park
the
the Leighton Park School newsletter
STEM Careers Fair Inaugural Junior Expo Creativity showcase at ArtEx2
Summer 2017
Headlines Summer term is a rollercoaster of emotions. There is the pride and bittersweet feeling of our impressive and accomplished Upper Sixth students boldly leaving the school for their exciting futures. There is the sense of responsibility and anticipation at seeing the cohort of incoming students on their orientation days, so full of promise and talent to be coaxed and nurtured. Somehow, among all this, a wonderful carnival of activity and achievement takes place - the
Exam Results
culmination of staff and students’ hard work and dedication. The school’s strong academic focus was represented by preparation for exams but also by the Big Bang STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) careers event engaging our higher education and industry partners to deliver an impressive programme of workshops. I was delighted by their positive comments about our interdisciplinary approach and focus on creative problemsolving and heartened by their desire to work even more closely with the school.
included our Year 10 cricketers winning the Berkshire Vase final for the second year in a row and the Quaker Cricket Festival.
In other activity, the school’s holistic focus and commitment to personal development was in evidence, with students visiting the Woodbrooke Quaker Centre and the Orielton Study Centre. Our linguists were abroad on trips to Malaga, Montpellier and Berlin. Our artists put on the fantastic Artex2 exhibition, whilst musicians excelled in a number of concerts, including a delightful Music for a Summer’s Evening. The profusion of talent in the Lower School was showcased at a new look Fryer Festival and I very much enjoyed the imaginative Middle School production of DNA in the woods. Sporting highlights
With best wishes, Nigel Williams, Head
Visitors frequently comment on the wonderful sense of calm and serenity on the Park. I agree wholeheartedly, but believe that the school’s greatest strength is the way it quietly balances this calm with an incredible amount of activity and dynamism, creating an environment where students are encouraged to try a huge range of new things, live adventurously and develop their greatest talents.
Contents Exam Results page three
News
pages four, five and six
The Great Outdoors page seven
STEM
MMC Update
Impressive A Level Achievements!
pages eight and nine
Languages page ten
Library
page eleven
Values in Action page twelve
Art and Design page thirteen
With over 20% of the 2017 A Level cohort achieving A or A* in 3 or more subjects there were many happy faces on 17th August. Deputy Head (Academic), Karen GracieLangrick, remarked, “The increase in our percentage of A* grades to 14.3% this year is excellent news as it demonstrates the quality, rigour and robustness of teaching at Leighton Park with regards to the new linear A Levels.” Runbei Cheng, whose 3A*s in Physics, Maths and Further Maths, confirm his place to read Physics at Wadham College, Oxford, commented, “I’ve wanted to study Physics
since I was 14 and plan to go on to do a PhD and then gain a Fellowship in Quantum Computing.” The EPQ was undertaken by 10% of the 2017 cohort including twins Helga and Peter Polz who achieved an impressive total of eight A*-A grades between them. “The workload is greater for A Levels, but so is the support, especially in the Upper Sixth.” said Helga, “I’m really grateful for that! It is the difference between really understanding the course, not just memorising facts. You have to get deeply into the knowledge of the subject.”
IB Students Celebrate!
page fourteen
Music
page fifteen
Sport
page sixteen and seventeen
Sixth Form
page eighteen
LP Community page nineteen
PSC
page twenty Please visit Leightonpark.com for up-todate news throughout the year. The front cover image shows a Year 9 group working in the Library on their ‘Campaign for a Cause’ project during Global Mindedness Week.
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The excellent International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP) results will see students taking full advantage of this internationally recognised qualification, accepting their places at UK, European and international universities. Kara Ellis whose 42 points have earned her a place at UCL to read Biochemistry, was very relaxed about collecting her results. “She’s been too busy worrying about passing her driving test and taking
Eager GCSE students were keen to collect their results at 8am on 24th August as the 84-strong cohort awaited the outcome of two years dedicated study. “I didn’t sleep at all; not at all!” laughed Hannah Pither, looking forward to celebrating her excellent results by getting back into bed! “She didn’t believe these were her results!” enthused Hannah’s mum, Rachel, “I’m so proud of her.” Chunya Munga (5A*s, 5As), who has spent the summer training for the rugby season, commented, “I always sleep well but I’m so pleased and relieved to have my results,” he said, “It was the one thing this summer that I had to worry about and now it’s done.” Chunya is looking forward to continuing to his studies at Leighton Park next year taking Economics, Geography, Politics and Maths at A Level. Nigel Williams, Head, commented,
Drama
The substantial progress of the new music and media centre over the summer term has seen the delivery of the structural steels, pouring of the concrete floors, the completion of the structural topping and the commencement of the exterior and some interior brickwork at the classroom end of the building. The new name of the building, the Michael Malnick Centre, has been announced in recognition of Old Leightonian, Michael Malnick’s generous donation which helped launch the Bursary Fund in 2016. In addition to the MMC’s development, we are updating more of our classrooms with the latest learning technology. This will include infrastructure to support the school’s use of Google Classrooms and CleverTouch interactive screens.
GCSE Successes!
her Grade 8 Oboe exam which was this morning,” laughed proud mum, Allie Ellis. “I’m just really, really happy!” grinned Kara. Leighton Park students averaged a score of 33, with five of the twelve candidates also gaining a bilingual diploma. Last year Leighton Park’s results put us in the top five in the UK for small cohort IB results and we are looking forward to the release of this year’s rankings.
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“I am pleased that so many individuals realised their potential through their good grades. I congratulate them on their success, achieved through their hard work and the dedication and skill of their teachers.”
News Busy Boarders Boarders have been inundated with weekend activities this term, embarking on shopping trips to Camden Market and West Quay, visiting the cinema several times, and been on adrenaline fuelled trips for go-karting, paintballing and even Thorpe Park!
