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Name & Tutor Group:
Issue 47
Headlines by Rachel McGowan
29 January 2016
Working together to promote & celebrate achievement
Below is an article from the Sunday Times. Please take a few moments to read it.
It is interesting to note that successful students are averaging twenty one hours of Independent Study each week when on their degrees. This strongly supports the model we require, where students progress from seven or eight hours each week in Year 7 to around ten in Years 9 and 10 before studying for up to
Study
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Headlines by Rachel McGowan cont’d
fifteen hours a week in Year 11. More important even than the amount of time studying is the clear message from the article that study needs to be independent; namely that students should spend a good portion of their time furthering their knowledge of their subjects, not simply completing tasks set by their teachers; exactly what we suggest you should all do each evening. For those of you still struggling to take ownership of your home study, I’d like to remind you of the four elements you should build in. Independent Study should be a mixture of: completing specific learning tasks set by your teachers researching and reading around the topics you are studying reflecting on and reviewing the subjects you have learned about in lessons identifying key questions and areas where you need further direction from your teachers. Every student at the school needs to ask themselves, as we approach the halfway point in the academic year, whether they have really pushed themselves thus far. The key message from all research shows that the earlier you accept responsibility for your studies and the more you commit to regular, organised studying, the more success you will enjoy. Let’s all of us look to improve this aspect of our learning as we move into the last twenty school weeks of this academic year.
Rachel McGowan
Last summer, during the holidays budding writer Khushleen Kaur in
8G decided to write a spooky story and enter it into the ‘Young
Writers Ghost Story Competition’. We were delighted to hear that
Khushleen’s story has been selected for publication a new anthology,
‘Grave Encounters – A Collection of Ghost Stories’. This is a
wonderful achievement and we are very proud of Khushleen’s
enterprising spirit as well as the imagination and creative expression
she displayed in her story. A copy of the book will be sent to the
British Library and further libraries across the UK. ‘Grave
Encounters – A Collection of ghost stories‘ is scheduled for
publication on 31st March 2016.
Here is a little preview of part of her story:
‘..from what my mum told me, my grandparents live inside an old house that was built during the 1930s,
but their home used to be a funeral parlour. My grandma was the only one in the house who could
actually see people who were not alive and this story is her experience. To understand Grandma’s story
we need to go back further to the sad death of a lady who lived in the area.’
We look forward to reading the rest of her story when it is published. Congratulations and well done!
Ms K Thakor
Assistant Headteacher
Published Writer in Year 8
3
More Smiles Non-Uniform Day
St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington is a Hospital which has become very special to Plashet
School. In October of last year the Hospital cared for Vaishali Suhayr, 11L and her
family at the most darkest of time. Sadly, Vaishali lost her fight against a variety of
medical issues, but we have formed a strong bond with the Children’s Intensive Care
Unit that supported Vaishali and her family.
January 15th would have been Vaishali’s birthday and we could not let that special
moment go unmarked. As a Tutor Group, 11L celebrated as they would have done
had Vaishali been with us and as a School we sang her ‘Happy Birthday’ and released
colourful balloons to mark the occasion. Vaishali’s family joined us on the crisp
afternoon and we were so proud of the participation of our whole learning community.
Every year, around 400 patients are cared for in the Children's Intensive Care Unit at St Mary's but it also
turns away hundreds more critically ill children because it does not have enough beds. This means
children may have to be transferred hundreds of miles for treatment. Last year, the unit had to turn away
233 children, more than half the number actually admitted.
St Mary’s Hospital is undertaking a major charity drive to raise funds for a much needed new unit. The
new unit will have 15 beds, almost doubling the current number, allowing more than 200 extra children to
be cared for each year. There will also be new equipment, a dedicated parents' room and a private room
allowing space for doctors and nurses to provide emotional support and care to families whose children
are very seriously ill.
As a School, we collected money through a Non-Uniform Day on Friday 15th January. We raised,
£2,139.83, and we will make a direct donation to the More Smiles Appeal. Should you wish to find out
more information about the appeal, you can by accessing the website at, www.moresmiles.org.uk.
