Celebrate Issue 45

Celebrate 

Our students - their stories

Headlines 

As we near the end of another year we are 

presented with a great opportunity to rest and 

recharge our batteries, but also to reflect on 

where we have come to in our journey. 

It is not the journey of the school I am thinking 

of here, it is the personal journey which 

each of us undertakes that is uppermost in my 

mind. It may well be in yours too as you read 

through this wonderful collection of stories 

from the lives - the journeys - of our students. 

Our Garden Party earlier in the Summer Term 

demonstrated to us that showing humility on 

life’s journey is an important attribute. C.S. 

Lewis, the writer and theologian, observed: 

‘Humility is not thinking less of yourself, 

but thinking of yourself less’. 

The stories which unfold over the following 

pages demonstrate clearly our Core Values of 

Creativity and Aspiration. Happily, they also 

reflect the humility of those who study and 

work at King Edward VI School. The success 

of others is of prime importance, and provides 

us all with both inspiration and motivation. 

As we enter the Summer holidays, let us bear 

in mind that humility grants us the grace we 

need to make true progress through our lives. 

Lee Walker 

Headteacher 

Contents 

Page 3: Romeo and Juliet 

Page 4: Kuk Sool Won 

Page 5: by Ferrar the Best 

Page 6: Salmon-eyed and Bushy-tailed 

Page 8: Manson House 

Page 10: En Paris 

Page 12: Summer Soirée 

Page 14: Eleanor Allen 

Page 16: Barney Chapman 

Page 18: Charlotte Peacock 

Page 20: Joe Dobbyn 

Page 22: College News 

Page 26: Colour Run! 

Page 28: Brave the Shave 

Page 29: Peter Pan 

Page 29: The Short Cut 

Page 30: Kinetic Energy 

Page 32: Our Library 

Page 33: D of E 

Page 34: County Champions 

Page 35: England Squash 

Page 36: Year 11 Prom 

Page 40: Team Geo 

Page 42: UK-German Connection 

Page 43: Costume Day 

Page 44: Garden Party 2019 

Page 46: Language Leader Award 

Celebrate is King Edward VI School’s in-house 

magazine, the content of which is dedicated entirely 

to our students, and their stories. 

Please send submissions to celebrate@king-ed. 

suffolk.sch.uk, thank you. 

Front cover: Danny Elbourn, Yr 11 

Back cover: Arthur Pettitt, Yr 7 

Editor and Designer: Zoë MacLachlan 

Prom: Zoë MacLachlan Photography 



Romeo and 

Juliet 

We are delighted to report that Chandi Brading, one of our very finest A Level Dance 

students, has been chosen to perform within the professional cast of Matthew Bourne’s 

‘Romeo and Juliet’. 

Sir Matthew Bourne OBE is widely hailed as the UK’s most successful choreographer and 

director. This ballet is a passionate and contemporary re-imagining of Shakespeare’s classic 

love story bursting with youth, vitality and Bourne’s trademark storytelling. 

Chandi was chosen from more than 1000 applicants from across the U.K. She will be 

performing at the Theatre Royal in Norwich in September, 2019. 

Congratulations, Chandi - we are hugely proud of you and wish you the very best of luck. 

3 



Kuk Sool Won 

Kuk Sool Won is a Korean traditional 

martial art which was formed in 1958 

by In-hyuk Suh, the founder and Grandmaster 

of Kuk Sool Won. Many of the 

martial arts techniques are native to Korea. 

I started learning this fighting art when I 

was four years old and I’m now a white 

belt (with yellow stripe). The training is 

hard but it pays off well in the end. 

When you enter the Martial Arts Dojo 

you bow to the Grand Master. This is to 

make your troubles go away but when 

you bow out (as you leave) your troubles 

come back. Every three months 

you get tested and if you pass you move 

up a belt. If not, you stay on the same 

belt, practise more, and work harder. 

I competed for the first time in the European 

Tournament in June, which was 

held at the UEA, Norwich. I was quite 

nervous but also excited, and managed 

to win two fourth place medals and a 3rd 

place medal. 

Lucian Palmer, Yr 9 

4 



y Ferrar the best... 

Year 9 student Arthur Ferrar was selected to attend a special LTA tennis coaching event reserved 

for the top-four County players from three junior age groups. 

Arthur travelled to the Hurlingham Club in Fulham where he was coached by former professional 

players Greg Rusedski, Mark Philipoussis, Thomas Enqvist and Mikael Pernfors. He then 

watched an exhibition match, which was a warm up for Wimbledon, featuring Kevin Anderson 

(World No. 8) and Felix Auger-Aliassime (World No. 21). 

Arthur - you have been characteristically modest about your tennis talent, but we know that you 

enjoyed this incredible opportunity you earned yourself. Very well done indeed. 

Diana Ferrar, Proud Mum and Teacher of Biology 

5 



Salmon-eyed and bushy-tailed 

As we boarded the bus for our Bushcraft adventure you could almost feel the excitement. After 

a very, erm… ‘musical’ bus ride we reached Knebworth Woods. Luckily, the sun was shining. 

When we reached the camp our Tribe Leaders gave us a quick talk describing a bit of what lay 

ahead of us and we headed to our yurts. 

We sat around a warm, relaxing fire and listened to Archie (our Camp Leader). We learnt 

about fires: how they burn and what they are used for, and then it was our go! Along with Amy, 

my Tribe Leader, and my tribe I gathered wood, built a base and lit a fire! For lunch we had 

burgers cooked on our very own fires. All the food was delicious! At the end of the first busy, 

fun day it was time for bed. We were allowed hot chocolate! We were all pretty tired so we fell 

asleep quickly. 

Before we knew it, it was morning, and we were each cooked a full English Breakfast. The 

highlight of Day 2 for me was Tribe’s Got Talent. After eating delicious pizzas, my tribe took 

to the stage. Our charades performance was going well but then the heavens opened! That 

didn’t dampen the mood, however, and we chanted camp songs under the shelter of the yurts. 

