The Veseyan Winter 2021 by BVGS

BISHOP VESEY'S GRAMMAR SCHOOL INSPIRATION AND EXCELLENCE

THE VESEYAN WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

HEAD'S FOREWORD WRITTEN BY MR ROBSON, HEADTEACHER The ancient wisdom of ‘counting your blessings’ is sage advice in this Covid-19 era. The Veseyan recognises just some of those blessings, which are fundamental to the mission, vision and values of Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School. Our School nurtures a wonderful community of young people (p16-18) from year 7 (p14-15) to year 13. They take seriously our Vesey curriculum (p1-11) with its emphasis on scholarship and community. They are part of a warm, outward-looking and supportive community celebrating and promoting diversity and equality, actively anti-discrimination (p5-9). They engage with the co-curricular provision of the school, where we develop students of excellent character (p12-13,19,20-23). Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School is never inward looking. We want to develop responsible global citizens who want to make the world a better place. There is no better example of that than the work of our Charity team this term. (p25) Another important blessing is that we have a community of people around this school, who are willing us on, supporting us and encouraging us: from the governors and the members to the PTFA to the OVA to our corporate partners and of course our parents. Just look at the lunch recently, which raised £5,000 for the school. Thank you Heidi, Karl Claire and the team for making this happen. (p26)

Then we have the blessing of the staff, who have worked so hard this term to support our students. They are an able group and we are lucky to have them with us. I have to single out Mr Buxton, our Director of Music, who pulled off a Christmas miracle, live streaming our concerts at very short notice. A couple of staff are moving on – we wish them well and thank them for their support for the School (p27). Finally, we have the blessing of history. We are a School that every day builds upon the successes of previous generations of staff, students and parents. Old Veseyans of every vintage we salute you and we hope you enjoy some snippets of OV news (p27-36). By the way, Old Veseyans, it would help us both environmentally and financially, if you would consider receiving the Veseyanin digital form rather than a paper copy. Email Natalie Harris n.harris@bishopveseys.bham.sch.uk if you would like to do that. So with our Vesey blessings duly counted, I wish you and your family the blessing of every happiness and good health for this Christmas period and a happy new year!

BISHOP VESEY'S GRAMMAR SCHOOL INSPIRATION AND EXCELLENCE

VESEY COMMUNITY + OUTREACH CHRISTMAS CHEER | PG 24 CHARITY REPORT | PG 25 GLITZ AND GLAMOUR LUNCH | PG 26

OUR STAFF VALETES | PG 27

MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS This half term we have been lucky enough to be able to offer our sixth form mathematicians a number of extra opportunities: Senior UKMT Maths Challenge. On the 10th November both our lower and upper sixth further mathematicians took part in the senior maths challenge and we are pleased to be able to announce excellent results. Our pupils achieved 8 gold certificates, 17 silver certificates and 13 bronze certificates. Six students made it through to the Kangaroo round, with Moonis Haider and Ruben Vorster getting through to the Maths Olympiad. We eagerly await their results. AMSP Maths Day On the 17th November we had the AMSP visit us in school to provide our upper sixth mathematicians with two booster sessions. The first one, in the morning, saw our further mathematicians taking part in a graphical calculator workshop exploring how the graphical

calculator could be used to enhance their mathematical studies. The second session in the afternoon saw our 130 upper sixth mathematicians taking part in a problem solving session designed to improve their conceptual understanding and develop their problem solving skills for A level mathematics. Despite the challenging acoustics in the sports hall, the students were able to use a range of approaches to tackle a variety of different types of problems. We certainly hope that their skills were ‘boosted’ by this session. Maths Inspiration Lectures On the 19th November a number of our lower sixth mathematicians attended the Maths Inspiration Lectures in Birmingham. It was great to once more be able to attend these lectures in person. The lectures this year were on ‘The Magic Maths of Medicine’, ‘Puzzling Surprises’ and ‘The Sacred Geometry of Chance’ and were given by a range of top scientists and mathematicians. It is always inspirational to hear about the real life application of mathematics.

PSYCHOLOGY Psychology ‘A’ level has been a part of the Vesey curriculum for almost two decades. It continues to be a popular choice taken typically by over 40 students per year. What is the secret of its enduring popularity with students? I met with the Upper Sixth to find out why. Here is what they said: “Psychology is fascinating because it explores how your own brain works. It provides theories as to why we behave in certain ways.” “It is so important to understand how people’s mental health is being impacted by the pandemic.” “I am interested in the different ways children attach to their parents and how things can go wrong in this regard.” “It helps me understand a family member who lives with OCD and the everyday struggles they endure.” Students are also very complimentary about the Psychology ‘A’ level learning experience: 1

Learning Comes to Life

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Learning Comes to Life

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

“The teacher ensures you are always worked hard. It is helpful that there is always such a detailed consideration of theory and how it connects with research. This gives you an excellent grounding in the subject.” To conclude, the students are huge advocates for ‘A’ level Psychology: “It is more than a subject. It makes you think about what you do. It gives you a life-long insight and helps you become a more perceptive person, something which will enhance both your personal and working life.”

COMPUTER SCIENCE The BEBRAS competition is a national competition where students from primary and secondary schools compete to complete the problems and logic puzzles as quickly and as accurately as possible. BVGS has had the most successful year ever with 41 students achieving a score in the top 10% of scores nationally. Students collected their certificates from Mr Kirk, Head of Computing who commended them on their success and invited them to part in the next stage of the competition which is the Oxford University Computing Challenge. Success in the next round will see 20 students invited to the final round which in previous years has taken place at Hertford College, Oxford. Students have been invited to practice for the OUCC using the official website at https://oucc.uk/ where a range of challenges for each year group are available to prepare for the competition in February.

Congratulations to Luke Chown (11R), James Ashwood (9G), Alex Borg (7R) and Muhammad Rizvi (7G - not pictured) who were awarded commendations for achieving the top score in their respective competitions for Seniors (14-16 year olds), Intermediates (12-13 year olds and Juniors (10-11 year olds). Alex and Muhammad deserve particular recognition for scoring a perfect 200 points out of 200 in the junior competition. Only 95 students nationally out of 87,115 entries scored perfect marks so it is a real credit to BVGS to have 2 of the 95 students in the same year group.

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY A level Design and Technology students are entering the prestigious F1 in schools competition in 2022. The challenge is to form a formula one team, design, make and race a car and present technical data, business plans and team identity in an international competition. Teams start with regional rounds and then, if successful move forward to the national and international stages. On the 8th of December members of the team attended an information gathering session organised by Aston University racing team. Pupils gained further insight into the rules and expectations of the competition, as well as speaking with third year degree students who shared how this competition can equip them with skills and knowledge for university and future careers in engineering. Wish us luck!

MS BOWEN

ECONOMICS

Economics has been a key subject on the Sixth Form curriculum for many years. From 2018, we have offered GCSE Economics, which has been a popular choice with students. As we prepare our students to be global citizens, Economics is of critical importance. It covers every area of our lives, from year 9 reflecting on Mr Sunak's latest budget, to how the environmental changes we all face will transform our economy. Economics also throws a stark light on the inequality in the world: Year 13 have been learning about the pay gaps in the developed world and the vast divide between the developed and the developing world. If you care about people and justice, Economics is for you! 3

Learning Comes to Life

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Learning Comes to Life

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

LIBRARY Since September the library has been as busy as ever. Now that the school day is different with two breaks and two lunches it has taken some getting used to by Mrs Ward and myself! Before school we are open from 8am – 8.15am on a Thursday - and after school until 4.20pm. Both of these sessions are also really busy. Chess remains an important part of the day as well as loaning and returning books, completing school work and meeting up with friends. Covid protocols continue in the library. Books are still quarantined. We have no jigsaws out and the piano is not on yet. Hopefully these will return in the near future as both are popular activities in the library. We are keeping to our 4 books to loan at once policy. Our book catalogue – Oliver – is now available to view from home so that everyone can see what we have and if it is available. Students have a link on their year group Teams channel. Also the reserving of books continues with an online form available or just by a Teams message to Mrs Ward or myself. We have had two fantastic author visits covering all of KS3 this term – Bali Rai and Chris Bradford. Exciting days for sure and both authors are advocates of reading for pleasure. Have you collected your Chris Bradford books from the library? Hopefully Alex Wheatle is coming on World Book Day 2022 and we are very excited about that for sure. We have delivered the ‘Bookbuzz’ books to year 7 this week in an English lesson. There has been a long wait for them to arrive but students have their choices and can enjoy them for themselves. The most popular choice this year was 'Fire Boy' followed by 'Survival in Space' and finally 'Wonderscape'. We have a full set in the library which students can borrow, great for year 8 too.