All Dressed Up
Fryer Festival
Year 11 students celebrated the end of their GCSEs with a glamourous Prom that took place on Wednesday 5th July. Students voted for the menu, which consisted of bread and olives to start, steak and triple cooked chips, with chocolate brownies and ice-cream for dessert. Speeches and presentations were given and students made the most of the photo booth that was available, enjoying a fantastic evening of great music and company! Prom King and Queen were awarded to Josh Butcher and Maria Kareeva. Thanks to Jacco Hui (Lower Sixth) for being the students’ paparazzi.
Final Collect On Friday 7th July, students gathered in Main Hall for Final Collect where awards were announced, speeches were made and memories recalled before students departed for their summer holidays. Congratulations to our new Head Girl, Daisy Butterworth and Head Boy, Sam Pearson and our Deputy Head Girl, Kirsty Walker and Deputy Head Boy, Artem Alexander. Daisy commented, “It is an honour to be chosen as Head Girl. I cannot wait to see what the role has in store for me!” The winner of the Matthew Pott Peace Award, which encourages students of all ages to promote peace through creative expression, was awarded to Aiyana Tandon (Upper Sixth).
Saturday 24th June saw an eclectic morning of Fryer Festival fun, welcoming our new students to the Park for their first official visit as Fryers and a last blast for our Year 8s moving on up to the Senior Houses. Music, drama, sport, history, literature, top challenges, lively conversation and delicious food aplenty; it was a great way to spend the weekend! “Fryer Festival is a demonstration of everybody’s unique talents, attributes and skills; it shows the diversity within our community.” said Jimmy Collins (Year 7). “My favourite part of Fryer Festival was performing in the drama activities because it was great fun and my costume was really funny.” reveals Amelie Davis-Redshaw (Year 7). “I liked that there was so much to do; that you got to talk to lots of people and also the JB Fryer award; I loved the moment before we knew - everyone was holding their breath in excitement!” exclaimed Emma Butcher (Year 7).
Inaugural Junior Expo!
Well done to Mia Waldmann and Ethan Moore, recipients of this year’s JB Fryer award, which recognises Year 8 students who have made the most of opportunities in Fryer, progressing tremendously during their two years.
On Friday 16th June, Leighton Park held its very first Junior Expo for Year 8 students. Questions ranged from ‘Why are video games getting more violent?, to ‘What if the moon disappeared?’, to only name two out of a total 50 topics! Students were encouraged to independently research their chosen subject, from finding and framing a question of interest, to structuring an essay or making an artefact; students had the opportunity to enhance and develop skills that are vital at every stage of education and beyond. Their projects were the culmination of the ‘Approaches to Learning’ programme and have been a major focus of prep for Year 8 students since March. The Fryers who have responded at the highest level, with good organisation and attention to detail with the research protocol, will be eligible for entry to the AQA Foundation Project Level 1 qualification in November. “The Junior Expo showed why we should not underestimate the intellectual capacity of our younger students.” commented organiser of the event, Ken Sullivan, Head of Teaching and Learning, “At the end of a ten week research project, our 50 Year 8 students gave public presentations on
BBQs in Abundance To bring the summer term to a close, Grove House students (and staff!) enjoyed a BBQ in the evening sunshine on Wednesday 21st June followed by some games in the garden, with Fryer House following suit on 6th July. Across the Park, Field House also celebrated with an al fresco BBQ breakfast, consisting of all the tasty classics: bacon, sausages, baps, beans and hash browns!
their findings. The quality of the research and the creative ideas exceeded expectations for anyone at this stage of their education. The audiences were fantastically supportive, probing each student with further questions at the end of each talk. This event was a very good example of how our students can raise their level to meet a challenge and do so with confidence, resilience and creativity.” Parents that attended the event were tremendously impressed. Parent, Sandra Foley, commented, “I think it was a great exercise for the Fryers both in terms of writing their essay and in the production of their presentations. It was clear from listening to the talks that they have all put a great deal of effort and research into their work and how seriously they have all taken this whole project. The presentations themselves were
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brilliant and the skills they are developing at this stage are wonderful. Having taught the EPQ myself in another school, I was greatly impressed by the standard. They would rival some of the Sixth Formers I have guided through the qualification!”
Bees and Trees
On Sunday 30th April the school acquired a swarm of bees that was discovered under a nearby car that was moved to our hive. The following Tuesday morning, another swarm was starting to settle on the Park and with the help of Matthew Mcternan, a local beekeeper and mentor to the Leighton Park beekeepers, and Chris Lockwood, Biology Technician, the swarm was collected and placed in our second hive. On 6th June, a group of Year 2 students from St Mary’s School, Henley, visited Leighton Park to learn about pollination, bees and trees. They identified trees on the Park, learnt about the school’s bee hives, tasted honey and had great fun trying on beekeeping suits. The morning ended with a tour of the allotment and labelling plants and tasting herbs. “I loved tasting the honey!” exclaimed St Mary’s student, Caleb. “I enjoyed looking at the flowers.” commented Abigail. “I will never forget about this day!” added Isobel.
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News
Literary Talent Our youngest ever AS Level student, Rowan Taylor (Year 9), will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of her public examination in Creative Writing this summer. An enthusiastic member of the Creative Writing club which meets on Tuesdays to examine genres, work on collaborative pieces and share constructive criticism, Rowan was inspired by club leader and Head of Teaching and Learning, Ken Sullivan.
Lights, Camera, Action
26 of our students with a keen interest in film and media received the lowdown from two of the industry’s world leaders, Pinewood Studios and the National Film and Television School on 18th May. Students enjoyed tours of the studios and facilities, as well as presentations on working behind the scenes.
“Ken suggested we all just go for it!” explained Rowan, “You have to write in two genres with a 8,000 word limit so I submitted a collection of poems and two short stories. I guess my theme is probably loneliness. I love writing and would like to continue maybe onto an EPQ next. I’d like to write a novella.”
Lower Sixth student, Jonty Hyde, is undertaking his own EPQ film project adapting a script he and other members of the Creative Writing club wrote as a pastiche of a Hitchcock movie. Jonty’s project will incorporate many members of the school community and he is excited about having so many people helping bring his ideas to fruition. “It feels good to have all these moving parts to fit together. Not only will it have the appeal of showing the film but also making it.” explains Jonty.
