Test Valley School Newsletter

July 2013

“Good in all areas”

Year 11 pupils celebrate a “Good” report from Ofsted with Miss Hiscock

Ofsted (May 2013)

Dear Parent Miss L Hiscock Headteacher

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Test Valley School P.T.A

100 Club Winners April

1st Prize — £25 Mrs Diaper 2nd Prize — £10 Mrs Thorpe 3rd Prize — £5 Mrs Nash

May 1st Prize — £25 Mrs Darbyshire 2nd Prize — £10 Mrs Kane-Smith 3rd Prize — £5 Ms Bawden

June 1st Prize — £25 Mrs Baker 2nd Prize — £10 Mrs Selwood 3rd Prize — £5 Mrs Brown

July 1st Prize — £25 Mrs Maguire 2nd Prize — £10 Mrs Brown 3rd Prize — £5 Mrs Henrys

You have to be in it to win it!

If you would like to take part in the PTA 100 Club, ask at reception for an application form. You can buy as many

numbers as you like and each month 3 numbers are drawn. The cost of entry per number is £12.00 for 12 draws

(no matter which month you join us).

The next draw is on 1st August 2013

Winners are notified by post and announced within the

PTA section of the school website

See back page for details of the Fashion Show

and Pampering Evening in October

Miss Townsend and Joey

Environmental Club Photos

Environmental Science Things have been busy in the environmental area. The animals are all happy and healthy, being cared for by Mr Hewson and pupils from years 7, 9 and 10. We have had 7 new arrivals, a variety of chickens that have been incubated and hatched in the science department. The vegetable growing is productive; the hot sunny weather helping although watering and weeding is a challenge! We would like to say a big thank you to Mr McBean who very kindly came in on a couple of his days off from work to do some strimming for us. The nettles were threatening to overtake the area so they have now been dealt with and the area looks much tidier. Thank you also to John Keeley for very kindly building us a new fox-proof chicken run. He has given up his time to work in the heat to provide protection for our chickens over the summer holidays. His time and effort is much appreciated. Finally a goodbye and thank you to Mr Popely from staff and pupils. He has always supported the environmental club and helped to look after the animals. We will all miss him when he moves onto pastures new next year, particularly the goats who will miss their little breakfast treats in the morning!

The science department

Year 9 Teentech Event

On the 18th June a group of

Year 9 TVS pupils travelled to Basingstoke to participate in a unique experience called Teentech. Teentech was a wonderful, interactive day promoting the S.T.E.M Industries (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). It was an informative yet fun experience that inspired many young minds with interesting technology and experiments from splicing strawberry DNA to designing and building a Lego bridge to massive specification, investigating how hearing aids work and discovering new television technology. The day was successful in showing how S.T.E.M is used in most aspects of modern life such as prosthetics, monitoring muscle strength and even in modern day apps. The pupils that participated enjoyed many activities all very interactive, whilst some designed a banknote others were investigating how microchips were made or even making their own app to triumph over others.

By Kieran Hart Year 9

Italy Tour 2013 ‘The best school trip ever!’ ‘The most enjoyable week of my life.’ Just a couple of the comments received from pupils who accompanied us to Italy during Activities Week.

This activities week saw the second trip to Italy which was once again a huge success. Both

pupils and staff had an amazing (but very tiring) week, visiting all the main attractions in Rome

such as the Coliseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, St Peters Basilica, the gardens of the

Villa Borghese, Castle St Angelo, as well as fitting in a half day trip to Villa Adriana at Tivoli and

a 4D cinema experience on the history of Rome. On Wednesday morning we left Rome, and

headed for Mount Vesuvius via the Catacombs of Priscilla. With temperatures topping 43

degrees Celsius, it was a long, slow and very hot climb to reach the summit of Vesuvius but

every member of our group made it to the top. On Thursday morning we allowed pupils their

first lie-in until 7.15am and then headed off for a day of exploring the ancient cities of Pompeii

and Herculaneum followed by an evening of free time in Sorrento. We finished off the week by

taking a ferry to the island of Capri and taking in its breath-taking views before arriving back at

school in the early hours of Saturday morning. All the pupils who attended the trip behaved

outstandingly and we received a number of compliments about their conduct and manners.

