Inside this Edition Olympic Summer Exceptional Sport Paralympic Games Alternative Sports SportsFest 2012 Peer Supporters Primary Liaison Being a Prefect STAR reader Authors Reading Buddies Great Expectations War Horse
Twelfth Night Midsummer Night’s Dream Why can’t everyone just speak English? Musical Miscellany Friends of Rodborough Physics D of E Awards Godalming-Mayen Association German Market trip Past Pupil Report Green Notes Year 11 Rugby Triumph
4 -5 6 7-8 8 9 10 10 11 12 13 14 14 15 16 17 18 19 20-21 22 23 24-25 25 26 27 28
Dates for your Diary
24 Dec – 4 Jan Christmas Holidays 7 Jan First day of term 17 Jan 4:30 Y11 Parents’ Evening 22 Jan 6:30 Y9 D of E launch 23 Jan 5:00 RS Factor Semi-Final 31 Jan 4:30 Y8 Parents’ Evening 4 Feb INSET 6 Feb 7:00 RS Factor Finals 7 Feb 7:00 GCSE Revision Skills 11–15 Feb Work Experience Week 18 – 22 Feb HALF TERM
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Adult and Community Learning Courses Rodborough School SPRING 2013 Please note that ALL courses STOP during half term week 18 Feb to 24 Feb 2013 For more information please contact Centre Manager, Karen Warner 25 West Street, Farnham, GU9 7DR Tel 01483 518558 Email: farnham.aec@surreycc.gov.uk Web: www.surreycc.gov.uk/adultlearning Italian – Level 1 – Term 2 Course No GTJ3000G Wednesday Evenings 16/01/13 to 20/03/13 9 Weeks Time: 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm
Italian – Level 2 – Term 2 Course No GTJ1001G Monday Evenings 14/01/13 to 18/03/13 9 Weeks Time: 7.30 pm – 9.00 pm
Italian – Level 4/5 – Term 2 Course No GTJ1000G Monday Evenings 14/01/13 to 18/03/13 9 Weeks Time: 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm
Spanish – Level 1 – Term 2 Course No GTJ4001G Thursday Evenings 17/01/13 to 21/03/13 9 Weeks Time: 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm
Creative Writing Course No GTJ3001G Wednesday Evenings 23/01/13 to 20/03/13 8 Weeks Time: 7.15 pm - 9.15 pm
Soft Furnishing Curtains/Blinds & Home Textiles Course No GTJ2000G Tuesday Evenings 22/01/13 to 19/03/13 8 Weeks Time: 7.00 pm – 9.00 pm
MAY 11th 2013 SAMSON CENTRE AT G LIVE Stuck for Christmas gift ideas? Why not treat a loved one to a night of 70s disco and platform boots??? Enjoy an evening of fun, song and dance with one of the UK’s premier ABBA tribute bands, ABBA SENSATION. To kick-start their 10th Anniversary celebrations, the Guildford Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Group, based at the Samson Centre, brings you an evening of music and magic with their patron, world renowned magician Chris Dugdale, working the floor. Including a silent auction, great entertainment will be the Name Of The Game! Tickets available from G Live for just £22.50 with concessions available
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Olympic Summer
As reported by Sian Hine and Jesse Lewis
In the summer of 2012, we were all enthralled by the spectacle of the Olympic Games. As a country it gave us all something to be immensely proud of as we saw London, under the spotlight. The redevelopment of the east end of London, turning it from desolation to splendour was hugely impressive. We also saw many iconic London venues transformed by Olympic sport and competition. Of the games themselves, we all witnessed fantastic sporting events. For us it was good to be introduced to many sports that we had hardly ever seen on our TV screens – handball, rowing, sailing, hockey, water polo, cycling and many more. It made many of us want to try them out and see what they were like. We saw some exceptional sport:
The speed and team work of the cycling in the velodrome The speed, power and stamina of the athletes on the athletics track The power of the swimmers The skill of the wheelchair basketball players We all saw and marvelled at the heroes and heroines of the games. We had so many examples of the great leadership and positive role models. Not only those who were the strongest, fastest or most skilful but also those who showed how to come back from the face of adversity. Over and over again we were shown how to be gracious in defeat and humble in victory.
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Winning is obviously important in the Olympics and we were privileged to see so many close finishes and keenly contested games. We all watched the medal tables and gloried in the success of Team GB. Everybody wanted us to do well. The people of Yorkshire were keen to point out that they had achieved more medals than Australia but it was all good healthy competition. Another hugely impressive feature of the Olympic Games was the role of the volunteers. Hundreds and thousands of people who gave up their time or took their holidays in order to help the Olympics run smoothly. Whether it was greeting the teams at the airport, escorting athletes through London, showing people to their seats or guiding people through the Olympic Park, they made a huge impact on the games. The whole idea of people giving up something to help other people was being talked about, noticed & recognised.
