December 2012

Issue 84

The Christs Chronicles

Welcome to the latest issue of Christs Schools newsletter
Future events for your diary
8th January 14th January 16th January 22nd January 22nd January 1st February 1st February 6th February 7th/8th Feb 13th February 14th February 18th-22nd Feb 25th February 26th February Start of Spring term for all students PTA meeting - 7pm in the Music Block HPV injections (2nd) Year 8 girls Year 9 Options Day Year 10 Parents Evening 3.30-6.30pm Group of Year 10 to Oxford University Music At Home concert 6pm Year 9 GCSE Options Information Evening 7pm Surrey Skills Fair-Year 9 School Leavers Booster Injections Guardian Newspaper Trip-Group of Year 9 Half Term INSET DAY SCHOOL CLOSED Year 9 Parents Evening 3.30-6.30pm Inside this issue:
PTA Fireworks Awards Evening Librarians 2 3 4

Special points of interest:

Reviews Coming

Events
Sports News Messages Requests Advertising

Kenya Fund Raising 5 Xmas Child Xmas Cards Engineering Day Spanish Exchange 6 6 7 8

Ventura Design
Sixth Form Update

9
9

Please check the school sports board for up to date weekly fixtures You can also check the school events calendar, which is updated regularly for more diary dates on our website at www.christs.richmond.sch.uk

New House System 10+ Sports Update Ruths Message Advertising 13+ 16 17

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The Christs Chronicles

PTA Fireworks9th November 2012

Many thanks to everyone for helping to make the recent Christs Fireworks evening such a success! It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening with lots of wonderful food and drink, excellent music from the school bands and a fantastic firework display. We had a record breaking attendance of over 1,500 people and made a very respectable profit of 3,812. The PTA have already committed to buying new team sports kit and are hoping to raise more money this year to help fund a whole range of new athletics equipment Photographs compliments of Vicki Sharpe for this summer.

PTA Quiz Night

The next fundraising event will be the annual Christs Quiz, which will be on Friday 15th March. This is a fun evening, where parents can pit their wits against each other and the teachers in a series of trivia questions, whilst enjoying food and drink and the chance to meet other parents. Please book the date in your diaries now and look out for more information nearer the time.

PTA Chair and Vice Chair Roles

In the new year we will be looking for 1 or 2 new people to take over chairing the PTA, either as Chair or Co-Chairs. No particular skills are required apart from lots of enthusiasm and some organisational ability! It currently involves 1 meeting per half term and 4 main fundraising events per year the Autumn Fireworks, Spring Quiz, Richmond May Fair and Summer Picnic, but new ideas are very welcome. You will have lots of support from the current regular PTA members plus the class reps. It is a great way to meet people and to make a contribution to school life, so please contact emends@blueyonder.co.uk or suelivingston@blueyonder.co.uk if you are interested in the position. Alternatively, come to the next PTA meeting on Monday 14th January to find out more. Many thanks and have a wonderful Christmas. Christs PTA

PTA Parents Forum

The first parents forum meeting was held on Tuesday 20th November, and was well attended by parents from across the year groups. It was a great opportunity to meet other parents and share ideas, with the main topics being around sports, homework and communication. It was agreed that the next meeting would focus on competitive sport, particularly around how parents could volunteer to help, funding of equipment and clubs and ideas for on-line fixtures/results information. The new head of PE, Matthew Morris will be joining us and we may have the chance to see the new kit. Please do join us on Tuesday 22nd Jan for what should be a fun and interactive evening.

Christmas Trees
Thank you to all those parents and friends who bought Christmas Trees from Lovely Branches and raised 5 per tree for the school. Lovely Branches also donated the 2 trees in the reception area.

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Local Guardian Young Journalist Scheme

Five year 10 students have signed up to the Local Guardian Young Journalist scheme this year. This will give them the opportunity to: write articles every month for publication on an online paper; meet a series of deadlines; build up a portfolio of published work and achieve a letter of recognition providing they keep it up for 8 months. The students who have taken on the challenge this year are Juma Akhter, Abigail Houghton-Brown, Rachel Jarvis, Dorsa Nasrollahi and Sophie Rayzan. They have all met the first three deadlines and below are a selection of their articles. Claire Lorenz

