Imagine Co-curricular Guide 2018-2019 by Wimbledon High School

2018 ~ 2019

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CO-CURRICULAR LIFE

the

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

2018 2019

a world of This year’s exciting co-curricular programme is full of clubs and societies for you to get involved with.

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Whether it’s time for you to relax, take part in partnerships work, make new friends, experience personal development opportunities or to pursue an activity in more depth, there is definitely something for everyone. The four main strands of the programme, Music, Sport, Drama and Academic Extension are vast and incorporate activities for those who are ‘old hands’ and those who are complete novices - everyone is welcome at one or more of these. Imagine outlines every club available to you in alphabetical order; there’s often a primary aim stated for each, alongside a synopsis, so that you know what to expect when you sign up. Clubsfest will give you a more thorough understanding of the clubs as you make your way around the stalls and ask questions. This year, by means of advice as to what you will be able to fit into your schedule, we have put together guidelines to help you decide exactly what to sign up for. Once you have selected, the expectation is that you attend the clubs at least until

possibilitity… Christmas, after which all clubs are open again to join and sign-up commences for the Spring term. There are a total of 20 co-curricular sessions per week: one before school, two at lunchtime and one after school (2 sessions for a sports fixture). Your form tutors will advise you on what to sign up to based on the number of sessions a club runs per week. For example, if you are in Year 10 and choose rowing, as the training for this activity is in the region of 7-8 hours per week, you will not be in a position to take on a lead role in the play or the musical as they both require full commitment and are time-heavy. There is a new credit system in place this year, which works on the basis that 1 credit equals approximately 40 minutes of time. This includes weekend sports fixtures and rowing training. Each year group will follow these minimum recommendations Y7

8 credits per week

Y10

Y11

Y12 & Y13

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In addition to this, every club is looking for a club ambassador. This is the opportunity for you to develop your leadership skills and support the member of staff leading the club. You can do this by taking sessions on their behalf and/or in conjunction with them, by advertising your club and generally acting as a positive role model. Some ambassadors already feature here in the guide; if you would like to be an ambassador please contact the lead member of staff to offer your support.

Y10, 11 & 12 full rowing programme OR Y10 & 11 Hockey/Netball/Cricket programme

The guidelines opposite advise where, particularly from Y9 upwards, you will need to make a choice between two activities. We know this might prove difficult, but with the number of opportunities available, some clashes are unavoidable and we want you to maintain a healthy balance of fun activities whilst managing your academic work.

Y9, 10, 11 full rowing programme OR Hockey/Netball. In the Summer term Cricket/Tennis

Y10 & 11 Hockey OR Orchestra (with some individual compromises permitted) Y11, 12 & 13 Musical Chorus (Principles more flexible) OR Hockey, Explore (academic talks) OR access to the full rowing programme

Y9 A, B, C Netball OR Y9 Play (minor roles available if a high level netball player)

Please do take the time to look through all the activities. There are many varied and brilliant opportunities that will inspire you outside the classroom. Our ethos is that time spent on co-curricular fully complements what you do in your studies, teaching you valuable transferable skills. Jenny Cox Director of Co-curricular and Partnerships

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Academic Enrichment

Across the year, we put on a host of lectures, speaker events and workshops aimed at ensuring the academic horizons of our students are broadened, stimulating thought-provoking discussion and debate. Girls in Years 7 and 8 may attend Wimbledon Wonderers, a club of intellectual discovery (see the A-Z guide); Explore talks are aimed at girls in Years 10-13, but may be attended by students in any year.

Rosewell Lectures

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Keep an eye on our Event Bookings page on the website; invitations will be posted on social media and posters displayed around the school and in High Ways. Rosewell Lectures are

designed for students in Years 10 and above, though any Senior school student is welcome, along with older siblings and of course parents, plus students from our partner schools. Speakers are experts in their field. After a 40-50 minute lecture (starting at 6 or 7pm), there is the opportunity to ask questions. We ask you to book in advance so that we may gauge numbers and organise catering.

Nessun Dorma: the need to create global governance of the biosphere Tuesday 25 September Angus Forbes Speaker, Co-founder of Natural Capital funds management Having wowed a large audience with an impassioned talk here at WHS last year, Angus Forbes is coming back to talk about his project ‘Nessun Dorma’. He will be talking about his aim to create Global Governance of the Biosphere.

Fireworks - Real Science or Just Bangs? Tuesday 6 November Matthew Tosh Presenter, broadcaster, pyrotechnician Deconstructing the STEM behind firework display operation - from ignition to the visual and aural spectacle. The audience will discover the components that go into making a spectacular live firework display and how science, technology, engineering and mathematics ensure that displays are both accurate and safe for the public. Students will see how pyrotechnicians create colours, sound effects and perfectly timed bursts in time to music. Featuring shock waves, rates of reaction, forces, electron transitions, electricity, flames, sparks and real indoor fireworks, this is an exciting, dramatic and thought-provoking show.

Rosewell Lectures

Welsh poet, playwright, editor, broadcaster, lecturer and translator Tuesday 13 November

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Gillian Clarke Gillian Clarke will be in conversation, discussing her work and the creative process.

Klaus Schriewer Professor of Social Anthropolog y at the University of Murcia Thursday 6 December Professor Schreiber will discuss the history of Arabs in Spain between 711-1492, and establish a link to current migration from North Africa to Spain and introduce the question of cultural diversity in Spain.

The Mind and Brain in the 21st Century Tuesday 12 February 2019 Dr Guy Sutton University lecturer and founder of the company Medical Biolog y Interactive Dr Sutton will conclude another Brain Day at WHS with this insightful lecture. Brain Day aims to take students around and beyond A-level material and into degree-level concepts and research. It is intended to be inspirational, enriching, exciting and challenging. It is fast-paced and introduces students to the very latest studies in neuroscience, providing an insight into what is current and exciting in brain research. Each Brain Day tutorial covers topics such as how nerve cells work, drugs and the brain, functional neuroanatomy and research methods (including fMRI, EEG, ERPs, post-mortem and connectomics). The tutorial also includes a hands-on sheep dissection, during which a sheep brain is dissected (solely) by the tutor, and students, donning examination gloves, are directed through the brain anatomy as brain regions are passed to them.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Explore

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

All Explore talks starts at 4.30pm unless otherwise advertised nearer the time.

Scientists in Residence Moon, Mars or somewhere else entirely? Where next for humans? 18 September Space travel presents many challenges as do the extreme environments of such possible destinations as Mars or the moon. This Explore Lecture encourages us to think about the extreme engineering challenges involved and wonder whether Mars, the moon or somewhere else should be our next goal.

Hamlet 2 October

Dr Will Tosh Research Fellow and lecturer at Shakespeare’s Globe Dr Tosh has recently published his book ‘Playing Indoors’, focussing on performance practices in Elizabethan and Jacobean theatre. We are pleased to have him back to WHS, this time to explore the play Hamlet.

Economics lecture 27 November Janet Henry Global Chief Economist at HSBC This talk will be part of a day looking at all aspects of economics; Janet Henry will talk about her career and as a leader in her field, bring valuable insight. Come armed with questions to find out more!

And also on 27 November

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Using fossilised faeces to investigate the timing of the earliest human occupation of North America Helen Whelton A series of caves, located in south central Oregon, called the Paisley Caves are one of the key sites in the debate of how, when and why people first settled the Americas. To identify the earliest human occupation at the Paisley Caves we can study the compounds preserved within coprolites (fossilised faeces) found in the sediments.

Explore

5 February 2019

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Closing the Gap: the quest to understand prime numbers Vicky Neale Prime numbers have intrigued, inspired and infuriated mathematicians for millennia and yet mathematicians’ difficulty with answering simple questions about them reveals their depth and subtlety. In this talk, which shares its title with her recent book, Vicky will describe recent progress towards proving the famous Twin Primes Conjecture and the very different ways in which these breakthroughs have been made -- a solo mathematician working in isolation, a young mathematician displaying creativity at the start of a career, and a large collaboration that reveals much about how mathematicians go about their work.

Symmetry, Art and Mathematics 5

26 February 2019 Sarah Hart What makes a design or structure beautiful? Often, the objects we find pleasing have a high level of symmetry. We will look at examples of symmetry in art and design, and discuss some theories about why symmetry is so pleasing to the eye, as well as some of the mathematics that naturally arises from it. We’ll then take a look at the work of artist M.C. Escher, whose interactions with the mathematician Donald Coxeter led to a greater understanding and inspired new ideas on both sides.

Photochemistry for Drug Discovery 12 March 2019 Bethan Donnelly

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Antimicrobial resistance is becoming an increasingly important area of research throughout chemistry and biology. One important method to tackle this problem is the synthesis of new drug compounds with unique modes of action. Chemists have many ways of synthesising these molecules and my work in the area of photochemistry is just one. As well as giving an overview of what I do on a daily basis as a PhD research chemist, I will explain my area of work on the photochemical synthesis of new drug targets inspired by nature.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Drama

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Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

This year we will be running New Views, in conjunction with the National Theatre. This is an exciting new project for budding scriptwriters. In addition to all of the usual planned activities, a number of our talented students may well be looking to organise individual charity performance events which we do our best to fit into the busy and exciting programme. Although we are very proud of the major productions we stage every year, we also actively encourage student led initiatives, offering support advice and technical assistance whilst allowing the students to take responsibility and learn through experience. Drama at WHS is challenging, rewarding and lots of fun. Come and get involved.

We run a highly successful and enjoyable LAMDA programme alongside a range of performance projects and activities. Older students are also actively encouraged to take on the running of clubs and some enjoy the challenge of directing other students in their own shows. For those Sixth Form girls with the drive and determination, performing in the Edinburgh Festival is an exciting way to end the year. If you want to be on the backstage team at WHS - making props, painting, stage managing, operating lighting and sound - our fully qualified Theatre manager and technician can give you the training you need. We always give the students the responsibility for running the technical elements of any show.