Adrenaline Adventure
Ooooh la la! Year 7s were whisked away for four days of fun in Côte d’Opale, France, at the end of June. Fryers feasted on traditional French food as they visited a chocolatier, a pâtissier and were invited to a soirée crêpes during their stay, after intensive French language lessons in the morning, of course!
Our adventurous Year 8s returned from their team building course at PGL Beam House in Devon on 30th June. They undertook an assortment of messy, daring and thrilling activities, including quad biking, surfing, zip wiring, abseiling, fencing and many more!
“I am terrified of heights but I did every activity and loved every one of them. Fencing is a sport I have never tried before but it was the most enjoyable!” commented William Green. “I knew I would have fun on holiday with my friends and that they would support me.” he added. “I absolutely loved surfing; the instructors were really helpful!” said Angelika EtheringtonSmith. “I have never tried surfing before but I enjoyed it so much that I have asked my parents if we could hire surf boards in the summer!” added Lucy Pither.
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A highlight of the trip for many however was discovering their inner adrenaline junkies as they went to both a theme park and a water park. “I really enjoyed going on a roller coaster which was the first one I have ever been on. I went on it with Connie Say and George Stock and I screamed really loudly all the way!” exclaimed Izzy James.
The Great Outdoors Eat What You Sow! Our Greenfingers group have been busy on the allotment over the summer term and have certainly been reaping the rewards of their hard work. On 23rd May a group of Fryers cooked up a storm as they used spinach and onions, grown on the allotment, combined with Arborio rice and bacon lardons to produce a delicious risotto in the Food Tech room.
GCSE Geographers Get Practical Year 10 Geographers having been putting their skills into practice this term. They went on two field trips to develop their understanding of river and urban environments and see first-hand the landscapes they have studied. On Monday 12th June, students went to the River Pang in Reading, where they measured changes in the river’s characteristics and water quality. The following Wednesday, students visited Reading town, where they measured changes in land use and environmental quality. “Both trips really improved our understanding of urban and river environments giving us the information and data we need for our GCSE.” commented Charlotte Moore. “The trips taught me new, real-life topics; they have expanded my confidence with Geography and I’m grateful I took part in them.” added Daniel Gerov. “I can now recall methods and observations rather than memorising facts from a book.” added Nikki Wilson.
D of E Expeditions
Outdoor Learning On 18th May, students welcomed national ‘Outdoor Classroom Day’ and many teachers were delighted to teach outside on the Park. Head of Teaching and Learning, Ken Sullivan, had Year 9 Chemistry students extracting dyes, perfumes and antiseptics from plants, which they concentrated and bottled for investigation. Year 9 Ecologists and Year 8 Drama rehearsals were also outside on the Park, along with Geographers taking part in a population change game, involving a population pyramid created from cones dictated by the scenario on their chance card.
Could you trust someone if you had to follow their instructions whilst blindfolded? D of E participants trusted their partners with this activity during their expedition at Crays Pond in Goring Heath the weekend of 13th -14th May. Students were lucky to enjoy mild, sunny weather during their expedition and sampled toasted marshmallows over the fire in the evenings!
Outdoor Science Club has been a big hit during after school activities this term, largely due to the warm weather we have been graced with recently. The favourite lesson for students was on 14th June, when many net sweepers took to the meadows on the Park to catch and identify a variety of insects!
As a heatwave took hold of the UK, D of E participants embarked on their qualifying expedition to Cold Ash armed with water bottles and sun cream on 17th and 18th June. Thankfully all students survived the scorching temperatures undeterred, impressing the assessors. Well done to our dedicated and enthusiastic bunch of students!
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STEM
Table Triumph On 29th June our Year 10s showed off their fantastic coffee tables, which are their DT final projects, to Nigel Williams, Head, and Keith Eldridge, Bursar. Thanks to the CAD software, students are able to create extraordinary designs by visualizing their pieces in 3D, allowing them to work out cuts and dimensions accurately and efficiently.
Girls Talk in Code
On Thursday 27th April, thousands of girls worldwide were inspired by leading global communication technology companies as International Girls in IT Day took place, an initiative backed by International Telecommunication Union (ITU). 25 girls from Years 9 and 10 along with groups from three other schools, met a variety of experts at Cisco and celebrated the day that encourages girls and young women to consider careers in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).
Chemistry Gets Competitive! A team of four students from Year 8, Kabir Toor, Philippos Makridakis, Roisin Houchen and Camilla Harding, were delighted to take part in the nationwide Salters’ Festival of Chemistry at the University of Reading on Wednesday 10th May. In the morning the team were pitted against the clock to solve a murder mystery, working with test tube reactions and chromatography. They were rewarded afterwards with a picnic on the lawn outside the Chemistry Department in the glorious sunshine. After lunch, the students moved to a University Challenge scenario, identifying different colours for the Art Department using a neutralisation reaction.
Girls spoke to a variety of employees at Cisco about their roles, as well as gaining a greater insight into the world of IT, as they learnt how to write code, plan how to connect everyday items to the internet, create their own in-school app and present it to a panel of judges Dragon’s Den style!
The afternoon ended with a fun lecture entitled ‘Chemical Magic Demonstration’ by Dr Jenny Eyley. The audience enjoyed experiments like the hydrogen rocket, dry ice, foam towers, conical flasks with solutions that change colour when shaken, explosions which made everyone jump, blowing custard powder over a blow torch and flowers in liquid nitrogen.
“Attending Cisco’s Girls in IT Day has enabled us to identify our full potential, to open the gates of our dreams, to know that we can excel and achieve whatever we put our minds to; from public speaking in front of a crowd of unknown faces, to recognising the evolution of our everyday devices.” commented Letitia Kansime (Year 10).
“All of our students worked well as a team and were a credit to Leighton Park”.
STEAMing Ahead
Biology in Action
Years 10 to Upper Sixth enjoyed a fascinating careers event on 4th July that offered insights into professions from across the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) industries.
