It seems like only yesterday that I was writing my first blog post of 2024 but somewhat unbelievably, we’re already in February. I guess time really does fly you have so many College highlights to share! This week has once again been a busy and positive week for our students and I’m pleased to share details with you below.
A picture-perfect field trip
Our Year 11 students are entering an important period in their studies: their final GCSE examinations. Our Fine Art and Photographystudents have started pulling together their Externally Set Assignment practical work, which will be worth 40% of their final GCSE grade and to support with this, our students travelled to Tate Modern in London. As well as providing an opportunity to gather primary source materials, the trip provided students with the opportunity to take in artworks from some of the world’s leading modern artists and gather inspiration for their own projects. They all enjoyed the experience and I look forward to viewing their completed creations later in the year.
Increasing understanding of American history
Elsewhere, our Sixth Form History students bolstered their knowledge and understanding of American history during an interesting lecture delivered by Professor of International History at the University of Cambridge, David Reynolds. The talk explored America’s varied history and focussed on a few key moments that changed the future of North America, and, ultimately, the entire world. The students have commented how rewarding it was to listen to Professor Reynolds and are looking forward to attending other similar talks in future.
We will never forget them
Helping our students to develop into caring and well-rounded individuals is at the heart of our College ethos and I truly believe that education can create a more peaceful world. Last week, our Year 10 History students listened to a powerful interview with Holocaust survivor, Hedi Argent, MBE. Hedi was born in Vienna and witnessed Kristallnacht, before fleeing the country six weeks before the start of the Second World War. Heartbreakingly, 27 members of her extended family perished in the Holocaust.
The webcast was incredibly moving. From hearing the attendees’ reflections, it is clear they learnt lot from the experience. I would like to thank them all for their maturity and respect shown to the subject matter of the talk.
Mathematicians rise to the challenge
I am incredibly proud of how many keen Mathematicians we have at the College. Earlier this week, a number of them took part in the UK Maths Trust’s Intermediate Mathematical Challenge. The multiple-choice challenge tests students’ mathematical reasoning, precision of thought and fluency through a series of 25 questions. We have, in the past, achieved some strong results in similar challenges and I look forward to finding out how this year’s cohort fared in the challenge.
Introducing our Indian Cookery course
Finally, as you may be aware, we relaunched our Adult Education Programme at the beginning of the month. The classes have been a resounding success so far, and I am delighted to share details of a new course that will be launching in March. All learners ages 14 and above will have the opportunity to refine their Indian cookery skills under the guidance of professional cooking tutor, Mina Joshi. Find out more and secure your place on the course.
February 2, 2024
