Expressions Newsletter September 2015

MAGAZINE
SEPTEMBER 2015
High Tunstall
Crowned County
Champions
Brilliant
Club
brussels
& bruges
DUKE OF
EDINBURGH
AWARDS
RECORD NUMBERS
COMPLETE CHALLENGE
Welcome
WELCOME TO OUR
EXPRESSIONS MAGAZINE
The Expressions Magazine is where you will find
information about all the fantastic opportunities and
experiences the young people of High Tunstall had
from January to July 2015.
We have an exciting 2015/16 year ahead as we see
students take part in an ever growing enrichment
programme which includes foreign visits to Switzerland,
Paris and New York. We have launched our new House
system and will be holding our inaugural Lecture to
be held at the Borough Hall were we have secured the
first British Astronaut Helen Sharman to deliver the
lecture, who is the inspiration for one of our Houses.
I look forward to continuing the good work together
Mr M Tilling
Headteacher
02
GCSE results 2015
The 2015 GCSE results showcased many success stories that should be celebrated. 45.4% of the cohort achieved at least
1 A A*with deserved success to our top 12 achievers who amassed a combined 110 A* and A grades between them:
Liberty Emerson
Amy Hill
Lewis Monkman
Laura Jones
Sally Brown
Mark Tones
Eleanor Hyde
Ella Dixon
Abigail Craig
Andrew Morgan
Sam Sanderson
Adam Scott
There were increased outcomes on key measures with 66% of
the cohort achieving 5A*-C and 69% of the cohort achieving
2A*-C or equivalent grades in Science. The 5A*-C with English
and Maths benchmark was maintained at 52%. 93.4% achieved
1A*-C and 98% of students achieved 1 A*-G.
There were many students who achieved highly despite
challenging circumstances and for one particular student
her GCSE results of 9A*-C grades deserves to be highlighted.
2014/15 was a difficult year for Olivia Morgan, her family and
friends and the college community with the loss of Ellie-Mae
Morgan from Huntingdon’s disease.
Former students continue
to excel at A level
In the week before the GCSE Results were released
our past students experienced the nervous wait for
their A Level results and were keen to return on our
GCSE Results Day to share their successes:
“Studying at High Tunstall helped me realise my passion
for Science. I was always an active member of the college
and since leaving I’ve had the opportunity to regularly
return to help other students in Science lessons.”
Eleanor Watts
Going to read Biomedical Science at Newcastle University
A Levels in Chemistry, Biology and History
“My experience at High Tunstall gave me the
foundations I needed in college. Being involved with
the debate team at High Tunstall allowed me to
develop essential analytical skills that are vital when
studying at A Level.”
“My five years at High Tunstall gave me the confidence
and strong work ethic which has helped me throughout
my post 16 studies. The support from teachers has been
ongoing and I have kept in contact with several of my
High Tunstall teachers who continue to help me achieve
my goals.”
Marianne Holt
Going to read International Relations at Birmingham
University
A Levels in Politics, Philosophy & Ethics
and History A* A* B
Kate Brown
Going to read Natural Sciences at UCL
A Levels in Chemistry, Biology and Geography
GCSE 11A*
“High Tunstall has given me the confidence to move
forward with my academic studies and the teachers gave
me the support to believe that I could actually achieve.”
“My time at High Tunstall prepared me for my A Levels by
encouraging independent study and helped me to decide
on the academic direction I wanted to take at University.
The range of subjects I had the opportunity to study at
GCSE enabled my choices at A Level. The strong teaching
and support of staff pastorally and academically in my
GCSE studies has been a key to my success.”
Emily Corser
Going to read Law at Lancaster University
A Levels in English Literature, History, Philosophy
& Ethics AAA*
GCSE 9A/A*
Indy Lamplough
Going to read French and Italian at University College London
A Levels in French, History and Politics A* A* B
“Being a student at High Tunstall set me up well for my
A Levels as it gave me essential skills and the work ethic
necessary for further study.”
Esther Brown
Going to read Philosophy at Nottingham University
A Levels in Philosophy & Ethics, Geography
and History AAB
GCSE 9A/A*
EXPRESSION MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2015
03
Record numbers
complete their Duke
of Edinburgh Awards
04
After an extremely busy year 64 students have completed
their Duke of Edinburgh Awards with 54 Bronze and 10 Silvers. Throughout the year students have learned how to navigate
and be self-sufficient, become first aiders, volunteered to raise
money by packing bags, selling raffle tickets and completed
training and expeditions in the North Yorkshire Moors, North
Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District. The students have
completed over 60 hours of training and preparation in school
with at least 48 hours outside of school in developing their
physical capability, learning new skills and volunteering to
help others in their communities.
