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Winter 2016

The News Magazine of Melbourn Village College, an Academy of The Cam Academy Trust

Teaching the whole school to save lives — Page 10

Boundary consultation highlights funding farce MVC News

Principal Simon Holmes has joined the debate on proposed electoral boundary changes, saying the proposals for a new cross-border constituency highlight the inequality of the school funding system.

Under the proposals being considered by The Boundary Commission, Melbourn and Bassingbourn village colleges and a number of Cambs' primaries will be in the new constituency alongside Hertfordshire schools, which are funded at a different level.

Hertfordshire currently receives an additional £130 per student compared to Cambridgeshire, a figure which amounts to around £65,000 per year for MVC and Mr Holmes asks: “How could one MP successfully represent schools receiving such different funding? How could they accurately represent our position and campaign on our behalf?”

While funding inequalities haven’t prevented Melbourn being very successful, with a Progress 8

BAD MOVE: ‘Boundary changes would be a recipe for confusion and delay.’ score of 0.45, concern remains about the position moving forwards.

“Pupils here did half a grade per GCSE better than

students nationally, placing us in the top 9% of schools in the country,” said Mr Holmes.” This is despite us receiving nearly £500 less per pupil than the average national funding.

“Just imagine what we could do with an additional £200,000. If this inequality continues, there will inevitably be an impact, despite our best efforts. It can’t be fair on children in Cambridgeshire.”

Mr Holmes is also worried that the move would put strains on other relationships.

“Schools in Cambridgeshire, particularly South Cambridgeshire, have a strong history of working together for the benefit of all our pupils and Melbourn is part of The Cam Academy Trust, which includes Comberton and Cambourne Village Colleges as well as Gamlingay First School.

“Changing constituency would put a strain on these and other relationships which are based within local authorities. One MP would find themselves working with two County Councils, a clear increase in workload and a recipe for confusion and delay.”

Students’ time out to consider career paths

Students from Melbourn had a taster of possible future career paths at two exciting events.

More than 40 Year 11s spent the day at Cambridge Regional College, where they had the chance to experience a range of vocational courses available to them when they leave Melbourn next summer.

These included Uniformed Services, Health and Social Care, Motor Mechanics, Computing and Media Make Up and the 42 students spent the day in their chosen department working alongside CRC students and staff.

Deputy Principal Regina Lawrence said: “MVC staff really enjoyed seeing the students rising to the challenge of working in a post-16 environment and managed to take a few photos of them in action.

“At the end of the day, the CRC staff made a point of saying how delightful our students were and how engaged they were with their learning.”

On the same day, eight Year 10 triple scientists went to the Babraham Institute to learn about the research work that takes THINKING AHEAD: Students in Year 10 and 11 had a taster of possible career place there. paths at CRC and the Babraham Institute.

Seminars were given by a number of scientists involved in before going, but having a chance to listen and discuss these made me challenge medical research and development and students were able to question and my own opinions.” debate topics such as the use of animals in medical research.

The institute, which focuses on lifelong health, is dedicated to researching the One student, Starlily McCormick, said: “I had set opinions on animal research mechanisms underlying developmental and ageing processes.

q Students make Strong Progress — Page 3 q ‘Change the World’— Page 3 q Crowds Tour College — Page 3 q Trust News — Page 4 q SSAT Conference — Page 5 q Languages latest — Page 6 q Honouring War Dead — Page 6

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Contents

q Mental Health Matters — Page 7 q Year 4 day — Page 7 q G&T Maths — Page 7 q Code and Chips — Page 7 q The Power to make a Difference — Pages 8 & 9 q Teams Organise own Expedition — Page 8

q Charities Benefit — Page 9 q Young Carers — Page 10 q Fashion Show — Page 10 q Grants Aid MVC — Page 11 q PSHE Day — Page 11 q Enrichment latest — Page 12 q SCSSP Round-Up — Page 14 q Sports News — Pages 15 & 16

Melbourn is top of the class!

MVC News

Melbourn is among the best schools in the country when it comes to helping their students to progress in English and Maths.

Based on the numbers who achieve A*-C in GCSE maths and English, from their starting point when they join the college, their 2016 results put them in the top 1% in the country, according to figures released by The Fischer Family Trust, a national statistical organisation.

This shows the exceptional progress made by pupils from Year 7 to Year 11 and is borne out by the Government’s Progress 8 figures which put Melbourn in the top 9% nationally and mean that, on average, students at the college achieve half a grade better per subject than similar ability students nationally.

Melbourn has long had a tradition of excellent English and LEARNING WELL: Last summer’s leavers made maths performance, with both excellent progress during their time at Melbourn.

‘Change the world’

Melbourn’s class of 2016 were reunited for one last time to celebrate their achievements.

Students received their exam certificates and were awarded prizes for performance in individual subjects.

Three special ‘overall’ prizes were also awarded: l Governors’ award for achievement — Amy Selby l Governors’ award for progress — Josie Willers & Finn McCormick l MindEd award (for excellence and contribution to school life) — Alderney Smith The evening included a chance to catch up with teachers and classmates who have moved on to different post-16 providers.

In his address to the year Principal Simon Holmes reiterated the importance of the all-round education provided by the college and encouraged the year group to ‘be the pebble that creates ripples’ and to get involved in ‘changing the world’.

Other awards AG Foulston Award for Mathematics — Amy Selby Middlemass Award for Science — Carys Davies Subject Prizes Additional Science — Izzy Koyander, Extra effort in Biology — Rebecca Bystry, Catering & Hospitality —

departments being among the best in the country for student progress.

After four years in the top 10%, the maths department has just been ranked in the top 5% for the second year running.

This, combined with the English department being in the top 13% nationally and Humanities reaching the top 10%, has laid the foundations for excellent overall progress.

Delighted Principal Simon Holmes said: “Obviously we are really happy with these latest figures which are recognition of the hard work of students and of the excellent quality of staff at MVC. It’s particularly pleasing to see all ability groups, including SEN and disadvantaged, making above average progress. The benefits of an MVC education are being shared by all of our students.”

The Progress 8 score of 0.45 follows a dramatic rise of almost 20% to 69% of MVC students achieving at least five A*-C grades at GCSE including maths and English.

Laura Bartholemew, Rebecca Bystry, Carys Davies, Jack Greenwood, Emma McMorran, Amy Selby and Alice West all achieved six or more A* and A grades, but there were success stories all over the ability range.

RETURN TO MVC: Leavers collect their certificates and prizes at Presentation Evening.

Josie Willers, Computing — Gus Cronin, Construction — Finn McCormick, Extra effort in Chemistry — Elio D’Alessandro, Dance — Jessica Maskell, Drama — Imogen Laight, English Language — Caitlin Thrower, English Literature — Laura Bartholemew, Fine Art — Zoe Clayton, French —

Amy Selby, Geography — Ben Greenaway, German —Theo Windred, History — Emma McMorran, IT — Skye Albon, Media — Jack Greenwood, Music — Ben Doughty, PE — Alderney Smith, Physics — Carys Davies, RE — Gemma Rowland, Statistics — Alice West.

Crowds turn up to tour the college

EXPERIMENTS: Hands-on for prospective pupils in the science department.

Hundreds of prospective pupils and their parents flocked to Melbourn earlier this term for the college’s annual Open Evening.

Principal Simon Holmes gave two talks to packed audiences in the main hall and youngsters were given the opportunity to discover what Melbourn has to offer.

“It was a very good evening with lots of positive comments and smiling faces,” said Mr Holmes.

The same day also saw the launch of Melbourn’s new website, www.melbournvc.org which was also well received.

