BAROMETER
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025
HAlF TERm 3
Contents
Year 7 Art Leture About Henri Matisse - Alexander A, Year 7
Wetherby Presents DraculaDaniel A, Year 12
Mean Girls at The Savoy Theatre - Adam L, Year 10
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Review - Felipe E, Year 10
KCL Lecture on Digital Culture and Tech - Felix W, Year 12
“Now might I do it pat”: To what extent is Hamlet’s indicision a sign of cowardice rather than moral sensibility?Edward J, Year 13
Learning Fly - Benedict S, Year 10
How Damaging was Sweden’s Independence for DenmarkArthur M, Year 13
4,200,000,000 year old rockAleksandr S, Year 7
What is the Most Expensive New Car in the WorldAleksander S, Year 7
Chinese Ice Festival - Horatio S, Year 7
Lunar New Year - Horatio S, Year 7
Should Cricket Introduce a Two-Tier Test System?Aditya D, Year 12
Premier League Football 2024-25 - Mir D, Year 9
Everton vs Peterborough - Match Report - Alexander A, Year 7
New 2025 F1 Driver Line Up and Schedule - Eduoard R, Year 9
Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson FuryHassan Y-N, Year 9
The Moon May Be be 100 Million Years Older Than We Thought - Aleksandr S, Year 7
Cook with Mylo - Thai Spring Rolls - Mylo K, Year 8
Cover photograph - Arthur M, Year 13
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YEAR 7 ART LECTURE ABOUT HENRI MATISSE
A few days ago, we were delighted to welcome renowned Matisse expert William Archer, who delivered an illuminating presentation on the life and work of Henri Matisse. Archer’s extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling brought Matisse’s artistic journey to life, covering key moments and lesser-known anecdotes that painted a vivid picture of the legendary artist’s creative evolution.
Adding an extraordinary dimension to the event, we had the distinct privilege of hosting Matisse’s great-granddaughter, Sophie. Her presence not only provided a unique familial insight into Matisse’s personal and professional life but also allowed attendees to ask questions and hear first-hand accounts that only a family member could share. Sophie’s anecdotes added a deeply personal touch, enriching
our understanding of Matisse’s character, influences, and the intimate aspects of his life that shaped his masterpieces.
Archer’s presentation traversed Matisse’s early influences, his experimentation with various art forms, and the pivotal moments that defined his career. He discussed Matisse’s relationships with other artists of his time, his contributions to Fauvism, and his later works, which demonstrated a bold use of colour and form. Archer’s ability to contextualise Matisse’s work within broader art movements and historical events provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the artist’s enduring legacy.
One fascinating highlight was Archer’s description of how Matisse used large scissors to cut out shapes, creating his iconic paper cut-outs. This innovative
technique marked a significant phase in Matisse’s artistic journey, showcasing his relentless creativity even in his later years.
The Q&A session with Sophie was another highlight of the event. Her candid responses and personal stories offered a unique glimpse into the family’s history, Matisse’s work habits, and the inspirations behind some of his most famous pieces. Attendees were captivated by her recollections, which humanised the iconic artist and made his achievements all the more relatable.
The event concluded with a round of applause and a deepened appreciation for Henri Matisse, thanks to William Archer’s expertise and the invaluable contributions of Sophie.
WETHERBY PRESENTS DRACULA
Daniel A, Year 12 writes...
As the final week of school began and Christmas cheer descended on Wetherby, there was just one question left to be answered: what on EARTH was all that drilling coming from the drama department? As the lights dimmed on Thursday night, I had my answer. The set for Miss Twomey’s latest masterpiece, Dracula, featured steps, a trapdoor, and industrial fans—quite the design.
As the Demeter set sail, the fans whirred into action, blanketing RADA’s Jerwood Vanbrugh Theatre in a layer of sea air. Aided by professional lighting and sound, the set became all manner of settings throughout the evening. At times, the fans blew the soft evening air of England into the audience, while the stairs became the great staircases of Count Dracula’s castle. Even the opening at the bottom of the stage was used as Renfield’s cell in the lively asylum of Dr John Seward (played by James Siskind).
As the four friends—Dr Seward, Professor Van Helsing, Arthur,
and Quincy—discussed the crash of a “ghost” ship, the audience was introduced to some of the many accents we heard throughout the play. First was Matteo Mezan’s eccentric Van Helsing, which brought the determined, unusual professor to life. This soft confidence was accompanied by Mark Mwangi’s Texan twang, both charming and shocking the British audience. As the play continued, we heard the slightly spotty Russian accents of the Demeter’s captain, helm master, and crew, played by a wonderful group of Year 11s. As Jonathan Harker, played by the experienced Christos Lazari, entered the castle and met Count Dracula, we were also introduced to the deep, hushed voice of Ivan Galanternik, our very own Count Dracula. His drawling tone oozed the supreme confidence and poise of the Count, as he frequently loomed over a cowering and confused Jonathan.
