The Westcliff Diary Westcliff High School - Westcliff High School for Boys
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Westcliff High School
for Boys
The Westcliff Diary
T: 01702 475443 E: office@whsb.essex.sch.uk W: www.whsb.essex.sch.uk
Issue 88 / Autumn 2019
In this issue:
On the cover: National Junior Athletics Success (see pages 42-44)
Trips to China, Norway, France, and MFL Exchanges
Examination Success
The Westcliff Diary Page 1
From the in the same competition. School has expanded, and as we wish
to continue to enable pupils to realize
generosity of Old Westcliffians, parents,
organizations and friends, offering
Of course music, drama and sport are only their full potential, we have decided to placements to our students and, if you are
desk of the part of the extra-curricular programme
available to pupils at the School. Activities
further develop the pastoral system by
increasing capacity. Mr Farrell, Director
in a position to offer a placement, then
please do not hesitate to contact Mrs
Headmaster such as the Combined Cadet Force (CCF)
and the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme
continue to flourish. The CCF’s passing
of Middle School, and Mr Bleakley,
Director of Lower School, have taken
on additional responsibilities and both
Weller regarding potential opportunities.
As was the case during the last academic
year, we shall be further developing our
out parade in June was an outstanding of the Middle School and Lower School programme and taking advantage of
Welcome back from productions (Hamlet, Guys and Dolls and event and both the Army and Navy pastoral teams have been expanded support provided by the Careers and
the Headmaster Lord of the Flies). This year’s music and Sections enjoyed highly successful with Miss Bailey joining the Lower Enterprise Councils established by the
drama seasons also promise outstanding summer camps prior to the end of last School as the Progress Leader for Year 8 Government.
performances and I encourage pupils and term. Equally, it was a pleasure to attend and Mr Baggs joining the Middle School
I am delighted to welcome back all pupils parents to book tickets for these events. the Civic Centre during the summer term as the Progress Leader for Year 10. For a number of years, the School has
and staff from the summer vacation. to congratulate the significant number There are also plans to expand the Sixth been working on increasing our local
The academic year 2018/19 was our of our pupils who achieved the Duke Form pastoral team and we expect these intake of Year 7 pupils, and we have
In particular, I would like to welcome back most successful season of sport in of Edinburgh Silver Award. My sincere developments to be implemented during enjoyed success in this area with the
and congratulate all those pupils who many years. The skill, commitment and thanks to Mr Bleakley, Mr Tresidder this academic year. number of local pupils joining us rising
participated in the Music Department’s enthusiasm which Mr Morrish, Director and their colleagues who support these year on year. This is due in no small part
tour to New York at the start of the of Sport, and his colleagues bring to their superb activities. The School values careers education to the work of our Westcliff Centre for
summer holiday. The group members positions continues to inspire our pupils and guidance for its pupils and we are Gifted Children and its highly popular Go
were drawn from across the School (from to participate and enjoy their sport. As We are fortunate that so many colleagues fortunate to have a much improved for Grammar! programme. I am delighted rate of £1.00. The water bottles may
Year 8 to the Upper Sixth) and these is often the case in life, success breeds and senior students at the School are programme thanks to work by our to share with the School community that be purchased by pupils within the Main
young musicians performed at a range of success and our pupils have enjoyed prepared to offer their time to support Careers Adviser, Mrs Weller. As part we have filled all of the places allocated School and from the Sixth Form Café
iconic venues, including the flight deck tremendous success in their sports. The our large extra-curricular programme. of our programme, the School offers for local children in Year 7. In response and further details will be provided to
of USS Intrepid. I understand that their School’s Year 8 pupils had a particularly I would like to take this opportunity to work experience placements to its to the growing demand locally, we have pupils early in this new term. The School
performances were warmly received notable season, being crowned Double remind all pupils at the School to take pupils in Year 11 following their GCSE also increased the proportion of places is endeavouring to reduce the amount of
by the American audiences. I wish to County Champions in Rugby (winning the advantage of the programme and to Examinations. We also offer placements allocated to local children to 80%. single use plastic used within its catering
record my thanks to my colleagues Mr Essex Schools and Essex Schools’ Sevens engage with it. Participation in activities for Sixth Form students during their provision. I would also like to take this
Derrick, Ms Dolan and Mrs Mumford who Competitions), Borough Champions enables personal development and holidays. We do not encourage students The School is fortunate to enjoy opportunity to thank all parents who
supported this trip, and to Mr McGee who in Football and County Champions in the growth of self-confidence. In my to arrange placements during term tremendous support from its local contribute to the School’s Pupil Fund.
was responsible for its conception and Basketball. The Year 7 Rugby team also experience, the development of these time as the inevitable reduction in community. I would particularly like The generosity of these parents enables
organisation. showed great promise, coming runners attributes goes hand in hand with their School attendance would have to draw to your attention the superb the School to continue to offer a broad
up in the County Championship. Not to academic progress and success. a negative impact on their academic support we continue to receive from the curricular and extra-curricular experience
As is evident from the pages of this, and be outdone by their peers, the Year 9 progress. Therefore, Sixth Form Parents’ Association. The quality of so to our pupils.
previous editions of the Westcliff Diary, Rugby team won the U14 Essex Plate. I draw to the School community’s students seeking work experience many of our School events is enhanced by
the School’s extra-curricular programme The School’s U18 Basketball players attention that the Department for placements – for example, those seeking the provision of outstanding hospitality I would like to remind parents that
of activities continues to thrive. Music were also crowned County Champions. A Education has updated its Safeguarding medical work experience - are advised from the Parents’ Association. In addition we welcome contact with the School,
remains a great strength of the School highlight of the season was the School’s guidance for Schools (Keeping Children to obtain a placement during the to supporting our events, the Parents’ although this must be by letter or
under the leadership of Mr Derrick, Junior Athletics team being crowned Safe in Education). As usual, the School School holidays. I would also encourage Association has raised many thousands of telephone call. We do not ordinarily reply
Director of Music. The recent summer English National Champions (with a will be training its staff at the start of the students and their parents to attend pounds to provide additional resources to emails as the senders’ identity can be
Sinfonia Concert was filled to capacity record-breaking points score) with their year in relation to the updated guidance some or all of the programme of careers and support activities within the School. difficult to verify. We are most grateful
to hear a wonderful programme of Intermediate counterparts coming fourth so that we can continue to provide an seminars involving local and national In particular, I would like to thank them for your support in relation to this matter,
music which included an outstanding environment in which our pupils feel speakers and covering a board range of for supporting the School’s initiative and I also encourage you to visit the
performance of Weber’s Clarinet Concerto happy and safe. sectors. Further information on these to provide reusable water bottles for School’s website and Social Media pages
No 2 by Alex Usher. During the last events planned for the coming year are our pupils, in our attempt to reduce the on a regular basis to keep in touch with
academic year, the levels of participation The School has a splendid pastoral included within this edition of the Diary. amount of plastic waste. Thanks to the the latest developments at the School.
