Tunnacliffe; Citizenship – Ian Chard; Construction – Aldrin Manaois; Drama – Ellie Phipps; English – Jonathan Pilosof; French – Guy Birch; GCSE RS – Olivia Duffy; Geography – Gus Martin; Graphics – Grace Newton-Livens; Health & Social Care – Leanne Lewis; Horticulture – Nick Cole; Hospitality – Oliver Galletly; ICT – Chelsea Rogers; Learning Support – Caspar RandlesMills; Maths AS Level – Kieran Gilday; Media – Charlotte Fleming; Music – Eliza Spindel; Religion, Ethics & Philosophy – Harry Boyle; Spanish – Laura Grillenzoni; Textiles – Ella Lancaster; Triple Science, Biology – Dan Cornell; Triple Science, Physics – Kate Brown;

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We thank Jon for his contribution over the years and for joining us to share this year’s celebration of achievement and succeses.

Thank you also to those students who contributed their musical talents to the evening and to everyone behind the scenes involved in making the evening such a success.

Mrs O’Reilly, Assistant Principal ‘You go to an outstanding college. Your achievement, by the time you leave the college is outstanding. This is because you make excellent progress so that attainment is well above the national average.’ – Ofsted 2012.

Work Skills – Alex Hewitt; Aventis Prize for Achievement in Triple Science, Chemistry – Rama Lakshman; Chamberlain Prize for Achievement in History – Michael Ward; Chamberlain Prize for Endeavour in History – Lucy Crossfield; Charles Curley Prize for GCSE PE – Hannah Lamb.

Endeavour: Additional Science – Amy Mills; Art & Design – Hayley-Jayne Rix; BTEC Science – Will Bowley; BTEC Sport – Sam King; BTEC Travel and Tourism – Liam Callen; Catering – Oli Walker; Citizenship – Hannah Slater; Construction – Harry Lynch; Drama – Alex Snow; English – Laura Robson; French – Natalie Bye; GCSE PE – Sophie Hammond; GCSE RS – Josh Lemmon; Geography – Sam Hayman; Graphics – Jonny Singer; Health & Social Care – Rhianna Sutherland; Horticulture – Patricia Lindsay; Hospitality – Jamie Griggs; ICT – Trecia Gel Badilla; Maths AS Level – Bethan Manton-Roseblade; Media – Jack Warton; Music – Thomas Groom; Religion, Ethics & Philosophy – Connor Hazlewood; Spanish – Rebecca Fountain; Textiles – Eliza Glover; Triple Science, Biology – Katie Whitton; Triple Science, Chemistry – Jack Willows; Triple Science, Physics – Daniel Hammond; Work Skills – Amy Courtenay-Moore; Ince Prize for Maths – Allen Roy Mendonca; Ince Prize for Endeavour in Maths – Emma Ashman.

Peter Osborn Mentoring Prize: Aldrin Manaois.

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A taste of life beyond school Every year, thousands of 14 and 15 year-olds throughout the country put their school uniforms and school books away for two weeks, set their alarms unusually early and prepare to enter the world of work.

Among them were some 200 young people from Bottisham VC’s Year 10, many of them getting their first taste of what their parents do each day; what mysteries lie beyond school.

It gave them an opportunity to find out first-hand what attributes they need in the workplace, to develop self-confidence and communication skills, to give some serious thought to the future and jobs they might – and might not – like.

“I got a part-time job out of it. It was pretty good,” said one Year 11 student looking back on his work experience last summer.

“I learnt loads of new things,” said a student and another added, “I got a free fry up each morning!”

One student said she felt nervous at first at her nursery placement.

“You have to be talkative and active when you’re working with children; you can’t sit around

doing nothing. After a couple of days I got more confident and really got into it.”

Another said her workplace was really friendly. “They introduced me to everybody, they showed me round and I got a timetable. It was really good. It made me certain it was what I wanted to do.”

