Regents Review Autumn 2023

REGENTS PARK COMMUNITY COLLEGE NEWSLETTER

AUTUMN 2023

World Champion Dancer

Duke of Edinburgh

Theatre for Life

Careers Fair

Page 11

Page 23

Page 7

Page 14

The Regents Review Autumn 2023

WELCOME

Headteacher’s Welcome

Being Headteacher of such a vibrant and busy school means that no one day is ever the same and when my own children ask me how my day has been, my reflection includes so much that some days they are fearful of asking. As we enter the end of term, it seems to be even more busy than normal and that seems almost impossible to believe. By breaktime, I have been to a celebration assembly to witness our subject awards, our attendance awards and our zero heroes in Year 11 being recognised. I have been to a range of lessons to talk to students about their learning, I have said good morning to hundreds of children, I have received Christmas cards from students and staff and I have had the winner of the guinea pig competition come to collect their prize. Our Regents Park Christmas edition highlights that it is not just me that experiences so many wonderful opportunities with staff around the school working tirelessly to capture the imagination of our community. You will see the many different projects that we run: the trips, the competitions, the learning and many examples of the creative work that our students have produced. This term we have also been represented outside in the wider community. During the big interview, many of our visitors took the time to share how impressive our students had been and felt very positive that they could employ many of them in the future. The This Girls Can group attended a meeting at Solent University to explain the importance of student leadership to a group of Headteachers and local authority managers - they were just amazing. We have also been represented at Saints, The School of Tomorrow project, Duke of Edinburgh visits and many sporting events

to name a few and the feedback is always the same - we have amazing students. Working in a school is an ever-evolving community with over one thousand members, it is wonderful to celebrate achievements and support each other. This term we are celebrating Mrs Selfe as she moves on after years at the school to a promotion in another school in Southampton, she has been a key part of our community, offering creative opportunities within her classroom and outside when she has always gone above and beyond. I know that you will join me in wishing her the very best for her future, as she begins this new journey. We have also seen some changes in our pastoral team with Mrs Board (Year 11), Mr McIntyre (Year 9) and Miss Harrison (Year 7) all taking over interim Head of Year posts for the spring term. In order to support their important work, please ensure you keep your contact details up to date and contact the form tutors as the first point of contact. As we finish the term, many of you will notice that our brand new roof has almost been completed and we are extremely excited to unveil it ready for the start of January 2024. Thank you to the Local Authority for investing in the future of the school. Finally, I would like to thank you all for your unwavering support and I wish you all a restful festive holiday and I look forward to another wonderful year in 2024.

Mrs S Barnes Headteacher

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

Calling all ex students! We would love to hear from our ex students to see what you have all been up to! Please contact us if you would like to be part of our growing alumni community at info@ regentspark.southampton.sch.uk

Armistice Day On the eleventh hour of Friday 10th November, staff and students observed a two minute silence. Mr Barron played ‘The Last Post’ to mark the occasion.

SIMS Parent App Sims Parent App enables you to access real time information. • Achievement points

• Behaviour points • Student timetable • Attendance • Calendar

• Update student data information • School reports (when available)

If you wish to register for SIMS Parent App, please contact us via telephone or email.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

Year 7

friendships made, new passions found and new connections built, as they have made their way through the autumn term and it has been a pleasure to watch them grow. It has been really lovely to walk around school and see Year 7 so engaged in their learning and I am excited to see what the spring term brings for them. I just wanted to say a massive thank you to all who have

supported Year 7 this term and a massive congratulations to the students themselves for an excellent start! A big shout out to Miss Gilbert-Twigg’s tutor group for having a steady lead all term in our tutor achievement points competition – let’s see if they hold it next year!

What a start to the year! I have only recently taken on the role of Head of Year 7, but I could not be prouder of how our new Year 7s have handled themselves in their first term at Regents Park. I have heard so many wonderful stories from students about how much they are enjoying their learning, many in subjects they have not had the opportunity to study in primary, which has been wonderful. There have been new

Wishing you all a happy and peaceful Christmas break.

Miss Harrison Head of Year 7

Year 8

Another term down on our journey here at Regents Park. Year 8 are doing fantastically well with students working hard in lessons and being rewarded with lots of achievement points. We have a grand total of 17589 achievements points, that is 99 points on average per student! Keep working hard Year 8. As you can see from the table, Mr Branford’s tutor group are ahead of the rest. Our overall attendance is 90.92% with two tutor groups tied in first place, well done to KGR and PWE! I am very excited about further celebrating the achievements of Year 8 students and want to take this opportunity to thank you all at home for your support. I wish you a fantastic break and look forward to seeing the students in the new year refreshed and ready to go in 2024. A big shout out to the following for being in the top of our conduct league:

