Queen Elizabeth School Newsletter Xmas 2013 by Tom Dale

newsletter

Queen Elizabeth School

Christmas 2013

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

headlines

contents Headlines

Messages from Headteacher Chris Clarke

Important messages for parents about current issues including uniform

Noticeboard

On site

Reports from around the school 5

Off site

A zoo visit, a public speaking competition, the Physics Olympics and more 9

Performing Arts

Learning matters

Focus on

QESA news

Sports report

Music, Alice, Macbeth, Billy Liar, community theatre 21 Careers advice, what’s new in the library, jobs in the media 27 Student leaders give their thoughts, and QES at night 46 Fund-raising for QES with the Parent/Teacher Association 54 21 pages of match and event reports 56

thanks to P Armitage, Jacob Aubrey, H Baines, Patrick Bannister, C Barrick, A Beck, Anna Billington, A Blackburn, Richard Boyle, J Bradshaw, J Brown, I Burnett, Eleanor Cade-Welsby, L Cafferty, Alex Casement, Holly Chalcraft, Lauren Challis, Charlotte Christmas, C Clark, Brendan Cleary, Florence Clifton, Emily Coates, Jarred Collis, T Cummings, R Daglish, T Dale, E Denby, Lucy Denney, S Dent, A Donnelly, A Douglas, R Eaves, Bob Evans, C Falcus, Laurie Fishwick, L Fleming, Matthew Fleming, Abi Francis, S Gabrysch, O Gaskell, Stephen Gent, R Gerrard, C Gibson, Arthur Glaves, L Glaves, Louis Glaves, H Gray, A Hall, C Harrison, J Hartley, Indus Hill, Faith Hirons, Henry Holborn, S Holcroft, Stephen Holl, C Holman, Alex Human, Laura Hunt, J Jackson, Rosie Kerr, Danny Kiggins, Frank Konczynski, J Lawrence, D Lequitte, T Livesey, Sophie Lockwood, S Lomax, D Longley, L Longley, P Lucas, Constance Luckham, Ailsa MacCalman, M McNulty, Mark Mahoney, J Marriott, S Marshall, D McGregor, Ben Morgan, D Murray, S Nicholson, Josh Norman, Faye Oliver, C O’Neill, Tom Oston, Ellie Paisley, H Pakeman, George Pickering, K Procter, A Rawson, Benedict Richards, Hannah Robinson, Libby Rushton, P Rushton, Matthew Salisbury, Patrick Sharkey, L Shepherd, Josh Smith, Lewis Smith, Will Snowden, G Sosnowsky, Bethan Storey, Elliot Symons, Cal Thomas, K Vose, Jessica Wain, Jacob Whitaker, Heather Wilkins, A Wilkinson, D Williams, S Williams, L Wilson, Gemma Winter, Emily Yates

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

Dear Parents You may have to resolve to read through to the end of this piece to catch a whiff of Christmas spirit! I think there are some regrettable things happening to our education system at the moment. For example, the current Year 8s will, in September 2015, begin their GCSE years under a regime radically different from anything seen in the last thirty years. New GCSEs in English and Maths will be essentially harder and will be structured in such a way that content will not be divided into modules and all assessment will happen at the end of the course in the form of traditional exams. There will be a new grading scheme using numbers. Coursework and controlled assessments will disappear and with them the opportunities for students to accrue credit by demonstrating their abilities in a variety of ways under differing conditions. Students’ futures will depend on that one exam at the end of Year 11 and in English all students will take

the same (harder) paper irrespective of ability. Logic says that if the exams are harder, fewer students will be successful. The Government claim that the ‘reforms’ will promote social mobility by encouraging children from all backgrounds to aspire by having to meet higher standards. While we are deeply committed at QES both to the principles of social justice and to getting the very best out of all individuals, we are very concerned that these reforms will inevitably favour those already privileged and able academically. We fear that inevitably more students will fail. In September 2016, the current Year 7s will begin the new GCSEs not only in English and Maths but also in the Sciences, Geography, History and Languages. These too will be more challenging linear courses, assessed by exams at the end of Year 11. Students won’t be obliged to take these courses but schools will be penalized in the published performance tables if they don’t. All the other subjects will remain the ‘old-style’ GCSEs with the old grading system. They may well be seen to have less value and the fear is that consequently students will be deterred from taking them. Therefore, by 2016, the core of the curriculum will look very like the ‘O’ level regime which began to change with the widespread introduction of the comprehensive system in the 1970s. The Government claim that this will raise standards; I think it will ensure more young people, faced with a ‘harder’ one-

size-fits-all academic diet, will become demoralised and ultimately fail. Rest assured, QES is well placed to deal with these ‘reforms’. An incredibly capable and stable staff, well-motivated and responsive students and parents who care about education promote the conditions to withstand almost any assault. Already, we have introduced an assessment and monitoring regime which ensures students make better than average progress and are well prepared for exams. A focus this year on ‘basics’ like homework and presentation and the conscious development across the curriculum of literacy and skills like memorization will help ensure that students can eventually embark upon revision and undertake exams with confidence. That said, we still feel that these reforms are ill-judged and likely to have dire consequences. While at QES, many of our students do take that suite of core English Baccalaureate subjects and rightly so, as you know we believe strongly in devising a curriculum which is appropriate for the individual. To that end we have an enviable curriculum structure allowing students to take more courses than elsewhere as well as having an amazing array of subjects on offer including whole-day experiences in music, languages, business and economics, engineering, theatre arts and manufacturing and enterprise. While we will fight tooth and nail to preserve this diversity, we are very concerned at the devaluing of

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

noticeboard those subjects which fall outside the scope of the reformed GCSEs. Nowhere is this more keenly felt than in the arts and technology subjects which not only aim to develop those skills that ensure employability such as being creative, solving problems, working as part of a team, memorizing, communicating, practising until near-perfect, evaluating, being confident and articulate, but which also often involve the highest standards of academic rigour.

Part of the problem is our national failure to agree what education actually is or is for. Sadly, the present Secretary of State views the world through glasses which frame 1950s lenses and thinks of education only in terms of a narrowly defined academic success. At QES, while encouraging many to develop a passion for a range of ‘academic’ disciplines, we see education in more profound and holistic terms, as an inexorable force for change and development not only in individuals but as a worldwide force for good. For us, it is about developing a set of values, growing and developing the qualities needed for a happy and successful life, seeing the connections which make the world and its people endlessly interesting and absorbing. For us, it’s also about respecting individuals and their unique potential for contributing in a multitude of ways to their communities. Inevitably that expresses itself in a curriculum fit for each unique individual and an understanding that only a range of assessment opportunities will satis-

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factorily ‘test’ the varieties of achievement we respect. And that’s why we feel ourselves so at odds with this government’s direction of travel. And at no time in the year does that difference manifest itself so strongly than at Christmas. Take for example the extraordinary phenomenon of ‘Alice’. Over a year ago, I took Michael Claddingbowl, the Ofsted No 2, Chief Inspector of Schools, to visit a QES Music lesson in which Jen Hartley, Director of Music, was rehearsing her music scholars in their rendition of a section of the ballet score which she had written herself in response to Head of Dance, Jasper Marriott’s visual prompting. She used the piece to teach them about musical styles, influences and effects; she revised the score with them as their practice revealed glitches in her score and their technique; she involved them in the whole process of musical creation ultimately preparing them for their playing a role in the world premier of a brand new work. Michael Claddingbowl said it was the finest example he’d seen of a music ‘lesson’ and indeed the whole project, the unique writing and production of a new full-length ballet by a school, is one of the most extraordinary educational projects I have witnessed. Of course, I wouldn’t care to assess it formally or even to claim its direct relationship to an exam syllabus but it seems to me a precious and invaluable piece of learning, exactly what schools and especially this school should be about: young

people challenged through a demanding process to reach standards of creative excellence by inspirational teachers. When I think of ‘Alice’ and the hours that went into it and I think of the wonderful Christmas concerts and carol services that resound through the last weeks of term, I think how dispiriting it must be to imagine your subject, indeed your passion, disregarded in the reforms, elbowed to the side of the school curriculum, thought not to be rigorous, exacting, challenging, academic. And how foolish and absurd this is when you think how music gives us all the opportunity to link through time and space with our roots and traditions and to connect in common voice with others all over the world who pause at this time to reflect and celebrate. And so it is that at QES we will continue to offer a curriculum which is rich and diverse and we’ll continue to offer experiences in and out of classrooms which broaden, stretch, involve and intrigue. We won’t just do what inspectors want and exam systems demand; it’s simply not enough; we know we can do that and more. We’ll continue to ‘educate’ in the fullest sense of the word - to develop young people with a sense of values who are flexible, tolerant, adaptable, confident, articulate and caring. Call it a New Year’s Resolution... for next year and long into the future. Have a really good Christmas. Best wishes

Uniform Update

opefully you will have had chance to read the uniform review published on our website earlier this term. It was written in response to a number of queries we had and tells the full story! This newsletter gives us chance to let you know about the improvements we have been working on in partnership with Monkhouse. Monkhouse are in school on all our subject review afternoons. The first one for Year 8 was based in the gym and enabled some civilised tryingon using the gym changing rooms. Several parents also took the opportunity to do exchanges on that afternoon. There are four more of these opportunities in the diary: 30th January, 12th February and the 11th and 24th March 2014. We have three sell dates in the calendar for summer: 5th and 26th August for all years and 21st August for Sixth Form only (this is GCSE results day). Charles Kirk, who now manufactures our fleece, has worked on a better design for the green pullover. This has raglan sleeves and a neater fit. The next stage in the design process is the wear-testing of a sample size range in school. We have talked at length to

Monkhouse about postage costs. In order to offer a service to our parents we have offered to become a “distribution centre” for parents during the summer holiday, taking deliveries to school on two different dates. Parents will be informed of the date of delivery to school when they order and will be able to collect items from school after those date. These orders will not incur delivery charges.

“Monkhouse are in school on all our subject review afternoons” There is now a full sample-rail in school and parents are welcome to come in after school every Thursday if they would like to try sizes on their children. If you need to come in at another time then we will arrange that for you if you give us a call. There will be no click and collect service at Sedbergh this summer. The service will be offered through the Preston store and this will carry some stock for us this summer too.

We need to be clear about how parents can reduce some of the stress during the summer too: letting Monkhouse know early if they think they might need a non-stock size (Monkhouse will source and badge from different ranges in order to get the right fit but will need a four-week lead in time for this); measuring their child before attending a sell day (there is guidance on the website); timing their arrival for after the 11 am start time for a sell day and leaving plenty of time for their uniform buying on the day. We will repeat all this advice in our website nearer the time. The best way to ensure a hassle-free summer without delivery charges? Use the samples in school to get your sizes, order on line and go for a school delivery or click and collect in Preston if you’re going that way at all. Hopefully you can see that we are always listening to you and trying our best to provide support to parents. We are always so grateful to those of you who try so hard with uniform. Your efforts really do bring rewards, the children look really smart and comfortable. A.Wilkinson

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

onsite Winter wear As you are probably aware, we urge common sense when it comes to dressing for the winter weather. Pupils can of course wear warm coats for school, just not in lessons and on corridors. Scarves, hats and gloves are to be encouraged but need to be plain black for school. We have concerns still about pupils coming to school in canvas shoes and ballet pumps: these are not allowed in school at any time but we find it difficult to believe that pupils will wear them when it’s pouring down or icy! On snow days it is fine to travel in boots then change into indoor shoes, popping outdoor gear into a carrier bag. We do ask pupils to stick to the cleared paths in school and knock the snow off their feet before entering the buildings to give our site team a fighting chance with the carpets! Many pupils sensibly have umbrellas with them and use them to keep dry during the day as well as on their journeys to and from school. Many students also wear plain white base layers on chilly days.

Dark nights mean that visibility is important so water proof jackets and bags with reflective strips or attached fobs are an essential precaution. A.Wilkinson

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

The Little Top Button

The little top button on the shirt Was very, very , very hurt. The other buttons used to say “Why don’t you just go away, No-one wants to fasten you So find another job to do”! Little button bowed his head And cried himself to sleep in bed. Every morning he would pray, “ Please let me be fastened up today.” But every day his dreams were shattered Coz no-one cared, it never mattered. Little top button was really sad, “Am I really, really bad”? Or is it just that no-one cared? Or just perhaps that no-one dared? No-one dared to do what they should Fasten their button and be good No-one dared to do it right Fasten their button tight. Little top button began to cry And wondered, “Will they miss me when I die”? “ Will they all then guilty be Because no-one has cared for me”? “ All I want is a chance you see, Will anybody fasten me”? So next time as you fasten your shirt Think of top button and don’t make him hurt Fasten him up, give him a go It’s really not that bad you know. Don’t be a fool and follow the crowd Wear yours fastened, be brave, be proud. Find it in your heart to try Don’t let little button cry And if you do then you can bet Little top button’s the happiest yet!! A.Blackburn

Learning Matters Avid website readers will have seen that two important documents have been published in the Parents section. They are called Written Work: Presentation Standards and Homework: Smarter ways to learn. Years 7 and 10 received paper versions of these documents at their induction mornings earlier in the term and Years 8, 9 and 11 are bringing theirs home at the moment. The booklets are aimed at pupils and outline two very important aspects of learning that have a big impact on success: good housekeeping in exercise books and good reviewing routines at home. Please read and discuss the advice in the documents with your child. It will help you to support standards and learning at home. If you would like to discuss ways to support learning at home then don’t hesitate to contact your child’s year head in the first instance. A.Wilkinson

Charity Team Fundraising 2013’s Charity Team began their activities with refreshments on a sunny Sports Day and followed this with the Sponsored Walk. This event is always a successful fundraiser for the various charities we support as a school and a memorable part of lower school life; after this we got stuck in to planning the rest of the year’s events. Although most of us already knew each other, we weren’t necessarily all friends out of lessons. However, whilst organising events together we have become a close group, who change roles depending on who is interested in what, meaning that everyone enjoys what they contribute to events. The artistic within the team always do great displays and those good with numbers sort out the money very efficiently! Our annual Pink Week has raised around £800 through the sale of pink ties, ribbons and the charity tins in Café Q, Café 6 and shops in

Kirkby Lonsdale, which will all go to Breast Cancer Care. So thank you if you took part! Thanks also to Jess Wood, David McGregor, Charlie Stafford-Roberts and Harry Still who played in the memorial service. This year’s Talent Show had the widest variety of acts yet, from singers to a unicyclist with musicians and dancers in between. The night was extremely entertaining and it was lovely to celebrate some of the talents we have here in school, whilst raising money for A Breath for Life charity. Many thanks also to those who paid to come in their own clothes on Mufti Day; the money goes to our various charities such as Sekwe House. As a response to the shocking typhoon that has hit the Philippines, we have set up a money wall in Café Q and we are appealing to you to donate anything you can to this worthy cause. On 8th December, Ben Wilson & David Cope will be running the Three Peaks in order to raise money for Solar Schools - to help QES get solar panels - and for the school’s Charity Team. What they are undertaking is extremely impressive and sponsor forms will be posted around school so you can sponsor the boys! Thanks for your continued support. The Charity Team

Year 7 Science club runs every Thursday lunchtime and is open to all Year 7 pupils. It is run by members of the science department to give pupils extra exposure to various areas of science. V.Pimblett In science club this term we have done activities in biology and chemistry. The first half term was biology and we did several different things. First we grew bacteria with Mrs. Waters by placing our thumbs on agar plates which grew into an assortment of colours. We’ve looked at small animals lurking in the River Lune through microscopes with Mr Fuller. The one I’ve enjoyed the most so far was pyrotechnics with the chemistry department, looking at different substances and how they change the colour of the Bunsen Burner flame. Also on that day we made our own sparklers using iron fillings. Everyone is welcome to join — it is great fun. Jacob Whitaker 7K

Calling all GCSE and A-level Art students Unless their work is currently being exhibited around school, please would all last summer’s 2013 GCSE and A level students collect their art work from the Art department. Contact either Mrs Timshle or Mrs Boyd.

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

Games Club Warhammer battle In November, four great generals (pictured below) set forth, headed for Kendal, on a crusade in the name of QES Games Club, intent on victory. The war that followed was great, as the native warbands and generals of QKS emerged to fight for their renown and honour. It would be untrue to claim victory was easy, for the warriors of Queen Katherine fought hard and well, winning early successes, and the first round of results was typical of this, With three losses and a draw it didn’t look good for QES. But break we did not. Instead we launched our own counterattack fuelled with unrelenting vigour, slowly but surely

Baking Club

closing the gaping points gap opened by their devastating first round, but there is more than one element to the hobby, leaving painting and modelling to decide who would come out victorious, and it was here that QES gained a hard points edge. The quality of the painting across all four forces was indisputable, and when the mist cleared it was a great victory for the QES Games Club. However our crusade isn’t over yet, and at dusk it was four great generals who looked onwards towards Warhammer World, to the next round, to compete in the regional finals.. Stephen Gent

Baking Club meets on Thursdays after school. Y12 Food Tech students have been teaching Y7 (and some staff) how to bake delicious cakes. C.Falcus

Year 9 pupils self-publishing

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Games Club painting session during Trips Week

Having read William Golding’s The Lord of the Flies, Mr McGregor’s Year 9 students were inspired to have a go at some creative writing themselves. Over the course of three lessons in IT rooms they each created a short story based around a microcosm (a small version of something much larger) of their own choosing. What resulted was so good that we published our own anthology and the high standard achieved bodes well for GCSE controlled assessments. D.McGregor

Business School gets into a jam QE Business School is a full day of Business Studies that runs every Thursday. The day consists of GCSE Business Studies and a Higher Project qualification. Business School has always been about understanding how businesses work and getting experience from a more practical point of view - we achieved this by inviting quest speakers to come in and share their experiences with us; this helped us gain knowledge from a real-life running business. We also went to Majik House where we looked at how the business was operated; this was extremely beneficial because it gave us an insight into how a proper business is run, and how it remains successful with satisfied customers In Business School we were looking for a project that would help us really understand each aspect of making a business successful; to do this

money they paid for the shares and a share of the total profit. Once the jam was made we then labelled them and sent out order forms.

we decided to create our own business in making jars of jam. We have called the enterprise ‘Jamberee’. We buy in locallysourced ingredients in order to produce different flavours of jam such as raspberry, strawberry and plum. To gather enough funds to start the business (buy in the ingredients and jars) we decided to create a shares system; we sent emails out urging people to buy shares in the business, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. When the business is liquidated shareholders will receive the original amount of

Jam is available while stocks last. The cost is £2 per jar and orders can be delivered to students on a Thursday. Order forms are available in register bags or from Mr Burnett. In addition we will soon be selling sherbet! Watch this space for more Jamberee products after Christmas. Faith Hirons 11M

Textiles artist inspires A-level students In November we had a day off timetable to experience and work with a current textiles artist James Fox. It was a great day for Sixth Form students taking art and interior textile design to get a feel for life as an artist and to see how he worked. He told us about the honest struggles that any upcoming artist has to overcome along with the pleasure of working on something you love. James Fox is mainly a textiles artist using techniques such as reverse appliqué along with the use of stencils to create unique

and contrasting designs. At the start of the day James introduced himself along with a large sample of his work, which was very inspiring and creative. James often uses quite modern images in contrast with the material, so it was unique and unlike any artist we had studied previously. We then had a chance to try out some of our own designs, creating them by searching through magazines and drawing our ideas. It was a good chance to develop our personal art skills with the help of an experienced artist. Lauren Challis 12S

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

offsite Year 7 Drama Festival 2013 The Tiger and the Man - 7Q

Forty Fortunes - 7E

The Little Blue Wren - 7K

Year 7 pupils step back in time In October the excitement around Kirkby Lonsdale was palpable as the BBC rolled into town. In what seemed like the blink of an eye, Market Square and many local residents were transported back in time and place to Devon in 1820 for the filming of scenes for Jamaica Inn. Some Year 7 pupils were lucky enough to see some filming first hand, even getting the opportunity to mingle with the cast and interview one of the directors. Many local residents and business owners took on the roles of extras for the busy market scenes. Hairdressers and antique shop owners transformed into market traders and local villagers, complete with dirty faces and sack-cloth clothes. They happily chatted to the group between filming, describing how they were amazed by how long it took to set up a simple sequence of film. Sometimes they were standing around for over twen-

The Story Spirits - 7W

ty minutes while the technical crew set up a shot of twenty seconds of action – frequently having to repeat the process several times to get it ‘just right’. One explained that the hardest bit was remembering exactly where they stood and moved to so that the continuity was maintained. Over the five days of filming the aim was to produce just twenty minutes of action for the series!