Final expeditions took place this year in the North Yorkshire
Moors starting on a wet but warm Monday. Students began
the day with a briefing on the conditions and we checked
out to begin their assessment. The team of assessors from
Hartlepool’s D of E team at Rossmere met students throughout
the day to test their knowledge and understanding and ensure
they worked well as a team. High Tunstall staff went into remote
supervision to monitor the progress of each group and ensure
they were on track. After some groups getting a little lost on
their practice expedition it was a tense time! By lunchtime the
groups had all checked in and were on track and the first groups
arrived into camp by 4pm. Students were superb on site and
despite being a little soggy their spirits were high.
On day two they left the camp site for the Bronze students to
finish their final day. There walk up to Kielder was scenic and
as the weather began to improve and they could see the end
in sight the students were enjoying the walk. Silver students
walked down the valley navigating some challenging paths on
the top of the Dales but showed the benefit of their experience
by making it look easy while our Bronze students were enjoying
tea and cake at Rukins Farm in Kielder as they celebrated
completing their expeditions. Silvers finished on the third day
in glorious sunshine and thus completed their final activity as
students at High Tunstall in style and this was made all the
more poignant for them by having their favourite assessor and
local legend Keith Collins on hand to see them in. In fact one
group had named themselves ‘Better Call Keith’ in his honour!
Massive congratulations goes out to the students for
completing their expeditions, we were extremely proud of
each and every student for their contribution to the award
and in being great ambassadors for the college. Students
could not have completed this without the support of parents
and carers as it is a challenging programme so we extend
our thanks to all those family members and friends who
supported our students to achieve their awards. Finally we
are privileged to have a highly dedicated and professional
staff who commit an enormous amount of their personal time
to ensuring students achieve this award and without them
this opportunity would not be available so thank you Team D
of E. Here’s to the future and the D of E class of 2015!
Hair raising experience
On July 25 students enjoyed a truly “hairspiring” day out at a local salon teaching
facility, the session was run by Steph an
ex salon owner who gave professional
demonstrations of a range of plaiting and
up-do’s to the students. The students
ranging from years 7 - 10 demonstrated
their acquired skills and came away from
the experience buzzing to get practicing on
friends, parents and siblings.
Connections
On Thursday 30th April, 12 of High Tunstall’s drama enthusiasts travelled up to Northern Stage
in Newcastle with Miss Smith and Miss Jones to perform as part of the Connections Festival.
Students had been rehearsing ‘The Accordion Shop’ for
months, giving up lunch and time after college to ensure
they could perform the play with justice. ‘The Accordion Shop’
tells the story of a shop owner, Mr Ellody, and how the youth
culture of today has affected him and his business; the story is
based on the London Riots from 2011.
The rehearsal process did not go without ‘hiccups’, with a
number of students with prior commitments having to drop
out of the performance at the last minute and 4 students
stepping in, some with only a day’s notice!
On the day of the performance, students worked with a
professional director and technical crew for over 3 hours (without
a break), before performing in front of a paying audience.
The students did themselves and the college proud:
Not only did they perform fantastically well, conveying the
emotional and seriousness of the play, but, by all accounts,
were professional actors throughout the whole process.
The director was extremely proud of the performance and
the commitment from our students, and made a particular
point of mentioning Brandon Mahoney and Pamela Ringwood
for the emotional commitment, and Annabelle Thomas,
who he thought was a gifted actress and should think about
auditioning for the National Youth Theatre.
All in all it was a great achievement for all of our fantastically
talented students involved!
EXPRESSION MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2015
05
Creative Arts
Academy launch
High Tunstall College of Science is proud to announce the launch
of the Creative Arts Academy (CAA) in September 2015. Students
in Years 8-10 who have shown that they are gifted or talented in
the areas of art, dance, drama, music and stagecraft have been
given a unique opportunity to be a part of this programme.
Students will get the opportunity to develop their skills/talents
further by attending workshops at Brinkburn and Stockton
Riverside College, work with professionals to understand what
goes on behind the scenes of a production, opportunities have
been planned to visit theatres with backstage tours and most
importantly they will be submitted to complete Arts Award, a
nationally recognised qualification which focuses on inspiring
young people to grow their arts and leadership talents.
The CAA launch evening will be held in late October where all
students selected will either perform or exhibit their work in
“Tunstall’s Got Talent”, it will be a fantastic evening for all and the
students will have organised the showcase themselves as part of
the Silver Award.
We look forward to seeing you in the audience spectating the
amazingly young talented students we have at this school!
06
Professional mentoring
Two successful after college courses have been delivered
through the Spring and Summer terms this year at High
Tunstall. Both courses proved hugely popular as each session
was led by Mentoring Professionals who are specialists in their
respective industry and were able to tailor sessions to feature
the experience of the individual professional. They introduced
their industry to the classroom and bridged the gap between
academic theory and the world of work much to the interest and
enjoyment of 50 students from years 7 to 10 who completed the
courses.
Through the Mentoring Professional workshops the students
explored the industry and skills of Media Production and Web
Design. The courses proved insightful and sessions ranged
from Aman, who works in the film and tv production industry
to experts in the fields of computer coding, graphics and web
design. The courses enabled students to bridge the gap between
the curriculum they study and to put this theory into practice.
