July Newsletter 2010

Parents’ Newsletter July 2010

Bishop Vaughan Catholic SchoolBishop Vaughan Catholic SchoolBishop Vaughan Catholic SchoolBishop Vaughan Catholic School Newyddion Ysgol Gatholig Esgob FychanNewyddion Ysgol Gatholig Esgob FychanNewyddion Ysgol Gatholig Esgob FychanNewyddion Ysgol Gatholig Esgob Fychan

Everest Base Camp Everest Base Camp Everest Base Camp Everest Base Camp

During the Easter holidays a group of pupils and staff from Bishop Vaughan School and Morriston Comprehensive School successfully trekked to the Base Camp at Mount Everest. The group was made up of eight pupils from Bishop Vaughan and four from Morriston Comprehensive as well as staff from both schools. On arrival in the mountains the group were met by local Nepalese porters who very quickly became valuable members of the group. As well as the challenging trek to Base Camp the group raised money for a local orphanage in Kathmandu. The support from parents, family and friends of Bishop Vaughan School meant that the orphanage received essential everyday items which were gratefully received.

P a g e 2 B i s h o p V a u g h a n S c h o o l N e w s l e t t e r J u l y 2 0 1 0

SCHOOL TERM AND HOLIDAY DATES 2010 SCHOOL TERM AND HOLIDAY DATES 2010 SCHOOL TERM AND HOLIDAY DATES 2010 SCHOOL TERM AND HOLIDAY DATES 2010 ----2011201120112011

PLEASE NOTE: PLEASE NOTE: PLEASE NOTE: PLEASE NOTE: Whilst the school understands the difficulties with holidays, we would remind you that breaks should not be booked without the Head approving the time off first. Please write requesting permission to the Headteacher and not not not not Senior Tutor or Tutor. We would bring to your attention that School Inspectors have regularly pointed out that there is a clear link between absence and lack of academic progress!

Dates for your DiaryDates for your DiaryDates for your DiaryDates for your Diary INSET DAYSINSET DAYSINSET DAYSINSET DAYS Wednesday 1st September 2010Wednesday 1st September 2010Wednesday 1st September 2010Wednesday 1st September 2010 Thursday 21st October 2010Thursday 21st October 2010Thursday 21st October 2010Thursday 21st October 2010 Friday 22nd October 2010Friday 22nd October 2010Friday 22nd October 2010Friday 22nd October 2010 Friday 15th April 2011Friday 15th April 2011Friday 15th April 2011Friday 15th April 2011 Monday 27th June 2011Monday 27th June 2011Monday 27th June 2011Monday 27th June 2011 Last day of term Last day of term Last day of term Last day of term - The school closes on Wednesday 21st July at 3.25 pmThe school closes on Wednesday 21st July at 3.25 pmThe school closes on Wednesday 21st July at 3.25 pmThe school closes on Wednesday 21st July at 3.25 pm First day of the new term for years 7, 10 and 12 is Thursday 2nd September and all other years First day of the new term for years 7, 10 and 12 is Thursday 2nd September and all other years First day of the new term for years 7, 10 and 12 is Thursday 2nd September and all other years First day of the new term for years 7, 10 and 12 is Thursday 2nd September and all other years return on Friday 3rd September.return on Friday 3rd September.return on Friday 3rd September.return on Friday 3rd September. Year 6 Open Evening is being held on Thursday 14th October 7.00 Year 6 Open Evening is being held on Thursday 14th October 7.00 Year 6 Open Evening is being held on Thursday 14th October 7.00 Year 6 Open Evening is being held on Thursday 14th October 7.00 ---- 9.309.309.309.30

HALF TERM HOLIDAYSHALF TERM HOLIDAYSHALF TERM HOLIDAYSHALF TERM HOLIDAYS

Term Term begins Begins Ends Term ends

Autumn 2010 Wednesday 1st September

Monday 25

th October

Friday 29

th October

Friday 17

th December

Spring 2011 Tuesday 4th January

Monday 21st February

Friday 25

th February

Friday 15th April

Summer 2011 Tuesday 3rd May

Monday 30th May

Friday 3rd June

Thursday 21

st July


Returning Library Books

Dear Parent, A small but increasing number of pupils are making their way to and from school by bicycle. While the school supports this as a healthy and environmentally friendly form of travel there are some concerns in relation to health and safety. Having discussed these issues we would ask that: • All those riding to school should wear a helmet. • All those riding to school should wear some high visibility clothing. • Bikes should be checked regularly for roadworthiness, particularly the brakes. • In winter or when it is dark, bikes should be fitted with lights.

