BVC Newsletter December 2012

Autumn Term 2012 Issue 9

BVC news Achievement through inspiring, caring, enriching

75th Anniversary of the College

Lewis Hatley, Christie Huckin, Mr Bradford, Mr Rayment and Mr Rank by the World Tree Sculpture.

Hundreds of people took up the invitation to attend a special open day and help Bottisham Village College celebrate its 75th anniversary.

October’s event was an opportunity for the younger generation to find out about the past and for the older generation to reminisce, meet up with old friends and colleagues and discover how the College had expanded and changed over three quarters of a century.

Among the special guests were Messrs Bradford and Rayment who were among the first cohort of pupils in 1937 – just two years before the outbreak of the Second World War, when many lessons were geared to skills suited to living in rural Cambridgeshire such as gardening and farming.

Full story and more photos on centre pages

A very happy Christmas from everyone at Bottisham Village College

A message from the Principal This has been a very special term for all of our school

community as we have been celebrating our 75th anniversary.

As you will see elsewhere in the newsletter, these celebrations have been very much a community affair, with opportunities

for students and staff, past and present, to come together to

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

celebrate the on-going success of Bottisham Village College. A

particular highlight of our Open Day on Saturday 20th October was that we were joined by a number of the first students at the college when it opened in 1937;

it was absolutely appropriate and poignant that they joined some of our current students for a tree dedication ceremony.

This issue of the newsletter is once again packed with stories of the successes and achievements of our students; we do hope that you enjoy reading about them.

As this long and successful Autumn term draws to a close, we wish all of you a very

enjoyable and restful Christmas with your families and friends and best wishes for a happy 2013.

Mrs Evans

Term Dates 2012/13

“This is an outstanding college, where a very strong ethos of community, high quality learning and aspirational academic achievement exists throughout.”

Dates for your diary 2013

Autumn term 2012 Last day - December 21st Students leave at 1.25pm

Year 11 Parents’ Evening Monday 10th January

Spring Term 2013 January 7th—March 28th Half-term - 11th—15th February

Year 9 Options Parents’ Evening Monday January 28th

Summer Term 2013 April 15th - July 19th Half-term - 27th—31st May

Record Exam Results!

This summer, our outgoing Year 11 group again broke records with their examination results. 97% of students achieved the benchmark measure of 5 GCSEs at A*-C. As you can see from the bar chart, this represents an amazing achievement, building on previous years of steady improvement. In addition to this, over 36% of all grades were at A or A*.

How have these results been achieved?

Year 9 Options weeks 2 weeks starting 28th January

Year 9 Parents’ Evening Thursday 7th February Year 7 Parents’ Evening Thursday 21st March

Through the collective efforts of students, staff and parents. There were a bewildering number of after school revision classes, breakfast sessions and lunchtime groups. The school delayed Leavers’ day until May half-term to extend the availability of classroom time and laid on pre-examination warm up sessions. Students attended these sessions in large numbers and we are very grateful to the parents who extended their ‘taxi’ services to enable this.

We wish all of our past students well in their future studies and look forward to celebrating more success with our existing year 11 group in the summer of 2013.

Year 10 Parents’ Evening Thursday 18th April

Overall Performance 2009

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Overall 5 A* - C

We will also be launching a ‘Twitter’ feed. This will give up-to-date messages, reminders and news as and when it happens.

We already have a facebook page which you will find us at www.facebook.com/BottishamVillageCollege ‘Like’ our page to receive news and reminders to your phone or computer

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We are excited to announce that in early February we will be launching our brand new website. Visitors will have access to much more information, news and photos.

2011

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Mr C Tooley

2010

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Fund-raising for a new grand piano

BVC is planning fund raising on a grand scale to provide a fitting finale and perfect lasting legacy in its anniversary year. The College is aiming to raise around £14,000 (14 grand!) to buy a new baby grand piano for the Main Hall to be enjoyed by staff and students today and future generations. The 75th anniversary piano appeal was launched at October’s open day and is now gathering momentum as fund raising ideas are taking shape.

Current plans include a staff concert, sponsored “practice-a-thon” and a piano performance marathon involving parents and members of the local community as well as staff and students. There will be an opportunity to make a donation to the fund by sponsoring a particular part of the piano from the keys to the lid and pedals!

Plans are to display sponsors’ names

in recognition of their generosity and support.

Arts development officer, Mr Minchin, said he hoped the appeal would strike a chord with students. “We want to get as many students as possible involved in the fundraising process,” he said. “The piano we have at present is in a sorry state and beyond repair – no-one is entirely sure how old it is. A new baby grand will be a fantastic addition to the College in its 75th anniversary year, something than can be enjoyed by all.”

It is hoped that the target will be met by next Autumn. A totaliser will be placed in a prominent position in the College to show everyone how the fund is progressing.

BVC’s Trust partners, John Lewis, have already pledged £100.

Year 11 students were treated to a morning of bawdy comedy, chaotic theatre and manic acting, courtesy of The Young Shakespeare Company.

With many students about to complete an important literature assessment on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this event provided them with an opportunity to see the text dramatized, to explore some of the characters and themes that are at the heart of this iconic play.

