86 - Merchant Taylors` School

Transcription

86 - Merchant Taylors` School
Scissorum
Merchant Taylors’ School
From the
Head Master
1561
Issue 86
Absolutely Phabulous!
Phab Week is one of the most
marvellous (and moving) features of
life at Taylors’, as our boys (and St
Helen’s girls) look after physically
handicapped, but able-bodied guests
for seven days over the Easter break.
This tradition now extends back
over 40 years and is cited time and
again by old boys as one of the
defining moments of their youth: a
life-changing experience. Today’s
Mufti Day featured boys wearing
casual clothes, performing music,
and scoffing doughnuts to support
this wonderful cause. It is always
inspiring and salutary to see the
depth of support for this charity in
the school community.
To continue with the theme of
reaching out to the wider community,
it has been marvellous to see children
from local primary schools on campus
this week for an afternoon of athletics.
In addition to hosting children from
local schools, our boys, as always, have
been going out to local schools to help
children with their reading; my thanks
to all our boys and teachers for doing
such excellent work.
Looking through this Scissorum,
I am struck yet again by the sheer
variety of activities the boys enjoy,
not only over lunch and after school,
but during daily lessons. This week
alone, they have manufactured coins,
listened to visiting writers, written
poetry in Geography, been BBC news
reporters, acted out the demise of
Thomas Becket and enjoyed lessons
in Italian cookery. My thanks to all
our teachers who find so many ways
to make learning a genuinely exciting
experience for the boys.
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MTSThis Week
Phab takes centre stage
The boys have been in mufti all day today, paying for the privilege by donating money for Phab – there has also been the nowtraditional Krispy Kreme Donuts Sale and tonight is Phab Revue!
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MTSThis Week
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MTSThis Week
W
O
R
R
O
M
O
T
&
T
H
G
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MTSThis Week
Third Form Merchant Taylors manufacture
their numismastism!
Our young numismatists-in-embryo in the Third Form have recently been studying Roman coins in Latin lessons, and this week
they had the opportunity to manufacture their own coins during a workshop run by the DT and Classics departments. Pupils had
researched the information contained on a Roman coin, and the decorations chosen by individual emperors, and were now able
to put this learning into practice. The workshop began with an explanation of what precious metal clay is - finely ground silver
particles held together by a binder - and a demonstration of the rolling, moulding, and firing of a coin made from this. Each pupil
then produced his own coin and decorated it, taking inspiration from the coins studied in class. This coin will be fired, to remove
the clay, and a coin of 99% silver will be left behind.
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MTSThis Week
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Jonny, I want my liver back!
Third Formers jumped in their seats in the library on Monday when storyteller Pat Ryan spooked them with traditional ghost
stories. They also discovered tales from the Vikings, Morocco and Ireland that inspired some of Shakespeare’s best known plays.
Challenging riddles and a surprise prop at the end of an ex-Chelsea player’s story, ‘The chicken and hedgehog’, all made for a very
entertaining event to mark National Storytelling Week.
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MTSThis Week
Pole Poetry
The Third Form has been studying Antarctica and the Arctic. For homework, the boys wrote some amazing poems on the Arctic
using their knowledge from class. Here are poems by Luca Braddock, Issey Rodriguez, Charlie Horridge and Patrick Alwyn.
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MTSThis Week
The Death of Thomas Becket
The Third Form has been studying the tumultuous relationship between Henry II and his Archbishop of Canterbury - Thomas Becket
in History lessons. One of the primary sources vividly recalls a knight’s foot smearing brains across the floor of the cathedral, which is
always good for a shudder amongst the boys! The boys recreated the tragic events as if presenting a modern day news programme to
explain the story behind the quarrel and the bloody results. The presentations were both informative and entertaining!
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MTSThis Week
Buon Appetito!
Boys this week enjoyed their first session of “Italian cooking” as part of the Sixth Form enrichment programme. The eight students
cooked classic pasta dishes as part of our campaign to ensure that our students’ university lives consist of more than a diet of Pot Noodle!
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Head Master’s Question Time
Just to remind you that the Q & A sessions with Simon Everson are:
Lower School Parents Monday February 9: Undercroft Reception at 6.00
(rsvp lsquestiontime@mtsn.org.uk by Monday Feb 2)
Upper School Parents Wednesday February 11: Undercroft Reception at 6.00
(rsvp usquestiontime@mtsn.org.uk by Monday Feb 6)
Choices Evenings
A Level
Tuesday 10 February, A Level Choices Evening for 5th Formers and their Parents, 4.30 – 6.30
GCSE
Wednesday 4th March for 4th Formers and their Parents, 6.30
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MTSThis Week
South Oxhey Athletics
On Thursday, the school hosted the annual South Oxhey Indoor Athletics Championship, with over 200 boys and girls from
local primary schools taking part. It was a fantastic event, where the noise and excitement levels nearly took the roof off!
