ACKWORTH TODAY SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11 - ACKWORTH GOES VIRTUAL - AGAIN! - Yuck Boys Live
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ACKWORTH TODAY SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11 ACKWORTH GOES VIRTUAL - AGAIN! Ackworth’s digital transformation a success story for Remote Learning Round II Home Away From Home With no way of getting home during the holidays, our boarding houses provided essential refuge for boarders during the pandemic Lockdown Learning Coram House and Nursery pupils show us their creativity at home!
HEAD’S ADDRESS ANTON MAREE A new dawn All schools will have to differentiate their “offer” as a consequence of Covid-19. We recognised that it represented an existential threat and introduced resources that have allowed us to act with alacrity and conviction. We remain determined, resilient and agile in terms of the adaptations we have made. It is vital to see the bigger picture and recognise what online learning means from an educational perspective. It should not escape us that the world emerging from the pandemic has more people than ever working from home who have all quickly learned to embrace collaborative platforms with heightened levels of global communication. 2 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11
ACKWORTH TODAY
O
ne can either look upon this as an aberration or more
productively as a once in a lifetime opportunity for change and
Ackworth School has embraced this in the most effective way.
In any crisis there are opportunities and we have accepted that
this is a new dawn in education. Consequently, we have looked
carefully at our provision to make sure that all the lessons learnt are
integrated across our resources and infrastructure.
Ackworth School has become one of only 54% of schools in the United
Kingdom that use devices to educate their senior school pupils. As we
are an all through school, we have also provided iPads to our pupils in
Year 5 and 6 in Coram House. Undoubtedly the availability of iPads for
teachers and pupils improves academic and pastoral provision during
periods of lockdown brought about by the pandemic. Our decision
to make these devices available gave pupils across the school access
to our curriculum through a full timetable, with minor differences to
allow for some respite from an undesirable full day on screen following
appreciation of research on the subject.
During lockdown, our teachers and in fact the school, have made
tremendous advances in terms of professional development. What is
critical is the need for this to continue. Upon return to the classroom we
cannot gravitate back to previous methods because that would render
the process we have gone through a waste of time. Flipped learning has
become the norm and pupils can access information from beyond the
classroom on our new hyper fast Wi-Fi platform installed in January
this year.
We will look at how we present information
in class and continue to deliver lessons in the
most effective manner possible. Pupils need
to be engaged in exciting new ways without
forgetting or setting aside essential traditional
skills. Classrooms must be adapted to excite
learning and INSET has to be made available
to extend and challenge our teachers.
Devices are managed from the cloud because our adults and pupils
need to be able to work from home with full time access to all the
resources the school has available for them. That mitigates against
further lockdown and somewhat fortuitously ends snow days!
We cannot rest upon our laurels; we have to plan ahead and can’t
ignore the technological changes that continue to take place. We know
that staff have been empowered and that they will continue to keep
their skills relevant and up to date. New technological developments
cannot be ignored, and we will continue to embrace them.
We can see that the best provision is a blend between synchronous and
asynchronous learning. I have already mentioned improved levels of
communication and some of you will have experienced online parents’
evenings, options evenings and even the school drama production. It
is possible that teachers have become more accessible than before
through Microsoft Teams and it is clear that pupils at Ackworth School
have benefited, not regressed, in their education.
We will continue to appreciate and understand the needs of our
pupils and introduce high quality solutions to make sure that we provide
an exceptional education. Parents who come to Ackworth now are
more interested in our mastery of online teaching and our capacity to
be flexible.
www.ackworthschool.com | 3
CATCH UP
Thank you for Senior School Production
your support
Theory of
The Imogen Young Trust Fund is a charity
that helps support pupils at Ackworth to
access extracurricular music, theatre tuition
and experiences. Traditionally we take
a retiring collection to maintain funding
Relativity
levels but in the circumstances this was not
possible. We would like to thank those who
contributed to the GoFundMe page where
a grand total of £270 was raised. We are
very grateful for your support, particularly
during these difficult times.
this amateur production is presented
by arrangement with music theatre
international (Europe)
A pupil’s view
Putting on the musical The Theory of
Relativity was so much fun, especially at
these dark times right now in the world. It
was very good to have a goal and it was
nice to do something I love. I enjoyed
going backstage before and after each
show, because it was so much fun to
take loads of group photos, so that we
remember this musical forever.
The Theory of Re lativity
Mr Boucher came up with a brilliant Music & Lyrics by
Book by
idea for this musical, because you can Neil Bartram
Brian Hill
keep in your bubbles and keep socially An Ackworth school production, December
2-4, 2020
distanced. One of the reasons this
Using QR codes musical was good is that if somebody
needed to isolate or needed to pull out, it was easy to cover up
Scanning a QR code on a tablet or without affecting the entire musical like most plays and musicals.
smart phone gives you access to further
information about a particular topic. You One of the challenges we faced was that it was kind of hard to
will find QR codes throughout this edition practice singing with masks on because you couldn’t hear the singing
of Ackworth Today. as much, but we pulled through and we still managed to do it.
Step 1 On iPhone/iPad, simply open We were very lucky to be able to still produce a musical because most
the Camera app. On other schools were not allowed to do it.
devices, install a QR code
We didn’t know if we would have a live audience, but we were lucky
reader and open it.
and we did have a live audience. We performed it to year groups,
Step 2 Hold your device over the so one day 2nd form would see it and the second day 3rd form would
QR code so it is clearly visible watch it. For people outside the school who weren’t in our bubble, they
within the screen. It may watched it over Zoom.
automatically scan, or you
Takarra
may have to press a button
onscreen.
Step 3 A successful scan will take you
directly to the associated online
content. Enjoy the magic of
Ackworth Today brought to life!
Scan Me!