Awarding Christs
On Wednesday the 28th November, Christs annual award ceremony took place at St Mary Magdalene church, the oldest church in Richmond. The ceremony started at approximately 7pm, and was attended by students, parents and the teachers of Christs School. Awards were presented to the students for achievement and progress in all their subjects, for bronze and silver Duke of Edinburghs Awards and for 100% attendance. Musical talents of some students were also heard during the ceremony. Olympic Rowing bronze medal winner, Alan Campbell, presented the awards and made an inspirational speech when he talked about the determination and dedication required to achieve success. He took us on a journey through his past, and gave great advice for the future. Several other speeches were made, marking the success of the school, and the evening was both rewarding for the students of Christs, and joyful for the parents and carers. A happy atmosphere pervaded throughout the church on this most enjoyable evening. By: Dorsa Nasrollahi

Duke of Edinburghs Award

22 year 11 students were presented with their bronze or silver Duke of Edinburghs award certificates and badges at the awards evening on 28th November. Nine students are still working to complete their awards and a large group of year 10 students have signed up for the award this year. They are now getting their skills, volunteering and physical sections underway before starting training for their expeditions in the spring. Claire Lorenz

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The Christs Chronicles

Librarians are our Friends

I read my first proper 500 paged book when I was eleven years old. It was my mum who recommended the book Tess of the d'Urbervilles to me; it had 515 bible thin pages, a withered hardback cover and looked like something my grandmother would read. Nevertheless, I gave it a try. I couldn't tell you my thoughts or feelings when I read those first few chapters through, but imagine it as a similar feeling to that of Nigel Slater when he tried his first exotic foreign dish: revelation! From then on I began to read vigorously, right up until now. You name it, I've read it! In short, I love to read anything I can, but although I read for the feeling of being transported to other worlds - I could be in Archaic Greece one minute and 18th century Paris the next - I also read because I know that 75% of the knowledge I have is made up from the tonnes of information I receive from books which broaden my mind. Quite frankly, I can tell you that while the great majority of my friends seem to actually enjoy facebooking, I would personally prefer to sit down in seclusion for a few hours with my battered old copy of, Arthur Rimbauds: Illuminations. Don't get me wrong though, I don't buy these books! I am still only a teenager and have no means of making money, so my constant supply of books comes straight from my local library. So why am I mentioning all of this? Why am I expecting you to be remotely interested in my interest in books? Well, because it may be the time your local library, the one you never took any use of, will close down for good. Every year, fewer people are visiting their handy local library, and according to the governments new figures, the number of library visits in England is rapidly decreasing by 33% every five years. Already, many libraries have been made to close down. Libraries, for many people, are essential; computers, working space, a relaxed atmosphere and all the information you need are all in one building. It can be incredibly useful if you take advantage of it. I was curious as to how many people would feel affected if their local library was announced 'closed', so I asked a few local residents of various ages in Richmond for their opinion on libraries, and how much their closure would affect them: 'I am a member of Richmond Library, but I don't take out many books from there...only occasionally, when I have nothing to do. But if the library closed I would be very surprised. For one thing, the library has been there for so long that I can't imagine anything replacing it! And for another thing, I think that it can be quite handy, really, the library.' Anna Howell, aged 32. 'I am a member of lots of libraries! I enjoy reading a lot, and with my husband at home I feel as though I have nowhere to think in peace! I am in the library about 3 times a week... As well as it having a relaxing atmosphere, the library can be a sociable place too. I have a chat with the librarians in there every time, to catch up. I wouldn't like it if the library closed!' Elizabeth Oliver, aged 73 So, I ask you: when was the last time you visited your local library? Last month? Last year even? You've got nothing to lose, so go on! If the library is somewhere you wouldn't be caught dead in, it may seem like another planet altogether; hundreds of books lined precariously on shelves, the librarian with glasses and a bun in her hair; but I promise you, once you take a step inside, pick up a book and read, you will soon become a regular member. Whats more, by becoming a library member you will save you lots of money in the long run! Who knows? Maybe its your local library thats due to shut soon in that case, make use of it while you can, and remember - librarians are your friends! Sophie Rayzan

