The Horizon

EXPANDING HORIZONS

THE HORIZON & Voyages • Sporting Excellence • Wordsworth Day • • Combined Cadet Force • Hong Kong Visit • Floreat Rossallia • • Trips

Celebrating Wordsworth Day A host of golden daffodils heralds a new tradition on the Rossall campus

WELCOME It is a pleasure to be writing my first introduction

become a termly publication; this first edition

to the school magazine and heralding the first

encompasses the academic year to date. I hope that

edition of The Horizon. Throughout my first

you will find The Horizon an interesting read - on

two terms at Rossall, I have been struck by the

a personal level, this edition shall certainly provide

openness of our school community to fresh

a lasting reminder of so many of the events and

perspectives and new experiences, so the title

highlights from my first months at Rossall. It has

combines an obvious link to our coastal location

been an amazing experience at Rossall thus far;

with a more subtle nod to the dynamism of our

at times exhilarating, at others emotional, often

forward-looking and outward-facing school

windswept and frequently funny, but always, but

community. From September The Horizon will

always, rewarding. Enjoy!

ELAINE PURVES Head, Rossall School 01253 774201

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THE HORIZON | 2013/14

CH R ISTM AS EV EN TS The festive celebrations got off to a flying start at the Junior School with the Reindeer Run. It was an amazing sight to see ‘Hos Puss’ the cat, Trinity Hospice’s mascot followed by the entire Junior School adorned in their antlers. Over £1100 was raised for Brian House - well done Junior School!

The fun continued with the whole Junior School making a trip to the Dukes Theatre in Lancaster to see their interpretation of A Christmas Carol. As usual we weren’t disappointed - the performance captivated the children.

Over 400 Old Rossallians and their guests gathered in a full Chapel on 22nd December for a moving Christmas Service hosted by the School. The choir, mostly Old Rossallians, gave an outstanding performance and the congregation was blown away by breath-taking performances from Jenny Cooper, Jane Wilkinson, Mark Holland and Peter Bowden. Readings were given by ORs, former and current staff including the Head, Elaine Purves and Jim Cowpe, Secretary of The Rossallian Club. It was a truly emotional evening and guests were visibly moved.

After the candle-lit Service guests were invited to join the Head in the Dining Hall for mulled wine and mince pies.

Despite the winter chill outside, the mood of the evening was certainly warmed up by festive refreshments and good company.

The collection taken on the evening raised £656 for Trinity, the Hospice on the Fylde. It was delightful to see so many Old Rossallians of all ages enjoying this festive celebration with their school friends, staff and families.

T he atmosphe re wa s magnif ic ent and gue st s de par ted the S chool full of fe stive spir it.

HONG KONG JOU R NA LISTS V ISIT ROSSA LL

CH R ISTM AS NATI V ITI ES

In November, we welcomed five journalists from Hong Kong newspapers: the Hong Kong Economic Times, Oriental Daily, Oriental Sunday Magazine, AM730 and Apple Daily as well as a representative from The British Council.

We were delighted to see our infant and nursery pupils perform two spectacular nativities in front of very proud parents and teachers.

The Infants gave an outstanding musical performance and then helped in the nursery performance later in the week.

All the children performed superbly and it was lovely to see some excellent solo efforts, particularly from such a young age group!

They interviewed the Head as

The journalists were delighted

from Hong Kong and provided

well as Mrs Michele Metcalfe,

to experience Rossall first hand

the warmest of welcomes to

Registrar and three of our

whilst sitting in and observing

the visitors. They impressed

pupils from Hong Kong,

some of our classes. We were

them with their knowledge

before enjoying a tour of the

very proud of our pupils,

and answered the diverse

school which included some

Maggie Ho, Julian Ng and

questions the journalists had on

participation in lessons!

Edward So, who all originate

life at Rossall School.

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THE HORIZON | 2013/14

DR STEPHEN WINKLEY 1944 - 2014 Rossall School is mourning the death of its much-loved former Headmaster, Dr Stephen Winkley.

to turn around the fortunes of Rossall School. The School is now a flourishing beacon thanks largely to Dr Winkley’s transformational work.”

Dr Winkley was employed in independent boarding schools for more than 40 years. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Independent School Awards in 2011.

Dr Winkley came out of retirement at

He started his career at Cranleigh in 1969

the age of 63 to take on the Headship at

where he ran a selective Sixth Form House

Rossall in 2008. In the years that followed,

and a revolutionary General Studies Course.

he transformed the School, attracting record numbers of pupils and thereby improving

16 years later he became Second Master at

the School’s finances to deliver a major

Winchester College, the last holder of the

investment programme.

joint office of Deputy Head and Master

Under his inspired leadership, the 160-acre

in College.

campus was radically improved and students

In 1991 he took on the headship of

from all over the UK and more than 30

Uppingham School. Over 15 years he

countries worldwide were attracted to

turned it into one of the most desirable

the School.

During his tenure, Rossall achieved its first

“ROSSALL WAS SHOCKED AND

ever pole position in the Lancashire league

SADDENED BY THE NEWS OF DR

tables in 2010.

WINKLEY’S UNTIMELY PASSING. HE

He was a charismatic and strong head who

WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BY ALL.

had an undoubted impact on the history of

HE HAD A GENUINE INTEREST IN

Rossall School, leading it through a time

THE PUPILS AND THEIR WELFARE

of change and growth with great courage.