4 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11
ACKWORTH TODAY
A musical we shall never forget, in a year we shall never forget! any effects on our larynx; Mr Boucher can be quite bossy
As a cast and in the ethos of Ackworth School we persevered, when it comes to protecting the quality of his productions!
becoming more resilient than any of us could have ever
imagined. If I would have ever been told that I would be Multiple self-isolations hit us hard as we began to pull the
wearing a mask to sing in rehearsals, unable to stand close to production together, one self-isolating throughout the
any other members of the cast I would have wondered what performance dates. Bella sadly had to watch from home as
they were talking about, but this is how we had to adapt. Rachel rose to the challenge of taking the part on with less
than a week until the performance. My personal favourite
The musical itself was The Theory of Relativity not just in terms performance in the musical was ‘The End of The Line’
of physics theory but it also reflected the way in which people performed by Grace and Libby playing Sara and Jenny.
as individuals relate and behave around one another; life as
we knew it pre-2020 was one thing, our relativity changing Taking part was not just a good experience but it was a
over the course of a year and cumulating in the performances mental challenge that I believe gave us all more strength
that we did via Zoom! The Sunday rehearsals during to overcome difficult circumstances. I would also like to
lockdown were a welcome exemption of the rules, an equally say on behalf of all of the cast and myself how we will miss
appreciated cup of tea made on arrival, not to mention some Libby, Maisie, Ben, Harry and Rachel so much.
excitement being able to get out of the house.
‘The distinction between the past, present and future is
Team spirit overflowed once the sugar and chocolate only a stubbornly persistent illusion.’ - Albert Einstein.
kicked in from massive share bags of Heroes and Skittles,
Alexandria
sadly these were banned, not to save our teeth but to stop
As COVID-19 blasted England, seemingly with a mind of through the dressing room. We covered each other in bright
its own, much to Boris Johnson’s dismay the virus was not orange makeup (much to the boys’ embarrassment). We
being held back by the beautiful blue passports he was insulted each other about how slow the other person was at
so in love with. To the soon to be cast of The Theory of swapping their mic. We brought each other blankets to face
Relativity, we hoped that the power of the stage would hold the sub-zero temperatures of the Fothergill Theatre, and
back the virus. We prayed to the gods of musical theatre took our anger out on the radiators that radiated about as
(Stephen Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Webber) that we much heat as a wooden spoon. We taught each other to use
would be able to perform in the highly anticipated school the right hand instead of the left in that choreo. Some of us
play. Of course, we knew it would be virtually impossible. Yet, sacrificed our dignity by wearing the most diabolical wigs.
we still hoped that somehow we would find a way.
We sang, danced, laughed and cried together. We
Amid the uncertainty, casting for The Theory of Relativity became a family. And when it was all over, we had the
went ahead. It was like a break in the clouds, somewhere chance to reflect on just how lucky we had been. Because
that all the cast could step away from real life and into although we complained about trying to sing through
another reality. A reality in which we learn that everyone is masks, it was worth it. And although it was difficult to stay
connected, everyone matters, and everyone can make 2m apart from each other, it was worth it. Because “in the
a difference. middle of every difficulty lies opportunity”.
As we learnt our songs and our parts, and gathered for To have the opportunity to fall into a universe where
rehearsals, we all developed unique relationships. We were Corona is still just the name of a beer, where masks are
a team. Although, we were a team that was constantly only worn on Halloween and where
terrified that all our hard work would be put to waste: people aren’t rioting over toilet
what if Paul never gets to say he is allergic to cats? What if roll was so uplifting and
Adam never brings her one red rose? What if Jenny never refreshing. The universe of
meets Sara? After every rehearsal of belting Nothing The Theory of Relativity is
Without You, we had to brace for the news that we would a remarkable one, and one
never belt it in front of anyone but the mirror. that it has been a privilege
to explore.
But – that news never came.
Grace
So in performance week we belted it to the school, and to
Zoom, and probably to everyone in a 5 mile radius of the
area. We learnt how to waltz (well... we tried). We sang each
of our songs with all our hearts. We blasted Christmas songs
www.ackworthschool.com | 5
CATCH UP
Spooky
happenings
The children of Coram House fully immersed themselves in the Halloween
holiday by getting involved with pumpkin carving. Even Ben Barker and
Paula Ward got into the spirit.
Over in senior school the boarders also got to enjoy traditional Halloween
activities, including a Halloween feast and disco!
Old Scholars’ Cup winner 2020
Anti-Bullying Congratulations to Madison Cusworth who has
been awarded the Old Scholars’ Cup for 2020.
Week 2020 Under normal circumstances Madison would have
been presented with the Cup during last year’s
Here at Ackworth School we stand Open Day. This sadly was not possible. Madison
strongly united against bullying. Sam also receives a cheque for £250 in recognition
Baker (centre), Charlotte, and Eleanor of the generous support, commitment and
showed their support for Odd Sock time given during her time at the school and
Day, an Anti-Bullying Alliance initiative particularly during the last academic year; as a
designed to celebrate what makes us School Officer and Upper Sixth Student, and as
all unique. a considerate, helpful and kind person whose
efforts were very much appreciated and have
now been deservedly recognised.
6 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11
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Festive
fun
Christmas Jumper Day
came to Ackworth
School on December
8th. The children enjoyed
a hot chocolate at
break and shared a
festive lunch!
www.ackworthschool.com | 7
SPRING WATCH
Weather
Extremes
Winter delivered a series of extreme weather
events across the UK and created spectacular
scenes around the school too. Some of our
boarders in residence were delighted to see
snow for the very first time! Heavy rain caused
significant local flooding, and the deep
freeze that followed changed the Ackworth
landscape and inspired some incredible
drone photography.
8 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11
ACKWORTH TODAY www.ackworthschool.com | 9
BOARDING
Spring
Half Term
February 12th marked a special achievement:
all our boarders successfully made it through
a full half term of remote learning, and we are
Lunar New Year
exceptionally proud of them. Remote learning We celebrated the end of half
does not come easy to everyone and our term in style, with our boarders
boarders have the added pressure of being enjoying a delicious Chinese
hundreds or even thousands of miles away banquet in our beautifully
from their loved ones, home comforts and decorated dining hall. Just like
pets. Otto, the working cocker spaniel who the Ox, our boarders have shown
lives onsite, paid a visit to the boarding house such resilience and strength and
and it is amazing how something so little can what better way to reward them.
mean so much. He will be a regular visitor from A huge thank you to our caterers
now on! All our boarding staff have gone above who put on a show stopping
and beyond to ensure that our boarders are as evening.
happy as possible, and we thank them for that!