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Fundraising for Kenya

Imagine waking up every morning and seeing the blazing African sun burning above your head, or hearing the chirps of tiny crickets moving through the tall thick grass. How about watching young Elephants cling onto their mother's tails as they trudge across rivers, and seeing a herd of Lions sleep under a small winding tree which sits on the horizon of a vast plain. Even though this may seem like something you would only witness on a nature programme, year 10 pupils at Christ's School have been given the chance to go to Kenya for a month after they have completed all of their GCSEs next year. This once in a lifetime trip will include taking part in a scubadiving course where pupils will be able to swim the depths of the sea and get a glimpse of all the beautiful wildlife which roam the clear blue water. They will also be required to plant hundreds of trees as many have been destroyed due to human actions, resulting in thousands of animals losing their homes and all sources of food. The pupils will also go on a Safari where they will get to see more of Kenya's amazing wildlife up close, in a way which is safe and secure. But the most rewarding part of the trip will be spending time with the local people of Kenya. Pupils will be given the chance to build schools for Kenyan children, and learn about their traditions and cultures, whilst living with them in specialized camps. Last year, a group of ex-year 11 pupils travelled to Borneo in south East Asia. However, in order to actually get to Kenya, the pupils must fundraise for the trip themselves. This will give them the chance to become independent and hopefully offer them money managing skills which they can apply in the future. So far some pupils have taken part in Christ's School annual fireworks night where they ran their own stalls selling popcorn, cakes and drinks to hungry customers. Others have given up their evenings and weekends to babysit or take dogs for walks around their local areas. Even though they have just under two years to raise all of their money, all the students taking part in the trip have got stuck in and are trying the raise as much money as possible. Everyone at Christ's School is encouraging the pupils along, and hopefully this could become something that other schools take part in as it promises to be a wonderful experience. The expedition is run by Camp International:'Camp Kenya'. Check out their website at http:// www.campsinternational.com/ to learn more about the trip and other projects which are running. Rachel Jarvis

Christs students raising money for Kenya at their stall on Firework Night

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Operation Xmas Child

Thank you for all your support with the Operation Xmas Child campaign. Once again we were able to send out over 70 shoeboxes filled with treats and gifts. I have been informed that our boxes have been sent to underprivileged children in Serbia. In addition to the kind donations from parents, students and staff we were also able to send over 100 hand knitted beanie hats. A big thank you to everyone who took the time to knit a beanie for us. I am sure the children will appreciate your kindness. Again this year the textiles club worked incredibly hard, alongside the Year 11 GCSE students, to produce items for the boxes. This year they made pencil cases, wash bags and hand puppets. They should be very proud of this achievement and have again shown themselves to be exemplary young people, giving up their lunchtimes to ensure that there was at least one handmade item going into every box. Well done! Mrs Perkins

Christmas Card Competition

Well done to all the winners!

Mr McPaul

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Issue 84

INSPIRE Engineering An Interactive Engineering Day

We were fortunate to get places on the award winning interactive engineering day at the London transport Museums Acton depot on 13th November. We took our top set of Year 9 scientists. The students took part in 3 activities during the course of the day:

Exploration of the depot to find out more about engineering from the amazing objects on display. They had to build a moveable devise using a small motor and brushes using the principles of the ice brushes on tube trains. A careers activity. They had the opportunity to talk to two Engineers and ask them any questions they liked. The idea was for the students to find out about their education and favourite subjects at school, the type of engineering projects they have worked on (e.g. CrossRail, the Olympic Park , about life as an Engineer, their current position and salaries. Eggsperiment: the students had to design and build a train track to transport an Egg 6 metres along a track using only gravitational potential and kinetic energy. Mrs Young

Aimhigher Conference Surrey University 18th December

30 year 9s went to the Aimhigher Conference at Surrey University in Guildford. During the day there were presentations from four local universities covering all aspects of post 18 education. Our pupils learnt about the range of courses possible and how even crowded professions such as fashion and sport can be accessed by a range of degree courses for example business, accounting or journalism degrees can all lead to careers in these fields. There was a tour of the campus and a chance to question a number of university students on their degrees, their social life and whether or not they could cook. The day started with a very interesting range of memory tips and challenges for the brain (try writing words for colour in different coloured pens such as RED written in a blue ink and calling out the colour not the word) which was all good fun and useful too, and we ended playing a money game which taught the pupils some basics for budgeting. I am pleased to say that several of the pupils managed to 'save' some money. What will be on offer for our pupils post sixth form is increasing varied and gaining a small insight into the possibilities now definitely gets them thinking.

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The Christs Chronicles

Spanish Exchange 2012-13

Another unforgettable trip to Madrid! Last November, 20 students took part in the Spanish Exchange. They spent a week in Madrid with their exchange partners from Parque de Lisboa High School and had a real taste of the Spanish life. While learning, our students had a lot of fun and giggles. This year, accompanied by Mrs Parmiter, Miss Taber and Ms Campa, they enjoyed a range of different and excited activities. Among them: the visit to The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, home of Real Madrid football team, Faunia, a huge nature park containing thousands of different species of animals from all over the world, and the visit to the beautiful town of Toledo. Also must not forget to mention our traditional Spanish breakfast (churros con Chocolate) in the 19th Century Caf San Gines and our taste of traditional tapas. Luckily, once again the sun shined on us and it was possible to enjoy little bit of rowing exercise on the peaceful and beautiful lake in the park of El retiro, situated on the heart of Madrid.