While Mr Harker remained in the cold, dark castle, his depression and confusion were contrasted by the wonderful relationship of Mina and Lucy. Having remained
safely in England, the now engaged Mina Harker stuck close to Lucy, as the two often discussed their boy troubles and Mina’s worry for her fiancé’s extended absence. As Mina’s sleepwalking episodes began, Jonathan’s position in Dracula’s clutches also worsened, reminding the audience just how closely the two lovers were connected.
While stuck in the castle, the professional lighting and sound were at their best, as Count Dracula’s terrifying march and haunting speech were perfectly in sync with every spotlight and piano key. Ivan played the Count masterfully, with his forceful restraint barely noticeable through the palpable sense of fear that cut the air as soon as he entered the stage.
As the intermission began and the audience beelined for the drinks and refreshments, I discussed the opening act with my friends. We wholeheartedly agreed that the staging had been a hit, with all of us stunned by Mark’s American accent. We had also loved the appearance of the three witches, ambushing a curious Jonathan while he explored the estate. Popping out simultaneously from their coffins, they were both terrifying but also demonstrated once more the power of the Count when he forced them to yield.
The play continued and began to more heavily feature Dr Seward’s most prominent patient: Renfield. Guarded around the clock by Simmons (Henry Alushi Osmani), Renfield’s maturation from misunderstood lunatic to a key player in Count Dracula’s
plan was intriguing. A special mention must be given to Giorgio Lofaro, acting as Renfield, whose terrifyingly accurate portrayal of insanity was my personal highlight of the night. His highpitched, screechy accent perfectly accompanied his bloodied outfit and bare feet, painting a wonderful picture of a man possessed by the Count.
The play moved swiftly along in the second half, as an anguished Arthur faced the deterioration of his lover Lucy, and Jonathan vowed to avenge his time in the castle by killing Dracula once and for all. As Renfield’s warnings grew more and more peculiar and Lucy’s condition worsened, only one man could save the troubled group: Professor Van Helsing. The eccentric but strong old man led the group of Mina, Quincy, Dr Seward, Jonathan, and Arthur in their race to save Lucy and destroy the Count before more harm could be done.
Meanwhile, the Count was wreaking havoc on the doomed Demeter, leaving a terrified crew to scream themselves hoarse over the deafening winds about disappearing crewmates. Led by the Captain (Redford YoungerAllcorn), Sergei (Ziad Badrawi), and the First Mate (Ihsan Aslam), the sense of fear and anguish was effectively conveyed by the cast, as the First Mate went from disbelieving to terrified of the ship’s ghostly intruder.
As the Count grew closer, Renfield’s condition became even more curious. Once obsessed with sparrows and violent towards Dr Seward, he became more sensible upon the Count’s arrival. Despite his pleas to the doctor, he was ignored by Dr Seward—a decision he would soon regret.
The enthralling play continued, with Ivan once again demonstrating his acting prowess as he played puppet master until Renfield’s unfortunate end. As
Renfield finally succumbed to his master, the scene was staged masterfully by Giorgio and Vlad, with Renfield’s death a surprisingly sad moment, as the tortured genius remained misunderstood up until his death.
The conclusion of the play saw drama at its best—a secret plan from the group of friends to kill Count Dracula once and for all, which ultimately resulted in Jonathan driving the stake through the heart of the Count, with his screech echoing through the theatre.
The production of Dracula was truly a hit, with stellar performances across multiple year groups and multiple roles. A massive thank you is in order to the drama department and Miss Twomey for wowing WSS once again with a brilliant play. I really hope to see many boys going for roles in Trib Drama, which I know will be fantastic.
MEAN GIRLS AT THE SAVOY THEATRE
Adam L, Year 10 writes...
Performance Date: 25th
September
This month, the much-anticipated production hit the stage at the Savoy Theatre, offering a magical adaptation of Mean Girls.
The beginning of the performance had a slower pace, focusing on introducing the characters. However, the energy skyrocketed as the plot unfolded with the main character’s journey into a new school. The protagonist navigates her way through the high school hierarchy, torn between two distinct groups—the nerds and the popular kids. Her efforts to impress a boy in maths added charm to her story.
The visual appeal of the show was truly stunning. Bright and multicoloured lighting paired with seamlessly changing stage designs enriched the viewer’s experience, ensuring that each scene transition was as smooth as the acting.
A standout moment in the second half was when a character who had been hit by a bus and used a wheelchair stood up and humorously said, “Don’t tell anyone I’m trying to skip the lines
at Disneyland.” This scene had the audience roaring with laughter and became my highlight of the night.
Post-show, the theatre was buzzing with excitement as students eagerly shared their favourite moments and discussed the delicious snacks they enjoyed during the performance. The welldecorated, dynamic set designs and the actors’ outstanding performances received high praise
from everyone.
Overall, this performance was a resounding success. The meticulous set changes, combined with the brilliant acting, made for an unforgettable experience. It was a night at the Savoy Theatre that will be remembered fondly by all who attended, and I hope to go back soon.
Felipe E, Year 10 writes...
Harry Potter and the cursed child
On Friday, 7th February, around 30 Wetherby boys, including me, had the wonderful opportunity to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre in Central London.