Students were not left disappointed and will certainly remember many aspects of the workshop for years to come.

Whether it be Mercutio dancing “Gangnam” style or Lord Capulet played in the style of a Russian mafia-boss, there was much hilarity to be had. Most importantly, however, was the fact that students were given key questions to ask: How did Shakespeare’s language work?

What would his audience have thought?

Many thanks indeed to Mrs Merry for organising such a worthwhile and captivating event.

Mr E Compton

Bottisham VC’s very own band, The StayCations, took centre stage as Cambridge started its seasonal countdown and switched on its Christmas lights.

The folk/alternative group made up of Year 10 students Craig Sadler (bass), Lewis Hall (vocals and rhythm guitar), Charles Hall (banjo), Will Hasleham (lead guitar) and Max Mackrill (drums) won the honour after success in Heart FM’s Cambridge has Talent competition.

To be among the winners they impressed judges with a “superb cover” of the Mumford and Sons track Little Lion Man at auditions and their “amazing range of instruments”, including mandolin, accordion and guitar.

The city’s lights were officially turned on by former X Factor and Dancing on Ice contestant Chico.

Jola Mackiewicz

Lakshman

SLT 2012 Andrew Lamport Andrew Baker

Isobel Sanusi-Bartlett

Spirited Art Competition Ten Year 8 students have been commended for their entries in a national REP art competition.

We have a cunning plan…

In February 2013, Bottisham Village College students will go over the top to glory in a production of Blackadder Goes Forth.

Yes, that’s right; students from Years 9, 10 and 11 will be making the most of delivering some of the most daring lines ever to be heard in a British sitcom: “I’m the last of the tiddly-winking leapfroggers from the golden summer of 1914.” and “Hello Darling.”

Details concerning tickets and other assorted matters will be available from school in the New Year.

Mr E Compton

Five members of year 10, Miriam Armani, Milly Parry, Adam Tarasewicz, Grace Zeid, and Hannah Murphy competed in the annual Geography Association Quiz at Long Road.

The team were an asset to the College and showed great enthusiasm for geography. Congratulations to the team for their participation

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Ramganesh

Ellie Raine

We hope that you might be able to join us for a night of satire, sharp wit and pure farce.

Geography Association Quiz

Christie Huckin Lewis Hatley

The StayCations

Romeo and Juliet Gangnam style!

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The ten - Jake Thomas- Mansfield, Erin Henry, Lauren Bisiker, Leah Crown, Eleanor Langham, Jazim Ali, Alice Lingley, Lydia Wilmott, Joshua Bonizzi and Emily Millard – took part in the annual Art in Heaven event organised by NATRE (the National RE Database) Spirited Arts.

“As part of their assessment, all year 7 students created a piece of art work based on the ‘turning point’ in a story. Written work accompanied each piece. There were pictures, animations and sculptures,” said Miss Gleeson, head of REP. She and colleague Mr Mitchell chose ten for the competition and all these received certificates of commendation which were presented in assembly. *The Art in Heaven project has been organised annually since 2004, to link creativity with Religious Education in schools. This year, around 18 000 students took part.

Probably the loudest cheers of the night were reserved for thespians from Bottisham Village College as they took to the professional stage as part of the UK’s largest celebration of youth drama.

The summer production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which delighted audiences last term, transferred from a marquee on the Principal’s Lawn to Cambridge’s Mumford Theatre for the Shakespeare Schools Festival .

And the audience loved the condensed version of the Bard’s most popular comedy which brought an evening of Shakespeare to a cheerful and entertaining end.

Festival director Chris Grace said of the BVC performance “This was so enjoyable – lovely comedy, good storytelling, such energy. It was simply done because you made the words matter.”

There was particular praise for the Mechanicals as they performed their excruciating version of Pyramus and Thisbe to a bemused on-stage audience and for the Fairies for the way they stayed focussed and in role throughout.

BVC was one of four schools performing on the night and one of 700 schools nationwide that will be taking part in the festival which works in partnership with the National Theatre. It aims to unlock young people’s potential on the stage and engage with Shakespeare as well as encouraging such skills as teamwork, leadership, confidence and self-discipline.

Drama teacher Mr Woodman said: “This was the first night of the Festival that takes place around the UK and the festival director said he felt that we had set a very high standard for others to follow. The audience reaction to ours was overwhelming. It was clear that

the organisers chose our production to provide a rousing end to the show that evening.” se our production to provide a rousing end to the show that evening.”

“Being a part of such an astonishingly effective performance has provided theatrical knowledge for GCSE drama students and those considering theatre.

Many students like me were able to experience a professional atmosphere whilst performing at the Mumford Theatre and many were provided with a real sense of on-stage techniques.

Working as a cast taught us just how important it is to value and respect each and every character and has truly left us with some magnificent memories.

We would like to thank Mr Woodman, Miss Pinny and all of the other schools who performed, for all of their hard work they put in, in order for the night to have been a success.”

James Chambers “Good Luck” and “Break a leg” are the words that mutter through the wings.

The supportive smiles from the other schools, but the huge applause from the last performance causes you to bite your lip. But once you step onto that stage you feel alive! The words tumble out of your mouth and the gasps collided with the laughs spur you on until that final scene when you hold your friends hand and take a bow.