The library door is always open

In the library we couldn’t manage without our student librarians. They step up and man the library desk issuing, returning and reserving books and helping out students. The rota is now full. So we say a massive thank you to you for your service and dedication to BVGS library: Senior Librarians: Aditya Muthukumar and Ben White Student Librarians: Yusuf Ahmed, Isam Hussain, Haseeb Abid, Sanjay Ashok, Umar Bashir, Nirup Gajulapalli and Danvir Bungar Trainee Student Librarians: Aneesh Sarkar, William Hao, Charles Chambers, Cathan Scott-Whitehouse, Arun Foxall, David Desta, William Mogg, Krish Budhiraja, Charlie Mogg, Arnav Athreya, Oliver Hook, Gabriel Cooney and Isaac Hoggarth. Anyone interested in becoming a student librarian should tell Mrs Ward or myself, and we will add you to the waiting list.

MISS BROWN ‘"As a student librarian, it’s not just scanning and stamping books. This role gives you a sense of responsibility and leadership, as for that moment you are behind the library desk, and you are in charge. Being a student librarian also adds to your experience because you learn how to issue books to people, which might be useful for future career interests. All in all, this role is very good, so I would urge anyone who likes being in charge and having a sense of responsibility to step up and get involved in being a student librarian for BVGS" - Aneesh Sarkar 8B 4

An example of a citizenship day was the Year 13 PSHE drop down day on Wednesday 8th December. Drop down days are when students come off their normal timetables and have a full day on PSHE activities. Students had the opportunity to engage with SELF-DEFENCE classes ran by Absolute Taekwon-do Association, where basic skills were taught to make our students feel safer and become more aware of their surroundings. In addition to this, students took part in relationships and sex education workshops ran by the School of Sexuality Education who are outstanding in their delivery of such content. The focus of these RSHE workshops was to explain the law and ethics around consent, including personal boundaries and how it’s our responsibility to seek consent. Additionally, teachers here at Vesey led some PSHE sessions on gender identity and sexuality and banking and finance. A particularly interesting session was on the importance of budgeting and saving, and routine money management. The day ended with students engaging with their usual games activities to ensure physical activity is not missed! If you have any questions about the workshops we run or have some input on how we can make our PSHE led days even better, please email a.orlandini@bishopveseys.bham.sch.uk (PSHE Co-ordinator). Your feedback is much appreciated.

MS ORLANDINI

Citizenship Visits

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Representation and Conversation

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

CONVERSATION & REPRESENTATION The BVGS community is made up of individuals each with varying life experiences. Below you will read of student-led initiatives which aim to embrace this diversity and learn together in order to enrich school and community life. Art by Daniel Poller (OV) 6

EQUALITY OFFICERS What is the role of the Equality Officers? As Equality Officers, our mission is to champion diversity across all levels of the school; to create the safest environment possible to allow students to excel and express themselves; and to educate pupils about the importance of respecting each other’s differences. How did you assume this role? It was advertised as position of responsibility on the Sixth Form Officer Team. A letter of application and interview with Ms Steadman, Head of Safeguarding, was required. The process was rigorous and formal. What do you hope to achieve? We hope to inspire students to challenge notions within society and to know that their voices are valued and of importance. We want students to be able to reflect on wider world issues and historical events, and as result encourage Veseyans to be more thoughtful and compassionate people. Instilling a sense of community and respect of one another is vital in promoting a safer school environment for all. When do you meet as Equality Officers and what events have taken place? We meet regularly on Wednesday mornings for weekly meetings. Currently, we are in the process of redesigning the equality boards and filling them with beautiful informative posters on littleknown minority figures.

We have presented assemblies to all years on Anti-Bullying Week, Trans- Awareness Week and Disability History Month. The students learnt about famous figures with hidden disabilities that had made immeasurable contributions to society such as Harriet Tubman, Lewis Carroll and Frida Kahlo, as well as transgender inspirations such as Marsha P Johnson. We are all members of the Heritage Society run by Blessing, which celebrated Black History Month this October with quizzes and food sales. Moreover, for the first time ever at Bishop Vesey’s, an LGBTQ+ society has been formed, which meets on a weekly basis on Wednesday lunchtimes. We have just had our Christmas Party with festive balloons and mince pies. Wishing you all a Happy Christmas!

TOBY WALTON, U6

HERITAGE SOCIETY The Heritage Society started in October as the Black History Month Committee. We meet weekly during lunch and we now have 24 members. One of our goals was to celebrate October: Black History Month. In our lunchtime meetings we brainstormed how we could go about this and shared our own interests in Black history. Throughout October we led the assemblies. Taziyah Davis (10G) sang Beyoncé’s song 'Freedom' live for every year group in school. My role in the assembly was to introduce our thematic focus of

Representation and Conversation

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Representation and Conversation

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

the month - The Forgotten Figures of History. Ellis McKenzie (U6II) informed the school of why and how black people have been forgotten in history and misrepresented in mainstream media, but he, like Anuraag Guha (8W) acknowledged the progress being made, such as Steve McQueen’s recent TV Mini Series 'Small Axe', based on the real-life experiences of London's West Indian community. Anuraag also focused on the contributions of black musicians from Tudor Britain like John Blanke all the way to the present day such as Rihanna and Randall Goosby. Students found the assemblies interesting and entertaining. Our school is making progress and that is emphasised in the many Curriculum developments. For example, in History students now study the Mali Empire in Year 7, the Empire and Benin bronzes in Year 8, and in Year 9 they study the Jamaican history from 1760-1865. As well as the assemblies, we had a KS3 Black History Month Quiz where gold house came first, with Purple and Blue House running in second and third place, respectively. We also ran an AfroCaribbean snack sale (funded by donations from Jennies Cash and Carry), raising a total of £180 for OSCAR Birmingham, which is a Sickle Cell Anemia and Thalassemia charity. . This is significant as these diseases mostly affect Black and Asian communities. Heritage Committee members also created and led PowerPoint presentations to be shown during form time on various topics such as The Haitian Revolution and The Brixton Uprisings. Having this committee in school is so vital as education is one of the steps towards a harmonious multicultural society. This group is also a testament to the values we pride ourselves in at Vesey as students are actively making the school environment a welcoming and anti-racist place. To explain our name and our focus, we started as the Black History Month Committee. We have now rebranded to the Heritage Society. This change means we are going to expand our focus not only to look at Black history, but also at Asian history and LGBTQ+ history, and many more histories that aren’t 'mainstream'. I think this is so important as as people need to see people, whether it be in literature, media or politics, who bear similarities to them, thus encouraging their own attainment and achievement. Currently, the team is making plans on how to make Black history 'assemblies' an all year round presence. We are also looking at celebrating South Asian Heritage Month and creating more educational activities and resources that are accessible for all year groups. This society is a passion project of mine, however, I do want it to be sustainable for the future Vesey generations. Therefore, all the Year 13’s in the group are in the rigorous process of making sure the application process runs smoothly and we get the right student to be the Chairperson of the society.

BLESSING SOWUNMI, U6

SIKH SOCIETY I am so grateful to be writing in the Veseyan on behalf of the Sikh society, which by the blessings of Vaheguru Ji (Sikh name for the 1 Eternal Being ‘God’), was founded this year. The purpose of this association is to bring together the School Sikh community to empower our beliefs and spread awareness and education to Sikhs and non-Sikhs about the Sikh way of life and its spiritual teachings started by Guru Nanak Dev JI. The numbers of attendees have varied but the sessions of discussions and quizzes have been interactive, interesting and top quality. We have done many quizzes and talks on topics like the Guru Sahibs, Sikh History and the Beliefs in the Faith. Being reasonably new to this faith, I have learned a lot from those who have come to the sessions and shared their knowledge. I hope to be able to continue this service and enlighten others with the Wisdom of Sikhi (and learn more myself) and for many people to understand what the Sikh Gurus teach and did in their lives.

