NLCS Canons Life Autumn 2015

T H E A U T U M N T E R M 2 0 1 5 AT N O R T H LO N D O N CO L L EG I AT E S C H O O L

CANONS LIFE

THE IMPORTANCE OF GIVING BACK

CONTENTS

CHARITY FEATURE

HOUSE UPDATE

PAGE 2–5

PAGE 6

EXTRA – CURRICULAR

MUSIC

SPORTS

PERFORMING ARTS

PAGE 7

PAGE 7

PAGE 8

PAGE 10

JUNIOR SCHOOL

DEVELOPMENT NEWS

ONL NEWS

INTERNATIONAL

PAGE 12

PAGE 7

PAGE 8

PAGE 10

FRONT COVER: MADAGASCAR

MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD 1

FROM THE HEAD ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS ABOUT AN EDUCATION AT NORTH LONDON COLLEGIATE SCHOOL, IS THAT STUDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO LOOK OUTWARDS AND TO USE THEIR TALENTS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO THE LIVES OF OTHER PEOPLE: “MUCH IS REQUIRED FROM THOSE TO WHOM MUCH IS GIVEN” IN THE WORDS OF OUR FOUNDER’S DAY PRAYER.

In addition to their academic studies this term, girls have continued to throw themselves wholeheartedly into community service by taking part in fundraising events and making weekly visits to local care homes, amongst many other exciting ventures.

During the summer holidays a group of students from our Sixth Form also helped to build a new classroom at a rural village school in Madagascar. In this issue of Canons Life we celebrate the commitment girls make to charity and the enriching qualities of our international charitable partnerships.

The School has been delighted to host many engaging and interesting visitors this term.

We welcomed architectural historian Dan Cruickshank as the keynote speaker at our first Senior Societies talk of the academic year. Other guests have included Tracy Chevalier, author of the highly acclaimed Girl with a Pearl Earring and Professor David Jones from University College London, who spoke about the fascinating field of bioinformatics. Year 12 students had the opportunity of attending lectures at the Prince’s Teaching Institute’s Autumn Residential by eminent academics including biographer, Professor Sir Jonathan Bate CBE from Oxford University and Dr Robert Mulvaney OBE, British Antarctic Survey leader.

Overseas trips continue to enrich the girls’ education and broaden their outlook, with exchanges to Paris, Ludwigsburg and Philadelphia taking place this term.

Students have started fundraising for their future community service trips to Zambia, Madagascar and Uzbekistan, which will take place during the 2016 summer holidays.

I have again been impressed by our students’ creative talents, shown off in numerous concerts and productions. This term, audiences have been entertained by Year 7 in the Arts Celebration and Dance Display, and by Year 8 and 9 in their modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night.

The hard work and close collaboration involved, from around 100 performers and crew members, was clearly evident in their vibrant and entertaining performances.

Our inaugural PE Week in October, where students could take part in a variety of activities, was a great success, with many sampling new sports for the first time. The School was also thrilled to erect a climbing wall in the Sports Hall over the summer, making a fantastic addition to our sporting facilities. We are looking forward to seeing girls learning to climb both in lessons and in clubs and extend our thanks to our supporters for their generous contributions towards funding the wall.

As we approach the end of another full and enjoyable term, I wish you all a happy and restful festive season.

BERNICE McCABE, HEADMISTRESS

2 CHARITY FEATURE

THE IMPORTANCE OF GIVING BACK AT NORTH LONDON, GIRLS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE IN MANY CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES, NOT JUST WITHIN THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY, BUT ALSO WITH AN INTERNATIONAL OUTLOOK.

Heavily embedded in the School ethos is the importance of giving back to society, and students aim to achieve this through many charitable ventures, such as visits to care homes and special needs schools, participating in fundraising events and even travelling to support charitable projects overseas. On a local scale, older girls in the school have the opportunity to make regular visits to the Livability Care homes and the Kisharon School for children with disabilities. Alongside this, the School holds an annual fundraising fashion show, a charity Christmas party and pantomime, and the girls

organise many activities throughout the year to raise funds for different charities.

In addition to this, during the summer holidays, groups of girls travel to schools in Madagascar and Zambia, in order to empower young children through education.

Girls spend time teaching, building new classrooms and participating in cultural exchange evenings.