The Shakespeare Schools Festival (SSF) has put the words of Shakespeare in a new and accessible edition once again.

With workshops to develop your play, and the helpful tips before you step on stage, make one nervous performer feel at home.

The SSF has made me realise that “we are such stuff as dreams are made of!”

This October, Year 11 art students went for a day out to the V&A in London, a fascinating museum that specializes in collections ranging from architecture to theatre and performance, as well as intriguing cultural art from China, the Middle East, Japan and South Asia. The collections also come in many shapes and forms such as jewellery, sculptures and textiles.

While we were there the Ball Gown Exhibition was showing a selection of exotic ball gowns that covered over 60 years of ‘a strong British design tradition that continues to flourish’.

The collection included extravagant evening dresses worn by celebrities, royalty and actresses and also a metallic leather dress made especially for the exhibition.

The V&A Museum is split into many sections and has three floors of artwork, so there’s much to look at and many weird and wonderful collections - I even found a pair of medieval socks! But, the best bit for me was Japan, there were full sets of armour (including beards), dice-sized figures of Gods and animals even a snail and a squid, but also showing some rather peculiar modern strands of fashion which looked... interesting.

On the behalf of Year 11 I think it’s fair to say that we enjoyed ourselves, and if you’re a Year 10 thinking of going on this trip next year, I would thoroughly recommend it as it is a great help and inspiration for ideas for coursework.

Also, thank you to Mrs Wilkins, Miss Price, Mrs Stringer and Miss Quigley for putting up with us ole ol e da day! y! for the whole olai ol aine ne Xanthe Polaine

Former professional footballers urged Year 9 students to kick out racism when they spent a day at BVC. Paul Mortimer, Osei Sankofa, Anwar Uddin and Clint Easton came to Bottisham as representatives of Show Racism the Red Card, an antiracist educational charity established in 1996. The organisation aims to fight discrimination and prejudice using soccer role models to present an anti-racist programme in schools. The players led workshops looking at the causes and consequences of racism and the various forms racism can take. They also explored how to challenge racism and develop good relationships with people of all faiths, cultures and nationalities.

The day included a football and fitness session emphasising teamwork, and a closing assembly to reflect on the day.

Mrs Noakes, Head of Learning for year 9, said the day had been a great success.

“I felt they managed to get across quite complex ideas in an interesting way. I think the students had a good experience and perhaps it was made even more relevant by current news stories,” she said.

“The day covered a lot of areas such as racism against different ethnic groups – travellers, immigrants and asylum seekers – and the reasons why people choose to come to the UK. There was a very good session on the various stages that lead to racism.

“There was quite a buzz among the students even in the corridors at break and lunch,” she said.

“They asked some really good questions especially during the closing assembly where they had a chance to directly question the footballers about what it felt like to be on the receiving end of racist abuse.”

Flashmob in Cambridge!

Debating …... …… is not just verbal warfare, nor is the winner the speaker who shouts the loudest or has the last word.

In fact it is more like a competitive sport dependent upon skill, structure and style. A debate requires passion, emotion; also a motion, the statement you wish to debate.

There’s a lot you can gain from debating. Your confidence grows and you learn to be spontaneous and think on your feet by responding to whatever the opposition proposes.

Constructing your argument is a skill transferrable to many subjects, making you a better all-rounder.

If you want to learn the recognised skill of debating with like-minded people in an atmosphere that is relaxed and friendly (at least until the debating starts!), come along to E2 on Tuesdays between 3.15pm and 4.15. Or, if you have a fixed idea that all debates are enthusiastic, animated, intellectual and fierce, pay us a visit as well – we’d hate to prove you wrong!

Paige Street 11.6

Shoppers in Cambridge were surprised when a flash mob, included students from Bottisham VC, launched into a musical routine to promote the anti-smoking message. The event, organised as part of the countywide Kick Ash initiative, may have looked impromptu but it came after a hard morning’s work practising with a professional dancer.

Sporting white caps with the Kick Ash logo, 60 youngsters took to the street to both entertain, as they danced to Kung Fu Fighting, and tell onlookers that they were proud to be ‘smoke free’. Diane Fenner, of Cambridgeshire PSHE Service, said it was the young people themselves who came up with the idea of a flash mob. (Flash mob = is a group of people who assemble suddenly in a place, perform an unusual and seemingly pointless act for a brief time, then disperse, often for the purposes of entertainment, satire, and artistic expression).

“Their energy and enthusiasm was fantastic. Passers-by were, as you can imagine, surprised yet appreciative of their efforts,” she said.

“The event it raised the profile of Kick Ash, showed young people in a very positive light - supporting good causes and showed their commitment and discipline.

“The effect is cumulative keeping the profile of Kick Ash high and taking it out of school and into the community.

It gained a lot of parental support.”

Grace Zeid

She added that feedback from Bottisham participants was that although initially apprehensive about working with students from other schools they learnt that they could be confident and mingle. They also overcame their fears of performing in public and for many of them being in a flashmob was a personal goal.

*Kick Ash, a smoking prevention mentoring programme, was piloted at BVC before being rolled out in Cambridgeshire. Student mentors act as role models and work with other young people as well as agencies such as trading standards and Camquit.

