Redhill School Summer 2017 - Learning together

Learning Together

Issue 19 SUMMER 2017

REDHILL SCHOOL We are proud to announce the
appointment of our new Head Boy
IN THIS ISSUE Joshua Thomas and Head Girl Kara
Brooks. Their roles will commence after
Attendance Matters May half term. Both students were
Learning Together superb throughout the application
Redhill’s Got Talent process and have a number of ideas
Competitions that they are looking forward to
Out and About developing over the next year. They
Clubs at Redhill will be supported by the Deputy Head
Trips and Visits Boys Oliver Martin and Ethan Van Slyke
Pupil News and Deputy Head Girls Kirsty Hampton
Visitors to School and Anna White.
Learning Centre
Events In addition we have a team of
Ambassadors who delivered speeches
School News to their year group but were not voted
Pupil Sports News into the Deputy of Head Boy or Girl
Sports News positions. These are Naomi Tromans,
Judah Loynds, Mia Davies, Sophie
Thomas, Renee Johnson, Emily Smith
and Aimee Erb. These students will support the senior team in their duties and

design the year book and Prom. It has been
a privilege working with these students this
year and I have been particularly impressed
by the quality of their letters of application,
commitment to the school community and
the level of maturity and confidence they
showed delivering their speeches to over
200 peers and staff!
Well done to all those who applied and
were successfully appointed to these
positions of responsibility.

Mrs C Mather
Head of KS4

Stour Vale Academy Trust

“Commitment to excellence” On 1st April, Redhill School became a founder member of the Stour Vale
Academy Trust, in partnership with The Earls High School and Olive Hill Primary
School , Halesowen. This is an exciting development for us as a school and it is
expected that this new Multi Academy Trust will grow and develop over the
coming months and years. Read more about what this means for us at Redhill
on page 3.

ATTENDANCE MATTERS

Why is high As a parent/carer you want the best for your children. Having a good
attendance education is an important factor in opening up more opportunities in adult
important to my life
child's education?
 A child who is absent one day of school per week misses an equivalent of two
Did you know that? years of their school life

 90% attendance = 29.5 missed days in the year
 A Year 11 pupil with 90% attendance each year has missed 147.5 days of

schooling or 737.5 hours of learning in just 5 years

The Government are taking this seriously and have decided that 10% absence will
now be counted as Persistent Absence. GCSEs may seem a long way off for you
and your child but all absence at any stage leads to large gaps in your child’s
learning. This in turn can:
 affect their motivation
 lead to poor behaviour
 affect their desire to attend school regularly
 affect their confidence in school

Common reasons  Family holidays in school time
for absence include:  Extreme tiredness in the mornings due to late nights using technology – phones,

HOW PARENTS CAN X-box, TV etc - which are allowed in the child’s bedroom and can be accessed
HELP: when parents are sleeping
 *Headaches, tummy aches, back ache, colds

 Establish a good routine in the mornings and evenings so your child is prepared
for the school day ahead

 Make sure your child goes to school regularly and follows the school rules
 Ensure your child arrives at school on time – not late
 Arrange dental and medical appointments outside school hours when possible
 Always inform the school if your child is absent due to illness – this should be

followed up with a written note when your child returns to school
 Take truancy seriously – if your child is not attending school as you expect they

may be putting themselves at risk. Who are they with? What are they doing?
 Take family holidays outside term time
 Talk to your child about school and take an interest in their school work

(including homework)
 Attend parents’ evenings and school events
 Praise and reward your child’s achievements at school
 Always support school staff in their efforts to control difficult or challenging

behaviour
 Discuss any problems or difficulties with the school – staff are there to help and

will be supportive

PAGE *See school website for leaflet with advice about what action you might take
when your child is unwell

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

STOUR VALE ACADEMY TRUST

LEARNING TOGETHER

Redhill School has always recognised the importance of
working together with other schools to ensure that we
are able to provide the best opportunities for our pupils
and staff. Over the last eighteen months we have been
working closely with The Earls High School and Olive
Hill Primary School in Halesowen to create a
partnership in which the schools are able to support
each other. Redhill School converted from a local
authority maintained school to a stand-alone academy
in July 2013 and we are now founder members of the Stour Vale Academy Trust. By working
alongside other schools with the same vision we will ensure that our school remains at the
leading edge of learning and achievement.

Framework for Excellence

The essential principle for the Trust is that each Excellence
school in the Trust will have its own distinctive
and individual identity whilst working in Trust Transparency
partnership.
The central vision is to provide a partnership in Academic Character
which we all strive for excellence in everything Achievement Development
that we do.
The framework for excellence sets our vision and Leadership in Every Role
values. At the centre of the framework are the
two aspects of pupil achievement: Academic and
Character Development. We believe that these
two areas are of equal importance in preparing
young people for the world of work and society.

The schools in the Trust are excited at the Continuous Improvement
prospect of building the partnership at every level
so that it includes pupils, staff and our wider
communities.

Alongside our vision and values we have set out a mission statement to help everyone CONCERTS
understand what our priorities are as we set out on our journey together. Earls High School
Summer Concert
Our Mission: Tuesday 20th June

To create a consistent educational experience for all our students so they become responsible, at 2:30pm
successful and confident young people who are active citizens in the 21st Century. Pupils in all Redhill School
the Trust schools will achieve outstanding progress through excellent teaching, a challenging Summer Concert
curriculum and rich extra curricula experiences. Wednesday

Stour Vale Academy Trust Choir 12th July
at 6:30pm
We are planning a harmonious start to our new partnership with The Earls High School and Olive Olive Hill
Hill Primary School. A series of performances with a choir made up of pupils from the three Primary School
schools are already busy rehearsing and the performances will be part of the music programme Summer Fayre
that the schools have planned for the summer term. Friday 14th July
at 3:30pm
Please come and support the pupils at these events.