KGR MBR NKH PWE

2261 3409 2219 2003

90

131

88 83

Czarina

165 165 157 151 180 165 163 153 168 153 152 163 157 168 181

Dwen Freya

George Hastiin

Holly

Isa

Jireh

Junior Keven Kirah

Roksana

Tilly

Toshko

Tutor group

Total

Average per student

Zuzia

BBR

2831 1739 3073

113

Mrs Mouland Head of Year 8

JFI

71

KBL

118

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS Year 9 What a fantastic welcome the students of Year 9 have given me and it is with great sadness that I am leaving them in another’s safe hands for their journey through Regents Park. Many students are recognising the importance of their lessons this year, as they prepare themselves for starting GCSE courses next year. The student council have made some helpful suggestions, which will benefit the whole school. Several students have been busy preparing displays to help us learn more about festivals

celebrated by different cultures, including: Christmas, Eid al-Adha, and Hannukah. Our top students this term for conduct points are:

Wishing all students and their families a happy and healthy holiday and handing over the reins to Mr McIntyre. Mrs Scott I am really looking forward to taking over our wonderful Year 9 students from January and building on what has already been established this year. I also want to take this opportunity to wish all of our students and their families a happy holiday. Mr McIntyre Head of Year 9

Ellen Ianis

TMA JWA TMA TMA TMA TMA TMA BMO

Magdalena

Cliff Eliza

Zaine

Kinti Mya

Year 10

Well done to the following students: Abi Jackson

Year 10 students arrived back after the summer holidays really maturely with a clear purpose to focus on their academic studies. The difference six weeks made has been amazing. I often feel Cohort 2020 - or me may be cursed with all the challenges this year group has had to face, lockdown in Year 6 and Year 7, as well as the affected parents evenings. I am glad we managed to have a parents’ evening of sorts either online or by telephone. I guess one of the benefits of the lockdowns has been the ability to work remotely and to be able to adapt to circumstances thrown at us. I am pleased to continue my tradition by rewarding students attending school on their birthdays. I guess going to school on your birthday can be a challenge for some and I hope by rewarding those that do, with a bit of fuss and cake, helps. Congratulations to those students who celebrated their birthday in school on assembly day: Julia, Lewis & Riley In the tradition of rewards, I am proud to highlight the following students who have been rewarded publicly in assembly for their efforts in school on a weekly basis. There are over 50 different students some of whom have been rewarded multiple times.

Olivia Omar Orin Priya Ravi

Aiden Alana Alana

Jassi

Jasveer Jaward Jayden Jessica Joseph

Ava

Bryony

Rayyan Rebeka

Daisy

Devatharsan

Julija Kiera

Saahil

Eleanor

Savannah

Emma

Kingsley

Sienna Simran Sophie Sophie

Fin

Kyle

George Hikmet

Laura Lewis

Hollie

Luca Mae Max

Umar

Izzy Jack

Wiktor

Yasin

I hope all the students and families have a lovely two week Christmas holiday. I really look forward to continuing to support Year 10 into 2024. Mr Sinclair Head of Year 10

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

Year 11 What a term! While Mrs Bishop isn’t at school at the minute, I am looking after the year group for the time being and I must say: I’m very impressed! I’ve had nothing but support from our wonderful year group and I’ve been constantly inundated with questions about prom, exams, revision, college, university, applying for jobs and apprenticeships too! This clearly shows how engaged and passionate Year 11 are. We started off the year with a Thorpe Park trip, just for Year 11. All of the students (and staff!) said it was a great way to start the year and catch up after the summer break. We’ve had a PSHE day covering mature and career planning topics, and have celebrated our successes in the Hot 50 in true Year 11 style. We’ve also just had our first set of mock exams and I must pass on congratulations from staff members who have commented on students’ calm and confident approach to these. Bravo! With students receiving their mock results on the 15th December,

100% Attendance Hanna

Erin

Lola

Adarsh

Ernest Ethan

Nengi Oscar Oskar Owen Ruby

Alan

Amelia

Faith

Belle

Georgia

Ben

Haydn

Daniel Daniel Dylan

Jack Josh Julia Lilla Reg HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR

Tyler

William Willow

Eren

Zahira

Top Achievers Name

Points

Stanley

181 162 149 141 138

Lilly

Haydn Sophia Grace

there will be a lot of emotions in the air. Some elation… some disappointment… some relief. The most important aspect to consider and take forward is not the grades you got now – but the steps you now need to take to ensure you get what you want in August. Ask yourselves: “what now?” Our wonderful staff have put in place lots of resources for Year 11. Please see below the timetable for revision sessions to the right. It’s important to rest up over the break; look after yourselves and spend some time with friends and family. When we return, it’s all go again! Mrs Board Head of Year 11

Day

Subject

Time

Monday

English Chemistry

2:40pm - 3:40pm 2:40pm - 3:40pm 8:00am - 8:30am 2:40pm - 3:40pm 2:40pm - 3:40pm 2:40pm - 3:40pm 2:40pm - 3:40pm 2:40pm - 3:40pm

Tuesday

Maths Pi Club Media/Film Art/Textiles

Creative iMedia Social Sciences MFL - Speaking Preparation

Wednesday Hospitality & Catering Religious Studies BTEC Sport Sociology

2:40pm - 3:40pm 12:30pm - 1:00pm & 2:40pm - 3:40pm 2:40pm - 3:40pm 2:40pm - 3:40pm