HARISH DADRAL, L6

ISLAMIC PRAYERS The Friday Prayers have been running smoothly this term, all thanks to Ms Wadeson, the physics technician, who gives her time and effort every week to help. These prayers have been led by a range of students in the Lower Sixth and Year 11, including Afeef Malik, Abdunnur Tarique, Rayyan Shaikh, Uzair Zahir and Yusuf Hussain, all of whom have delivered confident and well-spoken speeches as well as beautifully recited Arabic. The sermons covered a range of relevant and eyeopening topics, including honouring your parents, being grateful to God and having the best of manners. The turnout has been excellent throughout, some weeks topping over 50 students gathered for the prayers. Going forward we hope to improve the structure of the system in order to pave the ways for the years to come.

SULEMAN AHMED, L6

Representation and Conversation

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

The Most Serious Challenge Humanity Has Ever Had to Face Up to

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

"The most important serious humanity has had to face up to.” This is how Professor Patricia Thornley from Aston University began her lecture to the Lower Sixth here at BVGS on November 8th. It was a really important lecture. The future of our planet was at that very moment being discussed at the United Nations climate change conference, COP 26, in Glasgow. Professor Thornley had contributed to the conference and was able to share some key insights with students: A just transition Scaling up the science What can we do? A just transition Professor Thornley made the point very clearly. A just transition is about moving to an environmentally sustainable economy without leaving workers in polluting industries behind. Scaling up the science Vesey scientists of the future, take note! The future is ‘green’ and as scientists we have to find solutions to the climate crisis, which can then be scaled up the benefit of humanity. Professor Thornley shared with us a project she has been working on in the Philippines. Every year at the end of the rice harvest, the rice straw is burnt by local farmers. How could that agricultural routine be converted into an environmental benefit for communities? So Professor Thornley developed a biogas rice straw pilot delivering energy access to a poor community at low cost and with environmental benefit. What can we do? We need to understand our own carbon footprint. Take the questionnaire by visiting: footprint.wwf.org.uk/#/ At home, we need to eat less meat and we need to light and heat our homes more efficiently. In terms of travel, we need to walk and cycle and use public transport more. We need to wean ourselves off our dependence on cars. We need to be more ethically responsible in our shopping, our waste management and our banking choices. Importantly, it is a very sad fact that it is the young, whose future is being betrayed by the consequences of the irresponsible actions of older and past generations. So the young must use their voice to advocate for change. 10

HOW BIG IS YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT? Take the questionnaire

This booklet covers what bioenergy is, why we should use it, what people worried are about when we talk about bioenergy and how to ensure a future with bioenergy will be sustainable. All of this in a fun and informative comic book style!

If a student would like a copy, please contact Mr Ellor, Acting Head of Biology or Mr Devine, Acting Head of Geography.

On Wednesday 3rd December, Dr Richard Waller from Keele University came in to talk to Year 10 about the urgent topic of climate change. We have been studying the causes and effects of climate change in recent weeks, and Dr Waller really put things into perspective for everyone and helped with our GCSE work. His talk was gripping and it really hit home just how important it is that we try to do everything we can to stop climate change. He went through mitigation strategies with us, talking about how important it is that we as a human race try to reduce the impacts of climate change. Reducing greenhouse emissions is a very simple and key way to reduce climate change, but Dr Waller also went through switching power and electricity production ways, among many others, and how easy it is for us to access wind and solar power. This showed us what we must do to reduce and limit climate change, and Dr Waller reinforced how it was our world that is being destroyed, and us who are going to have to live with the consequences.

Vesey marked COP 26 as a significant event around school, with notices on the blog and tutors discussing the events of the conference with their forms, as well as hosting a talk from a visitor who informed the lower and upper sixth about the various job opportunities and university courses that could help provide solutions to aid the fight for the climate. Students had the opportunity to engage with Professor Patricia Thornley, a researcher of engineering and physical sciences, who explained the importance of sustainability and conservation. Thornley highlighted that a reduction in meat eating, and flying were the main two ways in which we as individuals could most effectively reduce our carbon footprint – students were surprised to hear that a flight from the UK to the USA releases 1.7 tonnes of carbon emissions (out of the average 12.7 tonnes annually)! The professor also explained the necessity of industry and governments working in unison to find an effective solution to the climate crisis, also noting that the introduction of a carbon tax or carbon labels on products could also persuade people to reduce their personal carbon footprint. Students were able to ask questions regarding the environment and her work – a discussion in which she stated the importance of students acting now by joining engineering initiatives and going into roles advising on government action to preserve the climate for future generations. Later the sixth form learned about how many of our home items are made from unsustainably sourced materials, encouraging students to find eco-friendly alternatives to cut carbon emissions from home. The next day (Nov 10th) Professor Thornley spoke at COP 26, in which she and others argued that “Sustainable management of forests and supply of wood products will be central to protecting forest carbon sinks and the species they support.”

The visit from Dr Waller was inspiring, and complemented our work on climate change and its effects nicely.

ELLA DELICATE, U6 FREDDIE JONES, 10G

The Most Serious Challenge Humanity Has Ever Had to Face Up to

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Sport News

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

BVGS 1ST XV RUGBY Our season began with an away win at Nottingham High School, where the team withstood high pressure in the final ten minutes of the game after having a man sent off just after half time.The first loss of the season came just three days later against a RGS Worcester although it was a great team performance versus tough opposition. Just a week later, Vesey hosted Loughborough Grammar and won 58-7 with a standout performance from Ben Paget scoring 26 points alone. After being given a bye in the first round of the National Vase, Vesey took on KES Birmingham in a local derby at home on the 8th of October. The game was physically wearing for both teams but after a late try from Jacob Clarke, Vesey were able to wrap up the win. For the next two games, a clear standout performer was Owen Boxall; scoring 2 tries against Bablake and a hat-trick in a comfortable win against Adams Grammar. Then came the biggest game of the season so far came against Old Swinford Hospital in the 3rd round of the National Vase, where a smartly worked line-out move from Joe Taroni gave Vesey an early lead. This was followed by a yellow card for OSH - giving BVGS a strong grip on the game. A score from Dan Aston and penalties converted by Joe Walsh gave Vesey a massive win over strong opponents. Veseys’ next few fixtures then proved difficult. A heavy loss at Bloxham (possibly due to lack of regular players) was the prequel to a massive home game in the regional semi-finals of the Vase versus Coventry College. Vesey started slow and conceded 3 early tries with a man in the sin bin. Building up to halftime, the team managed to build momentum which was maintained well into the second half. In the 62nd minute Vesey were up by 2 points with less than 10 minutes remaining. Sadly, Coventry retaliated immediately and the game ended with BVGS the losing side. Going into Christmas, there were 3 more games. A comfortable win against five ways in poor weather conditions, a loss away at Ellesmere College and an important derby against Solihull. Against Solihull, we started slowly, conceding a try with a man in the sin bin. Just before half time, Dylan Lindford returned to the pitch and scored a try which was then converted. After half time, Ed Stevens scored two penalties putting us up 16-8 with 10 minutes left. The match finished with this scoreline, giving BVGS 1st team only their second win against Solihull in 10 years. Ed Stevens, L6

BVGS 2ND XV RUGBY The 2nd XV rugby have had a funny sort of season as a number of fixtures have been cancelled for various reasons. Our current record before todays fixture is P7 W3 D0 L4. The biggest highlight of the year so far was the 27-12 victory over KES Stratford. A number of year 11’s stepped up to the plate in this game putting in an excellent shift in their first “senior” fixture; Tadgh Parize, Lasha and Gigla, Joe Yoong, Connor Owen to name a few. Within this game there was a possible candidate for try of the season coming from some excellent phase play between backs and forwards covering 70m of the pitch to score. In regards to stand out performers there have been a number of players that have put their hands up that has resulted in them being considered for 1st team selection, but the two stand out players thus far have been Pierce O’Dwyer and Barnaby Tate who have simply been magnicant (Pierce is particularly noteworthy given he has been absent from the game for 3-4 years!) Despite results not quite having the outcomes we have wanted, the team has been a pleasure to work with thus far! U14 rugby has had a tough start to the year and found wins difficult to come by. That being said there have been some very good performances against strong opposition. The attitude and commitment show by the players has been fantastic throughout the year and as a result the team’s performances have been improving. This has seem them finish 3rd in this year’s Greater Birmingham tournament and secure a good win against a combined team from three schools from near Telford. There have been some good individual performances throughout the first term, specifically from Jacob Fletcher, Will Van Praag, Oliver Hook and Mylo Onions. I look forward to watching the team continue to improve over the next term and beyond. Mr Howell