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75th Anniversary Celebrations

Bottisham Village College Timeline 1937 - 2012

On September 14th, 500 white balloons soaring by the puffy clouds of a blue autumnal sky marked a very special year in Bottisham Village College’s history.

The balloon launch, by the College’s youngest students, was one of a series of events ensuring that the 75th anniversary has been celebrated in the style such an occasion warrants.

There was great excitement as the balloons, all bearing the emblematic World Tree logo, rose into the air and started their journey just as the Year 7s were beginning their journey at Bottisham.

1937 The College is opened by Oliver Stanley, the President of the Board of Education. The Warden is Mr. D.W. Phillips. There are 8 other teachers, and 211 pupils.

1940 Mr. D.W. Phillips leaves to fight in the war. He is replaced as Warden by Mr. G.D. Edwards. The uniform is abolished during the war years.

1944 The school, becomes a Secondary Modern. At the age of 11, pupils sit a test (called the 11 plus). If they fail the test (about 80% do) they stay at Bottisham; if they pass it then they go to the grammar schools in Cambridge.

1946 Uniform is re-introduced but is not strictly enforced.

1954 The College has 350 pupils.

1966 The science labs and gymnasium are built.

1973 The school leaving age is raised to 16.

1974 The school becomes a comprehensive. There is a large expansion in the number of staff and, over the next five years, in the size of the college. The primary school moves out of its buildings to a new site in Bottisham. Its old buildings are taken over by the college.

1975 The sports hall is built.

1982 A roof costing £90,000 is built for the swimming pool. The local community raises most of the money.

1987 GCSEs are introduced. The college celebrates its 50th anniversary.

1990 The National Curriculum is introduced.

1995 There is a huge building programme at the college. A new maths block, science rooms and the library are built.

1998 The swimming pool burns down, but is re-built.

2004 The current principal, Kate Evans became Warden (Principal).

2009/10 A new block is built that mirrors the original semi-circular buildings of the school. This new building includes a new suite of English classrooms as well as a new purpose built SEN unit. Along with the new buildings, the Warden’s lawn is landscaped and a new sculpture designed and constructed by the local g is based. sculptor Matt Sanderson. This is the World Tree on which our new logo an Academy.

Acad Ac adem emy. y.

2011 Bottisham Village College becomes an 2012 The College celebrates its 75th Anniversary. versary.

Since 1937, some 100,000 people have worked or studied at Bottisham – that’s more than could be seated in the vast London Olympics stadium (capacity 80,000)! Some of these attended the Anniversary Open Day, meeting up with old friends and enjoying a cup of tea and anniversary cupcake! They were invited to record their memories either on video or by writing in a memory book. There were historical tours of the College, led by assistant principal Mr Gee and plenty of entertainment provided by students “busking” round the site. Hall 2 proved a popular destination with huge numbers of photographs and documents on show from the College archives, featuring faces and events through the years.

The ceremonial part of the day was the dedication of a cherry tree by Principal, Mrs Evans and the Chair of Governors, Mr Hodgson, which took place by the World Tree sculpture. The tree has now been planted at the front of the College as a permanent reminder of a truly historic occasion.

Guests were invited to contribute a hope, dream or wish for the future. These were written on paper leaves and displayed on the sculpture together with those already completed by Year 7 students. The leaves have been put in the archives with many of the College’s other memories.

It was certainly a day to remember and one that reflected the vision of the College’s founder, Henry Morris, of a school open to all.

‘‘The open day was an overwhelming success in every respect’’

“We were joined by literally hundreds and hundreds of visitors. It was such a pleasure to see our students, once again, being wonderful ambassadors for their school ool and to witness ex-students and staff meeting up after many years” Kate Evans

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How do you spend your Tuesday evenings?

Homework? Facebook? TV? You are missing something! Every fortnight, between 8pm and 9pm, Samuel Weinberger and Kit Turner broadcast a radio show, The Proof, from the locality building next to the Main Hall. We play all your favourite tracks, but as well as that we showcase local talent such as Ellie Raine and Lewis Hall and the StayCations. We have articles on noteworthy artists and the English language and, of course, there is Kit’s Comedy Corner. He casts his satirical eye over topics as diverse as technology, topiary and the state of the British economy. It’s what your Tuesdays have been missing!

Tune in by going to http://www.youthoria.org/c21, clicking the ‘Connect’ button and opening the streaming file in VLC or Windows Media Player.

Samuel Weinberger

Year 7 Castle Competition Year 7 students proved they know a thing or two about what makes the strongest impenetrable castle.

Once again standards were supremely high in the annual competition set by the history faculty, which asks students to apply what they have learned this term to make an attack proof fortress.

But the eventual winner was Sophia Abbott who received her prize in an assembly.

“We had brilliant castles this year! The brief was the same as last year but they had half term to work on them this year and really seem to have taken to the challenge“ said history teacher Miss Richards.

“They all look like they are the product of hours of work - I would buy Sophia’s if I saw it in a museum shop!” she said.

In joint second place were Tom Stevens, Verity Routley and Emilie Fox-Teece.

“They were too good and I couldn’t pick between them!” said Miss Richards.