“ I enjoyed this half term a
lot in the school. It was a
great and positive week.
I go to football training in
“ After this rather exhausting half term filled with online school, the one week holiday was
well deserved. The boarding program allowed us to re-charge and be fully ready to start
another term motivated to learn. I was never bored as we had lots of activities throughout
the day. I really enjoyed that we had the possibility to go to the sports hall or the fitness suite
every morning and also at almost anytime. We also had a Chinese New Year celebration which was amazing not
school have provided only because there was fantastic food but also because we all got together and spent time
many great activities with our friends. We also had a Valentine’s Party with music and dancing. Everyone enjoyed
for us e.g. cooking class, it! On the weekdays we also had outside activities. I probably enjoyed these the most as it
quiz, archery, etc. Lastly, felt good going outside more often and competing for fun. On the first day we were split
all the staff are the ones into four groups in which we would collect points in order to win at the end of the week. We
who played the most had a different activity every day such as archery, bushcraft, orienteering and a leadership/
important part in this teamwork workshop. Bushcraft was very educative as we learnt how to light a fire and keep
time. Since they have it going. I also think that the leadership and team workshop was very useful as it taught
taken care us very well us how to properly work together as a team. One day we also had a virtual escape room
“
and they have made my
half term break to be a
which was very fun but also competitive as we were competing against other teams for
a prize. Teamwork was the most important component in this challenge as everyone was
wonderful week. required to think and contribute. Two cinema nights were also on our program which were
a nice way to relax in the evening. Apart from all the activities we also had free time where
Max (Thailand) “
we could do pretty much anything we wanted to. We also had brunch and supper everyday
which was always very tasty. This half term holiday really helped me wind down and prepare
for the next term. It felt great to have some time away from School.
10 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11 Samuel (Germany)ACKWORTH TODAY
Virtual Escape Room
One of the evening activities saw the
boarders become ‘Rogue Agents’ in a virtual
escape room experience. They worked in
groups of 5 to solve numerous tasks to set
their team free. Exceptional teamwork
made it a huge success!
Valentine’s Celebration
The boarders love the opportunity to get dressed up for a
celebration. With them being in one household, we were able to
have a Valentine’s party.
Activities
It was lovely to see the boarders embrace
the great outdoor space we are so
blessed with here at Ackworth School.
Each afternoon we would meet on the
Green to take part in outdoor activity.
The activities included archery, bushcraft,
orienteering and leadership skills. It was a
great opportunity for many of them to try
something new.
“ I just finished first spring half-term, distance-online learning
made everyone exhausted, half-term break was something
that I expected for quite a long time. Although it sounded
boring when you had to stay at school and could not go
everyone prepared for the Valentine ball. It was a party with
snacks, lovely cake and also music when we could dance
and sing together. From Monday to Friday, we had several
activities in the afternoon with United Education which was
out for the whole week like normal, thanks to Mrs Gilbert extremely fun. We were divided in teams and competed in
and all lovely staffs, I had a brilliant half term that I never archery, bushcraft, treasure hunting and some games with
expected. the ball. For me, archery was the funniest activities for the
whole week even at the first time, I was quite scared to try.
At the first day of the break, we had a celebration meal I also had my own free time to finish several movies while
for the Lunar New Year that the food was so nice and also was drinking coke and had some grapes. A week passed so
the decoration was beautiful. I felt like I was at home at fast and we have BBQ night in Friday and Pizza party on
that time. It definitely was a lovely beginning of the half- Saturday as a brilliant end of the half-term break.
term break. Cooking club with Mrs Maree on Saturday
afternoon was always interesting when I learned how to It was the most memorable half-term break for me not only
make scones and flapjacks. A little message to Mrs Maree:” because of the pandemic and national lockdown but also
The flapjacks is brilliant, I can eat the whole thing by myself how I enjoyed it with my friends.
and will make it again.” After tea, we had a movie night at
Fothergill theatre which was a home cinema. My Sunday
“
Thanks to Mrs Gilbert and all the staff who made my
started with yoga class with Miss Devine that relaxation break more brilliant.
was always my favourite activity in yoga especially after Trang (Vietnam)
the first half-term. I really enjoyed the class, Thank you
Mrs Devine. Then Sunday evening was quite busy when www.ackworthschool.com | 11NURSERY
2021: Year of the Ox
Nursery pupils got into the spirit of the Lunar New Year by
taking the Chinese dragon they created down to Forest
School and learning traditional calligraphy.
Letting off
steam in the
Sports Hall
During lockdown, it is possible
that some parents might be
finding it difficult to provide safe
spaces where their child can burn off some energy. With this
in mind, we have been taking the children to the Sports Hall
each week. As well as practising their ball skills, the children
move to music and develop their balance and coordination.
PE fun on the M.U.G.A Having such a huge expanse of unobstructed, smooth floor
space, gives the children a welcomed opportunity to ‘let off
Despite the restrictions, children in Nursery have enjoyed some steam’ in a safe and secure environment.
energetic activities away from the classroom. The children
have enjoyed weekly PE lessons with Chris Parker on the
M.U.G.A, during which they have played games chosen to
promote ball skills and turn taking. Focusing on the aim and
the rules of each activity develops the children’s ability to
listen to, and follow, instructions whilst having lots of fun!
12 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11ACKWORTH TODAY
Welly Walk
We have been making the most of the beautiful
Ackworth School grounds and forest during our Friday
‘Welly Walk’. Each walk has a different theme to
engage the children’s interest and reinforce the week’s
topic. When learning about The Big Garden Birdwatch,
our budding ‘twitchers’ had a walk to the forest to
hang the bird cakes they had made in the trees. The
following week, they made binoculars, camouflaged
their faces with mud and crept into the forest, hoping
to get a closer look at our feathered friends…sshh!
