Newsletter Orchard Park High SCHOOL
A Greenshaw Learning Trust school Ready, Respectful, Safe
Easter 2019
Talks: MP Sarah Jones with Orchard Park students
MP highly impressed by ‘vibrant’ students CROYDON Central MP Sarah Jones has showered praise on Orchard Park pupils, describing them as “passionate and engaged”. The Shadow Housing Minister talked to pupils about topical issues affecting people in Croydon including Brexit, youth safety and housing. Ms Jones also discussed her new initiative, Journey to Journalism, which will help black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) youngsters from Croydon get work experience with national newspapers, including The Sun, The Daily Mail and The Times. It comes after the school was praised by Ofsted for praised for its rapid transformation and its relationships with students. The school was also named the second most improved in the borough for GCSE results in 2018, according to statistics released by the Department for Education last week.
Shadow minister is in talks with pupils about local issues
Ms Jones said: “As the MP for this area, it is great to see such engaged and vibrant children at a local school. This is of huge benefit to the young people and families of this community. “I was also extremely impressed with how passionate and curious the students at this school are about a range of topical issues. She added: “They were genuinely excited about the opportunity to work with the biggest names in the newspaper industry. “This project is the first step to addressing the worrying lack of diversity in journalism and ensuring BAME groups are better represented in newsroom.”
Orchard Park Head Boy Ishmael Tetteh said: “It was really interesting to find out what Ms Jones thought about the big issues of the day. “What was really pleasing is that she really seemed to be interested in what we had to say and took on board our concerns. “It was also a great opportunity for the students to talk about the issues that are affecting young people in Croydon with someone who has the power to make real change.” Applicants for the Journey to Journalism programme must write a letter and a 250word essay on one of five topics – the refugee crisis; Brexit and young people; knife crime and youth violence; the role of technology in society; or climate change. To apply visit Ms Jones’ website: https:// www.sarah-jones.org/
Orchard Park High School newsletter n Easter 2019
Our students always give us an immense source of pride Orchard Park High School Headteacher Ciara Warnock reflects on another successful term at the school. deal to offer their future post-16 providers and we are confident that every one of our students will reach their full potential and go on to lead very successful lives. At the end of last term, we said goodbye to an institution at this school – lunchtime supervisor Pauline Waight. Pauline has been at the school since the day it opened. Her influence on the students and staff cannot be measured in mere words. Alongside her duties, Pauline was a counsellor, confidante and friend to every student who passed through these gates. She will be sorely missed. As you will also read in this newsletter,
we have been working alongside our partners at the Greenshaw Learning Trust to offer science fun days to local primary schools. This was a hugely enjoyable experience, with Year 5 and 6 students being scientists for the day. The atmosphere was electric as students launched rockets, learned the theory of physics and explored science in real life context. There were lots of laughs as students relished the activities. We are very fortunate to have the skills and expertise of such experienced leaders to call on for support. I am confident the school will continue to improve under their guidance. There have been many other success stories this term across all subject departments, too many to mention here. It just remains for me to wish you a happy and restful Easter. The hard work starts again in earnest next term.
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You know you are doing something right as a school when the MP for your area describes pupils in glowing terms. MP Sarah Jones got a glimpse of what we as teachers and support staff see every day at this school – a committed, passionate and curious cohort of students eager to learn. As a school, we continue to push the boundaries of expectation, especially in these last crucial few months in the lives of our Year 11 students. It is an immense source of pride that GCSE exam results have continued to improve each year since I arrived as headteacher. Our A-Level and GCSE predictions are equally as strong, if not better, as in previous years. Last year we were among the most improved schools in the borough of Croydon but this year we are looking to do even better. I am confident that the committed staff at this school have prepared these young people for their next steps, not just in terms of their education and exams but in their life chances and future civic responsibilities. Our students have a great
Mystery pupils are hailed for returning lost wallet
THE search is on for five kind-hearted Orchard Park High School students who returned a wallet to an address in Shirley. Resident Angela Langley described the students as “fantastic role models” after they knocked on her door to bring back her son’s wallet. The quick-thinking students checked the contents to find the address of the owner after discovering it on a residential road in January. The good deed from the unidentified pupils meant her son did not have to reapply for bank cards and his driver’s licence. Angela said: “We think he must have dropped it as he was walking back from the car to the house. The boys found it a little way away and because there were teeth marks on it we think a fox might have had it. “The fact that they took the time to find the
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address and then knock on the door to give the wallet back shows real maturity. “Students are clearly taught to be well behaved and good mannered at Orchard Park. It was a really kind act.” She added: “I really want to find out who these students were so we can thank them personally. I want to bring in a box of chocolates, as they are smashing boys. “I am thinking they might remember my German Shepherd Alfie, because he was at the door when they knocked.” Headteacher Ms Warnock said: “It is always a source of great pride when we are contacted by the public to praise the actions of our students. It is clear that our core values of integrity, respect and responsibility have been fully installed in these students. Their actions are an example to their peers.”
