Newsletter (PDF) - Rutland County College

A round-up of news and events from Casterton Business & Enterprise College and Rutland County College
CBEC News Post 16 News Sports News
Rutland County College Officially
Opened at Barleythorpe
On Friday 2nd November we officially opened the
new facility for Rutland Post 16 learners at the
Barleythorpe site just outside Oakham.
The site of our Post 16 education was previously a
conference centre and is owned by Rutland County
Council. We moved in at the beginning of September
2012 and the building has been very enthusiastically
received by students. The light and airy corridors,
combined with attractive classrooms, create a superb
atmosphere for learning. All the rooms in the building
have been named after Rutland villages. Set in an
attractive woodland setting, this creates a small, friendly
and ‘personalised’ ambience.
The building was opened by Elizabeth, Baroness
Berridge of the Vale of Catmose. Elizabeth is the
youngest member of the House of Lords and also an
ex student of Rutland College. She cut the ribbon and
said “It is a great privilege to return to my former Sixth
Form College and open this wonderful new building”. She
was then presented with a bouquet by student, Charlotte
Smith.
Winter 2012
In her speech, Victoria Crosher, Principal, gave a brief
history of the College starting from when it was originally
the Rutland High School for Girls in 1965. She outlined
the varied and exciting curriculum and reminded those
“It is a great privilege to return to my former
Sixth Form College and open this wonderful
new building”.
attending of the commitment to provide as wide an offer
as possible, so that no Rutland learners had to travel an
hour to access high quality education. She also thanked
Rutland County Council for their partnership working and
singled out the contribution of Cllr Terry King, whose
significant work had helped the project to come to fruition.
The event was attended by members and officers of the
Council and friends of the College, including the Lord
Lieutenant Laurence Howard and ex High Sheriff Peter
Lawson. Staff and students also attended.
Ms V Crosher – Principal
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 1 5/12/12 09:55:52

2
CBEC NEWS
Rutland County College Prize Giving
Over 100 people attended a hugely successful presentation
evening at Rutland County College on Tuesday 11th September
to give prizes to students who excelled themselves last year.
The guest of honour, Councillor and Deputy Leader of Rutland
County Council, Mr Terry King spoke about the benefits of
having a plan for life and seizing opportunities as opposed to
letting things happen as they come. He then presented prizes
to a wide range of students in areas of academic, personal and
Award List
Subject College Award for Special Mention
Best in Subject Certificate
Mathematics James Collier Stephen Lambert
PE & Sport Ryan Wade
History Jacob Jones Emily-Jayne Shell
Art Annie Hickman
Media Studies Jacob Jones Christina Coates
Business Studies Hannah May
Wilkinson
Chemistry James Collier David Tindall
Sociology Hannah May
Wilkinson
English Emily-Jayne Shell Ben Harris/
Murray Watkins
Law Chloe Bubb
Philosophy &
Ethics
Danny Pearson
Psychology Charlotte Fletcher
Geography Matthew Foers
Geology Daniel Heaver
Theatre Studies Emma Caine/
Sam Woods
Physics James Collier Sam Hynds
Biology James Davison Emily Fox
BTEC Business
National
Charlotte Maiden
Photo - Rutland & Stamford Mercury
even entrepreneurial excellence. Mr King was accompanied by
his wife and Mr Ken Bool, the Portfolio Officer for Education at
Rutland County Council.
Ms Victoria Crosher, Principal and Mr Carl Smith, Head of
Centre paid tribute to students and to the excellent work of
the council in making the college such a success over the last
couple of years.
College Award for Most Enterprising Student - William Wills
College Award for Personal Achievement - Charlotte
Fletcher
Foundation Students
Jacob Dobson
Jake Lachojski
Jessica Mahase
Claire Parker
Adam Regis
Edward Sowter
Emily Sykes
Ryan Winter
All Foundation Learning students have been presented with an
Outstanding Achievement and Progress Award along with the
following qualifications:
BTEC Level 1 Travel & Tourism
Lamda Award
Certificate In British Sign Language
Certificate In First Aid
Asdan Pshe Award
AQA Award In Relationships
Prince’s Trust Level 1 Award In Personal Development And
Teamwork
BTEC Level 1 Jamie Oliver Home Cooking Skills
Functional IT Skills
Ms V Crosher – Principal
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 2 5/12/12 09:55:53

GCSE Examination Results 2012
Casterton Business & Enterprise College were
pleased to welcome back Year 11 students in
August to receive their GCSE examination
results. 81% of students got the 5 A*-C grades and
using this measure this is the best year ever for
Casterton Business & Enterprise College. 20% of
students also qualified for the new English
Baccalaureate qualification.
Sophie Stafford was a top performer with 9.5 A*, and 1A and
Ashley Townsend added to his tally, making a total of 17.5
GCSEs gained during his time at Casterton.
Year 11 students Tom Radley, (4A*, 8A, 1B) Liam Jones (4 A*,
5A, 1B, 3C) and John Lin (1A, 3B, 5C) were delighted with their
results. John Lin only joined the College 2 years ago and spoke
no English when he arrived. The three boys also received A,
B and C in AS level Mathematics. Tom Kilkenny (3 A*, 4A, 3B
at GCSE) achieved a C in AS level Critical Thinking. Laurence
Copeman achieved an amazing 3A* and 8A grades.
Success for the College in
attracting building funds
At the same time that we are celebrating moving our Post 16
to a fabulous new facility in Barleythorpe, on the Casterton
site we are celebrating the news that we have been granted
£380,000 in Government funding to improve the fabric of the
building in Great Casterton.
The Senior Team prepared a bid in May 2012. The bid was
built on the recommendations of a condition survey that
had been undertaken in February. We asked for funding to
improve windows, doors, toilets, masonry, gutters and drain
pipes! The successful bid even includes money to re surface
the side service road. The funds were always intended for
CBEC NEWS
Three students from Year 10
and Year 11 took Russian,
Polish and Portuguese GCSE
and a Year 7 student took
Spanish GCSE. Vova Dzuba
Year 11 achieved an A* in
GCSE Russian, Lisa Smirnova
Year 10 achieved an A in GCSE
Russian, Hannah Clapinson Year 11 achieved a C in GCSE
Portuguese, Julia Domogala Year 10 achieved an A* in GCSE
Polish and Charlotte Dewey Year 7 achieved a B in Spanish.
Principal, Ms Crosher said “Casterton prides itself on
providing a personalised curriculum to suit all students of all
abilities. There were some wonderful individual stories of
success and some very well deserved results that are a direct
result of hard work and making the most of the many
opportunities available to them”
Ms V Crosher – Principal
improvements to the fabric of the building rather than new
classrooms and offices.
Although our original bid, rather cheekily, asked for £800,000
we know that in these cases demand always outstrips
availability! Lots of schools are eligible for the funding so we
were delighted with the amount we got and parents can be
assured that we are putting it to very good use and ensuring
that we obtain ‘value for money’.
One of the conditions of the bid was that we got straight on
with the work. In this way the present students will benefit and
small scale building works will commence in the new year.
Ms V Crosher – Principal
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 3 5/12/12 09:55:54
3

4
CBEC NEWS
Casterton Business & Enterprise College
Prize Giving
The College held its annual Prize
Giving in November and was pleased
to welcome Lieutenant Colonel
Steve Lonnen as our guest speaker.
The evening began with a welcome from Chair of
Governors Malcolm Goddard, followed by a vocal and
guitar piece placed and sang by Hannah Fyall. The guest
speaker addressed students, parents, governors and staff
with words of wisdom and encouragement. Steve’s own
route to success embodied the ethos that we try and
encourage in our young people – that hard work and
persistence pays off. Between each set of prizes, students
from Key Stage 4 delivered a review of the year so that
parents were aware of everything that goes on in a busy
school.
At the end of the prize giving Steve was presented with a
gift by Lianne James and Luke Jelley who also delivered a
most eloquent vote of thanks.
After the presentations, guests were treated to coffee and
cakes in the Courtyard. This was a great opportunity for the
young people to catch up with friends and staff and
governors to catch up with parents.
Ms V Crosher – Principal
“
hard work and
persistence pays off.’
“ ‘...
Photo - Rutland & Stamford Mercury
Photo - Rutland & Stamford Mercury
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 4 5/12/12 09:55:57