In addition pupils must remember that they are not to cycle on the school premises: In addition pupils must remember that they are not to cycle on the school premises: In addition pupils must remember that they are not to cycle on the school premises: In addition pupils must remember that they are not to cycle on the school premises: on reaching the school gates pupils must dismount and not ride again until they on reaching the school gates pupils must dismount and not ride again until they on reaching the school gates pupils must dismount and not ride again until they on reaching the school gates pupils must dismount and not ride again until they have left the premises at the end of the school day. This is in the interest of all who have left the premises at the end of the school day. This is in the interest of all who have left the premises at the end of the school day. This is in the interest of all who have left the premises at the end of the school day. This is in the interest of all who are travelling in and out of school.are travelling in and out of school.are travelling in and out of school.are travelling in and out of school. Pupils who are not able to co-operate in these matters run the risk of not being allowed to bring their bikes onto the school premises. Please also note that pupils bringing bicycles to school do so at their own risk. If you have any questions in relation to these matters or would like some advice, do please contact the school. Yours faithfully, Mr. J. Blackburn

Due to the present financial constraints, it has become even more important that pupils return their school library books. Popular books that are not returned can no longer automatically be re-ordered. Please help us with returning the books if you receive a letter related to this. Your help in this matter is very much appreciated. Mrs Hughes and Mrs Howard (Librarians)

Cycling to School


School UniformSchool UniformSchool UniformSchool Uniform

Years 7Years 7Years 7Years 7----11111111

PulloverPulloverPulloverPullover: burgundy, v-necked with official school logo

TieTieTieTie: years 7-11 official school tie in appropriate house colours. To be purchased from school at a cost of £7.00

SocksSocksSocksSocks: with trousers, dark-coloured or white

with skirts, standard grey or white

TightsTightsTightsTights: should be flesh-coloured or medium grey, plain and seamless

NB socks or tights MUSTMUSTMUSTMUST be worn

Blouse/ShirtBlouse/ShirtBlouse/ShirtBlouse/Shirt: plain light blue, standard school style. Not denim or fashion

NB During the summer term only light blue polo shirt with school logo, may be worn.

SkirtSkirtSkirtSkirt: mid-grey in material and standard design, standard knee length (knife or box pleat permitted)

Trousers:Trousers:Trousers:Trousers: dark grey or black and standard design NOTNOTNOTNOT fashion or jeans. No denim, leather, flares, corduroy etc

ShoesShoesShoesShoes: black, dark brown or dark grey with flat or low heels. Ankle boots may be worn in winter, provided they conform to the above regulations

Trainers are not permitted. Felt/fabric shoes in any colour are not Trainers are not permitted. Felt/fabric shoes in any colour are not Trainers are not permitted. Felt/fabric shoes in any colour are not Trainers are not permitted. Felt/fabric shoes in any colour are not permittedpermittedpermittedpermitted

OuterOuterOuterOuter GarmentsGarmentsGarmentsGarments: pupils may wear mackintoshes, coats, anoraks or cagoules. However, all outer garments, of whatever type, must be plain, dark and single coloured. Anoraks or cagoules must not be too long, too short, “bomber jackets” or denim type.

A luminous reflective strip is permitted and parents/ guardians are strongly advised to A luminous reflective strip is permitted and parents/ guardians are strongly advised to A luminous reflective strip is permitted and parents/ guardians are strongly advised to A luminous reflective strip is permitted and parents/ guardians are strongly advised to consider this.consider this.consider this.consider this.

No logos, writing, patterns of any description should be present.No logos, writing, patterns of any description should be present.No logos, writing, patterns of any description should be present.No logos, writing, patterns of any description should be present.

Denim is not allowed.Denim is not allowed.Denim is not allowed.Denim is not allowed.

Baseball caps are not permitted in any circumstances.Baseball caps are not permitted in any circumstances.Baseball caps are not permitted in any circumstances.Baseball caps are not permitted in any circumstances.

There is no necessity for anorak hoods to be worn at school.There is no necessity for anorak hoods to be worn at school.There is no necessity for anorak hoods to be worn at school.There is no necessity for anorak hoods to be worn at school.

JewelleryJewelleryJewelleryJewellery: A single sleeper or a single stud of minimum size in the lobe. No other piercings are permitted. A medallion or chain may be worn if discreet. It must be removed for PE/Games. All other jewellery is forbidden.

MakeMakeMakeMake----up/Hair Dye:up/Hair Dye:up/Hair Dye:up/Hair Dye: Make-up is forbidden as are visible tattoos and piercings of any kind. If hair dye/highlights are used they should be a natural colour with no extreme contrasts. No designs to be shaved in the hair. No ‘skinhead’ type haircuts.

All items of clothing should be clearly markedclearly markedclearly markedclearly marked with the pupil’s name.pupil’s name.pupil’s name.pupil’s name.


School UniformSchool UniformSchool UniformSchool Uniform

Sixth Form UniformSixth Form UniformSixth Form UniformSixth Form Uniform

PulloverPulloverPulloverPullover: navy, v-necked with official school logo

TieTieTieTie: sixth form official school tie

ShirtShirtShirtShirt/BlouseBlouseBlouseBlouse: plain white, standard school style (not fashion)

SkirtSkirtSkirtSkirt: navy blue, knee length

Trousers:Trousers:Trousers:Trousers: navy blue, standard design. No denim, leather, flares, corduroy etc.

SocksSocksSocksSocks: with trousers: dark coloured, or white with skirts: navy blue or white

TightsTightsTightsTights: plain, seamless, navy tights may be worn

ShoesShoesShoesShoes: dark coloured with flat or low heels. Ankle boots may be worn in

winter and sandals in the summer. Trainers are notnotnotnot permitted.