Fourteen Lower Sixth Biology students set off to Orielton Field Centre in Wales on Wednesday 21st June for five days to utilise skills in a variety of practical assessments contributing to the A Level Biology curriculum.
18 workshops and seminars were on offer to students from some of the UK’s best known organisations including Cisco, Pfizer, Pinewood Studios, Bion, Network Rail, Foster Wheeler and Jaguar Landrover. Academic partners such as the Universities of Bath, Portsmouth, Reading, Southampton and Surrey, industry experts from The Institution of Engineering and Technology and apprenticeship advisors such as Futurewise and Basingstoke College provided information and support on the various routes into STEAM related careers.
During their stay, students had the opportunity to explore rocky shores and sandy dunes, woods and meadows and to practice a range of sampling techniques previously encountered in the classroom.
The presentations were supplemented by the opportunity to browse a selection of stalls and for interested students to chat
Karen Gracie-Langrick, event organiser and Deputy Head (Academic) at Leighton Park School, commented, “We aim to become a leading and transformative centre for STEAM teaching and learning, and hope
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Year 10 students tried a variety of new and wonderful experiences at The Big Bang Fair by STEM Sussex on 28th June. The event aimed to encourage and motivate young people in STEM related subjects, (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). The biggest highlight of the day for many was getting to hold a 10ft yellow python that a college offering animal husbandry courses brought along with them! Many of the students (and even the teachers) gave it a go!
Head of Chemistry, Jo Terry, commented,
Girls left feeling more motivated and inspired to pursue careers within ICT fields. “We gained a meaningful insight into the growth of technology and the future of the internet that overrules our lives as human beings. At the end of the day, each of us were able to realise the abilities and strengths we possessed, as well as recognising our unique confidence shining through against other schools! As females, we are now strong, proud and independent women!” affirms Emma Otty (Year 10).
to professionals, ask plenty of questions and research the options for their future.
Students at STEM Sussex
that this interdisciplinary approach will inspire our students to solve the ‘grand challenges’ that our society faces. We are also exploring the potential for developing cross-sectoral STEAM approaches for teachers, schools and industry experts within our own school community and across the South East.”
Particular highlights of the trip included some very successful mammal trapping, with five field voles and a mouse caught in traps set by students, offering the rodents a warm, safe bed for the night and some tasty treats! “The students worked really hard and I’m proud of what they achieved at a full five days hard work at Orielton.” commented Helen Taylor, Trip Organiser and Head of Sixth Form.
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Languages French Fanatics
Mandarin Trip
26 Year 7 and 8 Mandarin students had a fantastic day at the British Museum and in Chinatown on 4th July. They not only learnt about the history of ancient China and Chinese Ceramics but also enjoyed traditional Chinese food; twelve different dishes in fact!
Malaga Memories
Library Patron of Reading
From 19th to 23rd June Year 10 French students ventured to the southern city of Montpellier and sampled many of the city’s sights such as the St Roch quarter with an amazing trompe l’oeil on an entire wall, the triumphal arch of King Louis XIV, the ancient sundial, water tower and aqueduct and the Jewish Quarter, all in-between brushing up on their French language skills. Later in the week, students went to Nîmes to see the largest surviving Roman arena in the world. Rounding off the week, students had the opportunity to do some shopping, a bit more sightseeing and even squeezed in the time to have a French cooking lesson!
Brilliant Berlin
Roaming in Bath
Five Year 10 German students went to Berlin on 19th June for a week. “I enjoyed the trip because I felt like my German improved quite a bit.” commented Vlad Shmatov. “The trip was amazing and the long lessons at the language school in Berlin made me feel that my German has improved massively over the week. Some of my favourite activities were going to the Rewe supermarket, going to beautiful Potsdam and going to the Gretchen Bloc party in the Fete de la Musique” added Adam Norris. “It was also a great opportunity to improve my German, preparing me for my IGCSE course next year. My favourite part of the trip was the open bus tour of Potsdam!” agreed Lorna Green. “I loved the Berlin trip even though I found the lessons hard and challenging, it made me want to learn more” commented Maia Stevens. “Overall Berlin has to be the best school trip I have ever been on and I will never forget it!” concluded Henry Miles.
Once armed with their audio guides, ten students from Years 7 to 10 explored the Roman Baths in Aquae Sulis on 6th May, where they visited the main baths of Sulis Minerva and the world famous Great Bath. After enjoying an insight into Roman history, students broadened their knowledge of neo-classical architecture and Roman Britain on an open air bus tour of the city, all before squeezing in a bit of shopping and embarking on the journey home!
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Over the last few months Library Assistants Grace Ritchie and Peter Westhead have been working with our academic departments to encourage wider reading for Sixth Formers in each of the subjects they are studying. Each list includes fiction, non-fiction and DVDs available in the Library, recommended websites and online resources, plus podcasts, YouTube films, and where relevant, places and people of interest. The lists can be viewed on the Academic Departments’ pages on the school’s website and are available in the Library.
Riverboat Challenge
On Sunday 18th of June, Year 10 Spanish students travelled to Malaga and each morning rode a roller-coaster of linguistic education, all thanks to professors (and newly made friends) Susana and María del Mar. Students also participated in activities such as “El Caminito del Rey”, a beautiful and challenging walk amongst the clouds and a trip to La Alhambra in Granada, which they all agreed truly changed their lives; La Alhambra is known as one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Subject Lists
It is hard to believe that three years have ready passed since Gillian Cross became the first Patron of Reading at Leighton Park School! During that time she has visited us twice a year to give talks and run writing workshops for students, has judged competitions and was the guest speaker at an evening for parents about reading at KS3. Gillian supported our Book Crossing project during the school’s 125th anniversary and introduced us to the charity Cord, which she is also patron of. “She has become both a friend of the school and on a personal level”, said Librarian, Chris Routh, “and we hope that she will continue to keep in touch and visit us again in the near future.”
