The Script Spring / Summer 2017

Script THE

Spring / Summer 2017

Looking Forwards and Back I always love the summer term! It is that stage of the school year when we are planning for the next year whilst also reflecting on the past twelve months. Whilst we are doing this at a school level, reviewing our previous development plan and articulating our vision for the future, similarly, our girls will also be reflecting on what they have learnt over the last year, hoping to remember it in the examinations, and then looking excitedly at the next stage moving forward.

Comfort Zones ben gudgeon deputy head (pastoral and planning)

Some­people­have­a­natural­love­of ­the great­outdoors­and­adventurous­pursuits; others­prefer­their­creature­comforts.­But nobody­can­deny­the­benefits­of ­outdoor education­-­aside­from­practical­skills,­it develops­teamwork,­leadership,­resilience, confidence­and­initiative.­ So­our­L5­this­year­have­been­the­first­to experience­our­new,­flagship­Adventure and­Leadership­programme.­Centred­on the­Bronze­Duke­of ­Edinburgh­Award, the­course­also­encompasses volunteering,­environmental­and community­work,­and­this­year­has­seen girls­making­blankets­for­refugees, plotting­maps­to­be­used­by­Médecins Sans­Frontières­in­war-torn­countries, and­implementing­a­new­School-wide recycling­system.­It­has­given­every­girl­in the­year­a­sense­of ­personal­challenge and­achievement.­ And­plenty­of ­mud!

We­regularly­talk­about­working­outside our­comfort­zones,­and­the­Adventure and­Leadership­programme­has­been­the perfect­way­to­achieve­this­in­an­exciting but­safe­environment.­The­thunderstorm over­the­campsite­was­not­originally­part of ­the­plan,­but­added­to­the­experience!

Our­L5­girls­now­have­a­true­taste­for adventure­and­we­are­looking­forward­to record­numbers­for­the­Silver­level­next year.­

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For­our­U6,­this­will­be­even­more­significant as­they­consider­their­plans­for­life­after school,­whether­in­higher­education­or­the world­of ­work,­and­we­wish­them­the­best­of luck­as­they­embark­on­the­next­chapters­of their­lives.

Our­theme­this­year­was­‘Prepare­to­Succeed’, emphasising­the­importance­of ­hard­work­and focus­to­yield­results.­But­also,­stressing­the­less tangible­skills­and­qualities­needed­to­be successful­in­the­21st­century.­We­want­the girls­to­aim­high,­to­aspire­to­be­the­leaders­of tomorrow­and­to­reach­their­full­potential, whatever­their­area­of ­interest­or­talent.­­

This­notion­of ­academic­excellence­combined with­breadth­of ­opportunity­is­key­to­our ethos­at­Sherborne­Girls­and­I­hope­that­this is­reflected­in­the­many­highlights­covered­in this­issue­of ­The­Script.­It­is­through­these experiences­and­opportunities­that­our­girls develop­the­values­that­we­feel­will­be­so important­for­their­future­lives;­that­they­are adaptable,­courageous,­compassionate,­curious and­spiritual.­ Many­of ­these­qualities­were­recognised­in our­recent­inspection­report­which­found­the girls’­achievements­and­personal­development to­be­Excellent.­­As­we­come­to­the­end­of ­our previous­five­year­plan­entitled­‘Growing­for the­Future’­and­look­to­our­future­vision,­we

will­be­building­on­this­success.­One­idea­that will­be­core­to­our­future­strategy­is­reflected in­the­words­of ­philosopher,­psychologist,­and educational­reformer­John­Dewey,­“Education is­not­preparation­for­life;­education­is­life itself.”

Jenny Dwyer, Headmistress

In this issue 2-3

4-5

6-7

8-9

10-11 12

13

14-15

Leadership

Academic­Enrichment

Student­Showcase

The­Arts

Community

Boarding­

Careers­and­Higher­Education

Sports­Highlights

Sherborne­Girls­| Bradford­Road­| Sherborne­| Dorset­DT9­3QN­| 01935­818224­| E.­office@sherborne.com­| www.sherborne.com

leadership

Leading from the Front

We­would­like­to­thank­our­outgoing­prefects for­the­enormous­contribution­they­have­made to­school­life­this­year,­in­particular­our­Heads of ­School,­Frances­Budd­and­Serena Dwerryhouse­and­Vice­Heads­of ­School, Emily­Pope,­Blanca­Rivero,­Sonya­Shats­and Flora­Wordie.­The­prefects­made­a­significant impact­to­day-to-day­life­through­their­many

activities­as­role­models.­Through­their caring­and­entrepreneurial­approach,­they successfully­implemented­numerous­legacy initiatives­that­will­be­taken­forward­by­future teams.­­As­we­thank­the­outgoing­prefects­for their­service­to­school­over­the­last­year,­we­are delighted­to­welcome­in­the­new­team­who are:­Olivia­Andrews,­Charlotte­Blake,­Olivia

Mock Snap Election

Anyone­visiting­Sherborne­Girls­over­the­last few­weeks­will­have­seen­posters­and­flyers­all over­the­campus­proclaiming­messages­such­as ‘In­Theresa­we­trust’­and­‘Make­June­the­end of ­May’.­Evidence­of ­the­School­Mock­Snap Election­has­been­everywhere.­This­event­has been­instigated,­organised­and­managed entirely­by­students­in­the­L6­and­they­have done­a­very­impressive­job­in­galvanising­and informing­our­community.

The­mock­election­was­launched­in­May­with the­introduction­of ­the­candidates:­Sophie West­–­Labour,­Celia­McCormick­–­Liberal Democrat,­Alicia­Lee­–­UKIP,­Grace­Storrie­–

Conservative,­and­Emily­Mitchell­–­Green Party.­Each­candidate­was­given­the opportunity­to­outline­their­ideas­in­brief ­and then­campaigning­began.­The­process­was managed­by­our­school­returning­officer­Flora Ramsden­supported­by­her­ballot­team­of Kate­Treacher,­Melody­Lulu-Briggs,­Araminta Stubbs­and­Tamsin­Miller.­The­whole­school participated­in­a­quiz­to­determining­the extent­of ­our­collective­political­knowledge and­emphasising­the­importance­of ­voting.