Winner of the girls’ events was St Meryl School, while St Joseph’s won the boys’ events. Well done to all those who took part, or
helped organise such a great event.
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MTSThis Week
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South Oxhey Reading
On Tuesday 3rd February, thirty boys were taken to South Oxhey to read with local schoolchildren. This is such a popular
activity at the moment that unfortunately we had to turn ten boys away: be patient boys! Thanks to Jo Cox and Kate Shockley,
who accompanied the boys into schools, to Chris Cowan and Dave Spikings for helping with the minibuses, and to John
Coleman who masterminds the programme.
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MTSThis Week
Spanish Debate
The Spanish students recently took part in a debate at Mill
Hill School in Spanish, Upper VI Former Teshan Wijesuriya
recalls the experience, “Although initially quite apprehensive
and nervous about a debate in Spanish - my first one, in fact - I
definitely enjoyed the experience. The topics interested me
personally, especially the Charlie Hebdo topic, although in the
end I debated about parents (and Ched Evans) which
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were nevertheless engaging.
We fared well against Harrow and Highgate and the judges
were impressed with our knowledge of the topics and noted
that we surpassed the other teams in terms of breadth of
understanding (although they also felt that we had spread
ourselves rather thin). We won one of our two debates”.
February 06 2015
MTSThis Week
Young Enterprise
On Saturday 24th January, WolfStudio exhibited our
originally designed contemporary T-shirts at the Watford
Intu Trade Fair provided by Young Enterprise. It was a great
opportunity for us to advertise and market our brand, as well
as make some sales.
We learnt a huge amount about sales techniques as well as
marketing, while the whole team worked really well together
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to ensure the day ran smoothly. Thank you very much for Mrs
Armstrong and Young Enterprise for the opportunity.
WolfStudio is a Young Enterprise company that designs
innovative and original clothing, encompassing the cutting
edge of contemporary fashion. Our T-shirts are a high quality
100% cotton. Find us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to
discover our latest designs and selling venues.
February 06 2015
MTSThis Week
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Design Centre
Even in the midst of winter, the build is going ahead and still on target for the new building to open this September
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MTSCreative Writing
A Christmas Journey in London
London often gets a bad reputation as a dull, grey city populated by anti-social people and owned by
greedy foreign billionaires who treat its citizens like worker ants, but head into the city at Christmas
time, and everything is different. The normally dull, grey skyline is teeming with colour and light. Its
many parks have been transformed into winter wonderlands, full of ice rinks and grottos and brimming
with seasonal positivity. And that most contemptible den of commercialism, Oxford Street, is alive with
glistening lights and ornaments that seem to defy the typically dull weather to impede the festive spirit.
On 20 December, my family and I set off into the city to see a theatre play and the lights of the city. After
a long Tube journey, we emerged in Piccadilly Circus and were impressed with the electronic billboards
adorning the buildings.
After this, we took a walk through the city. We admired the many festive decorations in shop windows,
such as Fortnum and Masons, and also gave money to some carol singers. Christmas shoppers will find
all manner of gifts on sale at the various outlets in the city, not to mention some beautiful Christmas
displays and lights.
The play that we went to see, Potted Sherlock, was a delight. Side-splittingly funny and loaded with
enough pop-culture in-jokes to make any movie fan crack a grin, the play was very entertaining and will
entertain both kids and adults.
After seeing the play, we ate at one of London’s numerous Byron Burger restaurants - excellent as usual!
Then it was time for some serious Christmas shopping.
Dusk was turning to night, and we could now fully appreciate the lights of the city. For me, the true “high
lights” were those of Harrods, cascading down the sides of the store and Oxford Street’s glowing arches
rising over the carriageway. We visited many different stores, including the aforementioned Fortnum &
Masons. The Christmas decorations there were truly impressive, with wreaths and holly and presents
and all manner of seasonal adornments creating a truly festive atmosphere. Tiffany’s jewellery shop
is another shop I can recommend, with its tremendous wealth of upmarket gifts (sure to impress); just
make sure you have deep pockets!
Overall, my trip into London was very successful. I greatly enjoyed seeing the festive lights and
decorations, and recommend you all to see them yourselves next Christmas.
Isaac Bettridge (4ths)
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MTSCreative Writing
Holidays at Home
From the Lake District to Westminster, England is a beautiful place, with a rich culture. To prove
that point, I stayed home in Buckinghamshire this holiday season to visit some gorgeous forests and
beautiful local countryside, as well as the bustling high streets, and traditional pubs. I can safely say
that every pub I went to the Christmas foods were absolutely delicious. Places like ‘The Ethorpe’ and
‘The Apple Tree’ are real gems to look out for, as they really are homely and welcoming.
One thing that really stands out to me where I live is the amazing combination of rural and urban
landscapes. So I plunged myself into the withering forests of the area. The paths may have been
covered in dying leaves, and the trees may have been naked but that didn’t make the views any less
breathtaking. One of the largest and most beautiful places I found was Burnham Beeches, an ancient
forest located near Farnham Common; it is ideal for bike rides and dog walks, as its endless paths
scatter in all directions.
