magazine 2015

Stafford Grammar School
Magazine
2014-15

Contents
A Message from the Editor
Messages 3
Staff Highlights 5
Anson House Report 6
Talbot House Report 8
Fitzherbert House Report 10
Sixth Form Report 11
My First Day by Nayantika 12
Year 7 at SGS by Olivia 13
The end of an era 14
An Interview with Madame Hinton 15
Ski Trip 2015 16
Year 8 German Trip 17
Year 7 French Trip 18
Oh Gumtree! 20
GCSE and A Level Drama 23
Key Stage 3 Drama Showcase 24
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe 25
World War One Exhibition 26
Accrington Pals 27
Into The Woods 29
May 2015 Election 30
Chemistry Trips 32
Battle of the Bands 33
Music At SGS 35
Sport At SGS 37
Elite Performers Old and New 38
Sports Day 40
Inter-House Sport 41
Duke of Edinburgh Award 42
As always, the year has flown by in a whirllwind of sports fixtures, school plays, trips and examinations. This
year has been another exciting one and there have been many opportunities for pupils to learn new things
and show off their many talents. My personal highlight was the school election held in May of this year. It
was amazing to see pupils throwing themselves into politics and taking an interest in current affairs. I also continue
to be blown away by the standard of the school musicals. Into The Woods was performed brilliantly and showcased
the incredible talent of our pupils. I hope that this edition of the magazine illustrates the hard work and fun
that we have in our school.
Lisa Griffiths
A Message
from the Headmaster
As another school year draws to a close I am left reflecting on how much has been achieved in the last
12 months. I hope this magazine will give a flavour of the diversity of talent, commitment and achievement
at Stafford Grammar School. The departure of four valued members of staff, who between them
gave over 100 years of service, inevitably also makes me look back further than just the last year and consider just
how much has changed in the relatively short time that I have been associated with the school, a mere 19 years!
Obvious changes each year are physical, building developments and site improvements such as the new access paths
and punch locks in the last year are visible signs of development
but I would rather people focused on the quality of teaching and
learning and the breadth and depth of extra-curricular activities
in sport, music, drama and areas such as foreign trips and
Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. Everyone should come and
watch a school play, or be in one, join a music group or learn
an instrument, develop a sporting interest in an individual or
team sport so that you can develop personal fitness and goals,
and represent your school locally and beyond. There is so much
more to school life than just the important academic work.
A particular highlight for me, specific to this year, was “Accrington
Pals” and the associated Remembrance display. Very poignant at
at time when the world has still not learned that war is a bad thing.
The range of interests, activities and excellence here never ceases
to amaze me. I hope you enjoy reading this edition of the magazine.
Mr Darley

Staff Highlights
What did the staff like most about 2014-15?
It is amazing to think how much we all cram into one school year. Here are some of the bits our
staff liked most.
“Receiving the cards, pressies and thanks from the U6 was so moving. This is the first year group in
my teaching career that I have taught a cohort from Y7 to Y13. I have so enjoyed my time as their
form tutor and as their Biology teacher and the sentiments expressed in letters and cards made me
fill up. Perhaps the career change was the right thing to do after all; it does seem like that initially
naive “I want to become a teacher to make a difference” has actually come true (at least for some of
them!).” Mr Anderson
“The moment when one of my sixth form students exclaimed “I love Waterstones!”! It restored my
faith in the world! A close second was being asked if elements had gender like in French by a year
9 pupil. Never been asked that before! “ Miss Hackett
“I absolutely loved the junior production. Had a tear in my eye at the end. There is so much talent
in this school!” Madame Weetman
“The highlight of my year was the surprise ten pin bowling
trip organised for me by my form 11A. It was a wonderful
evening. I have been privileged to be their form tutor for the
past 5 years.” Mr Harwood
“D of E silver red group turning up at 7.30pm having made a
navigational mistake in their first leg and not being seen and
given water all day. We were about to tell the police. What a
relief!” Dr Crane
The highlight of my year has to be the solar eclipse! Not just
the amazing astronomical alignment itself (and the chance to
use the word ‘syzygy’ in an assembly!), but also for the way the whole school caught the enthusiasm
and grasped the opportunity to experience some of the awe of science. I heard many stories
of schools that refused to let children observe, for ‘health & safety’ reasons, but I know that our
students had a memorable, educational morning - just what our great school is about. Mr Beauchamp
“How Charlotte H and Ellie M coped coming back to school (inspirational!), but mostly the
support & love they had from their friends, that made my day every time I saw their ‘bag buddies’
come over to help!” Mrs Williams
“There are many highlights I could pick, really. Two that stand out are being back stage during
‘Into the Woods’, which is very tiring for everyone but great fun and also going to see ‘The Phantom
of the Opera’ in London with Year 10.” Mr Thomas

Anson
House Report
As I sit down to write my first Anson House Report the words that Mr. Thomas spoke to me
in January when I took over the reins of Anson House from him resonate in my head; ‘Being
the Head of Anson House has been a privilege and the most enjoyable part of my
job, the pupils of Anson House enjoy a community spirit that is second to none which ensures
that everyone is fully committed to one another and all House events.’ In my short time as Head
of Anson House I can endorse that sentiment. I have been impressed by the competitive spirit, desire
to participate and of course, the hunger for victory exhibited by every member of the House!
Before reviewing the year, I would like to wish some highly valued members of staff a fond farewell. Mrs.
Lonsdale has been a remarkable member of Anson House, who has been the guiding light as deputy to
several Heads of House throughout her tenure and I am sure that she will have a wonderful, well-earned
retirement. I know that she will wear her yellow t-shirt with pride! All of the staff and students of Anson
House really appreciate her guidance and dedication over the years and wish her the very best for the
future. I would also like to thank Mrs. Weetman, for the time she has given to Anson and offer her my
very best wishes, even if it is to the opposition, in her new role of year 8 tutor in Talbot! Now we have
welcomed into the House Mr. Johnson, who has clearly seen the light by re-joining us from Talbot as our
new Deputy Head of Anson House and Miss Butler, who is the new form tutor for 7A.
Mrs Lonsdale and the Sixth Form team, attracted a large number of entries and was made even more
enjoyable when the staff team won! This money was used to support several charities who do fantastic
work for cerebral palsy and towards our sponsored child in Malawi.
A quotation that I am very fond of says: ‘whether you think that you can succeed or whether you think
that you cannot – you are right!’ In Anson, I am pleased to say that I am surrounded by positive people
who ‘think they can’, they put themselves forward at all opportunities and step into the breach in hours
of need. We are a House of involvement where everyone is prepared to support one another and play
their part. It is this unwavering attitude to all that is undertaken that truly makes Anson House the
great community that it is. Anson House is a House of success because we don’t just think we can, we
persevere until we do!
I would like to echo Mr Thomas’s wise words. I have found it a privilege to be the Head of Anson
House. I have thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the role this year and I am proud of the outstanding
effort and attitude that each and every member of Anson House has displayed. Thank you all!
Mr L J Harwood
Head of Anson House
Every Inter-House competition was approached with the enthusiasm and commitment that makes Anson
House ‘the dream team’, where not only did we always field a full team, but we also had an eager
group of volunteers queuing up to act as reserves if required (you know who you are). I was delighted
with our victory in the public speaking competition which was earned through the hard work and dedication
of a team of writers and orators. The examples of; the whole of 9A, lead by Mrs. Smith, who took
the time to co-write and edit their speech and a rather nervous pupil who volunteered to speak in front
of the entire school to ‘see if they could do it?’ demonstrates the true character of the Anson House
student. I was equally pleased with first places in the Junior Polyathlon (the team gained an incredible
38 out of 40 points!), the Senior Polyathlon, the Junior Baking Competition, the Senior Baking Competition
and of course, the runaway victory at Sports Day. Where we came second, never third, it was
a close run thing and bodes well for continued success in future years! In choosing teams I have been
overwhelmed with the generosity of support from all quarters and can express nothing but admiration
and pride for all students who have contributed to the myriad of successes that we have enjoyed this year.
I would also like to express my thanks to the incredibly hard working and caring team of Tutors in Anson
House who have supported and encouraged the students to not only achieve their aims but to reach
way beyond them. I thoroughly enjoyed the evening walk on Cannock Chase with Miss Lewis and 8A
and was thrilled to attend a fair organised by 7A (recent winners in the ’best form in the School competition’)
where mine and the students’ highlight was getting soaked in the apple bobbing stall! Many others
have also played their part in raising money for worthwhile causes by organising a variety of events including
raffles and ‘guess the number of sweets in a jar’. The annual Big Fat Quiz, once again overseen by

