KGS May Newsletter 2016

1KGS Newsletter May 2016

staff and with the students in the School Forum. They are superb role models and ambassadors, and I know that they will be able to rely on each other to manage their various duties and responsibilities.

MAY 2016 www.kgs.org.uk

NEWSLETTER

Attaining, adopting and wearing the mantle of leadership, in the right manner, can be quite different things and it is with this in mind that I congratulate and thank our new School Captain, Oliver Cole, and Vice Captains, Ellie de Heer and Joe Hilty. I know that they will make excellent student

SCHOOL CAPTAINS 2016/17As we thank outgoing School Captains Holly Munro, Will Burden and Steph Semple, we introduce our newly-appointed School Captains

AS DRAMA page 7 GB SELECTION page 15

The powerful 'After Mrs Rochester' is brought to life by our A level students

Zoe Clark has been selected to join the GB U18 kayak squad

continued on page 3

leaders of the School and that the last few days may well have proved to be a whirlwind of celebration and organisation as they quickly got to grips with the enormity of their task.

I was proud to witness the manner in which they addressed their first meetings with senior

JOE, OLIVER AND ELLIE ANNOUNCED AS SCHOOL CAPTAINS

2 May 2016 KGS Newsletter

Welcome

WELCOME

OUR UPPER SIXTH LEAVERSA REVIEW OF THE JUNIOR PLAY WILL FEATURE IN NEXT MONTH'S NEWSLETTER


Comment

continued from front pageThey have attained the mantle, clearly adopted it with relish and vigour, and over the course of the next year they will have to wear it with an equal measure of pride and humility.

They will also be able to rely on their friends, many of whom were also potential candidates for the top student roles at KGS. I am delighted to say that I am also very proud of these students in the way that they have handled the disappointment of not being selected. They have demonstrated all of the resilience and willingness to learn from any setback that we have come to expect from the very best KGS student.

All of the students who take on the responsibility of representing the School in a variety of forms, ranging from Prefectship and Ambassadors to tour guides, athletes and performers, do so with an understanding that the reputation of our School is in their hands and, that for a moment of time, they are the sole voice and persona of the School whilst performing, guiding, speaking and assisting. We couldnt be in safer hands, entrusting that which is so hard to gain and so very easy to lose.

The First and Second Year students involved in the Junior Play Alices Adventures in Wonderland have certainly enhanced their own reputation and experience, demonstrating a stage presence and confidence that belies their years. I know that everyone who has enjoyed the performance has been bowled over by the set, costumes, make-up and direction - but especially by the performances. Seeing so many parents, staff, governors and friends enjoy this wonderful production has been a fitting and enjoyable end to this half term.

In recent days it has also been my especial privilege to congratulate the coaches and performers in our cricket teams for the wonderful and successful strides they are taking towards making cricket the third

performance sport at KGS alongside rowing and hockey. With a clean sweep of victories against Latymer Upper School last weekend including 122 not out for Ronan Harvey-Kelly for the 1st XI and the first 5-wicket haul of the season for Fred Mills of the U12A team, they look set to have a great summer. This was added to in being able to take 35 of our youngest female cricketers to see their role model, Fifth Year Eva Gray, play for Surrey ladies v Middlesex.

Eva, despite an injury that wouldnt allow her to bowl, fielded and batted well in an evening game that was slotted in-between her Geography and Physics GCSE exams!

Another group of athletes who are squeezing in their performances between exams, or vice versa, are our rowers, many of whom are representing the School at this

weekend's National Schools Regatta at Eton Dorney. Good luck to them all and our continued good wishes to all of our students taking GCSE and A level exams. We know that they will all continue to be successful and wear the mantle of being a Kingstonian with pride.

Stephen LehecHead Master

Follow Mr Lehec on Twitter @KGSHEADMASTER

"Seeing so many parents, staff, governors and friends enjoy

this wonderful production has

been a fitting and enjoyable end to

this half term"

A REVIEW OF THE JUNIOR PLAY WILL FEATURE IN NEXT MONTH'S NEWSLETTER


school life

Activities included a house set where we learned about healthy eating, fire emergencies and cyberbullying, a street set in which a video explained numerous dangers such as knife crime, drugs and alcohol, a room in which a video explained how to stay safe on public transport, and a stunning video on the environment. What we learned that day has really helped to enrich our PSHE lessons. Thank you to all the teachers who came along as well as the staff at the centre. Freddie Pflanz, 1LSK

LEARNING LIFE SKILLSOn Wednesday 11th May, the First Years headed out to the Sutton Life Centre where they were taught about life skills as part of the PSHE curriculum

Three Faiths Forum

The Three Faiths Forum introduced themselves by getting us to understand what a safe environment can feel like and how they believe all cultures should live in harmony by breaking down stereotypes. We all stood in a circle and someone told us something that was true to them to see if it was true to other people, to recognize how similar we really are, whether the similarity was speaking two languages,