Mrs N. Osborne

Art trip day- Wednesday 17th April 2013

On Wednesday the 17

th of April nine pupils took part in an art day in Winchester

where we were given a tour of the newly painted bollards, an insight into life in a restaurant and an art making session in the afternoon. We arrived in Winchester at 9am where we met our guides for the day: artists Rachael and Jenny. Rachael and Jenny had painted 22 bollards in the styles of different artists which were sponsored by local companies. Some of the artists included were David Hockney, Leonardo Da Vinci, Bridget Riley (who is an illusion artist) and Sir Peter Blake, the main inspiration of the day. The tour was brilliant and it shows how much Rachael and Jenny love their art! We then went to Union Jacks Restaurant which was founded by Jamie Oliver and American Chris Bianco. We were met by pizza expert John and restaurant host Tom. They were really knowledgeable, interesting and attentive. We sat down in front of pizza trays where John showed us an excellent pizza demonstration. We then had to make our own, rolling out the dough and then put on our various toppings. While they were cooking Tom gave us some of Union Jacks other pizzas to try including the Margaret - a simple pizza, the Woodman - consisting of lots of mushrooms, the Chilli Freak - which was so hot! Finally, a new pizza, the Banger, which consisted of sausages, mustard and cheese - a new recipe. John then told us about the machine that makes the dough, one of only four dough machines in the UK! We were also told about the golden tap where all of the fresh water came from. We then had our pizzas put in boxes and off we went. It was an incredible one-off opportunity which I really enjoyed as did everyone else! We then went back to Rachael and Jenny’s studio on the outskirts of Winchester; It consisted of four work rooms, a shop, a stunning garden and a secretive outdoor studio where we spent our afternoon. We were told we would make collages for Union Jacks as they would be displayed in Union Jacks as an exhibition on Thursday 7

th May. Rachael and Jenny got

every material or prop imaginable to put on the collages from old scrabble pieces to straws from Union Jacks (It was safe to say Mrs Wingham and Ms King were in their element!) We had a great afternoon glueing and cutting various items to make our collages which where framed and photographed when done. Rachael and Jenny then prepared a quiz about the day, and it was very heated between the teams. Sadly we had to go afterwards but it was a great afternoon. It was a fantastic one-off opportunity that we all truly enjoyed. It was fun and interesting and I would like to say a big thank you to Rachael, Jenny and John and Tom for making the day possible! By Alex Macey 10D

Geography Trip to Lulworth Cove On the 2

nd May, Mrs Wingham led a Geography trip to Lulworth Cove in

Dorset, the pupils in class had been learning about sea defences and coastal management. Due to the collapse of the coastal footpath between Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove pupils were unable to visit Durdle Door, nevertheless pupils learned about the five different types of rock that lay beneath the earth: Portland, Purbeck, Wealden, Greensand and Chalk and how Lulworth attempts to manage tourists sustainably. Pupils were able to see Stairhole, a formation of the land that was eroded and developed by the sea. It was great for the pupils to see up close what they had learned in class and a chance for them to study it in the outside world. The pupils were dispatched for lunch and ice creams and handed a work

booklet to help with class work when they returned to school. The booklet

engaged the pupils with the locals and the formation of the land.

Mrs P. Wingham

Head of Geography

Lulworth Cove Lulworth Cove is the gem of all coves, from when you pass Lulworth Castle and see the beach, to walking down the mini high street. And if you are English you have a sudden urge to shout “THERE’S THE SEA” as it’s a rare opportunity to go as the weather is never right. But stepping out of your car and coming face to face with the sea breeze takes your mind off all of the things you normally worry about. Lulworth is a relaxing haven that people can go to for the day or a long weekend, and enjoy the coast and all the fantastic opportunities that it offers. Where do I start? Well it depends what type of person you are. Are you a walker? Maybe a beach lover, or a unique shopper? Or are you just a person who likes the peace and quiet. If you are, then this is the place for you. Lulworth has different areas to please different people, making it a better place for the whole family. For the shoppers the number of small and unique shops that are a couple of metres away from the beach will draw you in and make you want to buy a ‘memento’ to remember the trip. If you like walking then there are miles of coast and hills to climb, and the satisfaction when reaching the top and looking at the views out to sea is breath taking. Looking out into the large

blue ocean and watching it move up and down slowly in the horizon. If you like boats or fishing then there is lots to do, going out on a boat trip around Lulworth Cove and up to Durdle Door. Or going on the beach or on a boat and waiting for a bite under the hot sun and the cool sea breeze, what could be better? However don’t forget the children. The ice cream is amazing. The range and long lists of flavours is endless. One of the best things about Lulworth Cove is the ice cream, as this is what everyone wants on a hot day. You could have flavours that you have not even heard of, from the basic vanilla to mango or clotted cream and why not have it in a single or double cone or in a pot. But don’t worry if you go in the winter though, the nice hot creamy hot chocolate or a hot drink will warm you up and make you carry on for the rest of the day. Finally, to finish off your fantastic day why not stay at the local hotel and restaurant? Staying overnight and watching the sun go down as you sit on your balcony. Or go down to the beach for a quick look at the sun disappearing into the deep blue sea. Then waking up the next morning with a spring in your step, or woken up by the children at 7 o’clock wanting to go to the beach and doing all the things you didn’t manage to do the day before. When the children are asleep in the car because they are so tired from the day, or you are, and the children are still as hyper as they were five hours ago. You can all settle in the car for the journey home, and make the children happy, or yourselves, by getting a ice cream for the journey back home. and finding you have it all down you after you break suddenly, going round a corner. By Jack Davies 10W

Junior Maths Challenge Success 2013 Pupils at Test Valley School achieved 1 gold, 5 silver and 17 bronze certificates in this year’s UKMT Junior Maths Challenge. Over 240,000 pupils from across the UK sat the Junior Maths Challenge with roughly the top 6% receiving a gold certificate, the next 13% silver and the next 21% bronze. Finn Kane-Smith in Year 8 achieved Best in School with an impressive score of 107. The Junior Maths challenge is run by the UK Mathematics Trust and aimed at those in Years 7 and 8 and is sat in schools. Mrs C. Marsh Maths Teacher

Icknield /Test Valley School

Partnership

Icknield School have continued their regular

Friday visit to Test Valley School this term. The

emphasis has been on ‘communication and

socialisation’ through discussion and games. The

conversational skills learnt have then been

transferred into their curriculum. It has also

been an excuse for our girls to re-visit many

childhood board games they had forgotten about!