Delighted: Shirley resident Angela Langley praised the five students who returned her son’s wallet
Orchard Park High School newsletter n Easter 2019
Day of experiments helps build school relationships THE CEO of the Greenshaw Learning Trust and science teacher Will Smith led a funpacked day of experiments with local primary schools. Mr Smith engaged pupils from Orchard Way, Monks Orchard, Benson Primary and The Woodside Academy. Pupils learned about physics via a gravitational pull experiment using a ping pong ball and hairdryer and got to grips with chemistry through a bottle rocket experiment. An experiment burning a £20 note soaked in ethanol and water taught the Year 5s about chemical properties. They also found out how static electricity works, experimenting with positive and negative electrons at the sessions held in February. Students at The Woodside School presented Mr Smith with a thank you card for his “funny and interesting” class.
Mr Smith received a thank-you card Orchard Way Year 4 Adam said: “Today was probably the most fun I have had learning science.” Fellow Year 4 pupil Adela said: “When the rocket flew into the air, it was amazing. Will
made everything seem interesting. It has made me care much more about science.” Monks Orchard Year 5 Aarian said: “It was awesome. I learnt so much that I didn’t know before. It was the perfect lesson.” Year 5 Zara added: “Will is so much fun. I wish he could be my teacher for all science lessons.” Mr Smith said: “This has been a wonderful opportunity for the leadership at Orchard Park High School to further strengthen our relationships with local feeder primary schools. “The enthusiasm and engagement of the young people who have worked with us today has been truly phenomenal. “We look forward to welcoming these students to the many events we have planned over the coming weeks and months. “From a personal point of view, I have found going back to my roots as a science teacher has been both exhilarating and exhausting.”
Leaving: Pauline has been at the school since it opened
Retiring Pauline’s school role will be sorely missed ORCHARD Park has said a fond farewell to a dinner lady who had worked at the school for 41 years. After looking after more than 40,000 school children, 81-year-old Pauline Waight hung up her apron in December. Pauline has seen multiple generations of pupils come through the door at the school since it opened its doors in 1977. After more than four decades of loyal service, she now plans to spend her wellearned retirement with her daughter and in the garden. Pauline said: “I will miss the children terribly, they are such great kids at this school. I have always had a very close bond with them. “It has been wonderful spending so many years here, seeing different generations come through the door – sons and daughters, and in some case grandchildren, of those I knew as
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children themselves. Lots of the teachers here now were once pupils and it has been lovely to see them grow into adults.” Pauline said an emotional goodbye to staff at a special ceremony where she was presented with a bouquet of flowers and a gift. Deputy headteacher Mark Ridley, also a former pupil, said Pauline has had a profound impact on the culture of the school. He added: “Since this school opened, Pauline has been the one constant in the lives of many different generations of pupils attending this school, myself included. “Her role at this school reaches far beyond that of dinner lady. “She has been a mentor, a friend and guardian to many, many pupils at this school. “Always kind, gentle and even-handed, Pauline will be sorely missed not just by the students but by the entire school community.”
Fun activities help motivate on workshop YEAR 11 students mixed fun activities and GCSE study at a three-day residential revision workshop in West Sussex. Students were completely immersed and engrossed with their work, resulting in exceptional outcomes being achieved for English Language. Consequently, they were rewarded with activities such as archery, canoeing and climbing. Student Enzo Dias said: “It was really helpful to get targeted support on the English paper in a small group and I feel I know it better now.” Bailey Adams said: “The activities, along with the revision, was a great motivator because it was fun as well as educational.” Toni Dean said: “Because we are in a small group away from the school, there were a lot less distractions so we were able to get a lot of work done.”
Orchard Park High School newsletter n Easter 2019
Welcome to new chair of governors The new chair of governors Charles Greenwood says he is keen to build on recent successes at the school.