HOCKEY Hockey has had an excellent term with more numbers than ever attending after-school training sessions and well over 60 matches already played since September. There have been some encouraging signs with all the junior teams recording some impressive wins and the senior sides winning well over 75% of all 1st-4th games. A huge thankyou to all the staff involved in extracurricular sessions, it has been great to get the boys playing and active again after such a long absence from matches due to the pandemic. We look forward to many more matches and the start of the Cup competitions in the New Year. The school will also welcome former international hockey player Mo Samak who will be starting in January to help progress our players and teams further. Mr Howell

NETBALL The end of a super term of netball culminated in the mixed House Netball tournament. There was a fantastic atmosphere on court and it was a fiercely fought contest between all the houses with Purple house eventually emerging victorious having been unbeaten in all their matches. Well done to all students either taking part or helping to organise the competition schedule and timings. A huge thank you to all students this term who have supported Vesey Netball and our lovely site team for consistently having the courts ready for play. We have thoroughly enjoyed Wednesday afternoons and wish you all a very happy Christmas. See you on court again in January. Mrs Clarke, Mrs Rowlands and Mrs Parize

FOOTBALL The newly formed school 1st XI football team have made a flying start to their season. After winning a friendly against Plantsbrook school 90, expectations were high leading into the 1st round of the West Midlands Cup. However, Vesey had been drawn against 6 time winners Tudor Grange. Cheered on by a raucous home crowd Harveer Nijjar opened the scoring much to the delight of the supporters. The game was a very tight affair but when Joe Goode converted the second goal with 10 minutes left it looked like Vesey had done enough but with 5 minutes to go Tudor Grange pulled a goal back which led to a very nervy finish. Vesey deservedly hung on to win 2-1. The team will now travel to Crestwood Academy for the 2nd round early in the New Year.

Sport News

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Year 7 Experiences

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

M y J o u rn e y a t B V G

THE 3 C'S:

s s

COURTEOUS

CONSIDERATE

COOPERATIVE

Year 7 Experiences

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

I am really enjoying being a student of Bishop Vesey Grammar school. The school has a range of interesting and exciting extracurricular activities I am currently involved in the Mandarin Excellence Program, and the Speech and Drama classes. Bishop Vesey is a great place to learn and expand your knowledge. There are several opportunities to study about topics I find interesting. The teachers always encourage you to work hard in lessons and if you do exceptionally well you will be awarded a merit. Personally, Bishop Vesey has helped me become more independent, organized, responsible and curios to learn. I always try to embody the three c’s (courteous, co operative and considerate) in my daily life.

Tell us about your experience at Bishop Vesey's Grammar School so far.

Timi Sofoluwe, 7P

How has it helped you as a person and as a learner?

At the start of Year 7, I was very nervous but excited, like a lot of people in my form. Finding my way around the school wasn’t too difficult- I only got lost a few times! Now though I have settled in and love it here, especially the variety of challenging lessons and opportunities. In a short space of time, I have been playing the ukulele in music, designing keyrings in D.T and playing rugby in games lessons but this is only a handful of my experiences in the first term at Bishop Vesey’s. Recently, I tested positive for Covid 19 which meant that I have had to work from home. This resulted in me needing to be a lot more organised to catch up on the classwork and homework, but the teachers were supportive of me. Another big step in my Vesey experience was becoming a school councillor for Year 7 Blue House. I was very proud to take on this role and extremely grateful to my classmates for voting for me.

My experience as a Year 7 student at BVGS has been much more amazing than what I imagined it would be. BVGS gives a spectacular education and nurtures me more with a wide variety of extra-curricular education ranging from sports to drama and speech. BVGS has extraordinary sporting facilities and gives everyone an equal opportunity. The staff at BVGS have been kind and caring. This school is a representative of British Values.

Going to Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School has helped develop me as a person and expand my knowledge in every subject. My peers in 7B are like me in many ways because they love learning and have a thirst for knowledge. In just one term, I have become a more independent, responsible and confident person. I’m excited to see what the future has in store for me here.

BVGS has changed me quite a lot. It has exposed me to different people from different places and cultures. BVGS has made my move from primary to secondary as it had never happened. Whilst starting at BVGS, I felt like my confidence has massively improved because I am not shy anymore to ask questions and in result, my quality and standards are becoming better in subjects like Mandarin and R.E. My writing skills have improved, and I’ve gained extra knowledge, skills, and techniques in the core subjects.

James Rudge, 7B

Saiyoush Sivaraj, 7W 15

Student Achievements

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

NATIONAL FINALS OF THE ENGLISH SCHOOLS CROSS COUNTRY CUP The Senior Boys Cross Country team embarked on the long journey to Newquay in Cornwall for the National Finals of the English Schools Cross Country Cup on Saturday 4th December. In difficult weather conditions, with strong blustery winds, cold, rain and hail to contend with, along with a very high standard of competition, the boys performed very well to finish in 25th place. Ethan Patel was the first BVGS finisher in 65th place, with George O’Connor just nine seconds behind Ethan in 69th. Joseph McClafferty and Toby Walton also ran strongly to finish in 132nd and 135th position respectively. Unfortunately, Max McCabe suffered a hamstring injury when running on a slippery downhill section on the first lap, meaning he was unable to complete the race. A huge thank you to parents Mr and Mrs O’Connor, Mrs Walton and Mrs Wakefield for their help with organisation and transport, and for accompanying the students. MR EVERETT

L6 VIOLIN SUCCESS For those who are aware of music exams, it's worth noting that only the most elite musicians in the world take Diploma Exams. We are proud that Hitesh Jhall L6 has joined that group, achieving a Distinction in his Violin Music Exam.

IOAA Moonis Haider, along with his team of 5 others, represented the UK at the International Olympiad for Astronomy and Astrophysics, an online competition run from Bogota. Moonis proudly secured a silver medal. To show you how tricky the competition is, why not have a go at answering the question below from the IOAA?

ROW, RIDE, RUN Charlie Stroud, 10P, has completed a gruelling, physically demanding 26 mile event, to provide over 200 gifts for the homeless of Birmingham this Christmas. On Saturday 4th December Charlie started the day at 7.30am and rowed nonstop for 8 and a half miles in just 62 minutes to complete the ‘row’ section of the challenge. 16

He then took to his bike, in freezing and muddy conditions to cycle the next 10 miles from home and through the beautiful surrounds of Sutton Park. Charlie still full of enthusiasm, if not a little cold, then donned his running shoes for the final 7 and a half tiring miles again around the park. It was tough going, muddy under foot and icy cold. He completed his challenge in under 4 hours. Charlie completed this challenge to raise awareness for the fantastic work 'Have a Hart Help the Homeless' do each and every week. Sponsorship of Charlie will ensure that the Homeless of Birmingham have a little Christmas cheer this year in the form of a present from the Charity or from you! It’s not too late to sponsor Charlie and to help these people in need, it could not be easier. Click the following link or scan the QR code to choose a gift from the Have Hart Amazon Wish List. Thank you to those who have already given.

GOLD SCOUT AWARD Oliver Swann 9P, was awarded the Chief Scout's Gold Award this month at 1st Sutton Coldfield Sea Scout group. This is the highest award that can be achieved by a Scout.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S ORCHESTRAS OF GREAT BRITAIN

Oliver's Scout leader, Doug Lea, is a former Bishop Vesey student. Oliver and his Scout group also recently undertook an all-night Rowathon, raising over £2,000 for Children In Need.

This term Joshua Lee, 7W, auditioned and successfully gained a place in the National Children’s Orchestras of Great Britain playing the trombone. He will be in the Under 12’s orchestra and they have two residential courses planned during the year, one at Easter and the second in the Summer Holiday. 17

Student Achievements

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Student Achievements

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

SILVER SCOUT AWARD Oscar Bennett 7W has been awarded a silver award in his Scouts journey. This badge is the highest award you can get in Cubs. Oscar will be now moving up to Scouts and working toward to his gold medal.