Topcoat: Topcoat: Topcoat: Topcoat: dark blue/black/grey – single coloured only

No logos, writing, patterns of any description should be present.No logos, writing, patterns of any description should be present.No logos, writing, patterns of any description should be present.No logos, writing, patterns of any description should be present.

Denim is not allowed.Denim is not allowed.Denim is not allowed.Denim is not allowed.

Baseball caps are not permitted in any circumstances.Baseball caps are not permitted in any circumstances.Baseball caps are not permitted in any circumstances.Baseball caps are not permitted in any circumstances.

There is no necessity for anorak hoods to be worn at school.There is no necessity for anorak hoods to be worn at school.There is no necessity for anorak hoods to be worn at school.There is no necessity for anorak hoods to be worn at school.

JewelleryJewelleryJewelleryJewellery: A single sleeper or a single stud of minimum size in the lobe. No other piercings are permitted. A medallion or chain may be worn if discreet.

It must be removed for PE/Games. All other jewellery is forbidden.

MakeMakeMakeMake----up/Hair Dye:up/Hair Dye:up/Hair Dye:up/Hair Dye: Make-up is forbidden as are visible tattoos and piercings of any kind.

If hair dye/highlights are used they should be a natural colour with no extreme contrasts. No designs to be shaved in the hair. No ‘skinhead’ type haircuts.

All items of clothing should be clearly markedclearly markedclearly markedclearly marked with the pupil’s name.pupil’s name.pupil’s name.pupil’s name.


Everest Base Camp and KathmanduEverest Base Camp and KathmanduEverest Base Camp and KathmanduEverest Base Camp and Kathmandu My Everest TripMy Everest TripMy Everest TripMy Everest Trip

The Everest trip wasn’t just an expedition to Base Camp; we also stayed in Kathmandu, and that was an experience in itself. Let us start with the Expedition. I think this picture says it all.

This picture was taken at Everest Base Camp, at approximately 5360 metres above sea level. Shall we equate that to local geography? That is nearly 5 times higher than Snowdon. Not only that, we spent 13 days above 3000 metres. Of course, the trip is highly physical. Carry-ing a full pack for 10 days (we didn’t walk every day, our kind leader Gary let us have some rest days) is very demanding. Sometimes morale was high, other times, certain individuals in the group didn’t get along. We soon bonded, after liter-ally living, eating and sleeping as a group. Whenever someone was carrying an injury or an illness, their bag was taken off them and given to one of our three porters. As a result of our sensible pace and awareness to altitude sickness every member of our group made it to Base Camp. It was a fantastic experience, the mountains there are incredible. Before we left Swansea, we advertised for any spare clothes, in total we collected 12 suitcases full of clothes. We flew them to Kathmandu; this is where we delivered the suit-cases to an orphanage. This is part of the reason for running the trip. The orphanage was an old estate for the Royal Family of Nepal. It looked roughly like the White House. We were then given a tour of the orphanage. Here is a photo of Sam with four orphaned Nepalese babies. There were over 100 chil-dren in the orphanage. The tour fin-ished, we thanked the staff there, and left, thinking of the children. On our re-turn from the mountain we visited the orphanage again, this time the whole group came. The males of the group, as competitive as we were, we challenged some of the orphans for a game of foot-ball... We lost, 2 – 1. Another very exciting thing happened, whilst we were out there, the volcano in Iceland erupted. We were treated to an extra six days in Kathmandu courtesy of our travel insurance. Result!


The Lord Mayor’s Inauguration ServiceThe Lord Mayor’s Inauguration ServiceThe Lord Mayor’s Inauguration ServiceThe Lord Mayor’s Inauguration Service

A group of twenty students from Bishop Vaughan attended the Lord Mayor’s Inauguration service on Sunday 29th June at St Joseph’s Cathedral. Pupils read a number of pieces based on the theme of service, including Rudyard Kipling’s ‘If’ as well as singing Something Inside So Strong. The presentation was extremely well received and the students were highly complimented on their achievement.

Y

The school was privileged to be asked to make a presentation at the Lord Mayor’s Inauguration service. We worked hard to rehearse in the weeks before the event in order to make sure we were ready. When the day arrived we were all nervous, especially when we saw all of the digni-taries arriving. It was a beautiful service and we were all really pleased that the reading and singing went very well. We received the only round of applause in the entire service, which was started by the Lord Mayor himself! It was an enjoyable afternoon and we were all grateful to Miss Smith and Miss Foulkes for helping us to prepare for this special celebration. Emily Davis 7.6