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I am delighted and honoured to be elected as the new chair of governors. I have been part of the governing body for more than three years and initially joined in 2016 as a parent governor. However, my role has evolved and developed as I have been the vice chair, in addition to the lead governor for teaching, learning and assessment. I have a son in Year 8 and a daughter who left in 2017 with some excellent GCSE results and should be heading off to university in September. I run my own healthcare consultancy business in the field of optometry and we have established and run a number of community eyecare services, including the Croydon community ophthalmology scheme and similar schemes across the whole of South East London and other areas in England. I taught an undergraduate course in development studies at the Open University for eight years and was previously head of training at the College of Optometrists, so have an ongoing interest in education and development and hope that I can bring this experience into my role. I am very keen to build on the recent successes of the school and I will continue to strive, with my colleagues and the staff, to make sure all our children reach their full potential and feel safe and happy during their time at Orchard Park. Finally, I would welcome any feedback from parents that will help us to do this. I look forward to working with you all.
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Dazzling dancers THE Orchard Park High School Dance Company wowed the audience with their high-energy moves at the Croydon Dance Association Festival. Their captivating dance piece, inspired by the movement of wolves, truly exceeded expectations during the competition held at Trinity School. Students who took part were Grace, Amelia, Diana, Martin, Stephanie, Elena, Alicia, Elise, Keigan, Shalomar, Reah, Jada and Chelsea. Head of Performing Arts Ms Ongley said: “The company showed us just how far they’ve come since forming in October with their spectacular, high-energy performance. Despite being nervous, they showed outstanding teamwork and excellent behaviour throughout.”
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Omari eyes big future at Quins RISING star Omari Smith is taking the rugby world by storm after breaking into the Harlequins youth team. Omari and fellow Year 11 student Harvey Barnes were spotted when a talent scout from the Twickenham club visited the school. Both turned out for the Premiership club’s community outreach team in a victory over Dulwich College in December. Coaches were so impressed with their skills on the field that they were invited to train with the club’s U16 team. Omari said: “This has all gone really quickly. I played for the school and for the county team and outside for a club but this is very much the next stage. “It’s very exciting to be training with the youth team for a top team like Harlequins. I am learning so much in a short space of time.” Omari says the next stage is to try to break into the Quins’ U21 team by the time he’s 18 and has his sights set on winning a place in the first team. He added: “I have to give credit to my old PE teacher at the school. I was playing football and it wasn’t quite working out. “He suggested to try rugby and that’s when decided to give it a go. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be in the position I am now.” Omari added: “For anyone who hasn’t tried rugby I would urge you give it a go. Like me, a lot of young people playing other sports would probably be more suited to rugby. It’s lots of fun.”
Young writers collaborate to get creative in workshop STUDENTS got their creative juices flowing during a writing workshop at the University of Sussex. Pupils were tasked with being “brave, respectful and imaginative” during the sessions held in January. They worked collaboratively on a range of writing tasks, exploring characterisation and using video and film as stimuli to inspire creativity. The work produced won praise from the university lecturers running the course, who described the students’ work as “mature and well-written”. Year 10 student Molly Barton said: “It was really helpful. The exercises gave us a better perspective and methods we could use to write more creatively. “I really feel that my writing, both in terms of technique and the ability to come up with creative stories, has improved.” Year 10 Jemma Clapp said: “It was educational but I had a great time too. It was definitely a worthwhile experience and I had a lot of fun. “It also gave us a really good insight into
what life is like at university, which was a good experience particularly as we have to start thinking about A-Levels soon.” Teacher Ms Cooper said: “The writing produced was highly impressive, with the facilitator commenting on the remarkable level of maturity in the pieces produced by our students. “Every student produced a detailed piece of creative writing, so impressive that many were awarded prizes for their work.”
Orchard Park High School newsletter n Easter 2019
Primary leaders join up for conference LOCAL primary school leaders came together for a conference at Orchard Park High School in February. The event was hosted by the CEO of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, Will Smith. Staff from local primaries, including Orchard Way, Woodside Academy and The Forest Academy, were in attendance at the event. Other speakers included Greenshaw’s School Improvement Lead Josie Mingay and Head of Tweeddale Primary,
Nazi survivor’s Holocaust story is truly inspiring STUDENTS learned about the horrors of Nazi Germany from a Holocaust survivor during a history trip. They heard from Lillian Levy, who was sent to Bergen-Belsen concentration camp along with her family after the Nazis occupied Holland. She told them about the death of her parents, her eventual rescue from the camp and her life coming to terms with the experience afterwards. They also got the opportunity to ask Ms Levy (right) questions about her life in a question-andanswer session. Later they took part in a workshop where they studied evidence from three families sent to the concentration camps. Student Ronnie Fearn said: “It was incredibly inspiring to hear from such a brave woman, who was so open with what had happened to her. “Even though she has been through a really, really terrible experience she still remained very positive and was able to share the experience with students.”