Thursday

Photography BTEC PA Maths

2:40pm - 3:40pm 2:40pm - 3:40pm 2:40pm - 3:40pm

Friday

Physics (S4) Biology (S5)

2.45pm - 3:40pm 2:50pm - 3:40pm

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

Amelia Isabella

HFR HFR ENO HFR HFR HFR HFR CSE HFR CSE HFR CSE

136 136 136 131 129 127 124 122 121 119 118 118

Lola

GBI CSE HFR CSE HFR HFR CSE HFR CSE CSE

115 113 113 112 105 104 103 100 100 100

Ethan Matt Nadia Milosz Joshua Grace Neil

Lilla

Dylan

Oksana

Ezra

Maja

Darcey

Julia

Manjeet

Arjun Eren

Sophie

William

World Champion Dancer A big congratulations to Adelina in Year 9, who became bronze champion in the under 16 solo ballroom category World Championships in Assen. Adelina competed against the best from different countries: UK, Ukraine, Russia, Italy, Poland and more. Adelina made semi final of under 16 latin category and also participated in a team match against the same countries securing 3rd place for Great Britain! Soon after, Adelina received amazing results one again, as she achieved two 1st places and one 3rd in Latin category at the Blackpool National Dance Championship. We are #greenandproud of Adelina’s achievements with her dancing. Keep up the great work!

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

Christmas Trolley Once again, Regents Park Community College promoted the Christmas trolley appeal. We would like to thank everyone who has helped to support this.

Cold Weather As a reminder, due the increasingly cold weather, students are able to wear a navy blue school jumper with or without the school logo, for an additional layer to wear under their school blazer. We also ask that students bring their coat to wear to and from school, however hooded tops / jumpers are not permitted.

Resource Hub

Alternative Provision Some of our Year 11 students have been attending off site provisions. These include: workmobility and construction, where students learn life skills and different career choices. The aim is to help them to make informed choices for their future educational steps. They have been learning the basis of car mechanics, bricklaying and also working toward LASER level 1 in construction. They have tried plastering and tiling, basic electric wiring and woodwork. Students seem to enjoy this, as they can have a taster of potential future jobs.

Students in rebuild have been busy recycling old wooden pallets. They have got into the festive spirit and made these amazing Christmas decorations for the Resource Hub. They are learning new skills and using new tools.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

RPCC Pets! At Regents Park, we are very fortunate enough to have our very own RPCC pets! Our fish have found a new home in the counselling room and are settling in really well. Students are able to have a cuddle with our guniea pigs in the in the Resource Hub! Spencer, our RPCC Therapy Dog, visits Regents Park a few days a week to see the students and is located in Mrs Barnes office.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

Business Manager’s Update

to pre-order food, as this will allow the students to avoid the queues and ensure they can order their favorite items without being disappointed if we run out. Please visit this link to use our preorder system: https://regentspark.swift order.co.uk/. • Access to our Parents Evening Booking System is also available from the website using the ‘family’ icon on the right of the homepage: https:// regentsparkcommunitycollege. schoolcloud.co.uk/ • Calendar – This is updated on a regular basis, with additional events: https://www.regentsparkcollege. org.uk/home/school-details/ calendar/. • Skoolkit / KoolSkools - Please visit the dress code page on our website for up to date information on our uniform: https://www.regentsparkcollege. org.uk/home/parents/dress code/ • Lanyards/Cards – please ensure your child remembers to wear their lanyard and School Card as this is part of the school uniform. Not only is this used to purchase lunch, as part of the fast track service, but it is also needed if your child needs to use a laptop in the library • FSM – is your child entitled to a Free Hot Meal at school? Please complete the online form to see if you are eligible. https:// www.cloudforedu.org.uk/ofsm/ southampton/

• School Street – we currently have a road closure on Richville Road at the start and end of the day to allow safe arrival and exit by the students. Please can parents ensure that they are parking appropriately on King Edward Avenue and Oakley Road. Please avoid blocking driveways, double parking or parking on yellow lines. • Alumni – if you are, or you have a child who is, an ex-student, we would love to hear what you/they have been doing since leaving Regents Park. Please get in contact by emailing us at info@ regentspark.southampton.sch.uk • Clubs & Classes – We have a range of different clubs & classes that run after school. For a full list of these, please visit: https:// www.regentsparkcollege.org.uk/ home/parents/clubs-and-classes/ • Breakfast Club – Students have the opportunity to start their day with toast and a chat with Mrs Simmons, Welfare Officer, at Breakfast Club which will be running every morning from 8:00am – 8:25am in the hall. • The school is working with Edulettings to provide clubs and classes in the evening for both young people and adults. To see a list of these clubs, please visit our website at: https:// www.regentsparkcollege.org. uk/community-lettings/hirers timetable/