“Molly Holmes asked what had been put on the ground to cover up the road markings” The groups’ journalistic skills came to the fore when one of the directors kindly came over to speak to them. Charlie Lowe jumped straight in to ask if they had to pay the local shops that were affected. The director responded somewhat elusively

saying, ‘yes, we have had to pay them compensation, but I can’t tell you how much!’ He then explained how they had met several times with local businesses to give them assurances about the positive effects of bringing the BBC to town. Molly Holmes asked what had been put on the ground to cover up the road markings and he explained that it was a special mulch that could just be scraped off and washed away afterwards. Everyone agreed that the transformation was very clever and seeing it first-hand showed clearly what a complex business the film industry is. The juxtaposition of old and new in Market Square, as horses and carts mingled with orange plastic barriers, bright arc lights and metres of electric cable was perhaps most evident as a troop of 19th Century costumed characters climbed into a very modern mini bus to be driven off for their lunch break! D.Murray

Meamei: The 7 Sisters - 7M

Raven-Who-Puts-Things-Right - 7L

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Haroun and the Sea of Stories - 7S

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

Star-gazers The Physics department recently took the opportunity to take thirty Year 9 pupils on a trip to The Lakes School to take part in a Polestar Planetarium presentation. Polestar Planetarium is the North’s largest and most stunning mobile planetarium, bringing an exciting multimedia exploration of the Cosmos to pupils in presentations specifically adapted for their age. Pupils were encouraged to participate and they took away a vivid and lasting impression which stands them in good stead for future curriculum work. Please take a look for yourself at http://www.polestarplanetarium.co.uk/index. htm. The event was free thanks to generous sponsorship from

Zoo trip for 3D Art students the galaxy was very narrow. When I entered the planetarium I saw how looking at the night sky, I could uncover history through constellations.

the Ogden Trust. Here are a the views of some of the Year 9 pupils who took part: “The Planetarium trip was really fun and I learnt a lot about the other planets and the different constellations (and a bit about some Harry Potter characters too!)” Libby Rushton 9S “The planetarium was like a semi-balloon and echoed every sound we made. It felt as if we were under a real sky!” Jacob Aubrey 9S “Before the Planetarium trip my view on space and

I also learnt about planets and their moons, and the darkest corners of space. My knowledge of the galaxy is much wider and I will never look at the night sky again in the same way. “In conclusion the trip was very interesting and educational. I learnt a lot of things I didn’t know and left the planetarium with a lot to think about. If I could go on the trip again, I definitely would!” Charlotte Christmas 9L

As part of their training in observation and recording, the Year 10 3D GCSE group visited Dalton Zoo. The students captured the great variety of animals on offer at the zoo by taking some fantastic photographs which they will use for inspiration in developing their own 3D animal creations. Illustrated are some examples of similar work completed by last year’s pupils on the course. L.Wilson

“I enjoyed the bit with the stars joining up and seeing the different planets.” Will Snowden 9L

Textiles students at industry trade show This year the Knitting & Stitching show was really useful and it helped me, personally with my coursework. The whole annual three-day event in Harrogate had the best, busy but friendly atmosphere. We travelled around the halls in small groups, with everybody wanting their own different components benefitting their work and the show definitely catered for everybody’s needs plus more!

There were many workshops with textile experts in a basement hall along with

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various colleges and university campuses all specialising in textiles. This gave us the option to have a more hands-on approach and learn new skills. The colleges had work on display and representatives were more than happy to answer our questions. Saying that this was encouraging and influential is an understatement!

Furthermore, the hundreds of stalls that were available for us to ‘mooch’ around gave us the ability to learn about the more local people who all work in the textile industry and we could buy pretty much anything that had any relation to textiles or interior design. Overall, the day was beneficial to every one of us and the teachers as well. When we finally met up with them, they had the pleasure of listening to our lists of what we had bought! Hannah Robinson 12Q

Product designers at the V&A In Trips Week eight pupils, with Mr Gaskell, Mr Childs and Mrs Vose, visited the Victoria &Albert Museum art gallery: Inside the gallery we were split into groups and assigned different floors to explore and search for iconic and inspiring product designs from different eras. After completing our work booklet we were allowed to freely experience other areas of the V&A. Stephan and

Charlie had a good time in the costume department! Once our time at the V&A was up, we were let loose on the streets of London. We were allowed to venture into Covent Garden, in search of food and entertainment. The various street performers and vibrant atmosphere meant that we finished on a fun note before the train journey home. Stephen Holl and Richard Byle

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Young speakers address local Rotarians This year, our team comprised three students from Year 12 - Didi Davies, (below at left) AmyJo Clough and Michael Harkness - who were willing to embark on the daunting challenge of presenting a ten-minute speech to a room of eagleeyed Rotarians.

“the daunting challenge of presenting a tenminute speech”

very year, QES enters a small group of sixthformers into the ‘Youth Speaks’ competition - an event, chaired by the Rotary Association, which encourages young people to hone their public speaking skills.

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QES’s chosen subject matter was the enduring importance of politeness, and so just over a month was spent crafting a speech and, perhaps even more impressively, learning it by heart. The speech also involved taking on individual roles, with Amy-Jo as the

team’s main speaker, Didi as its chairperson and Michael concluding the presentation with a ‘vote of thanks’. On the night itself, QES’s competitors were Queen Katherine School and Windermere School. With diverse performances - ranging from the Mayan prophecies to the Lake District - the judges admitted it was an exceedingly tough decision and that the calibre of this particular round of speeches outshone any they had experienced so far. Unfortunately, QES narrowly missed out on winning this regional heat to Windermere School, although Didi Davies did win her individual category for being the best chairperson. Congratulations must go to the team for all their hard work and for delivering a thoroughly poised and polished performance which reflected great credit on them. C.Barrick

QES students enjoy National Citizen Service

his project is funded by the government and delivered by Inspira Cumbria and is free. All young people in Year 11 in Cumbria are offered the opportunity to engage with the National Citizen Service. Groups of 12 young people come together for the first time just a couple of weeks prior to the start of the project to meet each other and their leaders. The summer programme consists of three consecutive weeks of activity followed by a 30-hour community action project. The Autumn programme is condensed into ten consecutive days followed by a 30-hour community action project. Twenty-seven young people from QES took part this year, including Matthew Fleming (below, on the left, enjoying the sunshine.) The first week’s residential consists of multi-activities at an Outward Bound outdoor education centre where young people have to work towards completing several tasks and challenges. They are expected to work as a team, develop some leadership skills and overcome personal challenges. The second week is also residential, at a local youth hostel where the group experience some aspects of independent living in terms of shopping and cooking for the group, planning some of their own activities and attending other sessions on personal safety, money management / avoiding debt,

posed to volunteering opportunities and experience what it’s like to volunteer. The young people are then required to do 30 hours community service before they can graduate with a certificate of completion of the National Citizen Service in October. This can be a group or an individual volunteering project.

drug and alcohol awareness. The third week is non-residential and involves the group in community awareness sessions and activities where they learn from local councillors how local government works. They are informed about how they can participate in the local community and have their say in local issues. They are ex-

Photos: Matthew Fleming

The young people take away new friendships and experiences and so much more. This project proves to any future educational institution or employer that a young person can work in a team to overcome challenges, can be resourceful, flexible and adaptable, is motivated to achieve, and has given time to benefit others. They grow in knowledge and confidence about adult life and learn to deal with their own personal challenges. They definitely become more employable and all have a fantastic time doing it. P.Armitage

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Art and Environment Day In October a group of students from Year 9 took part in a Science and Art wholeday event at Dallam School. The theme for the day was The Burning Question, which is the current issue of the effects of burning fossil fuels on the environment. The theme was introduced by expert Mike Berners-Lee, author of several books on the subject (below). Through his presentation and subsequent group activities and feedback sessions, we were made very aware that unless we do something, there will be drastic consequences for the planet. Later, having been introduced to the work of artists who express their concerns about this through their art, pupils created large scale installations using plastic gathered from the Cumbrian coastline. Pupils were enthusiastic and very creative in their responses and questions and hopefully came away with a sense of their own responsibilities to the planet. R.Eaves

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Touring London’s art galleries The week we spent in London was a great way to view all the brilliant galleries as well as see the city. The trip was organised so that we could see a variety of the galleries per day as well as admire the sights and business of such an iconic part of the country. Each of us has been inspired by different artists and has taken away new ideas and stimuli for our own projects. Walking around the city on our way to the stations and galleries we came across street performers

and live music, the Vue cinema prepping for the arrival of Simon Pegg and a mixture of locals and tourists milling about the various shops, bars and cafes. Experiencing the city was something in itself! I highly recommend going on the trip as visiting London’s are galleries will open your eyes to new styles of art and the history of art. At the same time you will spend a great few days with friends and teachers seeing a fantastic part of the UK. Ellie Pauley

Competing in the Physics Olympics

n October, eight of our A-level Physics students spent a day at Liverpool University at the Physics Olympics 2013. This was QES’s fifth consecutive year in the competition and for the first time, because of demand from our students, we were able to take two teams. The Olympics is a fun, physicsbased completion involving a series of activities with a physics slant, but that also require teamwork, lateral thinking, organisation and planning. The event is part of Physics Olympics World Wide with similar events being planned by Richmond University in the USA and other universities in Europe. Every student received a traditional memento of the

The Physics Olympics team (next page)

event in the shape of a Physics Olympics mug and the winning team of the “boat task” also received magnificent tshirts! This is what the students had to say: “The Physics Olympics in Liverpool proved to be an excellent day out for our school. It was a good way to meet new people from school and work as a team in doing problems (even if we didn’t win). I found all of the activities interesting, challenging and most of all great fun, I would thoroughly recommend this to any physics students in the future.” Patrick Bannister Y12

“In our two teams, we competed against 33 other teams from schools across the North West in a variety of challenges that were all related to Physics and engineering. This involved us attempting (and failing) to build a trebuchet, building bridges, building boats and calculating the Doppler shift of dragons. My favourite challenge involved experimenting with a radioactive source — something you can’t do every day! We were then faced with a quiz that required us to calculate the mass of salt in the Mediterranean Sea, and the angular momentum of the earth. It was really interesting to experience Physics in a university environment. Our teams came first and second in the “boats challenge”, before finishing sixth and tenth overall.” Laura Hunt Y13

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Beachwatch 2013

Geographers in Geordieland

uring the first week of October, twentysix AS Geography students made the trip over to the North-East of England, visiting a number of places in order to enhance our geographical knowledge of the topics we are studying in class.

On Sunday 22 September the Geography Department, other QES staff, students, their friends and family met at Hest Bank to join in this year’s annual Beachwatch Big Weekend event. The event is operated by the Marine Conservation Society to gain an understanding of the state of Britain’s beaches. Last year, the Beachwatch Survey covered 90km of the UK’s coastline. In total 181,978 items were collected and recorded. This amounts to 2,007 items for each kilometre surveyed. The four main sources of litter found on UK beaches come from the public, fishing, sanitary waste (particularly cotton bud sticks) and shipping. The picture shows the amount of debris we cleared on our visit.

This year, as usual, the QES team cleaned and surveyed a stretch of Morecambe Bay. Fortunately, for once, our promises of blue skies and gentle breezes came true, so for a change volunteers did not have face torrential downpours and strong winds when surveying!

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

Of greatest concern was the plastic waste found on the coastline. As well as being unsightly, this poses a serious threat to aquatic life and birds. The national survey has highlighted problems associated with high levels of plastic litter and worryingly overall litter levels have increased by 82% in the past decade. Beachwatch is an annual event which the school has shown a

commitment to for now almost 10 years. In order to influence policy making and strategic planning it is vital that communities work together in gaining evidence to gauge the character and scale of impact on our coastal areas. So the Geography Department would like to once again say a massive thank you to those of you who did participate, and would encourage anyone interested in being proactive in environmental care to contact a member of the Geography Department so they can be included in next year’s event. A.Douglas

Our first destination was Cow Green Reservoir. This is a vast and majestic reservoir, held behind an impressive dam wall. Downstream from the dam there is a series of cataracts, which is essentially a rocky staircase with water gushing down each of the ‘stairs’. The site is beautiful and it is hard not to utter a little ‘wow!’ when you first see it! After visiting the reservoir, we made

our way to a safer part of the river where we would be able to gather data about various aspects of the upper course of the river that we were expecting to find according to a model we have studied in class. Despite the slightly dreary weather, this was an enjoyable, interactive experience and we gathered plenty of data to take back with us to the Youth Hostel in the evening. Later that day, we stumbled wearily into the Langdon Beck Youth Hostel and were shown to comfortable, warm rooms where we would be sleeping for the next two nights. We were also served a delicious homemade meal with dessert, which went down very well! After dinner, we spent the rest of the evening consolidating

what we had done in the day and writing up the data we had gathered. The next day was a contrast to our previous day as we visited the city of Newcastle. We began at an area of Newcastle called Ouseburn and to me, this place seemed like I was taking a step through consecutive historic eras in the space of a minute as there was a sharp contrast between old and modern buildings and infrastructure. For the rest of the day, we walked around Newcastle, visiting areas that were different in their buildings and amenities. At a site called Jesmond, we were split into groups and given questionnaires and were asked to talk to people we found going about their daily

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Year 7 Outdoor Residential adventure experience

uring Trips Week a group of twelve Year 7 pupils and four members of staff went to stay at the Priestley Centre, Torver, situated on the edge of Coniston Water, for a three-day Outdoor Residential experience. For once the weather was kind to us!

business on the streets, asking them questions regarding their opinions on matters such as vandalism and the aesthetic quality of Jesmond. This was both confidence-building and also very interesting to see how different age groups and genders answered each of the questions differently.

Our first day in Whitby was spent visiting coastal sites including Flamborough Head, Robin Hood’s Bay and Sandsend, where we were investigating coastal management schemes such as the different types of sea defences put in place to manage the effects of coastal erosion.

the sea. We were able to use this data to draw a transect of the dune when we returned to class. Finally, we once again hopped on the minibus and made the journey back to QES, our bodies and brains very tired, but also stored up with plenty of valuable knowledge and experiences.

On our third day we travelled along the course of the River Tees and stopped at various spots along the river (High Force waterfall pictured above), examining how it changed though each course. For me, this day was unique as it is not everyday you get to see the majority of a river’s course all in one bus journey!

Despite this being one of our longest days, it was also very satisfying being able to see the diagrams in our folders brought to life by seeing nature firsthand.

The teachers who made the trip possible deserve a tremendous thank you from every one of us for taking the time to take us on an enriching, valuable and enjoyable trip that will undeniably be of great help when it comes to our exam.

Later that day, we arrived at Whitby Youth Hostel which was a magnificent place with breathtaking views of the coast, the town of Whitby and also the mesmeric ruins of the ancient abbey which were lit up at night.

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On our penultimate day, we spent time in York studying the management of the River Ouse and there was also time for a little wander around the grand, time-honoured city. On the morning of the final day, we measured a transect across a sand dune at Redcar and recorded data on how the dunes changed as they progressed further away from

Miss Govan, Mr Douglas, Ms. Donnelly and Mr Walsh all enormously helped each individual student and were always there if we needed help of any kind. Finally, I would like to end on a geographical quote from Mr Douglas that really seems to sum up what Geography is about: ‘Geographers see more.’ Gemma Winter 12Q

group went climbing in a nearby quarry. We met at the centre for lunch before going our separate ways for climbing and canoeing. Evening saw the conclusion of the marble maze with one team taking the glory.

The last day saw both groups join together for our final activity, kayaking, the highlight of which was Mrs Wilson capsizing in water about a foot deep! Then it was back to the centre to get dry before the minibus journey back to school. J.Jackson

The sun shone as we arrived at the centre ready for three action packed days. After a briefing by centre staff, getting our rooms sorted and eating lunch we ventured out for our first activity. We split into two groups with both groups water-bound; one group to Church Beck for a ghyll scramble, the other group canoeing on Coniston Water. Once dry, and fed lasagne and garlic bread, courtesy of Mrs Braithwaite and Mrs Wilson, it was time to take on the first challenges of the marble maze! This involved cracking puzzles, demonstrating physical prowess and concentration. Day Two started with the joys of a full English, to ensure we were suitably fuelled for the day’s activities. The group who had canoed the previous day set off to ghyll scramble in Church Beck whilst the other

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Performingarts W

Sponsored Walk takes place in fine weather

hat a difference a year makes! The sponsored walk in 2012 was a really soggy affair. This year it was hot and sunny and the main issue soon became clear: how do you keep 800 people who are labouring under a blazing sun refreshed and hydrated? The answer was in the 40 water containers (pictured below) that staff ferried around the route constantly. They had to be refilled at Bull Pot, Barbon and some had to be refilled at school. Water was taken out to Casterton, Treasonfield, Barbon and Underley Bridge. It was a wonderful day with all participants showing great determination to complete the course. Even those who had to drop out did so with reluctance because staff insisted! The day ran smoothly at the crossing points on the A683 thanks to great support from the police.

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We have collected in the sponsor money and this amounts to just over £8000. A cheque for £1000 has been handed over to the Charity Team who will decide which charities will benefit. Any remaining money will be used to enhance the environment around QES for the benefit of everyone in the QES community. Items recently purchased from this fund include the clock overlooking the field and a new landscaped area outside Springfield House. Students are able to make further suggestions via Pupil Voice for enhancements to the school environment for the benefit of everyone. We would like to thank local businesses who supported us in so many ways by providing us with transport and also allowing access to their taps. Local land owners and farmers again kindly allowed us to

walk over their estates and we are very grateful for this. We’d also like to thank voluntary groups who allowed us access to their facilities. Thank you to everyone in the QES community for their support on the day, from the Year 12 pupils who did such a fabulous job marshalling the entire route, the staff who walked with pupils and chivvied them along, the ‘checkers-in’ at Bull Pot, the staff who ferried around water and food (and pupils!) over the route and the fluorescent-jacketed colleagues on the roadcrossings. This is a truly community event when we see QES pupils and staff at their very best and we are thankful for the continued support of the wider community. We hope to repeat this memorable event again on Thursday 17th July 2014. R.Gerrard

Autumn’s music

The Year 11 Scholars, joined by two percussionists and Mrs Hartley, represented QES at the annual Westmorland Gala Concert, which took place on October 16 at Windermere School. They played some of their repertoire for the imminent ballet, although the show was slightly stolen by Georgie Lockett, Sophie Procter and Keir McGregor, who played a Haydn Trio that they had taught themselves. Very impressive! As usual, QES really stood out and the students were a credit to the school.

played Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No.3, and with the wind, brass and percussion section of the full orchestra, who played a piece specially chosen for them and conducted by Year 12 student Charlie Stafford-Roberts. The concert in the evening (pictured below) also featured a fiery performance of Jenkins’s popular Palladio by the senior string group, the Haydn trio (see Gala Concert) and an atmospheric piece entitled London By Night played by the Berkeley Ensemble themselves.

Berkeley Ensemble visit The now very familiar faces of the Berkeley Ensemble returned to QES to work with the orchestra on Wednesday 20 November, holding rehearsals with the string orchestra, who

They returned the following day to work with Year 11 on composition skills, and spent over three hours giving them really thorough advice and superb feedback on some miniature compositions that Year 11

had written for them. We can’t wait for them to come back in February! Woodwind Festival This year’s Festival series has been slimmed down, with instruments sharing events that have a slightly more formal air about them. The first of the year was the Woodwind Festival on November 11, featuring oboists, flautists (including, above), some stunning group playing) clarinettists and saxophonists, with some popular and jaunty numbers from the clarinet group and the saxophone quartet. Thanks to the teachers who prepared students for this event; it was a great start to the year’s concerts, and a real festival of woodwind playing. Well done to performers! J.Hartley .

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Salt Pie Lane folk group Well done to the pared-down folk group for performing at the Christmas Fair, playing for the first time without Miss Lawrence and the majority of the fiddle players. You were absolute stars! We have done a few ceilidhs over the past year including a 21st birthday party, a charity event for Money for Madagascar and most recently at the Hothouse in Morecambe. Each time people have commented on what a fabulous, tight and professional band we are. Dan Mason (former pupil) has been our caller for each one and has done a great job!

COMING SOON Wassailing in the Fairfield Orchard, Lancaster Satuday 18th Jan 3pm - 5pm Burns Night ceilidh at QES Friday 24th January We hope to see you at one of these events! For more information on any of these events email Miss Lawrence at j.lawrence@queenelizabeth.cumbria.sch.uk or Mrs Hartley at j.hartley@queenelizabeth.cumbria.sch.uk J.Lawrence

Flash Mob Ukrainian Choir Our Sixth Formers were treated to a “flash mob” performance by the internationally-renowned Boyan Choir of Kiev on Monday 7 October. The choir were touring Britain and they called in to sing for our students in the common room.