Aleksa Asme added: “We are very lucky in a sense to hear from this person because we will most likely be the last generation who will be able to hear these stories first-hand. “This makes a huge difference because it makes such a bigger impact if you learn it directly from someone rather than in the classroom.” Assistant headteacher Mr Mathys said: “The students asked thought-provoking questions to further their understanding of the Holocaust and their admiration of the victims and the survivors.”
STAFF and students celebrated World Book Day by dressing up as their favourite literary characters. There were lots of fun games and activities throughout the day, inspired by this year’s theme of villains.
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Terrie Jerrom. Topics covered at the conference included leadership, effective use of pupil premium, teaching and learning. Deputy Headteacher of Orchard Way Primary, Sarah Spencer, said: “It was fantastic. “There was so much packed into such a short space of time. “It has really made me think about how we support and manage our staff and how we change that moving forward.”
Students in one of the workshops
Pupils enjoy lessons in stage craft BUDDING thespians learned stage craft at sessions led by tutors from the world-famous BRIT school. Year 7 and 8 students participated in one-hour workshops run across the term as part of the BRIT school’s community outreach project. During the session, students learned about diction, breathing techniques and took part in games and activities. Year 7 Salma Halili said: “The acting games we took part in were really fun and you really felt like you were learning skills to be a professional actor. Year 8 Kemmarley Tracey said: “I had not really thought about being an actor before this workshop but I really enjoyed it. “ Fellow Year 8 Jeremiah Chris added: “Apart from learning acting skills, these sessions were really good at promoting your confidence and helping with talking to people in professional situations.” Brit School tutor Oz Rommele said: “As the session progressed, you could really see the students gain in confidence and become more engaged. “I was extremely impressed at the work they showcased once they had settled into the session.”
Orchard Park High School newsletter n Easter 2019
DRAMA students visited the Piccadilly Theatre to see the Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time.
YEAR 7 students have been learning culinary skills in Food Technology class.
Anthony to join training by Nike Pupils’ insight into building STUDENTS learned about the construction industry and careers in engineering as part of our Raising Aspirations programme. Year 11 pupils learned about the building trade during a visit and talk at the site of the Fairfield Halls development. There was also a workshop led by design and engineering professionals from one of the UK’s top firms, Arcadis UK. They were also treated to a work experience taster day at engineering firm AECOM.
YEAR 13 student Anthony Steer-Neophytou has been given a unique opportunity to break into the fitness industry through a free training camp. Anthony was among just 50 applicants to be accepted on personal trainers’ course run by sports giants Nike. He started the course in February after coming through a rigorous application process last year. The 16-week training camp will help the youngster take his first steps into the world of professional fitness. Croydon-born Olympic boxer Joshua Buatsi will be helping to host and deliver the camp, alongside Nike trainers, coaches and elite athletes at the newly-refurbished Croydon boxing academy. Once he completes the course, Anthony will be among a select group of trainers awarded the Nike’s PT qualification. He said: “This is a dream come true for me because I have wanted to break into the fitness industry since I was in Year 8. “I have to give a lot of credit to Ms Hansford, as she was the person who told me about the course and pushed me to apply. “This is an incredible opportunity for me because having the Nike qualification will give me a huge advantage over other people in the industry. “The people training us on this course are
from the very top of the fitness and sports industry. “Getting the chance to learn from such top people is a huge privilege.” A spokesperson for Nike said: “The programme is part of Nike’s commitment to making Croydon the epicentre of training in London, to inspire young people in the area and create the next generation of passionate London-based trainers and coaches.”
