Christmas Newsletter 2018 As we move towards the end of another term I want to thank all staff and students for their continued hard work throughout a very busy term. It was a pleasure to recently attend our school Christmas Carol Concert and to see so many of our students enjoy performing in the concert. There has also been a number of student visits and trips including Year 10 work experience day, French Exchange visit as well as our annual Year 9 trip to the Christmas market in Aachen to name but a few of the many activities that have taken place this term. My thanks to all staff, students and parents for their support for the many activities that take place outside the classroom. At school the building of our new canteen has continued and we hope the new cabling and sub-station that need to be installed before the new kitchen can operate will be completed at the start of the New Year. After that during January/February we hope to see the installation of the new kitchen and the refurbishment of the dining area. In January we also hope to see progress on the Science block extension as well as the additional facilities at the Isaac Newton site. We will aim to keep staff, students and parents updated as soon as information becomes available. In the meantime as 2018 draws to a close I wish all students, staff and parents a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for 2019. Elaine Wilson Headteacher

Mayfield Grammar School Gravesend

NEWSLETTER CHRISTMAS 2018

Staffing News New Members of Staff In January we will welcome Mr Valdini to teach Economics and Mrs Day as our new Catering Assistant. In October we welcomed Monica Cseszlai as a new member of our Premises/Cleaning team. I hope all new staff enjoy their time at our school. Staff leaving for pastures new We bid farewell to Mr Mason and Mrs Chippendo at the end of this term as well as Mr Thompson who has assisted us with support for our Science staff and to Ms Tress who has been teaching PE for us this term. Our sincere thanks for their service to our school and we wish them well for the future. Mr Webster joined Mayfield in January 2014 and has provided invaluable support for colleagues in our cover and examinations office as well as for other colleagues across the school. He is always calm, cheerful and has always gone the extra mile in support of students and staff. He will be greatly missed by all but he thoroughly deserves to enjoy a very long and happy retirement and we hope he will remain in contact with the school in the years ahead. Mrs Jones (nee Semus) leaves Mayfield at the end of term after 14 years at the school and we wish her well for the future. After nearly 29 years of loyal and dedicated service Mrs Morris retires at the end of term after working as a Science Technician at our school. She has ably assisted many colleagues over the years in delivering practical science work for all our students to benefit from. Mrs Morris is always cheerful, kind and extremely helpful and she will be greatly missed by staff and students alike. We all wish Mrs Morris a very long and happy retirement and hope she remains in contact with the school.

Music

Bach to the Future

On 29th October, all Year 7 students experienced an interactive musical roadshow entitled ‘Bach to the Future’. During the show, which was presented by three music teachers from Kent Music, students were introduced to instruments from the string, brass and woodwind families, learnt how they work, and were shown equivalent instruments made out of everyday objects. All of this was presented through live music being played to a visual presentation and students were able to join in with some of the musical items, which ranged from music by Bach to well-known film and television music. The students clearly gained a lot from the experience and we look forward to inviting the Kent Music musicians to the school.

Individual Successes

Owen Excell in Year 12 recently learnt that he was the winner in the Rotary Club Guitar Competition, congratulations.

At the end of last academic year, Ms Sayers nominated one of our then Year 13 students, Alice Dunne, for a KCC Try Angle Award in recognition of her outstanding effort and contribution to Music during her time as a student here. We have recently learnt that Alice is the district winner in the Music category and has got through to the County finals. Congratulations.

Christmas Concert

On Tuesday 4th December a large audience was treated to a fantastic evening of musical entertainment by students from all years of the school. There were some outstanding solo and ensemble performances and all of the Music clubs that meet weekly performed the music they have been working on. The ensembles were: In Sync, Stay Tuned, Glee, Harmonize, Guitar Ensemble, Voice in a Million Choir, GCSE and A Level students. It was particularly good to see so many of our Year 7 students participating. Congratulations to everyone who performed.

Voice in a Million 2019

On 21st March 2019, 71 students from Years 7 to 12 will perform at Wembley Arena as part of the annual Voice in a Million show. All participants are in the process of learning the songs, rehearsals will begin in the New Year.

School Trips

ICELAND

Today was the day that we had all been waiting for, everyone came rushing into school with their huge suitcases and their day bags. We were all so excited about meeting up with friends that we forgot about our parents that were all trying to give us goodbyes and hugs. After our parents had said goodbye for the 100th time we all set off towards Iceland, all of us smiling and laughing with excitement as we boarded the coach for Gatwick. For many of us this was our first time in an airport without our parents. We boarded a boiling hot plane and instead of finding air conditioning we were bombarded with blankets - everywhere I looked there were just brown furry blankets. We took off and touched down in Iceland. The freezing cold hit us. Our friendly tour guides, Cath and Val, greeted us and took us to our first stop which was the Bridge between the Continents - it was rather strange as we were all used to yellow sand but instead it was black. We all walked around in our trainers only to find that they were filling up with the sand. Everyone was taking selfies and pictures with the beautiful scenery. At the end of the walk there was a steep slope of sand that we all tried trekking down…only to fail and land on our bottoms. Finally, the teachers hurried us along and we got back on the coach.