BRONZE-LEVEL BOOKWORMSHuge congratulations to high achievers Toby Jones (1LMJ), Matthew Harley (1LMJ), Lucas Richford (1ROP) and Sebastian Rugina (1LMJ), the first students this year to complete the fiendish Bronze level of the KGS A* Reading Mission by reading six classic novels of their choice including Oliver Twist, White Fang and the Inimitable Jeeves. They will be presented with a certificate and prize in assembly after the exams. Not content to stop there, Toby Jones and Matthew Harley have also completed the Silver level, reading

and commenting on five poems by a poet of their choice. Their mission continues with Shakespeare sonnets and a play-text. Many First Year students have started the mission having completed the Shooting Star Reading Challenge lets hope more finish the Bronze level by the end of term. Any student who wishes to tackle the A* Reading Mission should speak to me to find out how to get started or what to try next if short on reading inspiration.

Mrs H Cleaves


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SCOOT ON OVER!The Design and Technology Department invite students, staff and parents to scoot over to the Finlay Gallery to view the wide range of projects completed by this years GCSE and A level students. The gallery is used to permanently display students work and showcases their creative talents. They have worked incredibly hard to finish coursework projects to an extremely high standard of quality, functionality and finish.

The Head Master has given his full support and even suggested the possibility of a new KGS sustainable transport policy by testing the Off-Road Electric Scooter as designed and made by Aaron Farr U6PAH. We wish all students success with their GCSE and A level results and hope that first choice university places are secured by all Upper Sixth students. Fifteen of this years U6th cohort have chosen to study either Engineering or Design at university, a testament to the popularity of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects at Kingston Grammar School. The Department is delighted that such high numbers of students are continuing with this tradition.

The Finlay Gallery is always open and welcomes new visitors. Parents are invited during parents evenings and social events such as the Upper Sixth Graduation.

Mr D Farr

"What we learned that

day has really helped to

enrich our PSHE lessons"

being a Christian or even liking pickles.

Following that, we heard stories from three different speakers. One woman, Joy, told us about her life with a Catholic mother and a Jewish father and her experiences of people judging others on the basis of their religion.

Another woman told us about how she thought she didnt fit in at church but, after going through a divorce, finding religious friends and attending university, she finally settled on being a Quaker where she realised she belonged. Finally, Patrick talked about how linking with his history back in Ireland had enabled him to learn more about his personal history.

Overall, it was really interesting to learn about different religions and hear peoples stories.

Isabel Morton, 1LSK


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MASTERCLASSESOver three Saturday mornings in April and May, nearly 200 children from local primary schools enjoyed a series of masterclasses presented by various members of staff.On offer were masterclasses in CAD, Cartography, Exploring the Ancient World, Forensic Science, Fun with Clay, Have Your Say, History Mystery, Lights Camera Action!, Playing With Your Brain, Shipwrecked, Squeeze Words Hard, Tell Me A Story, Technical Wizardry, Wonderful World of Maths and World Languages.

In Forensic Science participants learned techniques such as splatter-pattern and finger-printing analysis, ballistics and chromatography as they tried to work out who killed the three pigs, starting on the first day by extracting living evidence (maggots) from the remains!

In other sessions the children were soon planning, designing and then making useful and decorative items they could take home with them such as nature-inspired pots out of clay or bookmarks and key fobs using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. Other pupils wrote poetry or expressive literature, or even learned to use the technology available to us in our Performing Arts Centre. Some made a start on learning about classical languages and culture and others discussed the moral dilemma of being shipwrecked - in order to survive, they had to discuss which items on the lifeboats were more valuable than others (for example, food, shelter, the Mona Lisa), and therefore what to abandon. Whilst this class had numerous fascinating discussions about values and moral dilemmas, another delved deep into a mystery from history...

This year's masterclasses were hugely successful and lots of fun, and we look forward to holding more again next year.

Mrs N Man

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

I have now been volunteering at Bedelsford School for about half the academic year. I have really enjoyed it and have learnt a lot from the experience. Bedelsford is a school which educates pupils from the ages of 2 to 19 who have a wide range of physical disabilities, including profound and multiple learning difficulties and complex health needs. It has been a humbling experience to be able to go in and see the amazing work that is done and it has been a privilege to help out with different children in class.

Megan Nicholls, L6DEF

MUSIC NEWSJuliet Gray (1LSK) has been awarded a place in the Young National Schools Symphony Orchestra for this year on flute. She will attend a weeks residential course at Malvern College in July playing a selection of English repertoire pieces.

Edward Jones (3VMW) achieved a Distinction in his Trinity Guildhall Grade 2 Drum exam in addition to his Grade 2 Jazz Piano taken last term.