Casterton Business & Enterprise College Prize Giving
CBEC NEWS
English, Media and Modern Foreign Languages Achievement Awards
Val Glover Trophy for Academic
Achievement in English Language
Sophie Stafford
The Buxton Prize for Academic
Achievement in English Literature
Charles Reynolds
English Prize for Effort Thomas Wilkinson English Literature Prize for Progress Charlie Sketch
Special Award for English John Lin
Academic Achievement in Media
Studies
Thomas Kilkenny
Progress in Media Studies Prize Harry Elson
Cottesmore Parish Council Prize for
Excellence in Foreign Languages
Ellie James
Languages Prize for Academic
Achievement
Hannah Clapinson German Prize for Effort and Progress Leo Clarke
French Prize for Effort and Progress Alex Meagre
Mathematics and Science Achievement Awards
RAF Cottesmore Trophy for
Excellence in Maths
Thomas Radley
Maths Award for Academic
Achievement
Liam Jones
Progress in Maths Prize Samuel Wood Effort in Maths Prize Matthew Stanley
Castle Cement Trophy for Excellence
in Science
Thomas Radley
Stamford Burghley Rotary Club Prize
for Outstanding Progress in Science
Sophie Stafford
New College Stamford Award for
Science
Hollie Cummings Progress in Science Award Thomas Wilkinson
Business and Information Technology Achievement Awards
Lions Club of Rutland Prize for Effort
and Progress in Business Studies
Andrew Blackwell
Jenkinson Prize for Academic
Achievement in Business Studies
Lawrence Copeman
Cope Trophy for Academic Achievement
in Information Technology
Humanities Achievement Awards
Lawrence Copeman Progress in ICT Prize Charlie Sketch
Jean Williams Trophy for Academic
Achievement in History
Hollie Cummings
E G Bolton Prize for Effort and
Progress in History
Charlie Sketch
Rebecca Vowles Memorial Trophy for
Religious Education
Nicholas Mainstone
Religious Education Prize for Effort
and Progress
William Pearce
J R W Holt Prize for Academic
Achievement in Geography
Lawrence Copeman Progress in Geography Harriet Brecknock
Design and Performing Arts Achievement Awards
Art Prize for Academic Achievement Chloe Glover Progress in Art Prize Abigail Calton
Vic Couzens Award for Design
Technology
Ben Mason
Eric Walton Prize for Academic
Achievement in Design Technology
Nicholas Mainstone
Norrie Trophy for Textiles Sophie Stafford
The Inner Wheel Prize for Progress
in Textiles
Chloe Wells
Smith Ogden and Barbara Taylor
Ellie James
Memorial Trophy for Food Technology
Effort and Progress in Food
Technology Prize
Abigail Calton
The George Brett Cup for Performing
Arts
Henrietta Brett
The Margaret Walker Prize for
Performing Arts Prize
Olivia Rix
Barbara Billings Prize for Music Ellie James Creasey Instrumental Prize for Music Ellie James
Effort and Progress Award in Child
Development
Danielle Hancock
Physical Education Achievement Awards
Bowman of Rutland Prize for Field
Athletics
Sophie Stafford Edward Barclay Shield for Rugby Charles Reynolds & Liam Jones
Progress in Football Prize Ashley Townsend Frank Hinch Prize for Cricket Nicholas Mainstone
Boys’ PE Prize Liam Jones Girls’ PE Prize Sophie Stafford
Halliday-Pegg Trophy for
Sportsmanship
Lewis Morley
Mitchell Award for Progress in
Netball
Sophie Stafford
Achievement in Dance Award
General Awards
Charlotte Stygall & Cara Fountain
Haslam Shield for Outstanding
Attendance
Timothy Berridge
D H Wright Award for Contribution to
school
Charlotte Stygall
Breeze Award for General Progress Matthew Stanley
M W Blankley Award for Outstanding
Achievement
Liam Jones
Vice Principal’s Award
Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Awards
John Lin
Lawrence Copeman Chloe Hickman Sophie Stafford Matthew Tindall
GCSE Certificates
Holly Beecroft Jack Bailey Jack Bishop George Brecknock Gemma Sharman
Harry Briant Alexander Engel Luke Hardy Chloe Hodge Thomas Stead
Robert Knight Sophie Knox Phoebe Langston Mellody Leighton Charlotte Topping
Chanelle Leonard Molly Lewis Jessica Marshall Jasmine McDonald Nathaniel Wilkinson
Katrina Miles Philip Paige Luke Purcell Jemma Schulze James Young
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 5 5/12/12 09:55:57
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6
CBEC NEWS
Able, Gifted and Talented Update
Our annual Rising Stars event took place
during a very busy summer term. 25 of our
most able Year 9 English students worked
with Mrs Marples, Head of Media at
Casterton and Mr Bowers, A-level Media at
Rutland County College to produce a ‘Film
in a Day’. See Mrs Marples’ account of the
day.
Our most able Mathematicians
were on the other side of the
college pitting their wits against
the Stock Exchange, aided and
abetted by Mr Kettle and Mrs
Heggie. The pupils are given
‘money’ to invest in fictitious
companies and commodities to
build up their own portfolio of
shares. Over the course of a notional week, students have to
react to breaking news stories and decide whether to buy or sell
shares accordingly. Congratulations to Ollie Stephenson and
Noa Rogers who retired incredibly wealthy having dominated
from the start. Again my thanks to the staff involved without
whom days like these do not happen.
Staying with Maths, Mr Kettle is leading
after school sessions for selected Year
7 and 8 able Mathematicians.
This term the students are cracking
ciphers in the National Cipher Challenge
as well as looking at ‘Mathemagics’
(very good Mr Kettle… ) and early 2013
will see the Maths department concentrating on preparing for
the various Maths challenges. More details can be found in Mr
Kettle’s write ups.
The Science department guided our able Year 11 scientists to
even greater glory at the Gravity Fields Festival in September.
Mr Hainsworth gives more details in his report.
The long summer holiday can potentially be a time of relative
isolation and lack of stimulation for some Able, Gifted and
Talented students, and so, as part of the programme, we piloted
a summer activity programme aimed at our very brightest Year
9 youngsters.
I wrote to the parents/guardians of 24 of our most able Year 9
students who, we felt, would benefit from exposure to a range
of interesting and engaging tasks. Although the project was
voluntary, we hoped that the collection of ideas and enrichment
activities would promote further independence for our most
gifted, help boost future attainment and keep students on
tip-top learning form - particularly as they make the leap from
Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4 and the demands of GCSE study.
The tasks were not tied to any particular curriculum area but
categorised as having an English, Geography or Science theme
depending on which task was chosen. The programme was
well received and we hope to offer a similar programme to our
most able Year 9 students this academic year. Well done to
all of those current Year 10 students who took part. A special
mention must go to Megan Waites for her fantastic collection of
nonsense poems and Ollie Stephenson who designed tunnels
across the various oceans to improve trade between continents.
Genius both!
The year ahead promises to be another very busy one.
Mentoring has commenced with our gifted students in Year 10
and I hope to look into the potential of e-mentoring between
Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 Rutland County College students
too. The Able, Gifted and Talented register will be updated in
January following the nomination of Year 7 students by Subject
Leaders and their teams.
I look forward to reporting on all Able, Gifted and Talented news
in the next edition of Novus.
Mrs C Rawes – Able, Gifted and Talented Coordinator
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 6 5/12/12 09:55:59

CBEC NEWS
Able, Gifted and Talented Media Students
On Thursday 12th July 25 Year 9 Able,
Gifted and Talented pupils took part in
‘Moviemakers’, a media themed event.
They worked in teams of five to come
up with an idea for a film, to include
a detailed plot synopsis, character
profiles and marketing ideas. One
member of each group produced a
teaser-trailer, using Windows
Moviemaker software. The groups
then pitched their ideas to a panel of
judges, including their peers and Mr
Bower AKA ‘Media Dave’ from Rutland County College. The winning
team presented an impressive and original pitch about Colin, a vegetarian zombie! Sophie Studd, Hannah Fyall, Rhianna Aspinall,
Cameron McKean and Joe Taylor were the proud recipients of a £10 voucher each. There were also prizes for artistic effort and the
best trailer.
Mrs Marples and Mr Bowers were both impressed by the hard work and enthusiasm of the students.
Mrs J Marples - Subject Leader, Media Studies
Gravity Fields Festival - Cummins’ Science
and Technology Careers Day
Casterton Business and
Enterprise College was
invited to take part in
Cummins’ Science and
Technology careers day as
part of the Gravity Fields
Festival that took place at the
end of September.
Four local schools attended and it was
designed to inspire students in Years
10-13 to continue studying STEM
(Science Technology Electronics and
Mathematics) subjects and pursue a
career within the SET (Science Engineering and
Technology) sector. The students gained a valuable insight
into how an engineering company operates with a tour of the
plant – showing how generators were built.
As well as the plant tour there were various other activities
including a career session, the story of the life of a
generator, how to write a curriculum vitae and covering letter
and finally a competition for the students to build their own
generator!
All the students had a real interest in continuing to study
STEM subjects. Some were thinking about going on to
University and some were considering undertaking an
apprenticeship. The staff at Cummins showed the students
how exciting and interesting they found their work and gave
a really positive view of working in the SET sector.
We are developing an Engineering Apprenticeship offer at
Rutland County College.
The competition showed how the students had absorbed the
information throughout the day with all the teams
successfully building a working generator! The winning
team, Casterton Business and Enterprise College, won
prizes donated by Cummins and Gocracker.
Mr M Hainsworth – Science
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 7 5/12/12 09:56:00
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8
CBEC NEWS
Wilds Lodge Music Festival
On Thursday 27th September Miss Form accompanied the
Year 11 Music Practitioner students from Casterton
Business & Enterprise College, to Wilds Lodge School to
perform at their annual Music Festival – and what a success
it was!
The festival, organised by Wilds Lodge’s Head of Music, Paul
McClure, is put on for the primary schools in the area. Paul
invites all local colleges to showcase their talent and our
students were extremely impressive.
Bob Cliffe, James Caine, Kane Coulson and Matt Rush all
performed two songs each – one of which was their own work.
We were the only College that performed original material and
it went down extremely well - the audience members were
screaming like it was a Justin Bieber concert! Not only that, but
all four students were signing autographs at the end of their set!
Special credit goes to Matt Rush who had some sound issues
during one of his songs. Like a complete pro, Matt managed to
deal with the problem without dropping a line or even a single
beat!
It’s no easy feat writing a song and performing it in front of 150
primary school pupils! Casterton is very proud of you – well
done!
Woman in Black Theatre Trip
We arrived in London on Thursday the 13th of September to
a street heaving with metropolitan traffic. After taking a quick
look around Covent Garden we headed for the gloomy
underground Fortune Theatre to take part in a workshop led
by an experienced actor.
The workshop focused on tension and suspense, and
involved people going up on stage and working with the
props and set to show how the director and actors (although
there are only two in the show!) made us sit on the edge of
our seats. One of the exercises had us cowering in our seats,
screaming, as the door swung open with no one behind it.
Before the performance, we were told some spine chilling
ghost stories about the theatres in the area, including the one
we were in!
The spooky atmosphere didn’t end there… we returned to
the theatre after a leisurely lunch and stroll in Covent Garden
ready to be scared and we weren’t disappointed!
Bob Cliffe
Miss G Form – Music
The Woman in Black was a marvellous interpretation of the
book and cleverly exhibited. The cast interacted well with the
audience having ‘The Women in Black’ travel through the
audience making us jump. We felt as if we were part of the
story demonstrating good use of their drama strategies to
portray the story. They used black outs and the volume level
very effectively to create the feeling of shock within the
audience.
Many thanks to Mrs Ball and Mrs Barnes for organising the
trip, and thanks to the Fortune Theatre for sending shivers
down our spines.
Rebecca McDonnell, Laura Holmes, Olivia Kettleborough,
Alice Eva, Shannon Evans, Hollie Wilson – Year 11
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 8 5/12/12 09:56:02

College Production – Hairspray!
Rehearsals for this superb show are well under way. Acting,
singing and dancing are all being combined in a typical 1960s
look at various equality issues including race and image.
Heroine, Tracy Turnblad (played by Georgia Babb) longs to
dance on the renowned Corny Collins (Tom Watterson) show,
and has to battle with the vicious and prejudiced Von Tussle
women (Alice Eva and Courtney Vernall) in order to get a look
in. Meanwhile, Tracy’s parents; Edna (Jack Woodhouse) and
Wilbur (Cameron McKean) meet up with Motormouth Maybelle
(Lorrina Bardwell) and build the confidence to protest about
racial integration at the TV station. Romance is in the air while
Tracy and the handsome lead dancer Link Larkin (Jack Taylor)
fall in love, alongside repressed and sheltered Penny Pingleton
(Jess Harrison) who falls for the local heartthrob Seaweed (Ben
Bristow). With plenty of great songs and corny gags it promises
to be a good night out. Get your tickets early - with a full cast of
over a hundred students, these tickets will go like hot cakes!
Date for your Diary: Performances are Thursday 31st
January and Friday 1st February 2013.
Merchandise will be available to buy to support the show.
Details will follow through cast members and in college
announcements. There are also opportunities to advertise your
business through our programme sponsorship scheme. For
further details, please contact Mrs Ball at Casterton Business &
Enterprise College.
Mrs S Ball - Drama
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Whenever we thought of Midsummer Night’s
Dream, we thought of classic Shakespearean
costumes and sets. However now, all the Year 11
students that were on this trip think of caravans,
building sites and over the top wedding
dresses, due to this version of ‘A Midsummer
Night’s Dream’ being modernised in conjunction
with the gypsy way of life.
CBEC NEWS
When we first saw the stage and set, we thought they hadn’t
finished building it because it looked like a building site,
however what we didn’t know, until the performance started
was that it was supposed to look like that as it was set on a
building site/caravan site!
When the performance started our worries about the play
were immediately thrown away and we knew that this version
of a Midsummer Night’s Dream, we weren’t going to forget!
The second half of the performance was the most humorous,
especially the scene where the ‘actors’ performed their play
in front of the ‘lovers’ and The Duke and Duchess.
The other scene which was hilarious was where the couples
were getting married. The brides weren’t in traditional
wedding dresses but huge ‘gyspy style’ bright coloured
dresses. The wedding at the end was something of a
spectacle, some of us were close to crying with laughter
when the whole cast burst into a synchronised dance of
LMFAO’s ‘I’m Sexy and I know it.’
This production really made not just us, but everyone we
spoke to think of Shakespeare in a different light. It was
funny, interesting and romantic. All the actors were
incredible and the day was topped off by having the
opportunity of meeting one of the cast members who told us
everything that had been going on backstage. This
performance was amazing and we would definitely
recommend everyone to see it.
Sarah Jones, Jess Harrison – Year 11
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 9 5/12/12 09:56:06
9