On­Wednesday­7­June­representatives­from each­party­appeared­in­a­live­debate.­The members­of ­the­school­posed­difficult­issues­to

Brink,­Ella­Cunningham,­Amelia­Fortescue, Charlotte­Given,­Annabel­Harris,­Flora Leach,­Alicia­Lee,­Harriet­Lees,­Melody­LuluBriggs,­Celia­McCormick,­Phoebe­Price,­Flora Ramsden,­Grace­Storrie,­Araminta­Stubbs, Kate­Treacher,­Georgia­Watson,­Sophie­West and­Sophie­Wurfbain.

the­candidates­such­as,­‘Should­social­media platforms­take­a­stance­against­terrorist activities?’­and­‘Do­you­think­raising­taxes­will encourage­high­earners­to­leave­the­country, reducing­the­tax­revenue?’­The­questions­from the­floor­were­handled­with­great­dexterity, excellent­factual­knowledge­and­just­the­right degree­of ­humour.­The­topics­covered­were wide-ranging­and­included­subjects­such­as social­justice,­minimum­wage,­foreign­aid, migration,­tax,­the­NHS­and,­of ­course, Brexit.­There­was­some­excellent­heated debate,­particularly­about­the­morality­behind trade­deals,­showing­the­true­passion­which politics­should­engender.

“The­girls­were­both­persistent­but­respectful in­their­questioning.­It­was­a­very­valuable experience­for­us­all­but­particularly­for­those who­had­to­argue­from­a­range­of ­viewpoints, some­of ­which­they­did­not­necessarily­agree with.­The­extent­of ­intellectual­engagement with­the­process­has­been­incredibly impressive.”­said­Kate­Creswell,­Economics Teacher.

On­Thursday­8­June­the­polls­were­opened and­as­we­go­to­press­we­now­await­the­result.

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ACADEMIC enrichment

Building the Future Summing Up It­has­been­a­very­successful­year­in­the Mathematics­department.­Congratulations to­Amy­Ye­(L5),­Daisy­Kwong­(L5), Lauren­Carty­(U4)­and­Hettie­Dart­(U4) who­were­runners­up­in­the­Regional Maths­Team­Challenge­held­at­Millfield School.­The­girls­have­won­the opportunity­to­compete­for­the­National Maths­Challenge­Trophy­at­the­Royal Horticultural­Halls­in­London­in­June.

Over­1,750­schools­entered­the competition­and­88­have­qualified­to­take part­in­the­final.­ In­May,­a­special­engineering­week­was organised­in­school­to­raise­awareness­among the­L4­to­M5­girls­of ­the­many­and­diverse career­opportunities­available­in­engineering.

dissection­and­reconstruction­of ­a­Dyson vacuum­cleaner­and­raft­building­from­wire and­foil,­to­building­a­chair­from­cardboard (which­the­girls­had­to­prove­they­could­sit­on!)­

Pink­posters­were­pasted­around­the­school encouraging­girls­to­find­out­more.­There­was also­an­inter-house­design­competition,­in which­Kenelm­triumphed,­and­engineering workshops­exploring­everything­from­the

The­UK­needs­over­a­million­more­engineers between­now­and­2022;­we­hope­engineering week­at­Sherborne­Girls­might­have­inspired some­of ­our­girls­to­take­up­the­challenge!

Staff ­found­ingenious­ways­of ­building engineering-themed­links­into­their­classes, including­a­focus­in­Classics­on­Roman engineering,­and­a­session­in­English­about the­structure­of ­poetry.­

In­addition,­lectures­were­given­by­guests­such as­Commander­Polly­Hatchard,­an­engineer in­the­Royal­Navy,­and­a­group­of ­female engineers­working­on­the­new­Sherborne­Girls Arts­Centre.­

From Peter to Putin

Meanwhile,­Janice Sui­(U5),­has­been invited­to­attend a­Mathematics Summer­Workshop, which­will­take­place at­Oxford­University at­the­end­of ­August.

Janice­was­selected as­a­result­of ­her outstanding performance­in­the Intermediate­Maths­Challenge­earlier­in the­year,­and­is­the­first­Sherborne­Girl ever­to­be­invited­to­such­an­event.­Well done­Janice!

Speaking Out

Juliana­Ma­(L6)­and­Amy­Ye­(L5) represented­the­school­at­an Inter-Schools­Public­Speaking Competition­for­international students­in­February.­

We­were­delighted­to­welcome­Simon­SebagMontefiore­to­school­as­part­of ­our inspirational­speaker­series.­The­author­and TV­historian­gave­girls,­parents,­governors, staff,­along­with­students­from­neighbouring schools,­a­rare­insight­into­Russian­history.

Tracing­the­nation’s­heritage­from­Peter­the Great­to­Vladimir­Putin,­Simon­gave fascinating­insights­from­a­range­of ­sources ­4

including­Soviet­archives­and­Tsarist­love letters.­The­evening­concluded­with­a­book signing,­with­many­guests­leaving­with­a freshly­autographed­copy­of ­the­speaker’s recent­volume,­Jerusalem, the Romanovs and Stalin: the Court of the Red Tsar.

Our­thanks­to­Simon­for­giving­up­his­evening to­inspire­the­audience­with­his­vast knowledge­and­engaging­presentation.

The­event­involved­five­local independent­schools,­and­was­held at­Sherborne­School.­Juliana’s speech­was­about­Pi­and­Art,­whilst Amy­won­the­competition­with­a highly­personal­and­heart-warming speech­about­Chinese­storytelling.­ The­girls­were­wonderful ambassadors­for­the­school­and impressed­the­judges­with­their impressive­communication­skills.

