The Script Autumn/Winter 2019 by Sherborne Girls

Script THE

Autumn / Winter 2019

‘Can-do’ attitude prevails

Since joining in September, I have been struck by the really purposeful atmosphere in all areas of the school; this is very much a ‘can-do’ and ‘wantto-do’ place, both inside the classroom and out of it.

As my area of responsibility covers the co-curricular and weekend programmes, I wish to tap into that dynamic force with the aim of developing our provision to offer a varied programme, which the girls find relevant and stimulating, but also ensuring the activities underpin the key values and strategy of the school.

Front cover image - photography by Josie Sturgess-Mills

I have been impressed by how the girls do something because they like it and value it, and this was shown when we introduced football this term; within 30 seconds Jayne Dart ( Director of Sport, Adventure & Leadership) had enough signed up for a team! They are willing to give things a go - it’s certainly not merely lip service.

I am working closely with Tim Bennett, Deputy Head (Co-curricular) at Sherborne School to develop further our joint social calendar. I’ve seen how capable the girls are, and so want to harness the flair and talent we have here. Involving the pupils in the organisation of events, for example our first joint film festival next term, gives them a real sense of responsibility and opportunity for leadership. I am certainly open and receptive to new ideas and opportunities, and will strive with my colleagues to provide a dynamic co-curricular programme which changes in response to pupil interest and to issues happening on a global scale, so that it complements their academic studies and enriches their education overall. So keep an eye on the calendar – there will be something for everyone.

Ian McClary, Deputy Head (Co-curricular and Planning)

Generous beyond measure

When I announced that the theme for this year was generosity, it would have been easy for the girls to think of this purely in terms of charitable giving, but I am so pleased to see that they have fully embraced ‘generosity’ in its widest sense.

The volunteering network and community outreach initiatives are expanding with girls involved in the GP Patient Support Group, Sherborne Town Council, the local radio station and assisting in the town’s primary schools. Being generous with their own time is an admirable value and we see this day in, day out around school. Without even thinking, they will gladly help their peers with their learning; they are generous in spirit by encouraging each other on the sports field, in drama and music performances and for the numerous inhouse charity events. In addition, the girls pick up attributes from the role models around them. The teaching and support staff go beyond what’s expected to ensure that the girls are happy and fulfilled in both their academic studies and the pastoral side of life at Sherborne Girls. These qualities reflect the staff’s own community spirit as you will read later where we have included just a few examples of what our staff do outside school. This, combined with how the parent body and the Old Girls community demonstrate generosity in unbelievable measure is something we are hugely appreciative of. Their willingness to support careers events,

the recent reeling night organised by the Parent Task Force and the unswerving attendance at our music and drama performances, reinforces how generosity is an element which is embedded into our whole school community. I hope you will see from the following articles how generosity manifests itself in every facet of what we do, and how we work to ensure it continues to be a fundamental, inherent aspect of the ethos here at Sherborne Girls.

Dr Ruth Sullivan, Headmistress

In this issue

3-4 5 6-7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14-15

Academic Enrichment Literacy and Art Showcase Boarding, Pastoral and Wellbeing The Arts Adventure and Leadership Community Sports Highlights

ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT

Science under the Spectroscope

Berlin trip

On 9 November 1989, the Berlin Wall came down. This famous event which happened thirty years ago destroyed one of the most lasting images of a period in our history known as the Cold War. This anniversary provided the perfect reason for 31 pupils from U5-U6 to embark upon a three-day visit to Germany’s capital. Berlin has experienced a turbulent history throughout time, from becoming the capital of the Prussian Empire in 1701, to becoming the focal point of the iron curtain across Europe during the Cold War. It is also where the Nazi regime came to an end and where Hitler killed himself in his bunker in 1945. So much history to fit into three days! Today Berlin has regenerated itself into a capital of culture. The Berlin Wall is a

significant example, displaying the talents of city artists along its concrete mass. The architecture and installations are really impressive and were specifically created in order to evoke emotions that were felt during the oppressive times. There are countless museums including the Jewish Museum and the Sachsenhausen concentration camp, both of which were incredibly moving and had a real impact on us. In addition to the city embracing its history and becoming a cultural capital, it is also known as a creative hub and we were inspired to see so many young people involved in reviving the local culture through art and artistic expression.

Huda Javed L6 and Sarah Elliott, Head of History

Living Literature

We visited the Jane Austen Centre in Bath as a means of complementing the U6’s work on Northanger Abbey. The aim of the day was to get a good idea of what society was like at the time when Austen was writing and understand more about the author and her motivations and concerns. We were taken on a guided tour around Bath: the city Catherine Morland came to with the Allens and where she met both the Tilney and the

In early November, four postgraduate students from Bath University came to our chemistry department to present a workshop on spectroscopic techniques to our U6 Chemistry classes.