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For opportunities to become involved in Drama, see the A-Z guide or speak to Ms MsDowell

At WHS we work hard and expect resilience and determination but the laughter and cheers emanating from rehearsals in the Theatre or the Senior Hall truly indicate the joy and satisfaction drama offers. There are large scale musicals and plays to be involved in, and lots of drama competitions to keep you on your toes this year as well as an exciting Musical Theatre Gala Concert, where lots of people will get the chance to sing their favourite songs from the shows. We always hold auditions to help specific casting decisions, and they are, in themselves markers of grit and resilience, but we look to involve everyone in as many and varied ways as possible.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

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Autumn

Spring / Summer

The Drama year will be kick-started in September when Year 9 students perform ‘Julia Peculiar’ a new musical written for WHS by our Performing Arts assistant Miss Butler. Also in the Autumn term all the Year 7 students are encouraged to get involved with House Drama, where they will work with Year 12 leaders to prepare for the hotly contested House Drama Competition which will take place just after the Christmas holidays. This is a brilliant way for the new girls to meet and make friends with the older girls in the school. LAMDA classes, which are particularly popular with Year 7 8 & 9 will also run in a lunchtime slot. Year 8 students will have the opportunity to attend a drama club and to present an evening of drama and musical theatre for parents and friends. We will also be looking for an opportunity for some Year 8 students to support a community theatre project similar to the Merton Changing Minds Project where our girls performed a physical theatre piece about teenage mental health so movingly last year. At the start of term, Year 9 students will audition for the Year 9 play and attend special workshops prior to rehearsals beginning in earnest from half tem and Year 10 students will start rehearsals for their production of The Crucible. During this term Years 11, 12 & 13 collaborate to work on either the Senior Play or the Senior Musical where we always choose exciting and challenging projects which provide an ideal showcase for the outstanding talents of the older students at Wimbledon High School. The Senior Play is performed at the end of the Autumn term. Finally, groups of students will be putting together the collaborative elements of the Gala Musical Theatre Concert planned for May.

The Year 7 House Drama competition will take place in January, after which Year 7 students will be encouraged to get involved in an important Shakespeare initiative, culminating in a performance event with students from partner schools. The Senior Musical is also performed in the early part of this term. Keen Year 8 students will rehearse and perform an adapted version of a well-known musical and Year 9 students perform a full-length play. Students learn how satisfying it is to put in the time and commitment necessary to perform challenging work to a really high standard in front of their friends and family. Year 9 also get to share the fun of the Summer Production with students from Year 10 once their production of the Crucible has been performed in March. Year 12 students also have the opportunity to prepare a performance for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival - an exciting and fun way to spend part of the school holidays. In addition to the main events, there will be monologue competitions for all year groups and public performances of examination pieces to which parents and friends are invited. The Musical Theatre Gala Concert will be a fabulous event in the late spring, where soloists and groups of all ages will perform songs from all our favourite musicals! The Drama department actively encourages students to explore drama opportunities available outside of school, for example: Rose Theatre, National Youth Theatre, and National Youth Music Theatre. We are happy to find the time to help students as they prepare to audition for these excellent organisations.

As with all co-curricular activities, Drama requires commitment and resilience. Each project has its place in the Co- Curricular Programme which is carefully organised to ensure as many students as possible can access Drama at WHS, even if they also have sporting, musical and debating commitments. The Year 8 Musical, Year 9 Play, Year 10 Play, Senior Play, Senior Musical and Summer Musical are major productions, which often involve a large number of students, some with crucial and challenging roles. All of these projects require significant commitment from the

students but it may be some students are needed for more rehearsals than others depending on the nature of their role. The expected time commitment is shared with students and parents before auditions take place and they are all required to submit details of all their co-curricular and after school commitments on their audition forms. The final schedule will be organised to accommodate the availability of the students who are cast in the various roles. As with all activities in the co-curricular programme it is vital that once students are engaged on a project, they attend all the sessions they initially committed to.

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Commitment and expectations

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Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

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Music WHS is alive with the sound of music; from rehearsals in the Senior Hall to weekly performances in assembly or Friday Jammin’, music can be heard throughout the school day. The WHS Music department is a large department with over 30 diverse clubs happening each week. From our auditioned groups to more informal clubs, we have a range of musical activities for you to get involved with. Our aim is for you to enjoy making music and to relish the performing opportunities available to you. Learning a musical instrument and performing as an ensemble is one of the great joys of life and our aim is to allow you to experience this within the WHS day.

Please see Mr Bristow if you’re interested in joining any of the many Music ensembles in the A-Z guide.

give the girls an exciting chance to perform in such an inspiring venue. The performance will also be recorded to make our fifth CD. Alongside this, our Spring Chamber Concert will show case the diversity of our ensembles and the Woodwind & Brass and Singing Competitions will offer our soloists in these disciplines a chance to shine. The annual Battle of the Bands competition promises to be even bigger than before, with more bands performing to an even large audience.

The Summer Term is equally as busy, with the new Musical Theatre Gala Concert, Jazz Night and Summer Soiree rounding off the achievements of the academic year, before we all get together to review the year in our Speech Day celebrations. Mixed into all of these events are our termly Scholars’ Recitals and weekly Friday Jammin’ performances, showing off the diversity of musicmaking at WHS and giving each and every girl a chance to perform. Further, weekly assemblies have musical items in to showcase individual musicianship. Our Peripatetic Musicians are strong, with over 400 lessons taking place each week in every instrument imaginable. If you would like to learn an instrument, WHS is the best place to do it - with highly experienced staff and excellent results at ABRSM/Trinity level. Please see Mr Bristow for more information.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

The Spring Term is the musical highlight of the academic year. In March, the WHS Symphony Orchestra, A Cappella, Canto and other soloists will perform at Cadogan Hall, London. This concert will showcase our music-making to a large audience and will

This academic year is promising to be the busiest yet for the WHS Music department with a host of concerts, competitions and events happening in WHS and beyond. In the Autumn Term, all ensembles work towards our large Autumn Concert and the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. Alongside this, the House Music competition kicks off with House Ensemble and House Song performances and individual performers can compete in the Piano Competition and the String Competition, both of which offer a chance to be involved in an individual workshop with the adjudicator.

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Key Events 2018-19

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Sport

Sport plays an integral part of life at Wimbledon High. During their time at WHS, all girls take part in physical activity at many different levels and in a wide variety of sports.

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For opportunities to become involved in Sport, see the A-Z guide or speak to Miss Gordon

Our vision for sport at WHS is twofold; firstly, to have a broad, diverse and engaging Physical Education curriculum to provide all girls with the opportunity to achieve in sport. Secondly, of course, we are striving for excellence with all of our co-curricular competitive sports, ensuring that girls have access to top coaching and the best competition opportunities.

Girls will develop their individual talents while learning the importance of a healthy lifestyle and transferrable skills, such as the value of teamwork, leadership and communication skills. Whatever their level, we hope that by the time girls leave us, they will take with them a positive attitude towards being active for health, fitness or a lifelong passion for sport.

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The girls are taught by a large team of experienced, enthusiastic and inspirational PE teachers and professional coaches. In some cases, where students do other sports in their own time, they can represent the school in these sports, with parental support. eg: Equestrian, Sailing, Skiing.

You can download the app to your phone for easy access to up-to-date information.

Hockey is the major sport of the Autumn Term and every year group has weekly training and matches, including Saturday mornings. We enter many local, regional and national competitions. The netball A teams also train in this season as well as we enter a number of County and National tournaments. Rowing, swimming, cross country and gymnastics run concurrently with the Games programme, throughout the year. In the Spring Term the focus switches to Netball. This year we ran 28 teams! Nearly every girl in Year 7 chooses to play netball so this tends to be a very busy term in sport with many fixtures played each week. The U12 (Y7) and U13 hockey teams continue to train as they have Surrey tournaments in February. Cricket, tennis and athletics are the major sports of the Summer term. Cricket in particular is a growing sport here at WHS and we have invested heavily to improve our equipment and coaching of the sport. There are training sessions in all of these sports for girls who wish to represent the school. Running throughout the academic year is our Tennis Academy, where girls can opt to receive paid for lessons at lunchtime or Saturday mornings. This launched last year and is proving very popular.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

For fixtures and team information, see: www.wimbledonhighsports.com

Sport Timeline

Our co-curricular programme offers a huge range of sports and activities both competitive and recreational, from hockey to yoga, fitness to basketball, as well as the major and minor sport of the term. In return, we expect the highest level of commitment from the girls and the determination to succeed and to push themselves hard both in training and competition. Whilst we have a team for every student who wants to represent the school, competition to be selected for the A teams is challenging and competitive. There is fluidity between the teams throughout the year and selection is based on commitment, attitude, application, ability and talent. Check the Sports Fixtures website to get a fuller picture of the range of teams and sports which compete regularly for the school.

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Academic Extension

Creative

Drama

Just for Fun

Music

Partnerships & Charities

Personal Development

Sport

STEAM

A Cappella

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Clubs A-Z

You’ll find icons next to each club, indicating roughly the category it falls into - sometimes more than one…

Led by: Mr Bristow Years: 10 - 13 Primary Aims To be the flagship choir of WHS, performing a range of musical styles - both a cappella and accompanied. To lead the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols and Cadogan Hall concert. To allow you to improve your musical communication skills within an ensemble environment.

“A Cappella is one of the most enjoyable parts of my week - who else does Fauré followed immediately by Josh Groban? There is definitely a lot of inter-year bonding as you make friends with everyone in choir, as well as learning key skills like teamwork and gaining confidence in your abilities that you can transfer to other skills. Some standout moments were the Barcelona Choir Tour, where we performed in amazing, once-in-a-lifetime locations like Montserrat Monastery and Gaudí’s incredible Sagrada Familia basilica, and of course, the annual concert in Cadogan Hall, which allows for so much musical talent to be showcased!”

Our auditioned Senior Chamber Choir (Years 10-13) toured New York City in February 2015 and Barcelona in 2018 and have performed newly-commissioned compositions by Treseder. They recorded Vivaldi’s Gloria to critical acclaim in March 2016 at St. John’s Smith Square, London, as well as recording Faure’s Requiem at Cadogan Hall in 2017 and Karl Jenkins’ Cantata Mundi in 2018. The group leads the liturgy at the annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. They rehearse twice a week, performing in 4-part harmony with or without accompaniment. In 2018-19 they will be performing Mozart’s Requiem a challenging, but deeply rewarding piece.

Club Ambassadors: Anna H - Year 13

Akenkan

Led by: Ms Pett Years: 10 - 13 Primary Aim

Akenkan means ‘read along’ in Twi, a local Ghanaian language. For 2018-2019, the club will continue with its current members only - students who have already signed up for the Ghana trip. However, later in the academic year girls in Year 10 and above will have the chance to learn more about Akenkan, the project in which students write, illustrate and professional print their

own series of storybooks for children in rural Ghana. Through liaising with teachers in Ghana, we can ensure that our stories are appropriate in level and content. The schools in rural Ghana have very few resources, and so the bright, colourful Akenkan books make a real difference.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

For dedicated and talented artists, writers and fundraisers to create beautiful books and to make a real difference to the education of children in Ghana.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

ABRSM Prep Club Led by: Mr Von Freyhol Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aim To help you prepare for the aural test part of the ABRSM examinations and help you get higher marks. The ABRSM Prep Club is a weekly opt-in club led by one of our specialist music staff. If you’d like to attend, please sign up on the board in the music office a week before attending. - there are times for Grade 1-3, 4-5 and 6+.