Year 13 BallYear 13 BallYear 13 BallYear 13 Ball The night of the Year 13 ball: a teachers’ potential night-mare...will they behave or will it descend into chaos. At the end of the evening the teachers and headmaster were beam-ing with pride so I guess we behaved ourselves. Three hours earlier the evening air was buzzing with the sound of cameras snapping, heels clicking and drinks clinking; it was the last time the whole year group would be together. We all gathered in the entrance to the Dragon Hotel, excited about what the night was to bring. Dr. Poole and Mrs Pole were there to greet us, teachers we now felt very much attached to even in the relatively short time we had known them. We caught glimpses of the beautifully decorated tables (complete with bottles of wine) and the sophisticated bar, which we were sure to become regulars at as the night wore on. After much taking of photographs and exchanging of compli-ments, we sat down to eat our delicious meal. Mr Blackburn then gave an inspiring speech and dealt brilliantly with the occasional heckler. Mrs Pole thanked us all for being such a fantastic group and we all drank to that. Ben Sharif (Head Boy) excelled with a short speech expressing our thanks to the teachers. The night flew by with antics such as Mr Walker being asked for proof of age at the bar and Mrs Hansen showing us some dance moves we had never seen before! We were too soon back at the entrance of the Dragon, saying goodbye to the teachers with hugs and tears. We promised them we would be having an early night and maybe even get down to a little revision. Those lucky enough to be 18 made their way to Oceana to dance the night away….. With thanks to Lloyd Lewis for organising such a wonderful night. By Bethan Stubbs


Swansea’s Inaugural 5x60 Swansea’s Inaugural 5x60 Swansea’s Inaugural 5x60 Swansea’s Inaugural 5x60 ConferenceConferenceConferenceConference

Friday 12th March 2010Friday 12th March 2010Friday 12th March 2010Friday 12th March 2010 Brangwyn Hall, SwanseaBrangwyn Hall, SwanseaBrangwyn Hall, SwanseaBrangwyn Hall, Swansea

On Friday 12th March 2010, five students following the 5x60 Programme enjoyed taking part in this whole day conference. The 5x60 Scheme the Sports Council for Wales initiative which aims to encourage and develop greater participation in sport and physical activity amongst young peo-ple aged between 11 and 16 years. This was a fantastic celebration reflecting on the successes so far and to plan for the future. All pupils invited worked hard on three workshops. Young AmbassadorYoung AmbassadorYoung AmbassadorYoung Ambassador An introduction to this National Scheme of how young people can get involved in promoting the key principles which were born out of the Olympics and Paralympic Games. ‘Singapore Promise’ 5x60 in the Community5x60 in the Community5x60 in the Community5x60 in the Community From sports clubs, to youth clubs and community groups, 5x 60 has developed a broad range of exciting community based activities for the young people of Swan-sea. The work the 5x60 youngsters contributed to will help shape this provision for the future. 5x60 and Transition5x60 and Transition5x60 and Transition5x60 and Transition ‘Transition’ needs to ensure there is a strong link between primary and secondary schools. Through the partnership between 5x60 and its equivalent “Dragon Sport”, delegates were able to contribute to the development of transition opportunities.

We all met the Lord Mayor. Miriam Luke - Bronze, Silver & Gold World Champion - Rowing Silver Medallist—Sydney 2000 Steve Tandy - Ospreys and Tony Pennock - Swans I thoroughly enjoyed all of it and it was truly inspirational. Most importantly for the exemplary conduct and contribution of the pupils participating. They really were Ambassadors and we are very proud of them all. Sandra James, Assistant Headteacher

OLYMPIC VALUESOLYMPIC VALUESOLYMPIC VALUESOLYMPIC VALUES • RespectRespectRespectRespect • ExcellenceExcellenceExcellenceExcellence • FriendshipFriendshipFriendshipFriendship

PARALYMPIC VALUESPARALYMPIC VALUESPARALYMPIC VALUESPARALYMPIC VALUES • DeterminationDeterminationDeterminationDetermination • CourageCourageCourageCourage • InspirationInspirationInspirationInspiration • EqualityEqualityEqualityEquality

B i s h o p V a u g h a n S c h o o l N e w s l e t t e r J u l y 2 0 1 0

ICT and ComputingICT and ComputingICT and ComputingICT and Computing

Using the Internet and Social Networking Software SafelyUsing the Internet and Social Networking Software SafelyUsing the Internet and Social Networking Software SafelyUsing the Internet and Social Networking Software Safely

A great deal of publicity has surrounded the inappropriate use of both the Internet and So-

cial Networking sites. As parents, all of us worry about how we can keep our own children

safe, but where can we find information of help?

The school has links to a number of websites and articles that can be read to give extra in-

formation if you are uncertain about correct usage, load the web page:

http://moodle.bishopvaughan.swansea.sch.uk/

You will find relevant information in the top right hand box (‘Think U Know’ and ‘CEOP’). I

have also created a parent course (XX Parent Documentation) that can be accessed by

scrolling to the bottom of the Course Categories.

Click on: XX parent Documentation

Click on: Be Safe On-Line

This should be freely accessible by all parents without ‘logging in’ to the website. There are

a number of articles there relating to all aspects of Health and Safety on-line. If you have

problems accessing the site ask your children. They can log-in if necessary and show you

how to navigate through the courses.

FreewareFreewareFreewareFreeware

All parents realise that ICT is important for their children but buying suitable software can be

very expensive. There are however a number of packages available that are ‘Freeware’ and

can be used as alternatives to the more commonly used/installed packages.