As part of our studies we need to understand the scientific theory behind the different spectroscopic techniques and be able to use the spectra to work out the structure of a chemical compound. Having the unique opportunity to use both the Infra-Red and NMR spectroscopy machines, ahead of our summer examinations, meant that our understanding and awareness of each type of spectroscopic technique was greatly improved.

Thorpe families. We saw some of the sites Austen refers to, such as the Pump Room and various streets inhabited by her characters, which was a fabulous way to bring the text we are studying to life. Eleanor Miller, U6, said: “The trip to Bath was informative and thoroughly enjoyable, and the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the culture and setting of Austen was invaluable”.

Emily Bell, Teacher of English

It was also very interesting to be able to work with such talented scientists who are so passionate about their field of research, enabling us to fully engage in and understand a topic that has traditionally been one of the most challenging in the curriculum. We used the opportunity to ask questions about life at university, which is a topic of great interest to us all at the moment. It was extremely helpful to hear their valuable, honest and informative advice on the UCAS application process and the advantages of further study to PhD level.

Leila Hollingworth, U6 3

ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT

The ABC of EPQ

The EPQ is the ‘Extended Project Qualification’ and is a valuable addition to Sixth Form enrichment. The skills needed for this qualification, which is studied alongside, and in addition to, the girls’ other exam subjects, offer the perfect training ground for university study. The girls are required to produce a 5000-word report on a subject of their choice plus a presentation detailing the planning, management and content of the project. The EPQ Presentation Evening took place as a joint event with Sherborne School in The Merritt Centre with more than 40 pupils gathered to showcase their work and give presentations.

With topics ranging from ‘How far is Instagram responsible for the rise in body dysmorphic disorder?’ to ‘Has the NHS responded effectively to Antibiotic Resistant Infections?’ it was a forum that

encouraged wider discussions and was extremely thought-provoking. We’re hoping that this has inspired this year’s L6 to choose equally fascinating topics when they begin their EPQs next year.

Rachel Allen, Teacher of Classics and EPQ Co-ordinator

Careers update

Working alongside Kate Scorer (Oxbridge and UCAS Co-ordinator) and David Banks (Apprenticeships & Overseas Universities), it has been a busy term in the re-organised Careers Department with preparations for mock medic and veterinary interviews for the U6, careers testing feedback interviews with external Careers Advisers for the U5 and planning the school's annual Careers Fair. We are also exploring the incredible opportunities US Universities provide and the expansion of higher apprenticeships. Further down the school we are introducing new initiatives to offer the girls exposure to the widest choice and selection of career opportunities from a young age, so that they are aware of the options available and feel confident to pursue their aspirations for when they move on from Sherborne Girls. To ensure we have a diverse choice of careers for the pupils, we are always pleased to hear from anyone (parents, Old Girls, friends of SG) who would like to visit and support our Careers Programme in some way. If this appeals to you, please contact me via careers@sherborne.com

Katie McManus, Careers Co-ordinator

Finding our voices In October, speaker and trainer, Peter Radford came to do a workshop called ‘Your Voice’ for the L6. As a cohort we came away from this feeling much more confident in our knowledge and understanding of the political scene. This was particularly useful as we approach the age to vote and to ensure we are not amongst those who don’t bother to vote because they feel they do not have a strong enough comprehension of politics.

We completed a questionnaire to give us an idea of where we sat on the spectrum of left or right wing which previously some of us had been unsure about. This was extremely helpful as it made us more assured and aware of how we feel about the politics going on in the world today. Mr Radford pointed out that ‘to change the world you have to change the law’. This left us feeling inspired and encouraged to speak up about problems we feel passionate about. The second part of this enlightening afternoon covered how laws are connected to so many things that affect our generation and our future children too. It is important we have a strong understanding

to help continue our democratic system in a secure way. We discovered we were in a room of mostly feminists and we found it so refreshing to hear how passionate Mr Radford was about gender politics. It was particularly shocking to discover that the outdated idea that women need to be ‘saved’ dates back to children’s stories, such as Snow White, who in the story actually sings: “I’m waiting for my prince to come”. Mr Radford taught us to be proud of and positive about our gender. We left feeling truly inspired and that our opinions are valued.