“In the ABRSM Prep Club one of the members of music staff will help you, one-on-one, to build your confidence in areas of the aural part of your music exam. Girls from every year attend, playing a range of instruments at all different levels. The teachers are extremely accommodating and understanding. If you are aiming for the distinction that you have worked hard for in other aspects of the exam, come along to make sure your aural doesn’t let you down!” Club Ambassador: Lizzy B - Year 11

Anime Club

Led by: Ms Gartrell Years: 7- 11 16

Primary Aims To enjoy sharing, watching and discussing anime films and shows. To build connections with students from other year groups. Each week students bring in their favourite anime films and shows, which they watch over a lunch time and discuss. Anime Club is relaxed, welcoming and open to all students from Year 7 to Sixth Form who have a passion for anime films and series. The perfect end to a busy school week!

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“In Anime Club at Wimbledon High you are able to relax by losing yourself in the story of an Anime, drama or a cartoon whilst learning about different cultures, exploring life outside of Britain. You get to meet girls from different year groups and bond over the fact that we’re all slightly nerdy.” Club Ambassadors: Rin J - Year 13

Team: Ms Mbeyela, Ms Taylor, Ms Owen Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To extend conceptual and practical understanding of Art. To develop creativity and imagination. To develop cross year group links. A mixed media and collage workshop will allow students to experiment with collage, stitch and fabric manipulation. Looking at a range of artists, students will create small experiments which will result in a large scale, final outcome.

I aim to offer a sculpture workshop once a week. The artwork will be influenced by modern architecture. The structures will be made from wire and tissue paper.

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Art Workshops

By Ms Taylor

Through a series of small experiments with colour and media, students will develop their ideas for a large scale artwork inspired by the landscape. By Ms Owen

By Ms Mbeyela

Athletics

Team: PE Dept Years: 7 - 13 want to beat your personal best from Sports Day. In lessons you track your progress in all events and can earn points based on your results with certificates on offer for the best performers.

Athletics takes place in the Summer term both in PE lessons and as a co-curricular club. There are many opportunities to compete for the school in local and regional competitions or you may simply

Badminton

Team: PE Dept Years: 7 - 11 Badminton is recreational club for all ages and abilities. There is a competitive option to represent the school in Merton Borough

tournament which will qualify winners for the London Youth Games.

Team: Mrs Salt, Ms Wilkinson Years: 9 - 10 From Year 9 upwards you have the chance to try out to be a Wimbledon ball girl. The final selection is of course up to the All England Club (and is a rigorous process, not for the faint-hearted!) but the initial training takes place in school. WHS girls who make it through the first stages of

selection are committed, fit and resilient. We are only able to nominate a small number of girls, but don’t let that put you off. Can you stand super still, listen intently and follow very precise instructions? Give it a go and you could find yourself feeding balls to the superstars on Centre Court!

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Ball Girl Training

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Baroque Ensemble Led by: Ms Kennington Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims For girls who play the violin, viola, cello and double bass to learn how to work as an ensemble at a high level. To perform in termly school concerts and national music competitions, including recording CDs. To allow you to improve your musical communication skills within a small ensemble environment.

This is a specialist, auditioned string ensemble focusing on playing a range of pieces, from Baroque to more contemporary styles, developing specialist string techniques and supporting soloists. Recent performances have included performing Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 at St. John’s Smith Square and Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings and Grieg’s Holberg Suite at Cadogan Hall. They rehearse weekly and are directed by Clare Kennington.

“Baroque Ensemble is not only fun to be in, you also make great music and play difficult repertoire at the same time. You meet lots of string players from different years and you get to know them really well. We play many different types of music (not just Baroque!). If you are interested do come and drop by one Wednesday after school to see what it is like!” Club Ambassadors: Alice N - Year 10

Basketball

Led by: Mr White Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To build confidence and team work. Improve levels of fitness and learn how to play the sport. To have fun.

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Basketball is a sports club open to everyone. If you have a particular aptitude for sports and want to try something new,

or if you want to join a sports club with a group of friends or to meet new people then basketball is for you. You will learn the rules and skills needed to play the sport and have fun whilst doing it, and one day we may even beat the staff team! There is no better way to start your morning.

Led by: Ms Robertshaw Years: 7, 8, 9 Primary Aims To give girls in Year 7, 8 and 9 a chance to sing in an auditioned choir. To perform in the annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, Cadogan Hall and Southwark Cathedral Evening. To improve sight reading skills and work on choral blend. Our auditioned Junior Chamber Choir (Years 7-9) have an exciting year planned with performances in the Festival of Nine Lessons and Cadogan Hall, London, as well as performing at Southwark Cathedral. They rehearse weekly and often perform in 4-part harmony

“Canto is a club where you sing many different styles of music. It is so fun because you get to meet, and sing with the other years in Key Stage 3. You get to sing in lots of different venues, like Cadogan Hall and Southwark Cathedral. You learn different techniques of singing, and musical terms. My most memorable moment was when we choreographed ‘Tonight’, from West Side Story. Overall, I think Canto is a great club, and it’s worth going to.”

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Canto

Club Ambassador: Emily D - Year 8

Chemistry Society KS4 KS4 Chemistry Society offers an opportunity for students to explore and develop a better understanding of Chemistry syllabus beyond the scope of the IGCSE course. You’ll experience the

Led by: Ms Gashi Years: 10 - 11

sort of chemistry that forms the content of A level study, as well as investigating applications of Chemistry in everyday life. Come along to find out more!

Chemistry Society KS5 Led by: Ms McGovern Years: 12 - 13 Primary Aims To help students appreciate the usefulness/importance/significance of chemistry across a wide range of future career paths.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Chemistry is not just needed for medicine; it’s needed for the future. It is the future!

Think of life without plastics - it will be up to material scientists (with foundations in chemistry) who will create a new material to take over from plastics. We hold inspiring talks and discussions - eg: last year on bioilluminesence, fireworks & chirality.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Clarinet Choir

Led by: Ms Balmain Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To provide an opportunity to improve your skills in playing the clarinet, including the bass clarinet. To prepare music for termly school concerts, including classical, jazz and popular pieces. To encourage ensemble skills and development of musicality.

The Clarinet Choir is open to players above Grade 3 (and Senior Clarinet Choir for Grade 5 and above). We rehearse weekly and are led by one of our specialist clarinet teachers. The club works on different styles of music to improve sight-reading, tone and intonation. It’s a great chance to practise your technique in a friendly environment.

“Clarinet Choir is a great way for younger years to get together with older years to play both fun yet challenging pieces ranging from classical to Disney. Everyone is welcome to come along and have fun, whilst improving your technique! You can test your sight-reading abilities as well as gain lots of experience. Both these groups perform in the school’s concerts in Autumn and Summer, so it is a great way to show off what we have played throughout term!”

Club Ambassador: Hannah G - Year 13

Composing Club Led by: Ms Butler Years: 7 - 9 Primary Aims

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To provide an opportunity for girls in all years to explore music composition outside of the classroom. To learn more about how to create an original composition voice. To work with others to arrange music for school productions.

Composing Club provides an opportunity to hone your music writing skills in a friendly, non-judgemental environment, whether you’re an absolute beginner wanting to try it out or a more experienced musician. From writing our own Christmas pop songs to, in the Spring and Summer

“Composing Club is brilliant because it brings us closer together with teamwork. We love the club because it inspires creativity and collaboration in its members. We have learnt to compose beautiful melodies and harmonies.” Club Ambassador: Alyssa P and Eleanor H - Year 8

terms we’ll be working on music for school productions and even writing our own musical! There will be plenty of performance opportunities for your music throughout the year at Friday Jammin’ and other concerts, but this is by no means compulsory.

Team: Mr Sajadah, Ms Hasan Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To increase discussion around topical areas in computer science. To encourage more thought about the impacts of technology on society. To expand on what we learn as part of the curriculum. Computer Science Club is for all girls from Year 7 upwards who are interested in computer science and looking at how technology is impacting the world we live in. Each week we will be watching a short video or be given a presentation on a different topic, followed by a discussion session where everybody is welcome to weigh in on the issues we will be looking at.

“Computer Science Club provides an opportunity to discuss the important issues surrounding technology that we don’t get to address in class. Increasingly in our modern world, more problems arise to do with how technology is integrated into our daily lives, and computer science club creates an engaging environment to debate and consider these topics.” Club Ambassadors: Kira G & India P - Year 13

CREST Club

Team: Ms Gashi, Ms East Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims Discuss scientific ideas. Carry out research. Complete Bronze, Silver or Gold scheme. The CREST award is a nationwide scheme that encourages students to ask their own questions about the world around them & to plan an investigation in order to find

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Computer Science Club

some answers. There are 3 levels of entry: Bronze (ideal for KS3), Silver (KS4) & Gold (KS5). You can investigate questions linked to health, behaviour, chemical properties, and physical structures…anything at all really. Join us to discuss your ideas & carry out your own research and to experience what real science is about!

Cricket Led by: PE Dept Years: 7 - 11 entering local and regional competitions as the sport continues to grow. All students in Y7-9 will play cricket as part of the curriculum too.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Cricket is a hugely popular summer team sport. We run teams at every age group playing modified games. Excitingly, we are moving towards an elite team playing hard ball matches and

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Debating Society Team: Mrs Moon, Ms Lindon, Mrs Treseder, Mr Courtney-Clack, Ms Gilchrist, Mrs Kyrke- Smith, Mr Daws Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To build confidence in public speaking and hone listening skills. To develop critical thinking, problem solving and other academic skills. To develop emotional maturity

Debating at WHS is for everyone! You are welcome to join, even if it is to simply spectate or offer POIs (points of information) from the floor. No prior debating experience is required. During Friday sessions we either hold a full debate or conduct research for a debate the following week. We enter competitions throughout the year, including Oxford and Cambridge Schools, and the Eton Open; we

also hold an annual inter-house competition here at school. The skills debaters develop promote academic success and are highly valued by universities.