Both the Spanish & English exchange students together! Make sure you dont miss out on this great opportunity to spend a week in the shoes of a Spanish teenager. (Open to year 9 and 10, Limited places available) Ms J Campa

Jack Petchey Award

We have once again been very ably supported by the Jack Petchey Foundation. Our three winners this term were Alex Greenwood, Terence Vancooten, Dorsa Nasrollahi. They have chosen to spend their award money on a range of useful extras for school including smart new Gym club warm up tops, cameras and design equipment. In addition we have had two Speakout Challenge days which are also sponsored by the foundation and these have involved approximately 50 year 10s. The challenge on these days is to learn some very useful tips about making an impression and learning to have confidence to make a short speech in public. The days are both fun and demanding and the lessons learnt will be very useful for that first work experience in the summer term. Sarah Brown

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Christ's Students at the Ventura Design Competition Finals

Budding designers from years 9&10 entered this year's Ventura Design Competition run by the Design Museum and sponsored by Deutsche Bank The project started with a visit to the Design Museum, near Tower Bridge where the design brief was outlined. The students had to produce a product based on the theme of journeys which could be sold in the Design Museum shop. Following that visit, the museum sent designers and enterprise specialists to school to encourage the teams of students and and work with them on developing their ideas. Five teams of students worked to produce a finished product including a prototype and a presentation pitch. There was an 'in-school' mini final with four local designers judging the products to decide which should go forward to represent school. It was an extremely hard choice for the judges as the ideas and presentations were all excellent. The winning in-school design was 'Let's Go' - a story telling linear puzzle that enables young children and their parents to describe and talk about journeys and visits. The puzzle was produced by Juma Atker, Nakita Garces, Abigail Houghton Brown, and Vivenne Leech. As this was the first time we have entered this competition and most of the work was produced after school and during break times we were very pleased to be placed on the short-list of finalists. On Monday 10 December the group, accompanied by Sarah Brown and Mrs Busby , went to the Design Museum at Tower Bridge , to present their design to the judges, who included Sebastian Conran and Anya Hindmarch MBE. The students presented their idea with great flair and answered on the spot questions well. The judges commented on the strength of their presentation as they were the only group to speak without notes. The overall winner will be announced next year but we were very pleased to have won the day's activity prize and all our students came home with a bag of goodies from the Design Museum. Ms V Busby

Christ's School Sixth Form

Plans for the new sixth form and expansion to five forms of entry (5FE) have been continuing all term. The project encompasses a number of strands and the main focus for the autumn has been the proposed new building and the development of the curriculum. In addition we have been running some focus group lunches for our year 10s so that they have an opportunity to hare about the plans and contribute their ideas. The new building proposed is to be sited next to the sports hall and it will include new science labs, a sixth form study area, a fitness studio and a range of classrooms. As part of the sixth form development and 5FE expansion, several areas within the existing school will be refurbished for the benefit of all our pupils. The biggest change will be a more spacious canteen and a discreet drama studio. All these plans are subject to planning permission and we hope to have initial confirmation of this in March. Mr Morris has been appointed to lead the sixth form team. During the spring term he will be working closely with staff further developing the sixth form curriculum and prospectus. He will also be running more focus group sessions for pupils. The sixth form section on the website will have updates.

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Introducing the New House System

This half-term has seen the successful launch of our new house system. Pupils have been competing in lots of academic and sporting competitions culminating in the new Winter Sports Day. Throughout the year pupils will be scoring academic, sporting and community house points with a view to helping their house win the newly minted Christs School House Cup and the sports and academic shields. Mr Butler