After a warm brownie we settled down in the comfy tents. 

Day 3 consisted of whittling our own Bushcraft pencils and learning about First Aid. I had 

a great time with my friends. Overall the Bushcraft trip taught me so many new things and 

pushed me out of my comfort zone, ( I never thought I would witness someone eating a salmon 

eyeball!). 

Layla Griffin, Yr 7 

6 



Photo by Brian Slater 

7 



Manson Hou 

On a lovely sunny afternoon in early July, residents of 

to performances from our Year 10 and Year 12 music 

cluded Amelia Revans (Yr 10) singing a dramatic ren 

Zena Goldrich, Kira Wright (Yr 12) performing the 

the flute, and Ben Alberts (Yr 10) performing the groo 

guitar. It was a happy, informal afternoon, and the re 

our musicians very much indeed. Thank you to Claire 

Alex Fouracre-Smit 

8 



se 

Manson House were treated 

ians. Their programme indition 

of ‘Alto’s Lament’ by 

beautiful ‘La Parisienne’ on 

vy ‘Old Bones Blues’ on the 

sidents enjoyed listening to 

Pettitt for inviting us! 

h, Subject Leader for Music 

9 



En 

Paris 

10 



We left school at 6.30am and travelled until 

we arrived in Paris at 5.30pm! After having 

dinner in a restaurant near Notre-Dame we 

went bowling - a great end to our first day. 

The next day, we visited Parc Astérix and enjoyed 

exploring the theme park and going on 

some of the biggest roller coasters in France. 

That evening we went to Disney Village, 

which was really fun. 

We also visited Paris’ biggest attractions: 

la tour Eiffel, l'Arc de Triomphe, and Sacré 

Cœur, all of which were really interesting, and 

provided good opportunities for photos. On 

our last evening, we were lucky enough to go 

on a boat trip on the Seine. It was incredible to 

see how beautiful Paris is in the dark. 

Overall, we had an amazing trip. It was very 

tiring, but we came home with some lovely 

memories of Paris. 

Freya Stevenson, Yr 9 

Being a part of my school’s trip to Paris was 

an amazing experience and a great adventure. 

It was really special as it was my first trip to 

France. 

Our teachers helped us to fully dive into the 

French culture, starting with the food as we 

ate in typical restaurants full of French people. 

We saw la tour Eiffel, Montmartre, l'Arc de 

Triomphe, and l'Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 

and we had a great view of Notre-Dame from 

our boat while cruising on la Seine. 

Our group was mostly made up of Year 8s 

and 9s, and one Year 10 (me!). It was really 

united and problems between groups were 

non-existent. The teachers created an atmosphere 

which embraced and helped everyone, 

and I never felt lonely. We all gained great 

memories, friends and French skills. I would 

recommend this trip to anyone. 

Tony Laque-Aparicio, Yr 10 

11 


Our Our students - their - their stories

Summer Soirée 

The Summer Soirée surpassed even the expectations of the Music Department’s teaching team, 

and I would say that the concert was one of the best of which I have ever been part. The wide 

variety of composers who were showcased included Stevie Wonder, Franz Biebl and Wolfgang 

Mozart, so it is safe to say there was something in the programme for everyone. 

The evening started with a medley of music by the film composer John Williams, performed 

by the Wind Band. There were some familiar motifs and melodies which we all enjoyed trying 

to spot! There was a positive atmosphere throughout the evening, which was only added to by 

pieces such as ‘The Eye of the Tiger’, performed by Soul Band. We were all stunned by the 

standard of the evening’s soloists and many of us commented how inspiring they were. We 

also learned that our perceptions of a double bass’s range and versatility were wildly inaccurate 

- thank you for enlightening us, Anton! 

‘Ave Maria’, sung by my choir - Ex Silentio - is one of the best choral pieces I have ever known. 

Our performance gave us a chance to reflect on how far we have come as a choir. Being able 

to sing such a challenging piece in eight parts, to the level we reached, was astonishing. 

The sense of community within the Department was evident throughout the evening. It was 

amazing to perform with students from Year 7 right up to Year 13. The evening’s finale was 

something that had to be seen and heard in order for me to appreciate its scale. Selected soloists, 

Ex Silentio and the Symphony Orchestra came together to deliver a truly amazing rendition 

of ‘One Day More’ from Les Miserables. The standing ovation it received marked the best 

possible way to end a concert. 

The only sad factor within the entire concert was the fact that it was the last that will ever be 

performed by Year 11, Year 13, Mr Hawkes, and - the infamous - Mr Hird. We will miss them 

all, but particularly Mr Hird (and his whistling). The only way to say goodbye to such a inspirational 

teacher and conductor was in true Music Department style, with an encore of ‘One 

Day More’ dedicated to him. 

Jessica Young, Yr 12 


Our students - their stories 

12

The stage was set, the practices over and the performance was upon us. The Summer Soirée 

was a showcase of talented young singers and instrumentalists from Years 7 to 13. There were 

lots of popular pieces of music such as ‘Don’t you worry about a thing’ and ‘Panis Angelicus’. 

All the songs got a great reception, but the two soloists who performed ‘Nuit d’Etoiles’ and 

‘One Day More’ both got standing ovations! Well done Hannah and Anton! 

The ‘No Girls Allowed’ choir, which I like singing with, all enjoyed learning and performing 

their two songs. ‘I’ll Buy you a Diamond Ring’ is very different from ‘Panis Angelicus’, but 

Mrs MacLachlan was really happy with the way we sang both songs. We sang ‘Panis Angelicus’ 

in two parts which sounded really good. 

As we walked out of the concert hall through the foyer, Otto Voci were singing Schubert’s ‘Zur 

Guten Nacht’, which sounded really amazing. 