The school is continuing to improve its streamlined communication system. Our website is the hub of all information where daily school news can be found. • All general letters will be emailed, they are also available to view under the parent section on the website. https://www. regentsparkcollege.org.uk/home/ parents/letters/ • Access to Twitter, (X) is available from the website so that you can follow the school news or Spencer, our Therapy Dog – use the ‘bird’ icon on the right of the homepage. https://twitter.com/ RegentsParkCC • You can also follow us on our Facebook page for up to date news and information https://www.facebook.com/ RegentsParkcc • Access to the SCOpay online payment system for school meals, trips etc is also available from the website using the ‘£’ icon on the right of the homepage: https:// www.regentsparkcollege.org.uk/ home/parents/online-payments/ • Catering - Please visit the catering page on our website for information regarding the current school meals menu https://www. regentsparkcollege.org.uk/home/ school-details/school-meals/. We would like to encourage students

We welcome feedback from you

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

and this can done in several ways: • Email: info@regentspark. southampton.sch.uk • Contact Form via the website https://www.regentsparkcollege.

org.uk/home/school-details/ contact-us/ • Phone: 023 8032 5444 • If you wish to speak to the Headteacher, Mrs Barnes,

please contact Fiona Hayward, Headteacher’s PA, on 023 8072 5711 Carlene Amos Business Manager

Duke of Edinburgh 2023 30 absolutely wonderful, dedicated students, took part in Bronze Duke of Edinburgh this year. They have all completed their awards and these were awarded at the DofE Parents’ Information Evening on the 29th November 2023. Students completed a wide range of amazing activities as part of their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh, including: some amazing cooking, learning new languages, crochet and dress making for their skills, litter-picking and helping out with scouts and brownies for their volunteering. Other activities included: lots of football, cycling, dance, and other incredible activities for their physical section. Students went out on their expedition in the New Forest and despite some challenging weather at times, they all got through with a smile on their face on the second day. There were some tears and trials at points, but they all were so proud of what they achieved. They walked and navigated for 12 hours in total around the New Forest across 2 days. They learned how to demonstrate their camp skills effectively, putting up tents and cooking on trangias. We clearly did not wear them out enough on the first day of walking, since they all were running around playing rounders! Students have done amazingly well, and we are all so proud of them for their achievements. This year, we are welcoming both Year 9 and Year 10 to do the Bronze award, and Year 11 to do their Silver awards. We are very excited to update you on their progress and achievements! Our Duke of Edinburgh Ambassadors, Suheera and Tyler say:

“It was truly an adventure filled with challenges, hard work, and ultimately, great rewards. It demonstrated an immense determination, adventure, and resilience throughout the entire experience. From hiking to camping, we had to push ourselves to the limit and face every obstacle head on. There were moments when things got tough, and it seemed like the campsite was miles away, however, we never gave up. We embraced the rain and the demanding tasks. When we finally got back to the train station, the feeling was amazing. We had conquered our fears and pushed our limits. But it wasn’t just personal triumph. We also learned the power of teamwork and collaboration. The bonds we formed with our fellow participants were invaluable. We supported and encouraged each other, making the journey even more memorable.”

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

Library Year 7 are off to a great start with Accelerated Reader (AR) with almost a million words read already! It’s great to see so many students challenging themselves with their reading and choosing longer titles this year! Miss Robinson, last year’s winner, is currently beat to top of the year by Mr Walker’s 7GZ class, but only by 700 words! At half term, the following students were issued achievement points for topping their class leader board and are leading the year group in AR participation... Sofia (7BX), Holly (7BX), Alexander (7BX), Ruby (7GX), Maisy (7BX), Beth (7BX), Uzair (7BX), Evie (7BX), and Miley (7BZ) Ethos badges will be awarded after the Christmas break. For the first time this year, here are the Accelerated Reader leader boards…

Student

Class

Quizzes Passed/Books Read

Alexander

7BX 7BX

9 5

Maisy, Evie and Uzair Ruby, Zander & Annas

7GX, 7GZ & 7GY

4

Class

Teachers

Words Read

7GZ

Mr Walker and Mrs Cosford Miss Robinson and Mrs Board Mrs Scott and Mr Lucas Miss Donovan and Mrs Board Miss Fison and Mr Lucas

288,877

7BX

288,163

7GX

247,489

7GY

31,646

7BZ

177

Don’t forget, the display in the library can be checked for the top 3 students in each class and the top class overall. This is updated weekly.

Student

Class

Words Read

Ruby Lucas

7GX 7GZ 7GZ

244,903 159,101 129,776

Zander

Elton in Year 7 was really pleased to have received his sports kit from Mr Pereira for his excellent work (and birthday gift) with Saints Foundation.

