e v o l u t i o n Stroud’s Autumn Newsletter 2018
Only in a prep school… I have just left a ‘Victorian hospital’ where Year 1 Florence Nightingales were tending to the wounded soldiers. No more than fifty metres away, Year 5 were gearing up for a trip back in time to visit the Aztecs; and Early Years were in full-swing with Christmas songs. This was tempered by Year 8 pupils discussing the properties of different lenses and the refraction of light, whilst Year 7 debated the merits of William’s strategy in the Battle of Hastings. Stroud really is a busy place to be! I am delighted to be able to regularly visit classrooms and see pupils engaged in their work. Our Stroud Spirit curriculum is working hand-in-hand with the academic provision, and the pupils are gaining valuable insight into the skills that they need to make their knowledge relevant. In a world that is now firmly rooted in digital and instant technology, I am comforted to know that our children are learning to analyse, review and estimate, not simply to calculate. This is reflected in the recent media announcements from senior public school Heads at Westminster, St Pauls and Wellington College who have joined a growing majority of schools recognising the value of a content-rich Year 7 and 8 programme. As of this year, they have abandoned the intensely-focused, and often unreliable, snapshot of 13+ Common Entrance examinations as a requirement of entry. Our Monday ‘celebration’ assemblies have been filled with evidence of just how much our children achieve, both inside and outside of school. From charitable giving in our Harvest Festival to team sporting achievements and individual accolades in English, Maths, Music and Drama. We are very proud of the social responsibility shown by the whole Stroud community, and no more so than the generous donation of Christmas gift boxes for the ‘Link to Hope’ charity. Through our section charities, we raised almost £1000 for The Murray Parish Trust, £1560 for Children in Need, and all the donations from the recent fireworks event were donated in support of Naomi House children’s hospice. It was good to see so many of you in the audience for our many wonderful end of term celebrations, and I wish all Stroud families a fabulous festive season. Joel Worrall Headmaster
Latest news
New Developments in KS1 Learning By Kirsten Walton, Head of Pre-Prep
Pupils had eagerly watched the process of the new building developing during the Spring and Summer Terms. They excitedly embarked on tours of the development site, and the builders happily explained the process to the children. They avidly watched the machinery come and go and were amazed at how quickly the build developed – one day there was a hole with concrete in it, and in the next few days walls were up, and the roof was on the magic of a prefabricated timber structure! In September, the children had new classrooms and facilities to explore. The new building provides a spacious educational environment with a very dynamic design. What strikes you immediately on entering the building, is how light and bright it feels; the design includes a large amount of glass to allow natural light to stream in. All classrooms have direct access to undercover outside areas, allowing us to learn outdoors in all weather. We carefully chose the materials and colours to fit in with our natural woodland surroundings. Within the classrooms, there are retractable walls, allowing us to open up the rooms into larger spaces for special events, such as our Knights and Princesses Day, and to set the scene for learning about Florence Nightingale. No two days are the
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same in Key Stage 1, and this gives us flexibility and options within our teaching; adapting for the children’s learning. The moveable, wipeable walls can also be written on, and the children take great delight in drawing on them. In addition, there are purpose-built teaching walls, which incorporate new Prowise boards, whiteboards, and storage for classroom resources. As part of the opening celebrations, the children had to decide what to put in our time capsule. The capsule will be dug up in 50 years’ time so, in 2068, future pupils will discover class photos, a writing pencil, a copy of the School Review and some money. We were hugely grateful to Matt Le Tissier for opening the new KS1 building, and delighted to raise £300 for the Naomi House charity. Everyone worked tirelessly to complete the building with minimal disruption and we have been fortunate to have a professional, conscientious construction team delivering the project. The next stage is to make our outside area as fabulous as our inside provision, and plans are developing well.
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Latest News Outdoor Classroom Day by Angus Reid, Head of Learning Outside the Classroom In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. John Muir (naturalist and environmental philosopher) Stroud pupils benefit from lots of opportunities to learn outside on a day-to-day basis but Outdoor Classroom Day is part of a global initiative to celebrate and inspire outdoor learning. In 2017, over 2.3 million children worldwide took part. A large body of research shows that outdoor learning improves children’s health, increases their enjoyment and engagement with learning, and leads to a greater connection with nature. There is also growing evidence that learning outside the classroom brings about more permanent learning experiences, as fun and risk heighten their senses and awareness. This enables teachers to pin learning outcomes to these new experiences. At Stroud, such opportunities also underpin key Stroud Spirit skills including resilience and collaboration. Celebrating this initiative at Stroud, enabled the whole school to embrace the spirit of the Outdoor Classroom concept. During the day, a number of lessons were ‘taken outside’ and pupils took part in a range of inspiring activities. From maths calculations on the playground, and French amongst the flower beds, to science experiments on the field, and whittling dreamcatchers in the woods. ‘It was nice to be outside in the fresh air to write poetry’. Sophie, Year 5.
