The Castle - Spring edition 2024

WELCOME BACK

Welcome to the Spring 2024 edition of 'The Castle'.

Dear Reigatians,

EDITORS’ LETTER

Welcome to the Spring Term edition of RGS ‘The Castle’ Wherever your interests lie, we can confidently say that there is something in here for everyone! With articles ranging from the 2024 Olympics, the development of Formula 1 over the past 70 years, and the presentation of women in ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ our wonderful team of writers have worked tirelessly to produce pieces that cover a wide variety of topics

As we near the end of the second term of the year, it is wonderful to reflect on so many incredible achievements The outstanding production of ‘Anything Goes’ blew away the audience, showing off our talented array of young actors. There have also been some outstanding sporting victories for us to celebrate, as well as an eclectic mix of essay competitions, MUN conferences, and music concerts this term Well done to everyone involved!

We would like to wish all Fifth Form and Upper Sixth Form students who are sitting exams at the end of this year, the best of luck! We are sure that you will do amazingly and from everyone here at ‘The Castle’, we hope that you enjoy a restful and rewarding Easter break

Happy reading and happy Easter!

- Annie and Ruth (Sixth Form editors)

MUN UPDATE

SCHOOL REPORT BY RIYA N

MUN SUCCESS FOR RGS STUDENTS

Everybody at MUN is excited to share with fellow Reigatians the incredible achievement of the delegates who attended GMUN 24 earlier this month. Model United Nations (MUN) is a club where students can engage in debate regarding important current events taking place around the globe This year, on the 2nd and 3rd of March, Gordon’s school hosted a MUN conference, GMUN24, where delegates met to discuss the topics at hand today and see what we could do to make a difference in the world With two delegations, Iran and Japan, the representatives were riled up to debate important global issues such as the Question of Mental Healthcare for Prisoners in SOCHUM, and the Question of Crimea and the Russia-Ukraine conflict in DISEC SOCHUM, standing for the Social, Cultural, and Humanitarian Committee, counters issues to do with race, gender inequality, and violations of human rights, doing our best to eradicate these problems DISEC, standing for the Disarmament and International Security Committee, addresses issues that threaten international peace, as well as challenges to global security.

“MODEL UN TRAINS TODAY'S STUDENTS TO BE TOMORROW'S LEADERS. STUDENTS WHO DO MODEL UN COULD ONE DAY CHANGE THE WORLD.”

The delegates enjoyed some fruitful debate on the first day having an awesome time building inter-school relations and new friendships Beginning with lobbying, the delegates tackled the difficult task of convincing other delegates to support their resolutions! Resolutions are effectively an outline of the motion proposed to tackle a specific issue, detailing sources of funding, specific guidelines, and the general intentions of the country The second day began with a lovely ceremony at the chapel, before delegates dug right back into strenuous debate, competing for the best committee title! Finally, we attended the General Assembly, with nearly 200 delegates coming together to debate the top resolutions Across the period of GA, we had many Points of Information and speeches, and even managed to get one of our resolutions into debate in GA, successfully having it passed!

All of our debaters had an amazing time, and I’m sure many of us would agree that it was one of the best conferences of the year, with 5 awards between us! Due to our outstanding performance, we achieved three delegate awards (two Most Outstanding Delegate and one Highly Commended Delegate) and two delegation awards (Most Outstanding Delegation and Highly Commended Delegation), thus making us the school with the most awards, meaning we absolutely ‘ won ’ that conference! GMUN 24 was absolutely incredible, and such an amazing opportunity, and the delegates would very much like to thank everybody involved in aiding us with this achievement Our delegation awards can be seen in the Wright Gallery display cabinet!

From a personal perspective, MUN has helped me really grow into myself, and it is only from partaking in such important debates with so many lovely people that I was even able to write this article MUN as both a club and a community is both welcoming and heartfelt I hope to see you there someday!

“MODEL UN ALLOWS PARTICIPANTS TO BECOME A BETTER VERSION OF THEMSELVES.

ChrisBradford

By Aqsa K, Tabitha B, and Sarah K

“I write the type of books I’d want to read – books filled with relentless action, believable characters and a plot that twists and turns through the pages!”

-ChrisBradford

Chris Bradford is a writer who is best known for his 'Bodyguard' and 'Young Samurai' books He was previously a musician in addition to being a black-belt martial artist Bradford's 'Bodyguard' series drew influence from his experience as a professional bodyguard His other works include 'Virtual Kombat', 'The Soul Hunters', and 'Lunar' He has authored over 40 books that have sold millions of copies, been translated into 22 languages, and received numerous awards When he came to the school to deliver a presentation to the Lower School in the Old Library, we had the chance to interview him about his books, his writing routine, and how he believes his novels impact the lives of his readers, as well as how his martial arts play a big role in his books

His latest book, 'Lunar', was released in late 2023, and covered topics such as resilience and perseverance Chris Bradford told us about how martial arts taught him never to give up, and he transferred this to his books There are a lot of helpful sayings and morals mentioned in his books that can help young readers to learn the power of resilience and how to bounce back after difficult situations, like the Daruma Doll which was featured in one of his Young Samurai books ('The Way of the Warrior').

Keepreadingfortheauthor interview!

Chris Bradford's books may vary in length or genre, but all of them are fast-paced and action-packed, full of suspense and excitement If you are looking for a thrilling new read, the school library has many of the 'Young Samurai' books, as well as some in the 'Bodyguard' and 'Virtual Kombat' series Be sure to have a browse; you might even discover your new favourite genre!

ASectionoftheInterview:

Q: So, what is your favourite part of being an author?

A: Well, I'm Chris Bradford and I have written over fifty books now, from the 'Young Samurai' series which I'm well known for, to the 'Bodyguard' series, of which I have just completed book seven, and the books I'm talking about today are in my 'Virtual Kombat' game series But I have to admit, I hate writing Now, what I love is coming up with an idea That's the most exciting part if you get a really good idea. The next part that I like is the research. So, for the 'Bodyguard' series, I trained as a bodyguard For 'Young Samurai', I did martial arts Then the next part I really enjoy is putting together the proposal - it's all creative, it's really nice, and I really enjoy that. And getting a book deal is always the icing on the cake. But that's when the hard work truly begins So, I've got to write the plot, which I do enjoy, having done all the research, and I love writing the first chapter, and possibly the second and third, but if it's a full novel, like 'Bodyguard' or 'Young Samurai', then it becomes really hard work Every day, I've got to sit down, at eight a m in the morning, and be there until eight p m at night, pretty much every day until I get the book done. It's really hard work, but I love the part where I write the last chapter. I'm like ,"Yes, I'm free!" So, the middle bit is the hardest part

Q: What inspired you to start writing books?

A: So, I'm going to be really honest with you, I wanted to be a rock star. I was in a band for a number of years, I played guitar, sang, and I wrote songs I was really hoping to make it there, but looking back, I can see why we didn't But we did have some great times Then I got to write a book about songwriting, and that led me to come up with the idea for 'Young Samurai'. And I got a book deal for that, and I thought, I'll give it a year Then, over fifteen years later, I'm still writing books, and I'm really glad to be an author So I've been able to travel the world, I've been able to meet fans, I'm still creative and I'm still entertaining people, but just in a different way.

Q: As an author, in your books, you cover topics like resilience and self-discovery How do you think your books help the personal lives of your young readers?

A: Well, I'm glad you ' ve noticed that. My books, always the first level is entertainment, OK, enjoy the read It's a book I'd want to read, it's a book I hope young people want to read They're exciting, they're fast-paced But all my books tend to have a message in them It's really important. So in 'Young Samurai', the first book of the series, 'The Way of the Warrior', features a Daruma Doll And a Daruma Doll is a little doll that kind of wobbles on its base, if you push it down, it wobbles back up And one of the parts of it is a phrase called, " seven times down, eight times up " It's a Japanese phrase, meaning never give up And that's the kind of story, the thing to learn in the first book of the 'Young Samurai'. 'Gamer' is all about the most realistic fighting game in the world, but the kind of concept, what I'm trying to talk about is whether violence is good, as in, violence within a video game, and when that comes into the real world, what happens then? So it's really important to have a message for my readers. And things like 'Young Samurai' and 'Bodyguard', have really helped readers in their own lives. Because either they've got a bit of philosophy from 'Young Samurai', like the ' never give up ' philosophy, and they've taken that into their life and realised, just don't give up Or whether it's about 'Bodyguard', it's like the mirror to the 'Hunger Games', in that it's about kids protecting kids

And if they learn to protect their friends, then that's really really good over trying to kill the kids So, there's always a lesson, and lots of people email me and write about how they've changed their lives because of the books

Q: What role do you think martial arts play in your books? How does it help to get across the message that you want to send to your readers?

A: So, for me, martial arts is actually not about fighting It never has been It's all been about self-discipline, learning how to defend yourself, and learning about life In life, you don't just jump from white belt to black belt, it never happens. You have to go white belt, red belt, yellow belt, green belt, you ' ve got to do little steps to get yourself to where you want to be in life, and it's a really good life lesson to learn, and work hard, to work your way up to a black belt status I put that into my stories, as a philosophy of how you approach dealing with difficult situations, whether that is a violent situation or a confrontation or just about a challenge, and how to overcome that So, for me, martial arts is like the lifeblood of who I am And not all my books, you know 'Lunar' doesn't have martial arts particularly in it, but she does deal with challenges, and overcoming them It's that same philosophy that applies

Q: Are you inspired by any other authors, and, if so, which ones?

Ooh, um, lots, if we ' re talking about children's authors, I mean Eoin Colfer or Jonathan Stroud Jonathan Stroud writes at a really high level; I really like the way he writes and his humour If we ' re talking adult novels, then Stephen King is the kind of guy I aspire to, and the ability for him to write and create characters is amazing, and that's what I try to do with my books But I really make my books very fast-paced, so you don't want to put them down.

GEOGRAPHY SCHOOL TRIP 2024

By Amelie B and Sofia M

From the 12th to the 16th of February, 49 Fourth and Fifth Form students enjoyed an amazing Geography field trip to Iceland. We have recently looked at Iceland as a case study for tectonic hazards, so it was immensely helpful to see it in real life. It was certainly an unforgettable trip and we had so much fun!

MONDAY

After an early start, our flight went smoothly and we landed in Keflavik Airport, Iceland There we met our lovely guide, Martina, and our driver, Rocky, who took us to our first destination – Hvolsvollur Hotel. We had a quick turnaround and soon we were off to the local pool, which was heated using geothermal water (naturally hot water found under the ground), so we could all relax after a long day of travelling We then went back to our hotel and enjoyed a delicious meal of roast pork and potatoes, before trying (and failing) to get an early night for a busy day ahead

The view from the plane when we landed in Keflavik.