This year’s work experience fortnight was July 2-July 13 and as well as the usual placements in shops, nurseries and offices, some students had more unusual destinations. One student worked as a gamekeeper, another at Stansted Airport and one was a supply engineer for UK Power Networks. There were also placements at local veterinary practices plus design and engineering companies.

“Work experience enables students to develop skills in a different context to school. It helps them to develop as adults by placing them beyond their comfort zone in a challenging, but supportive, environment,” said Assistant Principal Mr Gee. “As teachers, we see the difference that two weeks of work experience can make – there is a definite before and after feel.”

Work experience: Giving a first taste of life beyond education.

Students enjoy a week packed with activities

Year 7 camp has a positive impact on students.

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Activities Week provided an exciting and stimulating end to the summer term with opportunities galore to embrace new environments, experiences and challenges.

The five days were planned after listening to students’ views, continuing with tried and tested activities from previous years and introducing new ones.

Activities Week has provided a fitting finale to the school year at Bottisham, and been a popular feature of the calendar, for more than two decades.

For Year 7s, the theme was Self-discovery and Teamwork as they spent the week under canvas at camp.

“It is the most wonderful but tiring week.

When you see the positive impact on students and families it is worth every minute,” said Assistant Principal Mrs Rankine, who organised the Activities Week programme.

“Most children come back and say camp is a hugely enjoyable and positive experience,” she said.

For Year 8s there was an action-packed week under the banner Broadening Horizons. For some it was literally this, with trips to Normandy and Derbyshire.

For those students remaining in school there was still a chance to sample the world with arts, textiles, music, cooking, food tasting, dance and films from China,

Mexico, Italy, Germany and Australia.

Closer to home, students looked at the history of Bottisham Village College – which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year – through archives, resulting in an exhibition of their findings.

Their week ended with an Americanthemed barbecue.

The Year 9s’ week was concerned with “Enterprise and Aspiration”. Activities included the enjoyably frenetic but frustrating business and enterprise game BoomBizz, a day at work with parents, a visit to Grafham Water and a chance to learn skills needed for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

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College goes the extra mile for charity The Sport Relief Mile was completed with a hop, skip and a jump … plus running, unicycling and even just ambling to collect hundreds of pounds for charity.

Every member of the College, both students and staff, gathered on the school field, some in running gear others in fancy dress, as athletes joined fairies and even a teddy to take part in the sporting challenge and raise £867.14.

“There was a lovely atmosphere on the field as everyone pulled together for a worthy cause,” said Mr Alvey, Head of PE. It is estimated that nationwide more than a million people took part in fund-raising activities for the Sport Relief charity.

Proceeds are used to help people in the UK and the world’s poorest countries.

Take the Leap students enjoyed the sweet taste of success in a social enterprise competition.

Sweet sensation for enterprising students Year 7 students took a leap into the world of business when they entered a competition for local schools organised by Cambridge University.

The event at Magdalene College was the second part of the Take the Leap social enterprise project and a follow-up to a PSHE Day for Year 7s organised by Cambridge students.

Three teams – Candy Swirlers, Choc-a-Block and Smoothz – gave a PowerPoint presentation explaining how they went about designing, making and selling cakes and sweets to raise money for charity.

And the judges were so impressed, two of the teams picked up silver and bronze medals – and all three teams received positive feedback.

First up for Bottisham were the Candy Swirlers who raised £8.95 for the Blue Cross with their candy floss treats.

Next were Choc-a-Block who sold strawberries

and marshmallows dipped in chocolate (and sold out in 15 minutes!) to raise money for Cambridge to Africa and third were Smoothz, who sold Easter nests to earn £15.95 for children’s charity ACT. The day included a presentation about Flack – a magazine produced by homeless people – and students were invited to design a new logo, badge or slogan for the organisation. There was also an opportunity to have a look round Magdalene College.

The Year 7 students were prepared for the competition by Cambridge students who ran after-school workshops to help them develop their product and familiarise them with social enterprise.

Their sweet treats were sold one breaktime and the event was publicised with colourful posters round the College.

Working with our partners On one of the only sunny days in May, we were able to take a group of Year 10 students to see the work of the National Stud at Newmarket and, in particular, discover details about the excellent apprenticeship programme.