Archie Sparkes, Yr 7 

Photos: 

Ruby Decent, Yr 9 



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14 


NAME: ellie allen 

ROLE: Head girl 

When I was asked to introduce myself in Celebrate, I initially felt stumped. It seemed ironic to me 

that – as a representative of so many – I would introduce myself in a way which obliged me to use so 

many personal pronouns. In the same sense that this role isn’t about wearing a badge or boosting my 

CV, being Head Girl is only a title. What matters the most is what I do with it. The advice my dad 

gave me ‘just keep it real’ has stuck with me, and I will endeavour to do so both on this page, and in 

the role of Head Girl next year. 

Outside of school, I enjoy playing netball at Jetts. Many of my teammates attend King Edward VI, 

and so they often see two sides to me: on, and off, the court! Aside from sport – something that is 

imbued in my family – I enjoy reading and watching films. You’ll often find me having debates with 

my friends on current events, writing for The Iconoclast, or getting way too excited about the weekly 

tutor-time quiz. 

I currently study A Level Psychology, Biology and English Literature – the first of which I intend to 

study at university. I first discovered an interest in these subjects at GCSE level but, while they were 

exciting, those two years were not perfect and, in retrospect, were vital in forming my mindset going 

into Sixth Form. In Years 10 and 11, I experienced stress and anxiety that couldn’t be managed just by 

completing my homework and showing up to lessons. For the first time I felt insecure about my ability 

and I had to find new ways of coping with this. I might paint a pretty dismal picture, but I think it is 

vital to prove that I’m not a distant, unattainable figure. Far from it! I experienced the same worries 

that the majority of students do during their GCSE years. 

King Edward VI has given me friends that I adore, subject matter that engages me, and teachers that 

support me. This school has already taught me so much more than curriculum content, and I feel honoured 

and excited to be able to give something back. 

One of my main aims as Head Girl is to help bridge the gap between upper and lower school. The 

absence of Year 12 students provides the potential to exacerbate a preexisting divide, but I believe it 

simultaneously offers the chance to re-engage students. There is a culture embedded in our school that 

many students buy-in to: you only get out what you put in. The committees that our team has already 

started to plan for next year, alongside various charity and fundraising events, will offer a multitude of 

involvement opportunities. I also hope to put my sporting skills to good use by organising events that 

will enrich Sixth Form life in particular, as well as assisting the AIM mentors we have started to train 

for next year. I believe that this role is what you make of it, and I am very excited to be working with 

this team to fulfil that agenda. 

I hope that, above anything else, I have conveyed my commitment to our school and my fellow students, 

and ‘kept it real’. 


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16

NAME: barney chapman 

ROLE: Head Boy 

When offered the role of ‘Head Boy’ I was not just pleased to have been given such an important position 

within King Edward VI School, but also excited at the opportunity of being able to have a lasting 

impact on student life within the school. 

Over the years, I have committed myself to many aspects of school life and believe that through this 

I have become a more confident and well-rounded person. School has not just been a place to learn 

but a place to express myself and develop my character. I hope that being Head Boy will allow me to 

develop my leadership skills further, and to give something back to the school. 

When I first joined King Edward VI School I lacked confidence. I was awful at public speaking and 

didn’t have any of the attributes a Head Boy would need. After being exposed to the many clubs and 

societies that our school offers, however, I began to develop my character and become more involved 

in school life. 

One of the first clubs I joined was Debating. Initially, my speeches were short and they didn’t make 

much sense but I persevered and continued to turn up even after making a fool of myself in front of the 

judges. Eventually as I spoke more and more, I improved and became a more experienced speaker, going 

on to represent the school in multiple competitions. Opportunities like this helped me to become 

the confident person that I am today. 

I have also become heavily involved in music and the arts available at school. I have been a committed 

member of the Music Department, taking part in Wind Band, Orchestra and Soul Band. As well 

as practising, weekly rehearsals and termly performances, I’ve represented the school abroad in the 

two most recent music tours. 

I’ve also taken part in the productions of ‘Phantom of the Opera’, ‘Sister Act’ and ‘A Midsummer 

Night’s Dream’. These shows involved me dedicating lots of time to learning lines and songs, and 

practising so as to ensure I performed to the best of my ability. I even found myself dancing in the 

Dance Show! This pushed me out of my comfort zone but gave me the experience of performing in 

‘The Apex’, which is a fabulous space. 

I hope that my time as Head Boy at King Edward VI will allow me to change the way students get 

involved in organising school events. Not only do I want more students exploring leadership opportunities, 

but also a wider range of students from different backgrounds. The more opportunities we 

create as a school, the better the experience we students will have. 



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NAME: charlotte peacock 

ROLE: deputy-head girl 

I am absolutely delighted to be taking on the role of Deputy-Head Girl at King Edward VI School. I 

have always hoped to have a role within the school through which I can try to ensure students take as 

much as they can out of their school experience. 

I have learned more about myself every day over my years at school. I have developed my people 

skills and have a good working relationship with my teachers. Teachers have always been my role 

models as they’ve encouraged me to keep going even when things got tough, and from this came my 

hardworking and resilient work ethic. GCSE Maths proved a struggle for me but through hard work 

and commitment (and constant bugging from my teacher) I achieved a Grade C and I was so happy 

with this. I believe that the effort and the positivity students put into lessons is just as important as 

the final outcome. 

My passion for humanities subjects has blossomed while at King Edward VI, and it is reflected in my 

A Level options of Sociology, History, and Philosophy and Ethics. I love watching documentaries and 

the news as I believe that keeping up-to-date with current affairs is very important, not only for my 

subjects but for my development as a person. You may have thought the same as me: that the Student 

Leadership Team was only for intellectuals and brainiacs, but I can assure you we are just normal students 

who are passionate for the success of not only ourselves, but of the school as a whole. 