Snow day
The ‘Snow day’ generated great excitement in the
Nursery. The timetable was suspended, and we all
donned our coats and wellies to make the most of the
unexpected treat! The children ran around making as
many footprints as possible in the untouched snow in
the pre-prep playground. The fun continued, making
snow figures and seeing who could throw the biggest
snowball at the teachers!
www.ackworthschool.com | 13CORAM HOUSE
Culture Challenge
Vivi has been busy developing her Japanese themed
additional learning challenge. The challenge was to find
out about Japanese culture, such as Geisha or Samurai,
using the links provided and your own research. The
information gathered could then be shared in any way
the children wished. Vivi watched a BBC4 documentary
and ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ before she recorded a video
which included a Japanese tea ceremony.
Coram House Head’s
Address, Sally Slater
The Spring Term 2021 will probably go down as one of
the coldest I can remember since I came to Ackworth
School in 2008. It will also go down as one of the most
memorable!
When online learning became the new normal again
in January, teachers and parents adapted more
quickly than last March. From the start, teachers were
delivering lessons following roughly the routine of the
school day, whereas others created pre-recorded
lessons. Parents and staff are now having little or no
face-to-face contact and how we teachers look after
the wellbeing of pupils is also very different, as we are
unable to physically see them, only via Teams. Scan Me!
E-safety has become a great responsibility for all of
us. We have had to ensure safety is paramount with
frequent reminders about “chat” and “message”
expectations.
In school, we normally have conversations everywhere
– offices, meetings, classrooms – this has changed! All
conversations happen via email or Teams. Sometimes
they are misunderstood or are not clear enough and
sometimes they are taken the wrong way and cause
upset. We have endeavoured to keep communication Recognition of Support
clear and concise, as parents have become more
Coram House received a special recognition certificate
engaged in the learning process of their children.
from The Prince of Wales Hospice for their involvement in
Never has it been more important to remember that December’s Reindeer
wellbeing is so essential. We have addressed Mental Run! Money was
Health week for the first time this year. It has become jointly raised through
clear that online or screen time affects people in many sponsorship across
different ways. Live Teams sessions have helped us many schools and
to connect with our pupils, as well as allowing pupils will fund the running
to talk with their friends, sing a song, tell a joke or costs of the hospice
wish someone a happy birthday. Thinking about our for four full days.
wellbeing must become a priority for the future.
The pupils have been fantastic – so resilient and
adaptable. As I walk around the classrooms of key work
children and watch their enthusiasm for learning, and
as I listen to lessons with their teacher instructing and
encouraging from afar, I feel proud to be part of the
process. We are such resilient creatures even when the
chips are down! Let us give ourselves some credit for all
that we have achieved and strive to enjoy some of the
activities that we may never have experienced before.
14 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11ACKWORTH TODAY
Roaring
Reception!
Reception have been discovering the
dinosaurs. They have been on virtual
tours around dinosaur exhibitions around
the world, created flying pterodactyls,
crafting dinosaur masks and making
their very own dinosaur fossils!
We finished the term by celebrating
Chinese New Year. Bircy and Rain
from the senior school made us a
video explaining how they celebrate
the Chinese New Year in their home
countries. Whilst we missed having them
in our class for our annual carousel of
activities, the children learnt so much
from the video they had created.
Year 5 explore Children’s Mental Health
Week through lockdown scrapbooks
Year 5 children created their own scrapbook pages to represent their
time in lockdown. This involved defining emotion words, building a bank
of feelings they currently have, and considering how these feelings might
change in six months’ time when life is hopefully a bit more normal. The
children then created a page of photos, emotions and examples of things
they have done during their time in lockdown.
www.ackworthschool.com | 15CORAM HOUSE Busy Year 4 Year 4 children have been enjoying the variety of activities set during remote learning and our outdoor learning work has been a welcome addition. Children have been keen to find the items on our ‘wonderful winter hunt’ and to create bird feeders to encourage wildlife into their gardens. Our focus for Art has been to create collages. Our collages have been inspired by Housaki and Lynda Biggers. The children have put in a great deal of effort to sketch their designs and use a variety of different media to recreate the artworks. Their use of colour and texture is stunning! French culture has been studied recently and Year 4 has learnt about the tradition of ‘la Galette des Rois’. The tradition celebrates the arrival of the three kings to visit baby Jesus on Epiphany. Children have created posters to explain this tradition and some have even baked the traditional pastry desert! They looked delicious Year 4! Being kind to others, especially whilst at home for long periods of time, is very important. As one of the additional learning tasks we set the challenge to do something nice for someone else each day. Our Year 4 children are bringing smiles to their families by completing acts of kindness each day. We have some very keen scientists in Year 4 who have developed their skills carrying out scientific experiments whilst working remotely. We have been investigating changes of state using household materials. The images show melting using chocolate and varying temperatures of water. Non-chronological reports have been one of our topics during remote learning. Year 4 children have worked diligently to research and create reports about different endangered animals. They have made excellent use of layout and language, and the reports have been a pleasure to read! 16 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11
SENIOR SCHOOL ACKWORTH TODAY
Online Learning – A Moment in Time
Lynda Barker, Deputy Head Academic (Acting)
of technology and the dogged determination of Ali Boucher
January 11th 2021 A new term, a new and his team! I don’t think we should be surprised really.
start, lots of new year resolutions. “I’m But back to January 2021: the theatre transformed; not
going to work harder or maybe smarter, for another triumph of comedy or tragedy on the stage –
I’m going to keep up with all my prep no, the scene set was covered in plastic, screens erected,
booths created, staff training, similarly covered in plastic,
and hand everything in on time.” These gowns, gloves, masks – what to do – what not to do –
thoughts will have reverberated around when to spray and spray again – could you blow your nose
many heads as we all prepared to return please and sanitise your hands again - and could you
please put this up your nose – yes we know it may make
to school; refreshed, renewed, revitalised, your eyes water - school was ready to open under the
ready for the new term to begin. How new normal, however strange, with our Fothergill Testing
long these resolutions would last was the Station open for business. Laura Lunn in her inimitable
organised way had files ready to receive the hundreds of
unknown quantity. test sheets we would generate day by day. Alison Maree
led the team of testers day after day with a willing band of
other staff making sure we could do what we had to do.
