Happy to be back! - inside English Focus /04 Meet the Governors /08 Farewell Mrs Jeys! /16 Learning in Lockdown /20 and more - Alderley Edge ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E AR LY Y E AR S AN D J U N I O R S C H O O L Happy to be back! inside English Focus /04 Meet the Governors /08 Farewell Mrs Jeys! /16 Learning in Lockdown /20 and more...
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
Contents
Welcome
English Focus
St. Joseph’s Day
03
04
06
School Vision
#1. DREAM
To be loved and trusted as an academic school that nurtures girls
Welcome
Dear Parent,
It has been so incredibly rewarding to have welcomed many of our pupils in the
to be happy, confident and resilient and who reach their potential Junior School back into the physical building after such a difficult few months.
Online Safety 07
in whichever field they choose. Despite the varying challenges that these months have presented to all of us, we
Meet the Governors 08
can be incredibly proud of the way in which the girls have responded to a very
Learning Exchange 10
Alumnae 12
#2. CHARACTER different type of learning! From Seesaw and Tapestry activities to eventually
Happy Dynamic Academic returning over the last few weeks to see their teachers and friends again, the
Library Appeal Update 13 teachers could not have worked harder to sustain the timetable and the pupils
Sport 14 United Nurturing Ambitious
could not have tried harder to respond to the challenges presented to them. We
Farewell Mrs Jeys! 16 Fun Committed Inclusive could not be prouder of our pupils.
Thank You Mrs Jeys 18 Friendly Aspirational
Hello from Mrs Smillie 19 For me personally, I did not anticipate that this would be how my time at AESG
Learning in Lockdown 20 #3. BELIEFS would end but I have loved my time leading this community through difficult times
Providing an outstanding, educational journey to girls from the age and hugely rewarding ones too. Seeing girls flourish in so many settings has to be
a highlight for any Head and I have seen this in so many contexts over the last four
of two to eighteen years. From Nursery to Year 6, the girls show such incredible character and
personality; perseverance, confidence and resilience are observed on a daily basis
Inspiring girls to achieve and to be the very best they can be and I know that the School will continue to prioritise the development of these
characteristics alongside each of the pupil’s academic progress.
Giving every individual girl a truly holistic educational experience
Most importantly, it is the community of AESG Junior School that makes it so
special and I feel privileged to have worked alongside the most outstanding team
Embracing the very best in technology to provide a personalised of staff and the most wonderful group of pupils; both of whom I will miss hugely as
approach to learning I move onto my next school.
Welcoming girls of all faiths in a school with a strong Christian ethos The first quote I wanted to be displayed on the walls at AESG was Aristotle’s
‘Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.’ What I do
know, then, is that the pupils at AESG receive an outstanding education. I wish
Producing successful citizens for the future with global awareness, them, the teaching staff, you and my successor – Mrs Nicola Smillie – all the very,
empathy and a strong moral compass very best for the future.
Supporting girls with superb pastoral care; one which develops girls’
resilience, self-confidence and self-belief Best Wishes,
Working in partnership with parents to guide girls throughout their
school life
#4. SPIRIT Helen Jeys
Headmistress
“Aspire not to have more, but to be more.”
#5. FOCUS
Confidence and self-belief
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 04
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
English F cus
The teaching of English in the Junior School incorporates many strands, all
essential for the study of every other subject that the girls are likely to encounter
both at Junior and Senior level. Due to the fact that English lessons provide teaching
on how to communicate, a mature grasp of English skills has to be every girl’s
aspiration. Any girl who cannot communicate clearly is effectively disenfranchised.
Speaking and listening Writing
Spoken language underpins the development of reading The development of writing in the Junior School extends
and writing – the quality and variety of language that the girls from the formation of single letters during the Early Years to
hear and absorb are vital for developing their vocabulary and the creation of adult-style texts which include sophisticated
grammar. (Language spoken at home is as important as the language and a full range of literary features in Year 6. At all ages,
variety of language provided at school.) The ability to listen and girls are asked to consider who the audience is for their writing
maintain concentration allows the girls to formulate questions, but are encouraged to enjoy the act of writing. We help the girls
answers, arguments and opinions. At every age, a wider to master handwriting and spelling as quickly as possible so
vocabulary gives our girls a voice to express their ideas or that they can concentrate on the pleasure of composition. The
feelings and demonstrate the extent of their imagination. This girls are taught to understand how a text is structured and given
work is supported in Drama lessons. Teaching on the artistic appropriate language to use to create different effects.
practice of Drama provides the girls with an outlet for their desire
to adopt different roles for performances before an audience. As with any engaging writing, the girls write best when they write
from personal experience and have the language to express
Reading their thoughts. Knowledge of current affairs and the wider world
is enormously helpful here too. However, there is no greater
Reading skills continue to develop throughout a girl’s education. pleasure for a teacher than reading a piece of writing that shows
Learning to read consists of two dimensions – word reading the influence of reading experiences or a strong, original voice.
or decoding, and comprehension (both listening and reading).