in drama, and its quantity and quality, system with each division of the School support of the Parents’ Association,
continued to rise under the leadership (Lower, Middle and Sixth Form) being The success of the School’s work these water bottles will be available to I wish you all an enjoyable and successful
of Mr Jeffreys, Director of Drama. The supported by its own pastoral office. experience programme relies on the be purchased at a significantly subsidised academic year ahead.
School’s drama season concluded with the The recent survey feedback we have
student-led House Drama Festival which received from pupils, parents and staff
was a fitting end to a season in which the regarding our pastoral and safeguarding Public Examination being graded A*/A. Nineteen students
School’s company performed three superb provision was highly positive. As the Results 2019 gained two or more A* grades and twelve
students achieved at least three A*
grades, with two students achieving four
This year, WHSB has enjoyed superb A A* grades. The majority of students have
Level results, with 14% of our entries achieved or exceeded their University
being graded A* and 45% of all entries offers, including eight students who have
secured places at the Universities of
Oxford and Cambridge.
We enjoyed record-breaking GCSE A remarkable 44% of pupils achieved 8 or
results with 56% of entries graded 8/9 (A*) more 9-8/A* grades.
and 76% of entries graded 9-7 (A*-A). We
have many pupils who have performed at We congratulate all our students and give
an exceptionally high level. 71% of pupils them our best wishes for the future.
achieved 8 or more A*- A/ 9-7 grades, and
25% of pupils achieved 12A*-A/9-7 grades.
Page 2 The Westcliff Diary The Westcliff Diary Page 3
School News The entertainment for the Official Launch
will include drama and music provided
in the term and included on the School’s
website.
from private individuals in support of the
Centenary year and I would like to thank
understanding of her subject (Economics).
We thank her for encouraging students to
Hung join the Science Department and
we are also delighted to welcome back Mr
by current and past students of the them for their generous contributions. develop their interest in the subject and Wightman to the Science Department.
WHSB Centenary 1920- School. The Big Band and friends (The As part of our Centenary celebrations, the In particular, I offer my thanks to Old for her contribution to some of the very Mr Norman (an Old Westcliffian) joins
Centenary Band) will be performing a School has produced a WHSB Centenary Westcliffians, Mr Ian Frances, Mr Tony best public examination results enjoyed the Geography Department, Mr Nutman
2020 programme of favourites and a fanfare tie. The design makes use of the School Axe and Mr Jon Gershinson who have by WHSB students and we wish her well joins the Mathematics Department, Mr
and rousing rendition of ‘Jerusalem’ colours and includes an emblem marking made very generous donations. All in her new role. Miss Isaac has also been Greaves joins the Physical Education
The School’s Centenary year commences should be anticipated! Our drama will the Centenary. The standard tie will retail surplus funds raised during the Centenary with the School since 2015. She is a highly Department and Dr Johnson joins the
on 1 January 2019 and the School make use of the School’s historical record for £10, and it will be possible to buy year will go towards improving our capable teacher and has been a significant Computer Science Department. We are
community is gearing up for a wonderful including excerpts from 1920s editions of a silk version of the tie for £20. Pupils sporting and recreational facilities. We contributor to the School’s extra- delighted to welcome Ms McKeown
programme to celebrate our first 100 the School magazine. We are delighted to may wear this tie at School during the appreciate that we live in challenging curricular life. Miss Isaac now moves who takes over the leadership of the
years. At the time of writing, less than 80 be able to provide our pupils (and former Centenary year in place of their uniform economic times, however if members forward to take up a promoted position. Modern Languages Department and
tickets remain for the Official Launch of students) with the rare opportunity to tie if they wish to do so. The ties will also of our community or organisations wish Miss Wajgensberg who will lead the
the Centenary year at the Cliffs Pavilion perform in a large-scale, professional be available to Old Westcliffians, who to discuss making a donation towards Mr Williamson will be particularly well Psychology Department. Both colleagues
taking place on Saturday 1 February 2020. venue. This promises to be a wonderful may also wish to purchase the tie as a the Centenary fund then please do not known to pupils in the Sixth Form for have substantial experience of teaching in
We are conscious that parents and family occasion to celebrate the founding of a memento of their School, and to family hesitate to contact myself through my leading Psychology, although he has also a selective school environment.
members of pupils performing at the remarkable School and the many people and friends who may wish to purchase Personal Assistant, Mrs Robinson, or overseen the pastoral care of younger
Launch event may wish to attend and we who have been part of its one hundred them as gifts for Old Westcliffians. The tie Mr Partridge, our Director of Resources pupils and taught English in the Middle
shall be offering these parents first refusal years of history. The School shall publish a will be available for purchase throughout and Support Services (partridged@whsb. School. He has given tremendous
Annual Festival of
on the remaining tickets. The tickets can detailed programme of Centenary events the Centenary year only, as will Centenary essex.sch.uk). service to the School since he joined us Lessons and Carols
be purchased via TicketSource at https:// later this term. pens and mugs. Full details regarding the in September 2011. Mr Williamson has Monday 16 December 2019, 7.30pm
whsb.ticketsource.co.uk/ and I would sale of these items will be published later decided to return to academia and we
encourage those who still wish to attend Running alongside the programme of this term.