We had tickets to Parts A and B, as the show is split into two parts. The first part, in my opinion, felt quite fast-paced and could have benefited from more explanation at times. Having never read or watched any Harry Potter, it took me a little longer to understand why certain events were happening. That being said, the costumes, lighting, and effects were absolutely spectacular. Every turn of a black cloak signalled a change, and everything was choreographed brilliantly. When actors switched into different roles, it was a seamless process. I particularly enjoyed Ron, who was played excellently by Thomas Aldridge. His character seemed to be the one who says what everyone else is thinking but doesn’t say out loud. He was very blunt about situations, which often led to laughter from the audience. One of his funniest moments was when he recalled a marriage renewal ceremony, admitting that he was too drunk to enjoy it properly.
If anyone watched the Euros over the summer with BBC TV commentary, you might remember the main commentator, Guy Mowbray. Harry Potter in this play sounded exactly like him! In Act 2, one of the key tasks was to find Harry Potter’s son, but to do so, they had to go back in time. However, they only had five
minutes before being killed by Rose, who seemed to be seeking revenge for a historical death involving Dumbledore. They do manage to kill Rose, but the story continues beyond that—I won’t spoil the rest for you!
Having been part of the Dracula cast for the Christmas play at RADA in December, I definitely appreciated not having to be the one moving props and remembering cues. The number
of props used in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child was massive, so ensuring they were perfectly placed every time must have been a huge challenge for the production team.
Finally, I’d like to thank Mr Bequignon-MacDougall, Miss Maroudi, Miss McWhirter, and Miss Twomey for giving up their Friday evening to take us on this trip.
KCL LECTURE ON DIGITAL CULTURE AND TECH
Felix W, Year 12 writes…
Earlier this half term, Dr Zeena Feldman, a professor at King’s College London in the worldleading Department of Digital Culture, came in to speak to some of our sixth formers. The lecture discussed the challenges and opportunities of social media and how it shapes everything— from what we eat and who we compare ourselves with to how we sleep and who with. Dr Feldman highlighted how digital culture has become an integral part of our daily lives, influencing not just our habits but also societal norms and expectations.
Social media apps are inherently unsocial, with an ever-increasing number of people texting or sharing information like videos or links to websites via messaging services, even when they are in the same room. Moreover, a tendency for people to only post on social media when they are at their best has intensified issues surrounding the perfect image of a person. This has exacerbated mental health concerns such as anxiety, body dysmorphia, and feelings of inadequacy among users. This trend has also led to the rise of more honest, less scripted social media platforms like BeReal, where, at a random time of day, users must upload a post of what they are doing. This is done by snapping an image through the front and selfie cameras. Those who don’t upload at the directed time have a banner next to their post showing the number of minutes delayed they were—a sign that perhaps they aren’t ‘being real’ when they post on social media. While BeReal’s popularity
reflects a growing demand for authenticity, it also raises questions about whether users can truly escape the performative nature of social media, given the unlimited number of retakes allowed.
Dr Feldman discussed ‘FOMO’ or ‘fear of missing out’. FOMO is a very common but unofficial mental health condition that was coined in 2004 during the rapid rise in social media use— essentially, it’s when people around you sign up for something, so you do as well.
UK adults spend an extraordinary amount of time on their phones, tablets, and computers—on average, 4 hours and 20 minutes daily. Young adults, aged 18-24, spend even more time on their devices, at just over 6 hours daily. This surge in screen time has been linked to rising rates of sleep deprivation and reduced attention spans, as users often struggle to detach from their devices.
Dr Feldman also discussed the so-called ‘digital detox’—an
approach of going completely cold turkey on social media in the hopes of reversing these negative effects. This approach, she claims, is largely easier said than done as, according to one of her own major studies, the majority of people who delete a social media app end up redownloading it. The market for this digital detox is itself extremely ironic, with everything from books that give advice to weekend getaways where electronics aren’t permitted largely being sold online.
The talk was particularly relevant to our school, given the Yondr pouch policy, which essentially mandates a digital detox during school hours for our Years 7-10.
Overall, the talk was incredibly engaging and, at some points, hilarious—like when Dr Feldman showed us two Saturday Night Live skits about social media and tech. It was one of many lectures that we sixth-formers attend biweekly, with previous lecturers this year including mathematicians, charity workers, and bankers.
“NOW MIGHT I DO IT PAT”: TO WHAT EXTENT IS HAMLET’S INDECISION A SIGN OF COWARDICE RATHER THAN MORAL SENSIBILITY?
Edward J, Year 13 writes...
“Now might I do it pat”: To what extent is Hamlet’s indecision a sign of cowardice rather than moral sensibility?
In an industry where the sands of time sift the salient from the ephemeral, Hamlet is a piece that excels beyond comparison. Our titular character, a young Danish prince, must overcome his profound sense of moral sensibility to avenge his father’s murderous uncle, Claudius. However, his ceaseless introspection stalls his resolve, trapping him in a destructive cycle of hesitation and self-doubt. But at what point does this inaction become a symptom of cowardice rather than sagacious restraint in the face of moral ambiguity?
