Horizon Issue 14

E X PA N D I N G H O R I Z O N S

THE HORIZON •

• Results Results • Development • Young Artist •of the Year • Golf Champions • • Prize Days • World Challenge • CCF Field Days • Fond Farewells •

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“The School is entering an exciting phase in its development and this includes an uncompromising focus on outstanding teaching and learning.” “a.” Headmaster – – Jeremy Quartermain, –a–

I S S U E 14 - S E P T E M B E R 2 018

WELCOME JEREMY QUARTERMAIN Headmaster, Rossall School

It gives me great pleasure to write a few introductory W words E L for Cthis Oinformative, M E joyous and aesthetically beautiful publication.

You will be aware that Rossall is entering an extremely exciting period of its development. The physical manifestation of this ambition and confidence is reflected in the performing arts studio and state-of-the-art sports centre; both of which are gradually taking shape before our eyes. Academically, we are celebrating the strongest set of GCSE results in recent years and this is directly attributable to the hard work of pupils and teachers alike. It is no secret that I am determined that we should strive to achieve excellence in all areas of School life. All successful schools are true to their core purpose and this is to provide an outstanding quality of teaching and learning. I look forward to sharing our exciting development plans for the academic side of School life with you as the term unfolds. Similarly, I delight in our sporting success and I am thrilled to be working with our Director of Sports to develop an elite sports training programme for promising young athletes. I have already been following the changeable fortunes of our local football team and I am looking forward to the sporting season commencing here at Rossall.

Within this edition of The Horizon, we say goodbye to a number of staff who have made an extraordinary contribution to the life of this community. In particular, my predecessor, Elaine Purves, will be sorely missed by all who admired her compassionate and thoughtful leadership. We wish all of our leavers (staff and pupils) success and happiness in their future endeavours.

This term heralds the hundredth anniversary of the end of the First World War. Over the summer I have taken some time to reflect upon the enormous sacrifice of the 293 Old Rossallians who gave their lives in this most terrible of conflicts.

Both in the Memorial Chapel and the School Archives, one is overwhelmed by the sense of loss of these brave young men.

As a community, we honour their loss by ensuring that this continues to be a modern, progressive and successful School underpinned by a strong Christian ethos and entirely coherent set of values. I would like to think that pupils who attended the School at the turn of the twentieth century would be impressed and heartened by the Rossall of today. A strong vision for the future must evolve from a sure understanding of our past. Rossall’s illustrious history will not, in itself, ensure our future success but it has an extraordinary ability to inspire us to push forward in all of our endeavours.

JEREMY QUARTERMAIN

I hope you enjoy reading the articles in The HorizonHeadmaster, as muchRossall as I have enjoyed reviewing them. I look forward to getting to School know all members of our community as the year progresses and my family and I are incredibly appreciative of the warmth of 01253 774201 the welcome that has been extended to us as we become part of this wonderful community.

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OUR TEA OM UR TEAM Wr iters: Wr iters: Amy Campbell, Amy Nancy Campbell, Fielden Nancy Fielden Editors: Editors: Nancy Fielden, Nancy JanFielden, Nichol Jan Nichol Designer: Designer: Lore Walsh Lore Walsh Photographers: Photographers: Amy Campbell, Amy Lore Campbell, Walsh Lore Walsh

News THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

NEWS

NEW £4 MILLION BUILD BEGINS Following approval from the School’s Council to add a Sports Centre to our current sports facilities, the contractors are on-site and work has commenced.

Completion is scheduled for the start of the 2019/2020 Academic Year.

This is an exciting project and demonstrates real commitment from the School in terms of its continuing responsibility to provide modern facilities for the students and the wider community. Enhancing our current sports provision the Sports Centre will offer top class facilities for indoor sports supporting our students’ sporting development at the highest level.

The new Sports Centre will be situated adjacent to the Astroturf and close to the MUGA and will contain a main sports hall, changing facilities, a fitness suite, office space, a 50 metre indoor running track, and a viewing gallery overlooking the Astroturf.

The £4,000,000 Sports Centre project is being part-funded by the generosity of the wider Rossall community, including a number of kind Old Rossallians who have already donated. Over the Michaelmas Term the Rossall Foundation will provide further details on how you can support this project, this will include a number of fundraising events currently in the planning process.

This is a significant new facility for the whole school which will allow sport to advance and grow in the most energetic way.

For further information on this significant project, please contact the Director of Development, Mr Henry Shepherd: h.shepherd@rossall.org.uk.

NEW PERFORMING ARTS STUDIO OPENS Over the last five years performing arts at Rossall School have flourished, not only in the quality of productions but also in the number of students participating and excelling in this field, both within and outside the curriculum. Our current performance spaces: Museum Theatre, Big School and Beecham Music School have provided excellent theatre and concert spaces for budding thespians and talented musicians; however, the School is delighted to be able to announce the opening of a new Performing Arts Studio.

The opportunity to create such a wonderful space has arisen due to a very generous donation from Old Rossallian, David McKee ( J &A 49-56). David is the founder and former owner of the McKee Gallery in New York City and is an avid supporter of the arts. David has had a great deal of input into the development of this project (over several visits and emails) including finding the perfect location.

The Performing Arts Studio has been constructed within the current Middle School Gym space, creating a multi-functional rehearsal and performance space for the arts, with ‘black box’ facility, professional theatre lighting, flexible staging and space for dance. This new state-of-the-art facility will increase Rossall School’s arts potential greatly - carefully woven into the original fabric of the building, the aim is to create a versatile, striking and unique venue, for teaching and performances.

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HIGH PRAISE FOR INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE EXAMS

THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

Rossall School is delighted to have students within the 2018 IB cohort achieving grades which places them at the very top of the IB results worldwide.

Roddy June Lau was awarded 40 points for his Diploma, the equivalent of 4 ‘A*’ grades at A Level. Roddy, who studied Economics, Physics, Business, Chinese Literature, English, Mathematics and Philosophy as an additional subject hopes to go on to study Philosophy at the University College London (UCL).

He said, “It was always my ambition to do the IB. I was rejected from one of the top schools in China who offer the Diploma and so I always wanted to complete it to prove that I could.”

“Rossall offered me a scholarship and the teaching they gave me was invaluable. Dr Dohmen was extremely supportive throughout my studies and my Physics teacher, Mr Simms, was a legend!”

Fellow student Felix Kohlhas achieved 42 points, placing him at the very top of worldwide results.

He said, “I want to thank Dr Dohmen for the great level of support she gave me. The A in my Extended Essay and the Level 6 in German have really surprised me. Without her feedback and guidance, it certainly would not have been possible.”

Dr Doris Dohmen, IB Coordinator at Rossall said: “The International Baccalaureate is an exceptionally challenging programme of study, so we are immensely proud of our students. Their results are a testament to their hard work and dedication over the last two years and we wish them every success for the future.”

DRAMATIC RISE IN TOP GRADES AT GCSE Staff and students are celebrating after a dramatic rise in the percentage of top grades achieved at GCSE. Nearly half of all examination entries in reformed subjects were graded 9-7 (A*/A equivalent). Collectively, well over 40% of all examination entries (IGCSE/GCSE) resulted in either A*/A or 9-7).

20% of students achieved a level 9 in both Mathematics and English.

This marked upward trend comes at a time when the school is investing in state-of-the-art new facilities and focusing upon becoming a regional centre for outstanding teaching and learning.

Headmaster Jeremy Quartermain said: “I am delighted by these results for they are evidently attributable to the hard work and conscientious work ethic of this most impressive of year groups.

“The dramatic rise in the number of A*/A grades and 9-7s is particularly pleasing and I would like to thank all of our teachers who have provided such outstanding support, guidance and encouragement.

“We celebrate in the success of our pupils and are tremendously excited to welcome them into our Sixth Form for the beginning of the next academic year.”

Lex Bilby gained 6 9s, 3 8s and 1 A*. He said “I thought I had done well but not this well! I was so shocked when I opened my results and saw my 9 in German, then it just got better!”

Lex paid tribute to his teachers for helping him through his exams.

“Mr McDowell and Mr Hall were amazing during my GCSEs. I hope my studies will continue with them next year.” said Lex. Lex is staying at Rossall for Sixth Form to study the International Baccalaureate Diploma and hopes to go on to study Classics at Oxford University.

Daisy Newsham was awarded 1 9, 3 8s, 2 7s and 3 As and said she was relieved to finally get her results. “I feel thrilled and totally over the moon with my results.”

Daisy now plans to stay on at Rossall’s Sixth Form to study A levels and paid tribute to her teachers for helping her through her studies.

She said, “The teachers at Rossall are always there to help whenever you need them. They pushed me to my full potential and really believed in me.”

Louis Mawer who gained 2 9s, 4 8s, 1 7, 1 6, 1 A* and 1 B said, “I am very happy and totally relieved that the wait is finally over!”

Louis credited the teaching at Rossall for his success. He said, “The teaching at Rossall was great. I really appreciated the extra lessons and help – all my teachers inspired me.”

Louis now plans to study A levels in Chemistry, Biology and Maths at Rossall’s Sixth Form and hopes to study Medicine at university.

“My dream is to become a doctor,” Louis said.

Amelia Quirk gained 2 9s, 3 8s, 4 7s and 1 A and also plans to stay on at the school to study for A levels in History and Maths.

“I feel very happy. I was so relieved when I opened my results!” said Amelia. “I am going to go out for a meal with my family to celebrate.”

CONGRATU

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THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

ROSSALL SCHOOL CELEBRATE AN INCREASE IN A* AND A*-A GRADES Almost all Rossall students have secured their preferred university places, and will be progressing to undergraduate courses in subjects as diverse as medicine, law and politics. Following on from some excellent IB Diploma results earlier this summer, the School is particularly pleased that so many pupils are achieving top grades across a wide range of subjects in both curricular routes.

Mr Jeremy Quartermain, Headmaster at Rossall, said: “The School is entering an exciting phase in its development and this includes an uncompromising focus on outstanding teaching and learning, alongside the construction a multimillion pound state-of-the-art sports facility and a new performing arts studio. There is much to celebrate and I am delighted that so many of our leavers are progressing to academically rigorous courses.”

Deputy School Captain, Olivia Gregory, plans to read Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of Manchester after gaining two A*s and an A. Olivia who earned top grades in Biology, Psychology and Chemistry said: “The teaching and support I have received at Rossall has been fantastic. All of my teachers were always on hand for extra help. I cannot thank them all enough”.

