activities and clubs 2016 / 2017
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INTRODUCTION
At St Helen and St Katharine we place great emphasis on our broad extracurricular programme. Life beyond the classroom is so important in offering girls the opportunity to explore and extend their wider interests, to make friends across age groups and to build confidence. It is this combination which embodies the ethos of the school.
Life beyond the classroom here is full. A wide range of sports, clubs and societies, music, drama, educational visits, lectures and expeditions are available. We encourage the girls to explore their interests and try new things. They can participate purely for fun, to broaden their interests or to follow their strengths and excel through selective teams and groups, music and drama
productions. We aim to inspire them to develop their learning and experiences, to enjoy all that is on offer and provide them with the space and opportunity to make their own choices and find their own niche.
We hope the following pages will inspire the girls and help them to plan enjoyable, interesting and fulfilling lives beyond the classroom, in preparation for rewarding lives beyond school. The dates and times are accurate at the time of printing but the extracurricular programme will continue to develop and grow throughout the year. The latest version of Beyond can also be found in the publications section of the school website at www.shsk.org.uk.
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Clubs and Societies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Art and Design Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Art Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Art Scholars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4DT Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4GCSE Art Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4GCSE and A level Jewellery and Silversmithing Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Lower School Craft Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Pottery Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Photography Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Pottery Open Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Textiles Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Books and Beyond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Classic Novels Made Fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Digging Deeper: Close Reading Skills . . . . . .5Junior Book Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Lower School Creative Writing Club . . . . . . .5Middle School and Sixth Form Creative Writing Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Secret Shadowers Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Sixth Form Extension English . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Sixth Form Joint Literary Society . . . . . . . . . . .5
Chaplaincy Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Activate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Confirmation Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Quest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Senior Christian Forum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6World Prayer Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Chemistry Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Chess and Board Games Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Citizen Scientists Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Computing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6CREST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Debating Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7DEMOS Politics Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Eco Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Engineering Education Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . .7European Youth Parliament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Geography Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Helicon Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7History Society/Politics Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Interact Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Investor Challenge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Knit Chicks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Language Leaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Lower and Middle School Debating Club . . . .8Lower School History Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8MedSoc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Minecraft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Model United Nations (MUN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Natural History Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Modern Foreign Languages . . . . . . . . . . . 8Joint MFL Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Joint MFL Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Mandarin Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Orlando . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Philosophy Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Physics Practical Olympiad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Sanskrit Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Schools Challenge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9School Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Talking Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Young Enterprise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Drama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Audition Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Drama Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Drama Productions and Activities for 2016 / 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Bass Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Big Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Brass Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Camerata . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Cantores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Chamber Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Chamber Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Chapel Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Clarinet Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Concert Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13First Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Flute Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Jazz Ensembles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Joint Choral Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Junior Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Lower School Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Music Aural Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Musical Theatre Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Music Theory Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Saxophone Ensembles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Sight-singing Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Sinfonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Sinfonietta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Tea Concerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Vocal Ensembles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Wind Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Music Activities for 2016 / 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Badminton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Basketball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Biathlon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Cricket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Cross-country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Dance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Equestrian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Fencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Fitness Suite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Football . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Group Cycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Gymnastics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Indoor Hockey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Indoor Rowing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Lacrosse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Netball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Netball Youth Umpires Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Rounders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Rowing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Sailing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Sports Leader Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Swimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Tae Kwon-do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Trampoline Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Expeditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Art and Italian Trip to Rome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Battlefields Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Berlin Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Star City, Russia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Ski Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Kilve Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Sixth Form Study Trip to Spain . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Biology Field Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Junior Department Trip to Isle of Wight . . . . .20Geography Field Trip to Snowdonia . . . . . . . .20Art Trip to Cornwall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20Spanish, German and Italian Exchanges . . . .20The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Learning Beyond the Classroom . . . . . . . . . 21Trips and Visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Lectures and Dinners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21National Challenges and Competitions . . . . .21Thinking Suppers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Staff List 2016 / 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Contents | 32 | Introduction
CLUBS AND SOCIETIESA wide variety of clubs and societies are available . Catering for all year groups and from general interest to specialist subject areas, there is a club or society for everyone, designed to spark a new interest or develop an existing passion .
Art and Design Technology
Books and Beyond...Art ClubArt Club enables girls to build on and extend their practical skills . Projects are set each half-term and include art, craft and design activities as well as competitions .
Who: Years 5 – 8When: Monday, 12.30pmWhere: Art 3 Staff i/c: HEM
Art ScholarsEach term there is a 6 week club for Art Scholars in Years 9 - U6, which is an opportunity to have an extended period of time outside of the taught curriculum to learn a new skill, have the opportunity to work with one another on collaborative projects and use materials not used in class .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: First half of each termWhere: Pottery/Art 1/Art 2 Staff i/c: BQD/WRC/HEM
DT ClubsStudents have the opportunity to design and make their own project using a variety of materials and techniques .
Who: Years 7 and 8When: Tuesday, 12.30pmWhere: 3D2Staff i/c: ACL / TTWho: Year 11When: Wednesday and Thursday, 4.15pm – 5.00pmWhere: 3D2Staff i/c: ACL / TT
GCSE Art ClubAn opportunity for pupils taking GCSE art and design to extend their classroom work, do specialist art homework, experiment with media and discuss progress .
Who: Years 10 and 11When: Wednesday, 4.15pm – 5.00pmWhere: Art 2Staff i/c: JCM
GCSE and A level Jewellery and Silversmithing ClubPupils can learn how to design and make earrings, rings and pendants . No previous experience is required . Silver and semi-precious stones are available at cost if girls wish to use them .
Who: Years 10 – U6When: TBC, (Michaelmas term)Where: 3D2Staff i/c: ACL
Lower School Craft ClubLower School Craft Club gives pupils the opportunity to use a variety of materials and processes such as papier mache, embossed metal, mosaic, plaster casting and clay .
Who: Years 7 and 8When: Friday, 12.05pm (Michaelmas and Lent terms)Where: 3D1Staff i/c: SMC
Classic Novels Made Fun This light-hearted group aims to make classic literature fun and accessible . Readers will be encouraged to dip their toes deeper into the world of English literature from the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries . As well as having a go at reading the novels we will be exploring adaptations of classic novels through film, television, radio plays and graphic novels .
Who: Years 7 – 11 When: On a three weekly basis (day TBC) 4.10-5.00pm Where: Lecture Theatre Staff i/c: TBC
Digging Deeper: Close Reading SkillsWho: Year 11When: TBCWhere: D2Staff i/c: SHM
Junior Book Club We discuss and recommend books to each other, play games and take part in other book related activities .