Mrs T Watkins


school life

'AFTER MRS ROCHESTER'On Friday 13th May the Lower Sixth A level students completed their AS practical examination. The first section was a closed performance of chosen monologues and design concepts. Following this, the group performed an edited version of Polly Teales 'After Mrs Rochester', which explored the life of author Jean Rhys, and her obsession with the novel 'Jane Eyre'. The production concept encompassed two key themes from the text: the influences on her life, and the link between Jean Rhys and the character of Bertha from Jane Eyre. Set within Jeans locked room, the performance aimed to show Jeans feelings of isolation and insignificance within the setting of a dream-like world where her memories mixed with her present self. The edited text followed the key influences in Jeans/Ellas life (with Ella being Jeans younger self), her controlling mother, the gent who first made Ella realise that her beauty was an asset, Lancelot who took advantage of her

youth and naivety, and Ford, who tried to love her. Throughout this, Bertha was always present and shared Jeans/Ellas feeling of being out of place. Bertha was wild and passionate, everything that was forcefully repressed within Jean. The actors involved were Olivia Arnold, Jamie Bisping, Maddie Kelly, Charlotte Le Feuvre, Lili Macleary and Finn Stammers, and all presented outstanding control, emotional maturity and flair in the roles they had studied and brought to life.

Students were also being assessed as designers and their concepts aimed to respond to the production concept described above. The lighting and sound (designed by Megan Nicholls and Joe Underwood respectively) brought alive each memory and feeling, guiding the audience to understand how time was being played with. The claustrophobic set (designed by Alice Metcalf) became the playground for Jeans memories and the safe space that allowed her to hide

within her writing. The three designers created a quite stunning design concept that demonstrated their technical capability and artistic flair, whilst bringing alive the themes of the play.

The Drama Department were hugely impressed with the students dedication to attaining the highest standards. We congratulate them for a job well done, and look forward to the results in August.

Miss S Boulton


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Fourth Year sailors had their skills well and truly tested earlier this term on a two-day visit to Chichester Harbour. The trip was planned in preparation for a second weekend away which required the young sailors to demonstrate their abilities for their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award.

The group were under the careful guidance of instructors from the Cobnor Activities Centre in Chidham (as well as the watchful eyes of Mr Forsyth, Mrs Corcoran & Miss Jenkins) and were taught how to gybe in a bosun dinghy, widen their sailing vocabulary and improve their performance on the water. Amongst the various challenges over the weekend were developing Force 6 winds and unseasonably cold weather! However, the group, particularly the girls, showed great resilience. Despite the blustery weather a sunny picnic lunch on Saturday in Bosham, toasted marshmallows around the campfire that evening and a Sunday morning sail to Thorny Island were some of the highlights enjoyed by all. We loved this trip and cannot wait for the next one in July! remarked Clara Lyckeus, 4PJJ.

Well done to Clara and her fellow Fourth Year sailors Jess, Theo, Ellen, Daniel and Zain - and good luck for the next one (which will involve a hike, too!).

Mrs S Corcoran

PICNIC IN THE SUN

SAILORS FEEL THE FORCE


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"We loved this trip and cannot wait for the next one

in July!"


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This year was particularly varied and included performances by the Lower Sixth AS students.The evening started with the accomplished cello playing of Lucy Roberts, who performed Strausss Nocturne. This was a poised, assured performance which beautifully captured the pastoral nature of the music, and the musical communication between cellist and pianist was evident throughout, resulting in a performance of exceptional musicality and refinement.

Lois Freedman then played Mozarts Sonata in G Major K283 followed by Chopins Waltz in A Major: this was a confident and affectionate performance, the figuration negotiated with ease, arabesques shaped beautifully with a singing tone, and rubato applied tastefully to create a charming rendition.

The third performer was Alborz Farahati, playing Poulencs Clarinet Sonata (Second Movement) with aplomb; what a haunting piece this is, and Alborz captured the atmospheric effects with soulful assurance.

Charlotte Samadys contrasting 'Youre no God', her own song, where she accompanied her own voice on guitar, was spellbinding. Her powerful voice, immaculate guitar playing, and particularly well-gradated dynamics,

A MUSICAL FAREWELLThe Leavers Soire is always a delightful occasion where we celebrate the achievements of our departing musicians

contributed to an excellent, engaging performance.

Next up was Luke Hillier, whose accomplished tenor voice has been entertaining KGS audiences for many years. He gave a dramatic performance of 'Dormiro Sol' from Verdis Don Carlos. KGSs answer to Pavarotti captured the

long, sustained lines with ease - what a treat to hear Verdi at the Soire!

Lightening the mood, Theo Cons gave a measured, mellifluous performance of 'Rio' by Night on solo guitar, transporting the audience away from the English weather to a hot, sultry South America; another charming performance.


school life

We moved from South to North America (Chicago) for Joe Underwoods subsequent rendition of 'Luck be a Lady Tonight' from Guys and Dolls, upping the tempo and capturing the smoky atmosphere with bluesy thirds, as well as negotiating the fast words with confidence, and earning a well-deserved cheer from the audience.

Joe Malbons guitar solo, 'Andecy,' was an assured, subtly impressive rendition with its lyricism just right for a summer evening. The melodies had a vocal quality to them, and the overall sound was just gorgeous. Really refined guitar playing is such a treat for us music teachers!