The students were given a talk in the purpose-built lecture theatre followed by a tour of the Stud.

The main aim of the day was to explain to the students the importance of mathematics and English in a work context and how difficult it can make their apprenticeship programme and others without these qualifications.

Students were shown the new accommodation block and offered refreshments before having the opportunity to interview an apprentice who had completed the course and this summer was flying off to Australia to start work on a stud.

It was obvious to see that all the hard work had

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opened doors to some fantastic opportunities.

Our thanks go to the National Stud, one of the Bottisham Education Partners.

Some of our Year 11 students have taken part in market research for the Cambridge Building Society to help them to learn what teenagers think about saving.

The students were asked about banks and building societies, about their own spending and saving habits and what, if anything, they would want to save for. The aim was also to know the best way to target a teenage market and if social media sites were the preferred option.

The discussions were very illuminating and the Cambridge Building Society left with lots of new ideas inspired by Bottisham students.

This is where the Bottisham Education Partnership is truly working together to shape the future.

Mrs Matthewson

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Drawing on expertise The skills passed on to students at an Extended Schools class in drawing manga will now be reaching a wider audience with the publication of a book by the course tutor (and published manga artist) Irina Richards.

“It has definitely been a challenge creating this book – much hard work, sweat and tears,” said Mrs Richards, the College’s reprographics and IT administrator.

Creating Manga Characters is published

by The Crowood Press.

Museum ahoy!

Some 80 Year 8 students spent a day at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, finding out about the East India Company. They looked at the museum’s permanent exhibition, did a ‘hands-on’ session with the museum educator looking at artefacts, and took a tour of the Royal Barges exhibition in place for the Diamond Jubilee.

Quiz time Bottisham VC narrowly missed being named Science Champions 2012 after finishing third in a highly competitive area quiz.

Twelve local schools entered teams in the Cambridge Science Festival Schools Quiz, hosted by Hills Road Sixth Form College. The College was represented

by Year 10 students Kate McGrath and Freya Williams plus Kieran Gilday and Thomas Sullivan, both in Year 11.

Rounds covered a wide range of science topics plus students having to identify objects, pictures and even smells!

“They were amazing and a credit to the school,” said science teacher Miss Daymond.

Students head for stars with Space Centre trip The Year 7s took off into space when they went on the annual trip to the National Space Centre, in Leicester.

The journey was long but when we got to Leicester and saw the rocket tower from a distance we couldn’t wait to explore.

The space centre was full of lots of exciting things: simulators, interactive tables and three floors of discovery up the rocket tower – if you could climb the 144 steps to the top!

Highlights of the trip were definitely the simulator ride – crash landing on the moon of Jupiter – and the Planetarium Show where we learnt all about the different planets.

The trip back on the coach brought us back down to earth after a long fun-filled day.

STAR GAZING: Year 7 students at the National Space Centre, in Leicester information. We watched the Materials Show where we discovered how the properties of materials determine whether they are solids, liquids, gases, slimy, smelly or stretchy!

It was a fantastic day where lots of discoveries were made.

Miss Daymond

n The trip to the Big Bang Fair at Duxford gave us the opportunity to experience hands-on learning outside the classroom. It was great fun – inspirational and interactive.

Some of us were brave enough to be used as experimental guinea pigs to read our brainwaves and reveal how our nerves send and receive

Beating the language barrier Nine schools, 48 students and 16 staff, met at Overstrand, Norfolk, from May 6-9, for the Comenius Citizenship Student Conference.

On Sunday, May 6, four Year 9 students set off to Norfolk on an exciting and unique adventure to take part in a multi-nationality citizenship conference.

Upon arrival we were faced with groups of students from five different countries other than our own.

Some of them didn’t speak much English, however that didn’t stop us from making many new friends.

Our language skills improved greatly from the experience!