Dickens House - We stand for: Empathy, Creativity and

Charles Dickens commented on the life and hardships in Victorian Britain and his brutal honesty and vivid descriptions are what have made him one of the most celebrated, influential and enjoyed authors of all time. He also used Richmond as a setting in his novels and also referenced it many times throughout his work. It is well-known how keen he was of Richmond and spent birthdays and anniversaries here. "I think Richmond and Twickenham through the Park, out at Knightsbridge, and over Barnes Common, would make a beautiful ride." Charles Dickens is much loved for his outstanding contribution to classic English literature. His epic stories, vivid characters and exhaustive depiction of contemporary Victorian life are unforgettable. His own story is one of rags to riches. The good fortune of being sent to school at the age of nine was short-lived because his father, was imprisoned for bad debt. Charles was sent to work in a blacking factory and endured appalling conditions as well as loneliness and despair. After three years he was returned to school, but the experience was never forgotten. He died in 1870 and is buried at Westminster Abbey Dickens House had a successful start with the year 10 and 11 girls basketball team making the final only to lose out by one point! The year 7s, 8s and 9s had great sporting success too during Winter Sports Day, with the year 8 boys football team and the year 8 girls netball team winning! Harry Whitaker also won the boys cross country and was the star of the house that day. I leave you with a quote for Christmas: For it is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty Founder was a child Himself. (From A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens). Merry Christmas. Miss Moran Head of Dickens House

Elizabeth House - We stand for: Pride, Courage, and Leadership

Elizabeth House - We stand for: Pride, Courage, and Leadership. Elizabeth House is named after Queen Elizabeth 1st. Often voted one of the greatest ever Britons, Elizabeth was monarch during a remarkable period in our history. We are extremely fortunate to be situated in a Royal Borough, just moments away from places frequently visited by Queen Elizabeth; Richmond Palace, Ham House, Old Deer Park and Richmond Park, to name just a few. Once Elizabeth became queen she spent much of her time at Richmond Palace, as she enjoyed hunting stags in the "Newe Parke of Richmonde" (now the Old Deer Park). The accomplishments and achievements of Queen Elizabeth I have given her the reputation of the greatest monarch of England. The Elizabethan era is often referred to as the Golden Age! Elizabeth is a great name for our house because:

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Issue 84

She was a very gifted scholar who was an accomplished linguist with the ability to speak several languages including Latin, Greek, French, Spanish and Welsh! Elizabeth adopted a moderate religious policy after a period of persecution. She established the Poor Laws - she achieved a new framework of support for the needy Her reign witnessed widespread increase in literacy and great achievements in the arts - great poets and playrights emerged during her era, notably one William Shakespeare! The new scientific thinking of the renaissance was encouraged and important men such as Sir Francis Bacon and Dr.John Dee emerged during the Elizabethan era A major accomplishment was the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588. Elizabeth spent most of this time commanding from Richmond Palace. Queen Elizabeth I lead England as a woman, in what was very much a man's world, and she did this with courage, intelligence and loyalty Students in Elizabeth House strive to follow the House values of Pride, Courage and Leadership. Several of our students were able to demonstrate these values with their participation in the Year 10/11 Basketball competition. In particular from the girls team Esme Gritten and from the boys team Michael Graham, who showed courage against formidable opponents, leading their teams to a 3 rd and 2nd place overall. In other House news, students in the lower school are embracing the competitive spirit of the new House system, particularly during the winter sports day, entering art and literary competitions and participating in the school carol concert. Have a wonderful Christmas Miss Perkins Head of Elizabeth House

Turing House - We stand for: Humility, Perseverance, and Bravery

Turing House is inspired by the amazing life of Alan Turing. Turing was a genuine genius. In the 1930s, he thought, designed and created the Turing machine, one of the earliest forms of computers. The template for this machine is still used in current computer engineering. Turing used this machine to break the enigma code during the Second World War. It is thought that this single act contributed to saving the lives of more British citizens than any other Brit during the war. Alan did all this without receiving wide acclaim. Turing believed in his education, and once, when a train strike threatened his attendance to school, he borrowed a bike and cycled sixty miles to school. Indeed, Alan Turing was a promising athlete, and very nearly competed in the Olympics. Through Alan Turing, our House strives for Humility, Perseverance, and Bravery. Special mention should go out to the Upper Turing boys basketball team, who came first in a thrilling match against Elizabeth house. Also, to our younger, artier Turing members Molly Taylor and Katie Scheibli, who came first in our Fireworks night, and Christmas carol concert poster design competitions. Well done Turing House! Mr McPaul Head of Turing House

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Attenborough House We stand for: Discovery, Knowledge and Curiosity