Early decoding skills are taught in the Early Years through the The expectations of children in every year group in relation to
study of phonics – girls who miss out on good phonics teaching spelling ability, vocabulary depth, punctuation use and grammar
are still obvious in Year 6, mainly because of their poor spelling accuracy are now high. All are taught specifically in school but
skills. Girls who gain a good grasp of phonics knowledge at an there is no better substitute than extensive reading for building
early age are able to read fluidly by the end of Year 2, the aim secure knowledge of these skills. A firm grasp of these elements
for every child. While the girls are in the Infants, we are often of English is essential throughout school and beyond.
asked by parents to move their daughter up to the next book
band because their word decoding skills are developing at an Advice
impressive rate. However, the importance of comprehension
skills is not to be forgotten – if a girl jumps through the book If there is one piece of advice that we could give to parents
bands too quickly, she is missing out on exposure to vocabulary about raising achievement in English, it would be this: please
and the ideas introduced from the variety of stories and non- encourage your girls to read, read, read. Read anything and
fiction that each level provides. Good comprehension and its everything. As you will have gleaned from this article, the
improvement rely on a developing understanding of vocabulary benefits of reading widely are many. Model this yourself by
and a widening knowledge of the world – this again should be always having a book on the go or reading the paper. Listen
provided by both school and home. to your daughter read daily; read to her yourself, or enjoy an
audiobook together – she will remember these moments forever
The ability to read confidently and fluently in any subject is and it is one of the most important things that you can do for her.
essential for life at Senior School. However, it is always our aim
to show our girls the joy of reading for pleasure. This might be
the latest children’s novel, a dinosaur or space encyclopedia or
a copy of The Week Junior. Not only has it has been proven that
a child who reads for pleasure will achieve at least one grade
higher in public exams, but there is strong evidence to show that
it can improve well-being throughout life.
05 A SP IRE
AL DE R L E Y E DG E SC H OOL FOR GIRLS
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 06
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
St. Joseph’s Onlin Safety
Day Online Safety is an integral part of
children’s education in today’s digital
world and is embedded in the girls’
learning here at AESG. We want to help
our parents and girls improve their own
This year’s St. Joseph’s Day was a particularly understanding of online issues so they
special occasion as we celebrate 21 fantastic years can learn to use the internet and all digital
of Alderley Edge School for Girls. media in a safe and secure way.
This was celebrated by a whole school service in the School’s Millennium Hall. As a parent you will probably realise how important the internet
All girls, along with all staff members, Governors and special friends of the School is to children - they use it to learn, play, socialise and express
gathered together to reflect upon all that the past 21 years has brought and listen themselves. It’s a highly creative place that offers amazing
to readings from the students, Head Girls, Headmistress and School Chaplain. opportunities when used correctly.
Alongside celebrating the School’s 21st birthday, the service focused on the Fruits We understand that the technology children use every day can
of the Holy Spirit and the diversity of our school community. seem a bit daunting and you might worry about the risks your
child can face online - such as bullying, contact from strangers
Our Junior School, from Pre-School to Year 6, presented the fruits, each featured or the possibility of them seeing illegal or inappropriate content.
on nine balloons for all to see: Joy, Love, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, In the Junior school, Mr Earnshaw held his second Online Safety
Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control, recognising we all have the ‘key’ to workshop during the Spring Term. This gives parents a clearer
each of these fruits and should strive to adopt them all in our lives. picture of how we teach online safety across our curriculum,
alerts parents to the most recent social media dangers and also
The service was full of fantastic singing not only from our choirs but the whole allows them to discuss their daughter’s online experience and
school with a rousing version of our school hymn ‘Shine, Jesus, Shine’, ‘We’re receive advice from other parents with daughters of a similar age.
all in this Together’ from High School Musical and a rendition of Stevie Wonder’s We know how your involvement at home can really help reinforce
‘Happy Birthday’! key messages to help your child become more confident when
exploring the online world.
In recognising our diversity, other senior school girls said prayers from faiths
represented within our school community: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, At AESG Junior School, we do not teach ‘app specific’ online safety
Sikhism and Islam. Our prayers focused upon climate change, equality, peace, as these are constantly changing, but we give clear guidelines and
illness and the plight of refugees respectively before closing with the Lord’s Prayer. advice to our girls from Reception to Year 6. We use resources such
as Google’s ‘Be Internet Legends’, Interland and ThinkUKnow’s
We were also joined by Reverend Butler, who led us in our opening prayer and Jesse and Friends animations to help reinforce our message.
closing blessing.
Parent quote:
“The recent workshop with Mr
Earnshaw was excellent as always.
Not only did it provide me with tips
on how to keep my children safe
on line at home, I also learned
how the girls are taught internet
safety at school which as a parent
was really reassuring.”