We have picked up these themes from the Olympic Games: Exceptional Sport Leadership and Role Models Healthy Competition Amazing Volunteers and have applied it to our school year. So what have we been doing at Rodborough? The following pages will give you an insight… Our very own Receptionist, Mrs Halsey, volunteering with Clare Balding
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Exceptional Sport
Reporters Lily Barker and Holly Mayes,
We were lucky enough as a school to apply for and receive tickets for the Paralympic Games. Three trips went up to the Paralympics. Firstly, 30 students saw wheelchair basketball. To us this was an exceptional opportunity and a once in a lifetime experience and I believe everyone else who was lucky enough to join us, would agree. As we entered the O2 our eyes gazed at all the bright lights and wonderful decoration, and it was clear how much time and money was spent on these events. Once we were seated, we were all blown away by the sounds and the intense atmosphere. We were all anticipating the arrival of the players, and when they finally emerged, we all cheered. As the games began we were all amazed by how talented and unique these people are, and we admired them. We were all shocked about how fearless and brave these men were, not fussing about toppling over or hurting themselves. During the breaks Rodborough school managed to make a few appearances on the big screen which made us all laugh, especially the bongo playing! Then, up on the big screen, came a tweet, sent by Miss Mackay, saying, “Having a great time with Rodborough School� which made us all cheer!
We think that the idea of Paralympics is an inspiring series of events that allow people with disabilities to take a shine and have their moment. So, after all the glitz, funny moments and amazing basketball, this was an unforgettable experience which will stay with us forever. Thank you. RODBOROUGH CHRONICLES
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PE Department GCSE trip to Paralympic Games
Reporters Kate Fifield and Holly Phipps
On 6th September, GCSE PE students went with the PE Department to the London 2012 Paralympic games. We were allowed all round the park and into some of the arenas and we were really lucky with the lovely weather which was ideal for taking lots of pictures! We managed to get a look inside the basketball arena to watch the wheelchair rugby, which is better known as murder ball because of how rough the sport actually is! We sat behind one of the goals and had a great view so we didn’t miss anything. It was a great game and the atmosphere inside the area was electric. The London Paralympics has been described as one of the best so far and I was extremely privileged to be able to witness it. It was an incredible day and everyone enjoyed themselves thoroughly. Kate Now Holly takes up the tale … In September, many fortunate PE GCSE students and I had the opportunity to be spectators at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. We arrived at the park in high spirits and with great anticipation of the day ahead. We were given the freedom to independently choose the events we wanted to see and were set free from our teachers in the park! Once kitted out with flags and headbands, I and a group of friends made our way to the football stadium. The atmosphere and energy in the stands was incredible and the athletes performed amazingly. We were also lucky enough to see wheelchair rugby, otherwise known as “murder ball.” We were astonished by how the athletes performed such a brutal game with such good sportsmanship.
CHRISTMAS FACT!
Scientists calculate that Santa visits 822 homes a second to deliver all the world's presents on Christmas Eve, travelling at 650 miles a second. RODBOROUGH CHRONICLES
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The last event we went to see was goal ball for the visually impaired. It’s a three a side game where the athletes are completely blindfolded. They line up along a wide goal and take turns hurling a ball at the opposition with horrific speed, aiming for the ball to end up in their attacking goal. Although we had to remain silent for the athletes to perform, it was my favourite event of the day. The athletes showed such skill and precision that we were immediately entranced by the game. Throughout the day, we were kept entertained by the friendly volunteers and we took part in a lot of Mexican waves. The coach journey home, however, was not as enjoyable as it had been a very hot day and all deodorant had been confiscated at the gate, as aerosols were not permitted in the park! Nevertheless, we went home inspired and determined to work and train harder in our sports to achieve greater things and inspire others the same way that London 2012 inspired us. Reporter Helena Sharp Alternative Sports / Legacy Inspired by our trips to the Olympics & Paralympic Games, Rodborough has played its part in attempting to sustain the Olympic Legacy. By increasing the number and the range of sporting activities that are available to our pupils we are attempting to “Inspire a generation”, just like Lord Coe has asked. Watching Team GB women win the bronze medal has inspired me to seriously pursue my Hockey career; at the tender of 16 I’m already playing in much higher leagues than Miss Mackay and Mrs Yeadon! At Rodborough we have devised an extra-curricular sports programme to allow access to some of the sports that were on show in the summer. Activities are available to pupils every lunchtime and after school. New clubs have started up for Handball, Gymnastics, Volleyball, Badminton, Tennis, Basketball and Trampolining as well as our regular sports (Football, Rugby & Netball). In collaboration with our local secondary schools we have been involved in other sporting opportunities of a recreational nature including Real Tennis, Ultimate Frisbee, Softball, Stoolball, Spinning and Handball (a tournament that we won!) The Paralympics inspired us to seek to improve and increase our provision for our SEN students. The playground to podium initiative has been a huge success, as was the Panathlon. The SEN trip to the Olympic park to watch Wheelchair Rugby or ‘Murderball’ was a great opportunity and thoroughly enjoyable. RODBOROUGH CHRONICLES
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SportsFest 2012
Reporter Miss Mackay
On Tuesday 4th December a small group of pupils from across all year groups attended Paralympics GB Sports Fest at Surrey Sports Park. Pupils arrived at 10.30am and had the opportunity to try every activity from the huge variety on offer, including archery, boccia, athletics, horse riding, sledge hockey, swimming, judo, triathalon, cycling, shooting, rowing, wheelchair basketball and fencing to name just a few. Everyone got stuck in and tried their very best. The pupils also had the opportunity to meet some of our London 2012 celebrity Paralympians. Meeting Jonny Peacock was definitely a highlight for all involved! This was a truly inspirational day!