Robert Bern followed Joe with a short jam, showing his guitar playing to best effect: cool, funky, poised and powerful, with smoky vocals.

To round off the evening, Nora Bajwa sang Whitney Houstons 'I Have Nothing'. Noor has an exceptionally powerful voice, and her confident and poised performances are always meticulously crafted. It was an excellent end to a truly delightful evening, hosted by the Music Society with their delicious food and wine which was much appreciated by the audience. It is always sad to see our musicians leave, but it is equally delightful to be able to see them perform so well, and we wish them all the best, and much good performing, in the future.

Miss P Hyde

TIME FOR TEAOn the 6th May, 2NHR hosted the Rosclare tea party in Hawkes, the Sixth Form Cafe. A group of elderly residents of Rosclare Care Home came for tea, cake, bingo and a chat. Roughly 12 students from our form attended and those who couldnt come provided cake! Soon the atmosphere was brimming with exciting stories about holidays, school and sports.

Many students made excellent cakes which were enjoyed by everyone. Tea, coffee and squash were also passed around the room. Around halfway through the tea party, a riveting game of bingo started. We were all split into pairs and the game immediately got competitive. The winners received a

fancy box of biscuits and the game ended with a lot of laughter.

Penny, Josh and Nyah also performed some lovely music which went down very well with our guests. Overall, it was a wonderful experience which taught the form that it can be rewarding to spend time with senior citizens. We were delighted that they all went home with a smile on their faces.

Fran Chorley & Maya Dickens, 2NHR

VIETNAMARAMA TALENT SHOW

FRIDAY 10TH JUNETHIS SUMMER, A GROUP OF KGS SIXTH

FORMERS ARE OFF TO VIETNAM.

IN AID OF THE TRIP, SOME OFTHE TEAM HAVE DECIDED TO HOST

A TALENT SHOW TO INCLUDE SINGING, DANCING AND MORE!

TICKETS GO ON SALE ON MONDAY 6TH MAY AT THE

PRICE OF ONLY 5!

ON THE NIGHT, THERE WILL BE DRINKS AND SNACKS AVAILABLE.

DOORS OPEN AT 7PM.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PRE-ORDER A TICKET, PLEASE EMAIL

[email protected] WILL BE AVAILABLE TO COLLECT

ON THE DOOR.


school life

Since early October, the 19 members of Seeko, the schools Young Enterprise team, have met every Thursday with their business advisers and teachers to discuss how to source, buy, market and sell their product. On Thursday 28th April, our months of hard work came to the fore as we arrived at St Pauls School for the Richmond and Kingston area finals of the Young Enterprise competition. We were competing with seven other teams from local schools to get to the next stage of the contest where the winner would have the chance to represent the Richmond and Kingston area in the South London finals of Young Enterprise. Richmond and Kingston is one of the most competitive Young Enterprise areas in the country and this year was no exception. There was a wide variety of products on show, from water bottles which told you when you were getting dehydrated to customisable toys which promoted racial diversity. Our product was no

SEEKO IN THE LOCAL FINALSOur Young Enterprise team made it to the Richmond & Kingston Area Finals

less unique, a collapsible lunchbox which could become only 32mm-deep once empty and therefore took up less room in your bag once your lunch had been eaten. The area finals consisted of two main parts: the trade stand and the presentation.

The trade stand section consisted of four members of each team taking position behind the stand which they had actually sold from at school and at trade fairs in the local area. It was the perfect opportunity for the judges to see how each company had presented themselves while selling and it also gave them time to ask questions of each team such as how the team chose their product, what setbacks the team experienced and how they overcame them.

Next came the presentations. Each team had only four minutes to explain to the judges why they felt they should be allowed to progress in the competition. The pressure was on as this


school life

took place in front of not only the judges but the seven other companies and their friends, family and teachers too. Some of the more impressive pitches came from our host school, St Pauls, whose product was a phone charger that fitted onto a key ring and Southborough Boys School who had an inventive range of shopping bags to combat the 5p plastic bag charge. Our presentation began dramatically with our Managing Director dumping two bin bags full of rubbish on the ground in front of the judges to make the audience think about how much waste is produced annually in the UK. This tied in with our aim as a company of reducing food and packaging waste.

After all the presentations were done, the judges went off to deliberate whilst we were all treated to a small buffet and a talk from 7 Billion Ideas founder David Harkin, which everyone found very inspiring and informative. The judges then emerged and we were told the results: 2nd place went to St Pauls and 1st went to Southborough. Although we were all disappointed that we were not going to progress any further, it was clear to see that, from the level of competition, it was always going to be a hard decision for the judges.

Ive learnt so much from this experience about business such as how to fundraise so that I can reach the minimum order requirement, how to source materials and speak to a supplier in another country and how to perfect a sales script. I could never have learnt as much as I have just in the classroom or by watching The Apprentice and I would urge anyone lower down the school who gets the chance to do Young Enterprise to grab the opportunity with both hands. Id like to thank our business advisers, Coral and Mark, as well as Mrs Rhys and Dr Kennedy for their help and encouragement throughout the whole process.