The next day we went to a Thingvellir National Park. It was an early start on the coach but everyone was too excited about the day to moan. At the park we trekked across a very rocky area - I personally was holding on to my friends trying not to slip. The rain picked up later and for those who were wearing jeans this led to freezing cold legs! As the teachers reminded us there is “no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”, and at this point in time I certainly regretted not bringing my waterproof trousers. We reached a waterfall and then that’s where many of us started to see how picturesque and beautiful Iceland really was.

Later we went to see the famous geysers, they erupted every 8-10 mins. We all tried to catch the amazing moment on our phones when the breath-taking geyser shot up. Although it was stunning and incredible- it smelt so bad, the sulphur smelt of rotten eggs! We then went to see Gulfoss – a huge beautiful two-tiered waterfall. My friends and I all took pictures of ourselves pretending we were falling back into the waterfall. Later on, we then went to watch a horse show, and there we learnt about the tölt- a special type of trot that looked like the horse was tip-toeing. The owner was really friendly and let us stroke and take pictures with her horses. We then went to see a tomato greenhouse and tried the fresh and delicious tomato soup and which, in my opinion, is the best geothermal tomato soup in the world. Finally, we saw another wonderful waterfall and then we headed back to the hostel and Mr Orr encouraged us to all try dried Icelandic fish – I thought it was disgusting! The following day was probably my favourite day, many of us had been excited to go see Iceland for this one amazing feature - The Blue Lagoon. When we arrived and caught our first glimpse of the water all I could hear was the word “WOW!”. There next to us was “out of this world” blue milky looking water. When I went in the water, it felt like I was having a relaxing bath. Everyone including all the teachers, were excited to put this free volcanic face mask on and everyone especially the teachers, all looked like ghosts. Afterwards we went to Gunnuhver hot springs where we saw this vast amount of steam erupt out from a rainbow coloured fissure in the ground. You really felt the immense forces that lay

underneath our feet. Due to Mr Orr’s obsession with waves we next visited a nearby lighthouse where below us some of the biggest waves that could be imagined crashed into the dramatic coastline. It was amazing to see how far out the horizon was. Packed lunch was next (and everyday) which was always very funny – as everyone ended up with salami and cheese sandwiches. Next, we were taken to a geothermal power plant where we learnt about how energy was made. The tour guide showed us round the huge exhibition which explained how Iceland harnesses Mother Nature to create incredibly cheap energy. While we were observing we all started to see snow falling from outside and I couldn’t believe the excitement – Iceland was really delivering! The next day was very scary, as we did a glacier walk. At first, I was unsure of what to expect but then it became all very obvious when the experts told us we needed crampons and pick axes. As I was climbing the glaciers all I could think about was what if I fall. Looking back on it now I realise the astonishing and amazing views I was lucky enough to see.

Later on, that day we went to a black sand beach where we saw massive waves again. The instructor had pre-warned us about “sneaker-waves” and it became evident why, there were huge waves moving up the beach. Although it was terrifying it was a spectacular site. We then went to Skógafoss waterfall where the spray was so strong that our phone screens were getting very wet, and another where we could walk behind it called Seljalandsfoss. We were all able to see amazing perspectives of the waterfall and in many cases take great selfies. The last stop in Iceland - whale watching! There were very mixed opinions about this activity. Some of us, including me, enjoyed the experience thoroughly and loved trying to search for whales on the top deck. However others, including the teachers became very sea sick and dizzy - but all was resolved after we went to a café afterwards and had a hot chocolate- the perfect medicine. Afterwards we headed for the airport for the journey back home. I will never ever forget this amazing scenic experience I was so lucky to have, and looked forward to telling my friends and family about my adventures in Iceland. Written by Harsimran Gill 10R