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Peer Supporters
Reporter Ellie Page
The volunteers at the Olympics were around to help people and guide them on their way; here at Rodborough, we have started a new scheme that enables us to help our fellow students, and guide them through some of the problems that they may come across in their time here. This came about after a survey taken by pupils last year about student happiness at school. It became apparent that there were still a number of pupils not feeling happy or safe at school. So, after the interviews, that took place last year, the Peer Support programme started, with around twenty people becoming successful Peer Supporters Peer Support Prefects are easily including five seniors. This means there is always one senior recognised by their lanyard badges and three other Peer Supporters available at the sessions, which are held upstairs in the Learning Resources Centre every lunchtime. The sessions are open to anyone who wants to come up. It is a place where they can meet people who might be in the same situation as them, play games, voice any concerns and talk about everything and anything. Not only does the scheme allow people who might not be confident enough to speak to a teacher and share what is on their mind so that they feel happier at school, it also is a way for pupils to integrate and form friendships, when they might never have previously had. It is a rewarding scheme, as one of the key aspects of volunteering is the fact you get as much out of it as you put in; this is probably one of the main reasons why the volunteering at Rodborough has been just as widespread as, in proportion, the Olympics.
Primary Liaison
Reporter Sophie Richardson Rodborough enjoys good relationships with our feeder junior schools and encourages opportunities to work together in a range of activities. Recently, volunteer Rodborough students went into The Chandler School to work with pupils during their Citizenship week. The purpose of the visit was to talk with Year 6 students about a number of Citizenship related topics: moving from junior school to secondary school and being a responsible person in the 21st century. Twelve ex-Chandler students went along to meet with pupils: six from Year 7 - who have obviously only recently made the transition themselves and so had much to say about their experiences - and six from Year 10 who are all aspiring prefects: positions of responsibility and trust within Rodborough. The Year 7 students talked with pupils about their feelings and concerns before coming to Rodborough, the reality of life at secondary school and also the different things they are enjoying about being here. The Year 10s talked about the many different positions of responsibility that Rodborough students can take on such as being involved in JSLA (Sports Leaders), being a peer supporter and the variety of prefect roles. Chandler’s Year 6 pupils were excited about seeing the familiar faces and having a chance to express their apprehensions to the older students and question them about anything and everything Rodborough related; quantities of homework, canteen food and variety of trips were popular topics! By the end of the visit Chandler pupils felt better informed following their thorough quizzing of Year 7 and Year 10, and Rodborough students had a sense of achievement that they had allayed the Chandler pupils’ concerns as well as experiencing a feeling of nostalgia in returning to their old school. RODBOROUGH CHRONICLES
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Being a Prefect
Reporter Guy Warburton
Being a prefect at Rodborough has become something most people in Year 11 really want to do. 152 out of my year group of 180 have applied (a record number). We actually have 136 prefects, who all undertake various leadership roles within the school. We are expected to set the standard in terms of behaviour, attitude and appearance. All prefects do general duties, helping the Dining Room work smoothly as 900 people get their lunch every day or helping staff outside keep pupils safe and doing the right things.
In addition to these general roles, prefects have specific posts of responsibility: Subject prefects help departments with displays and competitions. Community prefects research and inform the school about our chosen charities and encourage the school to support them. Peer supporters run drop in lunchtime sessions for some of our younger pupils. Year 7 & 8 prefects help tutors with their tutor groups and help younger pupils settle in. Our eco prefects are keen to investigate new ways for us to be sustainable and ensure the grounds look good. Our senior prefects run the School Council and represent the school on public occasions (like Annie & Chris laying Rodborough’s wreath at the Milford Remembrance Service).
CHRISTMAS FACT!
Mince Pies used to be made with minced beef and spices in Victorian times.
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STAR Reader
Year 7 Reporters KL & AG
Star Reader is a good opportunity for getting rewarded for reading; there is an opportunity for your name to go into the raffle if you get 100%; if your name gets pulled out you win a box of chocolates and if you take a quiz and get 85% or more you will get two stamps. I have not yet won the chocolates myself but I intend to soon. However, I have earned many stamps and am “I never used to like on my fifth page in my reading until I planner, mainly because of came to Star Reader. I have won a Rodborough” book though. Whatever percentage you get (provided it’s over 50%) will go towards an English class leader board; also the winning English class and tutor group get announced in assembly weekly and all members of those groups get a stamp. I never used to like reading until I came to Rodborough so Star Reader has made me like reading more (I have passed 56 quizzes this term) and I intend to carry on with it.
