Ratcliffian 2016 (LOWRES)

THE
TCLIFFIAN
2016 ANNUAL SCHOOL REVIEW

Contents
Headmaster’s Introduction.................................. 01
Staff Farewells................................................... 02
Welcome to New Staff........................................ 07
GCSE Results..................................................... 08
‘A’ Level Results................................................. 09
Chaplaincy & Charity......................................... 10
Nursery............................................................. 12
Preparatory School............................................. 16
Art and Design.................................................. 36
Academic PE & Classics...................................... 38
Economics and Business .................................... 39
Design and Technology...................................... 40
Drama.............................................................. 42
English.............................................................. 46
Food Technology................................................ 48
Geography........................................................ 49
History.............................................................. 50
ICT................................................................... 51
Mathematics...................................................... 52
Media Studies.................................................... 54
Modern Foreign Languages................................ 56
Music................................................................ 58
Science.............................................................. 62
PSHCE & Anti-Bullying........................................ 64
Careers & Library.............................................. 65
EAL................................................................... 66
Learning Support............................................... 67
Religious Studies................................................ 68
Sport................................................................. 69
Boarding........................................................... 84
Sixth Form......................................................... 90
Residential Trips................................................. 94
Extra-Curricular Activities.................................. 104
House Activities................................................ 112
Exhibiton Day.................................................. 114
Ratcliffian Association....................................... 115
Development................................................... 120

Dear Friends of Ratcliffe College,
How quickly a year flies by! Welcome to The Ratcliffian
2015-2016, which will certainly bring you joy, as you recall
many memorable moments from the past Academic Year.
I must thank Staff, Parents, Governors, Trustees, Old Ratcliffians and, of course, our
students, for your tremendous support in upholding the good name of Ratcliffe College.
Thank you, in particular, for joining us on our journey of learning and growing in the
Light of the Gospel, as our Mission Statement asks of us.
HEADMASTER’S INTRODUCTION
We have enjoyed another auspicious year, where excellence has been the common
denominator in all that we have done: from outstanding public examination results
and exciting classroom-based learning, from Nursery to Sixth Form; a truly exceptional
co-curriculum that has enabled so many students to discover new skills and talents;
a loving, caring, compassionate community; and all within a beautiful campus that
continues to be immensely enhanced by constantly improving facilities of the highest
calibre. Fr Keith Tomlinson I.C. (14th September 1935 – 7th May 2016), Fr President
and Headmaster of this auspicious School from 1993 to 1996, was certainly committed
to these same values; may he rest in peace.
Underpinning all that we do, of course, is a commitment to our School Motto: Legis
Plenitudo Charitas, Love is the Fulfilment of the Law. This inspires every teacher to ‘go the
extra mile’ to ensure outstanding pastoral care for our children, from the classroom to
the Boarding House, from the Nursery to our departing Sixth Form students. The latter
distinguished themselves this summer, achieving excellent ‘A’ level results and, almost
without exception, securing coveted places at their first choice University, including several
students going to the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge and Ivy League institutions.
The all-pervading sense of deep happiness, together with a sense of profound fulfilment
in our daily work, is tangible within this review. As Headmaster of this fine community,
it is both a privilege and a great responsibility to lead the Staff and students of Ratcliffe
College, with Christ’s example of love, forgiveness and encouragement central to our
ethos. A community such as Ratcliffe is far-reaching, from the evident internal structure of
the School to those who support our efforts, both near and afar, whether in action or prayer.
The success of a community stands on its ability to communicate; in a fragile world that is
often torn apart by war, famine, disagreement, poverty, disillusionment and neglect, the
need to communicate effectively on so many levels has never been greater. It is through
communication that we grow as people committed to the values of Christ, and through
effective communication, we do indeed grow as a learning community, with Ratcliffe children
and their all-round education central to our philosophy. It is these aspects which, I am sure
you will agree, we witness time and again throughout this edition of The Ratcliffian.
May you and your family be blessed with good health and happiness for the year ahead.
Yours sincerely,
Mr Gareth Lloyd,
Headmaster
01

STAFF FAREWELLS
Staff Farewells
Ms Ashleigh Callow
Mr Aidan Cooke
Rev (Mrs) Georgie Hadley
Mr Daniel Jones
STAFF FAREWELLS
Teacher of EAL
By Mrs M Reeves
Ashleigh Callow started
working at Ratcliffe in
February 2015, when
she took on the post of
EAL teacher with specific
responsibility for teaching the
students from Thailand on the
Leicester City Thai Football
Programme. The boys had
little to no English upon
arrival, and Ashleigh was
instrumental in helping them
to settle into the routines of
school life and to improve
their grasp of the language.
Ashleigh has since taken on
more EAL teaching within the Senior School and has also
taught mainstream English. She took on the role of Year 8
tutor at the start of this academic year, over and above the
commitments she already had, and has been a supportive
and caring tutor to all her tutees.
Ashleigh’s passion and commitment have been clear from
the start. She has contributed so many good ideas as to how
to take the EAL department forward and has always been
a kind, caring and supportive colleague. Ashleigh will be
greatly missed in the department, but we wish her all the
very best in the challenges she will face in her new post as
EAL teacher at the City of London’s Freeman’s School.
Mr Gareth Coleman
Preparatory School Teacher
By Fr C Cann
Mr Gareth Coleman joined
the Preparatory School
staff as a newly qualified
teacher in September 2014
as we moved into the new
building. Mr Coleman has
been a very popular and
inspiring Year 6 teacher
and sports coach and we
greatly appreciate all he
has done over the last two
years in the Preparatory
School. We wish Mr Coleman every blessing as he relocates
to Leeds and takes up a post at Leeds Grammar School.
Senior Housemaster and
Teacher of PE and ICT
By Mr G J Sharpe
During his four years in charge of
Boys’ Boarding here at Ratcliffe,
Mr Cooke has overseen a whole
raft of changes, developments and
improvements. Most obviously,
from the boarders’ point of view,
he has been instrumental in
bringing about big improvements
in the common room, kitchenette
and study room facilities within the boarding house. The size
of the community has also increased significantly since 2012
– from around 50 to over 80 boys. In part, this has been
due to the establishment of the Leicester City Football Club
Thai Academy initiative. Mr Cooke played a significant part
in planning for the introduction of this programme and then
assumed day-to-day responsibility for the scheme.
In his younger years, Mr Cooke was a keen and very able
rugby player, and he has brought his expertise and love of
the game to our sports fields, coaching senior teams – most
recently, the 1st XV.
We wish Mr Cooke and his family every happiness and
success as they move to Ampleforth College, where Aidan
will take the role of Senior Housemaster.
Mrs Lynn Harland
Maths Support Teacher
By Mr G Higham
Two years ago, Lynn moved
to Ratcliffe College from
Loughborough High school for
Girls. We have been very fortunate
to have someone with a degree in
Mathematics and a fully qualified
Mathematics teacher as a specialist
Maths Assistant to help the weaker
students in Years 7 – 9; Lynn has
done such a brilliant job, and the
students and teachers she has
supported will miss her greatly. Lynn has explained concepts in
a manner which has enabled students not only to understand
and cope at the time, but also to lay firm foundations on
which to build in the future. She has also worked, unpaid,
using her time and expertise, in supporting the development
of resources for the students. Lynn, you will be sorely missed
and we wish you the very best for the future.
Teacher of Learning Support and Religious Studies
By Mr N Walsh & Mrs J Cluley
Mrs Hadley has been a
talented and much loved
member of Ratcliffe College
for the past 15 years. She
has had a wide range of
different roles, including
teaching – not just in one, but
three – different departments;
Form Tutor; Head of Careers;
and lead member of staff for
the Equestrian Team.
Originally based at the
Dyslexia Institute, Mrs Hadley
joined Ratcliffe College in
2001 and quickly became an established teacher within
the Learning Support Department. Over the years, she has
supported many students who have struggled with their
academic studies; being dyslexic herself, she has always
been able to relate personally to the unique challenges of
dyslexic learners.
Mrs Hadley is also a talented artist and after only one year
here was offered additional hours teaching within the Art
Department. We know that she felt privileged to be able to
combine her love of art with her love of teaching.
You might think that working within two departments might
be enough for one person – but not Mrs Hadley! Her strong
Christian faith led her to accept an additional teaching
role within the RS Department, which she has continued
up to this day. Her faith has also continued to grow: she
undertook further study to gain a Postgraduate Diploma in
Theology and Pastoral Studies, which led, ultimately, to her
ordination in 2014.
Mrs Hadley has been a member of the Religious Studies
Department since 2006, teaching across the age range from
Year 7 to Year 11. She is extremely passionate about the
subject, from both an academic and faith perspective. At GCSE,
her students have always achieved excellent results and many
have gone on to study the subject at ‘A’ Level. Mrs Hadley has
also taught Years 12 & 13 General Religious Studies. She
has made a huge contribution to wider school life, attending
retreats to the Briars and trips to the Holocaust Centre.
In her role as Reverend, Mrs Hadley is leaving us to
undertake the responsibility of pastoral care for three local
villages. We wish her every happiness and know that her
flock will be in very safe hands!
Assistant Director of Music
By Fr C Cann
As Assistant Director of Music,
Mr Jones has helped build
up Preparatory School music
magnificently over the last
two years and we are hugely
grateful for all his hard work
and inspiration. We have
thoroughly enjoyed learning
a range of new hymns for
Mass and assemblies and
the children have really
enjoyed the gamut of new
opportunities opened up
to them to learn a range
of instruments. Mr Jones
also taught in the Senior School and those in Senior School
Orchestra have benefited from his direction as the orchestra
have taken on new students and undertaken ambitious
pieces. Mr Jones and his wife (who taught ‘Cello here, see
below) are moving to Winchester House Preparatory School
to take up the positions of boarding house parents. Mr
Jones will also be Director of Music at Winchester House
and we wish them every blessing for the future.
Mrs Rachel Jones
Assistant Director of Music
By Mr E McCall
Mrs Rachel Jones has taught ‘Cello since 2015 and as part of
the Year 4 String Scheme, and has rapidly improved standards
of lower string playing, as evidenced in the termly RATS
concerts. We wish her the very best of luck at Winchester.
Mrs Katy Lyttle
Piano Teacher
By Mr E McCall
Mrs Lyttle has been with us for four years as a Teacher of
Piano. In her time, she has taught a number of students with
great diligence. Mrs Lyttle always ensures that her students
pay the greatest of attention to the musical nuance and as a
result, the examination results they gain are impressive. She
has been highly communicative and proactive as a teacher
and colleague.
We wish her the very best of luck as she leaves Ratcliffe to
devote more time to her private teaching.
02
03

STAFF FAREWELLS
Mr Ben Plummer
Teaching Assistant Preparatory School
By Fr C Cann
We have greatly enjoyed
having Mr Ben Plummer as
our Year 6 teaching assistant
for the last two years. He
has been a great help to
both teachers and pupils
both in and out of class
and we have all valued
his calm and kind manner
in resolving matters. He
has been an excellent role
model for our older pupils
and we wish him every
blessing as he leaves us
to build up his own sports
massage business and focus on his running career. Good
luck Ben in fulfilling your dreams!
Ms Kashmira Singapuri
Student Support
By Mrs M Reeves
Kashmira started at Ratcliffe
when she was sub-contracted
from Students International in
September 2014. Her main
duty was to provide support
across the curriculum for an
EAL student. She then joined
the Ratcliffe staff in the same
role in September 2015.
This involved shadowing
him throughout the day
in all lessons and working
with him on a one-to-one
basis in his private study lessons in order to try to help him
gain a number of GCSEs. When the student was off school
(and after he completed his examinations) Kashmira was
quick to support the School by taking on cover lessons to
take the pressure off the teaching staff. This was very much
appreciated by all on the stand-by rota! To work so intensely
with one student takes a special person with key personal
qualities of patience and professionalism. Kashmira has
demonstrated both very clearly.
She also gave of her own time to support other EAL students
who needed that extra one-to-one support, showing
immense patience and determination at all times. We wish
her all the very best in the path she takes from here.
Mrs Sue Worsnop
Head of Year 7 & Teacher of Mathematics
By Mr G Higham
Sue joined Ratcliffe College 17 years ago as a Mathematics
teacher before combining her role with that of Head of Year
7 for 9 years. Throughout
this time, Sue has proven to
be an outstanding teacher,
as any student who has
taken public examinations
can testify. She has inspired
countless students of all
abilities and has encouraged
and equipped many to
overcome difficulties at
Key Stage 3, GCSE and ‘A’
level. Sue’s commitment to
the welfare of the students
has been exemplary and
has never waned. We shall
miss her company, expertise and wisdom greatly, especially
at departmental meetings. Sue’s perceptive and insightful
comments, her willingness to deal with issues on a practical
level, her sense of humour, hard work and contributions to
the common goal and, most of all, her voice of reason will be
sadly missed and very difficult to replace.
Mr Alex Watts
Teaching Assistant & Learning Support Department
By Mrs J Cluley
Mr Watts joined Ratcliffe College on voluntary work experience
in the Mathematics Department in the autumn term 2015, in
preparation for his PGCE course, starting in September 2016.
He immediately established himself as an enthusiastic and
hardworking member of the team, with an excellent rapport
with both students and staff. Mr Watts was subsequently
offered the temporary position of Teaching Assistant within the
Learning Support Department in January 2016.
Despite his short time here, Mr Watts has been an invaluable
member of staff, supporting students in a range of classes
from Year 7 Mathematics to Year 11 GCSE English. He
established a highly professional relationship with staff
and students alike. In addition, he provided essential
administrative support for the Learning Support Department.
We have no doubt at all that Mr Watts will make an excellent
teacher of Mathematics and prove to be a valuable asset to
the school lucky enough to employ him.
Graduate and Language Assistants
Each year, we employ several young members of staff for one or sometimes two years. In addition to
their work in departments, our Graduate Assistants and Language Assistants have again provided
invaluable assistance in the Boarding Community this year: leading activities, accompanying trips,
assisting around the Boarding Houses and proving to be very popular with students and staff alike.
Mr G J Sharpe
Miss Laura Ferstl
German Language Assistant
By Mrs S Cushing
Miss Laura Ferstl joined the
Modern Languages Department
last year as our German
Assistant. She worked with
students from Years 7-13,
helping them to develop
their fluency in German and
preparing them for important oral examinations at GCSE
and ‘A’ level. Working with individuals and pairs, she steadily
improved the students’ confidence in oral work and enhanced
their background knowledge and cultural awareness of
Germany. Whether teaching children in the Prep School or the
Sixth Form, or helping out on Open Mornings or with displays,
Miss Ferstl has been a reliable, trustworthy colleague, patient
with and supportive of the students. She has produced some
excellent revision materials for the Year 12 and 13 students,
which will continue to provide support for those preparing for
external oral examinations in the future. Laura has also been a
very popular and effective member of the Boarding Staff team,
accompanying boarders on trips out of school and providing
valuable administrative support in the Girls’ House.
We are very grateful to Miss Ferstl for her invaluable input
into the department, both in and out of the classroom,
and wish her well as she returns to her native Bavaria to
complete her teacher training.
Mr Stephen Hunter
Graduate Sports Assistant
By Mr P Gilchrist
Mr Stephen Hunter has had a big
impact on both the girls’ and boys’
hockey teams this year. Having
taken charge of the U13 girls’ team,
Stephen then assisted Mr Willcock
with the 1st XI boys, helping them
change their style of play, which we
hope will benefit everyone in the
future. Later on, he then helped Mr Taylor to prepare the
U13 boys for their National Hockey finals. We wish Stephen
well in his new hockey role in Loughborough, and hope to
see him play in the Hockey Premier League next year.
Mr Anthony Suplice
French Language Assistant
By Mrs S Cushing
M. Anthony Suplice originally came to Ratcliffe for one year
in August 2014 and liked it so much he stayed for two! He
has been an extremely popular French assistant and will be
remembered, not just for his intellectual discussions with the
Sixth Form students, and his humour and perseverance with
the younger years, but also his impressive gift for de-cluttering
and re-organising. The department’s immaculate displays
and neat shelves are the work of M. Suplice, reflecting his
intolerance of anything slightly less than perfect!
In addition to his practical
help in the department
on a day to day basis, M.
Suplice has also been a
great support on several
foreign language trips
and visits, including to
Montpellier, Nice and the
Opal Coast. His carefully
prepared survival guides
for the Years 12 and 13
students are testament to
the genuine interest he
has taken in the progress
of his students and would
not look out of place in Waterstone’s. They will serve future
students well as they prepare for public examinations.
Anthony has been an equally strong support for staff and
students in the Boarding Community. Several boarders owe
Anthony a debt of gratitude for the time and support he has
freely given to them during times of stress.
We wish him all the very best as he heads towards the
sunshine in Nice, to take up a teaching post.
STAFF FAREWELLS
04
05

STAFF FAREWELLS
Miss Lucy Bowman
Graduate Sports Assistant
By Mr P Gilchrist
Miss Lucy Bowman has been
a very useful addition to the
PE department this year. Not
only has she helped many of
the netballers improve their
skills, but she always has a
positive, cheerful approach
that encourages students and
staff alike. It is already clear
that Lucy will become a very
good teacher in the future,
and we wish her well on
her teacher training course
(PGCE) next year.
Mr Alex Johnson
Graduate Sports Assistant
By Mr P Gilchrist
Mr Alex Johnson came
into his own during
the second half of the
year, with practices
then matches in cricket,
his main sport. Alex
has really helped the
boys consolidate their
existing individual skills,
while also encouraging
them to develop more
advanced techniques.
He has been in charge
of the promising U12
team, helping them to achieve several excellent results and
performances. We wish Alex all the best in the future when
he will pursue his ambition for a career in business.
Dr James Winkley
Graduate Music Assistant
By Mr E McCall
Dr James Winkley has been a fantastic member of the Music
Department who has approached his work with the utmost
professionalism. Aside from the myriad administrative
tasks he has done on a daily
basis, he has taught various
students theory or supported
them in preparation for their
practical music examinations.
In particular, Dr Winkley
has taken the Intermediate
Orchestra from strength to
strength, refining the sound
they made and ensuring that
the musical detail is attended
to. We must not forget that
Dr Winkley arrived as Mr
Winkley. Completing his PHD
on top of his boarding and
house duties is no mean feat!
Congratulations on gaining your doctorate, Doctor!
James was also a valued member of the Boarding Staff
team. For only the most positive of reasons, he was very
much a larger than life character who enhanced the
boarding experience of students and colleagues alike.
He will be greatly missed as a musician and colleague and
we wish him the best of luck as he joins Cokethorpe as a
Teacher of Music.
WELCOME TO OUR NEW STAFF, 2015-16
Teaching Staff:
Mrs Tracey Allen (Biology); Mr Neil Atkins (Sports Coach);
Mrs Claire Claydon (Prep School); Mrs Lucy Davids (Learning
Support); Miss Rebecca Doig (Media Studies); Miss Laura
Ferstl (German Assistant); Miss Sophie Green (LAMDA); Mr
Graham Henderson (Peripatetic Music Teacher – Woodwind);
Miss Joanne Jackson (Swimming); Mr Derek Jelley (Rugby
Coach); Mr Stuart Johnson and Mr Benjamin Matthews
(both Peripatetic Teachers); Mrs Sherri Owen (Early Years
Practitioner); Mr Phillip Rogers (Design & Technology); Mr
Alex Watts (Teaching Assitant); Mrs Louise Wetton (Prep
School); Mr Samuel Yassin (Hockey Coach).
Internal teaching appointments
from 1st September 2015:
Mr Adam Chorley becomes Head of Science; Dr Luanda
Stannard becomes Second in English; Mr Steve Thorpe
becomes Head of Biology; Miss Tiffany Spencer becomes
PSHCE Co-ordinator; Mr Michael Benjamin becomes Head
of Year 11; Mr Anthony Suplice remains as French Assistant
and Mrs Helen Grant becomes CCF (RAF) Officer.
Support Staff:
Just some of our new staff
in September 2015
WELCOME TO NEW STAFF
Graduate Sports Assistants: Lucy Bowman, Rebecca Lowe,
Stephen Hunter and Alex Johnson, and Graduate Music
Assistant: James Winkley.
Mr Marley Lyman (Media Studies Technician); Mrs Patricia Muse
(Receptionsit); Mrs Alexandra Slack (Ratcliffian Association).
06
07

RESULTS
RESULTS
GCSE RESULTS
‘A’ LEVEL RESULTS
Ratcliffe Students celebrate outstanding ‘A’ Level results.
Ratcliffe College is delighted with another impressive set of GCSE results. Following
the College’s outstanding inspection, these excellent results reinforce this message.
Ratcliffe College saw a
significant increase in
A* grades, with 48%
of all grades A*/A.
The College takes
pride in supporting
all students, teaching
a wide spectrum of
abilities; with 87%
of all grades being
C or better, there is
clearly significant
value added to all our
students regardless
of their ability.
Headmaster, Mr Gareth Lloyd
commented: “Our examination results
have, yet again, proven that we stretch
the most able while at the same time
supporting every individual, nurturing
their own personal strengths. I am
immensely proud of my students’
achievements and of the unstinting
commitment of my colleagues to each
and every child.”
In the very difficult Further
Mathematics examination, which
is far more challenging than GCSE Mathematics, there was
an increase in the A/A*; 23% of the Year group achieved
grade A or above (including A**), significantly bucking the
national trend.
Top students were Philip Gyesi-Appiah (11A*s, including
A* with Distinction in Further Maths), Joseph Smith (10 A*s
and 1 A), Tom Cusack and Nathalie Dawe (both with A* with
Distinction, 8 A*s and 2 As), Esme Kelly (8 A*s and 3 As) and
David Hippisley-Cox (A* with Distinction, 7A*s and 2 As).
Congratulations, one and all!
Ratcliffe College is delighted with its outstanding
‘A’ Level results. Last year, the College was
awarded ‘Excellent’ in all categories by the
Independent Schools’ Inspectorate and the
‘A’ Level data has reinforced the Inspectors’
comments that the attainment of the students
across all external examinations is excellent.
An impressive 5% of Year 13 students gained
entry into Oxbridge or Ivy League Universities
and 13% scored A*A*A or better. The College
provides for a wide range of abilities and yet
there was a 100% pass rate at ‘A’ Level with
71% of all grades being A*-B, and 41% of all
grades being A or A*. The majority of students
have secured their First Choice University.
Headmaster, Mr Gareth Lloyd,
commented: “Our current Year 13
students have been wonderful in every
way; I am so proud of them: they have
worked extremely hard to access exciting
and fulfilling opportunities after school;
they have played hard in a fantastic
variety of extra-curricular activities,
especially sport, music and drama; and
most importantly, they have looked after
each other and others both within the
School community and beyond. I am
delighted that their exemplary work ethic
has been rewarded with demonstrable
academic success.”
08
09

CHAPLAINCY & CHARITY
Head Boy Declan McAuley (right), aided by Joe
Higham, Archie Herrick and Chris Curnick (from left),
packs a van full of coats donated to Syrian refugees,
organized locally by the Brooks family.
Meeting God in Service to Others
The Gospel of Matthew recounts Jesus’ words that,
insofar as we care for our poorest brothers’ and sisters’
needs, we do it for Jesus. Our School Motto echoes
this – Love is the fulfilment of the Law. It is in service
to others that the great variety of ages, backgrounds,
creeds and experiences among our staff and students
finds a common purpose.
Year 12 Activities Week – Carpenters Arms. Students Joe Jarvis, Alina Tebbutt,
Lilly Dosanjh and Katie Wiselka were set the task of decorating the entrance hallway.
Very much novices with a paint brush, they threw themselves into the job. As always
staff and residents of the Carpenters Arms were extremely grateful for the help.
CHAPLAINCY & CHARITY
Father President Ted Mullen leads the Jazz
Band at the Picnic Concert, supported by Emilia
Lawden (middle) and Eve Milward.
In all these volunteering pursuits, we come across our
brothers and sisters in need, hear their stories, and grow.
Insofar as we give to them, we can be assured of sharing
God’s presence through our interest and companionship.
Chaplaincy and Charity
Blessed Antonio Rosmini envisioned education as leading to the perfection
of both human nature and the human person. Our abilities and skills are
the one side of the coin, our moral character the other.
Chaplaincy at Ratcliffe College
seeks to facilitate our moral growth
through encounter with God.
St Paul said at the Areopagus that
God is not far from any of us, for In
him we live and move and have our
being. At Ratcliffe College, we are
invited to meet God in reflection and
prayer, in community celebration,
and in service to others. Students,
staff and families have displayed
again their generosity and support, for which
the Chaplaincy Team is very appreciative.
Members of the CCF
surround the Altar on
Remembrance Day.
Meeting God in Reflection and Prayer
We meet God in the rich heritage of our tradition, personal
reflections and witness, and in our engagement with current
issues. Each Friday and every second Wednesday, members
of the Chaplaincy Team, and other staff or students lead
a reflection focusing on God’s action in our lives. Last
year’s assembly schedule included topics such as Prayer,
Reconciliation, Holocaust remembrance, Community and
St Cecilia. We continued to explore themes around World
War I, and heard about Community Service and Overseas
volunteering from a number of students. Visiting speakers
enlivened the schedule, representing local charities.
Year 9 students preparing for a fund-raising fun run.
A special assembly was delivered by
Old Ratcliffian, Professor Tim Wilson,
who mesmerized the audience with
Turkish folk wisdom! Many students
also contributed musically to these
assemblies, demonstrating that God
can speak to us in many different ways.
Meeting God in Community Celebration
We meet God in celebrating as a community. The heart
of such is the celebration of Mass, which takes place on
weekends for the Boarding Community and visitors, and
during lunchtime twice a week. Mass is also celebrated to
mark important dates for the School and on all Holy Days
of Obligation, and we celebrate periodic Class Mass for
students in Years 7-11. Reconciliation reflections are given
twice a year, and the opportunity to speak with a priest is
open to all. Christmas, Easter and First Holy Communion
services are also celebrated, and we were blessed with the
presence of Bishop Patrick McKinney to confirm our group
of Year 8 students this year. Various retreats take place
throughout the year, and are always active and enjoyable
occasions. We marked the end of Year 11 and Year 13
with intimate and joyful services for each group.
Staff and students dining on soup and bread on CAFOD Fast Day.
From the beginning of the year, we busied ourselves in service
to others in a multitude of ways. Within the School, the St
Vincent de Paul Club, the Mother Teresa Group, Duke of
Edinburgh candidates and the students’ Chaplaincy team
spend time with younger students and peers, preparing
displays, and sorting clothes for charity. There are many
opportunities for students to volunteer outside Ratcliffe, such
as the Voluntary Service Unit that visits the Syston Friendship
Group, Duke of Edinburgh students visiting the local elderly,
or helping out at the Carpenter’s Arms.
The whole School joined together for the Easter Service,
introduced by the Preparatory School in song and drama.
Fundraising is another great aspect of Ratcliffe life, and
through the generosity of students, staff, families and friends,
we managed to raise over £34,000 for domestic and overseas
causes. We were proud to support as our main school charity,
the Tilinanu Orphanage in Malawi, which has hosted a litany
of Ratcliffe students since it was established by Old Ratcliffian,
Alice Pulford. Kate Scarborough and her mother spent their
October half-term break at the orphanage, and returned to
us with inspirational stories of determination and hope. We
thank everyone for their hard work and generosity this year.
Mr P Michel
Lay Chaplain
Students gathered to cut a cake following their
Confirmation by Bishop Patrick McKinney.
10
11