Who: Years 5 and 6 When: Every fortnight (day TBC) 4.10-5.00pm Where: Ground floor library Staff i/c: TBC
Lower School Creative Writing ClubWe will meet approximately fortnightly to share our writing and try out new techniques, aiming to enter competitions, produce our own publications and have fun being creative . See English Department noticeboard for further details .
Who: Years 7 and 8When: Fridays 12.40pm alternate weeksWhere: D2Staff i/c: TAN
Middle School and Sixth Form Creative Writing GroupWe discuss and share our individual projects . We also enjoy discussing and developing ideas for fiction together, then sharing the different directions we have taken in writing on shared themes . The group provides a source of inspiration, motivation and feedback . We meet on a half-termly basis . See English Department noticeboard for further details .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: See department noticeboardWhere: D2Staff i/c: TBC
Secret Shadowers Society Following the success of Carnegie Shadowing in School this reading group has been setup for pupils who enjoy reading and discussing contemporary young adult fiction . We generally read two books and discuss them at the meetings before members nominate and vote on the books to read for the next meeting . Titles selected are often on current awards shortlists . The group is run in collaboration with pupils and library staff at Larkmead School .
Who: Years 9 – 11 When: On a three weekly basis (day TBC) 4.10-5.00pm Where: Upper Atrium Staff i/c: TBC
Sixth Form Extension EnglishThe Extension groups offer Sixth Form pupils the chance to enrich their A level study with a broader and more challenging range of texts . They are particularly aimed at those who think they might like to apply for English at university .
Who: U6 (Michaelmas term) L6 (Lent and Trinity term)
When: TBCWhere: D5Staff i/c: CJN / FAM
Sixth Form Joint Literary SocietyWe meet with Abingdon School Sixth Form students to explore literature beyond the A level syllabus . We also invite visiting speakers and have an annual Literary Dinner .
Who: Year 11 and Sixth FormWhen: Tuesday, 4.15pmWhere: D2Staff i/c: FAM
Pottery ClubLearn to use the potter’s wheel and hand building projects .
Who: Years 9 – 11When: Tuesday, 4.15pm – 6.00pmWhere: 3D1Staff i/c: BQD
Photography ClubPhotography club will introduce pupils to how to take a good photograph, with your own camera or using school cameras . There will also be opportunities to learn new techniques in Photoshop and use Smartphones and iPads to take photographs .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: Tuesday, 12.30pm (Michaelmas term)Where: IT2 / Lecture TheatreStaff i/c: JCM
Pottery Open StudioAn opportunity to continue working on 3D projects that are being constructed in lessons .
Who: Years 10 – 11When: Monday, 12.30pmWhere: 3D1Staff i/c: BQD
Textiles ClubLearn a variety of textile processes, using hand techniques and sewing machines . Complete a finished article that demonstrates your skills and personal style .
Who: 15 pupils from Years 8 – 10. The session will run for 10 weeks and then be repeated if oversubscribed
When: Wednesday, 12.30pmWhere: Art 3Staff i/c: ASW
4 | Clubs and Societies Clubs and Societies | 5
CREST Would you like a taste of being a real scientist, doing your own research? CREST is run by the British Science Association and is Britain’s largest national award scheme for project work in science, technology, engineering and maths . Through CREST you can undertake your own creative project work in an area that interests you .
Who: Year 9 Bronze and Year 10 Silver AwardsWhen: Tuesday or Thursday, 12.05pmWhere: C4Staff i/c: JES / ZLC / MW
Debating SocietyDebating is a dynamic and challenging activity and a fabulous skill to learn . Debating complements all subject choices and gives you an opportunity to discuss, and hear others discussing, the key ethical and topical issues of the day . We also enter teams in a number of competitions over the course of the year .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: Thursday, 12.30pmWhere: Lecture TheatreStaff i/c: TBC
DEMOS Politics ClubAn opportunity to debate current affairs and discuss political issues in the media as well as literature and films .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: Monday 12.40pm TBCWhere: Room 13Staff i/c: LMG
Eco ClubAn opportunity to get involved in ensuring that St Helen’s stays green, raising awareness among pupils and staff as well as investigating ways in which the school can become more environmentally friendly . This year we are working towards an Eco Schools Silver Award .
Who: Years 6 and 7When: TBCWhere: Geography OfficeStaff i/c: LJS
These informal groups meet weekly . If you would like to join one for your age group, please do come along . All welcome!
ActivateLiving out your Christian faith: top tips, fun, bible study, discussion and prayer .
Who: Years 9 and 10When: Friday, 12.30pm – 1.00pmWhere: The Living RoomStaff i/c: CEW
Confirmation ClassesFor anyone wishing to be baptised or confirmed as a sign of their Christian commitment .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Tuesday, 12.05pm – 1.15pm, Lent term onlyWhere: The Living RoomStaff i/c: CEW
QuestA chance to explore the Christian faith in a fun, informal way with games, food, craft and friendship .
Who: Years 7 and 8When: Tuesday, 12.30pm – 1.00pmWhere: The Living RoomStaff i/c: Rev Katie and Sacristans
Senior Christian Forum A place to discuss questions and worldviews, in a relaxed atmosphere, with bible study and prayer .
Who: Years 11 – U6When: Wednesday, 12.30pm – 1.00pmWhere: The Living RoomStaff i/c: CEW
World Prayer Group For anyone wanting to pray for current affairs issues .
Who: Year 11When: Tuesday, 10.25amWhere: The Living Room Staff: i/c: CEW
Chaplaincy Groups Chemistry Club This club offers pupils the opportunity to experience a wide range of fun and entertaining practical chemistry . There will be lots of hands-on laboratory work, including fire writing, fireworks, golden coins, silver mirrors, blue bottles and much more .
Who: Year 8When: Thursday, 12.15pmWhere: C2Staff i/c: CJH
Chess and Board Games Club An opportunity to develop your thinking skills and showcase your mental tactics and strategy – and have a lot of fun in the process!
Who: tbcWhen: tbcWhere: tbcStaff i/c: JGH
Citizen Scientists ClubBe part of real science . Analyse real data from a range of projects around the world . Classify animals from Gorongosa National park, Mozambique . Search for fossils in Kenya . Monitor changing seasons . Spot whales and dolphins and deep sea creatures . Study the surface of Mars . Identify galaxies that few have seen before . Find planets beyond our solar system . Do all this from the science laboratory .
Who: Years 7 and 8When: Monday, 12.15pmWhere: P2Staff i/c: ZLC
ComputingLearn to code or develop your coding . Learn a new language, tackle a new challenge, hack something interesting . All welcome .
Who: All yearsWhen: Lunchtime TBCWhere: IT1Staff i/c: LMS
Engineering Education SchemeTwice weekly meetings in conjuction with our partner company UKAEA to complete an engineering project .