As well as the website you can keep up with news and events at the college by following us on Twitter and Facebook by clicking on the links on the website or going to @Melbourn_VC or www.facebook.com/MelbournVillageCollege

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Primary plans move on THE CAM ACADEMY TRUST NEWS

The public consultation on the joint proposal by The Cam Academy Trust and Stratton Educational Trust to move to one school in Gamlingay that is a full Primary School has now finished.

Both Trusts are working together to confirm their responses to the points raised in the consultation.

The Boards of both Trusts were due to meet before Christmas to confirm their views on moving to the next stage of the potential change that would see the First School become a full Primary School, overseen

by The Cam Academy Trust, and move, in due course, on to the Village College (Middle School) site in Gamlingay.

Once a decision to proceed with the proposal might be confirmed by both Trusts then a business case

will be put to the Office of the Regional Schools Commissioner.

This will need formal approval for the proposal to be confirmed. In the meantime, planning for the development of the Gamlingay Village College site to turn it into an excellent facility for a full Primary School will need to take place. Further updates on these developments will be given when they are Stephen Munday, Chief Executive available.

More new schools are set to join Both Hartford Junior and Hartford Infant Schools in Huntingdon are set to become Academies and join The Cam Academy Trust in January 2017.

All the formal decisions have now been made regarding this development and it is a matter of all the various logistical arrangements being sorted out to allow the move to go through ready for the beginning of next term.

Their partner secondary school, St Peter’s, formally joined the Trust in September.

Jeavons Wood Primary School, in Cambourne, has just finished its consultation on its proposal to move to Academy status and join the Trust.

Following the consultation, a decision will be confirmed by the school’s governing body and the office of the Regional Schools’ Commissioner has to approve the decision. If all goes through as it might, this would enable Jeavons Wood to become part of the Trust early in 2017.

With these developments going through, The Cam Academy Trust will have become very clearly a cross-phase Trust with good representation of both primary as well as secondary schools.

This is a model that the Trust Board has been keen to see develop as it provides the most powerful way to have a strong influence on the whole of young peoples’ school education.

New man on team

POISED: Hartford Infant School could join the Trust next month.

Trust looks to go West

The Cam Academy Trust has submitted Free School proposals for the new schools that will be needed in Cambourne due to the prosed Cambourne West Development.

Specifically, proposals have been submitted to open a new secondary school that will be needed as well as a new primary school.

The Trust’s new Primary Executive The proposal for the primary school includes the suggestion of having an enhanced Leader, Chris Jukes, is set to take up his post full-time with us in January. resources facility for some pupils with Asperger’s Syndrome that mirrors the Chris leaves his second successful secondary provision already available at Comberton Village College.

PRIMARY LEADER: Chris Primary Headship in St Alban’s, The planning proposal for Cambourne West is due to be heard soon.

Hertfordshire, to join the Trust to help to Jukes. oversee our Primary School developments. His work will especially involve If the proposals for the new schools are seen as viable after an initial assessment by the Department for Education, then the next stage will be to invite working alongside the Heads in the Primary Schools in the Trust and representatives of the Trust to an interview in London to discuss the proposals working with those schools’ local governing bodies. He will also work with primary schools who are exploring the possibility of joining the Trust in the further before a final decision is made to allow the Trust to proceed with these future and thinking through what this might mean for them. proposals.

For the love of language

The core purpose of Language Futures, an approach to language learning that was initially developed in 2009 by Linton Village College, is to generate deep engagement with learning, so learners are motivated not solely by outcomes but also by the learning process, that they take responsibility for their learning both within and beyond the classroom, voluntarily extending it outside school.

In this extra-curricular model of Language Futures, students from Years 8 to 10 at Melbourn, Cambourne and Comberton village colleges are currently learning one of nine languages, including Afrikaans, French, German, Italian, Latin Japanese, Mandarin, Polish, and Spanish. They are supported by voluntary community mentors, native or near-native speakers, who give their time to support and develop knowledge of both language and culture.

One student sums up the attraction of the programme: “It's a fun way of learning and is different from the classroom. You are also in control of the learning and that’s cool. It's also an opportunity which not every student in the world will have.”

It is early days but we would like to extend the programme to more languages next year.

Rachel Hawkes, Director of International Education HELP TO LEARN: From native speakers.

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Just for girls!

Girls from three of the Trust’s secondary schools are set to be invited to a new science fair.

The fair, for girls in all years at Comberton, Cambourne and Melbourn village colleges, takes place on March 16, 2017 at Comberton Sixth Form.

The two-hour sessions will involve presentations from guest speakers, support sessions and mentoring from Alevel science students.

This new venture was inspired by a recent sixth form science fair, which was highly successful and rewarding for students.

The hope is to inspire and encourage girls to take on sciences in further education.

For further information, please contact Nadine Malcolm on nmalcolm@combertonvc.org

For job vacancies across the Trust, visit the CAT website at www.catrust.co.uk

Students find themselves centre stage

MVC News

Two surprised students from Melbourn found themselves on stage in front of hundreds of head teachers from around the country at a national conference.

and dancing.

Despite their shock, the MVC duo gladly accepted the task – and thoroughly enjoyed it.

It was probably not what The pair, Emily West and Mary Yates, were among anyone had expected the eight-strong MVC group at the Schools, Students when MVC was asked to and Teachers Network (SSAT) National Conference select a group of at the ICC in Birmingham. students to act as They were selected to go on the stage as part of the reporters for the event. opening keynote speech of the two-day conference, TALES OF THE UNEXPECTED: MVC student reporters on Before the conference, entitled Leadership – Making the Impossible the students were asked stage.

Possible, which was made by Dominic Peckham, to write a report outlining regarded as one of the UK’s finest young, dynamic Principal their views about leadership, particularly in schools. conductors and choral specialists. at Passmores, when they were the school in Eagerly, all students produced interesting ideas and In a session which went on to discuss challenging Educating Essex). thoughts about what leadership meant to them – yourself and moving outside of your comfort zone, he Needless to say, they were all a little ‘star struck’ thoughts that changed as a result of this inspirational soon had a conference hall full of head teachers during this particular interview and thoroughly and eye-opening event. singing in harmony with choreographed moves. enjoyed it!

Students were divided up and attended many Those invited on to the stage were given three Melbourn Principal, Simon Holmes, who was at the different sessions to listen to a range of motivational minutes and challenged to come up with a conference as a delegate, said: “It was a great speakers who included Sue Williamson, Chief performance involving more than one part of singing honour for us to be the school providing the student Executive of SSAT, and journalists to this prestigious national event, drawing Campbell, Sue Baroness together leading educationalists from across the the head of the Youth country.

Sports Trust.

“The students represented MVC proudly and The feedback from all extremely well; I look forward to reading their eight students suggests observations and to inviting them to discuss with wonderful a had that they Senior Staff which ideas they think could be experience and learnt a implemented here.” great deal about what Head of English Kate King, who accompanied the leadership should look students, said: “I am extremely proud of our students: like in schools and are despite it being a long day and perhaps at times, a implement help eager to little daunting. Our students showed enthusiasm, these ideas at Melbourn. confidence and have absolutely made us all at The students interviewed Melbourn Village College very proud indeed. a number of people, “The students would like to thank Sue Williamson including Vic Goddard. and all involved at SSAT for giving them the fantastic later speaker a (He was opportunity to attend such a prestigious event, which in the afternoon, but is has provided them with the inspiration to become best known for being the HARD AT WORK: A student reporter in action. great leaders.”

Young reporters give their views . . .

“The conference was a positive “It was an enlightening experience that taught me to experience that has changed my push my boundaries in order to views on how leadership in achieve; how leadership is a schools works.” vital role in the education Olivia Greenaway process; and the importance of “Our teachers are teac hing us to be having an achievable, yet leaders. The event wa s amazing – inspirational vision.” thank you for the expe rience.”