He will also be fondly remembered for his approach to life, his insightful wit and occasionally eccentric dress sense - most notably his penchant for red shoes!

AND HAD AN HONEST, WARM PERSONALITY. DR WINKLEY’S WITTY WEEKLY NEWSLETTERS STILL HAVE CULT STATUS.”

coeducational boarding schools in the country. In the 1990s he had a leading role in the Boarding Education Alliance, the organisation created to help arrest the decline in UK boarding school numbers, which was also widely recognised as pivotal in helping to change public perceptions of independent education.

He is survived by his wife, Jenny, his sons Leo and Mungo and his daughters, Imogen, Isabella and Jess. His son Mungo is

Dr Winkley, with his incredible mind, love

Housemaster of Lugard Boarding House

of people and great faith in the power of

“Throughout his career Dr Winkley was

education was a very special man. He will

an inspiration to many and a truly gifted

at Rossall School and Head of EFL.

be long remembered at Rossall and

headmaster. But perhaps one of his most

His other son Leo is Headmaster at

we shall miss him.

enduring legacies will be that he helped

St Peter’s School in York.

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THE HORIZON | 2013/14

GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Being Chairman of the School’s governing body, (the Council), during this period, has been an extraordinary experience. School governors are shadowy figures, rarely seen except at Prize Day! A school is run by its chief executive - the Head - and his or her team. They are the face of the school to the outside world, and Dr Winkley certainly saw to it that that was the case!

“BEHIND THE SCENES, WORKING WITH STEPHEN WINKLEY AND HIS TEAM WAS A PRIVILEGE AND STEVE JAMES OUTGOING COUNCIL CHAIRMAN

The past five years will be remembered as the Winkley years, and rightly so.

A PLEASURE, EVEN THOUGH THE GREAT MAN AND I DID HAVE THE ODD “MOMENT”.

The Council has a supervisory role, of course, but their most important task is the appointment of the Head. So the most important decision in my period as chairman has been the appointment of Elaine Purves

CHRIS HOLT NEWLY APPOINTED COUNCIL CHAIRMAN

It is indeed an honour for me to be taking over from Steve as Chairman of Council.

When Dr Winkley arrived, there were

as Rossall’s new Head. Following Stephen

As an Old Rossallian, to have the

question marks over Rossall’s future,

Winkley was no easy task, but in Elaine

opportunity of putting something back into

we have another winner. She brings youth

the place that had such a major and happy

and enthusiasm - and the experience of a

influence on my life is indeed a privilege.

following a period of successive financial deficits and falling pupil numbers.

successful headship at Ipswich High school

I am looking forward very much to

However within two years the trend had

- and it is clear that she relishes the fresh

working with Elaine, her team and

been reversed: pupil recruitment moved

challenge that Rossall presents.

my fellow members on Council to

upwards, academic standards rose, and

Chris Holt has now taken over from me as

build on the success and foundation laid

substantial annual surpluses became the

Chair of Council. He was the unanimous

by Stephen Winkley.

order of the day. A corner had been

choice. I had five enjoyable, if at times

turned, and today Rossall is firmly back

bumpy, years in the post, and I wish Chris

on track and moving strongly ahead.

and Rossall every success.

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Tr ips & Voyages THE HORIZON | 2013/14

TRIPS & VOYAGES

The school year has been extremely busy so far with pupil excursions - both recreational and educational!

SPORTING SPECTATORS In September, the boys of Pelican and Mitre Fleur De Lys were lucky enough to travel to the Theatre of Dreams Stadium to see Manchester United beat Bayer Leverkusen 4-2 in the Champions League.

Later in the term, there was a visit to watch the premiership rugby team, Sale Sharks defeat Biarritz 33-10. Our students were guests of honour, with their arrival announced to the packed crowd of rugby fans, and they were delighted to have the chance to have their picture taken with some of the players!

GRÜSSE AUS DEUTSCHLAND!

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In October, Rossall students embarked

immersing themselves in the culture and

“The German exchange was an amazing

on a weeklong visit to Hamburg for an

lifestyle. One of the students who took

experience for all and helped improve

exchange trip. The week involved our

part in the exchange, Rachel Hoggarth,

everyone’s German speaking skills and

students living with a German family and

commented on the successful week:

confidence. I’m sure that everyone who

Tr ips & Voyages THE HORIZON | 2013/14

A CAPITAL TOUR In March, the boys of Mitre Fleur de Lys House enjoyed a fabulous visit to London during a three day long house trip. Their itinerary included the London Dungeons, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Science Museum, Hamley’s Toy Shop and Buckingham Palace to name but a few! They were also privileged to be given a tour of The Houses of Parliament by Fleetwood MP, Mr Eric Olleranshaw.

The boys had a fabulous time taking in many of the sights of England’s capital!

decided on Munich. Whilst there, they visited many historical sites, such as the Dachau Concentration Camp and the headquarters of the NSDAP (Nazi party during WWII). They also practised their German speaking knowledge that they had learnt in class such as ordering in restaurants, making complaints in a hotel, asking for directions and reading went would agree that it is definitely

travelled to Germany in the Michaelmas

subway maps. Both trips were fantastic

something to take part in when the

term to practise and improve their

experiences for the pupils, helping

opportunity comes around again.”

linguistic skills. The students chose to

to expand their minds and enjoy

Some of our A Level students also

visit a city of historical significance and

new cultures.