Sophie Holcroft, L6

LITERACY AND ART SHOWCASE

People are just People

A lot of life is pretty soft if you ask me, Cushioned by pillows sit people and societies, Cushioned by the lies That truthful people seem to hide beneath, When everything feels colourful the white just seems to seep between The cracks, left in people, That reap just what we sow, White lies just build a coating until white is all we know, And life is pretty soft, And pretty soft is all we know. People are just people Who don't want to swim through glue but see Truth burns the tongues of patient people sipping sips of boiling tea It burns to make a difference because truth is what we want to be, And living in Hong Kong, I know we live a concrete life, A concrete jungle echoes truth In silent streets of night, As every soul who lives and breathes rests To take a Breath To try and face another day of life being a test Unless, We imagine truth trickling like water Feeling so refreshed, Crystal drips of clarity release our broken breaths, Watering the flames that relieve our clogged up chests, Crystal drips of clarity release our broken breaths, We guess that Truth is the rain that waters to help people, Truth is a garden evolving from those rains yet we still Sit on cushions, Cos it's nicer than the floor, But we need to stand up straighter than we ever have before Because, knowing The nature of change can change, Truth is ever changing a bit like life I guess youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d say, And if the only constant in life is change Then I must constantly change To make change And find change And be change And I just said the word change far too much And Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sorry, But it's true, And every time you say that word A crystal drip falls through, It will help you feel the clarity that happiness brings you, And as concrete as life gets sometimes, Just know That you are true.

Eve Messervy, L6

Artwork by Imogen Knight, U5

BOARDING, PASTORAL AND WELLBEING

Welcome to our new Housemistresses

A Wingfield Digby welcome

What struck me about the girls in Wingfield Digby when I first arrived was their spirit: a lively bunch who enjoy a good time and clearly love being at school. A change of personnel for the girls is never easy but they have been unbelievably welcoming to me and my family and we have developed a great rapport in the short time since September, especially with our puppy, Pickle. In my experience as a housemistress, I had never encountered ‘cubies’ before and I have grown to love what they afford the girls: the chance for some personal space but a great opportunity to be near others and share in some communal spirit - and high jinx! I particularly love the chance to gather together at meal times to share notices, say hello and stop to breathe during what is always a busy day. We have already had some jolly times with our whole house social being a memorable evening. There was a 70-strong game of sardines, a Pick ‘n’ Mix station, chocolate fountains and an hilarious photo booth. All good homemade fun which was enjoyed by us all! Another proud moment was winning House Drama for the ‘Best Group Piece’: so well-deserved after all their hard work and a performance full of integrity. I am privileged to look after some intelligent, funny, talented, kind and passionate young ladies in Wingfield and I am excited to see where we will go next!

Katy Scott, Housemistress, Wingfield Digby

New faces in West Having spent my first term in Aldhelmsted West I can genuinely say that I am looking forward to many, many more. My family and I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the girls and it already feels like home which is what I had hoped for when I took on the role. I never imagined having 44 ‘daughters’ in addition to my own two children but it has been great fun despite the inevitable challenges. I have been struck by what a unique place West is: not just because of the ensuite bathrooms and plush dining room but because of the opportunities it affords the girls. I’m keen to ensure that before the pressures of examinations descend, the Westies can enjoy a full range of activities at the weekends; there is never a dull moment. So far this term we have already

Triple the joy

been to PGL, painted mugs, visited Longleat, climbed trees, been bowling, watched a film at the cinema and even hosted our own ‘Neon’ party! It is these shared experiences which are so special for the girls. Yes, it is an intense environment but one which fosters an unbelievable opportunity to build longlasting friendships and develop resilience and tolerance. The champions in such a close-knit environment are those that exude kindness, empathy and a willingness to step outside of the self. These are the qualities upon which I selected my first Head of House and team of prefects and is the ethos I hope to build within Aldhelmsted West in the years ahead.

Emma Jamieson, Housemistress, Aldhelmsted West Tamara (Kenelm, L5) was able to celebrate her birthday with her triplet brothers in a very special way this year. Now that her two brothers, Max and Jake, have joined Sherborne School, it means they could all be together on their birthdays. “Having my brothers in the same town is so exciting and this is the first time we’ve been able to celebrate together for several years. Meeting up to share birthday cake made the whole day simply fantastic.”

Tamara Windham, L5

Life in Mulliner Ever wondered what life behind the Mulliner doors is really like? Lucy and Matilda share their experience of their first term as U6 students... With more than 90 girls, the house always feels busy but it has a different ‘busy vibe’ to the mixed-age houses. Having individual rooms is just the best – we loved the dorms and shared room set-up before but it is so nice having our own space and we don’t have to move rooms each term so all our photos, pictures and posters can stay put for the entire year. It also gives us a real sense of what university life will be like.

The house staff are superb and we certainly feel like they treat us as adults. We’re trusted to get on with our prep and study but we know there’s always someone to help out if we need support with a particular subject. Since joining Mulliner we’ve definitely broadened our friendship groups now that the entire U6 is together in one house which is an unexpected bonus. During mealtimes we simply sit in the first available seat so we always find ourselves sitting next to someone different. At the moment there are celebrations galore as so many friends from here and Sherborne School turn 18. Added to the many school socials, this means there are even more occasions where we all meet up. Although the pressure is building for our exams next summer, the environment in the house provides the ideal balance between areas for relaxation and places where we can focus on our studies. And finally, a message for this year’s L6: you’re going to love Mulliner next year!