TUESDAY

First, we ate a filling breakfast of croissants and muffins, before walking through the snow to LAVA – the Iceland Volcano and Earthquake Centre, where we watched an intriguing video on Iceland’s volcano eruptions and explored the interactive museum Next, we went to see the beautiful waterfall Seljalandsfoss. Afterwards, we visited another waterfall, Skogafoss, which means forest waterfall and we enjoyed our packed lunch overlooking the stunning views of Skogafoss Our next destination was Solheimajokull, an outlet glacier branch of Myrdalsjokull, the fourth-largest glacier in Iceland

Walking up the glacier was an amazing experience, as we could see the layers of trapped ice and compressed snow in the glacier, and we even got to smash it with our ice axes! Our next stop was Reyinsfjara, a world-famous beach for its beautiful black sand and basalt columns. Finally, we visited the Lava Show, where we had the chance to see real lava produced from a nearby volcano. It was amazing to see, and our guide was so informative Before travelling to Hotel Dyrholaey (our hotel for two nights which is at the base of the famous Katla volcano!), we stopped off at a local supermarket where we were able to purchase some Icelandic souvenirs and wellneeded snacks Later that night we enjoyed a delicious three-course meal before getting to view the Northern Lights in person, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

WEDNESDAY

For breakfast, our hotel offered a vast array of optionscakes, fruits, pastries, bacon - and then we embarked on another eventful day. We stopped off at Eldhraun lava fields created by an eruption centuries ago to photograph the idyllic sunrise. We travelled onwards to Jokulsarlon, a glacier lagoon in Iceland, where we saw a retreating glacier and the sea at the same time. We even got to see seals lying on the lagoon ice! After enjoying our packed lunch, we went down to the diamond beach, where there were huge chunks of ice discarded on the beach from the glacier, which resemble diamonds, hence the name At the glacier, Skaftafellsjokull, we enjoyed photographing the scenery and ‘ice skating’ on the icy path with our crampons on Finally, we did some more shopping before returning to our hotel, tired but happy

Northern Lights

Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon

Reyinsfjara Beach

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

THURSDAY

We started the day with a filling buffet breakfast before our first stop for the day - the Hveragerdi Geothermal Centre, where we were given a guided tour of the hot springs used to heat homes and generate electricity for the local community. We even got to dip our hands in the naturally hot water, and we finally got to understand just how awful the springs smell! This is because the water contains a lot of sulphur, so it makes the whole place stink of rotten eggs. Despite this, we managed to wait long enough to see a geyser erupt right in front of us. We then went into the café to try boiled eggs and rye bread that had been cooked in the hot springs, which were incredibly delicious. After a quick shopping stop for sweets, we started to make our way to Gullfoss (golden waterfall), but we stopped along the way to meet some Icelandic horses. We were taught a lot of new things about the horses and how special they are When we finally got to the waterfall, we were impressed by the sight of it -a massive waterfall that led directly into another waterfall. We then went to a geyser field and saw the namesake of all geysers, Geysir, and watched its neighbour, Strokkur, erupt (the water got to 20m high!) Our final destination for the day was Þingvellir (parliament fields) the site of the original Icelandic parliament We had a quick snowball fight before we headed to the tectonic plate boundary, where we were allowed to slide down a massive mound of snow. We were told about some of the more gruesome things that happened there, including executions and drownings. Then we were off to our final hotel, Hotel 201, just outside of Reykjavik We were taken to a nearby pizza restaurant, where we filled up on delicious pizzas and appelsin (which is a drink surprisingly made from orange). After a bit of frantic packing, we managed to get a good night's sleep for our early start the next day

FRIDAY

On our final day, we headed to Perlan, a museum focused on Icelandic nature, glaciers, and volcanoes It is also the location of four hot water tanks used to supply Reykjavik While we were there, we managed to watch a volcano show, including amazing footage of some recent eruptions across the country, before we walked through a 100m long ice tunnel (which was a chilling -10oc!) After that we sat back, relaxed, and enjoyed a northern lights visual show, telling us the story of the Aurora Borealis and even what different civilisations thought they were. Perhaps the weirdest explanation was an ancient Chinese theory that they were a giant snake with a human head flying through the sky! Our next destination was FlyOver Iceland, a thrilling flight simulator that took you over some of the most iconic and beautiful landmarks of Iceland, including some that we had visited earlier in the trip We then had a bit of time to spend in the airport before we caught our flight back to Heathrow and, after waiting a little longer than we would have liked for our bags, reached school at about 9pm

We are so grateful to all the staff who helped to make this trip so amazing and enjoyable It was a fascinating experience that helped to bring our classroom learning to life, and we would highly recommend it for anyone studying Geography!

Geysir (Strokkur) Erupting

Gullfoss Waterfall

NEURODIVERSITY WEEK 2024

by Hugo J

Neurodiversity in 25 words:

I haven’t read the dictionary definition of neurodiversity, so instead I’m going to give you my (a dyspraxic’s) definition of neurodiversity, in 25 words...

‘ your brain works differently, which gives you the ability to see stuff in a completely different way to others - oh, and you get extra time’

... at least, I think that that is 25 words (and a dash), or maybe I just can’t count. Moving on...

How can neurodiversity hinder your learning?

Dyspraxia - this can affect your general organisation (keeping things tidy and remembering stuff), co-ordination (basically multitasking), processing and stamina (how long you can do something like writing for), and finally, the elephant in the room

Handwriting

Dyslexia - this can affect your reading, spelling, and writing, and has some similar features to dyspraxia, such as struggling with organisation

ADHD - this can affect keeping your attention and getting distracted easily. You may also feel hyperactive at times, or just generally.

There are so many others too, as we are all different If I had the whole magazine to myself I would still need more pages...

Dyslexia - the umbrella term for the general public’s inability to understand the concept of multi-dimensional freethinking.

NEURODIVERSITY WEEK 2024

What are the benefits of neurodiversity?

Neurodiverse people can be much more creative.

Neurodiverse people can be much more empathetic.

Neurodiverse people get extra perks in exams, such as extra time.

Neurodiversity makes you unique.

“Neurodiversity Week - it’s like your birthday but for a whole week... -Me, not too long ago.

What did we do this year for Neurodiversity Week?

Some students went to Reigate St Mary’s to talk to the young ones about neurodiversity in their assembly, and then answer their questions at the end.

Mrs Bardell-Roberts and the learning support team (including Mrs Sileo and Mrs Hogarth) created a ‘neurodiversity immersive experience’ in the Harrison Centre, showcasing for the non-neurodiverse some of the gadgets we get to use to help us - plus VR headsets...

A free pass from all homework for everyone for the whole week... I wish!

Beyond Neurodiversity week, let's not forget to celebrate and learn about neurodiversity it's like unlocking a whole new set of superpowers and perspectives that make our world way cooler! Embracing neurodiversity isn't just about being inclusive, it's about tapping into the unique brilliance that each and every one of us brings to the table.

By Neha K and Maysa N

In the midst of the global chaos caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, a curious phenomenon has quietly emerged within the legal realm: a subtle shift in the dynamics of medical negligence cases While the pandemic has brought about immeasurable suffering and challenges, it has also inadvertently catalysed changes that have reshaped the way medical malpractice is perceived and contested.

One unexpected consequence of the pandemic has been the heightened inspection of medical practices and healthcare systems worldwide As hospitals and healthcare facilities grappled with surges in patients and strained resources, instances of alleged medical negligence came under increased inquiry. From delayed diagnoses to inadequate care, the pandemic laid bare vulnerabilities within the healthcare infrastructure, providing ground for legal inquiries into potential malpractice.

Moreover, the pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine (the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients by means of telecommunications technology) and virtual healthcare services out of necessity. While these innovations were essential in ensuring continuity of care during lockdowns and periods of restricted movement, they also introduced new complexities to the realm of medical malpractice As patients interacted with healthcare providers through digital platforms, questions arose regarding the standard of care in virtual consultations and the liability of healthcare professionals in remote settings.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 crisis prompted unprecedented collaboration and information-sharing among medical professionals, researchers, and legal experts The collective effort to understand and combat the virus fostered an environment beneficial to identifying systemic issues and addressing gaps in patient care As a result, medical negligence cases have increasingly incorporated insights from versatile collaborations, drawing upon data, clinical guidelines, and expert testimonies to inform legal proceedings.

Beyond the immediate consequences, the pandemic has sparked broader conversations about healthcare resilience and accountability. The public's heightened awareness of healthcare disparities and systemic challenges has fuelled demands for transparency and accountability within the medical profession In response, regulatory bodies and healthcare institutions have implemented measures to enhance patient safety, improve clinical practices, and mitigate the risk of medical errors

However, amidst these shifts, it is essential to acknowledge the complexities inherent in navigating medical negligence cases, particularly in the context of a global health crisis The burden of proof, the intricacies of medical procedures, and the variability of legal liability present formidable challenges for plaintiffs and defendants alike. While the pandemic may have spotlighted instances of medical malpractice, it has also underscored the need for a refined and balanced approach to resolving disputes and upholding the principles of justice

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has exerted a profound impact on the landscape of medical negligence cases, reshaping perceptions, practices, and priorities within the legal and healthcare domains. As society grapples with the enduring consequences of the crisis, it is imperative to take notice of the lessons learned and strive towards a more equitable, accountable, and resilient healthcare system for all

SPACE UPDATE

BY CLARABEL M

The first Japanese lunar lander launched in September and arrived three months later on the Moon However, the spacecraft made an unusual touchdown, landing upside down after one of its two engines lost power and subsequently detached from the spaceship!

The Small Lander for Investigating the Moon (SLIM) is a spacecraft that is designed to explore the Moon’s origins and zero gravity environments; the information is crucial for advancing space technology in future missions SLIM will also study other planets and demonstrate how accurately small explorers can land!

SLIM was designed by the Japanese company JAXA, (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency)

SLIM made Japan the fifth country to achieve a safe landing on the Moon

Shortly after its landing, JAXA realised that the spacecraft was charging from its solar panels, which suggested it hadn’t landed properly and tipped over after touchdown During SLIM’s descent, one of its two engines failed and fell off the spaceship, meaning SLIM was relying on half of its expected engine power SLIM has taken some photos that have confirmed the engine’s position, but there are uncertainties as to whether it can move, as initially intended, around the moon

“The spacecraft made an unusual touchdown, landing upside down after one of its two engines lost power...”

NASA’s new missions involve exploring unknown particles in the air and space, as well as a survey of ultraviolet light across the sky, which NASA hopes will provide insight into how galaxies and stars are created The space telescope, UVEX (UltraViolet Explorer) aims to launch in 2027 as NASA’s next astrophysics explorer mission and will cost $300 million As well as performing a sky survey, UVEX will also be able to quickly locate explosions of merging stars by observing ultraviolet light areas The telescope will also study explosions and huge stars (supernovas) Since the launch of Explorer 1 in 1958, which discovered Earth’s radiation, the Explorers Program (which UVEX is part of) has launched 90 missions which have contributed significantly to our understanding of the universe and what is in it

SPACE UPDATE

Separately, NASA’s Artemis Programme (which aims to put people on the Moon as a step towards landing on Mars) continues NASA is currently looking for people to participate in a one-year-long Mars simulation Four people will live in a 1,700 square feet 3-D printed cabin at NASA’s space centre The cabin will simulate what it would be like to live in a spaceship on Mars for a year!

