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COLLEGE LIFE The newsletter of St Edmund's College | February 2021
Headmaster's Welcome Welcome to this very special edition of College Life. Please click on me for a more personal introduction, and then browse to your heart’s content!
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Women in Science 11th February is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. 2021's theme is Women Scientists at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19.
We are proud to have a strong team of women in our Science Department. Miss Towns, Head of Science, said: "History is full of women who made enormous contributions to Science and I know that the SEC Science department continues to inspire young women into Medicine, Engineering and other Science careers. In Science we foster a growth mindset in students by emphasizing that there are many options out there, we instil resilience. Research highlights that we need diverse teams of people to solve world problems – girls are very much a part of this. Girls at SEC see excellent role models every day as they walk around the Science department or in current times over zoom. The students see that the staff believe in them and together we can get creative to solve problems and come up with solutions. Together with our links with outside agencies including GLAXO, Easyjet, Alumni, and other community influences, we help encourage our girls to be the future we want to see." In keeping with this year's theme, please click below to watch Mrs Muller's 'COVID-19 vaccine, explained' video:
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More information can be found at https://www.un.org/en/observances/women-and-girls-in-science-day
Lockdown Learning It has been wonderful to see our students engaged in and enjoying remote learning. Our teachers and tutors have been working hard to offer both academic and pastoral support. Below are a few highlights from this half term!
Remote Learning Tips: Students Throughout 2020, students, educators and parents became adept at remote learning. However, remote learning can present unique challenges. Therefore, we share top tips from National Online Safety for students and parents, below.
Remote Learning Tips: Parents Throughout 2020, students, educators and parents became adept at remote learning. However, remote learning can present unique challenges. Therefore, we share top tips from National Online Safety for students and parents, below.
Music at the College Music is shown to have an array of cognitive and academic benefits in an educational setting, and it is as the heart of life at St Edmund's College. The department is proud to share many achievements, seen below.
200 Music Lessons Over 200 Instrumental and Singing lessons are taking place a week. Pupils have been making superb progress and many are taking online exams next half term.
Recitals The next instalment of the online recital series is here. Please do send Mr Woodhall any performances for inclusion in the next.
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Scholars Quiz A fun quiz took place with the Music Scholars with questions from the Rhetoric Scholars.
Fairtrade Fortnight From 22nd March 2021 to 7th March 2021 it's Fairtrade Fortnight! Mrs Peirce says: "why not bake a Fairtrade cake over half term?". Below, we have included the recipe for the Fairtrade chocolate and banana loaf cake from the Co-op.
Ingredients 100g Co-op unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 175g Co-op Fairtrade white sugar 2 Co-op British eggs 60g Co-op Fairtrade cocoa powder 110g Co-op plain flour 2 ripe Co-op Fairtrade bananas 2 tbsp Co-op semi-skimmed milk 100g Co-op Fairtrade dark chocolate, broken into small chunks 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 1 tsp baking powder 100g Co-op unsalted butter, softened 60g Co-op icing sugar 20g Co-op Fairtrade cocoa powder, sifted 1 tbsp Co-op semi-skimmed milk 6 Co-op Fairtrade Irresistible Belgian flaked white chocolate or milk chocolate truffles, roughly chopped 12 Co-op Fairtrade white chocolate buttons, roughly chopped
Method Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/Gas 4 Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin with greaseproof paper Beat the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy Gradually beat in the eggs with 1 tbsp of the cocoa powder and 1 tbsp of the flour In a separate bowl, mash the bananas with the milk Fold the banana mixture and the chocolate chunks into the batter Sieve together the remaining cocoa powder and flour, bicarbonate of soda and baking powder Fold into the mixture Spoon the batter into the tin and bake for about 1 hour, covering the top with greaseproof paper or foil after 30 mins The cake is cooked when it’s risen and shrinking from the sides of the tin Allow to cool in the tin for about 10 mins then transfer to a wire rack To make the icing, combine the butter, icing sugar and cocoa powder with the milk Spread the icing on top of the cake and decorate with the chocolate truffles and chocolate buttons
Sport at the College Sport and exercise are key for both our mental and physical health. Remote learning has not stopped our students from enjoying a variety of sports and activities this half term.
Activities
Strava
The PE and Games team have had regular engagement with students via live online sessions, with a diverse range of activities including circuit training, well-being and stretching, Zumba, and core conditioning to name a few.