Mary Yates Emily Littlewood “The conference made me think about how much “I really enjoyed talking with htening and I work teachers put in to ensure that students have a everyone at the conference. lig n e s a w y a “The d f great future. It completely changed what I thought on the topic o They really inspired me to feel my views d e g n leadership means and how important it is.” en cha e b ve a h ip think about leadership h leaders n dents at a Rose Pedge tu to s in f H o n ty h ri o o J in ” em and what it means to for the better. g in the definit day as it gave e th d e y “Despite bein jo n e be a great leader.” ly “This was most definitely a nt, I thorough f leadership in o d rl o teachers’ eve w e Emily West th worthwhile event.” Fred Close iel Arthur ul insight into schools.” Dan me a wonderf 5

Mandarin is a real hit MVC News

Melbourn’s pioneering Year 7 students are embracing their unique opportunity to learn Mandarin.

as the language: “Mr Fan is a really good and funny teacher. He gives us fun, quick, easy ways to learn Mandarin and lots of praise for an achievement,” said Milly Bradley.

They are studying the Chinese language at the only Jake Botten said: “When I started learning Mandarin, school in Cambridgeshire to offer it I thought it would be really hard. But as part of the curriculum and the with the stories behind the reaction, as the first term draws to a characters, and the help of Mr Fan, close, has been hugely positive. learning Mandarin isn’t too difficult.”

One student, Gethin Rogers, said: “It And both Laura Baker and Elizabeth is an unusual experience that not Spence described learning Mandarin many secondary students have, so I as “fun.” am taking this opportunity to learn But Mr Fan has seen much more this wonderful language and hope to than that in the first term at have great success with it.”

Melbourn. “Some students have Another, Dexter Todd, commented: “I grown in confidence and resilience really enjoy studying Mandarin through their learning of Mandarin because it is fun and something I (as most people think it is very have never done before. Mandarin difficult language to learn). This is of isn’t actually that difficult and I am equal value to the learning of the loving learning all about it,” while language itself.”

Samuel Bream said: “I am finding Older students have also been Mandarin really fun and a bit FUN TO LEARN: Year 7 students are enthusiastic about their offered the opportunity to learn challenging. I am especially enjoying Mandarin lessons with specialist teacher Frank Fan. Mandarin by selecting it as part of learning a language that is so the new enrichment programme and there are plans backgrounds of Chinese characters not only help imaginative.” to involve Melbourn’s partner primaries by offering Mr students to memorise them, but also increase In the first couple of months the students have Fan’s services to teach students there either students’ interest. In addition, lots of students feel it learned to count to 99, greet and introduce regularly, around a particular topic or through a is ‘cool’ to write Chinese characters.” themselves and talk about family members and pets.

‘Chinese Day’.

Students seem to enjoy Mr Fan’s lessons as much Most students can now speak, read and write those characters.

Specialist Mandarin teacher Frank Fan said: “The Chinese language comes with tone, which is like rhythm to students. The culture and historical

Remembering the war dead

LANGUAGE LEADERS: At the award launch at Magdalene College.

‘English is not enough’

On Sunday November 13, Melbourn Village College was proud to be represented at the Remembrance Day Parade and wreath-laying ceremony by three Year 11 students, Mia Flowerdew, Amélise Burr and Mia Henderson.

This year particularly commemorated the Battle of the Somme, which took place 100 years ago.

As a college, Melbourn prides itself in being an active member of our community and appreciates that the students, whether in their roles as prefects or as members of the college, volunteered to represent MVC at such an important and solemn occasion.

Four students attended a prestigious event at Magdalene College, Cambridge, last month.

They joined students from partner Cam Academy Trust schools, Comberton and Cambourne village colleges and The Voyager, Peterborough, for the annual launch of the Language Leader Award.

To gain the award, students must plan, deliver and reflect on a series of lessons taught to youngsters in one of their school’s feeder primaries. The Melbourn students will be teaching Spanish.

The day started with a tour of Magdalene, with students getting to see the dining hall where, to this day, diners eat by candlelight.

They then heard from Sarah Schechter, Project Manager for Routes into Languages (East), about the importance of language learning and she gave the clear message that ‘English is not enough!’

Students then reflected on their personal skills and those needed for effective leadership and gained instruction on how best to present themselves to an audience from Jane Driver, Assistant Principal at The Voyager.

Melbourn Head of Languages Ben Hutchinson said: “It was a really inspiring day with student ambassadors from many of the Cambridge colleges on hand to help our students.

It was lovely to see the students having to reflect upon themselves as individuals, as well as witnessing the collaboration with other students from schools within the Trust. They came away fully empowered and excited about starting their lesson planning!”

Lucy Dickinson, one of the MVC students involved, said: “I really enjoyed it. It has made me see the importance of languages and I feel that I have learnt new skills to teach with.”

Penny Lowe added: “The day we spent at Magdalene College helped us to decide what to A DAY TO REMEMBER: Three Year 11 students at do with our futures.” the Remembrance Day Parade.

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Mental health matters

MVC News

The organisation that provides in-school counselling at Melbourn’s partner primary schools has been showcasing its work at a regional convention.

But allyance still fears for its future as funding for a range of projects like theirs remains under threat. allyance, which works with primary schools in the Melbourn, Bassingbourn and Gamlingay area but is based at Melbourn Village College, held a workshop at last month’s ‘Innovation in Education’ event which was organised by the NHS East of

GETTING TOGETHER: To talk about ways to help children and young people.

Stepping back in time

The chair of governors at MVC went back in time earlier this term — in more ways than one.

Sue Williamson, a former teacher, took groups of primary school children back to the First World War as part of the school’s Year 4 day.

She led the ‘history’ rotation for the 147 youngsters from six of Melbourn’s partner primary schools as they spent the day at the college.

And the former headteacher and history specialist enjoyed it as much as she hopes the students did.

“It was good to meet all the Year 4s from local primary schools,” she

said. “I enjoyed teaching the pupils about war poetry and Armistice Day. They were interested, questioning and hard-working — a credit to themselves, their parents, teachers and schools.”

It was the biggest group of students Melbourn has welcomed at one of their taster days and, in addition to history, the children from Melbourn, Meldreth, Fowlmere, Foxton, Harston & Newton and Hauxton enjoyed dance, drama and PE as well as Mandarin, where Principal Simon Holmes helped with the lessons!

England Clinical Networks and brought together partners with an interest in children and young people’s mental health.

Staff from allyance ran a workshop on ‘A Collaborative Approach to Early Intervention in Primary School’, which addressed the aims of the day and highlighted the important therapeutic work that allyance carries out across the cluster of primary schools.

The event focussed on innovation within the education sector regarding the promotion and prevention of mental health issues and emotional wellbeing for children and young people and interventions/getting help in the East of England.

It showcased examples of best practice and considered the perspectives of the health system, education system and children, young people and families.

The day successfully brought together delegates from education and health and has started a conversation of: l Improving collaboration between schools and all other services that support children's wellbeing and mental health. l Empowering schools to find ways to support children's wellbeing and mental health. l Helping different organisations and institutions work together with schools. l Motivating, encouraging, facilitating, empowering and sparking creativity. l Making connections between people and organisations so that changes can happen.

Ann Jones, allyance co-ordinator, said: “allyance members believe in networking for the greater good, but worry that sustainability of funding is always an issue for projects like ours. Hopefully, by speaking at forums like this, opportunities may come our way.”

It all adds up to fun Code and chips on menu

Junior maths aces descended on Melbourn for a morning working with numbers in different bases.

The 20 Year 6 students had been identified as Gifted and Talented in maths and launched this year’s primary programme as they worked with Melbourn’s Head of Maths John Holder and Melbourn students to further their maths skills.

It was the opening event in MVC’s exciting year-long programme working with its partner primary schools.