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Early Years Trains and Trees We have had a wonderful term in Early Years. Nursery enjoyed a trip to the Watercress Line and a ride on a steam train, and Reception enjoyed our annual trip to Hillier Gardens. At harvest time, we explored the trees and picked the fruit growing in our school grounds. Our orchard was full of apples ready to pick, which the children then used to make delicious apple crumbles. Tree climbing is part of daily life at Stroud, but we made the most of the wonderful weather with even more time outside. We loved Outdoor Classroom Day: being in the fresh air, and cooking our morning snack over the fire.
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Early Years
Doctor, Doctor We have been fortunate to have parents come to visit us this term, and are hugely grateful for their contributions. We had a visit from two doctors who taught us about our bodies; we looked at xrays, a heart monitor, and a skeleton.
Diwali Celebrations With the help of another parent, we learnt about why Diwali is celebrated. We all had the opportunity to try on different clothes, make Diwali crafts and taste traditional foods.
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Pre-Prep Knights & Princesses A knight stormed the Year 2 classroom to teach pupils about medieval life. The children dressed up in armour and medieval clothing, played games, handled weapons, and built their own castles. The finale was the knight firing the cannon on the field, which shook the entire school! Our classroom-learning was enhanced with an inspiring trip to Arundel Castle, where they stormed the keep and braved the dungeons.
Understanding Birds of Prey Year 1 had a fascinating day at the Hawk Conservancy. They took part in an exciting ‘Owl Pellet’ workshop where they were able to investigate the different bones found and discuss what owls eat. They watched flying displays featuring owls and other birds of prey. The children enjoyed being able to see a variety of birds up close, and having to duck as they flew over their heads! 6
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Pre-Prep
A Day in the Life of Florence Nightingale Pupils came to school dressed as Victorian nurses, doctors, ladies and gentlemen. They made bravery medals and Red Cross medals, alongside lanterns complete with tea-lights. They learnt to write with a quill and explored real Victorian artefacts. The classroom was ‘blacked out’ and transformed into a dirty field hospital, complete with cobwebs, rats and spiders. Our very own Florence Nightingale (Miss Torrance) led her team of nurses through the town to their jobs in the hospital. The large role-play session included a market place, post office, and chemist spread across the classrooms. The children switched roles to see if they could make the soldiers better. The nurses’ bedside manner was particularly noteworthy as they read to the soldiers by candlelight and wrote letters for them, in addition to changing their bandages and buying them healthy foods.
Woodley Grange Care Home Our relationship with the residents continues to blossom and bring joy to all. In October, Year 1 helped Lily celebrate her 100th birthday. They performed a country dance show and presented her with a card and gifts they had made. We returned later in the term to sing Christmas carols.
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Middle School
Egyptian Exploration The sun shone on Year 3 as they travelled to Highclere Castle: the former home of Lord Carnarvon, the British aristocrat who supported Howard Carter in the discovery of Egyptian pharaoh, Tutankhamun. The children followed in the footsteps of the world-famous archaeologist; discovering beautiful artefacts along the way and, of course, getting a chance to dress up as the Egyptian king himself!
Heavy Metal and Rock... Year 3 children have been studying the classic Ted Hughes novel, ‘The Iron Man’. They took on the role of Hogarth: writing diary entries, newspaper reports, and working on similes to try to improve on the original. Outside, they used the dimensions given in the text to draw a life-size chalk drawing of the Iron Man himself, which took up the length of the playground – giving them a real sense of his enormity! In our science topic this term, we learnt about igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, and the different ways in which they are formed. We wanted to find out which types of rock are hardest, so we designed an experiment, which saw a variety of different rocks go head-to-head in a rock-off! Two rocks where rubbed together to see if one would damage the other; that rock would then go through to the next round.
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Middle School
Potty About Mexico! On a grey and gloomy autumnal day, Year 5 found there’s nothing better to lift the spirits than looking at, and creating, Mexico-inspired art. After researching the topic, pupils helped create and decorate a wonderful papier-mache pot full of images relating to Mexican culture.
Aztec Artwork Our thanks go to Val and Eric Freeman from New Forest Pottery, who supported Year 5 pupils in creating their unique Aztec masks. In each of the three class workshops, pupils learnt the techniques of texturing their clay and adding on features to create stunning Aztec masks and ocarinas. Each child made a wonderful mask that was then painted with colourful glazes and fired in a kiln.