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Feedback from students on the Web Design course included “I
most enjoyed knowing how to use CSS and HTML and illustrator
but I would have liked even more sessions as 10 weeks wasn’t
enough to explore everything.” Unsurprisingly the feedback from
students on the Media Production course throughly enjoyed
“filming our movies.”
Further courses will be announced and information on the
courses to be offered during the Autumn term with students
from all year groups welcome to undertake a course.
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Brilliant Club
12 of High Tunstall’s highest performing students from years 8 and 9 successfully
completed an exciting new project working with The Brilliant Club.
Through this Scholars Programme, students took part in a
series of six tutorials led by their PhD Tutor, the first at the
launch event, then four tutorials held in school and a final
feedback tutorial before the graduation event. The course
title for our students was “Mathematics and morality - Facts
or fiction?” To emulate an authentic university learning
environment, tutorial groups had a focus on university-style
pedagogy including independent research, critical thinking
and higher-order questioning. Each tutorial lasted 60minutes
and the final assignment was a 2,000 word essay.
Assignments were marked by PhD tutors in line with mark
schemes that reflect the assessment criteria for students who
are one key stage above their current study. Final assignment
grades were awarded in degree classifications and 3 of the
students achieved a 1st. Well done to Eve Dixon, Harry Moor
and Jessica Forster. A further celebration was that Eve Dixon
made the final selection of the academic journal. The Scholar
is a selection of the very best assignments submitted from
students nationally on the programme. Over 50 articles were
nominated by tutors so it is a real achievement that Eve’s
assignment has made it into the journal. We are hoping that
The Scholar will be available online from the end of the July
and will can be found online at: http://www.thebrilliantclub.
org/category/the-scholar/
07
All the students who participated were invited to a Graduation
Event at Durham University. The event was hosted by the
university’s Widening Participation Department, and students
took part in a carousel of activities led by Brilliant Club staff,
university staff and undergraduates. This included a campus
tour and other information, advice and guidance sessions.
To round off the event, our students attended a formal
certification ceremony including keynote speeches and the
presentation of certificates to celebrate their successful
completion of the programme.
The Brilliant Club will be delivering another STEM Scholars
Programme at High Tunstall commencing in Spring 2016 for
12 students from years 8 and 9. The opportunity to apply
for a place on the programme will be offered in the Autumn
term with full details of the application and selection process
shared with any interested students.
ALL THE
STUDENTS WHO
PARTICIPATED
WERE INVITED
TO A GRADUATION
EVENT AT
DURHAM
UNIVERSITY
Engineering Master Class Success
In May 2015, 6 budding engineers embarked upon a series of Ri
(Royal Institution) Engineering Master classes. Master classes
are hands on and interactive extracurricular sessions, led by
top experts from academia and industry for keen and talented
young people from all around the UK.
These master classes are annual events and can also take on
the format of Mathematics and Computer Science. The Director
of Education for Hartlepool, Mark Patton, chose Ri Engineering
classes to highlight the looming crisis faced by the UK as a
shortfall of 80,000 engineers, from all disciplines, falls upon us.
The classes themselves were held at Hartlepool Power station,
Hart Biologicals and culminated in a celebration event at
Northumbria University. The focus of the classes involved
construction, robotics, track design, designing a bund wall and
gearing. A common thread throughout each session was the
development of the so called ‘soft skills’ that large corporations
and industry prize so highly and that are often underdeveloped
in young people entering the workplace.
The master classes were a huge success and we will be repeating
the Engineering and hopefully introducing the Mathematics Ri
classes for 2015-2016. Watch this space!
08
Tunstall presents Lion King
The college production of ‘The Lion King’ was a ROARING success! It was the
most ambitious show we have ever produced and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Cast and crew pulled together to ensure that each night
went off with a bang.... quite literally with the pyrotechnics
that were in use! From the visionary face paint and costume
to the captivating acting, singing and and tumbling not
forgetting the unique turntable action that was on display
this really was a show to be proud of. As soon as one show
is done thoughts naturally progress to next year and what
we can do to top it. Rumours are already rife but I can
assure you no decisions have been made yet. All we know
for certain is that next years show has a lot to live up to!
THE SHOW WAS
A ROARING
SUCCESS AND
ENJOYED BY ALL
High Tunstall Prom is
Shaken...Not Stirred!
On Thursday 2nd July, High Tunstall Y11
leavers celebrated a successful 5 years at the
college with their leavers prom at Hardwick
Hall. A James Bond theme greeted the
students as they arrived in their finest dinner
suits and ball gowns.
Following dinner, Head Boy and Head Girl
presented thank you’s to several members
of staff that had worked with the students
arranging the Prom but also over the past 5
years within a range of academic subjects.
Then it was time to hit the dance floor with
Mr Aves’ band providing the entertainment
followed by a DJ who ensured that the
dance floor was full until the lights came on
and it was time to go home!