Boarders travelled back, were tested and put into quarantine
with areas specially created so that they and everyone else However, we were not masters of our own destiny; we like
was safe. Strange times, uncertain times, but schools were all schools were in the hands of the government and the
a priority, schools had to stay open - in reality they never announcement was made on 11th January that schools
closed - it would all be fine. Let’s just get through quarantine, would not open. All that hard work, exams being set by
get tested again, just to be sure and get back to normal! teachers, revision for mocks by pupils, preparing school by
support staff, preparing a testing station etc etc – all put on
5th form and Upper 6th had been revising hard hold – how long for? We do not know, we watch, we wait.
throughout the Christmas break; hours spent pouring
over written notes, previously marked pieces of work, And so to online learning. New iPads the tools of our trade;
determined to learn from previous mistakes and achieve live lessons – can we all turn our screens on please, a
the best they could, with mocks due to start 11th January familiar phrase repeated throughout each day – many
2021. Everything ready, desks neatly spaced, further familiar faces could be seen; some happy and relaxed,
apart than normal, just to be sure; two spaces being used not fazed at all, others reluctant, shy, hiding behind the
instead of one everything that could have been thought security of the blank screen. What a difference technology
of, had been done. Teachers had prepared the exams, makes – we are so lucky compared to many.
testing, stretching, challenging but fair; would all the hard
work pay off? Support staff had worked tirelessly to put Work submitted has been shared and celebrated, Special
everything in place, pupils had prepared diligently to show Mentions abound, rewards for doing your best. Parents’
what they could really do, mocks were so important and Evenings have been achieved, more wonders of modern
a good practice for the demands of the summer! This technology. We see children flourishing, benefitting from
message had been repeated over and over again, just to the skills they are learning alongside ambitious teachers,
be sure it had been heard and understood. who are also learning new skills everyday from each other.
Questions everywhere – how do you do this – how do you
And then – schools might not open, might close – no, do that – arrgh – my iPad won’t work; I’ve sent my work Sir,
surely not – schools that had thought about closing early really I have – really – could you send it again – the sheet
before Christmas had been threatened with fines – how appears to be blank! No longer the excuse – my mum put
could things change so quickly? it in the washing machine, the dog ate it, I left it on the
bus; technology doesn’t allow anyone to hide. Many are
First a delay, schools would open later, testing had to be doing amazingly well, striving to do their best. 5th Formers
set up so we would all be safe. Training for staff, how to and Upper Sixth are still waiting for their mocks knowing
do a Lateral Flow Test – pupils and teachers all needed exams will not go ahead again in the summer – what’s the
testing – how often – too often! point some of them say – teachers work hard to reassure
them – help them understand how everything they do
The Fothergill Theatre, so recently the scene of our socially
will count.
distanced Production Theory of Relativity, where song and
dance had echoed through the walls, children doing what The resilience we have collectively developed will stand
children should be doing, having fun, working together but everyone in good stead. And we will all look back on
2m apart to show off their talents, working together but January 2021, this strange and uncertain time and know it
2m apart to support and challenge – how could this have was a brief moment in time we experienced together and
been done in this strange and uncertain time – but it was – whereas always we prevailed. Non sibi sed omnibus; (Not
recorded and shared – watched live through the wonders for oneself but for all).
www.ackworthschool.com | 17SENIOR SCHOOL Lockdown Art Senior pupils have been creating some amazing artwork in lockdown. 1st Form Studying Architecture using both digital and traditional methods in creating responses. 2nd Form Studying Portraiture - looking at the work of M.C. Escher, creating photographic responses and learning how to edit using photo editing Apps on iPads. 3rd Form Studying Everyday Objects and in particular the work of Michael Craig- Martin; using both traditional and digital methods to draw. 4th Form Studying Natural Forms inspired by the work of Karl Blossfeldt; digitally recording, editing and manipulating imagery as well as developing responses in a range of media. First Form - Architecture Second Form - Portraiture 18 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11
ACKWORTH TODAY
Fourth Form - Natural Forms
Third Form -
Everyday Objects We are
going to the
Olympics!
With hope that the upcoming
Olympics will not be cancelled, we
as a school are racing to Japan!
Walking, running, cycling or even doing
housework are all included in building
up distance. Visiting different places
along the way and arriving in Japan,
we will be hosting a themed week in
the Summer Term with several different
activities taking place. This is a whole
school event for Coram House and
senior school.
www.ackworthschool.com | 19SENIOR SCHOOL
English When the question comes I just
smile happily,
Because inside I know I love my family.
Outstanding First
That’s why,
I put up with the noise.
Olivia, 1P
Year Poetry I like noise.
The boom of a bomb, the whoosh of
First Form pupils have been studying poetry this half-term, and writing a rocket,
their own extended metaphor poems based on ‘How To Eat A Poem’ by Eve The clicking and tinkling of coins in
Merriam. They looked at onomatopoeia in Jessie Pope’s ‘Noise’ and wrote a pocket,
their own noise poems based on this. The screams and moans of peoples
in pain,
I like to hear them again and again,
How To Manipulate How To Walk A Poem The ringing of bells,
Pumps with bad smells,
A Poem Don’t be shy. A door when it slams,
Don’t be scared. Attach a lead, The clapping of hands,
Control it. Give a gentle tug and head on your Loud music brings joy to my ears,
Take the wheel and handle it. way. Loud music leaves my mother in tears,
Bish, bash, bosh, wallop, bang , smash
Many things You do not need a coat or boots I’m so noisy this poem will crash!
to manage, operate and orchestrate. or hat or gloves or scarf.
Manipulate Sunny, 1P
For there is no route
In any way possible.
No path
Ways to use it, No road I like noise.