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Tr ips & Voyages THE HORIZON | 2013/14

THE VIKINGS ARE COMING! In January, Year 4 had an excellent day at the Maritime Museum in Lancaster and enjoyed a Viking Workshop led by Vikings, Erik and Linden.

The pupils took part in two sessions; session one concentrated on the battle side of the Viking era, with our pupils handling weapons and armour in preparation for battle, whilst session two focused on the gentler aspects of life as a Viking, with our pupils experiencing life in the settlement.

The children had an excellent time trying on helmets, wielding swords (under supervision of course), learning how to use a loom, braiding and weaving, amongst many other activities!

Back at school, our pupils had to design and build a long ship before testing them out to see if they could float, and if so, how much weight they could manage!

The hands-on Viking experiences provided rich information and inspiration to support their ‘Where we are in place and time’ Unit of Enquiry.

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Tr ips & Voyages THE HORIZON | 2013/14

ART TRIP TO EDINBURGH We are so fortunate to have an abundance of great Art on our doorstep: The Lowry at Salford Quays, Tate Liverpool and The Whitworth to name a few. This year the Art Department ventured north of the border with the Sixth Form Art, Graphics and Photography students for a residential trip to the cultural city of Edinburgh.

The photographers had ample opportunity to take photos during the day. At night the graphics students were able to research and investigate their chosen areas of study, and the artists enjoyed a huge range of art from classical to the ultra-modern. A good time was had by all and on the way home some of our newer overseas students were treated to the sight of snow for the first time, which added to the whole experience.

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Sporting Excellence THE HORIZON | 2013/14

SPORTING EXCELLENCE AJIS CROSS COUNTRY RACE Once again the Junior School was proud to host the prestigious AJIS Cross-Country, the biggest sporting event on the North West independent schools’ calendar. Conditions were perfect and the challenging course provided over 500 children a tough test of endurance and determination. The atmosphere was electric throughout the afternoon and the dedication shown by all our runners, as well as the Year 5, 6, 7 and 8 helpers, created a wonderful team spirit amongst the Rossall children.

It was a fantastic team performance, particularly by the Under 10 Girls and Boys who both just missed out on team medals.

However, an exceptional gold medal performance from Tim Woodman in the U10 Boys race was an incredible achievement.

The U11 Boys’ went one better at the Stonyhurst event where they ran superbly to win the team bronze.

CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPION Rossall pupil, Isabelle Woodman represented Wyre in the Lancashire Schools Cross Country Championships at Witton Park, Blackburn on Saturday 1st February 2014. Isabelle came 4th out of 83 competitors and is now officially ranked as 4th in Lancashire in her age division. She then went on to compete at Sports City Manchester on Sunday 2nd February, where she ran in the 60m and 200m on the indoor track. Isabelle achieved personal bests in both sprints and is currently ranked 4th in the North West and 38th in the UK for the 200m!

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WYRE AND FYLDE CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS Rossall were privileged to host the Wyre and Fylde Cross Country Championships on Tuesday, 14th January.

Dozens of schools across the Fylde took part in the gruelling course, which involved running around the Rossall campus, on to the promenade and back through the campus to the finishing line.

Rossall had some excellent results with, Isabelle Woodman finishing 2nd in her age division. Her team consisting of Tamsin Holden, Shana-Mae Flyn, Naomi Hall and Louisa Rogerson also finished 2nd overall in their age division. Our Year 10 and 11 Boys’ team also did exceptionally well finishing second overall, with James Boyd taking 5th, Harrison Ardron 11th, Charles Wills 14th, Danny Evans 16th and Gus Maree 25th out of 34 boys.

EMILY SWIMS UP A STORM Rossall pupil, Emily McNeill had some fantastic results in The Lancashire Counties Swimming Championships, which were held at the Manchester Aquatics Centre.

Emily won gold medals in the 50m, 100m and 200m breaststrokes, 800m freestyle and 200m and 400m individual medley. Emily also won a silver and bronze medal in the 400m freestyle and 200m butterfly respectively.

Emily was crowned County Champion in six events and gained 14 new personal bests.

Sporting Excellence THE HORIZON | 2013/14

LANCASHIRE CRICKET CALL-UP Rossall student, Dan Robson has been selected to represent Lancashire in the Under 17 cricket team. Dan was awarded Rossall’s Dick Richard’s Trophy in 2012 in recognition of his exceptional talent and has continued to impress his school cricket coaches. Mr James commented on Dan’s success and said, “Dan is a natural all-rounder and a great talent”.

GRACE SELECTED FOR THE LANCASHIRE U15 HOCKEY TEAM Rossall student, Grace McKnight has been selected to represent Lancashire in the Under 15 Hockey Team.

The gruelling selection process consisted of 10 hours practice time, 10 hours of play strategies and a fixture against a touring Dutch team.

Grace also had to complete multiple skills tests, a fitness test and participate in practice matches.

Forty pupils from schools across Lancashire participated in the trials, with only a handful making the team.