Finally, on the 15th of February, the lunar lander named Odysseus lifted off on a SpaceX rocket from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida Much like the Peregrine mission launched in December 2023, it is part of the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) programme which seeks financial support from American businesses The Odysseus mission aims to carry NASA science to the Moon, which will enable the measurement of various factors including navigation tracking, radio frequency, and radio waves Odysseus is due to land on the Moon on the 22nd of February on the South Pole, which is an area of the Moon containing many craters visible from Earth

“The Odysseus mission aims to carry NASA science to the moon...”

ut here's needed ng, the tal solar

eclipse. These are very rare and the next is not scheduled to happen on the 14th March 2025.

Many people aren’t aware that Lunar eclipses aren't just one-size-fits-all; they come in fours. First off, there's the 'almost' eclipse, when the moon almost grazes Earth's outer shadow, the penumbra. Then there's the Penumbral eclipse, where it dips into Earth's lighter shadow. After that, there’s the Partial eclipse, giving the moon a cool reddish-grey tint as it ventures into the Umbra. Finally, there's the Total eclipse, when the moon takes on a striking red hue as it fully immerses itself in the Umbra – pretty cool, right?

And then there's the annular solar eclipse – not visible in England, but still worth mentioning. Picture this: the moon ' s a bit farther from Earth than usual, so the umbra takes a little twist, creating something called the antumbra. And voila! You've got a ring around the moon during the eclipse, hence the fancy Latin word 'annulus' for ring. It's like a subtle nod from the cosmos.

THE ‘ALMOST’ ECLIPSE

There's also a lunar eclipse bonus: the 'almost' lunar eclipse. It's like a tease, with minimal changes in the moon ' s appearance as it almost brushes Earth's penumbra but doesn't quite make the full connection. Keep an eye out for these celestial happenings – they're worth staying up for, if you ' re into that sort of thing!

THANKS FOR READING!

OLYMICS AND PARALYMPICS 2024

Opinion Piece by Sophie C

SHOULD THEY MERGE?

This is a discussion that has sparked a lot of interest recently. There would indeed be potential benefits if this merger were to happen. However, this does mean that the negatives have to be considered as well. In this article, I discuss these pros and cons to broaden the understanding of this discussion and its effects.

We all know that the Olympics is the biggest, most famous global sporting event. The Paralympics, however, comes in second considering it is just as globally significant. This raises questions about whether Paralympic athletes get the attention they truly deserve. Do they become hidden by the ‘all-important’ Olympic games? These are the questions we should ask ourselves as we approach the next Olympic games.

I think it isn’t a bad idea to stretch out the event. After all, why invest all that money for only 2 weeks?

The 2020 Olympics in Tokyo was shockingly the first gender-balanced games in history. Since then, the games have provided more opportunities for female athletes to shine.

We could aim to do the same for Paralympians, giving them more time in the spotlight. Despite the Paralympics becoming more popular and developing significantly, they will continually struggle to get the same level of media coverage as the Olympics. Combining them would give paraathletes equal coverage and reduce perceptions of the Paralympics as a secondary event.

PROS:

Personally, I believe that ‘disabled’ athletes should be included in what is thought as ‘the main event’ . Why do differently-abled athletes need to be separated? It is the last discriminatory hurdle for the sporting event to clear.

The Olympics represents more than just speed, competition, and ability; it also values friendship, respect, and kindness. One of the Olympic committee’ s goals is to build a more inclusive and united world. Surely this could be achieved by including para-athletes in the world’ s biggest sporting event? Adding more athletes to the competition would increase the duration of it, providing extra cultural and economic benefits to the host country.

Lastly, combining the two competitions would allow the games to truly stand out from any other competition because of its progression in diversity and inclusivity. The world needs to realise that a disability is not a disadvantage.

CONS:

Hosting the Olympics is an immense project that demands years of preparation. The risk of hosting both games together being too much of an undertaking is unknown.

The Tokyo Olympics had 11,000 competitors, whereas the Paralympics had just under 4,500, meaning that combining the two would increase the number by 40%. Having to cater to more people, would mean an increase in the amount of infrastructure and add pressure on the city to be prepared for an event more popular than ever. Would this be too much to handle?

Secondly, some argue that it might be unfair to have para-athletes competing with able-bodied athletes in the same race. They could face disadvantages that impact their confidence and not fully showcase their talents Additionally, the combined event would limit the time available to share inspiring stories with the audience and build anticipation for events. Commentators would have to allocate less time to discuss each event, resulting in less coverage of some of the biggest highlights in the Paralympics.

LOVE FASHION?

Lastly, there is a different focus in each of the games. The Olympics inspire us through the athletes’ elite, abled bodies, only showing the best of the best competing. They show feats that many of us cannot believe are possible! The Paralympics however show us elite para sport with complete focus on the determination, resilience, and extra hard work it takes to reach that level. Having just one combined event could mean there would be less appreciation of the incredible para-athletes.

I think both events showcase different skills and entertain us in amazing ways. Should we unite the competitions, showing sport as one, or should we let them thrive on their own? Let the debate begin as we head into the next Olympic and Paralympic games!

HERMIT CRABS UPCYCLE OUR PLASTIC WASTE

HERMIT CRABS WEARING PLASTIC - A HEARTBREAKING REMINDER OF PLASTIC WASTE OR ANOTHER STEP IN HERMIT CRAB EVOLUTION?

Recently, a photographic study published by wildlife enthusiasts has shown that humble hermit crabs are now “wearing” our plastic rubbish Two-thirds of these crustaceans were captured with artificial shells, instead of their traditional periwinkle. Anything from plastic bottle tops to Barbie doll heads makes it heartbreaking to see how deeply our waste is affecting nature, to the point that animals are living inside of the rubbish humans throw out However, for hermit crabs, who, with their soft abdomens, need this hard armour to survive, is this simply another step in their evolution?

Naturally, hermit crabs forage for their homes: a moon snail shell, a whelk, or a periwinkle to seek refuge in. They have incredibly soft, unprotected, and vulnerable bodies that twist to fit into the shells of gastropods (the snail family). All other crabs have an external skeleton as body armour. However, since hermits have no exoskeleton, they use vacant shells as protection; they cannot survive without them This lifestyle suits the unique species well Once an old shell has been outgrown, they simply find a new upgrade!

Hermit crabs have been known to use their stalked eyes to investigate a shell’s size, weight, and even colour (who said a hermit crab could not have aesthetic tastes!). They may also give it a good feel with their long legs and antennae to check out its volume, weight, manoeuvrability, and condition To discover, store, and use this information is a well-developed skill which is very impressive for such a tiny creature It allows hermit crabs to find fitting homes that protect them from the outside world without crushing their delicate abdomens What’s more, they have an eye for a good, attractive pattern as well!

Unfortunately, there has been a shortage of shells recently due to shrinking gastropod populations (something caused by the collapse of ecosystems as the temperatures rise in both forests and marine habitats) This poses a large setback for our hermit crab friends: without their scavenged body armour, they have no protection from exposure Desperately, they need a new choice of housing With their high adaptability, hermit crabs have found a solution that fully embraces new upcycling trends! Increasingly, they are moving into our rubbish

This is another impressive step in the evolution of the species, showing that they are relentless survivors, even in an environment that is so negatively impacted by human activity

Despite being amazed at the hermit crabs’ innovation; scientists are very distressed by these images. No one is yet sure how the plastic will affect this species There are growing concerns that ingested microplastics may cause the decision-making skills of the crustaceans to become impaired, meaning that their ability to choose their shells will weaken considerably This could pose issues for hermit crabs, such as incorrectly assuming the weight of their housing and being crushed by their own home, or not choosing the correct size and shape and not fitting properly, meaning they are either dangerously exposed or swamped under an exceptionally large roof.

On the other hand, some scientists are suggesting that some smaller, weaker crabs benefit from the lightweight plastic shells compared to the heavier periwinkles Moreover, in the current situation, plastic rubbish is very available to the crabs, and finding and moving into new homes is much less dangerous and more convenient for them The choice of rubbish is also very wide It is estimated that over 171 trillion pieces of plastic waste are floating in our oceans, which will triple by 2040 if no action is taken.

Thousands of species are having to live with all our waste, polluting their habitats Every year, at least one million marine animals die from plastic pollution alone Fortunately, hermit crabs can adapt quickly and effectively to their surroundings, unlike some other animals. Despite these outrageous statistics, the BBC predicts that a long-awaited global treaty to end the scourge of plastic has the potential to be signed in 2024: there is still hope for our oceans But we need to make the moves to save it

Back home, there are many steps we can take:

Not buying single-use plastics, such as soft plastic water bottles or bags

Avoiding microplastics - this is a simple resolution that we can all strive for All you need is a reusable water bottle and a bag for life – easy!

Furthermore, there is a definite lesson to be learned from the hermit crabs. Our plastic pollution has become central to many marine lives Yet, it is the negatively affected species who are taking the steps of our favourite saying to right our wrongs: reduce, reuse, recycle

We need to take responsibility Thank you for reading

RESILIENCE IN NATURE: HOW SPECIES ARE ADAPTING TO SURVIVE

AN OPINION PIECE BY SOPHIE P

The global climate is undergoing unprecedented changes - largely driven by human activities that are leading to a rise in temperatures, extreme weather events, and disruptions in ecosystems However, some species are adapting to climate disasters and the broader impacts of climate change

Climate change is a colossal issue across the globe and is affecting every species in different ways Climate change is defined as a longterm shift in temperature and weather patterns. This shift can occur naturally, for example, through the sun ’ s activity, large volcanic eruptions, or unnatural changes caused by humans Since the industrial revolution of the 1800s, human activity has been the main driver of climate change due to burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas.

Climate change currently affects at least 10,967 species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species - increasing the likelihood of their extinction The Bramble Cay Melomys (Melomys rubicola) is the first mammal reported to have gone extinct as a direct result of climate change Previously found only on the island of Bramble Cay in the Great Barrier Reef, its habitat was destroyed by rising sea levels The consequences of climate change have resulted in intense drought, more extreme heat waves, water scarcity, severe fires, rising sea levels, melting of ice caps, flooding, severe storms, and declining biodiversity These can each be very significant issues for the varying species

ARE SPECIES ADAPTING TO CLIMATE DISASTERS AND THE BROADER IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE?

Despite these challenges, some species and ecosystems have learned how and have been able to adapt to the challenges of climate change. Some species have altered genetically whereas some have had to adapt their behaviour to survive.