07 A SP IRE
AL DE R L E Y E DG E SC H OOL FOR GIRLS
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 08
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
Meet the
After an enlightening interview with Mr contact and some where not as much. Do you think student opinions are
Trueman, it had been arranged for me to I will have meetings with Mrs Wood, or heard often within the committees?
meet Mrs Rostron the next day. with safeguarding teachers in the Junior
School. They come together and we go MRS R: Yes, I think they are. I have sat in
through any issues, any policies and make on the Student Council last year, so that I
Governors
sure that the policies are up to date. We could then report back to the governors
get a lot of communication externally from what the students had to say. I also think
the government and the local councils, it’s important, when they did the LGBTQ+
and we make sure that we are following training, I was quite strongly involved, so I
those procedures and that they work went to every meeting that followed.
for the School. So, I get a lot of policies
to read, but I have to ensure that I am And so just like that, I had found myself
happy with them and that the governing wondering about the other members of
body would be happy with them. I’m the governing body, but perhaps that is
probably in school on average in a half for another time. I would like to thank Mrs
term, about 3 or 4 times, but then I have Rostron and Mr Trueman for sparing me
correspondence from Mrs Wood or Mrs some time to complete these interviews
My name is Lily Beasley, and as a student in the Sixth Form, I have never actually Jeys more regularly even than that. On top and for giving me an insight into their
of that, I love coming into school, so any daily tasks. I hope we have all learned
considered in any real detail what the roles of the governors are. Why do we need excuse! something new; I certainly have! I look
them? What do they do? I took it upon myself to find these answers out and found forward to meeting other governors in
Would you like the governors to be future editions of Aspire!
myself interviewing two of the school governors in one week, Mr Trueman and Mrs more involved in the daily life of the
Rostron. I began by meeting with Mr Trueman. School? Lily Beasley.
MRS R: Yes, and I think I have tried to do
and there are three sub-committees; As governors, everybody is really that. My history with the School is that my
Marketing and Development, Curriculum switched on to safeguarding; there has two daughters came here. My youngest;
and Finance and Building. I joined the been so much change in the world. Every What is your name and position? she was the first one that went through
Curriculum Committee as it interests me governor has a responsibility to keep a reception, all the way through to Upper
more than finance, as I was a teacher check on safeguarding in school. MRS R: My name is Joanna Rostron and I Sixth. She was the first one who went
for many years. The Finance Committee am the safeguarding governor. I also sit on through the entire school when Alderley
tends to be made up of the same group During the Curriculum Committee, we the Marketing Committee, and because Edge School for Girls was first created.
of people, and we meet at least every half see more of the teachers, the Deputy of my safeguarding role, I sit on the So, I like to come into school. I think a
term, sometimes more often, because Heads and representatives from the Curriculum Committee as well. lot of the older girls were the younger
we’re running a business. It is a school Junior School. Every time we meet, we girls when my daughters were here;
and we are helping the students to learn, have presentations from each one of the As a student myself, we normally just they know who I am, but other people
but it is also a business and there are quite academic departments, which is always see the governors every now and then, don’t necessarily. Yes, I do think its very
a lot of administrative staff. We have to very interesting, particularly from the such as occasions like Prize Giving. important that the governors come in, I
attract pupils and parents to the school, Junior School because their interest in How would you describe your daily come in as much as I can. I came to the
which is why we have a Marketing and reading, writing and maths might seem tasks? school production and mass for Ash
Development team, to make sure that the simple but a lot of effort is put into it. Wednesday. I think it’s important for the
What is your name and position? message about the school is getting out. It’s interesting to see how things have MRS R: For me personally, being the staff particularly to know who I am, so they
changed. safeguarding governor, I report a lot to feel they can approach me and equally, for
MR T: My name is Chris Trueman and I’ve The Finance Committee is about keeping Mrs Jeys and Mrs Wood. They will also the girls as well.
been associated with the School for a track of the income and expenditure and Would you like the governors to be tell me about anything going on at the
long time. Around three years ago, I was making decisions mainly about what to more involved in the daily life of the School which I need to know about on
invited to join the Governing body. I am spend money on. You do have to make School? a safeguarding basis. I probably don’t
currently the chair person of the Finance decisions because there is never enough have contact daily, but I go through
and Building Committee and also sit on the money to live in a dream world and we MR T: I believe they have the opportunity phases where I seem to have a lot of
Curriculum Committee. have to prioritise. My job as Chair Person of to do so, such as during inspections and
that meeting is to make sure that all views class observations, but it’s completely
As a student myself we normally just are represented and if you have to prioritise their choice.
see the governors now and then, things, you also have to make sure
either in school or outside of school at everyone knows what the costs are and Do you feel as though student voices
events such as Prize Giving. We don’t what options are available. Part of my role are heard enough at the committee
tend to hear a lot about the governors is when you’re spending large amounts meetings?
themselves and what they actually do. of money in an organisation, to make
How would you describe your daily sure there are financial checks so people MR T: There is the School Council and
tasks as a school governor? cannot be wrongly accused of misconduct the Headmistress represents the pupils
in the financial department. We all keep and any views at the meetings. Pupils and
MR T: Well, the Governing committee checks on each other, and then once every especially Sixth Formers can feed back
operates on three or four committee month I authorise certain things which are through various means; via the Head of
levels; there is a full governing body of a higher value. It’s not a difficult task but Sixth Form for example.
which meets approximately once a term it is quite a big responsibility.