Grace developed a keen interest in sports after joining Rossall in 2001.

Grace also plays in club hockey for Blackpool and Wyre Ladies and has scored over 150 goals for her school, club and Lancashire colours.

CROSS COUNTRY The Rossall U13 girls cross country team were crowned North West Schools

Director of Girls’ Sport, Mrs Williams said, “We are highly delighted at the selection of Grace McKnight for the Lancashire Under 15 hockey squad. Grace represents the School at all sports and is a fine ambassador of sport for the School. This selection is testament to the hard work that

Champions after dominating the competition

she puts in to her training and skill development”.

top 10 finishes in a very tough competition.

at Stonyhurst College. Emily O’Neill, Izzy Woodman and Louisa Rogerson all achieved

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Sporting Excellence THE HORIZON | 2013/14

THREE LIONS ROAR With a trio of England Hockey players on the squad, Rossall’s Director of Boys’ Sport, Ian Cameron, believes that the boys’ hockey team could be strong contenders for the U18 National Championships. We are delighted to have James Sutcliffe, Lucas Galley and Liam Ganose amongst our teams as they have all played for England in their age group, with Lucas and Liam gaining international experience against Spain, Holland and Germany. They are joined by a number of other players who have already been selected for the North of England team and a total of 16 players who have represented their county in competition.

Ian Camerson said: “In addition to James, Lucas and Liam, several of our U18s have aspirations to compete in future Olympics teams and I have no reason to doubt their ability to make it to that level. It is an exciting time to coach at Rossall, because we have the strongest squad of players I have worked with during my time at the school and I believe that we have a genuine chance, together with the talent in the squad, to become national hockey champions. This can only help the other players in our squad with claims for an England call up alongside our existing young lions.”

ANNA HANSEN CROWNED UK SINGLES WALLBALL CHAMPION! Anna Hansen was among a successful group of Rossall pupils who contested the UK Singles Wallball Championships in London in January.

This was an international event, with players from Ireland, the USA, Belgium, Italy and the Netherlands taking part as well as the UK. Anna dominated the Under 18s category, winning the final 15-0. Anna’s peer, Polina Pavshinskaya narrowly missed out on the finals herself after losing out by 1 point in her semi-final match.

BUILDING ON SPORTING TRADITION We are delighted to be starting work on three new sports courts, to improve the sporting facilities available to our pupils.

The £350,000 development will provide courts that will be used for tennis, netball and basketball.

The state-of-the-art floodlit facility has been designed by architects Worthington Ashworth Jackson Walker. They are

KIRKHAM CUP WINNERS In March our newly formed Under 10 girls’ hockey team travelled to Kirkham Grammar School for their annual Hockey Cup Tournament. The Rossall team consisted of: Isabelle Wright, Olivia Barker, Gracie Fern, Grace Evans, Maegan Baxendale, Isabella Hargreaves McPhee, Georgia Oldham, Alice Christy, Connie Lupton and Pippa Rogerson. The girls won all of their matches with ease and were eventually crowned the deserved cup winners of the tournament!

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Harry Andrews also managed to reach the semi-final for the Under 16 boys’ category but unfortunately lost to the eventual winner of the competition.

Congratulations to all who played; it was a great experience and enjoyed by all.

expected to be constructed during the summer and should be open by September.

Head Ms Elaine Purves said: “Sport plays an important part in the life of the school and there is no doubt that the new courts will further enhance the facilities for our students”.

“They will provide another first rate facility and bring great opportunities for the students to develop their sporting skills.”

Sporting Excellence THE HORIZON | 2013/14

Sports Round-up This year has seen many excellent performances out on the sports pitches and courts.

For the boys, the year started with the

competitive fixture with the 1st team

rugby season; there were some tough

winning 3-2 and all of the junior sides

games in a season that saw far more

chalking up victories. Our U12 A and B

matches played as a result of the good

and U13 teams all had victories against

weather in comparison to the previous

AKS and our U15 team played some

season. The first XV played well in

very good hockey achieving victories

numerous matches; an excellent game

over Westholme and Rydal Penrhos.

against Bury Grammar School was a

Our U12 team had a fantastic winning

particular highlight where the boys put

streak which meant they only lost one

together a fine all-round performance. In

fixture and they scored over 60 goals in

no less than eight out of the twelve games

the season. The girls entered the Indoor

played the score between both First XV

tournament and both U16 and U18 teams

sides from other schools was less than

finished 5th in the North.

three points; this shows just how close and competitive the matches were. In the lower age groups there were equally good performances and a special mention goes to the U14 side who had a terrific run in the Lancashire cup outlining their future potential for the years to come. The boys’ hockey started with the Lancashire league where the U14, U16 and the U18 were crowned Lancashire champions without losing a match. The U18 boys were crowned North Indoor Champions while the U16 finished 4th in the North Indoor. The U18 reached the 4th Round of the England Hockey Cup with wins over Trent College but unfortunately lost against Calday Grange on penalty strokes.

The U14 team won the Rydal Penrhos 7’s tournament and our 1st team travelled to Bath and ended the festival unbeaten.

There has been similar success on the netball front. As this is a sport that has recently been re-introduced here at Rossall, the girls are working hard and the improvements keep on coming.