One may consider that the true reason for Hamlet’s inaction is his acute moral awareness. Whilst his dramatic foils in the play, Laertes and Fortinbras, pursue vengeance without hesitation, Hamlet’s introspective disposition forces him to grapple with the ethical implications of murder. Indeed, Hamlet’s moral struggle is evident in his “To be or not to be” soliloquy, where he grapples with the profound philosophical dilemma of existence. He contemplates, “To die: to sleep; to sleep: perchance to dream,” pondering the afterlife and, by extension, the spiritual consequences of murder—eternal damnation.
Moreover, Hamlet’s moral awareness is elucidated in Act
3, Scene 3, where he encounters Claudius in prayer but decides against murdering him. Initially, Hamlet declares, “And now I’ll do it,” yet he immediately restrains himself, rationalising that “this is hire and salary, not revenge,” as killing Claudius in prayer would send his soul to heaven. Therefore, this moment illustrates Hamlet’s deep moral sensibility rather than an affliction of cowardice, as his inaction is driven by a desire for true justice rather than impulsive revenge.
However, Hamlet’s indecision is a clear symbol of cowardice because he brutally berates himself for his inaction, demonstrating a shrewd appreciation of his own pusillanimity. Indeed, in his “O, what a rogue and peasant slave am I” soliloquy in Act 2, Scene 2, Hamlet bluntly asks, “Am I a coward?”, whilst denigrating his
own inaction, declaring, “What an ass am I!” His self-scorn reveals his frustration at his failure to act despite having both motive and opportunity. Therefore, this self-reproach suggests that Hamlet himself equates his inability to avenge with weakness rather than a strong moral compass.
Ultimately, the reasons for Hamlet’s inaction are complex and multifaceted. Whilst his introspection does reveal a deep awareness of the consequences of revenge, his self-castigation and persistent delay suggest a fear of action and confrontation. This intricate exploration of the human psyche is precisely what makes Hamlet so enduringly fascinating, elevating it beyond a mere revenge tragedy into a profound meditation on action, doubt, and the nature of existence.
LEARNING TO FLY
Benedict S, Year 10 writes...
Over the past few years, I’ve felt a strong passion for aviation and flight. My main goal is to become a pilot and to enjoy the whole journey there. I am currently 15 years old, I took my first flight at the age of 1, and I have recently begun to undertake lessons. I love every second of it, even if it’s a bit turbulent.
I currently fly small, two-seater Cessna 152s, which can fly at around 110 mph. They are extremely mechanically versatile and can fly in just about anything. So far in my flying career, I have flown about 20-25 hours in three different aircraft types, and I should be taking my first flight exams in the coming months. By then, I should be able to fly solo at 16, which is crazy to think about,
as you can’t even drive a car at that age.
I enjoy every second of flying, whether that’s conducting tests and completing checklists or cruising above the clouds at 3,000 feet over the blue sea. I have slowly begun to find myself integrated
into the community, and I have met loads of people who share the same passion as I do. If anyone has a dream they would like to pursue, then I strongly encourage them to go for it—especially if it is flying!
HOW DAMAGING WAS SWEDEN’S INDEPENDENCE FOR DENMARK?
Arthur M, Year 13 writes...
The separation of Sweden from the Kalmar Union in 1523, though occurring over half a millennium ago, still has historians unanimously agreeing on the cascading, century-long damage it caused Denmark to this day. Initially seeming to have little influence on Danish sovereignty, due to its continued control over Norway and southern Finland, we come to realise the severity of Sweden’s breakaway. Decades of resentment and jealousy over the imbalanced power distribution by the Danes triggered a revolt so influential that it brought about the end of the Union entirely, cost Denmark crucial trade routes, and led to subsequent wars in the years to come. Therefore, the question is: how damaging really was this event to Denmark?
At the very origin of the Kalmar Union in 1397, Queen Margaret I of Denmark sought to unite the Scandinavian nations and prepare them for potential foreign threats, such as the Germans. However, with that paranoia came the necessity for stability, whether that involved purposely weakening Sweden’s political power or enforcing economic sanctions to fund defensive measures. Continuously viewed as secondary to Denmark in the Union, Sweden
harboured growing indignation towards the favouritism in the distribution of profits, wealth, and control over routes into the Baltic Sea. While Sweden paid the price for being militarily weaker, the Danes thoroughly reaped the rewards of the Hanseatic League, a trading alliance that indirectly and consistently hindered Sweden’s chances of forming independent alliances by discriminating against it.
Evidence of this marginalisation peaked with the Stockholm Bloodbath in 1520, when Margaret’s successor, Christian II, ordered the execution of up to 80 Swedish nobles following protests against Danish rule. Disastrous consequences swiftly followed, as nationalism fuelled a rivalry between both nations that still echoes today in their stark contrasts in tradition, language, and behaviour towards one another. The following year, a Swedish noble, Gustav Vasa, was determined to seek independence in the Swedish War of Liberation, laying siege to Stockholm. His campaign coincided with Christian II being overthrown, and with financial aid from Germany, Vasa secured Sweden’s independence, becoming King on 6th June 1523.