Xander Chevallier, L6JMD

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE 2016Kingston Library Service is looking for volunteers aged 13+ to help run this years Summer Reading Challenge, the national scheme that keeps primary school children reading during the summer holidays and is vital for avoiding the literacy dip. Based in one of Kingstons libraries, the role involves a variety of tasks including joining up participants, giving out rewards and helping children to choose a book, but its really all about nurturing a love of reading. This years theme is Roald Dahl to tie in with the centenary and features fabulous artwork by his long-term collaborator Quentin Blake. Volunteers are asked to commit to a minimum of 15 hours from July to September and are

THE BBC MIRCO:BITFinally, after much media speculation, this 5x4cm device arrived in late April. What is it you, may ask. It is a free (for First Years) pocket-sized computer gadget designed to inspire the current generation of students to get involved with coding and computer technology, whilst in and out of school.

Despite its small size it is packed with a huge amount of useful technology such as: an ARM-based embedded system, a motion detector, numerous sensors, Bluetooth LE, 25 LEDs, a compass and five I/O rings. Technically, it is low spec with 32-bit ARM, Cortex M0 CPU and 16KB RAM. It has a non-intimidating interface and has been tested to be fairly robust. It also uses a range of platforms to code on such as Python, JavaScript and a block editor. Its scope is not solely for ICT/Computing as it can be used in other subjects such as DT, Drama, Languages, Music, Geography, English, PE, Maths, Art and Science.

The First Year students have all been sent an email encouraging them to look at the highly user-friendly micro:bit website (https://www.microbit.co.uk) in order to get a heads-up before their first lesson

The website has a simulator to allow stu-dents to begin coding straightaway and, if they have a smartphone, they are advised to download the micro:bit app so they can code on the go.

Several regular First Year ICT Club coding students have been the first to trial this gadget; Sebastian Rugina and James Sadler have each made a naming game using its 5x5 LEDs. Matthew Mace took it one step further and created a pong game. Who knows - this might just give rise to the next generation of computer pioneers to succeed the likes of Steve Jobs and Ada Lovelace.

Ms Y Greaves

invited to submit their availability so the rota can work around them. Application forms are available from the library or Miss Knight in the English office.

Mrs H Cleaves


school life

On Friday 7th May all the KGS Language Leaders went to teach five lessons at St Josephs School. We had the great opportunity of being able to prepare a lesson in French or Spanish to present to pupils aged 7-11. The experience was amazing. I was partnered with Victoria and we worked on a French lesson about describing foods and saying why you like or dislike them. I enjoyed everything about our outing to St Josephs; all the children were so sweet and kind and got on impeccably with the work. Also, as a bonus, the children enjoyed giving compliments and brightened up our day with only a few words. A little girl in Year 3 put her hand up and told me I was beautiful!

For our next teaching trip, I have learnt to always prepare for the unexpected. In our last lesson of the day with the Year 6 children, the PowerPoint didnt appear on the computer and Victoria and I had to improvise the whole lesson with the worksheets and games that we had created! Thankfully the lesson ran smoothly and in my opinion it was our best one yet.

TEACHERS IN TRAINING

I was able to learn how hard it must be to be a teacher, as you have to consider every pupil and their ability in the subject you are teaching. After only a few hours of teaching I was completely drained of energy. Between giving the lesson and helping individuals I started to wonder how on earth all the teachers at KGS manage to teach every day and turn up to school with smiles on their faces!

I hope that my experiences encourage you to take part in Language Leaders in Third or Fourth Year. Miss Pastore, our teacher, was always ready to help with our presentations and gave us many tips on how to present ourselves in front of a class.

To celebrate our successful day, we were all rewarded with an outing to Creams after our lessons!

Thank you, Miss Pastore!

Camila Carbajal, 3KAB

"I was able to learn how hard it must be

to be a teacher"


school life

HOWARD CHARLES DROPS INOn Wednesday 25th May, actor Howard Charles came into school to give a talk to the Third Year, Fourth Year and Lower Sixth Drama students about his experiences at drama school and his career in the theatre and film industry. Having started a drama course at Kingston College (choosing it over a football scholarship), Howard left after two years to study at the prestigious Drama Centre London, where his mentor was Tom Hardy.

Gaining representation by well-known agent and star maker Lindy King, Howard described his time at DCL as intense and challenging. Although many of his contemporaries were encouraged to drop out due to the highly competitive nature of the industry, Howards first job came before he even graduated. He has since gone on to appear in many plays, films and TV programmes. His inspiring talk encouraged us to be selfish when it comes to what we want in life, not allowing ourselves to settle for second best. He answered our many questions and shared his own experiences of working with directors and what it is to be an actor.

We were all very grateful to Howard for giving up his time to come and speak to us and we thoroughly enjoyed the insight he gave us into the world of a professional actor.