Kelly Coghlan, Melbourn’s Head of PE who also oversees primary liaison, said: “We are really looking forward to this year’s primary programme and seeing all of the pupils, we have some amazing events planned, which will be celebrated at the end of the year at the Celebration Evening.” Details of forthcoming events are on the ‘events’ section of the new MVC website www.melbournvc.org

WORKING IT OUT: Melbourn students help primary pupils solve maths problems.

DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES: Year 4 in Mandarin and drama.

Year 7 students took part in a special computing enrichment trip.

Code & Chips, organised by ARM and hosted in Cambridge, saw students explore modern computing technologies and take part in an interactive Minecraft workshop.

Computing teacher James Richardson said: “This trip is a great example of how exciting computing can be and how Cambridge is at the forefront in developing these new technologies.”

Students spent the day exploring the various activities on offer, including a robot fight club and virtual reality headsets, as well as viewing some of the exciting projects that can be done with a Raspberry Pi and BBC micro: bit.

In the afternoon they completed a Minecraft workshop, where they used the Python programming language to teleport and alter the world around them.

Student Ben Nicholls said: “I enjoyed the workshop as it allowed me to be creative and build upon the code that was given to INTERACTIVE: Year 7 students at the me in the first place. I would recommend it Code & Chips day at ARM. to all my friends in computing and science.”

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MVC News

The power to make a real d

SPORTING FUN: Team photo after a game of football.

MEN AT WORK: Building the new classroom.

Students at an overcrowded school in Africa are enjoying a little more space this year thanks to Melbourn students and staff.

The sixth and seventh classrooms in the 350-plus student Grace Methodist School in Ghana should help ease the overcrowding at the prep school in the village of Attabadze after 13 students and two staff from Melbourn Village College spent two weeks during the summer holidays working there.

But even getting there had its trials for the travelling party, who had to make the difficult decision to stick to their planned route via Istanbul despite a military coup in Turkey the day before they were due to leave.

Then they arrived in Accra, West Africa’s largest city, at night, which was more than a little daunting, and took a bus across town to a ‘Guest House’. The staff were helpful, but the accommodation was basic, with no running water and cell-like rooms.

It was enough, however, to allow them to travel to Attabadze rested for the task ahead. This involved helping local workmen complete the sixth classroom, which was already under construction, and erecting a seventh. By the time the Melbourn group left, only the roof was left to go on to the newly-built room.

This was no mean feat. The school, built at the far end of the village, lies on solid, dusty and impenetrable earth too hard to even sink a tent peg, which meant the Melbourn students ended up sleeping in the neighbouring enormous and impressive church.

The students worked hard in blazing sun and temperatures approaching 30 degrees Celsius and that plus the basic conditions — the toilet was a hole in concrete suspended over a trough — resulted in some of the Melbourn party becoming unwell.

But that did not detract from their achievements — or the fantastic experience of immersion in a different culture.

PE teacher Rob Walker, who led the trip, said: “The child excitement at our presence. The teachers and the headm hospitality started to become evident.

“We handed over a large bag stuffed full of kind donation gift was warmly received and the students proudly parad “On our fourth day it was sports day and all the students challenging us to matches.

“It was clear that this was a boys’ domain and the girls w getting the girls playing handball, netball and Frisbee.

“A fantastic day of sport and dance was had and the stud wonderful time interacting and learning each other’s cultu The Melbourn students also had the chance to visit the K to many species of protected and rare birds and primate Before the MVC students left they were treated to a perfo into adulthood, were presented with traditional Ghanaian Mr Walker added: “By the time we got home, the stresse was an enormous sense of achievement as I watched 13 responsible team, hug their parents.”

A video of the trip is available at https://www.youtube.com

Teams organise their own expedition TANZANIA LINE-UP: The students who will be heading for Africa in 2017.

Two teams of students head for Tanzania next summer as part of Melbourn Village College’s third expedition to Africa.

Following trips to Ethiopia and Ghana, the 24 Year 11 students are bound for the dusty savannah and open plains of subSaharan Africa after they have finished their GCSE exams.

The students have been busy fundraising £2,500 each, which will not only pay for the two-week visit but will also go towards a community project in a local school, orphanage or community.

This could include improving sanitation, constructing classrooms or medical centres and working with local people to help make farming and food production more sustainable and yielding.

The students will also spend three days trekking up the 2637m

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high Mount Longido, which is in the foothills of Africa’s tallest peak, Kilimanjaro, and two days on safari in the Tarangire National Park, where they will be hoping to see the Big 5 of lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino.

The students are in total control of the expedition, which means organising where to camp/stay, buying and cooking food, sourcing building materials, monitoring their team’s health, booking transport, managing the budget and much more. The adult helpers, PE teacher Rob Walker and volenteer Arwen Spicer, are there only to supervise and step in if a mistake is made that may cause danger.

Look out for a report and pictures next autumn. Meanwhile, visit the school website www.melbournvc.org to see footage of the

FROM THIS TO THIS: The Yorkshi Peaks Challenge (left) and Mount

recent expedition to Ghana.

Mrs Spicer’s team of Sophie Jelley, Adam Grove, Biddlecombe, Ben Morrison, Grace Maude, Emily Maggie Clark, Ellie Clark, Oliver Monksfield, Jack Dixon and Mia Flowerdew as well as Mr Walker’s Watson, Fin Livingstone, Ethan Chesham, Kate B Connor, Conor Waring, Annabel Wright, Sarah Ma Browning, Beth Coburn, Ellen Leach and Mia Hen been finding a variety of ways to earn the cash th These include doing the Yorkshire Three Peaks C horrendous conditions last Spring, car boot sales washes, as well as taking on part-time jobs, footb and selling items online.

MVC News

Caption

difference ‘HOME’: Camping in the local church.

TEAM MVC: The Year 11 students who went to Ghana last summer.

dren offered us a fantastic welcome and it was clear to see their master (Isaac) led a welcoming ceremony of prayers and Ghanaian

ns of stationery and books from our local community and Tesco. This ded two pencils and a pen each. arrived in PE kit and played football, handball and volleyball,

were expected to watch, not take part, so we tried to address this by

dents; both Ghanaian and those of MVC were exhausted but had a ure.”

Kakum National Park, an area of protected rainforest which is home s. ormance of a traditional Ghanaian story about the right of passage n dresses and shirts and had many photos taken. es of the first few days of the trip were long since forgotten and there 3 students, who had developed into a mature, hardworking and

Charities benefit from student choices

m/watch?v=tlx4cy7YIAs

n

Students were given the choice of what to wear to school for two days this term — and raised more than £800 for charity.

Denim was the ‘must have’ item at Melbourn where staff and students gave a minimum £1 donation to wear their own clothes on Jeans for Genes Day, which raises fund for Genetic Disorders UK.

MAKING FRIENDS: Melbourn students meet pupils from the Grace Methodist School.

The total raised was £425.45.

A few days later bright clothing was the order of the day as students again left their uniforms at home to raise almost £450 for local charity CamSight, during National Eye Health Week.

They also had a talk from a Camsight representative during assembly and at lunchtime staff were challenged by students to a goalball

match — a game designed for blind and partially sighted participants using a ball with a bell inside it.

“Students really enjoyed trying out goalball and we are really pleased to have been able to combine learning about the great work these charities do with raising money to help support them further,” said Principal Simon Holmes.

ire Three Longido.

Charlotte Littlewood, Hallam, Tilly team of Alice Bradley, Zoe artin, Will nderson have ey need.

Challenge in and car all refereeing

CHARITY EVENTS: Wearing denim on Jeans for Genes Day and trying goalball during National Eye Health Week.

9

MVC News

Raising funds

More than £500 was raised to help Melbourn’s Access to Learning Fund from the proceeds of a Fashion Show and pop-up shop at the school last month.