These packages can be downloaded, installed and used without fear of infringing copyright

and without having to pay out large sums of money. There are a number of packages that

parents might find useful both for themselves and for their children for both home and

school work. Your children may well be using some of these packages in school already.

Office Suites: OpenOffice (http://download.openoffice.org/)

Graphics: Paint.net (http://www.getpaint.net/), Gimp (http://www.gimp.org/)

Planning: FreeMind (http://freemind.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Download)

Basic Web Design: http://net2.com/nvu/

Please remember that you should always have virus and malware protection software running when

using/downloading anything via the internet.

These sites were safe to use when links given but always check. Dr D Sharp Director of e-Learning

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B i s h o p V a u g h a n S c h o o l N e w s l e t t e r J u l y 2 0 1 0 P a g e 1 1

Science NewsScience NewsScience NewsScience News

British Biology Olympiad Competition 2010British Biology Olympiad Competition 2010British Biology Olympiad Competition 2010British Biology Olympiad Competition 2010

Several year 10 Biology pupils took part in a National Biology Challenge competition in March. They had to complete two very demanding on-line exam papers, each 30 minutes long, covering a wide range of biological topics. The Biology Department would like to congratulate all the pupils who took part, in particular the following pupils for their effort and achievement. Bronze Award - Ananya George, Erfan Mesbah, Sam Pritchard Gold Award - Matthew Lee, Hannah Madgwick, Daniel Minister, Caitlin Ractliffe-Griffin Year 7 Ecology Field Study DayYear 7 Ecology Field Study DayYear 7 Ecology Field Study DayYear 7 Ecology Field Study Day All the year 7 Science classes visited the National Botanic Garden of Wales this term as part of their Science curriculum. They took part in two main activities: Study of the Pond Ecosystem and a problem solving exercise called The Grape Escape, to test their practical skills. The pupils really learnt a lot and enjoyed their day. Here are some accounts of the day from the pupils. When we arrived at the National Botanic Garden of Wales, we were met by a very friendly guide called John. He took us to the Aqua lab where we learnt about pond animals. After that we went pond dipping. We went back to the lab to identify insects and crustaceans using a key and the lab equipment. John then led us up to the amazing 3D cinema where we watched a short film about planet Earth. After lunch we were able to explore the giant glass dome and the Japanese gardens where there were amazing golden Koi fish. By Emily Elias and Courtney Lynn 7.4 We went to the lab and John talked for a bit. It was interesting and disgusting, what insects do! We grabbed our equipment and started pond dipping. We caught loads of newts. Next we went to the cinema. The walls closed in around us and it was in complete darkness. We had a presentation about life on Earth. After lunch we did my favourite event, the Grape Escape. We had to build a raft out of natural materials able to carry a grape down a stream. Mine was called ‘Bill II’. It came last! We had a Botanic day! By Nathan Corbett and Samar Shaikh

B i s h o p V a u g h a n S c h o o l N e w s l e t t e r J u l y 2 0 1 0 P a g e 1 2

Keep SafeKeep SafeKeep SafeKeep Safe (Bishop Vaughan’s Young Enterprise Company) won the monetary award for the “Best Company Stall”, at the Annual Awards Ceremony, in April. (Pictured below) Two of their directors, passed the UK Young Enterprise ExaminationUK Young Enterprise ExaminationUK Young Enterprise ExaminationUK Young Enterprise Examination, in March. Well done to Matthew Hayward (Yr 13) and Matthew Lee (Yr 10). This qualification is worth approximately 20 UCAS points. This is the third consecutive year that Bishop Vaughan has been successfully run-ning this scheme. This business scheme is open to the sixth form and GCSE Busi-ness students, in years 10 and 11, and commences again, in September. Thank-you Mrs Catherine Wynne

Young Enterprise 2009/10Young Enterprise 2009/10Young Enterprise 2009/10Young Enterprise 2009/10

At the first ever World Worm-Charming Championship, held at Wollaston, Cheshire in July 1980, Tom Shufflebottom charmed a record 510 worms out of his 3m x 3m patch of ground in 30 minutes. If the worms, of average length 20cm, stopped wrig-gling and were laid out end to end round the edge of his patch, approximately how many times round would they stretch? A 8½ B 9 C 20 D 30 E510 The solution can be found on page 19

UK Junior Mathematical Challenge UK Junior Mathematical Challenge UK Junior Mathematical Challenge UK Junior Mathematical Challenge

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International School Award (ESDGC)International School Award (ESDGC)International School Award (ESDGC)International School Award (ESDGC)

We are proud to announce that in March this year we achieved the Intermediate Level of the International School Award. Many departments in school carry out regular international work as part of the pupils’ curricular activities and Global Citi-zenship, and following our application to the British Council we not only achieved the award, but were recommended to apply for the Full International School Award in July. If successful, we will gain national recognition as an ambassador for international work, and will be presented with an official ISA certificate and a trophy of achieve-ment in a national ISA ceremony.