Staffing for the wish him well with his further studies. The School’s Carol Service is always one
to make your booking as early as possible. events for the Centenary year, all subject Autumn Term of the highlights of the year and is a long
departments shall be incorporating Once again, I would like to thank the Miss Dolan has been an outstanding and established part of WHSB tradition.
a centenary element to their usual Principal Sponsor for our Centenary Year, I would like to take this opportunity to servant of WHSB since she joined us in For many in our community, the School’s
curriculum. In some instances, this Paul Robinson Solicitors LLP, for enabling record my thanks those staff members January 2011. She has a strong academic Carol Service marks the beginning of
will focus on the School, for example us to develop a superb range of events who left us in August for their service to background and she used her outstanding the Christmas period. We warmly invite
the Lower School History curriculum, for the Centenary. We are also grateful to the School. subject knowledge to both enthuse and you to join us for our traditional service
whilst in other subjects it will focus Rickard Luckin Accountants and Cadman, inspire her pupils. As Second in Geography of Lessons and Carols which will feature
on understanding the development of the building firm which completed the At the end of last term, we said farewell she has overseen the growth in pupil some of the Christmas season’s well-
the subject across the last 100 years. fantastic internal refurbishment of the to Mr Nowotarski and Mr Mumford, both numbers taking the subject at GCSE Level, known Carols. It will be an opportunity
Details of these incorporations into the Science Building, for their generous Old Westcliffians, who have provided in particular. Miss Dolan has also given for pupils, parents, staff and friends of the
curriculum will be shared with pupils later support. We have also received donations tremendous service in their roles as outstanding service as a member of the School to join as a community and to sing
temporary Teaching Assistants. Sixth Form Pastoral team as the Auxiliary together in what promises to be a warm
Mr Ayling and Ms Sanchez have both Progress Leader. Miss Dolan has always and joyful evening. Following the Service,
Annual Speech Day Dame Carol has completed three at school and President of the Student been with us for just one academic year to gone the extra mile in terms of providing those in attendance are invited to join us
Wednesday 6 November 2019, 7.45pm independent reviews for the UK Union at Bristol. Dame Carol comments teach Chemistry and Spanish respectively. support and encouragement for her for mince pies and coffee. Pupils, parents
Government: of the health of the working- “It matters to me terribly that I try and Each colleague has made valuable pupils. and friends are invited to reserve seats in
age population in 2008 as National that I take risks. I would rather say, ‘I had contributions and we thank them for advance using TicketSource.
The School’s Annual Speech Day will take Director for Health and Work; of sickness a go and it did not work’, than look in the their work. Both colleagues have enjoyed We are pleased to welcome a number of
place on Wednesday 6 November in the absence in Britain in 2011 as co-chair; mirror and realise I did not put myself in their time in teaching and plan to take staff to the School. Mr Garstin and Mrs Headmaster
School Hall. This year we are delighted to and of employment outcomes of addiction the race”. postgraduate qualifications in teaching.
welcome Professor Dame Carol Black to drugs or alcohol, or obesity, in 2016. We wish them every success with their
In February 2019 the Home Secretary Speech Day provides the School studies. Annual Service of
Professor Dame Carol Black is currently announced that Dame Carol would lead with an opportunity to celebrate the
Chair of the British Library, the Centre an independent review on illicit drugs, achievements of pupils throughout the We also said farewell to Mr White who
Remembrance
Monday 11 November 2019, 8.45am
for Ageing Better, and Think Ahead, demand, supply and treatment. School during the past academic year. has contributed significantly to the
the Government’s fast-stream training The evening is a compulsory attendance outstanding success enjoyed by the
programme for Mental Health Social Professor Black is a past-President of for all pupils in Years 11 to 13. It is Physical Education Department in the last The Annual Service of Remembrance
Workers. She chairs NHS Improvement’s the Royal College of Physicians, of the anticipated that we shall have over 900 two years. He now moves forward to a for the whole School will take place on
Advisory Board on Employee Health and Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, pupils, staff and guests in attendance. promoted position in his new School. Monday 11 November at 8.45am. The
Wellbeing, and is Adviser to NHSI and and of the British Lung Foundation, and Service will run until approximately
PHE on Health and Work. She is also a past-Chair of the Nuffield Trust for health Dr Smith joined the staff in 2017, having 9.40am and will include hymns, readings,
member of RAND Europe’s Council of policy. The Centre she established at just completed a PhD in Mathematics. He prayers and music to remember the
Advisers, and of the Board of UKActive. the Royal Free Hospital in London is is a highly qualified mathematician and fallen. The Head Boy, Ben Johanson, will
internationally-renowned for research we thank him for his work to promote lay a wreath in memory of those from the
She recently completed her seven-year and treatment of connective tissue scholarly interest in the subject. Miss School who gave their lives in both World
term as Principal of Newnham College diseases such as scleroderma. She has Tyson also joined us just two years ago. Wars and in other conflicts. The School’s
Cambridge, where she was a Deputy recently been a Trustee of the National She is a highly capable mathematician Combined Cadet Force (CCF) will also
Vice-Chancellor. She still sits on the Portrait Gallery. and chemist who has been able to make a participate in the arrangements for the
University’s Advisory Board for the contribution to teaching in both of those Service. Parents are warmly invited to
Centre of Science and Public Policy, and Dame Carol originally attended a subjects. Miss Tyson moves on to new join us for the occasion, and for coffee in
the Strategy Board on Student Mental Grammar School and reflects that her responsibilities at her new School and we the Conference Room after the Service.
Health and Wellbeing. She is a Patron of earliest achievement was to defy limited thank her for her contribution and wish Seating should be reserved in advance
the Women’s Leadership Centre in the family expectations, those being working her well. using TicketSource.