TIME OUT & CANONAID

The Year 11 Charity committee, Time Out, have launched a wonderful series of fundraising events this term. These included a bake sale, as well as a sale of Secret Santa presents.

The Committee has chosen to support Young Minds, the UK’s leading charity committed to improving the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people.

The Sixth Form Charity Committee, Canonaid, has chosen to support the British Red Cross and the work that the charity is doing to help refugees across Europe. The committee has hosted a variety of fundraising events, while the publicity team has been spreading awareness of the charity, as well as entertaining everyone during Friday morning assemblies with their creative sketches.

JEANS FOR GENES

During the term the girls held a mufti day to support Jeans for Genes Day, the annual fundraising event for children and families affected by genetic disorders. The day is always greeted with much enthusiasm, as girls dress in denim in order to support the national charity Genetic Disorders UK. FANTASY FASHION

Organised by the Art Society, the charity fashion show involved girls of all ages designing, making and modelling an array of highly imaginative dresses designed around the theme ‘Contrast’.

CHARITY FEATURE 3

NORTHWAY SCHOOL

Once a week a number of girls from the Sixth Form volunteer at Northway School in Edgware, working with young children with special needs. One of the volunteers, Deena in Year 12, has shared her thoughts: LIVABILITY CHRISTMAS PARTY

LIVABILITY CHRISTMAS PARTY

The evening was as vibrant and enjoyable as ever. This exciting event continues to raise money for the Karenni Student Development Programme (KSDP), a charity set up by ONL Stephanie Lee. The charity works closely with the Karenni people, providing basic needs and education in the smallest and poorest of the ethnic minority states in Burma.

CREATIVITY, ACTION, SERVICE

A core component of the International Baccalaureate Diploma is Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) with each student designing their own personal programme of

JEANS FOR GENES

activities. ‘Think globally, act locally’ is one of the IB CAS mottos, encouraging girls to consider the impact of their personal choices. North London girls really get behind this idea, involving themselves in a range of charitable projects. They have organised canal and park clean ups, and campaigns to raise awareness of environmental issues.

Many volunteer at care homes, working with the elderly and disabled, providing much needed support for carers.

The reflective nature of the CAS programme allows the students to appreciate how a few hours of their time can

bring great benefit to others.

LIVABILITY CHRISTMAS PARTY

A highlight of the Autumn term is the annual Livability Christmas Party. Residents of local care homes travelled to the School for some seasonal fun: Year 12 girls performed a fun-filled pantomime, based on the traditional story of Cinderella, but with a North London twist.

“Previously I had volunteered at my bilingual school where I was assisting a child with special needs.

It was a really rewarding experience, so when I was offered the opportunity to volunteer at Northway School I was sure I wanted to do it. My experience has been great, all the children are so different, and each of them has a unique story.

Observing how enthusiastic and friendly the children are while they learn is incredibly enlightening.

On our first visit, students came and spoke to us straight away, they wanted know our names, hold our hands and walk around with us in the playground.

We all really look forward to going back there every week.

There are very many opportunities to get involved in volunteering at North London. I also visit the Knights Court Care Home for the elderly in Edgware and the School organises many charity events throughout the year, such as the annual NLCS Funday, which supports members of the local MENCAP charity.”

4 CHARITY FEATURE

INTERNATIONAL CHARITY WORK NORTH LONDON HAS A LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FLYING ANGELS SCHOOL IN ZAMBIA . THE SCHOOL IS AT THE CENTRE OF A DISADVANTAGED COMMUNITY WITHIN THE NGOMBE DISTRICT OF LUSAKA . THE FLYING ANGELS SCHOOL AIMS TO PROVIDE EDUCATION FOR THOSE IN THE COMMUNITY WHO NEED IT MOST.

ZAMBIA

ZAMBIA

MADAGASCAR

CHARITY FEATURE 5

MADAGASCAR

ZAMBIA

Set up in 2007, the project was initiated through the vision and commitment of a former member of staff, Miss Zugg. Working closely with Reverend Sakala, Director of the school, Miss Zugg wanted to help him fulfil his vision for the school and North London’s involvement and fundraising forms a large part of this. Each summer since 2007 a group of staff and girls from Year 12 and 13 have travelled to the school to teach, organise activities for the Zambian children and learn about each others’ cultures.