At Rodborough, the STAR Reader programme is very popular. Nearly all the Year 7 students have taken a quiz and at least two thirds of them got 100%. Why? Because every week we have a chocolate draw for all those that have got 100%. I’ve been using the programme every time I finish a book. Since I’ve joined Rodborough, I’ve gone on a trip to see the author Malcolm Rose and I’ve won a book (An Elephant in the Garden by Michael Morpurgo). It’s also given me something to do every now and again. It’s also a nice thing to do with all the knowledge you get from the book you read and possibly get a box of Celebrations for it! There’s also a club in the LRC on Monday and Tuesday lunch times. So if you haven’t taken a quiz, get on OpenHive and have a go now – I have passed 46 quizzes already this term!
“There’s also a club in the LRC on Monday and Tuesday lunch times”
Star-ff Readers!
Have you noticed the photographs of members of staff reading their favourite books? They are all around the school. See how many you can identify.
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Reading, Writing and Authors
Year 7s have been working hard with their STAR Reading programme and a number of pupils were rewarded with a trip to Broadwater, to hear author, Malcolm Rose, talk about his new series. Here is Evelyn’s thank you letter… Dear Broadwater School, I am writing to thank you for inviting us to see Mr Malcolm Rose and hear about all of his adventures and mind-boggling ideas – I even got to shake a bionic hand during our short trip – probably a once-in-a-lifetime experience! It helped me get new ideas for my style of writing – how I can hold the reader and intrigue them using good description. I particularly liked the unique features that he gave his characters as we are currently writing mystery stories in English lessons and it gave me ideas of how to create tension and how to describe the characters’ inner feelings. In conclusion, I really enjoyed the trip to Broadwater. Malcolm Rose’s books look great and I can’t wait to start one! Yours sincerely, Evelyn Miller, 7CST
Others have been writing to David Walliams and were delighted by his response! a
b
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How well do you know your school?
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You will find 8 cryptic photographs in this edition of Chronicles – all taken by Josh Smith (11CS). Can you work out where they were taken? Here are the first four … … answers may be found on page 22
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Reading Buddies
Reporter Annie Cross
We Year 10s were recently given the opportunity to participate in a newly introduced scheme called reading buddies. We didn’t really know much apart from the involvement of reading but, after finding out more about it, many Year 10s seemed eager to sign up. The process began with writing a letter to Miss Morgan and Miss Mills. It was tough; these were two harsh critics that everyone wanted to impress and, with expectations high, we knew our letters had to be good. However, if our letters were to be read now, I think everyone in Year 10 would sound like they literally have no life other than reading, which I am sure delighted Miss Mills!
We finally got to meet our new Year 7 friends. I think we were as nervous as they were as, one by one, we were called up to meet them. To be honest, I don’t think anyone did much reading that first session as we were all too busy introducing ourselves and oh, of course, talking about books. My new friend and I started talking about our love for the Twilight Saga and debated whether we were team Edward or Jacob. Although, at the moment, we haven’t many sessions with our buddies, it’s nice to have something to look forward to. I want my buddy to love getting lost in a book, discovering new worlds and falling in love with characters. I want her to not feel that reading is boring, and to discover those books you can read again and again. It’s not just about improving reading. I remember being a timid Year 7 and needing that confidence to finally settle down and be myself. I think we would all agree and say it has helped improve our interactions with the younger pupils. It’s important for them to know that help is here, and although reading may not be the answer to everything (no offence, English teachers). This scheme was such a good opportunity for both us and the Year 7s.
Great Expectations?
Reporter Wesley Saunders
During the first half term of the year, pupils from Years 10 and 11 went to Woking to watch a stage adaptation of Dickens’ Great Expectations. This was connected with GCSE work on Lloyd Jones’ Mister Pip and was intended to give us a better understanding of how the two novels are linked. The production was aimed at an audience that was already fairly familiar with the basic plot of Dickens’ novel, and there were a lot of confused Year 10 faces by the intermission! Whilst the performance was emotive and gripping at times, the English staff were very disappointed that it was not inclusive to those without prior knowledge of Dickens’s novel.
Paula Wilcox played Miss Haversham in the Woking production
CHRISTMAS FACT!
HANGING stockings out comes from the Dutch custom of leaving shoes packed with food for St Nicholas's donkeys. (Sinterklaas)
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War Horse
Reporter Mr Honeysett
At the end of November, fifty Year 9 students went to see the award-winning play, War Horse, in London. The trip was aimed at providing some context for their study of World War One in both English and History. An added bonus this year was seeing Jamie Oliver in the audience – he even signed many of the students’ tickets during the interval!
“This trip was inspirational and one we will always remember. Thanks teachers for organising it.” Madeline McConnell
Here are some thoughts from those who attended: “Amazing puppetry and an all-round fabulous play.” Tom Emery
“It was spectacular…a not-to-miss experience” Jake Foster
“At times, you believed the horses were real…” Rory Cole
Images www.puppetring.com
“The best theatre trip ever…” Katie Collins
“The puppets were unique… I also loved meeting Jamie Oliver!” Millie Prytherch
“Gripping! 5 stars!” Owen Gorringe
“Amazing…I loved the goose.” Kristina Bodman-Smith
Both the stage play and the film are based on the book, War Horse, by Michael Morpurgo. This is available for loan from the LRC.
CHRISTMAS FACT!
The word Noel derives from the French expression "les bonnes nouvelles" or "the good news".