The real consequences followed not long after—a power vacuum in the Danish monarchy erupted, exacerbated by disputes over whether the main religion should be Protestantism or Lutheranism, an issue only resolved following the Reformation in 1536. The humiliation of losing such a
major nation to independence diminished Denmark’s importance in global affairs, leading it to unite with Norway to prevent further breakaways. The reduction in military dominance and the loss of Swedish resources scarred the Danes so deeply that they struggled to maintain economic parity with their new rivals—an issue that would repeatedly surface in their subsequent wars.
Nevertheless, we must consider the areas in which Denmark continued to thrive, including its continued control over Norway, Greenland, and even Iceland, its persistent trading alliances, and its ability to recover and maintain its cultural identity, which remains clearly visible to this day.
4,200,000,000
Aleksandr S, Year 7 writes...
Volcanoes erupted on the far side of the moon billions of years ago, new research shows. Scientists analysed lunar soil brought back to Earth by China’s Chang’e-6 spacecraft, the first to return with rocks and dirt from the moon. Two separate teams found pieces of volcanic rock that were about 2.8 billion years old. One piece was even older, dating back 4.2 billion years.
Scientists know there were active volcanoes on the near side—the part of the moon seen from Earth—dating back to a similar time frame. Also, previous studies, including data from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, suggested the far side might also have a volcanic past. The first samples from that region, facing away from Earth, confirm an active history.
The results were published on Friday in the journals Nature and Science.
China has launched several spacecraft to the moon. In 2020, the Chang’e-5 spacecraft returned moon rocks from the near side, the first since those collected by NASA’s Apollo astronauts and Soviet Union spacecraft in the 1970s. The Chang’e-4 spacecraft became the first to visit the moon’s
The moon’s far side is pockmarked by craters and has fewer of the near side’s flat, dark plains carved by lava flows. Why the two halves are so different remains a mystery, said study co-author Qiu-Li Li from the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Li said the new findings reveal over one billion years of volcanic eruptions on the far side.
far side in 2019.
WHAT IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE NEW CAR IN THE WORLD?
Aleksandr S, Year 7 writes...
The most expensive car in the world currently is the Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail, which costs $US32 million. For that price, you could buy around 2,683 2024 Kia Picanto Sport manuals and still have money left over for lunch.
Only four were ever built, and they gained notoriety due to their price and originality.
The La Rose Noire (Black Rose) is the first two-seater vehicle
ever built by Rolls-Royce and is claimed to draw inspiration from early Rolls-Royce models— including the 1912 Silver Ghost ‘Sluggard’ and the 1925 Silver Ghost ‘Piccadilly’.
The La Rose Noire wears pomegranate-coloured paint, said to have been inspired by the Black Baccara rose, and is offset by dark finishes on the exterior detailing.
Rather than a conventional fabric roof, the Droptail uses a solid, removable carbon-fibre hardtop that features an electrochromic
glass section, which can change opacity with the press of a button.
The cabin is decorated with an intricate parquetry design made up of 1,603 triangular pieces of Black Sycamore veneer, claimed to have been arranged to mimic fallen rose petals. Made by hand by a single Rolls-Royce craftsperson, the piece took nine months to complete.
Rolls-Royce has used an aluminium chassis incorporating carbon fibre. The vehicle is powered by a 6.75-litre twinturbocharged V12 engine producing 481 kW and 840 Nm.
While the British brand does not list the prices for its “coach-built” limited editions, the price was reportedly $AUD49 million if you wanted one of the four. This beats the previous most expensive car in the world, the 2021 Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, which carried a price tag of approximately $AUD40 million.
CHINESE ICE FESTIVAL
Horatio S, Year 7 writes...
The 41st International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival in 2025
is scheduled to officially open on January 5, 2025. Exhibitions featuring ice lanterns and ice/snow sculptures will be scattered across various locations from December 10, 2024, to early March 2025.
For a more relaxed experience, visitors can explore exhibitions at the 37th Harbin International Ice Art Show and the 51st Ice Lantern Fair in Zhaolin Park. Other notable events at the 2025 Ice Festival include the 5th Ice Lantern Show at Rong Chuang Amusement Park, the 5th Harbin Songhua River Ice and Snow Carnival, the 6th Ice Collecting Festival on Songhua River, and the 22nd Yabuli Skiing Festival in
Yabuli Town.
During the winter season in Harbin, temperatures can plummet as low as -35°C, so it is advisable to dress warmly with down-lined jackets, thick gloves, and even balaclavas if you plan to admire the ice art.
Zhaolin Park is mostly an ice world focused on small children. The ice lantern sculptures are mainly made by college students or young ice sculpture enthusiasts. Over 300 fine ice sculptures are displayed, including internally illuminated ice lanterns, magical figures, and animals that are especially loved by children.
Horatio S, Year 7 writes...
The Lunar New Year (also widely known as Chinese New Year) falls on a different date every year because it is determined by the lunar calendar, where the first day of the month begins during the new moon.