CBEC NEWS
The Principal’s Award
In order to receive the Principal’s Award students must earn
150 net points. This is achievement points minus any behaviour
points.
Ms Crosher personally handed out the awards in each House
assembly “I was delighted to award the Principals Award for
2011-12 to these excellent students. These are young people
who are working hard, exceeding expectations and making a
community contribution on a daily basis. Rewarding students is
one of the nicest parts of my job. I hope that I will be awarding
even more recipients next year “
Congratulations and well done to those students who received
the award:
Frances
Copeman
Isaac Pyne GAM
Evie Fountain GEH
Roseanne
GAM
Maiden
Catherine
Waites
Jodie Holwell RSM
10
GAM Gemma Lavers RMD
Charlotte
Dewey
Bethany
Cummings
Courtney
Goodwin
BJP
BMJ
YJD
RSM Ryan Harris YMM
Mrs D Scott - Library and Communications Coordinator
Hairspray News
Recently, trips down the main corridor for staff and students
have taken a lot longer than usual, as everyone wants a peek
at the new Hairspray rehearsals that have now been moved into
the main hall to perfect choreography. If you spot these
interested faces at the door, while performing, it can be
extremely nerve racking. However once you get over the nerves,
you start feeling really proud of the progress made and don’t
mind showing off a little to onlookers passing by.
I’m in the sub chorus, and when we started rehearsals with
‘Good Morning Baltimore,’ it took us weeks just to perfect the
introduction. Back then, it seemed like we’d never finish. Now,
the costume rail is filling up day by day, and the set is coming
together- sending an excited buzz around the cast, fellow
students and staff. Even outside of rehearsals, everyone hums
the Hairspray tunes while walking to class. Sometimes it feels
like the whole school has jumped back to the 1960s! If the
audience enjoys watching the production half as much as we’ve
enjoyed putting it on, then it’s going to the best show Casterton’s
produced so far!
Jenny Eva – Year 9, Arts Correspondent.
Business Students have an
Artistic Lesson
We were very pleased to
welcome Anna Wilson,
the Marketing &
Education Officer at
Stamford Arts Centre,
into the Business Studies
department of Casterton
Business & Enterprise
College.
Anna gave a presentation to
some Year 10 Business Studies
students, about ways in which Stamford Art Centre are
competitive within the local area. From price to promotion,
the presentation was fantastic and a great source of
information for students to begin collecting their research for
the up and coming controlled assessment. It is great for the
College to have the opportunity to work with an innovative
and growing local business that it as the heart of its
community.
Having someone directly linked to the business world visit the
College is an invaluable experience which brings to life the
information our students learn within lesson. Students
listened intently to Anna’s presentation to ensure they
expanded their knowledge even further. We are very grateful
that Anna found time in her busy schedule to talk to our Year
10s.
Mrs A Heggie – Business Studies
Year 9 Students Visit
Curves in Stamford
“
““Curves is very different to a ‘normal’
gym with a wide age range of members.
The youngest members belong to our
age group, whilst the oldest member is
80 years old.”
Jade Griffiths
BTEC Health and Social Care students visited Curves in
Stamford to gain an insight into the fitness programmes on offer
at the female fitness centre, in particular how exercise can
contribute to health improvements of different individuals.
Ms K Bryjova – Health and Social Care
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 10 5/12/12 09:56:08

“
National Cipher Challenge
For the first time, Casterton Business & Enterprise College has
entered a team of students in the National Cipher Challenge.
Organised by the University of Southampton and sponsored by
various prestigious institutions including Trinity College
Cambridge, GCHQ and IBM, the National Cipher Challenge is a
nationwide, online code breaking competition which introduces
students to cryptography work carried out by mathematicians
and computer scientists. Based on the fictional adventures of
Nicholas Hawksmoor, the story unfolds in the form of a series of
encrypted messages for the participants to crack. A small group
of Year 7 and 8 students from Casterton Business & Enterprise
College are currently embroiled in helping Nicholas to decipher
the Last Will and Testament of his disgraced Uncle Tiberius in an
effort to discover the secret of his downfall and defeat his
enemies. As of 1st November, we have successfully completed
the first 4 rounds of the challenge and are eagerly awaiting
the release of the next coded message. We will keep you all
informed of our progress in the next edition of Novus!
Mr P Kettle - Responsible for Mathematical Developments
AS Level Use
of Mathematics
Congratulations go out to Liam Jones, Tom Radley and John
Lin for achieving an AS Level in The Use of Mathematics in
Year 11, a remarkable achievement. They have already made
an impressive start to their A level studies. It has been great
to see so many of our Year 11 students have gone on to
study Mathematics at A level.
Mrs G Mansfield – Mathematics
Year 10 Students Gain
Top Marks in
Mathematics GCSE
One Year Early
A group of talented Year 10 students sat their GCSE in
Mathematics one year early. The College was delighted with the
results which included 8 students gaining the top grade of an A*.
These students accepted the challenge of a one year
accelerated GCSE course which would allow them to study for a
Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics in Year 11. This
extension course is specifically designed for A*/A grade
students with the aim of stretching and challenging our best
and brightest young mathematicians beyond GCSE whilst being
excellent preparation for a Mathematics A Level. All students
did exceedingly well but a special mention should go out to Bob
Cliffe, Maddy Warnes and Alice Eva as they gained almost full
marks in both exams.
Mr S Free – Subject Leader, Mathematics
CBEC NEWS
UK maths challenge
The UK Intermediate Maths Challenge takes place on Thursday
7th February 2013. This is a lively, intriguing multiple choice
question paper, which is designed to stimulate interest in maths.
In recent years, Casterton Business & Enterprise College
students have performed to a very high standard with
approximately a quarter of students gaining certificates of
achievement. In addition to this, certain students have been
invited to compete in follow-on ‘Kangaroo’ rounds and in the
Mathematical Olympiad. Selected students from Year 9, 10 and
11 will be invited to participate in the challenge and to attend
after school sessions in the preceding weeks to familiarize
themselves with the structure of the paper. The Junior
Challenge for Year 7 and 8 will follow in June 2013.
Mr P Kettle - Responsible for Mathematical Developments
Maths Best Ever A and A*
GCSE Results
Our best ever A and A* GCSE Mathematics results were
achieved this year with over 20% of our students achieving
either a grade A or A*. It looks like the extra sessions and
hard work paid off. A great result!
Mr S Free - Subject Leader, Mathematics
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 11 5/12/12 09:56:09
11

CBEC NEWS RCC* NEWS
12
Rutland County College – Opportunities for All
Rutland County College opened its doors to the public in
September with an ‘Open day’. It was a great opportunity
for members of the public to visit the new site and see
first-hand the excellent work that has been done by
builders Willmott Dixon and the Council to re furbish the
conference centre into a very attractive site for Post 16
learning.
Each of the teaching spaces is named after a village in Rutland
and parish councils have supplied old prints of their village
community which are now being displayed in the rooms. This
helps to underline the concept of the building as being friendly,
warm and a representative of the Rutland community.
Representatives of Rutland Parish Councils took the opportunity
to visit the College and have a look at their ‘room’.
The feedback from visitors was overwhelmingly positive.
Oakham resident, Pauline Jenkinson said ‘the building is so
lovely and light – it’s not like a school at all’.
The Taylor family from Melton Mowbray said ‘we have travelled
here today to see the facilities first hand as we have three family
members studying in Year 11. They will definitely be coming
here next September’.
The College has enrolled a record number into Year 12 this
year and is proud that there is a wide curriculum on offer that
provides something for everyone.
This was followed by an Open Evening in October to allow
potential students the opportunity to visit the College and talk to
teachers about next year’s courses.
The evening was a huge success with several hundred in
attendance including the Mayor of Oakham and invited guests
who wanted to look around and see what is going on at the
College. Presentations showed how the College is growing
rapidly (53% increase in enrolments
this year) and how the curriculum is
also expanding. Over 30 students in
Year 12 now have 7 or more grade
A*/A GCSEs. Our own Russell Group
University Entry Programme led by an Oxbridge graduate and
an excellent record of value added ensures that the
academically brightest and best no longer need to leave
Rutland to continue their education.
We also offer a hugely exciting programme of apprenticeships
and a bridging year. Students interested in Engineering,
Construction, Hospitality, Public and Uniformed Services and
many other vocational areas were told about our new skills
centre that will be available from September 2013.
We were delighted to welcome several young people who had
intended to go to Bourne Grammar and Kings in Peterborough
this year but instead decided to come to Rutland County
College and have not regretted it for a moment. Two students
spoke of why they chose Rutland County College; Paige Wells
had gone to Wyggeston QE in Leicester and then switched
to us and is doing extremely well. Patrick Creedy had private
school education before joining us and feels it has been his best
educational experience ever and is also doing very well. Both
are applying to Russell group universities this year.
This, our first Open Evening at the new campus, was very well
attended and all seemed to admire the lovely new building.
The atmosphere was marvellous as prospective students, and
their parents, discussed their future choices. Drama students
performed a production from Educating Rita which was well
received by onlookers. Thanks to all staff and students who
helped to make the evening the great success that it was.
Mr C Smith – Head of Centre, Rutland County College
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 12 5/12/12 09:56:12

RCC* NEWS
Adam Regis - Year 13
Last Summer Mrs Darroch told us
about some volunteer placements
at ‘The Shed Café’ in Oakham.
Claire Parker, Emily Sykes and I were lucky enough to get
an interview and were successful in our application for a
placement!! We worked several shifts during the holidays
and when we returned to College in September we were
really pleased to hear that the manager had asked if we
would continue to volunteering during term time. This
fitted in well with our College week as the café is open on
Wednesday afternoons during our electives sessions. It is a
brilliant opportunity for us to get some work experience and
we really enjoy it.
Emily Eldridge – Year 12
Moving College: Initially I went to New College Stamford but
decided it wasn’t for me. Then I heard about the Foundation
Learning Programme at Rutland County College. I am now
enjoying my time at College very much and have made lots
of new friends. Foundation learning is great, we do so many
subjects- English, Maths, IT, ASDAN, Home Cooking Skills,
Drama, Science, Textiles, Art, Photography, British Sign
Language, Making Choices Programme, First Aid, TITAN
and Bread Making! All in one year, we are kept so busy!
The Great Romanian
Bake-off
The Rutland County College charity group kicked off the first
of this year’s projects with a very well received bake sale. The
money raised was to cover the cost of shipping parcels for the
annual shoe-box appeal. The shoe boxes, full of vital supplies,
are collated and then sent to orphanages in Africa and
Romania. The bake sale, featuring goods made by staff and
students at Rutland County College, raised over £50. This
covered the cost of shipping out the first twenty boxes and left
some money for supplies.
Ms C Mitchell - Psychology
Kelly Davies, Tom Stead, Katrina Miles, Fran Cook – Year 12
CBEC NEWS
Building a Foundation for Success
Jamie Scopes – Year 12
I joined Rutland County College this year. I am on the
Foundation Learning Programme and attend College
Monday to Friday. I really enjoy Textiles as we are creating
wire birds and learning how to weave different fabrics to get
different effects. At the end of the year we will hold an
exhibition of all of our work. All our lessons are fun and
interesting and I will come out with a great CV at the end of
the two years. I think Rutland County College is an excellent
place to study!
Mrs C Darroch - Foundation Learning Co-ordinator
A2 Geography and
Geology - Arran Trip
On Friday 28th
September a small but
very select group of
Geographers and
Geologists met at
Peterborough Station
ready for their epic
journey to Arran - 10
hours in total. After two
railway journeys and one
very long game of Monopoly (Jonny Giblin is a Monopoly
master - don’t let him get Mayfair) we were boarding the
ferry to take us to the Isle of Arran.
The Geologists had to work hard from the off, getting to
grips with strange new rocks, dip and strike, and identifying
rocks. Our keen Geographer, Sarah Jane Clarke, had
carried out a pilot study to support work later in the week.
We looked at how beach material changes with longshore
drift; this produced a lot of data to work on for the exam.
Day three saw us battling wind and horizontal rain whilst
looking at dykes. The Geologists successfully completed
their assessed coursework which involved mapping yet
more dykes. The journey back saw a return Monopoly
match - if Rhys Moxham changes his mind about University
then a career in finance would suit him fine.
Mr G Parsons – Geography
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 13 5/12/12 09:56:16
13