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Twelfth Night
Year 10 reviewers
Year 10s saw the all male theatre group, Propellor, perform Shakespeare’s comedy, Twelfth Night at the Yvonne Arnaud in Guildford at the end of November. Here are a few of their comments … It was really funny and I loved that it was an all male cast because the ‘women’ in the play were hilarious. Men in dresses and heels are hilarious and the tap dancing scene was epic! Louise McLaughlin
The play was hilarious, especially as it was my first opportunity to see nudity on stage with the school! Rebecca Cheesman
I loved this play. The yellow garters were a highlight! Sophie Ridsdale-Smith
The characters adapted to their roles of being women very well and were very believable. Molly Bryant
I never thought I would get to see quite so much of the male characters. Annie Cross It was helpful to understand the language. Marc Gravestock I liked the minimalist staging of the performance as set pieces were moved to adapt the scene. Rhiannon Davies I enjoyed the use of masks and scene settings, which gave me ideas for my drama coursework and improved my understanding of Shakespearian language. Rosie Barker
It definitely helped me understand the social and historical content in Shakespearian plays. Zach Wright
Images courtesy propellor.org.uk
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A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Lower School Production When Miss Mills first teamed up with Mrs Fjord-Roberts to consider putting on a Lower School performance of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ (our first Lower School Shakespeare production) few of us could have imagined what a success this would be. All their hard work and vision paid off and the immense talents, professionalism and enthusiasm of staff and students alike turned the performance into a triumph! Those lucky enough to obtain a ticket were treated to a beautiful retelling of this confusing, comic romance. The audience, at candle-lit tables, formed a circle around the players – creating a wonderfully intimate setting.
I have really enjoyed this new experience. I have never really acted before and will definitely go for a role in further productions. My character changes from posh to Essex Girl, to Airhead in a matter of minutes and is quite funny. AJ
I have really enjoyed being part of A Midsummer Night’s Dream because I have made loads of new friends and learned a lot. I have never done a play before and love it. HH
I have always loved the thrill of acting and this was just another chance to get on stage. When I heard that there was going to be a lower school production I just had to jump at the opportunity. JMc
I am really pleased to be involved in this production and immensely enjoying playing the very desperate Helena. I love acting and this is an amazing opportunity. GS RODBOROUGH CHRONICLES
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Why can’t everyone just speak English?
Yes
No
Year 7 Reporter Lily Ruddick A question that most probably most English school children have, at least once, thought about during a German or French lesson. But my question is ‘Should everybody just speak English?’ I have asked a few people and made a graph. As you can see, only one person really said, “Yes” but, when thinking about it properly, the majority said, “No, everybody should not just speak English.”
Don't Mind
Here are some of their reasons: “No, because culture makes a country more interesting and a language builds on that so every country has something that makes it great, proud and unique.” “Yes, everyone should speak English because then it makes business meetings with other countries better understood.” “I don’t really care. It would be great if everyone spoke one language, I don’t mind if it’s English or not.” Everyone had their reasons and most of the people I asked had very good ones. Nobody had the same reason. And there are other considerations too, e.g if everyone just spoke English all those other beautiful languages would die and become history! Also, learning different languages at school makes you better at remembering things. Brilliant people come from different countries and their languages and cultures inspire them. So, if they all spoke English, where would their inspiration come from? Conversely, there would be benefits were we all to speak English: Everyone would understand each other and we could travel the world and not worry if about saying things incorrectly or offending other people. You would be less likely to get lost in foreign countries because you would be able to read their road signs. In conclusion, I believe that both good and bad would come from the world all speaking English, so I hope I have helped make you think about this question. Lily’s article was completed in answer to her Modern Foreign Languages introductory enquiry question, “Why can’t everyone just speak English?”
How well do you know your school?
You will find 8 photographs in this edition of Chronicles – all taken by Josh Smith (11CS). Can you work out where they were taken? Here are last first four … … answers may be found on page 22
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Musical Miscellany
This has been a fantastically busy term for the Music Department. As well as supporting the school music groups here and out in the community, individuals have been working hard to improve their playing. Here is a round-up of the autumn’s exam results … Freya Bowden Grade 1 Piano Alice McPhee Distinction Grade 1 Clarinet Pippa Schulp Merit Grade 1 Clarinet Imogen Bland Distinction Grade 3 Piano Francis Hedgecock Grade 4 Piano Oliver Davies Merit Grade 5 Clarinet Congratulations to all these pupils and good luck to those preparing for Spring exams.
Rodborough Young Musician The audience were treated to a superb evening listening to individuals and ensembles compete for the coveted title, Young Rodborough Musician of 2012 as the standard was fantastically high. The Junior winner was Elizabeth Knatt with Eleanor Choi second and the Senior competition was won by Jonny Ford with Oli Davies second. The best ensemble was the Ted Hayes and Jonny Ford duet. Everyone was in agreement with the judges when the title ‘Young Rodborough Musician 2012’ was handed to Tim Feasey for his spellbinding piano playing.