As usual I have been extremely impressed by the commitment shown by our

Year 10 girls. They have formed positive relationships with the pupils from

Icknield who have severe learning difficulties. They are always kind, well-

mannered and patient. Icknield really benefit from this interaction and it

has proved a very valuable experience for all involved. For the final session

this year they treated us to a delicious picnic with homemade cakes and

biscuits . We then had a long jump contest in the sun which was great fun!

If you would like to become involved with this activity next

year please see Mrs Gibbs. Icknield volunteers now receive

an enamel badge to wear on their uniform.

Mrs Gibbs SEN Co

Update from the Library It’s been a busy year in the Library with a change of location and Staff. During the year the Library has added many new resources including fiction books, newly released DVDs, magazines and fulfilled many Pupil requests for new books. Congratulations to the following pupils who have read over 100 Library books since the start of this Academic Year: Rachel Butt, 7A Glenn Hamilton-Smith, 10S Rachel and Glenn will both receive a Book voucher. Congratulations also go to the following pupils who have all read over 50 Library books since September: Amber Harvey, 7D Peter Melville, 7G Harry Scobie, 7S Ethan Bullis, 7N Holly Tims, 8N Danielle Short, 8S Daniel Bavister, 9D Kieran Hart, 9G 2 of our Pupil Librarians, Harry Francis and Kieran Hart have been awarded their Pupil Librarian Bronze Awards. Keep up the good work! We will be looking for some new Pupil Librarians to join the team in September. Unfortunately we have a number of very overdue and missing books. Replacing these will cost over £2000. Any books found (no matter how old) can be returned to the blue Returns box, opposite the Library: no fines, no questions asked. Books that are not returned will be invoiced in September. Over the Summer Holidays we are running an “Unusual Place you read” competition. Photo entries are to be submitted by 10th September to be in with a chance of winning a £15 Waterstones voucher. Mrs M. Allderidge Librarian

Year 7s take a journey through local history.

On the 1st May 2013 the Year 7 pupils of Test Valley School went on a trip to

Southampton’s Tudor House and City Walls. They split into groups and were rotating around the available activities. Mrs Marsh and Miss Williams had two groups and they went on a tour around the walls and saw a few historically renovated Tudor buildings. They learnt about the history of the town squares, old markets, portcullis, keyhole gun points, hidden wine chambers, view towers and lots more local history.

Next they went into the house itself and learnt about weaponry like bow and arrows and trebuchets, they also became architects and examined many old artefacts.

Finally they had lunch and took a tour of the house itself which included a guided audio-tour, a show in the banquet hall and a trip to the air raid shelter which was for fun.

After that they took a detour around Southampton to the coach and had a safe journey home.

By Lauren Lister 7D Some quotes: Callum: “I learnt a lot and my favourite part was the air raid shelter” Tara: ”My favourite part was the air raid shelter” Lucy: “ My favourite part was the dining hall because of all the cool projections” Heather: “I was excited about learning about Southampton” Tara: “It was a good and educational day out.”

Year 7 Trip to Southampton Tudor House and Gardens On the 1

st May the whole of Year 7 went to Southampton Tudor House and Gardens. We arrived

at Southampton in the morning and started off with the tour of the house. The banquet hall was very interesting, because they had made the room with sound effects of ghost that in the past had lived there. The ghost told us all about the past of the people who had lived there and what they had done. Then we went out into the gardens which were quite small but very nice with flowery archways and small shaped shrubs. We then explored the kitchens and the cellars where we learnt that it had once been home to a dying cloth company. After the kitchens we went upstairs and looked around the bed chambers and galleries. They also had costumes that we could try on and most of the boys dressed up like girls!! After we had finished the tour we went outside onto the streets to wait for a guide to show us the city walls. On our tour we started by going up to French street which back in the medieval times was where a mixture of French people would live. Then we went down to English Street where “The Duke” pub was and the cloth trading hall. After that we went outside along the castle walls and were told all about the weapons and defensive tactics that they used when under attack. After that we had lunch in the cloth trading hall. After lunch we went inside a room filled with lots of models and costumes. We had to plan our own siege and also learn what the jobs were of some people back in the medieval times. Finally we went into the shop and bought something to remind us of the Tudor House. Then we headed back to the coach after our long day out. By Charlotte Thorpe, Kimberley Hurst and Ruby Cooper from 7G

Bishop Jonathan Visit to Test Valley School

On Monday 29th April Bishop Jonathan visited Test Valley School to talk to Year 11 GCSE RE

pupils and answer some of the questions they had relating to the Christian faith and their GCSE

work. After giving a brief introduction about himself and his role in the Church, the Bishop was

asked some fairly probing questions about his views on war, justice, euthanasia, and interfaith

dialogue. He answered questions openly and pupils were very impressed with his enthusiasm and

with how his faith obviously drove his actions. We would like to thank Bishop Jonathan for finding

time in his very busy diary to come and visit us and we do hope he will be able to come back

again.