In the first week of February we have already had some huge contributions with Patrick (Rudiments) completing 7hrs 30mins activity, Jessica (Rhetoric 1) 11hrs 9mins and Callum (Rhetoric 2) completing 12hrs 41mins all in the first week. Join the group and get out and get active - St Edmund's College 2021 Challenge.
port @SEC_S
Exercise Brunch
The PE and Games team have started a new Instagram page set up for all things Sport and Physical Activity at the College. As we move into half term, we will be providing skill and fitness based challenges to help improve and develop your sporting skill within the current constraints we are all facing. In the future, we hope for regular posts of fixture results, images, videos, promotion of athletic achievement and even more challenges. Get following and tag us in your sporting challenge attempts on Instagram.
St Edmund's Exercise Brunch. Over 60 families from key stage 3 joined the PE and Games team for a morning of shared physical activity followed by an interactive cooking experience. The morning was a huge success with families enjoying a healthy start to the weekend and fantastic family engagement. After this initial success we are looking to push it out to more families in the College in the future.
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Drama at the College
Practical Performances
Being in College between September and December, we didn't waste time putting together some marvellous performances! In the Drama classrooms, our pupils merrily worked together in teams, building trust and confidence. In Elements, we put together performances based upon the rumours as to what exactly goes on 'In the Staffroom?' So many of our youngest performers delivered outstanding performances as eccentric, timid or comedic teachers in remarkably dangerous situations! In Rudiments, we explored Radio Plays were pupils created fearsome haunted houses using vocal sound effects. In Grammar, our pupils used their physical skills to put together slow-motion performances based upon 'Slow Motion Samurai'! Our Syntax and Poetry performers and designers began exploring their GCSE course where they brought to life their own devised performances. Some of the best of these demonstrated highly creative thinking and refined research. They raised questions about the care of elderly people in our hospitals and the fate of those trapped in solitary confinement. We always find that our GCSE performers bring to life reflective, emotive themes and this year has been no exception. In Rhetoric I, our newest A-Level students worked collaboratively on a performance-based upon the techniques of Paper Birds - a contemporary theatre company. They devised a performance exploring the verbatim words of refugees and asylum seekers. Once again, an emotive and challenging 'home-made' performance from our A-Level cohort. Finally, in Rhetoric II, under enormously trying circumstances, our students put together their own performance based on the Cinderella story of 'Ashgirl'. This symbolic, clever performance, was an outstanding example of characterisation and insightful manipulation of the techniques of their practitioner Peter Brook. Congratulations to them for completing their practical performance just in time!
Remote Learning
Whilst remote learning is always challenging, we find ways to encourage pupils to keep on being creative in their own homes! Our Grammar students are learning all about sound effects and radio plays, putting together their own scripts and recording their voices to create their own stories. Our Rudiments and Bounds students record themselves acting out scripts and design their own sets and costumes! In Syntax our pupils are putting together an online version of DNA, their set text. They have reimagined it as a conversation on zoom and our designers have been challenged to think about the characters' rooms and costumes whilst they share their secrets on zoom....In Rhetoric we've been delighted by the students' efforts as they have created monologue using backdrops and costumes to enhance their work. Finally, Some Rudiments students have been having fun on zoom with an imaginative take on 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. They have been singing some wellknown show tunes, which will feature in the story, and having a read-through of the script. Oh and hurling some Shakespeare insults at each as well - what better way is there to end a Monday?! We can't wait to be back in school to do all of the Drama in 'real life' again!
Check out Izzy and Leah's narration of Blood Brothers by clicking here:
Mrs Daly retires After many years at the College, Mrs Daly has retired this term. We thank her for her many years of service and the joy she brought to so many students in the Food Tech classroom. We wish her a happy and healthy retirement.
Holocaust Memorial Day Our students lit and drew candles for Holocaust Memorial Day in line with this year's theme: Be the light in the Darkness”.
Entrance Exam Success We were delighted to host our Entrance Examinations in January. The Department for Education stated: “Exams and assessments can take place in a controlled environment where risk of transmission is low." With a testing system unable to be utilised from home, we tested over 230 applicants both at the College and via our Partner Schools with meticulous planning from our Admissions and Marketing and Senior Leadership team. Applicants were allocated to a time slot and colour zone to maintain social distancing, alongside the standard practice of PPE and frequent cleaning and sanitising. Our applicants and their families reported that they felt safe throughout and that they very much enjoyed visiting the College for their exam. Thank you to all involved in its success.