Who: L6 PhysicistsWhen: TBC (Oct – April)Where: TBCStaff i/c: JKE
European Youth ParliamentA debating competition with a difference! Teams take on the role of a Committee of the European Parliament and debate issues concerning the governance and role of the EU . Teams from St Helen’s have reached National Sessions in the last five years and in April 2013 represented the UK at the 72nd International Session in Munich . If you enjoy debating, have an interest in politics and current affairs and can speak French (or another European language) confidently then EYP could be for you!
Who: Nine pupils in L6When: From January, time by mutual agreement Where: D2Staff i/c: CJN
Helicon ClubThis is a club for all ages interested in classical activities . No knowledge of Latin or Greek is required . Roman cooking and Greek vase painting, writing and performing in plays, games, films and jigsaw puzzles are typical pursuits of club members .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Tuesday, 12.40pmWhere: Room 20Staff i/c: LAS
History Society/Politics SocietyThe History and Politics Societies, which run on alternate weeks, offer sixth form girls the chance to enrich their A level study with the intended focus being on discovering a wider range of topics than we have time to cover in the classroom . There will be a variety of activities from reading new texts, listening to visiting speakers, presentations from other members of the group and much more .
Who: Sixth FormWhen: Wednesday 12.00pmWhere: Room 13Staff i/c: DJS / Sixth Form historians
Interact ClubInteract, Rotary International’s service club for young people, develops links with our local community . Working with members of the Rotary Club, we plan events and raise money for the school charity .
Who: Year 10 - L6When: Wednesday 12.30pmWhere: Biology break-out spaceStaff i/c: KHH
Investor ChallengeThe Investor Challenge is a UK-wide share trading competition for any interested students, with a top prize of a trip to New York .
Who: Years 10 – U6When: TBCWhere: TBCStaff i/c: SDG
Geography SocietyNational competitions, visiting speakers, research and projects around school are just some of the activities planned for Geography Society! In addition we host an annual geography dinner . Follow us on Twitter (@shskgeog)
Who: Sixth FormWhen: Tuesday, 12.40pmWhere: Geography Department OfficeStaff i/c: HSS / Sixth Form Geographers
6 | Clubs and Societies Clubs and Societies | 7
Modern Foreign Languages
Joint MFL Club A joint St Helen’s and Abingdon School Club . An opportunity to explore a range of languages and cultures in a fun and sociable way . Parents must complete and sign a permission slip committing to a full half-term’s attendance .
Who: Years 7 – 9When: TBC Where: Abingdon School / St Helen’sStaff i/c: LNP
Orlando This is a student led club for sixth form only that explores issues surrounding gender and identity . They invite outside speakers and discuss topics within the group .
Who: Sixth Form onlyWhen: as arranged by Sixth FormWhere: SHSK or AbingdonStaff i/c: AVV
Philosophy SocietyWe will be offering philosophy courses that span a number of weeks and will be advertised to the girls in advance .
Who: Sixth Form. Other year groups by invitationWhen: Thursday, 4.15pm – 5.00pmWhere: Room 24Staff i/c: KPM
Physics Practical OlympiadA nationally recognised competition run by the British Physics Olympiad to complete an investigation and produce a report .
Who: Year 11 and L6When: TBC (Sept – Dec)Where: P4Staff i/c: KEB
Sanskrit ClubIf you are interested in languages and how they work, why not have a look at one of the most ancient Indoeuropean languages in the world? It has such a precise, scientifically structured grammatical system that it was considered as an option for a computing language . We will look at the script and structure of the language, read some stories and start to use Sanskrit ourselves .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: Friday, 12.40pmWhere: Room 23Staff i/c: DLH
Schools ChallengeA general knowledge schools quiz competition based on the TV programme University Challenge . Two teams will be put forward for the regional competition, including two ‘junior’ members (Years 7 – 10) and two ‘senior’ members (Years 11 – U6) . St Helen’s teams regularly reach the Regional Finals, so if you have a brain full of random knowledge come and join the try outs at the beginning of the Michaelmas term .
Who: Eight pupils from Years 7 – U6When: Friday, 12.05pmWhere: D2Staff i/c: TBC / Sixth Form
School CouncilMeeting of school council reps to discuss issues concerning the running of the School . Over the last two years, Council made a big contribution to the shape of the new Behaviour Policy, wrote the School Code of Conduct, consulted the School about uniform and reviewed school meals with Olivier . Council reps also commented on all aspects of school life, from St Kate’s Day and planners to homework and hand dryers .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Wednesday, 12.30pm once per half termWhere: Lecture TheatreStaff i/c: EJB
Talking SpaceAn informal discussion group meeting in the cafeteria once every half term . Each session will look at a different aspect of the world today, and how that might impact on you, your future and your choices . There will be an opportunity to explore a range of ideas about what it means to be female in the world today . Topics might include the depiction of women in the media, gender identity, career choices, and any ideas or concerns raised by you .
Who: Years 8 – 11When: Wednesday lunchbreak (once every half term)Where: CafeteriaStaff i/c: LAS
Young EnterprisePupils run their own company for a year designing, manufacturing, marketing and selling products . Starting with market research to help to define product ideas, they put together a business plan and a management structure which will enable them to run a successful company . They take part in trade fairs and area presentations which result in companies gaining awards in a range of business skills .
Who: Year 10 and L6When: Various days, 4.10pm – 5.00pmWhere: Orchard Room / Atrium Meeting RoomStaff i/c: CSC
Knit ChicksKnitting and handicrafts for all year groups . Come and learn a new craft or share your skills with other pupils .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Monday, 12.05pm – 1.10pmWhere: Ground Floor LibraryStaff i/c: DSP / KAG
Language Leaders Learning to lead and leading to learn; an opportunity for Years 9 and 10 linguists to take on a leadership role . Students will spend two terms preparing to deliver a language lesson to Years 5 and 6 students from St Helen’s and local primary schools .
Who: Years 9 and 10When: Wednesday, 12.35pmWhere: LLCStaff i/c: MCF
Lower and Middle School Debating ClubDebating is a dynamic and challenging activity and a fabulous skill to learn . An interest in current affairs and an understanding of politics are not a requirement but, even if you don’t have them before you arrive, you’ll soon develop them! We look forward to welcoming beginners and intermediate debaters, with the aim of improving your skills entering competition and holding a number of debates against local schools .
Who: Years 7 – 10When: Thursday, 12.40pm, Friday, 12.40pmWhere: Lecture Theatre (Years 7 and 8), D5 (Years 9 and 10)Staff i/c: ECH (Years 7 and 8) / TAN and ECH (Years 9 and 10)
Lower School History ClubFun activities for budding historians . Debates, film-making and creative projects help you appreciate the past in a lively atmosphere .