International LinksInternational LinksInternational LinksInternational Links

Forming and maintaining links with schools in other parts of the world can provide opportunities to enhance all curriculum areas. Pupils take responsibility for their own learning, heighten their awareness of global issues and become better informed members of the global community. Both staff and pupils alike develop their skills in communication and enquiry. The context is set for pupils to reflect on their attitudes and challenge stereotypical views. At Bishop Vaughan the International Links Group has identified several opportuni-ties to develop links with schools in other countries. One of the most exciting is our current involvement in a British Council Project which links 12 Swansea schools with schools in Mombasa, Kenya. We were very privileged to be able to invite 3 staff from Mombasa to visit our school on Tuesday 27

th April. Arrangements were threatened by airport closures due to vol-

canic ash clouds but our visitors arrived safely and on schedule, greeted by a team of senior prefects.

ESDGCESDGCESDGCESDGC


Eco Club NewsEco Club NewsEco Club NewsEco Club News

The work of the Eco Club has been focused on the grounds this term, with great progress being made on the Eco Garden. Newly planted trees have taken well and will soon provide a natural screen along the school boundary.

Daniel, Sam and Bethan prepare to plant. (left). Careful monitoring is part and parcel of Eco work, in order to measure the impact our changes have made to the environment. (right). The aim is to increase biodiversity (the range of different species) in the school grounds. Year 7 pupils care-fully capture, identify, record and re-lease invertebrates in the Garden.

This is what they found …….This is what they found …….This is what they found …….This is what they found …….

Future Plans.Future Plans.Future Plans.Future Plans. Pupils in the Eco Club plan to continue planting and monitoring. Our next project is a litter pick followed by the construction of wildlife areas such as log piles, bird houses and carefully selected planting to encourage butterflies etc.

We need your help!We need your help!We need your help!We need your help! We have plenty of willing workers but we are short of tools and plants. If anyone has old unwanted tools, eg. shovels, garden forks, trowels and so forth, we would be glad to take them off your hands. If anyone is thinning out shrubs, we would welcome all donations. Thank you for your support.

ESDGCESDGCESDGCESDGC

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Survey of Invertebrates Found in the Eco Garden in April 2010 by 7.4 and 7.5

Millipede/centipede

woodlice

ant

worm

spider

slug

beetle

weavil


On Thursday 24

th June, 2010, Bishop Vaughan’s Year 12 Public service class,

organised a Year 7 Football tournament. 140 boys and girls took part, representing 24 countries, and competed for the yearly cup. Over £200 was raised, which will go to the RNLI, to recognise the invaluable service, that this charity, voluntarily, offers the community. A huge thank you to all Year 7 footballers and spectators, who were so enthusiastic, and made the event such a success. A big thank you, should also go to the many year 12/13 volunteer referees and linesmen, who gave up so much of their valuable time, to take part in this event. Congratulations to the following teams who were crowned the winners of the event. USAUSAUSAUSA Non House, 7.6 (GIRLS) Holly Scannell Elie Beaumont-Wood Emily Davis Kristy Smith Kelsey Jones GERMANYGERMANYGERMANYGERMANY Teilo House, 7.8 (BOYS) Elliot Hopkins Tommy Jones Joseph Bamford Nathan Butler Corey Griffiths These students will receive their medals in the next few weeks.

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Year 7 “World Cup” Football TournamentYear 7 “World Cup” Football TournamentYear 7 “World Cup” Football TournamentYear 7 “World Cup” Football Tournament


We are proud to announce the arrival of our very first Bishop Vaughan book which includes fantastic work from across the year groups. A huge thank you to everyone who con-tributed in the creation of such a diverse collection of writing, with special gratitude to Mr Thomas for his wonderful art work on the cover!

All orders have now been taken and it won’t be long before the books are hot off the press. A copy of the book will be available in the library for everyone to see. Well done. GCSE GCSE GCSE GCSE Well done to Year 10 Accelerated Learners who prepared so diligently for their GCSE Literature exam. There is a new and exciting specification for GCSE which will start in September with the new Yr 10 groups. It gives pupils an opportunity to study a variety of texts and develop a broader understanding of the intricacies of the English language. More information can be found on: http://www.wjec.co.uk/

From September all Key Stage 3 Homework Tasks will be available via moodle on our school website. This will ensure that all pupils are fully aware of what their homework requirements are,

even if they miss a lesson! Further details and information will be provided in September.

BAY BOOK AWARD Two pupils in 7.8 have been working extremely hard during this Half Term to read the four books short listed for this year’s Bay Book Award. Emily Curtis and Tyler Griffiths have given up a lot of their time to read: • Fever Crumb by Philip Reeve • Hate that Cat by Sharon Creech • Missing Believed Crazy by Terence Blacker • Underneath by Kathi Appelt The Award Ceremony is not being held until July 6

th. The girls have thoroughly

enjoyed reading the books and believe that it will be a race to the finish between ‘Missing Believed Crazy’ and ‘Fever Crumb.’