Life in Boarding Like so many places, this term has been so far from what we might have expected! Nevertheless, boarding here at St Edmund’s has been open and alive. Study and Zooms galore but with the added bonus of a lively and close community to share the winter months. We have enjoyed plenty of beautiful snowy, frosty walks, snowballs and snow angels. Everyone has joined in the sports hall sessions, with badminton being a definite favourite! Archery, shooting, cooking, lacrosse, chess have all featured in evening and weekend activities. We have also learnt much about how to look after our mental health and support others who might need help from time to time. We enjoyed talks from staff and students about their experiences and their techniques in managing their own feelings. I genuinely hope that everybody was able to take something useful from these sessions. As half term approaches, we are preparing for a celebration of the Chinese New Year. We have a special menu, a student presentation and some small gifts for everyone. Half term for most of us will be spent here! A more relaxed programme of onsite events has been organised – bingo and quiz nights, a boarders’ music concert, a PS4 FIFA football competition and loads more. We look forward to seeing everyone back with us soon and wish all those at home the very best. Mr Smerdon Head of Boarding
World Book Day 4th March is World Book Day! We will be celebrating with two competitions. Find out more:
Prayer for health Mrs Peirce shares a prayer for health and top tips for praying at home during lockdown.
Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ behind me and before me. Christ beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort and restore. Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ in hearts of all who know me. Christ in mouth of friend and stranger, Christ in quiet and in roar.
Tips for praying at home 1. Find a quiet place 2. If you have a religious item such as a crucifix, bible or rosary place it in front of you. 3. Be still and relax 4. Make the Sign of the Cross 5. In prayer think about what you are thankful for that day and then bring your worries to God 6. Use a piece of Scripture 7. Listen to some quiet music 8. Use a communal prayer eg the Our Father Cooper English Literature Essay 9.Marley End with the Sign of the Cross 10. Pray each day! Ruairi Mullan
Comparison of soliloquys in English
Charlotte Bates 1
Geography project
SEC Student Opportunities We have a new Facebook page dedicated to sharing student opportunities! From writing competitions to STEM courses, you will find regular updates at www.facebook.com/SECStudentOpportunities.
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Safer Internet Day 9th February 2021 was #SaferInternetDay. Together, we have the power to promote the positive changes we want to see in the digital environment and ultimately create a better internet for everyone. Learn more at http://saferinternetday.org
Random Acts of Kindess Acts of Kindness make the world a happier place. The added benefit of helping others is that it is good for our own mental health and wellbeing. It can help reduce stress and improve your emotional wellbeing. In short, doing good does you good. Mr Upton created a list of Random Acts of Kindness. Why not try to incorporate a few into your week? 1. Hold up a positive sign or message for traffic or in a park for people exercising outside! 2. Compliment the first three people you talk to today. 3. Send a positive text or social media message to five different people right now. 4. Post inspirational sticky notes around your neighbourhood, office, school, etc. 5. Put a pound coin in an envelope and post it through your neighbour's door with a note telling them you think they dropped it by their gate 6. Donate old towels or blankets to an animal shelter. 7. Email or write to a former teacher who made a difference in your life. 8. Surprise a neighbour with freshly baked cookies or treats! 9. Go for a walk and smile at five strangers. 10. Practice self-kindness and spend 30 minutes doing something you love today. 11. Put 30 paper hearts in a box. On each cutout write something that is special about a friend or member/s of your family. Give them the box and tell them to pull out a heart anytime they need a pick-me-up. 12. Write a note to your tutor or Head of House praising another student 13. Purchase extra dog or cat food and bring it to an animal shelter or a next-door neighbour who has a pet 14. Find opportunities to give at least 10 compliments during the day. It costs nothing, takes no time, and could make someone’s entire day. Don’t just think it. Say it. 15. Give your parents a night off and offer to cook them supper. 16. Buy a lottery ticket or scratch card and give it to the check out assistant or a stranger. 17. Write a "kind" poem for someone in a care home and send it to them. 18. Write a kind message on your mirror with a dry erase marker for yourself or a family member. 19. Everyone is important. Learn the names of your next-door neighbours or people on your street. Greet them by name. Also, say “hello” to strangers and smile. These acts of kindness are so easy, and they almost always make people smile. 20. Go litter picking in your local street or park and see how many pieces of rubbish you can pick up. 21. Set an alarm on your phone to go off at three different times during the day. In those moments, do something kind for someone else. 22. Send a gratitude email to another student who you think deserves more recognition. 23. Send a postcard to someone an NHS worker. 24. Give your parents a lie in, and cook them breakfast. 25. Write a gratitude list - thinks you are thankful - in the morning and again in the evening. 26. Buy a plant. Put it in a terracotta pot. Write positive words that describe a friend on the pot. Give it to that friend! 27. Help the wildlife. Buy some birdseed or balls and a birdfeeder to put in your garden! 28. Phone a relative and tell them a joke and tell them you were phoning to check in on them. 29. See how many people you can make smile today. 30. Take flowers or treats to the nurses’ station at your nearest hospital. 31. Keep an extra umbrella at work, so you can lend it out when it rains. 32. Send a ‘Thank you’ card or note to the officers at your local police or fire station. 33. Leave a box of goodies our for your dustbin men 34. Run an errand for a family member who is busy. 35. Leave a box of goodies out for your postman
OE vaccinations Dr Tom Gillham, Old Edmundian (OE) 1988-95, vaccinated fellow OE, Mike Wing, on Saturday 9th January 2021 at Peartree Group Practice.