TATE BRITAIN Rachna Johal, U6R, responded to an open call from the Tate Britain to participate in an exhibition called 'Home'. Weeks later her work was projected proudly in one of the most visited art museums in the world. Rachna explains her work: “Present” Is a part of a series of digital manipulations created to convey the nostalgia of childhood within my grandparents' home and the sensation of memories. Depicted is the window view from their kitchen. This piece explores domestic life specific to the British South Asian experience. The work focuses on daily rituals and congenial practises, such as the ritualistic aspects of domesticity that are liberating and soothing, being the act of preparing food or shared meals. “Present” explores the human relationships with place, and how multiplicity in culture is conducive to the concept of belonging and space. Straight after Sixth Form, Rachna hopes to impress UCL with her stunning body of work and secure a place in their Fine Art BA Course.

Art Exhibitions

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Art by Hannah Jones (OV) Art by James Whitehouse (OV)

Art by Kacey Muir (OV)

Art by George O'Connor, L6B

Art by James Hodson, L6G

For digital readers you can view the GCSE and ALevel Art Exhibition by clicking here.

For printed-copy readers, please view the Exhibitions by visiting bvgs.co.uk/a-level-andgcse-art-exhibitions or by scanning the QR code.

Art by Calum Dubb, L6P

Christmas Concert

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Thank you all for your amazing support!

Resilience personified: amazing Christmas concerts go virtual What happened in Big School on Monday and Tuesday was an embodiment of can-do spirit, determination, hard work and a passion for music. Led by the exceptional Mr Buxton, our outstanding musicians marched on in the face of adversity. They showed us yet again that come cold (last year’s Christmas Concert), rain (the possibility was there in the summer) and even COVID-19, they will turn up and perform with style and skill. We learnt on Monday morning that, because of the Omicron variant, the concerts would have to take place without an audience, through a livestream (Monday - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiJ1GbiKQDQ and Tuesday https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbzM6jxUYjI). We commenced with a rousing fanfare followed by a calming rendition of Silent Night, sung by Ethyn James 11W and Bethan Parri U6. Next was the Guitar Ensemble, led by Mr Noble, who played Star Gazing - D Cracknell, a piece characterised by its title and Daphne - D Reinhardt, an upbeat tune. The Senior Orchestra treated us to an excellent arrangement of Music from Wicked - S Schwartz whilst the Guitars dispersed, making way for the Junior Choir. They sang A Holiday Road of Carols, an amusing combination of several of our favourite Christmas songs but all slightly altered in separate ways, by pitch, rhythm and tempo. They were followed by the school’s brilliant Brass Band, who, in Mr Buxton’s words, is in serious competition with the school’s premier ensemble, the jazz band Funky Bishops. They performed the invigorating ‘The A Team’ and ‘Nightmare Before Christmas’ by D Elfman, a piece they had only seen 3 weeks ago. After another scene change, we saw the Junior Percussion Ensemble play Rhythm Rocket with an intriguing and frankly ‘cool’ setup of dimmed lights and illuminated drumsticks. The Senior Orchestra were back with another medley, based on the popular band ‘Queen’. It was a great mixture, beginning with the stirring ‘We Will Rock You’, transitioning into Bohemian Rhapsody and ending with We Are The Champions. The interval consisted of a playing of ‘Coventry Carol’ by the Flute Quartet. The second half began with the wonderful Funky Bishops who played Take the A Train, with a solo from Matthew Whitehouse U6, the slow number No Hay Palabras with a guitar solo by Julianne Peralta U6 and lead alto sax from Alex Dixon U6, the fast-paced Sir Duke, also containing a solo from Matthew Whitehouse before rounding up their work for the night with the popular and energetic Megalovania with solos from Jack Woodham U6 and Alex Dixon U6. We then had our Junior Orchestra play the rhythmic Wellerman and Thriller, an enjoyable composition. More singing followed with the Senior Choir singing ‘This Little Babe’ and ‘Mary Did You Know’, fantastically directed by Mr Lenthall. It was the Senior Orchestra’s turn again, this time conducted by the “brainchild of the Music department” Matthew Monaghan U6. He oversaw the grand arrangement ‘At the Movies with Danny Elfman’ before Mr Buxton took back over for the crowd pleaser ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’. The Junior Orchestra then joined them for ‘Here Comes Santa Claus’ who were then accompanied by the choirs for a sing-along to the Senior Orchestra’s take on Pentatonix’s interesting version 12 Days of Christmas. They made up for the lack of a crowd who would’ve certainly sung their heart out! The finale concluded with the joyful ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ and the Year 11 Rock Band, Plastic Fiction, made up of Charlie Ward 11B, Sunny Joshi 11B and Benedict Smithson 11G, performing a triplet of War is Over, Last Christmas and Merry Christmas Everyone. Tuesday’s concert kicked off in the same fashion of Fanfare and Silent Night, this time Jeevan Braich 11P with the lead singing. The Keyboard Ensemble, led by Mr Ross, came next with ‘Hoe Down’ and ‘Wonderful Christmastime’. The Senior Orchestra played the wonderful ‘Music from James Bond’, consisting of a whole host of all-time favourites, including the James Bond Theme, Skyfall and Goldfinger. We then had appearances from the Junior Choir and Brass Band with a repeat of their pieces from the night before. Next up were the Senior Percussion Ensemble who smashed their performances of Tico Tico and Santa Claus is Coming To Town. We went into the interval with the afterglow of the Senior Orchestra’s wonderful ‘Queen in Concert’. The final quarter of the 2 nights opened with Funky Bishops once more, who played Sir Duke, No Hay Palabras and Take the A Train. After the double of Wellerman and Thriller from our Junior Orchestra and the Senior Choir’s beautiful Little Babe and Mary Did You Know, we heard Rudolph from the Senior Orchestra and then Here Comes Santa Claus with their junior counterpart joining in. We were treated to the entertaining 12 Days of Christmas once more, followed by We Wish You a Merry Christmas and our talented rock band, Plastic Fiction with their trio of Christmas songs to culminate another outstanding concert delivered by the magnificent Mr Buxton. The age-old saying, “The show must go on”, was proved yet again by our cracking concerts that were sell-outs albeit they went virtual. A massive thank you to everyone involved and played a part in this success: the S4E Music Service’s peripatetic music teachers for their remarkable teaching, parents for supporting our musicians and also cheering us on in the concerts, Mrs Buxton, Cameron Bailey U6 and Charlie Butcher 10W for their tremendous work behind-the-scenes, the students themselves for diligently attending rehearsals and their commitment to music and finally, the extraordinary Mr Buxton whose ability to put on such fabulous concerts despite all the challenges he faced is utterly incredible.

ADITYA MUTHUKUMAR, 11G 21

Christmas Concert

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Drama Recital

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

DRAMA RECITAL 22

On Tuesday 30th November, 36 boys from Year 7 took part in our yearly Speech Recital in Big School, supported by family and friends. The boys performed pieces by Kenn Nesbitt and Roald Dahl, and entertained their audience superbly. The photos show the boys preparing for the recital and having a lot of fun whilst working on their expression, clarity and projection skills. It takes some guts to speak to an audience from the Big School stage - it is an imposing venue - especially under stage lighting, skillfully managed by Charlie Butcher Year 10. Our Year 7 students rose to the challenge, and after only one term of lessons and one rehearsal in Big School, they impressed us by presenting their work confidently and expressively. Well done boys! Thank you to our fantastic audience for your support, and for your donations towards the stage lighting fund - over £80.00 was raised through your generosity. Happy Christmas to you all! If you would like your son to begin Speech or Drama lessons at BVGS, please email us at admin@centrestageschool.org.uk for further details.

MS O'DOWD

TECH HOCKEY

RUGBY LEGO + RUBIK CUBE CLUB

DRAMA

MUSIC

SOCIETIES + CO-CURRICULAR AT VESEY

SCHOOL COUNCIL

ART

CHESS CLUB FITNESS

SIKH SOC DUKE OF EDINBURGH

BADMINTON PRAYERS 23

MANDARIN EXCELLENCE PROGRAMME

Drama Recital

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Christmas Cheer

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Many thanks to the seven members of the School's internship programme who added festive cheer to the Big School corridor by decorating the Christmas tree in classic red and gold.

A big thank you to Hunza Hussain L6, who decorated the Staff tree beautifully.