09
JAPP
Following on from our successful
Advanced Performers Program for
our students that currently attend
High Tunstall, the same program
has been offered to primary schools
throughout Hartlepool. Over forty
students from West Park, Throston,
Eldon Grove, Hart, Elwick, Lynnfield
and Rift House accessed our Juniour
Advanced Performers Program.
Students attended High Tunstall on
a monthly basis to access specialist
sessions such as football, netball,
athletics, handball, sports culture,
cricket and trampolining delivered by
subject specialist teachers.
form delivered high quality fitness
testing sessions and discussed how
to improve different components of
fitness. This gave the students an
excellent insight to what is required
to help develop them as a sports
person and also into what is required
in sport at GCSE and A Level.
In addition to this the students were
also given the opportunity to attend
Hartlepool 6th form at the beginning
and at the end of the academic
year. During these sessions the 6th
We look forward to working with
our new selection of students in
September.
The program has been that successful
and enjoyable we have extended
the program again this year and
welcome Clavering School onto the
program which has increased the
numbers to 50.
EXPRESSION MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2015
2014
Geography
Fieldwork
On the 30th of June and the 2nd
of July 2015, Year 10 Geography
students visited Osmotherly
to conduct research for their
Controlled Assessment which is
worth 25% of their overall GCSE.
Students collected primary
data in order to investigate
the positive and negative
environmental
impacts
of
tourism. Within the village,
students completed vehicle and
traffic counts, a visual impact
survey, tallies of a variety of
tourism management strategies
and conducted questionnaires
with both locals and tourists.
Students then walked to Cod Beck
Reservoir where they measured
footpath erosion, drew a field
sketch and conducted another
visual impact survey. The trip
allowed students to explore the
National Park, take photographs
as evidence for their controlled
assessment and understand
the attractiveness of the area
towards tourists. This gave
students the vital understanding
of how tourism can impact upon
the environment in both positive
and negative ways.
The BIG BANG Fair at Teesside
University 1st July 2015.
10
The Big Bang Fair welcomed 21 enthusiastic students
from High Tunstall for a day of ‘hands on’ activities.
Students had the opportunity to meet with prospective
employers in science and technology industries such
as; the RAF, Nissan and SSI. Students had an hour long
lecture from ‘The University of Zombieology’ followed
by a presentation on the science behind glowsticks.
In the afternoon students got to test out new technology
including virtual reality computer gaming and machines
operated using brainwaves. Some students then went
onto learn about the inner workings of a jet fighter
engine while others saw a virtual operating theatre.
Everyone gained a great insight into prospective
careers and new technologies in what was a great day
at Teesside University.
Year 9 STEM
Competition
University of Teesside
On Wednesday 17th June twelve
students from High Tunstall College
of Science attended the University
of Teesside to take part in a regional
STEM competition. Students were
organised into pairs and then placed
into a team of four with two students
from another school.
Each team had to complete three out
of four challenges throughout the day.
These were E-fit, vehicle challenge,
bridge construction and the robotic
challenge. The E-fit challenge was
really enjoyable and involved using
computer software to recreate the
face of a criminal in a fake crime scene
acted out by some of the university
students and teachers helping on the
day. It was very hard to do as we only
saw the criminal for about a minute
and we had to remember all of the
facial features. The challenge also
had a time limit of only thirty minutes.
Another challenge was bridge
construction where we had to design
and build a bridge out of paper, string
and tape which could support the most
weight. We only managed to support
200 grams which was disappointing
compared to the winning team which
managed 6 kilograms.
At the end of the day certificates,
wooden plaques and trophies were
awarded to the winners of each
challenge and the overall winners.
Students from High Tunstall College
of Science were very successful. Sam
Bird and Charlie Duxfield were in the
team that won the vehicle challenge
and Jessica Bibby and Kaylyn Keenan
were in the team that won the
E-fit challenge. However, the most
successful students were Mathew
Childs and Louis Nixon who were in
the team awarded overall winners.
They will now take their place in
the final which will be held at the
University of Sheffield in January.
11
Overall the day was really enjoyable
and it was fun to work with students
from other schools. All of the
challenges were challenging and hard
work but also very rewarding.
Girls Into
Engineering
On the 3rd June two of our Y10 girls attended NETA
training in Stockton for “Girls into Engineering”
day. They mixed with girls from the other schools
in Hartlepool and used tools and equipment to
make their own wall plaque in wood and stainless
steel. This was a valuable exercise for girls who are
considering the engineering profession. The girls
really enjoyed their day. We are hoping that more
can be arranged in the future.
EXPRESSION MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2015
Year 8
Communications Visit
On Tuesday 23rd June 2015, 63 students and 6 staff boarded
a double decker coach and headed off on the adventure
of the year! Thankfully, the weather was on our side as it
was a bright and sunny day. Here we headed for StratfordUpon-Avon to visit Shakespeare’s birthplace. After strolling
through Shakespeare’s house; we learnt a Tudor dance,
watched Shakespearean actors and cursed each other using
Shakespearean insults e.g. ‘Thou smell like mountain goat’.