ONE OF THIS YEAR’S PARTNERSHIP PARTICIPANTS, SAFIA ISMAIL, SAID THAT THE “VISIT TO THE FLYING ANGELS SCHOOL WAS EXTREMELY EYE-OPENING AND REWARDING FOR ALL OF US; I WILL NEVER FORGET THE STUDENTS THAT I TAUGHT AND HOPE THAT THEY MANAGE TO REACH THEIR POTENTIAL, DESPITE THE BARRIERS THEY FACE”.

During the year, North London girls organise activities to raise money for resources for The Flying Angels School, such as books and science equipment, desks and blackboards, as well as for larger projects such as the Zambia Challenge,

MADAGASCAR

when £27,000 was raised towards the construction of a teacher accommodation block. A priority now is to help fund the building of a science laboratory. This is a requirement for the school to be recognised as an exam centre, which will enable students to sit exams at the school rather than having to pay and travel long distances to sit them elsewhere.

high standards that they are continually working towards.

MADAGASCAR

Following the success of the Zambia project, another partnership was set up between North London and Andranasoa Secondary School in Madagascar. The project between the schools began back in 2013, when a group of North London

£27,000 WAS RAISED TOWARDS THE CONSTRUCTION OF A TEACHER ACCOMMODATION BLOCK. A PRIORITY NOW IS TO HELP FUND THE BUILDING OF A SCIENCE LABORATORY.

In addition to fundraising by students, North London staff also raise funds for the Teacher Training Sponsorship Scheme, which supports the development of teaching at the school. Through the goodwill of North London staff in committing to monthly donations, Flying Angels teachers are able to complete the Zambian Government’s Teacher Training Programme.

The sponsored Flying Angels staff are then able to support their colleagues in lesson planning and delivery, and share best practice. This is a hugely important factor in developing the school and enabling them to build the

girls helped to fund and build a new classroom at the school. This year’s trip to Andranasoa is the first time North London students have been back to the school since the new building project, and the girls were welcomed with open arms by the staff and students. As part of the project, girls taught a variety of lessons ranging from English to knitting, as well as helping renovate a classroom.

The school community and Andranasoa villagers were immensely appreciative of girls’ donations and especially their creative and inspiring teaching. We hope this project will continue.

UZBEKISTAN

Currently students are fundraising for a new expedition to Uzbekistan, which is planned for July 2016. Participants will be going on a 17-day trip full of challenging activities.

The expedition will be split into two different phases.

The Challenge Phase will be a six-day trek in the Chimgan Mountains. Following the famous Silk Road, girls will take part in a big community project in the Nuratau Mountains, staying with local families and helping out in the community.

The second stage will be an Exploration Phase, in which students will see many of the beautiful landmarks Uzbekistan has to offer. As a part of the experience, girls must each raise £2,000 to cover all of the money required to go on the trip.

They have begun fundraising activities including a classic bake sale, offering their cleaning services and mucking out horse stables. The girls cannot wait to embark on their challenge!

6 HOUSE UPDATE

HOUSE UPDATE

NEW HOUSE CAPTAINS

LAST SEPTEMBER THE HOUSE ACTIVITY PROGRAMME WAS ESTABLISHED, AND STUDENTS WERE SORTED INTO FIVE HOUSES, EACH NAMED AFTER A PROMINENT ONL: AITKEN, GIBBONS, ANGUS, COLLET AND LINDSAY. JUST ONE YEAR LATER, THE HOUSE ACTIVITY PROGRAMME IS FULLY INTEGRATED INTO SCHOOL LIFE, AND MANY EVENTS IN THE SCHOOL CALENDAR ARE NOW CENTRED AROUND THE HOUSES. This term we welcome new House Captains for this academic year. A girl from Year 9 and a girl from Year 11 were selected to represent each House in the Summer term, and have now taken on their new roles.

AITKEN

HARRIET & LARA

“We’re sure that this year will be a golden one for Aitken.

Already we have really built up a sense of community between the years through Inter-House competitions and our regular House meet-ups, and we hope that the rest of the year will be as enjoyable as it has been so far!”

GIBBONS

SOPHIA & SOPHIE

“Our highlight so far has definitely been the House Quiz. It is great to see the whole School coming together in a way that is both inclusive and competitive.”