They sang some Ukrainian folks song, a traditional prayer and some upbeat

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songs which covered the whole range of their voices. Twenty-nine members of the choir and their entourage were treated to a meal in Café Q to say thank you for dropping in. H.Baines

Djangologie Swing Band

In October the Harlequin Theatre played host to an exciting four-piece gypsy swing band who offered a refreshing musical experience. They comprised two guitarists, a double bassist and a violinist. Djangologie hail from the North-East, and as their name suggests are mainly influenced by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grapelli. At first glance they may appear to be a simple tribute band but they go far beyond that, playing their own compositions alongside Reinhardt classics such as Nuages. The level of musicianship amongst all players was astonishing, each taking turns to perform dazzling solos. The audience also had a chance to chat to the musicians during the interval. They talked about their experiences performing, and how they became influenced to revive gypsy swing.

Alice Through the Looking Glass

t the time of writing this we are currently in the final stages of our Alice Through The Looking Glass production. This means lighting rig and set are being constructed, the arts team are working their magic, the costumes and props are making their appearance in re-

hearsals and the musicians and dancers are being furiously rehearsed to perfection. This is of course on top of the workload and pressure of a regular school week. The amount of work and commitment from all the pupils involved is staggering and the level they are reaching in their

The Curious Dance Company

performance is deeply impressive. Tickets have been selling fast and, for the first time, we are taking the production to the Dukes Theatre on January 11th, performances at 2.00pm and 7:30pm. Our aim is to reach a wider audience for the exciting dance work we produce at QES. J.Marriott

Raucous Boys’ Dance The boys’ dance group meets every Tuesday lunchtime and has been working on the Jabberwocky section of Alice Through The Looking Glass. They will then work on a new piece to be performed at the Brewery Dance Showcase in March.

It was fantastic to see some live jazz in school to coincide with studying A2 music and to actually meet the performers was a bonus. Overall a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Henry Holborn 13W We are performing Alice Through The Looking Glass under the collective title of a The Curious Dance Company. After this production we aim to create a shorter piece for Youth Dance England’s New

Dimensions Festival. This will be a piece that will use live music and song with dance to explore further some of the Panimal (part person, part animal) characters from our Alice production. J.Marriott

I have been very impressed with this group of committed and creative boys and I am excited about what they will be able to create in the future. J.Marriott

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Macbeth

superb ensemble cast from QES took Shakespeare’s bleak tragedy to the stage at the school and at The Dukes, Lancaster as part of the Shakespeare Schools Festival. This national festival involves thousands of young actors across the country, and gives them the opportunity to perform their work on a professional stage. Work began on the play in June, when auditions were held for students in years 8, 9 and 10. After this followed a series of workshops led by Director Mr Brown in which the cast changed from a group of individual actors into a tightly-knit ensemble, and experimented with a host of unusual physical ways to try to visually conceptualise the play, in preparation

for rehearsals that began in earnest in September. Our stark production kept the whole cast on stage for the entire performance, and provided the audience with, in the words of the festival representative at the Dukes, a succession of “amazing visual images and soundscapes” to tell the story of Macbeth’s downfall. Max Howarth (Yr11) played Macbeth with real intensity, with Felicity Warman (Yr9) playing his ice-cold “fiend-like queen”. All other roles were taken by the ensemble who performed with a level of focus and professionalism to the final bow, keeping a sold-out Harlequin Theatre riveted. J.Brown

Billy Liar Billy Liar tells of a young undertaker’s clerk named William “Billy” Fisher. Billy, still living at home with his parents, is bored with his smalltown existence, and in an effort to bring a little colour to his life tells lies — from the trifling and relatively inconsequential, to overblown, compulsive whoppers. This rather loose grasp of the truth leads him to be simultaneously engaged to two women, whilst really being in love with a third woman! The play, directed by Mr Fleming, is a comedy at heart, but it also poignantly tells a story of small-town frustration. L.Fleming Performance Dates Tuesday 11th February Wednesday 12th February Thursday 13th February £7 adults £5 students Tickets from Helen Baines in January 2014 at the Harlequin Theatre, Queen Elizabeth School

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QES Theatre Arts in the community Meet the new member of staff promoting QES Theatre Arts in the Community: I was appointed in September as a teacher of Theatre Arts at QES with the remit to also bring creative Dance & Drama opportunities to the schools and communities in our locality. So far it has been an extremely busy and exciting three months! Currently, I am working within three of our local primary schools offering dance and drama lessons to KS1 and KS2 pupils. The workshops I teach are designed to help support the topics they are studying at school already (WW2, Ancient Egypt, etc.), combining this prior learning with some highly creative arts provision. The pupils have responded extremely well and it is such a joy working with a wide range of age groups, week by week. We also launched QES Youth Theatre School in November, based in the Harlequin Theatre, pictured right. The group is rapidly growing in group size and skill base as the weeks progress and each Saturday morning session is proving to be thoroughly enjoyable for both the students and staff.

The youth company have begun devising their own work and all involved are excited at the prospect of performing at various QES events in the New Year. The company is fully inclusive and is open to anyone aged between 7 and 15; working with such a large age range is an enjoyable opportunity and there is certainly never a dull moment with such a collection of personalities. There is so much young talent in our local area that I feel extremely privileged to work with a huge number of these young performers in so many varying capacities within the beautiful environment of Kirkby Lonsdale. I hope to continue updating everyone on our progress in developing Arts provision for the local area and beyond. Laura-Anne Shepherd

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learningmatters T

London Theatre Tour 2013

his year the Theatre Arts department took 49 GCSE and A-level Drama/ Performing Arts students to London’s West End for an unforgettable long-weekend of theatre. During the three-day visit students enjoyed shows of the highest quality: Matilda the Musical, Charlie & The Chocolate Factory, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time. Each show oozed with the professional class of the West End and it was a genuine pleasure to see our students soaking up the atmosphere and vibrancy of this part of London, as well as taking immense enjoyment in seeing shows of such ingenuity and quality. The students loved the theatre performances and they all learnt a great deal about the ever-rising standards of theatre in this country, alongside the immense technological advances used in order to ‘wow’ audiences night after night. Alongside the theatre performances, we also took the

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students to London’s National Theatre on the South Bank, (pictured below) where they got to enjoy a backstage tour of the inner workings of the theatre itself. The timing of our trip coincided with the 50-Year anniversary of the National, so it was a real treat to see props and set being purpose-built for use by actors such as Dame Judy Dench, James Corden & Benedict Cumberbatch. It was an exceptional tour filled with details and information that will aid all the students in their study of theatre. The National Theatre is a truly special place for anyone associated with the arts and the students thoroughly enjoyed being there. Finally, the trip was complete with an acting workshop in which two performers from

War Horse were able to give a session on devised theatre. The session was hosted at Pineapple Studios and it was lovely to see our students working in rooms next door to professional auditions. Again, the students were sensing the vibe and reality of life in London as a performer. The workshops actively involved students in devised drama tasks and situations which will fully complement their studies at GCSE and A-level. It was an absolute pleasure to take the students to London, where they behaved impeccably and demonstrated a real enthusiasm for the arts. Thank you to the accompanying staff (Mrs Winstanley, Mrs Denby, Mr Marriott, Miss Shepherd and Mrs Jones) who all added to a trip in which pretty much all the students at some point said to me: “It’s been absolutely amazing — can we do it again next year?” Well, I certainly can’t see any reason as to why not. I’m looking forward to it myself. L.Fleming

Behind the lens Wildlife photographer and film-maker Dougie Allen (pictured below) came to talk to GCSE and A-level Geographers and AS Photography students on Wednesday 16 October. He gave a presentation about his work at the North and South Poles when he worked with some of the most amazing animals on the planet, and explained how he survived living and working in the most hostile environments on earth. He told us of his time collaborating with David Attenborough and the BBC on the series Frozen Planet. There were lots of interesting pictures and fascinating snippets of information he was able to share with us about the polar regions and specific camera techniques. After the main talk he gave a workshop with the AS Photography students about how to capture the perfect shot. He also gave advice on how to get into the line of work that he has been so lucky to be able to follow. It was a great experience for everyone especially for those students looking towards following a similar career path. Benedict Rickards Year 12

Science Taster Days

When I was in Year 6 I went to some science taster sessions at QES. On the first day we learnt how to use a Bunsen burner, changing the safety flame into a blue flame, and did a practical on the chemicals which changed the colour of the flame — my favourite was the gold sparkles created by iron filings. On the second day we tested fruit on their electrical energy. We used a range of fruit from kiwi to banana, although an orange had the best electrical current. After this we had some fruit around 10:45 (not the fruit we used for the test!) and enjoyed sitting outside. After the break we had another practical and we were back at our primary schools by 11:45am. I really enjoyed the four days of science, as it was nothing like we had done in my primary school before Laurie Fishwick 7K

Primary Science

When I was in Year Six I went to QES to do some Science lessons. We used Bunsen burners, made butter, crushed plants, and mixed lots of different chemicals. It was lots of fun. The best thing was making butter, because when we made it, we listened to Shake It by Metro Station and then we ate it on a baguette at the picnic tables near the three storey block. Arthur Glaves 7E

Books&Banter A reading group with a difference, Books & Banter has an informal setting where no comment is “wrong” or “not what the author intended”. I realised that, more often than not, reading gets pushed aside by work and compulsory activities, and taking on a long novel can seem daunting if you haven’t the time to complete it. By creating Books & Banter I hoped to convey the motto: reading can be done by anyone. Through only reading short stories it aims to be undemanding and easily integrated into busy lives. The English representatives organise this group and we meet once every half term and sit around with hot drinks and snacks while discussing our opinions of what we’ve read. We are currently reading a booklet of short stories in the genre of Cult Fiction — this being something that wouldn’t usually attract me or never seemed my “cup of tea”, though surprisingly I found it just as refreshing as the real beverage. The most recent meeting was on 11 December and I’ll report on that in the next issue of the newsletter. Constance Luckham

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Careers Advice (ICAG) Our current Year 10s have been given a fantastic opportunity to be involved in the ESH employability programme, run during six Personal Development lessons throughout the academic year. The sessions cover a wide range of skills which are required by employers and a particular focus is placed on subject areas sought out by different industry and business sectors. All sessions are led by business men and women across a wide variety of sectors. Every student taking part will compile, under the guidance of their business mentor, a personal file documenting their progress as they each tackle a number of critical ‘checkpoints’ throughout the programme. The checkpoint tasks include action planning, producing a CV, health and safety in the workplace, online profile etc. All students completing the full complement of checkpoint tasks will enter into a shortlist for a mock interview with a representative from industry.

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Brian Manning, Chief Executive of Esh Group, which is coordinating the programme, explained: “We need to thank all the businesses that are working in partnership as part of the Employability Programme. Every one of them is passionate about showing how school work is relevant in their business. These business men and women are not coming in to school to teach – they are coming there to show – and to bring the excitement of business into the classroom.” C.Harrison

Mock interviews appeal The QES ICAG team are constantly striving to build new partnerships and strengthen existing links with local employers and other organisations. Each year we run a range of activities across the year groups to promote the world of work including mock interviews, work ready day, work experience, work shadowing, industry talks etc. On Thursday 26th June we are organising for all of our Year 10s to have a mock interview. If you would like to be involved in this event or would like to offer your support in any other way this would be greatly appreciated. For further information please contact Mrs S Dixon, ICAG administrator s.dixon@ queenelizabeth.cumbria.sch. uk 015242 79192

Work Experience Work Experience for all our Year 10 students will be taking place between Monday 7th July and Friday 11thJuly. At QES we think it is important for all students to take responsibility for arranging their own work experience in a field of their choice rather than school choosing for them. In our guidance we do encourage students to steer clear of comfort zones such as returning to their old primary school and going to a family business they are already familiar with. We also encourage students to think carefully about the type of activities they would typically being doing within a given placement and whether the placement ties in with their own aspirations. For information on work experience please go to the home page of the QES website where you will find a link to QES Work Experience. Alternatively, please contact Mrs S Dixon, ICAG administrator s.dixon@queenelizabeth.cumbria.sch.uk 015242 79192

Yr10 pupils on Work Experience in previous years

U-Explore is an independent and impartial careers platform that inspires young people about their futures and places them in control of their own learning and progression. Not only does your child now have access to U-Explore at school, they can also log on 24/7, to access a wealth of exciting careers features, including over 2,000 written and video job profiles across 14 industry sectors, virtual tours of real work environments and advice on how to apply for a college or university course, work experience placement or even a job. How should my child use it? There is no structured route through U-Explore. Your child can log on at any time for instant access to completely impartial information, advice and guidance that will help them to make informed choices about their future options. If your child has no idea where to start, they can begin their journey by searching their favourite subjects, interests, their best skills and qualities or even the qualifications they are studying for. You could sit with your child and discuss any thoughts they already have surrounding their future, encouraging them to make notes in the Notepad (found in the toolbar to the left of the page) or ‘like’ any jobs, qualifications, workplaces or learning environments that they are interested in. These preferences will be saved in your child’s individual profile,

which can also be accessed from the toolbar to the left of the page. What if I want to use U-Explore myself? That’s fine - many adults have used U-Explore to find out more about opportunities for themselves. We would, however, ask you not to log in using your child’s user details as this affects the tracking data the school uses. Instead, please register yourself using the information in the panel below. C.Harrison Go to www.u-explore.com and click the User Login tab at the top of the page. Click the Register button. Enter your personal details in the About You section. In the About Your Establishment section, select QES from the drop down list. Enter your child’s school year and tick the Parent box. In the Registration Code, enter: [42339]. Create a memorable username and password for yourself. Click Register then log in using your new username and password and begin exploring!

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Going to work with parents

n Friday 12th July, Year 7 spent the day work shadowing a parent, relative or family friend in their place of work. This enabled students to further their understanding of the skills and qualities required in a working environment. Here’s what three of our pupils thought about the QES “go to work with a parent” day:

uring my trip to Askam Construction I learnt many things to do with what goes on behind the physical building and constructing of their projects. It was an early start; leaving the house at 7:30 was a shock to the system and when we arrived I found out that there was a program of what I was to do and see while I was there. My first port of call was going to see the management team who set me to work making leaflets for the new site members that were joining later that week. After that there were many other groups of people who I got to spend time with. I enjoyed being involved with the work experience and being part of their team. Overall, I really enjoyed my time at Askam Construction and would definitely like go back if given the opportunity. Abi Francis 8W

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went to work with my mum, at Bentham Medical Practice, which was a fantastic experience. I learnt a lot about how

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the surgery works, the great variety of jobs in a GP surgery (e.g. receptionist, GP, practice manager, finance manager etc.) and how the practice works as a business. I found going to work with my mum gave me a far better understanding of what it’s like to work in a real medical practice than I would have found out by, for example, simply reading a book about it. I got the chance to see some of the equipment they use on a day to day basis and I spoke to the majority of the staff working there about what their particular job involved. I think it was a great opportunity to get an idea of what your parents do every day and what it’s like to work. Bethan Storey Y8

hen I went to work with my dad at Lancaster University I benefitted a lot from this experience. I learnt lots of skills that may help me when I have a job. The skills I learnt included welding and machining. I also learnt how to test a variety of materials which included aluminium and steel bars as well as a composite manhole cover which we loaded to 40 tonnes. One thing I really enjoyed was sitting in the racing car which the students with help from my dad made. After this brief visit to the Engineering Department it makes me feel as though I would like to do something like this as a career. Matthew Salisbury Y8

From the Vocational Coordinator The transition from QES post-16 to college or a job with training is an exciting time for many of our students but it can also be fraught with apprehension and uncertainty. My role as Vocational Coordinator is to help guide our students through this challenging process by ensuring that they have up to date and relevant careers information and are fully prepared to grasp potential opportunities taking the next step with confidence. With this in mind we can assist with and have planned for:  Visits to local colleges to find out about and sample courses  Access to training providers  Help with cover letters and CVs  Preparation for interviews and testing Many of our students are often interested in apprenticeships that provide a job with training and recognised qualifications. If you are in a position to offer such opportunities we would be glad to hear from you. O.Gaskell

Winner of engineering scholarship

ear 12 student Owain Houghton has won a prestigious engineering scholarship In twenty years the Arkwright Scholarships Trust has awarded fewer than 2700 scholarships to students interested in following a career in engineering. In July Owain Houghton was awarded one of these prestigious prizes which identifies him as one of the country’s future leaders in engineering. The renowned Arkwright Engineering Scholarships provide students with a £600 financial award to support their A-level studies and a range of activities to enhance their understanding and experience of engineering. QES also receives £400. The Scholarships are respected by leading universities and industrial companies and are supported by top engineering employers and organisations such as Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems and Microsoft Research, and are also funded by charitable donors including, The Reece Foundation and The Lloyd’s Register Foundation

asked about their career aspirations and had to discuss an engineering project they had conducted. During the interview day the candidates took part in a team exercise to solve a hands-on engineering problem working with students they had never met before. Candidates and their parents also toured the engineering facilities at the host university and explored the diversity of engineering and design careers and their importance to the UK economy. Dr Martin Thomas, National Director of the Arkwright Scholarships Trust said: “I am delighted to see a student from Queen Elizabeth School secure this

prestigious accolade. Clearly, there is considerable technical talent in the South Cumbria area. With the competition for rewarding jobs becoming ever-more fierce, the receipt of an Arkwright Engineering Scholarship can help dynamic young people like Owain to be the country’s future leaders in engineering and related areas of design.” On Friday 25th October Owain attended an awards ceremony in Glasgow (pictured below) where he was presented with his scholarship by Alan Rowntree of the Brian Mercer Trust If you are interested in following in Owain’s footsteps the applications for this year’s Arkwright Scholarships are currently going ahead. If you would like to apply see Mrs Vose. K.Vose

Owain had to complete a rigorous selection process consisting of a detailed application form, a two-hour aptitude exam and an interview hosted at Lancaster University. The aptitude exam tested candidates’ flair and originality in solving engineering design problems. At the in-depth interview, candidates were

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New Enterprise & Manufacturing Skills course 2013 saw the introduction of Enterprise and Manufacturing Skills, a brand new course to be offered to year 10’s. It took two of our option blocks up but was definitely worth it. In the course we are learning various different techniques of manufacturing, such as welding, brazing, CAD-CAM, lathe work and much more. We have been on a team building visit to Tower Wood outdoor centre and have other educational visits in the pipeline. As a group we are learning to work together as a team to produce products such as bird houses and clocks in a production line fashion. For the enterprise part of our course we are planning to sell some of our bird boxes, initially at the Christmas fair and have already had interest from some staff. Our main challenge now is to work together to hit the deadline! In 2015 we aim to achieve a level 2 in enterprise plus getting skills that put us ahead of

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competition when applying for jobs in the manufacturing sector. We have got our CVs in place and have practised writing a covering letter for the ESH work placement program that is running in PD. We have also started looking at possible apprenticeships after our GCSEs. Frank Konczynski

“we are learning various different techniques of manufacturing” On our team building trip to Tower Wood one of our activities was canoeing which I have to say was quite difficult. First, we had to go to the boat house to get our safety briefing were they told us how to put life jackets on and which wet suits we would need.

After that we went to get changed into our wet suits which were rather difficult to get on because they were so tight. When we had all eventually got our wet suits on we had to go and get our canoes off the canoe rack. So two by two we carried the canoes off the rack and put them on the edge of the water. We all sat in our canoes while Joe gave us the brief on what we were going to do and the various safety hazards. Before we knew it we were out on Lake Windermere cruising in our canoes. Our first challenge was to do a 360 degrees spin in two strokes. We also took it in turns to go under the pier which was pretty fun. Then to round it all off we all got to jump off the end of the pier. Lewis Smith After going on the assault course in the morning our afternoon challenge was the ‘Skypole’. This is a high pole like a telegraph pole with a platform on the top. You have to climb up on the platform and then jump off and try to grab a trapeze. I went first and went straight up, didn’t really hesitate and jumped off. Lewis went up nearly as fast as me. There were others who were slower and didn’t get as far but it was all about challenging yourself and going as high as you could. We went for a team building day and got closer as a group. Danny Kiggins

International Film Club

New staff ¡Hola!, Bonjour and Hello! I’m Miss Bradshaw and I’m delighted to introduce myself as a new teacher of French and Spanish in the MFL department here at QES.