TEST VALLEY SCHOOL EQUESTRIAN TEAM

SPRING NEWS 2013

School Team for The Vine Pony Club event at Sparsholt College

(from left to right) Alice Whittick, Anna Pearce, Megan Brown and Olivia Tobutt

The Vine Pony Club show jumping event at Sparsholt College , February 2013 This was a very busy event with over 70 competitors in each class. On a very cold day at the college we fielded four riders for this event and our entries were kindly subsidised by Collinsons who have provided sponsorship for the equestrian team during 2013. Each member rode lovely rounds but unfortunately we were not placed as a team, but did gain lots of ring experience on the day - so well done girls, just a little unlucky on the day and it was very, very cold. Winchester Riding Club Hunter Trial at Dene Farm, May 2013 We fielded a good team of three riders for this event which was run throughout the day at Dene Farm. First to go was Olivia Tobutt and Lennox who started well with the first class and completed the course in a good time with only a couple of sticky moments at the more technical fences. Unfortunately in Class 2 poor Olivia and Lennox parted company which meant they had to retire from the course, luckily both were uninjured and Olivia stayed on to support the rest of her school team.

Next to ride was Alice Whittick and Mr McGinty, they managed a very lovely clear round without penalties, but during the timed section (which was a bogey time so you had to get as close to the time for placings) they were 16 seconds too fast. So sadly if this section had been a timed section they would have come home with a rosette! Finally to ride for the Test Valley Equestrian team was Anna Pearce and Rocky, it was a difficult and technical course that required really gutsy riding from Anna and Rocky and despite getting a fair way around the course they were technically eliminated at the water, but they carried on to complete the course anyway… so well done all of you! We are looking to compete in more hunter trials towards the end of the summer and some of the team riders have expressed an interest in some dressage competitions too… so we will keep you posted! Anyone interested in joining the equestrian team or want to know more about it please contact me via email I would love to hear from you. Sonya Whittick (Team Organiser) Email: sonyaje@hotmail.com

Alice Whittick riding Mac and Anna Pearce riding Rocky just out of the start box!

Flower Festival at St Peter’s Church Stockbridge

Test Valley School’s contribution by Julie Harwood and Jackie Diaper

Since September twenty five pupils from Year 10 have been operating a business called “A-star” through the Young Enterprise scheme. On Wednesday 15th May a group of five from the team represented the school and business at the area finals held by Young Enterprise at Oasis Academy, Mayfield. The team comprised of Michael Brown, Managing Director, Jack Davies, Marketing, Lucy Scullard, Company Secretary, Jack Furby, IT, and Dom Raymond, team member and Director. The evening started with a trade fair style showcase showing off their products and telling their story. This allowed judges to come around and ask questions of each of the five companies represented at the event out of the thirteen schools in the area which took part in the project. The second half of the evening consisted of a presentation in front of the judges, invited guests and pupils participating from the other schools.

A-star came away with three awards for the best business plan, best company report and the overall winners. They will now go on to the County finals taking place on Wednesday 22nd May. The company would like to thank Mrs Marsh, their link teacher, and their business adviser Russ Bunnage for accompanying them on the evening, advising them and giving up their time throughout the year.

Lucy Scullard 10D

StockFest Rocks Friday 3

rd May saw Test

Valley School celebrate its fifth open air music festival, StockFest. It still amazes me how wonderful it really is to see hundreds of school pupils, parents, teachers and ex-pupils come together to celebrate our pupils’ musical talents. The warm and sunny evening saw pupils from Year 8 through to Year 11, bands, duets and solo artists alike come together, supported by the school’s PTA BBQ team and Year 7 and 8 charity stalls to create a thoroughly enjoyable event. This was a great opportunity for young heroes of the band culture within the school to really enjoy showing off their talent and produce some wonderful memories. With only a little support and guidance, pupils who took part were able to exercise a high level of independence and maturity. In particular a group of nine pupils from Year 10 and 11 headed by Max Clark, (who also compered the show) and Jamie Brooker who organised and promoted the whole event. A truly fantastic opportunity for them all, and one which they should be congratulated for pulling off so well. We are, of course, extremely fortunate to have the on-going support of Ian McDonald who

supplies and runs the professional sound system supported by Steve Haines. Trevor Johnson never fails to do a stunning job of ensuring the marquees are erected perfectly to cap off this event.