I also paid a visit to Britain’s high streets, which were jam-packed with everything you could need at
Christmas time, and it’s all much cheaper with discounts on nearly everything. Winter is the very best
time to shop: almost anywhere you go the high streets are alive with glimmering Christmas lights!
During my time at home this winter, I realised something. The most important reason why to stay
home isn’t because of what Britain has to offer, it’s because of what home has to offer. Christmas is a
time of getting together with your family and friends, huddling around your Christmas tree in your
home and having a great time.
However the more I talk to my contemporaries, the more I hear of people leaving home for exotic
parts over the Christmas holidays. The one piece of advice I would give you is, “Don’t!” Stay at home
with all your family this winter, and you’ll enjoy every minute of it. Trust me: love your home and
you’ll love Christmas, and so – even as early as February, I wish you a Merry Christmas for 2015, and a
very Happy New Year!
Arseny Semelov (4ths)
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MTSCreative Writing
Creative Writing Competition: The Trial
At Merchant Taylors’, senior boys, with a particular interest in an academic subject, mentor younger boys: these seniors are known
as “Subject Prompters”.
The newly formed English Subject Prompters’ Team began their reign with an inaugural Creative Writing Competition, setting
younger boys from the Third Form to the Divisions (Years 7-10) the task of producing a creative writing piece on the theme ‘The
Trial’ – a topic echoing their own ‘Trial’ examinations, which were being conducted at the same time. The theme led to a vast array
of imaginative delights. Thanks to all who entered. Please see a list of the winners below. First prize winners will be presented with
a £20 book voucher in school assembly next week. The next two editions of Scissorum will publish the winning entries.
Thirds:
1st: Sean Duggan
Runners up: Jeshuran Jebanesan, Patrick Alwyn, Yaseen Zaman Bhuiyan
Upper Thirds:
1st: Ishmael Levy
Runners up: William Bettridge, Dowan Bellerose
Fourth Form:
1st: Rowan Clarke
Runners up: Rohan Ashar, Ashutosh Khatri, Isaac Bettridge
Divisions:
1st: Will Atkinson
Runners up: Alexander Lush, Selvan Senthilkumaran
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MTSCreative Writing
Thirds (Year 7)
This piece came first in the year group. It is about two assassins that are sent to kill the US ambassador. One of the reasons that we
like this piece so much is because it has a complex structure. The flashback is an effective use of time, and means that the piece
can start in the middle of the climax, the court scene. This complex and intelligent structure made it stand out. We also liked the
plot which is convincing; by not trying to be too extravagant it sounds believable. The character of the piece is convincing, too.
The quality of writing is good throughout, with some excellent descriptions. A sense of tension is built up in the passage and the
narrative voice is consistent and very well conveyed. All in all we thought it was a brilliant piece - well done Sean! (Paramvir Khera,
English Subject Prompter, 5th Form)
175 by Sean Duggan
I’ve robbed banks, stole, so all of this isn’t “state-of-the-art” to
me. But my next mission is vital. If I slip up, I’ll lose my job. My
life. My home.
When Barkley confirmed that I would be at the centre of a
murder, I didn’t grasp the opportunity with two hands. I didn’t
grasp it with one hand either. But I couldn’t let Barkley down,
no matter how much against my will it was.
The law court wasn’t what I had judged it to be. The worn, dust
covered books on the raised desks were situated at the end of
the room. The mysterious ceiling looked down on the court
with a godly feel, the only wonder in it. But here I was, being
observed like an act in a freak show, foreseeing my fate.
Personally, I respected this odd structure. I liked the silence that
loomed around it, the echo of the judge giving his commands.
But I was here for the wrong reasons of course. And I’m going
to tell you how I got here.
Kingsley was a young man, in about his late 20s, with groomed
blonde hair that matched his bright enthusiastic personality.
I worked with him. Not in any sort of charitable business. In
crime. In murder. We were partners. Our manager was called
Barkley. We didn’t know each other’s names. We didn’t trust
each other.
We were based in New York. Kingsley and Barkley are native
New Yorkers; I’m not. I come from London, where a stupid
cathedral past its prime and a white elephant of a building
dominates the skyline. Skyscrapers are more my thing: Empire
State, Chrysler, these buildings are picturesque. I don’t see
them that much. I work in the underworld of New York. The
real life. That is something I soaked up in my crime life.
I loathe crime. That is my secret. Everyone has a secret, don’t they?
I do it for the money. Theft is wrong. But for me, it’s necessary.
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Kingsley had murdered before, so he was slightly envious of
me. I usually bossed him around on a mission, but I think
are positions were going to change hands here. I wasn’t up
for this at all. As well as all of this, this was our first mission
out of the Big Apple. We’ve had 174 missions. This one was
abroad. In London.
In short, our mission was to dismiss the American Ambassador.