Talbot House Report
Another academic year is at a close and while I descend the steps for the last time as Head of House the Talbot Bus
is revving to depart, ready to wend its way on the road to more successes.
Mr Anderson’s photoshopping exploits did us proud this year. Indeed, Lara Thomas as our new House Captain looked quite
at home in the driver’s seat of the Talbot Bus and with Molly Darley as her conductor nobody will dare to put a foot out
of line. Remember Oxford-bound Joe Barnes’ assembly with the paintbrush? The Talbot Bus underwent more than one
imaginary makeover (in-house jokes!) and is possibly set for more in the future.
We began the year on a high note, by winning the Hobbies Exhibition. Olivia Stocking and Nayantika Chaudary were
the clear Year 7 winners with their display on Comenius Travelling; while Peter Owen’s impressive knowledge of Chicken
Keeping gained him a super second place in the Year 8 category and James Bradburn of 9T gained a third place for showcasing
his excellent Scuba Diving expertise. Following on from that came the Great Egg Race – The Zombie Apocalypse;
what a spectacle! Mr Mole and Mrs Horsley really out themed themselves this year – the hall looked like the set for Michael
Jackson’s Thriller. Talbot entries were not as high as others but my goodness they were quality. In particular, a special mention
has to go to Emily Edwards, Jasmin Luo and Bhaavya Bathula of 9T, the trio behind Eggsplosion. Their contraption
was absolutely formidable – was there any target or teacher safe from its deadly aim? A Fabulous Talbot effort meant a
surprising but resounding success and we retained our Egg Race title.
The Polyathlon competitions were a mixture of highs and lows with some moments of pure triumph against all the odd; the
Senior Boys’ Football matches were a real highlight. Thanks to the man himself, Josh Hake – a legend in his own time! Also
the skills of Tom Stockton were called upon as he took to the turf in the name of Talbot (a gesture never before witnessed).
Lewis Darlington, rowing superstar, braved the cold for us and even played for ooh at least a couple of minutes – more of
that volunteering spirit please and house colours could be on their way!
The Public Speaking Competition - what I don’t think people appreciate is the dedication of those who put themselves forward
for this whole school spectacle; the audition process, the writing, re-writing and rehearsal schedule can all be quite
gruelling at times. Our Year 7 team comprising of Olivia Stocking, Amy Sharp and Harriet Price (with Stephanie Bowers
waiting in the wings, just in case) did a fantastic job with their lively rendition of Jim who Ran Away from his Nurse, and
was Eaten by a Lion by Hilaire Belloc. Our Year 8 team comprising the dulcet tones of Alishba Rizvi, eloquent narrator
Matthew Garnett and fabulous frog Robbie Strang delivered The Frog Prince by The Brothers Grimm – their performance
earned them a thoroughly deserved first place in their Year Group category. Our Year 9 offering was Exam Season with
Molly Harriman and Bhaavya Bathula discussing the nightmares awaiting us all in the exam hall (special thanks to George
Edge who was our documentary voice-over star waiting to step in at a moment’s notice). Year 10’s offering of How to Procrastinate
Like A Professional penned and performed by the talented duo of Tara Justin and Eleanor Lees gave us every
excuse in the book to do absolutely nothing (if we don’t want to amount to anything in life that is!).
In one of the closest heats in living memory, the Year 11 category was tough to judge because of the creative talents of all
three competitors; Jamie Baker’s observations on our society’s obsession with ‘the public apology’ was not only scathing but
revealed a witty and wry sense of humour. The Sixth Form entries were, again, of a high quality. Firstly, Molly Darley’s “If I
Ruled the World” was clever and entertaining – I for one would adore a blinged up throne and Beyonce as my own personal
stylist. Secondly, Lizzy Dugmore’s inventively titled “The Role of Pumpkins in Society” was innovative and unique – still
haunted by the image of overly zealous small children with sharp kitchen implements gouging out the eyes! We may have
come third, denied second place by Fitzherbert by only one mark, but those young people on that stage had worked their
socks off – well done to you all!
The Swimming Gala was another much-anticipated event. We have many talented swimmers who have represented
the House year on year. Sadly, there was to be no shield for us this year and it was the last year that the likes of Megan
McCandless could break another school record (and she did!) and great swimmers like Claudia Ballinger and Joseph
Owen could showcase their aquatic skills. The relay teams for Years 9 and 10, both the girls and the boys were formidable
and the girls just missed breaking the school record by one second – stars of the present and future to look out
for are Ryan Hopper and Molly Harriman. A special mention has to go to Ella Edge who swam for us despite feeling
under the weather. Thanks to all the juniors and inters competitors who swam their hearts out.
Sports Day was the last of the whole school events and, although overall success eluded us, there were certainly some
star turns. The Junior Boys, particularly those of 8T were in fine form. A special mention goes to Robbie Strang who
gained first places in both the Hurdles and High Jump events. Likewise, in the Junior Girls section, Sophie Edgington
in 8T was a force to be reckoned with, gaining first place in the Long Jump and second places in the Hurdles and 800m.
In addition, Kim McColl was superb in the throwing events achieving second place in both the Javelin and the Discus.
The Senior Boys were also very successful: first places were attained by Harry Dovey in the 1500m and Ryan Hopper
in the Triple Jump who also gained second place in the Hurdles. Another star on the day was Joe Owen who came first
in the High Jump and also went on to gain second place in the 1500m as well as the 100m. The Senior Girls won their
category! The likes of Jess Adams, Ellie Hooker, Claudia Ballinger, Megan McCandless and Ella Edge dominated the
top three placings for the majority of the events. A huge thank you to all of the Talbot competitors and especially to
those who stepped up at the last minute, some even on the day, to ensure we had a full line up for all events.
The role of Head of House is often a busy one; sometimes frustrating but always rewarding. It has been a privilege to
work alongside the talented young people and the dedicated staff of Talbot House.
Mrs D K Shaughnessey