Who: Years 7 and 8When: Monday, 12.40pmWhere: Room 5Staff i/c: SSM
MedSocA weekly session for U6 students (and L6 students in the post-AS period) wishing to apply to study medicine / veterinary medicine / dentistry including UKCAT / BMAT preparation . Lectures and talks about medical careers are also provided for Sixth Form students .
Who: Sixth FormWhen: Thursday form timeWhere: Biology break-out spaceStaff i/c: KHH
MinecraftThe chance for girls of all ages and experience levels to come and create something wonderful, be it a big design project, learning to use Redstone for engineering projects or coding in the game .
Who: All yearsWhen: Lunchtime TBCWhere: IT1Staff i/c: JGH
Model United Nations (MUN)This exciting simulation of the United Nations develops research and debate skills . Teams take on the roles of member countries to propose and discuss a range of resolutions . We take part in a number of MUN conferences over the year .
Who: Years 10 – U6When: TBCWhere: Room 13Staff i/c: LMG / JXS
Natural History ClubCome to bug club to discover more about the creatures in the world around us .
Who: Years 5 – 8When: Thursday, 12.10pmWhere: B3Staff i/c: TQB
Joint MFL Society An opportunity for like minded sixth formers from surrounding schools to socialise and discuss topical linguistic and cultural issues . Programme of events tbc .
Who: Sixth FormWhen: At least twice per termWhere: Largely based at St Helen’s or Abingdon SchoolStaff i/c: LNP / JM
Mandarin ClubA chance for girls to learn the language and find out more about the culture of China .
Who: Years 6 and 7When: TBCWhere: D13Staff i/c: TBC
Clubs and Societies | 98 | Clubs and Societies
DRAMADrama is a thriving part of school life . Productions take place throughout the year that allow pupils the opportunity to take part in technical support, design, stage management and front of house, as well as acting . Productions, where possible, join forces with Abingdon School . Original play writing is encouraged and supported through an annual play writing competition, the winning entry being staged as a lunchtime performance . A busy calendar of theatre trips to London, Stratford and other regional theatres support those studying GCSE drama and A level theatre studies including the Shakespeare Institute where pupils research original performance conditions in the 16th and 17th centuries .
Audition WorkshopsIndividual sessions are offered to anyone who is planning to audition for National Youth Theatre, drama school or university . It is an opportunity to build confidence, develop skills and get feedback from staff . N .B . It is not open to students auditioning for a school play .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: A lunchtime when you are freeWhere: Studio TheatreStaff i/c: EAJ / JMW
Drama Clubs Weekly drama clubs for each year group are offered at lunchtimes, supported by drama scholars and assistants, to provide opportunities for pupils to be involved in drama beyond the curriculum .
Who: Years 5 – 9When: Monday, 12.05 – Improvisation Club (LL) and
12.40 – Years 8 and 9 Drama Club (REP) Wednesday, 12.40 – Years 5 and 6 Drama Club (LL) Thursday, 12.40 – Playwriting Competition Rehearsals (SPC) Friday, 12.40 – Year 7 Drama ClubWhere: Studio TheatreStaff i/c: REP / SPC / AB
Lower School Production, The Lion King
Senior Production, The Caucasian Chalk Circle
Senior Production, The Caucasian Chalk Circle
Middle School Production, Alice
Drama Productions and Activities for 2016 / 2017
Description Staff i/c
SeptemberU6 Theatre Studies trip to Cymbeline at Stratford-upon-Avon
L6 and U6 trip to the National Theatre – Threepenny Opera
NovemberVisiting Watermill Theatre Company – Frankenstein (Year 10 – L6)
U6 Theatre Studies trip to Cymbeline at The Barbican
January
Senior Production at St Helen’s AVV
U6 Theatre Studies trip to the Shakespeare Institute, Stratford-upon-Avon JMW
Joint senior production at St Helen’s JMW
FebruaryJoint senior production at Abingdon School
Middle School production at St Helen’s REP
March Playwriting Competition performance of winning entry SPC
June Lower School Production EAJ
July Junior Department Production NLT
NB Audition Workshops will continue to run next academic year, however Film Club will not.
Rehearsals
Lower School Production Mondays and Wednesdays after school
Middle School Production Tuesdays and Wednesdays after school
Joint Senior Production (AVV) Lunchtime TBC
Joint Senior Production (JMW) Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays after school
Anything Goes
Drama | 1110 | Drama
MUSICMusical activities lie at the heart of the school, with hundreds of pupils involved in individual music lessons . The Music department aims to provide opportunities for all pupils to participate and perform music, whatever their level of experience and expertise . Everyone who learns a musical instrument or has singing lessons in school or outside is strongly encouraged to join a group, ensemble or school choir . Groups and ensembles are directed by members of staff, visiting music staff and some by senior pupils .
Bass ClubFor anyone who would like to try playing the double bass or bass guitar .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: LunchtimeWhere: Percussion roomStaff i/c: MEH
Big BandThe Big Band performs at the Christmas Revue, the Jazz evening and summer Jazz afternoon, covering a range of traditional and contemporary Jazz .
Who: Any jazz players, Grade 5 level and above When: Friday, 12.05pmWhere: YPHStaff i/c: DCM
Brass BandOpen to all brass players, the brass band performs at the February and June concerts .
Who: All brass playersWhen: Tuesday, 8.30am Where: Percussion StudioStaff i/c: DCM
CantoresCantores is open to anyone in Year 9 upwards who enjoys singing . They perform a variety of musical styles at a number of different events . They have taken part in tours abroad and featured on several CD recordings, available from the music department .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: Wednesday 12.40pm -1.10pmWhere: YPHStaff i/c: HKC
Chamber ChoirPerforming a variety of music, the chamber choir performs at school concerts and music festivals .
Who: Sixth FormWhen: TBCWhere: Music DepartmentStaff i/c: Sixth Form pupils
Chamber MusicA large number of music ensembles are coached by visiting music staff and senior pupils . The groups have a special concert in February and participate in the Oxford Music Festival and school music festivals . A number of groups are selected to enter the national Pro Corda competition each year, and ensembles regularly reach the semifinal and finals stages .
Who: By invitationWhen: TBCWhere: Music DepartmentStaff i/c: MJW
CamerataCamerata gives our most advanced string players an opportunity to tackle established string repertoire . They have taken part in tours abroad and in joint ventures with Abingdon School .