NURSERY
NURSERY
NURSERY
Our photographs demonstrate what a truly
magnificent academic year we have all had in the Nursery. We enjoyed welcoming
our new children during the course of the year and also our new staff: Miss Orton
in Cygnets 1, in November 2015 and Miss Angus in Afterschool care, in January.
Congratulations to Miss Langton on the birth of her baby boy, Morley, and Miss Lott
on the birth of Finley.
During the autumn term we were all exceptionally busy,
firstly adjusting to all our new routines and most importantly
discovering so many new and exciting things. Our friends
helped us to understand that we need to look after and love
one another. This we did splendidly during the course of the
year. We grew and developed in so many ways and definitely
not just in height! One of our first great adventures was
visiting Beaumanor Hall for their Nursery Rhyme Day. The
Cygnets loved dressing up as the Grand Old Duke of York’s
soldiers and also enjoyed filling up buckets of water to help
Jack and Jill.
The Swans Class
ventured further afield
for their first adventure
to the Attenborough
Centre in Nottingham.
In the woods the Swans
enjoyed investigating
the falls of autumn
and hunting out grubs
to feed a hibernating
hedgehog. We were
excellent hunters, finding slugs
and worms under leaves and stones.
After half term we celebrated
Diwali and Bonfire Night and
then preparations were in
full swing for our Lower Prep Nativity
production. This year we loved dressing
up as the animals in the stable, whilst
Years 1 and 2 acted out the story
beautifully. Our two performances were
amazing; all the children made their
teachers and their parents very proud
and standing ovations were the order of the day. Our Immac
celebrations were also very special. The Cygnets were kept
on their toes literally, with their interactive story, venturing on
a Bear Hunt, with the Freshwater theatre company.
The Swans loved their visit to the Royal concert hall in
Nottingham to see Aladdin, with Years 1 and 2. Our autumn
term happily concluded with our Christmas lunch and a visit
from “you know who” – shhh!
During the spring term we all enjoyed our
pancake races, with the Preparatory School;
luckily we did not drop too many. The
pancakes we made back in the Nursery
were extremely tasty. We
celebrated World Book
Day, by dressing up as a
character from our favourite
story book and Come Dine
with Me week was a great
success once again. Our
mummies loved joining us
for lunch and reading us stories.
Our next adventure was to White Post
Farm which helped us to understand how
farm animals grow and change. This we
could see on a daily basis as our incubator full of quails eggs
were transforming before our very eyes! Towards Eastertime
we also learnt about Jesus’s new life and made some truly
exquisite Easter eggs for our Easter egg competition. Well
done, Abigail Cole, Gyaan Sagoo and Isabelle Ashfield, who
were the lucky winners this year.
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NURSERY
NURSERY
The summer term was then
once again upon us and
the Swans Class were also
beginning to fledge along
with our quails. They proudly led the Father’s Day assembly
wonderfully, demonstrating their ability and their confidence.
We all loved celebrating the Queens 90 th birthday; we made
Union Jack flags and learnt the National Anthem. We found
out that she is a very special lady.
Our sponsored Bounce helped us to understand the needs
of children less fortunate; we impressively raised over £600
for Marys Meals. All that bouncing was such good fun as
well, even the teachers loved it!
Our Celebration Day reminded
us of the importance of love and
kindness. Mrs Rankine, Mrs
Neuberg and Mrs Sleath were so
sad to say farewell to their unique
group of Swans. They recognised
that they had changed and
developed significantly, and were
ready for all their new challenges
and adventures in Year 1.
Mrs S Rankine
Head of Nursery
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
YEAR 1
I loved drawing the pictures in my Superhero Comic strip. Pirates was my
favourite topic. I enjoyed writing about pirates from long ago. I also have a special
fact – did you know that a Spinosauras is the biggest meat eater in the world?
Rowan Thompson
Year 1 have enjoyed a very busy and exciting year both in
and out of class. In the autumn term we visited Melton
Museum to learn all about toys from the past.
I love Year 1! Our new
play house is amazing!
I have liked all the writing
we have done and
really enjoyed writing
our Superhero comic
strips. I have enjoyed
performing the story of
The Rainbow Fish in
our Celebration Afternoon
and liked the costume I
wore as the Innkeper in
the Nativity.
Marley Deacon
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Rearsby village formed our next stop, as
we ventured on our first proper Geography
fieldtrip. Armed with clipboards and iPads
we went to investigate our local village. We
became thoroughly engaged with traffic
counting and were reluctant to leave any
car off our tally chart once we got started!
Beaumanor Hall has been home to both
our Victorian Christmas and our Pirate
Day. Dressed for each occasion in amazing
costumes, we spent the day learning outside
the classroom with very practical and fun
activities. Our African topic started with a
full day’s workshop with Beema in school.
She taught us how to dance African
style, play the drums, sing African
chants and try our hand at African
printing. We have also been
incredibly lucky to have had two days
visiting Grace Dieu Manor’s extensive
Forest Schools site. Constructing
dens, roasting marshmallows,
walking in rivers, building dams and
hunting for treasure have filled our
outdoor days and the children have
loved every minute!
Miss R Green
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL
YEAR 2
Year 2 started our new Passports, please!
topic in the autumn term, learning about Indonesia,
Lapland and our home country of the United Kingdom.
We wrote letters to our new conservationist
friend, Andrea, based in the jungle area of Bukit
Lawang, who told us about orang-utans and
life in the jungle. Our first trip was to Tesco in
Loughborough, to learn all about how food from
around the world is transported and stored once
it arrives in store. At the bakery they gave us the
largest bag of chocolate chips to take back to
school! Later, we visited East Midlands Airport to
meet some cabin crew on their way to Barbados.
Christmas came and went and we began
learning about our new topics of Fire! Fire!
and Castles and Dragons. We visited Warwick
Castle and learnt how to drop and roll if we
were on fire. We used the iPads to research
famous castles and found out about the jobs that
people had in castles. The most disgusting was the Gong
Farmer! We joined with Year 1 to learn about one of our
favourite topics, Pirates!
This took us out on an amazing
day to Beaumanor Hall, where
we dressed up as Pirates, had
gruesome Pirate names and
enjoyed a wonderful time taking
part in Pirate activities. Some
of our favourite days with Year 1 have been spent in the
grounds of Grace Dieu Manor. Who would have thought
that we could walk over 6 kilometres without a single
complaint? Never shy of performing, Year 2 have shown
their wonderful musical and acting skills by taking part in
numerous concerts and our Nativity.
Year 2 have written stories that make you laugh about
Pirates at school, prayers that really make you appreciate
how wonderful our world is and have solved some of the
trickiest mathematical problems!
Excerpts from Max’s
Grace Dieu Manor Adventure…
We then walked under a bridge. We think a train passes
over that bridge. We saw some horseshoe prints and doggy
footprints in the mud. There was a lot of squidgy mud. We
walked a bit further, through a gate and we found some more
footprints, but we didn’t know which animal they belonged to.
We thought they may be bear footprints or wolf footprints.….
When we got to the Brown Hall, we had to take off our
very muddy wellies and then we went in and had our lunch.
After lunch we went den building. We toasted some yummy
marshmallows and then we went to Pirate Land and found
some chocolate treasure.
I loved the marshmallow toasting. It was very yummy and
warm by the fire.
YEAR 3
TRIPS AND VISITS
Jewry Wall Museum
In October, Year 3 had the opportunity to further
their History studies on Roman Life by visiting the Jewry
Wall Museum. The children were keen to demonstrate all
the knowledge they had learnt in the classroom and were
able to look at Roman mosaics and artefacts. A particular
favourite with all the children was when they dressed up as
Roman soldiers with swords and shields and practised army
drills. They learnt Latin commands and even charged at
the teachers!
Indian Day
During our topic on India, Year 3 welcomed some visitors
into school and learnt how to make Rangoli patterns. We
watched in amazement as patterns were created and words
were elegantly written on our own Art room floor. We very
much enjoyed making symmetrical patterns ourselves too.
In the afternoon, we dressed in Indian costumes and did
some Indian dancing. A lot of fun was had by all.
Beaumanor Hall
At the beginning of the summer term, Year 3 went on their
first residential to Beaumanor Hall in Woodhouse, where we
followed an exciting programme based on World War II. We
had a fantastic time and the children were able to experience
what life was like as an evacuee, as well as try their hand
at some of the daily tasks adults had to undertake, such as
first aid and fire fighting! They were most unimpressed by
the choice of food on offer, when they had the task of trying
to shop for a meal within the constraints of a ration book!
(Thankfully the food we ate ourselves during the stay was
delicious and plentiful!) Some of the other highlights of the
trip included listening to Morse code messages and trying
to de-code them, and spending a whole afternoon in an air
raid shelter by torchlight. It was a wonderful experience for
all involved, and the children’s understanding of life in World
War II was greatly enhanced as a result.
Botanical Gardens
As part of our Rainforest topic, the Year 3 children went to
the Botanical Gardens at Leicester University. We enjoyed
exploring the different greenhouses, planting our own seeds
and experiencing the tropical climate whilst looking at plants
that grow in the Rainforest. We also learnt that many plants
are used as medicines and food for humans.
Miss F Watson and Miss C Llewelyn
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Mrs D Grant
Max Kew - Year 2
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL
YEAR 4
The journey began back in September when we embarked
on a thrilling curriculum full of opportunities to share and
discover new things.
As part of the new Creative Curriculum we had new topics,
Reckless Raiders and Where are we?, which allowed the
children to learn about Vikings during the first half term
and our local area during the second. To complement our
studies we first visited Melton Museum to learn more about
the Vikings. We even managed to do a bit of weaving on a
loom as well as dress up in a variety of Viking costumes! Later
we visited the village of Thrussington to carry out a study of
local buildings and land use. Despite the cold weather we
managed to hold on to our pencils long enough to produce
some lovely artwork of some of the older buildings.
In the spring term we looked at France and ancient Egypt.
The children were able to use their excellent English and
Computing skills to produce some fantastic projects on
different towns and cities from across France. Art was a key
focus as we followed the French theme by studying the work of
Georges Seurat and his pointillism technique. In the second
half term, our DT skills were put to the test as we designed
a throne for a pharaoh! The highlight of the term was
undoubtedly the privilege for Year 4 to present their version of
Resurrection Rock at the whole school Easter celebration.
During the summer term our attention
switched to Disaster Strikes, where we
looked at natural disasters from around
the world, and Animals Around Us,
which studies animal habitats. We were
also invited to join Grace Dieu Manor
Preparatory School for a retreat day,
where we thought about how we can help
each other, following the examples of
the disciples. Then came our residential
visit to Condover Hall, the highlight of
the year. It was wonderful to see how
the children challenged themselves,
supported each other, and perhaps most
importantly, had fun throughout! We
were very proud of all the children.
Mr D Turner and Mr P Enoux
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL
YEAR 5
In September, both current and new Ratcliffians soon settled into
their Year 5 classes. As part of our new Creative Curriculum, the
first half of the autumn term was packed with fun and exciting
learning opportunities.
This included the children designing a new
household invention and presenting it to
the teachers and class in the Dragons’ Den
during our Cool Stuff theme, learning how to
play drums in a West African style in Music
and, in Computing lessons, developing their
programming skills to design computer games,
as well as reading and writing their own fantasy stories.
Then in our new Movie Magic theme as we designed and built
life-size shelters in our Design Technology lessons, compared
Hollywood and Bollywood as locations for the film industry
in Geography, and visited the Curve Theatre to listen to a
real-life poet reading some of his poems. One particular
highlight was our visit to Warner Studios to experience firsthand
the world of Harry Potter. This led to the children
writing biographies of the famous actors and actresses
involved and planning their own creative stories in the
style of J.K. Rowling.
Spring term began with our
residential experience in Stratford,
where the children thoroughly
enjoyed visiting the Mad Museum,
being shown around the city by
William Shakespeare himself (!) and
watching an enthralling version of
Peter Pan at the RSC. It was wonderful to see the children’s
maturity and politeness during our stay, particularly when
all of us descended on a local restaurant for a pre-theatre
meal! Returning to school, the classes enthusiastically
continued their learning by
finding out more about the
Tudors and writing drama
playscripts, as well as performing
their class assemblies on the
theme of All the World’s a Stage.
A descriptive extract written after a visit to
Harry Potter World by William Pearce
Harry entered Diagon
Alley for the first time
and started looking in
amazement at all of the
owls, bats and hustle
and bustle all around
him, while children
gazed open-mouthed at
the Nimbus 2000, the
fastest broomstick yet
and Gringotts bank stood in front of him.
“How do I get all of this magic stuff?” said Harry.
“Here you are,” said Hagrid, “Gringotts Bank.
This is how you get your money.”
“What are those things?” asked Harry.
“They’re goblins,” said Hagrid.
They went on a cart to a unit and there was shining,
glimmering gold in one big heap. As Harry went in
open-mouthed, Hagrid told him it was from his parents.
Extracts taken from an account of a
visit to the National Space Centre
by Sophie Leighton
On Thursday 12 th May, I woke early to find
that all of Year 5 were going on an exciting
school trip to the National Space Centre in
Leicester, to learn about space as part of our
topic “Lost in Space.”
We lined up to go into
a big dome. Everybody
was puzzling over what we
were going to do. It was a
planetarium. We went down
a small, black corridor and
were faced with a room filled
with screens. Then, it started!
There was a bit inside the
astronaut’s body and it felt
like we were moving. Then,
we were out of the astronaut’s
body, I thought it was the end
… but it was just the intro!
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
In March, our Year 5 classes were keen participants in
our Science Week on the theme of Space as, in our whole
school competition, they designed a future home on other
planets or amongst the stars, took part in the week’s special
quiz and visited the Birmingham Think Tank Museum to
experience a variety of experiments on the theme of solids,
liquids and gases.
As we began our summer term, Year 5 were excited by the
announcement that they would be participating in a real life
science experiment in partnership with the UK astronaut, Tim
Peake, on board the International Space Station at the time,
the Royal Horticultural Society and the UK Space Agency.
The children had to plant seeds, some of which had been
on the ISS with Tim, to see how they germinated and grew
before sending our results to the relevant bodies. As well
as Science, this meant children in Year 5 extending their
mathematical knowledge and understanding through
using percentages, measurement and data analysis in a
practical, meaningful context. During June, the children
were immersed in Ancient Greece as they made their own
model Greek temples with accompanying explanatory
leaflets, sampled Mediterranean cuisine and dressed up in
traditional costume.
Mrs L Wetton, Mr D Kent and Mrs L Watson
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL
YEAR 6 TRIPS
Black Country Museum
Ella Clark
We went to the
Black Country
Museum as part
of our history
topic to learn
about how the
Victorians lived
and what life
was like for the
children living in Victorian times. There were lots of great
activities like having a Victorian school lesson, looking in the
houses, going on a canal trip. I also really enjoyed going to
the sweet shop.
Kingswood
Shreya Mistry
Warning Zone
Niara Popat
It was a great trip, because we learned about different
emergencies or situations. I enjoyed the dark alley where we
had to decide to go down it or to go onto the main street.
This was a great chance for Year 6 to learn about life.
Eyam
Harry Gamble
At Eyam, we learned about how the plague began. We then
walked around the village and discovered the stones with
holes in where Bakewell and Eyam delivered money and food.
The best part of the trip was watching a video showing how
the plague travelled from London to Eyam by horse and cart.
The Tailor’s son was the first person to die from the plague.
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
YEAR 6
The year started with an excited group of children ready to embrace the
teaching, learning and responsibilities that Year 6 brings. Within days,
the new children had made friends with the existing children, bonds had
started to develop and Team 6 was born!
Senior lessons began and so did the need to be organised,
as lessons were taught in both the Preparatory and the
Senior Schools. Homework and routines were quickly
established and the children had already performed in their
class assemblies, visited the Warning Zone and the River Lin
and it was only autumn half term!
Positions of Responsibility were awarded and commenced,
silly hats were made for the Christmas lunch, inter-class
volleyball was won by 6JK (much to Mrs Gilchrist’s
sadness as it meant the trophy had to move next
door for the year), and The Village Plague was
caught as the children and staff made their way
to Eyam. The first term was finished off with a
beautiful Carols by Candlelight service where
Year 6 had the chance to sing with the staff choir.
After the January Entrance Exams, Year 6 had
an amazing time at Alton Castle where they had time for
reflection and experience lots of activities, not to mention
spending three days and two nights in a castle! We were
fortunate to visit the living museum, The Black Country,
linking in with our Creative Curriculum studies of People
who made a difference. Seeing the original methods of
metal work and historical forms of medicine really made
the trip exciting and hugely beneficial, as we could see how
influential the Victorians really were.
The highlight of
the year was our
residential trip to
Kingswood. This
was a chance
to experience
living away from
home, learn to
be independent
(including
making beds!)
and tackle a multitude of exciting
activities, including outdoor climbing,
archery, and go-karting. We visited
the nearby beach, not only to have fun
but also to see first-hand the features of
coastal erosion and the sea defences that
were in place.
Summer term is also the time when Year 6 students
perform their drama production. This year it was William
Shakespeare’s The Tempest. The chorus of sprites,
hobgoblins, shipwrecked sailors and lead characters
all pulled together for a magical evening.
Mrs N Gilchrist, Mr G Coleman and Mrs J Cartwright
In May all of Year 6 took a residential trip to Kingswood in
West Runton, Norfolk. We had the chance to take part in all
sorts of activities such as: the zip wire, team games, Laser
tag and many more. My favourite activity was the zip wire,
because it was something I have never done before and
something I wouldn’t usually do. Kingswood was a place
that encouraged and supported Year 6; we bonded together
to have trust in each other within a lot of our activities.
Many of our activities were quite challenging; however with
the help of our kind staff, we overcame them. Kingswood
gave us all a chance to make new friends and to improve
our independence. We also went to Kingswood to learn
about Coasts,
which definitely
developed our
knowledge. Year
6 had a wonderful
time and made
many memories.
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Year 3 Rainforest Animals
Moving Christmas Picture, Deeya Tailor Y1
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
African Savannah, Lucie Mason Y1
ART & DESIGN
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Jolly Rogers, Whole Year 1 Class
Toy Puppet, Lochlann Desmond-Ainge Y1
Christmas stocking, Leo Gabriel Y2
Bread baking, Year 2
Great Fire
of London
candle holders,
Year 2
Balinese mask, Freya Smith Y2
The Cross,Year 5
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL
SPRING CONCERT
The Preparatory School staged its
first Spring Concert in March.
It featured a whole host of different
acts beginning with a dazzling
performance of Lord of the Rings by the Senior Orchestra
collaborating with Year 5 singers. We were also treated to
a performance of four pieces by children who had been
learning string instruments as part of their Year 4 string scheme,
demonstrating the huge amount of progress they have made on
their instruments this year. Lower Prep pupils enjoyed entertaining
the audience with some of the lovely songs they had learned
with Mrs Markham, and a great show by the String Ensemble
concluded proceedings in an impressive fashion.
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
The audience was treated to a string of stunning performances
by individual children and by the two Preparatory School
choirs, in addition to the inaugural performance of the Year 6
Ukulele group, who led the audience in a rendition of Rudolph
the Red Nosed Reindeer. The Wind Ensemble accompanied
the carols throughout the concert and a particular highlight
of the concert was the singing of Silent Night in four different
languages. The afternoon finished with a suitable finale with
everyone joining in to sing a hearty rendition of, The Twelve
Days of Christmas, which helped to get everyone in the
festive spirit.
In the Carols by Candlelight service at the end of term, the
congregation were treated to a beautiful service in which all
children in the Upper Prep performed a selection of festive
carols and songs, including Ding Dong Merrily on High!,
Mary did you know? and Stille Nacht.
Harvey Henderson sang the first
verse of Once in Royal David’s City
as a solo and Katy Shaw impressed
us with her rendition of a jazzy God
Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.
MUSIC
The autumn term kicked off an
action-packed year of music-making
in the Preparatory School. The children
performed a spectacular concert to over
150 parents and guests in the Church.
HOUSE MUSIC
The Preparatory School House Music
competition grew this year! Over 60
children in Upper Prep auditioned for
the competition and scored points for
their houses.
The final comprised three
categories, Beginner, Intermediate
and Advanced. Mrs Angela
McGee, our visiting adjudicator,
chose Zoe Howling, Maddy
Dunstan and Isla Jenks as the
winners of these categories
respectively. The second half
of the concert featured the
culmination of weeks of rehearsing
of four different Beatles’ songs,
one for each house. Children performed their songs,
armed with a host of props ranging from glow sticks to
wigs in their houses and, after much deliberation, Arundel
were awarded first place for their singing. Overall winners
of the competition were De Lisle.
SUMMER SERENADE
The Preparatory School Summer Serenade
concluded the term beautifully.
Performed out
in the open air
to around a
hundred visitors,
children enjoyed
performances
of songs from
Sister Act, Les
Misérables, Oliver
and The Sound of
Music in addition
to high quality
solos from some of our House Music winners. The
recorder group showed off the fruits of their term’s work
and all joined in for a rendition of Summer Holiday led
by the Ukulele band. A huge amount of fun was had by
all in an afternoon that really showcased the best of the
musical talent at the Preparatory School.
PICNIC
CONCERT
Preparatory
School pupils in
the Chapel Choir
were invited to
perform as part of
the Senior School
Picnic Concert.
They sang two songs as a choir and two girls even sang
solos at other points in the evening, which was a huge
task at such a prestigious event.
Mr D Jones
Assistant Director of Music
Recorded and released in December 2015, the
Preparatory School’s first ever CD, ‘It’s Christmas!’,
was a triumph and sold over 200 copies. Children
and staff featured on the CD performing a selection
of their favourite Christmas hits from the festive
season – a lovely finale to a very busy term.
Mr D Jones
Assistant Director of Music
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Poems
Azure Day
The flag flutters in the sky like a blue butterfly.
The ducks bobbing on the sea are lost, floating balls;
Higher and higher the seagull flies watching with its beady eyes.
The strong lifeguards watch in their huts.
The windbreak crackles in the wind;
A red kite flies against the sky of brilliant blue.
An Azure Day
The ice cream van plays its tune; the children run to greet him.
Pocket money is handed out, by loads of red-faced mums;
The sky is blue like the royal blue sea!
Isabella Boothroyd - Y6
in the style of Oscar Wilde
Floating, bobbing on the ocean, then I see
Here and there a seagull flies
Fluttering lightly through the azure skies,
Flying straight at me.
When I look down at the sparkling sapphire ocean
Jumping through the water so blue,
Staring like an owl at you,
The dancing dolphins are causing a big commotion.
When my boat arrived at the tanned sand,
The sea still very wavy
Still glowing a lovely shade of navy.
I will wait, I will watch for anything to happen,
and stock still I will stand.
Katherine McCrindell - Y6
Pirates,
Pirates, Pirates!
Pirates, Pirates, Pirates fierce ferocious and funny Pirates
Deadly and delightful and dizzy Pirates
Pirates, Pirates, Pirates.
Shouting and scary and smelly Pirates
Angry, annoying, amusing Pirates
Ugly and untidy undrunk Pirates
Pirates, Pirates, Pirates.
Iszac Rodrigues - Y2
WORLD
BOOK DAY
During the spring term, the
Preparatory School celebrated
World Book Day.
Jo Sennitt ran library workshops for all classes
and the pupils enjoyed some super activities in
and out of the classroom. The children loved
playing hide and seek with a book, buddying
up with different classes to read and sharing
their favourite stories.
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
SPORTS REVIEW
During the autumn term the
boys and girls competed
hard in Rugby and Hockey
respectively. After slow starts
in both sports in terms of
results, there was a great
improvement from all of the
children thereafter with the
U11 Boys going on to achieve
second place at the Leicester
Grammar Junior School
Rugby Tournament, which was
a fitting reward for the tireless
hard work they had put in
throughout the term.
We hosted our annual Cross
Country Festival in the spring term. Despite the appalling
weather, the races went ahead, with the usually manicured
fields turning into a muddy bog. The spring term also saw
our U11 Boys get to the Semi Finals of the IAPS Regional
U11 Boys Hockey Tournament – their best result to date. The
U11 Boys also got to the Quarter Finals of the ISFA Regional
U11 Boys Football Tournament, which was also their best
result to date in this competition. The U11 Girls competed
in the IAPS U11 Regional Netball Tournament for the first
time. The U9 Boys won the Grace Dieu Football Tournament
and the U10 Girls won the Team event at the Prestwold
Hall Cross Country Races. Girls from that team went on to
represent Leicestershire at the National Cross Country Finals
at Belvoir Castle.
The summer term was
blighted by very wet
weather and almost all the
fixtures were washed away.
However, as the term drew
to a close there was still one
last thing to be decided.
After our U11 Boys
Cricket team had
reached the Semi Finals of the Howe Shield U11 Hardball
Knockout Cup, which they sadly lost, there was still one more
chance for this group to put a piece of silverware in the Trophy
cabinet before they moved across the road into the Senior
School. The Final of the U11 6-a-side Leicestershire Hardball
Cricket League was played at Ratcliffe College on Thursday 7 th
July against Linden Primary. After an enthralling contest our
young cricketers prevailed. This victory was a fitting climax
to the school sporting year and just reward for the boys’
resilience over the course of the year.
Mr W Faulconbridge
Head of Preparatory Sport
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PREPARATORY SCHOOL
EXTRA-CURRICULAR
CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES
It’s been another busy and exciting year in the Prep School with
hundreds of pupils taking part in extra-curricular activities every week.
We created a programme that encouraged pupils to take
part in activities that complement their academic work,
facilitating the development of skills such as teamwork,
commitment and time management.
Music in the
Prep School this
year has grown
from strength
to strength and
lunchtime clubs
have helped
provide time to
practise songs
ready for exceptional performances by the
Chapel Choir, School Choir and Orchestra.
Sport in the
Prep School has
also developed
and, as well as our everpopular
team practices and
favourites such as swimming,
gymnastics, fencing,
Taekwon-Do and ballet, we
included new ideas such as
Zumba which has been very
popular, and the parents
enjoyed a show performed by the pupils in the theatre at the
end of the year, displaying all they had learnt.
Scenes from Alice by the
Ballet Pupils
A collection of dances based
loosely around the Alice
in Wonderland story were
performed by pupils from
the Preparatory and Senior
School in June. The students
created the ideas themselves through their creative dance work
this year and Mrs Caven Henrys shaped them into dance form.
LAMDA became available as a lunchtime
club, allowing more pupils to develop their
speech and language skills. We received
excellent results from examinations
undertaken, where public speaking and
performance were assessed.
State of the art facilities have further
encouraged us to include Science and
Cookery clubs on the programme and Mad Science came
to excite children with water and gas experiments, as well as
making candy floss.
I would like to thank all staff whose commitment and hard
work continue to make the extra-curricular programme so
meaningful and successful.
Mrs J Cartwright
Deputy Head of Preparatory School
CHAPLAINCY
Our four Chaplaincy Monitors, Chelsea Makandeni, Phoebe Greenaway,
Maisie Ashford-Clark and Olivia Exley-Chapman have all worked extremely
hard to involve the whole school in charitable events this year.
Our chosen charity was Mary’s
Meals. In the autumn term,
we introduced the charity to the
children during assembly. We
learnt that it costs just £12.20 to
feed a child for a whole year in
Malawi! We were determined
to raise as much money as we
could to help those less fortunate
than ourselves. There have been
cake sales, Christmas jumper
days, class competitions and
collections at our different whole school events. This
helped to raise a staggering £3556! Many families
also helped to create fifty one school backpacks for
children overseas who have never owned their own
school bag.
First Holy Communion
The Preparatory
School have
celebrated many
wonderful events this
year. We have joined
together to celebrate
Harvest Festival, with much
needed food donations for
the Carpenter’s Arms in
Loughborough and thanked
God for the food that we are fortunate enough to share
with our own families. At Christmas we witnessed beautiful
performances in the Lower Prep Nativity, followed by Carols
by Candlelight with our Upper Prep children. At the end of
the spring term, Year 4 performed their very moving Passion
Play musical, Resurrection Rock.
Our links with Grace Dieu Manor
School have grown stronger through
our retreat programme at the
Rosmini Centre. Children from
Years 3 and 4 in both schools have
worked together and shared special
times of prayer and reflection.
Children from Years 5 and 6
have also enjoyed spending time
together at the
Rosmini Centre,
working with Father
Christopher and
Father Binu. More
recently, Years 1 and
2 visited the Centre,
to learn how to pray
the Rosary.
First Holy
Communion
preparation began in
the autumn term. We
learned more about
the life and stories of Jesus. We enjoyed weekly Masses with
Father Ted in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. The Church
was so full on their special day. Well done to Isabella Elsby,
Ruby Doran, Francesca Atkinson, Ciernan Cooke, Olivia
Lynch, Luca Salem, Cameron Mulvihill, Henry Urwin, Tyler
Black and Hugo Illingworth.
Mrs D Grant
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35

