Boys and Mental Health

 Raising Funds for Mental Health

Jasper and Lenny, with the help of Mr Eaton, organised a staff football match to raise funds for their mental health project aimed at boys.  This is work that they began with the Chelsea Aspire project  and they are continuing to focus to move the project forward.

Thank you to all the staff that participated and supported and to the spectators who have raised £281 towards their goal.

Celebrating our Scholars

The Scholars' Programme 

On Friday, 14 year 9 students went down to the University of Southampton to celebrate their success in the Scholars Programme.  The students had to complete a 2,500 word essay at degree level with the title 'Competing against Cancer: How to combat brain cancer in the laboratory and clinic'.  Working alongside the tutor, Ghazala, who is currently focused on a PhD in the same subject, our students were challenged to understand difficult scientific concepts and write about them.  They had 6 hours of contact time with the tutor and complete the rest of their research and writing in their own time.

In their visit to the University of Southampton students enjoyed a study session one of the lecture theatres and a tour of the university.  They spoke to current university students about university life and what it was like to study at university.  We were lucky with the weather, so had a relaxing lunch in the university grounds.  One of the boys produced a football, so those that wanted to enjoyed a 'kick-about' to stretch their legs!  The afternoon ended with the Gradation Ceremony, where the students were awarded their certificate and were applauded for their efforts.

Winston Churchill School is incredibly proud of the work produced and the resilience shown by these students to complete the programme.  Well done!

Mrs Markham

Assistant Head

Playing at the Next Level

 Welcome to Primary Orchestra Day

Our Primary Orchestra Day has grown over a number of years to the point that we only just fit into Performance Space.

The children were amazing and worked hard throughout the day so that they were able to play three pieces, to an audience of parents and proud staff, including Headteachers, at a concert at the end of the day.  After just a few hours the quality of music being made was impressive.  Winston students were there to support, including some who have just left Year 11.  The skills that they were developing as teachers will be invaluable as they move through life.  

We love sharing music making at Winston.  if you would like to join our Primary Orchestra, which meets once a week, contact our Director of Music, Mr Drake c.drake@wcsc.org.uk 

It is great for children to make music together and to be part of something bigger.

Developing Skills

 Myth & Voice....& Opportunity

Throughout the year, Year 10 Latin students have worked with Royal Holloway Classics professor Dr Efi Spentzou examine the voices of characters and of themselves through ancient myth. That experience culminated today with a visit to Royal Holloway campus. 

Students enjoyed lectures on topics of Ancient history and literature, shown some of the parallels between the ancient and modern worlds and invited to experience learning as if they were university students. After lunch on the Quad, they toured the campus, asking questions about courses, societies, university living. The afternoon was an opportunity to hear about Classics in the career market, the transferable skills that such subjects nurture and heard from current students about their experiences in further education. 

University may not be for all students, but it is up to them to make an informed decision about their futures, and Winston is committed to providing opportunities to do this.

Mr Fisher

Year 7 at Work

The British weather doesn't stop us during Year 7 PE lessons. On Wednesday morning, when the sky was overcast, Year 7 engaged in a range of "summer sports" rounders, cricket, softball, tennis and volleyball.  Both female classes and male classes challenged their collaboration skills and communication.

Mrs Smith

Participation in the Wider World

 Your Vote Matters! 

Students are currently engaged in a mock election campaign, mirroring the general election. The two parties, United Kingdom Together Onwards (UKTO) and Progressive Party have been considering their values and principles, compiling their policies and curating their manifestos.

Today they conducted a debate, putting their policies forward to a mix of students who posed questions on the NHS, immigration, education and sustainability, as well as local issues about our school. We're grateful to Mr Adcroft for chairing the debate, providing a framework and fair questioning to support our students to communicate their views clearly and effectively. The students' direct answers to questions could put some politicians to shame!

Over the course of the week they'll be canvasing across the school, encouraging as many students and staff as possible to vote in favour of their platforms. Voting takes place on Friday. 

Year 10 Work Experience Week: A Success Story

 

This week, 300 of our Year 10 students embarked on work placements across various industries including hospitality, sports, education, beauty, government services, engineering, law, manufacturing, construction, computing, and technology.

 

Their journey has been marked by hard work, resilience, and determination. The success of this program is a testament to the supportive businesses and community members who have opened their doors and provided guidance.

 

Work experience is a pivotal milestone for these students, offering invaluable real-life insights and cultivating essential skills that extend beyond the classroom.

 

Feedback from Employers:

 

- "The students have been a positive addition to our staff and community."

- "Very respectful and well-presented."

- "Lovely, intelligent young lady and very helpful."

- "Engaged, asks many questions, has been brilliant."

- "Shows real engagement and curiosity. Positive and polite boy."

 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the businesses and community members who have made this possible. Your support has been instrumental in shaping the futures of these young individuals.

 

As they continue their educational journey, the lessons learned during this period will serve as a cornerstone for their professional and personal growth. Here's to the continued success of this vital programme and the bright futures of our students!

Mrs L Smyth

Careers Leader

Enjoying Induction

 The Induction Video!

Produced by students in Years 7, 8 and 9, this much anticipated video was enjoyed by parents on Wednesday evening.

Thank you to all the students involved for creating a lovely record of the children's first days at Winston.

A World Premier

 "Checking In" - The KS3 Production

Winston's Drama Department is thrilled to present 'Checking In', an original play written and directed by Mr. Penfold, with co-direction by Miss Watson. Our KS3 students will be performing the world premiere of this contemporary piece on July 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th, 2024. The play delves into the connections between 'The Human World' and 'The Other'. Join us to discover more!

The KS3 students have dedicated themselves to creating this production and would love to see as many familiar faces in the audience as possible. Tickets are available on the school website. We look forward to sharing a spooky evening of theatre with you!

Best wishes, The Drama Department