We hope that the pupils will enjoy performing together.

PAGE

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

REDHILL’S GOT TALENT

PAGE This year’s Redhill’s Got Talent got off to a great
start with the annual auditions. Throughout the
whole week the school witnessed amazing talent
from both students and staff, including ukulele and
harp acts and an excellent dog act! The whole
show was presented by Ben Bullock, who was as
entertaining as the performers.
At the auditions, our performers were judged by a
number of staff including Mrs Stanton, Miss Comley,
Mr Field, and Mr Hayward. They gave quality feedback
to the acts and it was great to hear teachers’ opinions
about the talent in school. A big thank you goes out to
all the teachers that judged.
Auditions started the week beginning 6th February, the
turnout was amazing! Students flooded into the main hall in
‘A’ block to support the performers. It was really good to see
all of the school come together to celebrate the talent that
Redhill produces every year. From the auditions, the
school has raised an astonishingly large amount of
money. This will go towards Moragalla Junior School, a
school in Sri Lanka that Redhill has been working with, in
order to give the children there the best school environment,
to help them with their future life.
The acts at the auditions were of such a high standard, showing how the
performance aspect of Redhill is becoming increasingly good each year.
There was a real variety of talent this year, with dancers, singers,
instrument-playing and even a dog performing on stage. It was really hard
for the judges to decide who should go through to the final. There were
also acts from the teachers too, from Mr Field playing the ukulele to Dan
Cowdrey and Ben Bullock singing Mr Brightside by The Killers, English
teacher Mr Sidaway played the drums and Miss Comley played us her own
version of Touch by Little Mix on the piano whilst singing.
Eventually, the acts that had made it through to the final were decided. Those
performing were Teigan Adams, Savannah Ghahremani, Lydia Biddle, Jordan
Docker, Charlotte Bannister, Chloe Hollinshead, Bethan Bond, Mariann & Isla (the
dog), Sami Brasenell, Iren Treasure, Grace Park-Davies, Charlie Walker & George
Westley-Smith, Eloise Kent and Beats. There was some great dancing from Teigan
Adams, Jordan Docker and Grace Park-Davies, whilst Savannah Ghahremani, Lydia
Biddle, Chloe Hollinshead showed us their fabulous vocal skills. Some of the
performers were able to multi-task onstage: Sami Brasenell sang whilst playing the
ukulele and Eloise Kent played the guitar and sang at the same time! There was
some solo instrumental acts from Charlotte Bannister on the flute and Bethan
Bond playing the harp.
But there could only be one winner! And of course, a second and third place.
These were all chosen by the audience.

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

REDHILL’S GOT TALENT “I think that this
year was the
Once everybody had completed their voting slips,
they were taken to be counted whilst Molly best year and all
Butcher and Mel Higley gave us a wonderful performances
performance to entertain the audience. The were of a high
suspense built as the performers gathered on standard.”
stage, the results were in and the winners were Mrs Beeston
about to be announced.
In third place came Mariann and Isla; an unusual “It made me
duet since Isla is a dog! This was the first dog act proud to be part
that Redhill has seen on the stage and it was truly
phenomenal. The chemistry between Mariann, Year of Redhill and I
7, and Isla was wonderful and both put in hard work think the
to make their performance one that will never be audience
forgotten.
Beats came second; a group of year 7, 8 and 9 students thoroughly
who meet twice a week to practise their samba drumming enjoyed
skills. They have performed at various events such as the
Christmas Extravaganza, Christmas Concert and Summer themselves as
Extravaganza. The group is run by Miss Comley and it is well.”
great to see the hard work that the students put into this
group and to see them on stage once again! “I think the thing
that impressed
In first place, the winners of Redhill’s Got Talent 2017, were George and Charlie.
George Westley-Smith stole the show with his terrific voice, singing All of Me by John me the most was
Legend, whilst Charlie Walker blew the audience away by accompanying him with his the confidence
admirable piano playing. These two aspiring year 7s clearly melted the hearts of the as well as the
judges and audience and they are very grateful for the opportunity they were given talent.”
to express their talents. Mrs Savidge
However, none of this would have been possible without Mrs Beeston; she has
worked tirelessly to bring the show together so that the final would be a truly Article by
memorable night. A big thank you goes out to her for the time and effort she has Isabelle
put in. Westley-Smith

Overall, the school has raised £979.33 from Redhill’s Got Talent auditions and the PAGE
final which will be sent to Moragalla Junior School in Sri Lanka. The talent show is
a really important event for Redhill since it raises a huge sum of money for a good
cause. Next stop: Redhill’s Got Talent 2018! It would be fantastic to see students
at the auditions, not just watching but performing too. Teachers are also welcome
to get involved; we know that you all have a secret talent you would love to show
the whole school! Well done to all the performers, for entertaining the school
with your exceptional skills, we hope to see you again next year.

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

COMPETITIONS

DOUBLE WIN FOR YOUTH SPEAKS TEAMS OF REDHILL

Year 10 Team Recently at Redhill, two select groups of pupils from years 9 and 10
took part in the first round of the youth speaks competition, held at
Hagley Roman Catholic School. It was a fantastic opportunity for
the pupils involved and one that has helped some of our
representatives with their confidence. We are very happy to
announce that both of the teams won the competition for their age
groups and are currently practising for the next stage of the
competition which will take place in Coventry.

