The team played 4 games over 4 days against Czech opposition which was a great challenge and fantastic experience. Oli h
Spotlight On The Belgium Battlefields Design Show Delights The Magic of Avebury Help Us To ‘Phil The Bag’
FINAL EDITION: SUMMER 2017
A WORD FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Parents, Carers and Friends, It has been a term of change which will continue into September. The Year 11 cohort has finally left, their leavers’ assembly provoking much reflection and amusement from their 5 years at Isambard. However, we still have the Yr11 prom to go on 14th July and we look forward to results day on 24th August and sharing in their success. Exams for all year groups have now finished but learning and other events still continue right up until the end of term. As I write, Yr10 are currently attending a careers fair at Steam Museum. Following this, they will receive a careers interview with a representative from Carillion, a company with which we have forged a partnership to enhance our careers advice and guidance programme. We also look forward to our first performing arts joint venture with LPA. The choirs from both schools will join the Bath Community Gospel Choir at Freshbrook Church on Saturday 15th July. Please see the advertisement on page 13. The anticipation and build-up of sports day on 14th July is upon us. This will be the last sports day with the current house names. Come September, we will have new diverse house names , chosen by our students from a wide range of people, both historical and contemporary, who have upheld British values and supported the ethos of academic and sporting achievement. Finally, Monday 4th September will see students leaving home in their new uniform to attend Abbey Park School. They have been reminded of the expectations of dress code and behaviour for learning, so they should be well prepared. Other cosmetic changes to signs around the school and the refurbishment of Red and Blue wing will have been completed. It also gives me great pleasure to announce we will start the academic year fully staffed, after recruiting well. I outlined the staffing changes in my most recent letter to parents and I would like to take this opportunity to thank those staff moving on to new positions and ventures, for their hard work and commitment to the school community. Thank you for your ongoing support and we look forward to working with you in the new academic year. I wish you a safe, restful and sunny summer holiday. Best wishes, Mr J Young
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Principal
Oli Endicott in year 8 played in the Czech Republic over Easter for the England Under 13 Ice Hockey team where he was named the assistant captain. The team played 4 games over 4 days against Czech opposition which was a great challenge and fantastic experience. Oli had several try outs for the team leading up to the tour and is justifiably proud of what is a huge achievement for him. He scored in the final game of the tour, too, which he was pretty chuffed about!
NEWS IN BRIEF
England Calling for Oli
A Dream Come True for Josh
Josh Winslow’s dreams of joining the Royal Navy look set to become a reality . Josh, who is in year 11, passed his entrance examination with flying colours and was successfully interviewed before attending a medical in Bristol. He is now settling down to his GCSE exams but, once these are completed, he will be called to attend a four-day fitness course before beginning his basic training. Good luck in your future career, Josh. Max ‘Cooking on Gas’ Max Cook, who is no stranger to the pages of the Bard, has been setting the pages of the world press alight with his fabulous run of wins in the British Superbikes Moto-Star Championships. He has scored maximum points so far and is leading his nearest rival, Tom Strudwick, by a clear 38 points. He continued a brilliant start to the season by clinching a fifth consecutive victory at round three of the championship at Oulton Park. All Max’s races so far have been televised, much to the delight of his fans amongst the staff here!
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Aiming High! Mrs Humphry took 15 year 10 GCSE PE students for an aspirational visit to the University of Gloucester's Sports Faculty. They attended seminars on 'why study sport', a taster coaching session and a tour of the campus. The aim of the trip was to advise them on the further study and employment options available in the world of sport.
Tap to the Top Molly Portlock has been dancing from the age of two and a half at Tanwood School of Performing Arts. As Tap is one of her favourite types of dance, she decided to audition for 'Tap Attack' along with over 200 other dancers and was successfully offered a place on the Tap Attack South West Mid Associates Programme. Molly trains once a month and, with it being the company's 10th anniversary this year, there are plenty of exciting opportunities coming up in the form of events and workshops as well as an anniversary ball in June. Well done, Molly, from everyone at Isambard! (Photo Courtesy of Miss Laura Pratt)
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Kieran Hawkard in year 11 has become the first student in Isambard’s ten year history to hold a 100% attendance record for his entire five years at the school. In recognition of this, Kieran received: • A letter of recommendation from the Principal • The Principal’s Award • A ticket to the Prom, paid for by the school Well done to Kieran on this fabulous achievement. We hope you have inspired other students to follow your example and to challenge you for the record!