The 12 Chinese zodiac animals take turns determining the year ahead, each with its own unique attributes and personalities.
That makes 2025 the Year of the Wood Snake. The last Year of the Wood Snake took place in 1965.
LUNAR NEW YEAR
Here’s what the Year of the Wood Snake might have in store for us all—and what the other Chinese zodiac animals are.
The Chinese zodiac consists of 12 animals, including:
Rat
Ox
Tiger
Rabbit
Dragon
Snake
Horse
Goat
Monkey Rooster
Dog Pig
Legend has it that the Chinese zodiac came into existence when the Jade Emperor, ruler of heaven and earth in traditional Chinese culture, called all the animals to participate in a race for a chance to be featured in the zodiac system.
The first 12 animals to cross a river and the finish line would be given a place in the lunar calendar. The Rat finished first, having hitched a ride on the Ox across the river and beating him to the finish line.
SHOULD CRICKET INTRODUCE A TWO-TIER TEST SYSTEM?
Aditya D, Year 12 writes...
Cricket’s oldest and most revered format, Test cricket, has long been the pinnacle of the sport. However, in recent years, the format has faced challenges in maintaining its relevance in an era dominated by T20 leagues and dwindling audience interest in some regions. To address these concerns, the idea of a two-tier Test system has been floated by cricket administrators and pundits alike. The proposal aims to reinvigorate the format, but it has sparked a heated debate about its potential benefits and drawbacks. Should cricket embrace a twotier Test system, or would it risk alienating smaller nations and diluting the essence of the game?
The Case for a Two-Tier System
The primary argument in favour of a two-tier Test system is the promise of more competitive and high-quality matches. Under this structure, the top-ranked Test nations would compete in an elite tier, while the lower-ranked teams would play in a second tier. The top tier would feature frequent
clashes between the best teams, such as India, Australia, England, and South Africa, ensuring a higher standard of play and more thrilling contests.
One of the most significant advantages of this system is the potential to reduce one-sided matches. In the current structure, weaker teams often struggle to compete against the top sides, leading to lopsided results that fail to engage fans. By grouping teams of similar strength together, the two-tier system could create more evenly matched contests, making Test cricket more exciting and commercially viable.
Additionally, the system could provide a clear pathway for emerging cricketing nations to progress. Teams in the second tier would have the opportunity to compete regularly against sides of similar ability, fostering growth and development. Promotion and relegation between the tiers could also add an extra layer of intrigue, giving lower-ranked teams a tangible goal to strive for.
The Potential Drawbacks
While the two-tier system offers several compelling benefits, it is not without its risks. One of the most significant concerns is the potential marginalisation of smaller cricketing nations. Countries like Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, and Ireland, which have worked hard to establish themselves in the Test arena, could find themselves relegated to the second tier, limiting their opportunities to play against the top teams. This could stifle their development and reduce the global appeal of Test cricket.
Another potential downside is the risk of over-saturation in the top tier. While more frequent matches between elite teams may sound appealing, there is a danger that the spectacle could lose its charm if it becomes too commonplace. The rarity of high-profile Test series, such as the Ashes or India vs. Australia, is part of what makes them so special. If these contests occur too frequently, they may lose their unique allure and become just another fixture on the calendar.
Furthermore, the financial implications of a two-tier system could exacerbate existing inequalities in world cricket. Toptier matches are likely to generate more revenue, leaving secondtier nations with fewer resources to invest in their cricketing infrastructure. This could create a vicious cycle, where weaker teams struggle to improve and remain stuck in the lower tier.
Striking a Balance
The debate over a two-tier Test
system ultimately boils down to finding a balance between preserving the integrity of the format and ensuring its long-term sustainability. While the system has the potential to elevate the quality of Test cricket, it must be implemented in a way that supports the growth of the game globally.
One possible solution is to ensure that promotion and relegation between the tiers are based on fair and transparent criteria, giving every team a realistic chance to compete at the highest level.
Additionally, revenue-sharing mechanisms could be introduced to ensure that second-tier nations receive adequate financial support to develop their cricketing programs.
Another approach could be to retain the current structure but introduce more context and meaning to Test matches. The World Test Championship, for example, has added a new dimension to bilateral series by linking them to a broader competition. Expanding this concept could provide a middle
ground, offering more competitive matches without the risks associated with a two-tier system.
Conclusion
The idea of a two-tier Test system is undoubtedly intriguing, offering a potential solution to some of the challenges facing the format. However, it is not a panacea. While it could enhance the quality of matches and create more opportunities for emerging nations, it also carries the risk of alienating smaller cricketing countries and diluting the prestige of Test cricket.
As the cricketing world grapples with these questions, one thing is clear: any changes to the structure of Test cricket must be made with careful consideration of the long-term impact on the game. Whether or not a two-tier system is the answer, the ultimate goal should be to preserve the spirit of Test cricket while ensuring its survival in an ever-evolving sporting landscape.
Premier League Football 2024-25
Mir D, Year 9 writes...