CBEC RCC* NEWS
A Level Examination Results 2012
A terrific 100% of BTEC and 96% of A level students
successfully passed their courses this year. Students were
rewarded for their hard work and the vast majority were able to
secure a place at their first choice of University or have already
taken up employment locally.
“It’s not just about exam results these days” said Carl Smith,
Head of Centre, “we also pride ourselves on equipping
students with the skills they need to be successful in their
chosen careers, whether at university or in the workplace”.
Physics is an important subject which allows us to
understand the world around us, leading to exciting
careers in Engineering, Medicine, Scientific Research
and Development, to name but a few.
The widely reported national trend of decreasing numbers of
girls taking Physics at AS and A level has had some corners
of the scientific world wondering why so few girls are
interested in this fascinating subject. Nationally the
percentage of girls taking Physics at a post-16 level has
remained at around 20% for the past ten years according to
data from the institute of Physics. But recently numbers have
declined even further nationwide.
However at Rutland County College the number of girls
taking part in post 16 Physics is well above the national
average! 30.5% of AS Physics students are female, and they
really enjoy the subject too!
Two Rutland County College students explained why they
were attracted to studying A-Level Physics.
“Physics answers the big questions” said Lydia Quine
“Universities are impressed by a Physics A level” added Ellie
James.
14
The small teaching groups, which are a feature of the
College, paid off handsomely. Students from all three Rutland
Secondary Schools did well; Steven Lambert, a former Catmose
College student, was awarded an A (Mathematics),
B (Business) and C (Psychology), James Collier, a former
Uppingham Community College student, got an A (Chemistry),
A (Mathematics) and A (Physics) and Robyn Benedikz, who
came from CBEC, and got an A, two B grades and a C.
Ms V Crosher – Principal
Rutland County College Bucking the Physics Trend
Several females taking part in the A2 course gave their
reasons for studying the subject.
“It is interesting and it will allow me to take the next step
towards Mechanical Engineering, which is what I want to do
in the future” explained Hannah Barley.
“I find it really interesting and needed Physics to continue into
a career of either Physiotherapy or Astrophysics” said Sarah
Lark.
Hayley White remarked that, “I enjoy Astrophysics and all the
magnetic, electric and gravitational field stuff. Quarks and
some Mechanics too!”
The number of females studying Physics at post-16 level
may be dropping nationally but Rutland County College is
keeping its girls interested and active in this stimulating and
inspiring subject.
Principal Victoria Crosher said “I’m pleased that we buck the
national trend and girls are seeing Physics as a very
attractive subject at ‘A’ level. It’s very well taught at Rutland
County College and this is reflected in very credible results”.
Mr J Astles – Science
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 14 5/12/12 09:56:18

Healthy Mind, Healthy Body Day
CBEC NEWS
RCC* NEWS
Students at Rutland County College enjoyed meeting health
specialists at a Healthy Mind, Healthy Body Day on Friday 2nd
November. The session was well attended and very informative.
Representatives from various agencies attended including:
Swanswell Drug and Alcohol Support Service
Smoking Cessation
Chlamydia Screening Service
LASS Leicestershire AIDS Support Service
Community Safer Sex Partnership
Trade
Rutland Youth Service
Something to Get Up for - A2 Sociology
As A2 students the College Open
Evening gave us an opportunity to
express our thoughts and experiences
on our first year of Sociology. We used
the evening to present our work from
the previous year and talk to potential
students. We encouraged them to get
involved in our subject with some fun
activities, challenges and tubs of pick
‘n’ mix.
We spoke to the students and parents
about the wide range of topics we have
covered and how relevant the subject is
in everyday life.
Sociology has given us a more open
minded approach to both local and
global issues, such as differences in
educational achievement between boys
and girls, which we have all seen in our
own lives. We have also enjoyed
studying family patterns, domestic
violence and feminism. We realised
once you develop a sociological
imagination, you observe and
understand many social phenomenon
that you may not have noticed before.
Our lessons have included a lot of very
open and lively discussions, which are
in depth and challenging but everyone
gets involved and has a say. The
course also gives us the opportunity to
go on trips. We have attended
Leicester University for a Sociology
conference on childhood, and visited
the Nagarjuna Buddhist Centre in
connection with our studies on
Religion. We love a good day out!
Tilly Usher, Belinda Marsden, Annie Hickman,
Emily Fox, Kathryn Weston – Year 13
Edale Trip - Geography Fieldwork
Bright and early on the second week of the term, the AS
Geography group set off on our first field trip of the course to
Edale in Derbyshire. The sun was shining all the way to Edale
so naturally, when we got off the coach at Edale the heavens
opened. The rain poured down and we soon learnt that short lag
times meant that rivers rose very quickly indeed. We managed
to complete the measurements for the first stream. The worst
part was trying to find 15 pebbles from the stream bed without
our wellingtons filling with water.
The next stop was a slightly larger stream and it was thought
too dangerous for students to go in and measure, so only those
who were deemed expendable (teachers) were allowed to take
measurements. Eventually the sun came out and we took the
opportunity to have some lunch before walking to the last site
where we managed to carry out the necessary measurements.
Getting out of the classroom and gaining some hands on
experience is a vital part of the course and all students made
the most of the opportunity.
Mr G Parsons – Geography
Mrs J Hartshorne – Student Manager
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 15 5/12/12 09:56:22
15

CBEC RCC* NEWS
16
Multicultural Event
In November Health and Social Care students at Rutland
County College hosted a ‘Mini multicultural’ session.
Level 3 students had the opportunity to learn about the
benefits of diversity from guest speakers who represented
Poland, Denmark, Israel and Slovakia. Students were
particularly interested in the differences and similarities their
health and social care systems had with UK. Our visitors
prepared samples of their traditional meals, which only added
to the success of the event.
“I found it really interesting to learn about different cultures
and backgrounds. I enjoyed meeting the guest speakers and
loved their food”. Stephanie Ford
Ms K Bryjova – Health and Social Care
Football Partnership
Stamford AFC Football Development Centre is pleased to
announce that the partnership with Rutland County College
has been launched.
After successful and enjoyable Futsal based training sessions
at Catmose Sports Hall, the Rutland County College scheme
produced its ‘First XI’ squad who featured in a friendly against
local New College Stamford team – the first College match for
over 5 years. It is hoped that this is the beginning of a planned
return to the standard reached by Rutland College, when it was
the winner of the County Cup in 1992!
Mr N Millner - Deputy Head of Centre
Bridging Year Students
The Bridging Year students at Rutland County College will be
working with Young Chamber over the coming months. Each
student on the course will be partnered with a local Business
mentor to help the students with their employability skills. These
skills will also be transferrable in other aspects of their learning.
Miss J Winterbourne - Careers coordinator
Rutland County College
Electives
Students have selected an activity of their choice, from a
number of options, which offer the opportunity to participate
in something which is not related to their academic studies.
Activities on offer include the following:
The Arts – learning to paint in alternative ways
Business Skills – practical help across a range of business
style techniques
Music Practice
Langham and Oakham Primary Schools – helping
younger children with reading skills
Film Club
Fundraising – currently students are concentrating on
Children in Need, and the Africa Xmas Shoebox Appeal
Extended Project Qualification – a research project for an
extra high level qualification, ideal for Entry to Russell group
universities
Learn to play Bridge
Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme
Science at Primary School – helping at North Luffenham
Primary School
Work placements
College Football Team
Drama workshops
Golf at Rutland County Golf Club
Tennis coaching
Girls’ rugby
Jog-a-thon
The electives programme runs each Wednesday afternoon
from approximately 2.00-4.00 pm until the Christmas break.
A second programme will then be offered from February half
term until Easter.
All Year 12 and many Year 13 students have taken the
opportunity to broaden their college experience by
participating in an activity which enhances their skills in our
increasingly competitive world.
Mr N Millner - Deputy Head of Centre
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 16 5/12/12 09:56:24

Phil Packer MBE Visits
Rutland County College
Students and staff of Rutland County College had the
honour of meeting Phil Packer MBE.
Phil is embarking on an inspirational challenge to raise
awareness of adversity in youth. On the 20th January 2012
he launched the BRIT 2012 Challenge to walk 2012 miles
throughout the year of 2012.
Phil suffered a spinal cord injury in 2008 whilst serving in Iraq
with Her Majesty’s Forces and was told he would never walk
again. He has gone on to not only walk but has achieved
many challenges and raised lots of money for the injured
armed forces.
In 2009 Phil rowed the Channel, walked the London
Marathon over 14 days and hauled himself up El Capitan.
He raised 1.3 million pounds for the wounded that year and
became Fundraiser of the Year at the Pride of Britain Awards
and was also given the Helen Rollason Award at the BBC
Sports Personality of the Year.
In 2010, Phil turned his attention and main focus to
supporting young people who face adversity. He climbed the
3 Peaks in 72 hours for Sport Relief and then completed the
London Marathon in 26 hours for 26 charities, walking each
mile with a young person from each of the charities. Phil is
also the Founder and Non-Paid Chief Executive of the British
Inspiration Trust.
As part of the ‘BRIT 2012 Challenge’ Phil is making his way
around every County of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in
order to meet the young people of Britain, learn from them,
CBEC NEWS
RCC* NEWS
spread awareness and gain support. The aim is to help all
young people post trauma by building a centre in West
Sussex where all charities can send their young people (16 –
25) who face adversity. The centre will offer short residential
courses aimed at building self-worth and self-confidence.
Phil gave a short talk to Year 12 students followed by a 4 mile
walk around Oakham accompanied by 30 Rutland County
College students and staff.
Another student, Jacob Dobson went home and said ‘Phil
Packer is an amazing man and if I was half as inspirational
and brave as him I would be very proud.’
The College would like to wish Phil every success with
his 2012 mile challenge as he continues his journey
around the UK meeting our youth.
Mrs J Hartshorne – Student Advisor
Business Breakfast at Rutland County College
“How to double your income in 5
years” that was the theme of the
presentation given by Mr Roy Wood of
St James’s Place Wealth Management
at the third Business Breakfast hosted
by the BTEC National Level 3
Business students at the Rutland
County College on Friday 5th October
2012.
In a break from tradition this year the
students hosted the Business Breakfast
event on behalf of the Rutland and
Stamford Business Network (RSBN)
in conjunction with Ben Callaghan and
Deborah King who organise the
bi-monthly event at Barnsdale Lodge
Hotel for members and guests.
23 businesses enjoyed a continental style
breakfast followed by the forty second
round, where Robert Hughes from Anna’s
Hope charity gave an insight into the
work of the charity; namely raising funds
to pay for a nurse to support young
children with brain tumours. The RSBN
has supported the charity with all
proceeds from the event.
The students yet again excelled in their
professional approach to hosting the
breakfast from the planning to delivery on
the day. Hambleton Bakery very kindly
supplied a range of products for the
breakfast enabling students to make an
additional contribution to the cheque for
£270.09 presented to Robert Hughes by
Hollie Macmenemey and Lorna Boundy
together with two RSBN representatives
Ben Callaghan and Deborah King.
So why did the students host a business
breakfast? Dan Worthey, who managed
the breakfast together with Liam Patel
said, “We wanted to put all of the
business skills we have learned on the
BTEC National course into practice
for the Business Event unit and were
pleased when Ben Callaghan asked us
to host the breakfast on behalf of the
RSBN.”
Rosie Bent, responsible for catering,
commented “It gave us the opportunity to
network and to continue to make further
contacts with local businesses.”
The feedback from the businesses has
been extremely positive and encouraging
and we hope to continue hosting the
breakfast in years to come.
Enquiries about BTEC Level 3 Business
course can be found at
www.rutlandcountycollege.com
Liam Patel – Year 13
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 17 5/12/12 09:56:26
17