There were some excellent results throughout the season but the main highlight was the finishing position of the U15 and U13 girls at the Rydal Penrhos Netball tournament. The U13 girls managed a very impressive 4th place and the U15 girls finished the competition in 3rd place. Also in girls sport there were excellent results in the Wyre and Fylde swimming gala where our Year 7 and Year 8 team came 4th overall against a number of schools. Also out on the fives courts in the National Fives competition we had success with Grace Gordon wining the U13 plate final and Grace

Girls’ hockey got off to a good start with

with Isabelle Woodman winning the U13

Rossall facing Giggleswick in a very

Plate doubles final.

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Wordsworth Day THE HORIZON | 2013/14

Wordsworth Day Our pupils celebrated our connections to Britain’s greatest ever Romantic poet by covering the campus in daffodils as part of our inaugural Wordsworth Day. On a beautiful day in October, we joined with the

As Poet Laureate, William Wordsworth was

Wordsworth Trust to plant around 1,000 daffodil

the guest of honour at our first ever Prize Day,

bulbs to mark our close links with Lakeland poet,

in 1846; his grandsons, Henry and William,

William Wordsworth and his family. Children

were amongst the earliest pupils at Rossall in

from the age of 2 to 18, together with teachers

1845. This inspired us to establish our annual

and staff, each planted bulbs in garden areas

Wordsworth Day. We were joined by members

and borders around our 160-acre campus in

of The Wordsworth Trust, who spent a day

celebration of the literary icon’s best-loved poem:

undertaking poetry workshops with all year

“I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud,” which is most

groups and overseeing the commemorative

commonly know as “Daffodils.”

planting of one daffodil bulb for every person at the School.

The weather was perfect for planting with glorious sunshine and it was great to see everyone get stuck in! The children from Reception were fascinated to learn about how daffodils stay in the ground all winter before finally growing in the spring time.

We would like to say a big thank you to all of the grounds staff who helped make the day possible.

It has been a joy to see the Rossall grounds in a blaze of yellow this spring.

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Wordsworth Day THE HORIZON | 2013/14

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Combined Cadet Force THE HORIZON | 2013/14

COMBINED CADET FORCE Rossall School is proud to be the first school in the United Kingdom to form a Combined Cadet Force (CCF).

Since its foundation in February 1860, when the threat of a French/Irish Catholic invasion was at its height, the CCF has provided a rich experience for hundreds of Rossall students. The CCF at Rossall received the Queen’s Colours on Tuesday, 29 June 2010, to celebrate its 150th Anniversary and to acknowledge its status as the oldest cadet corps in the UK.

HELP FOR HEROES In September, 17 pupils from Rossall School were amongst 3,000 volunteers from across the UK who gave up their weekend to support a national fundraising weekend in aid of the Help for Heroes charity.

Pupils collected a massive £570 from very generous shoppers at the Tesco store in Cleveleys on the weekend of the 14th and 15th September.

Harley Howard, a Year 12 pupil explains why he volunteered “My dad is a serving officer in the British Army and he’s been on a number of tours of duty. Fortunately, he hasn’t been injured, but I know that Help for Heroes are there to support and rehabilitate those who have sustained injury and by volunteering my weekend, I felt that I was able to play my part in helping the charity continue their work”.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 10 NOVEMBER 2013 The Rossall School CCF once again took part in the Remembrance Day Parade at Fleetwood Cenotaph and laid a wreath on behalf of Rossall School.

Although chilly, the sun shone as people of Fleetwood and the surrounding area gathered to pay their respects to the fallen of the two World Wars and more recent conflicts.

Cadet Ben Bradley was chosen to be one of the four Cenotaph guards. The School proudly joined the massed standards with the Queen’s Colours and the School Colours.

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Combined Cadet Force THE HORIZON | 2013/14

T H E W E L BEC K C A DET L E A DE R SH I P CH A L L E NGE 2 014 Eight Rossall CCF Cadets recently entered a gruelling competition which comprised of: an obstacle course, military fitness, command tasks, high ropes course, computer clay shooting, swimming, map reading theory, first aid, problem solving, military knowledge, orienteering, foreign weapons and ground signs.

The aim of the challenge was to introduce Cadets in Year 9 and Year 10 to challenging activities to test their leadership, teamwork and ability to think under pressure whilst in a competition environment.

The magnificent eight were: Rachel Rosenthal, Daisy Porter Alex Bryce, Kane Walkden, Holly Mercer-Jones, Catrina Rooker, Kailei O’Flynn and Joshua Moye.

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Music, Art & Drama THE HORIZON | 2013/14

MUSIC, ART & DRAMA

HOUSE SINGING As all current Rossallians and Old Rossallians will know, one of the most eagerly anticipated contests of the year is the incomparable House Singing Competition.

All houses displayed their best efforts to win this year’s competition, at the Grand Theatre, Blackpool; including performances of songs from Tom Jones to the Spice Girls and Ronan Keating to Pitbull. However, it was Dolphin House who truly proved that their performance was “What Dreams Are Made Of ” with their show-stopping execution of the Hillary Duff hit, and to be crowned Rossall School House Singing Champions 2013. Pelican and Mitre Fleur-de-Lys came joint second and Wren third. However, Spread Eagle also deserve some commendation for singing the song with the title; ‘‘Man, I feel like a woman’’! The Junior School superbly rounded off the afternoon by singing ‘‘Memory’’ by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

All in all, the competition was a fantastic event enjoyed by everyone.