Incoming Year 7 students are spending their summer break rising to the annual holiday challenge set by Librarian, Chris Routh. Inspired by literary favourites such as Kenneth Grahame’s ‘The Wind in the Willows’, ‘Tarka the Otter’ by Henry Williamson and ‘River of Ink’ by Helen Dennis, this year’s competition centres on the River Thames. New Fryers will be bringing a plan of a river boat based on a book, series or author that they have particularly enjoyed, together with either a guide to riverbank flora and fauna or a log book describing their journey along a river. Patron of Reading, Julian Sedgewick, and Chris, are looking forward to judging the entries on Newcomers’ Day.
On 9th June Gillian handed over the baton to our new Patron of Reading, Julian Sedgwick. Both authors gave talks to Year 7 and 8. Gillian introduced the new title in her ‘Demon Headmaster’ series, which has been going strong for 35 years and ran a ‘build your own villain’ workshop. Julian talked about his Quaker upbringing and explained the inspiration behind his books. He brings a new set of interests and skills to the role (including scriptwriting and juggling) and we have already planned his first few visits. It’s going to be an exciting three years!
Library Makeovers Following the relocation of Fryer Library to the former Year 8 locker room, Library Assistant Grace Ritchie has been reviewing and updating the book stock with the help of Fryer Book Club members. The Fryer Library is now equipped for a range of uses including independent study, reading for pleasure or just chilling out. A rolling slide show on the large TV screen displays Library news and book recommendations.
Over the summer holidays the main Library in Old School is also being refreshed with a new coat of paint and some re-upholstered seating.
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Values In Action Art & Design Quaker Values
Global Mindedness
It was great to be sharing the Quaker values that root the ethos of our community with friends from around the world as we welcomed the CEO of Quakers in Britain, Paul Parker, on Wednesday 17th May and the Governors of the Lebanese Quaker School, Brummana High School, located just outside Beirut, on Friday 19th May.
“The great thing about Quakerism is the confidence it gives people about who they are and how they want to live their lives and the values they want to hold as they find their way in the world.”
From 26th to 28th June, Year 9s planned, researched and promoted their ‘Global Mindedness: Cause for Campaign’ projects. Each group presented their campaigns in front of the four judges on Wednesday, detailing how their campaign would benefit their chosen charity, with the winners receiving £300 to further their campaigns next year in supporting their projects. Congratulations to the winning campaigns: ‘Break the Chains’, ‘No More’ and ‘Street Kids’ supporting Anti-Slavery International, Red Balloon-Reading, and Railway Children respectively.
commented Paul.
Think Before You Act
Wandering in Woodbrooke On 21st June two Lower Sixth students, Irene Burke and Kirsty Walker, ventured to Bourneville to attend the annual Friends Schools Gathering at Woodbrooke Quaker Centre. “We met students from four other Quaker schools in England and Northern Ireland and were introduced to the session leaders who were all residents on the Woodbrooke site. After meeting everyone and having a tour of the grounds the evening we arrived, we had a whistle stop tour of Quaker history and did some fun group activities. The leaders brought us all together and explained the meaning and significance of the Quaker testimonies and how they guide Quakers during their daily lives.” explained Kirsty. “This was a uniquely wonderful opportunity, allowing us to deepen our understanding and appreciation of the Quaker principles and how they are implemented at Leighton Park. We would like to thank Rachael Martin, Deputy Reckitt Housemaster, for taking the time out to accompany us on this trip.” added Irene.
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On 15th June we welcomed musician Calum Foad to the Park to give students a talk on drugs and peer pressure and how to make educated choices, as well as performing some of his music during a PSHE session. “It was good to have Calum talk to us instead of a teacher or police officer.” commented Megan White (Year 10). “He’s nearer our age so makes what he’s saying more relatable; it’s not forceful but more just about being aware of what choices we make – and the music was great too!” adds Jessie Sumroy (Year 9). “It’s such an interesting spread of students and it’s great to see them engaging with the topic by asking questions; it seems they got something out of the experience which is great.” commented Calum.
Art in Oakview
Artex2 The exhibition Artex2 showcased the outstanding art, design and textiles work of Year 11, Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth, where no space was left unfilled. Everything in the show was handcrafted by the young artists and designers of the future. From engineered table consoles and wind tunnels through to detailed embroidery and biographical portraits, there was something by everyone, for everyone. This year also saw our Resident Artist, Sam Heath, exhibit his own wonderfully expressive portrait monotypes, alongside the figure studies from his Sixth Form drawing group.
Two collaborative works from Year 7 classes were featured in the school’s dining centre this term. Each individual created a section of a portrait, which combined to display two famous authors, Jacqueline Wilson and Roald Dahl.
Peckover Hall and adjacent corridors were filled with large scale canvases exploring notions of borders and boundaries and the domestic relationship between people and animals. On a smaller scale, viewers were drawn to the intricate surface details seen on an array of Barcelona inspired ceramics. The amount of talent was quite remarkable, as sketchbooks provided a glimpse into the working processes and inspirations behind some of the work. In addition, extracts of creative writing and poetry from all years, were paired up with a selection of the art on display. “This show goes from strength to strength” relays Head of Art, Mark Wood, “I have been amazed by how different and individual the work on show
Simultaneous Exhibitions for Sam!
is, with no definitive house style, a true testament to the innovation and unique character of the students here. A great way to end the school year! Well done everyone”.
IBDP Art Show The Visual Arts IB has been an extremely enjoyable course for students over the past two years, where they have been able to choose their own themes. Each student produced a sketch book full of ideas inspired by chosen artists. The comparative study, which has to be written during the course, is worth 20% of the marks. The finale was the students’ exhibition where they set up and curated their own work.
Our talented Artist in Residence, and Art Technician, Sam Heath, is pleased to exhibit his work in both Bath and Oxford simultaneously! With shows running at the Society Café’s in both picturesque cities, Sam’s pieces will be available for the general public to admire and to purchase from the opening night on 21st June through the summer.
Reading Art Fair
This year Shanaya Khan based her exhibition work on ‘Identity’ and looked closely into her ethnic background with a mix of photography, film, ceramics and painting. Francesca de Martinis is passionate about the effects of man on the environment and most of her work involved recycled and upcycled materials. The students held a private view in Peckover Gallery and invited family, friends and students to view their work.