During her degree course, Olivia would like to do her year in industry in either America or Canada and added: “Hopefully that will give me some inspiration career-wise! I shall be celebrating this evening with a family party and a night out with my friends.”

Eighteen year old Eleanor Garstang, who gained three As in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics is going on to study Medicine at Lancaster University.

Eleanor hopes her studies will lead to a successful and happy career as a doctor.

Speaking of her time at Rossall, Eleanor said: “I must thank all my teachers who were consistently prepared to sacrifice their time for me to achieve the grades received”.

Emilie Robinson, will be going on to read History at Bristol University after gaining 3 As in English, History and Geography.

Emilie is excited to be going on to study in Bristol and commented that her biggest inspiration has been her Mum and Dad whom she is looking forward to celebrating with this evening.

Eighteen year old Oscar He from China gained 3 A* and 2 A grades in Chemistry, Further Mathematics, Mathematics, Physics and Chinese, and now plans to study Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry at Imperial College, London.

Noni Purnell from Lancaster gained 3 A levels and is going on to study Musical Theatre at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance.

Noni is delighted with her A in Drama and after playing many leading roles in musical performances at Rossall cannot wait to reach her ultimate goal of a career on the stage.

Talented Organ player and keen Chorister Harvey Stansfield, after gaining 3 A levels, has been awarded an Organ Scholarship at Blackburn Cathedral. Following his year in Blackburn Harvey wishes to study Music at the Birmingham Conservatoire.

The Headmaster, Mr Jeremy Quartermain added: “We are proud of all our students’ academic achievements and the choices they have made; and I would like to pay tribute to their hard work and the support and guidance of our fabulous teachers who have helped them to realise their aspirations”.

TULATIONS 4

Perfor ming Arts THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

PERFORMING ARTS A selection of our 2018 Graduates, and a notable Old Rossallian, share their inspiration and future desires.

NONI RHIANNON PURNELL WREN 2015 – 2018 After performing as Madame Thénardier in Les Misérables, I decided to pursue Musical Theatre, with the goal of a professional career in the industry. I have studied acting and singing for many years at Drama Factory, where I also started LAMDA examinations which I continued after moving to Rossall (towards the end of Year 10). I started working as a singer at 15, performing at book signings for Lancaster University, singing sixties songs in retirement homes and monthly open mic nights. After achieving a distinction in my grade 8 singing and acting, I sought the tuition of an Estill vocal teacher.

He helped me with audition preparation and to understand the biology of singing. Last summer, I attended a 2 week course at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. This was invaluable in terms of how to choose and interpret audition monologues and songs; it was a difficult course as the tutors intentionally attempted to break your spirit, to filter out anyone who was not mentally capable of the audition process and the industry. At this time, I started dance lessons as dance ability is increasingly important to a musical theatre performer. In January and February this year, I auditioned at several schools and conservatoires in London and Glasgow. In June, I was offered an unconditional place at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Although the past two years have been really hard work, the real work and competition starts now.

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HARVEY STANSFIELD CLIFTON, MITRE FLEUR DE LYS 2011 – 2018 I have been at Rossall for seven years and have just completed my A levels. Upon leaving Rossall I will be taking up the position of The Harold Thornber Organ Scholar at Blackburn Cathedral. I started playing the piano at the age of five and at the age of seven I joined the church choir at St.Chad’s Parish Church, Poulton-LeFylde. This subsequently led me onto singing with the Northern Cathedral Singers under the direction of Gordon Appleton. At the age of ten I began organ lessons with David Chadwick, the organist and choirmaster at St.Chad’s and from the very first time I played the instrument, I was hooked. It is David I would like to thank for inspiring me to pursue a career as an organist. Whilst at Rossall I have been fortunate to be a part of the prestigious Chapel Choir and have toured many amazing places, including Dallas, Rome and my final tour to Malta. The biggest highlight for me was singing at services in Westminster Abbey on two separate occasions. In 2016 I was accepted to study Organ and Voice at the Junior Royal Northern College of Music with organ tuition under Simon Mercer. Recently I have been awarded membership of the North and Midlands School of Music and the Guild of Musicians and Singers at Licentiate level.

Following my year at Blackburn Cathedral I hope to go on to study for a BMus Degree at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

Perfor ming Arts THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

BILLY HOGGMASCALL HESKETH, ANCHOR, MITRE FLEUR DE LYS 2012 - 2018

TÉO BEAUMÉ ASSHETON, MITRE FLEUR DE LYS 2008 – 2018

Over the past six years I have been privileged to be a part of Rossall’s Music department. From knowing barely anything about music, before joining Rossall, to becoming someone with the aspiration and capability of becoming a musician has been a journey I will treasure.

Earlier in my time here at Rossall I tended to prefer the Art courses to Music workshops, as I lacked self confidence in music. As my performance and compositional skills grew I started to take part in school concerts, and travelled with the choir playing and singing to large audiences. I even performed main character roles in the school musical productions and put on my own Art and Music Exhibition where I composed pieces of music to accompany my own paintings.

My highlight of this year was the ‘Hidden Gem’ competition in which composers from around the world created their own piece of music for the harp. To my surprise and excitement I was one of seventeen finalists selected (and the youngest). Partnered with harpist Becki Mcllroy we were delighted to be awarded the Audience Prize for my composition Prelude to a Harp. I hope to further my studies in Music Composition and Fine Art at Bath Spa University and my goal is to become a Freelance Artist and Composer.

I graduate from Rossall School after 11 years. I have been studying Music since Year 10. I have always had a passion for acting and doing this as my career. The many roles I have had in school performances over the years built my confidence and enhanced my learning experience. I love theatre but my real passion is composing, producing and singing. Having been accepted at both the Berklee College of Music in America and the Leeds College of Music, to study production, this has increased my commitment and passion to become successful in this industry. I want to thank the Music and Drama departments, especially Miss Bendelow, Mrs Littlefair and Miss Young for all their aid and guidance at Rossall. With their support I have achieved Grade 8 in Voice, Grade 8 in Acting and Grade 5 in Music Theory. I am looking forward to taking up my place at the Leeds College of Music.

LEWIS MATTHEW RAINES MALTESE CROSS 1996 - 2008 From the moment I started singing I was given a tremendous amount of faith in my ability from Rossall School. I must add notable mentions of support from Mr Stuart Corrie and the Head of Music at Rossall Miss Margaret Young. When I moved into the Sixth Form I became a full-time member of the Rossall School Choir, this gave me the opportunity to sing repertoire that I would later study when I moved into the music industry. Both Margaret and Stuart put their faith in me and despite my dyslexia they were a driving force for me. At the time of graduation, I went on to study performing arts at the Blackpool & Fylde College. But my love of classical music and opera led me to study Vocal Studies at the Trinity College of Music. There I found my voice.

Now after performing in opera companies in the UK and France and singing on the seas and oceans around the world, I have always tried to keep my feet on the ground wherever I have had the opportunity to perform. In truth, I feel like I have exceeded all expectation of what I could achieve as a young singer and with my new adventure with G4 I hope I will do Rossall School proud. With the news of the development of the new performing arts centre, I believe this will inspire younger artists to explore this incredibly rewarding and exciting industry.

My advice to all the young singers of Rossall school, don’t be afraid to be the loudest, just let that voice out because we want to hear it.

Floreat Rossallia!

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Poetry THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

THE ROSSALL JOURNEY A new School Video was commissioned this term and in the quest to create a thought-provoking framework from a student’s perspective, a poetry competition was held. Here are the winning entries.

RUNNER UP

WINNER

The Rossall Journey

The Rossall Journey

By Suzanne Wrigley

By Evita Lopez

Age: 13

Age: 17

Nationality: British

Nationality: American

The first day at Rossall is like meeting your family Taking a breath of air for as long as you stay Even if you leave it’s still your family Like a rainbow on a cloudy day

Here’s to a journey One we cannot forget The memories shared With the people we’ve met

Meeting Friends you know will last forever no matter how far apart Seeing your teachers sing and dance or just having fun with you Having fun and doing things you never thought you could do for charity or for yourself Having experiences outside of school such as trips out

With students who’ve travelled From near and from far Each one of them happy To be where they are

Being out playing sports and when you win you don’t just win for yourself you win as a family Experiencing once in lifetime opportunities like being in choir, or a sports team No matter what, we are a family, guiding each other through hard times Supporting each other’s decisions Understanding that no matter where we are from we are still a family

Here’s to the friends We make from day one Who soon turn to family As our journey’s begun From the very first day To the very last, too With open arms, we welcome all Embracing those old and new

Here’s to the days We don’t spend on our own Taking part in activities Making Rossall our home Discovering new hobbies A variety at hand Let it be sports or drama Or playing in the band Here’s to the weather We handle with ease From the cold icy wind To the cool summer breeze Going down to the beach With our friends hand in hand Laying down in the sun With our toes in the sand Here’s to the sorrow Felt for those who have gone The relationships made Will forever go on This journey called Rossall I will never forget All that it’s taught me And those I have met.

My inspiration comes from everything I have achieved at Rossall to everything I have yet to do My inspiration comes from every laugh I share with my friends Memories of house competitions with the sense of happiness Every year when we sing 12 days of Christmas Or at the end of the year when we say goodbye until the next adventure What I love about Rossall isn’t what I achieve It isn’t playing sports It isn’t doing academics It’s being part of a family from friends to teachers Together they are my best memories and always will be

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Photograph by Summer School student, Tommaso Weller

Music THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

MUSIC

MUSIC AWARDS Many of our musical students have achieved excellence and distinctions in various awards over the last term.

Samuel Ayoma (YR 9), Harry Gordon (YR 9) and Casey Smith (YR 12) received distinctions in piano, singing and trumpet respectively in the ABRSM awards (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). Riley Harrison (YR 8) passed his ABRSM in trumpet and Kathryn Watson (YR 12) received ABRSM awards for singing and flute.

ABRSM Mission statement: We want everyone to be able to fulfil their potential with music. We believe that access to high-quality, progressive music learning is the right of everyone.

In the 2018 Lytham Festival Dominic Wasey (YR 7) was awarded 1st Place in the Year 12 and Under Category for his Piano Solo, and Kerry Chen (YR 12) was awarded 1st place in the Open Piano Impressionist or Modern Repertoire and 2nd Place in the 16 -18 Years Category for her Piano Solo.