12
The next day, we continued our Shakespearean quest,
visited the tranquil Ann Hathaway’s cottage and roamed
through the sweet smelling gardens. Did you know that
wealthy people in Shakespearean times, kept their bed in
the parlour – this was to show off their prize possession:
their beds! Shakespeare was even said to leave his wife his
‘second best’ bed upon his death! We then continued to
Mary Arden’s farm where students were able to stroke the
animals, heard geese and watch an owl display.
Next, we boarded the ‘Hogwarts Express’ as we ventured to
WB Studios in London to see the makings of Harry Potter!
This year we were lucky enough to take a stroll along the
passageway of the famous Hogwarts Express and look in
each window where Harry, Ron and Hermione actually sat.
Very exciting! All staff (even the two members of staff, who
will remain nameless, who knew nothing about Harry Potter)
were struck in awe! After a quick pint of Butter Beer in the
sun and a wave at the Night Bus, we headed through the
museum and into the gift shop where many students bought
wands and Bertie Botts jelly beans… teachers, parents and
carers beware! After a fantastic evening meal at ‘Jimmy’s
World’ next to Wembley Stadium we arrived at the hotel with
63 exhausted students and 6 exhausted staff members!
Thursday covered the ‘London Dungeons’ where we learnt
about Mrs Lovett and Sweeney Todd – Human Pie anyone?
Urgh! We also learnt about Guy Fawkes and Jack the
Ripper… Terrifying! Next, we recovered from our London
Dungeon experience by having a leisurely stroll through
the ‘Sea-life Aquarium’ where we saw: Cuban crocodiles,
sharks, poison dart frogs as well as fish in all different
shapes and sizes. Next step: London Eye! Here I settled
down on the bench in the middle of the London Eye with
my eyes glued shut trying to tackle my fear of heights
and trying to ignore the supportive comments from the
students in our capsule.
“Miss, what would you do if we get stuck at the top?” and,
“Miss, what would you do if the glass fell out?” Grrrr…
nothing to say on that score except what lovely, supportive
students in our capsule, ha ha!
Our evening meal was at the ‘Hard Rock Café’ where
everybody chilled out with the music and thoroughly
enjoyed the food. Our final step was to pop over to ‘Green
Park’ for some chill out time (right in the middle of a
Frisbee match) where Mrs Ovens was ready for a history
tour, however, she was somewhat disappointed when the
students wanted to run around and chill out, and only
2 students wanted to go on a tour and see Buckingham
Palace and wave at the Queen. Poor Mrs Ovens.
After a peaceful night’s sleep, we were ready for our
final adventure at the National History Museum where
we all found out exciting information about just about
everything, including dinosaurs! Very exciting! I had lots of
fun driving Mrs Cooper, Sophie and Leoni crazy – whether
this was fun for them; you’d have to ask them that! We
even had time for a form photo… well, until Will and Sean
photo-bombed us! Our journey home consisted of giggles,
games, selfies and trying to teach Holly how to be a lady!
Talk about stress…
Tunstall students, you have once more made me incredibly
honoured to be part of the Tunstall family. You conquered
fears, made friends and of course made me and the staff who
came with me, very proud! Some of you dealt with your fears
and challenged your emotions. Some of you (not naming
names) were just pure evil… feeding me ‘Doritoes Roulette’
crisps and ‘Bertie Bott’s’ vomit and earwax jelly beans – when
will I ever learn?
To Mrs Ovens, Mr Percival, Mr Aves, Mrs Cooper and Miss
Lambert, thank you for supporting me and the students on
this visit. Thank you for listening to my moans, laughing at
me and sometimes just shaking me! Thank you! So… who
wants to come next year?
As Tom would say, “Over and Out!”
Articles from students
for London 2015 visit.
The London trip was amazing! Starting from the awesome
activities and Lord Aves’ entertaining jokes, every minute
of the experience was great! My favourite part was the
‘Sea Life Aquarium’ as we got to experience animals like
never before! We got to touch starfish and sharks came
close to us… thankfully, we were safe behind the glass.
Huge turtles roamed the aquarium and pretty fish lit up
the tank with an array of colours. The London Dungeons
was exciting but nightmarsish at the same time! When
the lights went out, Josh immediately grabbed my t-shirt
and wouldn’t let go until the lights came back on! I wasn’t
so scared of Sweeney Todd but when Jack the Ripper
arrived at the bar, it was definitely an experience I would
never forget! This trip was fabulous and I wouldn’t miss it
for the world! For the final time... “Over and Out!”
I enjoyed every minute of the 2015 London trip! One of
the funniest parts was the London Dungeons. The Jack
the Ripper section was definitely the most frightening.
We crept into a sinister bar after already jumping out of
our skin in Sweeney Todd’s barbers. Slowly, I sat down
at one of the few tables- big mistake! Suddenly, the lights
went off and everyone screamed! Lightning flashed and
Jack the Ripper appeared in front of our table while I was
deafened by screams. It was really funny seeing everyone
so scared and I would definitely go back in the future.