Charlotte Le Feuvre, L6TMR

ZOE CLARK TOREPRESENT GBZoe Clark, 4LJS, who competes for the Royal Canoe Club in Teddington, has been making waves! She has been selected to represent the GB kayaking team at the Piestany international regatta in Slovakia.

This is particularly impressive as Zoe normally competes at Under 15 level and has been selected as part of the U18 squad. Zoe will be racing in the 200m, K2 200m and K2 500m.

Everyone at KGS wishes Zoe the best of luck and we look forward to hearing about her experience on her return.

Mr A Beard

PROBLEM SOLVED!Congratulations to our industrious team of Sixth Form students for finishing in second place at the Surrey Schools Problem Solving Challenge Final. This year, the students had to design and make a model ski lift cable car system that could transport polo mints as far as possible. As usual, they were supplied with limited materials and given a 90-minute time limit in which to complete the challenge. The final was held at ACS International School in Cobham and was the culmination of five regional heats with approximately 50 teams in each age category. The best two teams from each heat progress to the final where there were ten teams in

each age group. Team KGS kept their nerve during judging and were amazed when their non-working lift actually functioned perfectly at exactly the right moment. They had just elevated their position from last to second in an instant and shows what can happen with hard work, determination and, sometimes, a little luck.

Well done to Alice Metcalf (L6LOC), Joe Underwood (L6DEF), Ethan Samama (U6SRM) and Elspeth Birchall (L6JWS).

Mr D Farr


SPORT

The week starts off as busy as ever, with a decision to be made about which training to attend. Theres the option of either 1st XI cricket training with the boys or girls hockey fitness sessions with Locker 27, a specialist fitness company who come in to help get us all into shape. Cricket would usually consist mainly of fielding practice, with the idea to catch as many balls as possible. Early on in the season we look at catching and throwing technique, which is often down to individual preference, but as the season progresses we try to develop basic skills into more complicated practices such as diving or tough catches on the boundary. Fitness with the girls can be either running sessions on the pitches or strength work in the gym. The aim here is to try and keep up the fitness levels we achieved over the winter playing season so we are ready to get going again in September.

On Tuesday its an early start at 7am in a strength and conditioning session with Locker 27 in the Ditton Field gym. In these sessions, we look at lifting technique in the first term, and then start loading the bars with maximum weight later on in the year. Whilst completing sets on the bars such as back squats and push presses, we do other exercises such as glute bridges, single leg RDLs, and press-ups to target different areas of the body.

On Wednesday its Games day, which usually means matches. If not, we head to the nets to practise match scenarios which helps everyone get used to playing under pressure in situations we may find ourselves in. After this, at 6pm I go to Surrey Ladies cricket training for two hours. This session is, again, mostly fielding,

MY SUMMER TERMEva Gray, 5MEB, shares her weekly diary as she juggles GCSEs with her Surrey Ladies cricket training

ROAD TO WIMBLEDON

Once again we held the annual KGS Road to Wimbledon U14 Tennis Tournament at Ditton Field and this years event took place on Saturday 7th May. Thirty pupils played in the event with good representation across the First, Second and Third Years. As ever, there were several close-fought matches both in the boys and girls competitions, with the Thomas Skeates (2NHR) v Max Vokins (2HRL) and Freddie Wilson (2RSS) v Jack Housego-Woolgar (2HRL) battles being particular epics.

In the girls competition our defending champion Elizabeth Stevenson (3MPW) held off all-comers once again, this time defeating Sophie Morris (1ROP) in the final.

In the boys event, Jack Housego-Woolgar emerged victorious, showing great fighting spirit in beating defending champion Lucas Askeland (3KAB) in the final (winning in a tie-break decider). In addition, Thomas Cutts (3HMN) and Matthew Wood (3KAB) won the boys consolation events and Sophie Wood (1LMJ) won the girls consolation event.

Congratulations to our champions and we wish the best of luck to Elizabeth and Jack who now go through to the County Finals in June/July.

Mr S Morris

EVA WARMING UP WITH SURREY

with an element of fitness as well. We often do shuttles, sprint technique and then finish with a long run around the boundary.

Thursday is another potential early start with Locker 27 but, if not, there are running sessions at lunch on the Fairfield to prepare for a hockey tour to South Africa in July. In these sessions, we look to complete either as many laps as possible in 20 minutes, or sprint for three minutes straight followed by a period of rest. This is hopefully going to set the team up for a tough international tournament whilst were on tour, where we play eight matches in five days! After school, at 6.30pm theres Surrey U17 girls cricket training at Reeds. We start with a fielding drill, and then move into the nets to work on batting against bowlers after a long winter perfecting technique at the indoor centre.

Friday is a free day to do work which I cant get done over the weekend. Saturday brings another decision. I am often playing a cricket match for one team or another. If not playing for Surrey (Ladies or U17), Im playing for school with the boys. On some occasions, it is a travel day for Surrey Ladies before an away game on Sunday. Surrey U17 games are 45 overs, which means it takes up most of the day, whilst school matches are usually 20 overs when we play on a Saturday.