Dr Tom Gillham vaccinating Mike Wing Dr Tom Gillham commented that it was "a really lovely experience in this climate of awfulness!" We are proud of the ways our Edmundian community are contributing to combatting COVID-19.
World Cancer Day
Captured at the College Our staff and students take wonderful photos of St Edmund's College. Below, we share a few of our favourites.
ition! d e w o n S
With thanks to Mr Pengelly, Boarding, and Mr Hull for the above photos.
Captured at the College Our staff and students take wonderful photos of St Edmund's College. Below, we share a few of our favourites.
nrise u s / t e s n Su edition!
With thanks to Mr Upton and Mr Hull for the above photos.
New Instagram accounts! Keep up to date with the Science at St Edmund's College
@SEC_Science
@SEC_Sport Keep up to date with the Sport at St Edmund's College
Wellbeing Challenge
Screen-free half term activities After a half term filled with lots of zoom lessons and more screen time than usual, please take a look at some of the ideas below providing you with some alternative activities away from the screen during half term:
• Preparing and cooking a meal for the family – why not try a new recipe? • Try some baking. • Strava Challenge: walk, run, cycle or set a different sport challenge – any exercise can be recorded! • Gardening: plant some flowers, help to mow the lawn, start your own vegetable garden. • Try completing a jigsaw puzzle. • Play board games with the family. • Listen to a podcast. • Try sewing. • Read a book or form a book club with friends. • Make a time capsule for 2020. • Make a collage. • Make a photo album. • Revamp your bedroom. • Colouring – adult colouring books/colour by numbers. • Play with a pet. • Write in/start a journal. • Take a long bath. • Take a sketchbook outside and draw. • Try knitting or crocheting. • Paint your nails. • Donate or sell items you don’t use. • Write an old-fashioned letter to someone you love • Learn to play a new instrument. • Make your own ice cream. • Go outside and photograph nature. • Write a poem. • Put together a scrapbook. • Create your own vision board or focus board
• Do a random DIY project. • Declutter your bedroom. • Make a seasonal bucket list. • Create a weekly self-care routine you can stick to – forms of self-care: Physical, Emotional, Spiritual, Intellectual, Social • Have a whole screen-free self-care day. • Frame your favourite family photos. • Design your own greeting cards. • Read the screenplay of one of your favourite movies. • Start collecting something, like coins or stamps. • Make a kite and fly it. • Repair something that’s broken. • Learn a new language. • Find new outfit combinations with the clothes you have. • Make cute care packages to send to your friends and family. • Paint artwork to hang up in your house. • Start a rock collection and paint them! • Write a novel or autobiography. • Go out of your way to do something kind for your neighbours. • Do a crossword or sudoku puzzle. • Write and illustrate your own comic book. • Make a list of things you’re grateful for. • Paper mache something. • Plan your goals for the rest of the year. • Go bird watching. • Meditate or do some mindfulness exercises. • Design your dream bedroom. • Read a magazine.
Strava Challenge Mr Cunnah has started a fantastic initiative for the whole school community with the St Edmund's College 2021 Challenge on Strava. Join the Strava club and get recording your activity to contribute towards the College target of 10,000miles by July.
Stay Connected We hope that you enjoyed our first digital edition of College Life. If you would like to be featured in our next half term edition, please do email your stories or achievements to marketing@stedmundscollege.org. You can also stay connected with us by following us on our social media platforms:
@stedmundscollegeandprep
@stedmundscollege.org
@stedmundsware
Please also visit our website at stedmundscollege.org to stay up to date with the latest news and events. We wish you a restful half term break and look forward to bringing you the next edition of College Life in December.
Avita Pro Fide!