The evening, organised by the PTFA with the help of Colours, proved a bargainCATWALK: A model in action. hunter’s paradise, with those attending enjoying the opportunity to buy a range of High St clothing, accessories and shoes at discounted prices, as well as trying their luck to win a hamper on the raffle.

Support is available

Melbourn’s Young Carers group is continuing to grow and offer support to new students each month at group meetings and in one-to-one mentoring sessions.

This term students have taken part in team-building activities, mini Olympics and, most recently, created Christmas decorations in the pottery studio which they then glazed at the next meeting.

For more information please contact Caroline Deadman, Young Carers Champion, cdeadman@melboournvc.org

Silver award for MVC Melbourn has received further recognition for its efforts in making sure students don’t miss out on education because they are young carers.

They have earned a silver award from The Young Carers in Schools Programme — just eight months after gaining the bronze award.

Assistant Principal John Barnes, who has responsibility for inclusion, said: “We are delighted to have won a silver award for our work with students who are young carers.

“Young carers are not always identified quickly enough and as a result may have to overcome barriers that other non-carers will never have to experience. This award has shown that at Melbourn we are able to identify and support all students, not just academically but as a whole person.”

The Young Carers programme helps primary and secondary schools improve outcomes for young carers and Melbourn have in Caroline Deadman their own Young Carers Champion on site to work with the college’s young carers.

She said: “I am thrilled that we have received the Young Carers Silver Award.

The backing our young carers receive allows them to feel supported, understood, heard and acknowledged.

“Staff and students are more aware and have a greater understanding of the responsibilities these young people face, often on a day-to-day basis and I feel proud to be able to help and support them in building the resources we can offer them at Melbourn Village College, knowing that is has such a positive impact on their wellbeing and sense of being understood.”

To achieve their Silver Award, Melbourn, the first school in The Cam Academy Trust to gain this recognition, demonstrated that it supports young carers in many ways.

These included building on the bronze award achievements to: l Establish firm links and create a working group to support young carers

Life-saving lessons!

In the UK, only 10% of people who have a cardiac arrest survive that event. In Norway 25% survive the same traumatic event. This is due to 95% of the Norwegian population being first aid trained. This started in schools, where it is mandatory for all students to be trained in emergency CPR and placing a casualty in the recovery position.

The chances are that anyone in the UK suffering from a cardiac arrest would not be immediately near anyone who could help appropriately.

Melbourn, with support from the British Heart Foundation, is trying to close the gap by training all its students and staff in giving emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

During PSHE Day last month, all Year 8 underwent training, with the rest of the school being trained in the following weeks.

PE teacher Rob Walker, who oversaw the session, said: “All students carried out this training with great maturity and understood how important it would be to know what to do if the worst happens. “It was also impressive to see how many students have already

10

TEAM-BUILDING: For young carers.

l Be aware of difficulties young carers face regarding attendance and put supportive measures in place to assist them l Ensure all the school was informed of young carers support through assemblies, form time and Personal Social, Health Economic Education (PSHEE) lessons l Provide support and information to families through various methods of communication l Ensure all staff have received and will receive ongoing training to support young carers l Include young carer identification in the school enrolment process and include in transition phases l Create a Young Carers policy, including the students’ views l Effective and updated signposting to young carers support available in and out of school l Building links and relationships with external support for young carers in catchments Gail Scott-Spicer, Chief Executive of Carers Trust, said: “Schools play a vital role in a young carer’s life, but many care for relatives without their teachers even knowing what they do. On average young carers will miss half a day of school each fortnight as a result of their caring role, so the steps schools take to identify and support them can have a huge impact on their learning, wellbeing and life chances.”

Jenny Frank, young carer programme director at The Children’s Society, is confident that the Young Carers in Schools Programme will bring about national change. “This is a giant leap forward in the way schools can make sure no child misses out on an education because they are a carer,” she said. “Importantly, we are not just telling schools to improve, we are giving them a clear set of steps to help them improve their support systems, and then recognising the work they do with young carers.”

The programme is open to all schools in England and to sign up schools just need to visit www.youngcarersinschools.com

done the training through their affiliation to organised groups such as the Scouts.

“It was nice to watch students who were quite overwhelmed initially, but, with a little practice, turned into competent administers of CPR and placing a casualty into the recovery position.”

If anyone would like more information on how they TRAINING: Year 8 students learn CPR. could be trained, see the British Heart Foundation women at the college to give students the chance to website https://www.bhf.org.uk/heart-health/how-tofind out more about the world of work by talking save-a-life directly to local employers.

Year 9s also found themselves having a go at CPR They finished with talks by some really motivational as part of their Careers Carousel on PSHE Day as speakers. staff from one of the visiting employers, Papworth The world of work was also in focus for Year 11, who Hospital, were getting students to give it a go. started the day with individual mock interview with They were among a wide range of businessmen and employers.

Cash is welcome boost

MVC News

New resources will aid learning

more complex sentences. l Age appropriate, lower level reading books l 8 iPads Foundation Learners are those whose prior attainment is too low to be able to access many areas of the Key Stage 3 and 4 curriculum and therefore achieve the Students who need extra help to raise necessary outcomes to support their post-16 their attainment have received a boost progression at the end of Year 11.

At the start of this academic year, Melbourn set up a to their learning. mixed class, taught by the Special Educational Needs Melbourn successfully applied for funds from the lead teacher (SENCo) Anna Ghale and teaching Cambridge Area Partnership to support the bespoke assistants, to enable these students to make rapid curriculum for Foundation Learners, which was progress and raise self-esteem, with the ultimate aims introduced in September. of being able to re-join the main curriculum and equip They have been awarded £5032 and will now be able the students for their chosen post-16 routes. to purchase: Melbourn’s Progress 8 score of 0.45 this year puts l Literacy intervention resources to boost reading them in the top 9% nationally and Deputy Principal and spelling in Years 7 and 8 Regina Lawrence said: “We are delighted to have l Literacy games to improve general literacy successfully bid for these funds, which will definitely l Digital text reading software to allow students who enhance our new programme for Foundation are unable to read independently to access some Learners. work independently “At Melbourn, our philosophy is ‘Everybody is SUPPORT: To help raise attainment. l Online spelling program Somebody’ and we are committed to providing the l Online reading program right support for those students who need it most so they can make the best l Self-checking resources to boost students’ ability to read and write simple and possible progress during their time with us.”

Fund to provide help when it’s needed the most

A four-figure grant has given a vital cash injection to a new fund set up to help students whose family financial circumstances are affecting their education.

The newly-established Access to Learning Fund has received £1,500 from the Melbourn-based Trigg Charity Trust, which provides financial assistance to local schools/people for educational benefit. It was originally set up to support families unable to afford to attend school.

Melbourn’s Access to Learning Fund follows the Trigg Trust ethos and will assist students whose families are experiencing

disadvantaged students at Melbourn, was thrilled to receive the donation.

“I applied for £750 and they doubled it, so that’s fantastic,” said Mrs Deadman.

“We have also received £1000 from the Melbourn Fete Committee and I am applying for other grants as well.

“Some of the proceeds from the Fashion Show last month also went to the fund, which will support students who don’t ENRICHMENT: qualify for help elsewhere or who are Fund will help waiting for that help to kick in. students who “We aim to support things like paying would miss out. for school lunches, uniform, shoes, trips and enrichment activities so students genuine and unavoidable financial hardship. are not disadvantaged through no fault of their own.”

Caroline Deadman, who works closely with

Expedition success for all involved

All 41 students from Melbourn who took part in the Duke of Edinburgh assessed expedition earlier this term passed that part of the Bronze award.

The Year 11 group, plus staff volunteer Arwen Spicer, travelled to the Chilterns in Buckinghamshire for two days of hiking.