Ms L Sanderson
Assistant Headteacher
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Zoe Lucala and Zoeyanna Molton 11L might be very familiar to anyone who has seen our Expressive
Arts events over the past few years. Both students have made major contributions to the success of
Christmas Concerts and productions like ‘Hairspray’ and ‘Matilda’. On Saturday 16th January at the Lyric
Theatre, Hammersmith, both girls truly moved outside their comfort zones and threw themselves into a
three hour audition to be involved in the shows the Youth Music Theatre Company have on offer in 2016.
The auditions involved some intensive warm up exercises and stretching, learning and dancing new
routines and singing the main song from the 1981 Broadway musical ‘Merrily We Ride Along’. Zoe and
Zoeyanna were part of a group of approximately 30 other candidates hoping to follow in the footsteps of
Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith and gain a place in one of the productions to be offered this year.
Miss Carne and I were extremely proud of the manner in which both Zoe and Zoeyanna conducted
themselves throughout the entire process and in awe of their confidence on the day. Of course, if the girls
are successful in their auditions we will hopefully find out in February and of course, let you know how
you can support them on tour.
Ms L Sanderson
Assistant Headteacher
Auditions
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Year 7 Visit to the Hindu Temple in Manor Park
This month all of Year 7 attended a visit to the Hindu temple in Manor Park, to compliment their learning
in Philosophy, Religion and Ethics. It was a chilly walk to get there, but they all had a great experience.
All Year 7 are currently learning about beliefs and practices in Hinduism. The students were able to speak
to the priest and ask him questions about what they saw in the temple and more general questions about
Hinduism.
Students were able to walk around the temple and see pictures/statues of the Gods they have been
studying. Students said that they really enjoyed the experience of going to a place of worship and
getting to explore the temple.
Malaika in 7N said, “I know a lot more about Hinduism, I know how Ganesh ended up with an
elephant’s head! I found it really interesting”.
Ms Still
Head of Philosophy, Religion and Ethics
Charu, Sumiya, Marlene, Sumaya 7N Amina, Mehwish, Zainab 7N
6
On 14th and 15th January three groups of
year 11 BTEC students were taken on a
visit to the Centre of the Cell. The Centre
of the Cell is a Science Centre helping
young people learn about Biomedical
Science and research through digital
games and audio visual displays. The
centre is located in a pod suspended over
the biggest open plan research
laboratories in Europe based in
Whitechapel, London, UK.
D.J.Willrich Ltd. (DJW) – recognized as
one of the UK’s leading forces in the Audio
Visual industry, was subcontracted by the
lead contractor Beck Interior, to provide a full Medallion Integrated System in the Centre of the Cell. DJW
also worked closely with the project designer, Land Design Studio. During the visit, students were
immersed in the full audiovisual experience engaging with all the five different “spaces”, and scenes. Here
is what some of the students who went on the visit had to say.
It was an amazing and exciting experience. I learnt many new scientific facts linked to the BTEC course.
The games and quizzes helped me develop my confidence in the subject. Nimra Iqbal 11N
I found this trip exciting because I was able to meet a real Scientist. While I was inside the room that
contained the ‘Nucleus’ I was able to play many games, as well as focus on topics about healthy lifestyles.
We also learnt about many diseases. Thamina Bushra 11L
It was an amazing experience for us as I learnt a lot of Science in an exciting way. We had an interactive
session when we arrived and we were able to ask many questions. Zoe Lucala 11L
This was quite an interesting experience as we
were given the chance to look around and play
some games. At first, we were given a talk by
one of the organizers and we got to meet a 4th
Year Medical student and a real Scientist. The
best part was the games because they were
educational and fun at the same time. Raika
Channan 11T
Mrs Ali, Ms English and Ms Sundhlall
Science Teachers
Science Centre of the Cell Year 11 Visits
7
Science Royal Observatory Planetarium Visit
On 12th January, 36 students from Years 10 and 11 had the opportunity of attending a presentation at the
Greenwich Observatory and Planetarium. The presentation was given by Dr. Paniez Paykari, a
Cosmologist who has travelled the world working on the birth of the Universe.
After a treacherous journey climbing a very steep hill, we reached the top with a splendid view
overlooking the sights of London. We were then greeted by a host, who directed us to the Planetarium.