The PTA did a fantastic job of running the BBQ meticulously coordinated by Denise Wareham and the LSA department’s “bake off” ensured there were many delicious cakes for all to enjoy. Little do many realize that the show just would not be able to run without the huge support from so many of the school’s staff. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all so much. Mr S Langdown Year 11 Co-ordinator

Pictured: Top Left—Samuel Alibocus (L), Tom Bolam (R)

Bottom Left– Adam Lockington (L), Eben Taylor (R), Cameron Holland (on bass behind) Above – Louise Fisher (L), Scarlett Cooke (middle), Mr Langdown (R)

“CHASING THE DARK” BY SAM HEPBURN

Children’s novelist, Sam Hepburn, visited Test Valley School on Monday 10th June to present her most recent novel, “Chasing the Dark”- an enthralling mystery story involving an orphaned boy, spies, illegal refugees and stolen jewels to Year 7 pupils. The talk consisted of an engaging insight into Sam’s inspiration for the storyline and how she writes so realistically as a teenager, which created a great deal of fascination in her audience. Following the presentation, our Year 7 pupils were able to ask detailed and searching questions about her experiences as an author before she signed copies of her novel.

We would like to thank P&G Wells Bookshop, Winchester once again

for their support and look forward to other authors visiting Test Valley

School.

Mrs L. Berry

Memorial Service at Winchester Cathedral Sam Lloyd took part in the thanksgiving service for Rear Admiral Sir Morgan-Giles on June 24th as a member of the Sea Cadets. The cathedral was packed and it was a great honour

to be asked to take part.

Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio tour On Saturday 11

th May 50 excited muggles enjoyed a great day out at the Warner

Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour in Leavesden.

When we got to Harry Potter we did the register to check we had everybody. Then we split up into groups of 2 or 3. Harry Potter Studios was good. I liked it because it was fun to stamp the passport. There was so much to see that I took lots of photos and one video. I found out stuff that I didn’t know about Harry Potter. My favourite facts were that the walls in the Ministry of Magic were made of wood painted to look like tiles. I also found out they had two knight buses, one of them did not move but the other one had an engine in it. I got a photo of me standing on the purple knight bus! At lunch time after I ate my food I went on the great bridge, on the knight bus and sat on Hagrid’s motorbike. It was interesting because I saw a lot of cool things such as Dobby. I think the best part of the trip was the gift shop at the end of it, but the gift shop was very expensive to buy from! By Alex Mundy 9G Harry Potter was the most extraordinary trip of my life. If I had the choice to go again I would because I enjoyed the whole experience. We went on a coach and it took us 1 hour and 30 mins to get there. When we got there we saw that it had pictures of different action scenes on the wall of the building. When we got to the great hall I was energised and ready to see it. I would have loved to have sat eating in there although I couldn’t because they may need to use it again for another movie. We also saw how they made people fly and how they made the castle. The only bad thing is that the shop is very expensive so we had to take a lot of money. The best thing to buy was a wand and a scarf of the dorm that you like; for example Gryffindor, hufflepuff… By James Hawkeswood 9D Come and see the rest of the memorabilia on the noticeboard in the ROSLA Block!

Test Valley School Duke of Edinburgh’s Award goes

from strength to strength.

Interest in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Test Valley School has grown even more this year and we had ten teams successfully take part in the assessed expeditions from Year 10.

As a member of a D of E expedition team, you would be expected to take part in a 12k day walk to test your stamina and judge what distance the team would need for their assessed expedition. An orienteering day is organised so that your team competes against others with a range of DofE related tasks to achieve at each base. Points are awarded for how well your team achieves each task and the winning team is calculated from the results of all bases. Your team will take part in an expedition portfolio day. This is an opportunity to design and plan routes and organise all aspects of your expedition including who will carry which parts of expedition equipment and the food you will cook and eat during the expedition.

Your team will take part in a full practice expedition which will run similarly to your assessment but in a different part of the New Forest. This is a two day hike of between 12k and 16k camping overnight and cooking your own meals. A few weeks later your team will participate in their assessed expedition. Apart from the route being in a different part of the forest and therefore a different campsite, an independent assessor will meet you at different times and assess your skills including navigating, cooking and camping.

Mr Langdown

(D of E Coordintaor)

Textiles Club makes Riding Hat Covers for Charity Pupils at Test Valley School in Stockbridge have been making riding hat covers as part of their involvement in The Textiles Club that runs after school for 1 hour every week. The pupils aged between 11 and 14 years have designed the pattern, the decorations and made the hats over a number of weeks. The hats were presented to The Pembroke Centre, Riding School for the Disabled, in Wilton.

The pupils representing Test Valley were able to meet staff, watch the children participating in

their riding lessons and hand over the hat covers, which were an instant success. Staff said that

the hat covers would be helpful with children of all ages, encouraging them to wear their

protective riding helmets and for team games.

Shacana Goudry, Laura Hesp, Isobelle Mountain, Eloise Langdown, Robyn McPhee, Emily Fitzpatrick, Ellis Andrews

and Alice Jenkins

Presentation of the hat covers at the Pembroke Centre

Success for Young Writers

Congratulations again for pupils who have had their work published by the prestigious Young Writers Society. Pupils used their imaginations to produce poems based on the theme of Winter Wonders. Young Writers was established in 1991 to nurture creativity in children and young adults and Test Valley pupils have enjoyed seeing their work published professionally. Only a select few are chosen to be printed in their poetry collections so it has been a real honour for Test Valley pupils to achieve such success. A copy of the work entitled ‘Icy Delights’ can be enjoyed in the school library.