Italian Inspiration A­group­of ­History­of ­Art­and­Art­students recently­visited­Italy­to­learn­more­about­the country’s­unique­cultural­heritage.­First­stop in­Rome­was­the­Colosseum­and­Forum­for­a walking­tour­that­ended­in­the­old­part­of ­the city.­The­next­morning­was­spent­exploring the­old­suburban­neighbourhood­of Trastevere­visiting­the­Raphael­frescoes­in­the Villa­Farnesina­and­Bramante’s­beautiful Tempietto.­

The­Vatican­in­the­afternoon­was­very­busy but­the­Raphael­Rooms­and­the­Sistine Chapel­were­as­breath-taking­as­ever.­The­Art History­students­completed­written­exercises while­studying­the­many­paintings­and classical­sculptures,­producing­clear­and detailed­analyses,­while­the­artists­filled­their sketchbooks­with­intriguing­and­creative­work.

After­a­morning­at­the­Borghese­Gallery analysing­the­exquisite­Bernini­statues,­the girls­visited­the­Zaha­Hadid-designed MAXXI,­Rome’s­new­21st­Century­art gallery,­to­look­at­its­concrete­and­steel engineering.­From­Rome­they­travelled­to

Florence­where­they­enjoyed­the­city’s sculptures,­visited­the­Uffizi­Galleries­and went­to­the­Brancacci­Chapel.­The­evening walk­around­the­historic­centre­brought­gasps

of ­delight­at­the­familiar­sculptures­seen­in situ­and­the­sheer­magnificence­of ­the buildings­and­their­setting.­Italy­did­not­fail­ to­inspire­with­its­beauty­and­heritage.

Successful Start-Ups And the winners were…

• Best­Business­Plan:­POD­(AE2)

• Best­Marketing­Approach:­Mostly­Toasties (WD1)

• Best­Presentation:­­Serenity­(DH1)

• Overall­Winner:­Paws­Patrol­(DH2)­­

sales,­marketing­and­business­planning.­The products­they­sold­could­not­cost­more­than 50p,­and­all­of ­the­money­made­went­to­a charity­of ­the­girls’­choosing.

As­part­of ­the­annual­M5­Business Challenge,­a­number­of ­girls­have­built successful­businesses­with­a­starting­capital­of just­£10.­

The­challenge,­which­took­place­over­three intensive­weeks,­involved­the­girls­finessing their­presentation­skills­as­well­as­testing­their commercial­acumen,­and­learning­about

This­year­saw­a­variety­of ­imaginative enterprises­including­a­car-washing­service,­a purveyor­of ­toasted­sandwiches,­a­business selling­sweets­for­‘Charlie­and­the­Chocolate Factory’­and­the­overall­winners,­‘Paws Patrol’,­a­dog-walking­service.

At­a­presentation­evening,­the­girls­were asked­to­justify­their­business­decisions,­give­a clear­account­of ­their­financial­performance including­revenue,­costs­and­profit,­and reflect­on­their­effectiveness­as­a­team.­The presentations­were­judged­by­Senior­Deputy

Head,­Mrs­Clapp­and­Business­teacher, Mr­Banks,­who­praised­each­group­for­their clarity­and­confidence.­ Between­them,­the­girls­raised­just­under £900­for­a­variety­of ­worthy­causes, illustrating­the­high­standard­of ­this­year’s competition.­

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student showcase

The Key jemima Lawson Johnston (l5)

What­if ­that­voice­in­your­head­was­just that­–­a­voice?­­A­person,­in­real­life, that­spoke­to­you­–­told­you­not­to­do stupid­things­–­but­also­encouraged­you to­do­them;­someone­that­you­never knew,­and­until­you­met­them­you would­never­know­–­and­when­you­met them,­it­was­like­a­key­was­turned­in your­head­and­something­was­there, that­was­not­there­before.­Something everyone­searches­for,­but­only­knows they’re­looking­for­it­when­they­find­it.­­

I­found­what­I­was­looking­for.­­I remember­it,­the­day­I­found­the­key… harriet townhill (l5)

“Nobody­knows­how­long­it­will­take the­people­of ­the­City­of ­Light­to­find the­key,­but­by­the­time­they­do,­the outside­world­will­have­regained­its life.”­The­Fourth­Guardian­said,­“For now,­I­will­hide­it­somewhere­safe, where­no­one­will­look­unless­they­find the­map­buried­under­my­grave­which will­lead­them­to­the­key.”­Thirteen Guardians­later…­­­­

•­Verity Robinson (U5)

The Portrait Alice McCormick (L5)

“Now­this­is­the­main­living­room­of the­house.­It­is­ideal­for­both­summer and­winter,­with­a­lovely­woodburning­fire­in­the­centre­and,­if ­you come­with­me,­this­gorgeous­bay window­to­sit­around­on­warmer summer­nights.”

“My,­what­a­view!”­exclaimed­my mum,­peering­out­of ­the­window.­I went­over­to­have­a­look.­­Rolling­hills that­seemed­never­to­end­greeted­me and­the­pond­at­the­front­of ­the house­shimmered­in­the­mid-day­sun.

They­really­were­the­most­beautiful surroundings­I­had­ever­seen.­­

•­Aderinsola­Adeyemi-Bero­(U5) •­Garbriella­Auret­(U5)

“We’ll­have­to­get­rid­of ­that­ghastly painting,”­mentioned­Dad­looking­at a­pompous­man­with­a­thick moustache­smoking­a­cigar­and watching­over­us­all­from­above­the fireplace.­­

“I­like­it,”­Mum­replied,­“It­makes me­feel­as­if ­we­are­being­protected.”­

“It­makes­me­feel­as­if ­we’re­being watched,”­I­muttered.

Amelia Holford (l5)

Are­portraits­meant­to­move?­

Is­a­mix­of ­canvas­and­paint­meant­to be­able­to­pull­out­a­glistening­gun?

Is­a­young­man,­dead­for­years, meant­to­be­able­to­shoot­you?

Or,­if ­not,­what­kind­of ­a­dream­is this?

• Francesca­Enever­(U6)

It’s­rather­a­cliché,­I­suppose,­like­a classic­horror­story,­a­Dickens’­novel: dark,­stormy­night,­abandoned­house, creaky­doors,­squeaky­stairs,­dusty beds,­musty­air.­Paintings.­Portraits.

It’s­a­past­frozen­in­time,­eternally, frozen­in­time.

•­Emilie­Tubbs­(U5)

At­least­that’s­what­I­thought.­But perhaps­these­life-like­splatters­of paint­are­too­life­like,­and­in­fact they’re­only­preserved­in­time,­but­far from­frozen.