Lucy Blake and Matilda Murray, U6

Wellbeing Award for Schools

Over the past few years there has been a heightened awareness of staff and pupils’ health and wellbeing. The world is changing rapidly and we are continuously exposed to a wide variety of stress situations. How these situations are managed has a direct impact on our feeling of belonging, self-worth and ultimately our emotional health. Having strategies to effectively manage acute and chronic stress situations, as well as the tools to make informed decisions related to our spiritual, physical, emotional and nutritional activities is very important for holistic health and wellbeing. Sherborne Girls has a genuine interest in staff and pupils’ wellbeing, and we are delighted to be part of the Wellbeing Award for Schools (WAS) programme. On successful completion of the programme, the award will demonstrate that the school has the structure, documentation and staff in place to deliver a high-quality wellbeing programme. The WAS has eight objectives which focus on areas of evaluation, development and celebration of the work that Sherborne Girls has undertaken to promote emotional wellbeing and positive mental health across the school. We will be keeping you posted on our progress.

Make mine a mocktail!

Mark Spivey, Head of Performance Fitness & Wellbeing (WAS Coordinator)

The U5 joint Mocktail Party with Sherborne School proved a great hit. They partied the night away with live music in the Powell Theatre, with professional bartenders serving mocktails from Mojitos to Singapore Slings! This event is one example of the new ideas introduced into the co-curricular socials programme to refresh and update the range and choice of evening and weekend activities. 7

THE ARTS

Floppy man has friends

Following the end of year Art & Design Exhibition Poppy Smith (U6 leaver, June 2019) was approached by Curve Digital Designs CEO Dominic Wheatley who commissioned her to produce a set of her ‘floppy’ creations for his offices. Dominic felt that Poppy’s final exam piece - the bright red, lovingly nicknamed ‘Floppy Man’ - was very similar to the characters in a video game his company published called Human: Fall Flat. The game has sold over nine million copies and continues to be a worldwide hit. For Poppy to have to project manage the formal commission and produce the work to the expected quality, on time and within budget was incredibly impressive and demonstrates the commercial viability of a career in the creative arts. I’m sure it’s not the last we’ve seen of Floppy Man!

Reaching out

It has been a joy to see our music outreach programme expand and develop. The Cantilena Trio enjoyed their annual visit to the Sherborne Open Gate Club where they performed pieces from their extensive chamber repertoire, as well as being inspired by the opportunity to sing Rutter’s Gaelic Blessing with the whole group present. Our work with local primary schools continues and, as an extension of our ‘In Harmony’ project, we enjoyed a vocal workshop with Trent Young’s Primary School and look forward to working with

the children and staff of St Andrew’s Primary School, one of the Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust schools, next term. In addition, we have visits planned to elderly residents’ homes including The Vicarage in Leigh, and the String Orchestra are visiting Abbey View Nursing Home in December. The visits are always a highlight, and we love serving the community of Sherborne residents through our music-making.

Jennifer Nelson, Head of Woodwind Brass and Percussion

Claire Mason, Head of Art, Design and Design Technology

Music at St Mary’s Church The Madrigals and the chamber musicians performed magnificently at a charity concert at St Mary’s Church, Beaminster in November. With a programme of choral and instrumental music, the audience was incredibly appreciative of the remarkable standard to which our girls perform. 8

The concert at Beaminster marks the first in a series of performances throughout November and December to include the Sherborne Festive Shopping Day on 1 December and of course the annual end of term Carol Service at Sherborne Abbey on 14 December.

A spot of drama in the house

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house drama (whilst a hard task) was a lot of fun to direct and put together. As with most student-led initiatives, it put our skills to the test, to deliver a pleasing result.

Getting into the string of it

October saw our String Orchestra participate in a side-by-side project with the renowned string players from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, London. Trinity Laban was the first external orchestra to perform in the Gransden Hall and they were highly complimentary about the sublime acoustics in the new venue. Our Sherborne Girls music scholars were outstanding. They raised their level and gave an accomplished final performance of Goreckiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Three pieces in Old Style, conducted by Trinity Laban Head of Strings, Nic Pendlebury. It was a truly memorable collaboration.

Catrin Win Morgan, Head of Strings

Bravo Daisy

Daisy Kwong, music scholar, oboist, harpist and pianist, played her firstround audition of the BBC Young Musician of the Year competition in Cardiff, performing a programme of Telemann and Saint Saens before a panel of adjudicators.

This year Aldhelmsted East performed Matilda and Yerma, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m delighted to report that we won best overall performance. In addition, one of our girls in M5, Esme Beckly, won best individual performance. This amazing high did not come without its challenges, not least because we had to learn how to artistically direct our friends. This led to some boisterous rehearsals and the temptation to play drama games rather than practice, but it had the positive effect

Joint production

80937.qxp_Layout 1 08/11/2019 16:23 Page 1

Whilst not reaching the final stages of the competition this time, we are so proud of Daisy for being of the standard to enter the competition, given the number of entrants, up to the age of 19, from specialist music conservatoires throughout the UK. Congratulations from all of us at Sherborne Girls, Daisy!