A fantastic To become part of the team, the students had to audition with a
opportunity! one minute speech, which they had pre-prepared, on any topic of
their choosing. The pupils selected gave very thought provoking speeches, presenting
them in a fashion that gained them a place on the three person team. Once the teams
had been created, the students had to think of a topic that would be original, thought
provoking and one that they felt passionate about, so that they would be able to create
a brilliant speech that would get them through to the next round of the competition.

Year 9 Team The year 10 team consisted of Lauren Whitehouse, Sophie Garbett
and Georgia Phillips. Their chosen topic was “taming the media
menace”. Their speech contained facts about the effects the media
can really have on the young people of today’s society and even
included a personal story of a young girl who had body dysmorphic
disorder that really got the audience thinking. The girls had great
chemistry throughout their speech and, afterwards, the host of the
evening came and found the girls to tell them how great and how
lovely it was to see the support they had for one and other. The
girls are currently practising their performance ready for the next
round.

The year 9 team consisted of Noah Vanden-Branden, Aneesa Nawaz and George Devo.
Their chosen topic was virtual reality. The speech they gave at the competition was an
“Many thanks to extremely informative one and educated the audience on something that they had
the staff involved probably never heard of before. They even included a story of a mother who hired a
in taking us to both virtual assassin to try and kill her son’s in-game character in order to get him off his

of these virtual reality headset! This team is also currently in practice for the next round.

competitions.”

We are very proud of the two teams and believe that they will continue to do well in the
competition and hopefully make it to the finals!
Emily Smith

A massive congratulations to the 2 youth
speaks teams who competed in the
district finals on Saturday 4th March in
Coventry. Both teams came in third
place (they were absolutely robbed).
This is the first time any Stourbridge
team has placed at district, so we are
over the moon! Also, a huge thank you
to Mr Sidaway and Mrs Nash for their
hard work coaching the teams.

Mrs Wakefield

PAGE

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

OUT AND ABOUT “Once again, a
very enjoyable
DUDLEY TEEN BOOK AWARDS 2017
On the 21st March, a group of day!”
book lovers went to Dormston James Jackson
School to participate in this
year’s Dudley Teen Book Awards.
For the month before, they had
all been eagerly reading away at
the shortlisted books so they
could vote in the borough wide
competition.

First up was Stewart Foster, author of shortlisted book ‘Bubble Boy’. This is a story about a boy, Peter Bunzl
Joe, who has a very rare medical condition which means that if he ever caught a virus or cold it With his winning
would probably kill him! One day a new nurse comes into his life and, even though Joe thinks
he was absolutely crazy, he gives him the most amazing opportunity. book
Next was Jane Elson, a returning author the DTBA, with her new book ‘Swimming to the Moon’. “Cogheart”
One day, when some elderly people come into Beatrix Daffodil Tulip Chrysanthemum Rose
Edwards, (or Bee as she likes to be called), to ask for volunteers to participate in a sponsored “There really
swim for their care home, she knows that she must do it, just to make her late great were some
grandmother Beatrix proud. There is only one problem … she is terrified of water!
After that there were video messages sent from Laura Martin and Ann M Martin from America good books to
to discuss both of their books. They quite obviously could not be present on the day but still choose from
wanted to be part of the whole experience! this year.”
Next was Ally Sherrick talking about her book ‘Black Powder’ a story inspired by the great
occurrence of 5th November 1605. 12 year-old Tom lives as a secret Catholic in a little town on Felicity Davies
the south coast. All is going normally until one night his father comes home from the port and
harbours a priest ready to help him escape. However, he is caught and from then on Tom must “I really enjoyed
try to stop the sentence of hanging being fulfilled. He teams up with the elusive character of reading the
the ‘Falcon’ and from then his life changes; would it be for the better? books and
Finally, there was Peter Bunzl, author of his nominated book ‘Cogheart’. This is a book about a
little girl named Lily and her mechanical fox Malkin. Her father is a renowned mechanics deciding on my
scientist but in this steam punk world, men with silver eyes are after him and are closing in fast. favourites.”
Now Lily’s life and those of the people around her are in danger and without her father there to
help, all she can do is to try and solve the mystery herself; will it be too late for her father and Matthew Tobin
for herself?

After the votes had been counted
and independently verified the
results were in and the winner
was … Peter Bunzl with
‘Cogheart’! Following this the
students were given time to
meet the authors, to buy their
books and to get them signed!
Thanks to all of those involved
with the day and special thanks
to Mrs Dorrell our Librarian and
Mrs Cannings for all of the hard
work that was put in to organise
the group and the books needed.

Thanks again for a wonderful day! James Jackson

PAGE

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

‘A WORLD - CLASS EDUCATION’ FOR EVERY CHILD

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PAGE

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

CLUBS AT REDHILL SCHOOL

Redhill School run a number of extra-curricular clubs throughout the school
week, either after school or during lunchtimes. Charlotte Bannister has been
investigating some of the clubs available for pupils to participate in.

TEXTILES: This is the best club for ENTERPRISE: MERIDIAN:
starting out with a pile of fabric and Calling all future This is a wonderful
turning it into something amazing. If club for anyone in
anyone wants to get stitching to businessmen year 7 or 8 who love
develop their sewing skills then come and women who to sing. If you wish to get
to C3 after school on Tuesdays. are thinking of involved and sing along then
come to the music block on
running their Thursday lunchtimes with your
own business. lunch!