NEWS IN BRIEF
Mr 100%
Katie Hammers the Message Home. The Bard can confirm that Katie Loach has qualified to represent Wiltshire at the English Schools Athletics Championships. This is a prestigious event with a high qualifying standard so she has done extremely well. As Katie competes in the 'Hammer', our PE department can't claim they taught her all she knows on this occasion! In further athletics news, the year 7 and 8 team competed at the Swindon Schools event at the county ground. Whilst nobody quite hit Katie's standards, we had some good individual performances, in particular Paige Rouse who won the Javelin competition for the second year running. Mr Glassock told us, ‘The students all tried their absolute best and were pleasant company all day. Spare a thought for Miss Lewis and I who were forced to spend the whole day outside in the sunshine , watching some first-class athletics!’
Top Talent All Round! Molly ,Tegan, Emily and Cerys achieved some brilliant results at their dance competition recently, representing Julie Scott's Academy of Performing Arts. Molly took 1st place for lyrical,1st for pairs and 2nd for freestyle, Tegan took 1st for freestyle, 2nd for pairs and 2nd for lyrical while Cerys took 1st for lyrical , 2nd for freestyle ,6th for pairs and 1st for team dance. We must not forget Emily who is not pictured here, but who achieved a 1st for lyrical and a 2nd for pairs. Well done and have fun polishing those well-deserved trophies, girls!
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SPOTLIGHT ON THE BELGIUM BATTLEFIELDS
Year 9 Battlefields trip June 2017 Day 1 We set off at 7:30am on our journey to Folkestone for the Eurotunnel. On arrival we drove through France and enjoyed some of the beautiful scenery before arriving at Poperinge Death Cells where we were met by our guide John Cameron-Webb. Within the town hall are 'execution cells' where some of the British soldiers, condemned to execution during World War One, were held to await their fate - to be shot at dawn. It is here students learned about the darker side of War and remembered those soldiers who had been shot by their own commanders. We then made our way to Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, just outside of Ypres. The cemetery is the resting place of 10,755 casualties, including one woman; Staff Nurse Nellie Spindler. We arrived at out hotel Oude Abdij, where we got unpacked and had dinner together. On the menu was tomato soup, beef stew, green beans, potatoes and ice cream. Students then had their own free time until bed; many chose to join in a game football outside while others tried their luck at ping pong. Day 2
We woke up early on Friday morning, had breakfast, students made their own packed lunches and we set off on the coach for a full day in Ypres Salient. Our first stop was Essex Farm Cemetery and Dressing Station. Essex Farm was a military hospital during the war and the students had the chance to explore some of the dugouts where the soldiers were treated for all manner of wounds. Our guide walked us through the 1,200 graves and identified one in particular which really demonstrated how young some of the conscripts were; Rifleman Valentine Joe Strudwick was just 15 years old when he died on the 6th January 1916. We were then off to Passchendaele Museum, where students could explore life in World War One by dressing up and smelling food and different types of gas. Students explored the recreated underground bunkers, and watched intensely the 3D video that explained the battle of Passchendaele. Next students had the opportunity to examine the German and British trench systems in re-created trenches. Next came Hill 60, an important strategic position as it is one of only a few pieces of high ground in the region. Here the students learnt about the tunnelling and mining that took place in World War One. They saw Spanbroekmolen Mine Crater Memorial and the Pool of Peace.
SPOTLIGHT ON THE BELGIUM BATTLEFIELDS
For this term’s Spotlight feature, Mrs Brownlie shares an insight into World War One with her fascinating account of last month’s visit to Belgium.