By Harry Moor
Thomas Vasey
My favourite part of my London 2015 experience was in
the dungeons when Mr Percival was constantly chosen to
take part in the scenes. This included him getting hit with
a hammer and his ‘man parts’ cut off. This was hilarious!
Also, when we were in the Jack the Ripper scene, Amelia
jumped out of her skin as she felt a hand on her neck but then she realised that it was just Olivia screaming:
“PROTECT YOUR THROATS!” and holding hers and
Amelias necks for ‘protection’. For me, the dungeons
were more funny than terrifying as I was in stitches for
most of the tour. I loved London this year and wish I could
do it again. Thanks for organising it Miss Ferry!!
Ellie Griffiths
My favourite part of the London 2015 trip was the bus
journey home when we had many giggles between Mrs
Ovens and Miss Lambert. We created a game where we
had to name animals beginning with each letter of the
alphabet. This got so stressful, that we decided to make
up our own animals and then got accused of cheating, us
cheat? Never! Much to Miss Lamberts disgust, Mrs Ovens
group were the overall winners, whoop whoop! London has
been a very exciting experience and I would love to do it all
again. Thank you for organising this Miss Ferry.
Amelia Roberts
My favourite memory of London was in the Dungeon, I
stood at the front with Miss Cooper because I don’t like
being in the dark. The biggest mistake was standing near
the front, one of the actors in the Guy Folks scene handed
me a red letter to take through to another scene. I was
terrified. I didn’t even really listen to who I had to give it
to because I was so worried. In the next room, right at the
start the actor said my name so I stayed at the back, but
then everyone looked at me so I just handed that to him.
The next actor saw that I looked worried, so she made
me and Robert sit it different cages in the torture room
as well as Mr Percival who got picked on in nearly every
room. This torture room was one of the most frightening
rooms because my chair suddenly started moving! As
soon as I got let out of the cage, I ran out to hide next
to someone else. The rest of the rooms were really fun
and the actors were extremely good, very scary! I really
enjoyed London and I wish I could do it again. Thank you
to all the teachers that came and supported us when we
needed it.
Sophie Hill
EXPRESSION MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2015
13
Tunstall Go Skiing
On Monday 30th April 2015 48 students and
staff embarked on a trip of a life time to the
USA for a ski and site seeing spectacular.
We spent the first few days skiing at Killington resort where
the beginners perfected there snowplow turns, intermediates
perfected their parallel skiing and the advanced group master
the art of jumps. Towards the end of the week the group got the
opportunity to try out new challenges at Pico Resort. I was very
impressed with how quickly students progressed through the
skiing levels and the determination shown.
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On day 6 our adventure moved to New York City, first stop
Woodberry Common Outlet where students shopped till they
dropped. In NYC we had the opportunity to see Manhattan at
night from the top of the Empire State Building and we took a
cruise around the Hudson River to see the sites during the day.
The trip was a huge success and students were a credit to the
school and to themselves.
Languages
for Lads
On Friday 5th June a group of our talented Year 8 linguists
travelled to St James’ Park in Newcastle to take part in the
annual Languages for Lads day. There were a range of activities
to choose from including an interview in the N.U.F.C. press
room with a French footballer (in French of course!) learning
Chinese, a tour of the stadium and also an opportunity to
talk to languages students from Newcastle University. Staff
involved with the organisation of the day were particularly
impressed with our students who were a credit to the college
both in terms of their outstanding behaviour and linguistic
ability.
Students and staff had a fantastic day and thoroughly enjoyed
this memorable experience.
Youth Speaks A Passion for Debate
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On February 12th, High Tunstall Debate Teams expertly delivered
their annual ‘Youth Speaks’ competition speeches to the Rotary Club
Judges and an audience of local dignitaries, parents, colleagues
and friends. Unlike many other local Schools and Colleges, we again
entered both an Intermediate (Year 7-9) and Senior (Year 10-SixthForm) Team for the national competition with many weeks and
months of preparation by the students, culminating in polished
deliveries at this years’ event.
For the Intermediate Team, Annabelle Thomas eloquently delivered
an impassioned speech relating to ‘What constitutes a Sport’, in which
some sports were debated on their credibility whilst others were
compelled to be designated sports, despite the lack of accreditation.
Annabelle was very ably backed up by Chairperson Jade Burnett, and
last minute Vote of Thanks, Steffi Ellison, who adeptly concluded on
Annabelle’s deliberations with only 3 hours notice. Nice work Steffi!!!
On this occasion the team came a close second, but almost certainly
will return to succeed next year.
In regard to the Senior Team, it was returning competitors, Ella
Maxwell, Megan Smart and Kate Todd-Davis who developed a
masterly dialogue on whether the UK is seeing an ‘End to the Page
3 ethos’? Both, professionalism and passion in delivery saw this
trio wow the judges with technique and poise to conquer all other
opponents in the District including the Hartlepool Sixth Form College
and English Martyrs School and Sixth Form college, to progress to the
North of England Finals.