CBEC RCC* NEWS
18
Psychology Experiment at Alton Towers
During the half term, Rutland County College made
its annual visit to Alton Towers. With two buses and
seventy eight students this was the biggest year in
the history of the trip.
The expedition gives A Level Psychology students an
opportunity to take part in an experiment in which they
are both the participants and the experimenter. Armed
with lists of random words, the students were aiming to
assess whether the intensity of the ride affected their
recall. Prior to the trip, students had selected five rides
of differing intensity, leading to the peculiar sight of some
eighteen year old students on the ‘Squirrel Nutkins’ ride
with the 4 year olds. The experiment continued until they
reached the most intense ride of the day. The results
were clear to see; the higher the intensity of the ride, the
poorer the students’ memories became.
A-Level Sociology teacher and self-confessed
‘Rollercoaster virgin’ Ms Dunsmuir had a truly
impressive day, going on five out of the six biggest rides
at the park. The Alton Towers experience received
glowing reviews from staff and students alike and the
day was spent laughing and screaming in equal measure
and, of course, it’s all in the name of Science!
Midwifery Unit
Charlotte Smith - For my year 13 work experience I went to
Leicester General Hospital. It is also linked with the
De Montfort University in Leicester which is one of my
university choices.
I spent my first day on the antenatal and postnatal ward looking
after new-born babies. I helped with the antenatal and postnatal
checks and observed an epidural being put in. Another day I
was on the labour ward with a woman who was having her first
child, she was term +12 which means that she was full term
and 12 days. She had been induced into labour 2 days earlier.
Working with this lady was interesting, as every birth is different
but it took a while for her to get into established labour.
On my third day I had to change into scrubs and was allowed to
observe a patient pregnant with twin girls having an elective
caesarean section. Later I worked with a midwife doing the
‘drug round’, giving the patients antibiotics, painkillers and
injections. We also took their pulse, blood pressure and
temperature. A nursery nurse came with us and did the
observations on the babies to make sure they were healthy. She
also showed me how to help mothers feed their babies if the
baby wasn’t feeding at all or couldn’t suck or couldn’t latch on to
the breast.
On my fourth day I was in the antenatal clinic and my last day
was spent on the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for
babies born prematurely. Most of the babies are admitted to
NICU because they are born before 37 weeks of pregnancy and
they have a low birth weight of less than 5.5 pounds, or they
have a medical condition which requires specialist care. Twins,
Ms C Mitchell – Psychology and Mr D Bower - Media
triplets, and other multiple births are often moved to NICU, as
they are often born earlier and are smaller than single babies.
I thoroughly enjoyed my work experience as it gave me the
determination to continue with my dream to be a midwife.
Charlotte Smith
Charlotte Smith – Year 13
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 18 5/12/12 09:56:29

Freshers’ Taster Day
A record 250 students attended a very special ‘Freshers’
Taster Day’ at Rutland County College on Tuesday 3rd
July. The College decided to add a further twist to its usual
taster day process by incorporating the Olympic Torch.
Undaunted by persistent and heavy rain, the College, held a
‘Party in the Park’ opposite with music, activities, a hot air
balloon and a BBQ to entertain the crowds. The torch was
passing right outside the front of the college and the students
took full advantage by lining the streets and creating a great
atmosphere.
Freshers’ Taster Day is just one of a whole series of new
innovations introduced by the College to ensure students
are given careful guidance to guarantee they get on the right
courses immediately. Head of Centre, Carl Smith, said “we want
to educate young people for the real jobs that are out there by
giving them the essential skills employers and universities are
looking for so we place great importance on the advice and
guidance in the induction process”.
Mr C Smith – Head of Centre, Rutland County Colleges
Work Placements in
BTEC Level 3 Health and
Social Care
All Level 3 Health and Social Care students spend 100 hours
on placement in each of the two years of the course as an
essential part of their learning and development. This year
we have developed a range of placements with students
choosing to work in various health or social care settings in a
variety of different roles enabling them to work with people of
many ages.
Mrs. M Ticehurst – Health and Social Care
Typically, the rain started as the
coach left Rutland County College
but abated at the exact moment of
arrival, leaving students
clamouring to take pictures of the
resulting rainbow. The day began
along the shoreline of Cromer, with
students capturing images of the
famous pier and shore.
CBEC NEWS
RCC* NEWS
Art Trip to Cromer
A level students of Art, Graphics
and Photography descended on
the peaceful Norfolk coast line
earlier this term in order to take
photos and make sketches on
the very open ended topic of
‘Surroundings’ using a
combination of digital and film
cameras.
The next stop was the picturesque village of Wells Next The
Sea, for a different set of surroundings, framed by the small
fishing port. The day was a great success; the students were
brilliant, with the highlight perhaps being AS student Adam
Bolster achieving the seemingly impossible by winning a cuddly
toy on one of the grab machines in a Cromer arcade.
Mr D Bower – Media
Post 16
Construction
Construction has now expanded to being taught to
Post 16 students as part of the Rutland County College
Bridging Year programme.
Students have enthusiastically enrolled onto the new
course with varying knowledge or skills in construction.
Some have successfully completed a 2 year BTEC
Construction course in Years 10 and 11 while others have
had no formal training until now.
All students are progressing well and are on track for a
BTEC qualification, which they will receive on completion
of the course next summer. They also gain valuable work
experience during the course and will be advised on
apprenticeship opportunities.
All in all its going to be a busy year ahead which will give
students the confidence, qualifications and skills for that
first ‘step on the ladder’ in the Construction industry.
Mr A Shirley – Construction
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 19 5/12/12 09:56:31
19

CBEC NEWS
Year 7 Team Building Day
Year 7 Team building day was a fantastic day for all those taking
part. All the students seemed to enjoy the opportunity to bond
together as a year group in this annual event. The weather was
absolutely brilliant and we took part in a number of activities
which enabled us to gain confidence and form new friendships.
The College staff were joined by the Royal Air Force Outreach
Team, Rutland Police and a Zumba instructor. This allowed Year
7 to enjoy a carousel of different team building activities. The
RAF focused on us being able to understand and follow
instructions and react quickly. This caused a lot of laughter and
confusion when someone failed to take things in. For example,
one of the games was to make a letter in the alphabet; using
your body with other people and it was a race to beat the
opposing team. The Rutland Police organised knockout tag
Strawberry Tea at Casterton
Business & Enterprise College
A fantastic turnout of staff, Academy Directors and friends of the
College Principal made the fundraising event an outstanding
success. A total of £600 was raised, and this has been divided
equally between the charity ‘Breast Cancer Care’ and ‘The
Glenfield Breast Cancer Unit Patients’ Comfort Fund’.
Scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream were served and
a fantastically successful raffle, auction and ‘guess the weight of
the cake’ all added to the enjoyment of the event.
In recent times three members of staff have been successfully
treated for breast cancer so this was very much a ‘personal’
event for staff at the College.
20
Mrs M Sheehan - PA to Principal/Office Manager
rugby which was very physical and great fun. Zumba was a
challenge and it was amazing to see how many people had two
left feet!
College staff worked really hard to make the day so enjoyable
and a special thanks to Mrs Barker, Mrs Fraser and Mr Bray who
put on the traditional yummy barbeque for the whole year group.
Attendance Policy
Hannah Lewis – Year 7
Good attendance is crucial in enabling your child to achieve to
their full potential. We are always looking at ways to improve
attendance and for this reason the Academy Directors have
approved changes to our school policy.
Since September 2010 the College no longer authorises
requests for holiday during term time. A request for leave of
absence form needs to be completed and returned to the
College, notifying us of your intention to take your child out of
school. However, the absence will not be approved and the
holiday will be coded as unauthorised. As the parent/carer, you
may be liable to a fine. Failure to pay the fine may result in court
action being taken. Holiday will only be authorised in
exceptional circumstances and with prior agreement from the
Principal. If the holiday is due to work commitments, a letter
supporting the absence must be supplied by your employer.
This change brings us in line with many of the other schools in
Rutland, thereby creating cohesion and consistency.
We have also introduced fixed penalty notices for students
whose attendance falls below the required target set by the
Local Authority. This will only occur if there has been no
improvement following intervention by our Attendance Officer
and the Social Inclusion Development Officer for the Local
Authority.
Mrs W Fraser - Attendance Manager
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 20 5/12/12 09:56:34

Combine Farming Heritage Project
Between February and June, nine Year 7 students took part
in the Combine Farming Heritage Project. This was a unique
chance for our students to gain a better understanding of a
central part of the history of our local area. The project involved
schools from across the East Midlands and was made possible
with the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Casterton Business & Enterprise College represented Rutland
and our students participated in a range of activities and visits to
local sites.
Workshop activities included visits to Home Farm to learn
traditional skills such as hedge planting; a visit to the county
archive in Leicester; map-making workshops; a visit to Melton
Mowbray cattle auctions and interviews with people from the
local village that gave the students fascinating insights into our
local history.
BAFTA Games Concept
Design Awards
The next generation of potential computer games
designers began their careers with entries to the BAFTA
Games Concept Design Awards. Year 7 students had to
come up with a unique concept for a game and construct
the game play, storyline and characters. During the
process students discovered that making a good computer
game is not as easy as it sounds!
Special mention must go to Matthew Murr who has not
only designed his own game, but has also spent many
extra hours building it so that he now has a really excellent
playable game.
Ms L Goddard – Subject Leader, IT
CBEC NEWS
The work resulting from this project has been put together into a
touring exhibition that has already taken in the Rutland County
Museum in Oakham and other prominent venues across the
East Midlands. The exhibition is touring from September 2012
to December 2013. Farm history boxes and publications have
been made, providing a project legacy, while a project website
is currently being developed.
During the project, our students also had the opportunity to
learn new digital photography skills, record oral history
interviews, create new maps, work with HD video and share
their findings. All in all, this was an excellent project, and we
hope that similar opportunities will be available to our students
in the future.
Mr T Coxall – Subject Leader, History
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 21 5/12/12 09:56:35
21