Changes in genetics in plants and animals are one way of adapting to climate change Australian birds such as Mulga Parrots, Gang-gang Cockatoo, Red-Rumped Parrot, Australian King Parrot, and Crimson Rosell have all increased their beak sizes by between 4% and 10% since 1871 Among the many crucial functions a beak serves, it allows some birds to control their internal temperature without having to sweat. This is a massive advantage for species in hot, humid climates and birds trying to adapt to increased heat caused by climate change On top of this, the average beak size of the Galapagos Medium Ground Finch has changed over time in response to seed size which is, in turn, influenced by rainfall After drier summers, the survival of small-beaked birds is reduced and they are also less likely to survive hotter summers The effect of climate warming on plants also has surprising benefits to animals. For example, in Yukon in Canada increasingly warm springs and a drier environment have encouraged white spruce trees to produce more cones, giving the North American red squirrels more to eat In red squirrels the more cones females eat, the earlier they give birth This results in bigger and stronger offspring by the winter leading to greater survival rates – a very advantageous trait for the species

Warmer temperatures have also had an impact on brown bears in Alaska Warmer spring and summer temperatures have begun triggering earlier harvests for red elderberries As a result, the bears have stopped eating salmon in favour of these berries High in protein as well as carbohydrates, elderberries are a perfectly balanced bear food that adds to fat reserves even faster than salmon

Adaptations in animal and bird behaviour changes are another method that species are using to survive climate change For example, some bird species are adapting to urbanisation by nesting in buildings rather than trees. Some migratory species are finding more suitable habitats as climates change. For example, some bird species are flying further or to higher elevations which are more suitable Pink-footed Artic Geese have found new migration routes and breeding grounds with warming temperatures opening new habitats To their advantage, ice melting earlier in Northern Europe reveals fresh new grass which fuels the birds on their journey For salmon, migration is crucial to their survival as a species because the fish swim from the ocean and up freshwater streams to spawn.

In Alaska, one pink salmon population is migrating about two weeks earlier than it was 40 years ago which is incredible for avoiding extinction Local water temperature has increased by about one degree Celsius on average, an uptick that’s linked to climate change The researchers argue that earlier migrating fish are better fit to handle warmer waters, proven by salmon populations which have remained the same over the last few decades (this adaptation may have made them more resilient)

Overall, there is evidence of animals, birds, and plants adapting to the challenges of climate change and demonstrating resilience However, there is only so far that these changes and adaptations can go. Adaptations may be beneficial in the short to medium term; though, as the climate continues to change, animals cannot continually adapt At some point, the trade-off won't be beneficial anymore which could lead to population declines and even extinction. Human behaviour and sustained conservation across our planet are the keys to halting climate change and preserving the Earth for our future

“Everything that organisms do is simply buying time If you ’ re going up a mountain, there’s only so far you can go. And if you ’ re going poleward, there’s only so far you can go And when you ’ re adapting your physiology, guess what? There's an upper limit to how far that can go, too And if we don't reverse action, they are truly running out of options because we ’ re giving them no others.”-

Martha Muñoz (Assistant Professor at Yale)

Sometimes the climate crisis can feel overwhelming, especially for our generation. Is it too late? Can anything be done to combat the crisis? What is reassuring to consider is that there are inventions constantly being unveiled that are designed to make a difference. I hope by looking at these interventions, you will feel that even small changes can help.

The first is the Repreve coat. What's so amazing about a coat? Well, this coat is lifesaving. It is made of recycled bottles found in the ocean. The company has already recycled over 31 billion plastic bottles! This is great for the environment.

Next, a French company called Newwind started making wind trees where each leaf is a blade spinning and providing energy. This not only looks beautiful, but it is also a creative idea to produce renewable energy.

NEW INVENTIONS

WHICH COULD POTENTIALLY CHANGE THE WORLD!

By Shreya S

Another amazing invention is vegan leather. You might already know that leather is made primarily from cows, but I wonder if you knew that it can also be made from the skin of pigs, goats, sheep, crocodiles, snakes, sting rays, seals, emus, deer, fish, and kangaroos. I find this deeply upsetting. However, an organisation found a way to make leather using pineapple leaves. This is great as it saves animals, is vegan and cruelty-free and the material is more lightweight, flexible, and durable.

Next up is something called a ‘Z-straw’. At the moment, most plastic straws have been replaced with paper straws, but you may have noticed that they are very easy to damage and very soon cannot be used. This is where the Z-straw comes in; this invention is a mini foldable pocket straw that can be opened to be washed and closed again. This straw is kept in an antibacterial bag so is hygienic and sustainable!

These are only a few inventions and there are many more, ensuring our world still has the potential to act against climate change! I hope reading this provided you with some hope for even more future sustainable products.

Why Are We Experiencing Turbulent Weather?

Recently, you may have noticed intense winds, thrashing rain, and even the odd threat of snow In Surrey, we have had several storms some of which have triggered flash flooding and damaged homesthis has left people wondering why the unusual weather is happening in our county.

Well, this weather occurs here at home when the many storms or depressions (low-pressure areas) that start along the Gulf of Mexico/ Eastern US, travel straight to England over the Atlantic. Storm Henk started as a depression over the Atlantic and worsened over the unusually warm sea at this time (yes, global warming!) The Met Office forecast that the storm would dissipate as it hit England but unfortunately, the winds from America were blowing rather warm, which energised the storm and the impacts we saw locally when it hit.

by Zhe Yu K

The warmer air created pressure and the higher pressure crept up behind the storm, (see the pinkish area at the bottom-left corner in Figure 1) and eventually dominated the area. It pushed the low pressure away towards central Russia and meant that the high pressure started to dominate Western Europe: the winds started to push colder air from the north towards England and France, thus leaving us with cooler temperatures.

However, the high pressure also stopped the low pressure – i e storms – from reaching our area meaning, there was no temperature change as the rain was not released here. That means that the cold temperatures we have now will stay here for quite a long time until the jet streams are pushed away.

Looking at the impacts of where that pressure did hit, we can see ( fig. 2.3) that the high pressure started to stretch out to the mid-Atlantic region and continued strengthening, reaching air pressure of up to 1500mb in some places! As it stretched out to Iceland and Greenland, the pressure decreased locally, and the winds changed to pull the cold air directly from the Arctic

This then meant that the wind was now travelling back towards England. The winds increased speed and brought large spots of snow, pelting Scotland and Northern England. Further south, the pressure remained steady (shown in Figure 3 1 to Figure 3 3) as the winds started pulling together, causing a rush of cold air to blow over the UK. In Figure 3.2. you can see that there was some low pressure that built up, which in Figure 3.3 started intensifying. Because the two low pressure areas are close together, they pulled together and formed one big area of low pressure. Fig. 3.4. shows how the winds twisted around in a circular motion bringing colder air again This low pressure dominated the area for two weeks.

But hope is not lost, and we will escape this wintery wonderland to enter spring! There is some warm air moving and whilst it does have a little snow in it (which will hit France, but not England) you might start to notice a little increase in temperature to about 15 degrees Celsius. (see the bottom of the temperature chart in Figure. 3.4 – the yellowish colour means heat!)

For all the latest local weather news, please visit:

https://www metoffice gov uk/weather/forecast/gc pg7rs0t#?date=2024-03-19

https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2639506

SEXISMIN WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

In 1921, the FA banned women’s football teams from playing at affiliated grounds, stating that ‘the game of footballisquiteunsuitableforfemalesandshouldnotbe encouraged’. However, since then, the sport has come farandhasalsogrownextensively,yetthegapbetween women’s and men’s football continues to leave women underpaid and unsupported. Women's football not only suffersfromlimitedlive-streamingopportunitiesbutalso lacksequalpresentationandopportunitiescomparedto men 'sfootball.Manycurrentfemaleplayershavespoken up about the discrimination they faced as young girls playing football, and unfortunately, this trend persists today. From childhood, girls have often been told the notorious message that football is solely a ‘boy’s sport’, suggesting they are inherently inferior players. This is simplynotthecase,andtheworldneedstolearnit

Growthandsupport

As women’s football grows in popularity and quality, the supporters are becoming increasingly important for the players and for the games in general. In the past decade, the number of supporters and crowd attendance has significantly increased, with the recent record in a Women’s Super League game being 60,160 whenArsenaltookonManchesterUnitedattheEmirates Stadium for an exciting clash. Whilst this record was monumental and will change the course of women’s football in the future, it still leaves a huge gap between women’sandmen’sfootball.

The Premier League attendance record stands at 73,514 at Old Trafford. This difference is understandable – the women’s game, having not been around for as long, lacks comparable financial opportunities for success (consequently generating less media coverage and awareness). However, for women’s football to propel further forward, we need to bridge the disparity between men’s and women’s football, and by doing so we will help women globally whohaveacareerinsports.

Injuries

Womeninfootballcansufferfrommanyinjuries, the most significant in women’s football is undoubtedly tearing an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Women are three to six times more likely to pick up an ACL injury than men: research is currently underway to further understand the causes, potential prevention, and recovery. This injury can be career-ending, and even in best-case scenarios it continues to leave players recovering for at least 7 months. Important players suffering from an ACL injury right now or who have recently returned to the sport include Sam Kerr, Beth Mead, Leah Williamson, and Janine Beckie. A recent study showed that 195 elite players have suffered the injuryinthelastyear,withover30missingouton the World Cup due to a lengthy recovery. Conversely, it is reported that only 5 men suffered an ACL injury last season. Sarah Walsh, former Australian international player and head of women’s football Australia asserts ‘The entire high-performance environment is built around men-designedbymenformen."Thisbiasisnot only evident when looking at the injury statistics in comparison to those of men, but also in the disparity in available equipment and opportunitieswithinthesportforwomen.

Media

TheMediaplaysavitalroleinthepopularityand growth of women’s sports as, for the women’s game to grow, the public need to have the opportunity to watch women’s football live. Currently, merely 6% of football coverage is dedicated to the women’s game, which unsurprisingly leads to the popularity gap between men’s and women’s football. However, there is an argument that, even if the media coverage of women’s football was equal to that of men’s, more people would still tune in to watch men’s football. This is due to the huge support and following that men’s football has been able to accumulate over the years when women’sfootballhasbeenbanned.

PlayersandEarnings

As women’s football grows in support and popularity, so do players and tournaments. Big names in the women’s game currently include Lucy Bronze, Alessia Russo, Ella Toone, Alex Morgan, and Aitana Bonmati, who were all named in the FIFA World XI. Alex Morgan is said to be the leading women’s football player worldwide in 2023 by annual earnings, earning an estimated 7.1 million U.S. dollars a year. However, whilst this is undoubtedly a significant amount, it represents merely a fraction of what leading male footballers earn. Christiano Ronaldo is currently the highest-earning footballer in the world with an estimated $260 millionincomein2023.Furthermore,theaverage salary for footballers in the Women’s Super League is approximately £47,000. However, it is estimatedthattheaveragesalaryinthePremier Leagueisanastonishing£3million.

DiscriminationinWomen’sfootball

From a very young age, girls are bombarded with the message that ‘football is for boys’ and the belief that they are not as capable in the sport in comparison to boys. Around two-thirds of women in sports have faced prejudice and discrimination at some point during their career. In a recent interview, Leah Williamson – Arsenal and England defender –describedthediscriminationshefacedfromhermale peersasayoungchild.Sheastonishinglyrecalledthat ‘attheendofagame,aboywouldbecrying,andtheir parents would be saying ‘I can’t believe you let a girl beat you’’. Sadly, many female footballers have expressed their views on the bullying they faced as one of the few girls playing amongst many boys. However,aswemoveforwardtowardamoremodern and accepting society, the number of women participatinginthesporthasincreased,andthereare moreall-femalefootballteamsemerging

Finalthoughts

Overall,women’sfootballhasgrownimmenselyinthe last couple of decades, and there are high hopes to be held over what is to come, especially when it comes to increasing the number of supporters and new players. However, there remains a disparity between women’s and men’s football. Men’s football still dominates the media and generates the most income, and female players are still facing discrimination even today. From live media coverage to earnings and injuries, there are many steps to be taken to create equality between women and men in allsports.

WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THE WOMEN OF ‘THE PICTURE

OF DORIAN GRAY’...

“Every book has something to teach us.”

What can we learn about women from a book dominated by male characters?

Oscar Wilde’s depiction of women through the eyes of a presumed depraved homosexual, Dorian Gray, in his eponymously titled novel, is a fascinating insight into the chauvinism of a homosocial society at large in 19th century England Female characters are few and far between, perhaps due to the lexical and rhetorical nature of the plot; women were characterised as ‘the decorative sex ’ , and Wilde may not have seen it fit to include women in this kind of prose due to their perceived intellectual deficit Due to this, these female characters can seem irrelevant, but it is important to unpick them and examine what they can tell us

At the end of the 19th century, in Victorian Britain, a stirring of new ideas surrounding race, gender, and social class had begun The values of what a Western society should look like were being reexamined in this time of fin-de-siecle

This caused a moral panic for many men, who feared the loss of masculinity due to a radical change in attitudes towards women and other groups This is reflected in Wilde's portrayal of men in the novel, who felt an unnatural mixture of love and hate towards women- uplifting their submissive and delicate attributes but reproving their true natures as individuals with agency. Wilde here is perhaps poking fun at these stereotypical gentlemen through the use of hyperbolic descriptions of the women of this novel

The primary demonstration of Wilde’s depiction of women in this work is the tragic Sibyl Vane She acts as a foil- the naïve, silly girl to Dorian’s worldly, mature gentleman- or that’s how Dorian sees it

He initially pines for her, enthralled with a nameless romance with this beautiful actress Holding utmost admiration for her art, he is enthralled with her many forms- Juliet, Imogen, and Rosalind- she transfigures herself into all kinds of colourful fantasies seemingly for the pleasure of Dorian alone

Throughout Sibyl’s short but pivotal feature in the novel, she is mostly framed as the observed object Dorian proclaims, ‘I love Sibyl Vane I want to place her on a pedestal of gold and to see the world worship the woman who is mine ’ The childishly fast pace of the whirlwind romance further emphasises the fleeting and silly nature of Dorian's infatuation, perhaps only falling in love with a concept of her However, when she truly falls in love with Dorian and their relationship is removed from the realm of observer vs observed (swiftly pulling him out of the world of fantasy and embarrassing him in front of his gentleman friends) he becomes disgusted by the sight of her. Dorian’s character and the prolix but rapid style of narrative, symbolises a misogynistic upper class male, silencing, humiliating, and eradicating women from controlling their story He becomes disinterested when he no longer has a voyeuristic power over her, just as misogynistic men at the time became irascible if women did not comply with a strict power balance engineered by them, leading to a fatal end of their relationship for Sybil

All through this, the devilishly manipulative dandy, Lord Henry Wotton, sneers down his nose at Dorian's emotional ineptitude, regarding him in much the same pitiful disdain that Dorian does Sibyl

His cynical bitterness persists from his character’s introduction to his very last mention, questioning his “mocking laugh”. It is a common assumption that Wilde creates Henry Wotton as a reflection of himself, personally lambasting society’s attitudes towards women and stunted emotional aptitude However, I disagree with this to some extent Wilde certainly expresses some of his personal views through Wotton’s criticism of Dorian's idiocy, but Wotton’s character is immensely flawed with narcissistic tendencies and an immense desire for power This perhaps reflects how men of the time (even the powerful, intelligent, and hilariously witty) had a nurtured inability to behave in a welladjusted way. Here Wilde perhaps reveals his true opinions on a homosocial society, indicating that it only results in either maladjusted misogynists or aristocratic narcissists

There is much to learn from how women are depicted in this novel; primarily they indicate how there was a clear issue with how society was in the late 19th century due to a repressive culture Not only repressive of women but also repressive of male emotional competence Men were raised to fulfil the standards of the perfect ‘Victorian Gentleman’ and trained to see women as much less than intelligent rivals The novel portrays this fascinatingly, allowing a gaping lack of female characters in comparison to male ones to speak for itself This is undoubtedly, the pitfall of the culture at the time, demonstrating how much we can learn from ‘reading between the lines’

Should the Elgin Marbles be Returned?

B Y A L E X C

They were bought in 1832 for £35,000 and have remained on display in the British Museum ever since Despite the declaration that the acquisition was legal on the ground of preserving the artifacts, Greece’s first formal request to have them returned came in 1983, to which the British Library stated ‘The Trustees will consider any loan request for any part of the collection (subject to all our normal loan conditions)’. As of yet, successive Greek Governments have ‘refused to acknowledge the Trustees' title to the Parthenon Sculptures’

An argument arises when looking at the reasons for the acquisition. The museum maintains it was due to a want for preservation. The Parthenon was damaged in an explosion in 1687 after a Venetian mortar struck the monument, which destroyed the roof but left the pediments. An antiquarian wrote, ‘It is to be regretted that so much admirable sculpture as is still extant about this fabric should be all likely to perish from ignorant contempt,’ - Richard Chandler, 1770 in support of the West taking the sculptures After Elgin’s acquisition, it emerged in 1939 that the sculptures had been damaged with harsh cleaning (Helen Smith 1999) until they ‘not only destroyed the sculptures' historic surfaces but deformed them to a shocking degree’ (Elisavet Papazoe 1999).

In 1801, Lord Elgin (British Ambassador of the Ottoman Empire) successfully petitioned authorities to allow him to remove around half of the remaining sculptures from the Parthenon, which were later deemed the ‘Elgin Marbles’. In 1816 his actions were investigated by a Parliamentary Select Committee and found ‘entirely legal’ (British Museum).

Debates over their safety increased exponentially over the following century: in 1940 when the galleries were hit during a bombing in London (despite the Marbles being relocated to safety); in 2018, when a leak in the roof of the Greek galleries was spotted, and in 2021 after heavy rainfall caused water to build on the floor of the Greek galleries All of these incidents perhaps undermine the original excuse for preservation, however, the initial exposed conditions on the Acropolis likely would have caused far more destruction or looting than the regular maintenance shown to them in the museums.

It is not the first time that the British Museum has acquired items from other countries – their collections are made from over 212 countries (source: Al Jazeera) The return of the Elgin Marbles could potentially set a precedent for many of the over 8 million items in the museum to be returned. The oldest item is the Olduvai stone chopping tool, which is some 1.8 million years old, and found in an early campsite in Tanzania.

The 16th Century Benin Bronzes, taken from present-day Nigeria, are just one of the millions of items that could reasonably be requested back if the Elgin Marbles are returned The British Museum Act 1963 legally prevents the return of the Marbles, so it is unlikely that this could legally ever happen, but it doesn’t mean the museum is not morally obligated to do so

In a University of Glasgow article, they argue that ‘the British Museum is one of Britain’s most significant contributions to our understanding of ancient Greek history’ The British Museum provides close-up access to artifacts that Britons and Tourists otherwise would never have seen London welcomes 30 million tourists each year, as opposed to Athens's 6 4 million (Source: Statista) Therefore, if one can separate the place of origin from the art and focus on the need for universal appreciation, the British Museum is clearly a better option. Ben Lewis argues that ‘Art does not have to remain ‘in its context’ to be understood. Art is an international language, and the history of art has been driven by the movement of objects and images from one culture to another’. If art must always be placed in the context of where it was found, it is unlikely that true exploration of different cultures can take place. When travelling to the British Museum, visitors don’t often go in with the clear goal of learning about a very certain period of history, rather they are confronted with hundreds of artifacts from hundreds of cultures; some are memorable, and some are not Without this opportunity, how is anyone meant to truly experience culture? Of course, this can be argued both ways Not everyone lives in England, and not everyone can afford to travel here, so those wanting to see an artifact from their own country of origin may feel slighted

Jonathan Jones argued that ‘To say Greek classical art ‘belongs’ to modern Greece is to demean the universal legacy of ancient Athens’ When the Elgin Marbles were constructed, Athens was a city-state, universally different from the modern, united Greece we see today. Over the centuries, Athens has been invaded and ruled over by the Ottomans, Latins, Burgundians, and Florentines, to name a few Under the suggestion that modern-day versions of civilisations are entitled to ancient artwork, surely the Venetians, Turks, and Scandinavians also have a claim to the Marbles? The cultural ownership of artwork is clearly a controversial topic, and some people certainly feel more connection to their cultural heritage than others.

Despite all my research on this topic, I am still rather undecided on my stance Whilst I think Greece has a completely legitimate claim to the Marbles, and they now have the capacity to care for them effectively, I also think that art is a universal language that should be enjoyed by members of all cultures The British Museum is an excellent place for exposure, but there are many others around the world. I think art should be traded and exhibited evenly across different global museums, so whilst Britain should not be entitled to them forever, neither should Greece

IS SPACE EXPLORATION ETHICAL?

BY SAI M

As of right now, the ethicality of space exploration is a topic of hot debate Whilst were often shown the glory and galactic beauty of the cosmos, there are, undeniably, ethical disadvantages to further discovery

First and foremost, space exploration is commonly known to have negative environmental impacts Each time a rocket launches, it uses thousands of litres of fuel to exit the earths thrust As a result, levels of ozone layer depletion are hugely increased, thus rapidly escalating climate change Did you know that the hourly emissions from sustaining human life in space amount to over 1500kg of CO2? This is 2000 times greater than the emission rate of each person on Earth Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, the journey to the Moon itself has the potential to be extremely perilousas of 2024, there have been 19 astronaut fatalities; all too often the journey is a oneway trip Finally, and most topically, launching a rocket into space requires investments worth hundreds of billions of dollars, factoring in multiple costs such as the manufacturing of the rocket, training of astronauts (for whom salaries, ranging from $80,000 to $105,000, must be provided) Given the rising cost of living all over the world, is this really the right way forward?

On the contrary, over the last few decades, we have undoubtedly witnessed the many benefits of space exploration In our fastpaced modern world, new technologies and opportunities are emerging everywhere, along with new scientific breakthroughs often brought about through the study of space We need to utilise these resources sufficiently; forging innovation in this way is quintessential If it weren’t for the exploration of space, we wouldn’t have rudimentary facilities such as water purification systems, artificial legs or home insulation

“The journey to the moon itself has the potential to be extremely perilous.”

Additionally, space exploration has resulted in agreements established between many nations, strengthening the bonds between major world powers and promoting international cooperation It could even be argued that the launching of mass space projects has the potential to counteract the steadily rising unemployment rates around the world – offering a massive bonus to families in poverty and those struggling to find work

To come to a decisive conclusion, space exploration's ethical advantages outweigh the negative ones Innovation, after all, should remain a priority of our ever-curious modern world

ONE FORMULA

HowhasF1 changed overthelast 75years?