It was a lot warmer than their practice expedition in March, but the weather on the Saturday meant students were resigned to walking through a near constant drizzle with the occasional burst of welcome sunshine.

Some were even lucky enough to arrive at the second campsite on Saturday evening and put their tents up during a dry spell. A fault with the campsite toilets resulted in the site’s sports centre being opened up for us, and the issue was then convincing students that sleeping in that gloriously heated building was not an option; however, it did briefly provide a welcome relief.

Mrs Spicer said: “I am really proud of them all, especially the way they kept their spirits up despite fighting to put already wet tents up in the rain on Saturday evening. The way they rallied around the last MVC team to arrive was truly fantastic — they set up a welcoming committee at the entrance so they couldn’t miss it in the dark, and then helped them set up tents and started the water boiling for hot food and drinks. It was wonderful to witness. They did themselves and MVC proud.”

Sunday turned into a glorious day; luckily a cool breeze keeping the students from overheating while carrying their large packs around the countryside.

Mrs Spicer added: “As always the students arrived at the end point with great relief, and were rightly very proud of themselves for surviving such a

ROUTE CHECK: Students work with assessor to make sure they know where to walk.

challenging weekend. At all times they conducted themselves with respect for their environs and the local people, demonstrated a fantastic team spirit and showed themselves to be a real credit to Melbourn Village College.”

The next cohort of DofE participants are now busy learning new skills, volunteering and taking part in physical activity to complete the other three sections of the Bronze award.

The Year 10 group of 31 will undertake their practice expedition in May, with the assessed expedition scheduled for Autumn 2017. Many thanks are owed to Melbourn’s Cam Academy Trust partners, Comberton Village College, who take the lead in organising the expeditions and the DofE programme as a whole, allowing all MVC students who wish to take part to do so.

11

Pupils grab opportunities MVC News

The new enrichment programme at Melbourn has got off to a flying start with more 350 students involved and some participating in activities every day.

There are more than 50 clubs to choose from and include taking part in the school production both on stage and behind the scenes, re-creating MVC at Minecraft Club, Journalism Club, a range of sporting opportunities and much more.

Staff and students have grasped the opportunities offered by this new initiative and proved that MVC doesn’t just get excellent exam results, but offers students the chance to develop outside the classroom environment and pursue interests alongside other likeminded people.

A great example of this was when a running club on a Friday afternoon with Mr Holder and myself was suggested, I did think that we

might have only one or two takers.

Eight weeks later and we had a group of more than 30 students.

Head of Maths Mr Holder said: “It is a lovely way to finish a week and allows you the chance to get to know students you might never teach. It sets you up for the weekend.”

But there is no complacency and staff are continually looking at ways of developing the enrichment offer.

We would love to get the local community working in conjunction with us. If you would like to help with, or run an enrichment activity, then please get in touch with me at jbarnes@melbournvc.org A new range of enrichment activities will be starting in January and will include additional sporting activities and extension options for Year 11 students.

If you would like more information on our enrichment programme please go to our website www.melbournvc.org and follow the links.

John Barnes, Assistant Principal

RANGE OF CHOICES: Students can pursue activities that interest them as part of the new enrichment programme.

Staff feedback is extremely positive

Melbourn’s new enrichment programme has not only enthused the students, but the staff as well. Here are some of their thoughts as the first term draws to a close: “I teach the sewing and dressmaking enrichment on a Monday.

All the students are really enjoying it and say it is the fastest hour of the week. We now have one finished piece of bunting and most of the others are nearly there. I love it!” — Tracey Mayhead.

“KS3 Badminton on Wednesdays is going extremely well.

Students are not only getting a good amount of time to practice but are receiving valuable skills sessions with Mr Hutchinson.

“The most popular part of the session is the round the world challenge in the last 15 minutes, where students can show off WRITING UP: After investigating how to limit malaria using maggots. their progress in the game. We have been full each week; a popular activity. ” — George Tobutt.

“Further Maths is proving very popular indeed, with students looking to use it both to learn a little A-level maths in The new enrichment time STEM Club has had a busy term. preparation for next year, but also to benefit from additional The intrepid scientists have made loudspeakers and motors, investigated how to limit malaria teaching to improve their chances of getting a higher GCSE (using maggots in place of mosquito larvae!) and honed their microscope skills. grade. The cake is proving popular too.” — John Holder.

Visiting experts have taken the students on a fantastic voyage through the workings of the “The hockey enrichment has been very successful. We have had human body and explained what it is like to work at The Babraham Institute. a very good turnout for all sessions and all year groups. The Ice cream has been made and a super-battery is in development. longer sessions and ability to play against other year groups The students are now undertaking some mind-expanding exploration of space accompanied by has led to good training sessions and, in turn, excellent results some Brian Cox DVDs, followed by testing some meteorite experiments for the University Of in fixtures and tournaments.” — Kelly Coghlan.

Kent.

“The students in Language Futures have been learning how to What will we discover/explore/invent in 2017? Wait and see.... write and speak about an imaginary block of flats and are Michael Wright (STEM Club Co-ordinator) preparing to make presentations to each other and their mentors. They are rising to the challenge of teaching themselves Mandarin and Italian with the help of two excellent mentors.” — Ivana Stanley.

“An excellent term of table tennis, with some great play from both KS3 and 4. Some students have really enjoyed just playing for fun whereas others have joined the ladder and have been a bit more competitive. As I write this, Joseph Cockman in KS3 and Will Mallen in KS4 are leading. However, it changes every week.” — Regina Lawrence.

“Despite some Boot Camp sessions being on a Friday, students who regularly attend have been enjoying challenging themselves with some high intensity cardiovascular workouts, some tiring games, and some testing exercises that require A CHANGING good humour as well as their energy and effort. I've been really PICTURE: At the impressed with their cheerful attitude to this and the fact that top of the table they approach me in the week with their own ideas to contribute.” — Sarah Hallam. tennis ladders.

Intrepid scientists at work!

12

MVC News

MELBOURN

SPORTS CENTRE news )RU WKRVH RI \RX ZKR GRQ¶W DOUHDG\ NQRZ ZH KDYH ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

A state of the art fitness suite offering a variety of membership schemes A 20 metre swimming pool (kept ever so slightly warmer than most!)

A comprehensive swimming lesson programme, catering for all ages and abilities Upgraded multisports courts for hire including tennis, football and squash courts Water sports courses and activities Traditional and modern exercise classes Access to Melbourn Village College sports hall and gymnasium for activities such as trampolining, badminton and basketball Supervised sports and pool parties

DECEMBER and WINTER 2017 We have loads on offer this winter ZLWK VRPHWKLQJ IRU WKH ZKROH FRPPXQLW\ WR JHW LQYROYHG ZLWK« So why not come along and find out more about your local sports centre!

KIDS ACTIVITIES With Christmas fast approaching, why not book a place on our Christmas KidzFactor activity days or our popular &KULVWPDV SDUW\ ZLWK D YHU\ VSHFLDO YLVLWRU $QG LI \RX¶UH ORRNLQJ IRU VRPHthing different to buy your loved ones this year, then how about one of our Gift Membership Packages or Gift Voucher?

Looking to book a birthday or Christmas party? How about bouncing those cares away with a trampolining party, or have a splashing time with a fun pool party! We also have the adjacent Community Centre available for booking.

COME IN OUT OF THE COLD!

:H¶UH QRW JRLQJ WR OHW WKRVH ORQJ ZLQWHU QLJKWV VWRS XV IURP HQMR\LQJ RXU H[HUFLVH $V ZHOO DV RXU LQGRRU IDFLOLWLHV OLNH the swimming pool, squash courts and sports hall, we have loads of classes to keep you fit and healthy, including Boxercise, Swim Clinic, Boot Camp, Aqua Fit, Pilates and Body Workout. We also offer table tennis alongside our QRUPDO LQGRRU UDFNHW VSRUWV $QG WKH\¶UH DOO reasonably priced, so the one thing that will stay plump is your purse!