… don’t forget the RS Factor! Get your new diary out and make a note of the date of our ever-popular RS Factor semi-finals and final: Semi-Finals Finals
Wednesday 23 January 2013 at 5pm tickets £2.50 Wednesday 6 February 2013 at 7pm tickets £4.50
Jazz Band at the Pepperpot It was unseasonably mild this year for our talented Jazz Band as they cheered the Godalming shoppers on Godalming Town Day by playing at the Pepperpot – a big change from last year’s ordeal!
Other Christmassy events have been our informal Christmas concert in the Dining Hall and our Carol Service at St John’s Church, Milford. We hope that you managed to catch at least one of these events to put you into the Christmas spirit!
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Friends of Rodborough
£6,500!
Reporter Mrs Ward What a fantastic year 2012 has been for the Friends of Rodborough! The Friends are a group of cheerful, hardworking parents who give a few hours of their time to help raise money for those little extras children enjoy at school (£6,500 this year) – and give us a lot of fun in the process.
This term’s events have included: A RoLo draw each month Chocolate Tombola, 19 October The Quiz night, 20 October Serving refreshments at Awards Evening, 15 November Christmas Market, 22 November (see next page) The Year 7 Disco, 14 December
Several parents and staff have been lucky winners with the Rodborough Lottery which is drawn at the end of each month. Don’t miss out next year – remember to look out for the publicity going out in the summer and sign up for next year. For an annual outlay of £12 you’ll be helping the school and you could be one of our cash winners!
Would you like to join the Friends? We particularly welcome parents of new pupils. Sue Starbuck will be stepping down as Chairman at the end of this year and we will be seeking a new Chairman for next year. If you are interested, please contact Sue for an informal chat about this interesting and diverse role. Do you want to contact us? Leave a message at the Office or email: fofrodborough@rodborough.surrey.sch.uk Sue Starbuck: Chair of the Friends s.starbuck@surrey.ac.uk
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Friends’ Christmas Fair
This year’s Christmas Fair was a fabulous success, once again, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our fabulous ‘Friends of Rodborough’ (PTA). The main hall was full to bursting with a myriad of stalls selling all things Christmassy and some things just lovely.
The very popular Friends Cake Stall
Our Rodborough pupils had their own stall selling their delicious home-made sweets to an enthusiastic public.
In their first official outing members of our newly branded in-house printing firm, Print I.T. proudly displayed and sold a selection of cards and tags. This year’s Christmas cards were designed by Year 9 students.
And here’s the Sculpt It stall with all sorts of wonderful woody bits and pieces, from chopping boards to Christmas decorations, even a do-ityourself make a reindeer kit. Sculpt It is run by our Resident Artist, Ruth Wheeler, who offers after school clubs and helps us with many of the artistic projects around the school and grounds. RODBOROUGH CHRONICLES
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Physics Enrichment Day
Reporter Rhiannon Davies In early September, Year 10 Triple Science students were given “The day tested former the opportunity to take part in a University of Surrey Physics knowledge whilst giving Enrichment Day. us new information.” On arrival we were treated to a lecture about different forms of energy before being split into groups to move around different stalls – each presented by students from Surrey “It helped expand my University. Each stall was designed to show us different ways of knowledge of useful creating and using electrical energy. My favourite was one physics and how it is used which had two bicycles adapted into generators. We had to in the ‘real’ world” pedal really hard to try to power some electrical devices. Not surprisingly, this turned us rather competitive! To make sure that we retained as much Physics as possible, we “It was very interesting. were given booklets to complete as we moved around the I learned more about stations. The booklets contained the sort of questions that we radiation, convection are likely to encounter in our GCSEs and we were encouraged and conduction.” to find the answers to those questions at each station, which should prove very useful! The final part of the day saw us back in the lecture theatre. We were all given an electronic voting device before taking “I loved the heat part in a multiple-choice quiz, which tested our day’s learning. camera.” A winner was then announced (sadly, not from Rodborough), but we had all had fun trying! We all enjoyed the trip and found it a great start to our Physics “I found out how a GCSE Course. hydrogen fuel cell works We would like to thank the Surrey University lecturers and – amazing!” students for putting on the course and also thank Miss Winn and Mrs Howick for taking us.
LUCKS YARD CLINIC CLASSES at Rodborough, with Chiropractor Robert Lamport Yoga Class. Starts Monday 14th January 7-8.15pm. Rodborough
The class will have a particular focus on the health of the spine, using yoga as a tool to restore and improve movement and function, as well as trying to convey a greater understanding of the practice of yoga and its potential to help both body and mind. Further information Spaces for all classes are limited and booking is essential. For any queries and for booking please contact Rob on 07899088333 or email robertlamport@hotmail.com www.lucksyardclinic.com Further information on all these classes can also be found on the Lucks Yard Clinic Website.
How well do you know your school?
Here are the answers to the cryptic photographs on pages 13 and 18. a – sunshine on green bin near Reception b – speed ramp near Basketball court c – gate at bottom of ramp to Drama d – Corner of DT building looking towards all weather court e – bin on drama building wall f – hole in drama wall g – outside wall of Reception h) h – drain cover between DT, MFL and LRC
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Going for Gold
Reported by Kathryn & Chris
And no, not Olympic gold! We four ex-Rodborough students recently went to receive our Gold D of E award from HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in The Throne Room of St James’ Palace.