Having come from a single parent family, people usually stereotype you negatively, but I am someone 

who shows that this stereotype is wrong. I always remind people it’s not where you come from but 

it’s what you do that counts. I have been a friendly and positive person since I was a young girl - I 

would always sing in front of family and friends (and still do!). I am a very approachable person and 

love to chat about anything and everything. I hope this shows that I will always have time to hear your 

concerns or worries, or even just hear how your day is going. 

Emotional wellbeing and mental health are things I care deeply about and they are my main focuses 

for next year. The Wellbeing Committee will focus on removing the negative stigma surrounding 

mental health problems, and encouraging people to speak out. The wellbeing committee’s aim is to 

help individuals deal with any aspect of their wellbeing they are struggling with, and to guide them 

along their journey. We want to help everyone who wants to do find their inner confidence. 

We have a very strong leadership team and the year ahead is very promising. I feel privileged to be 

working alongside people who are extremely passionate like myself. We are all determined and excited 

to make this the best year possible. 

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19 



NAME: JOE DOBBYN 

ROLE: deputy-head BOY 

After four years at King Edward VI School, I am thrilled that I am going to be a part of the Student 

Leadership Team. As we form the final year of the Sixth Form at King Edward VI, we have a 

unique opportunity to leave a lasting impression on our school. By working with students from Year 

7 through to Year 13 we, as a team, want to make a school which is more unified, more engaging and 

more fun than ever before. 

But first, a little bit about me. I study French, Music and History, although I seem to spend the vast 

majority of my time editing the Sixth Form magazine - The Iconoclast. Since I took over the editorship 

in the New Year, I’ve worked with a wide range of contributors including writers, artists and 

photographers to create a diverse and vibrant platform for all. Anyone is welcome to pick up a copy 

from the Library or to find us online. 

Our role as a leadership team is to represent and demonstrate the ethos of the school in our daily 

activities, organise the School Council and – arguably the best part – plan the Sixth Form’s iconic 

dress-up days. It is our responsibility to ensure the ethos and priorities of the school that we cherish 

will continue do be embedded in its culture for years to come. 

It is very easy for the four of us to write about how brilliant next year will be, but rest assured that 

ensuring that this actually happens is something we are all sincerely dedicated to doing. We are confident 

because we have seen what happens when we, as a school, work together on a mission – our 

in-school climate strikes earlier this year prove this. 

This year I have led the school’s Green Committee through its most active period to date, and we are 

aiming to replicate the methods used, and the success it enjoyed, across the entire School Council. We 

are currently working to find passionate and driven Sixth Formers to lead the committees and to shape 

their plans for the year ahead. By September, these leaders will be right ready to pitch at our Freshers’ 

Fayre, to which all students will be invited. 

Our School Council is for everyone, whether you’re brimming with ideas or you just want to be part 

of something great. Together we can make a difference. 

See you all in September. 

20 



21 



College News... 

Elveden College 

Elveden have had another very busy year, and 

the students have thrown themselves into all 

aspects of school and college life. 

Our chosen charity for 2019-20 has been Lymphoma 

Action, and we have raised just over 

£500. I am very proud of all the students who 

contributed in so many ways to reach this fantastic 

total. Particularly striking was the restful 

atmosphere around school as so many Elveden 

students partook in a sponsored silence! 

I’d like to pass on my thanks to the Elveden 

tutor team, without whom my job would be 

very difficult indeed! They have been a great 

support to their tutees and have fulfilled their 

duties superbly well. 

Elveden Year 11 students have been brilliant 

this year, and quite a few of them stood out to 

me. In the end, I decided to give the College 

Award to George Howard. George has made 

many contributions to the whole school over 

the past three years and his dedication is unfaltering. 

All that is left is for me to wish you 

all a very happy and healthy Summer holiday. 

Jason Post, 

Head of Elveden College 

Kentwell College 

This term Kentwell College have continued 

to raise money for St Nicholas Hospice. On 

Friday 12th July more than 30 students stayed 

silent for the day, a difficult task when surrounded 

by your friends and attending a day’s 

lessons! Well done to everyone involved, and 

thank you to those who sponsored them. 

College Leaders have also worked hard this 

year, developing ideas for fundraising and 

more recently preparing to welcome our new 

Year 6 students. I look forward to working 

with them next year. 

Good luck to Year 11 as they collect their 

GCSE results and move on to the next steps in 

their education. Finally, I would like to thank 

Kentwell tutors for their hard work and support 

for students this year – we are lucky to 

have you! 

I hope you all have a fun and safe summer 

holiday and look forward to welcoming you 

back to school in September. 

Hannah Scarlett, 

Head of Kentwell College 

High - fives 

Leah Jones, Yr 7: 583 Merits 

Phoebe Goodchild, Yr 8: 560 Merits 

Lucian Palmer, Yr 9: 420 Merits 

Lily Haselwood, Yr 10: 509 Merits 

Reuben Carr, Yr 11: 326 Merits 

High - fives 

Isabelle Norton-Berry, Yr 7: 638 Merits 

Aleeta Baby, Yr 8: 533 Merits 

Danny Rainford, Yr 9: 393 Merits 

Mark Austin, Yr 10: 509 Merits 

Will Lowden, Yr 11: 305 Merits 

22 



Melford College 

Melford College has had a very successful 

year both in and out of the classroom. 

We started with our annual Melford Walk 

which raised more than £700 for our two chosen 

charities. Well done to everyone who 

has raised money over the course of the year 

through your different exploits! We will be 

giving £500 to St Nicholas’ Hospice and another 

£500 to ‘And Sow To Grow’. 

We have had lots of fun with our tutor programme 

this year. Earlier in the year we 

played Benchball, and we have finished with 

a rotation of tutor challenges. These included 

how many baskets you can score in one minute, 

‘keepy-uppies’, a paper aeroplane challenge 

and Mr Green’s electric buzzer game. 

Well done to PX, the overall winners! 