It is fantastic to promote literacy and creativity in the school and pupils are thrilled to see their work in print.

Pictured are: Year 8 pupils Emily Fitzpatrick, Isabelle Mountain, Kiera Jones and Callum Macbean (Year 7) with Miss Bushell.

Ski Trip 2013 I was overjoyed at the offer of being asked to go on the ski trip for the second year running. The ski trip experience for most of the pupils started at the dry ski slope in Southampton learning the basic skills that they would need on the slopes in Austria. When we arrived in Austria on the Saturday the snow was non-existent but luckily overnight we had heavy snow fall ready for our first day of skiing. Taking mostly beginners on this

trip I was impressed at the level and ability of skiing and how quickly the pupils progressed during the week with their instructors. The advanced group had the opportunity to ski at a another resort which had various ski runs for different abilities. The pupils coped very well with the conditions all week, on a few days we had heavy mist making skiing incredibly difficult but all managed to persevere with this. The week’s evening activities involved a games night, quiz night, bowling, an end of week presentation and a disco. The pupils that we took on this trip were an absolute delight to spend time with and the school received praise for not only the behaviour of the pupils but the eagerness and enthusiasm they put into their lessons. Overall, a big thank you to all the teachers for making the trip a success and to Mr Carter for the organisation he put into the trip. Miss King The Ski Trip with Test Valley school was a great trip and a brilliant experience. I enjoyed my time on the trip, especially in my group with Tony the skiing instructor, he was a inspirational man. I’ve improved my skiing skills from a beginner level to a confident skier going onto red slopes. In the evening there were various things to do to chill out (table tennis) and one night we even went bowling. The place we stayed at was nice and we had plenty to do. Overall it was a fantastic trip and if given the opportunity I would definitely go again. Thank you to all the teachers for giving up their time and making it an enjoyable trip, a lot of great memories. Tom Farwell

Points mean prizes

During the spring term Year 11 were encouraged to attend as many revision classes as possible. To support this they were offered achievement points for each class they attended with a promise that those who attained the desired amount would be able to take part in a school trip to Thorpe Park.

On Wednesday 26th June 44 pupils from Year 11 spent their day having the time of their lives on as many rides as they could cope. The weather was lovely and it was great to see Year 11s again having completed their examinations and left school.

I am sure spending time with their friends having such a wonderful experience together will create long lasting happy memories. Hopefully attending so many revision workshops will have made a big difference to their GCSE results also. Mr Langdown

A Dream Come True

Test Valley School Prom 2013

Could it really be that all those months of planning, consultation and hard work to achieve a glorious vision could actually turn out to be everything you had hoped for? Back in September a small group of pupils from Year 11gathered together to research and propose a range of options to the year group for their prom. The choice, Horsebridge Station, an old disused railway station, quietly tucked away between King’s Somborne and Houghton, left the team with a very big challenge to pursue. Unlike most venues where, at that point, the job would be virtually done, this is where the hard work started for them. Having to constantly liaise with the vendor, source caterers, photography, disco, drinks, glasses, staffing to run the bar etc., not to mention sort out their own personal challenges regarding transport and dress, is above the normal challenges.

Andrew Stark and Lauren Pearce The venue was a truly beautiful setting, enhanced by the weather and the prom itself turned out to be a delightful grandiose event which will be long lasting for so many. I was particularly taken back by the large number of parents and siblings who came along to enjoy watching everyone arrive. Pupils arrived individually, in pairs and small groups, not just in a range of different cars from the very old to the very new, but, as you may expect, in keeping with a rural school, a range of tractors and horses were

on the transportation menu. Most unexpected and unusual this year, was a homemade cardboard limousine which a large group of pupils managed to walk up the driveway to the venue.

Zac McClelland, Josh Strom, Will Osmond

and Scarlet Cook

Sam Alibocus, Emily Trench, Anna Crossland and

Alice Williams Planning this event will no doubt have given the organising team a great deal of valuable experience to their future benefit and they should be very proud of their achievements. Mr Langdown Head of Year 11

French

Experience

2013

Onion sellers Oliver Foord, Mitchell Macey and artist Peter Melville

Jack Soper—winner of the fancy dress competition

Ferny Crofts During activities week, we had the privilege to visit Ferny Crofts in the New Forest where participated in various activities such as high ropes, climbing, orienteering, team building and rock climbing. Also, we were lucky enough to visit an owl and otter sanctuary where we had a tour with helpful guides that taught us many facts about each animal. We had a lot of free time where we could play volleyball, rounders or just walk around in the woods. Our first activity was raft building. The teams were boys against girls and the aim was to build a raft which was sturdy and strong enough to hold our entire team. We had six logs, four barrels and a box of rope to make our raft stay afloat. Once the raft was built we had to put it to the test by lowering it onto the lake and race against the boys. The following task was for each person on the raft to swap places, which was very challenging as only one person could move at a time. After a few tasks, we had fallen in and were covered in muddy water. It was really funny. After we had a shower it was on to the next activity.