Saints Foundation Saints Foundation work within local schools to improve attitudes towards education, raising aspirations of young people and supporting their engagement in school. Fortunately, Saints Foundation has been working with RPCC and some of our students are really benefiting from their help.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

Year 11 PSHE Day Year 11 had a real good opportunity to engage in relevant sessions as part of our PSHE day back in November. They rotated around the following 6 sessions during the day. • A session on applying to college with Esther and Tamara from Richard Taunton Sixth Form College • Time to research their possible pathways with Julia Gay, our school’s careers advisor • Session led by Solent Mind covering mental health conditions • Session with Yellow Door covering the dangers of pornography • A session lead by Geeta from Solent University about post-18 options including university options • Fertility/pregnancy and the factors that can affect it led by Miss Khan from science

Year 7 PSHE Year 7 had their first taste of a full day of PSHE in November. They really embraced the challenges and sessions delivered during the day. - A session exploring the topic of FGM led by staff from Yellow Door - Examining antisocial behaviour and the causes/ prevention with Miss Fison - Session with Solent Mind covering social media - Session with Yellow Door covering what makes up healthy relationships - Science session covering puberty and periods led by Miss Rendall - Developing their teamwork and resilience skills led by Miss Robinson and her “This Girl Can” student ambassadors

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

GENERAL NEWS

Careers Post-16 Careers Fair

We had a fantastic variety of post-16 providers in attendance at our annual careers fair on 23rd November from sixth form colleges, to apprenticeship providers, to construction firms and the military! Our Year 10 and 11 students were engaged when speaking to potential future employers and education providers and it was commented on by our guests, what excellent questions they asked and what a great buzz around the room there was. Students commented on the excellent mixture of people they had to speak to and how helpful they were. It was lovely to see parents and lower year groups attending after school also.

Year 10 Big Interview Our students were an absolute credit to themselves taking part in our ‘Big Interview’ on Wednesday 6th December, treating the experience professionally, looking smart and having pre-prepared CVs ready for their interview. Our interviewers ranged from a number of industries: law, media, civil service and more. They were so impressed with how well our students spoke and the huge amount they have to offer future employers! Students came away with much more confidence, and some were even offered work experience and jobs! They should feel so proud of themselves and this will put them in good stead for their work experience coming up in February.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS

Mathematics Bletchley Park Year 8 students had a fantastic day out at Bletchley Park on Thursday 26th September, home of the World War Two code breakers! In the morning, they became cryptologists, cracking different types of codes to solve a bigger puzzle as a team. They even got to try out one of the original Enigma machines! Students also had a tour around site from a Bletchley historian and had a chance to explore the museums and learn more about Alan Turing, wartime intelligence and the logistics of running Bletchley. Year 8 were an absolute credit to the school and we look forward to visiting again next year with Year 7.

Mini White Boards This year we have been increasing the use of mini white boards in our maths lessons. The benefits of using mini white boards are: • Encourages all students to participate • Not permanent, small corrections easy to do • Builds confidence • Whole class assessment, which provides the students with instant feedback • Identifies misconceptions which can be corrected instantly • Unexpected answers which allows for class discussions and therefore deeper understanding • Next step -modelling • Variety of activities, multiple choice, problem solving, competitions etc • Sharing good practice with the class

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS

Top 5 Year 9

Nelly

Numeracy Across the Curriculum This half term, teachers across the school were given the challenge of writing the date in a mathematical way. On 1st December, the PE department displayed the following: “Netball team players – volleyball team players / √ 144 / MMXXIII” On 29th November, Mrs McCarthy’s class had the following date in their books:

Victoria Georgia-Rose Vincent Kundai Mariam Year 11 Fatimah Adarsh Eren Year 10 Hanna Gayathri Stanley Kinga MyMaths Masters

This year we have introduced MyMaths as the main homework app for KS3. Currently Year 7 and 8 are using it for their homework. This will be extended to Year 9 in the 2024/25 academic year. Topics covered will support in class learning. The following students are being recognised for their effort using MyMaths this half term:

Year 7 Adam

Year 8 Bruce

Other ways teachers across the school have been promoting numeracy, is through the use of the ‘Numeracy Challenge Question of the Fortnight’ posters. Each department have their own subject specific challenge questions for students to solve. For example, humanities had the following problem displayed last half term: “ Queen Victoria became queen in 1837 at the age of 18. In which year did she turn 40 years old?” MathsWatch Masters MathsWatch is the main app we use for setting homework in KS4 maths. Homework is set weekly, based on the topics the students are studying in class. Students completing homework benefit from being able to practice the skills they have learned in class, which is all part of the retrieval practice skills they are mastering. Year 11 have been using MathsWatch as part of their reflection on their mock exams.

Alexandrea Alexander

Mohammad

Tilly

Rosie Abdul Keira Abby James Becky

Tofunmi

Freya

George

Sofia

Zahrah Vaneeza

Khushjeet Poppy

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS

English Well we’ve enjoyed a term

have read, and which ones they are going to read soon! A key priority for us at Regents Park, is supporting any student who is struggling with their reading, and we have two new exciting projects that will be launching in January - more on that in the next issue!

FULL of reading here at Regents Park! Firstly we’ve been busy developing our whole-school Friday reading initiative. This involves the whole school reading the same short story, broken into 5 to 10 minute sections, during the same period of the day. You can see below the wonderful varied array of stories we have been enjoying as a school. Staff from right across the school have thrown themselves into this whole-heartedly, and our students have loved it.