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Music, Art & Drama THE HORIZON | 2013/14

INFANT AND JUNIOR HOUSE SINGING On Wednesday 2nd April, the Infant and Junior Schools delighted parents and staff with their singing and shouting, in the annual House Singing and Shout Competition.

Clifton, Assheton and Hesketh all competed for the coveted title and all pupils gave 100% effort. Music Teacher and organist, Mr Corrie, had the difficult task of judging the competitors and said that the level of talent was outstanding! Ultimately, it was Assheton House who won the Junior House Singing Award, whilst Hesketh won the Infant’s. All was not lost for Clifton House however, as they blew Mr Corrie away with their shouting, to be crowned House Shout Champions!

WALKWAY GALLERY EXHIBITION In December, A Level Photography students launched our own Walkway Gallery with an exhibition of their work.

The development of a new indoor walkway, allowing access to the school grounds from the car park, provided the perfect location to showcase the professional standard of photographic work produced by our students. The Walkway Gallery provides room-size spaces within which visitors can study works from a distance or close up. It provides an environment to rival many public galleries and therefore provides students with a real incentive to produce high quality work for an opportunity to gain their first exposure in a professional setting. The launch exhibition was all about photography; the exhibition featured creative portraiture, commercial photography and architectural studies and included work from local and international students.

The current exhibition features artwork from our talented Junior School, Year 8 and Year 9 pupils.

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Music, Art & Drama THE HORIZON | 2013/14

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE Our Michaelmas term play was a great success with 25 pupils aged 11-18 enthusiastically performing C.S. Lewis’s Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, directed by Miss Roz Bendelow, Head of Drama.

Following three months of intense preparation, the cast produced three excellent evenings of entertainment.

The play was well received by parents, teachers and students alike with the auditorium filled for each performance.

The audience were treated to refreshments, including Turkish delight, during the interval.

The four children: Peter (Matthew Baldwin), Susan (Lauren Stephens), Edward (Sam Pitcher) and Lucy (SallieAnne Storm-Eckersley) wore 1945 garb

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and were almost ever-present on the stage as the audience took kindly to the lead characters. The animals sported the now common “onesies” that matched their fantastically creative make-up.

A charismatic appearance from Charlie Harrison as Father Christmas added some festive spirit to proceedings.

Timmy Ferrier’s unique and humorous interpretation of a leopard was much enjoyed by the audience and undoubtedly the most memorable scene was the battle in which the chillingly fearsome White Witch (Susannah Green) was finally defeated by the great lioness Aslan, (Polina Pavshinskaya.)

The entire cast was assembled on stage as smoke rose to foreshadow the deaths of the White Witch and her comrades.

This was a truly fantastic performance and the cast enjoyed rapturous applause as they took their bows.

By Harry Andrews, Year 12

Music, Art & Drama THE HORIZON | 2013/14

THE SNOW QUEEN In January the Rossall Infants and Juniors put on two spectacular performances of The Snow Queen in Big School.

The costumes and set were outstanding and it was clear to see how much effort both the teachers and pupils had put in.

We were delighted by the attendance and support and all the pupils performed exceptionally well. Well done to all!

THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ In March, our pupils put on two spectacular performances of the much loved tale, The Wizard of Oz. Year 11 pupil, Lauren Stephens was selected to portray the lead role of Dorothy, with Sam Pitcher as the Scarecrow, Matthew Baldwin as the Tin Man and Joe Watson as the Cowardly Lion transporting us to the magical land of Oz. They were joined by Mary Murray, who gave an outstanding performance as both Miss Gulch and The Wicked Witch of the West, with her terrifying screams and evil demeanour. The cast included some of the Junior School pupils, who added to the Munchkinland scenes with singing and dancing their hearts out. The audience were also delighted with the use of a real dog, Whiskey Raynor, to portray Toto. Accompanying the actors was the Rossall School orchestra, led by Director of Music, Margaret Young.

The performances were outstanding and it was clear to see all of the hard work that had gone into the musical. Many congratulations to Miss Bendelow, Miss Young, all of the production and stage crew and the actors for giving us a delightful view over the rainbow.

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THE HORIZON | 2013/14

I N T E RV I E W W I T H C H A P L A I N R E V D. E T I E N N E VA N B L E R K b y J e re my C hia & S o phie Ho c k in gs, Yea r 13

they do in South Africa because of the sunny weather. Lots of changes happened during my lifetime, from a segregated to a liberated country where white and black people can live in harmony next to one another. Church life in South Africa is quite strong, so many people are church going, so that’s very much part of the culture. I had a good childhood, lots of privileges and opportunities.

What attracted you to apply for the post of Chaplain at Rossall and how do you see your role as Chaplain within the Rossall community?

Definitely, Dr Winkley’s letter that

When and why did you come to England?