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SPOTLIGHT ON THE BELGIUM BATTLEFIELDS
We continued our journey to visit the site of the 1914 Christmas truce. Here students learnt about how Winston Churchill and Adolf Hitler who had both served in World War One were only a few fields apart during the fighting. Our guide, who has been in Military service, demonstrated military drills for us. Students lined up in two straight lines and were taught to stand to, stand easy, turn and march. They all enjoyed themselves and made a curious spectacle as they marched down the road back to the coach. Next up was the Island of Ireland Peace Park. Our guide explained its importance and how it symbolised Eire and Northern Ireland coming together in spite of their differences to create a memorial for all Irish men who died in World War One. When we arrived at Hoodge Crater Museum, we split off into two groups, one group for a museum tour and the other for the tour of the re-created trenches. The museum guide showed the groups what archaeologist had found during excavations at the museum including a riffle that still had the bullets loaded. We continued in to Ypres and, on arrival, we were dropped off near the Menin Gate. We had a look at the gate’s construction and then walked through the town to have a dinner of chicken and chips, with ice cream. At 7:10pm we made our way to the Menin Gate for the Last Post Ceremony. Luca Gibson and Katie Loach were selected to lay a wreath on behalf of the school. All students did Isambard proud as they respectfully participated in the minute silence to remember the great sacrifice that the young soldiers made in the First World War. At 8:30pm we visited the chocolate shop: many of the students came out of the shops weighed down with boxes of chocolates and sweets which they all said were presents. I hope some of them made it home! We then made our way to the hotel, where students had 30 minutes of free time before bed. Day 3
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Students were up early and packed ready to leave the hotel at 8:00am. Our penultimate stop was to visit Tyne Cot British Cemetery which is the resting place of almost 12,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers. To compare with the British Cemetery we had seen, we made a final visit to the German Langemark Cemetery so that the students could see for themselves the differences in the way each of the countries remember their dead. It was here that our guide left us and we started on our journey back home. The roads were quiet in Belgium and in France, and soon we were on the train back to the UK, where we arrived back to school for 4:30.
Head Boy - Dan Hunt Head Girl - Ehlana Drury Deputy Head Boy - George Watkinson Deputy Head Girl - Connie Rich House Captains: Sophie Bewley Suhail Shihaz Connor O'Neil-Stevens James Brunning
RECOGNISING ACHIEVEMENT
Many congratulations to the following students who will take office in our Student Leadership Team . Each candidate was required to write an application letter and to attend a rigorous interview with Mr Young and Mrs Bulpitt.
On Thursday 13th July, Mr Young and Miss Boyles were invited to Abbey Meads Primary Key Stage Two assembly to present certificates to year 5 and year 6 pupils for their successful French work throughout this academic year. Pupils were able to demonstrate what they had learnt in front of their peers before being awarded certificates. The presentation continues to build on the strong links forged between the two schools as Abbey Meads are annual participants at the World Languages Days held at Isambard. We hope that the new year 5 will attend this event at Abbey Park School next year and Miss Boyles is excited to be returning to Abbey Meads Primary to continue transition MFL projects with both years 5 and 6 in September 2017. We look forward to welcoming several current Abbey Meads year 6 pupils joining us as our first year 7 at Abbey Park School in September.
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DELIGHTFUL DESIGNS
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Congratulations to all Isambard's GCSE D&T students on their fantastic final products. There are too many photos to put into The Bard but here are a few examples. Students’ work, including displays from Key Stage 3, were on public view for our D&T Show on Wednesday 21st June. There was a fashion show, refreshments and a raffle raising money for Swindon Young Carers. Miss Stacey told the Bard, ‘Even though it was the hottest day of the year, we had a fantastic crowd of people who were impressed by the creative talent that we have at Isambard. The models did a great job of strutting their stuff on the catwalk and our winners from Red Oaks were full of smiles in their personally designed t-shirts. I would like to thank everyone who came along to support the show and we look forward to seeing you again next year.’
