Welcome to our biggest and best edition yet of KES Life: the magazine written by students, for students. We hope you enjoy reading it over the Easter holidays!
2. Reflections on Spring
3-4. Dance Gala
5. Battle of The Bands
6. KES Central
7. Sustainability: How to cut your energy bill
8. Ramadan 9. Wellbeing: Tips to cope with exam stress
10. Sport in Focus: Cycling
11. Interview with Mr Nichols
12. Music Review: Gabriel Fauré’s Élégie
13. TV Review: The Expanse
14. Film Reviews
15-16. Book Reviews
17. World Book Day Quiz
18. Short Story: The Awaiting Darkness
19. Concourse Conversation
20. Recipe: Coffee Cake
21-22. Recipe: Shakshuka
R E F L E C T I O N S O N
SPRING
By Mia D, Year 10
Photographs by Lily C-D, L6
‘As the branches on the trees start to look less bare and the flowers come out from their hiding spots, one is reminded of the fact that the most beautiful season is coming up. The air starts to warm up again inviting the sun to make its seasonal appearance; the happiness that radiates from the sun reflects onto everyone Spring is the season for growth and new starts At KES the Spring term is a time for development; providing inspiration to want to succeed in academics or sports or whatever you are most passionate about However you decide to spend spring, I would just like to remind you to make good use of the weather and enjoy the sunshine whilst it lasts! Finally, for the last term, make it a memorable one so that you can finish the school year with something to look back on
As the flowers started to bloom, The smell of pollen flew, Infecting everything it touched, Touched the world so that it would be in colour
Bustling bees dashed around, Searching hurriedly for flowers, Trying to create honey so profound, So profound that it was the most famous in the world
The honey was like liquid gold, Which was being reflected by the happy sun, Glistening down, illuminating the world, Bringing it back to life
Spring will be happiness to those who embrace it, Therefore it should not be mistreated, Instead people’s sadness should be seated, And they will soon be rejuvenated
AmyR:Danceissuchahugepartofmylifeoutsideof school and it meant a lot to me to be able to do it in schoolaswell
FrancesA:Havingalwayslovedtodance,Ireallyenjoyed my first dance gala at KES. To be involved in this gala, with such diverse performances, ranging from ballet to tap to break dancing, with so many other students involvedwasbrilliant.Can'twaitfornextyear!
DarrenB:TheDanceGala,forme,isachancetohave loads of fun and showcase my dance in a calm environment, and I also love and thrive off a good audience
SimranK:MyexperienceintheDanceGalahasbeen amazing, because I have been able to show the school and represent my culture by performing a Bollywood dance. My highlight was choreographing the dance from scratch and turning it into a wonderful performance for people to see on the night!
Holly R: The Dance Gala was a fun experience for everyone! It is a brilliant way to express yourself throughdanceandmusicandwasalsoachance to make new friends and memories Even throughoutthebackstageadrenaline,Idon’tthink anyoneeverceasedtosmile.
Lily H: I have always enjoyed the Dance Gala at KES!It’ssoexcitingandthethrillofperformanceis such a good feeling Getting to dance with your friends is so much fun and I think anyone would enjoyit.
BATTLE OF THE BANDS
By Millie M and Aarya N, Year
7
Were you at Battle of the Bands? If not, then we ’ re here to update you!
We started off the night with beaming lights and an excited audience We kicked off the evening with an amazing performance from The Flares performing ‘Morning Glory’. It was an amazing performance and was a great way to start the Battle of the Bands Next up we had Ultraviolet performing ‘Sweet Child of Mine’ and The Pocket Watches, who performed ‘Take Me to Church’: great songs from both bands!