Other noteworthy entries came from Oliver Grove and Joe Irving, Lisa Lukavsky, Conor Gipp, Abbie Hartley and Neev Sweeney.

Visit By

Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award trip to Norfolk Students got a taste of things to come when they took part in a practice weekend expedition in October for their bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The weather was sunny but cold as the 100 intrepid young people trekked through the Norfolk countryside and camped overnight.

The assessed expedition takes place next April. In addition to the bronze, more than 40 students have signed up for the silver award.

To gain an award, participants have to complete four sections: volunteering, skills, physical and expedition.

Author Alex Scarrow is the author of the popular Time Rider series; a set of science fiction books about time travel.

Alex gave a very enigmatic performance on stage and totally captured his audience. In an extremely theatrical way Alex talked through the essence of his books and the possibilities of an altered future. He also talked about his own personal journey to becoming a writer and his other careers as rock guitarist and computer games designer.

Many of the year 7s took the opportunity to buy one of his signed books.

More details on Alex and his books can be found at: http://www.time-riders.co.uk/pages/the-book http://www.time-riders.co.uk/pages/the-author

“I think everyone had fun at D of E - it might have been a lot of hard work but we all managed to cope. With the group I was in whenever we got lost we managed to get back on track with our teamwork even though we didn’t know everybody in the group.

I think that this outstanding DofE weekend wouldn’t have been possible without staff who were willing enough to allow this weekend to happen.

I definitely recommend that you try DofE in Year 10 because it turned out to be so much fun in the end, and everybody should have the chance to experience something new.”

Ewen Jepson 10.1

Miss Maclean

365 nights under the stars Year 11 Geography Trip Geographers spent an October weekend in Norfolk, collecting data for their GCSE studies into coastal landforms. They were based at the Kingswood Centre near Cromer and used the hi-tech equipment available to carry out quality fieldwork.

There was also an opportunity to use the centre’s computer facilities and take part in a varied programme of extra-curricular activities offered on site.

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What a year it has been for Rob Challinor! The intrepid year 11 student has successfully completed a personal challenge of spending 365 nights under the stars.

The outdoor sleep-athon began last August. While the rest of us were tucked up snugly at home in our duvets, Rob was sleeping in a hammock in the garden, come rain, come sunshine, come wind, come hail, come snow, accompanied by his dog Duke.

And rather than moaning about the wet and the cold, Rob said he actually preferred sleeping out in the open.

Not only did he achieve his goal but in the process raised £3,900 for two charities of his choice – Magpas and the Child Brain Injury Trust.

On his last night in the hammock Rob had company – he was joined by a group of his friends who helped him celebrate his amazing achievement.

Proud mum Carol, PA to the Principal at BVC, said the challenge proved how determined and resilient Rob was.

And, she added, he was reluctant to move back into his bedroom.

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“I didn’t think he would move back into the house, but after meeting Ray Mears, who told him it was not good for his back as he is still growing, Rob decided that he would move back indoors and concentrate on his final year at school.

I must say, it is comforting to know that he is sleeping in the room next door when we go to sleep at night. Duke doesn’t like it very much, because he has to sleep in the boot room with our other dog, Kilo. Not quite as comfy as the warm space in the hammock,” she said.

And rather than resting on his laurels, Rob is already planning his next adventure – a long kayaking expedition.

The Candle Crew This year a group of Year 10 students have formed an enterprise group with the aim of developing a product, having a business plan and then making money with the intention of giving some to charities of their choice.

The group called themselves “The Candle Crew” and made bracelets and scented candles, which they sold at the Friends’ Christmas Market here, in school. Having spent £19.71 on materials they made £112.82 in sales and sold out of all their stock leaving them with an amazing profit of £93.11.

I’m sure you will all agree that this is a fabulous effort. Congratulations to all especially Milly Parry who did the bulk of the candle production - and they were amazing candles.

Other students involved were: Gemma Galletly, Maddy Wood, Ellen Groom, Grace Zeid, Jack Carter, Jack DeLeune, Jaina Hall, Amy Lake, Bea Loveridge, Sean Irving and Simi K-R. I’m sure they have all learnt something from the experience so far and may even continue their enterprise in the future after such a profitable beginning.

Mr Hall

EDL Year 7 Song Contest At the start of the year, the whole of Year 7 took part in a French song contest involving dance moves, costumes and, of course, high quality singing.

Each form group went for a different approach; some focused on the vocals whereas others busted out their best dance moves and props in an attempt to impress the rest of the school and take home the coveted title of “song contest champions 2012”.

The songs were recorded and sent off to the rest of the college to vote for their favourite. After a nail-biting final vote, it was 7.6 who ended up winning with a combination of brilliant voices, dancing and inventive use of the French flag. All forms deserve great credit for the efforts and much fun was had by all.

Angus Logan 7.6

Year 9 trip to St John’s College Year 9 recently went on a history trip to St John’s College Old Library to see the Thomas Clarkson exhibition because one of the first big pieces of work Year 9 students undertake in history is an investigation into Thomas Clarkson and his writing on the Middle Passage.

The Middle Passage was the name given to the transport of slaves from West Africa to the Americas between the 16th and 19th centuries.