•­Matilda­Fender­(U5)

•­Poppy­Smith­(U5)

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the arts

Sweet Success A­cast­of ­51­made­the­Aldhelmsted West­production­of ­‘Charlie­and­the Chocolate­Factory’­a­runaway­hit,­as Oompa­Loompas,­squirrels­and­devilish children­filled­the­stage.

Flying High

In­a­wonderful­ensemble­performance, the­girls­delighted­the­audience­of family­and­friends­with­their­creative interpretation­of ­the­Roald­Dahl favourite.­A­fun-filled­line­up­of ­songand-dance­numbers­involving­the­full cast,­peppered­with­stunning­solo performances,­colourful­costumes­and­a cunning­use­of ­stage­and­props­ensured the­show­was­a­sweet­success.­

Congratulations­to­M5­student,­Ellie Miller,­whose­play­‘Kites’­has­been­longlisted­for­the­National­Theatre’s­New Views­playwriting­competition,­from­over 300­plays.­Ten­girls­originally­took­part­in the­competition,­where­they­learnt­the basics­of ­structure,­plot,­characterisation and­dialogue­before­embarking­on­writing their­own­30­minute­play.­The­girls­were fortunate­to­benefit­from­the­experience­of Chris­Hill,­one­of ­the­National­Theatre’s associate­writers.­Hill­attended­one­of ­the workshops­where­he­reviewed­the­girls’ writing­and­gave­them­valuable­feedback before­they­submitted­their­final­pieces.

Congratulations­to­all­involved.

Hands on at Hauser and Wirth In­March­our­M5­GCSE­Art­class­had­the opportunity­to­visit­the­Hauser­and­Wirth Gallery­in­Bruton­to­see­an­exhibition­on Elizabeth­Frink.­Frink’s­work,­which­is­mainly in­bronze­and­plaster,­was­influenced­by­her experience­growing­up­during­the­Second World­War.

When­we­arrived,­we­were­given­a­tour­of ­the exhibition­and­a­chance­to­sketch­some­of ­our favourite­pieces.­We­were­all­in­awe­of ­Frink’s bold­use­of ­textures­and­dark­shapes,­and­felt very­inspired­after­seeing­her­work.­

After­lunch,­we­were­taught­how­to­cast bronze­using­Frink’s­methods.­It­was­amazing to­get­an­insight­into­such­a­complex­and difficult­process,­and­we­loved­seeing­how Frink­would­have­done­it.­We­were­even­lucky enough­to­see­one­of ­her­original­armatures!

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Finally,­we­were­given­a­chance­to­make­our own­armatures­out­of ­plaster­of ­Paris­and wire,­using­Frink’s­work­as­our­inspiration.

Isla watt (m5) Although­this­was­a­challenge,­we­all­really enjoyed­ourselves,­and­it­was­such­a­fun­new experience.­

Overall,­we­had­an­amazing­day,­and­we learnt­so­much.­Elizabeth­Frink­was­an awesome­woman.­It­was­a­great­privilege­to see­her­work.­­­­­

sonya shats (U6)

Directing FOMO

This­year’s­National­Theatre­Connections play­was­called­‘FOMO’­and­it­followed­the story­of ­nine­teenagers­whose­lives­completely change­when­the­Internet­suddenly­cuts­off.­

Instead­of ­acting­in­this­production­I­was­able to­direct­it.­It­was­definitely­a­new­and terrifying­experience­at­first,­but­it­soon­grew into­one­of ­the­most­amazing­productions­that I­have­ever­been­involved­in.

I­loved­getting­to­know­the­cast­as­much­as­I loved­being­able­to­show­this­play­to­the audience­the­way­I­saw­it.­We­were­also­able to­perform­it­in­the­Theatre­Royal­in­Bath, which­made­this­experience­even­more professional.

I­hope­the­cast­enjoyed­being­a­part­of ­this play­as­much­as­I­did.

Music Highlights

John Jenkins, director of music the­holiday,­Crystal­Cheung­(L6)­took­to the­stage­with­the­Duet­Philharmonic, giving­a­thoroughly­impressive­account­of herself ­in­such­prestigious­company.­­

Music has a unique power to shape communities and form lives, so it should come as no surprise that it plays such a pivotal role in our life together at Sherborne Girls.

Community activities One­of ­the­greatest­things­you­can­do­with a­gift­is­share­it,­and­that’s­what­our musicians­do­when­they­get­out­into­the community­and­perform­for­a­variety­of worthy­causes.­

The­DofE­String­Group­gave­a­recital­in the­Dementia­Ward­at­Yeovil­Hospital.

Their­playing­was­greatly­appreciated­by hospital­staff,­patients­and­visitors.­

The­Madrigal­Society­and­String Orchestra­performed­in­the­lovely­church at­Halstock­to­help­raise­money­for­its organ­restoration.­The­girls­provided­a varied­and­challenging­programme,­with outstanding­solos­from­L6­students Mercedes­Daniel­and­Amelia­Monaghan.­­

The­same­could­be­said­of ­the­Woodwind Trio,­Daisy­Kwong­(oboe,­L5),­Isobel Gordon­(oboe,­L5)­and­Kelly­Kwong­(flute, M5).­They­led­a­series­of ­workshops­for budding­musicians­at­Knighton­House Prep­School­and­were­widely­appreciated for­their­grace­and­expertise.­

The­Trio,­joined­by­the­Madrigal­Society and­the­String­Orchestra,­performed­a highly­polished­rendition­of ­a­Sonata­by Scarlatti­at­Charlton­Horethorne­Church.­­

Formal concerts Every­musician­lives­to­perform.­That­is why­we­have­a­rolling­programme­of concerts­that­gives­everyone­a­chance­to shine.­

One­highlight­was­the­hugely­enjoyable ‘Last­Night­of ­the­Proms’­concert­at Sherborne­Prep.­This­featured­Annabel Harris­(L6),­Chloe­Dick­(M5),­Alice­Leach (M5)­and­Charlotte­Orton­(L5),­who­had all­been­students­at­the­prep­prior­to joining­us,­and­thereby­serve­as­fantastic role­models­for­its­current­crop­of ­pupils.­ Another­impressive­concert­featured­the Joint­Schools’­Sinfonia­and­Quintabile, who­performed­together­at­Leweston­in March.­All­the­girls­performed­to­an extremely­high­standard­and­received­lots of ­appreciative­comments­from­the audience.