ENGLISH NEWSENGLISH NEWSENGLISH NEWSENGLISH NEWS

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The Times Spelling Bee The Times Spelling Bee The Times Spelling Bee The Times Spelling Bee Congratulations to our fantastic spellers here in Bishop Vaughan; Emily 7.6, Joshua 7.2, Alfie 7.5 and Angelo 7.5, for winning their heat in Newport and going on to gain third place in the National Semi-Finals! Remember that you can always brush up on your spelling skills in a really fun way on: www.timesspellingbee.co.uk

The Times Spelling Bee Competition by Emily in 7.6The Times Spelling Bee Competition by Emily in 7.6The Times Spelling Bee Competition by Emily in 7.6The Times Spelling Bee Competition by Emily in 7.6 On the 21

st April 2010, Josh, Alfie, Angelo and I were lucky enough to go to

the Spelling Bee Heats in Newport. We had been practising a lot beforehand, and couldn’t wait to compete against other schools. When we arrived we were

the first school there, so we practised and had our lunch until the other schools began to arrive, and everyone was called into the cinemas. Once in there, the Spell Master explained to us the rules, and told us about how 1000 schools across Britain had entered. The first round was the Knockout Challenge, which Alfie, Josh and I spelled in. It was scary because there was a spotlight on you, and if you spelt one wrong you were out. We did well, coming second after the first round. In the break, while eating popcorn and drinking water, we decided that the difficulty of the words we were going to choose would be medium, and that Alfie would swap with Angelo. Once back in the cinema, we waited patiently until it was our turn to spell. All the schools before us were really good, and so when we stood up for our go we were determined to do as well as they did. The Quick fire round was a lot easier than the Knockout Challenge, and we spelt a lot of words correctly. The hardest part was waiting for the results. We were really nervous, and couldn’t wait to see what position we had come. To our surprise, we found that we had 44 points, giving us a two point win. We were really pleased, especially when we remembered we’d be coming back in a month for the Semi Finals! The Semi Finals were in Bristol. We were one of the first schools to come, and so we were allowed to play in the park for 20 minutes before the Spelling Bee started. It was a massive park, and we had a great time. When it was time for the Spelling Bee to begin, we made our way to the cinema and sat patiently while the Spell Master explained the rules. In the Knockout Round we did well, being one of the last schools left standing. Like the Heats, we decided that Alfie would swap with Angelo, and medium words. We answered more correct questions than the Heats, and we were one of the highest scoring schools. We predicted that we’d come 5

th,

however much to our surprise, when the scores came up, we found we were 3rd. Even though

we didn’t win, we were really happy. The Heats and Semi Finals were a brilliant experience and we’d like to say thank you to Ms Servini for helping us to practice and for organising our school to be in the Spelling Bee.

ENGLISH COMPETITIONSENGLISH COMPETITIONSENGLISH COMPETITIONSENGLISH COMPETITIONS

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B i s h o p V a u g h a n S c h o o l N e w s l e t t e r M a r c h 2 0 1 0

Could both parents and pupils be aware that the children should carry their bus pass with them at all times. Pupils

could be asked at any time whilst travelling on a school bus, to produce their bus pass as evidence that they are allocated a seat. If pupils have misplaced their bus pass please contact the school office who will organise a replacement. Also pupils are not allowed to travel on any other bus other than the one that is printed on their bus pass. On several occasions lately pupils have tried to travel on different buses, e.g. to go over to a friend’s place after school. This is not allowed and the drivers have the right to refuse entry to pupils who are not allocated to their bus. It is parents’ responsibility to collect their children and take them to alternative venues after school.

Bus PassesBus PassesBus PassesBus Passes

Parking Outside Bishop Vaughan

A letter has been received from the School Community Police Officer asking us to pass on the concerns of local residents in relation to parking and vehicles causing obstructions outside the school from 3 o’clock every afternoon. Police Officers will be patrolling regularly outside the school to take positive action regarding any vehicles which are parked in contravention of road traffic legislation.

Mobile Telephones If pupils have mobile phones they should note that they are notnotnotnot to be switched on or in use inside the school. This includes the build-ings, playground and playing field areas, before, during and after the school day. Mobile phones are to be kept out of sight, either on the person or in the school bag. The school can take no responsibility for any loss or theft of mobile phones. Parents and guardians are asked notnotnotnot to contact their children by phone or text during the school day. If an emergency message needs to be conveyed the school office will take the call and pass the message on. Similarly if a pupil needs to make an emergency call home he or she just needs to approach the office. Failure to comply with these rules will result in the phone being confiscated and kept in the school office for collection by a responsible adult. Any pupil using a mobile phone to record sound or video in school faces the likelihood of exclusion.

P a g e 1 8

Please can all parents and guardians be aware that the school cannot supervise Please can all parents and guardians be aware that the school cannot supervise Please can all parents and guardians be aware that the school cannot supervise Please can all parents and guardians be aware that the school cannot supervise pupils arriving before 8.40 am.pupils arriving before 8.40 am.pupils arriving before 8.40 am.pupils arriving before 8.40 am.


Pupil InformationPupil InformationPupil InformationPupil Information If any details have changed, please write or email into the school office so that our records may be updated. This includes any change to address, contact telephone numbers (especially mobile telephone and emergency contacts), place of work, doctor, or any

new medical conditions which we should be aware of. Could you please pass onto the school any relevant email address that Could you please pass onto the school any relevant email address that Could you please pass onto the school any relevant email address that Could you please pass onto the school any relevant email address that we could use to contact you.we could use to contact you.we could use to contact you.we could use to contact you.