09 A SP IRE
AL DE R L E Y E DG E SC H OOL FOR GIRLS
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 10
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
Learnıng
Ex c hange
For our students to make excellent progress, they need ownership of their own
learning, opportunities to be self-reflective about how they learn and identify and
set their own goals to achieve their potential. These aims are embedded into the
AESG Junior culture and celebrated annually at the Learning Exchange.
What is the Learning Exchange? As the girls prepare for their visitors, the discussions held about Quotes from the girls: Quote from parents:
the learning, helps to review their understanding. They reflect
Parents are invited into the classroom, for a student-led on why they are proud of the work, what they didn’t know and
discussion where the girls present their work and guide the what they still want to learn about and improve. It helps the class “I love showing my mummy “There is something very
discussions. Parents listen to their daughter explain her teacher to understand how best to challenge and support each
academic progress, learning strengths and needs. The teacher is student. and daddy all the work I have special about your daughter
present, but the discussions are between students and parents.
Teachers are present to help with questions that go beyond the done, they are surprised at talking about what she has
The Learning Exchange is structured in this way to allow Exchange and can understand the parent-student dynamic
students to be central in the discussion of academic and extra- better, by observing the discussions. Advice and ideas for home how much my writing has learned in a way that no amount
curricular goals, with an opportunity to discuss with parents (and support can be exchanged. It also identifies the teacher as a
the teacher) what help and support they might need to succeed. keen participant in the student’s success. improved and that my stories of ‘What did you do today at
We have three Parents’ Evenings a year and these discussions Students facilitate the discussion, show their work and are funny!” school?’ will ever uncover!”
are invaluable for discussing progress and targets. However, communicate their learning goals with parents and parents can
we have found that parents really enjoy looking at the work that listen and talk with their child in a relaxed environment.
their daughter has produced, plus having her explain what she “I like showing my parents
learned and why she is proud of it; it is a celebration of student Parents will see a variety of work including Maths and English,
success. the Integrated Curriculum topic folders including Science and around the classroom, seeing
more. Some rooms are set up as learning stations, for example
At Parents’ Evening students often don’t feel a sense of the Computing room, for a more interactive experience of all my displayed work, that
responsibility. Their role is pedestrian rather than active. The learning. Displayed work including stories, poems, letters etc,
Learning Exchange encourages them to reflect, in their own activities from STEAM week and Art and Design and Technology I wouldn’t be able to talk
words, on how far they have come, what they still need to projects are also seen. The girls attach a note to the work,
learn, and identify what they are proud of. The students receive identifying it as of special interest and will be ready to explain about show them without
encouraging and useful feedback from their parents and are why they chose the work, why they are proud of it, what they
invested in their own learning. have learned and sometimes, how they would change and the Learning Exchange”
improve it, if they were to do it again!
Teachers also benefit from the Learning Exchange, giving
students time to select what they want to share at the Exchange The Learning Exchange is an opportunity, for all to see the
and discussing what has been chosen and why. This ensures learning that has taken place and to look forward to the learning
parents see the work on display, on ICT platforms and in folders to come. This happens because the student, parents and
and books. teachers are invested in making it happen.
11 A SP IRE
AL DE R L E Y E DG E SC H OOL FOR GIRLS
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 12
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
Alumnae
As our alumnae network grows, we are delighted to introduce you to more of
Alderley Alumnae’s newest members! Whether you are an old girl of Alderley Edge
School for Girls, St. Hilary’s or Mount Carmel, we would like to speak to you!
L brary Appeal
Class of
1981
Update
Annette Boden MSc
As a former pupil of Mount Self-compassion teaches that it is ok to make mistakes, that
Carmel I was thrilled to be we are not perfect but that we can learn so much when we
invited to share my journey treat ourselves with kindness. I now teach the Mindful self-
in the hope that it inspires compassion programme and bring compassion focused therapy
and motivates all the young into my clinical practice. It is my life’s work and my soul’s
women coming up through purpose, to live in accord with the core values that I learned from
the ranks of Alderley Edge the school days I enjoyed so much and have never forgotten.
School for Girls.