John Jenkins, Director of Music

of ensuring the cast bonded together brilliantly, resulting in a fun-filled performance. The house drama was amazing to direct and equally rewarding to watch on the night. All the other houses did incredibly well and the school hall was atmospheric and full of competitive house spirit. Congratulations to everyone, it was truly an outstanding experience.

Angel Lulu-Briggs, L6

Well done to everyone involved in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s joint schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; production of Tristan & Yseult which took place in The Merritt Centre in early December, with a special mention to Poppy dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Abo (U5), who played the lead role of Yseult. This excellent adaptation by Emma Rice tells of the tragic love story between the French Tristan and Yseult â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Hungarian who has been adopted by an Irish Lord. The cast delighted the audiences and, as ever, the standard of performance from pupils across both schools was outstanding. It was wonderful to see the transformation of The Merritt Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gransden Hall into a spectacular theatre space with professional set, lighting and sound designs allowing the students interested in technical theatre to get an insight into the real thing.

ADVENTURE AND LEADERSHIP

Diary of a Gold DofE

Digital champions

Day 3 of our expedition – The hardest day of my life!

Within two weeks of launching our quest to find digital champions, we had received more than 45 applications for 14 roles. Applicants had to submit a video application using Flip Grid technology which was then viewed by a panel of judges who were blown away by the ideas and originality of the girls’ applications – it appears to have sparked genuine enthusiasm across the year groups.

No surprise - it’s raining. What DofE experience doesn’t include rain, right? But when I say raining, I mean torrential rain. We are soaked before even getting into the canoes. This is not looking good.

but we are a team. If I quit, the whole team fails. Go team – paddle. We can do it. Aim for the next feature or landmark. You are strong. Think warm sandy beaches. Don’t stop.

Today is the day we paddle the whole length of Loch Ness. That’s the same distance as Dover to Calais, 33.6km (23miles). Will my waterproofs hold out? As soon as we paddle out into the vast open space of Loch Ness we are hit by strong head winds. Paddle, because if you don’t, you get blown back to where you came from. Paddle!

The wind changes and we are able to hoist sails to aid us. Thank you, thank you, thank you. The waves have picked up and the bow of the boat fills with water as it surfs the wave. Three quarters of the way across we were given the option to stop and camp. No, we have made it this far; we can make it all the way. We carry on, motivated by singing disjointed songs and sharing sweets.

It takes us four hours to complete just 10km. We are cold, we are wet and large puddles are forming at our feet. We are shivering with numb hands and the tears running down my face keep my cheeks warm. We are only a quarter of the way through. When we thought we had seen the worst of the rain, we were hit by a torrential downpour. Our waterproofs have not held out; we are soaked through. I want to quit - I don’t want to be here. ‘Why am I doing this?’ It’s what we were all thinking, 10

It took another two hours to reach the farthest shore of Loch Ness. We made it. Eleven hours of continuous paddling in atrocious conditions. It was the worst and the best feeling. As we celebrate, a huge sense of achievement overwhelms us. The rain has stopped. We pitch up our tents in a spot where we have wonderful views of the Loch and reflect on what we have just accomplished.

The Gold DofE Team

One of the first things the new digital champions did as a group was to visit Microsoft’s London HQ where they were given a tour and were able to see first-hand how technology such as Virtual Reality is being used and developed for schools and businesses. Now their role is to spread best practice amongst their fellow pupils and demonstrate how technology can enhance the learning experience – not only for school work but equipping themselves with practical skills for life beyond A Levels.

Emma Wimhurst Head of Digital Learning

Taking the lead

The Volunteering Network (VN) works with schools across the South West with the aim of supporting and empowering young people to become actively involved with their community through volunteering.

Our warrior girls

Over half-term we went to South Africa on the Warriors Academy trip. It was an incredible experience, with so many activities that we couldn’t single out a favourite, but we all agreed that the bridge swing was terrifying and our visit to an orphanage was immensely rewarding. The facilitators were very experienced, knowing exactly what to do, while being fun and crazy. Activities at base camp began with tree climbing and an obstacle course to help everybody get to know each other (there were two other schools there: Stowe and Tudor Hall). Over the week, we went on numerous treks, jumped into natural lakes and met many animals. We learnt a good deal about food too as we had to prepare several meals, one of which had to be

presented with a performance. The trip ended with a bang – an 11,000 foot skydive which was both terrifying and exhilarating. Overall, we learnt so much and have been inspired to seek out more diverse opportunities and be brave enough to try new things. We have been shown that there is more than one approach to life, so we should be willing to take risks, go for it and live life as an adventure. Having visited the animal rehabilitation centre and meeting Jessica the hippo, we also learnt that dangerous animals can sometimes be trusted!