The Rossall Chapel Choir is affiliated to the Royal Schools of Church Music and the choristers follow the ‘Voice for Life’ training scheme which provides a framework for the choristers to develop, both technically and musically. The first of the formal qualifications, achieved through an external examination, is the Dean’s Award. Choristers Georgia Oldham (YR 9), Harry Platt (YR 9), Harry Gordon (YR 9), Matthew Peill (YR 13) and Kay Van Blerk (YR 13) were successful at this level and received a certificate and a Bronze Medal.

Choristers Grace Gordon (YR 11), Amelia Quirk (YR 11) and Harvey Stansfield (YR 13) passed the Bishop’s Award, for which they received a Silver Medal.

ROSSALL CHAPEL CHOIR OFFICIAL TOUR Twenty choristers from the Rossall Chapel Choir performed in churches and cathedrals in Malta for the 2018 Choir Tour.

Their first engagement was to accompany Sunday Morning Mass in Medina Cathedral where Year 9 student Sam Ayoma was also honoured to do a reading. Two further evening concerts followed, one at St Theresa’s Church, Cospicua in front of the Ex-President of Malta and their final concert at Fontana Church, Gozo. The service at Fontana marked the fifth anniversary of the death of the former Parish Priest Monsignor George Bezzina. Attending the concert was the Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana, Fontana Mayor Saviour Borg, Magistrate Paul Coppini and Monsignor Bezzina’s relatives. The Rossall Chapel Choir certainly impressed their audiences and the students also enjoyed some downtime exploring Gozo and their resort at St Paul’s Bay. The Choir Tour are heading to Westminster Abbey for the 2019 Tour and will be covering all the services at the Abbey from Bank Holiday Monday 26th August to Friday 30th August 2019.

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Drama THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

DRAMA HARRY POTTER The Year 7 and 8 Drama Club students produced and directed their own version of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The story followed the adventures of the ‘Boy Who Lived’ during his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Harry Potter super-fan Henry Singleton had not been able to contain his excitement upon learning he would be playing the title role of Harry Potter - his dedication to the role, and living his dream, was clear.

Alice Hellewell took on the role of Ron Weasley with ease, delivering Ron’s natural humour with impeccable comedic timing. Alice’s adlibbed lines whilst Ron travelled between scenes, demonstrated an advanced level of professionalism.

The role of Hermione Granger saw Sienna Gilbert-Sweeney embrace the character, from the know-it-all expression and subtle mannerisms to the untameable hair.

The strong cast delivered an impressive show that had children and adults in the audience laughing and cheering along.

The production would not have been possible without the hard work of directors Jessica Lever and Megan Moore, and their fellow Year 12 Drama students.

Former Head, Ms Purves, said, “The performance was utterly charming; the enthusiasm and commitment from every member of the cast and crew was superb and it was brilliant to see an entirely student-led production.”

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GCSE PERFOMANCES The Year 10 GCSE students presented an accomplished performance of the little-known play Tusk Tusk. Tusk Tusk is a reference to the children’s song in which Nellie the Elephant packs her trunk and trundles back to the jungle. The elephant in this particular room is a mother who goes AWOL, and the story follows the three children as they are left to fend for themselves.

The Year 11 GCSE Drama students staged their final examination pieces to a filled Museum Theatre. The evening consisted of three confident performances: An Inspector Calls (featuring Jaylen Roberts, Luca Carpenito and Jack Kenmare), The Picture of Dorian Gray (Piers Kay, Wizaso Chavula and Che Biviano) and finally Dr Faustus (Cameron Niland, Will Ratcliffe and Madison Schwab, with Costume and Make-up Design by Summer Wan).

A REINTERPRETATION OF BRONTË BY YEAR 12 As part of component one of the Drama and Theatre A level course, the Year 12 students are tasked with adapting an existing text and performing it in a style that contrasts the original. The students elected to reinterpret Brontë by Polly Teale. The cast, Jessica Lever (Charlotte Brontë), Molly Nagle (Emily Brontë), Megan Moore (Bertha) and Kerry Chen ( Jane Eyre) were inspired by the lives of the Brontë sisters and the oppression that they faced during their time as female writers in a male-dominated Victorian society.

Their performance focused primarily on the life of Charlotte Brontë, exploring how she used her writing as an outlet - her characters were able to be free in a way that she was not. Nicky Chong, assessed for Set Design, created an innovative set which enabled Charlotte’s characters to ‘step out of their books’ and come to life. The performance was influenced by the physical theatre style of Frantic Assembly.

Art THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

ART

COMMENDATIONS FOR OUR ARTISTS SUCCESS FOR BEN Lower Sixth IB Student, Ben Spamer, won first prize in this year’s “Opelvillen” photography competition. The winning photo will be published on the title page of the photography magazine “Digitalphoto” and on a calendar. The topic for the competition was “down on the ground high up in the air”.

YOUNG ARTIST OF THE YEAR Pieces by GCSE students Kateryna Chaikivska, Peter Qi, Vicky Xu and Andy Zhao were highly commended in the Blackpool and the Fylde College Young Artist of the Year competition in May. Their artwork was exhibited in The Gallery at Blackpool and the Fylde College.

END OF YEAR EXHIBITION The End of Year Exhibition showcases the work of our GCSE and A level students.

It offers the opportunity for students to exhibit their work across the three creative specialisms; Art, Graphic Communication and Photography.

DIFFERENT STROKES Mrs Sarah Holder-Williams, long-standing Head of Art, is stepping down this year from her position. We would like to thank her for her inspiration and dedication. Sarah has developed the department over many years, making it the success it now is. We are lucky enough to be keeping her creativity as a part-time teacher and we would like to welcome the new Head of Art, Miss Laura Heap, who joins Rossall from AKS. 10

Junior Sports Round Up THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

SPORT

Junior Round Up

ROSSALL SUCCESS AT THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS BIATHLON Once again Rossall hosted the Independent Schools Annual Biathlon with 170 children from the North West of England competing on the track and in the swimming pool to record times in an 800m run and 50m swim.

Now in only its 2nd Year, it has gained incredible support from schools all over the region and become extremely popular as an opportunity for pupils in Years 5 and 6 to test themselves against the clock and set their personal best times.

Rossall fielded full teams of six in all categories, twenty-four competitors in all, with a real mix of experienced biathletes and those trying the 50m swim and 800m run for the first time. The spirit of the team was superb, and the support that the children showed towards their teammates and children from other schools epitomised the camaraderie that this challenging event instils.

There were outstanding performances from the Rossall children in all events with Gordon Ballantyne achieving the Bronze medal in the Year 5 Boys competition with a magnificent performance, and along with Liam Welsh and Rex Mistry, securing the team bronze as well.

Hallie Garrick, Rosie Lupton and Gracie Sutton powered the Year 6 Girls to the team silver medal, missing out on gold by just a few points. The Year 6 boys came an impressive fourth place in a very competitive field, and the Year 5 Girls a commendable fifth.

Well done to all the Rossall team for representing the school so admirably and making your parents and teachers very proud.

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Junior Sports Round Up THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

ROUNDERS GIRLS RUN A BLINDER! Rossall U11s welcomed St Mary’s Hall for an afternoon of rounders and it was wonderful to have all of the Year 5 and 6 girls take part. Rossall first team won the toss and decided to field first. Their excellent fielding efforts lead to only 6 rounders being scored against them and enabled them to take an early lead with some strong batting giving them 10 rounders in the first innings. The overall game was won with a combination of efficient and clinical fielding from all of the girls, and some big hits from several team members, giving Rossall a victory of 13.5 - 10.5.

The Rossall seconds lost the coin toss and so took to the field with bats in hand. The umpires had agreed to bat for all out and so as long as the girls could stay in the game, the number of rounders to score was unlimited. The girls did incredibly well and through making sensible and logical decisions in the heat of the game, were able to stay batting for over half an hour leading to 11 rounders being scored. It was then the girls turn to field, and although they showed excellent maturity and support for one another, SMH managed to sneak in front during the last two bats to take the game.

All of the girls thoroughly enjoyed the match and were a credit to Rossall with their impeccable sportsmanship and manner.

IAPS NATIONAL SWIMMING FINALS 2018 On June 8th Hallie Garrick, Hayley Ballantyne, Shota Matsunaga and their families travelled all the way to the London Aquatics Centre, Olympic Park. They were to

HIGHLIGHTS Cricket U11 Boys - Sedbergh Six-A-Side Festival v Sedbergh

Won

v St Mary’s Kirby Lonsdale

Won

v Westville

Won

Final v Cundall manor

Runner Up

AJIS Athletics Aaliyah Murray

Track finals

Wendy Zhang

Track finals

Elijah Wiggins

Bronze Hurdles

Golf Casterton Golf Club v Sedbergh

Won

compete in the National Finals on Saturday 9th June. What an amazing experience to

Rossall School Golf Academy Junior

swim at this state of the art venue.

School Championship

The boys’ events took place in the morning, with the girls competing in the afternoon. This meant Shota was swimming first for Rossall in the 50metres breaststroke. Shota swam in the first of three heats, managing to win his heat comfortably. He finished the final, which was a very competitive race, in 6th place. What a fabulous start for the team.

Yr 3 & 4 Boys

Then it was Hallie and Hailey’s turn to swim. They were both swimming in the 50 metres freestyle, Under 11 and Under 12 respectively. Hallie and Hailey both qualified for their finals, which was simply incredible. Hallie finished the final in 6th place after qualifying in 2nd place in her heat. She was swimming against the national champion too. Hailey held her nerve in the heat when there were two false starts near her. She reacted brilliantly to this pressure by carrying on regardless. She finished in 10th place overall in the final.

Yr 3 & 4 Girls

It was an unbelievable experience for these Rossall swimmers, and one that they will remember forever.

Kye Kashyap

1st

Travis Minto

2nd

Luci-Mai Richardson

1st

Yr 5 & 6 Boys Joel Baines

1st

Joe Smith

2nd

Yr 5 & 6 Girls Aaliyah Murray

1st

Miki Safronov-Yamamoto

2nd

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Senior Sport Round Up THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

SPORT

Senior Round Up

A VALIANT EFFORT FOR THE BOYS’ 1ST HOCKEY TEAM

The Rossall School boys’ 1st team travelled to Worksop College on Friday for the highly anticipated National Plate Quarter Final.