I am really looking forward to delivering a ‘Lunch and As many of you will be aware, we have been working hard to raise funds for the
During my formative years Learn’ session in the School where I will share some tips complete refurbishment of both our Junior and Senior School Libraries.
at Mount Carmel I wanted to and techniques with girls from overcoming exam nerves, to
become a journalist, however, spreading their wings and choosing a vocation that they are
that was not to be my path. passionate about. We have recently received a generous donation from the Sisters
of St. Joseph and we have now managed to reach the goal for
I have always been proud of the values I learned from my our Junior School Library Appeal which we plan to fit over the
school days and compassion was a big part of the teaching. I Peter Ainsworth summer. Pupils, parents staff and our wonderful PFA have worked
found once I left school that I was drawn to helping people in incredibly hard to support us. We are also incredibly grateful to
whatever role I undertook. I began a journey of self-discovery We are saddened to inform you of the death of former have received a generous donation which has come in to the
and completed a BSc in Psychology and a Masters in School Governor, Peter Ainsworth. Until the end of the last School in memory of a member of our alumnae.
Psychology but not immediately after school. I took the long academic year, Peter served as a governor of AESG and
and winding road through retail management and found that prior to that, at Mount Carmel School. In the Spring Term, the girls in the Junior School completed a
I enjoyed supporting staff and encouraging them to be their sponsored readathon and all monies raised from World Book Day
very best and passionate about all they undertook. Peter was an accountant and served for many years as will also go to the Library Appeal. Our PFA also hosted a brilliant
Chair of the Finance Committee, providing a long and Ladies’ Lunch at Piccolino.
I found that I was drawn to a vocation of health care and extensive level of support to the School. There will be
psychotherapy and have been in practice for over twenty years a family-only funeral held shortly but a public memorial In the Senior School and Sixth Form, we are planning a £21 pledge
now. I learned much about myself and compassion, but it service is being planned and we will communicate that where the girls undertake tasks at home or in the community in
wasn’t until I became unwell with a chronic physical condition information to you as soon as we know more. order to raise £21 each to donate towards to appeal to celebrate
over ten years ago now that I learned to treat myself with the our 21st Birthday with the hope of completing the fundraising for
same care and compassion I offered to others, to listen to my Sister Aida Gill both projects in 2020.
body and use all the skills I learned during my school days.
It is with great sadness that we can confirm the passing We have also been speaking to many of our suppliers about the
I came across the work of Kristin Neff and Chris Germer - of Sister Aida Gill from the Order of St Joseph. Sr Aida project, some have already confirmed that they are willing to
pioneers in the field of self-compassion research and teaching was based at the Convent of St Emilie, in Bowdon. Many support us with donations for the final push.
and I began to develop a new relationship with myself - one memories have been shared online amongst Mount Carmel
of care and kindness. This helped with pain management but alumnae so please do send in any messages or memories If you would like to support our appeal or donate either personally
also gave me the confidence to continue my work as a health you may have. or through your business, please contact Debbie Dawson by
care professional writing articles for magazines. email ddawson@aesg.co.uk or phone 01625 588045
13 A SP IRE
AL DE R L E Y E DG E SC H OOL FOR GIRLS
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 14
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
Sport
Athletics
Success at The Association of Junior
Independent Schools
Once again, our Junior girls ran, jumped
and threw their way to success in the
recent AJIS Indoor Athletics event at Robin
Park Wigan. It was a fun and competitive
day which saw children from 27 schools
participate in a variety of events
throughout the day. All of the girls who
participated gave a fantastic effort in every
event and thoroughly enjoyed the day. A
huge well done to all our competitors, but
an extra special well done to our podium
finishers who we are extremely proud of.
Gold
– Ophelia T (Y6) 1 Lap Sprint
– Sofia C (Y4) Balance
Silver
– Ophelia T (Y6) Triple Jump
– Aston W (Y6) Long Jump
– Kayla D (Y6) Speed Bounce
– Talia C T (Y6) Vertical Jump
– Talia, Florence, Kayla,
Cross Country Macclesfield School Sports Partnership Ophelia (Y6) Obstacle Race
Sports Festival
Determination and stamina over a muddy course. each girl displaying great determination and stamina. The Year
The MSSP Inclusive Multi Sports Festival took place on Friday 2nd November at the
3 & 4 girls finished 4th out of 16 schools and the Year 5 & 6 girls
Sports Hall facilities of Tytherington High School. Twelve schools from the Wilmslow Lacrosse
Eight girls represented the Junior School energetically and finished 2nd out of 18 schools.
area attended the event, with each school entering a maximum of 5 children.
enthusiastically at the annual Independent Schools Association
Cross Country Race hosted by Scarisbrick Hall over a course of Huge congratulations to Lalli, Ava B, Amelia L and Doris who
1500m Years 3 & 4 and 2000m Years 5 & 6. have qualified to represent the North in the National race. The ‘The festival is an event designed to encourage
On Tuesday 26 November, all junior
girls qualified by finishing in the top ten in their race out of one participation in sport with the focus being on providing girls in Years 4 – 6 took part in a taster
Despite the chilly temperature, it was a wonderful afternoon with hundred runners. pupils with a fantastic opportunity to try a range of session of Pop Lacrosse during their
sports in a fun and enjoyable environment.’ PE lessons. POP Lacrosse is the form
of lacrosse played in primary schools.