Check with
Mr Wakefield.

CREATIVE WRITING:
A spiffing club for
young writers who
fancy doing creative
writing. If you wish to
develop your skills go to A13
and speak to Mrs George!

BEATS: This is for any YOUTH SPEAKS: A brilliant club BRASS ENSEMBLE: A
percussion player who for those who want brilliant club for
can count and drum. to boost their anyone who plays a
If anyone wants to make confidence, practise brass instrument. If
some drum music, then and develop their you want to start blowing their
go to the music block on speaking skills then own horn then come to the music
Mondays and Fridays! see Mrs Nash! block at lunch on Wednesday and
find Mrs Hastings!

LITTLE BIG
BAND:
A superb club for
COMPUTING: anyone who plays STRING PROJECT:
Anyone who is a woodwind or brass. If An excellent club
PE CLUBS: If you tech-head and wants to anyone wants to audition for anyone who
are thinking of try their hand with and be part of this band would like to learn to play
joining a PE club, programming and other then see Mrs Comley with or are able to play any
have a look in cool projects should go to your instrument and make string instrument. Come
your form room; C24 on Wednesday Thursdays after school to the Music Block on
there is a poster afterschool! available! Monday lunchtimes.

to tell you
everything you
need to know! HARMONIX: This is
a brilliant club for all
senior vocalists. If anyone
wants to sing along, then ask GCSE SUPPORT: This CLUB IS AIMED
There are more clubs happening, Mrs Hastings for an audition and AT year 9, 10 and 11s who study
so if you don't see your ideal free your Friday lunchtimes! GCSE Music. If anyone wants to
club, then ask a teacher in that boost their grades or catch up on
subject to tell you all if there are some music work, then come to the
any available. Music block at Tuesday lunchtimes!

Remember, there is a club for everybody!

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Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

TRIPS AND VISITS

“A brilliant visit - BLACK COUNTRY RADIO VISIT
very interesting.”
Keenan This term, the Studio Team
have started recording regular
“Great to see podcasts for the school,
how a sharing news and information
professional in a new and lively style. We
studio works.” hope to see this grow,
Rhys eventually to go ‘live’ with
weekly or even daily radio
“Thank you to broadcasts.
BCR for letting us
visit.” The team are learning new
Lauren skills in using the technology
and also in presenting. We realised that we needed help with this and so we
“ I enjoyed contacted Black Country Radio and asked for their help. They were more than
introducing the willing to do so and came in to visit us in our studio. Three of their presenters
next song live on came into school and met with the team. They were very impressed with the
air.” studio set up and were excited about the
Oliver possibilities here. They then very kindly invited
us to visit their studio to see how broadcasting
“A great is done professionally.
experience!”
Alex So, on 20th March, the Studio Team went to visit
the BC Radio studio at the Waterfront. Firstly,
PAGE the presenters showed us into one of the
smaller studios where one of our former pupils,
Laura Liptrot, was preparing her show for that
afternoon. We were shown how playlists are
prepared and how the news is compiled and
delivered. We learned a lot about the
techniques which are used to keep people
listening and the importance of ‘being yourself’
when broadcasting.

The most exciting part of the visit was when we
went into the main studio where Simon Faux
was live on air. Simon even allowed the pupils
to introduce the next song and to say hello to
his listeners.

We are very grateful to Black Country Radio for
their support and for allowing us to visit their
studios. We hope to keep this link going as it is a
great inspiration and help to the Studio Team.

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

TRIPS AND VISITS

BIRMINGHAM SYMPHONY HALL

On Friday 10th February 2017, 31 Music students from year 8 and above, and about 8
members of staff wrapped up warm against the cold weather and took a trip to see the
‘Friday Night Classics: Cole Porter Songbook’ at Birmingham Symphony Hall.
We left on the train at about 4:45pm and arrived at
Birmingham Snow Hill station. We then took a short walk to
McDonald’s and stopped off for tea. After some chicken
nuggets, burgers, fries and cokes, we headed off to the
Symphony Hall. We reached the symphony hall early and so
we had time to visit Starbucks, WH Smith and the gift shop.
Eventually, we made it in.
We enjoyed songs from ‘Anything Goes’, ‘I Get a Kick out of
you’ and ‘You’re the Top’ and some others not many of us
knew, ‘Night and Day’ and ‘I’ve Got You under My Skin’. The
conductor was named Roderick Dunk and the singers, Anna
O'Byrne, Caroline Sheen, Damian Humbley, Jon Boydon.
There was a small interval half way through where we had
the chance to eat sweets and chat to our friends. When the
show was over, we rushed back to the train station in time
for the earlier train.
Finally, we made it back at around 11:00 pm after an amazing night of good music.

Bethan Bond

“THE BIG BANG” “We also made a
On Thursday 16th March, 30 year 8s and 3 teachers took a trip to Stourbridge College to finger print key
take part in a STEM event called “The Big Bang”. We arrived at Stourbridge College for ring with the ink
9:00am and split off into two groups. during our
forensics
We took part in several activities: experiment.”
Bethan Bond
 “Glitter bug hunting” where we sprayed our hands with “glitter bug spray”, put our hands
under a UV light, which highlighted germs. We then shone a light on our hands to see
how dirty they were and tried washing our hands to see how well we had cleaned them.