“Debating is always lots of fun - it’s a great opportunity to meet people from different year groups, become more confident and develop a skill which will be useful throughout your entire life. There are people of every level and ability, so regardless of your experience, you can always come along and enjoy yourself. If you’re interested in learning more about debating, come by and give it a try!” Club Ambassador: Claire L - Year 12

Da Vinci Society 2.0 Led by: Mr Sharman Years: 9 - 11 Primary Aims Develop a range of ‘Design Thinking Skills’. Practically apply critical thinking and problem solving skills. Work with a diverse range of students, building creative, innovative and challenging products. ‘Creativity is intelligence having fun’

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ALBERT EINSTEIN

The Da Vinci Society seeks to bring students together to collaborate in creating innovative, exciting and inspiring ‘THINGS’. With the industrial revolution

4.0 knocking at our door, blurring the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres, there has been no better time to investigate all the amazing new technologies and materials available to us. You will develop new and existing skills creating products such as Bamboo bikes, Arcade machine, AI robots or drones - it’s up to you. * If you are considering applying for the Arkwright Scholarship in Year 11, this is a great society to join in Year 10 as it will give you lots to talk about within your application.

Led by: Mrs Salt Years: 7 - 13 Dance is a recreational club for all ages and abilities. Dance, together with Gymnastics, combine for our annual Gym & Dance Display in March which is a dazzling

event not to be missed! Come along if you love to dance or if it’s something you’ve always wanted to try.

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Dance

Djembe Group

Led by: Mr Hiscock Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To give percussionists a chance to be in an ensemble. To gain greater confidence in using cross-rhythms, polyrhythms and syncopation. To improve sight reading skills and work on instrumental technique.

Club Ambassador: Lizzy S - Year 13

Djembe Group is a club that rehearses weekly, performing in the termly school concerts. They work on communication, layering together complex polyrhythms and improvising their own beats. It is a really fun club that allows creativity without the need to read music.

“Djembe Group explores the different rhythmic potential of music from Ghana. It’s a really fun club, that allows us to be creative by making our own rhythms. Communication between the group is really important, and it is great to see girls from all year groups taking part in the ensemble.”

Double Bass Group Led by: Mr Babar Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To learn how to improve your intonation and ensemble skills. To perform in termly school concerts. To allow you to improve your musical communication skills within a small ensemble environment.

Club Ambassador: Lizzy S - Year 13

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A non-auditioned ensemble for all girls in Years 7-13 who play the double bass. The focus is on learning how to play in time and in tune, developing your abilities in the instrument, and is led by our double bass teacher.

“This is a new group for 2018. Since we launched the Double Bass scheme a few years ago we now have loads of girls learning the double bass. This group is for double bass players to come together and make music as an ensemble, led by our double bass teacher. It’s for all standards so if you’re keen on playing this instrument or being in the club, please pop in!”

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Duke of Edinburgh - Bronze Led by: Mr Daws

Year: 9

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a long established scheme bringing together physical challenge, learning new skills and volunteering experience. We always have large numbers of girls participating in Bronze - it’s a chance to push your boundaries, make new friends across your

year group and broaden your horizons by freely giving of your time to those who need it. There will be a practice expedition and a qualifying expedition, both with overnight camping. Drop-in sessions on Tuesdays to ask questions about your DofE and plan your award sections.

Duke of Edinburgh - Gold

Led by: Dr Neumann

Year: 12

Gold DofE gives you the chance to do something completely new and improve on things you’re already doing. It takes you out of your comfort zone and into a place where you’ll push yourself and have amazing new experiences. You’ll build confidence, resilience, skills for work and friendship groups. And you’ll have a brilliant time doing it. Looking forward, the Gold DofE can help you to carve out

a better future. Colleges, universities and employers regard a Gold DofE Award highly so it will help to open the right doors for you. If you’re keen to get off the sofa and put 100% into something that could change your life, the Gold DofE is for you. Every year WHS girls are invited to Buckingham Palace for the prestigious award ceremony.

Economics Society Led by: Mr Finch Years: 10 - 13

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Economics sheds light on how and why resources are distributed the way they are, how money works and why things cost what they do. The aim of this club is to discuss contemporary economic issues and in so doing, develop your ‘economic

literacy’. Student led group debates and individual presentations will form the core of this society and you are welcome to involve yourself as much or as little as you would like.

Led by: Mr Holloway Years: 7 - 9 Primary Aims To understand the fundamentals of electricity and electronics through practical experimentation with ‘Locktronics’ kits. To understand how electronics and electricity is applied in real life by taking apart and reassembling familiar appliances. To apply electronic design principals to create new electronic applications.

Mobile phones, computers, televisions, electric lights, watches, toasters, kettles, radios and many more. These all use electricity and electronics to enhance our lives, but how do they actually work? Build your own circuits with our ‘Locktronics’ kits, take apart familiar appliances to understand how they work and start to really understand a phenomenon that profoundly influences the way we all live. And get better marks in your Physics tests...

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Electronics Club

Fashion & Textiles Club Led by: Ms Phillip Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To develop skills in a fun and meaningful way by giving back or challenging yourself.

Charity - to support girls in a developing country such as the ‘dress a girl’ charity. – all Years.

Volunteering - You can also volunteer to support the club and link it to your DofE skills. – Years 10 -13

This is a fun club where you will use your skills learnt in textiles lessons to create a range of products. There will be three different aspects to the club:

Competition - Young Fashion Designer Competition 2019 – Years 7-9

Club size is limited so we will run week A and Week B sessions depending on how many sign up.

Fashion & Textiles extension Led by: Ms Phillip Years: Invitation only Primary Aim To give students opportunities to extend their skills and manage time efficiently.

Fencing

Team: External coach, Mrs Hammond Years: 7 - 13 Fencing is a paid for recreational club for all ages and abilities. Girls in the team compete in the Public Schools’ Fencing Championships in March.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

This club is for DT textiles students, giving you the opportunity to extend your project work beyond the classroom, in a smaller class size. It is by invitation only, and is a relaxed club where you are able to pop in and out to sessions as required over the year.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Flute Group A and B

Team: Mr Bricht (A), Ms Sparks (B) Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To provide an opportunity to develop flute technique, improving your ability on your instrument and your musical communication skills within an ensemble environment. To improve sight-reading skills and encourage performing resilience. To perform in termly concerts at school.

The aim of these ensembles is to really help you to develop in to an excellent flautist. The group is open to everyone that plays the flute and is run by two of our flute teachers. It’s a great way to learn to perform with other flautists, and there’s even the chance to enter national competitions like music festivals if the group wants to.

“We learn different techniques as a group and we work together to make us all sound as one. If you’re an amazing flautist or you’re only just starting, then you should join!” Club Ambassador: Estella M - Year 8

“I enjoy being able to broaden my horizons musically. I have learnt that there is more to playing the flute than just exams and being focused on every little detail. Come join us to further your flute playing while having a blast!” Club Ambassador: Irene M - Year 9

GCSE Ensemble & Performance support Club Led by: Miss Green Years: 9 - 11 Primary Aims

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To provide an opportunity for students from Year 9 (half-GCSE) to Year 11 to prepare for their GCSE coursework. To give Ensembles extra time to practise and develop their pieces. To give invaluable practice with a piano accompanist, to perform to small, select audiences

“GCSE music club is a comfortable space for you to develop your musical abilities and performance skills whilst also helping them build confidence and charisma.” Club Ambassadors: Thalia T & Eleni V

The GCSE Ensemble & Performance support club meets on Wednesday lunchtimes in M10. Students (Years 9 11) have the opportunity to sign up for tutorials as an ensemble or a soloist and also to sign up for practice concerts when they can bring their friends to watch their trial performances. The club provides one on one time with a piano accompanist to help prepare solo performances and time outside of lessons to record performances in an unhurried situation.

Led by: Ms Higgs Years: 12 - 13 Primary Aims To explore complex, contemporary geographic concepts and issues. To develop critical thinking, analysis and other academic skills Geog On! is designed specifically for our Sixth Form geographers with an aim to explore geography beyond the A level syllabus. We introduce students to contemporary geographic concepts,

share our geographic heroes and attempt to solve ‘Wicked Problems’ over lunch! Our sessions are particularly relevant to students wishing to read Geography at university, developing critical thinking skills and encouraging them to be active world citizens. Sessions are a mix of staff and student led, giving our geographers freedom to explore their own areas of interest.

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Geog On!

Get IT - App Building Competition Team: Mr Sajadah, Mrs Evans Year: 8

from Amazon who will visit us at school in January. The project will start with a special assembly in September where you will hear more about careers in IT and the competition. Whatever the outcome of the competition this is a great opportunity to think about how technology can be used for good in society. You don’t need any experience of coding or writing apps - just interest and enthusiasm!

We have been invited to enter a competition to design an app as part of a project run by Future Foundations and Amazon Web Services, with the aim to encourage more girls to get involved in IT. During September and October teams of 5-7 students will design an app to solve a real-world problem. Seven pupils from each school will attend the ‘Get IT Bootcamp’ in December to develop the idea, and we’ll be supported by a sponsor

Gymnastics

Team: Miss Gordon, Ms De Pass, and Miss Cox Years: 7 - 13 will compete in local, friendly competitions. Gymnastics, together with Dance, combine for our annual Gym & Dance Display in March, which is an exciting affair based around an annual theme. Last year it was the circus…

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Gymnastics is a selected squad (via trials) which runs throughout the year. The elite squad enter all age group Surrey competitions. There is also a Development Squad for Y7 and Y8 girls who wish to improve their gymnastics skills and they

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History Girls

Team: Miss Anderson, Miss Beckwith, Mr White Years: 11 - 13 Primary Aims To broaden historical knowledge in multiple areas. To develop skills and confidence in public speaking. To develop independent research skills. To develop independent research skills and critical thinking on a broad range of topics.

“History Girls is a fantastic chance for girls in Year 11 - 13 to engage in areas of historical interest outside of lessons. Led by Sixth Form students, there is something different every week, which makes the club so interesting, and the discussions are always open, inclusive and informal whilst also being a great opportunity to engage with fascinating concepts that you might not consider in class!” Club Ambassador: Georgia P - Year 13

History Girls is for all Year 11 and upwards students wanting to enrich their understanding of history from our very own Sixth Formers! Each session someone presents on a topic that they are interested in and have researched, before opening up the presentation to questions that can range from why taught history is often so Eurocentric to whether the #metoo movement be considered inherently political. The presentations and discussions are always eye-opening and engaging.

They are also a great way to hone critical thinking skills that are applicable to all subjects and university courses, which is what makes History Girls such an enriching club to take part in.