Judge Business School. in a shoe factory or shop. She believed
more was possible. She became Head Girl Mrs Mason joined us in 2015 and quickly
demonstrated a fine knowledge and
Page 4 The Westcliff Diary The Westcliff Diary Page 5
School News pupil attendance remains a top priority
for the School. We are grateful for the
while the School will always be mindful
of individual circumstances, both pupils
often pupils and parents are not aware
of the excessive use of and reliance on
The Year 10 Education a smooth and constructive transition
into the Middle School, at the Year 10
continuing support of so many parents and parents must understand that those Social Media and ‘gaming’ until it has
Evening and Education Evening. This will take place
School Attendance regarding the matter of attendance. who engage in the misuse of drugs while become an entrenched habit or addiction. Successful Study in the School Hall at 7.30pm on Tuesday
registered as pupils of the School and, The excessive use and reliance on Social 24 September and I hope that all Year
As we start the new academic year, I in particular those who do so in School Media is increasingly placing pupils
Strategies at GCSE 10 pupils and their parents will be in
wish to remind parents and pupils of the
Safeguarding or through their links with School, will under pressure and, in some instances,
Tuesday 24 September 2019, 7.30pm
attendance.
importance of the continuity of education. probably be deemed to have behaved in has encouraged a minority to engage in
The majority of pupils maintain splendid The start of an academic year seems a manner incompatible with their future unacceptable behaviour such as spreading Pupils, the School and parents all have a I will be joined by senior colleagues and
attendance records and both they, their an appropriate time to remind pupils membership of the School. malicious gossip and/or insulting others. significant role to play in ensuring that former Year 11 pupils who will contribute
parents and the School take appreciable and parents of the importance of safe Unsurprisingly, there is also a strong progress and attainment is maximised their own expertise and experiences and
pride in their commitment. The School behaviour, not just at School but also at correlation between low academic throughout the Middle School years and this will make for a very worthwhile and
monitors attendance closely and the home and when travelling to and from
Use of the Internet progress and excessive online activity. that this ultimately leads to success at informative evening.
data shows a strong correlation between School. I would also draw attention and Mental Health I remind parents and pupils that the GCSE. Taking the pupil’s role first, they
absence and lower levels of progress. The to my letter to parents dated 10 June Internet is rarely required to complete will be more motivated with their studies Mr A Farrell
pace of lessons is fast and an absence of a 2019 (copies also available from the The School has regularly shared with homework. if they have chosen their goals. This Director of Middle School
day or more can place pupils in difficulty School Office) which covered a range of pupils and parents the message that may take the form of pursuing Higher
with catching up on missed work as well important Safeguarding matters. I am sure adolescents are particularly susceptible Appropriately, there has been an Education at University, enrolling on
as endeavouring to keep up in lessons. parents will share the School’s concern to Internet addiction. This often manifests increasing focus in recent years on young an apprenticeship scheme or gaining
Positive Study Habits
We understand that there will always regarding the number of recent drugs itself as excessive time spent playing peoples’ mental health. There is robust admission to the Sixth Form to study
be an exceptional case to the general related deaths of young people within our internet games and/or use of Social evidence to suggest that excessive at Advanced Level. Whatever their For those pupils in Year 11 and 13,
rule, however I wish to advise parents local and wider community. It is important Media. In some instances we have found Internet use leads to low mood, anxiety aspirations, this will help them to focus revision and public examinations will
that requests for leave of absence for the pupils understand the serious danger pupils spending up to an average of four and depression in young people. It is on their work and give them a sense of not be far from your mind throughout
holidays during term time will not be which drugs pose and seek support to five hours per day online (in excess often manifest in insufficient sleep, lack purpose for doing well. Concentration this year, and those in Year 10 and 12
granted. Given its impact on educational from parents and the School if they find of a day a week). Unfortunately, this of physical fitness, loss of interest in other and paying attention in lessons is, of begin their two-year public examination
performance, maintaining outstanding themselves involved with drugs. Equally, behaviour is becoming normalised and activities and declining performance at course, essential to grasp the concepts courses. It might seem a little daunting
school. Therefore, it is important that and thoroughly understand the subject at this stage in the Academic Year, but a
parents continue to discuss, monitor and material that is being covered. Self- few simple strategies can certainly help
Congratulations to our new Head Boy and Deputies agree reasonable boundaries for their discipline and personal organisation to build a secure foundation ahead of key
children’s online activity. Parents are are necessary attributes to ensure that revision periods and ultimately maximise
It is always a great pleasure to introduce the new Head Boy and his Deputies to our wider School community. Our Head Boy, Benjamin strongly advised to prevent their sons or homework and revision assignments to your chance of success next summer.
Johanson, is a major contributor to the School’s Drama Company and has had major roles in most of our recent productions. He will daughters from using or storing internet support the work that is being done in the
also be well known in the School as one of our senior CCF cadets. Benjamin has already made a superb start to his period of office enabled devices in their bedrooms. We School are completed by the deadlines set. First and foremost, it is very important
as Head Boy and demonstrated that he is a highly effective and conscientious leader. Benjamin will be supported Daniel Pereira and would also advise that the Internet is Taking a pride in the presentation of their that you remain organised: you need to be
Daniel Barton. Daniel Pereira is also a stalwart of the School’s Drama Company and he gave a dazzling performance in the role of switched off after 9.00pm to avoid pupils material and themselves is important and able to balance homework and revision.
Hamlet last year. He also edits ‘The Stylus’ and has, throughout his time at the School, contributed greatly to the School’s literary life. engaging in online activity into the early creates a good impression. For revision, I suggest the use of a tick
Daniel Barton will be well known to most of the School following his selection (one of only a handful of students, nationally) for the hours of the morning. list (or exam specification) from the very
CCF Canadian Exchange programme. He has a high profile as a senior cadet as well as being a significant contributor to the School’s Subject teachers will obviously impart start of the year. Once you have covered
sporting life. This is an exceptional leadership team and we wish Benjamin and his Deputies every success with their responsibilities. information on the topics that pupils a topic in class, you should revisit it soon
Travelling to and require to cover the various specifications after. Once you have done so, you could
from School and the Pastoral Team, based in the colour code your list: for example, use red
Middle School Pastoral Office, is on hand for material with which you are not at all
Once again, I would like to take the to monitor their progress. The Office will confident, amber where there are gaps
opportunity at the start of this academic provide a variety of support measures in your knowledge but you have a broad
year to remind pupils that they must and guidance if it is felt that a particular understanding of the topic, and green for
travel to and from School wearing School pupil needs them for any reason to help the areas in which you are most confident.
uniform and those engaged in sport them get back on track and meet their This will help you to work out the areas
must change back into School uniform target grades. A most important aspect for immediate attention when it comes
before departing the School site. It is also of preparation for GCSEs is, of course, to revision for your Trial Examinations. If
important that pupils maintain the highest an organised, constructive, revision you do this as you work through the year,
standard of behaviour when travelling to programme and we advise them on it will help you to identify those areas you
and from School. The School works with strategies to maximise the efficiency of need to work on, instead of struggling
Benjamin Johanson Daniel Pereira Daniel Barton other local schools and the bus and rail their revision time. with topics you do not understand in
Head Boy Deputy Head Boy Deputy Head Boy companies to address any misconduct the lead up to both Trial and Public
Previous School Rayleigh Primary School St Joseph’s Primary School South Benfleet Primary School in this area. Our School community will Parents can play an important role here Examinations.