SWIMMING LESSONS We still have plenty of spaces on our pre-school lessons and intermediate/advance lessons, so for more details or to book a place then please contact Toby or Graham on 01763 263313.

THE PERFECT PRESENT!

With Christmas just round the corner, keep your eye out for our gift promotion ± D IXQ DQG ILW LGHD LI \RX¶UH ORRNLQJ IRU something different to buy a loved one or friend (or treat yourself!) Or why not take advantage of one of our great membership schemes to our fitness suite, which houses the latest in gymnasium equipment, including C.V machines fitted with audio visual technology, an ideal present for a love one!

For further details on parties, gift memberships or any of our activities, please drop in, call 01763 263313 or go online at www.mc-sport.co.uk. We look forward to seeing you this season!

ACTIVITIES FOR TEENAGERS AND YOUNG ADULTS TEEN TRAINING An hour fitness session using our fitness suite machines Age range: 14 years upwards Date: Monday ± Fridays / 15.30 ± 16.30 & Weekends /14.00 ± 15.00 / Price: £2.50 per session/10 sessions for £20.00 TRAMPOLINE COURSE This course is a great way to introduce your child into this fun and energetic sport. Start to learn all the basics including twists, shapes and drops!

Mondays 16.00 ± 17.00 (4 ½ - 7 years); 17.00 ± 18.00 (7-10 years); 18.00 ± 19.00 (10 ± 16 years); Price: £4.50 - £5.50 per session (booked on a term basis)

PLUS: SWIMMING LESSONS / LIFEGUARD COURSES / GYMNASTICS / TENNIS COACHING / TABLE TENNIS BADMINTON PILATES / TRIATHLON SESSIONS / TENNIS COACHING / SQUASH AND MUCH MORE!

Melbourn Sports Centre, The Village College, The Moor, Melbourn, Royston, Hertfordshire, SG8 6EF

01763 263313 / www.mc-sport.co.uk / info@mc-sport.co.uk

13

Round-up of the latest news from the South Cambs SSP

MEDAL HAUL: For Meldreth pupils who won at both football and tag rugby.

Meldreth at the double Pupils from Meldreth Primary School have shown both their ability and their versatility at sport this term.

Not only did their under-11 football team win the Small Schools section of the South Cambs round of the English Schools FA competition, but their mixed team of Year 4, 5 and 6 pupils romped to victory in the South Cambs School Sport Partnership Small Schools tag rugby event.

In the football, Meldreth reached the county finals for the second year running in a thrilling re-run of last year’s South Cambs final.

Once again they found themselves up against fellow Melbourn Village College partner primary Harston & Newton in the final.

The game at Impington Village College finished 1-1 and the teams were still inseparable after the first set of penalties. That took the game to sudden death, where a superb save from the Meldreth goalkeeper earned his team the crown.

Meldreth will now be hoping for a repeat of their success a year ago when they progressed from the county finals to the regional before bowing out.

In the large schools competition (for schools with more than 120 pupils in Key Stage 2), Melbourn won the Spirit of the Games award for their teamwork, effort

and respect of the referees.

The tag rugby competition saw a record 15 small schools and more than 180 children battle it out at Melbourn Village College.

On their way to victory Meldreth scored 26 tries and won six of their seven matches, drawing the other one in their pool.

One of those victories was against defending champions Hatton Park (Longstanton), who also lost to newcomers Barrington.

Their outstanding rugby meant Meldreth not only won their group but claimed the title overall courtesy of an unbeaten display and a better points tally than Pool 1 winners and old rivals Harston & Newton.

Both schools now go forward to represent South Cambs at the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Sainsbury’s School Games Spring Finals next March.

Claire McDonnell, the Partnership Manager, said: “Despite the damp conditions it was a fantastic afternoon of rugby with some really good performances and not much separating the top teams. Congratulations to our winners and well done to all of the players and schools that took part. Finally, a big thank you to the leaders from Melbourn and Comberton village colleges, who did a great job in officiating the matches and ensuring the event ran smoothly.”

Fun run in the sun

Youngsters from Harston & Newton, Melbourn, Thriplow and Meldreth joined hundreds of others from across the partnership for the annual cross-country run at Wimpole Hall.

More than 1000 primary pupils took part as this year races for year 3 and 4 boys and girls were introduced for the first time alongside those for the older Key Stage 2 runners.

Thriplow’s Charlotte Deacon was the individual runner of note from the Melbourn partner schools as she became the inaugural joint winner of the Year 4 girls’ race.

She and Evie Flockhart (Swavesey Primary)

were inseparable after their run around the National Trust property in perfect conditions.

In the team race for that section Harston & Newton finished third while Meldreth, who took an incredible 60 athletes to participate, were third in the boys’ Year 4 race.

Swavesey won the Year 3/4 Trophy for schools that had a team of four in all four races in the age group ahead of Histon and Impington and Linton Heights.

Linton successfully defended the Year 5/6 title, holding off a determined challenge from Histon and Impington, with Cottenham not far behind.

Pupils are bouncing into action . . .

TOP TIE: The joint winners of the Year 4 girls’ race with the third-placed runner.

The SSP has made supporting schools to develop ‘Active Lunchtimes’ a priority this year in a bid to help schools improve the physical activity levels of children and to help all children meet the Chief Medical Officer’s guidelines of at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.

Already this term more than 150 children have been trained as Play Leaders, giving them the skills and confidence to deliver games and activities at lunchtimes.

So far pupils and staff at Harston & Newton, Meldreth, Coton, Barton and Dry Drayton schools have received training.

To further encourage daily physical activity and to get children moving each half term the Partnership

has launched its first new playground craze and is challenging schools, pupils and families to get involved.

The craze, which has recently been launched, is pogo ball bouncing and more than 100 pogo balls have already been supplied into local schools which are getting involved, including Harston & Newton, Barnabas Oley, Haslingfield and Coton.

The challenge is on to see what tricks or skills children can master on a pogo ball with prizes on offer for the best ideas! Follow SCSSP on Twitter and Facebook to see how schools are getting involved and what tricks children are coming up with!

LEARNING: Play Leader training.

Looking good for girls

MVC News

A top three finish for Melbourn’s Year 8 hockey team at the district tournament promises much for next season when the girls move up to 11a-side competition.

They finished third in the Cambridge and District seven-a-side competition at Bottisham, eventually losing to St Bede’s, having topped their pool with three wins and a draw and then being edged out by a strong St Mary’s team, who also won their pool. An excellent game finished goalless but MVC lost out on the number of short corners awarded.

The squad has been boosted this year thanks to more than 20 committed and motivated students attending enrichment each week and before the tournament, they played A and B team fixtures with great success. That meant MVC also entered a B team at the District competition.

In a strong pool, they had a mixture of wins, draws and losses, but overall played some excellent hockey and really strengthened the bond between the team members. The players tried new positions and Caitlin McFarlane even played in goal for the first time, very successfully.

Head of PE Kelly Coghlan said: “I am excited

about what they will achieve next year when they move into Year 9 and play 11-a-side hockey on a full pitch.”

Year 7 also entered two teams for their tournament at Bottisham, both finishing sixth overall. Maddy Roberts was the A team’s player of the tournament with Kayla Dudley taking the B team accolade.

Year 9 had a tough baptism at their competition at the Stephen Perse Foundation sports ground. One team dropped out of their pool and they ended up playing St Mary’s, losing 7-0. But they learned from that experience and managed to hold the hosts to a goalless draw although it was not enough to take them through to the next round.

Libby Mott was the player of the tournament.

A strong under-16 side competed at Comberton in October with players taking turns in goal, although none needed to make a save such was the strength of the defence.