Hockey

Team: Miss Gordon, Ms De Pass, Miss Cox Years: 7 - 13

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Hockey is an Autumn Term sport for all year groups, however, U12 & U13 continue training at a lunch time in the Spring Term in preparation for the Surrey tournament. Girls will train in their games lesson and have one allocated evening for matches and/or training, plus Saturday mornings. Cup games and tournaments will, in the

main, take place during the school day. We enter many local, regional and national competitions. The girls will be asked to give their match availability at the start of the season after viewing the fixtures on the online programme ‘SportsPro’ and planning their schedule accordingly.

Team: Ms Baty, Mrs Brewster Years: 11 - 13 Primary Aims To get to know young people living in a different country. To communicate and share ideas. To consider the global significance of what you learn in the classroom. To challenge your perspectives on a range of pertinent issues. We have an exciting partnership with a school in New Delhi, India to delve further into cultural, social and environmental

issues that affect both of our countries. You will have the opportunity to communicate directly with the students in India to find out more about their life and you will work together with your partner to research and present your own ideas. This is an excellent opportunity to step outside the ‘Wimbledon bubble’ and challenge your perspectives. The India partnership is open to all students in Y11, 12 and 13.

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India Partnership

It’s Critical Team: Ms Gilchrist, Ms Gartrell, Mrs Moon, Ms Lindon, Mr Courtenay Clack, Ms Pett Years: 11 - 13 To develop literary knowledge and ability to respond critically to texts. To foster curiosity about texts and writers beyond the curriculum. To build confidence in forming personal responses to unfamiliar texts.

“Calling all English enthusiasts... It’s Critical is a wonderful way of developing rigorous analytical skills and finding your very own critical voice. You’ll be introduced to new and exciting texts and ideas. It’s also a great way of meeting people from different years and acquiring skills which you will likely use throughout your life. Finally don’t feel discouraged if you aren’t an English student, It’s Critical is open to all enthusiastic readers and people looking to get more out their leisurely reading!” Club Ambassador: Elise J - Year 13

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It’s Critical is a lunch-time club led by the English Department and aimed at Years 11-13, as well as some students from Year 10 wanting to stretch themselves even further. We explore a range of exciting literary texts and writers in more critical depth, reading and discussing extracts from their work together. Some sessions relate to curriculum topics (e.g. introductory sessions on Chaucer’s ‘Wife of Bath’ or Cormac McCarthy link to the Year 13 syllabus), whilst others introduce

challenging texts beyond the curriculum to foster a love of literature at a higher level for students looking ahead to university.

Primary Aims

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Knit & Natter

Team: Ms Carpenter, Miss Kingston, Mrs Rees Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To learn a new skill. To work on projects which will benefit the wider community.

“Knitting is enjoyable and not just for the older generation, but for everyone, as we found when we learnt this year! Relaxing for half an hour a week contrasts well with studying and gives us time to spend with friends whilst developing a life skill. We are looking forward to the new projects we will do this coming year.”

Club Ambassadors: Abby M and Hannah W - Year 13

At Knitting club, we learn the basic stitches and then use them for mini projects. These might include: Making innocent smoothie hats (for every hat made, innocent donate 25p to Age Concern). Making ‘twiddle muffs’ to send to Kew Care Home for dementia patients. (A twiddle muff is a knitted fabric tube with accessories on them. Different yarn textures allow the person’s hand to stay warm and they are able to twiddle with the various bits and pieces. This helps to ease agitation and calm the person’s mood, as they can keep their hands and minds occupied).

KS3 Close Harmony Singers Led by: Miss Green Years: 7 - 9 Primary Aims To provide an opportunity for singers in KS3 to develop their singing in harmony skills. To prepare a cappella and other close harmony repertoire pieces for performance at concerts and church services. To encourage members to form their own close harmony groups.

KS3 Close Harmony Singers meets before school on Thursday mornings. Singers need to audition to join as they need to have a strong voice that can maintain precise intonation and hold their own part against other harmony lines. We generally rehearse pieces that are in 3 or 4 parts and frequently prepare items for the Christmas and Easter services.

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“I really enjoy Close Harmony as it gives us a chance to sing and have fun in a relaxed environment. We always sing really fun songs and have a laugh, and makes getting up earlier on Thursdays totally worth it!!” Club Ambassador: Eleanor H - Year 8

LAMDA Lessons Led by: Ms Goodman Years: 7 - 8 The Drama Department is also happy to support the work of Helen Goodman who runs sessions on Wednesday and Friday

lunchtimes to prepare students from a range of year groups for their LAMDA examinations.

Led by: Mr Cawsey Years: 7 - 13 All students are made to feel welcome at Wimbledon High School. We are proud to be a Stonewall Champion school and have applied for our Bronze school status. Our LGBTQ+ group meets once a week with the aim of being a safe and supportive space for all students to discuss anything that may be of interest to them. There have

been numerous student led discussions including ‘LGBTQ+ women in film’ and ‘LGBTQ+ characters in literature.’ Last year, students led our very first PRIDE week and this was very successful indeed. Feel free to pop along - you will be made to feel most welcome.

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LGBTQ+

Linguaclub Team: Frau Sña Serafini, Frau Venter, Mme Moloney, Mme Stone, Sra Ruck Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims

Everyone is welcome to attend Linguaclub, no matter which languages you are learning! For Year 7 we will be running

To expand vocabulary in a range of languages and go beyond what is taught in lessons. To find out about French/ German/Spanish culture (films, books, music, food). To develop spontaneity when speaking in French/German/ Spanish.

the Routes into Languages Spelling Bee; a national competition in French, German and Spanish. For Year 8 and up there will be the opportunity to write articles in different languages about a range of topics for our languages magazine. There will also be the chance to practise speaking your languages with native speakers, to help you develop your fluency and build your confidence. If you love learning languages, then this is definitely the club for you!

Little Sax

Led by: Mr Wilson Years: 7 - 9 Primary Aims

Little Sax is the group for girls who have just started learning the saxophone, playing a range of popular music in an ensemble atmosphere. Specialist arrangements enable the pupils to learn at their own rate to promote their musicality.

Club Ambassador: Emily N - Year 12

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

To give girls who have just started learning the saxophone a chance to perform in an ensemble. To gain greater confidence in learning how to play the saxophone. To improve sight reading skills and work on instrumental technique.

“Little Sax is a club for beginner saxophonists who want to improve their ensemble work in a relaxed and supportive environment. We play modern pop music for example, ‘Shake it off’ by Taylor Swift and ‘Troublemaker’ by Olly Murs which are arranged by the amazing Mr Wilson and we perform at termly concerts. Little Sax installs the essential confidence needed as you progress in music. Come along to meet new people and enjoy playing familiar music!”

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Mah Jong Led by: Mrs Johnson Years: 7 - 13 Mah Jong is a Chinese game played with tiles. The tiles are made up of 5 sets of ‘suites’ or ‘symbols’. The aim of the game is to collect and discard a number of tiles until you complete a hand consisting of four ‘groups’ of tiles and a pair of identical tiles. Each ‘group’ consists of either three or four identical tiles or three consecutively numbered tiles in one suit. When a player

has completed such a hand, the player calls “Mah Jong”, and a game is won by that person. It can be fast and furious and is a game of luck and skill, sometimes more luck than skill! No prior knowledge needed! How to play the game will be explained to you when you first start and the rules are few and simple. You will be playing like a pro in no time.

Maths Puzzles and Competitions Team: Ms Fawcett and Mrs Quaradeghini (formerly Miss Robjent) Years: 7 - 13

Primary Aims To have fun doing Maths just because you enjoy it. To develop problem-solving skills. To work as a team and have the chance to represent the school. Maths puzzles and competitions are lots of fun - the club is a great opportunity to do some Maths outside of lessons as an

individual or in teams. You will develop your confidence with problem solving and your everyday Maths is likely to improve. Anyone can join and take part at their own level. If you particularly enjoy a challenge, you may get the opportunity to represent the school in a team competition, such as Hans Woyda and UKMT Team Challenges.

Merton Against Trafficking

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Led by: Sna Nullens Years: 10 - 11 Merton Against Trafficking (‘MAT’) was set up by Raynes Park Community Church in order to tackle and eventually eliminate the trafficking of people for exploitation in the Merton borough. Human trafficking is a fast growing international crime which directly affects people within our community in Merton. The vision of MAT is that nobody should be bought or sold and it aims to uncover the extent to which trafficking is a problem in

Merton and ultimately take action to stop this injustice. As well as fundraising for this charity, some members of Year 11 have become ambassadors for MAT and have begun investigating what can be done to raise awareness about human trafficking in the local area. If you are interested in finding out more about this issue and supporting them in their endeavour, do come along to the club.

Team: Ms East, Mrs Brown Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To promote wellbeing. To encourage relaxation. To create a calm space for mindfulness.

Jigsaw

Join us for an opportunity to take a step back from the busy day in order to appreciate and savour our lives more fully. Find ways of dealing with anxiety and stress more intelligently as well as how to make the most out of every moment. Come and share your own ideas and favourite ways for relaxing and reflecting. We will try meditations as well as other ways of slowing down such as mindful eating, walking and craft activities.

In the hectic stresses of modern life, it is no surprise mindfulness has become the buzzword of recent years. Jigsaw puzzles allow the brain to relax while keeping the hands busy. Much like popular adult colouring books, they provide a calming distraction from hours spent staring at screens. An easy way to channel the imagination, a jigsaw puzzle gives you a creative outlet whilst keeping your hands busy and your mind focused. Completing a jigsaw puzzle can even put our brains into the same meditative state that we experience while dreaming! So why not take some time out away from work, help focus your brain and relax.

If you are too busy to commit regularly we also offer a 10-minute meditation at 2.10 every day, drop in whenever you feel the need.

Mindfulness & Meditation Club

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Mindfulness Club

Minecraft Club

Team: Mr Sajadah, Ms Hasan Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To build creative and collaborative skills. To develop critical thinking, problem solving and coding skills. To apply/ enhance knowledge of other subjects.

Club Ambassador: Raeesah K - Year 13

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In this Club, you will be able to log onto the Minecraft Edu platform and guide your avatar throughout the virtual world. You will be able learn how to program your “Agent” and work with other pupils to complete projects together. The programming Language we will use is either blockly or Python. Students will be able to construct buildings, world famous landmarks and all sorts of Historical locations.

“Minecraft club is a popular club open to students who have a Minecraft License. Students in Y7 and Y8 will be given a License by their Class teacher. Students studying Computer Science in Y9 - Y13 will also be given a License. This license would last for 1 year and should allow you to download Minecraft Edu on your own device too. The club is fun and educational but space is limited, so sign up asap.”

