Christmas Newsletter - Thornleigh Salesian College

Sharples Park, Bolton, BL1 6PQ Tel: 01204 301 351
thornleigh.bolton.sch.uk
Christmas Newsletter
September - December 2015
Headteacher’s letter
I am delighted to introduce another newsletter which is bursting with news and articles which give you a flavour of the many
opportunities our students have had since we returned in September. As we now move through the season of Advent towards Christmas,
we remind ourselves of the theme of our Mission Week, ‘Find Your Own Way’ as we prepare ourselves, our homes, school and various
communities to celebrate the birth of Christ. We look forward to celebrating together in our various services before the end of term and
invite you to join us for our Carol Service and Mass at The Hidden Gem in Manchester where our choir will be singing. Details are inside
this newsletter.
2015 has been a very special year for the Salesian family as we have been celebrating the Bi-Centenary of the birth of Saint John Bosco.
We have had many wonderful events and celebrations and met up with lots of friends.
I would like to thank everyone who has made this such a successful term and I would like to say a special thank you to four of our sixth
form students, Lucy Summerton, Jake Roystn, Joe Murphy and Cara Leadbeater, who have designed and produced this newsletter for us
as part of their Media course. Well done!
My hope for all associated with Thornleigh Salesian College is that when we get to the Christmas break we will be able to relax and reflect
on the true meaning of Christmas and appreciate the selfless giving of a loving God who wants our love and who wants us to live life to
the full (John10 v10).
Have a lovely Christmas
Alison Burrowes
Contents
Rememberance Day
2
The Governors
3
E-Safety
3
Chaplaincy4-5
Wider Key Skills
6
Music6
Modern Foreign Languages
7
English8
Roald Dahl Day
9
Maths10
Science11
Sixth Form
12-13
Latin14-15
Geography15
Economics16
Literacy16
Art/Graphics17
Physical Education
18-19
The Show
20
Open Evening
21
Personal Achievements
22
British Values
22
Student Council
23
Tanzania 24
Christmas Quiz
25
Safeguarding26-27
Remembrance Day
THE GOVERNORS CATENIAN
ASSOCIATION
The Catenian Association was founded in Manchester in 1908 to assist the lives
of Irish Catholic Immigrants. The Bolton circle of this worldwide charitable
organisation are currently working with Thornleigh Salesian College to prepare
for their 10th annual joint service of Remembrance to celebrate the lives of all
the past members of both the Catenian’s and Thornleigh Salesian College who
have lost their lives, but especially in wartime.
Current Catenian Bolton Circle president, David Robinson, has chosen to
support the charity ‘Shelter’ in his term of office and believes that helping the
homeless and those affected by the recent migrant crisis is something that needs
not be forgotten as we remember the problems that arise as a result of war across
the world. Supported by fellow member Ken Hogg, who has helped to support
this event for the past decade and has been an active member of the Catenian’s
for 45 years; students from Thornleigh Salesian College will help to organise
this service to ensure that those who fought for their liberty are never forgotten.
This includes 41 past-students of the school who have died in warfare since
1914. This year is especially poignant as two current students, Daniel Shinks
in Year 11 and Oliver Lightbown in Year 7, will attend to remember their great
Uncle, Phillip Hanavan, a member of the RAF during World War II who was
killed on 20th October 1943; a Thornleigh Salesian College past-student and
an active Catenian.
David Robinson and Ken Hogg would like to thank anyone who attended the
mass, without you it wouldn’t have been as successful and as much of an enjoyable celebration of life and heroes.
2015 - CELEBRATING THE BI-CENTENARY OF
DON BOSCO’S BIRTH
2015 marks 200 years since the birth of Saint John Bosco (Don Bosco), the Patron Saint of Young People and the Patron Saint of Thornleigh
Salesian College.
The worldwide Salesian movement has been actively celebrating the Bi-Centenary year giving thanks for Don Bosco’s life and mission and for
inspiring many generations of people to serve the young with love, joy and hope.
Thornleigh Salesian College is not just a Catholic College it is a Salesian Catholic College with common values based on the Gospels that can
support all relationships in the home, school, church and playground. The Salesian attitudes to working with the young are simple but effective:
• Respect
• Understanding
• Affection
• Humour
By living these attitudes, within the context of the Gospel, the Salesian educator becomes a Good Shepherd. Witnessing to the vision of
Don Bosco, we strive to follow Jesus the Good Shepherd by ‘being there’ for young people, – sharing time, education, fun, prayer and
encouragement.