The 2024 Premier League season has been full of awe-inspiring and eye-opening moments, such as Chelsea making a stunning comeback to finish 6th, Manchester City winning the Premier League title, with Arsenal finishing just two points behind, and Aston Villa making the top four and qualifying for the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 1982-83.
The 2024-25 Premier League Season
The season got underway with a thrilling match on 16th August between Manchester United and Fulham. Manchester United came out on top after a stunning strike by Joshua Zirkzee, following a cagey battle that ended 1-0. However, more recently, Manchester United have been unable to maintain this top form and now sit 12th in the league for the first time since 1989-90.
Currently, in the goal-scoring charts, Mohamed Salah leads with a whopping 18 goals, with Manchester City’s Erling Haaland chasing behind eagerly with 16 goals. Similarly, in the assist rankings, Mohamed Salah also leads with 13 assists, while Bukayo Saka trails behind with 10 assists.
More exciting and breath-taking drama is yet to come!
Surprising Premier League Standings in January
The Premier League standings in January have been filled with remarkable surprises. Among the most noteworthy is Liverpool’s impressive lead, maintaining their
position at the top with a six-point margin. The runner-up is Arsenal, with a staggering 44 points.
Third and fourth place are being intensely contested by Nottingham Forest and Chelsea, with Forest just a few points ahead.
Meanwhile, UEFA are considering changes to Champions League qualification starting next season. Instead of the top four teams, the top five teams in the
Premier League will now qualify for the Champions League, thanks to British teams’ excellent performances in European competitions.
Top 6 End-of-Season Predictions
1st – Liverpool (84 points)
2nd – Arsenal (75 points)
3rd – Manchester City (68 points)
4th – Chelsea (66 points)
5th – Nottingham Forest
6th – Newcastle United
EVERTON vs PETERBOROUGH: MAtch report
Alexander A, Year 7 writes...
Crazy Ups and Downs in the Everton vs. Peterborough Match Everton’s manager, Sean Dyche, was sacked hours before the game at Goodison Park (Everton’s home stadium). The Under-18s manager, Leighton Baines, and senior team player Seamus Coleman took over, changing the entire formation and starting lineup yesterday.
During the match, in the 77th minute, Armando Broja, the former Chelsea striker, was taken off on a stretcher due to a severe ankle injury. He was rushed to the hospital, lacking oxygen, and fell unconscious in the locker room. This was a major setback, as he had only recently returned after missing three months of action due to a hamstring injury, causing him to sit out many Premier League games for Everton.
Yesterday’s game presented a unique chance for history to be made, as a father and son could have played against each other. Ashley Young (39 years old) and his son Tyler Young (18 years old) had the opportunity to face off on opposite teams. Unfortunately, they missed the chance to make history.
NEW 2025 F1 Driver Lineup and schedule
Edouard R, Year 9 writes...
The 2024 Formula 1 season has been full of surprises, such as Lando Norris’ first-ever win in Miami, Lewis Hamilton’s unforeseen switch from a tenyear career with Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 to Scuderia Ferrari, and many more. However, it’s time to leave that behind as we approach the highly anticipated 2025 season, which will be full of long-awaited changes, including new drivers and a revised schedule.
Pre-Season Testing
Kicking off the races will be pre-season testing at the 5.41 km Bahrain International Circuit, where we will see returning drivers testing out their new cars with new teams. For example, Carlos Sainz will be testing the new Williams FW47, having been replaced by Lewis Hamilton at Scuderia Ferrari. We will also see French driver Esteban Ocon test the Haas VF-25 for the first time.
The three-day testing event, from 26th to 28th February, will provide behind-the-scenes coverage of how a race is organised, as well as insights into how team managers
handle urgent scenarios under pressure.
The New Driver Lineup Teams such as Red Bull, Mercedes-AMG Petronas, Alpine, Scuderia Ferrari, Williams, Racing Bulls, Sauber, and Haas are now ready to introduce new drivers to their lineups, and these changes will be immediately seen on the grid.
Firstly, a surprising and controversial decision from Red Bull has led to the retirement of Sergio Pérez after they cancelled
his contract, which was due to run until 2026, in favour of promoting Liam Lawson to partner Max Verstappen.
One of the biggest moves was Carlos Sainz’s switch to Williams, allowing Ferrari to bring in Lewis Hamilton. With Sainz’s contract expiring at the end of the 2024 season, this created the perfect opportunity for Hamilton to switch teams after a decadelong career at Mercedes-AMG Petronas.
Replacing Hamilton at MercedesAMG will be 18-year-old Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
There are several other changes to the driver lineup, but none as significant as those at Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull.
Final Thoughts
Do you think these changes will be significant enough to mark the end of the current Formula 1 regulations?
OLEKSANDR USYK VS TYSON FURY
Hassan Y-N, Year 9 writes...
The highly anticipated rematch between Oleksandr Usyk from Ukraine and Britain’s Tyson ‘Gypsy King’ Fury is happening on 21st December. The first match ended in a split decision victory in favour of Usyk, making him the first four-belt undisputed heavyweight champion, adding to his 11 world title victories in both heavyweight and cruiserweight.