ByOscarS

Beginning in 1950, the FIA Formula 1 championship consisted of incredibly dangerous cars, including 15 fatal accidents in the first 10 years, and 14 in the following 10 A golden era for F1, the 1960s saw the rise of many British teams, and Jack Brabham winning the 1960 championship. Jackie Stewart finished off the decade with an F1 world title, the first of many for him. The 1970s witnessed many incredible competitions, including James Hunt’s winning in 1976, by just one point, and Jody Scheckter winning his first (and only) F1 title.

However, this decade also demonstrated some of the possible risks of F1, including Niki Lauda, who crashed at the Nürburgring track, causing his car to burst into flames Lauda, who had sustained injuries to his lungs, was rescued from the car by two other incredibly brave drivers

Another 2 incredibly close races were witnessed in the 1980s, with Niki Lauda winning the championship by just one-half of a point, which remains to this day the closest championship, and also Alain Prost winning the 1986 championship by a single point Ayrton Senna won the first championship of the next decade in 1990, and Mika Hakkinen won the final season of the decade in 1999

1 FORMULA

The90s...

However, the 1990s saw both Ronald Ratzenberger and Aryton Senna tragically die in fatal accidents at the San Marino Grand Prix in 1994. In the 2000s, another close fight for the title was witnessed, with Kimi Raikkonen beating Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso in the 2007 championship and winning by one point This was seen again in the final lap of the 2008 championship, between Lewis Hamilton and Timo Glock, with Hamilton winning by just one point Jenson Button won the 2009 season, which marked the final season of the decade.

2000s...

The 2010s saw the beginning of the infamous rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg Hamilton won the 2014 championship, and Rosberg responded by winning the title in 2016. Hamilton won the final title of the decade in 2019. Despite being only 4 years into the 2020s, there have already been significant developments Lewis Hamiliton won the first championship of the decade in the 2020s, despite the complications caused by Covid-19 In an extremely controversial race, Max Verstappen overtook Lewis Hamilton on the final lap of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2021, marking a new era The most recent championship was won by Max Verstappen in 2023.

ThefutureofF1

I am excited for the future of F1. I picture electric cars silently zooming around tracks with futuristic designs, accompanied by the faint hum of their engines. Tracks may feature wilder layouts, possibly even loops. With advancing technology, we might witness AI-driven cars competing alongside humans. It's shaping up to be quite an intriguing journey for F1.

DOES TECHNOLOGY ACTUALLY MAKE OUR LIVES EASIER?

Is technology a help or a hinderance?

Kavya P investigates.

It is no secret that technology is everywhere! Statistically, we use at least 2-3 types of technology in our daily lives Over the past 150 years, we’ve gone from discovering the light bulb to designing flying cars! Technology has become so important for us - but does it actually help?

The downsides

Technology has stopped us from going outside and exercising properly Children spend 56% more time on technology than they do playing outside Instead of playing outside and talking to friends, we chat online and play video games People will get too addicted to their devices and miss out on the real point of living The more we invent, the more damage it does to the world There could potentially become a point where we are so stuck on screens, that we don’t go outside at all!

Technology gone wrong!

Everyone talks about the wonderful, working things that have been invented, but how often do you hear about everything that goes wrong? Lots of the failures in technology are never broadcast to the world How many of you have heard about segways? You may be surprised to hear that the segway was a massive failure! Many people were amazed at this new way of travel, however, stories leaked of one going out of control, swerving under a bus! Another drove off a cliff! These examples are only the tip of the iceberg of technological failures that have happened in the past

The wonders of technology:

There have been many fantastic breakthroughs in the world and that includes technology We have invented lots of cool and spectacular items. We went from travelling in horse carriages to driving in electric cars! Technology has gone off the charts these past years and fundamentally changed humanity's way of life

There is no doubt that in the 21st century, technology plays a crucial role in our lives, offering numerous benefits From instant communication to easy access to vast information, it simplifies various aspects of our daily routines Innovations like virtual reality and artificial intelligence enhance learning experiences. Not only this but in fields such as healthcare and environmental conservation, technology helps with advancements and solutions to tricky challenges

Help or hinderance?

Overall, despite the failures, tech is getting better day by day I think that it does help us do many tasks faster and more efficiently - it serves as a vital tool for progress, enabling individuals and societies to navigate an interconnected world more efficiently Ultimately, therefore, the pros of technology significantly outweigh the narrowing cons

MANIPULATION

Has marketing conned you? - by Tyra L

Marketing is everywhere. It seems to find a way to delve into every aspect of our lives, especially now that technology has become such a predominant aspect of our everyday routine. Marketing has become such a complex and smart way to lure people into buying new items, even if they didn’t even know they needed them in the first place. But how do they successfully do this? Some of the ways in which marketing successfully hooks our interest are obvious, whereas others are more hidden but still used everywhere.

The Baader Meinhof

Phenomenon: Seeing Double

Imagine this: You have just discovered a new car model, and look at a few photos, maybe even read an article about it, and suddenly you start seeing it everywhere. You notice commercials, websites, and even the roads have this car. It’s all around you, but why? This trick first derived from Terry Mullen, a man who mentioned the name of the German terrorist group, Baader-Meinhof once and then kept noticing their name everywhere. This effect is used in marketing to constantly remind ourselves of the thing we saw, and we subconsciously become more drawn to that item.

This subconscious decision is called selective attention where your subconscious decides something is important, which makes you more receptive to noticing it. However, the Baader Meinhof Phenomenon also affects your confirmation bias, where you start to believe that something is more frequently shown, even if the frequency of it hasn’t increased Therefore, even if marketing doesn’t take the step to constantly remind you of their product, your subconscious can deem it as important, making you notice it more. This is why websites, shops, and commercials make sure their products are noticeable and different, making them memorable and intriguing. This effect can also make the product seem more popular than it actually is, adding to the desirability of the item; this is because many people want what everyone has, which is called mimetic desire. Therefore, the Baader Meinhof phenomenon is something that advertising professionals want to trigger in potential customers, to constantly remind them of the product they have to offer.

Anchoring: They Have You Hooked!

Now I guarantee everyone has been in a situation where you desperately want an item, but it’s much too expensive. However, sometime later, the big red sign of ‘SALE’ is plastered on the exact product: what a deal! Now even though this sale is most definitely true, this is another effect that companies use to draw in customers and convince them they should buy this product, due to its discounted price. For instance, if you see a bag that costs £300 and the exact same one for £100, you are prone to see the second bag as being cheap, even if the second cost is still high. This effect is used in almost every sale, and some shops even go to the extent of placing two identical items together, having one with a discounted tag, making it seem like a deal that cannot be missed. This effect has grown in popularity as people are drawn to cheaper prices naturally but are more intrigued by items that are on sale, in which many people think they can hypothetically save money.

Scarcity: Only One Left!

‘Low stock’, ‘only two left’, ‘twenty people already have this item in their bag’, ‘be quick’! All these phrases are nothing but a technique to suggest that this item is in demand and their supply is running out fast. However, the majority of the time this is just meant to add a sense of urgency, making us act faster when buying, and impacting our purchasing decisions. This is used in almost every marketing strategy from concert tickets to clothes shopping: the thought of losing what we could have purchased is enough to shift our buying decision. The basis of this technique goes back to the simple formula of supply and demand and the rarer the opportunity, the more valuable it seems to be.

However, companies also use this when they truthfully only have a limited supply left; this technique allows them to minimize the amount of time it takes for the product to be purchased, so then they can quickly restock.

Reciprocity Skill: Give and Take

What if I offered you something for free, with no charge; would you take it? I can imagine that many people would. Who wouldn’t want a free item? Now even though this seems like a very unusual situation, this happens all around us where companies try to draw us closer to their items, to eventually gain loyalty or purchases at the end. Think about it: anytime you have looked at a blogger’s page, content marketing is used to utilize the reciprocity principle; blogging essentially gives away value for free in the form of blog posts. Therefore, following this principle, many people feel obligated to return a favour if something is given for free, even if it is a post. Content marketing receives three times more leads than paid search advertising as it feels much more personal and trustworthy. If we feel safer and somewhat closer to the person we are returning this favour to, we are more inclined to help or purchase from them. Another example of this is free trials: you are given a free period to experience their platform and in turn, at the end of this trial you can purchase this. This free trial allows marketing to show off their valuable product and motivate customers to give them something in return, a.k.a. buy their product after the free trial.

MANIPULATION

Colour: How Marketing Uses Colour to Manipulate

Now if I were going to ask you to list at least ten different fast-food chains, I can almost guarantee that they would all have something in common (apart from the fact that they sell fast food of course). Let’s take McDonalds, KFC, Pizza Hut, Burger King, and Dominos which are all global companies that contain a similar aspect: they all incorporate the colour red. Many other famous fast-food chains will also have the colour red somewhere in their logo, as red has been found to be the most stimulating colour for our appetites. This is related to our natural biological response to red which is known to increase heart rate and blood pressure, which in turn stimulates the body’s metabolism. Many other colours are also used for specific purposes such as the colour orange, which is an exciting, attention-grabbing colour also used for the logo of Nickelodeon. By using this colour, they were able to grab attention while creating a natural reaction of excitement especially in kids.

However, colours can also repress urges such as hunger. For instance, the colour purple is not used in cuisine as this colour acts as an appetite suppressant, making food seem more unappealing. Researchers have found that up to 90% of our initial impressions come from colour, as emotions and feelings are naturally attached to them and how our body responds to them. Therefore, colour is not only used in food brands but also in logos everywhere. For example, companies who want to bring a sense of strength, trust, and security use the colour blue, as seen in the logos of Facebook and Twitter who pride themselves in this.

In conclusion, psychology is constantly used in marketing to veer our mindsets into either buying items, remembering them, or associating certain colours with what they offer. This marketing manipulation plays with our subconscious and happens online or in person, most of the time without us even realising. However, these skills above are not the only ones used as marketing is constantly growing which means innovative minds are continually coming up with new ways to con our subconscious minds.

Elizabeth Cochran - better known as ‘Nellie Bly’, the pen name splashed across headlines in the late 1800s - was an American reporter who defied the sexist culture that surrounded journalism during her lifetime

Nellie’s life began on May 5th, 1864. She was the third child of Michael and Mary Jane Cochran, and she grew up in an area of Pennsylvania that is now a suburb of Pittsburgh This is where she wrote her first article, a piece about women’s factory conditions in her local area

Prompted by a threat of arrest in 1887 (following an article she wrote criticising the Mexican government's unfair imprisonment of Mexican journalists), she left her life in Pittsburgh behind. 23-year-old Nellie stepped off a train into New York, confident that one of the city's many newspapers would hire her. However, a young woman seeking her fortune at this time was frequently underestimated and underappreciated, and female journalists were still comparatively rare Gatekeepers who were practised at turning away aspiring reporters such as Nellie, were unimpressed by her portfolio

Patience and money running out, Nellie resorted to writing freelance articles for her old newspaper, the Pittsburgh Dispatch. Nellie despised these articles, which were usually about fashion or gossip, things that Nellie had no interest in writing about

Nellie saw her opportunity and grasped it when given the chance to propose an article to the New York World’s editor-in-chief She proposed to Colonel John Cockerill that she would get a first-hand scoop on the filthy, overcrowded conditions that immigrants had to endure. Cockerill recognized Nellie’s talent, but he disliked her idea Despite this, he called her back and proposed quite a different, more local, idea Would Miss Nellie Bly be able to fake insanity and get herself admitted into the insane asylum on Blackwell’s Island, to report on the conditions there?