ANGUS

LAUREN & HELIENKE

HOUSE QUIZ

LINDSAY

This term, students have participated in a variety of House events, the most exciting of them being the highly anticipated House Quiz. Following a preliminary round, five students were chosen to represent each House. Coinciding with a ‘House colours’ mufti, the Hall was a cluster of colours interspersed by frantic pressing of buzzers. Mrs Wilson flourished in her role as quizmaster, directing questions on topics ranging from the history of the School to musical theatre. Fiercely competitive, all participants displayed great enthusiasm, although ultimately it was Angus which claimed first prize.

“We have enjoyed getting to know girls in other year groups. We are sure that this year these friendships will only grow stronger!”

The new inter-House debating also proved to be extremely popular, where in true North London fashion girls threw themselves into

“What we love is the sense of pride everyone feels, when representing or just supporting their House.

Angus has a strong sense of team spirit and a drive to excel in all the House events.”

COLLET

ZUSI & TARA

“It has been a great way for girls across many years to come together and really enjoy themselves. Our House mascot, the lioness, symbolises courage and strength, qualities which we hope every member of Collet will try to emulate.”

ALEZANDRA & CHRSITIE

lively and thought-provoking debate.

Other events included the Inter-House Chess Competition and a photography competition aptly focused on the House colours. The wide range of sporting events has been a great way for everyone to get involved in supporting and representing their House.

From netball to lacrosse, volleyball to badminton, activities have been extremely popular, with all girls having the chance to participate in their year groups. Next term is going to be equally exciting, seeing the launch of the first Inter-House Talent Show.

EXTRA - CURRICULAR 7

EXTRA - CURRICULAR THIS TERM WE WELCOMED MANY EMINENT SPEAKERS AND GUESTS, AND EMBRACED THE IMPORTANCE OF LEARNING NEW LANGUAGES.

SENIOR SOCIETIES

Senior Societies this term has welcomed many eminent speakers and guests as part of its series of talks. The series was opened with a keynote address from Dan Cruickshank, art historian and BBC television presenter, who spoke about the destruction of historical monuments and buildings through world wars, as well as the ethics around rebuilding those architectural structures.

Girls were privileged to hear a talk from Tracy Chevalier, the world renowned author of Girl with a Pearl Earring.

She spoke of her obsession with Johannes Vermeer and why she decided to write her famous novel about the amazing painter.

The weekly events have also included visits from, amongst others, Dr Jim Platts from the University of Cambridge’s Department of Engineering; Professor of Bioinformatics, David Jones, from University College London (UCL); Professor of Economics, Jagjit Chadha, from the University of Kent; Professor of Clinical Psychology, Chris Barker, from UCL; and Médecins Sans Frontières charity representative Harry Ingram.

LANGUAGES WEEK

Languages Week allowed students to embrace the importance of learning new languages and appreciating different cultures. The week also included two lectures by fascinating speakers, who shared their work and love

for languages. Firstly, Dr Chris Cummins from the University of Edinburgh gave an interesting talk on linguistics.

In addition to this, Professor Ritchie Robertson, Taylor Professor of the German Language at the University of Oxford, came and spoke to the girls about the importance of correct translation and the results of mistranslation.

GIRLS WERE PRIVILEGED TO HEAR HISTORY AND POLITICS WEEK

A TALK FROM TRACY CHEVALIER,

History and Politics Week focused on commemoration of the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta, with girls participating in a wide variety of activities, such as debates, talks and referendums.

THE WORLD RENOWNED AUTHOR OF GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING.

TRACY CHEVALIER, LITERARY SOCIETY

DAN CRUICKSHANK, MRS McCABE AND SENIOR STUDENTS

MODERN LANGUAGES WEEK

8 MUSIC & ART

MUSIC AND ART

SENIOR CONCERT

MUSICAL PERFORMANCES, AS EVER, WERE DELIVERED TO AN EXCEPTIONALLY HIGH STANDARD, WITH GIRLS PERFORMING IN MANY CHOIRS AND ENSEMBLES. In their ‘EVENING OF MUSIC FOR THE FLUTE’, 27 girls from across the Junior and Senior Schools performed a variety of solo and ensemble pieces by numerous composers; these included Tchaikovsky’s Waltz of the Flowers from the Nutcracker and the Overture to The Marriage of Figaro by Mozart.