CBEC NEWS
22
In the summer term all our
Year 8 students experienced a
full day of Chinese language
and culture. The Chinese flag
was flying high and
throughout the school the
delicious smells of Chinese
cooking and the memorable
chants permeated.
We were fortunate to have teachers from the Djanogly Academy
in Nottingham; Gina, Xiaoxiao and Rui, and Suzie Brearley, who
is involved in the ‘Connecting Classrooms’ initiative, to deliver
the Chinese lessons using songs, games, challenges and
chopsticks.
Richard Auciello, a qualified instructor and frequent visitor to
school, taught the basics of Tai Chi and Tae Kwan Do,
encouraging leaps and high kicks from all involved.
In the food room, teachers Mrs Ward and Mrs James chopped
and diced efficiently to enable all the students to cook and taste
the Sichuan Spicy Pork Noodle dish in the allotted time.
International Enterprise China Day 2012
French Language Assistant Tutors Students
Adnan Nalic, our French language assistant, is working with
staff in the Modern Foreign Languages department in
Casterton Business & Enterprise College and Rutland County
College this year.
Adnan comes from St Etienne in France. He has a degree in
English Literature and History and is completing a Masters
degree in ‘Teaching French as a Foreign Language’. Adnan is
tri-lingual; speaking French, Serbo-Croat and English
fluently and hopes to become a specialist teacher of French.
He loves reading and his favourite authors are Hemingway
and Fitzgerald. Adnan likes playing video games and football
and this year he hopes to watch some Premier League
matches in England. In the October holiday Adnan enjoyed
visiting London for the first time and, as he is particularly
interested in Renaissance Art, spent several hours in the
Students learnt the Chinese number system, and other areas of
the language including ordering food and drink, sports, family
members and colours. Other activities included dressing in
traditional Chinese clothes, using chop sticks and role play.
Students also earned stickers and fortune cookies and a
thoroughly enjoyable day was had by all.
Mrs F Thompson - Subject Leader, Modern Foreign Languages
British Museum.
Adnan is working with A
level students at Rutland
County College and Year
9, 10 and 11 students at
Casterton Business &
Enterprise College. He is
also teaching Year 5 and
6 at Casterton Primary
School. We are delighted
to welcome Adnan and wish him a
very successful year.
Mrs F Thompson - Subject Leader, Modern Foreign Languages
Year 8 Modern Foreign Languages Able, Gifted and Talented Day
In July, fifteen of our talented French students
went to Uppingham Community College to spend
the day working with Year 8 students from
Catmose College and Uppingham Community
College.
The students worked well in three mixed college groups and
learned Mandarin, performing Japanese theatre and creating
Asian art. After the Chinese noodle lunch, eaten together, each
group performed one activity to an audience made up of the
other groups.
Mrs F Thompson - Subject Leader, Modern Foreign Languages
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 22 5/12/12 09:56:37

CBEC NEWS
Warm Welcome for New Service Families
Joining the College
All students, from service families, joining Casterton
Business & Enterprise College in August 2012 were
invited to come along with their parents and siblings
for an informal ‘getting to know you’ day. This was
organised by Mrs Quigley, Forces Liaison Manager for
Casterton Business & Enterprise College.
The aim of the day was to allow service families who
recently moved from Cyprus to Kendrew Barracks in
Cottesmore to take a tour of the college and meet various
staff members, including the Principal, Ms Crosher. They
also had the chance to ask questions and share information
to ensure a smooth transition is achieved for the students.
At lunchtime, beneath glorious sunshine, staff, parents and
students enjoyed a hog roast whilst taking the opportunity to
mingle and really get to know each other.
Mrs Denise Hack, mother of 13 year old Rhys Hack, was
very impressed.
Casterton Business & Enterprise College
was pleased to welcome Bart Hellyer,
High Sheriff of Rutland, in September. Bart
explained that he is the Sheriff for one year
and expressed how much he had been
looking forward to visiting the College. He
was accompanied by his PA, Julie.
After coffee with Ms Crosher, Bart and
Julie had a tour of the site. They joined
lessons in History where he was able to
explain to Year 9 students the historical
origins of the High Sheriff role in medieval
times, and watched Year 10 in Art doing
still life work. He went on to observe the
Year 11 girls doing aerobics with Mrs Kato.
‘It’s changed since I was at school’
commented Bart.
“We have been made very welcome. Normally we don’t
have much choice which school our children attend but we
had the choice of several in this area. We chose Casterton
Business & Enterprise College because we were impressed
with their Ofsted report and it is a small friendly College
which will be good for my son coming from a very small
school in Cyprus. Another reason is that staff from the
College visited us in Cyprus way back in February 2012 and
gave us so much information. Today we have been given yet
more information. It has been really good, we feel really well
prepared. My older daughter is also joining Rutland County
College at Barleythorpe. We went to view the new site and it
is really nice.”
Rhys also added how welcome he felt and that he had really
enjoyed the hog roast!
The day was a resounding success, helping to alleviate the
usual worries and nerves that accompany moving to a new
school.
Mrs D Scott – Library & Communications Coordinator
Bart Hellyer, High Sheriff Visits Casterton Business &
Enterprise College
Bart works with the Princes Trust so was
very interested to hear that Rutland County
College works closely with the charity in
their Foundation Learning programme in
Year 12 and 13.
Bart was also pleased that the College is
proud of being seen as inclusive and to
know that disabled youngsters are well
integrated and benefit from individual
learning programmes closely tailored to
their needs. All youngsters need a chance
to flourish and respond to the care and
attention that is given at Casterton
Business & Enterprise College and
Rutland County College.
Ms V Crosher - Principal
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 23 5/12/12 09:56:39
23

CBEC NEWS
Roald Dahl Day Celebrations
Too much fun to celebrate for one day only, the Library
continued to celebrate Roald Dahl Day for about a fortnight. The
fun began on 12th September, the evening before Roald Dahl
Day, when students Librarians joined Mrs Scott and her
daughter Miss Scott in the food room for a truly disgustingly
wonderful baking session.
Some marvellous creations emerged from the ovens with only
one disastrous failed fudge blob (that wouldn’t blob, it did taste
wonderful though Sophie). The recipes came from ‘Roald’s
Revolting Recipe Book’ and all featured in his books. Amongst
the tasty delights were Plushnuggets, Pishlets, that could make
you sing like a nightingale (from Giraffe, the Pelly and Me),
Hornets Stewed in Tar (from The BFG) and Mrs Twits Eyeball
Cakes – yes I said eyeball cakes. All of the baked goods went
on sale in ‘Roald’s Revolting Restaurant’ which students and
staff enjoyed very much.
On the official Roald Dahl Day we were extremely lucky to be in
the company of Mrs Hall who performed Roald Dahl’s infamous
24
poem ‘The Three Little Pigs’. Dressed as Miss Riding Hood,
Mrs Hall made us giggle and gasp with surprises around every
corner. It would be hard to decide who enjoyed the performance
more, the students and Mrs Scott or Mrs Hall. Fantastically
funny!
Students also helped fill out peaches to put on the Roald Dahl
book poll and many students took Peach-grams home to roll
around the world. Mrs Scott is looking forward to receiving
photos of some of the students’ Peach-grams so they can go
on display next to ‘Jim Bob’ (Mrs Scott’s peach who is currently
travelling from Germany to Cumbria).
A special thank you to Mrs Hall and Miss Scott for all your help
in making the event that little bit more special.
We raised a fabulous £82 towards our fund to build a Library in
the Developing World. The total now stands at £215.
Mrs D Scott – Library & Communications Coordinator
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 24 5/12/12 09:56:41

Casterton Business & Enterprise College Open Evening
Active Rutland Community
Sports Awards 2012
Callum Rowley won Young Sportsman of the year for under
16’s and in a very strong category Megan Rowley was awarded
Junior Sportswoman of the year for under 14’s.
Well done to Callum and Megan.
Hannah Lewis – Year 7
RFT Get Creative
During Camo Day, which coincided with Year 6 Transition Day,
RFT got involved in a marshmallow and spaghetti tower building
competition. The vertical tutor system means that teams were
made up of Year 10s, 9s, 8s, 7s, and 6s. It was highly
competitive and extremely imaginative. The photo shows the
winning team; Lui Carrasco, Adam Turner and James Reseigh.
Mrs F Thompson - Tutor, RFT
Literacy
CBEC NEWS
Students and staff created an exciting
evening of events to give prospective
pupils, and their parents, a flavour of
what Casterton is all about. Right across
the curriculum youngsters had the
opportunity to take part in various
activities ranging from baking in the
Food room to travelling back in time
within the History department. The
climbing wall was a particular favourite
as was ‘Roalds Revolting Restaurant’
in the Library. To say the atmosphere
was lively would be an
understatement with many parents
commenting on the enthusiasm of our
staff and students.
Another evening to be proud of!
Mrs D Scott – Library & Communications Coordinator
Additional Literacy lessons are now in full swing across KS3.
At the beginning of Year 7 and at the end of Year 7 and 8
pupils reading, spelling and numeracy skills are assessed.
This gives us each student’s Standard Age Scores, SAS.
This enables a nationwide comparison between pupils and
gives a precise indicator of levels/ability.
Those pupils who fall below the expected average level for
reading or spelling will receive some intervention to help
improve these skills.
This may take the form of:
• Working for 1 or 2 lessons per week in a small
group on targeted areas of Literacy.
• Booster sessions which take place during one
Language lesson for one term only. These lessons
are tailored to target each pupil’s specific area of
weakness.
• The SuccessMaker programme which runs during
tutorial time twice a week.
• Paired reading which also takes place during tutor
time and is run by Peer Mentors.
In addition to this, each pupil now has a specific
communication (Literacy) target which will be monitored and
reviewed 3 times a year.
We take Literacy very seriously as we believe it is the key to
success throughout school.
Mrs K Abrahams – Learner Support
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 25 5/12/12 09:56:44
25

CBEC NEWS
BCB Spooky Fundraising
In keeping with the tradition of Halloween, BCB decided that
it would be a suitable time to provide ‘Treats’ for one day only.
There was a variety of cakes featuring eyeballs and Dracula
teeth, biscuits with skeletons and spider webs and sensational
chewy chocolate brownies. Bags of ghoulish sweets were also
on offer along with many other spooky treats. BCB bakers
worked extremely hard and other BCB students gave up their
free time to help run the stall. The event raised £43.80 for our
new Blue House Charity - The Mo Farah Foundation.
26
Mrs C Bell – Tutor, BCB
On November 9th students were encouraged to customise
their uniform in a Belts, Bows and Braces Day to raise
money for the Yellow House Charity, Msizi Africa. Msizi,
which means ‘help’ in Zulu, is a small charity that is
dedicated to supporting orphaned children in sub-Saharan
Africa. They provide food, accommodation, support and
school uniforms. Msizi currently has a uniform appeal to
provide new uniforms for 190 children by the start of the new
school year which, in Africa, is January 2013.
PTFA News
Belts, Bows and Braces Day
The PTFA have said farewell to two very long-serving
members: Anita Purcell and Rachel Beecroft. Between
them, these two stalwarts have served over 18 years on
the committee and will be sorely missed for their hard
work, flair, enthusiasm and sense of humour. Anita had
served as treasurer to the PTFA for the last five years,
and Rachel was queen of the kitchens, always leading the
refreshments team with great enthusiasm. Bouquets of
flowers were presented to both Anita and Rachel at their
farewell drinks evening. Thank you both, for all you have
done to endlessly raise money for the school.
The PTFA have recently approved a bid submitted by the
fitness group in Year 11 PHF (Personal Health & Fitness).
The Year 11 girls wanted to obtain a range of equipment to
help them develop their interest in fitness for health and so
sourced and priced items to include; aerobic steps,
resistance bands, kettlebells, hula-hoops, exercise bikes
and mini trampolines. With an approved budget of £1200
kindly donated by the PTFA, the girls, and many other
students across the college, should soon be able to start
enjoying the new equipment.
If you would like to know more about joining our dedicated
team of PT&Fs (Parents, Teachers, and Friends), then you
can get in touch via the College website, or email the
chairman at davecraven@hotmail.com.
Dave Craven – Chairman, PTFA
YLG decided they wanted a unique fundraising event for this
appeal. Non-uniform days are always popular and a great
fundraiser but it didn’t seem to make much sense to have
a non-uniform day to raise money for school uniform. After
much deliberation Tom Watterson came up with the braces
idea which evolved into Belts, Bows and Braces. Many
students and staff entered into the spirit of the day, attending
College dressed accordingly and making donations to the
charity. The event raised a fantastic £177.76! Thank you to
all students and staff who supported the event.
Ms L Goddard – Tutor, YLG
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 26 5/12/12 09:56:47