Christmas Card Competition Congratulations to Danvir Bungar (9P), Colby Ly (7W) and Tanay Soni (7R), who are came in the top-three places in the Christmas Card competition! It was a tightly fought competition, with over 30 entries! Our winning entry was chosen for the excellent detail describing the Japanese tradition of eating a meal of KFC for Christmas, a tradition which started in 1974. Danvir’s clever design and incredible independent research into the kanji and katakana characters really impressed, and his detail in the card made him stand out as our winner. Congratulations also to 2nd and 3rd place Colby and Tanay in Year 7, who’s beautiful cards were written in Mandarin and German respectively.

1st

2nd

3rd

From left to right: Danvir Bungar 9P, Colby Ly 7W, Tanay Soni 7P

The Giving Tree has been running for a series of weeks, and the idea is simple: shoppers take tags from the Christmas tree in the Gracechurch Shopping Centre, each of which contain the details of something that is needed by someone in need this Christmas. Items can vary from clothing for the homeless to festive treats for struggling families. Gifts can then be placed back in the baskets by the tree, where Bishop Vesey’s students will collect and wrap them before delivering the parcels to local charities in time for Christmas.

Charities this year are: YMCA Sutton Coldfield, St Basils Birmingham, St Giles Hospice and Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Bishop Vesey’s students have been chatting with the public and running this on a shift basis. We are extremely proud of them, and grateful for the generosity shown by many people, which will make Christmas possible for those in our community who are in need. 24

Charity endeavours have been off to a great start at Vesey and we’ve done a lot of good. In September, the charity team, led by Deputy Charity Captain, Matthew Monaghan, and I (Charity Captain), sent out video nominations for each respective houses house charity after receiving submissions from the students. After the votes concluded the houses ended up supporting the following charities: Blue House - Cancer Research UK White House - St Jude Gold House - British Heart Foundation Emerald House - Water Aid Purple House - Cancer Research UK Red House - Birmingham Children’s Hospital Each of these charities will be supported by their house in “house fundraising weeks” throughout the year. Blue house fundraising week for Cancer Research UK ran from 6th-10th December with a whole host of events. Many of these were run by blue house charity reps as well as the charity team, including an online quiz, bake sale, raffle and a charity maths quiz. Overall the week raised £331. Well done to blue house and all those who supported it. Earlier in the term it was Black History Month, and throughout the week there were assemblies led by the students to educate the student body and raise awareness. There was also a sale of Afro-Caribbean snacks ran by head girl, Blessing in support of OSCAR Birmingham who help those affected by sickle cell anemia and we raised £180 for the charity. For Children In Need the Charity Team and the students did an amazing job. The main fundraising event was a sponsored silence for year 7 which was also their house charity competition. All together 3 students from each year 7 form raised a total of £3370 with Gold house raising a massive £1252 of this total. A well done to all the students involved, especially to Dharam Khera who raised £900 and to Syum Bedi who raised £848. Alongside the Sponsored silence we also had some charity football tournaments, a raffle and a bake sale bringing the total money raised for Children In Need to just over £5000! I want to take this opportunity to thank all the students for being so involved in Charity here at Bishop Vesey and look forward to all the good that we will do in the coming term and year.

LIAM MCGRADE, U6

Charity Report

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Glitz and Glamour Lunch

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Parents, Corporate Partners, local business people and a wide array of friends of Bishop Vesey attended the BVGS Glitz and Glamour Lunch at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa. A fantastic sum of approximately £5,000 was raised to enhance the extra-curricular opportunities of our students which exceeded our target and is the best Annual Lunch outcome so far. An annual fixture in the School’s calendar, the event has waited two years to resume and all guests were glad to re-connect and donate generously for our good cause. Guests enjoyed browsing across about 20 pop-up stalls drawn from many local businesses. Products ranged from The Tasty Lawyer Indian cookery courses & spice kits; Hunnypotcottage artisan bread, pasta, starter kits and courses; Neals Chocolates; Cheese Cavern local cheeses; bespoke Brierley screen prints; skincare/beauty products; Tina Kelsall Jewellery; Body Bangles; Buzzard Valley wine and gin sets; Naturally Lovely artisan soaps; Imperfectly perfect candles/wax melts; Keen & Son handcrafted pens; Tracey McCluskey Book Art; Resin Designs by Nadine; clothes from Obsessions Boutique; Frames that Sparkle and Gifts to You a wide range of independent contemporary art, crafts and interior design accessories from Helen Simone and Andrea Gregory. Irwin Mitchell Solicitors sponsored the event and Moor Hall Hotel & Spa hosted the lunch and the support of both our Corporate Partners is extremely valuable. Heidi Middleton owner of Obsessions Boutique provided substantial support as always and drew from former parents and friends of the school to model a range of daytime and evening outfits. Harry Hubbleday and George Wylie, two of our L6th Interns, represented the school superbly as did the accomplished four-piece ensemble comprising Matthew Whitehouse, James Foxall, Alex Dixon and Julianne Peralta who treated our guests to a professional programme of festive music throughout the day. A very good time was had by all for a very good Inspiration and Excellence cause! 26

Valetes

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

NATALIE ASHBY Mrs Ashby leaves BVGS, after making a colossal impact as our ‘Careers Lead and Post 16 UCAS Adviser’. She has transformed our whole school provision in careers, developing and implementing bespoke policy, plans, activities and resources that students will benefit from for many years to come. More importantly, Mrs Ashby has demonstrated dedication, professionalism and genuine care for the students at BVGS During her time here Mrs Ashby, has facilitated numerous opportunities to the benefit of pupils in our School and has expanded our student uptake in a variety of areas to include, ‘School Leavers’ programmes and Apprenticeships. Mrs Ashby has provided our students with countless hours of support and guidance, which has often gone beyond her formal job description. Mrs Ashby has a “made a difference” to a multitude of students. She has demonstrated a genuine commitment to raising the aspirations of pupils from all backgrounds and our current students and recent leavers have all valued her advice and support. “Mrs Ashby, thank you for all your help this year with university and apprenticeship applications. You have helped me find a clear path to the construction industry which I’m very grateful for. Good luck with your new job!” (Current Year 13 student) “Hi miss, I just heard you’re leaving soon. I just wanted to say a big thank you for all the help, I think our school was really lucky to have you and I for one couldn’t have got through UCAS without you. Thank you.” (Current Year 13 student) Everyone, at BVGS would like to wish Mrs Ashby and her family every success and happiness in the future.

WRITTEN BY MR GOODWIN

he irrepressible Mr Davies first joined the Vesey community 28 years ago as a bright eyed Year 7. History does not relate the full Mr D ‘Vesey Experience.’ Suffice to say, a perusal of the archives was unable to retrieve what previous headteachers have described to me as being a ‘substantial file.’

BRIAN DAVIES

Nonetheless, after graduating in Sports Science in 2003, Mr Davies returned to BVGS, initially as a rugby coach and then from 2005 as a Teacher of PE and Games. The staff references were glowing: “His commitment to Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School is total; he is well-respected by pupils and staff and has a vast amount of knowledge of sport.” Over the next decade, Mr Davies made a huge contribution to Vesey sport. He ran countless rugby training sessions after school, Saturday fixtures, sports dinners, tours at home and abroad, which benefited so many students. He also co-ordinated a primary school PE outreach programme T2016 was a turning point for Mr Davies. He organised a golf day fundraiser, which has become an annual event for the PE department, which typically raises £5,000-10,000. The School recognised his talent and appointed him as Development Director. This saw Mr Davies develop parental, alumni and business relationships for the benefit of BVGS. The huge impact of this was the development of the innovative and unique (at this time in the grammar school sector) corporate partnerships scheme, where businesses associate and network with both BVGS and our business partners and provide some financial support to the school. This, along with the student internship scheme, which provides students with leadership opportunities and excellent links with local businesses, and the outstanding annual Careers and Jobs Fair, are brilliant examples of the legacy which Mr Davies leaves BVGS. However, legacy is more than events and structures. Legacy is about impact on people, about changing lives. Mr Davies will freely tell you that staff at BVGS changed his life for the better. Many a student (and staff member), thanks to him, have had their Vesey experience changed for the better through his input and for that, above all, we are most grateful. We wish Mr Davies well in his new full time role fundraising for the Sepsis Trust. We look forward to celebrating his future achievements and successes and working with him on future Vesey fundraising projects in 2022 and beyond.