Next, was high ropes; we all had one go then Mr Dyke timed us all the next time to see who was the fastest. I really enjoyed this as it was such a thrill to be so high! It was formed of three levels; the first one was a log facing 45° to the ground with blue rope wrapped all the way up and around the log for grip on your feet. The next level was a thin wire with 7 small, blue ropes hanging at the top so you could hold on. It was very difficult to keep balanced, as the only thing around to keep you upright were the ropes which weren’t very sturdy. After climbing up the staples to the last level, all you had to do was walk along the thick log into the middle and you had finished the course. The last level, even though it sounds austere, was quite scary, as you were so high up and there was nothing to grab; the only thing you had to keep you balanced was your feet and the harness you were attached to for safety precautions. It was such a thrilling memory and personally was my favourite activity.

The next day we were out on a trip to a beautiful beach where we visited an

ancient castle which was full of wonderful history starting from 1960’s all the

way up to modern times. After a quick boat ride, we headed back into the

coach and set off to the otter and owl sanctuary. We were split into our groups;

blue and red to have a guided tour around the sanctuary. There was an array

of animals, that have either lived here for the entire time, animals that have

been shipped over or animals that became extinct in England. It was very

exciting, full with facts from field mice, to bison buffalos. Our tour guide was

very helpful telling us the history about each animal and their backgrounds.

After the trip out, we were back to a day of activities, starting off with a creative activity. We had a choice of either building a den which could protect you or make a piece of art. The only rules were you could only use the resources which were in the woods and that you could not use anything that was still alive and attached to the trees. Our group decided to build a den. It was really fun but quite hard to find enough wood logs to build a sturdy frame. I really enjoyed building it and making sure it could stand up and it was stable. Other people who chose the creative activities made some really unique designs such as flower head bands made just from using nature they found; they looked amazing and each group’s final outcome was different. After building our dens it was straight to climbing. Once we had all of our gear set up and our harnesses and helmets on, we started off climbing the first wall. It wasn’t too hard as it was the easiest one. After each person had gone up, we moved onto a harder wall. This wall had fewer things to hold onto and it curved around at the top. We each got a chance to climb the wall and bee lay for another team member. I was quite nervous about bee laying more than climbing because I knew if I didn’t pull the rope tight enough, they wouldn’t be safe but I did keep it tight enough and the entire group worked really well as a team, helping each other out when they were on the wall, giving them directions and telling them where they could put their hands and feet. After climbing up the walls we went onto shooting. I really enjoyed it, even though I was terrible at shooting. We were told how to load it, aim and reload, and the safety precautions, then we all got a turn to shoot at the targets. After a few shots each, the instructor changed the targets, making it even harder to shoot. I missed most of them but it was a great experience.

After shooting we had a barbeque, with the teachers and their families. The food was great and everyone had a great night. It was a brilliant day to finish on, after playing volley ball with some of the instructors from Ferny Crofts.

The last day was mostly packing and cleaning, making sure it was left in the same condition as when we arrived. Overall, I absolutely loved the trip and enjoyed every second I was there. Everyone got along and after getting our rewards we headed home, all of us tired with great memories.

Abbie Luxton 9A

Pillowcase Dresses for Gambia During activities week the Textiles group made fourteen pillowcase dresses, some of which were tie dyed as part of the activities. All of the dresses had a patch pocket, designed and attached by the students. The dresses were modelled in a catwalk show, watched by parents and pupils and then presented to the Winchester Soroptimists www.sigbi.org The dresses will be sent to the Gambia, where some girls cannot access education without school uniform. I would like to thank Test Valley staff who donated pillowcases and request more pillowcases for a similar project that I am carrying out with Girlguiding UK. Mrs C. Hudson

Water and Land Activity

Activities Week Fishing The activities week course fishing at Broadlands were kept very busy in the hot weather this year. In excess of eight hundred fish of ten varieties were caught and released during the five days.

Although most of the pupils had fished before a few were complete novices but by the end of the course they were completely independent, casting, tying on and landing fish unaided. More expert anglers had a demonstration of float fishing for Carp. The heaviest fish was landed by Katie Weeks at 10lb 2 oz Most Improved Angler - Brandon Lewis Mike Harvey Trophy – Tom Sheaf Last Cast Champion for most fish caught – Dean Hanham Weeks Family award for quality of performance – Harry Samways Mervyn Billows award for greatest variety of fish caught - William Samways Andy Harvey award for Determination - Draven Jewell

Mr Holmes

Activities Week in School

Sam Paddock

Oliver Jeanes, Charlie Capper and Tim Day from Snowstorm Media

The Young Leaders, this summer, helped to run the following events for the local Primary schools, with close competitions and results from all the schools taking part.

RESULTS 1

st Wallop 152.50points

2nd

Wherwell 135.85 3

rd Lockerley 135.15

4th Broughton 135.05

5th King’s Somborne 132.7

6th Stockbridge 131.8

7th West Tytherley 116.95

Lockerley = WINNERS 244 points West Tytherley 2

nd 241

Stockbridge 3rd

225 Broughton A 4

th 221

King’s Somborne 4th 221

Broughton B 6th 180

Fitness session for

Primary school

The Year 10 Sports Leaders group organised, as part of their course, a circuit training session for Wherwell Primary school. The Years 5 and 6 pupils worked hard at the session and listened to the instruction from the leaders.