Nellie was faced with a very important decision Did she accept, but put herself at risk? What would she do instead? Submit to a life of writing society gossip?

Nellie accepted the offer She asked Cockerill only one thing: how he would get her out “I don’t know Only get in,” was his chilling reply

Nellie set about on her mission She had spent no time around the mentally ill and did not know how the afflicted behaved Her only instruction from Cockerill was to use the name Nellie Brown so she could be located once she was in the asylum Exactly how she got admitted was up to her Staring into the mirror with wide, unblinking eyes (she had heard this was a symptom of insanity) she reported that ‘the sight was not reassuring.’ Nellie also read ghost stories in flickering gaslight to maintain a convincingly unsettled state of mind

Nellie made her way to a boarding house, the Temporary Home for Females, where she began to plant seeds of her supposed mental illness She posed with a dreamy, unseeing look in her eyes, strived to avoid conversation and at night feigned fear to go to sleep It wasn’t long before claims of ‘Crazy!’ were thrown around. In the morning, she began to rant about missing belongings. The police were involved, and when nobody could identify her, one officer suggested that they ‘send her to the Island’ Despite protests from kind passers-by (‘She is a lady!’) Nellie ended up succeeding and being declared crazy Her departure for the Island looming, doubts began to creep in What if Cockerill couldn’t get her out?

Upon Nellie’s arrival on Blackwell’s Island, she asked a man where she was. He replied, “Blackwell’s Island, an insane place you’ll never get out of.”

On her first day in the asylum, Nellie met many women who seemed undoubtedly sane Many were sentenced to the asylum for unbelievable reasons, one because they argued with coworkers, another because she spoke only German and nobody could understand her pleading her innocence, and another because her husband had put her in the asylum due to her fondness for ‘other men than himself.’ Listening to these women who had been so carelessly diagnosed as ‘crazy’ pained Nellie, and she resolved to try and help each and every one in any way that she could

Nellie’s doctors spent more time flirting with the nurses than asking her questions After being told ‘I am not sick and do not want to stay here No one has a right to shut me up in this manner’, they took no notice Guards occasionally pushed or slapped the shivering, starving women. The food was inedible, but Nellie was told she would starve if she didn't force it down, by a companion Deprived of knives and forks for safety, the women used fingers and teeth to eat their food Patients got one bath a week, one after the other in the same water The inmates did all the chores for the asylum, such as tending lawns or sewing clothes

Nellie lay awake at night worrying about fire, since each door was locked separately, and she doubted the nurses would take the time to unlock each one Would they simply burn to death? When she explained the concern to a doctor, he shrugged it off, saying ‘What can I do?’

Nellie had heard stories of past inmates who had died from beatings or from the icy water of the baths Their deaths had been disregarded by doctors as convulsions She heard tales of cruelty towards the old or the blind and of cackling nurses reveling in cruelty The more she heard, the more she feared

As days in the asylum passed, Nellie began to realize with mounting horror that without help from Cockerill, she would never escape. She had told doctors countless times that she was sane, but she was ignored Cockerill had suggested she would only need a week on the Island, but Nellie had been in the asylum for seven days and hadn’t heard a thing Panic set in and Nellie wondered if rescue would ever come

Three despair-filled days later, an attorney was finally sent to save the brave Nellie Bly Relief set in as Nellie realised help had arrived, but she couldn’t help the gutwrenching guilt she felt at leaving behind the women whom she had spent the last ten days living and suffering with. She regretted that she couldn't have brought the women across the river with her

Nellie’s two-part series debuted in the New York World newspaper on October 9th, 1887 In two weeks, she was a sensation, loved by the public People couldn’t get enough of her tales of daring, which revealed the dark secrets that had been kept behind the asylum’s closed doors for so long

After the release of Nellie’s article, the asylum was inspected However, they had been tipped off, and the entire place was cleaned, the staff held the pretense of kindness, and luxurious food was artfully displayed around the kitchen. The existence of one Mexican resident mentioned in Nellie’s article was denied altogether

It took seven years for the asylum on Blackwell’s Island to finally close its doors, although it is undeniable that Nellie’s bravery played an instrumental role in its closure

Nellie’s hard work and daring earned her a full-time job and byline at the New York World (since most articles were anonymous at this time this was a huge achievement) Nellie’s name was wormed into every headline possible to attract readers She had begun a craze in investigative journalism and performed many more stunts exposing inequalities

However, fame couldn’t last forever Numbers of readers began to dip Great minds were summoned to produce an idea that would captivate the diminishing audience

On November 11th, 1889, it was proposed that Nellie Bly would attempt to circle the globe faster than the fictional character Phileas Fogg from the popular novel ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’. Nellie packed a single bag, filled with only the necessities for travel The newspaper put all their energy behind the voyage, but it couldn’t be denied that there were still many risks: storms, icebergs, or mechanical breakdowns

On November 14th, 1889, at 9:40 am, Nellie set sail around the world. As her boat set off into the sea, she watched friends, family, and adoring fans shrink into the distance When would she see them again? Meanwhile, Cosmopolitan magazine announced that they too were sending a young female reporter around the world, on a mission to beat Nellie Since Nellie was already at sea at this point, she had no way of knowing that time wasn’t the only thing she was racing against.

Nellie managed to circle the globe in 72 days, breaking the record for the fastest time travelling around the world The reporter from Cosmopolitan magazine finished her trip in 76 days, taking 4 days longer than Nellie. As expected, the trip caused a spike in Nellie’s readers. People were clamouring to find out more about the brave young women who had exceeded all expectations

I think we have a lot to learn from Nellie Bly, a young woman who travelled to New York alone, determined to find herself in a career during a time dominated by men. Nellie teaches us to never take no for an answer, and her self-belief is inspiring Nellie not only succeeded in finding a job in journalism, but she reinvented what the word itself meant She empowered generations of women just like her Nellie wrote: ‘I always have a comfortable feeling that nothing is impossible’ I think this sentence sums up Nellie’s approach to life and the way she wouldn’t ever let anybody else tell her what she couldn’t do. Even today, many parallels can be drawn from Nellie’s story, so if you are doubting yourself, remember that, in the words of Nellie Bly, ‘If you want to do it, you can do it’

MEAN GIRLS THE MUSICAL MAKING FETCH HAPPEN!

A REVIEW

By Annie G and Ruth C

The cult classic that everyone knows and loves - ‘Mean Girls’ - has struck again with a soundtrack no one knew they needed in their lives. ‘Mean Girls The Musical’ has wiped the box offices with its unmatched oneliners and unprecedented twists, destined to bring back noughties nostalgia Here is our take on the new phenomenon - keep reading to be transported into a world of eyeshadow, AP calculus and spring flings while we convince you to save up for that cinema ticket now

‘Mean Girls The Musical’ had high expectations when it came to casting Finding a replacement for the most iconic casting in the previous film was going to be a challenge - but they did not disappoint! Renee Rapp’s renowned performance as Regina George had viewers in awe alongside Angourie Rice as the lead (Cady Heron) and the awesome Tina Fey as the Math’s teacher. The film also included some cameos from TikTok stars such as Chris Olsen, the Merrell twins, and other stars on the platform –which increased the emphasised modern take on the classic movie. Arguably, the most iconic appearance was that of Lindsay Lohan, who returned as the adjudicator in the Mathletes competition The return of such an admirable performance was just what the film needed: a nostalgic tribute to its predecessor

Opposingly to the original story, ‘Mean Girls The Musical’ portrays Regina George as a multidimensional and multi-faceted character, allowing the audience to witness more complex motivations behind her actions, instead of presenting her simply as a superficial, popular girl, as done in the original. The film places more emphasis on the importance of kindness, as highlighted through the inclusion of the iconic scene where the students apologise to each other, and ‘trust-fall’ into the audience. This resonates with the audience, as characters (such as Regina) are no longer villainised and instead are just the victim of a harsh social system in high school Importantly for its intended audience, it is vital to gain the understanding that the toxicity of the school should not be blamed on one person – thus we find ourselves sympathising with Regina as the rest of the Plastics turn against her (who knew!). It could be argued that the wider message of the film is to empower women, specifically high school girls, and enable them to come together instead of fighting each other under the pressure of a social hierarchy in school.

Whilst the original ‘Mean Girls’ film was transformed into an extremely successful musical in 2017, many critics were sceptical as to whether the film adaptation would be a success, or whether it would be a typical remake, entirely lacking creativity, and simply leeching on the popularity of the original However, ‘Mean Girls The Musical’ completely squashes this assumption, creating a film with songs that are seamlessly implemented, and giving an enhanced storyline, providing an entirely new dimension to the plot With incredible vocals from that of Renee Rapp (an already world-famous artist), Jaquel Spivey and Avantika Vandanapu, the range of talent within the film is remarkable. However, one song that really stood out was ‘I’d Rather Be Me’ by Auli’i Cravalho

“On

we wear pink.”

The combination of Cravalho’s incredible ability, and lyrics that were extremely relevant to Janice’s character provided the audience with a thought-provoking, but also enjoyable song, which has been praised by nearly everyone who has seen the film. Another incredible song was ‘Not My Fault’ by Renee Rapp and Meghan Thee Stallion. Whilst being an apt reference to the iconic line from the original “It's not my fault you’re like in love with me or something!” the song has been loved by both people who have watched the film, but also by fans of the artists. By following a similar style to the songs within the iconic ‘High School Musical’, ‘Mean Girls The Musical’ was able to capture the upbeat and enjoyable style of the classic film, providing songs that are extremely beneficial to the plotline, but that also will leave you desperate to play the entire soundtrack on repeat as soon as you leave the cinema!

Despite the film’s undoubtable greatness, the question still remains about whether it is better than the original Walking into the cinema we confidently believed that it would be just another remake –nothing in comparison to its predecessor However, the film certainly exceeded our expectations, entirely contradicting our initial perceptions and potentially even surpassing the original. One aspect of the film that supports this notion is the fact that the essence of the musical was predominantly clearer – allowing it to be more persuasive of the idea that kindness should be prioritised in high schools, especially between girls. Whilst the message was undoubtedly encouraged within the original, the musical made a more compelling case By demonstrating that human nature is extremely complex, the film emphasised the idea that despite mean actions, people almost always have the right intentions, even if these are shrouded by the intense setting of high school The film provided not only a reason to be kind but also demonstrated the karma-like effects of being mean to others Similarly, the musical had a more diverse cast, presenting a more realistic version of high school, allowing the audience to witness the multiple perspectives within each (iconic) scene This was extremely noticeable within the inclusion of an extra scene, in which Cady apologises, and Regina George forgives her, emphasising a clearer resolution between the characters, which was not present in the original. Whilst the musical includes a few extra scenes, and of course the music, it is relatively like the original. This suggests that it is not an attempt to compete with its predecessor, but its purpose is to instead act as a tribute to the undoubtedly iconic movie, and provide a modernised version of the widely loved and regarded film Therefore, to answer the question of which is better, we feel that each should not be contested with the other, but they should instead be recognised for the well-rounded, extremely enjoyable storyline that is present in both films, and each individually should be credited for the infamous scenes, songs, and characters.