Twist and turn it, No direction The crunch of a snowflake, the
Bounce and stretch it, No choice anyway. screaming of a child,
Push and pull it, The woof of a dog that has gone wild,
Noah, 1P
No waste, The splat of a snowball, the
Just exploitation. chattering of the chins,
The howling of the wind that knocks
Pamela, 1P My Noise Poem over the bins,
The screeching of tyres, the flick of
I put up with the noise. the ice skates,
The bang of a door when my The slurp of the hot chocolate by your
How To Play A Poem brother is mad. mate,
Don’t be shy. The murmur of my sister when she The sizzle of the chicken, the poof of
Play its metaphorical strings with is sad. the flour,
a bow of imagery The clank of a pan as it hits the floor. The chatter of the people who play
Or you could play its keys with The plead of my sister, at dinner, board games for an hour.
sibilance. when she asks for more. I like noise.
The scream of my dad when his
You do not need a pick or a pair team score. Anna, 1P
of drumsticks.
Or a rubber headed mallet.
With its sheet music of words you Creative Thinking in Food and Nutrition
can play it
Or string it During online learning the First Form pupils have been looking at Sensory Analysis.
Or pick it For some this wasn’t the easiest task as they discovered what they liked/disliked
Or pluck it about a biscuit product. They also carried out a simple nutritional analysis of a
Or chant it to your hearts content crumble using ‘Food Explore - Food a Fact of Life’. Practical work has been shared
To make the perfect music with siblings or the children have cooked the dish as a meal for the whole family.
A poem of the heart.
Second Formers have been developing existing products to see if they could
Olivia, 1P produce an innovative food product which could be sold from a food truck at
the Tokyo Olympics. They used an acronym SCAMPER to think of different ways
that the product could be developed.
In the Third Form, pupils have been researching different countries that sell
Street Food as part of a Mini NEA project. As part of this project, they have also
been working on their presentation skills and cooking some foods that might be
20 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11 served from a street van.ACKWORTH TODAY
First Form
– Local
Fieldwork
Geography
Geography pupils have been working on various projects
from local fieldwork and security in urban gardens to R.S
Seder tables. Geography surveys have also been taking
place around the school!
Second Form Migration Sunny’s
– 2 billion miles letters Geography
Survey
Second Form
– R.S. Seder table
Fourth Form –
Food Security
Urban Gardens
www.ackworthschool.com | 21SENIOR SCHOOL
Interhouse Drama Writing
Despite lockdown and Covid-19 continuing their respective onslaughts on live theatre
performance, the pupils of Ackworth School continue to show remarkable resilience,
ingenuity and commitment by keeping the annual Interhouse Drama Festival 2021 alive
in the face of adversity. Three of the house directors - Penn’s Milano, Fothergill’s Nathan
and Woolman’s Ben - speak of their experiences in planning for, and directing, their house
production below. I have received the brilliant news that Lucy will be directing Gurney’s
entry, and so all four houses will have representation in this interhouse competition. It is
a source of huge pride to me that so many pupils want to work and collaborate in such
strange conditions to tell stories and provide an evening of enjoyment and escape to
the Ackworth Community. As Ackworth has shown throughout this period, innovative and
creative solutions come from difficulty and challenge. What is most remarkable about
these four plays is how different they are: from devised pieces to adaptations of well-
known scripts, from full-cast plays to monologue performances, from radio drama to
Zoom edits. Keep an eye on eStream for recordings of performances!
Ali Boucher
When you can’t go to the theatre, the drama of theatre This year Woolman is performing
comes to you! I am Milano, the director of this year’s Audience by Michael Frayn. I love this
interhouse drama production for Penn House. Lockdown has play because of its quirky set up. The
been tough on a lot of people and all aspects of everyday characters in Frayn’s comedy are
life, including the theatre world. It is incredible that we are still watching the audience, expecting
putting on a play and it is a testament to our belief that we them to perform. The comedy
can achieve anything we put our minds to. ensues as Frayn holds a mirror up
to the audience and they see their
This lockdown, I have had to learn an entirely new skill set own foibles as audience members.
when it comes to drama. I have been in musicals and plays It takes a few seconds to get your
before, but this was a real challenge! Our play is going to be head around it.
a radio play (audio only), so I have had to learn new editing
skills and really focus on the actor’s dialogue, instead of Being a play with thirteen
actions. Also, having to balance my regular online school characters in it, we have a relatively
life with rehearsals and preparation for interhouse drama large cast as interhouse drama
looked like a challenge to start with, but the amazing goes. It has been lovely to see
cast have been so cooperative and understanding of the so many people in rehearsals all the way from second year
situation and everyone has given 110%. to upper sixth and the technology, dare I say this, has been
wonderful to allow this to happen over lockdown.
My all star cast includes: Abrielle, Alice, Grace, Krystof,
Maisie and Takarra. I am extremely thankful for all their hard Anyone who knows me will be aware that I am not a fan of
work, commitment and perseverance throughout these technology and prefer good old pen and paper, after all we
tough times. managed for centuries with it! However, this year, we have
rehearsed our production over Microsoft Teams. Attempting
Our play is a murder play; to direct a play over the internet has not been as bad as I
with comedy, suspense and expected – in fact it has gone very well so far. Everyone has
a dash of mystery! Since our been so very focused and eager to get the play on its feet
play is going to be a radio even from the very first rehearsal when we used Stanislavski
play, YOU set the scene to completely build 13 fully-fleshed out characters; and
in your imagination and lockdown means there is no excuse to miss a rehearsal!
let the stories unfold from
there. You also have the Putting on a play in the “Covid-world” is very unusual – we
comfort of listening whilst sat in your very can now see for ourselves the struggles of David Tennent
own home. The wonders of technology! and Michael Sheen producing their online performance
of Staged! Not only will the end product in all probability
I invite you all to experience what this amazing team has to be very different, we have also had to think about casting.
offer. I hope you enjoy! Woolman is aiming for a play which will be performed as a
mixture of a Zoom and a radio play, if we cannot get into
Milano - Penn
the theatre in March. Many of the characters have been
cast in year group bubbles, to facilitate an easy transition
to the stage if such an opportunity were to arise. Aiming
for primarily a zoom performance otherwise is a strangely
22 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11ACKWORTH TODAY
Scan
Me!