Once inside, we were welcomed by a breath-taking view of what it would be like to be in space. The
presentation was led by Dr. Paykari. We learnt a lot about the birth of the Universe and all the processes
that took place before the Milky Way was formed. The presentation went into depth about black matter
and the ages before the Universe was created. Once the talk was over, Dr. Paykari was open to taking
questions from the audience. After the questions and answers were over, it was time for us to leave the
Planetarium. We arrived back after a tiresome, yet interesting and informative, day. Overall, it was a
beneficial trip which we believe helped educate the students further into the depths of our Universe. And
if you are an aspiring astrophysicists or cosmologists, or if you are just simply interested in space, then
the Planetarium is a great place for you to go and learn about the wonders of our Universe."
By Zara Pervaiz 11G and Aminah Tassawar 11G
Dr Paniez Paykari
Our School’s Coaching & Mentoring Department works closely wih parents to support our students. As
part of this work we wish to invite parents to our new Coffee Mornings where Parents/Carers can ask
questions, receive information or simply get to know other parents.
Our first coffee morning will be on Tuesday 9th February from 9.15-10.15am. Just call into reception and
staff will be available to meet you.
Ms P St Louis CMD Manager
Parent Engagement Coffee Mornings
8
Physics ‘Pendulums’ Masterclass
On Thursday 19th November, 30 incredibly lucky students from Year 10 were given the opportunity to be
taught a physics master class by a physics teacher at Seven Kings High School who has also worked at
Cambridge University in the Research Department.
The session began with a quick quiz about some of the principles and laws in Physics which was very
interesting as, in our groups, the quiz prompted a healthy debate where everyone was justifying their
answers. After the quiz, which was quite difficult, we learned about the way scientists discover things.
The teacher went through the process used by scientists to discover new things. We looked at ice melting
on different materials. First, we had to make a prediction about what we thought would happen when ice
was placed on metal and wood. We had to come up with a theory and make sure we had justifications for
it. After that, we tested our theories and, to my surprise, the ice melted on the metal. We then had to
conclude our experiment.
We looked at several other experiments. However, the highlight of the session was when we had to look
at a sequence and find out what the rule was and we were able to understand the power of a question
and its response in this session. If we ask the right questions we can find any answer. Sometimes we fail
to ask questions, it shows that a little bit of curiosity can take us to new places to discover amazing
things.
Overall, the session was engaging and innovative. It taught us physics in an engaging and interactive
way. Also, we learnt some of the most important techniques and processes of discovery that are used by
scientists. It is safe to say that the session not only inspired me to pursue a career in Science and take
advantage of my curiosity but it had an impact upon the whole class making us all more interested and
curious to learn more!
By Syeda Zainab Naqvi 10A
9
Year 8 and Year 9 RoboGals Visit to Imperial College
On Wednesday 20th January selected Year 8 and 9 students had the opportunity to visit the Imperial
College of London to participate in a LEGO robotics workshop promoting girls to consider engineering as a
future career option. Enhancing our knowledge within the field of engineering, we learnt that creativity
plays a significant role in order to be a unique and successful engineer.
To create an effective and efficient device, we began with analysing the basic components which were
essential to the LEGO program. Using the software, we began creating and downloading algorithms for
our robots. We applied colour sensor technology, allowing some groups to program the robots to stay
within the ring.
After many attempts to successfully program our robots, we created weapons from Lego to shield our
robot from the opposing teams. To end the session we took part in battles against other teams with our
robots and crowned the Year 9’s the winners.
Overall it was a beneficial, enjoyable and memorable learning experience that gave us a wider view to the
world of engineering.
By Arundhathi Roy and Iqra Ahmed 8L
10
Year 10 Studying MADE Simple
On Wednesday 13th January 2016, Year 10 took part in a workshop called Studying Made Simple. The
students were enthusiastic during the workshop and the evaluation results show that it was a valuable
learning experience had by all. Below is a written account of the workshop completed by Ubeydah Shah
10T.
Miss M Siviour
Head of Year 10
On Wednesday 13th January 2016, Year 10 were given the chance to discover new methods of revising
while talking about the problems they face during revision. Joe Rowntree, our host, used his knowledge of
Sociology taught us the best way of revising successfully. Many of us were surprised at the statistics and
techniques used to receive the perfect results. We found that listening to music while revising can actually
help trigger the information needed during tests. We learnt that our posture and the pen we use can also
affect our ability to remember key information. We also learnt how to beat procrastination, a problem
most Year 10 students are facing. Overall, the two hours we spent working together, taking part in
challenges, receiving rewards and discussing solutions are certainly going to be put to good use when we
revise for our next test.