And dismiss means to kill. My mother always used to kick up
a fuss about her. My mother was an American immigrant who
moved to London to start a new life. She perpetually went to
America to see her family. After I ran off to America, I never
saw of her again.
Kingsley was excited when we boarded the plane, but I wasn’t.
The plane was an EasyJet, one that Barkley had booked last
minute. But sure enough we got to London in no time.
This was meant to be a brisk job. And that’s good because I
wanted to get it over with. The murder was going to be in the
Foreign Commonwealth Office, Downing Street. I really did
hope this would be quick.
The gun was planted in my hands. I was lying on my stomach,
my gun pointing at the Ambassador. “Gun still, body still”,
where the words whirring through my head as I lined up to
take my shot.
And fired.
February 06 2015
MTSCreative Writing
Upper Thirds (Year 8)
The winning piece in the Upper Thirds is ‘The Trial’, written by Ishmael Levy. Superbly clever and witty, the piece is brilliantly
written, almost grammatically faultless, packed full of fantastic images weaved together to flow seamlessly, capped by a
marvellously satisfying ending. This piece really shows that often something simple can be just as effective, often more so, than
something very complex. Even more impressive is the fact that it was written by an Upper Third, yet resembles the stylistic
qualities of some of the best work of the Divisions entries, maybe even surpassing those. In short, it is pure brilliance- I hope you
enjoy it! (George Solomou, English Subject Prompter, 5th Form)
The Trial by Ishmael Levy
Richard Jay Wellingworth was stuck. Deeply, truly, pathetically, stuck. He closed his eyes, pressed his
fingers together, and leaned back meditatively in his chair. Nothing. A few random nouns and verbs pushed
themselves into his thoughts, but he dismissed them. The vast majority of them were too rude to commit to
speech, let alone paper. He glared down at the blank page that sat modestly before him. It was staring at him,
mocking him, with white featureless eyes. Richard sat up, snorted, and wrote a single word across the page in
large, drunken, handwriting. It wasn’t a pretty one, but at least now he felt a little better. A trial. How the hell
was he supposed to write about a trial? If anything, this was a trial; sitting here with a head full of air. He had
literally no idea. No idea at all.
Now, at this point, I’d very much like to say that in a brilliant flash of mental electricity the idea dawned on
our idle hero, and he proceeded to write down page after page of award-winning prose. In fact, if that satisfies
you, feel free to stop reading now, content with the knowledge that Richard Jay Wellingworth has overcome
his personal demons. Unfortunately, this story is a truthful one, and the truth in question is a little more sly,
for those of you still reading. In actual fact, the idea crept slowly into Richard’s head like a wary snail, and for
the best part of ten minutes, Richard didn’t even move. He sat there, toying with it, trying to see how he could
brew up a proper story. He was caught in a giddy limbo of excitement, but paced himself accordingly. First of
all, there were the rules to consider: a word limit for starters. Well, that wasn’t a huge problem. The idea was
relatively simple in itself, and all he had to do was flesh it out a little with some flowery language, carefully
inserted into the plotline as one hangs a Christmas tree with glimmering baubles. Perfect. Then there was the
subject matter. That was going to be a little more difficult. But Richard was more than confident that his little
loophole would prove invaluable in that particular area. A lazy smile crawled across his lips, and he didn’t fight
it. With the triumphant air of an Olympic gold medallist proudly surveying his new embellishment, he picked
up a pen and proudly scrawled the first line of his story onto the paper:
“Richard Jay Wellingworth was stuck.”
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BBCSchool Report
BBC School Report
Merchant Taylors’ is taking part in the BBC News School Report, initiated by BBC News & BBC Learning to give 11-16 year old
students the chance to make news reports for a real audience. The boys hone their journalistic skills as School Reporters in
preparation for the annual News Day on March 19, when students from all round the UK simultaneously create video, audio, and
text-based news reports, and publish them on a website, linked to the BBC. As you can see, the boys are making a cracking start!
NAMED AND SHAMED
Should courts be able to censor what parents call their
children?
By School Reporters Max, Mitul, Leo and Rahil
This week the BBC reported that a French court had ruled that
a couple could not call their child ‘Nutella.’ They were told to
name her ‘Ella’ instead. There are many places in the world that
have banned names. Some, such as Akuma (banned in Japan,
because it means ‘devil’) and Mona Lisa (banned in Portugal),
are relatively normal names, and perhaps it is understandable
that they are banned. However, some are quite peculiar. In New
Zealand the name ‘Number 16 Bus Shelter’ is allowed, whereas
the name, ‘Yeah Detroit!’ is not. Other names, which are normal
in some countries, are banned in others, for example, in Iceland
‘Carolina’ is banned, even though here it is quite a common
name. This issue raises a hotly contested debate: does the
state have the right to tell us what we should or should not call
our children? Are they right in preventing us from calling our
children some quite strange and possibly disastrous names?