Sunday is potentially a rest/work day, although there are Surrey Ladies games every two or three weeks, with two games when its a bank holiday. I turn up to the ground at 9.30am to start warm-up at 9.45am. The game

usually gets underway at 11am, and finishes (depending on the game situation) at about 6pm, which makes it impossible to get anything else done as its such a long day! Early in the season, these games are 50 overs a side, although as we progress through the season, the 20-over competition gets underway, which involves two games on a Sunday.


sport

PAST vs PRESENT GOLF DAYEight pupils (two each from First, Fourth, Fifth and Lower Sixth Years) did golfing battle against a team of Old Kingstonians and current parents while eight staff did likewise against a second team of Old Kingstonians (two of whom are current staff). The weather was glorious and this seemed to inspire the underdog pupils team. In an unusual format that included greensomes, fourball and singles, the youth team prevailed with 20 points to 12, with three of the pairs winning outright. The marquee pairing of James Hall and Sam Reid were one under par better ball score for the whole round and sank a number of birdies during the round to set the precedent for the pupils. Newcomers Ben Turner and Luca Fielden were giving away a lot in experience but gelled nicely to secure a second win. Old hands Clara and Ellen Lyckeus each had a birdie on their way to trouncing a pairing that included their mother in the third match and only the last pairing of Jake Cutts and Matt Pugh failed to make it a clean sweep for the pupils.

In the second match of staff vs OKs, things followed a similar pattern to the pupils match. The pairs format seemed to suit the staff pairings of Mackay and Jackson, Rodgers and Sharpe, Benson and Cooper, and Daly and Parry with the staff team jumping out to an early lead in a match they would eventually go on to win, 16 points to 12.

The day was another overwhelming success and was enjoyed by all. The next big KGS golf event is during October half term, a Texas Scramble at Bletchingley Golf Club. Please contact me if you would like to be involved.

Mr M Rodgers

ENGLAND U18Over the bank holiday weekend, Lottie Ross and Holly Munro played as part of the England U18 in their three-day test series against Scotland, in Glasgow. They played three games, successfully beating the Scottish U18 side 7-2 and 7-1, with Holly Munro captaining the side on the second day, followed by a convincing 5-1 win over the Scotland U21 team to finish the weekend. The weekend was a great experience and a fantastic way to kick-start the international season. They look forward to the upcoming fixtures against Belgium and Germany in the next few months.

Mrs N Maclean

RONAN HITS A CENTURYRonan Harvey-Kelly scored his maiden 1st XI century v Latymer on Saturday, scoring 122*.

In addition, Fred Mills (U12A) took his first five-wicket haul v Latymer Upper School (5-17).

Overall it was an impressive performance on the pitch as we won all nine matches, making it a very successful Saturday for the KGS cricketers.

Mr D Reed

OUR GOLFERS WHO HAVE BEEN IN ACTION THIS TERM AT VARIOUS COMPETITIONS


FROM THE ARCHIVES

In 1966 a Charities Committee was founded, presided over by the Head Master, to meet the needs of an active and energetic group of Sixth Formers. Their first venture, a sponsored bed-push from Kingston to Brighton was a great success. The Committee provided the following report for The Kingstonian.

The great day dawned and, still in nightshirts, pyjamas and nightdresses (formal dress for the occasion) the team assembled at school on Sunday, 3rd July, some people having been obliged to rise at the unearthly hour of five o'clock. We were accompanied by a police escort to the starting line in Kingston Market Place, where at seven o'clock, as the flag dropped, the bed trundled away.

Thirteen hours, twenty one minutes, eleven seconds, and fifty-four miles later we arrived at the finishing line in Preston Park, Brighton. Throughout the day, the valiant team persuaded astonished onlookers to contribute liberally to "The British Empire

CHARITY BED-PUSH, 1966An account of a charitable activity from the KGS Archives

Cancer Campaign for Research" and almost 40 was collected.

I was recently delighted to welcome to the School one of the participants in the event, Robin Bloore (OK 1960-67). Mr Bloore has retained some wonderful documents relating to the day including press cuttings, a photograph and this wonderful Beatles-influenced advertising poster. We are most grateful to him for providing copies for the KGS Archive. Mrs J Halford

EXTERNAL ADVERT

Bring your friends and family down to the beautiful Ditton Field to cheer on pupils, parents, staff and alumni as they compete in the Sturgeon matches!

The tennis courts will be open for those who wish to play and there will be a free BBQ, Pimm's, wine and beer laid on by KGS Friends.

Book your place so we can ensure there are enough refreshments to go around!

http://www.kgs.org.uk/events/feast-at-the-field-sturgeon-cricket

Feast at the Field & Sturgeon Cricket

Sunday 26th June, 12.30pm


COMMUNITY

NETWORKING AT WESTMINISTER

The Palace of Westminster provided a fitting and prestigious location for the KGS Friends Networking Event on Monday 25th April, when MP for Kingston James Berry played host to a diverse gathering of alumni, staff, parents past and present, pupils and governors representing all the constituent parts of the School community.