(Canvey Island) not tolerate the misconduct of a few, as well. Ensuring that there is somewhere
tarnishing the reputation of all, and so your son can work at home which Being disciplined with your time is a key
Subjects at A Level History, Spanish, Mathematics English Literature, Religious Mathematics, Economics,
any misconduct in public will be treated provides an environment conducive ingredient for success at GCSE and A
and Economics Studies, German, and History Politics and History
as a serious matter. The School has an to study and that he is not allowing his Level. No-one expects you to work 24
The most positive aspect of The independence and The wealth of opportunities for Support from the School excellent reputation thanks to the hard concentration to be disturbed by the hours a day, but when you do sit down to
being a student at WHSB personal responibility that the participation provided community work and good conduct of the majority of distractions of text messages, MP3 study, you must do so with full focus. We
School encourages its pupils and all members of the School players, computer games and the like are would always advise you to break your
What I would most like to To lead an effective Prefect To promote respect for all To encourage a strong sense of community have a duty to uphold that essential. Providing encouragement and studying into 30 minute chunks to help
achieve in my new position at Body which serves our members of the community community reputation. showing an interest in his studies, on the maintain concentration. Have a clear
WHSB community well and our environment other hand, is also a necessity as it aids idea of what you want to achieve and
Headmaster your son’s motivation. make sure you strive to reach that goal
My message to our new Year Be Open to Opportunity There is so much on offer Take time to forge positive by the end of the session and ensure that
7 pupils - immerse yourself fully in relationships with others I will be discussing the above matters and you study in an environment conducive
School life other issues relating to your son making to study, free from distractions; leave
Page 6 The Westcliff Diary The Westcliff Diary Page 7
School News Sixth Form Education It is our aim to help and encourage
members of Year 12 to make the
Year 7 Education with the ever-popular Christmas Jumper
Day taking place (for a donation of £1).
Extended Project
Evening: The Pupil to transition. However, support from
Evening for all These charity events are cash only, with
Qualification (EPQ)
your mobile phone, computer and other Student Transition home is vital. Accordingly, on Thursday Parents and Pupils £5 usually sufficing to ensure entry
gadgets in another room. Working with Thursday 19 September 2019, 7.30pm 19 September 2019, the Headmaster, Monday 23 September 2019, 7.00pm to all daytime activities and a piece of During the Summer Term, the current
full concentration will give you a real Mr McGee (Year 12 Progress Leader), cake. Later in the year, watch out for our Year 13 (then Year 12) students were
sense of achievement, meaning that you and I will lead an Education Evening Having now begun their journey as family-friendly evening events such as busily working on their Project Proposal
will be able to enjoy your leisure time Joining a Sixth Form brings many to explain the measures needed for a WHSB pupils, Year 7 have to get to grips a Quiz Night. Applications for Charity forms for their Extended Project
without concern. benefits – a young person gets to choose contented and successful Sixth Form with considerable change, including Committee Chairman are open now and Qualification dissertation. They have now
their favourite subjects to study, and no education, and to give advice on study environment, peer group, study habits, letters of application should be addressed been paired with a subject mentor who
Incremental revision is absolutely vital, longer must attend lessons or complete habits, the organization of notes, wider technology and so on. In light of this to Mrs Mumford and submitted by Friday will give them advice and guidance.
and revision must not be left until the final tasks relating to anything else. Their wellbeing issues as well as hints relevant change, we invite all Year 7 parents to join 13 September.
weeks and days before an examination. timetable has private study sessions, to particular subjects. Current Year 13 their sons for this compulsory Education Over the Summer holiday, learners
Cramming simply will not work with the during which they have a free choice as students will speak from their experience. Evening. During the evening, we will Mrs K Mumford worked on their literature review, the
volume of information you will need to to how they work. They are looked up to I encourage all members of Year 12, consider some general strategies for Second Deputy Head purpose of which is to survey books,
retain for next summer. However, starting by younger pupils, and are naturally seen together with an adult member of their success and will also provide some clear scholarly articles, and any other sources
early will mean that you can get a head in the role of a leader. They begin the family to attend this evening to ensure guidance as to our expectations for our relevant to a particular issue, area of
start. It really is a case of repeatedly process of choosing a University course or that they begin their Sixth Form journey pupils in addition to guidance as to what
Relationships and Sex research, or theory, and by so doing,
revisiting material until it can be stored in profession in readiness for the day when with the right attitude and approach. parents can do to most effectively support Education Policy (RSE) provide a description, summary, and
the long-term memory. they leave the School. them. critical evaluation of these works in
Dr A Machacek The Government has issued revised relation to the research problem being
It is important that you find out how you And yet, while some of the subjects Assistant Head: Director of Sixth Form Mr J Bleakley guidance on Relationships Education, investigated. They have also been
best learn, but you may need to do that chosen may have the same name as Director of Lower School RSE and Health Education. This applies to explaining how their research fits within a
through trial. Do you find tables and the ones studied at GCSE, there are all schools in England and will come into larger field of study.
diagrams helpful? Are question cards great differences. The questions on the
Year 9 ‘Helping Parents effect in September 2020.
useful to you? It is only by repeating papers of the modern, linear A Level to Help Their Sons’ Enrichment Day This qualification is aimed at the most-
Friday 20 September 2019
revision and finding memorable ways to (with no modules nor AS examinations Evening As a School, we are fortunate that we able and conscientious students in the
learn that you will find the most effective half way through) require a high level of Thursday 26 September 2019, 7.30pm already teach and thoroughly cover most Sixth Form who are aiming at top grades
way forward. Revision should never independent thought. In Mathematics Friday 20 September promises to be of what has now become statutory and at A Level (mainly As and A*s). They have a
be re-reading or copying your notes; and Physics, there is a greater emphasis an exciting day for all pupils. Year 7 have done so for many years within our number of strict deadlines.