ARTWORK BY VENETIA NORRIS

MIDDLE SCHOOL FESTIVE CONCERT

Girls participating in the their audience with an afternoon of exquisite piano playing, with music from Baroque to the 21st century.

PIANO CONCERT provided

The SENIOR CONCERT featured the Senior Orchestra playing two fascinating works: Dvorak’s 9th Symphony (New World) and Khatchaturian’s Waltz from the Masquerade Suite and the Senior Choir performing an upper voice arrangement of Vivaldi’s Gloria. Also performing at the concert were the Chandos

Singers, String Orchestra and the newly-formed Concert Band.

As a wonderful finale to the Autumn term, audiences were treated to an evening of festive treats in the MIDDLE SCHOOL CONCERT. This term the School has been delighted to host an exhibition of work by artist, VENETIA NORRIS. During the Summer term, Venetia spent ten days at North London as Artist-inResidence, taking inspiration from different areas around the school and incorporating them into her work. Her exhibition showcased the beautiful and delicate work she completed during her residency.

In one of her pieces, she uses a rubbing from the steps of the Old House and in another she used a collage of clippings from a Canons Life magazine.

SPORTS 9

SPORTS

ONLs V STUDENTS LACROSSE MATCH

THE INAUGURAL PE WEEK WAS AN ENERGETIC START TO A TERM WHICH HAS SEEN MANY NEW CLUBS LAUNCHED AND INTERESTS IGNITED. PE WEEK

The inaugural PE Week took place in September. Many girls jumped at the opportunity to share some of their out of school pursuits, including CHEERLEADING, WATER POLO

and HOCKEY. From these, new clubs have been launched and interests ignited. One of the highlights of the week was the demonstration of the new Climbing Wall.

Girls were also invited to listen to a talk from Dr Ros Lloyd, former Wales Women’s Lacrosse Captain, about how to manage their time studying, whilst continuing their passion for sport. The week culminated with a lively and interesting debate titled ‘This House believes exercising your heart is more important than exercising your mind’.

This term the 1st and Under 13 Netball teams competed for the first time in the

Independent Schools Netball Cup. Both teams played exceptionally well, making it through to the final rounds.

Congratulations to all the girls who took part.

Another popular event this term was the annual ONLS VS. STUDENTS LACROSSE MATCH. It was wonderful to welcome back so many of our former students. It was a lively and closely fought game.

During the summer, Samantha in Year 10 took part in a charity climbing expedition.

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED WITH CLIMBING?

I was first introduced to the sport by my dad, who has been involved for many years. I loved it as soon as I tried it, and started training when I was ten.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RECENT EXPEDITION.

I climbed three peaks in France: Dant du Géant, Aiguille du Midi, and Aiguille de L’Index.

At 4013m, Dant du Géant was definitely the hardest, and afterwards we had to sprint down to ensure that we would make it back before nightfall! I raised £28,000 for two charities: Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) and a charity which has helped the Nepalese recovery after the recent earthquake.

WHAT WAS YOUR HIGHLIGHT OF THE CLIMB?

The feeling of accomplishment once I reached the summit of each peak!

PE WEEK - HOCKEY

PE WEEK - TABLE TENNIS

10 PERFORMING ARTS TWELFTH NIGHT

PERFORMING ARTS

TWELFTH NIGHT

ARTS CELEBRATION

ALONE

Audiences were transported to the mysterious land of Illyria, featuring fountains and fairy lights, in the wellknown Shakespearian play Twelfth Night. Beautifully performed by Year 8 and 9, the production included live music and glistening costumes.

The cast rose to the challenge of performing the original Shakespearian script, and included additional characters, such as goddesses and jesters.

The performers cleverly conveyed the twists and turns of the complex plot whilst delivering comedy and excitement.

PERFORMING ARTS 11 ARTS CELEBRATION EVENING

HISPANIC THEATRE FESTIVAL

YEAR 7 DANCE DISPLAY

ALONE

Combining drama, dance and music linked to this year’s theme Beginnings, the packed auditorium enjoyed a selection of openings of plays, songs exploring the theme and premieres of new dance material, all performed by girls in Year 7. The performance was spectacular and it was wonderful to see the whole year group together.