Thomas Clarkson was a founder of the Society for the Abolition of Slavery in England in the 18th century and campaigned for decades to end the slave trade, which he achieved in 1807, and slavery in the British Empire, which was achieved in 1833. Thomas Clarkson first encountered the Middle Passage at St John’s College. Each year, the University of Cambridge held an essay competition which Clarkson had won in his second year of study. He was determined to win it again in his third year, and learned that the topic was ‘Is it right to make men slaves against their wills?’ This led to a year of extra-curricular research into the Middle Passage, the winning of the essay prize, and a decision to spend a lifetime working to end slavery.

At St John’s College, Clarkson met another student, William Wilberforce, who would go on to campaign against slavery in the House of Commons and persuade parliament to pass the laws to end slavery. Many of Wilberforce’s speeches were based on painstaking research undertaken

by Clarkson.

St John’s College have a number of papers and artefacts belonging to Clarkson and Wilberforce which they have put on display in their Old Library. A small group of students from BVC were invited to see the exhibition before it went on display to the general public, as well as some of the other treasures of the library. We were fascinated to see Clarkson’s diaries recording his fear on trying to investigate slave ships in Bristol, his handwritten notes on the Bill to end the slave trade, his famous drawing of slaves packed into the hold of a slave ship in its first edition and his famous wax seal promoting the end of slavery.

The Old Library itself was an impressive sight with the distinctive smell of old books! We were able to see the largest book the library contains (a medieval music book, carefully copied onto vellum) and the smallest (a tiny 16th century book to show off the wonders of the printing press, measuring about 10mm x 7mm). It was a unique opportunity to see very rare items and a very good afternoon.

Miss Hammond

Dutch Exchange

Children In Need

Visiting the Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam was one of the highlights of a trip to Holland as part of the College’s Dutch exchange programme – we are linked with the Anna Van Rijn College. Staff and students were given a talk about the Frank family and why they ended up in the house and then were free to look round. It was very thought provoking to be in the actual rooms where the family lived behind that famous bookcase, seeing the loft room that was Peter’s, the kitchen and bathroom (no toilets could be flushed during the day for fear of the office workers below hearing them).

The group also went to the Nemo Science Centre which was very “hands on”. It is spread over four floors with some excellent activities to take part in, for example being a mad scientist for a few hours!

They also had a day in school discussing Human Rights and participating in an art lesson.

Participating students spent some time with their host families before travelling back to Bottisham.

Throwing cold wet sponges at teachers on a on a bracing November day! It could only mean one thing - Children in Need 2012!

This satisfyingly soggy - and strangely popular - activity was just one of a host of events organised by the College’s Student Leadership Team to raise money for vulnerable and disadvantaged children throughout the UK. The motto of the day was “Show your spots, let’s raise lots” - and SLT did just that, their hard work paying off to the tune of an astonishing £1,774.53!

Thanks to them, the day was jam-packed with money-making activities including a Year 7 Fair with a comprehensive collection of stalls and games, a Pudsey Rocks Out music concert featuring singers and instrumentalists from all year groups and a Guess the Pudsey competition (three brave members of staff donning the Pudsey costume during the day).

The now traditional staff versus students basketball match was as competitive as ever, resulting in a narrow victory for the younger generation!

There were cakes for sale and plenty of people rattling buckets round the College to keep the pennies pouring in.

“SLT did a fabulous job of organising activities and have raised a lot of money for good causes,” said assistant principal, Mrs Rankine.

Non-uniform day for Sri Lanka The first non-uniform day of the year proved profitable, raising £989.97 for BVC’s partner school in Sri Lanka, Ranna Maha Vidyalaya (Ranna MV), a large school in the south of the country.

Bottisham is one of more than 100 schools throughout the UK to have joined Adopt Sri Lanka (ASL) Twins, a programme set up in the wake of the 2004 tsunami. The partnership is now in its 5th year. During this time the two schools have collaborated on numerous curriculum projects and exchanged work in art and geography as well as letters, poems and recipes.

Currently KS3 students are involved in a fashion project with the aim of exchanging work with Ranna MV at the end of the term. The money raised will enable the Sri Lankan school to buy resources to enhance the teaching and learning of English

Visitors from Kazakhstan BVC welcomed eight educationalists from Kazakhstan on a fact-finding visit to Britain. The party was made up of teachers, principals and directors of education who spent two days in lessons, tours and organised activities.

“Twenty two new schools have been developed in Kazakhstan called ‘centres of excellence’ acting as pilot schools, initiating and developing school improvement strategies and sharing successes with other schools in Kazakhstan,” said assistant principal Mrs Rankine.

“The University of Cambridge has a large part to play in this reformation and as a SUPERschool partner we are one of three schools who have been asked to support their work, with a particular focus on action research.”

This new partnership will continue next year when colleagues from English schools will visit Kazakhstan schools to support further development.

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Extended Schools News

More news...........

In addition to the usual favourites such as Textiles Club, Debating Society and Orchestra, there will be a number of exciting new activities taking place next term. The infamous SIN Cru will be offering classes in street moves from hip hop party steps to bBoyin and battle time. Other new classes include: Natural Forms Digital Photography, Silk Painting, Choir and the greatly anticipated ‘Black Adder Goes Forth’ production.