The primary pupils were shown how to do specific exercises and encouraged to do their best by the Sports Leaders. Throughout the

session the primary school pupils were trying to increase their heart rates and the Sports Leaders were able to describe the benefits of exercise to their young audience.

The Wherwell Primary School pupils enjoyed the variation in the circuit session. This included exercises to improve general fitness as well as specific exercises to develop their basketball and general ball handling skills.

All the pupils agreed that after the 2 fitness sessions in one day they would sleep really well that night!

Joe & Sam give words of encouragement.

Young

Leaders lead

the Way

Seventeen Young Leaders helped to organised and run the Key Stage 1 Movement Festival

for five of our local catchment schools. The Personal Best Education coaching company, led by

Josh Smith, organised a movement festival for seventy Key Stage 1 pupils and with the help of

the Test Valley Young Leaders were able to keep the primary school pupils occupied for two

hours with a variety of activity including:

New Age Kurling

& Trampolining

Pupils were prepared for the session with a fun warm-up which the Young Leaders became fully involved in and made sure the primary pupils knew what to do. The Young Leaders worked hard to encourage high levels of performance from all the Key Stage 1 pupils.

Young Leaders celebrate the event

with a cheer!

‘Strictly Dancing at Test Valley School’ Test Valley School hosted BALLROOM DANCING

for local primary schools of Lockerley,Broughton,West

Tytherley, Stockbridge, King’s Somborne, Wallop &

Wherwell were invited to attend the festival over 3 days.

Sports Leaders, all pupils at Test Valley School, started

planning this event in November 2012 with Mrs Smith the

School Sports Co-ordinator.Mrs Smith stated that :

“It has been great to focus on a different dance theme this year as we have

had so much development based around the Olympics 2012 .We wanted to

provide a new dance opportunity for 2013”

Gremlin Dance Company taught ballroom dancing routines

during the morning session, which focussed on partner work.

The professional dancers introduced 2/3 different dance

styles that offered the pupils opportunities to experience less

mainstream forms of dance. The routines included the Waltz,

Salsa & Charleston. The primary schools performed their own

school dance show cases in the afternoon.

The event’s sponsors were invited as

VIP guests to present Gold & Silver

medals to all the primary school pupils. Without these key

sponsors this event could not take place. The Key

sponsors were Hildon Natural Mineral Water, represented

by Debbie Jones the Environmental Manager and

Simplyhealth represented by Debbie Clarke the Community

Fund Co-ordinator.

Other VIP guests who visited included the

Test Valley Mayor, Councillor Mrs

Whiteley and the Deputy Town Mayor of

Romsey,Councillor Mr Hurst.

‘Medal presentation by the Mayor

of Test Valley’

Debbie Clarke from Simplyhealth in

Andover stated:

“This is the first time we have sponsored this rural Community Dance

Project and it was lovely to be invited. It was fantastic to see the

children working well learning 3 dance styles and bringing them together to

form one dance routine. The Young and Sports Leaders were super hosts

and very involved throughout the day. Their effort and hard work certainly

paid off, resulting in an enjoyable day for all.”

Teaching staff from the local primary schools enjoyed the varied dance

routines and were keen to see how the pupils would cope with some of the

challenging moves and routines.

Mary Collins a teacher from Wherwell Primary School stated that :

“We all had a really great time and l can't believe just how much the

children learnt in such a short time. Your fantastic team of Sports

Leaders made us all feel very welcome and helped the children to be

confident performers. A big thank you

to the main sponsors Hildon Natural

Mineral Water and Simplyhealth who

support such a great event and enable

it to happen”

All the pupils did really well working

hard and focusing on their dance

performance.

The judges were impressed!

Test Valley School - National School Sports Week

Test Valley School had a full week of activities on during the recent National School Sports Week which ran from 24

th until

28th June.

On the Monday the school had a portable climbing wall and it was estimated that over the course of the day over 175 pupils from Test Valley and Stockbridge Primary School ascended it, learning valuable skills such as team work, communication and developing their personal confidence.

During the week pupils were given the opportunity to experience

and take part in a variety of events each lunch time which

included the climbing wall, tennis, rounders and water polo/

swimming.

To end the week the school was visited by past pupil Hannah Hicks who, since leaving in 2007, has gone on to represent England at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, win a team silver at the Commonwealth Championships this year and reach number 3 in the current English women’s rankings in table tennis. During her visit pupils from the school got the opportunity to watch her play before receiving coaching from her and a lucky few got to play with Hannah. During the lunch break the school surprised Hannah by getting

her to unveil a plaque dedicating Test Valley’s two new outdoor

tables to her success. She then played some pupils on her tables.

Hannah Hicks with Miss Hiscock (Headteacher) and Mr Dyke (her

former table tennis coach at school) at the opening of the new

outdoor table tennis tables and the unveiling of her plaque of

celebration.