There were speeches of welcome from Mr Berry, Mr Lehec, and KGS governor and KGS Friends committee member Duncan Combe, who played a leading role in organizing the event, after which guests enjoyed a light buffet and drinks and a highly useful evening exchanging ideas and information, learning from each other and making new contacts.

Mr Lehec commented afterwards: This was a very enjoyable occasion, and we are very grateful to Mr Berry for hosting the event and enabling us to meet at the centre of political life in this country. There could not be a more fitting venue for a networking event representing such a diversity of ages and interests. I was particularly pleased by how well the Sixth Formers acquitted themselves, working the room with a confidence that belied their years and quite undaunted by the company and the sense of occasion.

Mr N Bond

70KM ROW FOR CHARITYOn Saturday 10th September 2016 the rowers of Kingston Grammar School will be rowing 70km from Henley to the KGS Boat House in Thames Ditton. This is an epic feat and will test all the rowers from Third Year to Sixth Form.

The money raised will be split between Young Minds and the KGS Boat Club. You may recall Young Minds, a charity supporting young people and their families with mental health issues, took park in a conference here hosted by the Head Master before Christmas. The charity has recently started a campaign supported by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.

The KGS Boat Club has set a target of 20,000to raise in September and all donations are very welcome here: KGS Sponsored Row 2016.

Also, if youre feeling particularly benevolent, you might be interested to know that I am doing the Ride London 100-mile cycle ride on July 31st and am looking to raise 600 for the NSPCC. Once youve sponsored KGS for the row, which is the priority, please consider a spare pound or two to help me up Leith Hill! My page is here: Phil Simmons Ride London. Thank you!

Mr P Simmons

ELMBRIDGE COMMUNITY LINK

Elmbridge Community Link is a charity with the purpose to enrich the lives of people with learning disabilities which three KGS volunteers Evie Benincasa, Sofie Lloyd and Jess Murray enjoy taking part in. Prize Bingo takes place on Monday evenings which includes a general knowledge quiz and two rounds of fun filled bingo. Tuesday evenings are dedicated to AllSports Youth Club, which as the name suggests consists of a variety of activities from badminton to hula hooping. The charity also offers a variety of other weekly clubs from Music workshops to cookery classes creating new opportunities. Evie particularly loves being part of a charity that provides a wide range of fun activities week after week.

Carefree environments encourage the members to chat with new people, providing the chance to build new relationships whilst catching up with their existing friends. The AllSports Youth club is available for 16-25 year olds as an animated activity to use up some energy. There is a small break in the middle to have a rest and munch on some nourishing fruit snacks to encourage a healthy lifestyle. At the end, after all the running around, the members take part in a relaxation period which gives them a chance to slow down a little.

Learning and development is also a key value for this charity as the members gain new skills from the new opportunities available to them. As volunteers we are fortunate enough to help and aid the members and it is really rewarding to see the progress they have made from the start of our volunteering in September. Sofie enjoys seeing this improvement in the weekly Bingo club specifically with number and word recognition. I think it safe to say like all the volunteers at ECL, we three have all thoroughly enjoyed working with the charity and fully support all the great work it is doing.

Jess Murray, L6JAD

OUR BOAT RAMP AT 5AM


school life

On Friday 7th May all the KGS Language Lead-ers went to teach five lessons at St Josephs School. We had the great opportunity of being able to prepare a lesson in French or Spanish to present to pupils aged 7-11. The experience was amazing. I was partnered with Victoria and we worked on a French lesson about describing foods and saying why you like or dislike them. I enjoyed everything about our outing to St Jo-sephs; all the children were so sweet and kind and got on impeccably with the work. If any-one had any queries they werent afraid to ask for help. Also, as a bonus, the children enjoyed giving compliments and brightened up our day with only a few words. A little girl in Year 3 put her hand up and told me I was beautiful!

For our next teaching trip, I have learnt to always prepare for the unexpected. In our last lesson of the day with the Year 6 children, the PowerPoint didnt appear on the computer and Victoria and I had to improvise the whole lesson with the worksheets and games that

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we had created! Thankfully the lesson ran smoothly and in my opinion it was our best one yet.

I was able to learn how hard it must be to be a teacher, as you have to consider every pupil and their ability in the subject you are teach-ing. After only a few hours of teaching I was completely drained of energy. Between giving the lesson and helping individuals I started to wonder how on earth all the teachers at KGS manage to teach every day and turn up to school with smiles on their faces!

I hope that my experiences encourage you to take part in Language Leaders in Third or Fourth Year. Miss Pastore, our teacher, was al-ways ready to help with our presentations and gave us many tips on how to present ourselves in front of a class.

To celebrate our successful day, we were all rewarded with an outing to Creams after our

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KGS May Newsletter 2016

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Transcript of KGS May Newsletter 2016