North London Collegiate School hosted the third annual Hispanic Theatre Festival which, with fourteen schools participating, was the biggest yet. All the participants combined impressive acting skills with linguistic talent, and put on a fabulous show for all guests. North London’s Crónica de una muerte anunciada impressed the audience and judges alike.

Involving all students in Year 7, the annual Dance Display was one of the highlights of the Middle School Calendar.

Girls took part in a variety of dances choreographed around this year’s Artists theme. Each class performed a dance, choreographed in the style of a different painting, using a variety of costumes and music.

Also performing were separate, smaller dance groups, such as tap, modern and ballet dances, which were choreographed by some of the senior girls.

Each year, at the end of term, students from Years 10-13 come together to perform an original physical theatre and dance piece. Previous performances have explored topics and themes such as the 1970s, Cuba and Otis Redding.

This year the production drew on eleven monologues from a variety of plays to provide inspiration for original dance and physical work. Using a range of styles and techniques students performed solos, duets, trios and large group pieces exploring the diverse starting points. Pieces included an exploration of a harassed mother, a wedding proposal, cooking and maths. Almost 50 girls were involved in the performance and as ever, this was a delightful way to end the term.

DANCE DISPLAY

HISPANIC THEATRE FESTIVAL

12 JUNIOR SCHOOL

JUNIOR SCHOOL THE JUNIOR SCHOOL HAS HAD A FUN-FILLED START TO THE ACADEMIC YEAR, WITH GIRLS PARTICIPATING IN A WIDE RANGE OF EXCITING ACTIVITIES.

INDIA DAY

VISIT FROM LAUREN CHILD

STAFF FUNDRAISE FOR STAND UP TO CANCER

JUNIOR SCHOOL

THE SNOW QUEEN

THE STORY OF HOLLY AND IVY

THE SNOW QUEEN

CANONS CHOIR

GIRLS WERE FASCINATED TO HEAR HOW CHARLIE AND LOLA WERE CREATED, AND HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO LISTEN TO AN EXTRACT OF THE AUTHOR’S LATEST STORY, ONE.

During their annual INDIA DAY, Year 5 enjoyed preparing and eating a variety of Indian foods, as well as learning some Bollywood dances. Reception were treated to a visit from two veterinary surgeons and their furry friends including Doug the Pug, Watson the Puggle (beagle-pug mix) and Henry the giant rabbit. One of the most exciting events of the term was the highly anticipated visit from Lauren Child, author of the popular Charlie and Lola series of books. Girls were fascinated to hear how Charlie and Lola were created, and had the opportunity to listen to an extract of the author’s latest story, One. Girls have also been extremely busy learning their lines and rehearsing for various productions. Year

3 were outstanding in their performance of The Story of Holly and Ivy, whilst the First School delivered their production of The Snow Queen with icy brilliance.

Lower School girls entertained parents with their voices, instruments and festive spirit in their annual Festive Concert.

Over the summer, Canons Choir experienced unprecedented success at the

13

As well as raising money through collections and mufti days, the girls have also been learning about the disease through activities such as exploring the composition of blood by using sweets, and listening to a speaker from IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON. This year, instead of bringing in food for the Harvest Festival, girls contributed to washbags, which were sent to refugees arriving in Europe.

LLANGOLLEN INTERNATIONAL MUSICAL EISTEDDFOD in the Junior Children’s Choirs competition. Their exquisite performance of The Seal Lullaby and Every Voice as One crowned them deserving runners-up in this prestigious competition.

This term, the Junior School has chosen to support the charity CANCER RESEARCH UK.

As is tradition, the Christmas fair, as well as being immensely popular with the girls, was also a great way to raise money for KARENNI STUDENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (KSDP), the charity set up by ONL Stephanie Lee, which provides funds to support the Karenni people living in poverty in Burma.

14 DEVELOPMENT NEWS

DEVELOPMENT NEWS

NEW CLIMBING WALL

WE EXTEND OUR WARMEST THANKS TO DONORS WHO HAVE SUPPORTED US AT ALL LEVELS THIS YEAR – WHETHER THROUGH A MONTHLY DIRECT DEBIT OR A ONE-OFF GIFT. WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR GIFTS OF ALL SIZES TOWARDS THE BURSARY FUND AND TO OUR MOST RECENT CAPITAL CAMPAIGN, THE NEW BUILDINGS PROJECT.