Year 7 and 8 students continue to enjoy one dedicated reading lesson per week, with the focus on developing students’ literacy levels, along with their love of reading. As you can see from Miss Reed’s recent Magic Moments, our Year 7 and 8 students really value this time in their week, and their reading is progressing beautifully. As well as all of this, we have also turned our main staircase into a giant bookcase; not only are they now eye-catching and inspiring, they are also sparking constant conversations among students and staff about which titles they

National Teen Book Club National Teen Book Club is a nationwide group that provides students with free books, while also giving them the opportunity to talk to authors every week. This term, we have been reading The One Memory of Flora Banks – a story about a teenager who loses use of her memory. It’s a fantastic read, but the conversations we’ve had about it, have been even more fantastic! We currently have more people than books, as the club is very popular, so if you want to get involved next term, please see Mr Walker so we can order more! That being said, even if you don’t have a copy of the book for this term, you can still come along to talk about reading, ask authors questions and be a part of a national group of book-lovers. National Teen Book Club is open to all year groups, and runs every Wednesday 3:30pm - 4:30pm in Room 13.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS Media & Film

Our Media Studies students have gone head first into their component 2 revision this term, in preparations for the mock exams. This has

Everyone’s quite excited and raring to go! Within Year 10 film studies, we’ve studied Attack the Block and Whiplash so far. Both films have male protagonists, but represent social groups and relationships in very different ways. Year 11 film studies group have had a whirlwind of teen films, starting with Rebel Without a Cause and then onto Ferris

We begin now on our coursework: creating a screenplay and shooting script for the opening of a teen, horror, action, romance, or sci-fi film. The students have grabbed this opportunity with both hands and are all very clear on their characters, narrative and representations. Let the writing commence! Well done, everyone! Have a restful break.

meant lots of learning and revision about Luther, Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber –

they have all thrived within this study, whether or not they started out ‘Swifties’ or ‘Beliebers!’ We begin on the final part of our course now: coursework! We are creating special interest magazines, or DVD covers and posters for a film of our creation.

Bueller’s Day Off. We revised Whiplash and then headed straight into exam practice, ready for the mock exams.

Science

Again, this year has seen some exciting development in the science department. The science team has been further strengthened with a member of our staff, who is now part of the pastoral team and another experienced science teaching professional, who is part of the Senior Leadership Team. Our dedicated team of scientists are able to

deliver all aspect of the science curriculum to all students regardless of age, need and ability in our seven modern and well-equipped, purpose-built laboratories. The science department is offering a number of clubs / activities aimed at supporting students with their learning and their enjoyment of all sciences: The Year 7 and Year 8 science club, running on Thursdays after school, Mrs Khan offers Key Stage 3 students to carry out practical activities and challenges focussed on STEM subjects (science technology, engineering and mathematics). This has proven to be a big success in improving the profile of sciences at Regents Park.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS Mobile App design - A new club offered by Miss Khan and aimed at students who want to learn programming and design of apps for mobile devices application. This takes place in an ICT suite on Tuesdays. The Key Stage 4 revision club - An after-school club delivering subject specific revision and support for students in Year 10 & 11, wanting to further their progress and prospect in GCSE chemistry, physics and biology is now available after school. These are supported by specialist teachers to maximise pupil progress and attainment. In other news, the science department was excited to be a part of the Mai Trial by Tassomai this term. Students also got a chance to use Mai on ‘Mai Day’ on the 16th November. We hope that all students enjoyed the opportunity to engage with the AI engine and found it useful in helping them overcome any challenging questions they faced. Please continue to help us by encouraging your child to complete their 3 daily goals each week on Tassomai.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS Creative Arts & DT

Year 7 Art Year 7s have completed their baseline test, where they drew a shell to their best ability. Year 7s then began to look at how to draw from observation and add in mark making and a range of tone into their drawings to create texture and detail. They are now looking at the artist, Lynette Shelley and doing a recreation of her work, learning how to use water colours effectively in a piece.

Year 8 Art Year 8 art students have been learning about colour theory, creating their own colour wheel. We have looked at different colour schemes, such as hot, cold and harmonious colours. Students have learned about Jasper Johns and created an information page based on him, which includes information/facts about Jasper Johns, a replica of his work and their own thoughts about his work. Students have embraced this with pride and creativity. We have especially been focusing on good presentation, learning how to display their work creatively.

Year 9 Art In art, Year 9 students are learning about culture, specifically Mexican culture. Looking at the artwork of Frida Kahlo and Jose Posada, students are creating some amazing artist study pages in their sketchbook.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS

Year 8 Graphics Some Year 8 students have just completed a rotation of graphics. During this project, they have developed their skills as a graphic designer. They created a range of logo designs for film and developed these skills into poster designs for billboards. This has enabled them to build upon the skills they learned in Year 7 relating to typography. Students have also had the opportunity to learn various colouring techniques to enhance their work. We are especially proud of the film logo designs and the ‘Up’ posters.