you must adopt effective strategies to on proving rather than using equations, As Year 9 pupils begin their third pupils will be heading off to East Mersea PSHEE curriculum. The new guidance If there is an area of study you really enjoy,
ensure the best chance of committing the and applying them to more novel academic year at WHSB, we invite for a day of fun, adventure and, most refers to RSE helping to develop pupils’ the EPQ gives you the chance to develop
material to long-term memory. In simple situations. In History and Politics, the Year 9 parents and pupils to attend the importantly, making new friends as personal attributes, including honesty, your skills and knowledge and really
terms, if you revise something, revisit it range of material and background to Year 9 Helping Parents to Help their they tackle a variety of team-building integrity, courage, humility, kindness, impress universities. Top universities
one day later, then one week later, and be learned is much greater. In short, Sons evening. Year 9 is an especially activities. Year 8 pupils set off on a generosity, trustworthiness and a sense recognise the EPQ as valuable proof of
one month later, you will increase your the number of questions which can be important year, as it is the final year of pilgrimage to Canterbury with the of justice, alongside self-respect and your capacity for independent learning,
chance of retaining the material. answered well by memorizing mark preparation for GCSE, and performance Religious Studies Department, Year 9 self-worth. These are all attributes that as well as your passion for the subject you
schemes from previous examinations, or and approach to studies in this year can has a day of Computer Science activity are ingrained in our established ‘Learner want to study at a higher level. When they
Getting into good study and revision by rehearsing specific methods has been have a material effect on GCSE choices, to enjoy, whilst Year 10 pupils have a Profile’ here at WHSB. see it on your UCAS application, it shows
habits early and being organised will reduced. For eager, diligent students, setting the foundation for the pupils’ day of Mathematics in Action. Year 11 them that you are serious.
maximise your chance of success in keen to master their subjects, the new future performance. During this evening Historians are heading on a castle tour Lucy Emmerson, Director of the Sex
the Summer 2020. Studying for Public examinations are a welcome change. we will consider some general strategies and the remaining pupils will have a day of Education Forum, said: “We know that The benefits of completing an EPQ
Examinations does create some pressure, Not only that, but the range of topics, for success in studies during the vital time immersive English activities. Year 12 will the majority of children, young people include:
but following some of this advice should and the depth to which they need to be for preparation to choose GCSE Options. be participating in Health and Wellbeing and parents want an education that • Enhancing your UCAS application
help you to manage your workload and understood is much greater than at GCSE. In addition, representatives of various activities and Year 13 students will be reflects the realities of growing up in and potentially helping you meet the
remain in control. departments will review subject specific volunteering either with School activities, modern society and equips them to conditions of a university place offer,
To succeed with these courses, and these advice. Parents are kindly requested to or organising their own opportunities. We enjoy safe and respectful relationships. as it is worth extra points (half an A
Please remember that studying will not examinations, a different approach is book tickets via TicketSource. We look are looking forward to a most enjoyable The new guidance from the Department Level);
always go to plan, but drawing on the necessary. It has been customary for forward to seeing you at this event. and productive day. for Education opens the way for this to • The opportunity to produce a piece of
resilience you have developed during some time at WHSB to refer to those in happen, and for schools to engage fully work that is truly individual and says
your time at WHSB will help you through Years 7 to 11 as ‘pupils’ while those in with parents in this process, so that something about you as a person;
a demanding year. All of your teachers the Sixth Form are denoted ‘students’.
Charity Events and children get the reliable information and • Demonstrating to universities that
are here to help and want you to succeed. This distinction is particularly apposite Applications for open conversations they want and need.” you are enthusiastic about the subject
If you feel concerned or under pressure with the new courses. A student is an Charity Committee you are applying to study;
and need some additional help, please do independent learner, who takes control The RSE policy at WHSB has been • Proving to future employers that you
see your Progress Leader or staff in the of the direction of their studies. A pupil, Chairman updated and we will consult with are a self-motivated character with
relevant Pastoral Office. We wish you even a good one, follows orders – no more staff, students and parents at School useful skills in your chosen field.
good luck for the year ahead. and no less. A good pupil can succeed at Each year, charity fundraisers are run by a about this before it is finalised. Details
GCSE. Old Westcliffians who go on to dedicated committee of Year 12 students. of this consultation process will be If you have any questions about this
Mr S Neagus University or professional study as part of This team selects the charities – one communicated later in the year. qualification, then please do ask me.
Year 11 Progress Leader their apprenticeships need to be students local, one national – and plans a series of
– able to learn without daily supervision events across the School year. The first The full government draft guidance from Mr R Barber
and support ‘on tap’, and without Charity Day is on Friday 18 October and the Department of Education can be Head of Breadth Studies
reminders about upcoming deadlines. a detailed schedule will be published in found online on the gov.uk website.
Accordingly, a transition must occur advance, with activities typically including
during the Sixth Form, and the sooner it is Cake Sales, Teacher Gunging and the Staff Mr R Barber
made, the more rewarding and successful Pantomime being run during break, lunch PSHEE Coordinator
the Sixth Form experience will be for the and after School. Thursday 12 December
learner. will be the second day of fundraising,
Page 8 The Westcliff Diary The Westcliff Diary Page 9
Trips & Visits Year 10 Trip to China Exchange 2020 lake was seemingly turned up-side down
the National on our heads. We were subsequently
Parents and staff at WHSB will have lived, whisked around sites such as the
History Days Out Portrait Gallery: A at least partially, through the ‘American Forbidden Palace, Tiananmen Square and
Retrospective Century’. Your children, and the students the Olympic Village. The culmination of
In the Autumn, the WHSB History at WHSB will live through the ‘Chinese our time in Beijing was the Great Wall
Department continues its very successful On Friday 5 July, Miss Price and Mr Century’. Whether or not you agree of China, where the steps were so steep
History Days Out programme. The Sinnott took Year 10 Art pupils to the with this assessment of the changing and the air so hot we reached the apex in
programme is designed to offer an National Portrait Gallery in London. We geopolitical landscape, there can be a daze of fervent perspiration – but the
interesting visit on a Saturday once a viewed the Cindy Sherman exhibition, no doubt that the resurgence of China view will stay with us as one of life’s finest.