The Sixth Form Modern Foreign Languages representatives have set up a foreign languages film club to interest more younger students in international films. We have already shown the French film Les Aventures Extraordinaires d’Adèle Blanc-Sec which has been a huge hit with the members of the club. It was great to share our love of languages with the lower years through the medium of film and we hope that the members continue to be as enthusiastic as we plan to be showing more films in different languages such as German and Spanish. Watching a film in a foreign language, even with the subtitles, is a great way to immerse yourself in that language and improve your accent, which is why Year 7s, 8s and 9s should come along to film club. It’s on Thursdays from 1.20pm in S9 (first floor of Springfield house) and we’ll be advertising other films throughout the year! Alex Casement

Virtual Paris Day

Our annual Virtual Paris Day in September to celebrate the European Day of Languages was, once again, enjoyed by Year 7. The pupils were taken off timetable for a day of French activities, beginning with a French breakfast in the hall (below), followed by workshops on cultural aspects such as French art, Parisian sites and the traditionally French pastime of ‘boules’ as well as language workshops on a French song and all the language required for a day in the French capital. Year 7s thoroughly enjoyed their day. Congratulations to 7K for being best form on the day. Félicitations! H.Gray

This is my first teaching post following the completion of my PGCE at the University of Cumbria. Prior to this, whilst studying for my degree at St Andrews, I took the opportunity to head for sunnier climes and spent a year in Alicante working as a Foreign Language Assistant. I have received a warm welcome from everyone at the school and I look forward to sharing my passion for languages with the students at QES. J.Bradshaw

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Barcelona 2013

he ninth annual Year 9 trip to Barcelona took place in July. Here, three of the group give us their thoroughly positive impressions of the trip (even considering the new departure time of 3am!).

joy. The science museum was interesting, Montserrat was breath-taking inside and out and alongside this the hotel was great, especially the pool and our evening trips to the beach where we played football and volleyball.

Barcelona was definitely worth getting up at 3am for and I would recommend this trip wholeheartedly and if I could I would repeat it — twice! Thank you for such an amazing trip. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Ben Morgan

arcelona was the best week of my time at QES. It was such a great experience to have the independence and being in a foreign country with friends which made it all the better! We visited a lot of fascinating and extremely enjoyable places where we were given a lot of free time to do our own thing. Amongst the places we visited I have to say the theme park (Port Aventura) was the most exciting. However there was not one place I didn’t en-

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ur first destination was the Science Museum, where there were lots of different things to do and it was nice and cool and dark. After the science museum, we went to our hotel to get settled in, and then we went for a swim.

The next morning we went to Las Ramblas, which is one of the main streets in Barcelona. We had to be careful at Las Ramblas because it is notorious for pick-pockets, although we had no problem. On Las Ramblas, we went to La Boqueria, which is a huge food market. You could get practically any food you could imagine, from smoothies to ice creams and saffron to dragon fruit. Then we had lunch at the port, and went into the mall for a bit of free time. Eleanor Cade-Welsby

he Barcelona trip was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I really enjoyed the cultural and the fun aspects of the trip. The Cosmocaixa Science Museum was amazing because they had a giant

tree trunk in a big pond which was full of real fish and there was even a giant rodent which looked like a huge guinea pig! I also really enjoyed the practical things you could do such as using screens to make multicoloured shadows. The next day we went to Las Ramblas which was a big street with loads of street mimes and artists. I particularly loved the food market because it was just an array of vibrant colours and bewitching smells of spice! However I did not enjoy seeing the sheep’s heads at the meat market stalls! The CampNou stadium did not interest me but it would be a truly fantastic experience for any football fan, no matter what team they supported. The Poble Espanyol, which we visited on the third day was

very special because it was an open-air copy of some important buildings or architectural features in Spain. It was very authentic and had a lovely rustic air about it, (and the ice creams were delicious!) When we visited the Parc Guell, a park which shows some of Gaudi’s best work, I was amazed at how intricate the architecture was! That day we also visited the Miro museum and drove past the Sagrada Familia which was spectacular and incredibly ornate. My favourite part of the trip was visiting the waterpark because it was so fun and I also loved going to the beach at night and playing games with my friends. The scariest part of the trip was going up to the Montserrat monastery by cable car (below) but it was breathtaking when

we got up there. I learnt so much from the Barcelona trip, from how to ask for a stamp in Spanish (Un sello para Inglaterra por favour) to what it truly means to be part of a group and the different cultures you discover by travelling just a few hundred miles. I would recommend the Barcelona trip to anybody who wants to become better friends with other people in their year and who aren’t afraid to step out of their own culture and experience some wonderful new things. Anna Billington On behalf of the MFL dept, Mrs Lomax, Mrs Armitstead and Mrs Gray would like to thank all members of the group, pupils and staff, for making it such a worthwhile and enjoyable experience. S.Lomax

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Another group photo from the Barcelona trip

Library Round-Up

e have had a lovely term in our libraries, particularly due to the involvement of so many students who help to make the library such a vibrant place to be.

Years 10 and 11 Linguists Trip to Manchester

s part of the GCSE Linguist Scholars’ programme, we had the opportunity to enrich our learning with a visit to Manchester Cornerhouse Cinema for a French film screening and workshop. We watched a popular comedy called Le Petit Nicolas, which is based on a series of French children’s books about a young boy and his family. In the film, he fears that his mother is pregnant and that an addition to his family would mean his parents abandoning him in the forest! He therefore decides to enlist the help of his inventive cohort of cronies in order to save up and hire a gangster to get rid of the baby when it arrives!

The trip was very beneficial, as it contributed not only to the development of our French language skills, but also offered an insight into French culture and cinema-

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tography. At school, we did some creative writing based on the characters. Indus Hill, Heather Wilkins and Emily Yates

e m’appelle Nicolas, mais tout le monde m’appelle Petit Nicolas. J’ai neuf ans et je suis très intelligent. J’ai beaucoup d’amis, ce n’est pas surprenant car je suis super ! Mon meilleur ami s’appelle Alceste, il est très ‘grand’, mais je trouve qu’il est un peu gros…..c’est vrai, c’est parce qu’il mange tout le temps et il me parle toujours de ce qu’il mange ! Je n’aime pas les filles – elles sont très bizarres et je ne les comprends pas. Cependant, il y a une fille qui n’est pas comme les autres. Elle s’appelle Marie-Hedwige et elle est la fille la plus belle de tout le monde ! Un jour nous nous marierons et nous vivrons dans une petite maison où nous serons très heureux……mais ne dis pas ça à mes amis ou ils me tueront ! Mark Mahoney, 11K

Year 7 French

Year 7 have been describing their first term. Quotations from the best pieces by 7K: Mon collège s’appelle QES. J’aime le collège parce que c’est très intéressant. Ma matière préférée c’est l’histoire parce que c’est super et j’aime Madame Hodgson. Sophie Lockwood Mon collège est très très grand. J’ai cinq leçons chaque jour. J’adore vendredi parce que j’ai anglais, art dramatique, dessin, histoire et français. Florence Clifton Mon uniforme est un pull vert, une chemise blanche, une cravate rouge, grise et verte, un pantalon noir, des chaussures noires et des chaussettes noires. J’aime mon uniforme parce que c’est confortable. Bob Evans Ma matière préférée est l’EPS parce que c’est très amusant et Madame Blackburn est très sympa. J’aime aussi ma prof de classe Madame Pakeman parce qu’elle est très marrante (mais elle est un peu sévère !). Emily Coates

Thanks to Hannah Hodgson for running her ever-growing creative writing club; the fantastic Sixth Form team Zoe Butler, Emma Hopkins, Ellen Rooney, Luke Aubrey and Alex Callaghan for their work in both libraries, with Luke and Alex running a popular Year 7 reading club. Running this year’s book fair we have had a dedicated group of helpers we would like to thank: Kyle Macdonald, Charlotte Christmas, Rachel Stott, April Whitely, Sian Reid, Jessica Massey, Hannah Maguire, Amy Leadbitter, Yasmin Azarya, Chelsea Seber, Simon Lawrence, Tom McCreadie, Connie Sutton, Rhianna Whittaker and Lucy Burrell. The book fair offers a great opportunity for both the students who take charge and run it and those who browse and choose to buy from it. There has been the usual great range of fiction and non-fiction. Catching our eye this time – this may be helpful when looking for Christmas presents! – is the ever popular The Hunger Games trilogy, timely with the release of the second film and, also out as a film, the brilliant dystopian book How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff. Further adrenaline-fuelled reads include The Fifth Wave by Rick Yancey (described by a student

as “The Hunger Games and then some… with aliens!”); Black Friday by Robert Muchamore; the latest of Darren Shan’s popular zombie series Zom-B: Underground and Russian Roulette (an Alex Rider prequel) by Anthony Horowitz. For historical drama there’s the “unputdownable” Changeling by Phillipa Gregory and Spy for the Queen of Scots by Theresa Breslin. Prince of the Ice Mark by Stuart Hill is described as a junior Game of Thrones. For laughs we’d recommend The Demon Dentist by David Walliams; the Geek Girl series by Holly Smale and Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck by Jeff Kinney. Finally copies of the Minecraft handbook have flown off the stands, which is hardly surprising considering the following for the Games Club in School. Commission earned from book sales will also enable us to choose some of these books for the Library’s shelves.

Librarians 2014 We have made the difficult decision choosing the new intake of Student Librarians who will start in the New Year. We were delighted by the number of applicants, although this made the decision-making process harder! We would recommend those disappointed this time should apply again next year. We have selected the following students who we feel sure will be welcoming on the library desk, as well as committed to looking after the library collection and keen to learn new skills - shown below, left to right, top to bottom: Jacob Whitaker 7K, Oliver Arkwright 7W, Jessica Voakes 7S, Megan Whitehead 7E, Lucy Slater 7S, Lucy Osborne 8L, Sian Reid 8K, April Whiteley 8M, Rhys Bargh 8E, Edward Wright 8Q, Joseph Cryan 8M, Simon Lawrence 9L, Sam Stott 9M, Connie Sutton 11Q, Ellen Rooney 12S

Writing of stocking our shelves with new books makes me think of an earlier QES Christmas newsletter from 1916. It announces a new dedicated library space for the school, thanks people for their book donations and says that already students are forming book groups. It ends with the quote: It is with great pleasure that I note what a “reading” school we are becoming. It is wonderful to think how far back the school has embraced its reading culture. C.Holman

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Joseph Delaney visit

oseph Delaney is familiar to many of us after two previous visits to the school.

and over to Cartmel. We were excited to hear that he has set the first book of his new series in Kirkby Lonsdale.

On hearing that he was touring with his last book of The Wardstone Chronicles (The Spook’s Apprentice) series we had to invite him back and introduce him to our new Year 7.

On a previous visit here, he stayed overnight at a pub in the town and very much admired its sense of history, accompanied by creaking floorboards; and the churchyard and Ruskin’s View. Perhaps in exchange for sharing his compelling stories, we have given him something to inspire him? We enjoyed welcoming him back to the school and hope that students new to his work may become fans too. C.Holman

For those not in the know, Joseph (pictured below at our book-signing) has written an intriguing and sometimes rather scary series of books (one of his monsters is pictured at right) drawing on Cumbrian and Lancashire folklore and legend in his plots. Many places are recognisable, including Preston (where he originates); Lancaster; Morecambe Bay

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Comic Arts Festival

As a pre-cursor to the official launch of The Lakes International Comic Arts Festival in Kendal, the Brewery Arts Centre opened its cinema doors to local schools. QES students from the Stan Lee Excelsior Award club, and Art students specialising in the genre, were treated to a screening of Scott Pilgrim vs. the World with an introduction from comic industry legend Andy Diggle. Andy is best known for his work as editor of 2000AD, his book The Losers, and his work for publishers such as Marvel and DC. He gave an entertaining intro to the film, and some interesting background about the series of graphic novels on which the film was based. We then settled down to appreciate a cinematic treat as we had the whole screen to ourselves. We thoroughly enjoyed a unique experience celebrating comic arts and look forward to next year! G.Sosnowsky and E.Denby

SNAPshots Lots more colour photographs on our website: www.queenelizabeth.cumbria.sch.uk

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snapshots

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snapshots PICTURE GUIDE This page: 1: Silver Duke of Edinburgh expedition (p46) 2: Table cricketers (p75) 3: Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition (p46) 4: Sports Day action July 2013 Centre spread: 1: Scenes from the Sponsored Walk (p20) 2: Sports Day action July 2013 3: Mr Hall on Beachwatch duty (p16) 4: Cakes baked for Tsekwe House fundraising 5: Theate Arts trip at the London Eye (p26) 6: Sports Day action July 2013 7: Amnesty group with signed card (p48) 8: Red Queen and White Queen from Alice (p23) 9: QES Art display at the Westmorland Show 10: EMS group team building exercise (p32) Front page: 1: Forty Fortunes - Y7 Drama Festival (p8) 2 and 3: Year 7 Residential in Coniston (p19) 4: Cross-country squad (p74) 5: Geography field trip to the North-East

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lum echoed those of Malorie’s own growing up. Fortunately she feels that, a generation on, her daughter’s opportunities are vastly better than her own were as a young person. She is very keen for students to realise the significance of every person in being able to make a difference. She spoke of Rosa Parks and her impact on the civil rights movement.

The event was held in Kendal with students attending from schools across Cumbria. Malorie is an amazing writer and a great speaker too.

Malorie Blackman visit

n November we had the privilege of taking a number of students, from Year 8 to Sixth Form, to see the Children’s Laureate Malorie Blackman.

We were impressed by how bubbly and natural her personality was, even being interviewed on stage in front of hundreds of people. Malorie has had a long writing career, having over 80 books published. She started writing for younger children and focused on technology, an area with which she was familiar as her career began in computing. Being a black author Malorie found that many people seemed to have an expectation of her that she would cover the subject of racism in her work. She said that she felt it was important for her to feel established as an author before she introduced this theme. Having achieved this, she wrote Noughts and Crosses.

This is an incredible novel (the first of a series) that imagines a society in which black people are the dominant race and white people (the Noughts) are ostracised: the Noughts are allowed only limited education and job opportunities and discriminated in every part of their lives. The doomed relationship at the heart of the story, involving the compelling protagonists Sephy (a Cross) and Callum (a Nought), has echoes of Romeo and Juliet. This challenging series has won many fans. It was incredible to hear how closely the experiences of Cal-

Asked which she would go for if she were only able to choose between reading and her writing, Malorie chose reading. She loves writing but says that she would not enjoy her life without reading. She commented, as we often do, that for those students who don’t enjoy reading, they haven’t found the right book yet. That book can be anything that they enjoy, from comics and graphic novels, to non-fiction or novels. After the talk and the opportunity to ask her questions, Malorie signed books and chatted to her fans. We would love more of our students to be able to meet this inspiring writer. C.Holman

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From the Library Archives — Who Was Betty?

arlier this term, we stumbled across a photograph from our archives, of a little girl standing outside the school back in 1918.

Betty Rose. You can see Betty’s enrolment at QES on the register page from 1915 below – her formal name was Winifred Elizabeth Rose.

The inscription seemed to suggest that she might be one Betty Rose of Betty’s Tea Rooms in Harrogate. Excited by the prospect of possible links, we’ve been meeting with colleagues from the Bettys and Taylors Group to explore if there’s any truth in the rumour. This is what we found out…

Winifred was at QES until 1923. The newsletters of the time reveal that she played an active part in school life. She enjoyed sports, making the girls’ cricket team, and was a talented musician. When she is referred to more formally, for example, listed as passing certain examinations, her full name W.E. Rose is given. In less formal instances in the newsletter she is called Betty. After their schooling at QES, Betty and her sister, Mary, return home while their brother John joins his father in becoming ‘a confectioner’. We have a family tree which explains the relationship of the Rose family to Frederick Belmont. You may have seen the photograph of Betty Rose as a young child (above) if you’ve ever visited the tea rooms in Harrogate.

There are many stories and theories about who “Betty” was, and 90 years after the tea room first opened, the identity of Betty still remains a family mystery. Some stories recall that Betty’s founder Frederick Belmont could have named his Tea Rooms after the late Queen Mother, Elizabeth Bowes Lyon, who was born at the turn of the century, or perhaps the then manageress of the Harrogate Spa, Betty Lupton. There’s also a sentimental tale of young Betty, a doctor’s daughter, who died of tuberculosis and whose father’s practice on Cambridge Crescent later became the first Betty’s Café Tea Rooms.

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Other people think that the tea room may have been named after Frederick’s wife – called Claire, but ‘Bunny’ to her friends. One of her old friends once recalled, however, that in her youth Bunny was a beautician and hairdresser whose professional name was Betty. Two theories which are felt to be most likely by the family are that Frederick named the tea room after a musical called ‘Betty’ which he had been to see, which toured from London to Harrogate on three occasions between 1916 and 1918. The other popular story recalls a young girl interrupting the very first Board Meeting when the issue of what to call the Tea Rooms was being discussed. The girl’s name, of course, was

We’re still no surer of the true identity of Betty: but Winifred Elizabeth Rose, who came to QES all those years ago, just may have been the inspiration for those famous tea rooms. A.Hall and C.Holman

CPD Update

ongratulations to Anita Seddon on successfully completing a Post-Graduate Diploma in Academic Practice with the University of Cumbria, and to Ian Burnett on completing his MA in Education, also with the UoC. Teaching Schools It’s been a busy term for Professional Development Programmes. We’ve been planning and delivering a number of full-day courses to a wide variety of colleagues. These have included:  Specialist Leaders in Education, Core Day Training  Assistant Headteachers on NPQs for Senior Leaders  Heads of Department on NPQs for Middle Leaders To take just one of these, the SLE Training focuses on how to lead and manage schoolto-school support work, taking in theory and practice from a number of sources. These include such things as “Key Drivers for Change in Schools”, the “Appreciative Enquiry Model” for initial conversations, and the “Iceberg Model of Human Behaviour”…! A.Hall

Mr Burnett gains his MA Teachers at QES are given incredible support for continued professional development. For the last three years I have been undertaking an MA in Education at the University of Cumbria, subsidised by the South Lakes Federation and CPD funding. I am pleased to say that I have now completed the MA and am implementing my findings in lessons. The final 15,000 word dissertation saw me investigate the effectiveness of Assessment for Learning strategies as a tool to develop learning with Business Studies students at GCSE level. An element of this was to explore which strategies students felt were effective and enjoyable. A key finding was that variety is incredibly important in lessons and AfL strategies offer a vehicle for variety. Below is a short extract from a student survey, which admittedly only formed a fraction of the investigation. If you are interested in reading the entire dissertation, and are happy to decode the education speak throughout, please let me know.

The response rate for the survey was 46.2%, representing 18 out of 39 potential responses. It is recognised that for a quantitative survey this is a disappointing number of responses. That said, in the context of small scale study it is significant enough. Overall, the results of the quantitative student survey suggest a link between enjoyment and learning. When asked for the most enjoyable activity, Snowballing, Olympics, Memory Boards and Multiple Choice Questions accounted for a significant 56.8% of responses. When asked about which activities helped them learn, responses were similar but Snowballing, despite polling high, was replaced by Anonymous Essay Writing. It would appear that students therefore understand the difference between enjoyment and learning but there is correlation between enjoyable strategies and ones which promote learning. I.Burnett

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Lucy Denney gains Gold

n 2013, in Year 9, I successfully completed and passed my Gold Arts Award in Theatre and Arts, having completed Bronze and Silver in the previous two years. The Arts Award qualifications require you to demonstrate skills and learning in your chosen art form. I had to research and explore careers and practitioners in; Theatre, Drama and Art; view and take part in performances; and collate, assess and find areas to improve through feedback from the audience. I had to demonstrate leadership skills by sharing my art form with others. For the Gold arts award, I had to complete several units, one of which was to develop and learn about a new art form (I did art) and incorporate it into to original art form. For example, I would create some artwork and then I had to incorporate it into my original art in order to improve my weakness of “improvisation”. For Section B, I had to research possible future career options and companies, before undertaking some real work experience. In my case I assisted a drama/ dance teacher in a professional theatre group for children and teenagers (AM’s Dance and Drama group).

For Section C I had to attend several arts events, activities

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and performances. I thoroughly enjoyed my numerous trips to different theatres, watching musicals, ballets, skating productions and amateur dramatics. I also had to study both famous and non-famous art practitioners. The final element to my Gold Arts Award was to write, produce and direct a play to the public. I chose to adapt the story of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. I worked with a few friends and the Year 8 Drama Club and I was fortunate that QES allowed me to put on the play in the Harlequin Theatre. I am very grateful to my friends who baked cakes for the night, to Diane Lequitte for all the background help with the production, and to Mr Fleming for his continuous advice and support. I also have to say a huge thank you to Burton Morewood School and particularly to Mr Wilson, who has been a constant support and mentor for the past years and has allowed me to run a weekly Drama club at the school for the last three years, continually helping me to achieve this Award and gain invaluable experience. Finally, I would like to thank my ever-supportive family for running me everywhere, making scenery, and taking me to theatres. I would highly recommend taking this qualification, because it is a very rewarding and enjoyable experience. Lucy Denney10Q

Cal Thomas starts Bronze I have recently started the Bronze Arts Award and am loving it so far! I chose to do it because I really enjoy lots of art forms, especially drawing and music, and I wanted to learn about as many art forms as possible whilst working alongside like-minded people. The sessions (below) are great fun and we have some brilliant discussions about the art forms we are learning and events we have attended. As part of my Arts Awards I have set myself the Arts Challenge of learning how to play the bass guitar. I am learning how to play from Mr Lheureux and it’s tricky, but I am learning new things every session. My favourite band at the moment is the Arctic Monkeys but I appreciate lots of different bands including The Beatles, The Who, The Jam and Vampire Weekend.