The­Madrigal­Society­and­Quintabile­both gave­memorable­performances­in­the­MidSomerset­Festival­in­Bath­and­the Symphony­Orchestra­gave­a­concert­in Oxford­Town­Hall.­These­bi-annual­‘away’ performances­show­that­Sherborne’s­brand of ­fine­music­travels­extremely­well.

One­of ­the­greatest­moments­for­a­music teacher­is­to­see­pupils­perform­on­a national­stage.­So­we­were­all­delighted­to see­girls­from­our­school­perform­at­the Royal­Festival­Hall­during­the­Easter break.­Five­girls­sang­the­St­Matthew Passion­with­the­Bach­Choir.­Then,­later­in

We­were­delighted­to­have­been­invited once­again­to­contribute­two­concerts­to the­programme­at­the­annual­Sherborne Abbey­Festival.­The­Madrigals’­concert­in the­Abbey­presented­a­wonderfully­varied programme­of ­anthems,­spirituals­and folksongs,­and­the­girls­sounded­brilliant­in the­reverberant­acoustic­space­of ­this delightful­building.­The­String­Orchestra gave­a­concert­in­the­intimate­atmosphere of ­Castleton­Church.­Their­pieces­ranged from­Baroque­music­by­Corelli­and Pepusch­to­Benjamin­Britten’s­demanding and­ironically­named­‘Simple­Symphony’.­­ Another­musical­highlight­was­when­the senior­choir­teamed­up­with­singers­from Sherborne­School­and­professional­singers for­the­Sherborne­Schools’­Choral­Society concert­in­Poole­Lighthouse.­The programme­included­two­little-performed patriotic­works,­Berlioz’s­Te­Deum­and Elgar’s­Coronation­Ode.

Individual achievements While­performing­in­music­groups­gives our­pupils­a­chance­to­work­collaboratively and­build­community,­there­are­always individuals­whose­achievements­deserve special­note.­ Daisy­Kwong­(L5)­recently­played­oboe­in a­concert­with­the­Wessex­Strings.­Their conductor­reported­that­Daisy­played brilliantly­and­that­the­orchestra­was delighted­to­perform­with­such­a professional­and­accomplished­young musician.

Prize-winning­pianist Valerie­Tsoi­(U6) made­an­impression during­her­orchestral debut­with­the­same group,­and­has­been invited­to­perform Shostakovich’s­Piano Concerto­No.­2­with the­Dorset­County Orchestra.

In­each­case,­these­remarkable achievements­show­the­capacity­of ­music to­encourage­discipline­and­commitment among­pupils.­That­they­lead­to­a profound­sense­of ­personal­fulfilment­is­a further­sign­of ­the­importance­of ­music­to the­life­of ­our­school.­ ­9

The prize is a fair one, and t he hope great

community

Primary Links As­part­of ­our­community­focus,­the partnership­between­Preston­C­of ­E­VC Primary­School­and­Sherborne­Girls­continues to­grow.­This­term­James­Bell­from­the­Sports department­led­a­rounders­session­with­Year­5 pupils;­Tom­Fremlin,­Head­of ­Adventure­and Leadership­taught­the­students­in­the classroom­and­on­the­sports­field;­Revd­Becky Ayres-Harris­gave­a­series­of ­assemblies;­and we­were­delighted­to­welcome­Dan­Pittard from­Preston­who­spent­time­with­our­own DofE­Girls.­

The­aim­of ­the­pairing­with­Preston­Primary­is to­provide­opportunities­to­share­and­develop staff ­expertise­and­facilities­as­well­as­forging relationships­between­staff ­from­both­schools for­the­benefit­of ­the­students.­

It’s all Greek to me!

Many people are familiar with Sherborne Girls’ motto,­written­in­bold­Greek letters­above­the­stage­in­the hall­and­on­the­clock­tower.

But­how­many­have­paused­to wonder­about­its­origins,­or what­it­means­to­the­culture and­values­of ­the­school community?

The­L6­Classical­Civilisation group­engaged­in­just­such­a consideration,­after­a­trip­to see­the­Parthenon­Sculptures at­the­British­Museum­led­by Classics­teacher­Sarah­Haslam to­consider­the­school’s architectural­heritage­in­a­new light.

Her­explorations­revealed­the significant­impact­of ­a­fire­in the­early­20th­century,­which necessitated­reconstruction­of the­original­hall­in­1911.­At that­moment,­the­school’s supporters­decided­to underscore­its­lofty­academic ambitions­by­incorporating­the Greek­motto­and­a­copy­of ­the Parthenon­Frieze­into­the hall’s­new­design.­It­was suggested­that­the­girls­might like­to­contribute­sixpence­a term­towards­the­project,­the equivalent­of ­about­£2­today.

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Many­Old­Girls­donated money­to­this­cause.

“When­we­were­looking­at­the Parthenon­Sculptures­I­started to­wonder­why­we­had­replicas of ­the­original­frieze­from­the temple­in­Athens­in­our­school hall,”­Sarah­remarked.­“So,­I contacted­School­Archivist, Dorothy­Goldsack­who explained­that­the­fire provided­an­opportunity­to refurbish­the­hall­and­to decorate­the­walls­with classical­sculpture.”

Keen­to­share­their­findings with­the­wider­Sherborne Girls’­community,­the­budding L6­classicists­(Theodora Cottrell,­Isabella­Harding, Maisie­Sansom­and­Araminta Stubbs)­gave­a­presentation, including­a­slideshow­with images­from­the­archives.­It proved­a­highly­illuminating insight­into­the­hall’s­design,­as well­as­the­significance­of ­the Greek­motto­to­Sherborne Girls’­identity.

For­those­who­want­to­know more,­a­full­version­of ­the presentation­is­available­in reception.