term to a place of historical significance. general collection and the BP Portrait will present the world with a drastically
Previous visits have included the Tower Award. It was a fantastic opportunity changing order of affairs and economic Following our stay in Beijing, we took the
of London, Bletchley Park, the National for GCSE pupils to see a vast array of floors of the gallery were a trip through disruption. Q&A session for parents where you bullet train to Shenyang, for a week of
Museum of Computing, and Historic portraiture in wide-ranging media, time as you went along from the Tudor will have the opportunity to discuss the educational activities. We attempted to
Greenwich. On our next visit, pupils will created in different eras and contexts, Kings and Queens all the way to the At WHSB, we ask our students to be practicalities and arrangements for the learn basic Mandarin, our first unforgiving
be embarking across the Thames and thus allowing pupils to identify and select present day art. Seeing all of the famous globally aware, and in this vein we are trip. exposure to the language, Chinese music
venturing into Kent on a visit to Chatham works to inspire them for their GCSE portraits and events was very interesting pleased to announce that the Confucius and cultural studies. The highlight of
Dockyards. With a range of battleships studies. in terms of both art and history and how Institute/Hanban China Exchange The following article gives a review of the the trip was the home visit with a local
and submarines to explore, as well as the the world (and art) has changed so much will once again offer 10 students the 2018 Exchange to give you a flavour of student. We were invited into the family
Victorian Ropery and exhibitions on over Feedback from the pupils was most in just over 500 years.” Thomas Gerrie opportunity to travel to China for two what can be expected. home and spent the afternoon making
400 years of British History, Chatham positive, and some of their comments are weeks in July/August 2020. Similar in traditional Chinese dumplings and
Dockyard is steeped in history and will included below. “The trip to the National Portrait Gallery format to the Exchanges of 2017 and Mr D Hill tea, mostly by means of gestures and
provide an interactive and immersive was great. All of the exhibitions were 2018, students will spend one week in the Teacher i/c China Exchange smiles. Despite the language barriers,
learning environment for pupils. Founded “Before I went, I did not realise that really interesting and created lots of capital, Beijing, touring the historical and our welcome was so warm that we leave
in the mid-16th century as a result of photography could have the same effect project ideas and goals. Thanks to Miss cultural landmarks of this ancient city. The China with the small bond of friendship.
the Reformation and the rise of tensions and creativity as a painting, but seeing Price and Mr Sinnott, the trip was really second week will be spent in a provincial
China Exchange 2018: A
between England and Catholic Europe, the Cindy Sherman exhibition completely enjoyable.” William Wadeson city, sampling aspects of Chinese culture Retrospective After two frenetic weeks, and a few
Chatham Dockyard has contributed changed my perspective… The upper such as martial arts, calligraphy and upset stomachs, it was time for us to
to the defence of Britain for over 400 “The trip was inspiring and it showed me a traditional Chinese dance. Alongside, On an early Sunday morning in mid-July, make the 28-hour odyssey back to our
years. Pupils will have the opportunity new perspective and calibre of art which there will be approximately 20 hours of 12 students from WHSB along with our Essex homes. The visit to China will be
to consider the vitality of the dockyards I had never been exposed to before.” Mandarin lessons, where students will bleary-eyed teachers, were congregating forgotten by no one and easily rests as
not only on the sovereignty of our island Andreas Moulton try to grasp the four tones of the spoken at the School bus stops. We had been one of the most fascinating trips we have
nation, but also on its expansion. The day dialect. given a once in a lifetime opportunity: been offered whilst at WHSB. It gave
promises to be informative, interesting “A fully engaging, meaningful trip. Many Students who wish to apply for the we were travelling to China. The trip, us the opportunity to experience a truly
and above all else, fun! This opportunity, of the pieces of modern art, mostly from Exchange will be invited to an interest organised in partnership with the IOE disparate culture and unique perspective,
and participation in our History Days the BP Awards, really inspired me to try meeting in early October, alongside a Confucius Institute, was the second run and one that will increasingly be felt on
Out programme, is open to all pupils new things. The Cindy Sherman exhibition of a hopefully annual exchange that the the world stage. Of course none of this
throughout the School and any interested was interesting, especially her horror School intends to offer to its students would be possible without the hard work
pupil should collect a letter from the work from the 1980s. Overall it was a from Year 10 and above. The trip was to and organisation of our accompanying
School Office. wonderful trip.” Ethan Ng last two weeks, with one week in Beijing teachers, Mr Hill and Mr Morrish. We
and one in Shenyang respectively. encourage all students to take up this
Mr B Jeffreys Miss L Price opportunity in the future, and experience
Head of History KS3/KS4 Art Co-ordinator Our time in the sprawling Chinese capital China!
was an onslaught of historical sites and
famed Chinese landmarks built across Billy Darlington
the last millennia. We had packed for the Year 13
Year 11 Geography equipment and to apply the theory from Geographical Applications paper in the scorching Chinese Summer, but our first
the classroom to the practice in the field. summer. venture out, to the Summer Palace, will
Field Trip to Walton- The data will then be used to develop a be remembered as a wet deluge as the
on-the-Naze range of skills, such as graph drawing and Dr M Shepherd
Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 October analysis, which will be examined in the Head of Geography
2019
In July, Year 10 GCSE Geography pupils
took part in a data collection day for
a human geography investigation in
Stratford, East London. The results
enabled them to compare deprivation
and quality of life in the regenerated East
Village with the Carpenters Estate area.
October will see them – as Year 11 pupils -
take part in a physical geography fieldtrip
visit to Walton-on-the-Naze in North
Essex. This time the aim is to evaluate
the impacts of coastal management
strategies along the town’s coastline.