Year 9 Trip to the Aachen Christmas Market

On the evening of 29th November, 49 Year Nine students and six teachers embarked on a six hour coach journey to Aachen. That was the plan, anyway. A two and a half hour delay at the shuttle crossing was certainly a test of our patience, but the girls were amazing and did not complain once. As we finally travelled through the night, everyone managed to, at least, have a snooze during the journey. We arrived in Aachen at 9.30am, a good few hours later than planned. Fortunately, the kind staff at the Café van den Daele provided breakfast packs consisting of a croissant, a jam roll and a boiled egg. Hot chocolate was also provided to warm us up for the day ahead (although at 12°C the weather was rather mild for this time of year). A big “Danke Schön” to the café staff for their quick response and flexibility. Our stomachs were extremely grateful. We then made our way to the Kaiser Karls Gymnasium (a local grammar school located in the city centre). After a much needed toilet break, as we had not seen a toilet since leaving England, the Deputy Head welcomed our students to the school; this was before meeting some of the German students at the school, who had actually already come to visit us here at Mayfield in October. After a quick catch up with our German friends, they gave our students a tour of the site in small groups. It was fascinating! So different to school life here in Gravesend. Breakfast had been a rushed job, so we were very happy to take our time over lunch at the Goldener Schwan. The food was delicious and the service was extremely friendly and warm. The head waitress had nothing but praise for the behaviour and manners of our students, which is always a pleasure to hear. Fed and watered, we were ready for what we had come here for – the Christmas Markets! Students had another opportunity to visit the Christmas Market to sample more food (including sweets) and to do some Christmas shopping - all while it was getting dark and the lights were on, giving everyone a warm, Christmassy feeling. After an exhausting day, the students walked back to the coach park with impressive pace - mostly due to the Lindt factory outlet store next to the coach park, where we were able to stock up on our chocolate reserves for the Christmas season.

Well done to the Year Nine students who were

extremely well behaved this year and thank

you to all teachers for giving up their free

time to join in to make this trip so successful.

French Exchange

We were delighted to welcome fifteen French students from Pontarlier to Mayfield from Friday 7th December to Friday 14th December. We all had a very eventful and successful week, helping them experience the ‘English way of life’ by sharing our homes and habits with them, as well as showing them around. The week included a day in school when they discovered first-hand the differences and similarities between school in France and in England. They also went on a day trip to London where they watched a musical (which they thought was… “Wicked”!) and admired the Christmas lights. Finally they went on a trip to Greenwich with their English partners, where we made the most of the wonders of the Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, the National Maritime Museum and Greenwich market – as well as the vivifying temperature! They all thoroughly enjoyed their stay, and we are now looking forward to our return journey in February, as we could tell by some heart-breaking goodbye scenes at the station on the day they left! Thankfully, the days of exchanging letters with your French partner have long gone, and all students will be able to keep in touch regularly during the time that separates us from our next visit. We would like to thank all the families involved for their support, hospitality and generosity. We could not do this exchange without you! Merci à tous et joyeux Noël!

Art, Technology and Design

Over this past term the Art department has been running a weekly Year 7 Christmas Art club. During these sessions students have had the chance to work with a range of new materials and gain new skills. We have made lanterns, paper 3D stars, ceramic Christmas decorations and snow globes, all of which can be used to decorate houses or given as gifts. The sessions have been very popular and successful in their outcomes. In addition to this we have run an advent competition where students were asked to create an A5 artwork based on Christmas. Everyday a new winner is picked and displayed on the advent calendar in Mayfield Court.

Design and Technology – Year 10 classes In November, both year 10 Design and Technology classes visited East Peckham Primary School to conduct some research for their project - designing and making an educational toy/resource. The students were given the opportunity to interview a range of children from Year R to Year 6 which they thoroughly enjoyed - the primary children wanted them to stay for longer. Our students were also given access to the staffroom to speak with teachers which proved very interesting, providing them with an insight into what they should, and shouldn’t, look to include in their projects. Students gained invaluable information whilst there and it was a delight to take them all out on this trip. They were all enthusiastic

and engaged throughout the experience, which was encouraging to see. The trip resulted in some very important conversations when they returned to the classrooms which has impacted significantly on their own projects.

The Design and Technology department would like to thank the students for being fantastic role models and truly engaging with this experience. We would also like to thank Mr Wickens and Mr Cocks for accompanying the students on this trip. A pleasing visit and presentation from designer Miss Ferrara to A Level Textiles students. In October, Year 13 Textile students had a visit from an ex student of Mayfield, Miss E Ferrara who is now working within the Fashion Industry. She shared with them her progression from A Level, through degree and to her work placements around the world. Students were given advice on options for further study, portfolio guidance and had the opportunity to ask lots of questions. The students found this an invaluable experience and they were given an honest insight into the different pathways they could take into the creative industries. She also looked at their projects and offered guidance and suggestions. Miss Ferrara is now continuing her career in Fashion over in Sweden and the students wish her every success with her future. Year 13 Visit to the Anni Albers Exhibition at the Tate Modern

On Thursday 15th November, A Level Textile students travelled into London to visit the exciting and inspiring exhibition of one of Bauhaus’ most influential Textile artists, Anni Albers. The exhibition illuminates the artist’s creative process and her engagement with art, architecture and design. You can discover why Albers has been a profound influence on artists around the world via more than 350 objects from exquisite small-scale ‘pictorial weavings’ to large wall-hangings and the textiles she designed for mass production, as well as her later prints and drawings. Students could get up close to the works of art and study them in much detail. It was a refreshing insight into craft at its finest. For the time, Alber’s work was revolutionary and much of it you could see around any modern home today.