Annabelle Kemp, Zoe Woolland & Isobel Gordon L6

Budding entrepreneurs

Creativity, Collaboration and Communication are the three Cs which are at the heart of a government initiative to drive entrepreneurship skills at school level. As part of Global Entrepreneurship Week (18-24 November) our newly-appointed entrepreneur champions were tasked with planning and organising activities and events designed to help them explore their potential as self-starters and innovators. Gabriella Dobson, L6, gave an insight into her new role: The opportunity to be an entrepreneur champion has been a brilliant experience. It has enabled me to improve my communication and presentation skills as well as making me more efficient and organised. The business challenges I set up have broadened my understanding of

what life outside school could be like, preparing me for the future. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity offered to me; I believe it brings out a maturity and other strengths I didn’t know I had - therefore building my confidence. For me, this has opened up a whole new avenue and has made me think about pursuing an entrepreneurial career at the end of Sherborne Girls.

VN held a workshop at school in early November for 20 L6 students who are intending to take the Level 1 Award in Stewarding from the Open College Network. This one-day workshop will be followed up by the students involving themselves in opportunities such as the Wells Food Festival where L6 students Bea Mitchell, Gabriella Dobson and Benedetta Marchegiani recently volunteered. Other opportunities on the horizon include the Brean Beach Clean, Huish Woods Conservation Day and the Bath Half Marathon. One of our students is also a member of the Steering Committee of the Volunteering Network. The life skills that the students gain from their volunteering experiences with VN encourages them to develop their work ethic, their social conscience and their place in the local and global society.

Amanda Mackintosh, Co-ordinator of Community Relations and Global Awareness

Glee Cup

The girls turned out in force to support their houses in the annual Glee Cup at the start of term. Organised and run entirely by the prefects, this was a great opportunity for them to lead, as well as for the houses to come together and show their house spirit. Pupils from L5 to L6 battled it out in the egg and spoon race, neck the orange, roll the football with your head, throw the water balloon and the duvet cover race, before each Head of House attempted to draw a portrait of their housemistress with a pen in their mouth - masterpieces, every one of them! House ‘spirit dances’ from each house between the races added an extra level of creativity (and noise) to the proceedings. Defending champions Wingfield Digby were beaten this year by Reader Harris. 11

COMMUNITY

The flicker of hope: candlelight bursaries girls whose challenging circumstances at home mean a boarding education can be life-changing. We partner with the Royal National Children’s SpringBoard Foundation (RNCSF) to identify girls from vulnerable or disadvantaged backgrounds for whom a boarding education can be life-changing. Investing in the education and wellbeing of the girls, not only raises their aspirations but creates a wider, positive impact across their families and communities. The Sherborne Girls Foundation supports the development of the school, as well as our social responsibilities. Our recent focus has been fundraising for The Merritt Centre and we are incredibly grateful to all our donors who supported this inspirational project and helped us raise a staggering £2.5m. In particular, the named areas are a lovely legacy, and there are still a few seats available if you are interested! The Foundation’s focus moving forward is now on Candlelight Bursaries. These are full, transformational bursaries for

Literary Festival hosted at The Merritt Centre

The Merritt Centre is certainly being put to excellent use and provided the perfect venue for this year’s Sherborne Literary Festival. The workshops and presentations over the three-day event had an amazing range of speakers including Kirsty Wark, Max Hastings, Ziauddin Yousafzai and Libby Page to name but a few. We are currently exploring future commercial opportunities for The Merritt Centre with the aim of attracting more external organisations to host events and strengthen our community links. To find out more about hiring our facilities, see www.sherborne.com/hire-our-facilities or email: lettings@sherborne.com

Jaqui Simpson Commercial Manager

We currently have four girls on Candlelight Bursaries in the school and aim to increase this to ten girls by 2024. The only way we can achieve this is through fundraising and with that in mind, please save the date for the Candlelight Ball on 16 May 2020 in The Merritt Centre. Supporting Candlelight Bursaries really does change lives. If you would like more information or would like to add your support, please contact development@sherborne.com

Katherine Massey, Director of Development & Marketing

Gold medals

As Head Coach for the England U20 Lacrosse Team, Mr Garnsworthy’s holidays are often spent on the training pitch. This summer he was particularly busy as he coached the England team in Prague through a sensational comeback to beat Germany 9-8 in the final and take home a gold medal in the Under 20 European Championship Title. Our girls are very fortunate to have such high calibre coaching staff.

What happens You’d be surprised to know what our staff get up to when they’re not in school. We thought it would be interesting to share just a few examples of what teachers and staff do once the pupils go home ...