How do you get a job in the media?

ormer A-level Media student Katy Yates visited QES recently to talk to Year 12 students about her experience of working in the media in London. Katy (pictured at right, with camera rig) works for Silver Bullet Entertainment, a multiplatform video production company which specialises in music, entertainment, fashion, health & beauty, travel, gaming and sport and which has produced work for the BBC, MTV, Channel4, and Sky Arts among many others. Katy emphasised the importance of being willing to start at the bottom in such a competitive industry and working your way up by taking on any task with commitment and

satisfactions of working in a small company where she is given a lot of responsibility, working to tight deadlines in a wide-ranging role, which she summed up as: “When there’s a shoot I have to find the crew, collect the kit and sort out the location!”

attention to detail, while also grasping every opportunity to develop useful skills and qualifications that employers value. She talked about the importance of networking, finding unpaid work which might open the doors to other opportunities, and accepting short-term contracts as stepping stones to more permanent positions. Katy told the group about the

Katy has worked with famous faces such as Robbie Williams and Paul McCartney (pictured, with Katy in the background). Katy believes a good A-level Media Studies grade can be an important starting point for anyone interested in working in the media — but she points out that after that, it’s up to the individual’s own drive and determination to succeed in the industry. T.Dale

On October 4th, I went to see the Magic Numbers play live at the Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal. It was the last gig of their tour and had a buzzing party atmosphere. It was a really great night and brilliant to see professionals play live music. Cal Thomas Year 7

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Studying Film & Television at university Marnie Clark is just finishing the first term of her second year at the University of York studying Film and Television Production. She’s particularly enjoying the Live Television element of the course and considering that as a possible career path with a large variety of potential specialisms: directing, vision mixing, studio camera operation or floor management.

of the Commissioning Editors for Entertainment at Channel 4, the man in charge of Chatty Man, 8 Out of 10 Cats and Derren Brown’s Apocalypse. She was disappointed not to get a chance to see Kirkby all transformed for the Jamaica Inn filming , but she’s just finished working on a short film made for a 48-hour film challenge, entitled A Champion’s Last Stand, all shot on the York University campus. (a still from the film is shown at left). She’s recently been celebrating getting a “First” on the first essay of the year that counts towards her degree. T.Dale

She recently shadowed an editor who works for BBC Breakfast and BBC North West, and watched North West Tonight go out live from both inside the gallery and inside the studio. She’s also just taken part in a Masterclass held by one

Student Support at QES It is evident that young people of all ages experience times of difficulty and hardship. Today, more than ever, teens are striving to fulfil their own and others’ expectations. Following the A-level route and being a Sixth Former can offer young people the opportunity to showcase their achievements and can provide the springboard for a promising future ahead.

However it is also unquestionably a potentially stressful and turbulent time. As well as the pressures of deadlines and exams it is also a pivotal point in a young person’s life. The transition from young person to adulthood can bring with it undeniable confusion as they strive for independence

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

and autonomy. Many of our teenagers can feel extremely isolated and depressed as they struggle to cope with the pressures of modern society. Some of the issues that they can face are: low self-esteem and low self-confidence; confusion over sexuality and relationships and friendships in general; the often negative effects of social networking and peer pressures; family concerns; the temptations and misuse of alcohol and drugs; loss and bereavement; and the pressures of making life changing future plans whether that be further education or employment. My role as Sixth Form Student Support is to offer them the time to talk through what may be troubling them or preventing them from achieving their full potential. It is an opportu-

nity for them to explore, in a safe and supportive way, what the barriers to their well-being may be and what we, as a school can provide or seek out to enable them to go on to achieve their very best. I consider it a privilege to work with this particular age group of young people who can face such potentially challenging and turbulent times but at the same time with the right help, encouragement and support can go on to achieve and offer so much. S.Williams

Student teachers reflect on their QES placement

chools Direct is a fantastic course. It allows you to experience the school environment from the very beginning, making the prospect of going on placement much less daunting. The course at QES in particular is delivered to an incredibly high standard, and you will feel completely prepared for anything you may face during your placements, from a practical basis to the theory underpinning the course, everything is covered in depth. The best thing about the course at QES is the amazing support you receive, not just from the staff immediately involved in the course but from the school - everybody is willing to offer you help and support. K.Procter (second right)

ince starting the schools direct programme in September at QES I have learnt so much about the requirements of secondary school teaching; the many hours of planning, the rewards and the challenges. I feel this has been the ideal

environment to start my teaching career. The staff are supportive and welcoming and the pupils are lovely to work with. My first term has passed incredibly quickly and in many ways has been a greater challenge then my final years at university. I will be leaving for my second placement after Christmas to face the challenges of a new school and will leave QES with fond memories and new friends. S.Nicholson (left)

have been working in the English department here at QES. Unlike the traditional PGCE program, I have been placed at the school since the beginning of term. As a result,

my training has been a whole and complete insight into the busy world of a high achieving, successful secondary school. I feel lucky to have trained alongside such welcoming staff and pupils and to have experienced the true community spirit of this school. S.Marshall (right)

ince starting at QES in September, I have probably had the most challenging, but at the same time most exhilarating experience. Schools Direct offers you the chance to train within the school environment rather than sitting in a teacher training college away from any actual pupils, and I am certainly feeling the benefits of this. Everyone at QES has been incredibly welcoming and the support I have received has been second to none. It is undoubtedly difficult at times, but I think this is only natural in the teaching profession, and if anything, I am relishing every challenge that presents itself. T.Cummings (second left)

45 SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

focuson Y

Duke of Edinburgh group breaks records - again!

et again we have a record number of Year 10s starting D of E this Autumn — 110 to be precise! Here, some of the current Year 11 who completed D of E last year reflect on their experiences. A year on, they have completed all four sections and are waiting to receive their certificates. Here they tell us something of why they embarked on the Award and how the experience has benefited them.

y D of E experience has been a great one, as it has given me more to do both in and out of school. For my volunteering I chose to help out in my community-run village shop for three months, which gave me a variety of tasks, from stocking shelves to taking out recycling. For physical I continued with hockey, which I have enjoyed for several years now. I chose chess as my skill, as I had often enjoyed it in the past, and have been going to the Thursday lunchtime club for almost six months. The expedition was definitely the most fun bit of the scheme — even the people who don’t like walking seemed to enjoy the challenge and I definitely learnt the most from it (e.g. that you cannot toast marshmallows on a pocket rocket stove). Elliot Symons

I 46

started the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award because I wanted to expand my horizons, develop as a person, experience the outdoors and gain something that is looked

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played in school. When playing chess I was able to play against friends, who were also trying to complete the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh, which made chess even more enjoyable. Thanks to chess I’ve found that I’ve been able to develop more of a mentally agile and strategic mind, which I’ve been able to transfer to things out of the world of chess such as class work and sports. highly upon by schools and employers. There are four sections you’re required to complete to acquire the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award: volunteering, a physical activity, a skill and an expedition.

“you cannot toast marshmallows on a pocket rocket stove” For my volunteering, I volunteered to do paper recycling in order to raise funds for my local community swimming pool, which delivers a crucial service to my local community. During my volunteering I was able to work with some amazing people with extremely interesting backgrounds and enabling me to develop my people skills, which will no doubt prove vital in years to come. For my physical activity I chose to do riding, which proved to be an extremely enjoyable sport that I hope to carry on doing. For my skill I undertook the challenge of chess, which I

For my expedition, I undertook the challenge of walking from Sedbergh to Chapel-le-Dale with a group of close friends, stopping off in Dent to camp. Although it was constantly raining throughout the whole of our expedition, I loved it! I was able to spend a large amount of time with my friends and operate as a team together, which brought us closer together. Next year I hope to continue doing the Duke of Edinburgh, but at a silver level thanks to my experience during my time doing the bronze Duke of Edinburgh. I would thoroughly recommend the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award to anyone willing to take up a challenge. George Plumbridge

I found the volunteering really fun as I built up a group of friends at the club. It was also good to have quite a lot of responsibilities. I gained from the experience an understanding of how organisations like that work and the team work involved and organisation to run the club. For my skill I did horse handling and improved my skills with the horses I have been riding and caring for over many years. I gained better muscular fitness from the experience ( and so did my horse!). For my physical I did ice skating which I found amazing as I have always wanted to ice skate. I have now achieved nearly all ten levels on the skate course in three months! I also have private lessons now, which I would have never dreamed of! Finally the expedition: despite the rain (typical English weather) my friends and I still managed to enjoy ourselves,

Stream-crossing on a Silver expedition

And finally, a note from Mrs Lomax: the groups, now in Year 11, impressed us with their organisation, competence and enthusiasm whilst on their expeditions. After all that hard work it is always a shame if the final (easy!) job of handing in a log book just doesn’t happen. Of our 80 starters, about 55 have sent log books off to the County Office for completion.

and only got lost a few times! I learnt that I could carry a very heavy bag, even though I’m only little. I also improved my map reading and team work skills. My favourite moment on D of E was getting to the top of the shoulder of Whernside and eating Haribos and a jar of Nutella with my friends in the rain. I would recommend D of E to next year’s Year 10 simply because of the new experiences it offers you. Jessica Wain

So parents, please urge your child to get all four sections signed off and correctly dated by their assessors; then they can return log books to us so that we can have them processed by the County Office. If they are embarking on Silver, it is particularly important that their Bronze award is completed and processed before the autumn as this will reduce the time that needs to be spent on each section at Silver level. S.Lomax

decided to do D of E because I wanted to have an adventure with my friends, but also for the new experiences. For my volunteering I helped out at a Kendal Dry Ski slope, a non-profit-making organisation which (along with other things) runs classes for disabled people. It also benefits the community by getting it involved with sport.

Duke of Edinburgh Gold Expedition cyclists in Dent

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

Students at council meetings

Amnesty group In November the QES branch of Amnesty International gathered signatures from Christmas shoppers in Lancaster as part of the Write for Rights campaign.

eing part of the Sixth Form student leadership team has involved several responsibilities and opportunities, one of which has been regularly attending town council meetings once a month on behalf of the school. Our job is to be the link between Queen Elizabeth School and the town in which it is located, Kirkby Lonsdale. At school we have meetings with the rest of the leadership team where we report back anything of importance that has been discussed in previous council meetings and listen to suggestions to be taken forward to future meetings.

During the meetings that we have attended we have given our opinion on different matters that have arisen in the town. This has meant that the councillors have been able to obtain a younger person’s view of the events. One of these topics is whether or not Kirkby

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

Lonsdale should have a 20 miles an hour speed limit, and we feel we were able to make really good contributions to the discussion that took place. In November Rachel Todd and I were invited by the South Lakeland Local Committee to one of their meetings where they presented us with certificate of recognition for our involvement with the council (pictured above). We were thanked by the committee and specifically by the leader of the youth council for our ongoing involvement and being able to provide an opinion from a younger person’s perspective. We would like to thank Alan Muirhead, Chairman for Kirkby Lonsdale Town Council, for inviting us to this event and to the Town Council meetings. We have really enjoyed learning about the different things that happen around the town and are looking forward to future meetings. Josh Norman

The campaign involves sending cards and messages to political prisoners and victims of human rights abuse all over the world to show support. Members of the Amnesty club made large greetings cards to be signed by willing members of the public in Lancaster to raise awareness of the specific cases that each card addressed (picture in Snapshots section). The cases of human rights abuse, all of which can be found on the Amnesty website, are varied, from an entire village of peaceful protestors in Palestine being violently harassed by the Israeli Army, to three men imprisoned in Russia for their protests again Vladimir Putin’s regime. We managed to gather hundreds of signatures and, more importantly, lots of public interest in Amnesty’s work and the abuse of human rights across the globe. If you would like to take part in the Write for Rights campaign, simply visit the Amnesty website, or come to one of our weekly meetings in Business Studies (in Springfield house) on a Thursday lunchtime – Year 10s upwards very are welcome! Patrick Sharkey

Faye is a Young Volunteer of the Year

n the 26 September I was formally invited to attend the Volunteer Achievement Awards 2013. To my surprise I had been nominated for Young Volunteer of the Year Award! The evening was held at Ashton Hall and comprised presentations and speeches followed by a lovely dinner. To have been nominated I have volunteered with Warton Village Society; egg rolling down a hill at Easter, kite flying on the crag, dressing up as a Easter Bunny and Santa’s little helper among others. For Warton Sports Day I’ve helped out setting up, running and dismantling stalls and events.

volved in office work, attended lots of events and helped out with the stall to promote Age UK to the public, among lots of other jobs. An annual event in Warton is Irvine’s coffee evenings/mornings. Amongst other things I run stalls, serve coffee and clean tables.

help out at 1st Warton’s Cubs, encouraging over twenty 8- to 10-year-old children. This also involves weekends, going on days out and representing cubs at church events and more! With Age UK I have been in-

Lancaster’s District CVS needs more young volunteers, as does the Scouting Movement. Help is always needed: would you have any time to help? There’s always a sense of achievement and it makes you feel more involved with the community. All of this encourages other views of teenagers as people who do want to get involved instead of the usual negative stereotypes. Faye Oliver

With the Scouting Movement, I give up every Monday night to

Staff relay team to re-run Bob Graham Round Relaxing during the previous attempt: Mrs Cox, Mr Beck and Mr Brooks

The QES Staff Relay Team

will again be attempting

The Bob Graham Round

of 42 Lakeland peaks 72 miles, in under 24 hours in May 2014 In aid of the Paul Percy Memorial Fund and the Restricted Growth Association More details in the next issue A.Beck

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Student leaders address prospective pupils

wo members of the Sixth Form Leadership Team made presentations at the Open Evening for prospective pupils and their parents. These are the texts of their speeches, reflecting on their time at QES:

aving been a student at QES from Year 7, my journey here is a very memorable one. Thinking back to my first day as a high school student,

to meet new people, a time to make new decisions, and a time to really get involved, but through all stages of your school career, your exams will no doubt become one of the most important events. For me, after two years of studying for my GCSEs with a set of results that I was indubitably proud of, my next step was to venture into the world of AS Level study, where I opted to take Biology, Chemistry, Dance, Drama and the Extended Project. All of these are demanding but rewarding subjects and ones which I know will benefit my future and lead me down the right path.

world approaching ever faster, I know that I will always have QES to thank for their support and guidance to mould not only me, but all students into bright, independent and aspirational young adults. I hope your journey here is as exciting and influential as mine. Ailsa MacCalman

y QES journey begins every day at 8:00. I walk out of my house across the road and catch the bus that

Year 7, as you know, is a massive year of change, a time

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As you take your journey through school, you will undoubtedly take major decisions, which affect your future, your pick of GCSEs, your A Level choices, and like us now, deciding which university courses you will be studying. These choices may seem a world away, but the time does fly by and the next thing you know you’ll soon be making these scary but exciting choices about your future. With the massive support given by the staff, the process doesn’t seem as hard or fearsome. As I stand here, a Year 13 student and a member of the leadership team, I look back at all of you and remember my time at QES, but I also think about what is still to come, with the future ahead of me, and the big wide

Coming to a new school is never an easy process especially to one as big as QES. But these buildings that may seem huge and confusing soon become familiar. Even if you get lost, which we all do, there will always be a friendly face to point you in the right direction, be it from a teacher or fellow pupil. I’m often told by many people that school is the happiest time of your life. For a person like me, for whom secondary school is drawing to

“the time does fly by” I was a completely different person to the one I am today. QES developed me to reach the highest goals, to dare to try something new and to achieve my greatest potential. From the moment I arrived at QES I was given an abundance of opportunities to enhance my school experience, ones that I grasped with both hands. Opportunities without which I certainly would not have the passion and drive to embark on the various choices throughout my life. And as I make my decisions about my future and my aspirational career as a biomedical scientist, I look back at all that QES has given me towards reaching my dreams.

Soon enough you’ll find yourself facing the prospect of GCSEs followed swiftly by A-levels, though for you thankfully they are in the distant future.

“your best years are to come” takes me to school. My journey through QES however has taken longer. Just as it did for many people, my QES journey began in Year 7. I can remember my first day vividly. Like many people I was very nervous. I cried when I first went to primary school. Thankfully for me there was no repeat of the water works on my first day of Year 7. However as a child I was more shy than I am now and so for the first few weeks of my QES life I spent it stuck to my friends who joined me from primary school. As I’m sure you know though, the people you meet in your forms will be with you your whole QES life as they become friends that will last throughout your school years.

a close, they may have a point. Lucky for you though, your school life is really only just beginning. Believe me your best years are to come. While I’m here though, I have a few words of advice. Grasp your opportunities when they appear, there will be plenty of them. Meet new people and join new clubs, make the most of what QES has to offer, throw yourself into secondary school life. Remember to work hard, yet enjoy your lessons. Apart from that everything else will lead from one thing to another and before you know it maybe you’ll find yourself in my place speaking to a future Year 7. For now though enjoy your time in Year 7 and the time you have at QES. Josh Smith

“After hours” at QES

here are shadows and there are shadows. And there are reflections of shadows, double reflections, multiple reflections and, best of all, shadows that walk in different directions — my silent companions inside and outside the school buildings from now until spring. Windows and glass doors, so practical in daylight, become practical jokers in the dark, helped by dim outdoor lights installed to help light the way, but positioned to maximise their scary potential. Who knew that glass sitting harmlessly in a frame could be so creative in rattling your nerves, night after night? Turning more lights on is a temporary defence. But a light switched on must soon be switched off, allowing shadowy companions to creep up and reveal themselves at the instant when light turns to dark, or in more mischievous moments, like the time it takes for your eyes to adjust from infinite darkness to just black. Don’t blink. Stand still for long enough to work out that the baby floating three feet above the floor in complete blackness in the corner of a classroom is just the teacher’s screensaver. I think. Close the door and move on. Silence will fall when the white noise of day subsides, and hearing becomes the second of the senses to play tricks. As each building empties and I know I’m alone — or should be — every sound needs an ex-

planation. I always hear someone working late long before I see them but, engrossed as they are in marking their work, the opposite is never true. Old buildings with creaking floorboards and doors that groan from the tiredness of being flung open by a thousand teenagers are old news by now, no longer creepy. More creative sidekicks to my shadowy followers are the shaking stools that rattle as you walk by, blinds fluttering by open windows, and pressure changes when you push open a door into a dark room, causing another door to clunk down the corridor or on another floor. At least that’s what I tell myself. And then there’s the talking staircase. Run up at the right speed and it will mutter its opinion of the day’s events, but never quite clearly enough for you to understand. Where is it? Aha... S.Holcroft (Mr Holcroft’s regular duties include locking-up the school after everyone else has gone home). “Dim outdoor lights....”

51 SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

Head Girl Holly Chalcraft on student leadership

fter the testing application process I was honoured to be awarded the position of Head Girl.

deadline for Cambridge and I have also applied to Durham, St Andrews, UCL and Manchester so the next stage is just waiting for offers!

Straight away the team and I were immersing ourselves in helping plan events for the new Year 12s, giving tours to prospective students, helping at open evenings and subject review afternoons, attending governors meetings, carrying out weekly jobs, creating development plans for uses of our new Meadow Room (a brilliant extension of what was the Common Room) and also speaking publicly at the awards evenings or in assemblies.

Because anthropology links to a range of arts and science subjects, I have been able to choose what I love at A-level. The subjects I am studying this year are Modern History, Music and Spanish (having studied Biology last year at AS level). I feel that this combination will give me some fantastic skills for my future course and also beyond university as well.