Let’s hear from both sides of the debate:
The state should be allowed to censor what people call their
children:
‘Brfxxccxxmnpcccclllmmnprxvclmnckssqlbb11116’, pronounced
Albin, is banned in Sweden and quite rightly so. The parents
of this child protest that they have the right to name what they
want, however this is clearly an outrageous name. These same
parents also asked for the name ‘A’; however, surprisingly, that
was rejected too. Naming a child inappropriately could have a
detrimental effect on their future. We interviewed Mr Powell,
an MTS chemistry teacher, who claimed that if a name offends
someone, the state should have the power to intervene.
The state should not be allowed to censor what people call
their children:
Names shouldn’t be banned as this form of censorship goes
against the concept of freedom of speech. As you have the right
to swear, even though it’s not very good, similarly you have the
right to name your child whatever you want. Banning names
is evidence that freedom of speech is not real now in many
countries. I believe that freedom of speech often only applies
when it suits the state concerned. I believe in real freedom of
speech as do many others so I think it is right to name your
child whatever you want. A student whom we interviewed
upheld a similar opinion. He said, “I think it is unacceptable
for the state to do this as people have a right to free speech and
free will”.
Although some believe that people should have the
freedom to name their child whatever they want, I
believe the state has a responsibility to stop people
naming their child inappropriate names. The name
Names banned in New Zealand
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Some names last across time. 12 of our Head Monitors from 1606 to
1686 were called William
February 06 2015
MTSSocieties
Volcanoes
On Tuesday, Luca Braddock and Radhey Patel (Third formers) organised a Junior Geography Society workshop about
volcanoes. After an excellent presentation on volcano fundamentals, they gave a clear demonstration to show other boys
how they could create their own exploding volcanoes. Despite the cold, snowy weather outside, much fun was had as vinegar,
bicarbonate of soda and red food colouring were dramatically transformed into a red-hot lava. Finally, boys produced their own
volcano-inspired creative work: images, wordless (word clouds), and poems. If you are in the Lower School and would like to run
your own Junior Geography Society session please email your idea to mclarke@mtsn.org.uk.
Huge
Active and scary
About to erupt anytime
Located all around the world
Red yellow orange, beautiful scenery
Fiery hot perilous dangerous not any other thing
Never ever ever ever ever ever ever ever to be messed with
Volcanoes rule the world they explode unmercifully and unforgivably
WONDERING WHO WILL BE ITS NEXT VICTIM WHO WILL FACE ITS TORMENT
by Zain Lodhi
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MTSSocieties
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MTSSocieties
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February 06 2015
MTSActivities
Junior History Club
Junior History Club has been having model making sessions for the past couple of weeks. The boys have been having great fun
assembling trebuchets and producing tanks and painting soldiers of World War One from an Airfix kit. The group meets every
Monday at 1.50pm in HY42. Next week will be another model making session. Suggestions for topics and activities for future
sessions are welcomed. Open to all from 3rds to divisions.
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February 06 2015
MTSMusic
Informal Concert
On Wednesday 28th January, the Music Department held its first Informal Concert of 2015. The Wind Band opened the night
with a lively and polished performance of ‘Happy’ by Pharrell Williams, before seven soloists took to the stage to show off
their talents. Most of the performers in the concert were from Lower School, given that the Fifths and above have just come off
their exam leave, and it was exciting to see the talent we have coming through. The final item of the night is perhaps worth a
mention – George Wright’s very fine performance on the trombone of two movements from Sonata in F by Marcello.
Organists at the Royal Festival Hall
On Monday, a small group of boys and staff went to the Royal Festival Hall to hear renowned organist Ann Elise Smoot perform
in the ‘Pull out all the stops’ series of recitals. We all thoroughly enjoyed the recital and it was good to meet up with Alex
Hamilton (OMT) who was turning pages for Ann. Since September Alex has been the Organ Scholar at St George’s Chapel,
Windsor where he will remain until the autumn when he takes up his Organ Scholarship at Trinity College, Cambridge.
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February 06 2015
MTSMusic
Music at MTS Spring Term
Thursday 12th February
Wednesday 11th March
Junior Music Competition
Recital Hall, 7:30pm
Chamber Music Concert
Recital Hall, 7:30pm
Tuesday 24th February
Friday 13th March
World War I Concert
Merchant Taylors’ Hall, 7:00pm
Prep Schools’ Instrumental Day Concert
Great Hall, 6:00pm
Saturday 28th February
Monday 23rd March
Serenaders’ Pub Quiz and Curry Night
Dining Hall, 7:00pm
Merchant Taylors’ St. Helen’s Choral Society
and Orchestra Concert
Great Hall, 7:30pm
Monday 2nd March
Merchant Taylors’ Hall Concert
Merchant Taylors’ Hall, 6:45pm
Tuesday 31st March
Duet Philharmonic Orchestra Concert
Royal Festival Hall, 7:30pm (tickets required)
Choral Society...new members welcome!