Fired-up for emergencies

Did you know that two of our facilities team are also retained fire fighters? Transport Manager, Peter Rowland and electrician Russ Nutland are based at Sherborne fire station, with Russ also offering cover at Yeovil fire station outside his work hours. They both provide approximately 90 hours on-call cover each week, spanning their work hours at Sherborne Girls and their own time, thus ensuring a vital ‘first responder’ emergency service to Sherborne, Yeovil and the surrounding areas. When Sherborne fire station recently held their annual charity car wash, Russ and Peter took charge of the sponges and washing, which resulted in more than £1,100 raised in an afternoon. The proceeds were split between the Fire Service Benevolent Fund and the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. They were delighted to see so many staff turn up to get their cars washed and said that it made a welcome change from organising the school’s minibus fleet to be cleaned!

s in the holidays? Jennifer is ‘Truly Scrumptious’ Jennifer Brewer, Events Assistant, stepped into the spotlight to play the lead role of Truly Scrumptious in The Octagon’s production of Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang. A review of her performance from the Somerset Fellowship of Drama said: “Jennifer Holland-Brewer radiated charm and confidence as Truly Scrumptious, her singing is bell-like in clarity and her dance ability and core-strength were showcased spectacularly as the Doll on a Music Box”. Jennifer trained at prestigious dance school, London Studio Centre, and then went on to work professionally before returning to the West Country to start a family. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was her 28th production with Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society, having played numerous principal parts including Belle in Beauty and the Beast; Eva Peron in Evita; Judy in 9 to 5 and Nellie Forbush in South Pacific as some of her personal favourites. She has

Another string to her bow During the summer break, our Head of Strings, Catrin Win Morgan, was in charge of tutoring the violins at Rossall School for the National Children’s Orchestra’s U12s group in preparation for a concert at Birmingham Town Hall. The public event included pieces from fairy-tale operas, film noir and even a Williams classic from Jurrasic Park.

received a number of awards for her performances, including Best Supporting Actress from the Rose Bowl Awards for her role as Lucy Harris in Jekyll and Hyde. Bravo Jennifer!

Holy cow!

At the end of September I free abseiled 124 feet from the North tower of Wells Cathedral dressed as a cow...not something I ever thought I’d say! Not just a mad whim (well, a bit), it was in aid of SOS Africa, which is a charity funding reading programmes for disadvantaged children in South Africa. This is a cause close to my heart as reading is such an important skill for young people, and also I grew up in South Africa. In total, due to the incredible generosity of those who sponsored me (including an overwhelming number of Sherborne Girls staff), I raised £420. Over the five days of abseiling, the event raised an incredible £61,392 for SOS Africa. As someone who is not that great with heights, it was definitely outside my comfort zone, but an incredible experience nonetheless.

Mark Freestone, Teacher of Speech and Drama

Ethiopia hostel

Ros Johnson, Head of Academic Drama, explains how she supports a hostel in Ethiopia: “I have been going to Lalibela in Ethiopia for a few years working with a school and more recently with a girls’ hostel. The hostel is a lifeline for the girls as they often live up to 11 hours away from school. Their families walk to see them and bring food for them to cook once a month. One day I would love to take some pupils to visit this magical place.” Ros was also a judge on the BBC’s search for new radio presenters: New Voices, and even managed to fit in being artistic director of Wells Theatre Festival – that’s a busy holiday!

SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

Sports round up

Over 90 girls attended the lacrosse and hockey preseason training in September, which, combined with the changes brought about through the introduction of performance and development squads, means the girls have started the winter sports season better prepared than ever. The results speak for themselves and I am delighted with how well all our teams have performed so far this season against some very high-calibre competition. In addition, the decision to keep U5 girls in the games programme has had a very positive effect on retention of girls generally in competitive team sports at senior level. This welcome increase in talent has allowed for the growth of new sports such as football, cricket and badminton.

Jayne Dart, Director of Sport, Adventure & Leadership

Cricket – emerging talent Girls’ cricket is growing in popularity at Sherborne Girls and we are delighted with the strong links we have with Sherborne School who are helping to develop some of our younger players. We were thrilled to hear that Charlotte Usher (L5) has been selected for the Hampshire U15 team. She, along with other female cricketers, will have the opportunity to train at Sherborne School throughout the winter months.