ΚΑΛΟΝ­ΤΟ­ἈΘΛΟΝ­ΚΑΙ­Ἡ­ἘΛΠΙΣ­ΜΕΓΑΛΗ­

Squaring Up Girls­from­across­the­school­have­been­crocheting squares­for­blankets­to­be­sent­to­Syrian­refugees.

The­blankets,­formed­by­stitching­together­individual squares­of ­different­designs,­have­been­sent­to­the charity­Hand­in­Hand­for­Syria.­They­will­provide much-needed­warmth­for­children­living­in­freezing, draughty­and­damp­conditions­after­fleeing­their homes.­A­mix­of ­age­groups­has­taken­part­in­the group,­which­has­attracted­some­34­girls.­Many­have used­it­as­part­of ­their­DofE,­while­others­have­come­to pick­up­new­techniques­in­crochet­and­knitting.­

Supporting the EDCLUB Movement

A­group­of ­U5­students,­Rosie­Hudson,­Charlotte­Holcroft,­Ella Milne,­Mimi­Tosh,­and­Hannah­Shirley,­are­hoping­to­raise­£1,500­for EDCLUB,­a­charity­that­provides­computers­and­internet­access­to help­educate­disadvantaged­children­in­the­Huruma­slums­in­Kenya.­

The­girls­have­organised­a­successful­bake­sale,­a­mufti­day­and­a parent-daughter­tennis­tournament.­As­well­as­raising­money,­they will­also­have­direct­contact­with­some­of ­the­children­helped­by­the scheme,­contacting­them­via­Skype­for­twice-weekly­mentoring sessions.­The­girls­will­eventually­handover­the­legacy­project­to another­group­of ­Sherborne­girls­to­take­forward.

Encouraging­and­facilitating­student-led­initiatives,­particularly­those with­a­service­element,­ensures­the­girls­develop­a­sense­of responsibility,­along­with­the­desire­to­make­a­positive­contribution­to the­lives­of ­others.

The­EDCLUB­Movement­is­an­example­of ­just­such­a­student initiative.­As­well­as­giving­disadvantaged­children­the­chance­to­access a­better­future­through­self-education­and­encouragement;­it­is­also­an opportunity­for­the­girls­to­show­responsibility,­compassion­and reliability,­while­helping­others.­

Shaping Art and Design A­collaborative­Arts­project­with­students from­Horsington­Church­Primary­School took­place­in­May­when­we­were­pleased­to welcome­students­from­the­primary­school­to spend­a­morning­in­the­art­department­with our­M5­girls.

Horsington­Church­Primary­School­has commissioned­M5­art­students­to­design­a number­of ­interactive­sculptures­for­its­play area.­The­best­three­designs,­as­selected­by­a committee,­will­then­be­translated­into­lifesize­sculptures.­This­is­an­on-going­art­project

between­the­two­schools­which­will­culminate in­the­Michaelmas­term,­when­we­look forward­to­sharing­the­girls’­creative­pieces.­

“We­were­very­lucky­to­have­the­opportunity to­visit­Horsington­Church­Primary­School­to get­inspiration­for­our­designs.­The­Year­5 students­gave­us­a­tour­and­spoke­really enthusiastically­about­their­school­and favourite­activities.­It­was­a­great­experience and­we­are­excited­about­working­on­the designs,”­commented­the­M5­girls.

Patient Participation

Three­L6­students­wishing­to­study medicine­have­been­invited­to­join­the School’s­local­surgery­Patient Participation­Group­as­representatives of ­the­younger­patient­generation.

Kate­Treacher,­Agnes­So­and­Insha Raza­meet­with­the­group­every­six weeks­to­discuss­new­surgery initiatives.

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boarding Ryan and Hayley Garnsworthy, Houseparents of Dun Holme

Digital Detox Every­week­now­begins­with­‘Phone-Free Monday’­in­the­boarding­houses;­an initiative­designed­to­encourage­healthy sleep­patterns.­The­idea­originated­from Sleep­Week,­during­which­a­variety­of activities­were­organised­to­help­the­girls understand­the­importance­of ­a­good night’s­sleep,­including­removing­their phones­from­bedside­tables.

Kenelm Sleep Out The­residents­of ­Kenelm­raised­a­substantial sum­for­Médecins­Sans­Frontières by subjecting­themselves­to­a­night­of ­chilly temperatures,­huddling­around­a­fire­pit­and toasting­marshmallows­to­keep­warm­before sleeping­in­the­Sports­Hall.

Riding in Pink

Aldhelmsted­West­Housemistress,­Hayley McIlvean­and­Assistant­Housemistress, Rebecca­Tillin­along­with­4,000­other women­cycled­through­the­night­on­Saturday 27­May­in­aid­of ­‘Women­V­Cancer’.­

To­support­their­Housemistress’­the­West girls­set­up­their­own­cycle­challenge, pedalling­as­fast­as­they­could­on­two­spin bikes­outside­the­Oxley­Sports­Centre­one afternoon­to­raise­money­for­the­charity.

Mrs­McIlvean­commented,­“It­was wonderful­to­see­the­girls­show­their­support in­this­way.­It­certainly­helped­drive­Ms­Tillin and­me­on.­Thank­you­to­everyone­who sponsored­us.”

The­event­was­the­idea­of ­L6­Charlotte Tincknell­and­Annabel­Harris­who­commented, “With­the­atrocity­of ­war­and­natural­disasters displacing­millions­of ­people,­it­only­felt­right that­as­a­house­we­raised­money­by­experiencing a­little­bit­of ­the­lives­they­lead.”

The­girls­now­spend­a­night­without­texts, phone­calls,­social­media­and­internet searching.­They­report­that­they­have­been more­relaxed,­enjoyed­better­conversations and­have­spent­more­time­just­catching up.­We­have­also­noticed­fewer­late arrivals­for­breakfast,­because­the­girls wake­up­feeling­fresher­in­the­morning!

It­is­encouraging­that­resistance­to­the initiative­has­been­low­across­all­of ­the boarding­houses,­suggesting­that­pupils can­see­the­benefits­of ­reducing­screen time,­noticing­more­of ­the­world­around them,­and­appreciating­the­little­things­in life.­Perhaps­these­phone-free­periods­are­a reminder­to­us­all­that­we­should­look­up­a little­more­often?