No photography is permitted inside the palace, but it would have looked a bit like this!
That final flourish was not the only thing to make the award special. All of us agree that from start to finish the program offers opportunities to challenge yourself and experience new and exciting things. Who would have thought that we’d be camping in the snow, wading waist deep in water on a ‘footpath’ or squelching through bogs whilst having so much fun? - (occasionally only in hindsight though!) Blisters the size of golf balls are not the only attraction to the award! The other sections give you an array of skills and allow you to connect with communities. From helping out at your local Brownies to building a school for orphans in Tanzania, the award opens many tent-flaps. If you are unsure as to whether or not you want to get involved… DO IT!! It has undoubtedly been one of the most memorable experiences of our lives. We have learnt so much and built great friendships along the way. None of this would have been possible without the dedication, time and guidance of Rodborough staff who, five years ago, started us on our journey to achieve this prestigious award. So a huge thank you to all of them from all of us!
Silver at Beaulieu
Reporters Hannah Drijver-Ludlam & Kate Fifield
On a wet Friday in October, 35 brave Year 11 pupils set off early for their gruelling, three day, Silver Duke of Edinburgh expedition to the New Forest. We set off walking at 9am and arrived at camp more than five hours later, having walked through boggy marshes and traipsed through unavoidable floods in the pouring rain. After a mediocre meal and an uncomfortable night in the tents, we started early on Saturday morning, leaving time for the 20 kilometre walk ahead of us. Blisters and painful shoulders caused by our heavy rucksacks slowed our progress. Map reading skills were put to the test as we tried to navigate around flood plains and through dense woodland. This was a stiff challenge for us all and the final group arrived back at camp, in the dark, at around 7.30pm, totally exhausted after the long walk. Fortunately the weather was a little better as we struggled to put up our tents and cook a hot meal in the dark. Saturday’s long day paid dividends, however, leaving us only a short, 5 kilometre walk to complete on Sunday before eating our emergency rations on our return home! Many thanks to all the teachers who helped us throughout the weekend; Mrs Doyle, Mr Ricketts, Mr Grenville, Mrs Bullen, Miss Shephard and particularly to Miss Mackay for organising D of E at Rodborough. Although it was a painful challenge it was well worth the effort!
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An open invitation from the Chairman of the Godalming-Mayen Association
For many years, parties of Year 10 Rodborough students have spent a week as guests of their opposite numbers in the Megina Gymnasium in Godalming’s German twin town Mayen, and acted as hosts when the Mayeners have come to England. Our daughter Nicola was among the group that went in 1996, and we entertained her partner Cathrin Reinnarth. We were inspired by that experience to join the Godalming-Mayen Association which arranges trips to Mayen every other year, and in 2001 I paid my own first visit, staying with Cathrin’s parents. Her father took me out to the nearby Nürburgring on the back of his Harley Davidson! We are hopeful that other Rodborough parents may do likewise, join our association as family members (only £12 for the year) and enjoy a very economic holiday in an interesting part of Europe, with the bonus of making new friends and seeing life in another country much more closely than is ever possible as a tourist. The Godalming-Mayen Association was formed in 1980, as was the sister organisation in Germany, and the formal town twinning arrangement was signed in 1982. So we have just celebrated 30 years of official partnership. To mark the anniversary, the Mayeners entertained us last autumn to a splendid meal in their 13th century Genovevaburg Castle, and we reciprocated this summer in the Jack Phillips. The photograph shows the combined group in the Crown Court, just before we supported the town bands from Mayen, Joigny and Godalming at the joint concert in July. We are currently planning our next trip, which will be Photo in summer 2013. We spend a week in Mayen, as guests www.igougo.com of families wherever possible, socialise with our opposite numbers and arrange trips out to nearby cities and places of interest. Last year, for instance, we had a cruise on the Moselle, visited the magnificent Federal Horticultural Show in Koblenz and arranged tastings at local vineyards (Mayen is close to major wine production areas). The majestic Rhine and Moselle rivers are both close by. Mayen is an attractive town with a picturesque market square dominated by its castle. It is of similar size to Godalming. Sporting and leisure facilities include open-air swimming with the longest water slide in the world, theatrical productions in the castle and the attractions of the annual Lukasmarkt. The countryside is undulating and wooded, the underlying geology is volcanic; the drowned craters of the extinct volcanoes now providing a series of small lakes for water sports. There is a museum dedicated to slate mining and fabrication for which Mayen is renowned. Outings when the Germans came here this summer included Brooklands, Portsmouth and Lacock Village; previously we have been to Stonehenge, Salisbury, the Seven Sisters and many other interesting places throughout the South of England.