Next up we had a year 7 band: The Keynotes. The five of them sang ‘Shut Up and Dance’. The audience enjoyed the performance, which was followed by a solo from GCSA Aoife H performed ‘Creep’ It was a wonderful solo and left the judges impressed Good job Aoife! Our next act was from Silk Burial, who performed ‘In The End’; an excellent performance Next, we had the Crimson Kings performing ‘Clocks’. This was an amazing performance too: well done to them! Then we had Millie M, a very talented soloist who sang her own composition, ‘Count On Me’ This was a very beautifully written song
Following on from Millie, we had Armanda performing ‘Do I Wanna Know’. This was an amazing performance: the judges really enjoyed it and so did the audience! After this, we had a solo from Allie B, singing her own song, ‘Unknown’ This was a great performance Good job Allie! Up next was Delirium performing ‘Die With A Smile’ This was an amazing performance from the band Then, we had a wonderful performance from Practice Room Panic They performed ‘Don’t Stop Believing’, showcasing their brilliant talent. Next up, we had a performance of ‘How Deep Is Your Love’. It was an amazing performance and entertained the audience Finally, the Year 11 Supergroup performed a surprise performance: ‘Mr Brightside’ It was a great way to end the night
KES CENTRAL
by Isaac P, Lower 6th
As many of you know, we have a new shop at school called KES Central The idea for a shop began back in September at the beginning of this year when I went along to Business and Enterprise Club and was told about the Peter Jones Foundation Tycoon Competition The competition (run by Peter Jones, the Dragon on BBC’s Dragons’ Den) gives risk-free goodwill loans to young people across the country to start a business and then run it within a trading window, which for us is 24th February to 28th April. The competition aims to fill a gap in the school curriculum, as enterprise and starting businesses isn’t explicitly taught
At Business and Enterprise, I joined with two friends and we came up with the idea for KES Central, a school tuck shop Our initial plan was to sell food and drinks out of a cleaning cupboard in the school which we eventually changed after working out the logistics of queuing in the corridors. We then spent the next few months planning our business and working out how it would work logistically, working out our suppliers, pricing, location stock, marketing, finances and many other factors After much planning we decided on a pricing strategy that would be at or below Tesco prices as our target and we made the decision to open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
After working out our plan for the shop, we had to present our business to three of our main ‘Gatekeepers’ in a Dragons’ Den Style Presentation; our gatekeepers were the Head, the Bursar and the Head of Operations. After we presented to the gatekeepers, we received our approval along with a list of questions we would need to answer in follow up meetings As soon as we got approval we began writing our business plan to submit to the competition We then sent out a form as market research and had to forecast our demand, decide our pricing for each item while demonstrating how we would overcome different obstacles. We also had several meetings with members of staff and different groups across the school to ensure we were pleasing everyone and I made an announcement launching the shop in assembly.
Once we had submitted, we had to wait until half term when we were checking the website everyday hoping to be approved and we were! We received £500 of seed funding and we began trading on the 24th February. We made the decision to open every day on week one as we were so busy We had to make four restocking trips in the first week and then two in the second before we were able to manage with just one. Overall, it hasn’t been easy and we have had to make a lot of changes over our trading period so far but we have really enjoyed the process and hopefully we will manage to win the competition So the moral of the story would be to take every opportunity you get, give it your all and with some effort, it can be really rewarding
HOW TO REDUCE YOUR ENERGY BILL
by Megan B, Lower Sixth
Energy prices are yet again due to rise on the 1st of April and the average bill for a UK household will go up to £1,849 per year, an increase of £111 It is increasingly important for us to take a look at our energy usage to determine what we can do to cut it, not only to save money but to save the planet We’ve all been told that switching off the lights, taking shorter showers and turning down the heating will help, but which methods are actually effective?
The average energy efficiency rating of a household in the UK is a band D, whilst the government aspires for all homes to be at least a band C by 2035. So, what can actually be done to increase your home's efficiency rating and subsequently reduce your energy consumption?
Here are some simple tips to consider:
Replacing the bulbs in your home with LED lights can reduce your home’s carbon dioxide emissions by up to 35kg a year!
Only running the dishwasher when full Only tumble drying when necessary - can save up to £50 a year!
£7 a year can be saved by simply switching off the lights when you leave the room Draught-proofing windows and doors, and blocking cracks in floors or skirting boards can save you around £80 yearly on your heating bills
Unplug your “Vampire devices” (named as they drain power when left plugged in) such as unused TVs or smart speakers Installing a smart thermostat and heating control to identify unnecessary heating and poorly insulated rooms
Speak to your parents about which energy tariff you are on, consider switching to a cheaper one or with companies that give you discounted rates at off-peak times.