To thank supporters, we were delighted to put up two donor boards in the School in September, one by the entrance to the Hall and one in the entrance of the New Building.

The School was also thrilled to erect a climbing wall in the Sports Hall over the summer.

It makes a fantastic addition to our sporting facilities, and we are looking forward to seeing girls learning to climb both in lessons and in clubs. Many thanks to Keith and Lauren Breslauer and the Dwyer family for their generous contributions towards the wall.

In November, Junior School parents Cat Meister-Campbell

and Michael Campbell kindly hosted our Neighbourhood Drinks Party. Once each term, parents in a particular area or postcode are warmly invited to an evening reception at the home of local parents.

These events allow nearby parents across all school years to meet and socialise, and to chat informally with the Headmistress and other senior staff. The next event will take place in February in Finchley, and we look forward to welcoming parents from nearby areas.

To find out how to support the School, please contact DEBORAH SOBEL on 020 8951 6376 or by email at DSOBEL@NLCS.ORG.UK

ONL NEWS 15

ONL NEWS THIS TERM, THE SCHOOL HOSTED A NUMBER OF REUNIONS FOR OLD NORTH LONDONERS. ONL NEWS

September saw the return of the Class of 2014, one year after they left Canons. It was lovely to see them all and to hear their news. We later welcomed back the Class of 1965, 50 years after they left, together with an incredible group of ONLs who left the School over 55 years ago.

It was wonderful to see so many ONLs sharing a lifetime of news. Many ONLs travelled from overseas to make the reunions – including from Australia!

In October, ONLs working in the Law came together for the fourth ONLA Law Society drinks, kindly hosted by ONL Josayne Gold at her firm.

In November we launched a new society, for ONLs in Business and Finance, for the first of what we hope will be

regular networking events, at the Eight Members Club; we are grateful to Junior School parents Mr and Mrs Mahboubian for hosting us at the Club. We also brought together alumnae working in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and Medicine; many thanks to Bank of America Merrill Lynch for kindly hosting us.

We hope that these societies – as well as those for ONLs in the Arts and in Media – will continue to grow. Feedback shows that they already provide a useful forum for networking and sharing ideas. If you are an ONL and would like to join any of these societies, please email Alumnae & Development Officer Poorvi Smith at psmith@nlcs.org.uk

REUNION, CLASS OF 1965

FORTHCOMING EVENTS EVENT

ATTENDEES

DATE TIME

ONLA BIG SIX DINNER

PAST MEMBER OF THE BIG SIX

6TH JANUARY 2016

7PM

ONLA ARTS SOCIETY

ONLS WORKING IN THE ARTS

12TH JANUARY 2016

7-9PM

WOMEN IN MEDIA SYMPOSIUM

ONLS CONSIDERING

A CAREER IN MEDIA

10TH FEBRUARY 2016

5-8PM

ONLA COMMITTEE MEETING

ONLA COMMITTEE MEMBERS

14TH MARCH 2016

6.30PM

ONLA MEDIA SOCIETY

ONLS WORKING IN MEDIA

13TH APRIL 2016

7-9PM

ONLA AGM

ALL ONLS

7TH MAY 2016

10.30AM

10, 20, 30 AND 40 YEAR REUNIONS

1976, 1986, 1996 & 2006 LEAVERS

7TH MAY 2016

11AM

ONLA PICNIC

ALL ONLS

26TH JUNE 2016

12-4PM

REUNION, CLASS OF 2014

ONL CAREERS NETWORK Poorvi Smith (ONL 1991) runs the Careers Networking Service for ONLs. By working with the broader NLCS community, including ONLs, parents and other contacts, we can provide specific career advice to any ONL. Please contact POORVI at PSMITH@NLCS.ORG.UK

Please befriend Frances Mary Buss Follow us

@NLCS1850

ONLs are always welcome to visit the School. Please contact the Alumnae Office, at ONLA@NLCS.ORG.UK or on 020 8951 6475.