exciting prospect. It is something none of us have ever done
before, and it will be an interesting challenge attempting Ackworth School’s
to upload numerous videos and edit them together. One of
the biggest challenges is directing movement. Fortunately, First Virtual Post 18
most of the play entails characters sat in theatre seats,
but at one point, many characters get up and have Options Evening
conversation with other people. Managing to get those
people to appear to be engaging in conversation – with
the correct person – over Zoom will be a task, but one
Tuesday 26th-Thursday
which we are all looking forward to trying to overcome. 28th January 2021
This is my fourth and final time being involved in the
directing of an interhouse drama production, and I will Hosting our Post 18 Options Evening during the COVID-19
be very sad to see it over. This year, Woolman have been pandemic was always going to be an interesting and
fortunate enough to have two brilliant younger actors, exciting challenge! Unable to host the event in our
Ella and Noah, take on directing roles as well. Often, we traditional manner, in centre library and the dining halls,
split rehearsals and Ella and Noah will take a group away we transitioned the event virtually, via zoom, over three
to work with, no doubt this will be very useful for them, evenings from Tuesday 26th-Thursday 28th January 2021.
improving their ability to lead a group as well as their drama
skills overall. I still need to share my secret with them for We were delighted to be joined by a wide range of
getting everyone to attend an in-person rehearsal – it universities FE colleges, apprenticeship, and training
involves cake! These two will undoubtedly be the beating providers, who shared information about their institutions
heart of drama in both Woolman and the school as a whole with our own students and parents and the other local
in the coming years. I will look forward to hearing about the secondary school students who joined our event.
exciting productions they are involved with in the future,
and do hope they will be able to enjoy a live audience. Students could pick and choose the universities that
they wished to meet with, to find out more about the
Ben - Woolman university and courses through individual presentations
and question and answer sessions. The students and
parents that attend rated the usefulness of the event
as 4.1 out of 5 stars! Thank you!
Directing an online play definitely
has challenges but challenges We would also like to take this opportunity, to thank
worth taking. It has it’s ups and the universities that hosted, for giving so willingly of
downs like ‘normal’ plays but unlike their time and providing a wealth of information and
‘normal’ the internet is the biggest resources, to support our students in making their
bug-bear. Despite this, with a important post-18 decisions.
determined cast, you can get the
job done. After unsuccessfully The presentations from the events were recorded and
scouring the Web for a suitable are now available for those that were unable to join us.
play, I decided to write my own. Scan the QR code which will take you to the website.
It is called ‘Group Therapy’
and highlights the troubles of If you have any questions or would like to discuss your post
lockdown and the tragedy’s of 18 options further, please contact Pip Langfield, Head of
the victims from the pandemic. Careers at pip.langfield@ackworthschool.com
Interwoven within the play are poems
written by individuals from around the world that express
the emotions COVID has brought. The characters consist
of a teenager, a parent, and older women and a therapist/
narrator to show the points of view from all stages of life.
Rehearsals vary, depending on day, due to the school
routine for individual cast members together with the
feeling of strained eyes from prolonged use of our iPads.
However, our cast have put all their effort into it and are
persistent despite this. Having a range of ages does add to
the difficulties when casting but with audition tapes being
sent, it really helped to put the cast into their characters.
Seeing this original piece come to life is very moving and
I thank our cast for being open and doing their best to
respect the specifics I request for the play.
‘Group Therapy’ isn’t supposed to be a ‘closed’ play as you
shall soon realise, it is open to all and will connect with each
individual in our audience. The isolation the play portrays is
common for each of us but the key lesson we can take from
it, is to connect with each other.
Nathan - Fothergill
www.ackworthschool.com | 23SENIOR SCHOOL
A year in the life - United
Kingdom Mathematics Trust
(UKMT) Maths Challenges
The first lockdown nearly put paid to the follow-on rounds
for the Intermediate Maths Challenge last March, but
happily Dori, Felicia, Freddie, Leo and Rhys were able to
compete, with Dori gaining a very high Merit in the Cayley
Olympiad paper, and the other four scoring highly in their
Kangaroo challenges.
The 1st and 2nd formers should have had their chance
immediately after Easter, but with all prospects of
classroom schooling removed, the UKMT challenge team
worked hard to transfer the Junior Challenge online,
which enabled 39 of our pupils (including two from bronze/silver/gold in the ratio 3:2:1) we are in the hands
Coram House) to take advantage of their opportunity of the rest of the entrants to determine what colours our
one morning in June. The grade boundaries proved to results may be. I would encourage individuals to value their
be higher than in previous years but 1 gold, 6 silver and own score, measure their result by their own input, and be
6 bronze certificates were awarded, with George and satisfied if they did the best they could at the time. After
William achieving the best scores in their year groups, and all, if you never accept a challenge, you won’t appreciate
David the best score in school. Sadly, no follow-on rounds the feeling of success.
were possible on this occasion.
www.ukmt.org.uk will take anyone to the site. Past papers
November 2020 brought the seniors their chance, and are available for practice, and the comparatively new site
the UKMT had enabled the challenge to be done either www.challengeprompts.co.uk currently has resources for
on paper or online, so 31 of our sixth form students sat it Junior and Intermediate papers, enabling pupils to help
in the traditional way, and gained 4 gold, 4 silver and 7 themselves prepare, with tips and hints along the way.
bronze certificates between them – a great performance.