Who: String players, Grade 7 level and above (by invitation)When: Wednesday, 4.20pm – 5.00pmWhere: YPHStaff i/c: MJW
Chapel ChoirThe Chapel Choir leads the school in weekly services, termly eucharists and special occasions such as Nine Lessons and Carols and the Confirmation service . The choir also performs in school concerts, the Oxford Music Festival and has taken part in tours abroad and featured on CD recordings, available from the music department .
Who: Years 9 – U6 (by audition)When: Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 8.40am;
Tuesday, 12.05pmWhere: ChapelStaff i/c: HMR
Clarinet GroupAn opportunity for all clarinettists in Year 10 and above to play together and perform .
Who: Clarinet players, Years 10 – U6When: Wednesday 8.30amWhere: Music DepartmentStaff i/c: CQS
Concert BandThe Concert Band is for our most advanced wind and percussion players and has taken part in tours abroad and featured on several CD recordings, available from the music department .
Who: Wind players, Grade 5 level and above (by audition)When: Thursday, 4.20pm – 5.00pmWhere: YPHStaff i/c: DCM
First OrchestraFirst Orchestra performs in the two Senior Concerts each year in November and May, often giving concerto opportunities to advanced music scholars . They have taken part in recent tours to Tuscany (2008), Germany (2010) and Spain (2012), and have also featured on several CD recordings, available from the music department .
Who: Orchestral players, Grade 6 level and above (by audition)
When: Thursday, 4.20pm – 6.00pmWhere: YPHStaff i/c: HMR
Flute GroupFor all flute players, performing at the February and June concerts and school music festivals .
Who: Flute players, beginner to Grade 5 levelWhen: tbcWhere: Percussion RoomStaff i/c: Sixth Form pupils
Jazz EnsemblesThe Jazz Ensembles perform at a variety of events and always feature at the Jazz evening and the summer Jazz afternoon .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: TBCWhere: Music DepartmentStaff i/c: TBC
Joint Choral SocietyThe JCS includes pupils, parents and staff from schools in Abingdon and responsibility for its organisation alternates between St Helen’s and Abingdon School .
Who: Years 9 – U6 (boys and girls)When: Tuesdays 4.10pm – 5.00pmWhere: ChapelStaff i/c: HKC
Junior ChoirA choir performing a variety of material for any junior school pupil who enjoys singing .
Who: Years 5 and 6When: Thursday, 12.40pmWhere: M14Staff i/c: PKG
Lower School ChoirThe Lower School Choir is open to anyone in Year 7 and 8 who enjoys singing . They perform at the Christingle service in December, the Oxford Music Festival in January and at school concerts in February and June .
Who: Years 7 and 8When: Tuesday, 12.05pmWhere: YPHStaff i/c: HKC
12 | Music Music | 13
Music Aural ClassesA number of classes designed to prepare pupils for the aural requirements of ABRSM and Trinity Guildhall examinations .
Who: Years 5 – U6 When: Monday, 12.05pm, Thursday, 8.30am, Thursday, 12.05pm Where: Music DepartmentStaff i/c: EFD
Musical Theatre ClubAn opportunity for girls to learn and perform old favourites and new West End tunes, they perform in the Musical Theatre Evening in May .
Who: Years 8 – U6When: Thursday, 12.05pmWhere: Dance StudioStaff i/c: HKC
Music Theory ClassesA number of classes covering the basics of music theory and preparing pupils for ABRSM Grade 5 theory . An advanced (post Grade 5) class is also available on request .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Monday, Thursday, Friday, 12.40pmWhere: M20Staff i/c: HMR
Saxophone EnsemblesThe saxophone ensembles perform at a variety of events and always feature at school concerts and the summer Jazz afternoon .
Who: There are various groups of differing size and abilities
When: Wednesday and Thursday, 8.30amWhere: Music DepartmentStaff i/c: PAF
Sight Singing Skills This club is for pupils preparing for ABRSM examinations and those who just wish to improve their sight-singing skills .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Monday and Wednesday, 8.30amWhere: Music DepartmentStaff i/c: PKG
SinfoniaSinfonia performs a variety of light and accessible music, giving performances in two school concerts each year .
Who: Any instrumentalist of any standardWhen: Monday, 12.40pmWhere: YPHStaff i/c: HKC
SinfoniettaSinfonietta tackles a mixture of standard orchestral repertoire and lighter material and they perform twice a year, in February and June .
Who: Any orchestral players from approximately Grade 3 level to Grade 5 level (by audition)
When: Tuesday, 4.20pm – 5.00pmWhere: YPHStaff i/c: HMR
Tea ConcertsThe Tea Concerts are an informal concert series which take place in the school Chapel . Anyone of any standard is welcome to sign up for each concert, whether they learn in or out of school .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Three Fridays every term, 5.00pm – 6.00pmWhere: School ChapelStaff i/c: Music staff
Vocal Ensembles
There are a number of vocal ensembles which tackle advanced choral and close harmony repertoire, performing at a variety of events .
Who: Advanced Singers, by invitation or auditionWhen: Various mornings and lunchtimesWhere: Music DepartmentStaff i/c: PKG
Wind Band
The Wind Band performs at the February and June school concerts and members enjoy a range of music with an emphasis on enjoyment .
Who: Any wind players from beginner to approximately Grade 5 level
When: Friday, 4.20pm – 5.00pmWhere: YPHStaff i/c: PAF
Music Activities for 2016 / 2017
Morning Time Lunchtime Time After school Time
Monday
Sight Singing Club (PKG) 8.30am Music Aural (EFD) 12.05pmLower School Production (HMR / HKC)
5.15pm
Chapel Choir (HMR) 8.40am Sinfonia (HKC) 12.40pm
Music Theory (HMR) 12.40pm
Tuesday
Brass Band (DCM) 8.30am Chapel Choir (HMR) 12.05pm Joint Choral Society (HKC) 4.10pm
Chapel Choir (HMR) 8.40am Lower School Choir (HKC) 12.05pm Sinfonietta (HMR) 4.20pm
Lower School Production (HMR / HKC)
5.15pm
Wednesday
Clarinet Group (CQS) TBC Cantores (HKC) 12.40pm Camerata (MJW) 4.20pm
Sight Singing Club (PKG) 8.30am
Saxophone Ensemble (PAF) 8.30am
Thursday
Saxophone Ensemble (PAF) 8.30am Musical Theatre Club (HKC) 12.05pm Concert Band (DCM) 4.20pm
Conjuncto (PKG) 8.30am Bar 61 (PKG) 12.05pm First Orchestra: Strings (HMR) 4.20pm
Music Aural (EFD) 8.30am Music Aural (EFD) 12.05pm
Junior Choir (Year 11) 12.40pm
Music Theory Class (HMR) 12.40pm First Orchestra (HMR) 5.15pm
Friday
8VE (PKG) TBC Big Band (DCM) 12.05pm Wind Band (PAF) 4.20pm
Chapel Choir (HMR) 8.40amAccompaniment Coaching (EFD)
12.05pm Tea Concerts (Various) 5.00pm
Music Theory Class (HMR) 12.40pm
NB Chamber music groups and Jazz groups will meet daily (mornings and lunchtimes) to play together, rehearse for concerts, festivals and competitions.