Choir Parents and existing Choral Society members
This year’s Joint Concert is on Monday 23 March, why don’t you join The Choral Society this term?
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MTSArt
Third Form – Gone Fishing!
Continuing last term’s sea theme, members of the Thirds have been drawing sardines! The frozen specimens were placed on black
card and then the boys had to draw them, as accurately as possible, in the space of one lesson.
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MTSArt
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February 06 2015
MTSSport
Support the boys tomorrow!
7th February
Rugby Match with Regiment marks OMTs who fell in The Great War
Hockey v Berkhamsted
3rd, 5th KO 9.30
15C, 14C KO 11.00
Hockey v Haileybury
Soccer v Aldenham
1st, 2nd KO 10.00
Rugby v Reeds
13A, B, C, D KO 10.30
1st, 14A KO 2.00
2nd KO 3.30
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February 06 2015
MTSSport
Hockey
All away Hockey matches were
cancelled: 3rds, 5ths, U15A, U15B, U15C,
U14B, U14C, U14D
1st XI
v Reed’s School
Lost – 2-4
Scorers: Savraj Lotta, George Smith
MOM: Savraj lotta
With the snow falling (but thankfully
not settling) the scene was set for
probably the toughest match on the
fixture card. Merchant Taylors’ started
the game with a blaze of pressure.
This was rewarded just minutes into
the match when a corner was awarded
and Savraj Lotta stepped up yet again
to score with a rifle of a flick. MTS
continued to build play against Reed’s
with some great team play and the score
looked destined to change with both
teams threatening the goal. The second
half was much the same as both teams
were building pressure on each other,
alternating between quick attacks and
solid defence.
The second half deadlock was broken
when Reed’s found the net to equalize.
With the run of play now against them
the MTS 1st team increased their tempo
and took the game to their opposition
with some great link play from Grewal
and Jervis in midfield. It was a great
passage of play that saw a tidy finish
from George Smith take the home side
into a 2-1 lead. This was to inspire them
further as they then dominated the next
5 minutes of play and had chances to
go 3-1 up. Reed’s defence was proving
extremely hard to break down. Then,
against the run of play, a loose ball
found its way through and a loan Reed’s
forward found himself 1 on 1 with the
goalkeeper and managed to squeeze
the ball through the pads as the ball
agonizingly trickled over the line to
makeit 2-2.
With only five minutes to go both teams
attacked as they went for the winning
35
goal. As Taylors’ pushed forward in
yet another attack, it was Reed’s who
capitalized with a well taken, upright
reverse as the ball popped loose in the
D. With the score now 2-3 and the final
whistle drawing near Taylors’ threw
everything at Reed’s. We created some
great chances including hitting the
crossbar but just couldn’t find the net. In
the dying moments Reed’s capitalized
again when MTS committed men
forward for the equalizer. It was great
game and a sign that Merchant Taylors’
can compete with one of the top hockey
schools in the country.
2nd XI
Lost – 0-1
MOM: Nathan Stephenson
Another strong Taylors’ performance
ensured a close and thrilling game
against Reed’s 2nd XI. Reed’s edged
ahead shortly before half time,
following a barrage of saves from in
form goalkeeper Nathan Stephenson
whose Man of the Match performance
certainly did his 1st XI claims no harm.
Having worked hard on their pressing
all week, Taylors’ repeatedly turned over
possession from the Reed’s midfield line,
with the final 20 minutes of the second
half seeing opportunities for every
member of the Taylors’ forward line, with
MTS skipper Archie Vaughan upgrading
three D penetrations to short corner
chances late on and placing Reed’s
firmly on the defensive. Although this
was not the result we were after, it was
another progressive performance and
stylistically the whole team contributed
to a much improved hockey display,
notably the back 4 who got the ball
flowing promisingly with wide transfers
and interplay. Surely one week we are
going to bag all our chances and sweep
a substantial victory?
The 4th XI were unfortunate to lose in
what was a close match. Having gone 2 0 down early in the first half, a wonderful
piece of skill by Danny Cowan saw him
lob the keeper just before half time.
Unfortunately, with Taylors’ chasing the
game, they conceded a late goal. It was
still an excellent performance by all!
U14A
Lost – 0-1
MOM: Joseph Quershi
In a much-anticipated fixture against
one of the top hockey schools in the
country the MTS U14A side dominated
the first half, controlling the pace of the
game and winning the 50-50 battles.
Unfortunately they were unable to
convert this pressure into goals and
went into the break 0-0. Kabir Mandair,
Brij Kantaria and Alexi Thomas were
solid at the back with Joseph Qureshi,
(MOM) proving extremely hard to
beat. The midfield were able to open
up space for the attackers and made
vital decisions that led to good chances
within the oppositions D. The second
half saw an early flurry from the Reed’s
team, however, with some top saves by
Oskar Ford keeping them out. A slight
lapse in concentration led to the Reed’s
team getting in behind the MTS defence,
leading to the only goal of the match.