There were seven stations for pupils to take part in and each school team played It is a non-contact version of lacrosse
House Netball against or alongside a different school throughout the areas. The stations which uses inexpensive plastic-
consisted of Boccia Blast, Netball Skills, Seated Volleyball, Kurling Spin, Target headed sticks and large, softer
Golf, Bean Bag Throw and Parachute games. lacrosse balls. POP has been used in
On Tuesday 18 November, Year 5 House Netball took place. primary schools since the 1980s and
All four houses were extremely excited to play and more The attitude of all the pupils taking part was wonderful. Each individual represented since then has become very popular.
importantly, all girls of all abilities were invited to play. their school team with great joy and tried their best at each station. This energy It is particularly suitable for delivering
filled the arena and gave the whole morning a great feeling for all who attended. invasion skills within the Physical
This year, the girls split into two teams and arranged the positions Literacy PE Curriculum.
for their first High – Five match. Thereafter, each player had to Netball Success
rotate position on the court to allow everybody to play to their The session was led by Victoria,
strengths. Both teams played a total of 8 matches (6 minutes) and Many congratulations to the U11 Junior coach at Brooklands Lacrosse
the scores from each match were collated together to ascertain Netball Team who were crowned Club. Victoria introduced various
the team total. Matches were close and well contested but it was winners in the Macclesfield School techniques including the pick-up,
the Blue team who won by just one goal. Sport Partnership High Five Netball passing the ball, receiving in the air
Tournament. and cradling the ball. Our girls made
The girls played very well all afternoon, showing much skill that quick progress with their hard work
has clearly developed during the term. It was a real pleasure to The girls won all of their pool games ethic and their focus ensured that
watch a variety of abilities working together and motivating each to win their group and have qualified they quickly got into the games which
other during the matches. for the finals. they really enjoyed.
15 A SP IRE
AL DE R L E Y E DG E SC H OOL FOR GIRLS
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 16
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
Farewell
10. Do you have a bucket list and if so, 16. The School encourages reading 19.What will you miss most about
what’s on it? for learning and reading for AESG?
pleasure and has been working on
To visit India and Vietnam. I am fundraising for two new libraries. The real sense of community and family
fascinated by religion and I would love What is your favourite book as an that reflect what is really special about
Mrs Jeys!
the opportunity to immerse myself in the adult and what was your favourite AESG. I will genuinely miss both staff
culture of these two amazing countries. childhood book? and pupils - I have learned so much
and have loved everything about
11. Do you have any guilty pleasures? My favourite childhood book was my experience at the School. I also
‘Malory Towers’ by Enid Blyton. I really have been privileged to work with an
My family would say that I have enjoyed reading about the mischief the incredibly talented senior team who all
an unfortunate taste in 80s music; girls got up to at boarding school. As an pull together; I will really miss them.
something for which I will not apologise! adult, I have always enjoyed ‘Rebecca’
by Daphne Du Maurier ... “Last night I 20. The girls have learned a lot about
12. What was your favourite subject at dreamt I went to Manderley again....” growth mindset and coming
school? back from perceived failings and
17. What is your most memorable learning from them. What would be
As we prepare to say farewell to Mrs Jeys after 4 years, we thought it would be Religion and Philosophy - obviously - AESG Assembly? your best piece of advice?
but I also loved Music and English too.
fun to ask her 21 questions and find out things that perhaps you didn’t know in Any assembly presented by Mr Russell. To know that as a woman, you can strive
commemoration of our 21st Birthday. Read on to find out more about Mrs Jeys’ 13. Who was your most influential He is a wonderful story-teller and always and achieve whatever you want and in
teacher and why? manages to think of creative ways to any field. Aim high and never live with
most memorable AESG moments, her secret talent and the best piece of advice illustrate a topic. regrets.
she has received! Mr Cunningham, my English teacher.
He was an incredible teacher but also However, the single assembly I 21. What’s the best piece of advice
knew how to ensure that I kept things in remember the most is last year’s you’ve ever been given?
We also have a special note from Mrs Herring, our Chair of Governors thanking perspective too. When I became worried Christmas assembly; this is always the
Mrs Jeys for all she has done during her time at AESG. about my ‘A Levels’, he reminded me highlight of the year for me. I really enjoy
that - if things didn’t go as well as I
would have wanted - the sun will still rise
watching the pupils’ reactions to the
different news stories in my summary of
‘Never live with
So Mrs Jeys, here we go! in the morning. I always remember this
phrase and it always reminds me to keep
the year but this year’s rendition of ’The
Twelve Days of Christmas’ is like nothing
regret’. It is always
1. What would be your perfect day? 3. Who inspires you? 6. This is a crucial one – are you a cat
my priorities in order. I have ever heard before. The volume
was incredible and everything about it
my ‘go to’ piece of
The way I would describe my perfect Gosh ... Aristotle, Malala, Jacinda Ardern
person or dog person?! 14. What was your first job? just reflected real joy. Fantastic!!