Leading at half time through a goal by Will Gair, the Rossall boys unfortunately could not keep up the pace in high temperatures, and against a strong Worksop side. Rossall were eventually beaten 6-2, after an electrifying match. They should be very proud of their efforts, getting down to the final eight in the country is a massive achievement.

ROSSALL CROWNED WYRE AND FYLDE CHAMPIONS On Wednesday, Rossall hosted the second leg of the Wyre and Fylde Rounders Tournament for the U14 and U12 teams.

The Rossall School Under 14 team got off to a great start and with some outstanding performances. Rossall dominated the group round with convincing wins over Hodgson, Cardinal Allen, Carr Hill and Lytham. Progressing through to the semi-finals in first place, they faced Garstang. Once again Rossall’s batting led them to a 14 to 9 victory and a place in the final. Rossall faced Lytham once more and fielded first. Lytham set a target of 12 rounders, but Rossall maintained their dominance with the bat to go on to win by 3 rounders. A fantastic team performance which now sees the U14s go on to represent Wyre in the Lancashire Youth Games.

ATHLETICS Fylde Athletics Competition - 27th and 28th June Year 8 and 9 boys and girls took part in the Annual Fylde Athletics competition on Wednesday 27th and Thursday 28th June.

Stand out performances coming from Martha Kearne, who won the girls shot putt with a massive throw of over 9 metres. Sophia Singleton continued her fine form with winning the 800m, finally Alice Christy claimed bronze in 100m.

In the boys’ competition day, Fraser Hallas managed a double bronze medal haul in the high jump and 200m. There were

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many respectable 5th place finishes from Yemi Ajiteru (300m) Josh Abson (200m) Dylan Roberts and Max Boyd (100m). All the boys and girls must be commended for their efforts over the two days in what was a very high standard of competition.

Lancashire Athletics Championships - 9th June Rossall were out in full force representing the Wyre and Fylde team, with thirteen of the students competing. All the students competed to their best of their ability and many went home with season best times.

Danielle Heyes was crowned Lancashire Champion in the 200m Windson Pereira secured bronze in both the 100m and 200m Kamie Lowe - Bronze in 800m Wizazo Chavula - Bronze in 100m A special mention to Harry Curwood who finally achieved his first sub 2 minute 800m run. A target he has been chasing for a long time.

Well done, Harry.

Athletics has gone from strength to strength this year with those who are already established on the athletics circuit achieving new personal bests throughout the season, and those who are new to the event giving it their all.

Senior Sports Results THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

R E S U LT S

Boys’ U13A

Millfield

Won 22-16.5

Cardinal Allen

Won 18.5-7.5

Giggleswick

Lost

Hockey

AKS

Won

1st Boys’ XI

Birkdale

Lost

Stonyhurst

Lost

Girls’ U13A

Merchant Taylors’

Lost

Giggleswick

Lost 14.5-7

QEGS Blackburn

Lost

Stonyhurst

Ripley St Thomas

Lost

Lost 13.5-10.5

Kirkham Grammar School

Lost

Garstang Community Academy Won 8-4.5

Lancaster Royal Grammar

Lost

St Mary’s Crosby

Won 13.5-3

Fleetwood High School

Won 10.5-5.5

Won

Baines School

Won 18.5-9

AKS

Won

Millfield

Won 16.5-11.5

Sedbergh

Lost 12.5-6

Fylde Men’s 1st XI

Won 8-1

1st Girls’ XI Newlands School, Argentina

Draw 1-1

2nd Girls’ XI Newlands School, Argentina

Won 2-0

Boys’ U12A Giggleswick

Cricket Boys 1st XI

Archbishop Temple School

Won

Giggleswick

Won

Stonyhurst

Draw

St Mary’s Crosby

Won

Merchant Taylors’

Lost

Stonyhurst

Won

Kirkham Grammar School

Won

Myerscough College

Won

QEGS Blackburn

Lost

The Edinburgh Academy

Won

Ripley St Thomas

Won

Barnard Castle

Lost

Kirkham Grammar School

Won

The King’s School, Macclesfield

Lost

St Mary’s Blackpool

Lost

Boys’ 2nd XI Stonyhurst

Lost

Rounders Girls’ 1IX

Boys’ U17A Kirkham Grammar School

Lost

Audenshaw School

Won

Boys’ U15A AKS

Won

St Mary’s Crosby

Won

Stonyhurst

Won

Lancashire Royal Grammar School

Won

Merchant Taylors’

Won

Ripley St Thomas

Won

Ormskirk School

Won

Hutton Grammar School

Won

Boys’ U14A

Girls’ U13B Stonyhurst

Lost 15-7.5

Sedbergh

Won 11.5-9

Girls’ U12 A Stonyhurst

Lost 21.5-2

St Mary’s Crosby

Won 13.5-5

Fleetwood High School

Won 12.5-8

Sedbergh

Won 25-15

Baines School

Lost 15-9.5 Won 12-10.5 Lost 15-2

Giggleswick

Won 14.5-13.5

Millfield

St Mary’s Crosby

Won 9-4.5

Cardinal Allen

Girls’ U15A Giggleswick

Won 20.5-14

Garstang Community Academy Won 16-7

Tennis U18 Girls’ Team

St Mary’s Crosby

Won 18-2.5

Giggleswick

Won 6-1

Fleetwood High School

Won 20.5-10.5

AKS

Won 8-1

Stonyhurst

Lost 3-2

Stonyhurst

Lost 20-15.5

Baines School

Won 11.5-7.5

Cardinal Allen

Won 14-6

Millfield

Won 28-3

AKS

Lost

Carnforth High School

Won

Girls’ U14A

Merchant Taylors’

Lost

Giggleswick

AKS

Won

Garstang Community Academy Lost 14.5-14

QEGS Blackburn

Won

St Mary’s Crosby

Merchant Taylors’

Lost

Won 189-5.5

Kirkham Grammar School

Won

Stonyhurst

Won 12.5-6

Baines School

Won 21-20

U18 Boys’ Team Stonyhurst

Won 6-3

Sedbergh

Lost 9-0

Rugby Lost 9.5-6.5

Boys’ U16A Newlands School, Argentina

Won 60-0

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Golf THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

GOLF

Yr 5 & 6 Boys

ROSSALL CROWNED NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

On the second, and final, day of the tournament all competitors played eighteen holes on the Nicklaus course. After a fantastic performance from all three boys, Rossall came 1st and were crowned ISGA National Champions.

2nd 3rd

Charlie Ardron

Tied 8th

Jack Kenmare

Tied 22nd

Josh Hamnett

Tied 33rd

Girls

John Wilding

Tied 23rd

Rossall School Golf Academy Strokeplay Championship Boys U18s

Boys U16s Josh Hamnett

1st

Charlie Ardron

2nd

Boys U14s

Tom Pace

Tied 26th

Simon Holt

Tied 26th

Pip Munden

Tied 39th

Girls 5th

ISGA Junior League National Finals Team

5th

Grace Evans

Tied 6th

Pip Munden

16th

Rossall School Golf Academy Junior

Pip Munden

1st

Tom Pace

2nd

Girls U18s Lais Bilgri

1st

Girls U15s Aaliyah Murray

1st

Miki Safronov-Yamamoto

2nd

Parents & Staff Neels Bergh

1st

Paul Talarczyk

2nd

Jack Cropper

2nd

School Championship Tied 11th

Yr 3 & 4 Boys

Stefanie Lumbe

Tied 5th

Kye Kashyap

Grace Evans

Tied 5th

Travis Minto

HMC Foursomes National Final 1st

v Bedford

Lost 2-1

2nd

v Wellington

Won 3-0

v Whitgift

Lost 2-1

Overall

3rd in group

Tankard Ranking

4th

Yr 3 & 4 Girls ISGA National Finals

15

Tied 40th

14th

Lais Bilgri

Team

Tied 34th

Louis Talarczyk

John Wilding

Grace Evans

John Wilding

Greg Holmes

2nd

Boys

Louis Talarczyk

3rd

1st

LSGA U15 Championship

1st

Team

Louis Talarczyk

Tied 7th

Greg Holmes

2nd

Greg Holmes

Rossall C

Boys

Miki Safronov-Yamamoto

7th

11th

LSGA U18 Championship

1st

Louis Talarczyk

Tied 3rd

1st

Aaliyah Murray

2nd

Rossall B

Vincent Leserer

2nd

Greg Holmes

Rossall A

Marsden Matchplay Championship

Joe Smith

ISGA HG Trophy

On the first day of the tournament all competitors played eighteen holes on the Kernow course. At the end of the day Whitgift, last year’s winners, were leading with a score of 137.

In 2nd place were Wellington College, with a score of a 138, followed by Rossall and Loretto on a joint score of 140.

LSGA Team Championship

1st

Yr 5 & 6 Girls

In April, Rossall took part in the final of the Independent Schools Golf Association Championships. This marked Rossall’s second time competing in the championships, against one hundred and twelve schools from all over the country. Following Rossall’s success in the group stages, Greg Holmes (Yr 12), John Wilding (Yr 12) and Louis Talarczyk (Yr 12) progressed to the National Final against twenty-one other teams from across the country.

R E S U LT S

Joel Baines

Luci-Mai Richardson 1st

1st

Events THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

EVENTS

SUMMER SERENADE The annual Summer Serenade held in May was once again a delightful way to commence the weekend’s celebratory prize giving and leavers’ ball. Numerous musicians and vocalists performed to a large audience who enjoyed a relaxing evening with picnics in the superb marquee setting. It was another magical evening and one which is becoming a popular Rossall tradition.

YEAR 11 PROM The Year 11 students celebrated the end of their GCSE examinations with an evening of dinner, dancing and awards at the Village Hotel in Blackpool. We would like to wish them well in their Sixth Form journey here at Rossall.

LEAVERS’ BALL The Year 13 leavers shared a wonderful celebration of their time at Rossall with their families, friends and staff at the annual Leavers’ Ball.

The students, dressed in all their finery, ended their graduation day with a fabulous evening of dining, dancing and reminiscing. Thanks were given to the amazing catering and housekeeping staff, and the Friends of Rossall for all their hard work in making the ball such a special and memorable event.

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Senior Pr ize Day THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

SENIOR PRIZE DAY PRIZE DAY AND GRADUATION 2018 The sun was shining once again for our annual Prize Day and Graduation.