The activities which take place outside the 

classroom would not be possible without the 

hard work of my College Leaders. Well done 

to Jasmine and Holly Godfrey, Freya Stevenson, 

Elaine Abu, Joe Pearson, Jacob Norton- 

Leake and Ella Putwain. We would all like to 

wish Larisa Ungureanu all the best for the future. 

She was a College Leader for four years 

and is off to university in September. Thank 

you for everything you have done for Melford 

College Larisa! 

Rebecca Taylor, 

Head of Melford College 

High - fives 

Hollie Brown, Yr 7: 474 Merits 

Isaac Chase, Yr 8: 641 Merits 

Elaine Abu, Yr 9: 455 Merits 

Isaac Gee, Yr 10: 319 Merits 

Lois Driscoll, Yr 11: 234 Merits 


Hengrave College 

Hengrave students have been busy fundraising 

this term for our two college charities: Suffolk 

Mind and HCPT (who organise pilgrimage 

holidays for disabled and disadvantaged 

people). More than 20 students took part in a 

sponsored silence, and students also took part 

in the brilliant Colour Run. Thank you to our 

team of College Leaders for helping to organise 

these events, and also to all those who donated 

money. 

I’d like to wish all of our Year 11 and 13 students 

the very best of luck as they collect their 

results in August, and I hope that all of their 

hard work pays off. 

We are saying goodbye to Perrie Dunnett and 

Mark Crossley this term, both of whom have 

been fantastic tutors. I, too, will be leaving 

the school at the end of this term. It has been a 

pleasure to be Head of Hengrave College over 

the past two years. I have continued to be impressed 

by the commitment, enthusiasm and 

kindness demonstrated by Hengrave students 

on a daily basis. The fact that this year we 

gained the highest number of merits of all six 

colleges is wonderful, and a lovely position to 

leave the College in! 

I hope you all have a great summer holiday 

and start back in September building on your 

fantastic work this year. 

Kirsten Evans, 

Head of Hengrave College 

High - fives 

Harry Humpage, Yr 7: 628 Merits 

Samuel Gonzales, Yr 8: 625 Merits 

Ruby Decent, Yr 9: 503 Merits 

Tony Laque-Aparicio, Yr 10: 392 Merits 

Anton Avis, Yr 11: 368 Merits 


23

Wyken College 

This year has been a fantastic year as I have been blessed to have the most amazing students 

in my college. We’re an excellent team, raising money for charity and taking part in wholeschool 

and college events with a brilliant team spirit. 

This year, we’ve raised more than £1,200 for our chosen charity - the RSPCA. We’ve sold 

cakes, taken part in a sponsored silence and completed a Colour Run. None of these events 

could have taken place without the hard work of our college leaders and the dedication of our 

students. 

We all enjoyed both our Indoor Rounders and our Balloon Battle, and the Wyken team spirit 

ran strongly through each tutor group too. The groups came up with an amazing idea to compete 

against each other with ‘Creative Countries’! We saw ‘Around the World’ photos of students, 

a ‘Story of Countries’, and a papier-mâché giraffe sculpture... 

Being the Head of Wyken College has been such a pleasure over the last seven years. This 

year, however, has been the best by far. The outgoing Year 11 Head Boy, Head Girl, Deputy- 

Head Boy and Deputy-Head Girl are all Wyken students. This couldn’t have made me more 

proud. 

I would especially like to congratulate George Cooper, winner of our College Award. He embodies 

everything that I respect in a student: hard-work, aspiration, resilience and determination, 

as well as humility and a great sense of humour. 

He managed to raise £3,000 by appealing to Ed Sheeran’s manager for a donation towards the 

Year 11 Prom, and then went on to host the Year 11 Leavers’ Assembly. 

I’ve enjoyed this year so much that it couldn’t be topped. It is time for me to move on to other 

things. I am very much looking forward to my new role in the Sixth Form, and I feel happy and 

confident leaving Wyken College in the very capable hands of Kat Otoka. 

Penny Quintero-Hunt, 

Head of Wyken College 

High - fives 

Layla Griffin, Yr 7: 556 Merits 

Phoebe Vernon, Yr 8: 693 Merits 

Nia Fennelow, Yr 9: 393 Merits 

Amy Smith, Yr 10: 367 Merits 

Joanna Brafield, Yr 11: 225 Merits 



24

Ickworth College 

Back in April this year Year 9 students Eva Da 

Re and Lisa Rollinson (pictured right) decided 

to have very significant haircuts and, between 

them, they had more than 27cm of hair cut 

off! By doing this they raised more than £200 

for Cancer Research UK. But that’s not it...! 

The girls then sent their hair to the Little Princess 

Trust which provides real-hair wigs free 

of charge to children and young people who 

have lost their hair due to cancer treatment 

and other medical conditions. 

I would also like to give special thanks to 

our College Leaders - Yasmin Harrold, Katie 

Pettit, Eliza Haindl, Eva Da Re, Olivia Barber, 

Phoebe Neal, Joe Warner, Tom Warner 

and Alice Osborne - who have worked hard 

over the course of the year raising the profile 

of Cancer Research UK. Students have sold 

wristbands, organised cake sales and generally 

helped people to understand more about 

the charity’s work. 

Lastly, my thanks go to the wider Ickworth 

community: the students, the Sixth Form 

mentors and the outstanding tutors who provide 

a broad and exciting range of activities 

for our students. I hope that everyone is able 

to ‘switch-off’ and enjoy the summer holiday 

in preparation for returning in the new school 

year. 

Andy McLellan, 

Head of Ickworth College 

High - fives 

Amelia Thompson, Yr 7: 738 Merits 

Alice Osborne, Yr 8: 563 Merits 

Joe Warner, Yr 9: 399 Merits 

Madeleine Hook, Yr 10: 400 Merits 

Rebecca Wallace, Yr 11: 220 Merits 25 



Colo 

Ru 

Hengrave 

&Wyken 

3km 2 colleges 80 stud 

Photos: 

Jasmine Godfrey, (Yr 9), Ruby Decent (Yr 9) & Harry Frost

ur 

n! 

ents £340 for charity 

-Smith (Yr 9) 


27

Congratulations to Year 12 student 

Ollie Cotton who made the brave decision 

to raise money for Cancer Research 

UK by shaving off his hair! 