The Governors of Thornleigh Salesian College have been entrusted to protect, support and promote the vision of education and ethos on which
the school is founded. This work is carried out in many ways including oversight of recruitment, admissions, curriculum, religious education,
spiritual and moral development and so on.
We are proud that 2015 has been such a successful year for Thornleigh Salesian College with outstanding results across the College in the
summer, admissions oversubscribed and a well-deserved reputation for welcome, inclusion, care and support of all young people across the local
community. The hard work of every member of staff and student has resulted in the most fitting tribute to Don Bosco in this commemorative
year.
Thank you to all the staff, students, families and carers, as members of the Salesian family, for making us proud to be governors of Thornleigh
Salesian College.
D-DAY REMEMBERED
Some of our students had a rare opportunity to speak with local war
veteran, James Aitkin, who served with the RAF during World War 2.
Mr Aitkin, a sprightly 94 year old, recalled his part in the events of D
Day as they unfolded on the 6th June 1944. Jim spoke vividly of the
optimism of the soldiers as they prepared for their part in the Allied
Force’s surprise invasion of Normandy; the beginning of the end of
the war. Our students commented on how hard it is to imagine what
the events looked like and how it was an honour to be able to speak
to Jim, who can still remember all about the events of a time that is
fast becoming consigned to the history books, as if they happened
yesterday. Jim spoke of how strange it felt to be within enemy territory
and how it was the first time his unit had been deployed.
Jim said that he was honoured to be awarded
The Legion D’honneur (Legion of Honour),
the French Government’s highest honour, in
recognition of the selfless acts that took place
that day. Jim said that he felt that the medal was
in honour of all of his fallen comrades; he went
on to say, “They deserved it just as much as I
did.” This award was even more precious to Jim,
as it was awarded by the French Government
on Friday 13th November 2015, the day of the
Paris attacks.
With every blessing for Christmas and the New Year.
The Governors
e-safety E-SAFETY UPDATE
In order to reflect the ever-changing society that we live in we have posted onto our website some E-Safety instruction booklets and links to aid
parents, so they know how to update privacy settings on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. There are also guidelines and further
links that parents can follow to find out how to improve their E-Safety knowledge, and help keep their child safe online.
In January we will be inviting parents to an E-Safety presentation, where we will be explaining some of the above in greater detail, and also
providing parents with an opportunity to ask questions.
- By Lucy Summerton and Cara Leadbeater
(members of Thornleigh Sixth form)
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Chaplaincy
MISSION WEEK
Chaplaincy
The week before half term saw Mission Week 2015 launched. Mission
Week is a week where we highlight all that is good about Thornleigh
Salesian College and where we celebrate the fact that we are a Catholic
school. With activities, lessons and much, much more, students were
invited to reflect on the theme of “Find your way”. Monday saw the
launch of Mission Week with students being challenged to look at
themselves and to see where they have been and where they might go
during Mission Week. We were challenged to find our way during
Mission Week, but especially find our way to Jesus.
Throughout the week there were many activities organised during
break and lunch time, for example, “Light Fever” in the school chapel,
where students were invited to light a candle and pray before the
blessed sacrament, and indulging in Fairtrade hot chocolate and a
KitKat in aid of Tanzania.
The week culminated with us coming together in the sports hall to
celebrate forgiveness. Students had prepared some reflections in RE
lessons and were invited to write these on spheres. These were then
brought to the service and symbolically released, representing the
forgiveness of God.
DONATION APPEAL
During the first half of this term we became aware of the need of
many people on the continent who were fleeing from countries in
search of a better life. Thornleigh Salesian College decided it was time
to act and so we organised an appeal for clothes and toiletries. Waves
of donations arrived and the pile mounted. Students volunteered to
help sort the clothes and in the end we had over one hundred black
bags stuffed full of
clothes. We also
had fifteen crates of
toiletries.
The initial idea
was to drive these
donations directly
to Calais and drop
them off with
aid organisations
working there.
Unfortunately, for
us, the organisations operating in this area have been swamped with
donations. We therefore looked elsewhere to give our donations to.
At the start of November we loaded the school minibus to the roof
and drove to Warrington where we were met by Refugee Aid at their
storage depot in Appleton. As we pulled into their carpark there was
a truck and container being loaded. This container was destined for
Samos in Greece and was leaving that very night. Twenty volunteers
were busily loading the truck and our donations were quickly added
to the container.
It was a great privilege to see our donations among so many more
destined for people in much need. A huge thank you to everyone who
gave to the appeal. We will be following the progress of the container
as it travels and is unloaded.