Moving in Mysterious Ways

A­roving­‘God­Pod’­provided­a­welcome­focus­for­the­school’s­spiritual­life­during­the­weeks­of ­Lent, popping­up­in­different­locations­around­the­school­campus.­

Each­year,­the­chaplaincy­team­lays­on­a­special­Lent­focus­project­to­encourage­self-reflection­and contemplation­of ­faith­and­life.­Using­the­medium­of ­creative­arts,­it­helps­pupils­and­staff ­to­think­more deeply­about­the­nature­of ­existence,­and­their­place­within­the­world.­

This­year’s­project,­headed­up­by­chaplaincy­prefect­Elizabeth­Gunton­(U6),­took­the form­of a­‘God­Pod’.

This­was­a­mobile­place­of ­prayer­where­people­were­encouraged­to­reflect­on­the­numinous­aspects­of ­life.

It­was­intended­to­convey­the­sense­of ­God’s­presence­being­uncontained­–­an­idea­already­familiar­in­the Sherborne­Girls­community,­thanks­to­the­decision­of ­the­school’s­founders­not­to­build­a­dedicated­school chapel.­Instead,­pupils­encounter­God­throughout­the­school,­in­every­aspect­of ­their­life­together.­ ­12

careers and higher education

Alumni networking event Higher Education Day An­informal­careers­reception­was­held­in­April by­Sherborne­Old­Girls­and­the­Old­Shirburnian Society­to­connect­alumni­working­within­the finance­sector.­

This­was­one­of ­a­series­of ­career­focussed events­designed­to­bring­Sherborne­alumni together­socially,­as­well­as­to­provide­a­forum­

for­sharing­knowledge­and­building business­relationships.­

Flora­Foreman­RH’14­writes,­“I­had valuable­conversations­with­people­working in­the­city­and­it­has­really­helped­me­to figure­out­what­job­might­best­suit­me­after University.”

Out of Africa

olivia acland, k’09

Freelance­journalist­and­photographer­in­West­Africa,­Olivia­writes; I­work­for­various­publications­such­as­the­BBC,­The­Economist, and­Al­Jazeera.­I­turned­up­in­Sierra­Leone­a­year­and­a­half ­ago and­started­finding­interesting­stories­and­pitching­them­to­outlets.

My­first­article­for­The Economist was­about­sea­cucumbers:­slimy echinoderms­that­live­on­the­seabed­and­are­used­in­China­for medicine.­They’re­fished­in­Sierra­Leonean­waters­and­shipped­to China.­Being­a­journalist­here­is­endlessly­fascinating.­I’ve­reported on­a­variety­of ­things­from­land­grabbing­to­Ebola­survivors, politics,­children’s­rights­and­witch­doctors.

Young Entrepreneurs Three­groups­of ­L6­girls­enjoyed the­chance­to­run­their­own companies­this­year,­thanks­to their­involvement­in­the­Young Enterprise­programme.

The­scheme­gives­young­people­a taste­of ­life­in­business,­drawing on­advice­and­support­from mentors­and­engaging­with­the real­world­of ­commerce.

One­of ­the­companies­formed by­Sherborne­Girls’­pupils,­called Island,­visited­the­Laura­Ashley factory­in­Powys,­Wales,­where its­members­negotiated­a manufacturing­deal.­They­sold­a range­of ­Nigerian­fabric­pouches

and­purses;­whilst­another­team, Glow,­sold­branded­pyjamas.

The­group­Unify,­who­sold hand-dyed­T-shirts,­took­part in­the­North­Dorset­heats­of ­the Young­Enterprise­competition and­successfully­gained­a­place­in the­Dorset­Finals.­They­won­‘Best Company­Report’,­‘Best­Use­of IT’,­as­well­as­the­‘Andrew­and Palmer­Sales­Award’­for generating­the­highest­net sales/turnover,­winning­a­prize of ­£250.

Poppy­Weldon­(L6)­was­awarded the­‘Runner­up­Student­Award’ winning­a­prize­of ­£50.

A­successful­Higher­Education­Day­was held­in­April,­during­which­girls­from­the L6­were­briefed­about­the­process­of university­applications.­The­event­was supported­by­Lisa­Sutton­from­the University­of ­Exeter,­who­shared­her perspective­on­what­universities­are looking­for.

Working­in­small­groups,­the­girls­began planning­their­all-important­personal statements.­They­also­attended­a­session by­‘Foresight­Careers’­that­helped­them think­about­their­future­career­and­study options,­before­being­asked­to­consider their­‘digital­footprint’.­The­question ‘Would­you­happily­stand­up­right­now and­read­aloud­your­last­3­posts?’­certainly got­them­thinking­about­tightening­their security­settings­on­line!­ One­student­enthused,­“Thank­you­so much­for­organising­the­day­for­us.­Even though­it­was­quite­daunting­I­found­the whole­day­extremely­useful.”

Making Airwaves

Aspiring­radio­presenter­Annabelle Martin­(M5)­has­been­working­at­the local­station,­Abbey104.­Annabelle­is­ running­her­own­show­and­one­day­ hopes­to­make­a­career­in­broadcasting.­Tune­in­to­hear­Annabelle­ on­104.7FM.

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sports highlights

Cross Country Our­Cross­Country­runners­continue­to­thrive under­the­guidance­of ­coaches­Ian­Kennedy and­Jayne­Dart,­with­impressive­results­at County,­Regional­and­National­Level.

Following­the­Dorset­Championships­at Bryanston­in­December,­Mary­Butler­(U6)­and Olivia­Manson­(U6)­were­selected­to­represent Dorset­in­the­AAA­Inter­Counties­in Loughborough.­

January­saw­the­start­of ­the­English­Schools’ competition­and­the­Dorset­Championships were­held­at­King’s­Park,­Bournemouth.­Five girls­were­called­up­to­represent­Dorset­at­the South­West­Championships­in­Exeter­where Olivia­Manson,­Araminta­Stubbs­(L6)­and Marianna­Sawyer­(U4)­recorded­very­good results,­with­the­Dorset­Junior­Girls­winning their­event.­

Hockey Freya­Evans­(L5)­and­Tilly­Scull­(M5)­have been­selected­for­the­England­Hockey U15­Regional­Performance­programme which­runs­through­the­summer­prior­to possible­selection­for­National­Assessment.