The day created memories for many, allowing the Rossall School Leavers and Senior Students the opportunity to reflect on and celebrate their achievements, and their families and friends the occasion to celebrate their success The nostalgic reflections by the Rossall School Captain, Téo Beaumé, and the Deputy School Captains, Matthew Peill and Olivia Gregory, combined with the moving Choir performances and uplifting hymns in the School’s Chapel, were the perfect start to the day’s celebrations.

The Prize Giving ceremony in the marquee acknowledged with pride our Upper Sixth Leavers, some of whom have been here since they were two years old, and also recognised the many and varied achievements of our Senior students over the last eight months. Leavers Harriet Hunt, Konstantin Wartenburg and Billy Hoggmascall supported the Head by speaking of the sport, academic experiences and the Arts respectively. Old Rossallian, Jeremy Rigby CBE, was Rossall School’s guest of honour and delivered a thought-provoking speech to close the Prize Day Ceremony.

KATE GRIFFITHS SCIENCE PRIZE The Kate Griffiths Science Prize is a new award introduced this year. Mrs Kate Griffiths was a member of Common Room from 2002 until 2015. During her time at Rossall, Kate held many roles including Rose Housemistress and Head of Chemistry. Kate sadly passed away in 2017 and this award not only remembers Kate’s contributions to Rossall, but also acknowledges our gifted science students. Tamzin Holden was the first student to be awarded the prize which was designed by Mr Hodgetts (Head of DT) who incorporated many of Kate’s favourite things into the trophy itself. The wood used was taken from Kate’s old workbench; the molecular structure on the front represents caffeine, as Kate was a huge fan of chocolate and coffee, the disc was a Higgs 2 representing Physics, and Biology is represented by a stem cell.

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Senior Pr ize Day THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

The School Captains end their Reflection with poignant messages

TÉO BEAUMÉ 2018 SCHOOL CAPTAIN Ten magnificent years, what else could I possibly say? To the younger students of Rossall I urge you to take heed, your time here will naturally change, what matters is you go through that change, supporting your class, working together, making memories, getting into silly arguments, having a couple of detentions, making decisions whilst learning from your mistakes. All these combined will help you grow in character and strength to meet life’s challenges head on with confidence. This is the opportunity we have been lucky enough to have so it is crucial to take full advantage and enjoy the time we have in this magnificent school.

I can’t express my gratitude to you all enough; our journey here now ends and we become Old Rossallians. For the times that we will treasure for the rest of our lives, we thank you!

Mind over matter, Floreat Rossallia!

OLIVIA GREGORY 2018 DEPUTY SCHOOL CAPTAIN This Old Rossallian, Jake Thompson, told us in detail about his expedition to the North Pole, carrying a Rossall flag with him the entire time. He concluded his talk by telling us ‘great things never come from comfort zones’ – this is something that has inspired me to push myself and I will remember this as I start my own new adventures.

As school life comes to a close I find myself standing here trying to describe just what Rossall means to me – it’s very difficult – it is not just a school, it is not just about learning, it is not just about the friendships formed nor the relationships that you have with your teachers. Rossall is all of these and much, much more. Coming here is way of life and I will take all that the school has given me as I leave to start my next chapter.

Floreat Rossallia!

MATTHEW PIELL 2018 DEPUTY SCHOOL CAPTAIN I have the belief that as a year group we are all destined for great things, and we can inspire the third generation, it can be something as simple as holding a door or as incredible as a pulling 4 minutes 2 secondss to get back into the leader’s jersey of Giro D’Italia - go Froome. To former students I leave you with a quote from Invictus

by William Ernest Henley: “I am the master of my fate, the captain of my soul.”

You are all captains of your vessels, raise the sails and expand your horizons.

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Junior News THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

JUNIOR NEWS

CELEBRATING THE ROYAL WEDDING In honour of the marriage of Prince Harry to Meghan Markel the infant pupils recreated their own version of the wedding of the year.

The pupils hosted the make-believe ceremony, followed by a wedding breakfast, courtesy of the Catering Team.

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BIG SING FESTIVAL Rossall School Chapel played host to The Junior Big Sing Festival. Over two-hundred choral pupils from nine local Primary Schools took part in this joyful event which concluded with a showcase (to friends and family) of eighteen performances from the School Choirs and one belting joint performance of This is Me from The Greatest Showman. Throughout the day the pupils had the opportunity to put any finishing touches to the two songs they were to perform, and together took part in a workshop run by the Assistant Director of Music, Mr Joe Watson, for the This is Me finale. The outstanding closing number was a sight and sound to behold in the fantastic setting of the Chapel with all pupils enthusiastically singing this hugely popular piece. Commendations for a technically proficient performance, an enthusiastic performance and pleasing overall choral tone were awarded to Royles Brook Primary School, Stanah Primary School and Rossall School.

Junior News THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

BEACH CLEAN

HEALTHY SELFIE EXHIBITION

The Junior School have been inspired by Blue Planet and the Year 5 Unit of Inquiry The Choices People Make Have an Impact on our World and have made links with Love My Beach this year. The Year 5 children joined in with a Beach Clean relay which started in Lytham. Rossall pupils and staff picked up the litter picker baton at Rossall beach, picking towards school.

Following in their footsteps the Year 4s and Year 6s have also joined local rangers to pick up litter from the beach.

The Year 6 pupils converted the walkway gallery space into a wholesome exhibition, titled ‘Healthy Selfie’! Visitors to the exhibition were able to discover, through the information displayed and interactive activities designed by the children, how to live a healthy life! There were smoothies to sample, exercises to try, quizzes to complete as well as demonstrations on how to use an epi-pen and give CPR. The Exhibition is an important and significant event in the life of a PYP student and provides the children with the opportunity to demonstrate many of the skills and attributes they have developed during their learning journey. There was a real ‘buzz’ around the room as family and friends joined Year 6 to help celebrate their work and achievements in putting together ‘Healthy Selfie’! Year 6 did an amazing job and the pupils received some wonderful feedback.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DAY In May the Infant children enjoyed a bushcraft and outdoor adventure day, superbly organised by one of our parents, Mr Evans. The pupils ventured to the beach, onto the grasslands and into the woods, learning about people who live in these different environments, how they collect water and live alongside nature. They made spoons, baked biscuits over a camp fire, tasted herbal tea, baked banana with chocolate and barbecued pineapple.

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THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

INFANT AND JUNIOR SCHOOL PRIZE DAY The sun kept ‘its hat on’ for the annual Junior and Infant Prize Day, celebrating the all-round achievements of our younger pupils.

The day started with the Chapel Service created by the Year 6 leavers, praising the wonderful times, special relationships and inspirational PYP learning they have all enjoyed in Junior School. The Prize Giving Ceremony was hosted in Big School by Headmistress Mrs Katie Lee and Guest of Honour, OR and School Council member, Mr David Ewart.

The pupils’ achievements were honoured with prizes and trophies and the new School Captains were announced:

Junior School Captains Thishanya Shanthakumar Gordon Ballantyne

Infant School Captains Claudia Hodgetts Alexander Hewitt Prize Day concluded with a delightful lunch in the Dining Hall to celebrate 10 years of the International Baccalaureate, Primary Years Programme at Rossall School.

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All for a Good Cause THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE WREN COLOUR SPLASH

KERRY’S CHARITY CONCERT

Wren House sported rainbow t-shirts after taking part in the 3km Blackpool Colour Splash raising money for Trinity Hospice Palliative Care.

Year 12 student, Kerry Chen organised a charity concert back home in China raising almost £3000 pounds for ‘The Music Dream’ Foundation, helping children from poorer backgrounds to afford instruments and books. Kerry played piano pieces at her former primary school to an audience of 500. She invited children from poorer backgrounds to perform Chinese folk songs and also invited fellow student, Travis Zhao, to perform.

MARATHON (WO) MAN Marketing Manager, Mrs Nancy Fielden completed the hottest London Marathon on record in 4:23:07. Nancy raised over £2300 for the charity Oasis, a movement of volunteers and professionals that works in 36 communities across the UK to deliver a range of projects and services that help tackle social injustice.

CHAPLAIN’S CHALLENGE 2018

MONDO’S FAMOUS CAKE SALES Students and staff held popular cake sales over the summer term to support a range of charities. £102.05 - Blackpool Victoria Hospital Cardiac Unit. £37.42 - Round Square Garden £26.62 - Soccer Aid Mrs Julie Hart thanked the following students for their time and support: Antonia Gartside, Anastasia Abrahams, Maria Simal-Garcia, Jessica Lever, Daniel Bittley, Elvis Muturi, Ollie Leggett, Tim Woodman, Simon Holt and Harry Sutton.

TOILET TWINNING Flushing away poverty, one toilet at a time, the toilet twinning initiative helps bring clean water and safe sanitation to the world’s poorest people by building toilets in Africa or Asia. Around half the people in the world have an illness caused by bad sanitation, it is one of the world’s biggest killers.

For just a £60 donation, you are able to twin your toilet with an impoverished family’s household latrine. Each House raised enough money to twin with at least one toilet. To find out more about this charity, please visit: www.toilettwinning.org

The annual Chaplain’s Challenge helps to raise awareness and funds for Christian Aid both locally and internationally, together with strengthening our own Rossall Community.

Rev’d Etienne van Blerk certainly enthused students and staff of all ages with the 2018 Chaplain’s Challenge - to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks in under 12 hours.

The team of volunteers began their preparation with a practice expedition on a rather muddy Beacon Fell. Following this, the fun-filled Inter-house Chaplain’s Challenge Cup Competition was held back on the Rossall campus, where students represented their Houses to take part in a fun day of House Challenges, including Sponge Bob Bucket Head, Welly Wang and the 1-Minute Cracker Challenge.

The ultimate challenge took place at the end of April with forty three of the Rossall School community setting off at 5am. The group reached the summit of Pen-y-Ghent in just over an hour and were joined by the Junior and Infant Pupils, their teachers and parents to climb Whernside, to complete their own “one-peak-challenge”. Some of the original forty three climbers completed one and others two peaks, but twenty four finished all three peaks to beat the challenge – climbing the three peaks and walking almost twenty five miles in under twelve hours! Thanks to brilliant weather conditions, magnificent summit views and an efficient Support Team, student Lewis Hughes (Year 9 SE) lead the pack in at 10 hours 36 minutes.

The 2018 Chaplain’s Challenge raised a grand total of £1612.22 for Christian Aid and this year’s cup was presented to the junior and infant pupils, Anchor and Dragon House.