Leighton Park artists will be participating in this year’s Reading Charity Art Fair, organised by the Rotary Club. The fair is taking place in Oakview from 27th to 29th October 2017. See www. readingcharityartfair.org for more details.
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Into the Woods
The inaugural Middle School Production, ‘DNA’ by Dennis Kelly was also the first drama production performed in woodland, although was the second production to be taken outside this year by ambitious Head of Drama, Peter Scoggins! The cast and production team scouted the Park for a suitable location and after consultation with the Grounds staff, space was cleared and an access route was created to the intimate and atmospheric venue by Fryer, adjacent to Ten Acre Field. The cast conceived a convincing performance that grabbed the audience’s attention. Some of the actors were new to the performance of a whole play text but presented a professional and impressive show. Over the past year a theatre
Year 10 Drama students were blown away by the outstanding production of ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time’ on Monday 22nd May at the New Theatre, Oxford. The trip was not only great to watch but GCSE Drama students will be expected to review a play in their written exam in 2018. While they are encouraged to see as much theatre as possible, this particular production has given them a lot to consider and has left them brimming with ideas.
Music
Musicals, Movies & TV On 26th April ‘Musicals, Movies & TV’ proved to be an extremely popular theme for a concert, with a huge array of performances across every year group in the school and approximately 150 students performing! Items ranged from ‘Superman’ and ‘Star Wars’ to ‘Matilda’, ‘Wicked’ and ‘The Great Gatsby’. Rosemary Scales, Director of Music, commented, “The standard was incredibly high and all of the musicians involved should be congratulated on an outstanding event.” Well done to all of the fantastic musicians that performed!
Music for a Summer’s Evening
Photographs courtesy of Nigel Blain
Drama
Drama Gets Curious
company has been created by the group and they are keen to continue the project in a production for The National Theatre Connections festival joined by the new cohort of Year 9 students in September. Student Luke Eddowes (Year 9), Technical Director, said, “The show demonstrates how people are pressured in the modern world to conform and control others.” Peter Scoggins added, “In choosing a play for the Middle School Production I didn’t want to shy away from a play that dealt with serious issues. It is not an easy task to perform dark comedy and I am proud of the way that the cast have risen to the challenge; they have been magnificent.”
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Students in Years 7 and 8 were swept up in a montage of arguably one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, during Fryer Festival. The cast enacted several pivotal scenes in a number of locations including the woods, the quad and the allotment offering a delighted audience some of the play’s most enjoyable highlights.
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Globe Trotting Excited Year 10 English students travelled to the famous Globe Theatre in London on 7th May to see a modern and vibrant take of Shakespeare’s, Romeo and Juliet. The performance captivated students to create a spectacle that left the audience laughing at the end of the first half, and crying by the end of the second. The magnificent music was complemented by stunning dances and visual effects, supported by the brilliant cast that climbed into and engaged with the audience throughout. “It was genuinely a bold re-imagining and I adored every moment, there was never a lag in tension or pace.” enthused Naomi Bonthrone, English teacher.
Students from across the school entertained friends and family at the highly anticipated summer concert, Music for a Summer’s Evening, on Saturday 1st July. Blessed with fine weather, everyone set up picnics or enjoyed delicious BBQ food supplied from the PSC, as they enjoyed as much of the five hour long concert as they wished as the afternoon drew to dusk. Set across the backdrop of Old School, soloists, ensembles, duets, Fryer Voices, Senior Choir, the orchestra and many more performed an array of exceptional pieces to amaze the crowd and provide an appropriate finale to another busy musical year.
Reckitt Rocks Reckitt House members were treated to an array of excellent performances in the evening sunshine on 15th June at the ever popular event ‘Reckitt Rocks’. It wasn’t just students that showcased their musical abilities; our teachers and matrons are also wonderfully talented and took to the stage to perform too - photos taken by a another very talented Reckitt House student, Jacco Hui (Lower Sixth).
Soprano Success Elif Lammel (Upper Sixth) has been awarded a place to study at the Peter Cornelius Conservatoire in Mainz, Germany, in September 2017. Elif (soprano) first amazed our audiences with her beautiful singing when she played the role of Johanna in our production of ‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’ in 2016. Since then, she has been a regular performer at school concerts and as her final year at the school progressed, she felt more and more that she wanted to pursue her dream of opera singing. Gaining a place at the Peter Cornelius Conservatoire is a fantastic achievement and we can’t wait to follow her career in the years ahead. Elif joins other Upper Sixth leavers William Mackay (Leeds College of Music), Daisy Holloway (University of York) and Joshua Holder-Browne (University of Lincoln) who will all be starting their further studies of music in the autumn. Congratulations to all of them.
RBH Memorial Service On Sunday 21st May, a small group of singers from the Senior Choir, performed to over 80 families whose relatives had passed away in the intensive care unit at Royal Berkshire Hospital over the last 6 months, at St Andrew’s United Reform Church. The service was an extremely important and moving memorial service. The musicians sung two items in the service, ‘Perhaps Love’ and ‘The Irish Blessing’. “The quality of singing they achieved was wonderful and the impact they had on the whole congregation was palpable.” Commented Rose.
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Sport Netball Tour
Athletics On (and Off!) the Park!
Individual Successes Daisy Butterworth – Member of the crew crowned British Junior Champions in the Women’s J18 rowing and representing England at the Home International Regatta
Cricket Round Up
Abbie Dixon - Continues to be a key player for U18 England Hockey
A group of Year 9 and 10 netballers played an excellent series of matches at Condover Hall, Shropshire, on the weekend of 20th and 21st May, with our Year 10 A team coming second in the tournament. The girls had a fantastic time participating and also enjoyed a variety of team building activities such as abseiling, archery and zip-wiring!