For all the details you need on what is on offer and how to get involved, make sure you take a look at the Extended Schools brochure which will be available during the first week of term

SPORTS NEWS

Bottisham musicians have been praised for the part they played in a special anniversary celebration for one of the College’s Trust partners. The group of ten singers and instrumentalists performed at the John Lewis in Cambridge to celebrate five years since the store opened. The company have thanked the students for helping to make the day so special.

“The performers were amazing and a very good advert for BVC,” said Sarah Ingram from the company’s PR and marketing department. “I told them that if they were the result of John Lewis’ 2009 music awards, it was money very well spent.”

The students were videoed in performance and one of them, Annapurna Austin, was interviewed as she designed the store’s Christmas lights following success in a competition in 2007.

“The students were fantastic and a real credit to the College,” said arts development officer, Mr Minchin.

“We wanted to take part in this celebration as John Lewis has had such an active role in the College as part of the Bottisham Education Partnership and also through their 2009 music awards. These enabled us to organise the first arts partnership event with primary schools at the West Road Concert Hall,” he said.

Fifteen students were lucky enough to visit and take part in the annual Physics at Work exhibition at Cambridge University’s Cavendish Laboratory.

The primary aim of the exhibition is to encourage the next generation of scientists by showcasing the many and varied ways in which physics is used in everyday life.

Students spent time watching and participating in a range of interactive demonstrations of the practical applications of physics and there was time to ask questions.

Exhibitors included Rolls Royce and the British Antarctic Survey and subjects ranged from astrophysics to brain imaging.

The internationally recognised hip hop arts collective SIN Cru is coming to Bottisham in the New Year to pass on some of its moves.

The Cambridge-based group is running a ten-week dance course at the College, which promises to be energetic and exciting as it covers everything from hip hop party moves to B-boying (breakdancing).

Classes are open to students in all years and of all abilities.

SIN Cru stands for Strength in Numbers. The group works in dance, visual arts, theatre, film and music. It provides workshops, performs on stage and collaborates with arts schemes and schools on creative and learning projects.

“I am really excited that we have such a well-known and truly amazing dance company coming to work with Bottisham students and hope we’ll generate a great love for the style,” said Miss Pinny, head of dance and drama.

HOCKEY

PARALYMPIC VISIT

All years have had a busy and successful season. Clubs have been regularly attended by large numbers, and the help and support offered by our sports leaders has been very welcome.

The levels of skill, fitness and understanding demonstrated by our students have significantly increased.

With nearly all of our inter-school fixtures at home, we had the opportunity to put out 2 or 3 teams per year group on a weekly basis.

The year 11s and 10s rose to the challenge of playing as an U16 team, and welcomed the opportunity to play their tournament on astroturf at Linton VC. The highlight of the term, proved to be the mixed match played against Chesterton CC. The year 9 team had a very successful season, which culminated in them winning their respective group in the District Schools Tournament and then playing in the finals the following week on the astro turf at the Stephen Perse School. They lost their first game to St. Mary’s and then went on to draw with St. Mary’s finishing 3rd overall in the district.

The year 8s produced an equally impressive performance in their District tournament at Swavesey VC, in spite of the poor weather conditions with the ‘A’ team finishing in 4th place overall.

The year 7 District tournament was held at Bottisham VC, which gave us the opportunity to enter 3 teams. The girls all played at least 5 games of Hockey and displayed superb team work throughout. All teams should be congratulated on their efforts, with a special mention to the ‘B’ and ‘C’ teams who finished 3rd and 4th respectively in the ‘B’ team tournament.

In the first week of the new term two very excited groups descended on the Olympic Park in Stratford to be part of the wonderful Paralympic games. Both groups were able to look round the park and witness an afternoon of the mayhem that is Wheelchair rugby. One of the lucky students exclaimed that it had been ‘the best day of my life’.

NETBALL

A visiting theatre group encouraged Year 8 students to “love their stuff “ rather than throw it away.

The performance of Love your Stuff by Enact Solutions was the highlight of a PSHE Day, which emphasised recycling, reusing and cutting down on waste.

The presentation, commissioned by Cambridgeshire County Council, gave plenty of ideas of how to make new things out of old from swapping video games to updating clothes and was designed to inspire young people to see the benefits of re-use.

As the current Cambridge and District Champions, the year 9 girls qualified for the County Championships, played in Peterborough against the very best teams from all the schools (both state and public schools). The outcome was excellent with Bottisham finishing in fourth place in Cambridgeshire out of the 12 schools who qualified by winning or being runners-up in their District Competitions. This is highest place that a team from Bottisham has achieved in this competition. Well done to all concerned.

Information for Parents from Student Support • • • •

Students are expected to have their mobile phones switched off during school at all times. Parents should not attempt to contact their children by phone. Student Support are always happy to take messages from parents and pass onto students.

Students should ensure that they have packed all they need for the day at college i.e. PE kit, cooking ingredients etc. Student Support are receiving an increasing amount of equipment left by parents for delivery to students.

Students should not be dropped off in the staff car park in the mornings.

Students must only travel on the bus for which they have a bus pass. Student Support do not issue temporary passes for students to visit friends after school.