A Very Viking Education The visit of a Viking to Y4 in November, gave us an insight into how Viking children were taught. They didn’t go to school, but learnt History and Geography from the sagas they were told. The Vikings valued the practical skills needed for combat so, instead of our usual Literacy and Numeracy lessons, we learnt aiming and dexterity skills through playing games. It made for a pleasant change for one day, but I think most of us would rather be taught at Stroud!
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Senior School
Feel The Force Year 6 went to Paultons Park to experience the effect of different forces on the rides, and to discover more about how the rides in a theme park operate, through an ICT workshop entitled ‘Ride Programming’. Pupils were able to experience how simple things such as raising their arms and changing the angle of their hands resulted in different movements caused by the action of different forces upon them. These experiences were followed with further study and project work on the children’s return to the labs at Stroud.
As You Like It Year 7 spent a week in Stratford, learning about Shakespeare’s life and work. They also took a trip to Warwick Castle and are now experts on how to defend and attack in medieval times. Evenings filled with bowling, climbing and badminton, meant it was an entertaining and hugely enjoyable week.
Reading Buddies This term, Years 6, 7 and 8 have really enjoyed reading with their buddies in Early Years, Year 1 and Year 2. The children have met to share a love of reading and chat about books, school and what they’d like Santa to bring. They also enjoyed a Christmas craft activity together where the older children were able to support their younger friends in making some lovely items to treasure. A super time was had by all and they are already looking forward to their next meeting. 10
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Years 3 and 8 had a brilliant time exploring Moors Valley Country Park together. The sun shone brightly as the children played and cemented their mentoring relationships. A lovely morning of leadership, collaboration and happiness was had by all.
Senior School
Amazing Mentors
The Joys of Geography Both Years 7 and 8 undertook field work as part of their studies this term; braving incredible storms along the South Coast and in Dartmoor. Year 8 enjoyed field sketching in Postbridge, hiking around the Burrator reservoir, climbing up a very wind swept Haytor and learning about quarrying. In the rain, Dartmoor was beautiful and atmospheric. Sunshine on the beach at Charmouth on our way back gave us the chance to hunt for fossils and practise stone skimming. The work produced by our Year 7 pupils in their home learning, as well as in class, has been incredible. The trip to Hengistbury Head clearly inspired them and helped deepen their understanding and interest back in the classroom. They were investigating the effects of coastal management by looking at sea defences, measuring long-shore drift and wave counting. Storm Callum ensured they could see the defences in action.
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Sports
Gold for the Girls It’s been another busy term for girls’ sport. Our U11 team have had a very successful hockey season and won the plate at the IAPS Regional Hockey Tournament, as well as winning the Hampshire County Schools Cup to qualify for the finals. We’re looking forward to kicking off the netball season next term with a specialist extenal coach leading a regional staff workshop, and lessons with the Year 5 pupils to hone our skills.
Healthy Competition We have enjoyed hosting a number of events at school, including our annual Winter Cross-Country Championship in December, which involved 9 other schools and more than 60 Stroud pupils. Our new, alternative sports mini-festival for Years 3 - 8 was hugely popular. This gave them the chance to try out a range of different sports, including basketball, lacrosse and volleyball. On the football field, we are delighted that a number of boys from the U11, U12 and U13 age groups have been selected for District and Regional Football Tournaments. Perhaps they were inspired by the quality of play on the pitch at the ‘friendly’ Staff Vs Parents game? It’s not often you get to play an exEngland legend. We were delighted with the turnout and for all the support from the sidelines.
SportSkool ‘Extra’ Holiday Clubs SportSkool will be running their sports clubs at Stroud during school holidays and on INSET days. The clubs cater for children of all abilities, aged 4 to 13. A club day runs from 10am - 4pm (with additional childcare before and after). SportSkool brings in expert coaches to provide specialist coaching and activities the children might not otherwise have tried. This might include fencing, marital arts, zorbing, nerf gun wars and baseball. For more details and to book, please visit www.sportskool.co.uk 12
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Sports
Congratulations to Oliver, the new RS Tera World Champion Rugby Champions The U11A rugby team came joint first with Port Regis School at the Canford Rugby Festival in November, and was awarded the ‘Team Spirit’ trophy! In December, Stroud hosted eleven schools for the IAPS Regional Rugby Tournament at our Wellington Sports Ground. Some fantastic rugby was played, with great sportsmanship on display, and a friendly atmosphere.