Our­hockey­girls­are­continuing­with training­this­term­in­preparation­for­next season­and­the­summer­tour­to­Holland.

Target Sprint At­the­English­Schools’­event­in­Norwich, Araminta­Stubbs­and­Marianna­Sawyer helped­Dorset­win­the­Sidney­Rose­Trophy­for the­2nd­year­in­a­row­for­Best­County­in­their division.

Our­girls­also­dominated­the­senior­girls schools­circuit,­with­Mary­Butler­once­again winning­the­DISCCO­Trophy,­which­is awarded­to­the­best­senior­female­independent school­cross­country­runner­in­Dorset. ­Christa Cripwell­(M5)­was­a­very­strong­second­in­the intermediate­age­group.

Netball

Araminta­Stubbs (L6)­is­down­to­the last­10­for­selection to­Team­GB­in­the British­Shooting event­of ­Target Sprint.­Having qualified­through various­stages­of the­British Shooting­Target Sprint­event, Araminta,­who­is currently­ranked­fourth­in­the­UK­for­this event,­has­been­selected­as­the­nontravelling­reserve­for­the­World Championships­which­will­be­held­in Germany­later­in­the­year.

Skiing

Our­U16,­U15­and­U12­teams­were­winners­of ­the­North­Dorset­Championships­and­our­U15 team­were­runners­up­in­the­Dorset­Championships.­The­U15­team­were­undefeated­in­the season.­Six­girls­are­now­involved­in­Somerset­County­Training.

Karate

Annabel­Harris­(L6)­achieved­one­of ­her­goals­this­year when­she­was­awarded­her­karate­1st­Dan­-­a­black­belt in­Karate.­In­recognition­of ­her­achievements­in­the field­of ­martial­arts,­Annabel­won­the­2017­British Martial­Arts­Award­-­Rising­Star­of ­the­Year­Award (Female)­Category.­ ­14

We­have­had­some­truly­outstanding results­from­the­skiing­competition, British­Schoolgirls’­Races­in­Flaine from­Emily­Nokes­(L5),­Sophie Minchin­(L5)­and­Sacha­Nokes­(U5).

The­girls­have­done­extremely­well and­we­are­proud­to­celebrate­the results­as­follows:­3rd­Overall Registered­Team­in­the­whole Championships­and­2nd­Overall Registered­Team­in­the­Giant Slalom.­Sacha­came­2nd­in­the­U18 Giant­Non­Registered,­U18­Slalom Non­Registered­and­U18­Combined Non­Registered.­Emily­came­3rd­in the­U16­Registered­Giant­and Overall­Combined,­and­2nd­in­the U16­Registered­Slalom.

Swimming The­Independent­Schools­Bath­Cup­at­the­London­Aquatics Centre­saw­Sherborne­Girls­win­Bronze­in­the­freestyle­relay­and Silver­in­the­medley­relay,­placing­the­swim­team­in­the­top­2-3 independent­schools­in­the­UK.

At­the­ASA­British­Championships­2017,­­Jess­Carroll­(U5)­won 50m­Breaststroke­and­Kayleigh­Parker­(L6)­qualified­for­the­200IM final­finishing­an­outstanding­6th­in­the­Country­(Junior­Girls).

The­excellent­results­continued­in­the­South­West­Regionals­with Kayleigh­Regional­Champion­in­both­200m­Breaststroke­and 200m­IM,­Jess­Regional­Champion­in­50m­and­Bronze­in­100m Breaststroke­and­Harriet­Watts­(M5)­Regional­Champion­in­100m and­Bronze­in­50m­and­200m­Backstroke.

The­three­girls­have­been­selected­onto­the­Swim­England­Beacon talent­programme;­a­series­of ­10­performance­training­sessions, alongside­the­most­promising­­junior­swimmers­in­the­region.

Kayleigh­and­Harriet­have­also­been­selected­to­be­part­of ­the Swim­England­South­West­competing­in­Croatia;­and­Kayleigh, Jess­and­Harriet­have­qualified­for­the­British­Summer Championships­in­Sheffield.

Lacrosse

Sherborne­Girls­was­delighted­to­welcome­15­schools,­32 teams­and­over­500­athletes­for­the­U14­and­U15­South West­Lacrosse­Rally­in­February.­Five­of ­our­teams­also played­at­the­Lacrosse­Nationals­which­took­place­in March­at­Surrey­Sports­Park.­It­was­a­fantastic­experience for­the­girls­and­all­five­teams­performed­extremely­well.

Tennis

Congratulations­to­our­tennis­teams­who­have­had­an­incredible­season,­winning over­65%­of ­their­matches.­The­1st­VI­and­U15A­team­have­led­the­way­with­an unbeaten­record.

Athletics

At­the­Dorset­County­AA­Championships held­in­May,­Sherborne­Girls­won­2 Golds,­3­Silvers­and­2­Bronze­medals.­

19­girls­progressed­through­the­County Trials­to­qualify­for­the­Dorset­Schools County­Athletics­Championships­to­be held­in­June.

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www.sherborne.com “This is the essence of Sherborne Girls: that we work together, striving for excellence, and achieving it for the good of the whole community.”

Jenny Dwyer, Headmistress

Diary dates 23, 24, 26 June L5­Play­-­‘Alice’

30 June

24 June Inter­House­Athletics­day

09.30 Coffee­in­Houses

24 June Midsummer­Festival 25 June Concerto­Concert

Commemoration Day 10.30 Commemoration­Service

12.15 Prizegiving

14.30 Chamber­Music­Concert

14.30 Parents’­and­Daughters’­Tennis­Match 27 June 14.30 Scenes­from­‘Alice’ Junior­Musical­Theatre­­­­­­­­­­­ 15.30 Afternoon­Tea ‘Cabaret’­Concert 29 June Leavers’­Service 29 June Commemoration­Concert

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