The topknot, the ponytail, the manbun, 

the slicked-back, the flop-in-theface... 

his entire back catalogue was 

consigned to history (well, a plastic 

bag at least). 

At the time of going to print, Ollie had 

raised a spectacular £1,400. Brilliant. 

That said, a certain ‘Granny’ seemed 

to be somewhat underwhelmed by her 

grandson’s new look... 

‘Shame, I rather like your long wavy 

hair! Well done you, I trust you have a 

woolly hat? ’ 


Eek... Ollie, you’d better start growing 

it back! 

28 



Peter Pan 

Photo: M. Kwasniak 

Congratulations to Yr 12 student Henry Skillern, who played the eponymous role in ‘Peter Pan’, 

in the Ipswich Co-op Juniors’ production in the Big Top at Trinity Park. His performances were 

superb: dynamic, accomplished and utterly enthralling. 

The Short Cut: 

and other stories 

Pauline Hurry and Jane Holland’s lunchtime Creative Writing club has been so successful that 

the students have just published their first book! This called for a celebration, and students, their 

parents and carers were invited to our school Library to do just that! 

‘The Short Cut: and other stories’ is described as ‘An anthology of short stories by the students 

of King Edward VI School in Bury St Edmunds, created as part of the Young Author Project’. 

The authors are Olivia Barber (Yr 8), Maxwell Lyon (Yr 8), Alice Hoxley (Yr 7), Catherine 

Kirby-Green (Yr 7), David Ashford (Yr 7), Esme Smith (Yr 7), Alice Ironside (Yr 7), Victoria 

Ashley (Yr 8), Rowan Standring (Yr 7), Soprana Kapela (Yr 9), Georgia Rushton (Yr 8) and 

Arthur Pettitt (Yr 7). Olivia Barber’s story gave it’s title to the collection. 

25 29 



Kinetic Energy 

In the penultimate week of term our first-ever collaborative Dance, Music Technology and Science 

performance took place. It was phenomenal! 

The audience engaged with science installations alongside stunning dances and musical performances, 

all of which were interconnected. Their senses were heightened and explored in a 

way which brought real depth to their experience. A variety of scientific themes was studied 

by students and staff from all three Departments, and it was fascinating to see how the three 

subjects approached material, data and stimuli so differently. 

All the music was composed by our students, and the dances choreographed by them too. Each 

one of them working tirelessly to embody the depth of science within their compositions. 

We were extremely grateful to the Laboratory of Molecular Biology, at the University of Cambridge 

and, in particular, to Dr Denise Walker who came into the school to present her scientific 

research. This research was cleverly incorporated into one of the pieces, and we were 

delighted to welcome her to see how her cutting-edge research had been interpreted through 

the art forms of dance and music. 

We also welcomed pupils from Sexton’s Manor Primary School who worked in collaboration 

with our Year 8 students. The Year 5 pupils were studying ‘Evolution of Mankind’ as part of 

their Key Stage 2 Curriculum, and they too demonstrated their knowledge through dance. 

The evening was a total success, and we congratulate and thank all those involved. 

Helen Frost, Nick May and Jay Abu (The Production Team) 

Photos: Jasmine Godfrey, Yr 9 



30

Our Library 

Why do I like our school Library? I like it because it is not just a space with shelves and books; it means 

much more than that to me. My school Library is always tidy, clean and full of people, and obviously it has 

the best Librarian ever! 

When I came to King Edward VI in Year 7, I did not feel comfortable anywhere. I had friends to hang out 

with but I felt like there was something odd – I did not fit in. I then found the Library when asked to research 

some homework, and liked it from the moment I walked in. I started to visit every day at break and lunch. 

That Easter, I became the Student Library Assistant, which is something I am very proud of. 

In Years 7 and 8, I took part in Book Mastermind, which is basically a competition about a specific book 

of the entrant’s choice. In Year 7 I chose ‘Iron King’ by Julie Kagawa, and in Year 8 I chose ‘Alfie and the 

Werewolf’ by Paul Van Loon. I did not win, but in Year 7 my friend Emma (Akhaei) did, and she chose me 

as one of the three friends to go along with her to the County finals. 

It is the students who work in, and use, our Library which make it unique. It is the people who spend time 

doing their homework, studying, playing chess or cards, or even just hanging out with their mates. That’s 

what I like about it; it’s different from a stereotypical Library, and from some people’s expectations. You 

don’t have to be silent and whisper, and there is not a ‘mean librarian’ who doesn’t like children. You have 

the opportunity to be yourself, whenever you want. 

As proof, I asked a few students what they thought of our Library. These are the questions I asked: 

1. What do you think of our Library? 

2. What do you like about it? 

3. What’s unique about it? 

Emma, Yr 9 

1. It’s spacious and has really good resources. 

2. I like the wide variety of books! 

3. We have lots of games so the Library isn’t 

just about reading. 

George, Yr 7 

1. It’s a great place to study and learn. 

2. I like the fact that there is the equipment 

and technology to study every subject. 

3. It’s more than just a Library. 

Ella, Yr 10 

1. It’s a good Library 

2. There are a range of things to do in it. 

3. There are entertaining clubs you can take 

part in which meet in the Library. 

Kinga Cieplicka, Yr 9 

32 



The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is one of the best things I have ever done, and also one of the most challenging. We were 

responsible for knowing where we were, making sure we had enough food, and that we had with us everything which we 

would need. I was nervous! I had to learn how to navigate, and also ensure that I was in the right shape to complete the 

walk. 