 Wiring a plug socket - we had two plug socket backs and we screwed them to the table a
little way apart. Next, we nailed the wire down and slotted it into the plug socket. After
that we rewired a plug. We were shown a diagram and given all the parts including a
fuse. We set about putting it together (with instructions). Sadly, we then had to
disassemble it and put all the parts back.

 Forensics saw us rolling our fingers in black ink, pressing them onto a piece of paper with
boxes for each finger. Then we pressed our fingers onto a plain piece of paper, used a
stick with a retractable magnet inside to rub a mixture of black dye and magnetic powder
onto the page revealing our finger prints.

We then had the opportunity to watch some experiments. The first experiment used some
water and hydrogen peroxide, a catalyst was added to speed it up and then water which
caused it to foam up and fill the tray. The second experiment was filling a large tub with
methane and setting it alight at the top of a long plastic tube. Slowly the flame travelled
down the tube and when the methane ran out the tube’s lid shot off with a loud pop. The
final experiment was the “screaming jelly baby”, which is when you set alight the jelly baby
to see how much energy it has. The jelly baby set alight with a bright light.

Bethan Bond

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Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

TRIPS AND VISITS

GCSE SCIENCE LIVE

This was the chance to On Monday 23rd January, around sixty of our Triple Science students had the
see and hear five of amazing opportunity to see and hear five of Britain’s top scientists who are all
Britain’s top scientists, working at the cutting edge of their specialisms. The primary objective of GCSE
all working at the cutting edge Science at Birmingham Symphony Hall was to generate a greater enthusiasm for
of their specialisms.
Science amongst pupils. The thought provoking, inspiring day certainly achieved

this.

Pupils learnt that scientific knowledge really does offer solutions to many of the

The scientists are world’s great problems, such as the research into renewable and self-assembling
carefully chosen for materials, explained by Professor Mark Miodownik. Students experienced the
their ability to presenter of the BBC’s iconic astronomy programme “The Sky at Night, Dr
communicate with students Maggie Aderin-Pocock, who talked about the possibility of travelling to Mars,
of this age in a direct and potential life forms on other planets and she shared her enthusiasm for space.
exciting way.

It is safe to say that the students discovered a lot whilst we were there, from

why ice sinks to black holes!
Mia Osborne

The day was fast- If ever there was a perfect chemistry lecture this was
moving, exciting, it. Professor Andrea uses chemicals on stage to
thought-Provoking illustrate his ideas. Whether he is talking about how
and gave students the chance the zebra got its stripes, or mercury, he is amazing.
to raise issues with the
scientists.

Professor Andrea Sella

Each pupil received a Mark is an engineer and materials scientist. His research areas
booklet with details include self-assemblingmaterials,self-healingmaterials and
about each scientist, psychophysical propertiesofmaterials.
the lectures and some general
articles about studying science Professor Mark Miodownik
and working as scientists.
Alice is a clinical anatomist and Professor of Public
Engagement in Science at University of Birmingham.
She has presented Coast, Wild Swimming, The
Incredible Human Journey, Origins of Us and
Prehistoric Autopsy.

Professor Alice Roberts Professor Jim Al-Khalil

Doctor Maggie Aderin-Pocock Professor Jim Al-Khalil is a physicist at the University
of Surrey. He won a Faraday prize for Science
PAGE Communication. Jim has done several documentaries
for the BBC.

Doctor Aderin-Pocock is more than a space scientist
and lecturer, she is a phenomenon. Presenter of the
BBC’s iconic astronomy programme, The Sky at Night,
she knows how to share her enthusiasm with young
people.

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

TRIPS AND VISITS “Brilliant!”
Guy Perry
Les Misérables
“What an
If I were to ask then I bet that most of amazing
you would have heard of Les Misérables. adaptation.”
But did you know that there was also a Noah Vanden
schools’ version as well? - Branden

Well, back on the 30th February a group “Absolutely
of lucky students got the amazing phenomenal.”
opportunity to go and see Les Judah Loynds
Misérables at The Place, Oakengates
Theatre in Telford; all I can say is that “Loved the
they certainly were not amateurs! whole thing,
wouldnot have
Organised by our very own West End
Star, Mr Griffiths, the trip entailed taking missed it!”
the coach to travel to The Arts Centre in James Jackson
Telford. When we arrived we were
whisked off into the main theatre to
witness the director setting up and the
marvels of cast sound checks and warm
ups! After that, the group were given
some time to go out and eat their dinner,
then it was back into the auditorium to see an amazing cast take to the stage.

Throughout the show, the audience were given a delight from the fantastic solos and
groups of the cast, they took on some extremely challenging roles delivering them to
professional standards. As the night progressed, they did not tire, but only gave more and
more to their story. The night certainly wasn’t “the miserable”!

As the iconic scenes came to life, the audience were dragged further and further into the
story of the miss-condemned Jean Val Jean, the chain gangs and the revolution, which kept
them on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. We would not have dreamed a
dream for anything better!

Our great thanks of course go to our fabulous Mr Griffiths and Mrs Hastings for all of the
hard work that they put in, but also to Ross (the director) and his amazing cast!

What an amazing night! (Except for the bit where someone drained the coach tank and
syphoned off its entire tank of diesel, leaving the group stranded in Telford until 12:20,
returning at around 1:00 am, but that is another story!)

Thanks again to all who were involved and well done for such a fabulous night!