Fitzherbert House
Report
Sixth Form
Report
When it comes time to write a summary of what has happened in Fitzherbert House during the year, it is
far too easy to emphasise the competitions and games that we have won. In some years that may be more
or less than others and so we could judge the success of the year on those victories. In the last year for
instance, we could talk about our success in the cross country competition early in the year, our victory in the Intermediate
polyathlon and baking competition and our famous (and rare!) win in the Swimming Gala.
We could also mention the near misses, such as our excellent performance in the Public Speaking competition and
our strong showing at Sports Day. Based on these performances, it would be very easy to make the judgement that it
was a successful year for Fitzherbert House.
It was indeed a good year for Fitzherbert House, but these performances were just the icing on what is a very good
cake! What is more important to me is how we work together as a community and how the members of the House
want to represent that community.
Each year, the three competitions where it can be difficult to find volunteers are cross country, public speaking and
the swimming gala. The sports captains work very hard to go round and find people to take part, sometimes having to
employ all their powers of persuasion to fill the spaces on the team. This year, people came forward and things slotted
into place. Things like that show me that it was a good year.
Obviously I need to say thank you to a few people. Thank you to the Fitzherbert team of tutors who work tirelessly
with their forms to get things organised. We have been very lucky to have had the same team now for a number of
years. A special thank you should go to Mrs. Hollinshead who does a lot to make Fitzherbert what it is. Thank you
to the two House Committees that have organised things in the last year. Your efforts make my job a whole lot easier.
The prospect of joining the Sixth Form for new students is always an exciting one, as they change from being a pupil
to a student with their own study areas, a common room as well as their first taste of independent study time.
We say goodbye to many students who have certainly made the most of their time at Stafford Grammar Sixth Form.
Scarlett Baker deserves a mention as the outgoing Head of School, as do Mahir Bhoora and Emily Caplan who have been
supportive and caring deputies. Elizabeth Chinn, Cameron Kendall and Sally Tyler have now taken over the position of
leading the new Prefect Team and have already made a very positive impact in the Sixth Form and around the School.
As always students have immersed themselves in an enormous amount of activities whilst maintaining excellent academic
standards. The Medical Society has gone from strength to strength, thanks to Mahir Bhoora’s leadership. Now
the new upper sixth wish to launch a Law Society and a Sports Society. In addition the Debating Society is going to be
re-launched, so watch out for opportunities to get involved. Whether it is sport, music, Young Enterprise or Duke of Edinburgh,
you will find sixth form students involved in some way and often supporting the staff to ensure smooth running.
I have heard rumours of a whole sixth form sponsored Zumba session sometime soon.
Of course the priority for every student is to gain their best possible A-level results. This year, we wish every success to
those students who leave our Sixth Form to embark upon careers or university courses and I would like to congratulate
them on an excellent set of A2 results.
Now we welcome a new group of students who have a lot to live up to and I encourage all of them to take advantage of
the things that appeal to them and perhaps to try something new.
Mr Green
Finally I couldn’t finish this year without saying thank you to Dr Crane who has been a member of the Fitzherbert
team for many years. I am glad that we will still see him around to help with D of E but he will be missed within the
House.
RAF.

My First Day
by Nayantika
Year 7 at SGS
by Olivia
The night before “The Big Day” was a big worry for me. I felt quite nervous as I’d only been to the school once before. And also
I’d never met anyone in my year, apart from Shrieya and Olivia, as I’d missed the induction day. So, as you might have guessed
I was stressing, A LOT!
I had been on the school website, and read the new starters’ section there. It had lots of advice, tips and information, which
calmed me down a bit but, some things worried me a little; someone wrote about a maths teacher being a witch! What was that
all about?! However, part of me was excited. It would be a journey into the unknown, but surely it would be fun! Plus it would
be good to make new friends. I would study new subjects that weren’t taught at my old school.
Another one of my worries was homework, what a pain! I wasn’t used to getting lots of homework. At my primary school we
got maybe two or three pieces a week, apparently here we got three pieces A DAY! I also had lots of unanswered questions in
my mind such as:
• What kind of things would we make in DT? Would we use saws and drills?
• What would the other pupils be like?
• What would the classrooms and teachers be like?
With these thoughts in my head eventually I got to sleep.
In the morning, my mum came to wake me up. Waking up at 7:15 was hard when everyday, for 6 weeks, I had woken up at 10
am! In the end my mum managed to drag me out of my bed. I had to leave my comfy soft pillow to brush my teeth. After I was
done, I opened my wardrobe and looked inside and only then did something click in my brain. Of course! It was my first day of
secondary school! Once I was dressed I went down stairs and gobbled down my breakfast. Everyone seemed extra nice today,
even my sister! Soon it was time to go I grabbed my bag, my sister and dad wished me good luck. I was off!
I went to school with, my mum, Shrieya, and her dad. During the journey I bombarded Shreiya with questions like; “Is it fun?”
, “Who’s the nice teacher?” , “Who’s the strict one?” , “Do we actually get 3 pieces of homework a day?”. Poor Shreiya! My excitement
seemed to be draining away as we got closer and closer to school.
We were among the first to arrive. My mum took us to L1/L2 where all the new year 7s were. Once we were there my mum had to
say bye, and I was suddenly all alone. We were split into houses so I had to say goodbye to Shreiya after a while. Before, though,
she introduced me to Amy and Harvey, who would be in my form. One by one I watched more and more pupils pour in, some
waved to one another and immediately started talking. I guessed they were from “The Prep”. Some, like me, didn’t know many
other people. After a bit 7T were transported to G4, where Mr Cooke introduced himself and we got to know each other a little
better. In assembly I had no idea what the school prayer was so I just opened and closed my mouth like a goldfish, trying to
blend in! Back in form we were given our timetables and Mrs Shaughnessy came to visit us and told us about the school. After
that we went off to art. I was happy to see that Shreiya was there too. Mrs Neville chose our places, so this gave us all a chance to
mingle with people we’d not met yet. Time flies when you’re having fun, soon it was 12:05, and so far no homework!
I had lunch in the canteen, where I met even more people and after registration we walked all the way to the other end of the
school to Chemistry. We were finding out about solids, liquids and gases. Time flew again, but we got… HOMEWORK! It was
only a sheet, phew!
After this came Geography, at the opposite end of the school! Dr Crane introduced himself to us and then we learnt about different
types of geography. Time flew by for the last time and it was time to go home but wait, there is more to the story… we
got homework! AGAIN! But it was only to finish off our classwork. My mum and Shreiya’s mum came to pick us up. Once we
sat down, we immediately started talking at the same time. We told them all about our great day: the rooms, the teachers, our
lunchtime drama, and of course, homework.
When somebody says “secondary school”, you automatically think of a big scary school full of big scary teachers
giving you lots of scary homework. Stafford Grammar is quite the opposite- it’s a school full of friendly people
who help or give advice whenever they are required, chances to join clubs, to take part in events and a friendly
atmosphere to work in.
I got very nervous on my first day; it’s a lot different from my time at Primary school- I’d heard there were different buildings
for each lesson- G Block, S Block, is there an A Block? I also got told we moved classrooms for each lesson too. At
Barnfields we stayed in the same classroom all the time, occasionally taking a trip next door to work in pairs. Here, all the
letters and numbers of the rooms confused me- I was worried I wouldn’t find my way around. But fortunately with help
from teachers, friends and sixth formers I made it to every lesson in time!
Another thing I was anxious about was the thing in the back of everybody’s mind… MAKING FRIENDS! It was a big
thing for someone like me, coming from a place where you knew everybody to a place where I had to start from scratch
all over again. I missed all my other friends but I did arrive here with one other girl, Nayantika. Unfortunately I found
out she wasn’t in my class so I was alone. I was mostly worried because a lot of children had come from the ‘Prep School’,
so they all knew each other and were already in strong friendship groups. I felt odd at first being the only one in my class
from Barnfields and it was difficult to break into a group of friends. I did meet some girls on the Induction Day who were
soon to introduce me to others. By the first week though I had made lots of new friends and now know that there was
nothing to worry about!
Unlike my Primary School, we do a variety of different lesson here, some of which I have never done before like: Drama,
D.T, Music, I.T, R.E, German, Geography, Science and French. I am a very creative person, so my favourite subject has to
be Art. But I do also really enjoy: D.T, Drama and German. We did no kind of modern foreign languages at Barnfields, so
doing both German and French was new to me but I’ve soon got used to it and now enjoy them. Another thing which is
different is that we have set lesson times with 4 lessons a day. At Barnfields we did a lesson until we finished the work and
did whatever lessons we needed to do!
All the teachers here are lovely and help you when you’re stuck. It’s different from Primary School though because of how
many of them there are! Here we have different teachers for every lesson whereas at Barnfields we had 2 different teachers
each day!
Homework is usually another big thing when you start Secondary School. I got overwhelmed when I started but I soon
got the hang of it. I wasn’t used to it at Primary School as we never got homework, and when we did it was 1 project that
did not have to be in for months!
As the year has gone on, lots of events have taken place, these include: Drama, Sport and D.T events. My favourite is definitely
the ‘Drama Festival’ which took place before the Christmas Term. Beforehand I practised and edited the humorous
piece, which was called ‘The Audition’. I performed it after school in front of a small crowd and received a mark of 97/100!
I’d achieved 1st place and was thrilled- seeing as this was my first time participating! I enjoyed this event because at my
Primary School I was confident but still a bit shy. The event really helped my character come out and improved my confidence!
I also took part in the Junior Production of ‘The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe’, where I played one of the three
sightseeing grannies! I really enjoyed this opportunity and hope to be involved in lots of drama in year 8!
On the whole I have enjoyed my first year at Secondary School and give Stafford Grammar a big thumbs up for welcoming
year 7 students!
Looking back on that day, there was actually no need to worry about anything. Everything went well.