14 | Music Music | 15
SPORTSport and Physical Education play a major role in life at St Helen’s . We strive to provide opportunities for every girl to enjoy participating in a wide range of activities both within and in addition to the curriculum, whether it be for competition, skill development or recreation . A busy and inclusive extracurricular programme allows all pupils to participate and reach their potential in activities that they enjoy . Clubs in all age groups are open to every girl and participation is actively encouraged . There are many opportunities for pupils to play and perform in matches and competitions both within school and through fixtures, competitions and local, regional and national tournaments . Days and times of clubs for each year group are published in detail at the start of each term and can be found on the School website at shsk.org.uk/sports and in the PE Department . New for August 2017: Multi-sports tour to South Africa for netball, swimming and Gymnastics for multi age-group (tbc) .
AthleticsAthletics clubs operate throughout the Trinity term and pupils compete in a range of fixtures against local, regional and national opposition .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Trinity term, Friday lunchtime,
Monday after school, TBCWhere: Sports fieldsStaff i/c: SEK and LET
BadmintonBadminton clubs run at lunchtimes for juniors and seniors . Teams compete in fixtures .
Who: Years 7 – U6When: Michaelmas and Lent terms, lunchtimesWhere: Sports HallStaff i/c: SLW
BasketballBasketball is a popular sport played in Middle School and Sixth Form . Teams compete against other schools and in the county league .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: Michaelmas and Lent terms, lunchtimesWhere: Sports HallStaff i/c: TBC
BiathlonA popular choice to combine swimming and running, St Helen’s biathletes compete with great success regionally, nationally and internationally .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Michaelmas and Lent terms,
swimming, before school, running, lunchtime
Where: Sports field and local poolsStaff i/c: NAL
CricketCricket is an emerging sport at St Helen’s and girls have the opportunity to play recreationally and competitively to regional level .
Who: Years 7 – 10When: Trinity term, lunchtimes by age groupWhere: Sports fields Staff i/c: ECA
DancePupils have the opportunity to perform in annual productions and local / regional competitions . Local dance schools offer a range of clubs in various styles of dance at St Helen’s . For ballet pre registration, contact: laura.oxfordcityschoolofdance@gmail.com Ballet classes carry an additional cost .
What: Dance clubs and Performance groupsWho: Years 5 – U6 by style and age groupWhen: LunchtimesWhere: Dance Studio
What: Ballet (Laura Addison)Who: Years 5 – 9 by gradeWhen: Monday, 12.10pm – 12.40pm and 12.40pm – 1.10pm
Friday, 12.40pm – 1.10pmWhere: Dance Studio
Staff i/c: MLU
EquestrianPupils have the opportunity to compete as a team representing the school . For enquiries please contact Arlina Mauree (arlina_import@yahoo .co .uk) . This activity carries an additional cost .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Weekend competitions as advertisedStaff: i/c: NAL
FencingFencing takes place after school for all ages, trained by an external coach . This activity carries an additional cost .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Thursday, 5.15pm – 6.15pmWhere: GymStaff i/c: NAL
Fitness SuiteOur new Fitness Suite offers state-of-the-art equipment and technology to offer opportunities for pupils from recreation to elite sport . Designed to be welcoming and accessible, this is a highly popular facility offering both individual training and fitness classes .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: Open every day to card holders, formal
sessions, lunchtimes and after school Where: Fitness SuiteStaff i/c: JQC
FootballFootball club takes place in the Michaelmas and Lent terms . Football is an increasingly popular sport, training towards the county tournament and National League .
Who: Years 7 and 8When: Tuesday, 12.05pmWhere: Sports fieldStaff i/c: SEK
Group CycleA popular and healthy lifestyle activity, group cycle runs in our new Group Cycle Studio .
Who: Years 9 – U6When: TBCWhere: Group Cycle StudioStaff i/c: JQC
GymnasticsGymnastics is a popular sport at St Helen’s . There are clubs for all year groups and we train junior and senior squads who compete in local and regional competitions .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Club Tuesday after school, 4.15pm – 5.15pm;
squad training Wednesday, 4.15pm – 5.15pm and Thursday, 12.05pm and 12.45pm
Where: GymStaff i/c: SLW
Indoor HockeyHockey is played in the curriculum and as a club . Girls are directed to local clubs as appropriate and many represent the county .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: LunchtimesWhere: Sports HallStaff i/c: ECA
Indoor RowingIndoor rowing is a highly popular activity at St Helen’s and recent investment into our new Ergo Suite has increased provision . Training will be focused on technique and there are opportunities for competitions in local and national leagues .
Who: Years 8 – U6When: LunchtimesWhere: Ergo SuiteStaff i/c: NAL
LacrosseLacrosse is one of the major sports at St Helen’s . Coaching is provided by specialist lacrosse coaches and regular weekend fixtures against local schools provide ample opportunity to develop match play skills . Teams also compete with great success at area and national level . St Helen’s pupils regularly achieve county, area and national representation .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Michaelmas and Lent terms:
Clubs and squad practices by age group: lunchtimes and after school
Where: Sports fieldsStaff i/c: SEK
Cross-countryRunning and cross-country prove to be popular both as activities in their own right and as a supplement to fitness training . Pupils have the opportunity to compete in cross-country fixtures locally, regionally and nationally .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Michaelmas and Lent terms, lunchtimesWhere: Sports fields and local areaStaff i/c: NAL
16 | Sport Sport | 17
NetballNetball is a major sport . Specialist coaches work with teams of all age groups who play regular fixtures against local schools . St Helen’s hosts area tournaments and enjoys significant success at County, Regional and National levels, regularly being crowned County champions at various age groups and progressing to Regional and National Finals .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Michaelmas and Lent terms: Clubs and squad
practices by age group: lunchtimes and after schoolWhere: Sports HallStaff i/c: ALW / LET
Netball Youth Umpires AwardGirls have the opportunity to qualify as a netball youth umpire by following the nationally recognised qualification during their curriculum PE lessons . There is an additional cost for this activity .
Who: Years 10 and 11When: Curriculum PE lessons for one termWhere: Netball CourtsStaff i/c: LET
RoundersRounders is a major summer sport, played at the highest competitive levels, with St Helen’s pupils currently represented at county, area and national level . Teams play regular fixtures against local schools and compete in national competitions .