Being Head Girl is definitely busy but also very rewarding and enjoyable especially when working alongside such fantastic deputies and assistants. Overall, the role will be yet another experience to add to the list of what I’ll miss about QES this time next year when I’m just starting at university! I am so glad I am able to continue my studies here for this

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final year and I am enjoying being able to give back as much as I can to QES through the role of Head Girl (but I am certain I will still be indebted to everyone who has made these past 6 years –soon to be 7- the best I could have asked for). After Sixth Form I am planning on studying anthropology at university. My interest is primarily in social anthropology and the prospect of studying a wide range of cultures is something which really fascinates me - but there will also be some biological anthropology in some of the courses I have applied for which looks at the evolutionary aspect of humans too. I managed to send my application off towards the end of September to meet the early

QES has been a sort of second home for me and I feel extremely lucky to be a part of this strong community. It allows you to build up really close relationships with all the teachers and the environment is always welcoming and supportive. This is one of the many things which sets QES apart from other schools; the standards of teaching are so high and the genuine support you get is invaluable. Not only this, but the number of extra-curricular opportunities on offer is amazing. I take part in choir, orchestra (left), string group and training orchestra, and also joined our Amnesty International group. Netball and my participation in two public speaking competitions are also things which I have been able to take advantage of; not to mention the school trips to Paris, Malawi and the choir tour to Bruges. To have been a member of QES has honestly been a privilege. Holly Chalcraft

Around the grounds in the Garden of Eden

n the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

Last year, Tom Wynne and I were walking down to St. Mary’s Church to check the chairs for the Christmas services and we shared the walk part-way with Mr Clarke. I said to him that by now he must know this reading from St. John’s Gospel off-by-heart, as he always delivers it at the carol concert on the evening before the school breaks up and at the three carol services the following morning. He said no, he still needed a script to follow. I suppose he meant that with 450 pupils, staff and parents looking on he couldn’t risk even the remotest possibility of having a mental block. After school on both Sports Day and Sponsored Walk Day we meet for tea and to say goodbye to any departing staff. For some, I suspect, the attraction is in the quiches and pavlovas, but for me it’s in the speeches. For each leaver the Head makes the first speech, followed by the Head of Department, and finally the staff member replies. After the Sponsored Walk this year Mr Clarke walked in looking unusually pre-occupied. It was almost speech time and he was trying to draw together the thoughts that he’d had over the past few days about each of the leavers. Yes, he’d had time to mull them over on the sixteen-mile walk, but he couldn’t allow the fatigue in his body to affect the recall in his mind.

plant in the garden. Continuing the theme, the next day the Head gave me a card of appreciation for the work we’d done on the grounds, referring to our pruning and propping, and binding and lopping. Brilliant! To make a compelling speech without notes you need a good command of the language, a fair degree of confidence and, above all, a good memory. On a personal note I would like to thank those of you who tell me that you enjoy reading my articles. I always tell people that it doesn’t come easily. I get an idea, and, over a period of weeks or even months, I am able to develop a theme. These are no ordinary speeches, merely recounting the strengths of departing colleagues; Mr Clarke usually has a theme, and this time it was Milton’s Paradise Lost. How Adam and Eve were struggling to maintain the Garden of Eden because of the luxuriant growth, in much the same way as we struggle here at QES. Eve addresses her partner: Adam, well may we labour still to dress This garden, still to tend plant, herb, and flow’r, Our pleasant task enjoin’d; but till more hands Aid us, the work under our labour grows, Luxurious by restraint: What we by day Lop overgrown, or prune or prop or bind, One night or two with wanton growth derides, Tending to wild... He then proceeds to liken each of the leavers to a particular

When I sit down to write I put down maybe seven or eight ‘bullet points’ which then become my paragraphs. But the hardest bit is always the typing –up, which takes me two hours using only one finger! Sending the article to Mr Dale is always a trial as I can never remember what to do, but my other friend Tom is always happy to help. As Yuletide approaches, let us go back to that scene in St. Mary’s. The reader leaves his pew, ascends the pulpit, takes the script from his inside pocket, puts on his spectacles, looks up and commences to read: “In the beginning was the Word.” Then, for me, another Queen Elizabeth School Christmas has reached its zenith. I wish a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year to one and all! S.Dent

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

qesanews QESA News pils and their families. It was a perfect opportunity to introduce new parents to the Association whilst they enjoyed a fun-filled evening with all the family. Congratulations to the winning teams “The Unfamous 5” and the Year 7 Staff Team, “The Blue Slips”. The evening raised £350.

would like to welcome all the parents and carers of pupils who have joined the school this year, whether in Year 7, joining Sixth Form or because you have moved to the area.

actively involved as a member of the committee. Even if you are unable to help out at our functions, please come along and support the event, donate prizes, buy some raffle tickets or join our 200 Club.

Our Association consists of eight officially-elected members, as well as about twenty other parents who regularly help out at events and attend committee meetings. Most departments within school benefit from money raised by the Association. Last year we donated just over £12,000 to various projects and departments across school. None of this would be possible without the generosity of parents, carers, friends and staff who all help us to raise money to provide valuable funds to benefit the pupils in different stages of their learning.

The QESA webpage We update our QESA website on the QES homepage on a regular basis. This will keep you informed about any news of future events, as well as committee meeting dates and minutes. Our meetings are friendly and informal so, please come along and support us in any way that you can and maybe bring along some new ideas. We have now included information about the Association, the 200 Club and how to join as well as information about where the money that we have raised has been spent within school. If you haven’t already done so, please take a look and if you have any suggestions as to how we could improve our webpage further, please do let us know. We are always open to new suggestions and welcome your views and ideas.

Each year, as QES pupils leave the school, there are always valued QESA members who leave us too. We all have busy lives, juggling work and time with our families, meaning any spare time is very precious. However, there are many ways that you could help without feeling obliged to becoming

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

Year 7 Family Quiz Night We held a quiz night on Thursday 24 October for Year 7 pu-

Second-Hand Uniform We are now selling second hand QES uniform. A list of available items is posted every Monday morning during term-time, under the Parents’ section of the QES website. To obtain second-hand uniform, please send your child into school with an envelope and the following information:

school. The raffle alone raised nearly £1900 and there were some fantastic prizes, most of which have now been claimed. Congratulations to the Nayler family for winning the 1st prize Christmas hamper and the Sharp family for the 2nd prize chocolate hamper. I hope to continue to make our Association a success, benefiting hugely from the help and support of the parents, carers and staff who have given up so much of their time already. On behalf of the QESA, I wish you all a happy and relaxing Christmas and my very best wishes for 2014. Diane Lequitte QESA Chair

 His/her first name and surname  Form  The item/s requested and correct sizes  Full payment

The Folk Group gave wonderful performances that really set the ambiance to mark the start of the festive celebrations in

We also said goodbye and thanks to Christine Gibson. Christine has been our dedicated 200 Club Secretary for the past eight years. A very big thank you to both ladies for their support and commitment over the years and I wish them all the best for the future. Helen Baines has kindly agreed to take on the 200 Club Secretary role. The nominations for committee members were voted in and elected as follows:

Christmas Fair

The Christmas Fair was a tremendous success, raising about £3800. It was a lively, fun social event, very well attended by pupils, friends, parents, staff and the local community. We would like to say a very big thank you to everyone that helped to make the event such a success, either by helping on the night, donating items to sell or use as prizes, selling raffle tickets or supporting us there.

The AGM We held our AGM on Wednesday 9 October. Priscilla Yilmaz who has worked alongside me for the past two years as Assistant Chair resigned from the committee as she will moving away sometime in the New Year. Priscilla has been a valuable asset to our committee, as well as giving up many hours of her free time co-ordinating the second-hand uniform sales.

Chair Diane Lequitte Assistant Chair Ana-Maria Guzman

Dates for your diary Ladies’ Fashion Show Friday 7th February Kendal College Dinner Wednesday 19th March Spring Fair Sunday 11th May

Secretary Pat Redfern Treasurer Caroline Milne 200 Club Secretary Helen Baines Events Co-ordinators Julie North Dianne Moore Jane Lloyd

The 200 Club The 200 Club is an easy way to support the fundraising efforts of the Association without having to feel committed to attend meetings. It works like a small lottery where you pay a yearly subscription of just £15 and are then entered into regular draws throughout the year. Individual prizes of up to £100 can be won in each of our draws. This year, the 200 Club alone has raised nearly £3000 for the QESA. To join the 200 Club or find out more information, please contact our Club Secretary, Helen Baines, via the school office. Further information, as well as a booking form to join, is also available on the QESA website. Lucky winners at the recent draw at the Year 7 Family Quiz Night are as follows: New Members £100 Ms K Tebbett

(99)

£100 Mrs Cindy Power

(58)

Current Members £100 Mrs E Shuttleworth (261) £50 Mrs J Winstanley

(175)

£25 Mr C Collingwood

(333)

£25 Mrs Kim Sissons

(142)

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

sportsreport Match and Event Reports 1 Sport website Australia 2013

T T

he launch of the Sports Partnership last year was an innovative, exciting and ambitious move for the community and to be a part of it is incredibly inspiring. Active members in the Partnership include QES, Cricket, Netball, Rugby, Crown Green Bowls, Hockey and Golf with standby members including Basketball, Football and Tennis. Together we aim to improve the accessibility of sport to the community which include facilities and competitive sporting opportunities. This year we hope to offer support to the local primary schools in their delivery of their sporting programs and will be developing the leadership structure in school to provide a training base for the future sports leaders and officials within the partnership.

Watch this space, our twitter feed klonsdalesports or our facebook page Kirkby Lonsdale Sports Partnership for more information. D.Williams

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his year has seen us start a relationship with the Schools Sports website which is now responsible for handling all our sporting needs including fixtures and team sheets. It is now integrated into our website where pupils can access all things sport-related at the click of a button. The statistical analysis power it gives us is really interesting and amongst other data provided is the ability to track progress. Some of the stats include: 95 fixtures have been played already this year. That does not include tournament rounds but does include league games. This includes 25 hockey fixtures and tournaments, 32 rugby fixtures, 20 football fixtures, 13 netball fixtures, three cross country meets and one table tennis tournament. The uptake of competitive sport at QES is as strong as it has ever been with the school continuing to enjoy success at district, county and regional level in our core sports. To go and have a look, or to start spying on your opposition, just visit the website for more details. D.Williams

Match and Event Reports 2

What a trip! Two years of fundraising, years of hard work on the training pitch all culminating in a last-minute winner in our last game on tour. Cue jubilant scenes of celebration as Alex Danvers clinically swept in Mike Sharpe’s pass to beat the Innisfail goalkeeper to seal a memorable 4-3 victory. Cue Mr Burnett’s Mourinho-esque celebration down the touchline. Cue the party atmosphere in the changing room. To be fair, I was absolutely buzzing after the game so I can only imagine the sense of elation the lads must have felt. In what was the first time QES had brought a football team on the famous QES Australia Sports Tour, I could not have asked for a better touring experience. The group of pupils that I was privileged to manage throughout the tour were predominantly the lads that I started coaching when I first joined the school around four years ago. The understanding that they had built from playing together week in week out and the bond that they had built ensured that they would perform to the best of their ability on tour. The players were all overjoyed that football had finally been granted a place on the tour and they made sure that QES football firmly put its point across to our Australian hosts. From the first training session at Runaway Bay Sports Centre in Brisbane, to Alex Danvers’

The QES Australia Football Team before their first game of the tour against Buderim Wanderers FC. famous last minute winner versus Innisfail, the players’ commitment, drive, determination and quality was evident throughout the entire tour. The lads all acted extremely professionally throughout the tour and they are a credit to themselves and their families. George Pickering has written excellently elsewhere in this newsletter about the fixtures that we had against some high quality opposition. With a very small squad which was stretched at times due to illness and injury, the players were able to pick up four wins out of five and return to the UK extremely satisfied with the way that they had applied themselves on tour. The trip is a sports tour but it also an excellent opportunity to explore what Australia has to offer. There were many

once-in-a-lifetime opportunities which will stick with me for the rest of my life. Snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef; speed boating around the beautiful Whitsunday Islands; a crocodile show at Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo; sunset by the Sydney Opera House. It was an amazing sports tour but also an incredible experience to see some of the finest things Australia has to offer. Special thanks must go to the trip leader Mr Williams, who led the tour superbly, not only

during the 23-day tour but also throughout the whole organisational process. Thanks must also go out to all the schools who gave up their time to host 60 pupils and nine staff. My hosting experiences are some of the best highlights of the tour, and we are able to return the favour this December when we host Ryan Catholic College from Townsville. I could not have asked for a better assistant manager in Mr Burnett, and we spent many evenings talking tactics to try and beat our Australian opposition. Mr Gaskell did an awesome job as the chief medic and he did display his silky skills in a training session at St Paul’s, much to the pupils’ shock and also delight! All-in-all the tour was a superb experience. Roll on Australia 2016! R.Daglish

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Match and Event Reports 3 stay with us for life. Friend- competitive second period. Australia 2013 will ships were established, special However, Harry Ralston added Australia 2013 provided us with not only success on the playing fields/courts but long lasting memories to last a lifetime. Our school was represented by rugby, hockey, football, netball and tennis teams. Each member of every team was not only able to represent our school but also our country which was a huge motive that was carried onto the pitches. The tour would have not been possible without the friendly and accommodating host families who guaranteed us a pleasant stay. We were hosted by five different families from all across the coast of Queensland and it was interesting to be a part of the different living environments. Tourists are still in touch with their hosting families, which highlights that this tour was very special. Experiences such as snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef, visiting the breath-taking Whitsunday Islands and taking part in classic Australian culture, to name a few, are things that

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relationships and connections were formed and new things were experienced.

On behalf of the Australia touring party, we would like to thank Mr Williams, Mrs Winstanley and the rest of the staff for making this trip possible and we hope that many other QES students experience the trip of a lifetime! Brendan Cleary, Jarred Collis, and Rosie Kerr

Oz Football QES 2-1 Buderim Wanderers This was the game we had all been waiting for. After 18 months of fund-raising and preparation we were finally ready for our first game on Australian soil. Inspired by watching the rugby lads before us start their tour in style, we began with a flourish as Ben Lardner soon notched up the first goal of the tour. Buderim responded well and soon equalised before impressing with their immaculate passing play, leading to a tense,

Australia hockey action: Didi Davies

a second and this proved to be the winner as we held firm to complete a memorable opening victory.

QES 2-0 St Paul’s School A much more straightforward victory with a scoreline that belied the control we had on the game. Despite a clear development in the team’s understanding it was a wonderful individual goal that opened the scoring from the skipper, Mike Sharpe, who proved elusive as he embarked on a mazy run down the left before netting from an acute angle. A spell of frustration followed for us as we were unable to find a second for some time despite a period of good possession. Eventually a killer second came though as George Whitaker slotted home after being played through one on one. Another win and a clean sheet soon followed. QES 1-2 Ryan College The first and only setback of the entire tour, we failed to match Ryan sufficiently during the first half and paid for it going into the break 2-0 down despite creating some good chances of our own. The halftime breakthough provided time to regroup and reshuffle tactically in an effort to get back into the game. The difference was noticeable as we asserted ourselves far better and did manage to pull a goal back midway through the second half. However, the Ryan defence did not breach for a second time and so we had to

Match and Event Reports 4 leave with a disappointing narrow defeat. QES 6-1 Ignatius Park This could only be described as the most impressive QES performance that I have ever witnessed. Spurred-on by the previous result we began the game in relentless fashion, exposing the opposition defence time and time again, resulting in a 3-0 lead racked up before the half time interval. The second half brought no drop in intensity as our incisive attacking play continued to cut through the Ignatius core, resulting in a trio of further strikes adding to an increasingly impressive scoreline. By the time the dust had settled the result stood at 6-1 and had provided one of the most memorable moments of the tour. QES 4-3 Innisfail The final leg of the tour took us right up into the heart of Northern Queensland and provided an absolute thriller to match the stunning landscape that surrounded us. Still riding high on the back of the previous game we came out of the blocks fast and soon raced into a two goal lead. However Innisfail weren’t to be overawed and shocked us with two quick-fire strikes to level the game up. The next thirty minutes or so remained relatively sedate, but this only proved to be the calm before the storm. Joe Dickson put us back in front with a beauty from range, only for us to be pegged back once again. There was still time for one more dramatic act though, as in the dying embers of the

game Alex Danvers drilled home a sweet first-time finish to snatch it at the death. A fitting way to end such an outstanding tour. George Pickering

Football Senior Boys’ Football This term has seen a boom in the number of boys attending senior football practice. We have been able to put three teams out this season which is fantastic to see from a comprehensive school’s Sixth Form. Dedication to training has been excellent, with numbers frequently between 35 and 40. A special thank you must go out to Pete Armitage who has done a fantastic job as second team manager, and also Henry Treverton who gave up his time to travel up to QEGS Penrith with the third team.

“a boom in the number of boys attending senior football practice” The 1st team have enjoyed an excellent start to the season, with victories over Kirkby Stephen, Settle, LRGS and most recently Kirkbie Kendal. Alex Danvers was the star man during the Kirkby Stephen victory, scoring a hat trick including two free kicks. QES came from 1-0 down to record an emphatic 5-1 victory. Josh Norman and Ben Lardner scored the other goals.

The game versus Settle brought a last-kick-of-the-game winner from Joe Dickson. QES went 2-0 up with goals from Dickson and Lardner. Settle pulled themselves back into the game and if it had not been for some good saves from Dan Jackson and a headed clearance off the line from Richard Herron, QES would have found themselves behind in the game. With injury time coming to an end, Dickson was played through on goal and calmly finished to secure a cliff-hanger victory for QES. In the latest round of the cup, QES had an epic game in wet and windy conditions versus Kirkbie Kendal. QES found themselves a goal behind with ten minutes left on the clock, only for George Whitaker to score a well-taken front post header to send the tie into extra time. KK scored in the first half of extra time to make it 21. Any normal side would have been dead and buried but QES showed excellent fighting spirit to get back into the game, with George Whitaker again scoring another impressive front post header. The game went to penalties where QES dominated, scoring all four of their penalties compared to KK scoring one. Ben Lardner, Josh Norman, Sam Kelly and Joe Portmann showed excellent composure to send QES into the quarter finals where they will meet Queen Katherine School. A special mention must go out to Josh Norman who has so far done a fantastic job as 1st team captain. Keep up the good work Josh.

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Match and Event Reports 5 The second team have enjoyed friendlies against Morecambe High, Lancaster Royal Grammar School, QEGS Penrith and Kendal College. Mr Armitage has done a great job running the side and Michael Usher has captained the side with aplomb. The third team made their QES debut in a friendly against QEGS Penrith. Richard Byle captained the side and led by example scoring a goal, alongside David Voakes in a 2-2 draw. Credit must go to the all the lads in the third team whose dedication to Monday night training has been exceptional. They have deserved their chance to represent QES and there are a few more friendlies in the pipeline for both the second and third teams. Well done so far this season lads. Long may your dedication to senior football and QES continue. R.Daglish Year 7 Football The Year 7 football lads took to the field at Ulverston for their first competitive fixture of their QES career. Good numbers at training (more than 25) made the selection decision very difficult. However the technical ability of the final 14 could not be ignored.

Ulverston enjoy very good clubs links, with the majority of their teams all playing for the same club team, which always makes for very tough games. This did not dampen the excitement of our boys in the first

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round cup game and they duly set about justifying their selection. Captained by Will Wain, due to his excellent commitment and initial leadership qualities, the team looked to play an expansive game that was focused on good shape and structure. We look to play a fast-paced game, keeping the ball on the floor, working for every inch we move around the pitch, and with some big and solid defenders in Daniel Weller and Joey Umpleby life was going to be difficult for Ulverston to handle.

“We look to play a fast-paced game, keeping the ball on the floor” Unfortunately they quickly showed their organisation and fluid movement. Despite a hard work ethic from Danilo Llagen and Callum Thomas in midfield, Ulverston were able to find searching balls, forcing our defenders to turn to defend. Lewis Merckel and Mark Hughes held their positions well and when they were played into the game attacked the gaps in front of them very positively. Max Gleadow, playing the lone striker, was able to hold the ball up well but despite efforts from Joshua Betley trying to link up they could not work enough time to create shooting opportunities. Laurie Fishwick worked hard to ensure his right

Match and Event Reports 6

back position was solid, and the only way that Ulverston could work that channel was with some very effective 2-v-1 play. Brydon Plowright worked very well in the net, talked and organised effectively and if it wasn’t for his effective shotstopping, the score could have been a bigger loss.

Round 1 for the U15 girls was a trip to Cartmel. A commanding performance saw them win 70. Next up was a home draw in the quarter finals against William Howard School. It was a fiercely competitive match and close throughout, but unfortunately QES just couldn’t hold on and eventually lost 3-1.

game of our group was against Morecambe High School A. They scored two goals in quick succession from kick-off and we never really recovered. Despite a brave effort we lost 3-1. We came second in our group and hence played the winners of group A in the semi final, Ripley.

Moving Josh Bartolf into a defensive position was a key move, and he showed excellent strength and resilience to win the ball. Louis Walker and Oliver Tattersall looked to make an impact through early work rate but were not given enough space to work into effective positions. The 10-0 score line reflected Ulverston as being a more effective team. However QES will take some definite positives, and with training developing the lads’ skills, and a few new players, I am sure the friendly season after Christmas will yield some very positive performances. D.Williams

With fewer teams competing in the U18 cup, the girls only played their first round match relatively late in the year, against Windermere. On a freezing cold evening on the lofty astro a superb passing game saw them win 5-0. Next up in the semi-finals is Trinity School, Carlisle.