ART & DESIGN
Art and Design
ART & DESIGN
Nathalie Dawe, Year 11, GCSE coursework final piece
Elizaveta Manoshkina, Year 10, Lord Lieutenant’s Award
Adelaide Muskwe, Year 13 Jenny Morgan-Jones, Year 13
Amritha Nayar, Year 13 Liberty Jackson, Year 13
Sophie Dring, Hannah Grinham and
Nathalie Dawe, Year 11, Light Painting exploration
Hannah Grinham, Year 11, GCSE coursework final piece
36
37

ACADEMIC PE & CLASSICS
Academic PE
Academic PE at A2, AS and GCSE level
continues to flourish. This year we have
had 9 students taking it at A2 level, 11 at
AS level, 19 at GCSE Year 11, and 20 at
GCSE Year 10, with 20 students starting
the new GCSE course in September.
Academic PE content cuts across a diverse number of topics -
Anatomy and Physiology, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics,
Skill Acquisition, Socio-cultural and global issues, History
and Psychology. This gives those going on to study PE and
Sport at university a very good base for their degree as well
as increasing the students’ understanding of the role sport
plays in the 21 st century.
All our students score highly in their practical assessment,
with many students at all levels scoring A* and A grades
and our final results cross all the grade boundaries giving
100% pass rate at A2 level and AS level.
This year is the last year of both ‘A’ level and GCSE in their
current forms and the staff are encouraged by the reforms
and changes to the subject content which reflect the changes
in sport in the modern world.
Mrs A Taylor
Head of Academic PE
Economics and Business
Young Enterprise
Young Enterprise
(YE) students
drawn from
Year 12 formed
their company,
Lazarus, in
September
and were soon
utilising their
entrepreneurial
skills to launch
Year 12 Young Enterprise Students – L to R –
Richard Ward, Aaron Walsh, Charlie McLean,
Billy Kaul, Rion Yapa, Harry Redding,
Hugh Gilmore, Anna Reviakina, Christy Yeung.
a range of socks with elaborate and eye catching designs.
The team had successful sales at the Highcross Trade Fair in
February and Ratcliffe Spring Fair in March and won several
awards at the YE Leicester Area Final, including – Best Trade
Stand, Best Financial Performance and Best Interview.
The Applied Business Studies students, from left to right - Harriet O’Shea,
Emma Milner, Charles Grattan, Milli Ellis, Eve Marshall, Annabel Wright,
Miss Spencer, Jack Hancock, Lois Jones, Alex Duckett and Kristy Lai.
Year 13 Applied Business
Students Charity Events
ECONOMICS & BUSINESS
Classics
There was more change for the Department
this year as we underwent a metamorphosis
into a full Classics Department, which was both
exciting and nerve-racking.
In practice, this means that all Year 9 students take a Classical
Civilisation course and we expect that this will encourage some
to take the subject to GCSE. Four sets have concentrated mainly
on early Greece, Sparta, the Olympic Games and democratic
Athens; we are aware that any and all links to the world we live
in today are to be pursued and exploited. In Year 10, two keen
students are our first cohort and they have made a marvellous
start to their studies; they will focus their Continuous Assessment
on Roman Britain. Most of the Classical Civilisation has been
ably and enthusiastically taught by Mrs Fionnuala Lodder.
Examination results this year were very good, with some
outstanding individual performances, giving these students
a firm foundation for the rest of their studies.
A trip for a small group to Hadrian’s Wall is in the
offing. We plan to take a trip to Italy next October.
The Classics Department is slowly growing, both in
size and in influence. Excelsior!
Mr T Walsh
Head of Classics
Organisational Structure of Lazarus
Rion Yapa and Billy Kaul
collecting the Best Trade
Stand award at Highcross
Shopping Centre
Students gain a myriad of practical and
real life experiences during their time
in YE and this year’s group were no
exception. The challenges they faced
throughout the year improved their team
and interpersonal skills and highlighted
the importance of good communication.
Mr P Spencer
Head of Economics and Business
Lazarus Trade Stand
Lazarus Twitter Account
As part of their syllabus
requirements, the Applied
Business Studies students
in Year 13 have the task
of organising, promoting
and putting on an
event of their choice.
The event the students
chose this year was a
Disco for Years 7 and 8 called Neon Blast, (involving
lots of bright neon lights and paint) which took place in
March 2016. Attendees
all donned varying neon
themed outfits to add to the
atmosphere of the evening.
In order to fund the event
the students also held
a few mini fundraising
activities, including cake sales and a quiz for the sixth
form students.
Having fun
The mini-events were hugely
successful and easily raised
enough funds to ensure
that the main event was a
success. All money raised
was donated equally to
Cancer Research and the
Lourdes Pilgrimage. The
students managed to raise over £500, a credit to their
efforts throughout. The students that attended the discos
had a fabulous time, which was a direct reflection of the
commitment and effort that the Business students had
devoted. This can be seen in the photographs, showing
the participating students enjoying the evening.
Miss T Spencer
Teacher of Economics and Business
Taking time out of dancing for some
fun pictures
The boys showing off their neon
painted faces!
38
39

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
Year 9
Sweet Dispensers
Year 11 Final GCSE Projects
DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
Jacob Dawe - Year 9
Lara Gee - Year 11
Harry Brooks - Year 11
Benedict Dexter - Year 11
Sophie Pole - Year 9
Year 13 Final A2 Projects
Kit Jackson - Year 9
Ben McCahill - Year 9
Nima Patel - Year 13
Niamh Philpott - Year 13
Jody Ann-Goodfellow - Year 13
40
41

DRAMA
DRAMA
DRAMA
The Drama Department continues to be a very active and
busy department, and with performances for every Year group,
it ensures the development of confidence and communication
skills to all students.
The year began in early December with the Year 10
GCSE Drama group presenting Tales of the Arabian
Nights with stunning performances by Nicole Spencer
as Shahrazad and Louis Massarella as the dominant
Shahrayar, the king who demanded the thousand and
one stories. Miss Jessica Monk directed this production
with assured polish this production to the delight of the
young audiences who attended.
In January, the
tail end of the
Pantomime season,
Year 9 put on their
pantomimes and as
in every year, much
amusement was
derived from the
pantomime dames
presented and girls in tights as the heroes.
Matthew Dudfield brought to life his one-man version of the
pantomime cow and Harry Culpin must be commended for
a hilarious performance as ‘Jack’s mum’ in Jack and the
Beanstalk, encouraging a member of the audience to hop up
and join him on stage as the beanstalk itself.
Year 13 presented their devised work based on abuse,
entitled Killing me Softly and portrayed the shocking areas
of abuse experienced by children in domestic situations and
in care homes. Jack Archer and Rosie Jones demonstrated
a dance-orientated piece; Lois Jones a tragic victim of a
possessive man, and Crystal Elumelu a victim in a care
home. Max Gilliver presented a young boy, based on the
true story of It - an eye opener to the sad reality of life
behind closed doors.
Year 12 presented two very
contrasting plays. The first,
Bouncers by John Godber,
told the tale of four night club
bouncers, where the four
actors multi-roled lads and girls on a night out in a club; a slick and
tightly presented group of performers whose ability to switch from
one role to another was quite remarkable. Relying heavily on use
of voice and physicality, the suited performers swept you through a
night to remember. With only three boys, Caitlin Plummer excelled
in the role of a Bouncer, not fazed by the masculine role.
The other play, Playhouse Creatures by April De Angelis, was a
rollicking presentation of the restoration of the theatre in l699,
featuring Nell Gwyn and how she began her upward career to
meet Charles II. Anna Garcia played the infamous Nell Gwyn with
astonishing vivacity, particularly in her dance which then attracted
the amorous monarch to her bed. Based on evidence of the times,
Emily Bown gave a formidable performance as Mrs Betterton, leader
of the newly formed female company.
42
43

DRAMA
DRAMA
The GCSE Year 11 students presented three very
contrasting performances. A gifted and talented
group of students presented The Government
Inspector loosely based on the same play by Gogol.
Four dysfunctional office workers managed by a
zealous diva boss, Natasha Walsh, were conned
into cleaning up their act to persuade a government
inspector, yet another conman, in the form of Charlie
Hancock, that their government ran smoothly. This
was a clever, physically styled performance with
plenty of laughs. Blackout by
Davey Anderson, was about a
young offender, admirably and
angrily portrayed by Zainab
Hussain, in a powerful set of
flash backs on how she narrowly
missed being
imprisoned;
stark and dark,
yet highly
watchable.
The final play, a
shortened version of The
Caucasian Chalk Circle,
was deeply moving,
with Jessica Neuberg
as Grusha, who took
an abandoned child
of the Governor after
his father had been
killed in a civil war
and the mother fled.
The Governor’s wife,
Isabelle Duckett, gave a feisty performance as a very
self-centred woman with more thought about her furs
than her child. Jack Vinall,
as the soldier who fell in love
with Grusha, was excellent
and his other comic role as
a man who married Grusha
was in strong, vibrant
contrast. With multi-roling
by all others, the pace and
tight timing ensured a poignant
production of this well-known story.
The whole of Year 7
were involved with
Indian Folk Tales, a
fascinating insight into
beautifully told stories
adapted for the stage.
With staging and set
designed by our new
Drama Technician,
Fiona Viccars, the
glittering array of saris
and turbans ensured that the theatre shone with Eastern
promise! Striking performances were given from Brooke
England as a queen whose son
overthrew his cruel father, Freya
Smith in the role of Devaki, from the
story of Krishna, The Blue God and
Jacob Storey, her brother in the tale
who tried to kill Krishna. Elephants,
serpents and half-bull, half-man
creatures added authenticity and the
flavour of India – a superb finish to
the production year.
Additionally, the LAMDA lessons
continue to thrive in the Preparatory
and Senior Schools and group examinations have been
particularly successful, notably those taking their Silver with
a good number of Distinctions being awarded.
Drama Club activities under the guidance of Miss Monk,
continue to thrive. A number of Years 7 and 8 students have
enjoyed attending the lunchtime Drama Club this year where
they have developed their improvisation and performance skills.
They have learned a number of rehearsal exercises and created
some original and often very amusing pieces of drama.
Finally, for the first time ever, a House Drama
competition was held. This was a legacy wish from
last year’s leaving Year 13 students. On the final day
of term, a fiercely fought battle over the Pantomime
stakes was held in the Sports Hall. Emery performed
Jack and the Beanstalk, De Lisle Cinderella, Arundel
The Three Little Pigs, and Leetham Snow White. The
competition was judged by Suzanne Forrester, of
Sky Theatre Youth Group, who found it very hard to
judge the fine array of students ranging from Year
7 upwards, to a member of staff (Mr Adam Seth as
the Huntsman in Snow White). However, Arundel won with
Three Little Pigs and Brooke England as a mischievous Little
Miss Riding Hood and the hilarious
Finn Merriman who almost stole
the show with his house of straw.
A truly wonderful occasion, with
the entire School enthralled by
thespian theatricals!
David Ricks, with his growing team
of budding lighting technicians
continues to enlighten all
productions. Kristian Brocksopp
and Tom Binnie have shown
considerable expertise with
this and should be commended on their out-of-school
commitment. Peter Cotter, in particular, has shown
considerable talent and artistry with lighting designs and it
will be sad to see him leave this year as his commitment has
supported the Drama Department for a number of years.
A very successful year and one full of happy photographs,
taken by Richard Budding, to remember.
Mrs C Caven Henrys
Head of Drama
44
45

ENGLISH
ENGLISH
This academic year has seen the English Department embrace
numerous changes. Mrs Emily Worthington commenced her maternity
leave just weeks before giving birth to twins, Stanley and Penny.
The Department has organised frequent trips to ensure our
students are exposed to the enthralling spectacle of live
theatre. Year 7 were thoroughly entertained by a trip to The
Curve in Leicester to watch Roald Dahl’s The Witches.
In addition Year 11 were taken to see the modern cinematic
adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Our ‘A’ level students
have been lucky enough to attend The Swan Theatre in
Stratford-Upon-Avon to watch Doctor Faustus and to enjoy a
modern production of Hamlet. Lastly, the school welcomed
Mr Tony Chan who ran a full day poetry workshop for all
year groups. Students undoubtedly benefitted from Mr
Chan’s infectious enthusiasm for the Sonnet form as well as
his anecdotal delivery style.
ENGLISH
As a result, the department welcomed Mr Jonathan
Watson as Mrs Worthington’s maternity cover. Dr Luanda
Stannard has subsequently been appointed Acting Head of
Department with Mrs Laura Whieldon as Acting Second.
A Visit from a Poet,
Tony Chan
Nurturing the talents of our students remains at the core
of the Department and this year has provided numerous
opportunities for us to celebrate their achievements. Year
12 student Luke Gyesi-Appiah prepared a stirring and
erudite speech for the Catenian Public Speaking Competition
and will be representing Ratcliffe in the final. The Carnegie
Shadowing group has, once more, proved extremely popular
with students in Years 8 and 9. Miss Thompson and Mrs
Williams spent months discussing the nominated titles, which
included Ghosts of Heaven by Marcus Sedgwick and One by
Sarah Crossan, with a select group of avid readers.
The experience for students was hugely
beneficial in nurturing a love of reading.
In addition, a number of talented Year 8 students attended a
creative writing workshop provided by Leicestershire Creative
Learning Services. Our students were highly inventive and
produced some excellent work.
The Department has
also continued to offer a
diverse extra-curricular
programme. There is
a book club for Years
7-9 which is run by Miss
Thompson and librarian
Mrs Williams. Novels
that have been enjoyed
this year include Infinite
Sky by C.J Flood and
Thirteen by Tom Hoyle.
Additionally, Mrs Whieldon and Dr Stannard led the Staff and
Sixth Form Book Club who met to discuss titles such as The
Bees by Laline Paull and Slade House by David Mitchell. Mr
Benjamin’s Debating Society has continued to draw large
numbers of students wishing to discuss a wide variety of
motions. Mr Benjamin also organised a whole school debate
on the European Referendum, where representatives from
both sides of the argument included Luke Gyesi-Appiah,
Anna Garcia, Max Gilliver and Kieran Bonas. The debate
was extremely lively and demonstrated the capacity of our
students to engage intellectually with important political
matters in a vociferous yet respectful manner.
Saturday 12 th December was a wet
day, but that didn’t dampen the
spirits of the Year 7s’ trip to see The
Witches by Roald Dahl.
We had a superb time! The play is about an
organisation of witches who detest children. Every
five years the witches have a meeting; this year
they have a cunning plan to turn every child into a
mouse. Will they be successful? Join the boy, Bruno
and Grandma in an adventure of a lifetime to save
the children of England.
My favourite part was when the witches had their
meeting and the grand plan to inject candy with the
deadly potion unfolded. I would recommend it to
all ages and would rate it 5 stars!
Oliver Hunt – Year 7
Year 8 were involved in the Young Shakespeare Company’s
interactive workshop based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and
Juliet. J.B. Priestley’s An Inspector Calls and Orwell’s 1984
were plays enjoyed by Year 10 and 12 respectively.
Mr Chan ‘s book of sonnets Four
Points Fourteen Lines is a result of
his seventy-eight day walking tour
of Britain.
After each phase of the 1,400 mile journey,
he wrote a sonnet to reflect upon the day.
Mr Chan’s brutal honesty fascinated us as he
declared that there are only ten decent poems in
the collection. We were all inspired by his creativity
and daring as he even wrote a poem in Italian with
a sonnet structure! The presentation ended on a
thoughtful note as Mr Chan encouraged us to reflect
upon our own emotions, experiences and encounters
when writing, as this is where the most inspiring
ideas originate. The audience were held spellbound,
and many a budding writer was inspired to breathe
life onto a page through a poem.
Luke Gyesi-Appiah – Year 12
In Activities Week, this
year the Department
ran a Poetry Slam for
Year 7. We invited
performance poet
Andy Craven-Griffiths
to deliver an exciting
workshop for the
students and this proved a huge success, with pupils creating
and performing some truly engaging poems.
Dr L Stannard
Acting Head of English
46
47

FOOD TECHNOLOGY
FutureChef 2016 contestants
Emily Sellicks
GEOGRAPHY
Yasmina celebrating her success
Yasmina Lock final stage FutureChef 2016
Olivia Gilchrist Christmas food competition
Geography
The Geography Department celebrated a very strong set of A2 and AS results
last summer with 100% of students at ‘A’ Level achieving A*-C grades and a
record 79% of students at grade B or better.
Yasmina Lock Christmas food competition
Lottie Warburton Christmas food competition
Cooking Club
FOOD TECHNOLOGY
The year started on a positive note, with excellent examination
results at all levels. At A2, the pass rate was 100%, with 67%
of students gaining A and B grade.
At AS level, the pass rate was 100%, placing Ratcliffe College
in the top 10% of schools teaching Food Technology in the
country. At GCSE, there was an 82% A to C pass rate, with
63% achieving A and B grades.
This academic year has flown by; with shorter lessons and
having all students in KS3 for the whole of the year, it has
been an exciting and busy time. The highlight of the year
was Yasmina Lock (Year 8) reaching the final of the national
FutureChef Competition that took place in London in March.
Yasmina was one of over 8000 students to reach this stage,
a remarkable achievement at such a young age. Her dishes
were pan-seared fillet of salmon with lemon beurre blanc
sauce, pomme puree with sundried tomatoes, buttered stem
broccoli and sauted oyster mushrooms with chorizo, followed
by almond crunch with a raspberry and vanilla cream in a
dark chocolate sphere and hot caramel sauce. She achieved
some excellent feedback.
The annual Christmas food competition took place at the
beginning of December. We are always amazed by the
high skill and sheer professionalism of the students; the
products they make would not be out of place on The Great
British Bake Off. Each year group had their own individual
competition and received points for their house and
recognition in a Headmaster’s assembly.
A batch of scones was the product chosen in the Ratcliffe
Bake Off this year, and Isabella Mulvihill was the winner.
Each student was given a recipe, identical ingredients and
an hour to complete their product.
Next year, we will introduce the new GCSE syllabus for
Food Preparation and Nutrition so we are looking forward
to and excited about a new chapter in our ever-changing
subject name.
Mrs K Burton
Head of Food Technology
The AS results were very encouraging with strong value
added and all department targets met. GCSE results were
also very strong with two thirds of students achieving a B
grade or better.
The Year 12 students have made an effective start to their A2
course. Study of the Urban Environments topic was supported
by a series of short field visits for the first time this year. Within
lesson time, students visited various locations in Leicester with
a different focus for each visit. For example, they visited the
Space Centre complex and the ‘Cultural Quarter’, centred
around the Curve Theatre, to focus on urban regeneration.
These field visits provided a valuable contextual layer to their
urban studies, and the department hopes to build on such
local field visits in future years. Year 13 students continued to
develop their fieldwork portfolio for the F764 Geographical
Investigation unit with a visit to Sileby to investigate the
extent it fitted the profile of a metropolitan village. They also
conducted on-site investigations and independent studies,
including comparing the climate at Ratcliffe College to that of
the heart of Leicester. Mr Dziemianko has worked tirelessly in
supporting the students develop their appreciation of how to
gather and process data.
Year 10 attained encouraging results in their end of year
examination and we look forward to working with them next
year as they focus on completion of their GCSE course. The
Year 10 students have completed their Controlled Assessment
task, worth 25% of their final GCSE grade, and are the first
cohort to finish this element of the course before the end of
the summer term. The task is based on data collected by
the students; to this end the Year 10 cohort visited Leicester
shortly after Easter to investigate to what extent the Central
Business District (CBD) of the city fitted with theory and models
proposed by the Royal Geographical Society.
Despite challenging weather conditions at the start of the
day, students approached data collection with enthusiasm,
completing land use maps for a large proportion of the CBD,
along with building height transects, pedestrian counts and
shopping quality surveys. Backed up with further secondary
research, the students have worked diligently in following up
the fieldwork with data presentation and analysis.
Years 7-9 have enjoyed studying a greater breadth of topics this
year as part of the Key Stage 3 syllabus. Reforms have and will
continue to be implemented to help prepare students for the
new GCSE specification, and the topics covered in Years 7-9
now reflect a wider range of human, physical, environmental
and place-based learning, in addition to focusing on the
development of geographical skills. On-going assessments and
lessons focused on the development of higher order thinking
skills are aimed at creating well-rounded geographers. The
Department has run drop-in clinics at lunchtimes where staff are
available to discuss all matters geographical with students, or
support them with work being done in lessons. There were some
new topics for students in Years 8 and 9, with Year 8 students
learning about the geography of India and world issues such as
food security and climate change. A particular highlight for the
Year 8 students was watching the extremely thought-provoking
film, The Age of Stupid. They reflected on how it made them feel
about our material, throwaway society and how the implications
of this will be felt by future generations. Year 9 students studied
a new environmental-themed unit, which included the study of
different ecosystems and climates. There have also been some
excellent projects completed by students across Years 7-9;
particular mention must go to the Year 7 students for their Local
Area projects and Year 8 for their Travel a Country projects.
Mr M Lambert
Head of Geography
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49

HISTORY
Information Communication Technology
The students, from Years 6 to 9, are adapting incredibly well to a change
in focus from ICT to Computing and are proving eager to learn new skills.
ICT
HISTORY
The History Department has been extremely busy again this year. Our students
again did themselves proud in the public examinations with an impressive 100%
A*-C grades at ‘A’ Level whilst our GCSE students averaged an impressive 80%
on the AQA Modern World History papers taken in the summer.
Competitions
This year saw a very high standard of Castle and Tudor
House projects. These projects displayed superb detail and
it was wonderful to see so many different types of castles
included. The overall winners were Rachel Astill in Year 7
and Archie Heaney in Year 8. It has also been our pleasure
this year to award books to the best assessment pieces in the
Headmaster’s Assembly to those students producing the best
assessments throughout the year.
Activities
A group of students visited Loughborough Grammar School
to attend an exciting set of workshops on the First World War.
This was an outstanding event where students were able to
listen to a number of leading academics on the
causes and progress of the First World War and
contribute their views to the debate.
Mr Newman organised for Year 9 to go to the battlefields of
World War One. This was a sobering trip for the students
who had the opportunity to attend the Menin Gate ceremony,
visit key battleground sites
such as Newfoundland
Park and Vimy Ridge
as well as the largest
Commonwealth War
Graves cemetery at Tyne
Cot. A real highlight of
the trip was going into
the tunnels dug to aid
British forces at the Battle of Arras at Wellington Quarry.
We were fortunate to be met by Old Ratcliffian, Brother Nigel
Cave, one of the world’s leading experts
in this field who talked us through the
contribution of three Old Ratcliffians who
died on the Somme battlefield.
Year 7 continue to demonstrate their investigative, and
team-working skills, researching, designing and developing
a multilevel maze game for 4-6 year olds using objectorientated
(graphical) programming skills. Finally, the
students studied encryption and code-breaking so that
during Activities Week they could take part in a codebreaking
challenge. Next year, we will be looking to
incorporate the BBC Micro:bit into this code-breaking
activity as a portable Colossus.
This year, the Year 8 students successfully completed a
project which focused on improving their research, planning
design and presentation skills. During this project, the
students used spreadsheet software to model costs, graphics
software to design and produce all the advertisements and
finally designing and building a website. Looking forward
to next year, students will write .apk software to produce an
Android application to play music.
This is the first time Year 9 students experienced a projectbased
scenario which was used to build on the skills learnt
in previous years. Students developed skills in photo
manipulation, database queries, modelling costs and
programming on-screen robots. Next year, students will
use a high-level language, such as Python, to control
robots in the classroom.
GCSE ICT offers more challenging tasks to allow students
to demonstrate useful work-related, transferable skills.
Unfortunately, this is the final year ICT will run in this format
as we look to introduce IGCSE ICT from 2017. GCSE
Computing ran for its second and final year and is being
replaced with Computer Science. Both courses continue
to prove popular with students.
At ‘A’ level, the OCR Applied ICT provided stretch and
challenge to those who are committed and conscientious,
even if some students had not previously studied the course
at GCSE. There will be further changes ahead as all applied
courses come to an end and we introduce an International
Applied IT course at ‘A’ level from September 2017 - this
will include elements of programming and software
development.
On the horizon is the introduction of Digital Literacy courses
for students in Years 9 and 13. The European Computer
Driving Licence (ECDL) is a way of recognising proficiency
in the use of standard computer packages at Level 2 (GCSE
standard) and Level 3 (‘A’ level standard). The Level 2 course
will begin for all Year 9 students in September 2016, with the
Level 3 course starting in September 2017.
As we have a Raspberry Pi certified trainer within the
department, we are looking to increase its usage across
Years 7 to 9 in conjunction with both the Crumble and
BBC Micro:bit mini computers. As well as maintaining the
Raspberry Pi club, we will also look to offer an electronics/
robotics/programming club during the next academic year.
With the VLE embedded, and the School moving towards
becoming a Microsoft 365 school, we are truly beginning to
deliver the skills necessary to support students in ICT
and Computing.
Mr M Jones
Head of Computing and ICT
Crumble Bot
History Clubs and Societies
The History Film Club has had a successful
year. Numbers have been excellent and
favourite films have included, Elizabeth, The
Great Gatsby, The Pianist and Argo. We have tried to include
a selection of films covering a number of different time
periods to enhance our students’ knowledge of world history.
BBC Microbit mini
computer
In October, the Department took a trip to Berlin to support
the GCSE and ‘A’ Level units they studied on the Cold
War and Hitler’s Germany respectively. It was a packed
programme which included highlights such as the Reichstag,
Checkpoint Charlie, the DDR Museum, the Berlin Wall and
the Topography of Terror.
In History Society meetings, Sixth Form students enjoyed a
number of excellent events. The Department welcomed two
speakers on the topic: Now is not the time to leave the EU.
We also invited Mr Jeremy Prescott to the school to deliver
a very thought-provoking presentation on World War One
Sacrifice and Remembrance.
This was our most successful Model United Nations
Conference to date (see Extra-Curricular section).
Mr J Cantrill
Head of History
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51