WRITTEN BY MR ROBSON 27

Message from the Chair of OV Association

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR OF THE OV ASSOCIATION After another year of enormous disruption, due to you know what, some normality seems to have returned. Sadly we have lost some great Veseyans during 2021, most notably, Clive Richards and Phil Baker. Tremendous supporters of the Vesey community who will be very greatly missed. There are obituaries on the Alumni Platform along with many other interesting articles. This past nearly 2 years has really drawn into focus our need to transfer to electronic communication. That has been able to continue much more easily during the pandemic. The transition will continue. For this WE NEED YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS and permission to send things to you. You can for instance receive weekly newsletters which always contain some articles that I am sure will be of interest to you. The cost of postage is also rising - if we send out The Veseyan to everyone the post cost alone is above £750. We will of course happily send hard copies to everyone who wants one. Please indicate your preference as requested. We will continue to support members. The school organised an excellent Old Veseyan dinner on November 6th - pictures in The Veseyan and more on the alumni platform. Those who were able to come along thoroughly enjoyed it. Pencil in Saturday 12th November for the next dinner. We also hoping to organise an Old Veseyan Sports Day and Music Evening in June 2022 and Shaggy Dogs Tea Party in July - look out for the dates and details. I hope you enjoy The Veseyan. PAUL WALLIS

Find out about new job opportunities

Network with a community that wants to help

Join the BVGS Alumni Platform alumni.bvgs.co.uk Share your story and inspire others 28

Stay up to date with school news

Major Anthony John Bartholomew (OV) 1928 - 2021

As well as the obligatory business of education, Tony’s memories of school included potato picking — torture inflicted on schoolboys by sadistic tractor drivers - and postal work at Christmas time with its financial rewards. He joined the Cadet Corps – plus-twos and puttees – which later became the Junior Training Corps — battledress and anklets. He also enlisted in the 6th Battalion R. Warwickshire Home Guard and served at Battalion Headquarters, which was conveniently sited next door to the Three Tuns. A great deal of time, which should have been allocated to revision for School Certificate, was spent on all night duties and weekend training. Some contemporaries may remember that Tony, Nigel (Tich) Cooper and Michael (Bill) Wild owned three ex WD 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycles. With Colonel Archie Hollis’s concurrence plus extra petrol coupons a course in the art of motorcycle riding took place round the perimeter of Bottom Field. The cricket nets were sited on the south edge of the field with, behind them, a few ARP trenches, which by 1944 were somewhat degraded. Tony often spoke of the time when he watched a cadet ride through the nets and finish up in one of the trenches. Luckily there was no damage to the unfortunate rider, the nets or the bike. After the publication of Tony’s dismal Higher School Cert results, Archie suggested that Tony could apply for a scheme, just introduced by the War Office, to consider school leavers for Regular Army Commissions. Tony agreed and Archie went ahead and organised the paperwork. A snag was the Civil Service Commissioners Exam but with Archie’s encouragement and some additional tuition in maths from Mr ‘Nunc’ Henry, Tony passed with flying colours. After attending the three days Regular Commissions Board he was accepted as an entrant to the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He was first required to do at least six months training as an infantry soldier. One of his fellow recruits in the same training unit was Jim Slater. Tony along with Geoff Pearce 1940-1947 was among the first group of Grammar School boys to attend the RMA. He was commissioned into the Sherwood Foresters in 1949 and posted to the 1“ Battalion stationed near Goslar, Germany. Eighteen months later he was commanding a platoon of the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers in Korea. Thereafter he had several postings including three very interesting years in Sierra Leone. He left the Army in 1961 but rejoined eighteen months later. During this time he met Valerie and they were married. Thereafter there were postings to various jobs and different countries including operational tours in Cyprus and Northern Ireland. He was a qualified Rugby referee and attended the annual weekend conferences run by the Army Rugby Union Referees Society at which Jim Lewis 19341939 was the welcomed and much respected principal speaker. On retirement from the Army in 1983 he established and took up the post of Head of Home at the Cotswold Cheshire Home in Cheltenham. Later he and Valerie moved to Cornwall where Tony spent two years attending evening classes at college. He gained his City and Guilds as a tutor in Adult and Further Education and spent a few years running his own course in Accountancy. Nigel Cooper and Tony had a great friendship which went back to the days when they combined their gauge ’0’ Hornby electric train sets and established a layout in the spare bedroom at the Bartholomew home. They counted it a great joke that whereas Tony had served for seven years and was still a lieutenant, Nigel had taken just eighteen months to become a major. Nigel delighted in telling of the time when Tony visited him at his headquarters in Southampton. Evidently one of Nigel’s senior colleagues later remonstrated with him that it was not done for a major to chat with a junior officer. Nigel would recount, with that lovely cheeky smile of his, that he had replied "Ah yes but he is a real solider". 29

Obituaries

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Obituaries

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

ROY CASH (OV)

(6TH APRIL 1928 – 22ND SEPTEMBER 2021) The life of Arthur Roy Cash was celebrated at a service in St. James’ Church Hill on Tuesday 19th October 2021 following an earlier cremation. The service was conducted by The Reverend Tony Platts (OV) and attended by a large congregation of family, friends and St James’ regular worshipers. One of Roy’s former colleagues at Bishop Veseys, Rex Wallbank, was present. Many Old Veseyans will remember Roy when at school either as a scout master or for his sympathetic teaching of French. He was also very active alongside Harold Ellison in their pursuit of outdoor mountain activities. Roy was born in Portsmouth, attended Portsmouth Grammar School on a scholarship and graduated from Southampton University in Modern Foreign Languages. He was keen on cricket and football and will be remembered at Vesey for his participation in the staff teams in both disciplines. Roy’s talents extended to leading roles in Gilbert and Sullivan operas during his thirty plus years as a valued staff member at BVGS. Roy was a staff member from 1954 until his retirement in 1985. Roy and his wife Joan were active church members at St James’ and Roy held various positions in the administration of the parish as a church warden, a member of the parish council and a representative to the church commissioners. Prior to the pandemic, Roy and Joan were regular attendees at the various concerts held by Vesey music at the school. I had the pleasure of sharing their company at a table some two years ago. The service music began with Requiem sung by Katherine Jenkins and concluded with Josh Groban’s rendering of ‘You Raise Me Up’. Hymns were “Dear Lord and Father of mankind” and “Amazing Grace! How sweet the sound”. A fitting tribute to a good man.

WRITTEN BY NICHOLAS HAMMOND

Veseyans RFC Tribute to Phil Baker Saturday 11th December 2021 saw a unique gathering of family, friends and former rugby players in the Veseyans RFC Clubhouse at the Old Veseyan Memorial Ground, Little Hardwick Road, Streetly. Members of Aston Old Edwardians and Telford Rugby Club were also present prior to the later afternoon fixtures. The occasion was to mark the dedication of the main clubroom as THE PHIL BAKER ROOM in recognition of Phil's sixty years of dedication to the rugby club. The dedication is marked by a brass plaque affixed to the wall. Phil Baker was variously club captain, club chairman, development manager, project manager and fundraising disc jockey over the many years of his commitment which began initially as the Old Veseyan Rugby Club and evolved into Veseyans RFC as recruitment from the school declined. Nick Baker paid tribute to his Dad with an erudite summary of Phil's activities over the years and it was a delight to see Phil's wife, Julie, two sons Nick and John and their families at the ceremony. Others present were VRFC Chairman Mike Challis, OVA Chairman Paul Wallis, BVGS Head Teacher Dominic Robson, VRFC past Chairman Mark Hemingway and retired Head of PE at BVGS Rex Wallbank.

WRITTEN BY NICHOLAS HAMMOND

David Norton (OV) Whilst the majority of David Norton’s technical support was for the Physics Department, he joined the Staff as a Chemistry Technician. He was also a Staff Governor in his time. He was always an incredibly supportive, positive and friendly colleague. Having returned to the School myself as a Technician, I then valued the technical support he gave to my own A-Level Chemistry studies at BVGS.

WRITTEN BY MR BARKER

We are sorry to record the passing of other OVs: Gavin Weston and Brian Bird. Our thoughts are with their families, especially over this Christmas season. 31

Obituaries

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Update from the Archives

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

UPDATE FROM THE ARCHIVES We are pleased to report that Stephen Roberts (OV 1970-77), our honorary archivist, is making good progress in getting the school archives into order. He has discovered a dozen manuscript ledgers dating from the 1840s to the 1950s. These contain details about school accounts and governors’ meetings. For example, the preparations that the governors made in September 1939 in the event of the Luftwaffe bombing the school are set out. Stephen will be incorporating much of the information he has discovered in a new history of the school which he will begin writing next spring. New publications Glimpses into Sutton’s Past: A Warwickshire Market Town 1800-1914 by Stephen Roberts is now available as a very handsome hardback, £15.99.