The end of an era:
Yasmin reflects
An Interview with
Madame Hinton
I suppose most people when asked to consider what school has given them and what they got out of it would consider
their journey from perhaps being a nervous, unpopular eleven year old to the social butterfly ready to move onto bigger
things in the adult world. Call me conventional, but when I tried to create an innovative way to capture my time
at Stafford Grammar effectively, it only confirmed to me that being a stereotype of how school experiences influence
you and help you to grow as a person may not be so bad. To me it only emphasises the school’s incredible ability to
nurture those shy children who first stepped through the intimidating Hogwarts doors into adults who feel confident
to pursue whatever they wish. Mind you, it hasn’t half developed me as an individual too.
I think the courage to leave school intending to achieve glorious ambitions is the greatest gift that the school has
given me. Low points have been a rare occurrence. In fact, only compulsory sport matches come to mind – I did not
inherit any kind of sporting ability clearly. Having always enjoyed English, my amazing teachers always encouraged
me to pursue it further, and I am glad that I have decided to choose Literature as half of my degree, as I am hoping
it will open many doors for me. More poignant to me is the school’s impact on me regarding Drama. I will always be
grateful for the opportunities I have been given; the multiple roles in the musicals and plays, achieving two Grade
8 LAMDA distinctions, the chance to assistant direct Accrington Pals as well as the constant encouragement from
staff have influenced my thinking regarding my career path massively. These experiences, which have been topped
off by a chance to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August, evoked a love of theatre within me, from an
acting and creative perspective. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the way a production came together, and for me there
is no greater feeling than conjuring an emotive reaction from an audience. I never thought I could pursue drama
after school until Mr Darley suggested I try a combined course of English and Drama at university. Coupled with
the encouragement of teachers, this sparked a cheesy realisation moment, I suppose, that I shouldn’t have a fear of
attempting to forge a career involving theatre. I decided that what would be more terrifying would be the prospect of
doing something I didn’t have a passion for. I am now hoping that if I get into the University of Manchester to study
Drama and English Literature, it will give me the foundation to pursue perhaps script writing, directing, and acting.
Let’s hope luck is on my side.
To the school which gave me so much, thank you.
Madame Hinton with Dr Crane and Mrs Lonsdale
Madame Hinton is one of several members
of staff retiring this year. Here Lauren
Hill asks, among other things, her
final thoughts on her time at SGS,
1. What have been your top three moments
at SGS?
My top three moments have to be being appointed
SENCO, having a lot of fun on the year 7 french
trips and being one of santa’s little helpers dressed
as an elf, a long time ago.
2. What three words would you use to describe
your time here?
Stressful, busy and enjoyable.
3. What will you miss the most? What will
you not miss?
I will miss the students the most, but I will not
miss writing reports.
4. What new challenges have you set yourself in your retirement?
I plan to translate a french novel into english, write my biography to pass onto my grandchildren and
researching my family tree on my father’s side.
5. What inspired you to become a teacher?
Being a teacher was never the plan, circumstances made me a teacher.
6. If you didn’t teach French, what would you have taught?
I would have taught art.
7. What has been, for you, the most memorable hobby exhibition entry?
The time we lost a cat, which we never found again, prompting me to put a stop to bringing live ani
mals
8. If you were stuck in a lift with three people of your choice, who would they be?
I would choose Al Pacino, Emile Zola and of course Johnny Depp.
9. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
Cuba, because I have always been fascinated with Che Guevara and because I adore vintage cars.
10. If you had one million pounds, what would you do with it?
I would give several thousand pounds to children in need, action aid and the smile train
and probably an animal charity of sort. I would then share the rest between my daughters and myself.
With my share I would travel the world.