James Jackson

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Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

Many PUPIL NEWS
Congratulations
to the winners DUDLEY YOUTH AWARDS
of the Dudley
Youth Awards. On Friday 3rd March two pupils from Redhill School, who are part of the Rise and
Shine group, attended the annual Dudley Youth Awards. Josh Thomas, year 10 and
Tom Abbott, Year 9 are part of the singing and drama group who regularly
volunteer in the community. Throughout the year the Rise and Shine participants
entertain patients at Russell’s Hall Hospital, Mary Stevens Hospice, Sunfield
Children’s Homes as well as
numerous local nursing homes.

Last year Rise and Shine was
nominated in the Dudley Youth
Awards in the Voluntary Community
Group category, going on to win first
prize, despite being up against some very
tough competition.

This year they were nominated once
again and have gone on to win, which has
thrilled them. It is great to know that
giving up time and caring for others in our community has been recognised. As a
school we are very proud of our two pupils for being part of this group.

Ellie Stark, Year 8, has received a Dudley Youth Award for Sport.

Ellie loves all kinds of sports and is heavily involved here at Redhill along
with her outside achievements.

Ellie runs for Halesowen Athletics club and is a successful cross country
and track athlete; she has previously represented Worcestershire. Ellie
also swims for Halesowen Swimming Club and plays football for
Stourbridge FC Under 13s girls. During the weekend 18th - 19th March
they won the Mercian League Cup Final (Festival Housing Shield) at
Malvern Town FC; they beat Warndon Villages Wildcats 3-0.

The Dudley Schools Sports Association also rewarded
Ellie for her excellent and sustained contribution to
sport in 2015, but Ellie did not receive this award until
late 2016. She was nominated by Mrs Wilmore at
Oldswinford Primary School in the area of Athletics.

Well done Ellie you deserve these awards. We wish you
all the best for the future.

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Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

VISITORS TO SCHOOL

PRODUCER/DIRECTOR DROPS INTO SCHOOL “The different
techniques taught
On Monday 27th February, unbeknown to many as they
passed along on their usual business in school, a in the workshop
phenomenal director and voice coach was giving master were great for
classes in voice! Ross Doodson from the Telford Theatre developing
Centre (where some of the students went to see Les
Misérables) came into school. different aspects of
singing.”

Sami Brasenell

Mr Doodson, with selected groups and classes, ran “Brilliant
workshops on how to use warm-ups, utilising the voice workshops with
through song and he also helped the pupils in areas
such as revision techniques. very helpful
aspects!”
Throughout the sessions he challenged the students
involved to push themselves further and to reach new goals. He encouraged them to James Jackson
take away skills for normal aptitude. If you need to try and remember something in a
short space of time, then why not try putting a rhythm to it? That’s what Ross did!

James Jackson

ROAD SAFETY

In March, all Year 10s were given some great advice when a fire officer came into
Redhill to speak to them about road safety. The fire officer spoke about the dangers
on the road when youngsters learn to drive and gave some tips on what to do to
ensure that they remain safe and in control at all times.

 Make sure that you take plenty of lessons with a reputable instructor If you are a
 Talk to experienced drivers , listen to their advice pedestrian,
 Stick to the speed limits—they are there for a reason please ensure you
 Don’t purchase a powerful car as your first car cross roads in the
 Don’t rush into learning—it takes time and patience to learn appropriate
 Don’t show off
 Look out for each other—if you are with someone you think is not driving places .

correctly tell them If you are texting
 Keep hands on the steering wheel; do not eat, drink or use mobile phones on your mobile
 Think about pedestrians’ safety phone please
make sure you
The Fire Officer told year 10s a true story about a man who was in a car accident when
he was aged between 16-18; he is lucky to be alive. The devastating accident created are aware of your
permanent damage, which ruined the rest of his life. All because a group of surroundings at
adolescents were bored and were regardless of road safety. all times.

Therefore, when on or near the road remember to be aware of your surroundings, If you are wearing
follow all the rules and all the advice concerning road safety, not only as a new car headphones
driver but also as a pedestrian to enable you to keep safe.
please make sure
Charlotte Bannister you can still hear

what is
happening
around you.

PAGE

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

LEARNING CENTRE EVENTS

VALENTINE COMPETITION

Teenage To celebrate Valentine’s Day this year students at Redhill took part in a week long competition
Romance aimed at rekindling their love for books.
Raffle tickets were given out to anyone who borrowed a book during this week but there were
Books some books that were designed to catch the eye …

Comedy We had ‘Blind Date’ books. These books were wrapped up so students didn’t know what was
Books inside the parcel, and had to take a gamble that they would like whatever was inside. Some
students had a nice surprise and ended up reading a book they would never have selected for
themselves.
There were also bundles of books that were ‘Made for Each Other’. Books were carefully
selected by our Librarian Assistants that were likely to go well together. All genres were covered.
Teenage Romance, Comedy, Sport, Quick Reads etc. Just the eye catching presentation of these
books wrapped in heart paper and ribbon was enough to entice some students to have a go.

Quick There was a notice board up in the
Read Library for the duration of the week
Books available for students to leave Valentines
messages for their loved ones on heart
shaped paper. It was madness at break
and lunch trying to get past students
crowding around the board to see if they
had a secret admirer.