MATHEMATICS
Mathematics
The Mathematics Department has continued to inspire many and offer
opportunities for students of every age and ability to enjoy Mathematics in its
own right, become more competent in it as a facilitator for other subjects and,
of course, to ensure students are prepared thoroughly for Public Examinations.
Extra help has been available to all students on Monday,
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday lunchtimes. Some students
have made excellent use of this facility and have visited of their
own accord to practise their skills and receive some extra help;
others have attended to ‘catch up’ on work missed.
Award Winners from the Junior (Years 7 - 8)
UKMT Mathematics Challenge.
Bronze, Silver and Gold Winners from
the Intermediate (Years 9-11) UKMT
Mathematics Challenge.
Award Winners from the Senior (Years 12 - 13)
UKMT Mathematics Challenge.
MATHEMATICS
Emma Furlong in the Senior (Years 12 - 13)
UKMT Mathematics Challenge, in which
she was awarded a Silver certificate.
House Competition Winners. Left to
right: Olivia Crawley (Y7), Jacob
Dawe (Y9), Charlie Nicholson (Y12),
Matthew Garcia (Y10).
Olutomi Mosaku - UKMT Intermediate Pink
Kangaroo qualifier, sandwiched between
Sofia Henderson and Ben McCahill - Grey
Kangaroo qualifiers.
New games and puzzles have been purchased for the Puzzle Club, now in its
ninth year. These new additions have proved very popular, as pictured above.
Helena Yu - Mathematical Olympiad for
Girls; one of the top 400 in the country!
Charlie Nicholson, Matt Harris, Kieran Bonas
and Helena Yu immediately after one of the
rounds in the UKMT Senior Team Challenge.
UKMT Senior Team Challenge - Regional
Final at Loughborough University. Kieran
Bonas, Charlie Nicholson Matt Harris and
Helena Yu earn a top half finish.
The Year 8 students, pictured above, attended the Mathematics Day
at Drayton Manor Theme Park and used Mathematical modelling
techniques and surveying equipment to solve problems on their
allocated rides before ‘testing out’ the rides in the afternoon.
UKMT Intermediate Team Challenge Regional Final at
Grace Dieu Manor School. The Ratcliffe Team: Adam
Bartlett, Sophie Brown, Jacob Dawe and Sam Offer.
The time and effort invested by all the teachers in the Mathematics
Department has reaped dividends and the dedication of the teachers has
inspired and enabled many of the current Year 13 students at Ratcliffe
to continue studying Mathematics, or a related degree, with many doing
so at high-ranking universities. Further Mathematician, Matt Harris
gained a place at Cambridge University to take Engineering, whilst single
Mathematician, Archie Herrick, also gained a place at Cambridge to
study Natural Sciences. In addition, Joel Enahoro, Christopher Onubogu,
Davin Chan, Edward Cefai, Kasey Newby, Jamaal Pinsent-Heskey,
Max Wheeler, Lolade Mosaku, Jack Watson, Sam Nightingale, Damon
Chan, Niall McWhir, Jody Goodfellow, Obinna Obana, Toby Smith,
Eve Marshall, Dzhamaluddin Omarov, Tom Chandler, Anya Lock, Ed
Purcell, Myles Doran and Nima Patel all received offers from high ranking
universities to study Engineering or a Mathematics related degree.
Mr G Higham
Head of Mathematics
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53

MEDIA STUDIES
MEDIA STUDIES
Despite the inclement weather and grey skies, the Media
department and its students shone brightly at the annual ‘A
Night at the Oscars’ event on Monday evening. The event
was the biggest of its kind ever to take place at Ratcliffe
College, welcoming a crowd of over 140 guests, comprised
of Year 11 to 13 students, parents and staff.
The big winner of the night was Wired, a short
documentary by Alexander Duckett and William Laufs in
Year 13, exploring the effects of new technology on young
peoples’ cognition. This production has already secured
distribution with the online television channel Leics.tv and
was the only production to win two awards on the evening.
A fellow success story with Leics.tv was the short film, The
Art of Artistry, by Sebastian Dewhirst, James Lockton, Oliver
Thornton and Charlie Whitmore (Year 13). This film won
Best Cinematography for its beguiling exploration of the
definition of creativity. Students were equally skilled in
print production, with Chloe Flowers in Year 13 winning
Best Print Production (Editorial) for her highly convincing
regional magazine, South Yorkshire Living, featuring the
bucolic vistas of God’s own county. This is only a sample
of the fantastic work our students have produced this
year and a mere taster of all that contributes to excellent
examination results. Our special guest on the evening, Toby
Moores (CEO of media creative agency Sleepydog), said
he was ‘blown away’ by the quality of the work, and this is
testament to our students’ diligence and technical expertise.
You can view our student work via our YouTube showcase
at: www.youtube.com/ratcliffeshowcase
Mrs C Bennett
Head of Media Studies
54
55

Judith Scherer, Emily Bown, Clara von Obernitz
View of “der Alex”, from Berliner Dom
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
Language Society evening
Granada
Business Language
Champions Debating
Challenge
On Friday 20 th November, a group of four
students of French, Emma Furlong, Lauren Mulla,
Lolade Mosaku and Christian Waters, took part in
a debating challenge organised by the Business
Language Champions at St. George’s Academy
in Sleaford.
The day started with an inspirational speech from
Emma McClarkin, MEP for the East Midlands, on
the importance of international communication,
which gave our students insight into the vast number
of opportunities available to language graduates,
who are in great demand in the European Parliament.
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
Declan McAuley, Chris Curnick, Emiliano Orsini-Rottner
Brandenburger Tor, Berlin
All the participating teams were then divided to deliver
their prepared speech. Our students delivered their
opposing argument to the motion: Cette chambre est
d’avis que le cannabis devrait être légalisé (This house
believes that cannabis should be legalised) with humour,
confidence and clarity. They won this first challenge with
one judge writing the comment: “a charismatic team!”
Modern Foreign Languages
We started off the year with some excellent results in public
examinations: in French GCSE we had our best results in six years and
a significant increase in the number of A* grades; a total of 17, which
was the second highest number in the School and well above what
students achieved in other independent schools.
This trend could be seen in the Spanish GCSE results as well,
where 74% of our students achieved A*/A grades, compared
with 49% of students in other independent schools. Our
continued and improved pattern of academic success beyond
GCSE has ensured an increasingly healthy uptake of modern
foreign languages at AS and A2 Level, with group sizes
expanding to 11 for French.
This year for the first time students in Year 6 experienced
a carousel of French, German and Spanish, and the Year
7 students could choose any two languages from French,
German, Spanish and Latin, with which they will continue
until the end of Year 9. This has meant that there are equal
numbers studying French and Spanish and has necessitated
recruiting Mrs Jo Leite to teach some lower school Spanish.
Our extra-curricular opportunities continue to attract
students of all ages and abilities: with language trips to Nice,
Granada and Germany to the Opal Coast, these visits play
an important part in developing our students’ fluency and
interest in the subject, and many cite their experiences as a
motivating factor in choosing to carry on with their study of
a modern language.
We launched the first language visit to Berlin at Easter, giving
students the opportunity to attend language classes in the
mornings, followed by sightseeing in the afternoons. This
proved a big success and we hope to offer a similar trip in
the future. In the meantime, we maintain our link with the
Bischöfliches Cusanus-Gymnasium in Koblenz, with whom
we plan an exchange visit next year.
Closer to home, we remain closely involved with Business
Language Champions and earlier in the year a group of
Sixth Form French students took part in a regional French
debating competition which, despite not winning, gave them
invaluable experience of speaking in public – impressive,
given that most people fear this more than death!
Our House Language competitions have gained momentum
this year, with students taking part in three so far, one of
which has tested their ability to translate intriguing film titles
into English. We are fortunate that the study of a film is part
of the ‘A’ Level syllabus, and we encourage students to watch
as many films in their chosen target language as possible, as
this broadens their cultural, as well as linguistic, knowledge.
Boulogne
The Sixth Form Language Society evenings have therefore
been based around watching and discussing a film in either
French, German or Spanish.
The new GCSE and ‘A’ Level specifications have informed
training and planning for next year: we have attended online
and external training sessions to bring us all up to speed
with the requirements from September and have been busy
evaluating new resources. There is a saying plus ça change,
plus c’est
la même chose and it is true that the new examinations bear
a close resemblance to those offered pre-2000, which some
of us are (unfortunately) old enough to remember teaching.
Whilst our students are certainly going to find it a challenge
to return to terminal examinations and no dictionaries in
GCSE, we are enthusiastic about the range of new resources
and textbooks in the offing, which we will add to our
favoured French textbooks Studio and which will help
us to achieve greater parity across the languages.
Mrs S Cushing
Head of Modern Foreign Languages
This was followed by a talk from Sally Fagan, from
Business Language Champions, on public speaking
skills, giving invaluable advice on how to stand in front
of an audience, how to project our voice and how to
use short, but “punchy” sentences.
In the afternoon, students had fifteen minutes to prepare
their second speech. They had to argue in favour of
the motion: Cette chambre est d’avis que la vie des filles
est plus compliquée que celle des garçons and start the
argument. A difficult subject but our team won their
second round too and very nearly made it to the final.
Again, our team received a special mention for their
passionate delivery.
Many congratulations to all for taking part in such a
wonderful but sometimes nerve-racking challenge!
You all did a tremendous job and should be very proud!
Mrs A Crebbin
Lauren Mulla, Lolade Mosaku, Emma Furlong,
Christian Waters flying the flag for Ratcliffe.
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57

MUSIC
MUSIC
Music
BOARDERS’ CONCERT
The Boarders’ Concert at the start of the academic year has
become something of a tradition in the school calendar.
The event allows students to have a lovely meal in the Old
Library with informal performances given by the boarders
(and even some staff!). Thanks must go to Mr Winkley who
helped to co-ordinate the event, allowing him to get to know
the students even better. The relaxed nature of the evening
promotes good conversation without the need to rush away.
It is always good to see the students staying until the end of
the evening, enjoying each other’s company.
PROMS CONCERT
The Last Night of the Proms is in its fourth year now (a
similar event held in London has been established somewhat
longer, though!) and the performances this year were truly
wonderful. Notable performances were given by the Senior
Orchestra, who performed Carmen, and the Senior Choir
who, together with the Year 7 Choir, performed numbers
from The Sound of Music. It has been very encouraging
to see the quality of orchestral and vocal music go from
strength to strength.
HOUSE MUSIC
This annual competition has been totally revamped since last
year, thanks to the excellent legacy project from the Year 13
cohort who left in July 2015. For the first time, the whole school
was able to attend the competition which took place in the
Sports Hall during the school day. Having the whole school in
attendance certainly helped to generate a lively atmosphere!
Each House sang an ABBA song which was selected from a hat
(shades of the Sorting Hat from Harry Potter?!) in an assembly
to allow each House to prepare adequately before the event. It
was lovely to see the students throwing themselves into the spirit
of communal singing with such enthusiasm and to that see the
songs had been thoroughly rehearsed.
Other categories in the competition included solo vocal,
piano orchestral and small ensemble. This enabled many
students to fully participate and to encourage a wide range
of repertoire. Pleasingly, not all performances were from
the upper grades, although all were excellent in their own
regard. I was hugely impressed with the less experienced
performers, some of whom had not performed to such a
large crowd beforehand.
I was very grateful to welcome Mrs Stephanie Hall, one of our
Peripatetic Singing Teachers to adjudicate the competition.
She was outstanding in that the comments she gave to
performers were succinct, accurate and engaged the entire
school, no mean feat on the last day of term!
RESULTS:
1 st Emery
2 nd Arundel
3 rd De Lisle
4 th Leetham
SPRING CONCERT
The culmination of the musical output in the Spring Term is a major
formal concert. Of particular note was the performance given by the
Intermediate Orchestra who performed Pirates of the Caribbean.
They have certainly come on a long way in recent years. The Senior
Orchestra performed Lord of the Rings and Jurassic Park, while the
Senior Choir and Chamber Orchestra performed Zadok the Priest
and The Hallelujah Chorus.
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59

MUSIC
MUSIC
PICNIC CONCERT
The Picnic Concert is always anticipated by students, staff
and visitors alike, and never fails to generate excitement.
This year’s event was no different! There were so many
exceptional performances
it seems wrong to list
particular students. One
feature of the concert was
the spread of age groups
taking part. In previous
years, there has been a
larger portion of students
in the upper Senior School
who have performed,
whereas this year, there were
notably more performances
from the Preparatory School
and Years 7-9 students.
This is testament to the
enthusiasm for music across
the whole school.
It is always sad to do so, but those students who
are leaving at the end of this term were given
special mention. The Choirs and Ensembles
continue to go from strength to strength while
the small groups and soloists demonstrated
a distinct musical personality, not frequently
shown by young musicians.
As always, there was a lovely
warm and encouraging
atmosphere allowing the
students to give of their best.
EXHIBITION DAY
PERFORMANCES
This formal celebration of student
achievement was punctuated by a number of
wonderful performances. Amy Mason, Year
7, who is new to performance, sang with total
conviction. Tilly Goodwin, Year 8, who sang
a German Lied by Reger, gave a memorable
performance which was characterised by
nuanced vocal control. Eve Millward, Year
9, played the B Minor Waltz by Chopin with
genuine expressiveness and poise. Anna
Reviakina, Year 12, who sang Send in the
Clowns in a genuinely mature performance,
was subtle, expressive and fully engaged
with the audience.
DEPARTING
MUSIC STAFF
Thanks must be recorded to four superb colleagues who are leaving us for
pastures new. Firstly, we say goodbye to Mrs Katy Lyttle who has taught
Piano since 2012. Katy is a wonderfully diligent musician and teacher,
who encourages precision from her students. She leaves us to work at her
husband’s school. Mr Daniel Jones, Assistant Director of Music, has worked
at Ratcliffe since 2014, when the new Preparatory School opened and where
the majority of his work has been. Daniel has worked tirelessly to establish
a thriving musical culture; the Prep School is truly a singing school. Mrs
Rachel Jones has taught ‘Cello since 2015 and as part of the Year 4 String
Scheme, and has rapidly improved standards of lower string playing, as
evidenced in the termly RATS concerts. Finally, we say a sad farewell to Dr
James Winkley, our Music Graduate, who has had a busy year across both
the Preparatory and Senior Schools, teaching, accompanying and directing
the Intermediate Orchestra.
Mr E McCall
Director of Music
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61

SCIENCE
A group of seven Year 9 Physics students won the Best
Overall Project award in the science and engineering
competition Go4SET, a popular, nationwide scheme
designed to get students involved with engineering projects.
The triumphant students were James Howling, Jacob Dawe,
Dominic Baggott, Ben McCahill, Robyn Warwick, Charlotte
Langford and Tess Duffin. Their Eco-Hotel project was an
inspirational piece of work, and was highly commended at
the Celebration Event, held at the Ricoh Arena on Thursday
23 rd June. Their spectacular model and insightful report
impressed all the judges, who stated that the project “ticked
all the boxes”! One judge, who works in the construction
industry, was so impressed that she has invited the team to
her next staff meeting!
SCIENCE
SCIENCE
The
This involved a combination of laboratory work and a quiz,
and we were delighted that the Ratcliffe College team ended
in 2 nd place in the Leicestershire round, held at the University
of Loughborough, and thus represented the county at the
East Midlands round at the University of Derby. The students
involved were David Hippisley-Cox, Kit Jackson, James
Howling and Charlotte Meadows.
Four Year 8
students took
part in the
Salters’ Festival
of Chemistry
competition.
The students
were Jonathan
Bellamy,
Sam Seidu,
Harry Cusack
and Anuj
Savani, who were set a challenge to identify ‘the murderer
at Salterstown’. The students were given different chemical
compounds found at the murder scene, and using an array
of chemical tests and chromatographic techniques, tried to
identify each substance to identify the murderer.
Chemistry Department has achieved
great success this year with the Royal Society
of Chemistry’s Top of the Bench competition.
A group of six Year 12 Physics students, Emilia Lawden,
Rosie Giles, Luke Pole, Charlie Nicholson, Daniel Warwick
and Christian
Waters, took
part in the
Engineering
Education
Scheme (EES).
The EES is an
initiative that
brings together
schools and
industrial
companies so
that ‘would be
engineers’, or
students who
wish to sample this avenue of employment, can work on
substantial projects, whilst receiving support from a working
engineer. This year, under the guidance of Dr Christopher
Jackson, the students investigated the possibility of using
telescopes (manufactured by the students) to explore the
composition of the Milky Way. The students managed to test
a variety of antennae to establish the correct geometry for a
multiple antenna assembly.
Six other Year 9 Physics students who also took part in the
competition received much praise for their project Station
of the Future. These were Luke Millett, Alex Pickering, Tom
Neuberg, Elliot Kelly, Joseph Summer and Edward Smellie,
whose unusual idea to use hydrogen for train power, in their
‘hydrail’ scheme, attracted lots of attention.
The Biology Department has
also had a busy year outside the
classroom, with the introduction of
Ratcliffe’s first ever Conservation
Society. With about 20 members
joining the group, from Year 7 to Year 13, the society has
had a very successful first year. The students have been
planting to attract bees and butterflies, erecting nest boxes,
rescuing hedgehogs and establishing habitats for their
release, launching
animal and water mini
beast identification
competitions, locating
bird boxes and feeding
stations, and hatching
butterflies.
The new Biology ‘A’ level
fieldtrip also took place
this year, to enhance
students’ understanding
within the field of
Ecology. A group of
seven Year 13 Biology
students set off to a field
centre in Shropshire,
to work in the
twelve hectares of grassland and woodland that
surround the centre. The students involved were
Carrick Anderson, Charley Flowers, Charles Grattan,
Archie Herrick, Lauren Mulla, William Smith and
Helena Yu. Over the course of the trip, the students
enjoyed working with lots of different apparatus to
identify numerous plant species and investigate the
effect of light intensity on leaf size. Students also
studied the behaviour of wood mice and a vole, which
they successfully caught with their mammal traps, and
a pond study allowed the students to investigate the
freshwater invertebrate communities at the centre.
Mr A Chorley
Head of Science
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63

PSHCE & ANTI-BULLYING
PSHCE
As in previous years, the PSHCE provision
has been developed further, ensuring that
our students receive sessions that are both
informative and edifying, covering a myriad
of topics including student well-being,
diversity in the community, charity initiatives
and topical issues, to name but a few.
Whilst most sessions
are tailored towards a
specific age group, topics
of significance have been
delivered across the whole
school, with individual
sessions being adapted
to ensure that they were
age appropriate. Student
well-being is paramount
here at Ratcliffe College.
Consequently, the programme allowed for a whole week to be
devoted to emotional health. Expert speakers and specialist groups
were invited into school to educate and enlighten the students within
this area. Many of the sessions were collaborative and afforded
the students the opportunity to get involved and fully appreciate the
importance of their emotional health.
The whole school
also participated
in a debate and
vote on the EU
referendum,
which was kindly
overseen by
Mr Benjamin,
who chairs
the Debating
Society. The
session was a
great success
and the final
outcome
deemed that
we should remain within the European Union! Future sessions
will allow the students to deliberate this further as the impact
of Brexit unfolds.
The photographs above demonstrate the vast array of topics
that the programme covers. It is evident from student feedback
that the increase in interactive sessions and outside speakers
has undoubtedly enhanced their enjoyment of PSHCE and
comprehension of several issues.
Miss T Spencer
Head of PSHCE
Year 8 session on Drugs Awareness
A PSHCE session on Anti-Bullying
BEYOND
BULLYING
AWARD
Ratcliffe was extremely honoured to
receive an award from Leicestershire
County Council which demonstrates
the school’s commitment to
Anti-Bullying.
The celebration event
took place at the National
Space Centre on 29 th
June 2016. Miss Tiffany
Spencer, our school’s
Anti-bullying Champion,
was accompanied by
Sophie Pole, Emily
McBallantine, Archie
Heaney and Jade
England, Year 8 and 9 students who had previous
won first prize in Ratcliffe’s internal Anti-bullying
Competition last November. The students enjoyed
the Celebration Event immensely and were afforded
the time to tour the Space Centre and take part in
Anti-Bullying activities.
The award is only accredited to schools which
continually exhibit their commitment to anti-bullying.
To this end, Miss Spencer will be launching an
initiative whereby students can be part of an Anti-
Bullying Committee, in which they are invited to put
forward any concerns or ideas for implementation
at school. Students will be offered the opportunity to
become part of the committee during the first term
of the 2016-17 academic year; these students will
receive a school badge denoting their individual
commitment and support of such an important
matter. After consultations with the students on the
day of the award, it was agreed that the committee
would be titled, The Anti-Bullying Committee -
abbreviated to ABC. Future initiatives and updates
will be included in the School’s newsletter and next
year’s Ratcliffian.
Miss T Spencer
Emily, Jade, Archie and Sophie enjoying
a tour of the National Space Centre.
CAREERS
There have been a number of exciting events
in the Careers Department this year. Year 11
students have had the privilege of receiving
support from established business men and
women, and independent advisors.
Having received their Morrisby profiles
and guidance on writing CV’s and job
applications, they had an excellent workshop
on creating a positive first impression at
interview and advice on interview technique.
Year 10 hosted an excellent ‘Market Place’,
turning the Senior School Square into a hive
of activity as they enticed students from all
age groups to buy their products. Each
group was given a small start-up loan of between £5
and £20, and as a year group they managed to raise nearly
£300 for the Year 10 Charity, MENCAP. Cooke’ s Cookies
won the award for the best Marketing Campaign and the
Popcorn stall was the most successful trading company,
making over 200% profit.
THE LIBRARY
It has been another busy year in both the
Emery Library and the Sixth Form Centre
Library, as we strive to ensure our provision
continues to provide a relevant and effective
resource which enriches teaching and
learning, while reflecting changes in the
curriculum and technology.
The Sixth Form Centre provides excellent preparation for
the demands of independent study at ‘A’ level and beyond,
and the resources available have been enhanced this year
by the addition
of more on-line
subscriptions,
and additional
Higher Education
support
materials, all of
which are now
easily accessed
via the school
VLE. At Key
Stage 3 and
GCSE level, the
Emery Library
has been used extensively for coursework and extended
projects in all subject areas, with students and staff welcoming
the range of resources available.
Year 7 students relaxing with their free books
The younger years have spent time
exploring the world of work and possible
future careers. Year 9 investigated
the qualifications needed to begin on
various career pathways, following their
attendance at the Higher Education Fair,
the GCSE Options Evening and receiving support from their
Tutors and subject teachers.
Miss C Papadopoulou
Careers Co-ordinator
To encourage a love of reading, highlights have included:
new projects for Key Stage 3 library lessons; book-talking
sessions from a visiting speaker for Year 9; participation in
the Bookbuzz scheme, whereby all Year 7 students chose a
free book to encourage them to try something new; extracurricular
book clubs for all year groups and the highly
successful participation of some of our talented readers
from Years 8 and 9 in the Carnegie Medal Shadowing
scheme. As always, World Book Day provides a real focus
to the enjoyment of books and reading. Activities this
year included tutor time quizzes, bookmark competitions,
matching the teaching staff to their favourite childhood
book, and the lunchtime event, Would I Lie To You, where
students had to decide which of their English teachers was
giving them a true fact about a book or author, and which
ones were lying! It was a real pleasure to see so many
students getting involved and having fun with fiction.
Mrs M Williams
Librarian
The ‘Would I Lie To You?’ activity on World Book Day
CAREERS & LIBRARY
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65

EAL
ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL
LANGUAGE (EAL)
This year has been another very busy year for the English
as an Additional Language Department, with a number
of new students joining the School from a wide variety
of different countries and backgrounds.
The Leicester City Football Club initiative, involving 16 Thai
students, has continued to run, with the boys starting the
BTEC in Sport and the Department’s role broadening and
developing into one of supporting them with this exciting
course. With Leicester City winning the premiership this year,
there was even more of a buzz of excitement in the EAL area
than usual!
The EAL Department
has continued
to provide crosscurricular
and
pastoral support
for students whose
first language is
not English. The
students have been
preparing to write
external examinations, which will provide them with an
English qualification that is recognised globally.
Joshua Wong
taking part
in the House
Square Races
Anna Reviakina
performing on
Exhibition Day
At the time of writing, all the
Year 13 students have either
completed or are awaiting
the results of their IELTS
examinations. The majority
of the Football Scholars have
written their Key English Test
and the remainder are due
to write either the Preliminary
English Test or the IELTS
examination next school year.
A number of our European
students have also been preparing to sit the Cambridge
ESOL examinations on their return home in the summer.
Shelly Lam and Rachel Sou
creating Easter products
Academy Scholars
enjoying Thai New
Year, Songkran, at
school.
Helena Yu (centre) performing at the
Last Night of the Proms
The EAL students have continued to achieve
across the School, both academically and in
their extra-curricular activities. Three of our
Sixth Formers received academic colours this
year - a great achievement when working in a
second or third language! We congratulate all
our students on their achievements across the
curriculum and in the wider life of the School.
Barzin Alipourkarami (far right) taking part
in the School EU debate.
Bom Thaweesuk
scoring a Bull’s
Eye at the
Leicester Outdoor
Pursuits Centre.
LEARNING
SUPPORT
The Learning Support Department
has enjoyed another busy year,
welcoming two new members of
staff to its team.
Mrs Lucy Davids joined in
September 2015 as our new
Specialist Literacy Teacher,
teaching across all Year Groups.
Mrs Davids has a background
in English teaching and has also
been assigned to work with the
English Department, teaching
a Year 7 class. Mr Alex Watts
also joined the department in
January 2016 as a temporary Teaching Assistant. He has been
ably supporting class teachers in English and Mathematics
classes and has also provided
essential help with the end of
year examinations, by scribing for
students with access arrangements.
Within the Preparatory School,
a number of new initiatives have
taken place under the watchful eye
of our Specialist Teacher, Mrs Jo
Leite. These include phonic booster
groups, handwriting sessions,
extra reading sessions and booster
groups in Mathematics.
LEARNINIG SUPPORT
Second Mahajindawong in
action against Mansfield
Helena Yu receiving one of her two Special
Awards at Exhibition Day. She was awarded
the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Prize and the
Baillon Rose Bowl Award for Boarding, on top
of the prize for EAL and a studies prize!
The hard work and enthusiasm displayed by
all the EAL students have made the year a
successful one, with the development within
the Department of a great atmosphere of
learning, adapting and growing.
Finally, we bid a fond farewell to our Year 13s
and all our other leavers, including Miss A
Callow and Miss K Singapuri. We wish them
well in the paths they have chosen.
In the Senior School, all members of the Learning Support
Department staff have been involved in the trial of the Lexia
online reading programme, which will become a prime area
of focus next year. We have been greatly impressed by the
detailed assessment and tracking system, the highly interactive
and adaptive training program and the wealth of resources that
will be available to us, as we move through the program. We
are confident that this new initiative will give a real boost to the
reading skills of our students. As the accompanying photos
show, the students gave their seal of approval too!
As we look forward to the new academic year, we are delighted
to welcome three new members of staff for 2016-17: Mrs Jennie
Harlock will join us as our new Specialist Literacy Teacher, as
we say goodbye to Reverend Georgie Hadley, who has retired,
following fifteen years of excellent service. In addition, we have
two new Teaching Assistants: Mrs Alison Batten and Mr Tom
Oakley. We have no doubt that they will all prove to be extremely
valuable additions to the Learning Support Department.
Mrs J Cluley
Head of Learning Support
66
Mrs M Reeves
EAL Co-ordinator
67