Ski Trip 2015
Year 8 German Trip
The legendary CD, containing ski trip songs such as ‘we are skiers’ adapted for the music of Mama Mia by
Abba, was dusted off ready for the 6th ski trip organised by Miss Martin, this time to Val de Fiemme in
Italy. The party consisting of 34 children and the usual staff team of Mr Harwood, Mrs Patrick, Mr Mole
and first timer, Mrs Handford enjoyed a glorious sun filled week of skiing on wide open, people-free slopes.
The après ski was equally as good, selected to include a variety of events to keep both children and adults entertained.
The first night consisted of a wacky ski quiz which tested pupils knowledge on such academic subjects as
‘frozen’ and their ability to find and put on all of their ski gear from their rooms as fast as possible. A trip to the
local ice rink unearthed our hidden Torvill and Deans and witnessed a 6 foot chicken, in the disguise of Harry
Cook, pirouetting around the ice.
The trip to the karaoke bar is always a special night and this year did not disappoint with the male staff combining
to butcher a song from the ‘blues brothers’, the female staff doing a better job with their rendition of
‘super trooper’ but the highlight of the night was awarded to Gregor Lennon, strangely, also dressed as a 6 foot
chicken, in offering his version of ‘you can leave your hat on’. The trip to the local disco was a fantastic night
where several schools combined to see who has the best John Travolta impersonator.
In June, the German department took Year 8 on their annual trip to Germany.
The final night of the week, celebrated the improvement made by all skiers at an awards night. Included in this
was the eagerly awaited results from the ski race which is always hotly contested. This year was no different with
the fastest student, Henry Smith, just pipping Harry Handford to the title!
A special mention must also be added concerning the outstanding accommodation and the friendliness of the
hotel staff. The standard of food, delivered by a team of dedicated waitresses was truly wonderful! The week
was a huge success due to the excellent organisational ability of Miss Martin, the dedicated staff team and the
comradery and high standards of behaviour demonstrated by our students. Thank you all for a fantastic week!
Mr Harwood

Year 7 French Trip
What was the verdict?
Much chatter and excitement signalled our departure from school late on
Thursday. By 3am all students were exhausted (apart from Nina). The
crossing was gentle and fortunately no one decided to go for a swim. On
arrival, we headed for the beach on a glorious afternoon where we played a game of
rounders. The girls thrashed the boys – shame on you, boys!
Saturday was a great day when we had a stroll around the market at St Renan. Some
of the boys went native and bought baguettes, ham and cheese for their lunch. This
was a very hot day and it continued at a local theme park, where the staff had more
fun on the rides than the students. After the evening meal there was no respite and
Mrs Weetman dragged us all to the laser quest. Once there, everyone had great fun
and lost half a stone in sweat.
Sunday was another sweltering day. An interesting morning was spent at the St
Mathieu lighthouse then we went to the Fort de Bertheaume. Here, the zip wire
journey across the bay was a breath taking experience for those brave enough to
participate. How we all returned from that goodness only knows.
On Monday pupils met their pen friends at their school. A morning’s sporting activities
proved SGS’s prowess, particularly at rounders. In the afternoon, we were
treated to a dress rehearsal of the school’s forthcoming music and drama production.
It’s fair to say this was entertaining, but for the wrong reasons. Mrs Weetman’s
desire to use every minute of every day continued as we had crepes in the restaurant
at the top of Chateau D’eau, which afforded stunning views, followed by dinner
then a visit to the cinema. Exhausted, the pupils begged to go to bed.
We had a pleasant journey home and arrived on time. What a brilliant trip! The pupils
(and staff) behaved impeccably and were a pleasure to be with. Mrs Weetman
deserves the highest praise for her meticulous organisation of such an educational
and fun visit.
Mr Cook.

Oh Gumtree!
One of SGS’ most outstanding achievements of 2014-15 was the production Oh Gumtree! Written by
Mrs Darley, the cast consisted of Scarlett Baker, Yasmin Duggal, Emelia Harrison, Molly Darley and
Mrs Darley herself. Ably assisted by Mrs Handford, the blue-suited performers took the performance
to the Edinburgh Fringe. Yasmin Duggal discusses the experience:
55,000 performers, 3500 shows, 300 venues. Together they create the biggest arts festival in the world. Back at
home, after living in an Edinburgh Fringe ‘bubble’ for three weeks, it seemed impossible to believe that we had
been part of something so spectacular. With the average audience for a show being 4 people, we managed to
exceed every expectation. In a 49 seater studio, which seemed at least 49 degrees, at 3.15 every afternoon for 17
performances, Mrs Darley’s original play ‘Oh Gumtree’ attracted an average of 32 people, and sold out 4 times.
Now we have all had time to reflect upon what we achieved, it really has sunk in that performing at the Fringe
was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and something none of us will forget.
To start at the beginning is easy, as I remember the exact rainy day when Mrs Darley asked me if I wanted to
perform at the Fringe. Like her, I think even the notion of it seemed out of reach initially. The LAMDA acting
group had been formed in 2012 after Mrs Darley had written ‘Oh Gumtree’ for a ten person cast. She explained
that she wanted to rewrite the play for the Fringe, as it was the most adaptable and included only a minimalistic
set, and include only original cast members who were still part of the LAMDA acting group. These were myself,
Scarlett Baker, Emme Harrison and Molly Darley. In September 2014, rehearsals began, fundraising was organised,
it was decided that Mrs Handford would accompany us to Edinburgh as our tech and house mum, and
Mrs Darley was convinced that she should perform in her own creation. After much deliberation, we decided
on the perfect name and Blue Suit Theatre Company was born.
Handford found us a last minute beautiful house on an expensive Edinburgh road. For three weeks we lived as
a ‘family’ – I’d like to think I became a domestic goddess in this time in preparation for university! Our days
began with a wake-up call at 8a.m. of ‘Morning girls!’ followed by a slick routine of breakfast, making packed
lunches and getting dressed into our matching 1960s checked dresses. By 10.30a.m. we had left, walked the
twenty minutes into the centre of Edinburgh and begun to hand out flyers to Fringe-goers. After an hour for
lunch and a couple more of enticing people into our play, it was time to get into costume and have half an hour
to get mentally prepared to perform. After the show, the evening was our own, and we would go out for dinner
or go home and eat together, stay out and see shows, or venture out late and explore the city. (I say it was late,
but really the days were so tiring that we were mostly in bed by 10p.m.!)
Through sunshine and rain – luckily mostly sunshine – and a little bit of sunburn for the paler members of the
cast, we did our best to sell our show. Never did we imagine the success ‘Oh Gumtree’ would have: brilliant
audience feedback, a professional three star review from Broadway Baby (a notoriously tough Fringe reviewer)
and a grand total of 540 tickets sold. I even got interviewed by BBC Radio 2! It was not only the success of the
play which made the experience unforgettable, however, for the people we met, the skills we learnt and other
incredible theatre elevated the trip to more than we could have imagined. For me, I got an insight into the
industry, had a taster of living in close quarters with five other people, and was truly inspired by some of the
shows I saw.
As this is being published in the school magazine, I would like to just thank Mrs Darley whilst I have the platform
to, for giving me an unbelievable opportunity, from which I gained so much, and which I will always
cherish as three weeks which helped me grow not just as a performer, but as a person.
If you never got the chance to see ‘Oh Gumtree’, either in its original or adapted form, then you really did miss
out. I still find it incredible that Mrs Darley wrote something so inspiring which evoked such a positive reaction
from a variety of audiences. Whenever I am asked to explain the play now, I seem to involuntarily regurgitate
our Edinburgh Fringe patter, as after three weeks of handing out flyers and promoting our play, the rhetoric
used on the streets of Edinburgh seems the best way to explain it. ‘Oh Gumtree’ is a mysterious play, set on New
Year’s Eve in 1962 - one of the coldest winters on record – when five strangers find themselves unexpectedly
together. Through a series of backstories, clues and twists, the outcome is eventually revealed and their reason
for being together as well as where they are is made clear to the audience.
Rehearsals took place at first weekly, then twice a week later on. It was difficult at times for all of us; personally,
balancing A-levels, other extra-curricular activities and my social life with being part of a theatre company
took determination and commitment. However, as the process began so far in advance, there was never any
immense pressure in rehearsals, and because we all got on so well, it was a healthy environment to work in, with
everyone contributing ideas to the script and to direction. Alongside rehearsals, Mrs Darley took control of
the lengthy application process involved in performing at the Fringe, and the team embarked on a fundraising
journey. I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the team, to thank everyone who donated in any way
throughout last year. Whether it was time, cakes or money, the generosity of the school community and beyond
was what allowed us to get to the Fringe.
On the 2nd August we bundled into a Stafford Grammar mini bus, surrounded by suitcases, duvets, set and
more, and began our 6 hour journey to Edinburgh. The week before we were due to go, we found out that
the flat we were supposed to be living in had been flooded, but fortunately this crisis was averted when Mrs