During the four days in Norfolk we discussed many European issues including the wider effects of the up-coming London Olympics. We didn’t work the whole time though as the project was also about meeting and spending time with foreign

students in the outdoor activities arranged by Kingswood Activity Centre. Not only did they speak a different language but they also had different customs and opinions, one of the most surprising culture differences being when we had to explain what bacon was. It’s fair to say that the weather was typically British; raining throughout the trip.

Despite this, all four of us came away from it with an incredible experience to share with others.

Watching everyone drive away after such an enjoyable trip was very sad. Especially as the four of us, Miss Gleeson and Mr Gilbert then had to drive home in an otherwise empty bus. We learnt a huge amount and had a lot of fun. Hopefully relations between Bottisham Village College and the other schools will continue so that other students will be given the opportunity to take part in this amazing project.

Chloe Millard

Adult and Community Learning On offer this autumn term at Bottisham are a variety of new Adult and Community Learning courses – something to suit every interest and taste. They include:

- Life drawing - History of art - Ceramics - Felt making - Family history - Back to baking - Indian cookery - IT skills for today’s office

New for Saturday workshops are Quilting for Christmas and Ice and Decorate your Christmas Cake.

Tel: 01223 811372

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Email: commed@bottishamvc.org

We continue to provide a variety of daytime, evening and weekend courses for learners aged 19 and over including a selection of tried and tested, ever-popular creative classes such as dressmaking, pattern cutting, upholstery and chair caning. Joining them on the programme are yoga, languages, counselling, horticulture, bookkeeping and accounting and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses.

Our classes not only provide an opportunity to learn new skills but are also important for many learners’ sense of well-being.

Visit: www.bottishamvc.org/commed

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THIS IS MY SPORT (The first of an occasional feature)

Daniel Blocksage (Year 10) has been working extremely hard on his road bike and has a very high national ranking. He can cover five miles in 12.02 mins, and 10 miles in 22.30 mins.

On 7th July he competed in a national time trial competition.

He is also a very good runner and swimmer, and recently came third in a triathlon competition.

We wish him good luck for the future.

If you are involved in a sport and would like to feature in future editions of the school magazine please send your information (and a good photograph of you in action) to the PE Faculty.

Teams show good form in district competitions Cricket is a very popular sport in the Bottisham area and a large number of students from all year groups play club matches on a regular basis.

All year groups have the opportunity to play cricket at school in their PE lessons and the Year 7 students had two teams representing the school in the district qualifying tournament on Parker’s Piece. The A team proved to be too much of a handful for the other teams and came top of their group. The B team came third, finishing above a number of other B teams. Unfortunately, the finals, to be played at Fenners, occurred when the boys were at camp and we were unable to compete for the District Championships.

A number of students represent the county teams and are to be congratulated for this achievement.

n The Year 8 girls have had a very successful year in competitive fixtures and all district schools competitions. Two teams took part in the District Schools Rounders Tournament on Monday 25th June hosted here at Bottisham.

We were the only school to have a B team, and the team competed against A teams from other schools, winning one game, drawing one and losing one, to finish in 6th place. The A team defeated all three schools – Impington VC, Comberton VC, Melbourn VC – in their pool and qualified through to the final where they met Stephen Perse School. Unfortunately the opposition proved too strong, but the girls played extremely well and should be congratulated on yet another fantastic achievement.

Bottisham Sports Centre

Join us for an exciting programme taking place this Summer, including three new fun activities – Climbing Wall, Laser Tag and Archery.

Climbing Wall and Archery take place on Wednesday, July 25 and Laser Tag and Climbing Wall on Friday, August 17.

Due to limited places, pre booking for these activities is essential.

Laser Tag Laser Tag is played within a 1,000sqft inflatable maze.

Popular with all age groups and abilities, Laser Tag allows up to 10 players to enter the maze at any one time, each carrying a laser blaster. The game comes complete with internal smoke effects and 10 laser blasters.

Archery Archery is one of the oldest and most traditional sports, suitable for anyone from 8 years upwards.

No previous experience is required.

Our instructors will guide you through the techniques required to become a master archer.