Going into Fury vs. Usyk I, Fury was the slight favourite despite Usyk’s relatively recent performance (less than a year ago at the time) against Daniel Dubois and his 2021 match against Anthony Joshua.
During the fight, Usyk achieved the only knockdown of the match, which was impressive given the enormous size disparity between them. Oleksandr Usyk stands at a decently tall height of 6’3”, but Fury stands at a massive 6’9”, making him six inches taller than Usyk. The ninth round was when all the viewers realised Usyk was going to win—it was a crucial moment on points, leading two judges to score the
fight 115-112 and 114-113 in favour of Usyk, while the third judge scored it 114-113 in favour of Fury. This victory made Usyk the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis.
Both fighters have impressive records; Usyk remains undefeated with a 22-0 record, while Fury has a longer record of 34-1-1. Fury is undoubtedly the more experienced and well-known fighter, arguably the biggest personality in the sport of boxing right now. His most notable recent fight was against Francis Ngannou, an MMA fighter and one of the most iconic heavyweights in the UFC. Although Ngannou was relatively new to WBC boxing, he still challenged Fury for the heavyweight champion title, and the result sparked much debate due to how many times Fury was knocked down by the MMA fighter.
Post-Fight Thoughts
Usyk defeated Fury again, cementing himself as the clearly superior fighter. He remains undefeated with 23 wins, 14 of
which are knockouts, and he has now dominated two weight divisions. However, the second fight was far closer, and no knockdowns occurred this time.
The fight was extremely competitive, with both fighters appearing to have a chance at victory. I honestly expected a more one-sided fight in Fury’s favour, simply because of his sixinch height advantage and 216 cm reach, compared to Usyk’s 198 cm reach. However, Usyk won the fight by unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring it 116-112 in his favour, demonstrating his superior stamina and technique.
I believe this rivalry is now over, as Fury has lost twice, making it difficult to dispute the skill gap between them. The only case I can think of where a rivalry continued past this point was Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira, who fought four times, with Adesanya winning only once (although that was in MMA, to be fair, but you get the point—it’s rare for rivalries to go beyond this stage).
THE MOON MAY BE 100 MILLION YEARS OLDER THAN WE THOUGHT
Aleksandr S, Year 7 writes...
The moon may have received a volcanic facelift, making it more than 100 million years older than rocks collected from its surface might suggest, a new study finds.
There are a number of reasons to suspect the moon is older. For instance, rare minerals suggest the moon was born about 4.5 billion years ago. In addition, many scientists who have created simulations of planetary formation suggest that a collision large enough to create the moon was unlikely to have happened a quarter-billion years after the origin of the solar system. Although giant cosmic impacts were common in the solar system’s earliest days, orbital dynamics models suggest that most of the massive rocks involved in such large collisions were swept up into larger planetary bodies by about 4.4 billion years ago.
Now, a new study suggests a possible explanation — the lunar surface “remelted” 4.35 billion years ago. This process would have reset the age of lunar rocks, revealing the moon’s true age.
Much about the origin of the moon remains a mystery. Previous research suggested it formed from a collision between the newborn Earth and a Mars-sized rock named Theia—the last giant impact in Earth’s history. However, the exact timing of this collision remains uncertain.
To estimate the moon’s age, geochemists have examined lunar samples collected by the Apollo missions and other sources. These rocks likely crystallized from the magma ocean that covered the moon after that final giant impact. The analyses suggested the moon is about 4.35 billion years old, which is a relatively young age. In comparison, the solar system
began forming about 4.6 billion years ago, roughly 250 million years earlier.
The cause of this remelting is the same kind of tidal effects that cause Earth’s seas to rise and fall. Just as the moon’s gravity tugs on Earth, so too does Earth’s gravity pull on the moon.
When the moon was first formed, it orbited Earth far closer than it does now, and Earth’s tidal effects on the moon were far stronger than they are today. The new study suggests that the forces exerted by Earth on the moon would have led to widespread geological upheaval and intense heating. This remelting could help explain why there are fewer lunar basins from early cosmic impacts than expected—these impact basins may have been erased.
COOK WITH MYLO
Make Your Own Spring Rolls!
Ingredients:
Bean sprouts
Carrots
Cabbage
Broccoli heads (tops only)
Soy sauce (to taste)
Vietnamese spring roll wrappers
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Steps:
Prepare the vegetables – Cut the carrots, cabbage, and broccoli tops into thin strips or matchsticksized chunks.
Season – Mix the vegetables in
a bowl with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Soften the wrappers – Place the spring roll wrappers in hot water until they become soft and pliable. Assemble the rolls – Add a small portion of the vegetable filling onto each wrapper and roll them up tightly.
Cooking options:
Air fryer: Spray the rolls with a little oil and air fry for 10 minutes at 180°C.
Oven: Lightly oil the rolls and bake at 180°C for 20 minutes, turning halfway for an even crisp. Serve and enjoy – Pair with peanut dipping sauce or sweet chilli sauce.
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