If this hasn’t convinced you to buy that ticket, then we don’t know what will! This is a triumphant modern take on such a classic – holding a well-valued message that will be certain to boost your happiness. We highly recommend the film, the feel-good vibe, and the highly memorable soundtrack which will (without a doubt) change your perspective on the typical standards of an American high school So go now and get your ticketsas this iconic musical is bound to “make fetch happen”.

THAT WAS SO FETCH THAT WAS SO FETCH

AtMyDesk

Atmydeskalliscalm, Undermylampmypenciltraces Overthesmoothwhitepaper. Inmyhandmypencilquivers. Myimaginationsoars,myeyes spark, Creativityfloodsmybrain. Intheoutsideworldthereis Notasound,butmymind Islikearockettakingoff.

Myparadiseisportable, Icantuckitinmypocket. Itcantraveltheworldbut Stayinoneplace. Nooneknowsit'sthere, Noonewilleverlook, Formyparadiseissecret.

Takeitoutonadesk, Takeitoutanywhereatall, Itwillalwaysbethere. Acomfortinstorms, Mymindwillrestateaseatsea, Aslongasitiswithme.

ScarlettR

InHisRefuge

InSriLanka'sembrace,asoultakesflight, Seekingrefugeinthedarkestofnights, War'scruelchaos,arelentlessplight, TotheshoresoftheUK,wherehopeignites.

Amidstthechaos,wheredreamsaretorn, Aseekerofpeace,fromthelandhe'sknown, Farewelltohome,wherehisheartwasworn, Insearchofsafety,afutureyetunknown.

Withcourageashiscompass,hesetshissail, Throughstormyseasandthetalesoftravail, Holdingmemoriesofhishomeland,frail, Inpursuitofrefuge,hisheartwon'tfail.

IntheUK'sembrace,ahavenfound, Wherehopeandhealingonforeignground, Withopenarms,afutureunbound, Arefugefortheweary,acomfortingsound.

ByAshwinS

Anoteonthepoem:Ashwinwasinspiredtowritethispoembecausehisfather wasarefugeefromtheSriLankancivilwar.

THIRD FORM SCI-FI FUN!

Onthe15thofMarch,ThirdFormstudents fullyimmersedthemselvesintheworldof Science-fiction as a part of STEAM week. Following talks on the future of scientific technology, there was the opportunity to indulgeinsomecreativitythroughfiction and art in the afternoon. Here is a range of students’ work celebrating Science Fictionandtheunknown!

What if…? – Nina E

What if we all lived on Europa?

What if the sun exploded?

What if we didn’t need water?

What if volcanoes imploded?

What if dinosaurs still existed?

What if we could all time travel?

What if no one had feelings?

What if there was seldom a battle?

What if oxygen was deadly?

What if everyone was immortal?

What if we are all hallucinating? What if fiction was real?

What if we are all just part of a game?

What if zombies took over our minds?

What if we all lived in outer space?

What if we all lived in the Hunger Games?

What if…?

What if… the world were underwater? – Anzu

haiku 1

In labs, science thrives, Exploring realms unseen, Knowledge blooms, ever alive.

Technology s reach expands, Connecting minds across lands, Innovation's dance.

haiku 3

Engineering's hands craft, Building bridges to tomorrow, Dreams take solid form.

haiku 4

Math's elegant embrace, In patterns, equations trace, The language of the universe.

haiku 5

Art's brush strokes divine, Capturing truths undefined, Beauty in every line.

by James R, Zac C & Lucas S

The Experimental Specimen – Esther F

I awoke to screams.

That’s the first thing I registered

Then I forced my eyes open, peeling back the lids of them Brightness

That was the second thing

Then as I slowly became aware of my body, my surroundings; I realised I was lying on a hard, flat, table.

The third thing

Then as my limbs slowly began to wake, I flung out Or tried to Until I realised I couldn’t The bed, table, thing I lay on, I was strapped to I felt my lids flutter closed again The light was still there

The fourth thing.

It was when I felt a cough crawl up my throat, begging to be set free that I realised all had fallen silent.

I refused to break it

As I lay the light slowly faded The one above my head I moved that head and then froze

Everyone – thing – monster. Creation… around me was bowed. I followed their line of sight. I felt my breath stutter. My lungs suddenly straining.

What was that?

My brain ticked violently as I stared at it

I could only take it in a little at time

Its figure was human. Sort of.

Perhaps it was a mask it wore… not its face.

Its eyes flew over the room settling on mine.

“Her,” It croaked, a curled, sickly pink finger pointed straight towards my chest, “Take her Put the rest back ”

Then it left

The Sacrifice – Chloe W and Alannah H-D

Easter Sudoku

Easter Baking TIERED CAKES

How to make a tiered cake:

After reading these, you can make almost any cake into a tiered cake, though below these instructions are some useful ideas for the cake’s flavour itself.

I recommend that you use my suggestions for the amount of each ingredient, but you can multiply those numbers by whatever you want, in order to get your cake the right size for you.

Instructions:

When baking a tiered cake, usually you will want each level a bit smaller than the level below it

You will want to bake each level as its own cake, though you will make the mixture all together.

When you are finished making the mixture, multiply the number of tiers you want by two, to have nice whole numbers. and for each level have a slightly higher fraction than the level below.

Example: 5 Tier Cake

If you want to have 5 tiers, multiply that by two and that gives you 10.

For the bottom level, you will want to have about half your mixture, so scoop out about 5/10 of your mixture.

For the level above it, scoop out about 4/10 of your total mixture at the start.

For the level above that one, scoop out about 3/10 of your total mixture at the start, and so on, until you finish your 5 tiers, with the top one being around 1/10 of your total mixture at the start.

Remember:

These measurements don’t have to be exact, they are just to gauge you so that you have a good amount on each tier, so don’t spend hours worrying about whether you ’ ve got the exact fraction for each tier.

Cake Flavour Ideas

Victoria Sponge:

Ingredients:

400g caster sugar

400g softened butter

8 eggs, beaten

400g self-raising flour

2 tsp baking powder

4 tbsp milk

For the filling:

200g butter, softened

280g icing sugar, sifted

2 drops vanilla extract

Tip: I recommend adding a small topping for a perfect finish!

A 340g jar of good-quality jam. (For the classic Victoria Sponge, use strawberry Jam, but feel free to use another jam of your choice!)

For the decoration:

I recommend that you cover your cake in either icing and/or buttercream so that each layer sticks to the other better.

For buttercream, you can use the same recipe as for the filling, just without the jam.

For the icing, simply mix the icing sugar with water. Remember: Make sure that you cover your cake in one of these for the best experience.

Method

STEP 1

Heat oven to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5. Butter two 20cm sandwich tins and line with non-stick baking paper.

STEP 2

In a large bowl, beat 200g caster sugar, 200g softened butter, 4 beaten eggs, 200g self-raising flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and 2 tbsp milk together until you have a smooth, soft batter.

STEP 3

At this point, you will want to split your mixture into each of the separate tiers using the method on the previous page. ` With the following steps, you will want to repeat this for all of the separate layers:

STEP 4

Divide all of your separate mixtures again between two tins, and smooth the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon.

STEP 5

Bake for about 20 mins until golden and the cakes spring back when pressed.

STEP 6

Turn them onto a cooling rack and leave to cool completely.

STEP 7

To make the filling, beat the 100g softened butter until smooth and creamy, then gradually beat in 140g sifted icing sugar and a drop of vanilla extract (if you ’ re using it)

STEP 8

Spread the buttercream over the bottom of one of the sponges. Top it with 170g strawberry jam and sandwich the second sponge on top.

STEP 9:

Repeat for each separate tier

STEP 10:

Cover each layer in either your buttercream or icing, and put each smaller tier on top of the biggest one.

STEP 11:

Add final decorations and a topping if you wish.

Rich Chocolate:

Ingredients:

200g dark chocolate (about 60% cocoa solids), chopped

200g butter, cubed

1 tbsp instant coffee granules

85g self-raising flour

85g plain flour

¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda

200g light muscovado sugar

200g golden caster sugar

25g cocoa powder

3 medium eggs

75ml buttermilk

50g grated chocolate or 100g curls, to decorate

Buttercream for the cover:

100g milk chocolate

200g butter, softened

400g icing sugar

5 tbsp cocoa powder

2 tbsp milk

Remember: Make sure that you cover your cake in one of these for the best experience.

Method

STEP 1

Heat the oven to 160C/fan 140C/gas 3. Butter and line a 20cm round cake tin (7.5cm deep).

STEP 2

Put 200g chopped dark chocolate in a medium pan with 200g butter.

STEP 3

Mix 1 tbsp instant coffee granules into 125ml cold water and pour into the pan.

NEXT TERM

In the summer, get ready for array of desserts from other countries and cultures, such as Caribbean, Spanish, Australian desserts, as well as lots more

THANKSTOTHE CASTLETEAM!

Thank you to the following students for their work on this edition:

Amika S - Illustrator (front cover)

Hugo J - Content Creator & Contributor

Sarah K - Content Creator & Contributor

Tabitha B - Content Creator & Contributor

Annie G - Editor & Contributor

Ruth C - Editor & Contributor

Alex C - Editor & Contributor

Mithu M - Editor

Daisy A - Editor

Keno A - Editor

Likhita A - Editor

Scout A - Editor

Shreya K - Editor

Sasha H - Editor

Clarabel M - Contributor

Evie W - Contributor

Chloe W - Contributor

Riya N - Contributor

Sophie C - Contributor

Zhe Yu K - Contributor

Kavya P - Contributor

Photo credit - Canva.com

THANKSTOTHE CASTLETEAM!

Thank you to the following students for their work on this edition:

Bea M - Contributor

Sofia M - Contributor

Shreya S - Contributor

Amelie B - Contributor

Oscar S - Contributor

Ruby D - Contributor

Aqsa K - Contributor

Sai M - Contributor

Tyra L - Contributor

Neha K - Contributor

Maysa N - Contributor

Featured work:

Scarlett R

Ashwin S

Chloe W

Alannah H-D

Nina E

Esther F

Anzu C

James R

Victoria H

Zac C

Lucas S

W E N E E D Y O U !

Are you interested in telling the stories that matter to you?

Are you interested in representing student voice?

We are looking for more editors and contributors. E-mail Ms Harvey for more details: chh@reigategrammar.org

THE CASTLE