01223 811121

The Sports Centre has a number of exciting new activities coming in January 2013 as well as a range of New Year offers availabe Swimming Lessons Take advantage of our 20% discount on all Junior and Adult group swimming lessons. To be booked and paid before January 7 2013 Kettlebell Kettlebells course commencing Thursday 10th January 2013.

Beginners at 6.00pm and Advanced at 7.00pm. Contact reception for more details and booking.

Water Walkerz Why not book your very own private party or look out for the special fun sessions in the children’s holiday timetables!

Available from 8 years to adult

Ballet Totz Starting in January, Ballet Totz for 3 to 5 year olds on Tuesdays at 4.00pm.

Kidz Dance Junior dance lessons for age range 6 to 11 year olds on Tuesdays at 5.00pm.

Gym Membership January special - Join our three month membership scheme and receive a 20% discount and free induction with your membership Bootcamp Sign up for two consecutive Bootcamps and receive the second camp half price.

Please also look out at the sports centre and call in to check out what other New Year offers you could take advantage of.

New fitness classes also coming soon!

Thank you

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Bottisham Sports Centre www.bottishamvc.org/sportscentre

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SPORTS NEWS RUGBY As ever, the rugby season has seen large numbers of students from across the school coming to training sessions and representing the school in fixtures and tournaments. For the lower school students in years 7, 8 and 9 the culmination of their work are the District competitions held at Cambridge Rugby Club against all the other local schools. Bottisham entered A and B teams at year 7 and 8, and had enough boys in the year 9 ‘A’ squad to replace fifteen with another fifteen if required!

The year 7 boys were enthusiastic in their play, and despite lacking a bit of size (one school they played had two year 7 boys who were over six feet tall!) their control and understanding enabled the ‘A’ team to come a creditable seventh, and the ‘B’ team fifth (out of thirteen).

The year 8 team had some very strong opposition in their group phase, but with good handling, evasive running and strong tackling they won through. The squad has a lot of depth and a large number of players were substituted in rotation. A good game in the semi final resulted in a close defeat to Chesterton, and a draw in the play off meant that they were equal third overall. The ‘B’ team were runners up in their competition.

The year 9 team played some excellent controlled rugby throughout the day. Against some very good sides, they

Don’t forget that there are opportunities throughout the year to participate in school sport.

Table tennis, badminton, fencing, netball, triathlon, basketball, fitness (including rowing, general training, boot camp & aerobics) are available every week after school for all students at the moment. You can also swim in the lovely pool or go to the Bodytone gym (14+ )

Mr Alvey says…..

“The year 2012 will live long in the memory of those of us who have been fortunate enough to witness and be part of the magnificent achievement that was the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games. The whole nation was transfixed during those four weeks by the spectacle of thousands of young (some not so young) people from all over the world competing in the true Olympic spirit, supported by the wonderful volunteers. As Nelson Mandela once said ‘ Sport has the power to unite people in a way that little else does’.

The number of Bottisham students who get involved in sport as participants, officials, volunteers and leaders both in school and out of school is very pleasing. Think if you could do more than you do, and see the P.E. staff if you want some advice. Have a great Christmas.”

The Victorious Year Nine Rugby Team. Cambridge and District Schools’ Champions 2012. defended strongly, and were quick and elusive in attack. The forwards provided quick ball for backs who ran, passed and kicked very effectively. A great afternoon of rugby saw Bottisham crowned District Champions without conceding a try!

The year 10 and 11 teams were limited by a lack of local opposition. However the year ten team won against Soham VC and the year eleven team against Chesterton C.C. Both played some excellent rugby, with strong running and good support play leading to two very good victories. Well done to all who participated.

CROSS COUNTRY Hundreds of students achieved a personal best time round the legendary Bottisham ‘Sewers’ run, done as a small part of the PE curriculum, to challenge the students at their level. It is not easy! Some students follow this up by attending Cross Country club after school (regularly attended by more nearly sixty runners, including some staff).This year has seen two school records , both set in the same run. Congratulations to : Luke Crisp 9.44 minutes (Year 9 boys’ record) Alice Newcombe 10.14 minutes (Year 9 girls’ record) On Thursday 29th November, 54 students represented the school in the District Schools’ Championships at Royston. It was a beautiful afternoon, and the hills make for a tough course (as usual). Out of 17 schools participating we had the following results: Year 7 boys 3rd Year 7 girls 2nd Year 8/9 boys 1st Year 8/9 girls 3rd Year 10/11 boys 4th Year 10/11 girls 3rd Overall, out of 17 schools Bottisham came 2nd, narrowly beaten this year by Linton VC. Congratulations to them, and to all the Bottisham students who gave their all, as usual. All runners performed well, and there were some notable individual performances.

Maisie Snaith yr7 girls 1st, Edward McCann yr7 boys 3rd, Alice Newcombe yr8/9 girls 1st, Belinda Dow yr 8/9 girls 3rd , Luke Crisp yr8/9 boys 5th, Ashley Brown yr8/9 boys 9th, Daniel Blocksage yr10/11 boys 16th.

All these students have qualified to represent the district in the County Schools Championships to be held at King’s Ely School on Saturday 19th January 2013.

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