GCSE and A Level Drama
The acting talent in SGS is clear when one goes to see any
of the school productions. Some students choose to make
acting more than a hobby by opting for GCSE or A Level
Drama. Here is a sneak peek of their productions this year.
GCSE
A Level
Year 13 created, produced, directed and performed their own original comedy called “Banged up” for their final
Drama A level piece on 22nd April 2015. It followed the lives of two inmates inside a young offender’s institute
revealing their day to day struggles and challenges, from community service to surviving the food from the canteen.
Georgie McKinley said “Writing my own original piece of theatre was hard and making it a comedy was even
harder, I am so glad that I persevered with the idea as I thoroughly enjoyed the whole process and was so relieved
to hear the audience laughing at my jokes.”
Year 11 performed sections from Kafka’s Metamorphosis for
their final Drama GCSE piece on 22nd April 2015. The story
begins with a traveling salesman, Gregor Samsa, waking to find
himself transformed (metamorphosed) into a large, monstrous
insect-like creature.
Sophie Marsden said that “it was a real challenge and a style of
theatre which we had never tried before but the hard work was
worth it!”
AS Level
Year 12 performed sections from Godber’s Shakers for their final
Drama AS Level piece on 22nd April 2015. Shakers Cocktail Bar
is THE place to be! After work, before a club, to meet the blokes,
to pick up the girls, to drink to celebrate or drown your sorrows,
for birthdays and parties and romance and sin, this is the place to be seen.
And in ‘Shakers’ the four young waitresses reveal the lives of its staff and customers and offer an insight into their hopes,
dreams and disappointments. Courtney Walker said that “This production really allowed us to push our characterisation
techniques. We had to go from acting as a dumb checkout girl to a sleazy old yuppie businessman in a matter of seconds
so it really pushed our acting abilities. It was so much fun to take on a comedy; I enjoyed making the audience laugh!”

Key Stage 3
Drama Showcase
The Lion, the Witch
and the Wardrobe
Over 40 students from years 7,8 and 9 performed a selection of performances to an audience on 10th
Dec 2014. The performances ranged from Shakespeare to Commedia dell’ Arte. Chloe Allen (year
9) said “for me, it really helped boost my confidence as it was the first time I had ever performed at
Stafford Grammar and the first time I had ever spoken in front of such a huge audience. It was interesting
to see the process of how a production is put together and it was nice to interact with other year groups.”
The Junior Production transported the audience into the magical world
of the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. The performance included
old hats like Jenny Kendall and Olivia Smith as well as newcomers
Rory Knight, Ashley Sterland and, who could forget, Jack Hughes. The set was
beautiful and all of the participants, and their director, Miss Lewis, should be
congratulated on their efforts.

World War One Exhibition
Accrington Pals
Coinciding with the exhibition was the Senior Production, Accrington Pals. The
powerful and moving performance centred on a pals battalion during the First
World War and was well-received by all who attended.
In order to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the First World War,
SGS staff and pupils put together an exhibition, which stretched across all subjects and encouraged
pupils to connect with their own families’ past. The outcome was a poignant and
interesting display of research, artefacts and family history items.

Often seen as the highlight of the school’s extra-curricular calendar, 2015 did not disappoint. After tackling
the intricacies of ‘West Side Story’ in 2014, this year saw Stafford Grammar’s biggest challenge yet;
Stephen Sondheim’s ‘Into the Woods’. It was held in the first week of March and proved to be a massive
success with everyone who was involved performing to a professional standard.
Into The Woods

Stafford Grammar School
May 2015 Election
Not wanting to be left out, SGS held their own election. It is concerning that an increasing number of
18-24 year olds have not voted in recent General Elections. For some, the issue is apathy - they cannot
see the relevance of politics to them. For others, it is a lack of understanding of the political system that
is putting them off. Having decided to provide pupils with the opportunity to vote we soon realised
that a good deal of preparation was required if pupils were to cast their votes meaningfully.
A series of assemblies provided the forum for the election. In the first assembly, pupils were introduced
to British politics, the process of elections and the dominant Parties in our country. Emphasis
was also placed on the role of the media and the lengths that politicians will go to to discredit opponants.
They were encouraged to carry out some research on the party manifestoes in preparation for the
next assembly.
Later in the week, volunteers from the Lower Sixth neutrally presented the party manifestoes of the
main political Parties. The aim here was to provide pupils with the facts, so that they could make their
own decision as to which Party offered the most for them. Below is an extract from Michael Davies’
summary of the Liberal Democrat manifesto:
“I am here to present the Liberal Democratic political party and their most recent manifesto for the
upcoming election on May 7th 2015.
SGS Election Results
Starting with arguably the most important issue in UK society to date: the economy. The Liberal Democrats
look to eliminate the budget deficit within 3 years by asking the richer members of society to
make a contribution via targeted tax changes. Furthermore, borrowing will only be introduced for
capital investment: roads, rail, flood defence, etc. The Liberal Democratic Party will also endeavour to
increase the national minimum wage faster than the inflation rate per annum.”
Pupils then cast their votes and they were divided into year group “constituencies”. There was a real
buzz around school, with pupils speculating as to which Party had won.
Lib Dems
11%
UKIP
18%
Conservatives
46%
The following assembly, the results were revealed. The winning Party in each “constituency” was announced,
as well as the performance of the other Parties. Interestingly, we had one tie, which led to the
winning Party being drawn out of a hat by Mr Robinson (it transpires that this is what would happen
should this actually occur in a real election). The results can be seen opposite. We also compared how
the outcome of our election might have differed if we had a different electoral system.
The election provoked many conversations around school about politics, the fairness of our electoral
system, and the role of the media in influencing our opinions. Many sixth formers were able to make
a more informed choice in their first vote and lots of our younger pupils are now excitedly awaiting the
moment that they get to cast their real votes in the future.
Labour
9%
Green
16%

Chemistry
Battle of the Bands
These photos say it all about the school’s
annual Battle of the Bands! An amazing
set of performances by pupils and, in most
cases (!), staff! Well done all!
The Chemistry Department has taken part in a number of competitions this year, with
great success.
We came second in a competition at the Festival of Chemistry. Meanwhile, our team of Amber
Towers, Subhan Ahmad and Will Hawkins were finalists in the Young Analyst Competition in
Glasgow. The department also attended a Chemistry at Work event and took part in activities
at Keele Uni to show Chemistry in every day uses.