Debut Skiing Success Well done to the Stroud Ski Team, who came 3rd in the British Independent Schools Ski Racing (BISS) National Indoor Championships. The result is particularly impressive given the team was only recently formed, but they’re keen to build on this success. Our thanks go to Stroud parent, Mrs Sadler, for all her effort in organising and supporting the team.
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Creativity
Performing Arts
Peter Pan was the summer blockbuster staged by Senior School. There was a charming Wendy, some swashbuckling pirates and a scary crocodile! The show was a great success and the audience were transported to Neverland as pupils danced, acted and sang beautifully. Fairy dust was everywhere! There has been lots of music and drama going on this term, and pupils have taken Music and Speech and Drama exams with great success. The latter part of the term saw children getting ready for Christmas: Early Years performed a Nativity with plenty of fluttery angels and sparkly stars on show. KS1 also had a performance - ‘Tinsel and Tea-towels’ – and we all enjoyed their acting and singing. Our Senior Choir sang beautifully in Romsey Abbey for the Carol Service. The Charity Concert was a showcase across the performing arts with musical items from the rock band, orchestra and choirs, and dramatic items from Year 6 and 8. A very busy, creative term!
Art To Remember Year 5 pupils attended a special service at Winchester Cathedral and took part in activity trails focused on remembering the ultimate sacrifice that so many paid during World War I. In preparation, the children had written beautiful, personal letters to the unknown soldier statue located outside the cathedral. The school also presented a poppy wreath made by the children. In our own commemoration service, pupils laid out pottery tiles, each inscribed with the name of one of the fallen, and poppies that they had made in the Art Studio.
Mindfulness Course for Parents Our School Counsellor, Annie Davison will be running an 8-week Mindfulness Course starting on Monday 14th January, 7pm - 8.30pm. The practice of mindfulness can promote health and wellbeing, improve mood and boost energy levels. To apply, contact Annie on ad@kes.hants.sch.uk 14
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Events
Woodall Building Family Ties Whilst the burial of the time capsules on the pathway looked to the future, the ceremony also celebrated the origins of Stroud. We were honoured to welcome Rosemary Arden-White and Felicity Cox, the daughter and grand-daughter of Frank Woodall: our founding Headmaster and namesake of the new build. The links to Stroud still run deep within the family: Mrs Arden-White was actually born in the original Stroud House in Grayswood, Surrey; something she reflected on during her 90th birthday celebrations earlier this year. She was also inspired to join the teaching profession; educating youngsters at Blackheath High School, a London-based girls’ independent school.
Mrs Arden-White was very touched by the dedication to her father, and was delighted that the quality of the new facilities show such growth from the small school her father established in 1926. Most of all, she was thrilled that, despite the passage of time and various relocations, the essence of Stroud remains unchanged.
Digital Leaders Conference Stroud’s Digital Leaders were proud to respresent the school at this year’s conference. We hosted a fantastic day, which was attended by six other schools from the local area. Specialist-run workshops taught the children about manipulating sound, driving robots and why Apple is ‘Apple’ and not ‘Pear’. The conference enables pupils to engage with other like-minded children and exchange ideas. All the students went home happy; full of new digital knowledge and the experience of an exciting, inspiring day.
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Stroud Spirit
Children in Need 2018 As the prep school for King Edward VI School, our pupils were given the incredible opportunity to be part of the national Children’s Choir and participate in the live BBC programming, which was broadcast on BBC South Today and BBC One from King Edward’s Dobson Theatre. The whole school also participated in a morning of fun; raising £1,550.58 for the charity.
Stroud School Association In September, the SSA presented a cheque for £24,160 to the school, from all their fundraising efforts over the last two and a half years, including the 90th Anniversary Ball. This is a huge amount and we are very grateful for the efforts and generous contributions of all parents. Approximately £16k has been assigned to develop the conservation area below the lower drive, which starts with the refurbishment of the science ponds. In consultation with School Council, the school will also invest in a gymnastics tumble track; Early Years cooking provision; Key Stage 1 play equipment; and a Zip wire, which was the pupils’ number one choice! Our Prosecco Party was a relaxed and fun evening enjoyed by over 100 parents and staff, raising £933 for the school. At the Christmas Fayre, children visited the beautiful Santa’s Grotto, got creative at the craft tables, shopped for gifts at the Secret Santa stall and tried their luck on the tombola and pick-alolly, raising £1379. Our new Classlist site launched, replacing the old contact lists, saving year reps lots of time and ensuring privacy and security. You can manage your own details and choose which notifications you receive. Please sign up at classlist.com so you don’t miss out on information and tickets for our future events. 2019 dates for your diary: 2nd March - Comedy and Curry Evening 24th March - Easter Egg Hunt Stroud School, Highwood Lane, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 9ZH