advice if I am ever
day has changed quite a lot because
of lockdown as I am sure it has for
(who I think is an amazing leader), Oprah
Winfrey, Emmeline Pankhurst, Eleanor
Definitely a cat person. I have two
rescue cats - Milo and Busby - who love
I worked in a cattery when I was sixteen
and then, while at university, I worked
18. What is your most memorable
AESG moment?
faced with a big
everyone. My perfect day is spending
the day relaxing with my family -
Roosevelt (another source of amazing
quotes!), Ella Fitzgerald (incredible jazz
lying over my computer keyboard when
I am typing.
as a Credit Control Clerk in a firm in the
middle of Birmingham. I had to ring up It is so difficult to say that there is ‘one’
decision!
anywhere - but preferably outside in the singer), Maya Angelou.... companies and ask why they had not moment but there are events I remember
Thank you Mrs Jeys!
sun with a good book at the ready! 7. Do you have a pet-hate? If so, what paid their bills…. It was not the most incredibly clearly and for different
4. If you could have lunch with one is it?! uplifting of positions!! reasons. I remember the morning after
2. We know you love inspiring quotes, person, who would it be and why? the Manchester Arena bombing and
which is your favourite? Untidiness and people putting empty 15. Did you always want to be a how we all stood outside praying for
Gandhi would be fascinating to have boxes back in the larder - Grrrrrr! headteacher? those who had been affected by this
Without a doubt, lunch with. His philosophy surrounding terrible tragedy. I also remember my first
equality and peaceful protest continues 8. What’s the first concert you No, but I did always want to teach. I speech at the Bridgewater Hall (that was
to be of influence. But if I could have attended? have always loved my subject and have incredibly scary) and I also remember
“Educating the mind a dinner party where Jesus joined always wanted to share my passion with introducing Helen Sharman to a packed
us alongside Martin Luther King and Do I admit this one?! I think my first others. I have, however, always been Millennium Hall last year; that was an
without educating Siddhartha Gautama, I think that would concert was ‘Erasure’ - they were very ambitious and becoming a Head amazing memory for so many of us.
be incredible. amazing!! has reflected a natural progression in
the heart is no terms of my career.
5. What’s the one skill you think 9. What’s one thing about you that
education at all” everyone should have? surprises people?
This Aristotelian quote can be found The ability to type! Everyone complains The fact that I can speak and understand
outside of the PA Hall and, for me, sums about the noise that I make when I type - Hebrew.
up what an outstanding education but I was taught to touch type at school
should be all about. and can type over 100 words per minute.
I am incredibly grateful for that skill when
faced with well over 100 emails every
day! Everyone should learn!!
17 A SP IRE
AL DE R L E Y E DG E SC H OOL FOR GIRLS
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 18
S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
Thank you Hello from
Mrs Jeys Mrs Smillie!
A note from The improvements in appearance throughout the school were
immediate, including inspirational quotations to make us all think
As mentioned in my last letter, I am delighted to be taking up
the post of Headmistress of Alderley Edge School for Girls in
and reflect, and the impressive displays of alumnae in the hall
Shirley Herring,
September 2020 and building on the successes achieved by
and corridors. She targeted the upgrading of sports facilities as a Mrs Jeys and her Senior Leadership Team. Before lockdown,
priority and the improvement in sporting success, as well as the I was fortunate to visit the school several times to begin a
Chair of Governors impressive climbing wall, will be a happy reminder of how she
got things done.
handover process with Mrs Jeys. I joined current Year 6 pupils in
January when they sat the 11+ Examination and was delighted
to join the school to celebrate St. Joseph’s Day in March. I am in
When I first met Helen Jeys at the interviews for Headmistress of Her ability to act decisively was evident after the terror attack at regular contact with Mrs Jeys and the Senior Leadership Team
AESG I knew she was an exceptional person with the potential to the Manchester Arena, where she spoke to reassure the girls to continue this handover process, even though at present it is
achieve great things. In the four years she has been immediately the next morning and employed a counsellor to using technology rather than face to face.
Headmistress, she has achieved even more than I could have support girls who needed it. This was appreciated and praised
expected or hoped for. I had hoped she would be with us longer by parents. Having grown up in the North West and having lived in South
but we are grateful for what she has achieved in four high- Manchester before re-locating to the Midlands, my husband
intensity years. Her excellent communication skills have been recognised widely and I are excited by the prospect of moving back north and
as she has been asked to write articles for newspapers and being closer to family and friends. Once lockdown restrictions
magazines and appear on the radio. However, the crowning are relaxed, we are looking forward to visiting the area again. I
glory has been the invitation she received to speak at the Global have thoroughly loved my 6 years as Head of Saint Martin’s
Education Conference in Washington. This confirmed her Girls’ School but was keen to move to Alderley Edge School for
growing reputation in International circles and also reflected very Girls following my Governors’ decision to merge my school with
well on the school. Solihull School, a large co-educational mixed school.