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

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MindGrit - Paid Club Led by: Ms Gupta Years: 7 - 11 Primary Aims Learn to communicate, influence and motivate others positively. Apply your knowledge of strengths and talents in decision making - e.g. choosing GCSEs and A levels. Gain skills to work with people who think and act differently from

you. Set meaningful goals. Manage stress positively during exams, interviews etc. Resolve conflicts effectively. Develop a leadership mindset. Manage setbacks positively and creatively.

Foundation Year 1: The course is guided by the scientific and extremely comprehensive VIA Inventory of Strengths (VIA-IS) model. The VIA-IS is composed of a 240 item measure of 24 character strengths (such as perspective, perseverance, self-regulation, etc.) and is developed by well-known American psychologists, Peterson & Seligman.

management, positive relationships, social & emotional intelligence along with responsible decision making. The acquired knowledge along with sustained deliberate practice positively impacts all aspects of their student and home life. Certificates of achievement are earned on successful completion of three terms in each year including demonstration of their learning through a leadership project of their choice.

Comprehensive Year 2: The course is guided by the comprehensive Clifton Strengths grounded in more than 5 decades of scientific studies. Clifton Strengths has established 34 unique themes of talent categorized under four distinct domains of leadership strengths (Executing, Influencing, Relationship Building and Strategic Thinking). Couse material is mainly directed towards students of Y9 and upwards as it focusses on maximizing resume building opportunities. In both years, students learn to maximize their potential by learning to skilfully apply the strengths models to develop their understanding of self-awareness, self-

Foundation Leadership Year 1 Club available on Wednesdays after school in Room H from 4.15 to 5.15 pm - open to Years 7, 8 & 9. Comprehensive Leadership Year 2 Club available on Thursdays after school in Room H from 4.15 to 5.15 pm - open to Years 9 upwards and those who have completed the Foundation Year 1. Fees: ÂŁ150 per term. Please send email to Geeta Gupta (Geeta) at mindgrit@gmail.com to sign up. Please also visit MindGrit on Facebook.

Team: Ms Higgs, Mrs Adams, Ms Johnston, Ms Harel Years: 7 - 11 Primary Aim We will run weekly Mapathons to add vital map details to satellite imagery for the parts of the world experiencing natural disasters and humanitarian crises. These details are crucial to those providing immediate assistance on the ground. Each year, disasters around the world kill nearly 100,000 and affect or displace 200 million people. Many of the places where these disasters occur are literally ‘missing’

from any map and first responders lack the information to make valuable decisions regarding relief efforts. Missing Maps is an open, collaborative project in which you can help to map areas where humanitarian organisations are trying to meet the needs of vulnerable people. Suitable for all, the Missing Maps Club will be a fun way to donate something more than money to a really worthwhile cause.

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Missing Maps

Model United Nations Led by: Ms Gilchrist Years: 9 - 13 Primary Aims

This student run club will familiarise you with the workings of the United Nations, how debates there are conducted and how resolutions are written. You will research and debate current issues you feel passionate about from the point of view of a member nation. Deepen your knowledge of already familiar countries and issues, or challenge yourself by investigating somewhere new! Whilst the debates are formal, using UN language (which is easier to get the hang of than it seems at first!), the meetings are relaxed and friendly, and all are welcome.

“Model United Nations is the perfect place to find out more about geopolitics and current affairs, make new friends, and gain confidence when public speaking! Practice articulating your ideas in front of a very relaxed group. My favourite part of MUN is definitely the conferences - it’s so lovely to discuss relevant political issues with people at other schools! There is always lively and ‘ fruitful’ debate, making it a must for anyone interested in future political careers.”

Finding out more about other countries and cultures. Widening your knowledge of current affairs. Developing your intellectual skills of analysis and debate.

Club Ambassadors: Lulu G and Millie M - Year 13

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Musical Theatre Ensemble Team: Ms Butler and Ms Myles Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To learn how to sing, how to blend and how to be theatrical with your voice. To perform in termly school concerts. To allow you to improve your musical communication skills within a small ensemble environment.

A non-auditioned choir for all girls in Years 7-13 without audition focusing on having fun when learning to sing songs from musicals old and new! The focus is on learning how to project, achieve breath control and to blend as an ensemble, and is led by a professional singer to allow vocal technique to be discussed.

Club Ambassador: Alyssa P - Year 8

Netball

Team: Ms Paterson, Ms Cutteridge, Mrs Hammond, Mrs Salt Years: 7 - 13 Netball runs in the Spring term. Last year we had 28 teams across all age groups! We run teams at every age group which all have training and fixtures every week, including Saturday mornings. We enter many local, regional and national competitions. ‘A’ teams train in the off-season as many tournaments take place in the Autumn term.

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“Musical Theatre Ensemble is one of my favourite places to be. You get to learn really fun songs from your favourite musical shows and there are plenty of opportunities to perform them. It is also a time where you get to see all of your friends that you might not see during the school day. There are plenty of opportunities for solos, but nobody will make you do anything you don’t want to. We always have plenty of laughs.”

Excitingly we are starting B and C teams training in the off-season as well in order to fully prepare ourselves for the upcoming season. Autumn term training will be for A teams only in preparation for cup games and tournament which occur this term.

Led by: Mr Daws Years: 11 - 13 Primary Aims

To develop your voice as a writer. To gain a deeper understanding of theatre and dramaturgy. To work collaboratively as a company of playwrights. Calling all budding playwrights! New Views is a scriptwriting club, run in collaboration with the National Theatre. Over the course of the year, you will each write your own one-act plays, through weekly workshops and a one-on-one mentoring visit from a

professional playwright. At the end of the year, following a national competition, your play has the chance to be fully produced and performed at the National Theatre, with a further ten from around the country being staged as rehearsed readings by the NT company.

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News Views Club

This club is suitable for girls in Years 11 to 13. Though spaces are limited, there is no requirement for you to study English or Theatre Studies - just bring a passion for the theatre and a love of words!

Open Views

Led by: Mr Daws Years: 9 - 13 Department which seeks to support the development of budding Scriptwriters.

Open Views is a new Scriptwriting initiative run in conjunction with the English

Philosocoffee

Team: Mr Cawsey, Mrs Croucher Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aim Come along to discuss philosophical questions / ethical issues!

Meaning of life, What is reality? All students are welcome - we look forward to seeing you soon!

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Philosocoffee is a popular co-curricular group run by the Religious Studies department and is held every Wednesday in Room P. Students choose a topic that they are interested in, followed by a presentation and then lively discussion.

Topics have included: Women in religion, Sexuality and religious approaches to the LGBTQ+ community, Descartes, Plato.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Politics Society

Team: Mr Turner, Miss Beckwith Years: 10 - 13 Primary Aims To promote a deeper understanding of politics and current affairs in Britain and around the world. To develop not only critical thinking but a pluralistic attitude to contentious issues. To help develop pupils’ sense of self through robust debate and challenge. Dislike Trump? Are you ‘Re-moaning’ your way through Brexit? Come and discuss issues that will define the landscape of your

Britain and the rest of the world for years to come. Politics Society is for everyone and you will only need two things; the ability to form an opinion and most importantly, an open mind. Come and learn about the way in which Government interacts with Politics and vice versa, both in the UK and globally. Examine contemporary debates and contentious issues through the various lenses of ideologies, political theories and research.

Psychology Club

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Led by: Mr Doyle

Years: 10 - 13

Psychology is the study of human mind and behaviour. It uses the scientific method to investigate why people behave and think as they do, and it is mostly about everyday normal behaviour that all of us display. The club will give you a chance to learn about classic studies in Psychology, such as blind obedience to authority, conformity (why do we publically agree with the majority, even when we privately disagree?) and minority influence, which examines how individuals or small groups change the minds of

the majority. Other areas we will cover: how memory works, attachment (which investigates the emotional bond between the young child and the child’s primary caregiver) and mental illness in the form of phobias and schizophrenia. You will get a chance to be participants in experiments and to learn something about what makes human beings (including you) tick. If you are interested in exploring the real final frontier (the human mind) come along.

Team: Miss Lindsay, Mr Hetherington, plus part-time rowing coaches Gabby Rodriguez, Chris Rae, Dylan Wing, Pip Cook Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To be one of the best and most successful girl’s rowing schools in the country. To be competitive in all aspects of training and racing - running, ergo work, weights and all boat types. To win prestigious titles, such as National Schools’ Regatta, Henley Royal Regatta, Women’s Henley Regatta and the Schools’ Head of the River. To train girls towards representing Great Britain at an international level (World or European). To learn to train hard but to also balance all other aspects of school life.

We offer recreational rowing for girls who do not want to commit to such a robust and demanding programme, with the aim of occasionally competing at local races. All girls who wish to be competitive throughout any academic year are offered the chance to attend our European training camp held every April (Italy/France). We offer rowing and training opportunities throughout all school holiday periods. Above all, the boat club is a happy and welcoming environment, where girls train hard in the knowledge they have the full support of the coaching team and rowing squad team mates.

Rowing runs all year round, including optional racing and training throughout the summer holiday period. Girls are expected to fully commit to the programme. Training volume and frequency increases with age; our senior squad can train 6+ sessions each week. The programme encompasses weekly

indoor rowing sessions (the ergo), intense strength and fitness training together with river sessions based out of Molesey Boat Club. We participate in many local and national regattas and Head of the River races.

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Rowing

Running Club

Team: Mr White, Ms Duncan, Ms Evans, Miss Beckwith Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims Get out of school a burn some energy Improve levels of fitness. Running club is a great way to spend one of your long lunchtimes. Whether you want to go for a run with friends, improve your

fitness and stamina or try and improve on your PB it is a great way to spend 30-40 minutes of your lunch hour. We can often split into different groups depending on ability so you don’t need to feel under pressure to go faster than you are able to.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Scribblers Club

Led by: Ms Gartrell Years: 7 - 11 Primary Aims To develop creative writing skills (poetry, prose, short stories, drama). To build confidence sharing and performing work. To develop redrafting skills and gain inspiration from others.

“Scribblers is a club where you can use your imagination. If you love writing, or you want to develop it more, come and join in with the fun games and tasks that you can do in Scribblers! You don’t need to be good at writing - just enjoy the interesting ideas that everyone comes up with and the great opportunity to meet the girls in other years. Come along and give it a go!”