Kate Hipkins - England Talent programme for Kayaking in sprint and marathon disciplines
Girls from Years 7 to 10 took part in several competitive cricket fixtures this year. The U13 squad played against The Abbey School and in a local Reading schools tournament at Henley Cricket Club. The U15 squad played in a similar tournament at Kidmore End Cricket Club. All the girls have improved significantly and we look forward to enjoying a full fixture list for girls next summer. Boys have also taken part in a multitude of cricket matches as Cricket Week kicked off on 10th July, as we played The Forty Club, Marylebone Cricket Club, Earley Cricket Club and the Old Leightonians. We were grateful for the fine weather and good wickets, which we had all week!
Owen Say - Swimming at the British para-swimming international meet in Sheffield against the best Paralympic swimmers in the world
Cricket continued at the U15 Berkshire Vase Final on 26th June, where Leighton Park were proud winners for the second year in a row! Bringing the cricket season to a close, we welcomed fellow Quaker schools, Ackworth, Sidcot and Bootham for Quaker Cricket Festival on 4th and 5th July, where Leighton Park were proud winners of the event.
Sports Leader Award
Leighton Park’s top Track and Field athletes travelled to Palmer Park Stadium to take part in the Reading Town Championships on 23rd June. Our students enjoyed considerable success including golds for the following: Emma Jennings 1st in Year 9/10 javelin (breaking the championship record stood for three years), Jamie Rowson 1st in Year 9/10 1500m, Archie Webb 1st in Year 9/10 Javelin, Nicola Lee 1st in Year 7/8 1500m, Megan Sommerville-Bailey 1st in Year 7/8 Discus. On the Park, all of our students represented their Houses with tremendous enthusiasm and determination in our annual House Track and Field Championships where Year 7 to Upper Sixth students ran, threw and jumped their way to as many points as possible. It was a tight competition with Cadbury winning the Fryer Cup with most House points across all sports competitions. Field and School shared the spoils in the Senior Track and Field Competition but Grove were the overall winners of the Richard Coleman Shield, scoring the most points across all House sports over the academic year.
Felix Thomis - Ranked 2nd nationally for Table Tennis U12
Tennis Overview Michael Loveder Photography
Leighton Park’s Year 10 Sports Leaders were out at Radstock Primary School on 22nd and 23rd June, helping children aged four to eleven with multisports as part of their sports day. Our students received glowing reports from Radstock, who were very impressed with our students’ maturity and professionalism and are looking forward to having us back in the future.
APP Power! The Advanced Performer Programme (APP) has gone from strength to strength this year as participants have been pushed to their physical limits and tackled new challenges. Our top athletes have continued to take part in bespoke strength and conditioning training and enjoyed personal training programmes designed by our strength and conditioning coach, Lewis Haywood. The variety of training didn’t stop there for our athletes however, as they travelled to Bath University on 12th May. Bath is one of the top universities for sport in the UK, where
Over 23 fixtures and several tournaments have been completed this term with some big wins against rival schools such as Reddam House, Shiplake College and Reading Blue Coat. To conclude the tennis term in style, ten of our lucky students went to Wimbledon on 5th July and saw tennis legends such as Federer and Djokovic on Centre Court! All of the students were keen tennis players themselves.
several Olympians and para-Olympians have based their development. APP athletes were able to quiz sports scientists on all of their nutrition, psychology and anatomy questions.
“A couple of my favourite things about the day were watching Federer play on Centre Court and learning new skills and techniques from watching the players up close; we were very close to the players while watching on Court 2!”
To further enhance the athletes’ knowledge, they ventured to Farm Fitness, a unique sports training location near Stanstead, where they took part in sport science seminars and some interesting al fresco workout programmes in a rural setting.
Exciting times for Tennis are ahead with the school teaming up once again with development group GD Tennis, offering year round coaching from September.
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commented Shaun Uppal (Year 10).
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Sixth Form
LP Community
Leaving in Style!
Leaver’s Gift
71 members of the Upper Sixth and their teachers attended the Leavers’ Dinner on Friday 19th May, for the first time held in the historic venue, Park House at Reading University.
The Leaver’s Gift is a way for families of students leaving Leighton Park to show their appreciation to the school by donating their deposit to the Bursary Fund, or a department or house of their choice. Thank you so much to the families of the Class of 2017 for their contributions of over £21,200 for the Bursary Fund, the Music Department, the Economics Department, the Drama Department, the Individual Learning Centre and the Head’s Discretionary Fund.
Head Girl, Robyn Ellis, commented,
“I can’t believe that it is time for my cohort to leave. It feels like it was just yesterday when we were all in Fryer doing silly introduction games to get to know each other and now we are all going off to start the first chapter in our adult lives. The Leavers’ Dinner was a great evening where the great memories we have made with teachers and students were celebrated. I know that the school and the friendships that have been made will never be forgotten”. “The Leavers’ Dinner was a great success; the venue was gorgeous on both the exterior and interior, and the meal was delicious. Once again Leighton Head Boy, Peter Polz, added,
Travel Scholarship
The Travel scholarship is awarded to a student that has planned and prepared a travel project that closely relate to one or more of the following Quaker principles, Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community and Stewardship. This year, enthusiastic diver, Alexandra Wilson, (Upper Sixth) was awarded the scholarship and we wish her all the best in her project.
“It has been an honour to have our son in your good hands.” Jacques Jespers (Class of 2017 parent).
Park demonstrated its ability to bring people together to have a great time. It was lovely to spend the evening all together in conjunction with our teachers who have helped us come this far, in order to be thankful for what Leighton Park has given us and to reflect on our time here.” The following week, Leavers’ Day saw students gather with friends and teachers, as well as family on 25th May, to further celebrate their time at Leighton Park. The day started with a family lunch in Oakview, followed by a drinks reception in Peckover, Leavers’ Collect, Meeting for Worship and afternoon tea in Caradon Garden for photos and the distribution of the ever popular yearbooks.