Sport Prizes were given out on Valentine’s Day, part of the day but break, lunch and after
Books and what more could you ask for on school the Library is open exclusively for
Valentine’s Day other than students to use. As well as computers
OPENING CHOCOLATES!? One lucky winner got a and borrowing books, students can get
TIMES book too! advice or help about what to read or
what they need. After school there is
Monday You may have noticed that the Library has also a member of staff in to help with any
8:30am - 4:00pm been changing since Christmas. For those difficulties with homework.
that haven’t met me I am your new At lunch time there are board games
Tuesday Librarian Mrs Dorrell. It has been a provided to play as well as the bedlam
8:30am - 4:00pm whirlwind the last couple of months cube which is testing the patience of
getting to know you all and making many students! There are Sudoku
Wednesday improvements to your Library to make it puzzles and adult colouring pages as well
8:30am - 4:00pm the best it can be. as word searches that are constantly
Firstly, you will have noticed the layout updated.
Thursday has changed to make it much easier to After school clubs will be coming in the
8:30am - 4:00pm find what you are looking for. Whether future so keep a look out for information
that is a book to get cosy with or a about these. Until then there always
resource to help with homework. GCSE seems to be an event on in the Library
revision guides and career advice is also with some kind of competition for
available as well as computers and Ipads students to get involved in, and of course
to aid research or complete tasks. Some competitions mean prizes! This seems to
year 7s & 8s have had lessons on how to be capturing everyone’s attention and
get the best from this new system but increasing the amount of students using
Librarian Assistants are always around the Library.
and happy to help if you have any
difficulty.

Friday The Library is open 8:30am - 4:00pm
8:30am - 3:00pm every day except Friday when it closes at
3:00pm. Some lessons take place during

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Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

LEARNING CENTRE EVENTS

So that’s what has happened! As already mentioned, there is always Meet some of our
What’s coming up? something happening in the Library and Library Assistants
Easter is no different. Look out for
There is going to be a pilot scheme using a information on the Easter competition in Louise Parsons 10K
small sample of students to test the the next newsletter with some Easter James Jackson 9D
success of loyalty cards. Students will eggs for prizes!!
need to get their loyalty card stamped Until then, keep supporting your Library
each time they borrow a book and once and enjoy using the services provided for
they fill the card they will get a reward. you.
Students will be encouraged to come and Students are always welcome to make
discuss the books they are reading with suggestions about clubs they would like
the Librarian. to see running or books they would like
All students will also start to receive to see in the library.
certificates once they reach milestones Come and see me any time.
such as ‘Fab 5’ when they have borrowed
their first 5 books and then another when Mrs Dorrell
its 25 books, 50 books etc. Students who
make an exceptional effort to read and
borrow books will be recognised. There
will be postcards home and achievement
points also awarded to students making a
special effort.

WORLD BOOK DAY 2017 Danny Estell 7K
Abigail Johnson 10C
This year was the 20th Anniversary of World Book Day. All students received a
World Book Day token to get a free book or £1 off a book of greater value.
To celebrate the Library was decorated in an Alice in Wonderland theme and
had various activities throughout the week.
There was a World Book Day Bear Grylls Survivor game on the ipads at break
and lunch times, as well as the opportunity to have photos taken in our World Book Day
photo booth complete with props. Some very funny photos resulted!
On World Book Day itself staff from the English Department and the Librarian dressed up
as characters from books. The Alice in Wonderland movie was also played in the Library to
fit in with its theme.
Throughout the week years 7 & 8 took part in fun Library lessons. They learnt how to use
the new and improved layout in the Library and how to find resources they might need for
homework. Also how to take books out for enjoyment and the best way to get the best
out of the services offered.
All students are encouraged to take a book out regularly from
the Library, and for World Book Day an incentive was offered by
way of a competition. Prizes included £5 vouchers, chocolates,
books, stationery as well as some themed Alice in Wonderland
mugs filled with sweets. This incentive was offered to anyone
using the Library during the week of World Book Day.
There was an exceptional effort from students and a record
number of books were borrowed. It’s great to see students
enjoying reading and using their Library.
The Winners of the competition were: Kathan Hampton, Fraser
Franklin, Amelia Worrall, Imogen Williams and Joshua Smith

PAGE

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

ADVERTISEMENT

PAGE

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

SCHOOL NEWS

CATERING TEAM WIN AWARD Trophy Awarded
LACA
Congratulations to our Catering Team who won the
LACA Catering Team of the year award for the West West Midlands
Midland's region. Catering Team
The team has worked very hard over the last couple
of years to improve the dining room provision for of the year
pupils and staff and this award was well deserved. Sponsored
by McCain Foods
HARVEY STRIKES GOLD
Winner
Harvey Hawkes represented GB Karate at the European Championships in Romania on Redhill School
3rd and 4th April 2017.
Once again Harvey did us proud again winning a Gold medal, therefore holding the title
yet again as European Champion, along with his World title which he has already
achieved. Everyone is extremely proud of Harvey’s achievements, especially all of the
hard work he has put into his sport.
We wish Harvey all the very best for the future.

This year, Redhill has created a Student Parliament. Student Parliament is a selection of “A quick
people who are devoted into making our school the best it can possibly be. This reminder - the
includes: the environment, anti-bullying work, mental and physical health and much more.
During the last few terms Redhill has provided suggestion boxes where you can personally Student
suggest any topics that you would like the Student Parliament to cover in assemblies or Parliament
group year chats. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions or topics if you feel it needs to be suggestion boxes
covered. If you would like to contact any of the Year 8 leaders, you can speak to Lydia are not for
O’Carroll, Rabia Rehman, Matthew Tobin, Sam Godby or anyone else wearing a “Student
Parliament” badge. rubbish!”
Thank you
Olivia Walton

REUNION GIFT

Last October, 73 ‘old girls’
reunited to celebrate the
50th anniversary since they
started at Stourbridge High School for Girls (later to become Redhill
School).
This proved to be a very emotional and exciting occasion for the
ladies, who now live in various parts of the country and around the
world.
On 17th March, three of the ladies who attended the reunion (Linda
George, Caroline Midwood and Amanda Jeffries) returned to pre-
sent the school with a new picnic table and a plaque for the quad to
commemorate their time at Redhill. We are very grateful to them
for this kind and generous gift to the school.