22

CCF THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

CCF

Rossall is proud to be home to the oldest CCF in the country, established in February 1860. It is one of only four School CCF Contingents to be awarded the Queen’s Colours.

RAF FIELD DAY On day one the RAF travelled to Rivington to experience GoApe and Orienteering. The cadets enjoyed the freedom of the zip wire and rope swings and the instructors commented on the excellent behaviour and enthusiasm of the cadets in experiencing something new. On day two the cadets took part in various challenges at Inskip Cadet Centre, including the assault course, air rifle shooting, abseiling, rock climbing and drill. The cadets worked as a team to help each other succeed, including climbing over walls and running over bridges - a truly excellent two days.

NAVY FIELD DAY The RN section of Rossall CCF headed off to Waterside Lodge, Southport for their annual two day field trip.

Day 1: After stowing kit and a safety brief the cadets enjoyed a day canoeing. Due to high winds it was deemed unfit to sail that day.

In the evening the cadets had the luxury of dinner out and a trip to the local cinema.

Day 2: With clear skies and light to moderate winds the dinghies were rigged and launched. The cadets raced each other around the lake, demonstrating their sailing (and capsizing) skills to watching holiday makers, with the honours for fastest dinghies being shared between the teams of PO Marc Klebais with Ricky Xu and John Cooper with Sam Ayoma.

CADET HANDOVER Senior cadet leavers Marc Klebais (Pe) and Yulia Zaikina (Wr) handed over parade sticks to successors Max Loboda (SE) and Will Gair (SE). Max Loboda will take up the appointment of The Cadet Head of Contingent, whilst Will Gair will take up the appointment of Cadet Head of Army Section.

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ARMY FIELD DAY

By Head of Contingent, Max Loboda.

Field Day this year presents the basic cadets with many new challenges. The overnight exercise began with the cadets occupying a harbour area in which they would be staying. They went on to learn how to build a basha, cook rations and conduct themselves while in the field. The objective of the exercise was to confirm all cadets’ knowledge of the basic army syllabus. This was ensured by the high standard of lessons delivered by the NCOs which tested and developed the skills required to obtain the red star badge. This all built up to a ‘finale’ being a blank-firing realistic demonstration on the duties of a sentry. All NCOs worked together to show cadets a variety of different scenarios and the procedure which would be put in place. As a reward for a hard working day, the cadets enjoyed pizza back in their harbour area before sleeping in shelters they constructed themselves. The following morning everyone enjoyed a ration pack breakfast before packing down the entire harbour area leaving no trace. A full day’s paint-balling was then in store, allowing the cadets to have fun while incorporating and practising military tactics where possible. Despite initial nerves and apprehension, a great overall enthusiasm was shown. The large amount of effort put in by all ensured that the cadets had an enjoyable and effective field day.

Duke of Edinburgh THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

CCF AWARDS Congratulations to Cadet Petty Officer Marc Klebais and Cadet Warrant Officer Class 2 Max Loboda for their Lord-Lieutenant Award - Certificate of Meritorious Cadet Service. The award was presented at Lancaster Castle by Lord Shuttleworth KG KCVO, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Lancashire.

SECTION FOOT DRILL COMPETITION The CCF Cadets showed excellent training and discipline in the Inter Section Foot Drill Competition. It was the Girls’ Army Section, whose skill and teamwork secured their win.

CCF SUMMER CAMP The annual CCF Summer Camp took place in the final week of term and included a jam-packed week of activities from foot drills and team building, to obstacle courses and signal training.

D of E STRIKING GOLD Congratulations to Old Rossallian, Lauren Brook and Year 13 students, Kirsty Swarbrick and Emilie Robinson, who were all awarded their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards this Summer. Lauren and Kirsty were presented with their certificates at Buckingham Palace by MTV presenter Becca Dudley; in attendance were Prince William, Prince Edward and Princess Eugenie.

Emilie Robinson, received her Gold Duke of Edinburgh award at Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh where The Queen and Prince Edward were in attendance.

JUBILANT BRONZE Twenty-five Year 9 students took part in their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Assessed Expedition in June. Their two day, one night adventure took them to Silverdale and Arnside covering twentytwo unaccompanied kilometres, with a number of the teams conquering Arnside Knot and Warton Crag.

The students, after an earlier practice expedition in Bowland, prepared by planning their own routes and timings, and packed wisely with enough supplies to be self-sufficient for 36 hours.

Thankfully the heavy rain held off till the final day, with all teams returning to camp safe and well - a bit damp but in excellent spirits.

Congratulations to Year 10 student, Jed Saunders, for completing his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award, fulfilling his volunteering, physical, skills and expedition sections of the award.

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Fr iends of Rossall THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

MICHAELMAS TERM EVENTS 2018 SEPTEMBER

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING At the AGM in June, the core committee members were re-elected. Amanda Ardron will continue as Chair, and Amanda Munden and Marie Currie as Vice Chairs. Amanda Holt remains Secretary and Rebecca Murdoch Treasurer. Nigel Gregory stood down as Co-Chair but continues to support the FOR along with the other valued general committee members. Several new members also joined FOR at the AGM, strengthening the involvement of parents.

FOR PROGRAMME From parent feedback, a new programme was agreed at the AGM. Starting with the popular Coffee and Catch up at Mondo’s on Friday September 14th combined with a Buy, Sell or Swap Bazaar. Additional ideas included: further evening meals, ladies’ day with a fashion show and afternoon tea, and Easter Family fun. The firm favourites: quiz night, Victorian themed Christmas market and ghost hunts remain in the Michaelmas Term Calendar.

This Year’s Highlight - the introduction of the House Project scheme to fund a project in each House and the Junior School. A variety of projects have been supported including the production of a wonderful mosaic at Anchor House.

The Friends of Rossall team thank everyone who has supported them this year and look forward to meeting up again in 2018/19.

For information about all events don’t forget to join FOR on Facebook and on the school app.

COFFEE & CATCH UP SWAP & SELL BAZAAR Friday 14th September 2018 3.30 to 5.30pm, in Mondo’s PARENT MEAL AT NUVO Friday 28th September 2018 7.00pm, Tithebarn Street, Poulton

OCTOBER JUNIOR GHOST HUNT Wednesday 17th October 2018 5.00 to 7.00pm, in Mondo’s

NOVEMBER SENIOR GHOST HUNT Wednesday 14th November 2018 7.00 to 9.00pm, in Mondo’s SANTA LETTER WRITING & LIGHT SWITCH ON Friday 16th November 2018 3.30 to 5.30pm, in Mondo’s CHRISTMAS PARENT LUNCH Friday 30th November 2018 12.00pm, The Trafalgar, Fleetwood

DECEMBER CHRISTMAS MARKET Friday 7th December 2018 4.30 to 8.00pm, Big School 25

Here & There THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

HERE & THERE TRAUMA AFTERNOON

Jake Gartside from North West Ambulances provided the Year 12 students with a firsthand insight into the requirements of trauma medicine as experienced by a paramedic. Mr Gartside made the students aware of the depth of skills and roles required by first-hand trauma practitioners, and he captivated the students when talking of his own experiences on the job. In addition the students gained very useful career guidance.

BIOLOGY EXPERIENCE DAY The Lower Sixth AS and IB Biologists travelled to Lancaster University for a Biology Experience day. It was a great opportunity for the students to see the fantastic modern four million pound new laboratories and experience what it is like to study the life sciences at Lancaster whilst taking part in various practical lessons. They also received helpful information on preparing their personal statement.

“I enjoyed the blood cell practical - having the opportunity to use a centrifuge and separate the antibodies was great, along with using micropipettes for the first time. The coral reef talk was my favourite and the UCAS talk from the past student was extremely helpful”, commented Year 12 A level student, Danielle Heyes.

Biology Teacher, Mrs Mayor added, “As a teacher, it was fantastic to see the students so involved in the practical work. It was lovely to witness their enthusiasm and eagerness to use the advanced apparatus available.

They really enjoyed using the micropipettes, the centrifuge which separated the blood into layers and the spectrophotometer which measures the absorbency of blood.”

HERE

THERE

Professor Geraint Johnes Speaker Series – The Robotic Revolution

World Museum Liverpool MFL Trip, Terracotta Warriors Exhibition

The Venue, Cleveleys Drama Oscars Party

Dr Guy Sutton Sixth Form Psychology: Brain Day

Snowdonia World Challenge Training Weekend

North Wales Lower Sixth Field Trip, Geography

British Council Rossall School accredited by the British Council for English Language (EAL) teaching in the UK

Winter Gardens Blackpool Twinkletoes Production

Liverpool Year 10 Field Trip, Geography

Manchester Psychology A level Grade Booster Workshop

Lancaster University Lower Sixth AS and IB Biologists, Biology Experience Day

Pownall Hall School Sport Tour Eton Fives Association Sport Tour Manchester Actors Company Year 10 Macbeth Workshop Crew Members for HMS Audacious Rossall Combined Cadet Force Mental health campaigner, Natasha Devon Year 10 and Year 12 – The Importance of Mental Health

Liverpool Empire Theatre Year 7 Trip, Hairspray the Musical The Cartford Inn Monitors’ Meal Fleetwood Town Football Club Friends of Rossall Lunch Trough of Bowland and Silverdale Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Expeditions Manchester Year 8 Field Trip, Geography

Grand Theatre, Blackpool Drama Trip, Legally Blonde: The Musical Ingleton Waterfalls Geography Trip, Year 7 The Lowry Theatre, Manchester GCSE and A level Drama, War Horse Malta 2018 Rossall Chapel Choir Tour

Northwest Ambulances, Jake Gartside Year 12 – Trauma Medicine

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World Challenge THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

WORLD CHALLENGE 2018 WORLD CHALLENGE EXPEDITION TO INDIA At Manchester Airport, a poster in the departure lounge recommended that tourists visit “Amazing India”. After a month there on a World Challenge expedition, none of the Rossall group could argue with that proud boast; in so many ways, it is more than amazing.

The fourteen strong team travelled from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the north, to the deserts and hill forts of Rajasthan, experiencing the many things that make India amazing.