Ripley were a strong and well organised team who quickly found their stride in the game, scoring in the early minutes. QES threatened to equalise but just couldn’t get the ball in the

Girls’ Football County Cup competitions The U13 girls kicked-off their campaign away at Dallam. It was a close match with lots of chances for both teams, but QES emerged the eventual winners, 3-1, in part thanks to some good attacking play from Emma Collins. The quarter finals came next and another away fixture, this time at William Howard School, Brampton. This was a tough game against a strong team. The girls tried hard but lost 7-0.

The U13s recently visited Morecambe FC to take part in a 6-a-side tournament with the incentive of getting to play at the Globe Arena during half time in one of Morecambe’s home fixtures, should they reach the final. Eight teams entered and were split into two groups. Our first game was against Heysham. They scored first, we equalised. They scored again, we equalised again. It was endto-end stuff, but a mistake by a Heysham defender in the last minute of the game led to a penalty for QES. Emma Collins kept her cool to slot the ball confidently home for a 3-2 win and 3 points. Next up were Ripley B. QES were the stronger team and despite Ripley’s best efforts we finished 4-1 up and another 3 points on the board. The last

“real grit, determination and commitment to the cause” back of the net. Ripley then scored twice more. QES pulled one back and a comeback looked on the cards, but as Ripley scored a fourth the game was over. The girls were left reflecting on what could have been! Once again it has been a busy and fiercely competitive season and the QES girls have shown real grit, determination and commitment to the cause. J.Jackson and L.Cafferty

Rugby U15 Rugby The U15 rugby squad have continued to make excellent progress this year. Their commitment to learning is second to none, with over 30 lads

showing up to training over the course of the year. Saturdays regularly see over 25 showing up to play, giving an indication to the level of commitment that the Year 10s are prepared to offer. As a result, performances have been very impressive, with results frequently going their way. They have played six to date, won four, lost two and currently sit on a positive points difference of 173, having scored 251 points in their six games. A new leadership structure in the squad has seen natural leader Alex Briggs taking control of the helm from Robbie Collis who did a cracking job last year. Joining Alex is Jordan Challis as the backs leader and Elliot Street as the pack leader. The beginning of the season saw them travel to QKS, where they were looking to continue their unbeaten run against this team. With a big squad and plenty of fresh talent, a lot of the boys were looking to stamp their mark on the squad, knowing that this was a cup year for them. The coaches’ cry at the start of this new season was attacking, inventive and creative rugby — rugby that the crowds have got used to seeing from the boys over the last two seasons. The pack were told to push themselves outside their comfort zone and start attacking from multiple points of the pitch. They certainly rose to the challenge, scoring eleven tries by seven different players, with Dan Smith topping the list

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Match and Event Reports 7 with four tries. Luke Tomlinson, who showed a good level of progress last year, produced an eyebrow-raising first game — carrying the ball will confidence and intent, even scoring his first try for school. Another one of our ‘towers’, Rufus Chesney Benson, also put his size to good work, rumbling over the tryline dragging two QKS players with him. The next game in the friendly calendar was against Dallam where the boys and the coach had one eye on the positive steps made in the last game and the upcoming cup game against Ripley in the rebranded Natwest Cup. Again a big squad was taken to the impressive Heversham pitches to assess who was ready for the cup challenge. If Dan Smith had his way with the tryline last game, Jordan Challis came to life in this one where he made the shadow of the posts his own, racking his tally up to four. Robbie Collis is developing into an incredible centre, with hands and vision well above his years, providing a platform for not just his wingers and fullback to work with but showing the desire to get over the line himself.

He was not on his own, however, with intelligent player James Pickard demonstrating his flair by securing two tries, and welcome newcomer Tom Watson showing his pace by scoring his debut try in front of what he had hoped was going to

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be a sell-out crowd. Although the crowd had let us down, the tries did not, with Ted Holbourn and Seb Moore finding their names on the score sheet, securing a record-breaking 90 points to 7 victory. Following on from the disappointment of Ripley not putting out a team, thus providing us with a walkover into the next round, we saw old friends King William’s College come for a fixture while on tour. They are arch rivals, having turned us over on their sacred ground when we visited in Year 8, so this was a game that had a cup feel from the start.

“No gap was too small and no player was too big to take on” Bewildered, and looking like rabbits in the headlights, we did not start well. Uncharacteristically poor in defence, we allowed KWC to take an early foothold, where their very talented centre proved too much for a defensive line not willing to take control. After the second try, rousing words from the coaches seemed to ignite the QES lads’ passion for performance and slowly but surely they started to take back control. Regan Coates’s work and tackle rate shut down some imaginative attacks, and Harvey Williams slowly started to control the game. Alex Briggs loves the big game and rises to the chal-

lenge of classy opposition, and he showed this with a last-gasp try at the end of the game, putting his body on the line to score. The final score ended 3122 but a feeling that we should have got more from the game definitely rippled amongst the lads, while Alex Briggs was being stretchered off for a bad neck sprain. Kirkham at home was the start of our cup run. This was a very tough draw for our first game from an opposition that has substantially more boys and time to work with. Our boys, having learnt the lesson from the KWC game, were ready this time round. A slimmed-down squad of players who had impressed from the previous game were keen to show their appreciation for selection and proved those decisions correct with a fierce and organised defensive effort. The Kirkham players were very big and sought to make the most of this advantage, but were clearly flustered when they could not get everything their own way. Kyle BurfordHothersall was a titan in terms of his performance and totally changed the game in the second half with his direct and confident rugby. No gap was too small and no player too big to take on and the team was inspired by his attacking spirit. Pack performances from Frank Konchinski, Elliot Street and Toby Brennand, and heart and pride shown in the backs by Cameron Thornton, Will Hindle and Harry Huddleston ensured

Match and Event Reports 8 that while we may not be ready to put points on the board, we are ready to fight for our performances, and that resulted in the best defensive effort from this team ever. With that loss behind us we entered the Natwest Vase and drew yet more private school opposition in Rossall where they had claimed our senior boys’ scalp two years ago. It was a wet and miserable Wednesday afternoon and pundits would have predicted a tight and boring game. That is not the QES way and we knew that physicality and creativity from the first whistle was going to be key in turning over this opposition. With that ringing in their ears, as well as the inspiring ‘text’ speech provided by assistant coach Mark Butterworth, the QES lads went to their task. A 50p bet that Toby Brennand wouldn’t score was enough to get his blood up, showing his true potential with ball in hand as an elusive and dangerous runner. Several selfless assists on his behalf were given before he found his way over the tryline and into the coveted Mr. Williams’s pocket, with Regan Coates this time showing his class with ball in hand crossing the line twice. Elliot Street continues to grow into his leadership role as pack captain, rousing the troops and really starting to carry the ball with intent, demonstrating his class not just as a lineout specialist but showing quality in the loose. Will Brown’s natu-

ral curiosity for creativity is endearing, with the coaches encouraging Will to play what he sees. This brought a new level of dynamism to the second half, which allowed us to play in the right parts of the pitch. Final score 41-0 to QES and a fixture against Bolton School for Boys in the next round. Before Bolton School, however, came Morecambe High, a school well known for its physicality and aggressive game. The QES boys have been having sessions with Tom, an Ultimate Fighter specialising in wrestling, to try to encourage a deeper sense of physicality at the breakdown.

“Elliot Street continues to grow into his role as pack captain” With cup games dominating the fixture list it was time to bring the squad back together and with 27 lads on the fields of Kirkby eager to put their new found contact skills to good use, Morecambe would need to be on top of their game to find a result. Josh Belt, thankfully back from injury, showed the most progression on the pitch, with Dan Thomas close behind. Both went looking for contact and were very effective in winning their personal battles, but we were, unusually, unable to control the game through our solid handling skills and game management. Morecambe

were more clinical, running out two converted tries and QES finished the half 14-0 down. Fresh legs and new opportunities were the tale of the second half and QES were very quick to find their stride. Outstanding play from important ball-carrier George Lamb, linking up with the flyer from the back Jordan Challis, got the ball rolling, and it seemed that the lads had again found their stride. Big contacts, big rucking and big lineouts were the focus with Sam Butteworth making a nuisance of himself with the opposition ball. Sam punching above his weight brought a new level of intent, with Harry Huddleston joining the fray. With Morecambe now losing their heads, QES stepped on the gas. Final score was 25-14 — a result building momentum and confidence in this classy outfit. D.Williams Senior Rugby The senior rugby boys have a new leadership structure this year, with Jarred Collis taking on the helm of squad captain, Brendan Cleary leading the backs and Callum Sheldon taking on the pack duties. Last year saw the squad equal their furthest progression in the then Daily Mail competition and they finished the year in Australia saying goodbye to some key players. This year saw a fresh team with a lot of new faces ready to learn what senior rugby is all about. The season started with a preseason programme including

SCHOLARSHIP AND CARE — SINCE 1591

Match and Event Reports 9 a war amongst themselves in the paintball arena, a game against Myerscough and a game against Queen Ethleburgas. Traditionally, pre-season is a tough programme designed to introduce style and increase physicality early. One thing was clear — the squad this year is young. With injuries and non-availability forcing the selection hand the young guns needed to step up, and fast. Thankfully they did not disappoint and Albert Glaves and Cameron Holmes made instant impressions in the pre-season games. Both punching above their weight in the tackle contest, Myerscough were in a game, and the pack demonstrated that their scrum technique was going to put the very best packs to the sword. Even with our two days’ training we cannot compete with the time that Myerscough and Ethelburgas allow for their players, and we were not beaten by technical ability but by organisation.

The first real test came with LRGS, where a fixture against their B team gave us the benchmark ready for their A team in the cup the very next week. A miserable afternoon with rain, soggy pitch and tough conditions set the tone, with QES showing a desire to play but not the clinical finish to find the tryline. Defensively we were very strong, and in the end, two converted tries separated the teams and LRGS ran in 6-0 winners. The A team was a very different class but we showed up with a quiet desire to prove

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ourselves against this tough opposition. In the first twenty minutes, however, too much respect was given to the LRGS team and they quickly took charge of the game. Their wide and expansive game proved too much to cope with and our defensive line constantly faulted when we needed it the most. Personal responsibility in the contact area needed to be increased, with our lads falling off tackles rather than taking control of them. These words seemed to work, and we started to find our way back into the game. Although we couldn’t find the tryline, we had turned the tables and LRGS had to raise their game to respond.

“outstanding performances from Joe Colyer and Joe Towers” Half time saw us confident, realising that our game was enough to keep LRGS honest and we were able to control them for the first fifteen. However, fitness and a lack of patience got the better of us and LRGS finished much stronger. 50-5 sent us into the Natwest Vase, where a cup run is where our hopes rested. Tour is where we searched for our click moment. A squad 32 strong crossed the Irish Sea to play King William’s College and The Isle of Man state schools side. What a game occurred on ‘big field’ where two attacking

sides were prepared to have a positive effect on the game and give the crowds a treat to watch. Outstanding performances from young guns Joe Colyer and Joe Towers saw us take control of the first half, but the game swung in favour of KWC in the second half. Having done enough to win the game at full time, the ref’s watch clearly said differently. Two minutes after full time went by; four minutes; six minutes; and in the eighth minute KWC found the tryline to put them two in front and hearts were further broken when the ref blew for full time. The emotion of enjoying what was a fantastic game of rugby could not sink in, with the mental barrier of feeling robbed blocking any kind of positive emotion. On reflection the lads played a blinder, but the next day was going to take its toll. The Isle of Man School game had to be a single not a double header, with injury forcing our hand and although the lads fought hard, a mix of inexperience, tiredness and exhaustion fell heavy on our shoulders and we ended up losing 21-19. QEGS Penrith is a regular game that always has the feeling of a derby. It was a thoroughly enjoyable battle last year, visiting each other three times, QES running out 2-1 winners. This year, hampered with injuries, and with over half the squad coming from Year 11, it was going to be a tough day. QEGS had a high contingent of county players, with size, speed and bags of strength, and combining this with the ef-

Match and Event Reports 10 ficient structure, we could not hold on from the outset. James Greenall did not hesitate to stand up and be counted with some very intelligent kicking and positional play. The chase wasn’t up to the same standard unfortunately and QEGS thrived on counterattack ball. One-on-one we were able to compete with them physically but the relentless attack proved too much to cope with and QEGS ran out 84-0 winners, my heaviest defeat as a coach to date. When Flinders arrive in Kirkby Lonsdale it is always a happy day! The relationship between these two schools continues to blossom with an established professional relationship in the exchange of gap year students. We actively host each other’s tourists and always enjoy healthy and competitive fixtures. This year was to be no exception, with Flinders looking to exact revenge for our visit in the summer. The Ozzie Schools are always very technical and consistently difficult to break down, but QES, relying on strong set pieces and a hunger to play from width, set the game up nicely for the crowds who came to watch. Unfortunately they proved too difficult to break down and although our youngsters stepped up to their first taste of international rugby well, three tries to Flinders were enough to separate the two teams at the final whistle. We will have our chance on their soil in in Australia in three years time!

Ullswater is where QES had their click moment. For the first time this season they were up to full strength and looking forward to firing some energy and purpose into the way that they play the game. The atmosphere was different during the warm-up. With all the experience back in the squad, ambitions were high and the QES lads were determined to get their season back on track. The youth of QES had demonstrated great resolve in the pursuit of senior rugby with big prospects for the future, Max Jameson, Will Jacques and Cameron Holmes all featuring consistently at the top level, but the older lads were ready to stamp their mark on the season.

“the older lads were ready to stamp their mark on the season” We started strong and fast and it was clear that the reinforced Ullswater squad, drawing on the strengths of QEGS Penrith, were in for a fight. The pack performed like hounds unleashed, and were hungry to carry and perform. Connor Launder and James Bonwick really stepped up to the mark with work rate and tackle rate, and were backedup by a truly inspiring combination of Harry Ralston and Brendan Cleary in attack. Harry is so good at taking the ball on the gainline, and having biggame performer James Greenall at 12 is like having another

10 on the pitch and opens up angles on the width with confidence and flair. With this level of creativity Andres Part is cementing his mark as part of the back three, showing strength and commitment to the contact area. We even pulled off the elusive twin towers. Sam Haddow’s expert and consistent throwing has moved the lineout to another level. In fact Sam is a force around the pitch and combining his work rate with that of the back row, in particular Rufus Gates, teams are finding that attack is not actually something they look forward to. 51-0 the final score, the cup run has begun. St. Bees in the next round with their strong rugby heritage was a big game for us to look forward to. Private school, lots of talent and a big win in their previous round kept QES heads honest and focused and with the friendly results not going our way, we knew that the season could be rescued with a positive cup run. Physicality from the off and creativity with ball in hand is the QES way and St.Bees soon had to change their game plan, moving a big centre into the pack to try and reinforce the barrage of carry that was coming their way. Sam Weltzien carried very well, rising star Sam Merckel made his presence felt, and returned and reinvigorated number 8 Josh Hayton ensured they made their mark early on as exciting and explosive players. It was Callum Sheldon who forced the issue, being fully supported by a

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Match and Event Reports 11

pack who were ruthless in their mind-set. Squad leader and decision maker Jarred Collis kept the tempo up with great hands and positive rugby, with Brendan Cleary setting up James Greenall and Harry Ralston with the space they need to perform. The backline fizzed with angle and St.Bees were unable to cope with the number of attack points the backs were throwing at them. The pack punched holes, and the backs scored tries — a balance that is finding some serious momentum as the QES squad starts to gel.

Year 9 district honours were awarded to Lewis Williams, Ben Darlington and Sam Tallon.

U18 Scotland International honours were awarded to Callum Sheldon.

In Year 10, Will Brown, Harvey Williams, Sam Butterworth, Robbie Collis, Dan Smith, Jordan Challis, Harry Huddleston, Elliot Street, George Lamb, Josh Belt, Alex Briggs and Sebastian Moore were all awarded district honours.

Huge congratulations to all players. These are massive achievements and the work does not stop here. These achievements are to be aspired to as they are not by any means final. The U16s can have another crack at the 18s program, so if you are in any way unsure as to what you need to do to improve don’t hesitate to see Mr. Williams for further guidance. D.Williams

It was in the dying minutes of the second half where Albert Glaves got his first senior try, chasing down a kick and scurrying over the line. If this was not cause for celebration, the moments of brilliance from Finlay Rooney were going to get the crowds on their feet. A lofted pass from Brendan over the heads of all the backs appeared to be a misfire until Finlay at full tilt, on a wet pitch and slippery conditions, scooped the bobbling ball off the group and raced into the corner for an empathic and near unbelievable finish that truly finished the game on a high. St Bees went down 51-7 that day and we are now well and truly ready for the next #gameday #cuprun. D.Williams

U15 Club Cumbria trials were awarded to Josh Belt, Robbie Collis, Harry Huddleston, Harvey Williams and Sam Butterworth with nominations provided for Elliot Street, Regan Coates and Toby Brennand.

Representative Rugby Representative rugby has once again been very busy this year with rugby players being selected for district, county, regional and national levels.

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

U15 Club Cumbria honours were awarded to Dan Smith, Jordan Challis, Alex Briggs, George Lamb and Sebastian Moore.

U16 Club Cumbria honours went to Joe Colyer, Joe Towers and Cameron Holmes. U16 Cumbria/Northumberland/Durham (CND) honours were awarded to Joe Colyer and Joe Towers. U16 North of England Honours were awarded to Joe Towers. U18 Club Cumbria honours were awarded to Jarred Collis, Brendan Cleary and Callum Sheldon with Brendan Cleary also being awarded the captaincy of the team. U18 North of England honours were awarded to Brendan Cleary.

Year 7 Rugby The Year 7 rugby team (pictured) have enjoyed a very successful start to their rugby at QES. They have won four out of five games so far and I have been very impressed with the commitment to training, where numbers have peaked around 40! The first fixture of the season was against local rivals Dallam. QES ran out winners 15 – 0 with two tries coming from the rampaging Nathan Simpson and one from scrum half Matt Holroyd. QES played with fluidity and determination and impressed in their first outing. Areas of QES play still had room for improvement and the boys trained hard over the forthcoming weeks before the start of the Saturday morning fixtures. The first Saturday fixture was a thrilling encounter against Queen Elizabeth Grammar School from Penrith. Scorers George Phillips, Tom

Match and Event Reports 12

Smith, Sean Tebbett and Matt Holroyd (with two) put QES into a commanding position. QEGS fought back and some excellent defensive play, especially from Harry Tugman who made a number of a try-saving tackles, ensured that QES held on for a 25-20 victory. The third game of the season was an introduction to real rugby weather conditions. On a cold, wet and windy day, Heysham High travelled up to Kirkby Lonsdale in what was a very close and hard fought game. Tom Smith opened the scoring and Will Wain added an extra two points with a superb conversion. Joe Barrett added a second try to put QES 12-0 up. Heysham scored a try in the second half and QES again had to show their excellent defensive qualities to see the game out 12-5. The game was excellently refereed by our highly regarded Year 11 referee Jamie Simpson who dealt well with what was a very physical encounter between the two teams.

The next game of the season brought a rematch against Dallam. This game would give a good indication to see how far the boys had come since their first game of the season. QES played awesomely and ran out convincing 41-0 winners. Winger Dan Weller scored two superbly-taken tries which came from the excellent forwards who were securing good ball at the ruck. James Billington organised the backline superbly from fly half and this led to further tries from Bill Mason, with Nathan Simpson and Xavier Tomlinson getting two each. Further conversions from Billington (2) and Wain added to the total. 41-0, a superb result. The most recent game of the season brought QES’s first defeat. QES visited Morecambe High School and a poor first half showing found QES 170 down! This was a real eye opener for the QES players who have never found themselves behind in a game of rugby so far this season. The QES play-

ers showed great heart and determination to come out in the second half and win it 10-5 with tries from Nathan Simpson and Fraser Winn. The boys were disappointed to lose their first game of the season 22-10 but they showed a lot of courage to win the second half. So far I have been very impressed with the commitment to rugby of the Year 7 boys. Long may this continue and we will see how far they can progress over the forthcoming years at QES. R.Daglish Callum Sheldon’s Rugby Success Over the past twelve months the rugby career of Callum Sheldon (13S) has taken off. Already a regular in the Newcastle Falcons U18 team, Callum was selected in June to join the full Scotland U18 training squad. This involved a gruelling two-week training camp in Spain (before joining up with the QES squad in Australia) as well as a three day preparation

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Match and Event Reports 13 work and ability to organise his hectic schedule around his Alevel studies. We look forward to following his career with interest. P.Lucas

Hockey

Callum Sheldon camp at Murrayfield before the game against Leeds Carnegie. As part of the Scotland squad Callum is currently preparing for the upcoming games against England and Ireland in March as well as the European U18 championships in Poland during April. In addition to his international commitments Callum plays for Newcastle Falcons in the AASE league on Saturdays against other academy sides such as Gloucester, Sale and Leicester.