Sir David Attenborough is one of Britains most respected and well liked television presenters. He is probably the worlds best-known natural history film-maker. His career as a naturalist and broadcaster now spans 60 years and there are very few places on the globe that he has not visited. Still broadcasting at the age of 86, Sir David is a Richmond resident and lives a stones throw away from our school at the top of Queens Road. Sir David was recently voted Britains greatest national treasure, and is widely respected worldwide with his iconic programs watched by millions. Sir David Attenborough has become the leader in his field as a broadcaster, naturalist and wildlife film maker. This has brought him international recognition and he has been called "the great communicator and a peerless educator". The three words that sum up Attenborough and what Attenborough house should aspire to are Discovery, Knowledge and Curiosity and this is what we shall aim to do. We want our students to have the drive and curiosity to push themselves both in an out of the classroom. We want them to discover new ideas and topics that inspire them, and extend their knowledge about themselves and the world around them. Attenborough had a fantastic Winter Sports Day and it was great to see all members striving their hardest not only for themselves but for their house also. There has been a fantastic response by house members to become House Captains of Attenborough House and this is exactly what we want students to do: that is to go the extra mile both in and out of the classroom. Special mentions to Hannah Perks who performed brilliantly and won the Year 9 Cross Country Race, Christian Romay who performed admirably in the rugby competition and Imran Uche and Benjamin Airey who did likewise in the football. Finally it was fantastic to see both the Year 10 and 11 boys and girls perform to their best in the basketball competition, with the girls winning the competition for Attenborough House. Well done all in Attenborough House! Mr Roderick Head of Attenborough House

Music Concerts this half term

Merry Christmas form the Music Department

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Sports News Extra Curricular Timetable - Spring Term

Lunch Time Clubs 12.20-12.55 Monday Year 7 & 8 After School Clubs (15:15-16:15) BOYS Rugby (MMO + PRO) Basketball (yr 7/8/9) (MGR + MMO) GIRLS Gym/Sport Acro (JRO) Girls Football (Tom Rutter) Girls Netball (CNE + JRO + SBA) Cheerleading Parkour Basketball with Richmond Knights Netball (CNE + JRO + SBA)

Tuesday

Wednesday

Dodgeball (MMO) Yr 7/8 mixed

Parkour

Thursday

Girls Basketball All years (CNE)

Basketball with Richmond Knights Football (JCY) Cross country (CNE & MMO) Martial Arts (5 per session)

Friday

Badminton & Table tennis (SBA & JCY) Lunch Time Clubs 12.20-12.55

Cross country (CNE & MMO) Martial Arts (5 per session)

Years 9/10/11 After School Clubs (15:15-16:15) BOYS Rugby (MMO + PRO) Basketball (yr 7/8/9) (MMO & MGR) Parkour GIRLS Gym/Sport Acro (JRO) Football (Tom Rutter) Cheerleading Parkour Yr 9 Basketball with Richmond Knights Football (JCY + MGR) Yr 9 Basketball with Richmond Knights

Monday

Basketball (yr 10/11) (MMO & CNE)

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Girls Basketball (CNE)

Friday

Badminton & Table tennis (SBA & JCY)

Martial Arts (5 per session) Cross country (CNE + MMO)

Cross Country (CNE + MMO) Martial Arts (5 per session)

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Sports Clubs and Reviews Cheerleading & Zumba

Year 10 students have been delighted with the addition of Cheerleading and Zumba to their PE curriculum this term. They have excelled themselves in learning the Latin Zumba moves with such great enthusiasm and poise that they would have given those strictly dancers a run for their money! The girls have also had the opportunity to learn the cheerleading moves including stunting and gymnastic elements. They have had great fun learning routines and practicing their 'cheery' faces! The coaches are starting an after school club in the Spring term so listen out in whole school assembly for more information (open to all year groups.)

GCSE PE OAA Residential

Next term will see both of our Year 10 GCSE PE classes whizz down the M25 to take part in their GCSE practical controlled assessment at High Ashurst Outdoor education centre. The students will be staying in plush 16 sleeper cabins in the beautiful North Downs in Surrey which is an area of outstanding natural beauty. They will be assessed in climbing and orienteering, coached by experts, and moderated and assessed to ensure they enter their theory exam with the best possible practical marks. We have very high hopes for all our GCSE students and whilst we want them to achieve the highest possible marks, we also appreciate that they need some down time so there will be some fun evening activities such as high ropes to make sure they have a fantastic few days away. I will be sending out letters once we have confirmed dates and travel before Christmas so please look out for them and return the permission slip with your deposit to the school office.