I came to England 12 years ago, just with my wife, one baby and two suitcases. Now we have two babies more and a whole house full of stuff. We came thinking we were only going to stay a year, and then go back to the Middle East, because my wife is Jordanian and I was working there before I came here. We came because we wanted to get a taste of what education is like here in England. I was teaching Art to deaf students before and was keen to continue in this field. So, I attended a conference in Glasgow, with an organisation called Sense Scotland, but I also applied for jobs everywhere in the world including the Middle East. I was offered a job there but also here in England, so we decided to stay.

What inspires you most and what are your ambitions in life?

I’ve been greatly inspired by my parents and the way they live their lives and still live their lives today. I’m one of four

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children and they taught us to make our own decisions, but were never too far away and always behind us. They themselves have risen from situations that seem to have been challenging in their own lives and made a great success, especially my dad. This inspired me too. My mother once said: “The van Blerk men like to rise to a challenge”. As for my ambitions, as a Christian, I want to live a called life. I always aim to sense what God calls me to do. That’s why I’m here to do the job of chaplain at Rossall too. “Ambition” is a bit of a difficult word, I prefer to call it “a calling”. I’m very much inspired by what Jesus Christ said: “I have come so everyone may live and enjoy life to the full.”

quoted: “How can my people sing the Lord’s song in a strange land?” I applied because he said there are so many different nationalities and people finding a home away from home. My reply was, I would fit in at Rossall because I have lived abroad and married cross-culturally and I speak other languages. Hopefully we will be at home at Rossall too as people from a different country. I also applied because I wanted to be a school chaplain and combine it with teaching art. As for my role as Chaplain, personally I would like to see myself as someone who offers a confidential listening ear to people and also to represent Christianity in a way that makes it attractive and meaningful. I also

What was it like growing up in South Africa?

hope that everybody at Rossall will have

I was very happy growing up in South Africa; it’s a beautiful country with friendly people. What immediately pops into my mind are the sunny mornings as a child going to school very early, as

we are here to serve one another as we

the same view, students and staff alike, that respect, love and care about one another. I personally have a passion to encourage the faith community amongst us as well as our learning community.

THE HORIZON | 2013/14

BIG BEACH CLEAN In an effort to reduce the amount of marine litter, The Marine Conservation Society held its annual Big Beach Clean event at beaches all over the country, with students taking part at Rossall beach.

Our staff and students were more than happy to volunteer and did their bit for the environment and our beautiful beach by joining in with the Big Beach Clean. The volunteers collected 68 bags of rubbish which amounted to a whopping total of 188kg!Â

The Marine Conservation Society collect all the rubbish and records the findings in an effort to plan for future campaigns and education.

GETTING HANDS-ON WITH LYTHAM HALL Our Sixth Form pupils have been getting a unique hands-on experience with local history.

Nine pupils, who are currently studying for their International Baccalaureate, were given the rare opportunity to delve into the dusty archives of Lytham Hall in November.

Over four weeks, our pupils donned gloves and masks to help staff move and clean the ancient archives which have been kept in a dark, old cellar in the Jacobean part of the Hall. Conservation and renovation works, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, involve transforming the cellar into new toilet facilities, so the Hall’s valuable archives needed to be moved and made more accessible.

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Char ity Begins at Home THE HORIZON | 2013/14

Charity Begins at Home It has been a pleasure for the whole school to have been able to contribute to so many worthy causes throughout our school year.

Children in Need

MacMillan Coffee Morning

Despite the chilly November weather, the Juniors braved the

The Infant and Junior School, together with girls from Dolphin

cold to turn up to school in their onesies, PJs and slippers!

House, began the school year with Coffee Mornings in aid of

Children In Need is a popular charity celebration and this year was

MacMillan Cancer Support raising a total of £181.36.

no exception. The day’s fun and cosiness resulted in a collection

*

which exceeded £335!

* Jump Rope for Heart

MADD Night The boys of Mitre Fleur De Lys House put on their annual MADD Night to raise funds for their chosen charity,

On a more energetic note, our involvement with

Donna’s Dream House. The charity in Blackpool is a locally based

Jump Rope for Heart through the British Heart Foundation was a huge

trust providing free holiday experiences for children and teenagers

success, in more ways than one. It was uplifting to see the Juniors

with life-threatening illnesses and their families, as well as for

excited about getting even more active than they already are, while

recently bereaved siblings and their families. This was the fifth

at the same time raising a tremendous £742.50 to contribute to

year of MADD night, with energetic musical performances, dance

the BHF’s life-saving work.

routines, magic and comedy.

*

*

Year 6 Good Samaritans

Spread Eagle’s 24 Hour Cyclathon

Following the tragic typhoon in the Philippines, Year 6 chose to

Spread Eagle have been raising money for Combat Stress

take some independent and direct action. During their inquiry into

(the Veterans’ mental health charity), and have managed to

natural disasters, the news of these devastating storms inspired the children to arrange their own collection and they held cakes sales

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raise an impressive £460.

They completed a variety of charity events including a 24 hour

at school and collected donations from the public at the

cyclathon. The boys managed to pedal a whopping 775.942

Grand Theatre House Singing Competition. The children’s

kilometres (or 484.96 miles) which is roughly the equivalent of

initiative raised £304.56 for the Disaster Fund.

cycling from Fleetwood to Paris!

Rossall School has been proud to support the following charities and many more:

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Floreat Rossallia THE HORIZON | 2013/14

FLOREAT ROSSALLIA

IMPROVING CAREERS GUIDANCE The School has been working with The Rossallian Club to pilot a programme of careers guidance for our pupils.