Meanwhile, if you're looking to make more drastic changes to your energy usage there are also bigger projects you can undergo that, although requiring a little more investment, will bring you long term, larger scale improvements to your home’s energy efficiency and environmental impact. These include installing solar panels, a low-carbon electric heating system and better wall insulation
Excessive heat energy spending makes up 80% of an average total energy bill
On the whole, there are many different hacks on a variety of scales that will decrease your energy usage Small adjustments to your daily habits can compound to make a surprisingly large difference to your final bill If you are willing to commit to a longer term investment, air source heat pumps, energy efficient appliances, more insulation and solar panels will all result in a huge fall in not only your energy bill but also your carbon footprintwhich is extremely important to the planet and to us at Sustainability Action Group.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred time when Muslims around the world fast from dawn to sunset throughout the entire month. For us Muslims, this act of worship is not only a demonstration of obedience to God and our faith, but it is also a chance to reflect on the blessings we often take for granted It encourages gratitude and reminds us to empathize with those less fortunate, who lack consistent access to food and water.
As a student passionate about studying the human body, I am truly fascinated by the remarkable benefits that fasting during Ramadan offers Beyond its spiritual significance, carefully controlled fasting for short periods has been proven to show profound effects on the body’s physical and mental health. Research shows that fasting can enhance our metabolism, help regulate blood sugar levels, and even reduce the risk of insulin resistance Further studies also show that this type of fasting strengthens the immune system, improves sleep quality, lowers stress levels, and much more! For me this is what makes Ramadan so extraordinary and unique, as Ramadan is not only a spiritual journey but also an opportunity to nurture both the physical body and soul.
Additionally, this blessed month is home to Laylatul Qadar the Night of Power when the Quran was revealed. This sacred night is described as being better than a thousand months, a time when good deeds are multiplied in reward For many Muslims, including myself, this night holds immense significance and is eagerly anticipated, as it offers a powerful opportunity to seek God’s mercy, forgiveness, and countless blessings.
Lastly, one of the most important parts, essential to Ramadan, is zakat Zakat is derived from the Arabic word for charity - and it is an obligation for those who are financially able, to give to those who are less fortunate During Ramadan, this pillar takes on even greater significance and Muslims go above and beyond in their charity work to fulfil this duty. This hospitality can take many forms including: donations, feeding the poor, building shelters, water wells and so forth, for communities in need This spirit of generosity and empathy is what allows Muslims to realise the true meaning of our earthly possessions and their temporary nature - it encourages us to let go of our materialistic attachments, share our wealth, to help aid those truly in need, and most importantly - reconnect with our faith.
I hope my brief message has given you a more meaningful insight into the true beauty of Ramadanas well as a greater understanding as to why Muslims take part in fasting in this holy month To all who celebrate, I wish you a blessed Ramadan. May Allah reward all of our efforts, and thank you to everyone for taking the time to read this article.
TIPS FOR MANAGING STRESS
BY EMMA R, LOWER SIXTH
School can sometimes be stressful and especially with exam season coming up, it can be overwhelming to keep on top of revision and your mental health. If you're struggling or just need some top tips to prepare, you're in the right place. We spoke to some students on how they effectively balance their school work and wellbeing.