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During the year we arrange activities such as an annual celebration of St Nicholas’ Eve – this year we built gingerbread houses – garden parties, and games evenings. We are always delighted to welcome new members, especially younger people. This year’s contingent from Mayen included several teenagers. It would have been very agreeable if we had been able to introduce them to some young Godalming people. We are very hopeful that if this year’s exchange proves interesting and enjoyable, the Year 10 contingent and their families will be inspired to join our association and continue to The Rodborough / Mayen Exchange develop and extend their knowledge of our twin town and its people. More information is available from the Chairman, Robert Park, 01483 422253 or Vice-chair, Inge Hempstead, on 01483 415351
And on the subject of Germany… This year’s trip to the German Christmas Market, a couple of weeks ago, was as popular as ever. Cold does not come even close to describing the temperature in Germany, when 44 Year 9 students and 4 members of staff visited Koln and the Christmas Markets, Cathedral and Lindt Chocolate Factory. The snow helped us all get into the Festive Spirit though.
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Former Student, Verity Monk, updates us on her medical elective …
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Green Notes
Reporter Mr Ewing What has a black coat and can be seen digging small holes along the main driveway to the school in autumn? The answer is, of course, our Eco Prefects. This autumn we have planted a further 100kg of daffodils along the main drive to add yet more spring colour to this entrance to the school. This programme has been on-going for several years now and really does make a difference to the school in spring.
Eco Prefects have also been busy with that other big autumn task – weeding and clearing the Memorial Garden. Once again the benefits of this work will not be fully appreciated until spring as the garden is largely planted with perennials and goes into a winter shut down but we hope that their efforts, coupled with those of the work party organised by Mrs Currie earlier in the year, will get the garden looking brilliant when it reawakens in spring time. We have also been planning projects and looking ahead. One project has been for prefects to look at ways of sustainably heating the swimming pool (in readiness for when it finally comes back into serviceable use). Some great ideas were bounced around at an Eco meeting, with Chris from Allotmore and Mr Edwards (our new Eco-Committee Chairman) helping out. We are also working with parent, Mr Francis, who visited the school with our Eco Prefects to look at where we could site some big sculpted wooden benches. We will be organising a February working party to try and get these in place. School Council want us to consider putting more planters and more herbs around the site. We have experimented with all sorts of plants over the years and herbs seem to be perfect at coping with the sort of unintentional neglect any plants in a school are subjected to (like not being watered very often during the summer holidays). If anyone has any spare large rosemary, sage, lavender, bay or thyme plants we would be most grateful. Finally, I would like to thank the manager of Godalming Homebase and my old friend Hendrick from Meadrow Allotments for giving us seeds to plant around the school in springtime. These will make a huge difference to our existing garden areas and we even have a supply of annual herb seed to add to our herb planters! RODBOROUGH CHRONICLES
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Year 11 Rugby Triumph
Reporter Mr Lee
Our Yr11 rugby team played their last competitive rugby match on Tuesday 4th Dec against Woking High School in the Surrey Schools’ Shield Final. Leagues do not exist across Surrey for Under 16 teams. Instead, we play a series of knockout competitions. In the first (Cup) round of the main competition we were drawn against Therfield School, a game which we narrowly lost 7-12. This put us through to the Shield Competition, together with all other schools who lost their first game. A Bye in the next round, followed by wins over Guildford County, Edenham High and All Hallows saw us through to the Shield Final against Woking High, finalists in the main Cup Competition 2 years ago. The final was played under lights at Old Emanuel RFC on a cold, wet pitch. For the first 15 minutes Rodborough were forced to defend continuously as Woking launched attack after attack. However, on a rare visit to the Woking 22m line, a well taken Rodborough lineout enabled Dan Dudgeon to take a short pass and crash over the Woking line for the first score of the game. Pressure from the forwards a few minutes later gave Matt Shorrock the chance to pick and go and score our second try giving us a 10-0 lead at half time. Woking were clearly not ready to concede defeat and strong pressure at the start of the second half saw Rodborough forced again to defend their own try line and were eventually penalised for being off-side. Woking seized this opportunity to score their first and only try of the game. Rather than panic, however, this score served to motivate the Rodborough players who lifted their game to another level. Tries from Jesse Lewis, Jack Wilson, Seb Davies, Liam Beswick, another by Matt Shorrock, together with two conversions from Tom Herman, meant that by the final whistle Rodborough were very comfortable winners 41-5. This was a great win for a team who, two seasons ago, finished 5 th in their league but have ended their school rugby careers with another trophy for Rodborough.
Tennis at O2
On Tuesday 6th November a group of enthusiastic tennis players and GCSE PE students travelled to O2 for the ATP Ferrer v Del Potro singles match and the Men’s Doubles finals. The doubles final was first – a very good match with evenly matched pairs fighting for every point. The singles match was also a thrilling encounter, with a contrast in styles between the consistent David Ferrer and the powerful and aggressive Juan Martin Del Potro. We ‘Oood’ and ‘Ahhed’ along with the crowd at the long rallies and at the astonishing power of some of the shots taken. These sounds mingled with the odd grunt from a player giving his all. David Ferrer came out on top with a deserved two sets to one win. Novak Djokovic went on to play Rodger Federer in the final – a very entertaining match won by Djokovic in three sets. The O2 is a great venue for tennis and we were able to enjoy a snack or two during the matches; being sure to eat quietly so as not to disturb the players! The whole experience was very enjoyable, making up for the traffic jams experienced by the minibus on the way there. I would very much recommend a trip to watch tennis if you get the chance – I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
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