Jorge Hortal Award 2017 Since 2000, teachers have recognised a student who has proved to be an exceptional ‘all-rounder’ emulating the late Old Leightonian Jorge Hortal. Sadly Jorge passed away unexpectedly at the age of 22 and Leighton Park established the award in conjunction with Jorge’s family, as a homage to Jorge’s example for future generations. This year’s winner of the revered award went to Head Girl, Robyn Ellis (Upper Sixth), for her approach to everyday life at Leighton Park and her attitude to her peers, younger students and staff. Robyn commented, “Since I joined the school, every year I would hear about Jorge, a kind, talented student, who was taken from this world too soon. Although his life was short, he has left a legacy bigger than you could have imagined. To be kind, get involved in as many things as possible and be the best self you can be. This has always inspired me to pursue new things, which I can now call my passions. That’s why it means so much to me to be granted this award, so I can continue to carry on the legacy. I would especially like to thank Jorge’s family and friends for allowing us to celebrate his life and being so open and warm when I got to meet them.”
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Michael Malnick We are delighted that the school’s new music and media centre will be named after Old Leightonian, Michael Malnick, to commemorate his great generosity to the school. Michael left a gift in his Will to Leighton Park, donating £755,835 for school bursaries, which helped us formalise the Bursary Fund in 2016. Michael benefited from a bursary himself when he attended Leighton Park in the 1940s. He went on to become a respected actor and enjoyed a long and illustrious career in theatre and film.
7s Reunion On Saturday 20th May, we welcomed 65 Old Leightonians back to Leighton Park with their partners and families for the 2017 reunion. “Some of my closest friends came to the reunion and I haven’t seen them for twenty years” explained Regina Kaldre (R 1997). “An amazing trip down memory lane.” commented Will Steynor (F 1967). “An incredibly friendly atmosphere. I felt immense gratitude for going to Leighton Park and having the kind of parents who chose this school for their children as it is unique with respect and people at its heart.” reflected Mica Jones (G 2007).
Under 30s Social Who Was Joseph Fryer?
The first OL Under 30s gathering took place at Champagne Charlies in London on Thursday 30th June. A mix of 29 OLs spanning over twelve school years attended the inaugural event. “It was great to reconnect with old alumni and friends. Especially seeing other years, getting to see where people are at with their professional and personal lives and hearing about Leighton Park. Really appreciated the event!” summarised Frank Khan Sullivan (S 2008).
Leighton Park’s History
A group of Year 7 and 8s who were involved in the Fryer Festival Archives Activity had fun finding out about Joseph Fryer’s time at school and his experience as a Conscientious Objector in World War I that led to him working in the hospital on a troop ship. Finally, they discovered he died tragically on a climbing holiday in Austria, aged 24.
Former Parents’ Book Group
A number of our community have established a new PSC Book Group for former parents. Their first meeting was in June in the Library. Nine people attended, including one whose son left 22 years ago! They are planning to meet again on 11th October to discuss ‘HagSeed: The Tempest Retold’ by Margaret Atwood. All former parents are welcome. If you are interested please contact Jo Aherne via psc@leightonpark.com.
Join us during Quaker Schools Week, on 5th October at 7.30pm for Archivist, John Allinson’s talk about ‘The Still Small Voice of Calm: Leighton Park at Times of War, Conflict and Tension.’ Later in the academic year, John will also be giving a broader view of the history of the school, ‘A Past to Treasure and a Future to Nurture.’
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PSC
Music for a Summer’s Evening
Nearly New Uniform Shop
In the spirit of all the best ‘Pop Up’ boutiques, the Nearly New Uniform shop, with the help of PSC funds, acquired a new storage unit to keep all our LP wares organised and ready for sale. So next time someone asks for a 28’ pullover we will know exactly where to find it!
Getting Involved The PSC Committee meets once each half term to oversee PSC involvement in school life. While raising money is not the main focus, some profits are made and the committee makes grants from those funds – many to charities supported by the School. We welcome involvement with one or several events by helping ‘on the day’ or by joining the committee (or a sub-committee) on a voluntary basis. To receive further information, please email psc@leightonpark.com or come along to our AGM on 21st November.
The combination of spectacular weather and talent at the Music for a Summer’s Evening event meant that we were able to enjoy a roaring trade at the PSC BBQ and Bar. Thanks to the heroic efforts of a band of merry helpers, we made over £600! Amicus were also very adept at tempting people with their dessert strawberries, raising £40 for charity in the process.
Thank You! The PSC would like to give a huge thank you to Fabrice, Catering Manager for Thomas Franks, who left at the end of the summer term. Thank you for all your help over the years with our events and we wish you all a happy and restful retirement. A big thank you also to Elise McGreevy-Harris who is stepping down as PSC charities coordinator and organiser of PSC Support for the Annual Open Mornings. Thanks for all you have done!
Share Your Experience PSC plans are already in hand for the new academic year. We will be looking for volunteers for the Annual Open Morning on Saturday 30th September to help introduce new and prospective parents to the fantastic community we have at Leighton Park. If you can spare an hour or two, please drop us an email at psc@leightonpark.com or look out for our sign up link in the weekly eBulletin.
PSC Dates for the Diary Monday 18 September 2017 PSC Book Group: My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante Wednesday 20 September 2017 PSC Committee Meeting Saturday 30 September 2017 PSC Support for Annual Open Morning Thursday 5 October 2017 PSC Support for Quaker Week Evening Talk Friday 20 October 2017 Parents’ Lunch in Oakview Friday 10 November 2017 Fireworks on the Park Monday 13 November 2017 PSC Book Group: The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith / J K Rowling Tuesday 21 November 2017 PSC AGM follow by an Evening Talk: ‘A Past to Treasure and a Future to Nurture’ - An Introduction to the Leighton Park Archives Sunday 10 December 2017 PSC Decorating Peckover Hall for after the Christmas Meeting
www.leightonpark.com The Park is printed using paper from a sustainable source.
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PSC Book Club The PSC Book Group enjoyed another eclectic mix of literary delights this year. The vote for 2016/17’s favourite read resulted in a tie between Andrew Michael Hurley’s thrilling novel ‘The Loney’ and Emma Donaghue’s ‘Room’. The Book Group is always keen to entice new members along to one or more of the Monday evening meetings held twice a term. Details can be found on the PSC Book Group page of the website at www.leightonpark.com/ parents/parent-staff-committee-psc-/ book-group