Gymnastics Club
Gymnastics club has welcomed lots of new members this term (including boys) and I have been delighted to see so many people come and not only enjoy themselves and have lots of fun but also make such great progress. We mix the different disciplines and enjoy a mixture of Floor and Vault, Apparatus, Sports Acro, and Trampet Tumbling. It has been incredible to see students join with no gymnastic experience and see them transform into 'real' gymnasts who can perform a range of different gymnastic moves and even lend a hand at coaching too! Everybody has the chance to practice all of the above disciplines and work on badge and certificate award schemes which they can work towards each week. Some of the older gymnasts are starting to put together a group routine for a display.............so watch this space! Well done to everybody who has made this club so special this year and, as always we look forward to welcoming new members after Christmas.

Year 8 Young Leaders

A group of around 20 Year 8 students have been going to down to Marshgate Primary school every Monday lunchtime to coach the primary children in their lunch hour. The young leaders have taken part in training and they have planned sessions for them which include playground games, traditional sports and they have even invented their own games and competitions using the equipment that is available which have been great fun. They have all excelled, demonstrating excellent leadership qualities and they have formed lovely relationships with the young students who have been so excited waiting for the 'big boys and girls from Christ`s' to return the following week. It has been a pleasure seeing them all interact so well with the children from Marshgate and seeing how much they all get out of it. A huge Well done to all those involved - keep it up! Mrs Bromly

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First Winter Inter House Sports Day

Friday 7th December dawned clear and COLD for the first Winter Sports Inter House Competition. Most of the children had heeded the warnings about the cold weather and had come well prepared and in competitive spirit as the first games commenced. Everybody in Year 7, 8 & 9 competed for their house at Netball (girls), Rugby (boys), Football (Boys), Football (Girls) and Cross Country (Boys & Girls). Starting at 8.30am and running all the way through to 2.30pm the children fought long and hard for their house points. Special mention must go to the following students for their fine examples of fair play and sportsmanship throughout the day A special mention to goes to Dean Broderick and Harry Whitaker in Year 8 who competed at the highest level in each of their sports, setting the highest standards for their teams as positive role models. Year 10 and 11 students did not miss out on their chance to participate in house sport, they competed in an Inter House basketball competition during their lunchtimes. The players representing each house were incredibly well supported by their fellow House mates and also by the new heads of House. ATTENBOROUGH 1ST 1660 A special mention should go to all the staff who braved the cold conditions and came out to support, referee and marshall the events. It DICKENS 2ND 1351 would not have been possible to run the day without them. A final ELIZABETH 3RD 1256 mention should go to the students who over the day each contributed to their overall House point score. TURING 4TH 1164 Well done!

Year 8 Girls football 5-a-side Tournament

On Monday 19 November a squad of 8 keen year 7 & 8 girls participated in the Npower Brentford FC football tournament. Following an early loss to Teddington the team went on to win their next match against Villiers 2-0, thanks to some fast dribbling from Lily Shields-Polyzoides setting up one of the goals from Rebecca Olyer. This was backed up by excellence defence from Sydney Byrnes-Adim. The win had lifted their spirits and qualifiers were on their mind, the girls knew they had everything to play for against Grey Court, having lost to them early in the season. Within the first few minutes they were battling it out in attack, goals were on their way! Rebecca scored a brilliant goal, and spirits were high, then quickly Lily snuck past the defence and they were 2-0 up. Agnes Brook- Sulman and Chloe Brecher did a fantastic job in midfield helping set up the final 2 goals. The final score against Grey Court was 4-0! We had qualified into the semi-finals and drew Drayton School. The girls had a battle on their hands, but unfortunately they were up against a better drilled team with an exceptional striker who tested the excellent goal keeping skills of Eleanor Broughton. The final score was 3-0 to Drayton who went on to become the eventual winners. Credit goes to all of our players who demonstrated sportsmanship and dedication not just at the tournament but throughout the season. Training will continue in the New Year with Tom Rutter on Tuesdays afterschool, new players will be very welcome too! SKI TRIP 2013 Final preparations are underway for the Ski trip over Easter, we are travelling to Zell am See in Austria. In the New Year I will be contacting parents about an information evening. Can I remind parents/ carers that the final payment is due by 26th January. I have no doubt the trip will be a huge success. Planning has begun for the Ski trip in 2014, more information will be given out later in the year. Miss Needham