Samuel S: To manage my stress, I like to relax after I get home from school, by cooking dinner and eating whilst watching a TV show. I then get changed to properly switch my mind off of the school day. Later in the evening, I begin my schoolwork and stop working at least an hour before I go to sleep to allow myself to wind down I find that a regular routine allows me to control my stress, and to ensure I get everything that I need to get done without unnecessary worry
Amelia W-H: During exam periods I like to keep a balanced lifestyle by not neglecting my social life and exercise. I think it’s really important to not forget that you have a life outside of school. By seeing my friends it helps reset my brain so I don't get overwhelmed and stressed with my workload
Darren B: In my opinion, the best way to maintain a good balance between work and play is doing the things that make you happy and stress-free For example, I like to listen to d22 music, go to the gym, or I’ll have my comfort snacks while revising (apple juice and white chocolate chip cookies) I also leave time at the end of my revision to watch Netflix or scroll like we all like to do (not during revision though obviously) If you make a more manageable plan, there’s no reason that you can’t have a good time too, so best of luck
Lily F: I love to play netball or go to the gym to give my mind a rest for work for a while In addition to this I ensure I get at least 8 hours of sleep a night and properly fuel myself during the day so I can endure a full day of school and netball after school Whilst I do prioritise my studies I also believe it is important to socialise with others and not to sound cringy but ‘have a good laugh’ as it makes me feel a lot better and gives me relief from work for a short while
AN INTERVIEW WITH... MR NICHOLS
By Sara E, Year
10
I KNEW THAT MR NICHOLS IS SOMEBODY THAT ENJOYS MUSIC AND HAS QUITE A WIDE RANGE OF KNOWLEDGE IN THAT FIELD SO I DECIDED TO ASK HIM FOR THE SONGS HE RECOMMENDS FOR KES STUDENTS THIS SPRING
PUT ASIDE YOUR SPOTIFY ‘DISCOVER WEEKLY’ BECAUSE HERE ARE 10 SONGS THAT JUST MAY BE WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
Here’s The Thing – Fontaines D C
There isn’t much original music anymore But this Dublin band gets close with their latest album, Romance I could pick any of the tracks but this grabs your attention ”
Small Changes – Michael Kiwanuka
A change of pace and closer to home, Kiwanuka is a big favourite of Vinyl Club (Wednesdays, 1 30pm, Art Studio) and lives in Southampton. This is the title track of his new album Soulful and melodic, it’s a great song (and album) to relax to ”
Heads Will Roll – Yeah Yeah Yeahs
I came to this band late. They have been around since 2003 but I love Karen O’s voice and this song has loads of energy It’s the first song on my workout playlist right now.
Like I Say – Nilufer Yanya
Not sure why she isn’t a bigger star by now If you like this, listen to Stabilise from 2021
One Foot – Greentea Peng
Breezy, hypnotic vocals according to her Spotify bio. Very catchy chorus and a little different to anything else out there in the popular music category
Time – Pink Floyd
Over 50 years old, this album never gets old Don’t just listen to the one track, listen to the whole album Headphones Pay attention to every word
Spitfire – Public Service Broadcasting
Pink Floyd weren’t the first band to record a concept album and PSB won’t be the last. But this track came from their album Inform-Educate-Entertain and explored the original remit of public broadcasting and I suppose the BBC. I’m going to see them in a few weeks so I am listening to all their albums If you like this try The Race For Space.
Salvation – The Liminanas
No idea where I first heard this song but I keep going back to it So simple and that banjo!
Alone – The Cure
Maybe more for an old Cure fan but if you don’t listen to this or their first album in 17 years (Songs Of A Lost World), go all the way back to 1979 and Three Imaginary Boys, the finest post-punk you will find.
Johnny B. Goode – Chuck Berry
If you go and listen to the early rock music of the 1950s and early 1960s, you will realise where it all started Chuck Berry was at the heart of it with his guitar riffs.
Gabriel Fauré’s Élégie Op 24 is one of his most-loved works and is memorable for its intense portrayal of raw despair and hope. Various cellists have recorded the piece yet Nadège Rochat’s performance is particularly emotionally rich whilst technically masterful. Her performance demonstrates the sorrow through her phrasing, depth of tone, dynamic contrast, and personal interpretation - all creating a heart-rending experience for listeners, highlighting a delicate balance between melancholy and hope.