Keep debating – and if you wish to get involved next year, please
speak to Mr Leary.
EXPRESSION MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2015
Year 7 Rugby
High Tunstall College of Science claimed
their second Town Rugby Championship
in as many weeks, with the Year 7 squad
claiming the spoils at the inaugural
tournament, a week after the Year 8
squad had claimed the same title.
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Hartlepool Rovers RFC were the host of
the Year 7 festival of rugby, as schools
from across the town pitted themselves
against one another. HTCS were drawn
against Dyke House in the first round, and
after barn storming runs from the powerful
quartet of Lewis Hale, Jake Tennant, Aaron
Muir and Oliver Wilson, the boys from High
Tunstall led 20-0 at half time. However,
with the windy conditions reversed and a
series of changes made for the second half,
Dyke House came back in to the game and
scored in the dying moments to level things
up at 20-20 as the final whistle sounded.
The previous result of English Martyrs
beating Dyke House, meant that the
final was to be contested between
High Tunstall and a strong English
Martyrs outfit. However, the boys from
HTCS were firing on all cylinders when
the kick-off arrived and the powerful
carrying capacity of the forwards set-up
a great platform for the backline to work
from. Fed by scrum half Jacob Parker,
explosive and dynamic back play from
Tyler McGaw, Tom Windsor and Alex
Davison tested the defensive qualities of
the English Martyrs team. However, the
pressure was consistent and gaps were
exploited ensuring that High Tunstall ran
in 5 tries with a final result of 25-0 and
crowning High Tunstall College of Science
Year 7 rugby squad Town Champions!
As with the Year 8 team, this squad will
now progress to the Tees Valley County
round of the tournament and represent
Hartlepool against the best schools in
the surrounding area.
The Independent Learning Hub News
Phew. Summer term has been very busy in The Hub with a
complete re-stock of the old, very tired fiction. We now have
thousands of pounds of new, vibrant, popular novels on the
shelves just waiting to capture your imagination. This includes
the most popular books for boys and girls nationally and
books requested by our student voice. With titles ranging from
”Diary of a Wimpy Kid” to Charlie Higson’s “The Dead”, there is
something for every age and ability to borrow. Trust me- there
is nothing better at boosting your English than reading a book!
We would love some feedback and would be delighted to display
any reviews of our new books.
Come along during break or lunch, or before and after school to
browse, read, research or revise. Facilities include 17 computers
for student use, a printer/copier and paper, pens or any other
resources that may be needed for homework or revision purposes.
Ms Gunn and Mrs Burton are around every day to give support,
especially in English and Science and we have a new member to
The Hub team, Mrs McKee who will be there to give Maths support
so drop in and check us out. Mrs Thompson is also located in the
Hub if you require any Careers information, advice or guidance.
Also this term, I will be looking for new members of our two KS3
and KS4 book clubs, so if you love reading, or want to improve
with the support of other students, come along to The Hub
anytime and enrol. We meet just once per month, in a friendly and
relaxed atmosphere, after school. Refreshments ARE included.
On Wednesdays, Ms Lambert and Mrs Burton still run the ever
popular, general knowledge quiz. Teams of up to 4 are invited to
join with chocolate for the winners. As the questions vary from
spelling to The Simpsons, you never know who will triumph each
week. It might be you. Also watch out for regular competitions
and other extra-curricular activities that include Arts and Crafts,
Eco-schools and Revision Skills.
Last but not least is the hunt for some new student librarians
owing to the departure of our year 11s. Cameron and Amy are
looking for students to give up their break or lunch time one
day per week. Full training on the library system will be given
and certificate awarded on completion to add to your record
of achievement. To apply, you need to write a letter explaining
why you want to be a Student Librarian and the ideas you have
to promote reading and the Independent Learning Hub. Address
your letter “Dear Librarian” and hand it in to the Hub. We will be
in touch.
Hope to see you soon in the Hub,
Grimm Tales
Thirty Four, High Tunstall students have been selected
to have their writing published after entering a regional
competition. To celebrate World Book Day students
were encouraged to enter the Young Writers’ Grim
Tales mini saga competition which was open to all 11
to 18 year olds in the North East of England. Out of
70 entries, 34 were selected for this year’s anthology.
Students had to create a grim tale with a twist of no
more than 100 words. Grim Tales, containing the
students’ work will be published in August.
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Athletics
Round Up
On Monday 4th May 2015, our Junior and Inter Girls athletics teams
travelled over to the new athletics track at Prissock Base in Middlesbrough
for the Cleveland Round of the English Schools Athletics Competition.
Whilst hopes were high for the two squads, the performances on the day
meant that both squads qualified for the North East finals as Cleveland
Round winners, with our Junior Girls scoring 245 points and our Inter
Girls scoring a mammoth 303 points.
Outstanding performances from our Juniors included a 2.38min 800m
from Hannah Scarborough and a 31.2s 200m from both Holly Bentham
and Maddie Ryder. In the Inters, Ella Maxwell ran a 13.2s 100m, Alys
Beadle threw 31m with the javelin and Emma Scarborough jumped
4.6m in the long jump.