16 INTERNATIONAL

INTERNATIONAL

PROJECT SOMOSOMO, FIJI

STUDENTS AT NLCS JEJU ARE EQUALLY DEDICATED TO SHARING THEIR TIME AND SKILLS WITH OTHERS AND TO SUPPORTING CHARITABLE PROJECTS BOTH LOCALLY AND OVERSEAS. CAS AT HOME AND ABROAD

Many Community Service activities at NLCS Jeju take place on Saturdays, as part of the ‘Bryant Programme’ which was named after Sophie Bryant, the second headmistress of NLCS (UK).

Students are involved in projects at Angel House orphanage, and at Dream House, a home for elderly Jeju residents. Students have initiated many teaching and mentoring activities in the local community, and visit primary schools, libraries and community centres to help teach English, Maths and Music. More extensive CAS projects often take place during the summer

holiday and students volunteer in Korea and beyond, demonstrating a true commitment to serving others.

PROJECT SOMOSOMO, FIJI

NLCS Jeju has been working with Somosomo District School on Taveuni Island in Fiji since 2012. The school had very few resources, even lacking electricity, and NLCS Jeju students decided that fundraising priorities would be to provide a generator and replace broken classroom furniture. Money raised has now bought a precious generator to power part of the school, as well as replacement furniture for three classrooms. Sixth Formers

from NLCS Jeju can participate in a week-long service trip, where they plan lessons and assist teachers. They gain an amazing life experience and make a positive contribution to the lives and learning of the Somosomo children.

‘Our students not only experience a different culture, but realize that money is not the be all and end all, and that one can be very content with a roof over their head, some food, and a river to play in.’

Project leader Ms Brandon.

SUMMER SMILES

As at Canons, the NLCS Jeju Summer Fete is a fundraising event where the NLCS

community of pupils, parents and friends come together to celebrate the end of the year and raise money for charity.

Stalls include face painting, karaoke, balloon darts and there is always plenty of food!

Schools from Jeju Global Education City and the wider local area are invited to join in the fun. Past recipient charities have been Angel House and St Isidore’s Hospice in Jeju, and Mountain Child, the Nepalbased charity that supported the country after the recent devastating earthquake. NLCS Jeju’s Summer Fetes have raised thousands of pounds (millions of Korean Won) for these good causes.

TRIPS 17

TRIPS

CLASSROOM BEFORE REFURBISHMENT

CLASSROOM AFTER REFURBISHMENT

MOUNTAIN CHILD HELP IN THE HIMALAYAS

NLCS Jeju has been working with Mountain Child since 2012. This non-government organization works to improve the living conditions of children in remote parts of the Himalayas. All money and resources for the annual trip are raised through student-led fundraising efforts such as the sale of snacks and second-hand clothing, stationery collections, and a donor campaign. In

April 2015, two days after an NLCS Jeju group returned from Nepal, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck the area where they had been based.

This further motivated Jeju students to support Mountain Child in rebuilding affected villages, and the Summer Fete and other fundraising activities subsequently raised over £30,000. Participants in the 2016 trip hope to see how these funds have used to benefit Nepal’s mountain children.

With thanks to Mr Taylor, Mr Machin, Mrs Waterson, Ms Brandon at NLCS Jeju.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: MADRID, PHILADELPHIA , SICILY, SOUTH DOWNS, GRANADA

during his tenure, ensuring the smooth running of the School and its finances. He has overseen some major developments in the School, not least the building of the WE SAY GOODBYE… After 16 years’ loyal service to Performing Arts Centre, the the School, Graham Partington, Indoor Teaching Space, the expansion of the Junior School Bursar and Clerk to the and the pond! He has also Governors will be leaving provided invaluable support to at the end of the Autumn NLCS Jeju. term, in order to pursue new opportunities closer to his We thank Graham for all he has family. done for the School and wish him the very best in his next Graham has been a key endeavours. member of the Senior Team DESIGN: GRAPHICAL WWW.GRAPHICALAGENCY.COM

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CANONS LIFE TEAM STUDENTS: LEILA HUSSEIN ( YEAR 12), LIZZIE QUINN ( YEAR12), ELLA BROOMBERG ( YEAR 11) AND JUNGMIN SEO ( YEAR 11) STAFF: LARRAINE BRISTOW AND EVELINA MILLER, MARKETING DEPARTMENT

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