Élégie is one of Fauré’s earlier chamber music compositions, written at a time when French music was shifting from rigid structures of the classical era towards more expressive and romantic forms in 1880 The piece opens with a slow, lyrical theme played by the cello, instantly evoking a sense of introspection and mourning - Fauré is known for use of leitmotifs throughout multiple compositions The appropriate naming of Élégie reflects the passionate expression of grief and sorrow, fitting as a tribute to cellist Jules Loeb who passed away The piano provides a gentle, supportive role, creating a harmonic foundation whilst allowing the cello to provide the emotional weight One of the most impressive aspects of Rochat’s performance is her ability to convey profound emotion through her phrasing The Élégie opens to a mournful, descending melody which instantly establishes the atmosphere of grief Nadège Rochat addresses the opening with a rich, melancholy tone that is very full
As well, slightly lingering rubato allows each phrase to breathe and resonate, before moving on The bars in each phrase follow a similar rhythmic pattern, expressing a sense of reflection and long dwelling Her frequent yet well applied use of vibrato adds depth and movement into the individual notes: each especially sensitive Dynamic contrast between repeating phrases indicates an understanding of the story told in Fauré’s piece and gentle shifts in emotion She uses rubato effectively to create these smooth transitions; for example, upon diminuendos
The relationship between the cello and piano brings emotional impact - the cello leads with lyrical lines, and the piano offers a harmonic framework, yet has occasional melodic phrases that build tension Rochat’s interpretation of the voices together is key to the piece’s flow and elevates and supports the piano
The piece moves on in the middle section to a moment of drawn back reflection, established by the slow tempo of repetitive quavers to progressive chords Rochat conveys a wilting feel in her bow emphasise with each phrase, and the repetitive nature reflects a feeling of hopelessness Élégie increasingly escalates and Rochat demonstrates impressive control, intonation and clarity across the rapidly moving notes
The leitmotif from the beginning is played in an above octave, and is passionate and full of emotion, calling for much vibrato and rubato
The piece comes to an end at a point of bitter feelings, yet with hope as it diminuendos out
In this performance, Rochat’s cello playing captures the nuanced dynamics and expressive feeling that the music demands Her rendition stands out for its clarity and depth, offering listeners insight to the mourning and loss expressed in this emotive story-like piece
THE EXPANSE
By Josh R, Year 8
Are you hunting for a new boxset to watch during the Easter break? Well, I have just the series for you!
The Expanse, all 6 seasons available on Prime, is a exciting, action packed Science Fiction adventure; which will keep you on the edge of your seat.
A friend recommended this series to me and my dad and so we thought we would try it out As you know, 6 series may sound like a lot and usually these kind of boxsets run out of original ideas by that point However, the seasons just kept getting better and better Most likely because the special effects in each episode are phenomenal, and each episode cost Prime £2 - £5 million each to film and produce!
Without giving too much away, the world building in The Expanse is complex, with multiple storylines which cross over very cleverly
Set in the future, it is a mix of political, space exploration and touches on subjects such as weaponizing the blue substance called the ‘protomelecule’ which is very believable The show’s writers must have really done their research
Although the actors are not too well known, they all act so brilliantly and convincingly; you really can believe that humans will develop to colonise the planets including Mars, and will be intelligent enough to do so
Easily my favourite character is Alex, played by Cas Anvar, due to the fact he is so chilled and he is the only one who does not fall into the trap of doing something terribly wrong
If none of the above convinces you to settle down with this show, then maybe the ratings on Rotten Tomato will sway your decision It currently has a perfect 100% rating
After the 6th season we will not see anymore being made, but every great show has to come to an end
Watch this. You’ll thank me later
FilmReviews
Our writers have been busy reviewing the best new releases this term
Gladiator 2: reviewed by Shana G, Year 10
As someone who had not seen the first movie, I highly enjoyed Gladiator 2 I found it captivating and exciting As a person who normally does not enjoy action movies, I really liked the way the story was portrayed and how they used the set time period to create costumes and background sets. For example, the way the costume designers executed the twin emperor’s clothing really demonstrated their wealth and status in a way that might have been common at the time I found the acting quite good and thought that the actors played their characters quite well through speech and body movements The fight scenes managed to be thrilling whilst not being mainly gore and blood. I would recommend this movie to everyone, even if they don't normally like action movies.