Preparing to speak out STUDENTS have been learning public speaking skills ahead of the borough-wide Jack Petchey ‘Speak Out’ Challenge. Year 10 students Emily, Nathaniel, Aleksa, and Lillie were chosen to represent the school at the competition after excelling in a workshop. They will receive training from professionals at the Jack Petchey Foundation ahead of the competition later this year. Younger year groups also got the chance to learn techniques for public speaking as they prepare for their turn to take part. Teacher Mr Schmauss said: “Well done to all of the students who took part in this competition, and good luck to the Year 10 speakers who will go on to the Regional Final of the ‘Speak Out’ Challenge.”
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Orchard Park High School newsletter n Easter 2019
Geoffrey set for conference trip STUDENT Geoffrey Afonso has been picked to represent the United Kingdom at the Global Young Leaders Conference in South Africa. The 14-day trip will see Geoffrey join youngsters from more than 100 countries to discuss topical issues affecting young people across the world. He will also get the chance to take part in a wide range of programmes and activities which help develop leaderships skills. There will also be the chance to debate politics with students from countries as diverse as the US, Japan, China and India. Geoffrey was picked to attend the prestigious event after displaying leadership qualities within his community. Earlier this year, Geoffrey organised a football match between his local church and another in nearby Bermondsey, raising the money beforehand to buy kit for the match. He said: “It is truly an honour to be picked to represent the UK for this prestigious
conference. It is indeed a once in a lifetime experience. “Having the chance to debate and discuss important topical and political issues with young people from across the world will broaden my horizons and help me prepare for life. “I want to use this experience and take back what I have learnt to try to make a positive impact on my school and local community. “Learning leadership qualities is incredibly important for young people and the activities I will take part in will help me develop those important attributes.” His mum Maria said: “Attending the Global Leaders Conference will enable Geoffrey to gain more skills and benefit him when it comes to preparing for his GCSEs. “The forum is responsible for training, equipping and inspiring youths all around the world to impact their world and proffer lasting solutions to societal problems.”
Girls show sporting prowess
Young wizards YEAR 10 students were rewarded with prizes for their skill and dedication during sessions with coaches from Crystal Palace Football Club.
THE Year 8 girls’ netball team played with passion and commitment in a victory over Coloma School this term.
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THE girls’ rugby team narrowly missed out on victory in the Croydon Schools tournament, coming in second place.
YEAR 8 Students channelled their inner Harry Potter at a Wizarding Multi Subject Taster Day at the University of Sussex. In science, they learned how to conjure spells and make crystals while also having the chance to become film directors and create their own villain for media studies. Trip leader Mr Buckley said: “The students’ behaviour, attitude and willingness to contribute throughout the day was impeccable.”
Year 8 students created some excellent work in their design technology class.
Orchard Park High School newsletter n Easter 2019
Picture gallery
Wow factor: A Bunsen burner captivated young learners during outreach workshops
CHEFS from Future Chef Organisation led workshops with catering students to help them prepare for upcoming practical exams.
Pupils love fun science lessons PRIMARY students took their learning to a new level, thanks to outreach workshops run by the Science Department. Year 5 pupils from across the borough used Bunsen burners and pestles and mortars to discover how to purify salt from sand. They were given access to our outstanding facilities housed in our brand-new science labs across a host of sessions held throughout the term. Year 5 student Luke, from Monks Orchard, said: “I thought it was fascinating how it took so many steps to produce something so simple. “I’ve never used a Bunsen burner before, and I can’t wait until secondary school when I get to do more experiments like this.”
Jasmin, Year 5, said: “My favourite part was seeing Mr Alabi light the Bunsen burner and getting to use them for our lesson. Our science lessons are never usually as much fun as they were today.” Monks Orchard teacher Miss Bernard said: “The children had a fantastic afternoon at Orchard Park. “Seeing the students take part in the lab brought back great memories for me from my time at high school.” Our science teacher Mr Alabi said: “I love running these sessions to showcase our outstanding facilities in the science department, but also to see the happy faces of the students who are getting to take part.”
The school’s Steel Pan group have been rehearsing at break and lunchtimes for upcoming performances.
STUDENTS heard inspirational talks from a host of speakers, including the Duke of Sussex and supermodel Naomi Campbell, with music from Pixie Lott at the WE day event.
STUDENTS from Years 7, 8 and 9 were handed prizes for their outstanding progress by motivational speaker Musharaf Asghar at our awards evening.
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STUDENT Laila played a crucial part in the Crystal Palace schoolgirls team’s victory in the youth cup.
YEAR 8 students taking part in extra revision sessions as part of our Homework Club.
Orchard Park High School newsletter n Easter 2019