Who: Years 5 – L6When: Trinity term: Clubs and squad practices
by age group: lunchtimesWhere: Sports fieldsStaff i/c: SLW
RowingSt Helen’s runs a beginners course for potential rowers, in partnership with Abingdon Rowing Club . This activity carries an additional cost .
Who: Year 8When: Trinity term after schoolWhere: Abingdon Rowing ClubStaff i/c: NAL
Tennis Tennis is a major summer sport with a full programme of clubs, squads and private coaching available during PE lessons, lunchtimes and after school sessions, provided by specialist tennis coaches . Private lessons continue all year round on Saturdays and Sundays . Please contact Head Coach Simon Parkes for further information at thirty15@live .co .uk . There is an additional cost for private tennis lessons .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: Trinity term: by age group: clubs and squad
practices at lunchtimes and after school sessions; All year: private / group lessons on Saturdays and Sundays.
Where: Hard Tennis CourtsStaff i/c: ALW
Trampoline ClubTrampoline Club is open to pupils of all abilities and provides the opportunity for competition against local schools .
Who: Years 7 – U6When: Lunchtimes by age group, 12.05pmWhere: GymStaff i/c: SLW
SailingPupils learning to sail do so in pairs in Picos . We also have use of Laser Funboats and Fireflies depending on conditions and ability of sailor . This activity carries an additional cost .
Who: Years 5 – U6When: September – October and the Summer term, one
evening per week after school, 4.15pm – 6.30pmWhere: We take pupils to Farmoor Reservoir after school
in the minibus. At the end of the session pupils can be collected from Farmoor or we can take them back to school
Staff i/c: GCW
Sports Leader AwardGirls have the opportunity to follow the Sports Leaders Awards at Level 1 and Level 2 during their curriculum PE lessons in Year 10 and / or 11 . There is an additional cost for this activity .
Who: Years 10 and 11When: Curriculum PE lessons for one termWhere: Sports HallStaff i/c: LET
SwimmingSwimming takes place throughout the year . Our competitive squads swim at all levels and are highly successful, enjoying regular inter-school galas and swimming regionally and nationally .
Who: Years 5 – U6, Swim SquadWhen: Thursday, 7.00am – 8.20amWhere: Radley CollegeStaff i/c: NAL
Tae Kwon-doTae Kwon-do is run by an external club after school and is open to all age groups leading to grading and opportunities to compete outside school . This activity carries an additional cost .
Who: Years 7 – U6When: Friday, 5.30pm – 6.30pmWhere: GymStaff i/c: External Coach
EXPEDITIONSFirst-hand experience is an essential part of developing life-long interests . We therefore provide a range of expeditions both in length and scope which offer opportunities for personal development for all ages, aptitudes and interests .
Art and Italian Trip to RomeWho: Sixth FormWhen: 13 – 16 October 2016Where: RomeStaff i/c: JCM
Battlefields TripAll Year 9 girls, accompanied by their form tutors and history teachers, spend two days in Belgium and France visiting battlefields, memorials and war graves; this brings their study of the First World War alive . Spending time together also helps to build bonds and friendships, with chocolate buying in Ypres an added highlight .
Who: Year 9When: 3 – 5 November 2016Where: France and BelgiumStaff i/c: HQN / SSM
Berlin TripThe Year 11 History trip to Berlin visits some of the key historical sites in and around Berlin relating to the Modern World GCSE course girls are studying . Sites visited include Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, The Wannsee Villa, Jewish Museum and Stasi prison .
Who: Year 11When: 13 – 16 December 2016Where: Berlin, GermanyStaff i/c: DJS
Star City, RussiaWe are very excited to be taking 18 girls on the ISSET Cosmonaut Leadership Experience at Star City this February half term . Following a short tour of Moscow sights, girls will be guided by Astronaut Mike Foale and expert instructors through a week of extensive activities, gaining unique insight into space travel training .
Who: Years 10 and 12When: 11 – 17 February 2017 TBCWhere: Moscow and Star City, RussiaStaff i/c: ZLC
Ski tripThis year’s ski trip will be returning to the world famous ski resort of Bormio, known for hosting many top ski race competitions . With instruction during the day and a range of evening activities, the ski trip is an action packed and enjoyable trip taking place in February half term . This year 60 girls and six staff will be taking part .
Who: Years 8 and 10When: 11 – 18 Feb 2017Where: Bormio, ItalyStaff i/c: LET
Kilve CourtThe annual residential trip to Kilve, Somerset, is one of the most eagerly awaited events in Year 7 and the one which many older pupils look back on with real fondness . Set in the Quantock Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, these three days are spent in a variety of outdoors activities . Having visited Cheddar Gorge to complete Geography fieldwork, pupils settle in at Kilve with a beach visit and night orienteering . Over the following days, pupils challenge themselves with a range of sports, including climbing and abseiling, mountain boarding, archery and the much-discussed Fantasy Trail!
Who: Year 7When: 1 – 4 March 2017Where: Kilve Court, SomersetStaff i/c: KLT
Sixth Form Study Trip to SpainL6 and U6 students of Spanish enjoy a week-long linguistic and cultural immersion in advance of their AS and A level oral and written exams .
Who: Sixth Form Spanish studentsWhen: 31 March – 7 April 2017Where: ValenciaStaff i/c: MCF
Biology Field TripA residential field trip to Orielton, Pembrokeshire for all L6 biologists .
Who: All L6 biologistsWhen: 4 – 7 May 2017Where: Orielton Field Centre, PembrokeshireStaff i/c: REJ
Expeditions | 1918 | Sport
Junior Department Trip to Isle of Wight The Junior department will visit the Little Canada PGL camp on the Isle of Wight, where they will have an action packed adventure holiday . Activities will include sailing, zip wires, archery and climbing, as well as work linked in with the geography topic on Coasts .
Who: Years 5 and 6When: 10 – 12 May 2017Where: Isle of WightStaff i/c: NLT
Geography Field Trip to Snowdonia This three day field trip is focused on developing Year 10’s investigative skills . Pupils study river processes and features, and investigate the impact of tourism in an upland glaciated environment .
Who: Year 10 When: 12 – 14 May 2017Where: SnowdoniaStaff i/c: HSS
The Duke of Edinburgh’s AwardThis nationally recognised scheme is identified by employers as the most desirable non-academic qualification in the UK . The Award operates at three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold, each requiring participants to complete activities from each of the following categories: Volunteering, Skills, Physical Recreation and Expeditions . At Gold a residential element is also incorporated .