Year 7 Graphics Some Year 7 students have just completed a rotation in graphics, where they have learned about typography. Students have created a range of letter designs based on their own interests. They have learned about illuminated letters and developed these into 3D designs, making their letters using paper mâché. This was a really challenging task, using card to manipulate into their creative designs. Students embraced this task really well, developing life skills such as resilience, patience and perseverance. We are really proud of the Year 7s embracing this project.

Year 7 Textiles The Year 7s are learning about fundamental key skills in textiles, such as sewing a button, back stitch and running stitch. They have applied these new skills by creating their own junk monsters inspired by Jon Burgerman.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS

Year 8 Textiles The Year 8s are learning to develop their

fundamental key skills in textiles, such as appliqué and using the sewing machine. They are applying these new skills by creating their own wall hanging with pockets inspired by the cross-curricular theme of ‘The Seasons’.

Year 9 Textiles The Year 9s are continuing to develop, advance and progress in using the fundamental skills of textiles to create a tote bag. Inspired by the graffiti artist Mr Brainwash, students are learning the difference between graffiti, vandalism and street art.

Year 9 Product Design Year 9 also had a reminder about health and safety with the tools and machinery. They have researched clocks and then created a clock to a theme of their choice. They have designed their theme and used different methods to add a 3D effect to their clock. They finally put in clock hands and evaluated their work.

Year 8 Product Design After a reminder of some health and safety on the tools and machinery, Year 8 have been researching pinball machines and have cut out and created their own. They have added a theme to the background and added scoring areas and a trigger. They then evaluated their work.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS

Year 9 Food In food, Year 9s are making apple swans, which improve their creativity and knife skills. They are also grilling croque monsieur’s, as well as, learning the importance of kitchen safety and hygiene. Year 9 Photography In Year 9 photography, we are looking at portraiture. Students have looked at several portrait photographers and have researched and annotated the photographer’s work. Students have then begun to take photographs in the style of the photographer they have looked at and try different editing techniques, such as: glitch, double exposure and colour select. To finish their photography rotation, Year 9s are given a self-study to take their own portraiture images, inspired by the artists and work they have been doing in lesson and create a final piece, using an edit they have enjoyed and learned over the past 10 weeks. Theatre for Life All Key Stage 4 performing arts students watched the ‘Your Brain Explained’ performance, led by the local group, ‘Theatre for Life’. Last year, the students took part in an all day workshop with the company, developing the piece and exploring the subject of dementia. It was a phenomenal performance, which the students will remember for a very long time. Thank you to Michelle and the company for letting us be a part of the development experience and seeing the piece of theatre come to fruition .

Rising Stars and GCSE Recital On Thursday 7th December, students from Years 7, 8, 9 and 10, once again performed a concert. This year’s focus was a celebration of individual hard work and effort through a concert mostly dominated by solo performances. We had a range of both instrumental and vocal solos during the course of the evening. Solo instrumentalists included: performances on drum kit, violins, piano and guitars and in addition, there were two vocal solos and one vocal duet. In order to provide an opportunity for more students to perform, the school band also were involved performing two ensemble pieces. There were a variety of pieces performed including songs by legendary composers and songwriters including Lennon and McCartney, Richard Wagner, Mozart and David Bowie to name just a few. Of course, events like this take an awful lot of preparation to put together and this year the Creative Arts Ambassadors took a lead role in much of this. The lighting, presentation and sound was all run by members of Creative Arts Student Ambassadors team. We would like to thank all the parents and students alike, who took the time to brave the cold weather to encourage, prepare or participate in this year’s performance. See you next year.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS

Matilda Jr. The Musical Coming Soon! March 2024

Computing & Business Studies

Creative iMedia – KS4 As part of iMedia, students undertake several controlled assessments covering different topics within computing. Year 11 students have been completing one of these controlled assessments, which is creating an interactive website to promote a summer event at a local activity centre aimed at young people. This will be submitted to the exam board in the summer for final assessment. They have recently been practicing their exam skills for their mock exam. Congratulations go to Lola and Haydn, who were at the top with Level 2 Distinction* and also Ernest, Maya and Ruby who achieved Level 2 Distinction. After school sessions are taking place for those needing to improve their current work or improve their knowledge of exam topics on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Year 10 are working on their first controlled assessment, which is to produce a visual identity and loading screen for a historical educational game. This term, we have been focussing on the making elements and will begin evaluation of the final products upon return in January. different Office-based tasks like desktop publishing and spreadsheets. Year 8 have developed their knowledge from last year about hardware specifications in computers and making decisions about how to construct an appropriate computer, e.g. how much ram, what processor speed etc. They have also completed mini assessments along with their end of unit exams on peripherals, components and storage devices. Year 9 have started a new curriculum this year