The team started their adventure trekking in the mountains around Manali. Manali sits at 2000m, but the team had to climb from that altitude up to our goal which was crossing the Hampta Pass at 4300m. The team was supported by horses, which carried the main packs, but everything else was carried by the challengers. On day six of the trek, the team crossed the pass and headed down into the Spiti Valley. As the trek phase finished, we had two memorable experiences. The first was playing cricket at 3100m where a Rossall select X1 narrowly lost to an Indian mountain guide X1. The second was going over the world famous Rohtang pass with its twenty-six hairpin bends; unsurprisingly, the team were oddly quiet as we came down the pass.

From the mountains we travelled to Shimla, the old British summer capital. It looked just like Victorian Britain with its architecture, the only difference being the monkeys!

Our project phase in Udaipur was reached from Shimla via twenty hours of train journeys and a transit through the madness of traffic and pedestrians of Delhi. For six days the team helped to renovate a children’s centre, where children from the countryside areas outside Udaipur can go to learn basic Maths and English in a safe environment. As well as brightening the centre up with artwork and murals, the team also completed a toilet block for the centre learning new building skills along the way.

The final phase of the month long expedition took the team on a cultural tour of Rajasthan. In the local bazaars they honed their bartering skills, or not in some cases, ending up with gifts I am sure family members will cherish! The World Heritage hill forts of Jaipur and Jodhpur were incredible and you soon run out of superlatives to describe them. However, even they paled in comparison to the beauty and splendour of the Taj Mahal. The team were genuinely speechless as they all tried to get the famous picture on the marble bench with the Taj in the background.

The month was a mixture of action and adventure, culture and cuisine in a country that is both familiar and confusing at the same time. It was certainly an amazing expedition and Mr Fairhurst and I would like to thank the group for being such wonderful travelling companions.

Mr Mark Bradley, Head of Sixth Form

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World Challenge THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

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Floreat Rossallia!

THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

FLOREAT ROSSALLIA OR BATTLEFIELD TOUR

OR WEEKEND

The five day Old Rossallian visit to the Battlefields included visits

Marking the start of a long, hot summer for Rossall, the sun shone

to Flanders Fields, the Menin Gate, Thiepval Memorial, and St

throughout the annual OR Weekend. This year, more Rossallians

George’s Memorial Church.

than ever gathered for a day of reminiscing and an impressive

Rossall Chaplain, Revd. Etienne van Blerk, had prepared a service of commemoration for Old Rossallians lost to the Great War. The service took place at the New Munich Trench, Beaumont-Hamel, and moved the group to tears.

array of activities.

“The most moving event we attended was the short service held at New Munich Trench to commemorate Capt. Leo Jude OR. Damp and overcast, the beautifully kept cemetery, with perhaps just a hundred graves, was in the middle of the Flemish countryside, we had a Piper, we sang the Carmen and yes, the poppies were flowing on the path back to the bus.”

The competitive nature of students, past and present, was on display throughout the day with an intense game of RossHockey and a hockey tournament to compete in.

Our commemoration of the Great War will climax on November 11th at 11:00am in the Rossall Chapel.

2018 has been a memorable year for Rossall. OR Weekend allowed us to share development plans for the future, and mark forty years since the senior school became co-educational.

To end proceedings, guests enjoyed a beautiful meal, courtesy of Rossall Catering, preceeded by drinks, conversation and laughter.

An impressive one hundred and fifty guests sat for dinner this year, making 2018 the most successful OR Weekend yet.

Rossall Foundation’s Changing Lives Bursary Programme, which provides 100% means tested bursaries, has now awarded 4 places to day students in the Sixth Form and one 5 year Bursary for a Senior School weekly boarder.

The first recipient, Harriet Hunt, has just completed two years in the Sixth Form and told us what the opportunity to attend Rossall meant to her.

The bursary I received at the beginning of year 12 has provided me with the opportunity to study at a wonderful school. Coming from a low income background, I could only dream of attending Rossall, but the financial assistance of the Scholarship turned this dream into a reality. I was able to study in a perfect learning environment and have been given many opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.

Rossall is special to me because I have met a lot of people from around the world whom I can call lifelong friends. On my first day at Rossall I felt very welcome and my Houseparent encouraged me to get involved with everything, and that is certainly what I did. I have made so many memories and am delighted to call myself a Dolphina.

I would like to thank everyone who had made it possible for me to attend Rossall as it has shaped me into the young adult I am today and I have experienced an amiable education which I am extremely grateful for.

Thank you so very much.

Floreat Rossallia!

To find out how you can contribute to the Rossall Foundation Bursary Programme visit w w w. r o s s a l l . o r g. u k /a l u m n i/r o s s a l l - f o u n d a t i o n / or contact Development Director, Henry Shepherd.

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Amazing Alumni THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

AMAZING ALUMNI DR ELAINE WALKER Dr Elaine Walker studied at Rossall from 1997 to 2002. As a

What did you study at university?

day pupil, Dr Walker spent two years in James House followed by three years in Dolphin House. Elaine is now a General

I studied Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Brighton and Sussex Medical School.

Practitioner in the British Army.

How did your Army career progress?

What were your first impressions of the school?

I came from a small country school (Treales, near Preston) with only fifty pupils in total, so the size of the school, the fact it is located right next to the beach, and the quad with the Sumner Library in the middle was like something out of a fairy-tale. I also loved the fact there was a swimming pool.

Quite frivolously, I loved the ivy growing on the front of the buildings and how pretty that made everything look.

What are your favourite memories of Rossall?

Many of them involve friendships, and getting told off for talking in class but that’s probably not appropriate. I was in the choir from Year 8 onwards and I have never forgotten the annual Carol Service.

Walking down the aisle into a candlelit chapel whilst singing Once in Royal David’s City was really rather magical. Since I’ve left no carol service has ever matched up.

Which teachers most inspired you?

Miss Fitzgerald, who taught Chemistry, was one of the most inspirational women I have ever met - always full of energy and enthusiasm.

What’s the most important thing Rossall taught you?

I was a teenager at Rossall and therefore in many ways I grew up there. It opened doors for me into a world I never realised existed, from learning how to shoot on the indoor range, to scuba diving, playing hockey, RossHockey (I mean what other school has its own version of hockey?) and travelling, the list of new experiences goes on and on. I was bullied at primary school and whilst all teenagers can be horrible to one another at times the students in my year were diverse (as all people are) and I came to that realisation whilst I was at Rossall. The School also gave me the confidence to follow my own path.

I applied to join the Army in 2002 and was accepted at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) for Officer Training. As I was still at Sixth Form and planned to attend university, I was given a bursary to join as a Medical Officer (Doctor) in my third year of medical school in 2006. After completing medical school, I worked for two years at Frimley Park Hospital, Surrey as a Foundation Year Doctor before attending RMAS for the Professionally Qualified Officers Course. I spent time in Germany and Afghanistan as the Unit Medical Officer for a Logistic Regiment ahead of completing three years General Practice Training in the UK. This training concluded in August 2017 at the Defence Military Rehabilitation Centre, Headley Court. Since then I have been posted to support a Regiment based on Salisbury Plain and have just completed a deployment as a GP in support of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan.

What’s the best part of what you do now?

This is a tricky question because I honestly believe I have the best job in the World! For me the variety is incomparable. As a GP in the British Army, day to day I see patients like in any NHS surgery but I also have to maintain my skills in life-saving trauma management and be prepared to work out of a backpack or a tent in the most challenging of situations. I also can’t complain about the travel – as well as Germany and Afghanistan, I have been deployed to Canada and different parts of Africa.

What difference did coming to Rossall make to your education and your career?

I always did very well at school before coming to Rossall, but the focus on sport and extra-curricular activities the school had when I was there has definitely stuck with me in to adult life. I am also not sure if I would have considered a career in the Army if it wasn’t for the CCF.

What would you say to any student considering Rossall to study?

Make the most of the opportunities you are offered. In the time I was there I went skiing for the first time to France, learned to scuba dive, went on a choir tour to the Czech Republic and sang with the choir at all sorts of interesting events. Not forgetting the CCF, which opened my eyes to a world I realised I desperately wanted to be a part of.

How would you sum up your time at Rossall in one word?

Opportunistic

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Fond Farewells THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

FOND FAREWELLS Elaine Purves Ms Elaine Purves came to Rossall in September 2013. With her came her olive tree, which she introduced to the school in one of her first assemblies. Like Elaine, the olive tree survived the Rossall winds, becoming hardy and prospering. As she pointed out in one of her last assemblies, the olive tree and Elaine will both carry something of Rossall with them as they move on because the place becomes ingrained in you. Rossall is a much better place for Elaine’s headship, most obviously to the casual observer in how it and its pupils look because of her keen visual imagination and flair. Elaine also immediately empathised with the international nature of Rossall, which sat so easily with her own worldview. An ethos now enshrined in Rossall’s membership of the international Round Square movement she introduced to the school. There is too much to Elaine’s headship to sum up in a few words but as you can see from the above, it is fitting that if she were to leave us, it would be for an international school in the picturesque and cosmopolitan city of Brussells. We at Rossall thank her for the time she spent here and wish her and her family well in all their future endeavours.

Ron Asher Ron joined Rossall in 2001 as Examinations Officer. The term ‘examination’ can only be shorthand for all the tasks that Ron has undertaken during his time at Rossall beyond his designated role as Examinations Officer: UCAS advisor, reference reviser, results analyst, Dragon tutor, Chemistry teacher to name but a few.

All these various tasks were carried out with cheerful dedication and always with the best interests of the children at their heart. We wish him all the very best for a long and happy retirement.

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Roz Bendelow Miss Roz Bendelow blew in with the East wind in September 2012, initially accepting a post as English teacher and Deputy House Parent of Rose House.

She quickly progressed, becoming Houseparent of Rose House, remaining in post until 2016. Roz has also had a major impact in her introduction of Drama as an academic subject at Rossall, now successfully taught through all three key stages. Her greatest moments have undoubtedly been her school performances, the most memorable being the musical Les Misérables, co-directed with Miss Margaret Young, Director of Music. The West wind has now swept her away across the Pennines to Yorkshire and an exciting new position as Head of Drama at the Grammar School in Leeds. We wish her all the very best in this next chapter of her life and career.

Fond Farewells THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

Sharon Potts Sharon has done a brilliant job as Alumni Manager over the past six years, providing an outstanding support to the Old Rossallian community both near and far. She has deployed her excellent communication and organisation skills to provide a comprehensive calendar of highly enjoyable OR gatherings, from lunches and London barbecues to German dinners and Ross Hockey. She has been an excellent ambassador for the school and has welcomed countless Rossallians back for visits and tours. Sharon will be much missed by the OR community and we wish her every happiness and success for the future.