This enquiry will give the classes an
excellent opportunity to use fieldwork
Page 10 The Westcliff Diary The Westcliff Diary Page 11
Trips & Visits a School day at the Lycée Rey, a private
school in the region. Pupils were expected German Exchange After our tour of Bonn with my host family
to engage in lessons and take in the 2018/19: A the night before, the next day was spent in
similarities and differences between the German school. This was an excellent
the two systems. It was clear the pupils
Retrospective chance to experience the life of a German
were curious to observe the day-to-day teenager and also make some new friends.
routines at the Lycée Rey, which raised As every year, Dr Francis and I enjoyed
some interesting discussion points. taking a large group of Year 9 to 13 Following that we had the weekend where
students to Germany on our annual we were able to visit different areas of
Over the weekend, pupils stayed with exchange programme with our partner Bonn with our host families. I went to see
their host families. Some travelled to Paris school in Bonn. It is fantastic to provide a basketball game which proved to be one
to see the Capital's famous sites, whereas students with the opportunity to practise of the highlights of the trip.
others visited the beautiful seaside their language skills outside of the is in the year above me, so I enjoyed a
scenery just a one-hour car journey from classroom and to experience the culture The last two days were spent visiting day of Oberstufe lessons, the highlights
Rouen. The weekend was regarded as of the language they are learning. What Aqualand, a water park about half including tchoukball in PE and double
the best opportunity for learning what follows are two recollections from pupils an hour’s train ride from Bonn, and French, where they were studying a
the pupils regarded as authentic French, who attended the trip. Fantasiasland the undisputable highlight. Parisian music video. The remaining trips
picking up idiomatic phrases and language were to Phantasialand and Aqualand.
which they do not necessarily come across Mrs M Niedzela To conclude, I would thoroughly
in the classroom. Head of German recommend the German Exchange to However, the best aspects of the
anyone with an interest in German culture exchange are outside of the excursions.
During the week, the days were packed For the second year running, I decided as it is not only an immensely insightful The whole trip is so advantageous simply
with activities. Visits to Caen and Rouen to sign up for the German exchange cultural experience but also a great because I was completely immersed in the
town centres were educational and with the Clara Fey Gymnasium in Bad chance to develop your German. German culture and language. Spending
insightful and a trip to the local Pool and Godesberg, Bonn. Following a long – and time in a foreign country speaking only
Visit to IWM Duxford Setesdal Valley Trek and paddle on the Bowling Centre was thoroughly enjoyed very early – coach journey we arrived Oscar Piggott German is unsurprisingly beneficial in
Tuesday 1 October 2019 Otra river journey. There will also be a as it allowed pupils to bond further with in Bad Godesberg to be greeted by our Year 11 improving linguistic abilities and, at its
chance to camp in the Nordic wilderness, their exchange partners. partners. The first evening was spent at core, living 10 days in Bonn were enough
On Tuesday 1 October, Year 9 pupils walk through ancient rainforests and our partners’ houses, getting used to the One of the most fulfilling aspects of the to highlight the nuances of German
will visit the Imperial War Museum at swim in crystal-clear blue lakes. This trip The highlight of the excursion was routines of the host families. German Exchange for Years 9 through that are simply not as accessible within
Duxford for a day of off-site education will be offered to pupils in Years 8 and 9 in undoubtedly the patisserie workshop 13 is that there are plenty of culturally- lessons. The trip allowed us to spend
on the aircraft that helped shape the the first instance and availability may be where a master baker explained how to The following day, we headed off to the enriching trips throughout the stay. We time not only with German citizens, but
world throughout the 20th Century. limited. Further details will be released in make croissants and pains au chocolat in Borussia Dortmund stadium with our visited the home ground of the acclaimed also with German adolescents and to
Pupils will take study packs through this due course. French. After the demonstration, it was partners for a tour that included pitch Borussia Dortmund football team and experience their world perspectives.
excellent museum to direct and guide up to our pupils to demonstrate what side views and a chance to walk along were shown in detail the traditions of Time spent with the family was similarly
them and, based on the feedback from last Mr J Yeo they had understood and learned. It is the famous yellow wall. The next day, we the stadium. Whilst in Dortmund, we fascinating, wherein I spent the weekend
year’s visit, will have a wonderful day of Teacher of Mathematics fair to say the outcomes were variable. headed into Cologne for a staple visit of were able to explore the cosmopolitan exploring the local area with my partner,
exploration and discovery. Nevertheless, pupils were then able to the German exchange, the Sport Museum. city. The following day involved visiting such as the Siebengebirge Mountains
enjoy the fruits of their labour at the end With a tour and a chance to see Dr Cologne’s fascinating Sports Museum, which boasted stunning views up and
Mr A McGee
French Exchange of the workshop. Francis’ boxing skills in action, it certainly made yet better by the roof football down the Rhine. I especially enjoyed
Year 12 Progress Leader 2018/19: A proved eventful. pitch. We also crossed the Rhine on the discussing our perspectives on current
Retrospective Pupils returned to Westcliff on Sea on Hohenzollern Bridge, to get the best view world issues, both nationally in the UK
Thursday evening exhausted but having Following an evening of laser tag with my of the amazing cathedral. The Wednesday or Germany, and relations between our
World Challenge – In the run up to the Easter Holidays, five thoroughly enjoyed their time in France. host partner, the next day was spent in took us to Cochem, featuring a quaint nations. It was an opportunity not to be
Norway Adventure GCSE French students travelled to Rouen I encourage any pupils who are keen to the village of Cochem. This is a beautiful castle and sleepy little village lined with missed.
trip in France as part of the French Exchange. get involved in the French Exchange in German town with a historic castle which wine distilleries. The fourth day was
From Thursday 28 March to Thursday the future to speak with your French we were lucky enough to tour around with spent in our exchange partners’ school Stanley Upton
In Summer 2020, the School plans to run 4 April, the pupils were required to teachers. a guide. (Clara-Fey-Gymnasium). My partner Year 12
a 12-day trip to Norway. This will be an converse only in French, as they lived and
amazing opportunity to experience white- spent time with their French host families. Mr G Rayment
water rafting on a 1km long section of the Head of French
Otra river, take part on the picturesque On the Friday, the pupils experienced
Norway
Page 12 The Westcliff Diary The Westcliff Diary Page 13
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