The teams now travel to the North East finals in Hull and Gateshead with
genuine hopes of progressing through to the national finals at Bedford
International Stadium.
EXPRESSION MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2015
Brussels
and Bruges,
June 2015
I can’t vouch for this but when a French person (in our case,
Miss Cotte) recommends a trip to Belgium, it does make you
curious. So we thought High Tunstall should go and find out
what Brussels and Bruges have to offer.
With impeccable timing, i.e. narrowly missing the industrial
action in Calais, we spent three days exploring.
Day One began with the highlights of Bruges: canal cruise,
ascent of the VERY STEEP AND NARROW bell tower, windmill
walk … and some shopping.
Day Two took in the Atomium (Belgium’s most famous
monument - nine silver spheres - which was built for the World
Fair of 1958) and the historic centre with its beautiful buildings,
palaces and unusual statue.
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A fantastic time was had by all!
It has been said
that the Ukraine
and Belgium are
more interesting
than the U.S.A. (or
something similar).
High Tunstall Crowned
County Champions
After five years together as a team, High Tunstall Under 16s had the opportunity to sign off
in style with a Durham County Cup Final appearance against St John’s from Bishop Auckland.
Preparations started well with the team holding a pre-match
meal in the fantastic Durham University Maiden Castle facility
and the team were buoyed further by being put in the Hartlepool
United first team changing room prior to the match.
The thorough preparations paid off as the team started the
match superbly. Great work from Euan Gordon, and Adam
Scott on the flanks, was creating numerous opportunities
for the High Tunstall forwards and John Stephenson scored
twice in quick succession to give the team the perfect start.
The opening exchanges were all High Tunstall and the two
goal lead soon turned into three when Ben Henderson hit a
clean strike from distance that somehow evaded the St John’s
goalkeeper’s grasp.
Credit however must go to the team from Bishop Auckland as
they regrouped and managed to make a real game of it by scoring
twice, just before half time, to make the score 3-2 at the interval.
The second half was a much more even affair and High Tunstall
had to demonstrate some resolute defending with Adam Cowan
and Will Griffiths stifling the St John’s front line on numerous
occasions. In addition, full backs Matthew Guffick and Callum
Shackleton were providing defensive steel and attacking outlet
in equal measure as High Tunstall sought to see the game off.
Despite controlling the majority of the match, the team were
indebted to a solid display from goalkeeper Josh Noble who
made several big saves during the second half.
The team were able to hold on to their narrow first half lead
and were able to be the first Hartlepool team since 1973 to lift
the Bert Hodgson trophy.
A great
achievement
from a superb
team, well
done to all
involved.
EXPRESSION MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2015
19
Top of the Tries
High Tunstall Year 8 Rugby Squad claimed
another piece of silverware when they were
crowned Hartlepool Town Rugby Champions
2015.
Drawn against Dyke House in the first round of the
tournament, the HTCS boys knew that they had to come
out of the blocks firing, and that is exactly what they did.
Through the powerful breakdown work of the forwards, a
solid platform was given for the dynamic and explosive
Tunstall backline to exploit space out wide, dually obliged by
the likes of Jared Rigby and Robert Boddy who went over for
successive scores each. At half time Tunstall went in 20-10
up but knew that they had to continue in the same manner
for another half.
The second half saw a number of interchanges from a
Tunstall squad comprising of 22 players, but each ensured
the standards of the first half were maintained. Struggling
with the difficult wind conditions the HTCS boys were
determined to stick with the game plan, continuing to work
the ball out wide with success, and the game finished 35-15
with Tunstall the victors.
The second game saw HTCS take on English Martyrs who had
a number of powerful forward runners among their ranks.
However, having got into their stride during the first game, the
Tunstall boys began to move through the gears considerably.
After excellent tries scored in the first half by the ever-imposing
Jared Rigby and sniping scrum half Stephen Smailes, a solid
platform was set for the Tunstall squad to produce some
fantastic free flowing rugby. With HTCS bringing the largest
squad to the tournament, the entire first half team was
replaced at half time with a completely different second half
team but the standard of rugby continued to grow throughout.
Debutants Hassan Berba and Kurt Lennon went over to score
their first tries in a HTCS shirt, followed by a number of scores
for captain Will Cameron, resulting in a 55-0 victory.
Both results combined ensured that High Tunstall College of
Science Year 8 Rugby Squad were crowned Town Champions
and they will now progress to the Tees Valley round and
represent Hartlepool amongst the best schools in Cleveland.
SOLID PLATFORM
WAS SET FOR THE
TUNSTALL SQUAD
TO PRODUCE
SOME FANTASTIC
FREE FLOWING
RUGBY
High Tunstall College of Science
Elwick Road, West Park, Hartlepool, TS26 0LQ
T: 01429 261446 E: htadmin@hightunstall.hartlepool.sch.uk www.htcs.org.uk
©2015 High Tunstall College of Science
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MAGAZINE