My group and I walked 22 kilometres over the course of the two expedition days. We had already taken part in a practice 

day, during which we learned some of the skills which we would need. We then had a practice expedition, and during this 

we tried out our new skills with our leader there to help. So, by the time we got to do the real thing we are ready and so 

it ended up being great fun! When we finally finished the walk there were lots of different things to do at our campsite. 

We relaxed in our tents, played games and cooked our dinner! 

I would definitely recommend doing one of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. It’s been fantastic. 

Holly Godfrey, Yr 9 

33 



COUNTY CHAMPIONS 

Year 9 Cricket team crowned County Champions! 

Drawn against Newmarket Academy for our semi-final match at Woolpit Cricket Club, we batted first and scored 109 

from 18 overs. Joe Warner, Josh Bullingham and Will Blackwell scored the runs, posting a good score. We went out 

to field with great confidence and enthusiasm, relying on our excellent wicketkeeper, John Howard, who took numerous 

stumpings against a strong batting side. As we approached the final three overs Newmarket needed 17 runs to 

win, and our early run total of 109 looked a little short. Thankfully, we were able to call on Archie Smart who bowled 

with precision and accuracy, and we won the game by 10 runs. This secured us our place in the final. 

We were drawn to play Woodbridge School in the final, who had beaten Sir John Leman School in their semi-final. 

Batting first, Woodbridge scored 105 having lost six wickets. Evan Williams was the stand-out bowler, restricting 

Woodbridge with his aggressive, confident and accurate bowling. As Woodbridge finished their batting we were 

given the task of scoring six runs an over to be crowned County Champions. Our innings started poorly as Will 

Blackwell looked to steal a quick single, only for Joe Warner to be run out with the Woodbridge fielder hitting the 

stumps with a direct hit. Thankfully we welcomed Josh Bullingham - our power hitter - to the crease who, alongside 

Will, scored very quickly and took the game away from the Woodbridge bowling attack. Josh and Will had to retire 

having reached 30 ‘not-out’. At this point John Howard and Charlie Catchpole stepped into the batting hotspot, and 

the Thursday afternoon heat. Charlie played a lovely shot through deep backward square leg to win the game, and the 

County Championship for King Edward VI School. 

Enormous congratulations go to the following Year 9 students: 

Charlie Catchpole, Josh Bullingham, Matt Hawker, Archie Smart, Charlie Milnes, Charlie Chapman, Lily Fisher, 

Will Blackwell (Captain), James Torbitt, Joe Warner, Evan Williams and John Howard. 

Andy McLellan, Teacher of PE 

34 



Emma Bartley: Team England 

Year 10 student Emma Bartley represented Team 

England in the European U15 Squash Team 

Championships in Eindhoven, The Netherlands. 

And we have been told that she *somewhat* excelled 

herself. 

"She played matches against Belgium, Wales 

and The Netherlands en route to the Final, beating 

each of those countries' Number 1 players. 

England played Ireland in the Final and things 

were tense as one boy won and one boy lost. 

This left the title to be decided by Emma and the 

Irish Number One player. Emma was on fire and 

beat her opponent 3-0 to clinch the European title 

for Team England. 

A very, very proud moment for us all... and for 

Emma of course." 

Emma - it's getting harder and harder to find the 

words to convey adequately how proud we are 

of your modesty, commitment and talent. You 

are where you deserve to be - at the very top of 

your game. Congratulations. 

35 



On a beautiful, sunny evening in June, we gathered 

at Blackthorpe Barn to say ‘goodbye’ to 

our brilliant Year 11 students. 

The weeks, nay months, of meticulous prom 

preparation unfurled before our eyes. The ladies 

were stunning, the men - sharp, and the 

cars - spectacular. 

Students floated around the grounds enjoying 

mocktails before a gourmet dinner. They 

played giant Jenga, bounced on the Disco Castle, 

donned Sumo suits and tried their luck at 

the casino. Rob Johnson and Scott Green entertained 

the crowds until the DJ took over and 

kept the students dancing until their carriages 

arrived. 

Thank you George Cooper, Hannah Scarlett 

and Kirsten Evans... it was truly superb.

40 



team 

geo 

norfolk coast 

epping forest 

ipswich 

field trips 

41 



UK-German Connection 

Year 12 students Erica Leveque-Parker and Patrick Laycock have been chosen by UK-German Connection to take 

part in scholarship programmes in Germany this summer. 

UK-German Connection is a Government initiative to foster partnerships, programmes and networks for schools and 

youth groups. At a time when the teaching of languages in schools is under threat we are particularly proud to be 

offering our students the opportunity to study French, German, Spanish, Mandarin and Latin. 

As part of the 2019 Royal Visit to Germany, Patrick was invited to attend a youth seminar in Leipzig, on the theme 

of Urban Redevelopment. Alongside a select group of students from the UK and Germany, Patrick conversed and 

documented his work in both German and English. He also addressed our Royal Family on the subject of the workshop’s 

findings. 

Erica is looking forward be taking part in a German Pupil course which is a fortnight-long, immersive language 

programme starting in late July 2019. Erica will stay with a host family and experience, not only intensive daily 

language teaching, but also a number of unique cultural excursions and experiences. Past activities include visits to 

a concentration camp, a climate museum, and the Autostadt, as well as treks in the Harz mountains, gentle Barfußpfads, 

and boat trips on the Rhine. 

Both Erica and Patrick feel honoured to have been chosen for such prestigious programmes, and PatricK - who’s 

ambition it is to attend a German university, said that the experience was invaluable for his personal and academic 

development. We are delighted for you both. Herzlichen glückwunsch! 

Jenny O’Reilly-Turner, Teacher of Modern Foreign Languages 

42 



Costume Day 

Ickworth College student leaders, led by Year 9 

students Yasmin Harrold, Katie Pettit, Phoebe 

Neal, Eliza Haindl, and Joe Warner, organised a 

non-uniform Costume Day in order to raise money 

for our colleges’ nominated charities. 