Football firsts

Ryan Garnsworthy, Head of Sport

After only four weeks of training, our newly formed football team played in their first ever match. Having previously coached Fulham Ladies, I have been struck by the enthusiasm and development of the girls’ playing ability. Our game versus Bryanston School ended in a 4-2 defeat but I was seriously impressed with how the girls approached the game. Building on their newly acquired skills, I am looking to set up several more fixtures with a mixture of schools and clubs in the local area. 14

Frank McMorrow, lead Football coach

Riding success

The school’s equestrian team is made up of pupils ranging from L5 to U6 and the successes they have achieved in the last four months have been outstanding. Matilda Murray, Eliza McCalmont, Emily Saunders and Isabelle Playne competed at the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) Show Jumping 90cm Championships in Bedfordshire. There were 42 teams and over 250 students in the class, all of whom had qualified from various events across the UK. Three very fast, clear rounds ensured that the team qualified for the jump-off where they came eighth overall nationally. In September Matilda Murray, Ella-Rose Keith, Poppy Keith and Polly Ledger competed in the Eventing Championships at Stonar where, again, schools - independent and state - had qualified for the championships from various events across the UK. The girls fought off stiff competition in all three disciplines (Dressage, Cross country and Show Jumping) to take second place in the 90 cm Championship class.

Amanda Mackintosh, in charge of Equestrian

1st XI Hockey

A new model has been adopted this year for the 1st XI hockey team with the aim of providing increased opportunities for individual coaching in order to promote greater intensity in our play and performance. The team structure has also been adapted slightly, with opportunities being afforded to younger players giving a greater depth to the squad for future years. We are hoping that the promotion of younger players will generate a ‘backbone’ for the 1st XI for the years to come.

Early netball successes

The netball season got off to a great start with all teams progressing well through the England Netball National Schools Tournament. Special mention goes to Saffron Hockley, Megan Davidson and Kitty Shropshire who were selected to play up an age group; their determination and talent supported the U16 team who successfully qualified for the next round of the county tournament. The U19s had an impressive start to their area tournament, finishing second out of eight schools and narrowly losing to first place by just one goal.

Hollie Greenaway, in charge of Netball

Lacrosse minitour to the Midlands

On the first weekend of the lacrosse season, we picked two senior teams to travel to Cheltenham for an evening fixture before heading further north to Shropshire where we were hosted by Moreton Hall for a Sunday tournament. These friendly matches were part of our pre-season development and it was also a great opportunity to see some of the new seniors in action with their more established counterparts and develop our understanding of the requirements of the new 10-a-side rules.

The next big lacrosse event on the horizon is the Supercounties Lacrosse. We have a record number of girls who have signed up to attend this and it is an excellent way for our more serious players to develop their skills alongside like-minded players from other schools.

Emily Spivey, in charge of Lacrosse

Taking to the waves

The team has responded well to the new set-up and we have seen fantastic performances in our block fixtures, pre-season friendlies and the Cup competitions we have entered. We have had some significant wins over some particularly competitive schools and been held to a draw on a couple of occasions. As coaches, both Mr Clarke and I are delighted to see a greater desire and ferocity in our play. The whole team have worked very hard and deserve their on-going success as they progress through next rounds of the national cup competitions.

Peter Rowland, 1st XI Hockey coach

@sherborne_girls_sport @SG_SportDept

Performance hockey squad newcomers Congratulations to Ella Hague, Eleanor Thomas, Charlotte Usher, Flori Gardner and Bella Simpson Gee who have been invited to join the Performance Hockey Squad. These five girls are the latest to join this committed squad of talented hockey players who are made up of players from L5 through to U6. These hockey players train year-round and are currently honing their skills indoors where the speed of response and the pace of the game is much more intense. Training in this environment helps to develop players’ tactical awareness as well as improving their overall versatility.

James Bell, in charge of Performance Hockey

After a wonderful weekend away team building and exploring their taste for adventure, the L4 and U4 have now been thrown in the deep end – literally. As part of their PE curriculum, the girls are all spending a few weeks learning how to sail on Sutton Bingham reservoir. Experienced sailor and U6 student, Alexandra Covill, is pioneering this new venture and is one of a team of instructors helping to get the girls on the water. Sherborne Girls has a longstanding link with Sherborne School’s sailing club and opportunities currently exist for girls to sail on a regular basis as well as take part in competitive races.

Vicky Tapsall, in charge of DofE

120 years and counting! On 27 September we marked 120 years since the school opened its doors in 1899. While much has changed, moved on and progressed, thankfully, there are some features which remain the same. Looking back at old photos of the school hall, boarding houses and the iconic tree line, it is comforting to know these elements still play a part in school life.

Pupils, Heads and staff have come and gone in the intervening years but the ‘Sherborne Spirit’ remains as alive as ever, along with our aim to provide the best education and learning environment for the girls. Pupil numbers are considerably higher today than when the first 14 girls arrived in 1899. We celebrated in traditional style – with cake – and are already looking forward to our 125th Anniversary in 2024.

Diary dates Sun 12 Jan

Abbey Service and U5 Parent Lunches

Sat 18 Jan

Confirmation Service, Sherborne Abbey

Wed 12 Feb

Choral Society Concert, Sherborne Abbey

Sat 7 Mar

PTF Quiz and Curry Night

Thurs 12 Mar

Sherborne Schools’ Symphony Orchestra Concert, London

Sat 16 May

Candlelight Ball