Students took away ideas that inspire and could develop techniques they are using in their current projects. They also relished the opportunity to look around the rest of the Tate Modern to gain further primary research. A thank you to Mrs Nutter for accompanying us on the trip and to the students for taking up the opportunity to learn beyond the classroom.

Sports Results

Mayfield teams have been playing numerous matches this year and experiencing many successes across a range of sports.

Dartford and Gravesham

FOOTBALL U14 FOOTBALL U16

MGSG 1 8 WGSG 1 12

DSTC 8 Leigh Academy 9

MGSG 2 5 MGSG 1 9

NFSG 3 NFSG 6

WGSG 2 4

Dartford and Gravesham

BASKETBALL U14 BASKETBALL U16

St Johns 7 MGSG 6

MGSG 4 DSTC 2

NFSG 2

Gravesham

NETBALL Year 7 NETBALL Year 8

MGSG 1 14 St Georges 1 35

MGSG 2 13 MGSG 1 33

St Johns 2 12 St Georges 2 21

NFSG 3 NFSG 18

MGSG 4 12 Meopham 15

St Georges 1 10 MGSG 2 14

St Johns 1 10 MGSG 3 12

St Georges 2 8 St Johns 8

MGSG 3 7

NFSG 3

Gravesham

NETBALL Year 9 NETBALL U16

MGSG 1 25 St Georges 1 25

St Georges 2 23 St Georges 2 21

Meopham 22 NFSG 11

St Georges 2 15 St Johns 1 11

MGSG 3 10 St Johns 2 9

MGSG 2 8 MGSG 7

St Johns 1 7

NFSG 7

St Johns 1 6

Sports Results

Inter-House Rowing

The distances below represent the total covered by the Form in the time indicated. Year 7: Two minutes 1st – 7W 12,243 metres 120 points 2nd – 7D 12,070 metres 100 points 3rd – 7L 12,004 metres 80 points 4th – 7C 11,728 metres 60 points 5th – 7R 11,103 metres 40 points 6th – 7A 11,061 metres 20 points Year 8: Three minutes 1st – 8A 19,490 metres 120 points 2nd – 8C 19,363 metres 100 points 3rd – 8D 19,317 metres 80 points 4th – 8L 17,331 metres 60 points 5th – 8W 16,861 metres 40 points 6th – 8R 16707 metres 20 points

Year 9: Four minutes 1st – 9L 24,662 metres 120 points 2nd – 9A 23,942metres 100 points 3rd – 9D 23,502 metres 80 points 4th – 9R 23,048 metres 60 points 5th – 9C 22,916 metres 40 points 6th – 9W 22,640 metres 20 points Atalanta Cup 1st = Darnley – 260 points = Lynton – 260 points 3rd Atholl – 240 points 4th Chadwick – 200 points 5th Westbrook – 180 points 6th Reekie – 120 points

Canterbury Christchurch gives Mayfield a scare

It was a dull and dreary day as our boots squelched across the muddy car park. An amber-haired apparition came towards us - the Upper Sixth Lang Lit class - to guide us into Christchurch University. We were ready to start our Creative and Professional Writing seminar. Our lecturer, Danny Rhodes, introduced us to M.R. James, the “master” of ghost stories known in the literary world as ‘Jamesian’ short stories. We learnt a heck of a lot in a very short time. We were jumping in our seats as we watched a 1968 BBC production of one of his stories, ‘Oh, Whistle, and I’ll Come to You, My Lad’, which is not your typical ‘Woman in Black’ cheap thrill, but rather a harrowing and clever metaphor for solitude and vulnerability. Was it really a ghost or his mental illness at the end? It certainly got us thinking… In the afternoon, we learnt about the elements of a successful short story. We found this experience incredibly useful towards the crafting of our own coursework and we gained skills that we probably would not have got anywhere else. We even had a go at creating our own spooky stories.

Check out Angelica’s imp!

Moments we remember most fondly were when 10 burly boys interrupted our private screening of the movie, standing aimlessly like penguins until the ambassador sorted out the mix-up. Our memories of the cafeteria: the university students green with jealously as we were stuffing our faces with Princess’ birthday cupcakes. Must admit though, it wasn’t much different from our

school cafeteria – except for the computers that surrounded the room. We should talk to the school council about that! We highly recommend, for those who are interested, visiting universities to experience what it is like to be a university student and soak up the atmosphere of being an adult. We had an amazing time at the Creative Writing Workshop and would definitely recommend it for those wanting to pursue creative writing! Merry Christmas and watch out for ghosts! ‘The Lang/lit Year 13 group 2018’

END