RELIGIOUS STUDIES
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
The Religious Studies Department continues to work closely with the
Chaplaincy Team and, in particular, Mr Michel and Fr Ted Mullen,
in order to provide a solid basis for religious and spiritual growth.
In September, all students in Year
7 spent a day working with the
Department. The students were
given the opportunity to reflect
on the Rosminian ethos of the
School and were invited to explore
how the Mission Statement, Living
and learning in the light of the
Gospel, is at the heart of school life.
Students found out about the life
of Blessed Antonio Rosmini and his passion for education.
Fr Ted Mullen spoke about the role of a priest, as well as
taking questions from students, and brought the day to an
appropriate end by celebrating Mass.
Classes in Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 celebrated class Masses
throughout the Year. The Masses were celebrated by Fr Ted
while Mr Michel assisted with the preparation. During Lent,
students in Years 7-9 walked and prayed the Stations of the
Cross, led by their Class Teachers.
Religious Studies
has continued to
attract a good
number of students
to the AS course.
In September, 18
students started the
course, studying
Ethics and Philosophy. In Ethics, students study different
ethical theories and consider how these may be applied to
issues of medical ethics as well as sexual ethics, business
ethics, environmental ethics and war and peace.
In Philosophy, students have studied
arguments concerning God’s existence
as well as the Greek philosophers,
Aristotle and Plato. The new course,
starting in September 2016, will
focus equally on Christian Theology,
Philosophy and Ethics.
At GCSE, students have continued to
study philosophical and ethical issues,
focusing on Catholic teachings, other Christian teachings
and other viewpoints. On 10 th June, Year 10 students were
fortunate enough to visit the Holocaust Centre, near Newark,
Nottinghamshire. The students developed their awareness of
the events of the Holocaust and were invited to reflect on the
tragedy of these events as well as the heroic efforts of many
individuals. In the afternoon, the students listened attentively
to Janine Webber, a survivor of the Holocaust.
Mr N Walsh
Head of Religious Studies
ATHLETICS
Area
The Ratcliffe Athletics team excelled at the Area
Athletics meet that was held at Wreake Valley School
on Tuesday 24th May 2016. From the 30 students
who attended the meet, 22 qualified for the County
Finals. 13 of these 22 had won their event at the
Area meet. This was an excellent achievement.
The 13 individual event and relay winners in their
respective age categories were as follows: Annie
Rose Reddin and Wilson Lee in the long jump,
Rajen Gupta in the 800m, Owen Lloyd in the javelin,
Will Westwood in the 300m, Harry Culpin in the long
jump, Mimi Khan in the shot, Ellie Gallacher in the
discus, Mia Atkinson in the 1500m, Emily Grimmett
and Henry Wells in the 100m, Ellie Gallacher in
the 200m, and the Year 7 4 x 100m girls and boys
relay teams consisting of Annie Rose Reddin, Ella
McNeeney, Freya Smith and Sophie Wilson, and
Wilson Lee, Roman Carpenter, Rajen Gupta and
Temi Abiodun.
The 22 students who qualified for the county finals in
their respective age categories were as follows: Girls
- Year 7 relay team including Freya Smith, Annie
Rose Reddin in the long jump, Annie Bridgwood,
Ella McNeeney and Emily Grimmett in the 100m,
Mimi Khan in the shot, Ellie Gallacher in the discus,
Dalila Watson in the high jump, Mia Atkinson in the
1500m and Sophie Wilson in the 800m. Boys - Year
7 relay team, Temi Abioun, Josh Wong and Henry
Wells in the 100m, Wilson Lee in the long jump,
Roman Carpenter and Connor Foster in the 200m,
Rajen Gupta in the 800m, Joe Collier in the javelin,
Will Westwood in the 300m, Harry Culpin in the
high jump, Krishan Gupta in the 400m and Alfie
Thompson in the 3000m.
County
22 students qualified for and competed in the Leicestershire
Schools’ County Athletics Finals which took place at Saffron
Lane Athletics Stadium in Leicester on Saturday 11th June.
All the athletes acquitted themselves very well, with some
excellent individual performances.
Ella McNeeney, Henry Wells and Emily Grimmett all qualified
for the 100m final and Will Westwood qualified for the
300m final. All four ran very well in the finals and either
matched or beat their heat times. Emily and Will medalled,
with very creditable third place finishes. There were some
strong performances in the middle distance events where
Mia Atkinson, carrying an injury, finished second in the
1500m as did Alfie Thompson in the 3000m. In the field
events, Wilson Lee and Annie Rose Reddin finished fourth in
the long jump, as did Harry Culpin in the high jump. Dalila
Watson medalled in the high jump, finishing third, as did
Ellie Gallacher in the discus, also finishing third.
Medal winners from Leicestershire School County Athletics Championships 2016.
From top left: William Westwood, Ellie Gallacher, Harry Culpin, Emily Grimmett,
Mia Atkinson, Dalila Watson.
SPORT
Feedback gained from the students showed
that they were humbled by the experience,
as the following statements indicate:
‘The main lesson would be to be
respectful and just to reflect on
what people had to go through
for many years.’
‘It teaches us that people
should do something about
discrimination before it is
too late.’
‘I was shocked at the extent to which the Nazis
went, to punish Jews for doing nothing wrong.’
‘Hearing a first-hand account of what happened under the Nazi
regime proves the depravity of their actions. It was fascinating to
learn about the tales of survival and rebellion against the Nazis.’
‘I found her (Janine Webber) story fascinating
but it also made me feel upset as she was
only a child during the war and had to
watch her family be separated and she didn’t
know if she would see them again.’
‘In total, 1.5 million
children died during
the Holocaust.’
Henry Wells powering
his way to victory in the
100m at the Area Athletics
Championships 2016.
Well done to all the Ratcliffe athletes who competed with
such effort and determination, and particular congratulations
to all the finalists and six medallists.
On Wednesday 15th June, Harry Culpin and Dalila
Watson both competed in the Pole Vault County Final at
Loughborough University and won their events, with Dalila
breaking the County record. Unfortunately, both narrowly
missed out on qualification for the National Schools
Championships but they are to be congratulated for their
achievements.
Special congratulations to Mia Atkinson on being selected
to represent Leicestershire and Rutland Schools Athletics
Association in the 1500m at the National Schools Athletics
Championships to be held at Gateshead International
Stadium, on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th July 2016.
Mr M Kaye
Head of Athletics
68
69

SPORT
BOYS’
HOCKEY
1st 2nd 3rd U15A U15B U14 U13A U13B U12
PLAYED 10 6 1 8 3 7 6 2 6
WON 6 3 0 5 0 3 6 0 4
DRAWN 1 1 0 1 0 3 0 2 1
LOST 3 2 1 2 3 1 0 0 1
1 st XI
The first team had a pleasing season this year. They worked
incredibly hard on and off pitch and, at times, played some
outstanding hockey. The opposition were usually limited to
a handful of chances, which is testament to Harry Redding
in goal and the defence of Chris Curnick, Tom Bramble
and Harry Stokes, skilfully marshalled by Sam and Jack
Nightingale. The work-rate and energy in midfield were
outstanding through Harry Antill, Richard Ward, Matthew
Ward, Ben Pole and Captain, Joey Higham. Up front,
Carrick Anderson, Declan McAuley and Jack Watson created
an array of chances, and while the goals scored this year
have come from all over the team, it has been the forwards’
great leadership that has made this achievable. This is a
very talented side and it would be a massive achievement if
next year’s first team could pick up where they have left off.
Mr D Willcock and Mr S Hunter
2 nd XI
The second team had a mixed set of results, and many of
their performances deserved better. The team was well
led by Captain and top goal scorer Seb Dewhurst, ably
assisted by Vice-Captain Niall McWhir. Niall led the defence
well, with help from senior goal keeper Toby Smith, whose
attitude was exemplary. Harry Heaney, Ben Dexter, Harrison
Grimmett and Billy Kaul all helped Toby and Niall defend
well as a team, while also helping set up a number of good
attacking opportunities. Kasey Newby stepped into a central
midfield role to help us switch the play more consistently,
also feeding the ball to creative players Seb and Josh
Macqueen. Attacking flair and some well-worked goals also
came from the likes of Alex Keay, Jack Vinall, Max Wheeler,
David Hippisley-Cox, Joe Jarvis and Sam Bird. I look
forward to seeing how they develop next year, with some,
I am sure, stepping up into the first team.
Mr P Gilchrist
3 rd XI
The Third Team suffered defeat against a very strong Oundle
side in what turned out to be their only game this year, as
the rest were unfortunately cancelled. Ratcliffe took an early
lead, finished off neatly by Philip Gyesi-Appiah. However,
from this point on, the game was dominated by Oundle who
completed a comfortable victory. There are a lot of hardworking
players in this team and they train fantastically well
during games lessons. It would be great to see this group of
players continue to develop and force their way into second
team in the future.
Mr D Willcock
U15A XI
With three convincing wins in the opening
three games, the U15A team started their
season with conviction. Off the back of
a 9 – 0 win against Hill House in their
opening game, the boys played with
confidence, securing a good away win
at Wisbech, then doing the same when
Worksop visited Ratcliffe. The weekend
after was the low point for the boys, recording their only losses
against a strong Oundle side and then a much improved
Worksop side. They recovered the following weekend by
beating King Henry’s, and remained unbeaten for the rest
of the season. Alex Purcell and Seb Cooke were our standout
players and, at times, Matt Lindley and Toby Snell also
displayed considerable desire and talent. On the whole, the
boys improved through the season as a team and individually.
Mr S Yassin
U15B XI
The U15B team, led by the dynamic duo of Louis Massarella
and Jamie Egglenton, possess some of the most enthusiastic
individuals this year. Their opening fixture was against
Wisbech, and it was to be an exciting start for the boys.
An outstanding performance from Matthew Garcia was not
enough to win against strong opposition. Our goal in this
2 – 1 defeat was scored by Louis Massarella. In our
following game, against Worksop, we were 3 – 0 down at
half-time. The second-half was a different story, however,
as the boys created countless chances and were unlucky
not to score. In their last game, the boys lost narrowly to a
competitive Loughborough side. It has been a rewarding
experience for all involved in the U15B games this season.
Mr S Hunter and Mr A Johnson
U14 XI
The U14 boys had a frustrating start to the season, with
results not always going their way. They are a large and
relatively talented squad who show enthusiasm for the game
and some decent skills, with no weak links in the team.
However, there are also no real superstars, which means they
rely heavily on their team work. They worked with excellent
spirit which resulted in clear improvements over the term.
The highlights of the season were the 5 – 0 win over King
Henry’s, a 3 – 0 win over Princethorpe and a fantastic local
derby win against Loughborough Grammar. Few players
really stood out from the crowd, with the team playing well
as a unit, but Will Westwood deserves a mention for his
tireless work up front, while Oliver Welch in the central role
displayed moments of real quality.
Mr E Woodcock
U13A XI
All successful teams need talented
individuals. The secret of success,
however, with the U13 Hockey team
was the depth of talent in the Year
group. It is not just that this team win
their games, but it is the style and
teamwork that they show in doing so.
The side dominated the Leicestershire ‘In
2 Hockey’ Tournament, comfortably winning all their matches,
including the final by 8 goals, and not conceding any along
the way. This meant qualification for the Midlands Finals in
which they finished runners-up, losing narrowly to a strong
Trent side. However, this was enough for them to qualify for
the National Finals for the first time in Ratcliffe’s history. The
Midlands Final was the first game they had lost this year,
and it spurred them on to refocus and finish an incredible
3 rd at the Nationals. It would simply be unfair to single out
any individuals, as some would undoubtedly feel missed
out. Suffice to say, the squad for the Midlands and National
tournaments was Will Oswell, Joseph Stamp, Krishnan
Jivanji, Archie Heaney, Finley Back, Tom Page, Captain Owen
Lloyd, Harry Cusack, Alex Tyszka, Connor Foster and James
Turner. Many congratulations to Captain, Owen Lloyd, on his
selection to represent England U15s.
Mr N Taylor
U13B XI
The depth of talent in the U13s is best shown with the strength
of the B team, where Year 8 students are joined by the best
of Year 7 who are not playing ‘A team’ hockey. It is such a
shame that this side has had limited opportunities to showcase
their talents, as they are actually able to give the U13A team a
good game! In their two games this season, they were held to
a 1 – 1 draw against a well organised Wisbech side, with the
same result against Princethorpe.
The boys dominated in both their
games but, in their desire
to attack, were also susceptible
to the quick break.
Mr N Taylor
U12 XI
The U12s were committed and
enthusiastic participants. As
a result, both individuals and
the team as a whole, made
significant improvements. They finished second in the County
Tournament, drawing 2 – 2 with Loughborough Grammar in
an excellent game and winning all their other games, only to
lose out to Loughborough on goal difference, which earned
them progression to the Midlands Tournament. Ben Jackson
was fearless in goal and, frustratingly for Ben but good for
the rest of the team, often had little to do in matches. Wilson
Lee and Elliott Lindop marshalled the defence superbly and
Alex Dring and Xavier Henderson were two of the most
improved players. In midfield, Captain Xabier Xanotti, Guy
Heywood and Louie Fletcher linked very well with the wide
players, enabling the likes of Jacob Storey, Sam Linnett, Ethan
Bruiners, Ethan Chapman and particularly Roman Carpenter
to attack effectively from the wings. Rajen Gupta, Will Wright
and Ollie Howard provided a cutting thrust up front, and Ollie
and Louie provided a real threat from some well-worked short
corner routines. The excellent attitude and effort shown by all
bodes well for the future.
Mr M Kaye
Mr D Willcock
SPORT
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71

SPORT
GIRLS’
HOCKEY
1 st XI
The first team had a
great season, bonding
well together and
playing some superb
hockey. Though
the results did not
always go our way,
I am pleased with the performance and improvement of
the girls over the season. There was a good attitude at
training, and a pleasing overall effort and commitment.
Emma Milner worked hard as captain, training and playing
well, and giving her all on the hockey pitch. The team will
be much depleted as we say goodbye to several Year 13
players who have been members of the squad for a while:
Millie Ellis, Sibella Chew and Elena Wheatley, who had solid
performances in defence, and Emma Milner and Emma
Furlong, both midfield players who can play anywhere on
the pitch and have played for the First team since Year 10, a
fantastic achievement! It has been brilliant having an U18
England hockey player, Olivia Back, still only in Year 11,
in the team. She has been a real asset, and a role model
for the other girls. Working with such a talent has been
a pleasure, and I am looking forward to watching Olivia
continue to develop and grow on the hockey pitch. I look
forward to next season which, I am sure, will be even
better, continuing to develop
from where we have left off.
Miss A Stafford
1st 2nd 3rd U15A U15B U14 U13 U12A U12B
PLAYED 10 6 1 9 2 8 8 6 6
WON 3 3 0 5 0 3 2 4 3
DRAWN 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0
LOST 7 3 1 4 2 3 6 2 3
2 nd XI
The Second Team had a 50:50 season, winning 3 and
losing 3. Overall, it was a pleasing year with a nice blend of
experienced and less experienced players selected throughout
the year. The team was well led by the captain, Charley
Flowers, who on occasion also stepped up to the first team.
The personnel for the second team changed on a regular
basis, with many getting an opportunity for a run out in the
first team. The girls played some excellent passing hockey at
times, unfortunately not always getting the results that their
play deserved. Issy Thomas, Lucie Prusinski, Mimi Lallo,
Caitlin Plummer, Emily Sellick and Holly Blount provided an
effective threat in attacking positions, helped by mid-fielders
Charley and Chloe Flowers and Niamh Delargy, who never
stopped running. No team can play without a good defensive
unit, and the seconds definitely had one of these. Alex Offer
and Lara Addison formed a formidable partnership in the
middle, with Isabelle Duckett, Beatrice Waters, Lois Jones and
Rebecca Astill playing as wing-backs. Behind this defence was
Nima Patel who kept the girls in some games and can be very
pleased with her year’s work. It will nice to see the majority of
these girls develop further next year.
Mr P Gilchrist
3 rd XI
The third team had a pleasing season, and it was a pleasure
to see so many girls enjoying their hockey. The girls showed
great desire to succeed, both in practices and games. All
those involved in the team this year have worked incredibly
hard to improve their skills, and we can honestly say that
each and every one of them has played a significant part on
and off the pitch. A number of these girls should really be
challenging for places in the second team next year. Well
done, girls - a really enjoyable season.
Mr D Willcock and Mr S Hunter
U15
The U15 team
had a good,
productive
season which
has provided a
great platform
for the future,
as the girls
move into
senior hockey
next year. Olivia Carpenter set a great example to the other
players and captained the side fantastically well, as well as
having a great individual season. Defensively this year, Amy
Baxter had a great season in goal. She was helped out by
strong performances in defence from Niamh Noble, Holly
Bown, Ellie-May Bullock and Katie Honey, with Jenna Pole
providing excellent cover by sweeping just in front of the
defence. Energy levels in the midfield were excellent, with
Izzy Hose, Molly Page, Nicole Spencer, Emily Grimmett and
Molly Edwards working constantly up and down the pitch.
The forwards also worked tirelessly, with Izzy Coombs, Olivia
Carpenter and Isabelle Pullen constantly making lead after
lead. One of the biggest
achievements is to have
witnessed, week on week,
the individual and team
development that the girls
have shown. This will
stand them in great stead
when they are competing
for senior places next year.
Mr D Willcock
U14
Despite a difficult start to the season, the U14 girls have
been an absolute pleasure to coach. I am very proud of
their achievement, and so should they be. All the players
showed that they wanted to develop not only their skills but
their tactics and understanding of the game. They have
always worked hard on match days
and continued to do so this season,
playing entertaining and competitive
hockey which the parents could
enjoy on a weekly basis. Spurred
on by ever-present support on the
side line, the girls achieved many
excellent results, particularly a
thrilling 4 – 2 victory over Denstone.
The season’s overall statistics were
not as impressive as perhaps they could have been, with
two frustrating draws and a loss to finish the season off.
Nevertheless, the girls should take pride in the progress
they have made, and look ahead with confidence.
Miss C Papadopoulou
U13
The U13 girls took immense strides forward this year with
their hockey. Their ability and willingness to learn has
been inspiring to witness, and it will be exciting to see how
they develop even further next year. The results of the first
few games did not reflect the ability of the players, though
results soon improved as the girls discovered their style
when they played a very strong Loughborough High School
side. The attitude and desire from the Ratcliffe girls were a
sight to behold as they came back from a difficult first-half
1 – 0 down, to dominate the second-half and almost come
away with a result. Although the girls lost 3 – 2, they took
enormous confidence from their performance as they not
only competed against but outplayed a good side. Following
this game, the girls went on to win 3 – 0 against Mount St
Mary’s, with a later 8 – 0 win against Oundle. The season
was a slow burner but the entire squad eventually excelled
themselves, both in terms of their hockey ability and their
desire to learn, improve and compete.
Mr S Hunter and Miss L Bowman
U12
The U12 teams had
a positive season in
which they won 7
and lost 5 matches.
The ‘A’ team was
held together by
the excellent play of
Elise Atkinson; she
inspired the others to
work harder at their
skills and fitness, to
which the whole ‘A’ team responded well. Their first match,
a 1 – 0 loss to Princethorpe, was a wake-up call, showing
what the season was to hold, but excellent wins
against Oundle and Loughborough gave them
motivation to persevere. After a loss in the
returning Loughborough fixture they then went
on to win. 9 – 0 and 6 – 0 over Denstone and
Northampton. Up front, Annie Rose Reddin
and Annie Bridgwood regularly got themselves
into great scoring positions. Amy Mason, in
defence, was a force to be reckoned with, and
her reading of the game was superb. Matilda
Cregeen was a real find as a goalkeeper,
making some spectacular saves. 4 wins from
6 matches was testament to their effort and determination
throughout the whole season.
The ‘B’ team worked very hard in lessons and in training to
improve every aspect of their hockey, and especially their
understanding of the game. Two early wins
over Princethorpe and Oundle gave them much
confidence as they approached arch rivals,
Loughborough. A win and a loss to Denstone
and Northampton respectively saw them finish
the season with a well-deserved 50:50 split of
wins and losses. Olivia Crawley and Marley
Totton were the pick of the season, earning
occasional call-ups to the ‘A’ team, while Victoria
Baggott had a great season in goal. Amy
Whitelaw was feisty in defence and Ella McNeeney’s work rate
and determination set the standard for others to emulate.
Mrs A Taylor and Miss R Lowe
SPORT
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73