Music At SGS
The music department has had another year of outstanding success. I’m not sure how Mr Lamplough,
his department and, indeed, his multitude of musicians, find enough hours in a term to pack in so many
concerts and competitions. Here are some of the highlights of their year:
SGS Christmas Concert – December 2014
Christmas is always a busy time across the school, and it is no exception for the music department. Despite the
looming prospect of mock examinations after the Christmas holiday, our students were continuously committed
to attending the annual carolling at various supermarkets as well as regular rehearsals in preparation for
the Christmas Concert. The concert proved a success with everyone enjoying the festivity produced by the fantastic,
joyous music. This particular concert also saw the debut performance of our very popular Barber Shop
Ensemble, performing the brilliantly funny ‘God Is Still the One’. We thank the students for their unceasing
commitment and the talent that they offer.
SGS Chamber Concerts – February 2015
The music department put on a series of chamber concerts throughout this academic year to exemplify the
peripatetic work that goes on at Stafford Grammar School. There were evenings specialising in Percussion,
Singing, Strings, Piano, Woodwind and – due to the high number of saxophonists at the school – a separate
Saxophone evening.
Georgie McKinley, Simon Ashwood, Nina Fitton & Matthew Murray were all placed in their respective solo
singing classes.
Success continued on the Saturday when Concert Band gave a fantastic performance & the adjudicator declared
them the clear winners. The Sax Ensemble performed a very intricate piece called Jersey Bounce and
walked away with yet another first place trophy. One more to go and it was the Open Class, so no pressure
was put on the Big Band to make it a clean sweep (much!). They of course came up trumps and we now need
a larger trophy cabinet! The final trophy of the day came when the Concert Band performed in the Festival
Final and were crowned overall Festival Winners for the second consecutive year. Well done everyone.
SGS Easter Concert – April 2015
Each year we think that this concert can’t get any better, but yet again we are amazed at the high standard
of playing from our musicians. Our leavers soloists gave superb performances, with Adam Rowley getting a
standing ovation for his fantastic guitar playing. The Orchestra’s performance of Beethoven’s 5th Symphony,
1st movement, from the original score was one of the pinnacle moments of this musical year, demonstrating
how quickly the department is progressing.
SGS Music Festival – February 2015
The annual music festival never fails to provide a simply breath-taking evening of music, and this year it exceeded
itself. The adjudicator, James Fountain, holds the principal trumpet seat for the Royal Philharmonic
Orchestra and was appointed whilst still in his third year studying at the prestigious Guildhall. The winner of
the Junior Section, playing violin, was Charlotte Howdle for the second year running; her take on F. Kreisler’s
Praeludium und Allegro was nothing less than outstanding. The winner of the Senior Section was Eleanor
Sterland who sang beautifully. The night featured a magnificent range of instruments from the trumpet to the
trombone and the bassoon to the glockenspiel which really illustrates the diversity of talent amongst our pupils.
Concert Band at Music for Youth Regionals – March 2015
The Music for Youth competition is a national festival of music that is open to ensembles of any description.
The Concert Band were fortunate to perform in their regional qualifier in the magnificent Adrian Boult Hall at
Birmingham Conservatoire. It is a great acoustic and the band rose to the occasion! They performed brilliantly
playing “Breezin’ Down Broadway” to open their programme before James Bevan played the Saxophone Solo
“Harlem Nocturne” demonstrating the fantastic soloists that we have in the band. The final piece was a brand
new arrangement made especially for the competition of “Uptown Funk” complete with audience participation.
This was a great end to the own-choice programme and won the band a first appearance in the National
Final at Birmingham’s prestigious Symphony Hall in July. This will be a wonderful occasion and an amazing
end to an amazing year!!
SGS Music Department ‘clear up’ at Newcastle Music Festival – March 2015
Our sweep of first places started with the Prep School choir on Friday afternoon, along with our SGS Junior
choir, soon followed by SGS main choir winning their class and the SGS Junior Choir completing a hat-trick!
Friday evening also saw a heated contest where both our Barber Shop Ensemble and our Female Voices Group
fought out for a place in the same Open Class. The boys won with the girls obtaining a very close second; both
were delighted.

Sport At SGS
The team sporting achievements of SGS this
year have been numerous:
1st XI Football District Football Champions
Senior Boys District Cross Country Champions
Senior Girls District Cross Country Champions
U18 County Hockey Runners Up
U16 Boys ISA Midland Football Champions
U16 County Hockey Runners Up
U 16 Girls District Cross Country Runners Up
U15 District Rounders Champions
Boys ISA Midland Swimming Champions
U14 ISA Midland Netball Champions
U14 District Netball Champions
U14 ISA Midland Football Runners Up
U13 District Rounders Champions
U13 District Mixed rounders Champions
U13 ISA Midland Hockey Champions
U13 ISA National Netball 4th
U13 Denstone Invitational Hockey 7’s Runners Up
U13 ‘A’ team District Netball Champions
U13’B’ team District Netball Runners Up
U13 ISA Midland Netball Champions
U13 ISA Midland Rugby Champions
U13 Boys ISA Midland Swimming Champions
U13 Boys District Cross Country Champions
U12 District Netball Champions
U12 Boys District Cross Country Champions
On top of the team achievements, a number of our pupils have made county teams in football, rugby,
netball, hockey and cricket. In addition, many have had local and even national success in athletics,
swimming, golf, rowing, sailing and gymnastics.

Elite Performers Old and New
Jake Farnworth got his first senior start for Leicester Tigers first XV this season when selected to play in the
LV Cup against London Irish at the Madesjski stadium. Jake had an excellent debut in the side’s 17-16 victory.
He retained his place for the home game against the Barbarians in the celebration match to mark the
125th anniversary of the Baa Baas.
Keen archery specialist Griff Jones has enjoyed yet another highly successful season. Currently ranked
6th in the national junior rankings, Griff is a member of Archery GB’s elite under 18 development squad
which regularly trains at Lilleshall. After winning several events this season, Griff was selected for the
England U18 Archery team to compete at the Junior National Outdoor Championships. Well done, Griff!
This excellent form was noticed by the England selection committee with Jake being called up to the England
U20 squad for the six nations competition. Jake made his debut for England where he was used as a replacement
against Italy U20’s and scored a try late on in the game.
He has been awarded a 5th year contract with the Tigers. Well done, Jake!
Congratulations to Will Davis who has been playing regular cricket for Derbyshire Second XI. Will was
awarded a winter contract by Derbyshire over at the start of the 2014-15 season. His hard work was
rewarded by his selection to the England U19 squad which recently toured Australia. Will played in
the opening game for England where he took two wickets. Will finished not out when batting to help see the
England team to victory. Well done, Will!
Currently ranked number one in Great Britain at U20 level and ninth at all ages in the Javelin JT600 classification,
Emma Hamplett has had an outstanding season. She was placed first in the Loughborough
Students BUC trials and open event, first in the England U20/U23 championships, First in Senior combined
events championships, First in The Brewer games open meeting and first in the Sheffield Festival of athletics.
At the Loughborough International invitational event, Emma was placed 4th ahead of Jessica Ennis-Hill
in 6th place!
Emma’s outstanding form has been rewarded with selection to the England team to compete at the Commonwealth
Youth Games in Samoa. Emma has also gained selection to the Great Britain team to compete at IAAF
World Youth Championships in Colombia. Well done, Emma!