Each level of the Award requires organisation, commitment and perseverance to ensure completion . Support is provided by the D of E office in school to advise and guide participants through their chosen Award . Expedition training, practice and assessment is provided in school for Bronze and Silver Awards, Gold participants are encouraged to participate in expeditions organised by external providers in Wild Country Areas .
DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD EXPEDITION DATES 2016-2017
Description Award
January Expedition training Bronze
March Practice expeditions Bronze
March Expedition training Silver
April Practice expedition Silver
June Qualifying expedition Silver
Who: Years 9 – U6Staff i/c: GCW / CAW
Art Trip to CornwallAll Year 10 artists stay in a youth hostel outside Penzance, which has links with Tate St Ives, to spend three days working on an environmental project linked to their GCSE coursework . Pupils produce a finished sketch book having visited galleries, museums and gardens which are submitted with coursework for external moderation at the end of Year 11 .
Who: Year 10When: 22 – 25 June 2017Where: West CornwallStaff i/c: JCM
Spanish, German and Italian Exchanges Designed to enhance pupils’ linguistic and cultural knowledge, the exchanges run every year . Participating pupils are carefully ‘matched’ to like-minded pupils in our partner schools . The itinerary comprises a combination of time spent with the host family, at the partner school, and as a group on cultural visits .
Who: Year 11 (Spanish and German with Abingdon School; Italian)
When: Spanish / Italian visit: Michaelmas half-term . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Host: Lent German visit: Lent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Host: MichaelmasWhere: Santiago de Compostela, Bielefeld and NovaraStaff i/c: LNP / MCF / HHT / JEC
Trips and VisitsOur subject departments offer a variety of day trips and visits . Groups of girls in all year groups regularly take advantage of the proximity of Oxford’s lectures, plays and museums as well as travelling further afield, whether our PE GCSE and A level pupils and elite athletes attending the Girls Go Gold conference, Year 10 scientists hearing leading scientists such as Robert Winston speak at Science Live! or Year 7 investigating Roman life at Chedworth Roman Villa .
Lectures and DinnersEvening lectures and dinners provide the opportunity to hear experts in their fields and discuss their ideas in more depth . Recent speakers include Professor Chris Read of Warwick University on the Russian Revolution, Nick Abbott of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office on the use of languages in his career in the Middle East, Colin Mayer, Professor of Management Studies at the Said Business School, speaking to the Joint Sixth Form Business and Economics Society, Professor Ruslan Mitkov, Professor of Computational Linguistics and Language Engineering at Wolverhampton University, speaking at the European Day of Languages .
The annual Radley Conference, now in its 17th year, brings together the U6 of St Helen’s and Radley College in November to hear a series of inspiring speakers and engage in heated debate . Following a TED talks format of unconnected 15 minute presentations, the students are required to work together in small groups to produce their own TED talks by the end of the day . The conference, which takes place at Radley, is always preceded by a debating dinner hosted at St Helen’s where group leaders get to know one another and explore the topics to be covered .
National Challenges and CompetitionsMany departments enter pupils into national competitions such as the biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and linguistic Olympiads, in which St Helen’s students achieve regular success . University essay competitions in law, English and history, national poetry and play-writing competitions the Language Perfect World Championships and Vocab Express League of Champions and challenges such as those posed by ARTiculation and the Institute of Chemical Engineers provide girls with opportunities to take their thinking further, if they wish to do so .
LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOMWe recognise the importance of broadening and enriching pupils’ understanding of subjects beyond the curriculum . We encourage exploration beyond the classroom in a number ways, some organised in school and others for girls to pursue independently .
Spanish exchange to Santiago de Compostela
Thinking SuppersAs part of our academic enrichment programme, recently introduced Thinking Suppers are a beneficial way to mix dining and debate for Years 9 and 10 . Every half-term, invited students are given the opportunity to meet up with Radley College students, either at their school or here at St Helen’s to discuss and debate complex topical issues that there might not be the opportunity to explore in greater depth in the classroom .
Four or five girls are invited from Year 9 and Year 10 to attend and are briefed on the topics in advance by teachers . The visiting school gets to choose, so that girls can research and do some critical thinking around the subject and develop their own ideas and opinions . Subjects can be discussed with teachers and parents beforehand to help build viewpoints and arguments, but ultimately it’s about what the students themselves think and feel about the issues that matter to our society and the challenges our world faces .
Thinking Suppers are aimed at developing critical thinking, confidence, self-belief and presentation skills . As the girls have found, not everyone is going to agree with what you think, but that’s the same in life, so it’s very useful preparation for what lies ahead .
20 | Expeditions Learning Beyond the Classroom | 21
ACL Mrs Langston
ALW Mrs Wilson
ASW Miss Wardell
AVV Mr Verjee
BQD Mr Drew
CAW Mrs Walker
CQS Miss Scott
CEW Rev Katie
CJH Dr Holyoak
CJN Mrs Nash
CSC Miss Clarke
DCM Mr McNaughton
DJS Miss Smith
DLH Mr Hodgkinson
DSP Mrs Pocock-Bell
EAJ Miss Jewitt
ECA Miss Aston
ECH Mrs Haines
EFD Mrs Dickens
EJB Mrs Bedford
FAM Dr Macdonald
GCW Mrs Wilson
HEM Miss McCague
HKC Miss Coad
HMR Miss Rakowski
HQN Mrs Nash
HHT Mr Thomson
HSS Miss Spencer
JCM Ms McDonald
JES Dr Saba
JGH Mr Hunt
JMW Ms Watt
JQC Mrs Chilvers
JXS Mr Smart
KAG Mrs Gray
KHH Mrs Homann
KLT Mrs Taylor
KPM Ms Meuleman
LAS Miss Simon
LET Mrs Trumper
LJS Ms Snowdon
LMG Dr Gribble
LMS Mrs Stringer
LNP Mrs Probert
LQL Miss Lee
MCF Mrs Fisher
MEH Mr Heighway
MJW Mrs Walton
MLU Mrs Uezzell
NAL Miss Lydall
NLT Miss Talbot
PAF Mr Foster
PKG Miss Grant
RAP Miss Pawley
REJ Mrs James
REP Miss Pearmain
RPM Miss Millard
RQW Mrs Watson
SDG Mr Grant
SEK Mrs Keogh
SHM Mrs Hughes-Morgan
SLW Mrs Wilson
SMC Mrs McCullagh
SPC Ms Pullen-Campbell
SSM Mrs Scott-Malden
TAN Ms Nixon
TQB Dr Bainbridge
TT Mr Titchener
WRC Mr Cotterill
ZLC Dr Chater
ST HELEN AND ST KATHARINE STAFF 2016 / 17
22 | Staff List
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