There has been a focus on Olympic and Paralympic events throughout the year in PE. In recent weeks, all students had the opportunity to try some of the Paralympic sports, to give them an understanding of the challenges faced by the athletes.

Activities included paired running (one athlete wears a blindfold and is helped by a ‘seeing’ runner), Boccia (a target sport for wheelchair users), Goalball ( for visually impaired athletes who have to prevent goals being scored by ‘hearing’ and stopping a ball with a bell in it), seated shot putt , seated javelin and wheelchair basketball.

Climbing Wall The Mobile Climbing Wall is a very safe activity and everyone can climb with complete confidence.

Our Climbing Wall is 7.2m (or 24ft) tall and there are more than 20 different routes to ensure a real challenge for even the most accomplished climber.

Our popular Go Kart sessions return in the holiday along with many sporting activities such as our Olympic Games Day with prizes and medals to be won, Multisports for a range of sporting fun or Hot Shots for the football crazy.

Tennis Academy returns with two tennis camps providing coaching to learn or improve your game.

And new for our party hire – Waterwalkerz Balls – amazing fun!

Plus our inflatable sessions with Command Run and Monster Island are running throughout the holiday.

For full details of these and all our Summer fun activities, please call the Sports Centre on 01223 811121 or visit the website for the Summer Activity brochure www.bottishamvc.org/sportscentre

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Jubilation!

Bottisham completed a hat trick of victories in the Jubilee Cup competition, a wonderful achievement in the most prestigious athletics competition in the district, and especially apt as it is the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee (the competition started in 1977) and also the year of the London Olympics.

Teams of boys and girls from each year group competed in a wide range of athletic events at the Cambridge University track at Wilberforce

Road. Points are scored for each event and the better each individual does, the more points they gain for the team. Competition is fierce and it is vital to have a competitor in every event. This means that sometimes athletes have to perform out of their comfort zone in order to support the team effort. Every athlete who attended was magnificent, not only those who competed but the other vital team members who were there as

GOLD: Ben Snaith at the Cambridgeshire County Championships Picture courtesy Cambridge News

replacements in case of injury. Well done to all!

RESULTS: Year 7 boys, 50 points, Ist; Yr 7 girls, 40 points, 3rd; Yr 8 boys, 56 points, 1st; Yr 8 girls, 54 points, 2nd; Yr 9 boys, 54 points, 1st; Yr 9 girls, 40 points, 4th; Yr 10 boys, 31 points, 7th; Year 10 girls, 49 points, 1st.

Overall – Boys 191 points, 1st. Girls 183 points, 1st. Boys and girls combined – 374 points Bottisham VC Jubilee Cup winners!

Ben and Natalie do College proud The College’s head of PE has praised two Year 11 students for their sporting achievements.

Ben Snaith took two gold medals at the Sainsburys 2012 School Games at the Olympic Stadium, in Stratford, London, representing England South East running in the 4x400 and 4x100 metre relays and Natalie Bacon is a member of the England rounders team.

“Apart from their wonderful achievements as athletes, both Natalie and Ben are absolutely fantastic people; modest,

friendly, helpful, hardworking.

True ambassadors. We can very proud of them both,” said Mr Alvey. n Ben went on to complete a sprint double in the Cambridgeshire County Championships, winning both the under-17s 100m and 200m events.

He has been ranked number one in the UK at 400 metres this season and will be competing at the English Schools’ Championships at Gateshead. We wish him all the best.

Mr Alvey says: Make the very best use of what you have learned at school. Lead an active and healthy lifestyle over the summer. Set yourself some achievable fitness targets (write a programme and keep a record of how you get on and what progress you make). Take the opportunity to look at what you eat. Are you getting your ‘five a day’?

Think of the Olympic and Paralympic values and find ways of helping others.

Make the most of the opportunity of having the Olympics in London.

Cheer on all the athletes and let them be an inspiration to us all.

Have a wonderful summer.

Edited by Mandy Turner, BVC mturner@bottishamvc.org

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NATIONAL: Natalie Bacon with the England rounders team Printed by NM Print, Peterborough

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