Students Raise Money for Anna’s Hope
L-R Jenna-Louise Harrison, Daniel Aust, Samantha White, Lillie Carter,
Ryan Lee, Neve Conlon)
CBEC NEWS
Congratulations to Jenna-Louise Harrison, Daniel Aust,
Samantha White, Lillie Carter and family, Ryan Lee, Neve
Conlon, Ben Bristow, Caitlyn Amos and Ellen Sculz who
collectively raised over £250 by running the Great Eastern
Fun Run on Sunday 14th October in support of ‘Anna’s
Hope’. This Charity is the leading children’s brain tumour
charity in the East of England, and is dedicated to giving
hope to children and young people diagnosed with a brain
tumour. It was inspired by Anna Olivia Hughes, who
tragically died from a brain tumour aged only 3 years and
8 months, and was set up by Anna’s parents Rob and
Carole Hughes and her five Godparents in October 2006.
We were joined by Carole, in September when she asked
our students for their support.
Find out how you can support ‘Anna’s Hope’ at:
www.annas-hope.co.uk
Looking Forward and Giving Back…
One of our most exciting developments this year is our
involvement with the charity ‘Future First’. The venture
offers an alumni network, typically a feature of public
schools, to state schools. Alumni networks offer students
real opportunities for job-readiness, employability, and
career development - at the same time raising aspirations
and confidence.
Future First works to improve social mobility in the UK by
empowering young people to believe that their futures can be
determined by their talents and motivation, and not just their
background. Casterton is working with Future First to build an
alumni community of former students who we hope will come
back to Casterton to engage, inform and inspire our current
students about their futures. Current Year 11 will be invited to
‘stay in touch’ prior to study leave so that they too can benefit
beyond Casterton.
The benefits are three-fold. Former students feel they are
‘giving something back’ to their old College by returning to
give talks to students, fundraise, volunteer as part of their own
career development and even become school governors.
Current students gain from having ‘real’ mentors in terms of
relatable and educational role models to inspire and inform
them, as well as the possibility of new and exciting work
experience placements in Year 12. The College benefits by
Mrs K Kato – Assistant Principal
sharing in the success of former students and being able to
pass this success down to current students.
Signing up is easy and secure; all data is protected under
Future First’s privacy policy. Over the course of a year, member
students will be sent 8 text messages or emails which will
contain news about what’s going on at Casterton and perhaps
an invitation to attend an event, or support the College. The
network will allow the College leaver to update Casterton on
what they have been doing since leaving and this will allow
opportunities for them to come in and work with current
students. This could be anything from helping out or performing
at a fundraising event, such as CBASH, to giving a Year 11
assembly on their gap year adventures.
I will update you on our network progress as well as news from
former students in the next edition of Novus but, in the
meantime, if you are an ex-Casterton pupil and would like to get
involved, email me: cr@cbec.rutland.sch.uk. I look forward to
hearing from you!
For more information, Year 11 parents and students can visit
www.futurefirst.org.uk
Mrs C Rawes – Alumni Coordinator
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 27 5/12/12 09:56:48
27

CBEC NEWS
28
The Big Move
I recently returned to the UK after living
in Cyprus which was quite hard as the
weather is so different although
sometimes it was just too hot in Cyprus.
I was really worried about moving to a new
school and meeting new people but I don’t really know why
because I have done it loads of times. It is something you
get used to after doing it so many times. My Dad’s in the
Army so we move around a lot.
One of the good things about this move was that my
friends moved with me including my best friends Hannah
and Alice. I have made some really good new friends and I
have settled in very well. I think I will enjoy this school until
the last second I leave.
Bethany Tambling – Year 7
House Charity Totals
for September 2011–August 2012
Students and tutors worked hard throughout the year to raise
awareness and funds for their chosen House charities. The final
amounts stand at:
Blue House £1353.41 Help for Heroes
Green House £762.56 Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit and
Peterborough City Hospital
Yellow House £653.00 Help for Heroes
Red House £241.48 Help for Heroes
Well done Blue House for raising the most money.
New House charities have been chosen this year, they are:
Blue House Mo Farah Foundation
Green House Peterborough and District Deaf Children’s
Society
Yellow House Msizi Africa
Red House Cancer Research
Mrs D Scott - Library and Communications Coordinator
Ex-student Treks to
Kala Patthar
Ex-student Tom Stevenson contacted staff at Casterton
Business & Enterprise College with his exciting news.
“After 8 days trekking we finally made it to Kala Patter (5550m).
In the photo you can see me on the left, my friend on the right
and our Sherpa/Guide called Niraj in the middle. Everest is the
black mountain looming in the background.”
Kala Patthar, meaning ‘black rock’ in Nepali and Hindi, is a
mountain in the Nepalese Himalayas. Due to the structure of
Mount Everest, the peak cannot be seen from the base camp
so many trekkers attempt to summit Kala Patthar, since it
provides the most accessible point to view Mount Everest from
base camp to peak. The views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse
are spectacular. The world’s highest webcam is located on
Kala Patthar. If you would like to get a taste of life in the clouds
without an 8 day trek, take a look at the following link:
www.mounteverestwebcam.com
If you are an ex student of Casterton or Rutland County College
you will be interested to know that we are going to be working
with an alumni organisation- Future First (See Mrs Rawes’
article on page 27).
Mrs D Scott – Library and Communications Coordinator
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 28 5/12/12 09:56:50

Halloween Fun
CBEC NEWS
31st October saw the Childcare Centre full of witches, skeletons, spiders, pumpkins and even a devil. Everyone enjoyed the spooky fun.
Childcare Centre goes
Pink for the Day
In October Casterton Childcare Centre held a ‘pink day’ in
support of the Breast Cancer Campaign. All the staff and
children dressed in pink for the day and we held a bake sale.
Staff, children and their parents were able to buy homemade
cakes and biscuits for a small donation. Throughout the day the
children participated in pink activities such as decorating
pictures shaped like jigsaw pieces (the logo for the charity) and
they got messy playing in the pink gloop. The total amount of
money raised was over £100. A fun day was had by all.
Kirsty Wharam – Acting Deputy Manager, Childcare
Crackerjacks Children’s Charity
Staff and children at Casterton Childcare Centre came
dressed as their favourite children’s characters to help raise
awareness and funds for Crackerjacks Children’s Charity. The
charity provides respite, specialist equipment and support to
families of severely disabled children. The children spent the
day taking part in various themed activities. Everyone had fun
Fundraising for
Children in Need
To help us get into the ‘Pudsey’ spirit the children dressed
in spots or stripes for the day. We held a bake sale and the
children helped to sell cakes. Throughout the day we had
spotty activities taking place; the children made spotty
pictures and Pudsey bear masks. Total money raised was
over £100 for the extremely worthwhile cause.
showing off their outfits and
pretending to be someone
different for the day!
A fantastic £81 was raised for
Crackerjacks Children’s Charity.
Kirsty Wharam – Acting Deputy Manager, Childcare
Hannah Clipston - Childcare
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 29 5/12/12 09:56:52
29

CBEC NEWS
30
Book Fair
Another successful Scholastics Book Fair allowed the College to
earn an additional £75 worth of free books thanks to the support
of students, parents and staff. We were also able to use £331 of
vouchers earned from previous Book Fairs to purchase new books
from the fair for our Library. Students helped choose which books to
spend our vouchers on and they are now available to take out of the
Library. Students took part in various competitions to win £5 book
vouchers including drawing their favourite Roald Dahl Character,
writing about their best or strangest dream ever and a prize draw.
Lots of fun was had and more importantly, lots of students were
excited about the lovely books on sale!
Mrs D Scott – Library & Communications Coordinator
Chess School is back!
Whether you’re hiding from the winter weather or training your
genius game, this is the place to be. Growing in popularity since
its return in October, Chess School offers Casterton students
the chance to flex their brains against players of all ages and
abilities. After receiving funding to purchase new equipment,
students began showing an interest in the lunchtime sessions
on offer. Mr Sanders set up the after school club for students to
come up to the Library to challenge friends and Mr Sanders to a
‘friendly’ game of chess!
Chess School runs most lunchtimes in Room 3 and after school
on Tuesdays 3-4.30 in the Library.
Mr J Sanders – Chess Coach
Wacky Wednesdays
It’s fun and games in Library every Wednesday lunchtime!
From Articulate to Pictionary to Harry Potter Cluedo,
students are making the most
of the opportunity to spend
a lunchtime playing board
games. Every seating area
within the Library is packed with
groups of students enjoying a
game with their friends. Games
can be reserved during
Wednesday break times by a
group to ensure getting their
game of choice. The only difficult
part is choosing which game to
play from the wide selection
available!
Mrs D Scott – Library and Communications Coordinator
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 30 5/12/12 09:56:56

Maths Lectures by
Rob Eastaway
Our top Year 10 and 11 Maths students were enthralled by
lectures on ‘How to Cheat at Mind Reading’ and ‘The Maths
of Games’ by guest speaker Rob Eastaway at the Bourne
Grammar School. Rob Eastaway is an author whose books on
everyday Maths include Why Do Buses Come in Threes? He
also appears regularly on BBC Radio 4 and Radio 5 Live to talk
about the Maths of everyday life.
“It was very interesting to listen to Rob, my favourite part was
learning how to cheat at mind reading!” Eva Roke - Year 10.
“I now know how to win at Monopoly”. Samantha White - Year 10.
Mrs G Mansfield – Maths
College goes Camo
for Charity
CBEC NEWS
Sri Lanka Book Appeal
Mrs Scott and her trusty team of Student Librarians joined
forces with Stamford Rotary Club to gather unwanted books to
send to children in Sri Lanka. Reading books for younger
children and revision guides for older students were collected
along with soft toys. Students and staff contributed leading to
several loads being collected. Rutland County College also
made donations after their big clear out prior to moving to the
Barleythorpe site. Mrs Scott and her team would like to thanks
everyone who supported the appeal and made it the success
that it was.
Mrs D Scott – Library and Communications Coordinator
Pupils at Casterton Business & Enterprise College dressed up
in camouflage to support our military, past and present, as part
of this year’s Armed Forces Day celebrations - a national day of
celebration for the on-going contribution of our Armed Forces.
The special non-uniform day raised £388.98 for the military
charity SSAFA Forces Help, also known as the Soldiers,
Sailors, Airmen and Families Association. SSAFA supports
those who are currently serving or have served in the Armed
Forces in the past as well as their families. Thanks goes to
the RAF for providing personnel and one of their vehicles for
students to enjoy during the event.
Lots more photos can be seen on our College website.
Mrs K Kato - Assistant Principal
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 31 5/12/12 09:57:00
31