Unfortunately they struggled to score at the other end despite having the better of both long and short corners. Although Melbourn didn’t concede, two goalless draws and a win were not enough to take them through after Bassingbourn won their final game to snatch a qualifying spot. Olivia Greenaway was named Melbourn’s player of the tournament.

Encouraging signs

This season saw many changes in laws to rugby which both teachers and students had to adapt to as well as trying to improve their skills and tactics.

Lots of friendly matches were played against other local schools with some very encouraging results, especially from our new Year 7s and the KS4 team.

The Year 8 team was also greatly improved, securing their first win over Linton Village College.

The new enrichment programme helped massively with attendance at training sessions and this was

evident in those friendly matches.

On to the tournaments, two of which were again hosted by MVC. The KS4 team were first and off to Cambridge RFC we went confident of doing well, having either won or been in the top four in the previous four years.

Convincing progression through the group stage set up a final against Linton, who Melbourn had THE LINE-UPS: The Melbourn hockey teams. beaten in previous finals. This year was not to be, as MVC lost 25-10.

Year 9 also were at Cambridge RFC and despite Harston & Newton won the opening round of the South playing extremely well they Cambs High 5 Netball competition at Melbourn. were in a tough group and They finished top of the local round for Year 5 and 6 failed to qualify for the final teams, which also included A teams from Fowlmere, stages.

Barrington, Melbourn, Thriplow, Guilden Morden and A similar outcome for Year 8 Foxton. was quite a blow as they had In the B team tournament Harston entered two teams made the most progress, but alongside Barrington, Melbourn and Meldreth. Again failed to perform on the day. the play was strong and the ability was high. Meldreth Year 7, in their first currently lead the B team tournament. tournament, sailed through Kelly Coghlan, Head of PE at Melbourn, said: “It was their group only to fall in the lovely to see so many schools playing together and semi-final to Comberton.

TEAM TALK: The under-16 players discuss tactics. showing excellent and fair play across the event.”

All in all it was a very encouraging season of rugby, with some students being identified

by National Clubs these leaders and we want to l From Back Page and Academies as potential Rugby-enthusiastic leaders thank them for all their hard work. future stars. helped the SSP run their annual At the time of going to Press, the Four Year 11 GCSE PE small schools tag rugby following students have logged students also achieved tournament at MVC and these volunteering hours: Alex maximum 25 out of 25 in completed a training session Selby — 33 school hours, 28 their rugby assessment. community hours; Olivia Greenaway beforehand with Brad Cox, a tag Players of the Season — 7:Kurt — 36.5 school hours; Starlily rugby specialist.

Pendlebury, 8: Joseph Cockman, McCormick — 36 school hours; Towards the end of term, the Year 9: Arthur Gomm, 10: James Haydock, 11: Kai Pendlebury.

Gregor Ferrie — 35 school hours; Joie 5/6 indoor football tournament at Most Improved Player — 8: Cabreza — 35 school hours; Jess MVC was run by the sports Louis Williams, 9: Cameron King, Doughty — 31.5 school hours; Charley leaders after school.

10: Jayden Rule, 11: Emerich Matthew — 28 school hours; Sophie It goes without saying that these Jing.

THE NEW TEAM: Melbourn’s Year 7 line-up.

Willis — 7 school hours. events could not run without

Harston’s early lead

Leaders lend suppport

15

MVC hit the gold standard MVC News

Melbourn Village College and three of its partner primary schools have been awarded School Games Mark awards for their excellent provision of PE, school sport and competition.

MVC, plus Harston & Newton and Meldreth primary schools, were among 13 schools to receive the top Gold award. Melbourn Primary earned Bronze.

A total of 33 schools in the South Cambs School Sports Partnership achieved the award for 2015-16 at bronze, silver or gold level. The School Games Mark is a Government-led award scheme.

Partnership Manager, Claire McDonnell said, “This is a significant increase on the number of schools that gained an award last year. Schools achieving the coveted Gold award demonstrate a whole school approach to PE and sport. They have wholehearted

they are a community hub for sport, encouraging involvement from parents and community groups.”

“I really am delighted that more schools are now being recognised and rewarded for their hard work and commitment to provide the very best opportunities for their pupils, it is a fantastic achievement.

“I am also pleased that we have more schools than ever before gaining a Bronze award and I hope with further support and encouragement we can help them to go on to achieve higher.”

Further information including all the schools receiving an award are available here: http://www.scssp.co.uk/schools-recognised-forcommitment-to-pe-and-sport/ l SCSSP round-up — Page 14

Swimmer heads for winter national finals

NATIONAL DATE: Jake Moxham qualified for Sheffield.

support from their head teacher and provide opportunities for all pupils at all levels. As well as this

Year 10 student Jake Moxham was in Sheffield this week as part of a star-studded line-up for British swimming’s Winter National Championships.

He is one of the youngest competitors in the men’s 50m freestyle, which is also being contested by Olympian Ben Proud, who set the British record at the same meet a year ago.

From there the talented City of Cambridge club swimmer, who trains six days a week, heads to Somerset for a two-day England Talent Phase 2 camp at Millfield School.

He was selected to attend after impressing at the Phase 1 camp in the summer, which involved both pool-based and educational sessions.

That followed success at the summer Age Group Championships, where he qualified for the 50m, 100m, 200m freestyle, 50m butterfly and 50m backstroke.

A week on an intensive training programme in Cornwall as part of his preparations paid dividends and the 14-

Season to remember

Dominic Clemons moves up to under-16 level next season hoping to continue the fantastic form which brought him so much golfing success this year.

Not that he will need much introduction to the higher age group as the Year 10 student alread captains the under-16 England Regional squad although he was still playing in the under-14 section in 2016.

And what a 2016 season he had. Although it culminated in representing England both at under-16 level against Scotland and against Wales, there was plenty of success en route..

He won the Scottish under-14 championships and was the highestfinishing English player in the Reid Trophy, the English under-14 championship, as he finished third overall.

Playing off a handicap of 0.8, Dominic, a member of both the Gog Magog, Cambridge, and Hanbury Manor (Herts) clubs, was also fifth in the English under-16 strokeplay championship (McGregor Trophy) over 72 holes.

Closer to home he won RISING STAR: Dominic Clemons the Herts under-14 is making a name for himself. scratch title.

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year-old finished a busy week of competition, which involved heats in the morning and finals in the evening, with a bronze in the 50m freestyle. He narrowly missed bronze in the 100m.

But that was not the only high point in a hugely successful 2016 season for Jake, which started with a clutch of gold and silver medals at the Hertfordshire County Championships.

He followed that with success at the East Regional Long Course Championships in Luton, where podium finishes in all his events qualified him for the Summer Nationals.

Like former Melbourn pupil and Olympic medallist Dan Goodfellow, Jake is mentored by Head of PE Kelly Coglan, who said: "Jake is highly motivated and an excellent role model to the rest of the students at the school. His achievements are excellent and we support him the whole way."

Leaders lend support SPORTS LEADERS: Help out at clubs and events.

This term the new cohort of Year 10 sports leaders have been working hard to support the PE department in both enrichment sessions and at after-school sporting events.

Some Year 11s have also given generously of their time in what for them is a busy year.

The Leadership Academy Conference in September at Comberton VC encouraged students to actively volunteer and trained them in one sporting area to equip them for future events.

From the end of September, a number of sports leaders travelled to local primary schools to assist in their extra-curricular activities, including football, netball and gym clubs.

A free weekly Year 5 and 6 transition sports club run by MVC and the South Cambs School Sport Partnership is also up-and-running and sports leaders are helping out with the wide range of activities on offer.

As the days got darker earlier, netball sports leaders helped umpire, score and time the A and B High 5 tournaments. lTurn to Page 15