DELIGHTFUL DESIGNS
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Here is Mrs Chapman’s account of her recent trip to Avebury. One sunny Tuesday, 112 Year 7 students travelled to Avebury to learn about prehistoric life and to try to figure out the mysteries of the stones. There were many interesting theories from our historians and archaeologists of the future. In the interactive museum, the students discovered how people in pre-historic times lived. This included exploring fashion and considering the types of food that would have been available. The students also had a tour of the stones, learning all about the type of stone they are, how they have possibly been moved and, ultimately, the reasons why they are there at all. All students had booklets to fill in and the notes made were of a high standard, with some even filling a second booklet. I asked a few students about their thoughts from the day…
SECRETS OF THE STONES
Secrets of the Stones
Charlotte said she enjoyed the trip and learnt a lot of information with the tour guides. Jessica said it was fun and if you wanted a day out it is recommended. Alex enjoyed seeing all the tools that helped make Avebury into what it is now. Deniz said it was good because we got to see how different pre-historic life was from our lives today. It was really impressive to see the students come back and share their knowledge with students who hadn’t been on the trip; this really helped to answer our questions about whether Avebury is a popular local tourist spot or honeypot. Many thanks to Mrs Pursey, Mrs Allen, Miss Powell, Miss Jackson, Mr Brixton, Mr Powers and Mrs Ritchings for their help and support on the trip. Mrs Chapman
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OUR SPORTING HEROES!
Sports Leaders Show The Way. We would like to thank our year 9 Sports Leaders who have been assisting at primary school events this year. The photo is of them at David Lloyd where they had the important job of umpiring at a Swindon School Games tennis competition. Mr Glassock told the Bard, 'I am sure you will agree that the opportunity for students to develop their organisation, communication and leadership skills makes these events time well spent in terms of educational benefits. They have proved to be brilliant ambassadors for our school and we are extremely proud of their team work and professionalism. A special mention needs to go to Kyle Baines and Tom Warren in particular as they have really stood out. A number of parents and staff at . the events have come over to me to comment on how good they are.'
Sore Feet All Round In Ten Tors Daniel Smith, Andrew Wilmot and James Smart all took part in the Ten Tors Challenge on Dartmoor last term. Dan and Andrew completed the 35 mile challenge and James the 45 miles. This is the second year that Daniel and James have attempted this gruelling event. Our photograph, courtesy of Samantha Smith, shows Daniel with his team. Well done to all three boys for their excellent achievement.
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The school reopens in September with a fresh name and smart new uniform. Help us to raise funds while avoiding the use of landfill; bring your old uniform to school for recycling. On the 20th and 21st July we will be accepting donations of old school uniform and PE kits. To help make donating easier, Friday 21st of July will be a nonschool uniform day for students. Isambard Community School will be working with ‘Phil’ the bag, a company which provides a textile recycling initiative and which offers financial reward to those participating in the project. This is a great opportunity for us to raise money for extracurricular activities for our students. But there is no need to stop at unwanted uniform items. We are encouraging students, along with their families, to recycle any of the following textiles: · · · · · ·
Shoes Bags Hats Towels Curtains Household linen
Our drop off point for any donated items is Red Wing- student services between the times of 0800-0830 on both days.
WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH YOUR OLD UNIFORM?
What will you do with your old uniform?
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PLEASE GET IN TOUCH
We hope you have enjoyed sharing our news and achievements. This is the last edition of the Bard as we move into a new era as Abbey Park School. I ,too, am moving on to pastures new and would like to thank everyone who has shared their stories with me over the years . Good luck for the future. Mrs Rogers.
What Hat Do You Wear? What hat do you wear? Are you are a budding star of the stage, a sporting hero, a wizard at writing, a keen fundraiser, a blogger or a film-maker? Whatever you do in your spare time and whatever your passion, we would like to hear about it. Talk to Ms Boyles let us help celebrate your achievements.
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Isambardcommunityschool Website: http://www.isambard.swindon.sch.uk