SPORT
SPORT
1st 2nd/U16 U15 U15/U14B U14 U13 U13/U12B U12
PLAYED 14 9 13 5 12 14 7 10
RUGBY
WON 5 4 8 3 7 8 4 5
DRAWN 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 1
LOST 9 4 5 2 4 4 3 4
CANCELLED 1 1 2 1 2 1 1 0
This season’s highlights were the tremendous achievements of all senior teams
in the County Cup competitions. The 1st XV and U13 team both had superb cup
runs to reach their finals, in which both teams narrowly missed out on victory.
The U15 and U14 teams both reached the semi-finals, losing out in closely
contested games.
1 st XV
In a difficult season, owing largely
to injuries, the 1st XV had an
excellent finish, with a dramatic
second half come back to beat
Robert Smyth in the County Cup
Semi Finals and then an excellent
performance in the Final to give
a quality Leicester Grammar team
a close run. In Saturday fixtures,
the score line in most matches did
not really reflect the competitive
nature of the games. There were good wins against
Wolverhampton Grammar, Wisbech, Carres and Highfields,
and many of the other games were closely contested affairs
that could have gone either way. Charlie Pickering led the
team superbly. Seb Dewhirst had an excellent season and he
was the outstanding player on the
pitch in the County Cup final.
On his return from injury, Luke
Gyesi Appiah was back to his
best, with powerful running and
strong tackling. Tom Brambell
was the stand-out player in a
pack often shorn
of experience.
2 nd XV
This was an enjoyable season
for the 2 nd XV. A 50:50 playing
record is most respectable
considering that (as is probably
the norm for a 2nd XV) the
same team never took to the
field two games running. A
simple game plan (it had to be, given the regular changes!)
focused on ball retention and playing beyond the gainline,
and it worked well. Several players became stalwarts
of the side. Adam Stamp, Nick Heywood, Ben Dexter,
Jamie Lanyon, Tom Lowe, Tom Wetton and Jack Vinall are
certainly worthy of mention. Special mention must go to
Sam Nightingale, the old man of the side. He captained the
team with a real insight into what 2nd XV rugby is all about,
setting high standards and expecting the best of his players,
but understanding that mistakes would be made!
U15
The U15 team had a strong work
ethic and were led with quiet
authority by Captain Callum
Allsopp. The forwards play
developed well, particularly in
their set plays from line-outs
and scrums. Bishnu Thapa
in the second row and Luke
Chilton on the flank made great
strides. In the backs, George
Morgan-Jones marshalled the
team well. He was helped through the exceptional running
of Rory Stoker and Henry Wells in the centres, and the
developing play of James Berns inside him at scrum-half.
Although the season did not bring out the great success
of the previous year, it was largely successful, and it was
the continued toughening of the fixture list that probably
caused their results
to be not quite
as impressive.
The team sadly
bowed out of
the County Cup
at the semi-final
stage in quagmire
conditions at Ashby,
where the heavy
pitch took its toll.
U15/U14B
The U15B/U14B team played
well as a unit in all their games
this season. The work ethic,
good discipline and support
within the team resulted
in some fine wins. Reece
Goodman led from the front, and there was a notable
debut in the backs for Matthew Garcia who went on to
represent the U15A team.
U14
After losing a number of key players at the end of Year 8,
the U14 rugby team adjusted well, winning 7 of their 11
games. Jude Kinch was a welcome addition, adding some
dynamism to the front row, while Finley Back, playing up a
year group, added creativity and tenacity to the backline.
Matt Egglenton and Harry Culpin have both developed
into strong ball carriers, whilst Jacob Dawe, Dominic
Baggott and Harry Thompson all contributed very well to
the forward effort. Alex Bown continued to be influential
in all areas, and Joseph Collier, who missed much of the
season through injury, demonstrated
his worth on his return against Leicester
Grammar, scoring two tries. Captain,
Will Westwood was, as ever, a constant
threat, scoring some quality tries and
contributing consistently with the boot.
The boys narrowly lost 34 – 17 to
Loughborough Grammar in an exciting
and competitive County Cup Semi-Final.
U13
The U13 squad continued to develop
well after their exceptional season as
U12s last year. They played most of their matches without
the talents of Finley Back, who played up an age group.
The team were small in stature but large in spirit, and they
showed fantastic commitment with their ‘never-say-die’
attitude. Highlights of the season must be the fantastic cup
run the team enjoyed, led superbly by Finley Back. The
team narrowly lost out to Loughborough Grammar in a very
exciting final. Sam Bullock was fantastic at the breakdown,
leading the team turn-over count with his superb jackling
technique. The back row of Alex Tyszka, Joe Stamp and
Archie Heaney tackled courageously, and Aled King was
absolutely ferocious in all areas of play. Stanley Chell
developed his vision and play-making ability as a sniping
scrum-half, and Tom Page, with his agile running and
exceptional goal kicking, captained the team very well from
fly-half. Owen Lloyd and Connor Foster formed a cohesive,
attacking partnership in the midfield, and Connor’s electric
and evasive running skills saw him top the try-scoring charts.
James Turner showed excellent catching and counterattacking
skills from full-back.
I hope that some of these talented young men will have
growth spurts over the coming year so we do not always
seem to be the smallest team on the circuit, fronting up
against giants!
U13/U12B
The U13B/U12B squad enjoyed a successful season,
winning 4 out of their 7 matches. There were many
stand-out performers, including top try-scorer Will Wright,
Captain Guy Mills and the reliable Guy Heywood.
U12
The U12 team delivered many promising results this
season. The team was captained by Louie Fletcher, who
seemed equally adept at providing both punishing runs and
crunching tackles, particularly from the base of the scrum.
Henry Bower, with his passion and defensive efforts, was
a great asset to the team. Jacob Storey punished many
teams with his quick-tap penalties, and he linked well with
Sam Linnett who marshalled the backs and showed some
dazzling footwork. Rajen Gupta scored some good tries and
Daniel McGunnigle was excellent in his off-loading during
the tackle. Xabier Zanotti made a number of exuberant
runs from the full-back position and Xavier Henderson
was excellent at hooker. Wilson Lee and Henry Winterson
provided a powerful second-row scrum partnership and Will
Marsden was a good addition to the front row.
Mr M Kaye
Head of Rugby
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SPORT
NETBALL
We have continued to field 11 teams across the full age range, with around 100 girls training
every week. The coaches would like to say a huge thank you to all the girls for their commitment
and determination, as this year has seen some very tough and tight matches. Congratulations
must go to Adelaide Muskwe and Isobel Hose who were selected to go to England U17 and
U19 trials. In addition, Ellie Gallacher and Elise Atkinson trained with the County Academy.
3 rd VII
The 3 rd team unfortunately had several of their matches
cancelled, and the highlight of their season has to be the
excellent 3 goal victory over Denstone. Imogen Power proved
herself a force to be reckoned with, thoroughly deserving
her call-up to the 2nd team on several occasions. Nicole
Wong used her basketball skills to the full, shooting with
ease, even if in an unconventional netball style, and formed
good partnerships with fellow shooter Beatrice Waters and
Wing Attack Jessica Walsh. Milli Ellis and Sibella Chew, the
outgoing Year 13 players, used their experience to hold the
team together.
U15
The U15s had a mixed season, with some frustrating
results along the way. They struggled to cope with the loss
of shooter Isobel Hose to the 1 st team, though all players
showed excellent commitment to training and matches,
along with a high level of intensity in and an excellent
Lucy Grinham and Ellie Baker are to be congratulated
for stepping up to the ‘A’ team on numerous occasions.
The ‘B’ team beat strong opposition from both Denstone
and Leicester Grammar and, despite a 9-goal deficit
against Trent, they fought back to narrowly lose. This was
a tremendous effort and testament to their determination
and fight until the final whistle. Flora Colville and Mia Baker
worked well together in the circle and shot consistently well in
every game.
U13
The U13 girls had a successful season, playing some lovely
netball and achieving good results. Commitment and
attitude were excellent, and they demonstrated a hardworking
ethos and very good listening skills to take advice
on board. The girls were very good at converting defence
into attack thanks to the sterling work of defenders, Dalila
Watson, Annabel Mills, Danni Hendry and Rebecca Lindley.
The attacking prowess of
Ellie Gallacher, Eleanor
Shaw, Aimee Cleminson
and Maddie Lindop
contributed to their superb
teamwork, moving the ball
through to the attacking
third, and demonstrating
excellent feeds and
movement skills. The
‘B’ team was also very
impressive, with stand-out
performances from Ella
De Caestecker, Lucy Antill
and Emily McBallantine
all of whom showed
disciplined performances.
SPORT
1st 2nd 3rd 15A 15B 14A 14B 13A 13B 12A 12B
PLAYED 8 6 3 8 6 8 4 7 5 8 7
WON 6 2 2 2 1 2 2 4 1 5 0
DRAWN 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 2
LOST 2 4 1 6 4 5 2 3 4 2 5
1 st VII
In the County Tournaments, the 1 st team lost in the semifinal
by 1 goal. Two of our younger teams were entered into
the new structure of the Team Leicestershire County Cup.
The U13 team progressed to the semi-finals and the U12s
got through to the Grand Final evening where they faced a
strong, well organised Oakham side.
I have been extremely impressed with the standard of play
and determination shown by the 1st team. The squad gelled
together to put in some fantastic whole-team performances.
Our loss in the semi-final of the County Tournament was
a bitter pill to swallow, but this set the bar at a high level
for the Spring Term. They had a fantastic season, losing
only 2 games, both by very small margins. An excellent
opening 42 – 36 win over Wisbech was followed by a superb
performance against Denstone, winning 38 – 18. The
highlight of the season had to be the Trent game.
This was possibly the best 1 st team performance,
in terms of skill level and determination, I have
seen in all my years at Ratcliffe. Behind by 9 goals
at half-time, the girls pulled it back to within 1
goal, losing in the final minute to a team who got
through to the National Schools’ Finals. Regional
players Adelaide Muskwe and Isobel Hose
inspired the others to chase down every ball and
never give up on a possible tip or interception. Defenders
Adelaide, Emily Sellicks, Megan Vincent and Nima Patel
frustrated the opposition, while Olivia Back’s athleticism in
centre-court was exemplary. Kate Tyszka’s experience as a
shooter enabled her to play some fabulous feeds into the
circle, where Charley Flowers’ shooting partnership with
Isobel Hose proved outstanding, with Isobel averaging 80%
success per game. I hope that the squad is as pleased with
their season as I am.
2 nd VII
The 2nd team had the closest matches of all the teams,
winning by 1 goal once and losing by a goal in 2 others.
Katie Winston was the stand-out player, holding the centre
of the court together along with Chloe Flowers, while the
team was captained effectively by Ellie Cooper. Rebecca Astill
had her best season to date and Isobel Thomas made the
transition to senior netball seem effortless.
attitude in matches. Nicole Spencer was an excellent ‘A’ team
captain, leading by example and having an outstanding
season in a solid defensive unit that included Olivia
Carpenter, Jenna Pole and Molly Edwards. The B team also
defended effectively all season, with Ru Tsatsa and Holly
Bown developing an excellent partnership, and Ceri Graham
impressing greatly. Special mention should go Isobel
Coombs and Molly Page. The highlight of the season were
three strong team performances against Wellingborough.
Such strength in depth meant there was movement between
the squads as girls fought hard to secure starting positions.
U14
The U14s were a pleasure to coach, showing excellent
commitment and effort in both training and fixtures. The ‘A’
squad had a strong season with some mixed results. The
attacking players gelled well with the shooters, Ellie Hollinshead
and Abigail Santaney, who were ably supported by centre
court players, Holly Vinall, Sharmel Yapa and Mia Atkinson.
The defence worked together as a cohesive unit, rather than
as individuals, as shown by Sofia Henderson, Layla Bott and
Liyah Pinsent-Heskey, all of whom made some incredible
interceptions, constantly putting pressure on the opposition.
U12
Miss Lowe and I were
really impressed with
the improvements in the
U12 team perfomances,
culminating in a place in
the county final. The large number of potential players for
the two teams was testament to their desire to improve every
aspect of their game. The ‘A’ team, in particular, developed
into a force to be reckoned with, dominating their opposition.
Elise Atkinson played a major role in a number of different
positions, whilst inspiring the others to raise their game. Amy
Mason was a real ‘pocket rocket’, agile and nippy around the
court with a feistiness that inspired the rest. Annie Rose Reddin
and Annie Bridgwood worked hard on circle partnership while
Ella McNeeney worked herself into the starting line-up. Maddi
Bryant adjusted to a change in position with ease, and Millie
Chapman used her height to great effect in the defensive
circle. The ‘B’ team also worked very hard to improve every
aspect of their play, especially their understanding of the
game. An early draw against Denstone enabled them to settle
into the season and gave a great boost to their confidence.
Rachel Astill was a key player along with Emily Curnick, as
their work-rate and determination set the standard for others
to emulate. Olivia Crawley and Brooke England should also
be proud of their contributions.
Mrs A Taylor
Head of Netball
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SPORT
CRICKET
1 st XI
The 1 st XI had a season
where the individual
components did not
always come together
to produce the team
performances of which
they were capable.
Individuals performed
superbly at times,
such as Sam Nightingale’s 140 not out and 161 not out, a
school batting record, Jack Nightingale’s 5 – 43 against the
Emeriti and Toby Smith’s 5 – 42 against the Old Boys, whilst
youngster Toby Snell was the most consistent performer and
regularly bowled and batted very effectively. The overall
results were pleasing, with good wins achieved against
Welbeck, the XL Club, the Masters XI, the Old Ratcliffians,
Rydal Penrhos and Silcoates. A number of stalwarts played
their last games for the school, with Sam Nightingale, Toby
Smith, Ben Pole, Niall McWhir, James Lockton and Joey
Higham all leaving after a number of years’ service. There
is a talented group of younger players looking to break
through, and it will be interesting to see how what will be
a very young team next year copes with the demands of a
challenging senior fixture list.
1st 2nd U15 U14 U13 U12
PLAYED 13 4 4 8 6 6
WON 6 0 2 5 3 4
DRAWN 3 1 1 1 1 1
LOST 4 3 1 2 2 1
ABANDONED 4 1 4 0 3 3
The 2016 season started brightly and then deteriorated into the now customary
range of cancellations due to poor weather! Every team, apart from the 2nd XI,
recorded winning seasons which was a fantastic achievement. Most pleasing
was the quality of the players coming through all of the junior age groups.
2 nd XI
In recent years the 2 nd XI cricket season has been relentlessly
shrinking due to the conflicting pressures of the summer
exam season, but this year, due to the vagaries of the English
weather, we reached what will hopefully prove to be the alltime
low. I am sure that the move to terminal examinations
at the end of Year 13 is Mr Woodcock’s cunning plan to
provide Year 12 students with the opportunity to focus on
what is actually important in their career pathway; hitting the
ball off a length and bowling in good areas! The season
opener against Gateway started in a very positive fashion
with Captain Newby winning a magnificent toss… and then
it rained. The games that were able to be completed against
Queen Elizabeth’s Wyggeston and Uppingham College
were most enjoyable occasions, but cruelly exposed our lack
of batting. The team bowled tightly and fielded well but
were unable to post anything like a good enough total to
challenge our opposition. My thanks go to the players who
willingly (most of the time) made themselves available (some
at very short notice) during what is a period of real pressure.
I think that they did enjoy themselves, although some were a
little reluctant to admit it! My particular thanks go to Kasey
who captained the side with enthusiasm and good sense,
and also worked hard to get people to play for us. Roll on
an extended (hopefully) 2017 season.
U15
In the 4 matches
played, with a
number of games
being lost to
the weather, the
U15 team won
two, lost one and
one game was
rained off half way through. Toby Snell was the outstanding
batsman, contributing superbly on the two occasions he
played for the U15 team when there were no 1 st team
games. He scored 77 not out against Birkdale and 66 not
out against Derby Grammar, leading the team to victory on
both occasions. Alex Purcell was the leading wicket taker,
picking up an excellent 5 for 34 against Birkdale and eight
wickets in total for the season. George Morgan Jones also
bowled well in all games and Matt Lindley is developing
into a good all-rounder with his improved bowling,
aggressive batting and excellent wicket keeping. Seb Cook
wins the award for the ‘most vocal’ in the field, where his
contributions were very effective. Louis Massarella is the
most enthusiastic cricketer I have ever met, and is to be
commended for his efforts throughout the season. Although
he has not yet shown it in the middle, Bishnu Thapa has
been the most improved batsman; once he can replicate his
superb cover driving in the nets into actual matches he will
have the makings of a fine batsman. Thanks to the team for
all their efforts and their enthusiastic approach in this rain
curtailed season.
U14
The U14s had an excellent year, only losing 2 games all
season, with one of them being their first game. Kapil Soni
captained the side with great maturity, ensuring that as many
players as possible managed to either bat or bowl in each
match. Carter Walker and Oli Welch were our stand-out
performers with the bat, scoring valuable runs at the top of
the innings. The best individual batting performance came
from Joe Collier, with an impressive 49 against a very strong
Loughborough side. With the ball, Carter Walker, Dom
McKaig and Tom Binnie were outstanding all season.
Complementing these individual performances
was the team’s incredible unity in the field, which
built pressure on teams when batting. We
witnessed many great run-saving dives
and some fantastic
catches at crucial
times in matches.
I really hope that
the squad
will take
this unity
through
with them
into Year
10. Well
done boys
– a great
season.
U13
The U13s had another excellent term, winning the majority
of their matches. The team was captained by Aled King, who
was backed up by Finley Back and Archie Heaney. Aled
had a very successful time with the bat on most occasions,
scoring over 250 runs, with the standout innings being
108 not out against Derby Grammar. He was more than
ably assisted by Finley who had a number of impressive
50s over the term. These scores set the team up well to win
most games, whether they were chasing or being chased.
There were a number of standout bowlers who each took a
share of the wickets. Top wicket-taker was Krishnan Jivanji
whose bowling was wicket to wicket, giving the batsman a
problem. He was supported by Anuj Savani and Tom Page
who opened the bowling. The U13s set themselves high
expectations in the field and rarely let themselves down,
with some outstanding close fielding from Finley and a
number of run outs from Tom Page and James Turner. This
was essential in putting the opposition under pressure and
keeping their totals down. William Oswell did very well this
year, taking over the wicketkeeper gloves from the injured
Ben McGuinn and using some of his hockey goalkeeping
skills to good effect, if unorthodox at times! This team
has real strength in depth and I hope to see some of them
progress into the first
team over the next
couple of years.
U12
The U12s enjoyed a
fantastic first season
in the senior school,
winning 5 out of
their 6 matches.
Special mention
has to be made of the debacle of the opening fixture loss,
in which we managed to lose 6 wickets in a single over,
something which I’m sure must be a school record (albeit
for the wrong reasons). However, the team then went from
strength to strength, with Jacob Storey standing out as an
exceptional talent, scoring three half centuries and taking a
handful of wickets at crucial times. Credit must also go
to his opening batting partner, Guy Heywood, who,
when he wasn’t finding a way to run himself out, also
contributed handsomely with the bat. Captain Hugo
Ziff often displayed his ability to hit the ball powerfully
towards the back end of an innings, along with
Joseph Davies who has developed into a genuine
all-rounder, having scored a 50 in addition to
spearheading the bowling attack. The most improved
player throughout the season has to be Temi Abiodun
who, having never played cricket before coming to
Ratcliffe, ended up becoming the most consistent
and accurate bowler in the team. Another special
mention has to be made not only of the rest of
the squad but also of the many boys who attended
training every Tuesday evening; it was great to see
such enthusiasm for cricket and desire to break into
the team. All in all, ‘a job well done’ this season. I look
forward to seeing how these boys progress as cricketers
in the coming years.
Mr E Woodcock
Head of Cricket
SPORT
78
79