Computer Science – KS4 Year 11 have just completed their mock exam for unit 2. Special congratulations go to Hong for scoring grade 9, James with grade 8 and Freddie & Ezra with grade 7. They are now revising unit 1 topics in preparation for their second mock in the new year. After school revision is available on Thursdays and is open for any student that would like extra support in practising exam style questions. This will help to develop core knowledge to support with final exams in May / June. We have now issued logins for Smart Revise, which is a new platform for revision and testing their knowledge across all topics. They can work on it independently or through tasks set by the class teacher. Year 10 completed studying units 1.3 and 1.4 computer networks and network security. They also had a chance to practise exam style questions for these two units by completing end of unit tests with some students managing to get higher grades. Congratulations to Luca, Leo, Hikmet and Andrei for achieving high grades in those units. Computing – KS3 In the first half term, both year groups were taught the importance of e-safety and how to be safe online. Year 7 produced informative presentations, while Year 8 created interactive websites. Year 7 moved on to a festival celebration project, with themes like Christmas grotto or other religious/ non-religious themes of their choice. They have been using a range of skills with software creating

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS

which focuses on improving their online digital awareness and understanding of technology in the real world. Our first unit involved investigating and understanding different cybersecurity issues, including current threats and online safety issues. They have then moved on to Artificial Intelligence (AI) developing their knowledge of how AI is created and the rules and limitations that it can have. They have explored the ethical issues connected with this technology. For example, did you know that by 2035 up to 40% of jobs could be replaced by AI? Cyber Ambassadors Our cyber ambassadors have been supporting school events this term. As part of open evening, they ran an information stand for parents and students covering knowledge of e-safety issues and testing our visitors for the evening on their knowledge. They also created a presentation on online hate and the presentation was used in virtual assembles for Years 7 - 10 groups. Business GCSE Year 11 have been securing their knowledge of finance and human resources as part of their preparation for the mock exams. Well done to Owen for achieving grade 9. We have now issued logins for Smart Revise which is a new platform for revision and testing their knowledge across all topics. They can work on it independently or through tasks set by the class teacher. Year 10 have been investigating business in the real world. Including the topics of ownership, aims and objectives, stakeholders, business plans and organisation structure. Special mention to the following for demonstrating a fantastic attitude to learning: Sayema, Rebeka, Andrei and Hikmet. They have just completed their end of unit assessment to test their knowledge so will be aware of their marks.

Enterprise & Marketing Year 11 are working on their second controlled assessment, which involves them pitching a business proposal for their backpack coursework, which they completed last year. We have been revising a wide range of topics for their mock exams. Well done to the following for their performance: Robert & Arjun for their top marks. Year 10 class are working on their first controlled assessment, which is to develop a business proposal for a new ice cream product aimed at a target audience of their choice. This term we have been focussing on market research, customer profile and design techniques. They had a tasting session for ice-cream to complete their focus group as part of their primary research methods. After school intervention is available for either year group for students to improve or complete any work not completed during lesson time.

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The Regents Review Autumn 2023

DEPARTMENTAL NEWS Social Sciences Remembrance

The Last Post is the bugle call that signifies the end of the day’s activities. It is also sounded at military funerals and services to indicate the soldier has gone to his final rest. Students, that are part of the military cadets, participated in the remembrance parade, which was conducted with such pride and respect. The community of Regents Park have again shown their respect for remembrance and the sacrifices that have been made for us. Lest we remember. Thou shall not grow old.

ultimately lined with the 75th Windrush anniversary and how Britain was rebuilt after World War Two, with the help from over 10,000 Caribbean citizens. In history, students have been focusing on specific soldiers during World War One and Two that gave the ultimate sacrifice in order to be courageous and to protect Britain. On Friday 10th November at 11.00am, we respectfully observed our two-minute silence across the school whilst Mr Barron played the ‘Last Post’ on the bugle. In military tradition,

at Regents Park What does remembrance mean to you? This has been the question posed to all students in light of our remembrance services and activities during November. Our assemblies focused on remembering the fallen but also appreciating the security we have today and how our emergency services work hard to protect us. This created some great discussions of what the fallen soldiers have built and how we have progressed from these wars for our world today. This

Innovative Geography Lessons Over the last term, our Year 10 students have been learning about physical landforms within the UK focusing on rivers. Students have partaken in innovative learning creating waterfalls out of cake and creating the long and cross profile of a river on our RPCC desks. These images are available on the social sciences, ‘X’ (Twitter) page and Regents Park Community College Facebook page. Year 10 have shown resilience with such a difficult content and enjoyed the leftover sweets and cake.

Geography Revision We are extremely proud of our Year 11 students with their continuous dedication to after school revision on Tuesdays with regular numbers exceeding 20 students. This started at the beginning of the year in preparation for their GCSEs in the summer term. We have lots of engaging activities focusing on paper one this term and we will be focusing on paper 2 next term, so please remind your children about this. Miss Gilbert-Twigg and Miss Baillie are super proud of their ongoing commitment to their studies. Year 9 Geography At the beginning of the year, Year 9s started off with learning about weather and climate with students completing the atmospheric circulation system as a memory game on their desks. Students really enjoyed this and really did some outstanding work on it. We have been focusing on India this term, with really great enthusiasm displayed by students in broadening their understanding of the country and its place in the world. We have looked at physical factors and human factors that shape India and addressed misconceptions and perceptions of what India is truly like. This is contributing to creating amazing global citizens.

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