However, Helen’s goal has always been the improvement in Having worked in girls’ schools since 1995, I am an advocate
academic achievement. Last year saw the school’s best ever A for single sex education for girls. I believe that girls thrive in an
level results. With this exceptional improvement in examination all girls setting as they achieve the highest academic standards,
results, AESG is now respected for its academic prowess and is without stereotyped, gender weighted expectations whilst
ranked in the top 5% of schools nationally for A level progress. developing self-confidence and self-belief. This is certainly the
case at AESG.
I would never have expected Helen to slow down as she
completed her time here. However, nobody could have foreseen Before training to become a teacher, I read Hispanic Studies
the impact of a global pandemic in her final term. Typically, with and French at Liverpool University. As part of my course I was
her Senior Leadership Team, she set about organising online fortunate to be awarded an Erasmus study grant to complete
teaching for all pupils. Her foresight in leading the development part of my degree at Seville University which was a fantastic
of AESG as an Apple Distinguished School ensured that the opportunity. I am looking forward to teaching Spanish when
quality of the distance learning exceeded most other schools. I join the school, as well as getting to know the girls and staff
She has worked through weekends and holidays to ensure the through leading assemblies, observing lessons and supporting
safe return of those year groups recommended by the the many co-curricular activities which are provided for the girls.
government and all of the Juniors, in addition to Years 10 and 12
have been back to school for a time this term. In the meantime, I hope that you and your families stay safe and
well. I look forward to meeting you in person later this year.
We are grateful for all she has achieved at AESG and wish her
every success and happiness for the future. Best Wishes,
Shirley Herring
Mrs Herring and Mrs Jeys celebrating the school’s 21st Birthday this year Nicola Smillie
19 A SP IRE
AL DE R L E Y E DG E SC H OOL FOR GIRLS
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 20S P RI N G A N D SU MMER T ERM 2020 E A R LY Y E A R S A ND JUNI O R S CHO O L
Learning in
‘The way the lessons ‘We’d just like to
are structured gives reiterate how grateful
Club artwo the girls the most we are to the school
liday rk
Ho likeness to a usual and teachers for
Lockdown
day at school, and providing, from what
the teachers and I have seen amongst
teaching assistants family and friends, the
have been great best online learning
in responding to provision during the
the girls’ work, and past few months.’
questions.’
Isla learning in lockdown Tilly enjoying school at home
Titanic work from home Making bags for NHS workers
What do you do when faced with a ‘I think these small
individual Teams
situation you never thought you would groups are very
be in? You go back to what you know good for building
and find another way of doing it! confidence in
answering questions
and having a go.
When the discussions of school closures were on the news, My daughter seems
AESG Juniors were putting a plan in place to roll-out the
to love them. I
learning portfolios Seesaw and Tapestry. We had used them
have much better
successfully in a few year groups, but now was the time to
think of how a whole timetable could be taught, including understanding of the
specialist lessons such as Drama, PE, language learning and work my daughter
Music and over potentially a prolonged period. does - and how and
why she does it.’
Year 5 artwork by Eden
In a short space of time all teachers were trained on how to
transfer their lessons creatively onto Seesaw. All our girls
were taught how to access the activities and post their work Virtual chat with Mandip Gill
‘The lessons are engaging and well thought out
back to their teachers. Lockdown came and our girls were all
learning!
and organised.’
Teams was added to Seesaw and Tapestry so we could Virtual assembly with Mrs Jeys
’meet’. Now, difficult Maths problems could be explained
and discussed, creative writing ideas could be shared and
built upon and the energy, care and spirit of the Junior AESG
classroom were resumed!
We are proud of our teaching staff who have planned and
Reception – socially distanced and back in the classroom
designed such engaging and enriching online lessons and
marked, giving encouragement and guidance.
‘We have found the teaching effective and
We are very proud of our girls who have worked so hard engaging.’
during this unusual time in their school lives. They have
produced excellent creative writing pieces, mastered Maths
operations, read and researched many different integrated
‘AESG girls are very fortunate to have had the Year 6 virtual trips Be Happy
curriculum topics and produced work they can be very proud of. structure and remote offering provided. Thanks around the world ‘AESG has remained
to all involved.’ caring and nurturing.
We must also thank our families for the support you have Since March, I feel
given your daughter at home to make remote-learning such school have worked
Sophia uses the sanitiser station
a success and for your on-going support of our teachers and very hard to adjust to
our school. the new world, and
make plan B work
until we can return to
plan A.’ Fr
en n
ch ow
le s s o n s i n l o c k d
21 A SP IRE
AL DE R L E Y E DG E SC H OOL FOR GIRLS
ASPIRE
A L D E R LEY ED G E S C H O O L FO R G IR LS 22Alderley Edge School for Girls, Wilmslow Road, Cheshire, SK9 7QE
T. 01625 583028 E. schoolmail@aesg.co.uk
www.aesg.co.uk @schoolforgirls /Alderley-Edge-School-For-Girls
Registered Company No. 2659703 Registered Charity No. 1006726You can also read