Ubeydah Shah 10T.
Year 11 Post 16 Transition Event
On Tuesday 12th January 2016 as part of the CPSHE CIAG provision we had 20 different post 16 providers
in school to help the Year 11 students with their choices of where they move onto after they leave us in
the summer.
The mass of colleges/training providers that attended were:
NCS – Newham Collegiate Sixth Form, NEWVIC, NEWTEC, Redbridge College, Westminster Kingsway,
Ursuline Academy, B6, LAE, Brampton Manor, Central Foundation, St Angela’s, St Bonaventure’s, LDEUTC,
Big Creative Education, Morpeth School, Havering Sixth Form College, Barking and Dagenham College,
Tower Hamlets College, Valentines High School and Woodbridge High School.
Ms F Clark
Head of Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance, Work Experience and SEN
Teacher
11
I recently read some research stating that public speaking is the most common fear. I recently worked
with 7S to produce poems on the theme of Fear. A fantastic range of poetry was produced, from the
humorous to the heartfelt. A number of students even overcame any fear of public speaking, and
performed their pieces for the class. Here are two of the fantastic poems that were produced.
Fear by Aisha Dorasat 7S
The next morning I woke up really late.
I didn’t care because
I always get a high level.
This time I didn’t revise thinking
I will be able to get a high level.
I went to school and I got my result.
I can see the failure in me.
I can hear my family losing trust in me.
I couldn’t fulfil my dad’s expectation.
I can taste the fear of sorrows in my mouth,
my stomach filled with butterflies.
I can smell the failure within me.
I can feel my heartbeat stop and pause
for ten seconds.
I hear a noise and I woke up,
realising it’s all a dream,
hoping it doesn’t become real.
Fear by Wasmaa Noordeen 7S
I could hear everyone screaming, dancing,
running and talking.
Nobody realises that I am new
to the school.
I am shy.
I feel like I’m going to die.
As I look around everyone has a friend.
I am only five years old,
starting a new school is hard for me.
I try my best to make a friend
but I can taste the bitterness of my fear.
Then one day a girl named Faaizah
came and asked to be my friend.
My heart was pounding.
I was full of joy.
I said yes.
Until the end of Year 6,
the years we have been best friends,
the days of joy we had to leave
to go to a new school.
Poems About Fear – Joshua Seigal
12
Carnegie Shadowing Students from all year groups have been reading and reviewing the books nominated for this year’s Carnegie Medal. One of the books that has received positive reviews is Jessica’s Ghost by Andrew Norriss. This is what Samiyah Lunat of 10T thought of the story:
“Jessica’s Ghost portrays heartfelt messages throughout the book about several matters such as the power and strength of friendship, which leads to an unexpected ending, thus making it a rather emotional book to read. The cover and title of the book suggested to me that it was a book based on something scary, supernatural or terrifying. However this was the absolute opposite, yet nevertheless, it was an enjoyable read. Personally it is a must-read (especially as it is rather short) as it slightly makes us appreciate things a little more, and it also makes us want to change in order to become more helpful towards other people. Norriss does this by using a ghost ‘Jessica’ who can only be seen by a bunch of ‘misfits’, which actually results in them becoming close friends and bonding. As clearly mentioned, this book is not what I was expecting to read, however, I would urge for people to read it at least once, especially as some of the heavy content included is represented subtly, yet also deeply.”
Jessica’s Ghost is available in both Libraries. The Carnegie Club meets on Thursday lunchtimes to discuss books which have been nominated for the award and to take part in fun activities relating to them. Any students who would like to join should speak to a member of library staff. Saturday Sessions – an important reminder Students in Year 10 and 11 who wish to attend a Saturday Session must sign up in the South Library before the end of school on Thursday. By signing up, students are making a commitment to attend. We understand that sometimes the temptation to stay in bed on a cold Saturday morning can be very strong but please remember that it’s tempting for staff too! They manage to resist that temptation in order to you give an extra opportunity to revise or catch up on work with their support. Please try your best to honour your commitment by attending any sessions you sign up for – make the most of the chances provided to you to help you to reach your potential!
Ms A Clifford-Smith Librarian/Resource Manager
Library News