SPORT
GIRLS’ TENNIS
SPORT
ROUNDERS
The summer term has been rather mixed, with various training sessions
and matches cancelled due to poor weather. However, all girls have been
in great spirits and have enjoyed the few games we managed to play.
The U15s had a mixed season, with numerous training
practices cancelled. As a result, the girls could not always
go in to their matches with their usual confidence. Emily
Grimmett and Ceri Graham
both led the team extremely
well, communicating and
displaying some excellent
fielding and batting
skills. The new tactics we
introduced worked well, with
bowler, backstop and post
players combining as a team
and communicating well
with the deep field players.
The team worked effectively
together during their final year playing competitive rounders
for the school. I have really enjoyed coaching the girls; well
done to everyone involved.
The U14s won one of their of four matches; this was against
Quinton House School and the girls put in an impressive
performance, hitting the ball with consistency and power,
and playing impeccably in the field, making it hard for
the opposition to score many rounders. The girls showed
commitment to their rounders and, as previously, thoroughly
enjoyed themselves – let’s hope for better weather and
success next year! As a whole, the girls played well as a
team against some tough opposition. Well done, girls.
Despite many cancellations, the U13A teams maintained a
brilliant attitude in lessons and training. The A team had a
successful season, winning 75% of their games, which is an
excellent result and proof of their ability and hard work. In
each fixture, the girls showed improvements in their individual
and team performances. Their fielding throughout the term
was brilliant, making it hard for opposing teams to score, and
all girls have contributed to scoring rounders in the batting
line up. A great year: well done, girls.
In the few games played, the U13 B team performed
well, building a rapport with each other and improving in
leaps and bounds each week. Both fielding and batting
performances improved greatly throughout
lessons and training sessions. This was
evident in their fixtures which were very close,
only losing by less than two rounders each
time. Their third and final game was a win
for the girls, with some excellent performances
from all. There were some impressive hits
from the girls, especially from Samantha Seidu
and Mimi Khan who scored many rounders in
their fixtures.
The U12A girls applied themselves well
throughout the season, training week in week out, and pushing
hard for places in the teams. They worked on their core skills
in lessons, and focused on tactics to improve their match play
throughout the season. There was a strong batting line up, with
some excellent hitting from many of the girls, especially Annie
Bridgwood. To finish the season off, Ratcliffe came up against
a strong Kimbolton side. This was another exciting game and
the girls certainly didn’t disappoint, showcasing their skills but
unfortunately losing by just half a rounder - a disappointment,
though much was learnt from the game. Well played to all the
girls who have been involved in the squad.
The U12B team had a short season, but they worked and
trained hard throughout, improving their core skills and
tactics, ready for their matches. While many girls stepped
up and performed well, a mention must go to Jessica Elton
who controlled games with her bowling skills, and to Matilda
Creegan who scored a number of rounders and dominated
in batting. The girls have worked well as a team, and they
played tactically at times. Well played, girls; it has been a
pleasure to coach you this season.
Miss A Stafford
1st 2nd U15A U15B U13A
PLAYED 5 2 10 4 3
WON 4 2 10 3 3
DRAWN 0 0 0 0 0
LOST 1 0 0 1 0
The Senior tennis took many guises this year, combining the
Aberdare Cup, a mixed fixture and the senior girls’ fixtures.
The 2 nd girls’ tennis team had an unbeaten season, winning
both of their fixtures, against Worksop and Wellingborough.
Sibella Chew captained the side excellently, In the National
Aberdare Cup, the girls
progressed all the way to
the final round in the county
section, beating Oakham
convincingly along the way.
Sadly, a narrow defeat to
Loughborough in atrocious
conditions meant we did
not progress to the regional
rounds. Well done, to all
the girls, on a short but
successful season.
For the first time since I
joined Ratcliffe, the U15A
team and the U13 teams
were unbeaten, both in
their inter-school fixtures and in Division two of the Aegon
U15 league. This is testament to their skill level, with county
players Sarah Astill, Eleanor Shaw and Rachel Astill leading
from the front. Their contribution cannot be overstated, as
they inspired others, in all age groups, to play with more
feistiness and power.
In the U15A team, Sarah Astill and her various partners
dominated play and didn’t lose a set all term, winning most
of them to love or one. Eleanor and Rachel also chased
down every ball and encouraged their partners to use the
angles on the court to good effect, whilst Olivia Carpenter
remained cool and collected, and Jenna Pole and Isobel
Hose smiled through everything they faced, even surprising
themselves at times!
This year has seen the Ratcliffe College equestrian team
go from strength to strength, with more riders representing
the school than ever before. Excellent team and individual
performances have enabled many of the students to
win competitions, while also qualifying for the National
Championships which take place during the summer.
These students include; Connie Mensley (Year 2), Tilly
Miles, Madeline Dunstan and Georgie Daynes (Year 5),
The B team also had
a very good season,
Abigail Santaney was
the stand-out player
of the group, Elise
Atkinson, Year 7, also
climbed the age group ladder and, despite her nerves, held
her own, encouraged by partner Flora Colville, who hit the
ball with intense power. Bo Henderson used her experience of
last year whilst Sharmel Yapa had her first experiences of team
tennis. The U13 team had Eleanor and Rachel’s experience
to help them and, needless to say, had a major influence on
their various partners. Several Year 8 girls made their debuts:
Annabel Mills, Ellie Gallacher, Aimee Cleminson, Lucy Antill,
Samantha Seidu, Emily McBallantine, along with Year 7 Girls
Maddi Bryant and Mathilda Cregeen. With several other girls
in Year 7 waiting in the wings for match play experience, the
future of tennis looks rosy.
Mrs A Taylor
BOYS’ TENNIS
It was a very busy season for boys’ tennis this year, with
both the Under 13s and Under 15s playing a good number
of fixtures, despite the inclement weather. The U13s won
three of their four matches, losing to a very strong Leicester
Grammar team. It should be remembered that our team
was made up mainly of Year 7 boys, so they were often up
against boys a year older. Unfortunately, the U15s failed to
win any of their matches, although there were some excellent
individual performances and some fantastic tennis on show
in some very competitive games. As with the U13s, the U15s
were mainly a year younger than their opponents, so next year
should provide a more accurate reflection of our capabilities.
Congratulations must go to all the players for their efforts
and commitment. Hopes are very high for the future, as there
are a number of very talented tennis players coming through.
Wednesday night tennis was always very well attended,
reflecting the genuine interest in the sport.
Mr P McCrindell
EQUESTRIAN TEAM
Elsi Jacques (Year 6), Olivia Crawley, Brooke England and
Erin Somerville (Year 7), Mimi Khan and Maddy Lindop (Year
8), Kate Woodhouse, Oliver Jackson and Jade England (Year
9) and India Beresford (Year 10). A big ‘thank you’ must go to
Professor Sarah Freeman who trains the team, and also to the
parents who support the riders and their horses.
Mr P Gilchrist
80
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SPORT
SPORTS
PRESENTATION
EVENING
This year, we were most
fortunate to have Martyn Rooney
as our Sports Presentation
Evening Guest of Honour.
In the year of the
Rio Olympics, it was
even more significant
to have Martyn, who
is the Captain of the
Great Britian Athletics
team, present our
awards. It was a
privilege to hear
stories from Martyn
about his experiences
through athletics, and
what you have to do
to achieve success in professional sport. This was
enjoyed by all the students, parents and guests. We
hope to welcome Martyn back again soon, to open
our new athletics track.
ACHIEVEMENTS
RUGBY
Both the 1 st XV and U13s were losing finalists in the respective
County Cup Finals. Representative honours have been
achieved by John Sommerville and Luke Gyesi-Appiah who
have been selected for the Leicestershire U18 County Squad,
while Rory Stoker (U15), Joseph Collier and William Westwood
(U14) have all been selected for next year’s Leicester Tigers
Rugby Development Player Programme.
NETBALL
Adelaide Muskwe (Year 13) was invited to train with the
England U19 squad, while Isobel Hose (Year 10) had trials
with the England U17 squad. Olivia Gilchrist (Year 12)
continues to be part of the East Midlands Regional squad. In
addition, Elise Atkinson (Year 7) and Ellie Gallacher (Year 8)
currently train with their County Academy Squads.
CROSS COUNTRY
Congratulations to Alice
Daniel (Year 13), Alfie
Thompson (Year 12) and
Mia Atkinson (Year 9) who
all raced superbly this
year in the Cross Country
Championships; all three
won Bronze medals in their
individual events. Alfie
helped the Senior Boys’ team
win Bronze alongside Luke
Pole, Nick Heywood, Archie
Hailes and Finbarr Lloyd (Year
12), while Alice also helped
the Senior Girls win Bronze
alongside Lydia Satchell and
Kate Scarborough (Year 12).
Alfie has also represented
England this year, helping
England win the 4.7
kilometre British and Irish
Junior Mountain Running
Championships. He will now
represent England again
in the U18 World Mountain Running Championships. In a
much shorter event (sprinting), Dalila Watson (Year 8) helped
Leicestershire and Rutland win the Regional Sports Hall Athletics
Finals for the first time in their history.
FENCING
Fencing is a rapidly growing sport here at Ratcliffe College,
with Niamh Noble (Year 10) being selected in the England
U15 squad this year – an amazing achievement. Three
other students, Harry Palmer (Year 11), Jonathon Bellamy
and Finley Noble (Year 8), have taken part in a number of
competitions this year, with excellent performances from
Harry, who won Gold in the U14 East Midlands British Youth
Championship Fencing Qualifier, and Finley, who won Silver
in the Elite Epee Series.
CRICKET
Well done to Jack Nightingale
who has been awarded a
contract with Leicestershire
County Cricket Academy.
Jack also played at the
prestigious Bunbury Festival.
The following students have
also been selected for their
respective county age groups:
Jacob Storey (Year 7) U12
Leicestershire
Aled King (Year 8) U13
Leicestershire
Oliver Welch (Year 9) U14
Leicestershire
Toby Snell (Year 10) U15
Leicestershire
Nicole Spencer (Year 10) U15
Nottinghamshire
Jack Nightingale receiving his Midlands
cap from Moeen Ali (England Cricketer)
HOCKEY
The Boys’ U13 hockey team has had an excellent year,
finishing 3 rd in the National Hockey Finals. Olivia Back (Year
11) has also had another excellent season, representing
the England U18 team. The following students were also
involved in regional/national hockey this year: Elise Atkinson
(Year 7), Owen Lloyd (Year 8), Mia Atkinson (Year 9), Emily
Grimmett, Molly Edwards, Jenna Pole and Olivia Carpenter
(Year 10), Jack Nightingale (Year 10), Harry Antill (Year 12)
and Jack Watson (Year 13).
DANCE
Enormous congratulations to Isobel Knight (Year 12) who
represented the GB team at the Dance World Cup in July,
winning a number of medals including Gold in a number
of individual, group, quartet and trio dances.
COUNTY ATHLETICS
Well done to Mia Atkinson (Year 9) who finished 2 nd in the
1500m, gaining her selection to represent Leicestershire
at the National School Athletics Finals.
SPORT
A large number of Junior, Intermediate and Full
Colours Awards were awarded again this year, and
this is due to all the hard work of the students.
Full Colours, the highest sporting achievement at
Ratcliffe, were awarded to Sibella Chew and Samuel
Nightingale, not only for their sporting successes
over the past year, but also for their roles as Sports
Captains. Sports ties were also awarded to Olivia
Back, Thomas Brambell, Thomas Chandler, Joseph
Higham, Isobel Knight, Jack Nightingale, Niamh
Noble, Benedict Pole, Harry Redding, Toby Smith,
Kate Tyszka and Richard Ward.
CYCLING
Tom Chandler (Year 13) has had another excellent year on
the bike, having represented Scotland in the National Senior
Cycling Championships, winning a Bronze medal.
GOLF
Emily Dunne (Year 10) and Aimee Cleminson (Year 8) have
again represented Leicestershire and Rutland County Junior
Girls’ golf team.
Other notable achievements were:
Dalila Watson (Year 8) is County Champion
in the pole vault and 3 rd in high jump.
Ellie Gallacher (Year 8) finished 3 rd in discus.
Harry Culpin (Year 9) is County Champion in the pole vault.
Emily Grimmett (Year 10) finished 3 rd in the 100m.
William Westwood (Year 10) finished 3 rd in the 300m.
Alfie Thompson (Year 12) finished 2 nd in the 3000m.
Mr P Gilchrist
Mr P Gilchrist
Director of Sport
GO GOLD AWARDS
Adelaide Muskwe and Tom Chandler (Year 13), Olivia
Gilchrist (Year 12), Olivia Back and Harry Palmer (Year 11)
and Niamh Noble (Year 10) have all been awarded ‘Go
Gold’ Awards for 2016 from Leicestershire and Rutland.
Niamh Noble fencing
for England
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BOARDING
BOARDING
Day in London
Boarding Community Concert
BOARDING
Much has been achieved within the Boarding Community this year. The continued popularity
of boarding has seen both Houses close to full capacity for much of the year, relatively small
numbers of day students being welcomed by the full and weekly boarders, and enhancing the
community through their presence. Our trial Thursday night taster sessions for Years 5 and 6
students have been a particularly popular initiative.
The strength of relationships remains an
impressive strength of our community, both
between students and staff, and within the
student body - many older boarders keeping
an eye out for the youngsters, caring for them
much as might an older sibling.
This year has also seen some of the best ever
studies grades - particularly within the Girls’
House - and it is pleasing to see these efforts
rewarded by many excellent results in this year’s school
and public examinations.
Boarding Community Concert
This new facility - now used exclusively
by boarders - has proved to be really
popular with boys and girls of all ages,
many of whom use it as a venue for
conversation with each other and with
members of staff during free time in
the evening.
Our hugely varied programme of
weekend trips and activities - most of
which was suggested during meetings of the Boarding Council
- has been very popular again this year.
‘Immac’
celebrations
The rolling programme of continual improvements to the
facilities has continued as usual, though the refurbishment
of the old school tuck shop is worthy of particular mention.
Mr G J Sharpe
Assistant Head, Head of Boarding
Volleyball
Start of Year meal out
Paintballing
Birmingham Christmas Market
Alton Towers
Minion Biscuits
Segways
‘Clothes Show Live’
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BOARDING
Chinese New Year celebrations
Quiz night
P.A. Spring Fair
BOARDING
Snowboards and skis
Bingo
A walk in the snow
10-pin bowling
Chinese New Year meal
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Ice Hockey fixture
Leicester Museum
Ghost Walk, Tutbury
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BOARDING
Day in Oxford & Bicester village
‘Race For Life’
BOARDING
The Snack Shack
On the Golf Range
Bin Bag Fashion Show
International Athletics,
Loughborough
Go-Karting
Rutland Water
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SIXTH FORM
MacMillan Coffee Morning
Year 13’s final day together
SIXTH FORM
Neon Blast disco for Years 7 to 9
Neon Blast disco for Years 7 to 9
Year 13s’ final day together
Sixth Form ‘Immac’ celebrations
Sixth Form
The photographs that accompany
this report give just a flavour of
the extent to which our Senior
students have met the challenge
to “Work hard, play hard and
look after one another”.
The Sixth Form Study Centre, where so much of the crucial ‘A’ level
work takes place, has again been very well used, with a consistently
quiet working atmosphere throughout the day, during evenings and at
weekends. Students have also grasped opportunities to participate in
some of the many extra-curricular activities available to them, in many
cases assisting with the organisation and running of clubs and societies.
In addition to school representative sports teams, there has been strong
support for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, Sixth Form Voluntary
Service, School Orchestra and the Wednesday evening Sixth Form
societies and social meetings.
Sixth Form ‘Immac’ celebrations
Sixth Form ‘Immac’ celebrations
The Senior Chaplaincy Team has helped
with many charitable initiatives throughout
the year. In addition, Year 12 students
helped to run a coffee morning in aid of
MacMillan Cancer Relief, and the Year
13 Applied Business group worked hard
to organise an equally successful charity
‘Neon Blast’ disco for Years 7, 8 and 9.
Year 13s’ final day together in School,
Exhibition Day and the Sixth Form Summer
Ball rounded off a most enjoyable and
successful academic year.
Mr G J Sharpe
Assistant Head, Head of Sixth Form
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SIXTH FORM
SIXTH FORM
GCSE Presentation Evening
School Prefects 2015-16
Year 13s’ final day together
Thai New Year
Sixth Form Pancake Race
Senior School EU debate
Year 13 prize winners
Sixth Form Casino Night
Year 12 prize winners
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RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
Art Trip to Venice
In October we took a number of students
from Years 10-13 to Venice.
BIOLOGY FIELD TRIP
On Friday 30 th October a group of seven Year 13
Biologists set off on a coach to the FSC field centre
in Preston Montford, Shropshire, to study practical
Ecology.
RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
They carried out random sampling in grassland using frame
and point quadrats, they became practised in the identification
of numerous grassland plant species and learnt how to apply
the ACFOR scale. A visit to Crosemere Lake to study hydroseral
succession along a 60m interrupted belt transect saw students
sampling the plant communities and evaluating numerous
abiotic factors. A pond study in the unique Wetland Ecosystem
Treatment System to sample the freshwater invertebrate
communities was also carried out. The abundance of specific
indicator species was compared in the water of the field pond
and in the dark water of the eutrophic and hypoxic final swale
(affectionately nicknamed the ‘poo pond’)! The laying of
Longworth small mammal traps yielding three wood mice and
one vole was undoubtedly a highlight of the trip.
The work ethic and enthusiasm shown by all of our biologists
over the course of the three days was excellent and it was a
thoroughly enjoyable experience for staff and students alike.
The flight time was a very reasonable couple of hours, and
what a view to the south for those of us who had not visited
Venice before, as we approached Marco Polo Airport along
the coast to see the spires of this most famous city rising
out of the early morning haze. Our
hotel was a 20 minute walk from the
station, and it gave us an opportunity
to soak in the atmosphere; what a
packed city it is! Although there are
no cars, the congestion is more than
made up for with the thousands of
visitors, those staying on the island
and those being disgorged by the
hundreds from the many huge ocean
liners which berth in Venice. Arriving
before lunchtime on the first day gave us an opportunity to
make the most of our time there, and Miss Wright set a good
pace as she guided us through the narrow alleyways and
arched bridges to see the main sites.
We were fortunate that the Biennale was on and so we
headed for that, a fair walk away, and made even more
tiring by our already exhausted bodies; some students
had not slept the night before. But the exhibition was
worth the pain, with each country’s
pavilion offering a new set of work
or an installation to marvel at. There
were favourites of course, one of mine
being the Australian Pavilion and the
wonderful metal and paper pieces by
Fiona Hall. The following three days
were a blur of stunning churches,
galleries and incredible views, with time
to draw, time to explore and time to
learn. The Palazzo Grassi, St Mark’s
Square and the Basilica, The Peggy Guggenheim Collection,
Accademia Galleries, Ca D’oro were all visited. The trip
ended with another early morning start and the walk back
the way we had come, over the Constitution Bridge and back
to the mainland. I think it is fair to say that the impact of
the trip took us a few weeks to fully absorb, and we are all
intellectually wealthier for it.
Mr Dominic Berry
Head of Art and Design
A huge thank you and well done to Carrick Anderson,
Charley Flowers, Charles Grattan, Archie Herrick, Lauren
Mulla, William Smith and Helena Yu.
Mrs A Dungey
Biology Department
YEAR 7
TRIP TO
THE BRIARS
On 14 November, 20 Year 7 students spent a
weekend at the Briars retreat and residential in
Derbyshire. The students engaged in a number of
teambuilding games led by Acclimbatize. There
were many opportunities for the students to reflect on
their relationships with God, their friends and family.
The students also helped write group prayers and
reflections, in preparation for the celebration of Mass
on the Saturday evening. The final activity involved the
students reading out personal affirmations about each
other which had been written during the weekend.
Mr N Walsh
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RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIPS
Snowdonia
Year 12
The AS cohort participated with real enthusiasm and efficiency
in the annual Snowdonia field course, directed by Mr
Dziemianko. The aim of the trip is to develop a portfolio of
fieldwork investigations to support them with their A2 studies.
On the first day students visited Llandudno to complete a land
use mapping exercise with the aim of determining whether it
fitted the urban model of a seaside resort. The second day
was a visit to the beach and sand dunes at Morfa Harlech, on
the stunning northwest coast of Wales. The students worked
very well in their allocated groups as they investigated the
changes in vegetation with distance from the high tide mark.
The third day was the most challenging; despite it being
mid-June the mountains of Wales provided difficult weather
conditions as the students investigated changes in crosssection
profile of one of the streams leading down from the
side of Mount Snowdon. Their resolve and teamwork was a
credit to them. The final day of the trip took us to Chester,
where students investigated the sphere of influence of the
city for shoppers. It was an extremely successful trip and the
students were good company throughout.
Norfolk
Year 10
A group of 24 Year 10 students visited North Norfolk during
the last week of term on a three day field course. Largely
blessed by fine, dry weather the students investigated a variety
of urban and coastal topics in support of their GCSE studies.
The end result should be greater knowledge and understanding
of case studies that might well be called upon in their final
examinations. On the first day the students investigated land
use in Hunstanton, to gain an appreciation of how coastal
towns differ in land use from cities such as Leicester, which had
been investigated as part of their coursework.
The focus for the middle day of the course was coastal erosion
and management. The first port of call was Happisburgh,
a Norfolk village that is being lost to the sea. Students were
surprised and moved by finding sections of house and even
utilities cabling and pipes littering the beach, thinking that
some ten years previously someone would have lived at that
point. Students later visited Overstrand to see a contrasting
and more active approach to beach management, and even
managed to fit in a game of beach cricket! The final day
focused on the coastal ecosystem at Blakeney Point, with
the students enjoying an entertaining seal boat trip where
they were able to get close to the grey and harbour seals
that populate the shingle spit. A good time was had by all,
with special thanks to Mr Kaye and Miss Papadopoulou for
supporting the trip very ably.
RATCLIFFE COLLEGE RYDER CUP
ST ANDREW’S, FIFE – 10TH-13TH JULY 2016
The annual Golf Tour, now in its sixth year, was played at St Andrew’s Golf Club. For those
unfamilar with the School’s annual golf tour, it should always try to meet two criteria: firstly,
it should be played over links courses; secondly, it should mirror (more-or-less) the format of
the Ryder Cup, the biennial ‘golf fest’ between Europe and America.
What the Ratclffe
Ryder Cup may lack
in glitz and glamour
compared to the
real macoy, it more
than makes up for
in the wonderful
camaraderie and
friendships that are
forged between
students, ranging
from Year 7s right up to those who have just completed
their A levels. The tour inculcates qualities including
teamwork, leadership, tolerance, respect, etiquette, as well
as learning to win and
lose with equal grace,
while always having
tremendous fun playing
the game we all love
and respect so much. It
was a real privilege to
be part of this group.
For those who have
never ventured to St
Andrew’s, there are
seven courses in all, including the world famous Old Course.
The Old Course, the New Course and the Jubilee Course
share the same area of links ground, with the 17th and 18th
holes of the Old course providing probably the most famous
backdrop in world golf. The Castle Course lies a little way
outside and well above St Andrew’s and provides stunning
views of the coastline and St Andrew’s itself.
Day 1 – The New Course,
St Andrew’s – Europe 2½ points USA ½ point
Day 2 – The Castle Course,
St Andrew’s – Europe 1½ points USA 1½ points
Day 3 – The Jubilee Course,
St Andrew’s – Europe 3 points USA 1 point
Day 4 – The Eden Course,
St Andrew’s – Europe 2½ points USA 1½ points
So, at the end of 4 days play, 15 matches, thousands of
shots, hundreds of tees, dozens of golf balls, and at least
two Haggis, the European team triumphed in emphatic style,
9 ½ to 4 ½ points. Congratulations to all the golfers who
made the golf tour such a wonderful experience. St Andrew’s
proved to be an inspired destination this year. Where shall
we go next year? Previous tours have ventured to England,
Scotland, Ireland and Northern
Ireland, but we have yet to visit
the coast of Wales. Perhaps
in July 2017, we shall do just
that - Royal Porthcawl seems a
lovely course, we shall see!
My sincere thanks go to Mr
Gilchrist and Mr Michel for their
companionship over the course
of the week and supporting the
students in their love of golf.
Mr J Reddin
Senior Deputy Head
RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
Mr M Lambert
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RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
YEAR 9 HISTORY TRIP TO
THE BATTLEFIELDS
On Monday 4 th July, after a long journey,
Year 9 students arrived at the Tyne Cot cemetery.
The sight of 11,956 headstones of British and German
servicemen greeted us along with a sea of Portland stone,
encompassing the Memorial to the Missing,
containing the names of 34,959 soldiers
whose bodies were never found. It was a
sobering reminder of what we had come
to experience and remember.
Having completed our visit to Tyne
Cot we arrived in Ypres for the
Menin Gate service at 8.00pm. At
the Last Post Service Judith Scherer
and Diamond Ho laid a wreath on
behalf of the school to honour the
Old Ratcliffians who had fallen in
the Great War.
The second day was especially poignant
because the Somme battle began
almost exactly one hundred years ago.
We began with a visit to Vimy Ridge
and then travelled to Arras and to
Wellington Quarry where the students
experienced a series of tunnels that were dug largely by
miners from New Zealand under no man’s land.
Later in the day, we were fortunate to be met by world
renowned military historian and Old Ratcliffian, Brother
Nigel Cave, at Newfoundland Park. Brother Cave walked us
through the battle and the students listened with quiet disbelief
as gritty stories were recounted of the staggering
91% casualty rate on this sector of the battlefield.
From Newfoundland Park, we visited the
Gordon Dump Cemetery and Lochnagar Crater
near which three Old Ratcliffians were killed
and are buried. Brother Cave was able to tell us
about these students and their lives at school.
Our final day saw a trip to the Bayernwald, an
area of reconstructed German trench in an area where
Hitler served and to the German cemetery Langemark. Our
final stop saw us in the centre of Ypres, at the In Flanders
Fields Museum.
Mr J Cantrill
Head of History
LANGUAGES TRIP
TO BERLIN, GERMANY
In the last week of the Easter holidays, a group of students went
to Germany’s capital city, Berlin, for an intensive week of language
immersion and culture.
We stayed in the heart of the trendy Prenzlauer District,
popular with intellectuals, artists and fashion designers.
Following lessons in the morning, where German was the
sole language of communication, a packed programme of
visits, including visits to the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate,
the Anne Frank Centre, DDR museum and Berliner Dom,
gave us valuable insight into German history, before and
after reunification in 1990.
The flea market in the
funky Mauerpark, ice
cream in the Hokey Pokey
ice cream parlour and
street food market in
Halle 9, all added to our
enjoyment of this multicultural
city. On the final
day, not even the torrential
rain could dampen
our appreciation of the
designer shops on the
famous shopping street, the Kurfürstendamm!
The language school, high standard of accommodation,
food and diverse sightseeing opportunities, make this trip an
absolute must for any student studying German in Year 10
and above who wishes to improve their fluency in one of the
most vibrant cities in Europe. Thank you to Miss Laura Ferstl,
for her help and insider knowledge.
Mrs S Cushing
Head of MFL
RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
LANGUAGES TRIP TO GRANADA
HOMESTAY IN SPAIN - EASTER 2016 – YEARS 10-13
Meeting in the early afternoon on Easter Sunday, twelve students in one Ratcliffe minibus
and their belongings in another, our party headed off to Luton for an early evening flight.
Despite an hour’s delay, students arrived
excited to see Granada, following a
coach transfer from Malaga airport. Host
families had waited patiently to give us a
warm welcome and then lead the way to
the students’ new home for the week.
Mornings were spent at the language
school, Escuela Montalbán, where
students had the opportunity to improve
their Spanish in a traditional classroom setting with native
speakers. However, many other linguistic possibilities
presented themselves on the trip, through conversation
with host families at mealtimes and via a wide range of
activities in the afternoons. We were assigned a highly
knowledgeable guide, who gave us an excellent insight into
the history of Spain, and who accompanied us on a tour of
Granada city centre on Monday, the beautiful Alhambra on
Thursday, and finally on our full day visit to Seville on Friday.
Mid-week, students enjoyed a cooking
class, where they learned how to make
the traditional Spanish dish of paella,
as well as a visit to the ancient Arab
Quarter, El Albaicín, with Wednesday
evening being spent watching a
spectacular live flamenco performance
in an enchanting cave set in the hills of
the Sacromonte district.
During ‘free time’, either before or after the afternoon’s
activities on the itinerary, students had fun exploring the
shops, where they bought souvenirs and gifts for family and
friends, as well as purchasing a few additions for their everexpanding
wardrobes (and suitcases!). I would like to thank
Miss Casas-Ojeda for her invaluable support throughout the
trip, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Mrs S Beddoes
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RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
NICE
HOMESTAY TRIP - MARCH 2016
Twenty-three excited and slightly apprehensive students, from Years 10
to 13, accompanied by four members of staff, met at school on Easter
Sunday to board a coach to Luton airport.
YEAR 8 LANGUAGES TRIP TO THE
OPAL COAST, FRANCE
The party of 60 students and accompanying staff met early at school
on the Sunday of Activities Week. The two coaches were boarded
with the minimum of fuss and we were on our way.
RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
The travel plans all went smoothly and by 9.30pm, everyone
had been transported to their host families in different parts
of the French Riviera seaside town of Nice. Six Year 13
students stayed by themselves with their host family and so
were immediately immersed in French conversation. The
younger students shared, yet still faced the challenges of
successfully communicating with their hosts and finding their
way independently around the town.
The week sped by with language lessons in the mornings
followed by a host of activities during the afternoons,
including a guided tour of Nice, a French film at the cinema,
a visit to Cannes by train, a tour of the Fragonard Perfume
factory, bowling and a delicious group lunch on our last day,
followed by some well-earned free time and shopping.
Everything went exactly according to plan and we came
through the tunnel and arrived in la belle France bang on
schedule. On the short drive to the accommodation we
stopped off to view some wind turbines and enjoyed stunning
views of the sea. We also visited the Etaples Military
Cemetery, which provided a powerful and poignant reminder
of the victims of the Great War. The sun shone down on
the beautifully cared for graves, which made the visit all the
more memorable. After checking in at our accommodation
and a communal supper, there was still time for a variety of
ball games, before early nights all round.
sharks and manta rays were
just some of the myriad
creatures on show. A visit
to the beach was scheduled
for the afternoon and the
sun came out just at the right
time, allowing the students to
let off steam in the shallows.
The final day was
equally busy with
a morning visit
to the stunning
Nauticus Sea Life
Centre in Boulogne.
Penguins, seals,
Place Garibaldi in Nice
Harry, Tiree, Ceri and Georgie taking
a rest from sight-seeing in Cannes
Year 13 students enjoying the afternoon in Cannes
The teachers at France Langue, the language school, commented
on the excellent work ethic of our students, especially the Year 13
students, who were in a class of international linguists, including
students from Colombia, Brazil and Austria. Many of the host
families shared with me that the Ratcliffe students were polite and
persistent with their efforts to communicate as much as possible
in French during meal times.
Overall, it was an extremely positive week, spent in a beautiful
town, immersed in French culture, which will indeed help all the
students with their forthcoming examinations. I would like to
thank them for their enthusiasm and excellent behaviour, and
also Mrs Crebbin, Mrs Singapuri and Mr Suplice, without whose
presence, the week would not have been such a success.
Mrs J Reddin
Rebecca, Katie
and Christian
during our group
lunch on our
last day
After an early breakfast, we set off for a busy
day of visits and shopping. We started at a local
boulangerie where students were able to try their
hands at making croissants and learnt all about
baguette baking. The ‘croissant classes’ were led by a
very entertaining gentleman who would make a very good
teacher! After sampling the produce (pain au chocolat!)
we set off for our visit to a chocolaterie. Students had
the opportunity to witness the production of a number of
chocolate products and then purchase said wares. A short
trip to Boulogne followed, where packed lunches were eaten.
A visit to the citadel in the beautiful sunshine was probably
the highlight of the day, which concluded with some
shopping time at the Auchan hypermarket.
Our last morning in France included
a visit to a sweet factory in Boulogne,
where more sugary purchases were
made! The journey back to school was
very smooth, although memorable,
as we inadvertently brought back
two stowaways in the form of asylum
seekers. These desperate men had
been hiding under the coach since our
first visit to Boulogne, we think. This
episode certainly provided the students
with a first hand insight into this very
topical and burning issue.
Thanks must go to all the students
for their excellent conduct and enthusiasm and to the
accompanying staff of Mrs Cushing, Mr Ballard, Mrs
Beddoes, Mr Imrie, Mr Suplice and Miss Ferstl for their
unstinting support.
Mr P McCrindell
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RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
We celebrated 60 years of HCPT
NEW ZEALAND
EXCHANGE
In October, nine pupils from Ratcliffe went to New Zealand
to visit St Peter’s, Gore, another Rosmini School. The trip
was enjoyed by all pupils, and started with a visit to Sydney,
Australia, where sightseeing, whale watching and a trip to
Tarragona Zoo were on the itinerary. After
a busy few days, the students were looking
forward to meeting their host families.
RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
The students were hosted by New Zealand
families and attended school during their
stay, experiencing New Zealand culture and
customs, enjoying a taste of the laidback way
of life of the Kiwis, as well as enjoying the
spectacular scenery, including visits to Milford
Sound and the action-packed Queenstown.
As part of the Exchange, the pupils from St Peter’s joined us in April for
just under three weeks, where they were hosted by Ratcliffe families,
visiting various parts of England, as well as making trips to Alton Towers
and a visit to Leicester City Football Club, watching them beat Swansea
on their way to winning the title, an unforgettable experience!
Katie Gerighty, Paul Milnes, Tilly Wheeler,
Emily Sellicks
Mr Walsh blending in!
The Exchange was a great success and continues to form a solid link
between both Rosmini schools; we look forward to many more trips
in the future. It truly was a wonderful experience for all involved;
a thank you must go to all the families who hosted the St Peter’s
students and made them feel so welcome.
LOURDES
The Torchlight Procession
Miss A Stafford
In July, 8 Year 12 students, accompanied by Mr Walsh travelled
to Lourdes with Group 512 – The Ratcliffian Collegiate Group.
The students were: Harry Bellamy, Holly Blount, Olivia
Latham, Emily Sellicks, Tilly Wheeler, Christian Waters,
Katie Winston and Katie Wiselka.
The group, which also included many Old
Ratcliffians, was led by Mrs Teresa Gamble,
a former member of the teaching staff and
our group chaplains were Fr Philip Sainter
and Fr Anthony Meredith. The group also
contained of a number of pilgrims with
various disabilities.
Each of the students was responsible for
looking after one of the other members of
the group requiring assistance. All students
carried out their responsibilities admirably,
with great humility and always with a smile
on their faces. At the beginning of our pilgrimage, each
member of the group was given a ‘Secret Sainter’. This was
one member of the group who we were asked to pray for
and do good deeds for during the week. In particular, this
helped capture the caring ethos of the group.
During the week, we followed the instructions of Our Lady
which were given to Bernadette: process; do penance and
bathe. One of the highlights of the week, as always, was the
torchlight procession. The
group joined pilgrims
from all over the world
in processing around
the area in front of the
churches which were
built on the side of the
rock where Our Lady
appeared to Bernadette
in 1858. This place
is now known as the
Grotto. During the
procession, we spoke
and sang the words of the Rosary which was said in many
different languages. On our final evening, we were also able
to watch the torchlight procession.
‘Group 512 Has Got Talent’
Mr N Walsh
Head of Religious Studies
SKI TRIP TO CLAVIERE, ITALY
In February Half Term, the ski trip set off for Claviere in
Italy. The resort was small and charming as promised, and
was blanketed with a fresh dump of snow. The usual first
morning rush to get skis and boots fitted passed without a
hitch, and the
group of 50
students, 5 staff
and 1 priest
were also soon
getting into the
swing of things.
The pistes were
tree-lined and
picturesque,
and the skiing
was excellent.
Rapid progress
was made and some of the beginners were particularly
pleasing, doing so well that they were taking on red runs by
day three. The more advanced skiers crossed the border
to Montgenèvre, in France, on more than one occasion to
enjoy even more variety of skiing.
The resorts were uncrowded for the whole week and the
snow was excellent, with blue skies for the majority of the time.
In the evenings, students enjoyed ice-skating, tobogganing,
a ski show and the annual quiz and presentation evenings.
Our hotelier, Fulva, and her family were delightful, and made
sure everyone had a fantastic stay. Claviere is definitely a
resort we will look at returning to in the future.
Mr E Woodcock
Ski Trip Organiser
102
103

EXTRA-CURRICULAR
COMBINED CADET FORCE (CCF)
EXTRA-CURRICULAR
EXTRA-CURRICULAR OVERVIEW
The extra-curricular programme is an important part
of our College and has helped our students experience
a busy and rewarding year.
This year has again been a very busy
one for the Ratcliffe College CCF.
There have been a number of field
training exercises and the RAF group
have had the opportunity to go flying.
Both pupils and staff have been fully involved in an exciting
array of activities. We hope you managed to watch some of
the wonderful productions as well as support the pupils on
the playing fields. Many of the exciting events can be read
about on the various pages above.
One new club that offers something different is the
Conservation Society. The pupils have taken part in tasks such
as planting to attract bees and butterflies, erecting nest boxes,
rescuing hedgehogs and establishing habitats for their release
- there are exciting future plans, so watch this space!
The Ratcliffe College Go4set team won the Regional
competition; this was a wonderful achievement and
demonstrates the fantastic effort that is invested into
extracurricular clubs. The winning team designed an
eco-friendly hotel; well done to all the pupils involved.
The Debating club has continued to grow in popularity.
One by-product was a whole School debate regarding the
question posed in the European Union Referendum.
Overall, a closely fought contest led to the pupils voting for
the UK to stay in the EU.
The School community has again made significant
contributions to many different charities. This year we have
raised over £30,000, an outstanding achievement. A large
number of pupils continue to give up their time as part of the
extracurricular programme to help support these charities.
One such example is the VSU group that meet once a week
to help at the local community centre in Syston.
I would like to thank all staff and students for their ongoing
hard work and commitment to the extracurricular
programme over the course of the year.
Miss A Stafford
Extra-curricular Activities Co-ordinator
The unit spent a week on the river Allier
in the South of France over the Easter
period 2016 canoeing , kayaking and
stand up paddle boarding. This year we
have been able to call on the support
of the 2 Royal Anglian Regiment. They
have sent a small team of soldiers to
help enhance our weekly training by
showing cadets equipment used in the
modern British Army.
The RAF cadets over the last year have
been much more active with EALT training
weekends, flying and museum visits.
Both units had successful central camps
in the summer, Army section went to
Beckingham and the RAF to RAF Valley.
Lt Col M Balmbra
OC
104
105

EXTRA-CURRICULAR
EXTRA-CURRICULAR
BATH INTERNATIONAL
SCHOOLS’ MODEL UNITED
NATIONS CONFERENCE
2016 marked the most successful Model United
Nations Conference yet for Ratcliffe College delegates.
THE RATCLIFFE
SPITFIRE
The enthusiasm with which
they become involved and
very quickly demonstrate
their skills and leadership
qualities is wonderful, and it
is their energy which sustains
the project. This year we
have seen some large and
important acquisitions: a
replica aluminium pilot’s
seat, undercarriage pintles,
as well as a full Mk1a
canopy set, (made by the
same company who supply
the RAF’s Battle of Britain
Memorial Flight). With lack
of space really being our biggest
issue now, we have spent most of
the year detailing frames by adding
the rivets, bolts and other fine
details. Wing spars and ribs are
also underway, and we have also
begun experimenting with adding
some skin using aluminium.
The Ratcliffe Spitfire project is
a major extra-curricular activity,
bringing wide publicity to the
School, and this year we have
once again seen some outstanding
new students join the team.
It is at this stage that we
quickly discover the depth
of skill that the craftsmen,
who built these by hand
70+ years ago, had.
We also welcomed Bob
Mcluckiea, new adult
member to the team, an
ex-RAF Vulcan pilot who
has built his own plane.
Mr D Berry
Head of Art
and Design
Eleven students accompanied by
Mr Cantrill, Head of History, and
Mr Lambert, Head of Geography,
attended the 26 th Bath International
Schools Model United Nations
Conference at Kingswood
School. The students formed two
delegations, Colombia and Pakistan,
providing an interesting array of
geopolitical issues and perspectives.
Friday evening presented an opportunity for delegates to
network with colleagues from around the world as lobbying
commenced. This intense period of political jostling saw our
delegates forge alliances and seek support for resolutions
covering a wide sphere of issues including LGBT rights,
access to education for women and nuclear disarmament.
Saturday and Sunday saw the
conference in full swing with
delegates sitting in their respective
committees debating resolutions.
Luke Gyesi-Appiah, Human Rights
2 delegate for Pakistan, opened
up his committee proceedings with
a lively resolution pushing for the
limitation of rights for LGBT people
and the preservation of sovereignty
with regard to laws relating to cultural acceptance. One
of the key skills developed for the students participating
was an ability to argue for points of view they might not
personally agree with, and Luke did so with aplomb. Luke
garnered fervent support for his resolution from a number of
nations, including strong support from a number of African
delegations. Ultimately, the resolution failed to pass but
Luke’s public speaking and debating skills were exceptional.
Later in the proceedings Holly Blount, delegate for Colombia
in Human Rights 1, presented a well-structured resolution on
the rights of women, including a focus on promoting equal
access to education and the workplace.
Holly spoke well in front of a large committee,
fielding questions and gaining widespread support.
The resolution was passed, a great achievement, and
only the third time a Ratcliffe student has successfully
presented a resolution. Saturday finished with
students in high spirits, and the day was completed
by a trip to
a restaurant
and visit to the
cinema.
Sunday saw final debating and
committees presented with an
emergency scenario for which swift
action was required. The Conference
finished on the Sunday with the Closing Ceremony, during
which delegates who had stood out for their political
debating prowess were recognised. Joey Higham was
recognised as a Commended Delegate on the Disarmament
Committee, whilst Max Gilliver and Luke Gyesi-Appiah
were Highly Commended Delegates in the Human Rights
committees. All three were part of the Pakistan team,
which was recognised as a Commended Delegation. This
was the first time a Ratcliffe College delegation has been
commended, an outstanding achievement, and one of
which all the students should be extremely proud. All eleven
students contributed within their committees, whether it be
proposing amendments or debating whole resolutions. We
hope the experience served all the students well and that
they will benefit from the political insight gained, and look
forward to a bright future for MUN at the College.
Mr J Cantrill and Mr M Lambert
MUN Co-ordinators
106
107