PAGE

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

“Brilliant PUPIL SPORTS NEWS
achievement , a
star in the KATRINA SIMPSON
making!
Miss McGrail 17 year-old Katrina Simpson, an
ex-Redhill pupil who is currently at
King Edwards Sixth Form College,
Stourbridge, was selected to run
the 800m race for the England
team in February in Slovakia.

Katrina currently trains at a club in
Halesowen and works very hard
with her coach Michael
Mielczarek.

Katrina did extremely well in
Slovakia coming 4th, unfortunately
Katrina would have been 3rd but
was pushed just as she neared the
finish line.

Katrina’s family are very proud of her
achievements.

We wish Katrina all the very best for the future in both her studies and her running.

VOLLEYBALL

The following Redhill School pupils have been awarded contracts with
Volleyball England Cadets Under 17s.

“Please Andy Pearson David Hodson James Ledbury Tyler White
congratulate all
of the pupils Harrison Over the next twelve months they will
listed, they are an Martin Lawes hopefully be selected to play in the
absolute credit to Sainsbury’s school games versus the home
their families, nations in September .
school and the
community.” Then in October a Northern European
Mr P Bragg tournament versus Sweden, Denmark etc.

PAGE Carla Hulme

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

SPORT

CHAMPION CUP WINNERS

A huge well done to the Dudley
U16 boys who beat Hagley Crossroads Care
2-0 in their final game for
is a long
school. established
borough-wide
charity providing
a professional
caring service to
give carers a

'break'.
We need one or
two interested
volunteers for

publicity/
fundraising.

If you are
interested please

ring
01384 298513

or email
Dudley@
crossroads.

org.uk

Well done to our Y8 boys
who beat Windsor 2-1 in the

District Cup Final.
Many thanks to their coach

Mr Porter.

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Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

SPORT

Huge congratulations to the Fantastic team effort and
U16 football team, who are performance from the
though to the District Cup Year 9 hockey team at
Final after a 1-0 win against their tournament in
March.
Windsor.

Are you a local
business?

Would you like
to advertise in
future issues of
our Newsletter?

Please contact
Mr Orton for an

information
pack.

Email:
Morton@redhill
.dudley.sch.uk

Some great play from our Year 7 footballers in
their game versus Earls on 8 March

A big improvement in the second half -
well done boys.

On 22 March, Year 7’s gave a phenomenal
team performance when they had their second

win of the season beating Haybridge 2-1.

PAGE

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

SPORT

Well done to the U16
basketball team who beat OSH

in the cup final by 6 points.
Many thanks to Mr Gilchrist for

his expert coaching.

Keep up-to-date
with the

PE Department

Follow us on
Twitter

Football Season kicks off again
with the U13s drawing 5-5 in a

thriller at Earls!
Bit of a mud bath, as you can

clearly see.

Well done to the U16 and U15 PAGE
Netball Teams in their matches

against Hagley.
Great progress and a pleasure

to coach.

Redhill School ‘Learning Together’

Diary Dates Summer2017

29th- May - 3rd June HALF TERM
Friday 30th June Year 11 Leaving Day
Saturday 1st - Saturday 8th July Visit to Sri Lanka
Monday 3rd - Friday 7th July Year 10 Work Experience Week
Tuesday 4th July Year 6 Parents Induction Evening
Wednesday 5th & Thursday 6th July Year 6 Induction Days
Tuesday 11th July Year 8 Aspire To Be
Wednesday 12th July Afternoon Tea (3:30pm)
Thursday 13th July Year 11 Prom (6:30pm)
Friday 14th - Saturday 15th July Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award Expedition
Tuesday 18th July Year 7 - 9 Sports Day
Tuesday 18th July Year 10 IAG Day
Tuesday 18th - Friday 21st July Silver Duke of Edinburgh Expedition
Friday 21st July END OF TERM

Future Dates GCE Results Day
Thursday 17th August GCSE Results Day
Thursday 24th August SCHOOL TERM BEGINS
Monday 4th September Open Days
Thurs 29th, Fri 29th , Mon 2nd October, Open Evening
Thursday 5th October

Further details about events can be found on our web site: www.redhill.dudley.sch.uk

Are you, or anyone you know, interested in a career in teaching?
Have you thought about re-training to become a teacher?

Finished or finishing your degree and wondered how to embark upon a teaching career?
Talk to us about it and see what we can do to help.

For informal conversations, further details or more information about our Teaching School
offer and how we can assist you, please visit our website: www.stourbridgetsa.org or do not
hesitate to make an appointment to speak to Miss B Zemke (Head of Teaching School) by
emailing: [email protected]

We look forward to hearing from you and hopefully working with you!

Redhill School, Junction Road, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY8 1JX.
Tel: (01384) 816355 Fax: (01384) 816356

Website: www.redhill.dudley.sch.uk Email: [email protected]
Redhill School is a member of Stour Vale Academy Trust.

Stour Vale Academy Trust is a Limited Company ~ Registered No: 07865663

For Newsletter Items email: [email protected]