Aldrich, Anson and Oliver qualified to take the first So, to any 1st and 2nd form (or younger) mathematicians, I
Olympiad paper, and Rain the Kangaroo challenge. say “Be ready!”. The next Junior Maths Challenge is due to
Aldrich was awarded a Distinction for his efforts. run at the end of April. All first formers will be offered the
opportunity, along with top set 2nd form and any other
Locked down again in January 2021, the maths staff younger pupils who wish to take up the challenge. Speak
worked hard to ensure that all top set mathematicians to your maths teacher to find out more. If you can solve
in 3rd, 4th and 5th forms took advantage of their this question from last year, you’re off to a good start:
opportunity to take the Intermediate Challenge on-line in
lesson time. All but two pupils responded and, at time of Susan Swales
writing, we eagerly await their results. As certificates are Maths Challenge Co-ordinator
awarded nationally in fixed proportions (the top 40% gain
Teaching PE remotely Some words from our PE pupils
During PE in lockdown, we have learnt lots of new
As a school we have transitioned very well from the field, information about different exercises. We have learnt
sports hall, astro and netball courts to online learning. We how to control and measure our heart rate. Whilst doing
have delivered a range of lessons based around fitness, vigorous exercise we have learnt that we should work up
health and well-being as well as adapting our skills of to 80% of your maximum heart rate which can be found
netball. The pupils have learnt GCSE PE terminology by taking your age from 220. We have been doing active
throughout their practical lessons, and they have all rests where you do a plank in your rest, this keeps our heart
done brilliantly. rates elevated so they do not drop and then ascend as we
begin the next exercise. We have also learnt how to mould
Within the fitness lessons, we have looked at HIIT training,
our exercises around our abilities and revolve them around
circuit training and aerobics. In the netball lessons we have
specific sports. In our current PE lessons, we are focusing on
replicated skills and rules of netball so when we get back
netball and doing exercises involving a ball and specific to
on the netball courts, the pupils are at an advantage with
netball. It is obviously different from normal PE lessons and
their knowledge and understanding as well as their hand-
it is a shame that we can’t put our skills to practice in games
eye coordination.
as a team, but I still really enjoy lockdown PE lessons.
The engagement from all children has been fantastic and
We have also learnt some new key words which include:
as a department we are extremely proud of them.
cardiovascular endurance, which gives your muscles the
ability to work for shorter periods of time, but quicker, an
example where this might be used is the 100m sprint. The
24 | SPRING 2021, ISSUE 11 opposite of this is muscular endurance, which allows youACKWORTH TODAY
to work for a longer space rules of the game. As we are not all
of time, an example of this together it is very limited to what we
is football. Also, isotonic can do . However in our PE lessons
and isometric, isotonic is many pupils put their cameras on
when you are moving and and it is nice to see everyone. As I
isometric is when you are am a competitive athlete I miss the
still for example doing a challenge of winning and being
handstand. able to work with my team mates
and to achieve the goal of winning.
I have really liked the fact I enjoy training but I miss the
that we are doing PE as a opportunity to train with my fellow
year group, and doing the class mates and to implement that
same exercises at the same by excelling on the court. During
time, as it is a chance to come the varies lockdowns I have taken
together. I really enjoy that it the opportunity when practical
doesn’t feel like you are alone, and aloud to meet with a few friends either to go on long
you are in a group supporting each other. Also, I like that we bike or to go on a run, to keep my fitness levels up to speed
can customize the different exercises to match our ability, and also for my mental health.
and not be judged by our decision.
Amelia – 4th Form
PE has inspired me to go on regular runs, to try to stay
active and ready for when we are back in lesson, and back This term i have learnt many new things in PE and have
at sports. It has shown me that exercising makes me feel enjoyed them all. We have focused on muscles in the body
better in lockdown and more connected to my year as we and what they do and how they effect our performance.
all do it together. I’m sure this is going to assist us when we get to school
Eleanor and Megan – 2nd Form in the sports that we do. This will certainly improve my
performance in the sports i play. I have most enjoyed
During lockdown I really think that PE has helped me fitness as we are learning new exercises and skills. Although
through the weeks so far , because when all of us are on we aren’t at school i am still fond of PE and find it no
the screen with our cameras on doing fun activities it different except that it is on screen.
sometimes feel like nothing else matters because you are Anna – 1st Form
with your friends having fun . The teachers also make it
really exciting because they tell us fun things to do and During online learning, My experience with PE has been a
recommend new techniques to help you through it and are positive one. It is a challenging subject for both teachers to
always there to support you. teach and pupils to participate in Via video. We haven’t had
Hannah – 2nd Form the normal benefit of working with partners or in groups.
However, my PE teachers have been very creative and
In PE this half term we have been doing fitness and netball. kept the lessons interesting and interactive. I have learnt
In fitness, we have been doing circuit training, in many ways several new skills such as different types of exercises within
(my favourite was the pyramid training). In netball we have circuits and more control over the ball in netball. When we
been working on our footwork skills by talking about all of are individually asked questions, I feel like I participate in
the different techniques and rules of the game; we also did the lessons more. I like the fact that more pupils put their
some circuit training using a ball or a pair of socks. cameras on in PE versus other lessons so we can see our
classmates and have more team spirit.
In my opinion, I have enjoyed seeing everyone doing the
Sofia – 3rd Form
online lesson; even if it is on the other end of a screen.
Online learning is different to being in the sports hall or
on the astroturf but I think that the PE staff and ourselves
have adapted to our environment very well. Personally I
have very much enjoyed PE.
Music - KS3 Scan Me!
Bella – 4th Form Pupils in first, second and third
years have been working hard to
PE is one of the most difficult, yet important components keep music-making alive during
of school especially online.Throughout the term our lessons lockdown. First and Second Formers
have adapted, in order to benefit pupils at home. Creating a studying folk music have been working on
routine of regular physical activity that challenges us in a way a mini-performance of “Drunken Sailor”,
we haven’t experience while at school. Compared to normal and their own arrangement of “Wellerman”, a sea shanty
lessons, there may be no; netball, basketball or hockey, yet it which has recently gone viral on social media. Third
encourages and inspires pupils to explore activities outside Form pupils have been studying film music and have
of a regular lesson format. Going for a run, walking, or even recorded performances of “Hedwig’s Theme” from the
cycling; especially due to being on our iPads all the time; Harry Potter films as well as creating their own music
PE allows us the opportunity to socialise while exercising. to accompany a short scene from a Tom and Jerry
Providing pupils the necessary break to the hustle and bustle cartoon, employing the technique of “Mickey-Mousing”.
of online learning. All this has been done using GarageBand app, allowing
pupils to continue practically exploring music whilst at
Annabel – 4th Form
home and develop some ICT skills too! Scan the QR
code to listen to examples of pupils’ work.
In PE this half term, we have been doing netball and fitness.
In netball we have been doing drills and looking at the www.ackworthschool.com | 25You can also read