Rodrigo Novo Perez Rodrigo arrived in September 2017 from his native Galicia to take up his post as Spanish Assistant in the MFL department. During the year he has spent here at Rossall he has given help and encouragement to pupils in all years, but particularly to the GCSE group, and he has worked closely with all the Sixth Form exam candidates, offering individual speaking practice.

Rodrigo has been a supportive tutor in Pelican House and enjoyed interacting with the boys. He has found a new passion in climbing, and along with his continued quest to improve his English, he hopes to continue this hobby on his return to Spain, where he will be joining his brothers in the family business. We would like to thank him for all his hard work and wish him every success in the future.

Julie Crépin

Emily Bilsby They say that patience is a virtue. If that is the case, we are saying farewell to the most virtuous of our Infant staff!

Emily has spent this year as our Gap Student working tirelessly within the Infant classes. With a smile and a kind word for all, Emily has been a perfect fit for our team; conscientious, caring and great fun. But Emily has been so much more than our ‘Gappie’. To the children, she has been nurse, mentor, playmate, storyteller, diplomat, coach and best friend and they have loved every minute of having her around. Although the infants will be a duller place without her, we hope Emily can take as many happy memories of her time here as the children will.

Linda Jürgens Linda arrived in September 2017 to take up her post as German Assistant.

She has been the embodiment of the phrase: “If you want something done well, ask a busy woman!” She not only worked as an Assistant who reliably and competently supported students and colleagues alike, but she also became the respected and capable Deputy Houseparent of Dolphin House. It is therefore not surprising that Linda has been accepted to study on a very competitive European Business Programme. We would like to wish her well for the future.

Mademoiselle Julie Crépin arrived at Rossall in September 2017 to take her post as the French Language Assistant.

She has been a conscientious and helpful member of the MFL team, having a positive impact on the GCSE and Sixth Form speaking skills. She has encouraged her pupils to communicate with confidence, gently guiding them to help fluency and pronunciation. She was a valued Tutor in Wren House where she enjoyed interacting with the girls. Julie ran the weekly French club, helped developing resources in the MFL department and beyond the classroom Julie enjoyed some challenging outdoor pursuits. We are delighted that Julie is to be starting her PGCE training at Lancaster University in September as she has decided to become a language teacher.

Lily Li Since working at Rossall, Lily Li has put effort into adjusting to a different culture and offered to participate in several school activities. She showed willingness to be part of the MFL department.

She worked well with colleagues and also offered to help with educational visits and Open Days on several occasions. As a tutor in Dolphin House, Lily has made herself approachable to pupils, particularly the upper end of the age range; the pupils’ feedback is very positive. We wish Lily every success in her return to teaching in China. We hope that some of skills and experiences from her year in Britain prove transferrable.

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Staff Spotlight THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 | SEPTEMBER 2018

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

MRS K. LEE, HEADMISTRESS OF DRAGON, JUNIOR, INFANT AND NURSERY Mrs Katie Lee joined Rossall in 1992 as Head of Girls Games. During her twenty-six years at Rossall Katie has held a variety of roles and responsibilities including; Houseparent for Rose House and Director of Sport. Katie lives between her home in the Lake District and Rossall with her two dogs, Lily Lee and Feather Lee. Before working at Rossall, what was the most unusual or interesting job you have ever had?

Not sure it is unusual or interesting, but certainly the most challenging and heart wrenching was working in a comprehensive school in Clipstone, Nottinghamshire during the Miners’ strike. Working in a volatile environment, witnessing fighting, riot police, families ripped apart and children suffering was really tough.

What drew you to Rossall originally?

After my experience in Nottingham. I wanted a change from teaching in a School and accepted a post as a lecturer at Blackpool and the Fylde College in the Leisure and Recreation Department. During a visit to Rossall to observe one of my students, I was persuaded to apply for the Head of Girls Games due to be advertised.

How do you balance your career at Rossall and family?

Earlier in my career, Rossall took over my life, especially in the Houseparent role; at that time I had to learn to really appreciate the holidays.

Recently I have acquired a more balanced approach - week days I invest all my time in Rossall and I use my weekends to recharge the batteries and enjoy life in the Lake District.

How would you describe your day job to a child?

I help the teachers make sure that the children look forward to coming to Rossall every single day, to love learning and have a fantastic time.

How would you describe Rossall?

Rossall is like a stick of seaside rock – HARD, LOVE THE EXPERIENCE, SAD WHEN IT COMES TO AN END. The hesitancy on attempting to eat a solid stick of rock, the initial daunting yet exciting first bite can be compared to your arrival at Rossall.

But once you have overcome those first impressions, you can clearly see that Rossall is a warm and supportive community with a rewarding core. And just like that stick of rocks sweet experience - hard to tackle but ultimately satisfying - there is a sadness when it comes to an end.

What do you like most about your job?

The innocence of the children and the fun you can have spending time with them.

What have you gained from working at Rossall?

I have met some fantastic pupils and parents during my time at Rossall. The biggest reward is to see how former pupils have made their way in the world, and are now pursuing varied and successful careers.

What is your favourite part about working at Rossall?

Life at Rossall never stands still, with every year there is change and a different challenge. Unlike the routine of my previous role in state education, there is absolutely no chance of becoming bored.

What is your proudest moment at Rossall?

Being Head of the Juniors is a privilege and I am proud of the achievements of all our children no matter how great or small.

What advice would you give to new pupils?

Work hard, play hard, try your best and be kind to others.

What is your motto or personal mantra?

Stay positive even when the going gets tough.

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What is your favourite line from a film?

“He who dares wins”

THE HORIZON | ISSUE 14 |SEPTEMBER 2018

HOUSE SPIRIT

This year has seen a variety of House competitions. From baking to waterpolo and, of course, the highly contested House Singing competition, it is clear that there is great house spirit at Rossall.

This year’s competitions:

House Singing

House Cross Country (Junior)

Rose

Wren

House Bake Off

House RossHockey (Boys)

Dolphin

MF

House Waterpolo (Senior)

House RossHockey (Girls)

Rose

Rose

House Netball (Senior)

House Basketball (Boys)

Dolphin

MC

House Netball (Junior)

Chaplain’s Challenge

Wren

Dragon

House Cross Country (Senior) Dolphin

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FORTHCOMING EVENTS DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Wednesday 12th September Year 7 and 8 Welcome Evening Museum Theatre at 6.00pm Friday 14th September FOR Coffee and Catch Up and Sell & Swap Bazaar Mondo’s at 3.00pm – 6.30pm

Saturday 13th October Rossall Consort Concert Saint Peter’s Church, Fleetwood at 7.00pm Wednesday 17th October FOR Junior Ghost Hunt Mondo’s at 5.00pm – 7.00pm

Sunday 11th November Commemoration Service Chapel at 11.00am Monday 12th November A level Photography Exhibition Art Department at 4.30pm

Friday 30th November FOR Parents Christmas Lunch The Trafalgar Restaurant, Fleetwood at 12.00pm Saturday 1st December Joint Concert with Lancashire Youth Symphony Orchestra Big School at 3.00pm

Saturday 15th September Sunday 16th September House Residentials

Wednesday 17th October Informal Concert Museum Theatre at 7.00pm

Wednesday 14th November FOR Senior Students and Adults Ghost Tour Mondo’s at 7.00pm

Wednesday 19th September Informal Concert Museum Theatre at 7.00pm

Friday 19th October Senior School Sports Tour to Portugal Departs at 8.15am

Wednesday 14th November Year 11 GCSE Drama Devised Examination Museum Theatre at 7.00pm

Friday 19th October Half Term begins at 4.00pm

Friday 16th November FOR Santa Letter Writing & Lights Switch On Mondo’s at 3.30pm

Saturday 8th December Rossall Consort Christmas Concert Christ Church, Thornton at 7.00pm

Saturday 17th November MF MAD Night Big School at 7.00pm

Sunday 9th December Family Carol Service Chapel 5.00pm

Monday 19th November Speaker Series: Brian Redman Annual Automotive Lecture Museum Theatre at 7.00pm

Friday 14th December End of Term at 12.30pm

Friday 28th September FOR Parent Meal Nuvo Restaurant at 7.00pm Monday 1st October Astronomy Speaker Series: Darkness Falls Astronomy Centre at 7.00pm

Saturday 20th October Year 8, 9 and 10 French Trip to Marseille departs at 1.30pm

Thursday 4th October U6th Academic Parents’ Meeting Big School at 6.00pm

Monday 5th November Term resumes at 8.25am

Saturday 6th October Open Day 10.00am – 2.00pm Friday 12th October Cabaret Ball for Year 11, 12, 13 Dining Hall at 7.30pm

Tuesday 6th November House Singing Competition Blackpool Grand Theatre at 2.00pm Tuesday 6th November CCF to Northern Festival of Remembrance Marine Hall, Fleetwood at 4.30pm

Wednesday 21st November Informal Concert Museum Theatre at 7.00pm Saturday 24th November Fleetwood Music and Arts Festival

Thursday 6th December Senior School Christmas Concert Big School at 7.00pm Friday 7th December FOR Christmas Market Big School at 4.30pm

Saturday 22nd December OR Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols Chapel at 5.30pm Tuesday 25th December Christmas Day Service Chapel at 10.00am

ASTRONOMY SPEAKER SERIES: DARKNESS FALLS

MF MAD NIGHT

Monday 1st October at 7.00pm, Lawrence House Astronomy Centre

Saturday 17th November at 7.00pm, Big School

In the first of three Astronomy lectures

by Rossall’s very own Astromer, Dr Nick Lister, discover the absolute wonder of the Universe, and the very latest revelations related to 21st-century Astronomy and Space. Probe the depths of nature and travel through time to unravel the enigma of life and why the fate of humanity lies ‘out there’.

The annual MAD Night is held to raise funds for Donna’s Dream House, a locally based trust who provide free holiday experiences for children and families affected by life-threatening illnesses. Since 2008, MF House has raised over £30,000 for the Blackpool charity.

To book visit: www.rossall.org.uk/astronomy-lecture-series

The night of comedy, drama, dance and song is guaranteed to entertain all who attend.

Tickets can be purchased from MF students in November

Rossall School, Fleetwood, Lancashire, FY7 8JW

Telephone 01253 774201 Email info@rossall.org.uk

www.rossall.org.uk