If you are wanting a quiet space to write your own stories or poems, to enter upcoming creative writing competitions, or simply to play imaginative writing games with other year groups, Scribblers is the place to flex your creative writing muscles whilst having fun at the same time! The sessions can be shaped to the interests and strengths of the students that attend. There is no pressure to attend every week, but regular attendees are more likely to gain confidence and improve their writing. Bring any work of your own to develop and share with a friendly, constructive audience.

Club Ambassador: Lizzy B - Year 8

Senior Philosophy Society Led by: Mr Gunn Years: 11 - 13 Primary Aim To discuss new & thought-provoking topics in the fields of Philosophy & Ethics.

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Is euthanasia a human right? What does it mean to be a person? Does language shape our thoughts? If you want to discuss and find out possible answers to any of these questions, come to Senior Philosophy

Society! Every week we will discuss a new, thought-provoking topic in fields of philosophy and ethics. Don’t worry about being new to the subject or being more science-focussed! Since philosophy is so transferable, we will be covering matters of medicine, law, technology, literature and much more, so there will be a topic for everyone.

Led by: Ms Eastaugh Years: 11 - 13

Whilst the performing aspect itself is enjoyable, it’s the community and group you establish as a cast that will stay with me. Getting ready together, at the mirror, the long evening rehearsals, and the pre-show jitters are experiences shared by everyone. I couldn’t imagine my life at WHS without it.” Club Ambassador: Nella T - Year 13

“By being in the school musicals and plays I’ve been able to grow to be more confident and find my voice to express myself more. I’ve always had fun during rehearsals and have made some incredible friends from other year groups due to the fact that we all love performing.” Club Ambassador: Rin J - Year 13

Year 11, 12 & 13 students can opt to take part in EITHER the Senior Play, to be performed in December, OR the Senior Musical to be performed at the end of January. All students who want to get involved are absolutely welcome and indeed encouraged to join in, whatever their aptitude or experience. Auditions take place early in the Autumn term. Compulsory attendance for whole cast on the days designated in the Co- Curricular programme is a minimum requirement. In addition, principal characters will be expected to be available to rehearse at additional times. However, we endeavour to accommodate students’ other commitments where possible and will agree the terms of the rehearsal schedule in advance. Students involved in principal roles are also expected to opt for Drama Enrichment during the Autumn term. The audition process is simply to aid staff making decisions about how to cast key roles.

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Senior Play/Senior Musical

Sinfonia

Led by: Mr Bristow Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To provide an opportunity for outstanding musicians to work on character of music. To improve sight-reading skills. To be the flagship instrumental ensemble of Wimbledon High.

Club Ambassador: Louisa C - Year 13

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

A new auditioned ensemble for 2017 and continuing into 2018, Sinfonia is for our highly able musicians who are working beyond a Grade VI standard. They typically spend 3 weeks individually learning the music and then have a few rehearsals before performing challenging repertoire in concerts. They accompany A Cappella and Canto at Cadogan Hall, as well as leading the music at Speech Day.

“We typically play movements from symphonies and music that is more demanding than what we cover in Symphony Orchestra. What sets Sinfonia apart from other music clubs is that everyone learns their music in advance and then comes together having already learned the notes so we only require a few rehearsals before the concert. For the Summer Soiree in 2018, we managed to put together the 1st movement of Haydn’s 26th symphony in just two rehearsals! It’s so much fun and lovely to play with musicians ranging from Year 7 all the way to Year 13.”

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

STEAMing Ahead

Team: Mrs Farrer, Dr Risso Years: 7 - 9 Primary Aims To develop problem solving and other academic skills. To build team working skills. To discover more about innovations in STEAM. Come and join us STEAMing Ahead in the STEAMspace. We meet robots and scientists, enter competitions and use technology to find out more about STEAM in the world around us.

STEAMing Ahead is great fun. We work together in teams to develop our STEAM skills while taking part in a range of national challenges and competitions. Scientists and engineers give us insights to their roles and support us in projects such as the Engineer Leaders Award, Practical Action and IET Challenges, citizen science and technology enhanced learning.

STEAM Meetsâ&#x20AC;Ś Led by: Mrs Farrer Years: 7 - 9 42

Primary Aims To have the opportunity to meet scientists and engineers. To find out more about the variety of roles in the STEAM sector. To discover more about innovations in STEAM.

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Come and meet a scientist or an engineer in the STEAMspace. Find out what they do, what sort of person they are, and the types of projects we can get involved in to work with them further. Questions are to be encouraged!

STEAM meets gives all students the opportunity to hear from a scientist or engineer who is passionate about their role and gain a practical insight into what their job involves. There will be opportunities to be involved in follow up projects if interested, or just simply come along and find out more about STEAM innovations and opportunities.

Led by: Mr Newell Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims

To provide an opportunity to develop string technique, improving your ability on your instrument. To improve sight-reading skills and encourage performing resilience. To perform in termly concerts at school. To allow you to reach the standard required by other ensembles like Baroque Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra. The aim of this ensemble is to really help you to develop into an excellent string player. The group is open to everyone that plays the violin, viola, cello or double bass. It’s a fun environment led by one of our peripatetic music staff and has a real benefit to your ability to play your instrument to a higher standard.

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String Orchestra

“String Orchestra is a fun group for musicians between Grade 1 and Grade 5. We learn to develop out sight-reading skills, playing music that is challenging but fun. It has really helped me to develop these skills and is a really fun club to be involved with. It’s a larger ensemble, so you are not playing solos.” Club Ambassador: Ambar M - Year 9

Team: Ms Clare Kennington (A), Ms Alice Poppleton (B and C) Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims To provide an opportunity for developing chamber music skills. To improve sightreading skills and encourage performing resilience. To enter national ProCorda Music competitions and hopefully get through to the final!

“Joining String Quartet this term has been fun because we have tried out challenging pieces but have played pieces we are familiar to. Also, getting to know members has been such a great opportunity as we can talk and can be people we can rely on. The most memorable part of this club is when we had a week till a concert and we didn’t fully learn the piece however cheering each other on showed how much we care for each other and enabled us to perform really well.” Club Ambassadors: String Quartet A - Grace K (Y9); String Quartet B - Eleanor H (Y8); String Quartet C - Amy C (Y11)

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

We have three string quartets rehearsing weekly at WHS, each of which is led by a specialist string teacher. These groups encourage you to work as a small ensemble, developing your musical communication skills and your ability to react and respond to other musicians. These groups are formed by audition.

String Quartet - A, B and C

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Swimming Led by: Miss Frost Years: 7 - 13 Swim Squad at WHS has an elite and also inclusive training squad (selected by trials at the beginning of the school year). Inclusive because many girls come to training for fitness purposes, however may not wish to attend many galas. For the more Elite swimmers we have galas of all levels ranging from friendly meets against local schools to National events. We were delighted that our U13s finished 7th at the National Finals last year and our girls regularly qualify for the highly competitive Surrey Finals, with a couple of

WHS students recently making the National Finals. Girls have 3 training sessions a week from which they may choose to swim in conjunction with their own external club swimming. (We make sure that we support elite swimmers in their training.) For girls in Year 9 and above there is also the opportunity to do one hour’s land training before their swim session run by Wandsworth Swimming Club. Monday sessions are for girls in Year 6 and above, run by the Head Coach at Wimbledon Dolphins.

Swing Band 44

Led by: Mr Wilson Years: 9 - 13 “Swing Band is by far my favourite club! It is a small group of skilled musicians who play really interesting, and often challenging, jazz pieces which are specially composed for us by our band director. My favourite experience through being in Swing Band was last Christmas when we were recorded and filmed playing for the school’s digital Christmas card. (If you’re interested the final video can be found on youtube under the name Swing Band is a great ensemble for woodwind, brass and percussion players to ‘Wimbledon High School Christmas E-Card 2017’). What I also love about Swing Band be in an ensemble that looks at all things Swing. They play music at a range of events, is the atmosphere, as the small size lends itself well to tight friendships within the group, so including school concerts, entertainment events and external events. every rehearsal has plenty of laughter!” Primary Aims

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To provide an opportunity to develop string technique, improving your ability on your instrument. To improve sightreading skills and encourage performing resilience. To perform in termly concerts at school. To allow you to reach the standard required by other ensembles like Baroque Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra.

Club Ambassador: Lizzy B - Year 11

Led by: Mr Bristow Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims

To be the flagship instrumental ensemble of WHS. To perform a range of musical styles - film music, classical music, contemporary music. To lead the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols in December and Cadogan Hall concert in March. To allow you to improve your musical communication skills within a large ensemble environment.

“Symphony Orchestra is an experience like no other - the enjoyable and communicative atmosphere really helps you develop the qualities of true musicianship, whilst learning some of the best repertoire alongside supportive and talented people. The range of ages really helps you get to know musicians from across the Senior years, including Sixth Form, especially through preparations for key events such as the phenomenal concert at Cadogan Hall, during which both performers and audience members find great delight. Join this weekly club if you are eager to learn some challenging music and make invaluable memories along the way.” Club Ambassador: Miriam P - Y13

The Symphony Orchestra numbers some 80 performers of an ABRSM Grade VI standard or above. They are the flagship instrumental ensemble of the school and play a leading role in concerts and services throughout the year, performing a range of music including classical repertoire, film music scores and concerto movements. They rehearse once a week to prepare for the concerts. Recent music performed includes Marquez Danzon, Saint-Saens Carnival of

the Animals and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7. We record two CDs each year from our concerts.

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Symphony Orchestra

Tafelmusik

Led by: Mr McDonald Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims

This specialist ensemble looks at historical performance practice, incorporating this into the small ensemble. The group is auditioned, but the reward for this is that they are exceptional, getting through to the semifinals of the ProCorda music festival in 2018!

Club Ambassador: Isabel N - Year 10

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

This is an auditioned group for girls who play the recorder, flute, oboe and bassoon. To learn how to work as an ensemble at a high level. To perform in termly school concerts and national music competitions, including ProCorda. To allow you to improve your musical communication skills within a small ensemble environment.

“Tafelmusik is a chamber group for 4 wind players who play generally baroque and classical repertoire. One of my favourite events this year was being able to play in the ProCorda national chamber music competition because it really brought us together as a group and was an amazing experience to perform in front of experienced musicians. This year we had a group of 2 flutes, a recorder and a bassoon but we want to try many different pieces and combinations of instruments.”

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Tea and Tinkin’

Led by: Mr Addis Years: 10 - 13 At Tea and Tinkin’ we gather together after school - crucially, with a cup of something, to discuss some of life’s more esoteric questions. Last year’s ponderings included: Traditions - how do they begin and why are they important? Humour - what is funny

and why? Come along for fun and insightful conversation, and make new friends along the way. Tuesday afternoons unless Explore or Rosewell talks are on - in which case we might see you at those instead!