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The Christs Chronicles

A Message from our Chaplain Ruth Scott

Dear Parents and Carers, It was lovely to see a number of you at the School Carol Service last Thursday evening in Holy Trinity Church. It makes such a difference to the students to be supported by those who care for them. The choirs, orchestra and readers did a great job, and at the end we enjoyed mince pies and mulled wine provided by the PTA. During the last term most of the Year 7s have spent a lesson with me in the Chapel. Weve discussed identity, the impact of being hurt/hurting others, and explored silence in a way that leaves them with a positive experience of being quiet. As part of the RS curriculum Ive spent time in Year 9 lessons looking at what we do and dont know about Jesus, the people who wrote about him, what they wanted to convey and to whom, how artists through time have portrayed him and why. At the beginning of term I asked all the Year 7s to each choose a challenge. It was to be something they couldnt do but wanted to learn to do and could manage by the end of term. They key thing was that it had to be fun. Over the last few weeks students have been bringing me photos of their challenges, art works theyve made and food theyve cooked. They shown sports techniques theyve mastered, and sent animated videos theyve produced. Ive filmed students performing magic and doing origami, playing instruments and dancing. Last Friday Year 7 spent two lessons watching performances and films produced by a number of them, and we had an exhibition of things theyd made and of the photos showing them completing challenges. Thank you to those of you who helped your child achieve their challenge.

Alejandro making paella

Year 7 boys learning to juggle

Emily and Belinda perform the ballet they made up and choreographed

Our major charitable focus in the Autumn term is the Christmas Shoe Box Appeal. The shoe boxes are filled with new toys and sent to places where there would not otherwise be presents for the children at this time. Ms Perkins organised the toy collection and those students making hats and purses to go in the boxes. We sent over 60 boxes of toys which is more than last year.

Page 17 Next term we will be visited on January 23rd by the Watoto Ugandan Orphans Choir (ages between 10 and 15 years). They are wonderful and will be putting on a free evening concert during which they will sing and share some of their stories. They will also be performing for the students at lunchtime. They are looking for help with accommodation. Essentially each group of 3 children has an aunty/uncle to look after them. If you have room to accommodate for 2 nights one adult and 3 children (who are happy to sleep on the floor), please could you let me know? The tragic news of the massacre in Sandy Hook School, Newtown, Connecticut, reminds us that the message of peace on earth and good will to all people remains as relevant now as ever it was. The Christmas story tells how when ordinary people like Mary bring love to birth in the messiness of human life, people of all kinds can find a touching place. This Christmas, through the love of those with whom you share it, I hope you find joy and the energy to share your joy with others. Happy Christmas! Ruth (Christs School Chaplain)

Issue 84

Mr Gray as Father Christmas at the student Christmas lunch on 19th December

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Y7&8 Science Club! !!

HAS LANDED A BRAND NEW SCIENCE CLUB IS BEGINNING THIS HALF TERM!!! Wednesdays 3:15, Room 25, See Miss Levien for more information

A local charity (NASS) are looking for a part time (17.5 hours per week) fundraising manager. The job would suit someone who is enthusiastic and has previous experience of fundraising. The job is being advertised on the homepage of the NASS website (www.nass.co.uk) under latest news http://nass.co.uk/news/interested-in-joining-the-nass-team/

Thank you to Lovely Branches for their generous donation of 2 Christmas Trees which have been displayed at our entrance and in the waiting area in reception

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The Christs Chronicles

Additional information:
To contact Staff by e-mail please use their first initial and then surname written as one word followed by generic ending: @christs.richmond.sch.uk

There is also a quick link via school website.

Christ's School Queen's Road Richmond Surrey TW10 6HW
Phone: 020 8940 6982 Fax: 020 8332 6085 E-mail: info@christs.richmond.sch.uk

Holidays: Term Dates 2012/2013:

Autumn Term Term finishes - Friday, 21st December 2012 Half Term Monday, 29th October 2012-Friday, 2nd November 2012 Spring Term Monday, 7th January 2013-Thursday 28th March 2013 Half Term Monday, 18th February-Friday 22nd February 2013 Summer Term Monday, 15th April 2013 - Friday, 19th July 2013 Half Term Monday, 27th May 2013 - Friday, 31st May 2013 INSET Days: Monday 7th January 2013 Monday, 25th February 2013 Monday, 15th April 2013 (Year 11 in as usual) Friday, 12th July 2013

Timetable for school day All students to arrive at school and be ready for registration at 08.30 Morning break 10.20-10.40 Lunch break 12.20-13.00 End of school 15.00

Winter uniform required: blazer, white shirt and school tie. To order uniform go to our website: http:// christs.richmond.sch.uk/ home ALL girls are required to wear navy skirt available online or black trousers from Sept. 12

www.christs.richmond.sch.uk