We Live In Time: reviewed by Mia D, Year 10
This is one of the most heartbreaking films released this term, earning $12 million worldwide, with good reason! The film opens up with Pugh’s character, Almot, being diagnosed with cancer and having to decide with her partner, Tobias, whether she lives a great six months or a year of misery whilst undergoing chemo From here the film jumps back and forth in time, from some months after her diagnosis and back to the earlier times of their relationship
The non chronological order of the film may confuse people who like straightforward films but I highly encourage you to give this a go. By having this non chronological order, it helps to create the feel of reflecting on small life moments which deepens the emotional connection between these two characters Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh were a perfect casting for these characters as they were able to fully immerse themselves into the roles, creating the illusion that you are watching their real lives Through the way they spoke to small hand gestures and body movements, the actors were fully connected with their role, a credit to their dedication and understanding of their characters
Personally, I think that ‘We Live in Time’ is an amazing film that everyone should see at least once in their life. It has key life lessons and makes you realise that life is sometimes short and you should focus on the present instead of the past or future The filming and characters were brilliantly executed, propelling the film to a higher level
One of my favourite books to read is Skandar and the Phantom Rider It follows the exciting life of Skandar Smith, who is allied to the Spirit Element, which was previously illegal. However, to top this, the island on which he lives and trains his unicorn is collapsing around him due to Wild Unicorn killings. A dangerous prophecy has been heard, telling of a dark successor, and as Skandar is a Spirit wielder, everyone immediately suspects him, apart from his loyal four friends.. He and his friends must fight against the powerful unicorns in charge of the island to get their suspicions noticed, about who might be killing the wild unicorns, and save the crumbling island which he loves. This is the second book in a series of four, and the writer - AF Steadman is currently writing a fifth and final book. This book is quite long; however, it’s a must read for those who are interested in fantasy, and adventure!
BOOK REVIEWS
Reviewed by Phillip K, Year 8
My absolute favourite series is probably Arc of a Scythe because I like the idea of a society that has conquered death I think it provides a really interesting perspective on the idea and the different ways that society could go are fascinating If I had to choose, my favourite book from the series would be ‘Gleanings,’ which is almost like book 3.5, a collection of shorter stories that go along with the main series I like finding out about the various events that go on that aren’t in the main series, and enjoy this loads
Reviewed by Robbie P, Year 8
Book Quiz
What is the second Harry Potter book called? 1.
What district is Katniss Everdeen from in The Hunger Games? 2.
Who wrote Pride and Prejudice? 3.
In what year was The Hobbit first published? 4.
What is Charlie’s last name in ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’? 5
In which book would you find a character named Atticus Finch? 6.
Which book series features a girl named Bella Swan? 7.
Who wrote The Shining? 8
What is the name of the fictional land in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe? 9.
Which book is the origin of the phrase ‘Big Brother is watching you’
What is the name of the cat in Cat in the Hat?
In Alice and Wonderland, who does Alice follow into Wonderland?
What is Luna Lovegood’s father called in the Harry Potter series? 13.
What is the full name of the main character in the His Dark Materials series? 14.
Who wrote The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series? 15.
What’s the name of the pig in Charlotte’s Web? 16.
Which novel is set in the fictional land of Gilead?
Which fictional detective has a friend called Dr Watson?
wrote Frankenstein?
What is the name of the first book in the Percy Jackson series?
Consider yourself a book lover? To celebrate World Book Day, why not have a go at our tricky book quiz? Answers on the back page! Questions compiled by Emma R, Lower Sixth
CONCOURSE CONVERSATION
by Kira M, Lower Sixth
With summer term just around the corner, how do our Upper Sixth feel about saying goodbye to KES? We sat down for a chat to find out
What are your happiest memories from your years at KES?
Nestor: My happiest memory was the participation in KES Mock election for the UK, where me and Sam represented the Green Party.
Chloe: Doing shows is always very fun. Show week can be really stressful but you make a lot of fun memories Even the Saturday rehearsals are quite fun and it’s a bit different from “normal” school experiences I would say.
Vicky: Probably being able to find friends here, as I came from a different school and joined at Sixth Form It was nice to get to find friends early on and being able to actually connect with them more. Also the teachers are really nice, and it definitely made a more comforting atmosphere to changing to a new school
How are you feeling about this being your last term?
Sam: I am excited because I will be doing other things when I leave this school, but it's also sad because I really like KES. I think it has got a lot of great opportunities and I am glad to have been here
Chloe: It’s very weird I feel like I’ve been here forever but also not really prepared to leave but I think it will be quite exciting to go to Uni and try new things.