Although the team was extremely
disappointed, they learnt some great
lessons which they will take forward into
the regional tournament on Tuesday.
4th XV
Lost – 1-3
Scorer: Danny Cowan
MOM: Alex Wheal
Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015
MTSSport
Rugby
Junior 1st XV
v Salvatorian College
Won – 36-14
Scorers: Bert Edwards, Finn Edwards,
Toby Wickham, Aaron Florestein, Sam
Lee
Cons: Feyishayo Ogunyemi x 3
MOM: Jack Townsend
Conceding a try within the first minute
to a powerful runner who evaded just
about everyone in the team to score
under the posts was not a good sign
but quality prevailed in the end with
the U13s recording their first win of the
season. A special mention goes to Paddy
and Myles for helping the visitors field
a full 15; an unenviable task but better
than shivering on a touchline...
Junior 2nd XV
Lost – 0- 51
MOM: Jack Wu
The snow-swept playing fields were
fortunately clear in time for Saturday’s
fixture vs Salvatorian College, but it was
still a bitterly cold January morning.
Unfortunately, the boys were in the
reverse position of last week where they
were playing a side that was prepared
to run the ball hard and aggressively.
This resulted in a succession of quick
scores from the opposition and our
heads dipped. There are some positives
to take from the game, namely the
determination of key members of the
group to carry on with the grunt work.
Jack Wu exemplified this never say die
attitude and deservedly was man of
the match.
Soccer
v Aylesbury
Won – 2-1
Yet another fantastic win from the
MTS 1st XI against an exceptionally
strong Aylesbury side. It was very
much ‘back to the wall’ stuff in this
match, with all statistics – except the
scoreline – favouring our opponents.
The boys’ passion made the difference.
Defensively, MTS was fantastic, with
every player making great challenges
and putting in 100%. MTS went one
down from one of the many Aylesbury
corners when the ball ricocheted off
a retreating Sev Mandair (who more
than made up for this later in the game,
with his tireless chasing in midfield).
Alongside him, Ollie Cheng and Aaron
Francis parked the bus and dug in. In
the second half, waves of attacks began
again, but this time with spells of MTS
possession. It was a lofted ball over the
top that allowed the boys to draw level,
Michael Brown striding through and
burying the ball through the keeper’s
legs. The atmosphere was palpable and
Aylesbury were on edge after this, and
rightly so. With 6 minutes remaining,
a very similar ball from Francis set
Brown free again with a similar result.
Incredible scenes broke out, with all
the boys erupting in celebration. Man
36
of the Match went to Brown, but it was
hero Poojan Patel who took most of the
plaudits, making well-nigh impossible
saves throughout the course of the
game. All the boys would agree that
without him on the pitch the result
would have been very different indeed!
It was, however, a great performance
all-round!
2nd XI
Lost – 6-1
Sadly, the match ended with a heavy
defeat for the previously unbeaten MTS
side, but it was a defeat not without
some considerable positives. The 2nd
XI showed great desire throughout the
game and matched a strong opposition
for large portions of the game. (Indeed,
with the score finely poised at 2-1 just
after the restart, things could have been
very different had our finishing in front
of goal been a little more clinical).
Krishen Shah scored the only MTS
goal early into the second half with a
left-footed thunderbolt to cap off a great
performance. Roan Gower captained the
side and worked tirelessly in midfield
with the ever-eager Arda Bayer. Late
goals were conceded because of tired
legs, but the team can be proud of their
efforts against strong opponents.
Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
v Bancroft’s
1st XI
Won – 3-0
The MTS 1st XI made a fine start to the
season with a composed victory over
decent opposition. The star of the show
in a fantastic match was Michael Brown
who scored a brace. His first was via an
exquisite through ball from Hamzah
Khan, taking it beyond a defender and
arrowing a 20 yard strike into the top
corner - all very reminiscent of a young
Ryan Giggs vs Arsenal in the FA cup.
His second was a scrappy affair, as he
took advantage of a bobbling ball in
the box. The third goal was taken late
on when some tired Bancroft’s legs
allowing Arda Bayar to ghost in at the
back post and tap in a low cross. An
astute and composed performance from
Ollie Cheng meant a quiet day for both
defence and in form Matthew Stokes.
Fantastic performance all round!
MTS basketball is going from strength
to strength. On Wednesday 28th
January around 40 spectators watched
the Senior team of Zakir Samed, Hans
Manku, Andrew Keener, Henry Millen,
Tom McGivney, Jeri Oyenuga, Jamie
Sargin and Oliver Fox win convincingly
62-32.
February 06 2015
MTSSport
Senior Basketball
v Habs
This was great preparation for our trip to Haberdashers on
4th February. Led by Zakir Samed who controlled the match
magnificently as point guard and Hans Manku who scored
29 points (several 3-pointers) we won 62-37. Andrew Keener
scored 8 points, Zakir Samed 14, Tom McGivney 6 and Henry
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
Millen 2. Oliver Fox and Hugo Parry gave a robust defensive
performances and Arvin Sandhu marked his debut with some
critical interceptions.