EXTRA-CURRICULAR
THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD
This year has been as busy as ever for the Duke of Edinburgh’s
Award participants and there have been seven expeditions,
as well as three training days.
VOLUNTARY
SERVICE
UNIT (VSU)
EXTRA-CURRICULAR
Our Year 9 participants have made a good start to their
Bronze Awards with students choosing a variety of activities
for their different sections: designing and flying model
aeroplanes, animal
welfare, climbing, CCF
and playing an instrument
(to name but a few). They
will begin their expedition
training in Year 10.
Each Thursday evening,
a group of Sixth Form
students visit the Syston
Community Centre, where
the Syston Friendship
Group meet.
Our Year 10 participants
have continued to work
on their Bronze Level
Awards and have been
on a training day and two
expeditions, in very different conditions.
On the practice they suffered a mini heat wave
(the brief British summer) and staff were rushing
around resupplying them with plenty of water –
I have never seen participants drink so much!
On the assessed expedition they found it
much easier in the kinder weather and they
all finished successfully.
Our Silver participants have completed their
practice expedition in the Peak District and
we were very proud of the progress they made
in their navigation and camp-craft. They are
all ready for the challenges of the assessed
expedition in the Shropshire Hills in September.
Editor’s Note: This year, Mrs Catherine Cole,
our D of E Co-ordinator, was personally
thanked by the Duke of Edinburgh at
St James’ Palace for her fifteen years of
service to the Scheme. Thank you Mrs Cole!
Our Gold participants
faced a steep learning
curve as they learnt
how to navigate in
‘Wild Country’. There were highs
and lows, especially when some
of them spent time going deeper
into bogs and marshes than they
had planned (muddy and wet but
unharmed), but they
all got there
in the end.
We were fortunate
in our training
conditions when
we got to work
in very reduced
visibility on the
training weekend in the Peak District last October. The
participants had to use every skill they had learnt on Day 2
of their assessed expedition on Dartmoor as they navigated
their way over the somewhat featureless North Moor in pretty
unrelenting dense fog (it lifted just briefly around lunchtime
then closed back in again). Despite taking longer, due to the
difficult conditions, they navigated surprisingly accurately. The
groups all finished their expedition successfully and enjoyed
better weather for the rest of the time.
Mrs C Cole
D of E Co-ordinator
The group consists of
adults, some with learning
disabilities, who are
supervised by a number of
professional carers. The
students, accompanied
by Mr Walsh, spend time
talking to the adults and
are involved in activities
such as playing board games and bingo
as well as drawing. Members of the Friendship
group also attended the Community Carol
Service before Christmas.
During activities
week in July, 15
members of the
Syston friendship
group visited
Ratcliffe as part
of the School’s
community
day. They
were greeted
by 5 Year
12 students, as well as Mr Walsh, Mrs Helen
Smith, Mr Spencer and Mrs Spencer. The group
participated in a variety of activities in the Sixth
Form Centre, including playing pool as well as
colouring and Lego building. The Friendship
Group and students then shared a picnic lunch.
After lunch, the group were given a tour around
the school grounds. We also enjoyed a friendly
game of cricket in which Mr Spencer showed off
his batting skills!
For many students, this is one of their most
fulfilling experiences as a member of the Sixth
Form. This is an excellent opportunity for
students to give their time and have a positive
impact on the lives of others.
Mr N Walsh
108
109

EXTRA-CURRICULAR
ACTIVITIES WEEK
Our eagerly anticipated Activities Week proved,
once again, to be great fun for everyone.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR
The week was incredibly busy with students involved in a
plethora of residential trips, day visits as well as activities
at school. There were simply too many activities going
on during the week to mention in this report, so I have
highlighted a handful for the reader to enjoy.
Year 7 completed a ‘Play-in-a Day’, enjoyed ‘Spy Games’
developing their use of technology as well as a Poetry Slam
day with the English Department and a trip to Norfolk to
help inspire their Art work for Year 8. Students in Year 8
enjoyed a fabulous trip to the Opal Coast, France,
before returning to a
Mathematics day at Drayton
Manor. Year 9 visited the
Belgium Battlefields of
World War I, including the
Tyne Cot cemetery. Whilst
there they managed to pay
their respects to Fr Willie
Doyle MC, the most highly
decorated Old Ratcliffian
of the War.
They took part in the Menin Gate service
where Judith Scherer and Diamond Ho laid a
wreath on behalf of the school to honour the
Old Ratcliffians who had fallen in the Great
War. They visited Vimy Ridge, Wellington
Quarry and Newfoundland Park. OR and
military historian, Brother Nigel Cave, took
them to the Gordon Dump Cemetery where
three Old Ratcliffians are buried as well as the
Lochnagar Crater.
Year 9 students also enjoyed a fun day out at Rutland Water.
They experienced a mixture of climbing, cycling, shelter and
fire building and water sports that included both kayaking and
raft building. The group got to experience and practice their
survival skills in the style of Bear Grylls and made their own
shelters; all of which were extremely impressive and would, no
doubt, have survived in extreme conditions of wind and rain.
A group of twenty
four Year 10 GCSE
Geography students
visited North Norfolk on
a three day field course.
Blessed by fine weather the students
investigated a variety of urban and
coastal topics in support of their
GCSE studies. Students in Years
10 and 12 enjoyed successful and
very enjoyable trips to Leicester Outdoor Pursuit Centre,
where they undertook a number of challenging activities
including high ropes, where true character and courage was
needed at times. This really took some of the students out
of their comfort zones and showed them exactly what they
could achieve when they challenged themselves.
Fourteen students in Years 11-13 enjoyed an action packed
three day trip to Geneva, Switzerland. The highlights of
the trip were a visit to the Large Hadron Collider facility,
CERN, and also to the equally impressive United Nations
Headquarters. Year 12 students took part in a variety of
number of community service schemes including Community
Garden, Green Place the Carpenters Arms, Syston
Friendship Group and helping the elderly at Primrose Lodge.
The 1st XI cricket hosted the annual festival to conclude their
season. Rydal Penrhos, Bolton School and Silcoates School
travelled to play six games of cricket over three days, all
completed in glorious sunshine. The games turned out to be
high scoring affairs with Sam Nightingale scoring a school
record 161 against Rydal. Every team managed to win at
least one game, with Ratcliffe coming out on top based on
their head to head record.
Thank you to all the staff and students who helped to create
such happy memories.
Mr J Reddin
Senior Deputy Head
110
111

HOUSE ACTIVITIES
HOUSE ACTIVITIES
It has been another exciting year in the House competitions with all four
Houses neck and neck for most of the year, with Emery taking the lead
into the final stages and coming out as eventual winners.
HOUSE ACTIVITIES
The usual events were held this year, including the annual
House Square Races and Pancake Races, both a lot of
fun and which encourage the whole school community to
come together. Other events have included Future Chef,
Photography, and Media Mastermind, plus the inclusion of
academic subjects and sport events. The House Conkertition
was enjoyed by many and it was great to see an old
favourite make it in to our ever growing list of competitions.
We have had some new House competitions added to the
programme this year, thanks to our Year 13 legacy project,
namely the House Music competition and the House
Drama competition.
During the autumn term, House Drama took place, with the
House Captains choosing their plays from a Harry Potter
style sorting hat during Headmaster’s assembly. It was clear
by the standard of performances that a lot of rehearsal had
taken place, including a star performance from Mr Seth in
Leetham. Arundel were crowned winners, for their originality
and the large mix of students involved - a huge ‘well done’
to all involved.
House Maths was won by Emery and even though
they didn’t have any individual point winners in
their House, they were the overall winners, with
the most pupils involved. This highlights the fact
that participation really is crucial in order to gain
House points. The other Houses should take
heed of this next year!
The final results of this year’s Senior House
Competition are as follows:
House Music was enjoyed by all in the spring term. Abba
was the theme for the whole House song and each house
again picked their song in assembly from the sorting hat.
There were some vibrant performances and the eventual
winners, Emery, stole the show with a performance of Jump
with the whole School joining in. I am looking forward to
next year to see what each House can come up with to outdo
this year’s competition!
1 st Emery
2 nd De Lisle
3 rd Arundel
4 th Leetham
Well done to Emery, who after coming 4 th last year, were overall winners,
in what was a very exciting year for the House competition. I would like
to thank all staff and pupils to contributing to the House system and I
look forward to another exciting year.
Miss A Stafford
112
113

EXHIBITION DAY
EXHIBITION DAY
Exhibition Day this year fell on the Feast of Saints Peter
and Paul, 29 June. Mass was celebrated in the morning,
with the Prizegiving and Addresses in the afternoon.
Our guests were the
Chairman of Governors
Mr Louis Massarella and
his wife, Michelle, and Old
Ratcliffian Dr Tim Wilson.
Mr Lloyd, Headmaster,
delivered a heartfelt
message concerning hard
work and perspective in our
pursuits, and Mr Massarella
spoke of the School’s
accomplishments and plans Year 13 students Jack Archer and Rosie
for development. Dr Tim Jones deliver an emotional performance.
Wilson reminisced with great
humour about his time at the School, and provided some
lovely anecdotes from his careers in the worlds of art, theatre
and education. His message of involvement and joyfulness
was well received.
Our School recognises the involvement
and diligence of students in the variety
of Subject, Studies and Extra-Curricular
Prizes available.
Year 11 Drama students
entertain the school – from
left Natasha Walsh, Lara
Addison, Ganesh Thapa
and Sophie Dring.
Alongside the
academic, prizes
are awarded for
excellence and
leadership in Sports,
Music, Drama, CCF,
Duke of Edinburgh,
Chaplaincy and
Service to the School.
A great feature of this day is always the display of talent
through music and drama on stage, and the visual arts
placed on display. Performances ranged from the hilarious
to the harrowing, and exhibited again the great range of
talent and generosity of involvement among our students.
Mr P Michel
The Official Party – Guests Dr Timothy Wilson and Mr &
Mrs Massarella are greeted by Mr & Mrs Lloyd, and Head
Girl, Ololade Mosaku and Head Boy, Declan McAuley.
WHAT IS THE RATCLIFFIAN
ASSOCIATION
One of the things that can be taken as a given in life is
that we all always remember our school days. We are
forever part of our school community. Our memories
are of course a mixture of the good and the bad, the
happy, the sad and the successful, all of which makes
up our school career! The names of our teachers stay
with us, as do the names of our school friends.
Once you join Ratcliffe and work hard, play hard and
look after each other, you are part of our School forever.
Henceforth, when you fly the nest, the Ratcliffian Association,
which was established in 1865, enrolls you as a lifetime
member of the School’s alumni; as an “Old Ratcliffian” you
will receive invitations to Association and School events,
updates on current news, events at the School and updates
from former students all over the world.
The Association Office (based on the corridor above
the Headmaster’s Office) is kept busy, ensuring that all
archive material on Ratcliffe life is preserved, sharing news
and re-connecting with Old Ratcliffians through its website,
e-mail, mailings and, of course, social media channels –
culminating in the Old Ratcliffian Magazine, which is a much
coveted publication on the Christmas reading list for many
Old Ratcliffians.
For those of you reading this, as recent leavers, or indeed in
your final year at Ratcliffe, you will be joining a 5,000 plus
community of former students, now living and working in
more than 70 countries across the globe, including Hong
Kong, the USA and Australia*. Having walked the same
corridors, eaten in the same Refectory, and played out on the
same fields, you are already connected with them through
your time and memories at Ratcliffe. As a former student
myself, I can honestly say that there are so many warm
and welcoming Old Ratcliffians who are happy to engage,
network and support young ORs like you – helping to guide
you as you take your next steps in life. We wish you a very
warm welcome into the Association.
Mrs A Slack
Executive Manager of the Ratcliffian Association
TEAM CHANGES IN THE
RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION OFFICE
Leaving us:
Mrs Jackie Bennett
On Wednesday 20 th January,
the Ratcliffian Association
and the School finally bade
farewell to Mrs Jackie Bennett,
the Association Secretary,
after 9 years of exceptional
commitment and loyal work.
Guests attended a Cocktail Party
in the Old Library hosted by the
Headmaster, Mr Gareth Lloyd,
to mark the occasion. Jackie was joined by 50 friends, staff,
past Presidents and Old Ratcliffians. Jackie has done some
tremendous things for Ratcliffe over many years and we were
all sad to see her go.
Gareth read an e-mail which had been sent in during that day
from ex-Secretary of the Association and Old Ratcliffian, David
Thistlethwaite (’50). David had worked with Jackie on the 150 th
Anniversary Appeal for the all-weather hockey pitch in the
1990s. He was full of praise for Jackie and with his previous
experience as Secretary of the Association and knowledge of the
job, this commendation meant a great deal to her.
Richard Gamble (’65), former Chairman of Governors,
proposed a toast thanking Jackie for her huge efforts for
the Association over the years and regaled everyone with
amusing stories of her escapades.
Jackie responded with a moving speech, thanking everyone for
all the support which she had received and how much she was
going to miss everyone at Ratcliffe, including teachers, parents,
students and her many Old Ratcliffian friends. She said that
much had been said in the speeches about the past but it was
important now to concentrate on the future. The future is the
young ORs and she is sure that her successor, Alex Slack (’03)
will continue to develop the links with past and future ORs.
RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION
114
* The map above shows where our ORs live around the globe
115

RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION
Joining us:
Our New Alumni Manager
Mrs Alex Slack (‘03)
Alex faces exciting challenges in this
fast moving world of technology and
with the increasing number of Old
Ratcliffians who are in touch with the Association each year.
Alex said: “I am very much looking forward to this new
challenge and to connecting with all Old Ratcliffians this
year and in the future. I hope to grow the Association and
encourage more members to interact with each other and
attend events. I plan to work closely with current students
to educate them in the ethos of the Ratcliffian Association
and the benefits which they can get from it on leaving
school, such as an alumni careers and mentoring network,
something which I aim keen to establish in the next year.”
DINNERS AND REUNIONS
A collection of Past Presidents
150 th Anniversary Past Presidents’ Dinner
The 150 th Anniversary of the Ratcliffian Association
celebrations finished last October with the Past Presidents’
Dinner, held in the School at the start of the half-term break.
Guests were serenaded by Headmaster, Mr Gareth Lloyd,
and his wife, Katharine, who sang an impromptu operatic
duet from Don Giovanni to great acclaim from all present.
The London Carol
Service and Drinks
The 2015 Carol
Service was held in
the Church of Our
Lady of the Rosary in
Marylebone, London.
Headmaster, Gareth
Lloyd, conducted the
Old Ratcliffian Choir,
accompanied on the organ by Ratcliffe’s Director of Music, Mr
Edward McCall. Fr Ted Mullen (’60) led the service with help
from Bridget Lavin (’89) and Head Boy, Declan McAuley and
Head Girl, Ololade Mosaku. Following the service, everyone
retreated to the Larrik Inn next door where drinks and canapés
were served, courtesy of the London Ratcliffian Club.
Joining us:
Our New Vice President
of the Association
Sam Bird (‘98)
Sam Bird left Ratcliffe in 1998 and
married an Old Ratcliffian, Guiliana
De Rienzo (’98), having met at
School as childhood sweethearts.
He has taken over from Mike
Meredith (’89) who has done a
fantastic job in post for two years.
Sam is the youngest ever President
of the Association at the age of 36, but his youth belies his
experience and maturity. Sam has been a regular attendee
at Old Ratcliffian events since leaving School and is a keen
member of the Old Rats’ Rugby Team. Sam is a Chartered
Surveyor working in Leicester.
The London Dinner
Eighty Old Ratcliffians
and friends attended
the annual dinner on
Friday 5 th February, which
took place in the historic Crypt of the Rosminian-owned
St Etheldreda’s Church in Ely Place, London. Guests were
led beneath the church and welcomed into the Crypt for a
drinks reception. For
those that have not
been to The Crypt
before, one guest
this year described
it by saying:
‘The setting was
wonderful, lending
an ambience to the
occasion that really
evoked memories of the cloister and corridors of Ratcliffe
(well, with a bit of imagination helping things along!)’
The Hong Kong Drinks Event
On the 24 th February, a group of Hong Kong-based Old
Ratcliffians met for drinks with Headmaster, Mr Gareth Lloyd,
and Old Ratcliffian and Development Director, Mr Andrew
Yell (‘82). The two school representatives, who were in Hong
Kong as part of a marketing and recruitment trip to the Far
East, gave the ORs an update on what is new at Ratcliffe and
filled them in on the exciting developments which are taking
place at Ratcliffe College. The drinks event was held at the
Renaissance Harbour View Hotel in Wanchai.
Annual Rosminian Retreat
Held in the Rosminian Centre on Friday 1 st April and hosted by
Fr Binu, eleven people attended the Annual Retreat for the full
weekend and six more joined them on Saturday. The retreat
is a chance for Old Ratcliffians and their family and friends to
enjoy the tranquillity of the Rosminian surroundings, meet new
friends and to open their hearts and minds to the Catholic
teachings, and for some, to re-affirm their faith.
SPORTS AND SOCIAL EVENTS
The Ratcliffian Sports Day
Three sports were represented this year at the annual
Ratcliffian Sports Day: Hockey, Netball and we welcomed
back Football.
We had over 80 participants including ORs, Staff, Parents,
guests and students all playing their part, either coaching,
playing or watching. It was a fantastic atmosphere and the
sun shone.
The ‘Sue Roberts Netball’ results were first in and the
students’ fitness, skills and young age gave them a winning
score: Ratcliffe 47, Old Ratcliffians 17.
The ‘Thistlethwaite Mens’ Hockey’ results followed and the
School had another victory, but the Old Boys certainly put
up a fight and it was a very close game: Ratcliffe 2, Old
Ratcliffians 1.
Finally, the ‘Halley Football’ match finished last because they
ended up playing an 8-a-side friendly against the School
and the players were having so much fun that they did not
want to leave the pitch! The Old Boys finally took victory in
this friendly match.
The Taylor Mixed Hockey
This is annual event where a mixed OR team take on
the 1 st XV. ORs were welcomed back to the School
on an Indian Summer’s day. The game was very
close but the School won 4 goals to 3.
Golf
The ORs have had 3 matches this year with a variety
of ORs playing in the different games.
Governor and Golf Social Secretary, Abe Mee (’92) ran all
three matches, the first being the Midlands Public Schools
Old Boys’ Golf Match at Luffenham Heath Golf Club. The
competition was a real challenge, with 36 holes Betterball
Stableford played off the White Tees on a course being
prepared for Open Qualifying.
The Old Stamfordians were the winners on the day but
there was not much between them and the rest of the field
consisting of the respective Old Oundelians, Loughburians,
Wellingburians and Ratcliffians.
Pictured with ruddy, weather-beaten faces are Michael
Meredith (’89), Donal Heffernan (’75) and Abe Mee (’92).
The next match on the 19 th May was The Ratcliffian
Golf Shield where ORs play Staff and Students. The Old
Ratcliffians won this year against the School. However, the
best pair, Declan McAuley and Jack Hancock (both students),
were an impressive 6-under
handicap over the 11 holes
and were only in Year 13!
Finally came The Reynard
Golf Trophy on Friday 8 th
July and the twenty Old Rats
were treated to a glorious,
sunny afternoon at Rothley
Park to contest the 40 th Reynard
Trophy. Abe Mee came third
with 33 points, while Declan McAuley and Jack Hancock,
now recent leavers (’16) both scored 34 points. Declan had
scored one more point on the back 9 so triumphed in his
first appearance. Declan was presented with the Trophy and
a fabulous school shield to commemorate the victory.
ORs v Staff & Students
Cricket - The Grand Match
On Sunday 3 rd July, the College took on the Old Ratcliffians
in the Grand Match, basking in glorious sunshine, in stark
contrast to the majority of the weather during the term.
As usual, the Old Boys
batted first but were soon
in trouble with big guns
Freddie Bainbridge and Ben
Shaw dismissed cheaply.
Wickets continued to fall
regularly until the innings
closed on 100, with Toby
Smith taking 5-42. The
1 st XI never looked in any
trouble, chasing down the
total for the loss of only two
wickets and plenty of time
to spare, reclaiming the trophy they relinquished
a number of years ago. Well done to the School!
RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION
116
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RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION
Pictured below: The class of 1976 for their 40-year reunion! L to R: Damien Walmsley, Martin Fanning, Nick Hall, Kevin
Kavanagh, Frank Tierney, Paul Moore, Martin Wilson, Mark Buxton, George Prove, John Law, Stephen Walsh, and Ian Law
ASSOCIATION WORKING
CLOSELY WITH YEAR 13
One of the aims of the Association is to promote the
Association to Ratcliffe’s current students, so that when they
leave Ratcliffe, they are aware of the benefits which their
lifelong membership can bring to them after school. This is
a facet of the Association’s work to which both the President
and the Headmaster are passionately committed.
We held three events this academic year, the first of which was
the Sixth Form Social on the 2 nd March. This event is crucial,
since we are keen that our Sixth Formers get the chance to
meet Old Ratcliffians and socialise with them in an informal
and familiar setting. We therefore invite Old Ratcliffians to
come back to School and meet the current Sixth Formers for
an informal drink in the Ratcliffian Association Bar.
For those of a more
sporting nature, there
was also the opportunity
for girls and boys to play
5-a-side football; for
those who preferred to
just come for a drink and
a chat, the Old Rats bar
was open from 8.00pm.
A thoroughly enjoyable
pub quiz was won by
the Sixth Formers before
a Chinese feast was
delivered to satisfy our
hungry participants.
Ed Gamble (‘95)
RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION
THE REUNION WEEKEND 8 th -10 th JULY
The Reunion Weekend ‘kicked off’, or should we say
‘Teed off’, with the Reynard Golf Trophy (see page 117).
ORs and Sixth Form footballers
Every year we always try to get an OR to come back and
talk to the Year 13 students about their time at Ratcliffe. This
year, Ed Gamble (’95), Director of CBRE, came in on 25 th
April, and shared his views on the importance of staying
in touch with Ratcliffe and the Association after they leave
School in July. Ed said, “Ratcliffe has made me who I am
today and has given me key disciplines that helped me
progress in my career.” He gave the students a light-hearted
but perceptive insight into his time at Ratcliffe and, more
importantly, stressed the opportunities that have developed
through the Association since leaving, not least in terms of
the contacts which he has been able to establish to benefit
his career aspirations.
The following evening was The
Ratcliffe Grand Summer Ball (see
page 121), the first event of its
kind for many years, where the
Association and the School worked
closely together to promote the
‘Ratcliffe 2020’ Appeal while also
using the event for Old Ratcliffians
to meet and socialise.
The next day was a wonderful
occasion with Mass for the deceased ORs, Cricket, Lunch
and Afternoon Tea! From 12 noon, members attended
the Ratcliffian Association AGM after which ORs headed
across the Fountain Lawn towards the marquee for a light
buffet lunch served alongside a delicious BBQ. Guests
enjoyed the warm breeze, while the cricketers prepared
for the match. As it was a fine summer’s day, the sides
of the marquee were removed to reveal
a wonderful viewing platform from
which to watch the Richard Hughes T20
cricket match. Children enthusiastically
welcomed the arrival of a bouncy castle
and were also treated to hand and face
painting. There was also a tour of the
School, where Old Ratcliffians could relive
their school days.
During the cricket
tea break, afternoon
tea was served in
the marquee; the
cricketers cooled
down (momentarily)
and guests mingled in the shade from the
warm sunshine, exchanging stories of their
days at Ratcliffe. The
cricket was won by the
Old Ratcliffian Older
Boys’ side and the
shield was presented
by newly appointed
Ratcliffian Association
President, Sam Bird (’90)
in the first of many of his
duties as President for
the 2016/17 year.
Finally, the 1976 Year leavers all joined
together this weekend for their 40-
year reunion; many had travelled,
especially from abroad, to join in these
celebrations. Some of them had not
seen each other since the last day
of school.
The final Year 13 event was a Leavers’ Mass and
Presentation of Gifts, where the President of the Association
and the Headmaster formally present Old Ratcliffian ties and
silver charms to the students as a sign of their passing out
from the School and admittance into the Association.
At the end of the day, students were invited to The
Woodman’s Stroke Public House for their first drink on
The Association to welcome them into the OR community.
Mrs A Slack
Executive Manager of the Ratcliffian Association
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The Lunch
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DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
Ratcliffe 2020 is our five-year fundraising appeal,
which, with long-term support from the Ratcliffe
community, aims to enrich the lives of today’s students, and to help prepare them
to lead constructive, confident and contented lives in tomorrow’s world. In December
2015, we launched our Sports Appeal as part of Ratcliffe 2020 and
we have begun promoting it through various fundraising events:
SPORTING DINNER THURSDAY 24 th MARCH 2016
In March, we held a Sporting Dinner to help raise funds
towards the Ratcliffe 2020 Sports Appeal, with over 100
guests. Our MC for the evening, former Leicester Tigers
star Matt Poole, entertained us with his sporting banter,
and interviewed our special guests Geordan Murphy
(former Leicester Tigers and Ireland player) and Matt
RATCLIFFE GRAND
SUMMER BALL 9 th JULY 2016
Parents, Past-Parents and Old Ratcliffians came together
to enjoy the Ratcliffe Grand Summer Ball on a beautiful
summer’s evening at the end of the Summer Term.
Elliott (former Leicester City FC club captain).
The event raised over £6,000 towards the Sports
Appeal, including a signed LCFC shirt from this
season which raised a staggering £1,500 during
the evening’s auction. Thank you to all those who
supported this event.
The Ball was held in a beautifully decorated marquee near
the Fountain Lawn and, thanks to combined donations
through a raffle and sponsorship, we raised £2,000
towards the Ratcliffe 2020 Sports Appeal.
MOVING FORWARDS
NEW FITNESS SUITE
Over the course of this year, the Foundation has
received donations worth over £60,000, some
of which has been directed to support the Fitness
Suite Appeal. We need to raise £100,000 before
we can commence work on the new Fitness Suite;
so we will continue to seek donations as we
move into the second year of our Appeal, with
the aim of being able to begin the building
work in 2017-18.
For more information on the Ratcliffe 2020 Appeal, and how you can help, please
visit the Foundation website at www.RatcliffeCollegeFoundation.com or contact
me directly at ayell@ratcliffe.leics.sch.uk
Mr A Yell
Development Director
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Fosse Way, Ratcliffe on the Wreake, Leicester, LE7 4SG
Tel 01509 817000 Email registrar@ratcliffe.leics.sch.uk www.ratcliffe-college.co.uk