Sports Day
Inter-House Sport
The weather was once again glorious for a sports day which celebrated
the careers of three teachers who were retiring at the end
of the year. The time keepers, in time honoured tradition dressed
appropriately. Hikers was the order of the day for Sir Dr Francis Crane, A
Gaelic theme was adopted for Madame Hinton and Macbeth outfits were
adorned for Mrs Lonsdale, pointy hats and all!
Strong competition resulted in new sports day records in the senior girls
shot (Megan McCandless 8.48 metres). Tori Hamplett also broke the
sports day record for discus, previously held by older sister Emma, by
throwing 23.34 metres and Alex Smith gained a new senior boys record
in the 75 metres hurdles in a time of 11.35 seconds.
Honours for the athletes of the day went to;
Junior Girls Victrix Ludorum – Milenka Manford and Georgia Brownsill
Junior Boys Victor Ludorum – Henry Atkinson and Rory Knight
Senior Girls Victrix Ludorum – Tori Hamplett
Senior Boys Victor Ludorum – Josh Williams
The Inter House sports competition between the three houses is always keenly contested and this proved
once again to be the case.
Anson were victors in the Senior Polyathlon winning netball, cross country, badminton, rounders and tennis.
Fitzherbert dominated the senior cricket competition and Talbot won the football and hockey. Anson were
placed 1st overall (33 points), Fitzherbert 2nd (20 points) and Talbot 3rd (19 points).
Closest of the three Polyathlon categories was the Intermediate age group, where the competition rested on the
final rounders game of the season. Fitzherbert won the football, netball and hockey. Anson were victorious in
the cross country, badminton, tennis and cricket. With only 2 points between Fitzherbert in 1st position and
Anson in 2nd, Anson needed to beat Talbot by more than one rounder in the final game to win the competition
outright. In a close game, which Anson won, the score was Anson 7 – Talbot 6 ½. Fitzherbert were crowned
Intermediate champions. Fitherbert 1st (30 points), Anson 2nd (26 points) and Talbot 3rd (16 points).
The Junior competition was dominated by Anson, who won all events except for the cross country, where
Fitzherbert were placed 1st. The final results were; Anson 1st (38 points out of a possible 40), Fitzherbert 2nd
(18 points) and Talbot 3rd (16 points).
ANSON FITZHERBERT TALBOT
Jnr Boys 112 82 88
Jnr Girls 106 87 68
Snr Boys 97 107 81
Snr Girls 85 72 92
Overall 400 348 329
Anson were, once again, victorious!

Duke of Edinburgh Award
It has been a highly successful season for the Duke of Edinburgh candidates who have braved fantastic sunshine, tropical
downpours and extreme wind in order to complete their expeditions.
As always, the first weekend of the year was the Gold training weekend, consisting this year of 35 candidates, to Edale on
a Friday evening in March. After a chip stop in Buxton for tea, the candidates arrived in camp to put their tents up in the
dark and then straight to bed. They woke up for an early start for their accompanied walk to find low visibility, high winds
and rain (ideal training for Dartmoor!). A good day of training followed, however the evening campsite was hampered by
torrential rain which turned the campsite into a quagmire.
Next on the agenda was a Silver practice weekend consisting of 42 candidates. The children undertook a circular walk on
Saturday around Wetton, finishing at their starting position! Whilst the children learnt the art of self sufficient cooking
on trangias, the staff enjoyed their first barbecue of the year, with Mr Harwood taking over the mantle of chief barbecuer
following the retirement from the job by Mr. Sharman. After an excellent meal (in most cases) and a good night’s sleep,
the Sunday allowed all candidates to practise their skills by completing the long walk to Bradbourne via Tissington and
Parwich.
The summer half term allowed the Gold candidates their second practice weekend, leaving for Tal-y-bont on Friday
evening. After locating an outstanding chip shop in Welshpool and enduring severe traffic hold ups, the groups
arrived on site to once again erect tents in the dark. Saturday saw the groups walk around the Rhinog area to arrive
at their various campsites. Two groups enjoyed the glorious scenery overnight of the lake at Cwm Buchan although
the toilet facilities can only best be described as extremely well ventilated of an open air design with a fantastic view
of the lake (behind the wall). After a slow day of walking on the Sunday due to tiredness and navigation errors, the
groups now consisting of 26 children arrived back at the Grammar School for 9pm.
The 3 day Silver assessment weekend was completed in early June in a mixture of very hot conditions and rain from
the area of Tiitesworth reservoir to ultimately finish in Parwich via Butterton, Hartington, Moneyash, Darley Farm
(no relation), Minnington and Gotham (no sign of Batman anywhere). Despite late finishes due to navigation errors
all but one candidate (injury) completed their assessment successfully.
The final trip of the academic year was the arduous Gold assessment expedition to Dartmoor where the 26 candidates
completed 50 miles over a 4 day period. Ex Stafford Grammar students who had completed the Gold award
themselves and carried on to higher awards assessed our groups for the first time! With wild country conditions the
navigation skills, teamwork and determination of the groups was severely tested. Glorious conditions on the first
day saw the groups underway (trowel packed) via Nun’s Cross and Broad Rock to a ‘wild’ campsite in the middle
of the south moor. On waking up to drizzle and low visibility, all groups successfully appeared at Combestone Tor
the following morning and eventually arrived at slightly better accommodation for their second night’s camping.
The third day saw the groups onto the north moor which was slightly easier to navigate due to increased features on
the landscape. A very happy but exhausted group of people finished the expedition on the fourth day via Meldon
reservoir. A highlight of the expedition was Courtney asking if water would be provided by the staff at the reservoir!
Well done to all 26 students who finished.
The weekend of 16th/17th May gave the 44 Bronze award candidates their first experience of the D of E award. After arriving
at Wetton, the children were assisted in putting up their tents before undertaking an accompanied walk around Wetton
where they were taught map reading and compass skills. On arrival back in camp, the children were given a safety talk on
cooking and then were left to attempt their version of Masterchef. A surprise addition to the staff team was Mr. Sharman
(master barbecuer) who was highly delighted with the culinary attempt of apprentice Mr. Harwood. The following day,
the groups of children were given the opportunity to put their skills to use by walking unaccompanied to Waterhouses via
Stanshope, Dale Bottom, Castern Hall and Rushley Bridge while the staff played the time honoured game of find the group!
An early finish with all groups at Waterhouses by 4pm!
Next up, the Bronze assessment in September! A huge thank you must be given to all staff who tirelessly gave up
their time this year. Mr. Harwood, Dr. Foster, Mrs. Patrick, Mrs Weetman and Mr. Sharman we salute you. Finally,
a special thanks to Dr. Crane M.B.E. for all that he has done this year and in the past to ensure that Stafford Grammar
School produces more students passing their Gold award than all of the other Staffordshire Schools combined!
Sir, we wish you a well earned and happy retirement!