Callum’s rugby success is testimony to his commitment, hard

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Boys’ Hockey First team QES vs. Windermere School QES got off to a fantastic start to the under-18 schools tournament by winning the Cumbria round in style. We won all of our matches, placing us top of the group, and through to the North West round. The first match of the afternoon for QES was against Windermere School. QES dominated possession right from the whistle and put this to their full advantage throughout the 20-minute match, eventually storming to a 7-0 victory with goals from James Perkins, Ben Scott and Patrick Rycroft. QES controlled the game brilliantly which made the opposition no match for such a strong side with Windermere unable to test the QES goalkeeper even once. QES vs. Kirkbie Kendal School The QES team continued their success in their second match of the tournament with a 2-1 victory over a very talented Kirkbie Kendal team. We knew this game would be a difficult one from previous encounters with them. For this reason the whole team gave 100% for the first twelve minutes, which was too much for the Kirkbie Kendal defence, earning QES a

Match and Event Reports 14

2-0 lead. Kirkbie Kendal fought back towards the back end of the match, forcing an excellent double save at a penalty corner from goalkeeper Alex Hyman. Eventually their hard work paid off and Kirkbie Kendal got one back, but it wasn’t enough and QES held out for the victory, which set our team up nicely for the upcoming matches. QES vs. Lakes School As we thought this was going to be our easiest game, we decided to rest our midfield which resulted in Owain Houghton, our star defender, playing centre forward with both Ben Wilson and Patrick Rycroft pushing back. At first we were worried that Owain wouldn’t be able to handle to role of centre forward, but much to our amazement he scored his first goal of the season. We continued to dominate the game, maintaining possession for the majority of the time, crushing their attempts to break through our defence. We went on to win this game 7-0, with some brilliant goals. QES vs. Sedbergh Our morale was high — we were going through to the next round, but whether we went through at the top of the group all depended on the last game against the dreaded Sedbergh. We had watched them play against the other teams, and they were good. They had a very strong attack, so we knew this would be the hardest game, but we were ready. We went 1-0 up quite early in the game, thanks to a brilliant goal from Ben Scott. But we

and with a 0-0 draw the team became the first boys’ hockey county champions of the year.

U14 Hockey North Finals just couldn’t break through their defence again — this game was the hardest our attack had seen. The Sedbergh attack was strong and when we went down to ten men, with Patrick Rycroft receiving a yellow card, we thought that they would break through. This didn’t happen, thanks to a brilliant performance by our defence, Myles Kilshaw, Owain Houghton and James Pickard, repelling all their attacks and stopping them from having a shot on goal. When the final whistle went we could finally relax. We had won, and we were going through to the next round and as county champions. Alex Hyman and Tom Oston Boys’ Hockey It’s been two years since QES entered boys’ hockey teams into the county competitions and this year both the U14 and senior boys were given their chance to shine in the county tournaments at QES and the Lakes School respectively. First up were the young guns with fresh legs and a competitive

mindset to find their feet on the QES astro. Joining them were Windermere School, Kirkby Stephen and Dallam all fighting it out to be crowned the Cumbria County Champions of 2014. Captained by Will McHugh and Glyn Houghton, the lads did a great job of rallying the troops for their first competitive tournament with school. Their first game was against Dallam, and QES were able to find the early momentum and secure a 1-0 win. Momentum in tournament play is always key and they needed all the momentum they could muster to overcome privateschool opponents Windermere School. Confidently they got the result they needed with a 1-0 win and a ticket to the North West finals at Timperley. “The job’s not done yet,” the lads cried, sensing an opportunity not only to progress in the competition but also to have the opportunity to secure the title of county champions. A point from the Kirkby Stephen game would secure the title,

Hot on the heels of the young guns were the old guard in their county tournament at the Lakes School. With the pressure of success weighing heavily following on from the U14 team, particularly in the older brother Owain Houghton’s camp, fine leadership from Tom Oston and Alex Hyman saw a strong squad take to the astro. These boys had tasted county success two years before as runners-up, fancied their chances at another shot in the regionals, but had to overcome Windermere, Kirkbie Kendal, the Lakes and old school rivals Sedbergh in order to get there. Energy and creativity took hold of the boys in their first game, and a ruthless and relentless structure saw them run out 70 victors against Windermere and get that all-important first win under their belts. Influential young right back James Pickard did not disappoint in shutting down the flank and with expert vision Ben Wilson was able to move the ball into danger areas for James Perkins to snaffle up. They knew to progress the next game against Kirkbie Kendal was vital and they quickly set to their task. Myles Kilshaw rose to the challenge at left back, ensuring that no attacker would get any joy on that side, and Tom Oston ran out his legs to ensure the midfield was shut down. Some fine shot-stopping

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Match and Event Reports 15 from Alex Hyman ensured they could hold on to their 2-1 lead and take control of the group undefeated. The Lakes had had a tough day at the office, and QES knew that the chance of progressing was now firmly in their grasp. With some tactical decisions regarding shape and substitutions, resting key players ready for the derby clash, the squad proved their strength in depth. The Lakes could not match our technical level, a major highlight of the game being a fine finish from Owain Houghton up top which got the subs to their feet in applause. Ben Charlesworth and Matthew Fleming worked exceptionally well on their respective wings, ensuring that, regardless of which side the ball was on, attacking intent was the play. 7-0 was the final score and big buzz of confidence the final feeling.

The eagerly-awaited final game between QES and Sedbergh is up next — both teams undefeated; both teams the strongest; pride, joy and the title of County Champions were the prize for this game. Influential and utility player Ben Scott set to his task, showing pure fluency and class with his movement. Playing with the confidence of knowing Owain Houghton and Tom Oston were holding the fort he was able to work Patrick Rycroft and James Perkins into dangerous positions around the D. 1-0 to QES was the first movement on the score-board, a lead that clearly meant a lot to the team.

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

The appearance of super subs John Clarke and Josh Barton was a regular movement and they did not disappoint in their impact off the bench. On this occasion however it came at the expense of Patrick Rycroft with a yellow card. Do we hold or attack? The age-old question where the lead gives a sense of doubt in the players that earned it.

“down to ten men, the odds were stacked against them” Down to ten men, the odds were stacked against them, but some brave defending in the middle of pitch ensured the lead was intact with the readmission of Patrick onto the field. The lads battled and fought and held onto their 1-0 lead, claiming the title of County Champions and following their young counterparts to Timperley in February. D.Williams Senior Girls’ Hockey It’s been a busy term for senior girls’ sport and as usual, the senior hockey tournaments take place early in the season! The U18 girls were in action first in September. This year, following our very successful tour to Australia during the summer, we were able to field a large, strong squad and approached the district tournament confidently. We were not disappointed, coming out on top with very comfortable wins over Kirkby Stephen and

Kirkbie Kendal and, despite a tougher game against Sedbergh (0-0 draw), we were winners of the tournament and went through to the county final as District Champions. The county final in October saw us a little depleted with injuries. However, having withdrawn from the U16 district tournament due to a shortage of players on the day, we were able to welcome some Year 11 players into the squad and they certainly upped their game. Well done to Laura Hayton, Molly Wilson, Grace Charlesworth and Yasmin Dodd for their excellent contribution to the tournament. Again we had comfortable wins over QEGS and St Bees and yet another draw against Sedbergh. On checking goal difference, it was clear that we had become County Champions. The North semi-final took place in Cheshire in November and, again we were plagued with injury (not least, Beth Cordukes, who unbeknown to her at the time was playing with a dislocated thumb!) We progressed through our pool, beating Liverpool College 4 – 0 and drawing 2 -2 with Cheadle Hulme. Unfortunately our goal difference this time put us in runners-up position and we met Kirkham in the semi-final. This proved to be a very closely fought match with some superb hockey played by both teams, the standard being commented upon most enthusiastically by both umpires. It was not to be our day and despite holding at 2-2 for most of the match, we succumbed to

Match and Event Reports 16 a couple of fast breaks in the closing stages and eventually lost 2 – 4. Well done girls! You fought hard and for most of you there is another year to go and another chance for the Nationals. I’m confident you will get there! As mentioned, we were not able to field a team for the U16 tournament, but the U15 District Tournament was at the start of November and despite some last minute hitches and the need to call up a couple of Year 8 players, we made it to our group round of the competition in good spirits. Olivia Budd had volunteered to play in goal and what a superstar she turned out to be, saving numerous shots on target! In fact our defence played out of their skins and we didn’t lose a match. Unfortunately we finished runners up, again on goal difference and just missed out on going through to the county final. Well done, girls! Lots of potential in the squad and a new found star goalkeeper! J.Winstanley

Netball Senior Netball The netball season ‘kicked off’ with the U16 District tournament very early in the term. The girls had a positive attitude and despite some losses, improved in leaps and bounds throughout the tournament. The encouraging thing about senior netball at QES is the willingness to play ‘out of position’ for the benefit of the team and it’s a credit to the girls (in Years

10 to Sixth Form) that they are so adaptable and willing to take on new challenges. The U18 district tournament followed early in October and again, following the Australian experience our girls were raring to go. It was good to be able to welcome new faces to the squad (Lydia Gorst and Arona Morrison) who boosted our strength and depth in mid court. Our opening match was Sedbergh and a tough one at that!

“the girls have been a pleasure to coach” However, despite losing, it gave us a good warm-up and the impetus to go on and win our remaining matches against Windermere, Barrow and Kirkbie Kendal. So, onto the County Final in November, as district runnersup. Unfortunately, we had managed little training in the intervening time, due to loss of facilities and the scheduling of meetings. So it was with a little trepidation, but lots of positive spirits that we faced Sedbergh again and two teams from the North. Thankfully it was an indoor tournament, so the girls were able to model their new team kit. And very smart they looked too! We did, however suffer three defeats and finished bottom of the table. The girls played hard and fast, never let their heads drop and there is lots of potential in the team – we just need to do some work on our tactical play.

Our U15 squad is also showing considerable potential and after a couple of friendly games, their tournament took place in November in Cartmel. Again, I have been impressed by the willingness of the girls to play a variety of positions (not least the captain, Mary Atkinson, who has played in the attacking and defending circles as well as mid court) and it is encouraging to see the number of strong shooters who have been emerging in the squad. Despite a couple of good wins, we didn’t make the final but the girls have been a pleasure to coach and have certainly been the most frequent attendees at training. Well done all senior sportswomen! A very good start to the season! Year 7 Netball The Year 7 girls of 2013 have been very keen to play netball and improve their skills. Well done girls. Practices are very well attended and I could easily produce four fantastic teams from the girls who attend. We have had A and B team matches against QKS, which we won, and have more matches before the end of term. Keep up the good work, girls. The Year 8 practices have been rather sporadic this term but we put out a great win early in the year against Kirkbie Kendal. There are more fixtures next term so keep up all your efforts girls. The Year 9 girls have had a busy term. At the South Lakes Netball tournament in October the

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Match and Event Reports 17 competition after being narrowly beaten by Calder High School from the North of the County.

some age groups, round robins were played and this led to a semi-final and final for each event.

Well done to the following pupils who represented QES and South Cumbria:

Badminton

The First QES Badminton Tournament QES Badminton Club has a core of regular players, and others who come along as and when they are free. Year 7 to Year 11 mix in and play lots of doubles matches during each session.

The eventual winners were: Singles Year 7 Alex Fox Year 8 Jacob Aubrey Year 9 Louis Glaves Year 10 Albert Glaves Year 11 Tom Halsey KS3 Girls Katie Oston Doubles Year 7 Owen Dryden & Alex Fox Year 8 Jacob Aubrey & Harry Bradley Year 9 Louis Glaves & Max Castaldi Year 10 Albert Glaves & Harrison Belcher Year 11 Patrick Bannister & Wyn Young

Badminton County Finals at Penrith 2013 The South Cumbria region finals of the Center Parcs Badminton England Tournament began in January 2013. QES entered a team in each category – KS3 girls, KS3 boys, KS4 girls and KS4 boys. All four teams won all their regional matches so went onto to represent South Cumbria in the County Finals in Penrith later on in the year.

Match and Event Reports 18

girls were a very commendable third place and played some great netball. There have been a couple of fixtures with one win and one loss. There have been some position changes in the team and this is proving to be a promising combination. Congratulations to Vicky Lawson, Mary Brownsord and Issy Boyd who have been attending the Netball Development Squad sessions at Windermere School. We have more fixtures before the end of term. I know all the girls will continue to work hard to improve their skills and tactics at practices. J.Winstanley

Each of our teams was placed into a group of five against schools from different areas of Cumbria, with the winner of each group becoming County Champions for their age group. All our teams played some great badminton. The two KS4 teams and the KS3 boys did well in their groups, finishing third. The KS3 girls team were crowned runners-up in the

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KS4 Kim Gott, Holly Hunter, Eleanor Hudson, Emily Brownsord, George Whitaker, Albert Glaves, Ben Scott, Oliver Bradley. KS3 Alice Whitaker, Mary Brownsord, Libby Rushton, Chloe Thorsen, Louis Glaves, Max Castaldi, Tom Martlew and Jacob Aubrey. L.Glaves

Some pupils completing their Duke of Edinburgh Award have helped out this year as part of their volunteering activity. They have helped coach players and score matches. After much discussion between the DofE students it was decided to organise a badminton tournament and so ‘The QES Badminton Tournament 20122013’ was opened for entries! Benedict Rickards, Wyn Young and Albert Glaves were the main organisers, co-ordinating entries and scoring matches. There were singles events for each year group, along with mixed doubles events. Due to the large number of entries in

The second QES Badminton Tournament is to be held after Christmas and will be open for entries soon for all those who are interested in competing. L.Glaves

After some tight games I edged the first set 4-2. Chris came back strongly to take the second 3-5. My road to Wimbledon was down to one match tie break — real pressure!

Louis Glaves of the summer. After some good first and second round matches I eventually made it through to the county final. Here I would meet Chris Edge from Carlisle who had also got through his rounds showing good form. Chris and I had played many times in the past and he had usually come out on top in the big games. I knew I had to play my best to beat him. By now the afternoon sun had reached its peak. We were in for a scorcher.

The first few points went with serve, then Chris missed an easy smash, which gave me a break. We battled it out and I eventually got on top taking the tie break 10-6. I’d made it to Wimbledon but I had nothing left to celebrate. The weather had sapped all my energy. I laugh when I look back at the presentation photos. My face was like a beetroot! I felt sorry for Chris. He had played really well, but as the county No.1 I knew he had a good chance of getting through as a lucky loser, and I found out later he did. My preparations for Wimbledon were not the best — a

week in France on holiday with my family and friends. It was a fantastic relaxing week but I didn’t practise much tennis. We flew straight back from France to London and turned up for the practice session on the Sunday. I’d been earlier in the summer to watch the Wimbledon Championships so I thought I knew what to expect. On the day though I was amazed how well the whole tournament was organised and how fantastic the courts were to play on. On Monday, the tournament started properly. I had a tough first-round draw against a much higher rated player than me, Brandon Murphy. I enjoyed the game but was well beaten. Next game was the highlight of the tournament for me. I got to play Joshua Elliot on Court 19, which is used in the All England Championship and is right next

Tennis My Road to Wimbledon: Louis Glaves writes about his rise in the sport My road to Wimbledon started with the qualifying competition at Heversham Tennis Club. After the preliminary rounds I ended up facing my good friend Joe Till from Dallam School in the final. We had a good game and I came through OK. Next stop, Eden Tennis Club in Carlisle for the county RTW knockout. The Eden event took place on July 13, one of the hottest days

Mary Brownsord, Chloe Thorsen, Libby Rushton, Alice Whittaker at the Badminton County Finals

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Match and Event Reports 19 to Court 1 and Henman Hill. I played really well and lost narrowly in two sets. It was a great experience though; something I will remember forever.

Match and Event Reports 20 Abbie Barnes and Millie Sykes at the cross-country

On the next day I won my first match against James Skelter Maxwell. I also got to meet Tim Henman. We played a set together and I took a couple of games off him. (Not really!) I did get my photo taken with him though. After the event the organisers sent this to my local newspaper and it formed the centrepiece of a story of my exploits. My mum bought copies for all my relatives! Over the final two days, Chris and I had a bit of a nightmare in the doubles but I did get through to the consolation singles quarter final. Overall I’d say this was one of the best weeks of my life. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to play tennis on the best courts in the world. I will remember the experience for ever. Louis Glaves 10W

Cross Country

English Schools’ Athletics Association. Every year we enter four teams for this cross country team event. It was held at the rugby club in Kendal in October where the first four runners from each school make the team result. We had commendable results with the Inter boys coming fourth overall. Jacob Aubrey came ninth with

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

Robbie Sproul, Jack Kirk and Dan Thomas making up the best team places. The Inter girls were seventh overall with Scarlet Dale in sixth place with Abbie Barnes, Chloe Ward and Millie Sykes making up the best team places. Both the Junior boys and girls teams were second in their group with Emma Whitaker in second place, Samantha Bland third, Imogen Gorst ninth and Abbie Allan thirteenth with Kitty Morrison and Ruby Frankland making up the team. The Junior boys had Thomas Marshall in third place, Joe Fell fourth, Will Richards seventh and Jack Murray in twenty-fifth with James Billington and Matthew Holroyd making up the team. Both the Junior boys and girls teams made it to the second round which was held at Wavertree Park in Liverpool. The girls were fifth overall and the boys were seventh. A great

morning of running by all and thank you for all the parental support as well. H.Pakeman

District Cross Country Amazingly we took 70 students from QES to the District event in Sedbergh. This is an incredible number of students and every single person should be very proud that they were happy to compete in this testing running event. The effort given on the day and the camaraderie between athletes was inspiring. Many congratulations to everyone who ran. We now have 25 students who have been selected to represent the South Lakes at the county event in Cockermouth next year. This is a terrific number of QES students. Those who were selected in the top five places include Ruby Fran-

kland, Abbie Allan, Thomas Marshall, Emma Whitaker, Samantha Bland, Scarlet Dale, Imogen Gorst, Jacob Aubrey, Will Richards, Jack Belcher, Mark Mahoney, Grace Jeffrey and Beth Cordukes. A fantastic set of results. H.Pakeman

Biathlon This year we had five QES students who entered the Schools’ Biathlon qualifying rounds at Salt Ayre in Lancaster. These were Ruby Frankland in Year 7, Emma Whitaker in Year 8, Millie Sykes in Year 9 and Grace Jeffrey and Charlotte Whitaker in Year 11. Congratulations to

them all but especially Ruby who has qualified for the next round and Emma who has an automatic entry to the finals in January 2014. Talented girls. Well done. H.Pakeman

Table Cricket In July this year, three Year 8 pupils (pictured below) joined forces with pupils from Kirkbie Kendal School to take part in the Cumbria School Games. The team represented South Lakes in the Table Cricket competition but unfortunately they were narrowly defeated in the final. C.Gibson Table cricketers Will Snowden, Maisye Lyon and Archie Holland

Year 7 County Cross Country. This event is always held at QEGS in Penrith in October. The boys’ and the girls’ teams were nervous but performed very well. The boys team came sixth overall with Thomas Marshall coming in a fantastic first place and qualifying to represent Cumbria at the Inter-counties event in November. The girls’ team were third overall with Ruby Frankland and Kitty Morrison also qualifying for the Inter-counties. Other QES students who were invited to represent Cumbria at the Inter-counties were Jacob Aubrey, Emma Whitaker, Samantha Bland, Scarlet Dale and Grace Jeffrey. Congratulations to all. H.Pakeman

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Interested in a career in teaching?

Match and Event Reports 21

his year we are continuing our new and exciting venture to develop, in conjunction with the South Lakes Federation of Schools, a school-based teacher training programme called South Lakes School Direct.

School Direct is a new pioneering route into teacher training and is being based in some of the country’s best schools. At QES we have been committed to providing the highest quality of teacher training for a number of years now, working in close partnership with the University of Cumbria. That partnership will continue and will ensure that new teachers will be able to graduate from our programme with a PGCE and masters accreditation.

Staff and Year 13 leavers in Australia

U14 North England Hockey Champions

Toby Norman at the cross-country

Changing Lives

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Football coaching in Australia: Mr Daglish and Alex Danvers

We are currently seeking to recruit Mathematics and English graduates of the highest calibre to start in 2014. Training will take place both at QES, in schools across the South Lakes and in our wider alliance of schools. Unlike other programmes, at the end of the course we expect to be able to employ our newly trained teachers in one of our partner schools.

If you are interested in a career in teaching or know someone who is, more information can be found on our website www.southlakesschooldirect.co.uk or by contacting Alison Donnelly, Assistant Head. See what our current students have to say about their course on page 45 of this newsletter.

Go to www.southlakesschooldirect.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @southlakesSD Contact Alison Donnelly at Queen Elizabeth School Kirkby Lonsdale 015242 71275

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78 QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL

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