The Senior team is now unbeaten for 3 seasons!
Watch out for more basketball reports in the next few weeks as
we face Harrow, UCS and Mill Hill.
February 06 2015
MTSSport
House Swimming
House Swimming takes place through galas annually, as part
of the roster of competitive events between the eight houses
that feed into the “Top House” competition.
As sometimes happens at such an event, the galas were
dominated by one house in particular, who were represented
by an extraordinarily strong stable of swimmers. Spenser and
Walter houses in particular, however, did a fine job of sourcing
as many swimmers as possible to fill the list of heats in order
that they gain as many points as possible.
House Swimming is not only a chance for the best to get out
there and demonstrate their prowess in the pool; it is also
a chance for those less aquatically gifted to enjoy the thrill
of organised competition in the pool. As such, some of the
best support of the afternoons was shown to those whose
times won’t, in all probability, see them gaining a place in an
Olympic Team soon!
Congratulations to all who took part and to Clive for another
outstanding win.
Results
6th
Hilles
2ndSpenser
7th
Mulcaster
3rd
Walter
8th Manor
=4th
Andrewes and White
1st
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Clive
Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015
MTSSport
Andrew Thomas U17 England cricket selection
We wish Andrew the very best of luck representing England in the U17 cricket tour of the UAE vs Pakistan next week.
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015
MTSOMTs
The Only Way is Taylors!
One of the great things about Taylors’ is the confidence that
the boys take from their education. Traditionally, many have
entered the professions, but in the 21st century, there is a
new world of work, with multiple careers, and a bewildering
kaleidoscope of opportunities and difficulties for young people.
Put simply – as every parent of a 20-something knows – it can
be a jungle out there!
Shmoyel Siddiqui (Class of 2009) is currently starring in
the new ‘Sky Living’ reality TV show Desi Rascals while
also launching an innovative pop-art gallery business, “Milk
& Cookies”, having completed an internship at Christie’s.
Shmoyel is experimenting with “pop up” exhibitions – if you
know of an exhibition space or event that a young gallery could
use, please drop a line to scissorum@mtsn.org.uk.
Marvellous then to hear news of two OMTs this week who have
had the courage to pursue their dreams and achieved breaks
in the world of television as a result! It is not every day that we
have two old boys simultaneously becoming reality TV stars on
either sides of the Atlantic!
Henry Rogers (Class of 2011) is now playing the part of a young
model in New York in Taking New York, which will soon air on
E4 and MTV, thereby launching his film career. We wish both of
them every success.
Milk & Cookies Gallery
Shmoyel Siddiqui (Class of 2009) on ITV This Morning
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
Shmoyel Zia Siddiqui (Class of 2009) writes about his
role in Desi Rascals: “From Bend it Like Beckham director,
Gurinder Chadha, comes a new reality television series called
Desi Rascals, following the stories of British Asians in the
West London community as their paths intertwine. Known
to break boundaries and shed light on the complex identities
and cultural clashes faced by Asians living in Britain today,
Gurinder Chadha is collaborating with reality television
pioneer, Tony Wood, in an aim to challenge the stereotypical
perception of the community”.
“As a British-Pakistani, the stereotypes surrounding my identity
have always encouraged me to fight against this. Graduating
with a BA in History of Art and an MLitt in Modern and
Contemporary Art, my personal interests in the arts and culture
have already raised a few eyebrows. Nonetheless, I was drawn
to Desi Rascals for the insight it gives into the modern culture
and diversity within the British Asian community. Filled with
humour, drama, and romance, the show promises excitement
and entertainment in equal measure. Desi Rascals is on Sky
Living at 8pm on Tuesdays and Fridays”.
Shmoyel and co-star Owais are pictured on ITV’s This Morning where
they were interviewed recently about the show.
February 06 2015
MTSOMTs
Henry Rogers (Class of 2011) takes New York!
Henry Rogers, on the other side of the Atlantic, has rapidly established himself as one of the top young models in the fashion
industry. He has now secured one of the leading roles in NBC’s ‘Taking New York’, a series about Brit 20-somethings trying to take
the Big Apple by storm, which will soon air on e4 in the UK. Described by the Times as “Sex and the City” meets “The Only Way is
Essex”, we eagerly await Henry’s performance!
http://www.channel4.com/programmes/taking-new-york
Henry Rogers to star in NBC’s Taking New York
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015
MTSLooking Forward
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015
MTSLooking Forward
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015
MTSLooking Forward
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015
MTSLooking Forward
OMT Colts Cricket Club
Elite Academy training
Dates
Every Thursday
1700-1830
Location
MTS Sports hall
For more details; Email twebley@mtsn.org.uk
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015
MTSLooking Forward
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015
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Merchant Taylors’ School Weekly Newsletter
February 06 2015