Yasmin also organised a brilliant, and very popular, 

‘Open Mic’ gig on the day. Students came to 

school in lavish, creative and hilarious costumes 

and the whole day felt hugely celebratory. Roll on 

Costume Day 2020...

Garden 

Party 

2019 

The gentle afternoon sunshine filled our beautiful Courty 

by their respective Heads of Colleges, gathered together fo 

We know, and demonstrate, how important it is to celebr 

the pitch and on the stage, in the exam room and in the com 

Party have not necessarily, however, won a medal, basked 

which their name has been embossed. What these students 

to their studies. They are utterly determined to reach thei 

on every occasion. Their sustained achievement does not 

students enjoyed the Garden Party put on in their honour... 

Hayden Sturgeon (Yr 7), Arthur Pettitt (Yr 7), Alice Ironsi 

(Yr 8) , Charlotte Bean (Yr 8), Jack Porter (Yr 8), Maxwe 

Giles (Yr 8), Victoria Cook (Yr 8), Louise Thearle (Yr 9) 

Da Silva (Yr 10), Savannah Allum (Yr 10), Harry Bullpitt 

Kellett (Yr 10).

ard Garden as 23 students, specially selected 

r our inaugural Headteacher’s Garden Party. 

ate our students' efforts and achievements on 

munity. The students chosen for the Garden 

in rapturous applause, or held a certificate on 

do is demonstrate an unwavering commitment 

r goals, and they present their very best work 

go unnoticed, and we hope that the following 

de (Yr 7), Ishaq Thompson (Yr 7), Rhys Baird 

ll Lyon (Yr 8), Leo Pawlowski (Yr 8), Daisy 

, Molly Jones (Yr 9), Eva Da Re (Yr 9), Ana 

(Yr 10), Shabana Begum (Yr 10) and Blythe

Language Leader Award 

The Language Leader Award is a nationally-recognised award which develops students’ communication and leadership 

skills through the medium of Modern Foreign Languages. 

Over the course of the year students attended weekly planning and evaluation meetings through which they learned 

how to plan and teach activities. They then applied these skills to teach parts of the Year 6 French Transition lessons 

last summer. From there they went on to teach a selection of Year 7 students about the Europe. 

The Language Leaders have also been involved in raising the profile of Languages in school through a number of 

events including our European Day of Languages celebrations, a European Christmas celebration, Open Evening and 

contributions to the Friday tutor-time quiz. 

The principal benefits of the Language Leader Award include: rewarding language learning, providing a purpose and 

context for language skills, developing generic communication and leadership skills, enhancing self-esteem and confidence, 

improving evaluative and analytical skills, and increasing personal attainment in a foreign language. 

Congratulations to the following Year 10 Language Leaders: Jessica Andrews, Lily Barrass, Bethany Bentick, Annabelle 

Capilna, Erika Correia, Annie Hill, Jacob Hill, Aaron McIntyre, Ella Rollinson and Amy Trautman. 

Emma Rush, Teacher of Modern Foreign Languages 

46 



News In Brief... 

Congratulations to the following students for 

passing their instrumental exams: 

Georgina Johnston (Yr 8) 

Grade 2 Clarinet - Merit 

Sanjay Gudi (Yr 10) 

Grade 5 Clarinet - Distinction 

Eloise Richardson (Yr 13) 

Grade 8 Flute - Merit 

Jamie Sparkes (Yr 9) 

Grade 7 Voice - Merit 

Ellie Weyers (Yr 11) 

Grade 8 Voice (Distinction) 

Tudor Weyers (Yr 8) 

Grade 7 Voice (Merit) 

Theo Geileskey (Yr 7) 

Bishop’s Chorister Award 

Grade 5 Theory (Distinction) 

Harry Upton (Yr 7) 

Bishop’s Chorister Award 

Grade 5 Theory (Pass) 

Grade 6 Voice - Merit 

Kian Richards (Yr 10) 

Grade 2 Guitar (Distinction) 

Isabelle Koci-Edwards (Yr 9) 

Grade 6 Voice (Pass) 

Logan Williamson (Yr 8) 

Grade 5 Theory (Merit) 

Hannah Kennedy (Yr 13) 

Grade 8 Voice (merit) 

Hurray for our U15 Girls’ Handball team! They 

had a close shave in the group stages of the County 

Finals and ended up joint 1st, meaning they had to 

play an extra game to make it through to the Final. 

The girls narrowly lost in the Final and so finished 

2nd in the whole of Suffolk. They had 

all been playing for less than a year, and so 

to finish in this position was incredible. They 

are a talented bunch of athletes who have 

been massively dedicated to their training. 


Well done to our U15 Girls’ Rounders team who are 

Western Area Champions! They went to the County 

Finals and played really well, coming second overall 

(despite beating the eventual winners - Ipswich High - 

in an earlier round!). 

At the beginning of Year 7 we had an assembly all 

about the PiXL Edge Apprentice Award. I was initially 

concerned that I wouldn’t have time for it, but then 

I realised that some of my weekly activities would 

count towards it! 

Universities and employers need students with more 

than just academic success. They want them to have 

life skills and resilience. The PiXL Edge programme 

has made me think differently and shape how I approach 

new challenges. 

I decided I would complete ten activities from a vast 

and varied list: to take part in an international Tchoukball 

competition, to referee and volunteer as a young 

leader at my football club, to pass my Bishop’s Chorister 

Award, to sing a solo at my school’s Christmas 

Celebration, to maintain 100% attendance, and to improve 

my grades in school. And... I did it! 

PiXL Edge is a perfect way to gain recognition for the 

skills you already have, and also to learn new skills 

you haven’t tried before. Go on give it a go, you might 

surprise yourself with what you are capable of! 

Harry Upton, Yr 7 


47

ISSUE 45 

Summer 2019

Celebrate Issue 45

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