School WebsiteSchool WebsiteSchool WebsiteSchool Website The school website has been redesigned and has a new address:

www.bishopvaughan.swansea.sch.uk

Lost PropertyLost PropertyLost PropertyLost Property

We still have a number of items in lost property - which is now located in the main office. None of the articles are labelled and cannot, therefore, be returned to

their owner. If your child has lost any item, please tell them to come and check with Miss Evans in the main office. After a period of time items not claimed will be given to a charity shop as there is no room to store them. Lost property is available for checking at break and lunch-time.

PLEASE LABEL ALL ITEMS OF SCHOOL UNIFORM SO THAT THEY CAN BE PLEASE LABEL ALL ITEMS OF SCHOOL UNIFORM SO THAT THEY CAN BE PLEASE LABEL ALL ITEMS OF SCHOOL UNIFORM SO THAT THEY CAN BE PLEASE LABEL ALL ITEMS OF SCHOOL UNIFORM SO THAT THEY CAN BE

EASILY RETURNED IF HANDED IN TO LOST PROPERTY.EASILY RETURNED IF HANDED IN TO LOST PROPERTY.EASILY RETURNED IF HANDED IN TO LOST PROPERTY.EASILY RETURNED IF HANDED IN TO LOST PROPERTY.

PLEASE NOTE!PLEASE NOTE!PLEASE NOTE!PLEASE NOTE!

Paying for tripsPaying for tripsPaying for tripsPaying for trips Remember, if your child is paying for a school trip, the House is open

from 8.30am until registration and at morning break and lunch times. All cheques All cheques All cheques All cheques should be made payable to Bishop Vaughan Catholic School and the pupil’s name, should be made payable to Bishop Vaughan Catholic School and the pupil’s name, should be made payable to Bishop Vaughan Catholic School and the pupil’s name, should be made payable to Bishop Vaughan Catholic School and the pupil’s name, tutorial and trip should be clearly written on the reverse. tutorial and trip should be clearly written on the reverse. tutorial and trip should be clearly written on the reverse. tutorial and trip should be clearly written on the reverse. Thank you.

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Maths Challenge solutionMaths Challenge solutionMaths Challenge solutionMaths Challenge solution The perimeter is 12m or 1200 cm. The total length of the worms would be about 510 x 20 cm = 10200 cm. So the nearest estimate is 8½ times round.

P a g e 2 0 B i s h o p V a u g h a n S c h o o l N e w s l e t t e r J u l y 2 0 1 0

Bishop Vaughan Catholic SchoolBishop Vaughan Catholic SchoolBishop Vaughan Catholic SchoolBishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd RoadMynydd Garnllwyd RoadMynydd Garnllwyd RoadMynydd Garnllwyd Road Morriston, SwanseaMorriston, SwanseaMorriston, SwanseaMorriston, Swansea

SA6 7QGSA6 7QGSA6 7QGSA6 7QG Phone: 01792 772006Phone: 01792 772006Phone: 01792 772006Phone: 01792 772006 Fax: 01792 790565Fax: 01792 790565Fax: 01792 790565Fax: 01792 790565

EEEE----mail: bishop.vaughan.school@swanseamail: bishop.vaughan.school@swanseamail: bishop.vaughan.school@swanseamail: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea----edunet.gov.ukedunet.gov.ukedunet.gov.ukedunet.gov.uk

www.bishopvaughan.swansea.sch.ukwww.bishopvaughan.swansea.sch.ukwww.bishopvaughan.swansea.sch.ukwww.bishopvaughan.swansea.sch.uk

A number of under 13 and under 15 pupils represented the school in the County Athletics Championships. We had some individual successes as well as the under 15 boys team coming 3rd and the under 15 girls team came second overall. The girls team now go forward to represent Afan Nedd Tawe in the Welsh Championships which takes place in Brecon on the 7th July. The following pupils had individual successes - 1st place in the following events:- Under 13 CompetitionUnder 13 CompetitionUnder 13 CompetitionUnder 13 Competition Under 15 Competition Under 15 Competition Under 15 Competition Under 15 Competition Under 15 Girl Relay TeamUnder 15 Girl Relay TeamUnder 15 Girl Relay TeamUnder 15 Girl Relay Team Connor Troy - 200m Paaliba Abugre - 100m Nia Palla Jack Beynon - discus Cory Richards - 400m Katherine Morris Nia Palla - 100m & long jump Jessica Thompson Naomi Jones Congratulations to you all.

SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTSSPORTING ACHIEVEMENTSSPORTING ACHIEVEMENTSSPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS

Richard Marotta, 8.7 climbs for Dynamic Rock in Clydach and has recently competed in three finals and was successful in getting into the Welsh Team. Richard then competed in the British Finals along with 36 other top climbers in his age group. Richard came fourth and has now been asked to compete on 24th July in Edinburgh to gain a place in the British team.

We wish him every success.

Documents

July Newsletter 2010