Our Old Rossallians have then been invited to come in and deliver seminars on their particular occupational areas; this year these have included the medical profession, law, police, running your own business and accountancy. The students taking part have found the seminars of great benefit and our Old Rossallians have enjoyed coming in to talk to pupils and see the developments in school which have taken place over recent years.

Year 11 pupil Mate i Antochi tell s us how bene f ic ial the c aree rs seminars are : ‘We were invited to attend a law talk made possible by Raquel Simpson, an Old Rossallian, who is now a barrister. The talk was exceptionally informative and descriptive, and answered many of our questions, as well as steering future law students in the right direction by giving decades’ worth of experience.

Those of us who attended the Careers Seminar were extremely glad that we were able to take part, as it answered a great deal of our questions on what being a barrister is like. We are very grateful to Ms Simpson for giving up her time.’

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ENJOYING THE BENEFITS OF WORK EXPERIENCE Our Old Rossallians have also been supporting our work experience programme.

Here’s a short report from Year 13, Pelican pupil, James Fang, after his placement with Old Rossallian Marcus Addison of Addison Engineering.

‘My week’s work experience at Addison Engineering was great fun and very valuable, especially with my UCAS application for university. The people in the company were really friendly and nice and they showed me around the new factory and office. I was shown an engineering project which was taking place with a chemical factory, so I now have a clear idea of what electrical and electronic engineering is about. I also received lots of advice and information and really appreciate all they did for me during my placement.’

We wel come conta c t f rom any O ld R ossallian s who would be w illing to of fe r future talk s, seminars or work expe r ien c e.

OLD ROSSALLIAN WEEKEND In March, Rossall welcomed old boys and girls for the highly anticipated OR Weekend, the first event of its kind.

Alumni Officer, Sharon Potts and Foundation Officer, Jane Palmer worked tirelessly to bring the event together, with the help of many Rossall pupils and staff.

The weekend was a huge success and included events such as: wine tasting, social media workshops, a CCF display, an Astronomy class, a look at Rossall during World War I, a Chapel service and a formal dinner for 150 guests. The ORs also took part in numerous sporting events including the ORs v the current 1st hockey team, a ladies hockey tournament and, of course, the eagerly awaited Rosshockey on the beach.

A big thank you to all of those who attended the weekend. We hope that this successful event can be repeated in the future.

Floreat Rossallia THE HORIZON | 2013/14

ROSSALL CALLING

MEETING IN MUNICH

Senior and former Rossall pupils took to the phones last summer talking to Old Rossallians and other supporters of the School as part of The Rossall Foundation’s Telephone Campaign.

In March this year, Ms Purves and our Registrar Mrs Metcalfe hosted a dinner for ORs and parents of current pupils while they were in Munich.

We were thrilled at the obvious affection

Anchor House for our Junior boarders.

that Old Rossallians hold for their old

Megan, Year 8, says, “The day room feels so

school and at how pleased they were to hear

cosy and homely now”.

about the major refurbishment work and

The Foundation is also supporting the

all our exciting plans for the future. Our

School’s latest refurbishment project - the

callers were also enthralled with hearing

iconic clock tower. We will report progress

Old Rossallians share their memories of

on this venture in future publications.

Rossall, such as ringing the bell on the

We were also able to fund gym equipment for the fitness room. Thank you very

Sumner Library to announce the end

much from everyone at Rossall to all who

of World War II, their many sporting encounters and how Rossall had prepared them for their future.

contributed to the campaign and for all your generous support of The Rossall Foundation.

The School received pledges for just under £50,000 and we are very grateful for the

Why We Support The Rossall Foundation:

It was a welcome opportunity for Ms Purves to speak German and get to know more ORs and parents; a wonderful dinner was had by all, in the lovely setting of the Reitschule Café in central Munich.

HONG KONG DRINKS RECEPTION The School recently hosted an Old Rossallian Drinks Reception in Hong Kong, the first event of its kind.

We were delighted that 25 of our international ORs attended this event

‘ We are parent s of children who have

where they were able to catch up with

rec ently le f t R ossall, and we are

their fellow classmates, hear news from

ve r y happy to donate to the R ossall

Rossall and see a presentation on the latest

Foundation. T he re is more to edu c ation

talented children to benefit from a Rossall

developments at the School. The feedback

than just a c ademic tea ching and R ossall

we received, from both those who attended

education, despite financial restraints.

exc el s in br inging the be st out of all who

and those who weren’t able to attend, was

Gifts to the telephone campaign also

have had the pr iv ilege of studying the re

extremely positive and we are hoping to

enhanced the full refurbishment of

and gaining R ossallian value s.’

repeat this event in the future.

support from everyone we spoke to. The telephone campaign focused on support for bursaries and will allow bright and

HOW TO KEEP IN TOUCH Contact our Alumni Officer, Sharon Potts on 01253 774 288 or email s.potts@rossall.org.uk

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EXPANDING HORIZONS

Rossall School, Fleetwood, Lancashire, FY7 8JW Telephone: 01253 774201 Fax: 01253 772052 Email: enquiries@rossall.org.uk www.rossall.org.uk