CBEC NEWS
32
Post 16 Art and Design
Georgina Melvin
Ben Hicks
The Expressive Arts Department invited several local
Primary Schools to Casterton Business & Enterprise
College to experience a wide variety of Expressive
Arts workshops on Wednesday 7th November.
In Music Year 5 students learnt the origins of Samba and were
given the opportunity to create a ‘Main Groove’ using 4 main
instruments. In Drama students took part in Drama games
and Physical Theatre activities using their bodies as inanimate
objects and in Art students got into the festive spirit and created
some very creative card designs by drawing into copper sheet
metal. We would like to thank the Primary Schools for
attending and creating some very successful performances and
craft work!
Mrs C Nickin – Subject Leader, Expressive Arts
Christina Coates
Sarah Stewart
Expressive Arts Workshops for Primary School Students
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 32 5/12/12 09:57:05

The Alan and Jean Gayton Charitable Trust
The Expressive Arts Department put in a bid for funding to
experience some kind of Arts event in the UK and the team
came up with the excellent idea of organizing a joint department
trip. We planned to take pupils to a London Art Gallery in the
morning and a matinee show in the afternoon. We are very
pleased to say we were successful in our request and the
trustees agreed to give the College £450.
Year 10 GCSE Drama students began the theatre review
element of their course with a trip to Uppingham Theatre
to see Bertolt Brecht’s ‘Mother Courage and her Children’.
Following last year’s success of ‘Oh! What a Lovely War’
performed by the Blackeyed Theatre company, the same
group of professionals performed this play with the same level
of energy and dynamism. This play has been regarded by
some as the greatest anti-war play of all time, and asks
CBEC NEWS
All we need to do now is decide upon a show and gallery and
book them! Many thanks goes to Alan and Jean Gayton, this
has provided us with a fantastic opportunity to experience a
range of Expressive Arts in practice!
Mrs C Nicklin - Expressive Arts
Theatre Trip to Mother Courage and Her Children
Green House Support the
Deaf!
This year the Green House
are supporting the
Peterborough and District
Deaf Children’s Society
(PDDCS) as their House
charity. This comes
after I met Andy Palmer,
who works for Action on
Hearing Loss, (formerly known as RNID). Andy comes
from a deaf family, and though he himself is hearing, his
son, William, is also deaf, but uses cochlear implants to
hear. William and Andy are quite well known in the Deaf
Community – you can read articles about them, and the
cochlear implants William wears if you visit :
www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk.
So, we in Green House are going to work tirelessly to
raise funds for PDDCS, and I have set Green House the
challenge of raising £1000. Last year we got £760, so it’s
definitely possible!
To give the students an incentive, Andy has said that if we
reach the £500 mark, he will come in and give free sign
language lessons to our students!
We are also hoping to make a music video later in the
year that will feature our students signing along to a song,
in the hope that we can get it on YouTube and get as
many hits as possible, to further raise awareness of the
deaf community and the beauty of sign language.
It’s a fantastic cause and I can’t wait to get fundraising!
Miss G Form – House Learning Manager, Green House
fundamental questions about the effect our beliefs have upon
the world. The story is told through the eyes of ‘Mother
Courage’ who, in the midst of conflict, sees an opportunity to
profit from selling goods to both sides. Unfortunately, she is
then forced to make the ultimate sacrifice. This version,
performed with live music, was exciting and modern. The
students thoroughly enjoyed their theatre experience and, I am
sure, enjoyed writing the theatre review essay just as much!
Mrs S Ball – Drama
German Exchange
I really enjoyed the trip to Homburg, Saarland in Germany.
It was an experience I will always remember. First of all we
arrived at the hostel which had very nice accommodation.
We had a look around the town and walked up to
Saarpfalpz Gymnasium, the German school, where we met
the exchange students we would be staying with. We went
to many places but the museum was the best. We went
into a real jumbo jet high up on a pole and stood on the
wing and then later on that day we went into this arena and
watched a mindboggling 3D Imax film about the
destruction of the rain forest. We had an amazing trip to
Trier and had the best Gummi Bears in the world. The
weekend approached - time to go with our German families
and they were fantastic. The family I stayed with took me to
some caves and we went swimming. We went bowling
and ice skating one evening and they made amazing
brownies. I had a great time.
Ben Bristow – Year 9
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33

CBEC NEWS
Brit Ellis Brings Olympic Torch
to Casterton Business & Enterprise College
Year 8 Casterton Business & Enterprise College
student, Brit Ellis, enjoyed celebrity status as she
arrived in College carrying the Olympic Torch.
Brit was chosen to be a torchbearer after being nominated
by her PE teacher, Mr Ramshaw, for dedication to numerous
sports. ’’ Brit has worked extremely hard in PE this year and is
clearly talented. She thoroughly deserves this opportunity’’ said
Mr Ramshaw.
Brit explained how exciting it was on the day;
“On the 3rd July 2012 I ran with the Olympic torch. At exactly
11:20am I was ready to start my leg and I was really excited.
Mum was waiting for me at the end and my Dad was at the
34
On Saturday 27th October 2012, 21 people from Stamford
Tae Kwon Do Club attended the GTUK British
Championships. It was a long day starting at 8:30 and
finishing at 19:15. Amongst them were two students from
Casterton, Imogen Freeborough, Year 9 and Jessica
Auciello, Year 7.
Jessica competed in Patterns and Sparring as well as a
team event, achieving Silver in Patterns. Imogen also
competed in Patterns, Sparring and a team event. She
achieved Silver in Sparring, Bronze in Patterns and Silver
in the team event. A very successful competition concluded
with a total of 25 medals awarded to Stamford club
members.
Imogen Freeborough – Year 9
start. When I was running I didn’t see my Dad because he was
in with the rest of the crowd but I saw my Mum at the end when
I was doing the torch kiss. It was a once in a life time chance
and I will never forget it. Everyone at home was really proud of
me”.
Since running with the torch Brit has appeared on TV, visited
her primary school, had a photo shoot with many excited
students from College, had to sign autographs for members of
the public and visited Girl Guides. It was an exhilarating couple
of weeks for Brit and everyone at Casterton Business &
Enterprise College was delighted to be given the opportunity to
join her in the Olympic celebration and get an even closer look
at the torch she carried.
Mrs D Scott – Library and Communications Coordinator
Tae Kwon Do Students Bring Home the Medals
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 34 5/12/12 09:57:09

Sports Day
Our annual Sports Day was held at the end of the summer term
and once again the weather was on our side. There were some
great overall performances by the pupils and a special mention
has to go to the Sports Leaders who marshalled the events.
There were 4 school records broken:
Brittany Ellis broke the Year 7 girls shot putt record by throwing
8.27m.
Dan Johnson broke the Year 7 boys long jump record with a
jump of 4.70m.
Hannah Worthington threw 29m to break the Year 10 girls
javelin record.
Georgia Ireland threw 8.16m breaking the Year 10 girls shot putt
record.
Medals were awarded to the highest points scores on the day:
Becky Want and Sam Peace (Red House) and David Raffan
and Caitlin Dwyer (Green House).
Junior Results
Yellow Blue Red Green
Year 7 girls 126.5 73 75 105.5
Year 7 boys 84.5 98.5 131.5 123.5
Year 8 girls 128.5 83.5 95 70
Year 8 boys 124 107 92 124
Total 463.5 362 393.5 423
Position 1 4 3 2
Senior Results
Yellow Blue Red Green
Year 9 Girls 117 82 65 107
Year 9 boys 155 76 108 104
Year 10 girls 122.5 106 70.5 135
year 10 boys 121 110 134 80
Total 515.5 374 377.5 426
Position 1 4 3 2
Overall result
979 736 771 849
Position 1 4 3 2
Mr D Ramshaw – Subject Leader, PE
Football
Olympic Days
CBEC NEWS
YEAR 7
YEAR 8
Congratulations to the Year 7 and 8 football teams who have
both won their respective leagues covering schools in the
Rutland and Melton area. The Year 8 team deserve particular
praise as they are unbeaten in 2 years.
Mr D Ramshaw – Subject Leader, PE
To celebrate the Olympics Year 7, 8 and 9 took part in
their very own ‘CBEC Olympics’ which were a huge
success. Pupils should be praised for their effort and
attitude, fully entering into the spirit of the occasion. The
students competed in Handball, Futsal, Badminton,
Basketball, Tennis and Rounders.
Congratulations to the overall winner - Yellow House.
Mr D Ramshaw – Subject Leader, PE
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35

CBEC & NEWS RCC* NEWS
Casterto n
B u s i ess n &
E n terprise
Col ege l
36
C a s t erto n
B us e i s s n &
E nt erpr i s e
C ol e ge l
Request to parents
COLLEGE TERMS & HOLIDAYS
2012-2013
We understand that dropping off and collecting your child from school
can at times be difficult, these are very busy times at the college and
parking is limited.
However please can we ask that you park considerately both on the
nearby roads and in Visions car park where other users are also
trying to arrive, park or leave.
Thank you
College Terms & Holidays 2012/2013
Student days
TERM 3
College open Thursday 3 January 2013
Year 7 Subject Evening Thursday 17 January 2013
Year 8 Academic Tutorial Thursday 24 January 2013*
Year 10 Subject Evening Thursday 7 February 2013
College close
TERM 4
Friday 8 February 2013 27
College open Monday 18 February 2013
Year 11 Subject Evening Thursday 14 March 2013
Year 9 Subject Evening Thursday 21 March 2013
College close
TERM 5
Wednesday 27 March 2013 28
College open Thursday 11 April 2013
May Bank Holiday Monday 6 May 2013
Year 8 Subject Evening Thursday 23 May 2013
College close
TERM 6
Friday 24 May 2013 31
College open Monday 3 June 2013
Year 9 Academic Tutorial Monday 8 July 2013
College close Friday 19 July 2013 35
* Please note that when an academic tutorial is scheduled
Casterton Business & Enterprise College Closes at 14.05
Ms. V Crosher - Principal
College Terms & Holidays 2012/2013
Cycle Safety
We are very concerned about the
number of cyclists who do not
have working lights on their cycles.
Students sometimes believe that,
as long as they can see it doesn’t
matter. Cyclists need to be seen,
especially by motorists. Please can
parents check the bike lights are
fully functional and ensure that other
high visibility clothing is worn for the
journey to and from school?
Ms V Crosher - Principal
Casterton Business & Enterprise College, Ryhall Road, Great Casterton, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 4AT
T +44 (0)1780 762168 F +44 (0)1780 766628 E info@cbec.rutland.sch.uk W www.rutlandcountycollege.com
Rutland County College, Barleythorpe Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6QH
T +44 (0)1572 722863 W www.rutlandcountycollege.com
Student days
TERM 3
College open Thursday 3 January 2013
College close
TERM 4
Friday 8 February 2013 27
College open Monday 18 February 2013
Year 12 Subject Evening Tuesday 26 March 2013
Year 13 Subject Evening Tuesday 26 March 2013
College close
TERM 5
Wednesday 27 March 2013 28
College open Thursday 11 April 2013
May Bank Holiday Monday 6 May 2013
College close
TERM 6
Friday 24 May 2013 31
College open Monday 3 June 2013
College close Friday 19 July 2013 35
Newsletter_dec_12.indd 36 5/12/12 09:57:11