Sutton Park: A Social History 1900-1950 by Stephen Roberts has also been released in paperback, £5. It is certain to remind of that part of your life when one afternoon a week for three months you ran up Sandy Hill in your rugby boots!

The Sixth Form Common Room, 1977 The Sixth Form Common was located in the 1970s in the room on the right of the school as you entered through the sixth form entrance. The room was tiled on the floor and on two levels. It looked like it might once have been a kitchen or bathrooms. On the lower level were long oak tables, formerly used for eating. There essays due in in the next period were hurriedly completed. On the higher level boys were able to relax in a variety of arm chairs. A school chair was turned into a small table (pictured). Sometimes an acoustic guitar would be produced & songs by the Beatles – such as ‘Yesterday’ & ‘Rocky Racoon’ were sung.

Left to right: Walsh; Latham; Farrow; Unknown; Fothergill; Young; Roberts; Wheeler. If you can identify the Veseyan whose name we are unable to give, please get in touch.

OLD VESEYAN GOLF SOCIETY The Old Veseyan Golf Society reached the end of its season with the final fixture taking place at Brocton Hall Golf Club where Phil Smith won the John Ellison cup and Seniors Cup in the morning. In the afternoon pairs competition Mike Coulthard and Mark Rogers won the Arthur Johnson shield with a cracking score of 45 points. The society had 9 fixtures this year and the picture above shows the 24 golfers who attended the successful Captains Day at Blackwell Golf Club in July. The other photo shows Karl Ward and Phil Smith at Moor Hall after winning the Alan Jones shield in the September pairs competition. Our 2022 season will kick off in April under the Captaincy of Ross Jeffries and we have added an additional fixture against Oakham at Luffenham Heath Golf course. The society is in great shape but is always looking to welcome new members and hope to hold an invitation day in 2022. If you are interested in joining the OVGS (£15 p.a) then please e-mail this years Captain, Gavin Humphreys (gavinrhumphreys@gmail.com). We look forward to continuing to flourish in 2022.

GAVIN HUMPHREYS, OVGS CAPTAIN 2021 (BVGS 1971-1978)

OVA DINNER Please pencil in Saturday, 12th November 2022 for the next OVA Dinner. We would love to welcome you back to School for an evening of great food and meeting with familiar and unfamiliar faces. 33

Old Veseyan Golf Society and Old Veseyan Dinner

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Remembrance Service

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM It was really poignant to gather on Middle Field, to talk about what Remembrance means, and to link it with our school histories. We learned about the survivors like Bill Hudspith, a French and Geography teacher at BVGS 1932-1946, who was parachuted behind enemy lines in Nazioccupied France, and was awarded the highest military honour, the Croix de Guerre, for bravery in liberating France from occupation. We also learned about those who did not survive like Stanley Browne from Blue House, member of the rugby first XV from 1939-1940 killed in Italy in June 1944 near Assisi. We heard about Stanley Ellison, killed on the first day of the infamous Battle of the Somme, 1st July 1916. At BVGS, he was a prefect, a librarian, played first team hockey and cricket and was offered a place at Oxford University. Instead of going to university, he joined his father’s law firm. On 21 October 1915, he joined the South Staffordshire regiment. He was sent to France in June 1916 and lost his life just one month later, at the age of 19. It was moving to hear our School Captains, Blessing and Krishan read powerful war poems: Dulce et Decorum Est and In Flanders Fields. We were also so lucky to hear our amazing trumpeter, Matthew Monaghan delivering an absolutely exceptional rendition of the Last Post and Reveil. Above all, a huge thank you to all members of the School for demonstrating a real respect and reverence for Remembrance. To quote Laurence Binyon: “They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.”

Every four years, the Scouting Association holds a World Scout Jamboree (WSJ), which is attended by forty thousand Scouts from around the world. In 2023, OVs Jamie Burrell (2007) and I, Beth Winterbottom (2021), are attending as Birmingham Unit Leaders. The World Scout Jamboree was first held in 1920, and has continued for every four years since, apart from during the Second World War. Every Scouting country and territory from around the world send at least one Scout and Leader to attend the two week camp, packed full of culture, activities and Scouting skills. In 2023, the 25th WSJ is being hosted by South Korea, in coastal town SaeManGeum. From Birmingham, there will be a Unit of 40 who will attend, 4 Leaders and 36 Young People aged 14-17 at time of attendance. To attend the WSJ, participants (both the adults and Young People) had to go through a vigorous Selection Process. From this, Jamie and I were selected, along with two other Leaders from across the city to take care of and support the Young People on their two year fundraising and Scouting journey. The WSJ begins with a huge Opening Ceremony with headline acts and performers from the host country. Then, over the two weeks the Young People will participate in many activities, this time predominantly water or STEM based, due to the campsite location. They will camp on a sub-camp, with 1,000 other Scouts from across the world whom they will get to meet, exchange badges with and swap stories. At the end of the Jamboree, the Young People and their Leaders will have learnt so much about themselves and the world around them, creating well-rounded, enthusiastic people. However, between now and then, Unit 84 must fundraise £160,000 for their travel, transport, equipment, and training to attend the WSJ. This will be done through grants, bake sales, casino nights, Santa Runs, quizzes and more, both individually and as a whole Unit. This is where we are asking for your help: if you feel you are able to give us a donation towards our journey or assist us with venues/clothing/badge printing or the like we would be very grateful. Please contact: beth.winterbottom@birminghamscouts.org.uk Jamie and I learnt many valuable skills as Veseyans helping us to become successful Scout Leaders, and we would love to be able to enhance these further and help Young People grow too. Thank you.

BETH WINTERBOTTOM (OV)

OVs Attending World Scout Jamboree 2023

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Where in the World?

WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

Former BV, geography teacher and Deputy Head, Bill Potter, has travelled extensively during his retirement. I enjoyed a conversation with him at the OV dinner about he and his wife's travels, especially concerning a certain part of the world. We have put together a 'Where in the World' guessing game to get your cogs whirring and bring you some sense of wanderlust despite restrictions. Read all the clues, and try to guess where in the world the clues refer to. A game for all! Try to guess the country and region. Extra points for those who can name a town in the region. Guesses to be submitted to n.harris@bishopveseys.bham.sch.uk. Good luck!

On 28 May 1865, the clipper ship 'Mimosa' sailed from Liverpool. She was carrying 150 passengers. But where was she travelling? The adults on board mainly came from the towns Mountain Ash and Aberdare in Wales. They landed at the same port where the SS Canberra, in 1982, had brought the Prisoners of War from the Falkland Islands back home. Eventually they made their way south of the Falklands. The Tehuelche People helped them to settle in and build infrastructure in this bleak and desolate terrain.

This region is very remote. They set up tea rooms. 50 miles along the coast to the south is the the largest colony of Magellanic penguins. In this region there are Welsh and Spanish bilingual schools.

FROM ALL AT BISHOP VESEY'S GRAMMAR SCHOOL

HAVE AN EXCELLENT CHRISTMAS

KEEP IN TOUCH

@BVGS1527

BISHOP VESEY'S GRAMMAR SCHOOL

LINKEDIN.COM/SCHOOL/BVGS

BISHOPVESEYS_GS

EDITOR, NATALIE HARRIS WINTER 2021 | EDITION 13

The Veseyan Winter 2021

Articles inside

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

WORLD SCOUT JAMBOREE 2023

UPDATE FROM THE ARCHIVES

OBITUARIES | PG 29

REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

OLD VESEYAN GOLF SOCIETY AND OVA DINNER

CHARITY REPORT

GLITZ AND GLAMOUR LUNCH

CHRISTMAS CHEER

CHRISTMAS CONCERT | PG 20

SPORT NEWS | PG 12

UP TO | PG 10

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS | PG 16

YEAR 7 EXPERIENCES | PG 14

CITIZENSHIP VISITS

REPRESENTATION AND CONVERSATION | PG 6

LEARNING COMES TO LIFE | PG 1