Which aspect of school life will you miss the most?
Sam: I think I will miss the regimentation. I am normally quite timetabled, quite strict with that and it will be nice to get away from the bells, but I think I will be a lot less productive.
Chloe: I think having everyone very close and seeing people at break and lunch and inbetween lessons it’s going to be be weird to be on a massive campus and not have everyone within walking distance.
Vicky: Being around my friends 24/7 really. It is nice to be able to see your friends the next day if you are not ill and know that they are there for you and can help out
Nestor: The debates in my politics class!
What advice would you give to new Sixth Form students at KES?
Sam: Make sure you know what you’re learning!
Chloe: Start revising as early as you can because it will stop you from burning out.
Vicky: Take subjects you love but remember that taking two coursework subjects may be hard.
Nestor: Do not put things off for tomorrow- do them today.
8 servings 45 minutes
INGREDIENTS
170g butter
170 caster sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp cooled instant coffee
170 self raising flour
Coffee Cake
by Aarya N, Year 7
For the icing
225g icing sugar
100g butter
1 ½ tbsp instant coffee
DIRECTIONS
Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan. Line and butter two 18cm sandwich tins. Add the sugar and butter to a bowl and whisk until very fluffy and pale.
Whisk the eggs in a mug with a fork, then add them gradually to the mixture with 1 tbsp of flour each time. (Make sure you don't use all the flour ) When the eggs have been fully combined into the mix, add the rest of the flour and fold it in gently
Add the dissolved coffee to the mixture, still folding. Divide into the sandwich tins and cook for 25-30 min until risen and firm and a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 5 mins then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely
Meanwhile, make the icing by beating the icing sugar with the butter until light and fluffy, then add the dissolved coffee. Whisk, then cover and set aside until ready to ice the cake
Spread icing on both pieces of cake and sandwich together Decorate however you like.
My favourite recipe
by Sara E, Year 10
I take great pride in the fact that I am Egyptian and have lived more than twelve years of my life in the motherland. After having lived in multiple countries and travelled quite a bit, I stand by the fact that we, as Arabs and North Africans, have the best food. Of course, that opinion is completely biased. Every Friday morning was reserved for breakfast as a family. That breakfast is a core memory to me so I want to share a recipe of one of my favourite dishes. We are a big family and it was always a big breakfast set up so it’d be hard to give you the recipe for everything that would be on the table. But I will teach you how to make one of my favourites: Shakshuka.
Shakshuka is, simply put, a Tunisian egg dish. I didn’t just choose Shakshuka because it is one of my favourites, but also because most people have eggs on the breakfast table in one form or another. Shakshuka is also simple and does not require much culinary skill so no matter how bad your experiences in the kitchen are, you will most likely be able to follow this recipe.
Shakshuka
2-4 servings 20 minutes
DIRECTIONS
1.
2.
Heat your pan over medium-high heat
Add in your olive oil and chopped bell peppers
3.
Cook, stirring for about 3 minutes until your bell peppers are softened
INGREDIENTS
2 bell peppersDiced
2tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves
1tbsp tomato paste
¼ tsp paprika
¼ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp cumin
¼ tsp dried oregano
4. Add your garlic paste to the pan
Crush the garlic cloves into a fine paste and add a pinch of salt
5.
6. Add your tomato paste, paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano and salt
8.
Cook for 1 minute, stirring, until your garlic is fragrant and mixed in with your peppers
7. Cook for another 30 seconds just to toast the spices
9.
Stir in your diced tomato, then add your water and sugar and reduce the heat to medium
10.
Cover and let cook for 8-10 minutes until your mixture is almost a jam-like consistency
11.
12.
Make a little well with the back of a spoon
Gently crack your eggs into the wells in the sauce
13.
Cover your pan again and cook for another 3-4 minutes just until your eggs are set
14.
Remove from the heat, sprinkle your chopped parsley over the top and optionally, your shredded cheese
1tsp salt
2 cups diced tomato
1/2tsp sugar
¼ cup water
4 eggs
2tbsp chopped parsley
1/4 cup shredded
cheese (optional)
Pita bread for serving
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