Tennis

Team: Professional tennis coaches plus Miss Cutteridge, Miss Gordon Years: 7 - 13

Launched in January 2018, the WHS Tennis Academy provides students with high quality, paid for lessons run by professional coaches. Lessons take place throughout the year either at lunch time or on Saturday mornings. Our Tennis Academy provides elite coaching at all levels to WHS girls with the overall aim of becoming a leading tennis school, with the highest performance standards, in the area. We will support potential Tennis Scholars with their training and academic demands in a bespoke programme.

As well as the Academy we run numerous tennis teams throughout the summer term as Tennis is one of our main Summer term sports. There are competitive teams which play in the LTA team competition, Surrey League and various tournaments and ‘friendly’ teams which play against local opposition at all age groups. Whatever your level there is a tennis programme for you. Sign up for Academy tennis lessons must be done by parents via Firefly.

TGIF

Team: Ms Green, Mr Holloway, Ms Carpenter Years: 7 - 13

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Primary Aims To provide an opportunity for students of any faith or none to explore the Christian faith. To listen to speakers who prepare interesting short talks on different parts of the Bible. To enjoy discussing issues of life and faith with students from all year groups. TGIF is a unique club open to all students in any year group. Each week we enjoy meeting up and relaxing over shared snacks before listening to a short talk given by a guest

speaker. The guest speaker will be given a few verses from the Bible to explore and explain. There is always time for questions and everyone is welcome to attend.

“TGIF is a friendly place, and gives an opportunity to have a look at the Bible outside the classroom. Here, no question is too big! It’s also great for inter-year bonding, and if that’s not enough, there’s food!” Club Ambassador: Aniya S - Year 9

Led by: Mrs Farrer Year: 12 Primary Aims

To have the opportunity to undertake cutting-edge science that has meaningful impact on a future space mission. To work alongside students from our partner schools. To work in a team with ORBYTS tutors from UCL. To gain experience of scientific research. Invitation only - please see Mrs Farrer if interested. To be considered students should be studying 2 of Chemistry, Physics and Maths A Levels. We are very excited to be involved in the Original Research By Young Twinkle Students (ORBYTS) programme. A group of Year 12 students will work with fellow

students from our partner schools on original research linked to the Twinkle space mission under the tuition of PhD students and other young scientists.

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Twinkle ORBYTS

This project gives students an introduction to undergraduate-level science and allows them to apply scientific skills such as literature searching and using advanced Excel. Skills such as time management, presentation of complex research findings to general audiences and working together are also important. We will find out which ORBYTS project we have been assigned to when the project starts and we will then have the opportunity to meet scientists at all levels.

VEX Robotics

Led by: Mr Sharman Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims Practically apply critical thinking and problem solving skills. Develop new and existing mechanical engineering knowledge. Learn how use code to make autonomous robots.

VEX inspires students to become the problem solving heroes of tomorrow. The VEX EDR system harnesses the excitement of building robots to immerse learners in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).

VOX

Led by: Ms Robertshaw Years: 7 - 13 Primary Aims

VOX is a new choir for 2018, taken from existing members of A Cappella. The idea behind the club is that it is smaller in number, allowing for a greater chamber choir feeling, and helping pupils to prepare for Oxbridge Choral Awards.

Club Ambassador: Anna K - Year 13

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

To give 16 girls the chance to sing in SATB harmony with staff, aiding preparation for Oxbridge Choral Awards. To learn new choral repertoire. To improve sight reading skills.

“VOX is a new club beginning in September 2018. This is an auditioned choir comprised of both students and staff, which will be singing choral music in four-part harmony. There will be four girls from each year in the choir, allowing for a small and selective ensemble that hopes to tackle some trickier music. VOX will be an excellent environment for advanced singers to grow and learn from each other in a focused environment, with the hope of performing some wonderful music in the next academic year.”

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

WHS Gala Concert Led by: Ms Butler Years: 7 - 13 Students from across all year groups will be encouraged to sign up to take part in a major Musical Theatre concert planned for early in the Summer term. We will need students to perform in groups, as pairs and as soloists. We will also be co-ordinating some larger group numbers and working with a professional choreographer on

some sequences. Commitment to a regular rehearsal slots will be needed for those students who wish to take part in this, so watch out for the notices. As ever we will endeavour to accommodate students’ other commitments where possible and will agree the terms of the rehearsal schedule in advance.

Wind Band

Led by: Mr Wilson Years: 7 - 13

Primary Aims To give wind and brass players (and percussionists) a chance to be in an ensemble. To gain greater confidence in sight-reading and instrumental techniques. To perform in termly concerts in the school. Wind Band is a great ensemble for woodwind and brass players to be in an ensemble and learn music that is specifically tailored for these instruments, including Big Band, Wind Band and popular classics. It is led by a specialist music teacher to help improve instrumental technique.

“Wind Band is a great ensemble for woodwind and brass players, as well as percussionists, to play both typical and unusual repertoire, and to improve musical techniques within a supportive environment. In previous years, we have played both the Vaughan Williams English Folk Song suite, but also music with Latin American influences. It is a fun way to spend lunchtimes, as there are lots of friendly musicians from different year groups. The group also plays in ensemble concerts during the year, so there are many opportunities to perform.” Club Ambassador: Laura F - Year 12

Wimbledon Wonderers …@WimbledonHigh

Team: Mr Addis, Ms Franklin, Ms Nicholas Years: 7 - 9 In Wimbledon Wonderers, we traverse the world of academia. Each week one of our exceptional staff will lead a discussion/ lesson on an extra-curricular topic of their choice to enrapture the minds of the students with a realm of possibilities. Some examples from last year include: perfection in Nature, a mathematical understanding of shapes; understanding the importance

of salt; and an insight into modern French music. Every department will offer one or more sessions to ensure a breadth of investigation across the year. It is guaranteed to inspire intellectual discovery and allow students to learn a plethora of currently unexamined material. All Year 7 & 8 scholars are expected to attend; others welcome.

Led by: Ms Kennedy Years: 7 - 13

Calling the Women of Wimbledon! We’re going to keep WoWing this year. If you have an interest in feminism and taking action

to make our world a more equal one, come along to WoW club for inspiring discussions, healthy debates and serious sisterhood.

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WoW - Feminist Club

Year 7 House Drama Led by: Ms Eastaugh Year: 7

This runs initially in the Autumn term as a weekly club where Year 12 leaders run activities for the all the Year 7 girls in their respective Houses. Students can then opt to take part in the House Drama competition

and the sessions become rehearsals for the big event in January. After this, those students who wish to can get involved in the Shakespeare project we have planned for the Summer term.

Year 8 Musical Led by: Ms Butler Year: 8

Co- Curricular programme is a minimum requirement. In addition, principal characters will be expected to be available to rehearse at additional times. However, we endeavour to accommodate students’ other commitments where possible and will agree the terms of the rehearsal schedule in advance.

Students will need to sign up for this activity at the beginning of the Autumn term, but the auditions and rehearsals won’t start until after half term. (See Year 8 Drama Club) The audition process is simply to aid staff making decisions about how to cast key roles. All students who want to get involved are absolutely welcome and indeed encouraged to join in, whatever their aptitude or experience. Compulsory attendance for whole cast on the days designated in the

In the Spring term, this club will change to become Year 8 Drama Club - preparing a performance of Shakespeare.

Year 9 Play

Led by: Ms Eastaugh Year: 9 experience. Compulsory attendance for whole cast on the days designated in the Co- Curricular programme is a minimum requirement. In addition, principal characters will be expected to be available to rehearse at additional times. However, we endeavour to accommodate students’ other commitments where possible and will agree the terms of the rehearsal schedule in advance.

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Those who want to sign up and audition for the Year 9 Play which is to be performed in the Spring term, will enjoy weekly workshops to fine-tune their skills until rehearsals get into full flow after Autumn half term. The audition process is simply to aid staff making decisions about how to cast key roles. All students who want to get involved are absolutely welcome and indeed encouraged to join in, whatever their aptitude or

Co-Curricular Life 2018 ~ 2019

Year 10 Play

Team: Mrs Lunnon, Mr Daws Year: 10 In September, students will be able to audition to be part of a Year 10 Play, to be performed in the Spring term. Rehearsals

for this special project, to be run by Mrs Lunnon, will be agreed in advance and must be adhered to.

Year 9 & 10 Musical

Led by: Ms McDowell Years: 9 - 10

In the Spring term students from Years 9 & 10 can opt to take part in the Summer production which is always a great fun way to end the year. The audition process is simply to aid staff making decisions about how to cast key roles. All students who want to get involved are absolutely welcome and indeed encouraged to join in, whatever their aptitude or experience. Compulsory attendance for whole cast on the days designated in the Co- Curricular programme is a minimum requirement. In addition, principal characters will be expected to be available to rehearse at additional times. However, we endeavour to accommodate students’ other commitments where possible and will agree the terms of the rehearsal schedule in advance.

“I have found a small community within Wimbledon which I think will be my friends for a long time. In all, being in the musical was one of the best things I’ve done all year!” Club Ambassador: Vera K - Year 10

“Being in the musical this year has definitely been hard work but the amount of enjoyment you get from it knows no bounds. You get to know so many new people who share the same enthusiasm for drama and honestly, for many of us, the late Friday rehearsals had been a thing to look forward to, to take our minds off upcoming exams.” Club Ambassador: Sophia M - Year 10

Yoga club

Led by: Miss Cutteridge Years: 7 - 13 …@WimbledonHigh

Primary Aims To look inward and make time for you. To relax and feel calmer. To create space in your body and mind. To support your sporting performance and reduce injuries. Open to all ages and abilities this yoga class is the perfect practice to start your Thursday morning. We practice in the Senior Library. Mats are provided but please feel free to

bring your own. The mindful movement coupled with breathing will help you to feel empowered to take on whatever comes your way and live your life with new eyes both on and off your mat. Each week we explore a different sequence of movements and no two classes will ever be the same. “Yoga is not about touching your toes, it’s what you learn on the way down.”

â&#x20AC;&#x153; The quality of life is determined by its activities. â&#x20AC;? Aristotle

Wimbledon High School, Mansel Road, London SW19 4AB 020 8971 0900 • info@wim.gdst.net • www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net Head: Mrs Jane Lunnon The Girls’ Day School Trust is a Limited Company. Registered in England No. 6400. Registered Charity No. 306983. Registered Office 100 Rochester Row London SW1P 1JP | www.gdst.net