‘EMBRACE’
A small group of students from Years 9, 10 and 11 embarked on a day of “Building my Kingdom”. This was the theme of ‘Embrace’, a
Catholic Education Conference for young people, which took place in Liverpool. The day was packed with guest speakers, activities and
workshops. Embrace is run by young people and aims to build up the experience of our faith in today’s church.
Our students behaved excellently and were enthusiastic on many different levels. We even managed to get our picture taken with Frank
Cottrell Boyce, the writer of the film ‘Millions’, who took us though his life and explained how his faith has built up over the years and how,
he now, shares his faith with everyone.
The day concluded with a celebration of the Eucharist, led by the Archbishop of Liverpool, who was also joined by our own Bishop of Salford.
The celebration was faith filled and left us all feeling that we were enriched by the experience.
PUPIL CHAPLAINCY RETREAT AT
SAVIO HOUSE
Fifteen adventurous Pupil Chaplains, from Year 7, embarked on the adventure of a lifetime to Savio House Retreat Centre. The weekend was
led by the Chaplaincy and RE team and questioned what we do as Pupil Chaplains. The weekend challenged us to work together in the spirit
of Don Bosco and as a team. We celebrated Mass together, walked in the beautiful Cheshire countryside and shared our talents with each
other. We also celebrated together as we lounged around in our onesies watching Christmas films, which was allowed as it was the start of
Advent.
The weekend was a great success and the Pupil Chaplaincy Team are already looking forward to their next adventure to Savio House.
YEAR 7 RETREATS
During September, Year 7, have once again had the
opportunity to take some time out of school and participate
in Day Retreats. Each class, along with their form tutor and
the chaplaincy team, ventured out of school and looked at the idea of belonging to one family. Games,
activities and lots of fun were on the agenda, with time to reflect and pray for each other as we embarked
on our journey. We used the Lego movie to illustrate our day and students thought everything was
‘awesome’.
We were delighted to be joined this year by volunteers from Savio House Retreat Centre who gave their
time to come and help us deliver the retreats. A great time was had by all.
PUPIL CHAPLAINCY - GIFT TEAM RETREAT ME, WE, THE WORLD
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You are all welcome to attend both our Christmas Carol Concert on the
15th December at 7pm in our chapel, as well as our Christmas Eve Mass which we hold every
year, on the 24th December at 8pm in Thornleigh Chapel. We hope to see you there.
Christmas eve mass
After half term Thornleigh Salesian College got together 53 primary students who have joined their school chaplaincy GIFT (Growing in
Faith Together) Team. These primary students came together to look at the theme of Stewardship and how we can be good stewards in our
community and our world.
The primary students were very ably led in their sessions by members of the Thornleigh Sixth Form Pupil Chaplaincy Team. The students
were led in activities reflecting on the “Me” in stewardship, looking at how, as individuals, we can use our hands to make a difference. The
students also looked at “We” and thought about how, as school communities, we can become good stewards in our schools. Finally, the
activities looked at “The World” and how we can ensure that we take care of our world so the next generation can benefit from it.
The day came to a close with our Mass of Missioning. Each student received a certificate from the Bishop welcoming them in to the School’s
GIFT team and commissioning them to go forth and spread the good news.
2015
Thornleigh Salesian College
Thornleigh Salesian College
5
WIDER KEY SKILLS
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES A SUCCESSFUL START
TO THE YEAR
FOUNDATION LEARNING
VISIT TO CARRS PASTIE
FACTORY
Since September the Languages Department has been continuing to raise
their profile. The students have been studying a range of interesting topics in
Spanish. All years have been having spontaneous conversations and expressing
their opinion on a wide range of topics. Year 7 are now learning to talk about
their family members, Year 8 are learning to speak and write in the present
tense in their fairytale module, and Year 9 have learned the past tense in their
“Cluedo” module. All years are going to be filmed using the “Green Screen”
to make interactive exciting videos which give the impression of being in a
different place. Year 10 students are preparing to complete their first GCSE
written controlled assessment on their Holidays and Year 11 are preparing for
their written assessment on jobs.
The Year 12 foundation students have been consolidating their learning ‘all about
the business of retail’ by visiting the Carrs Pasties factory on Manchester Road.
The privileged group learnt about the fresh contents of pasties, including how the
company work extremely hard to use all local products, protecting the environment
and making the finest quality products within the local area.
Joseph and Liam Carr showed the group around the factory, both are former pupils
of Thornleigh Salesian College who now run a very local and successful business,
which we have the honour of visiting and which help the students with their
BTEC Retail Course.
Photographs show the raw product room,
students making pasties and the end product on
the conveyor belt.
The students saw the raw products and then
the end product. They even had the honour of
making their own pasties. Every trip to Carrs
Pasties ends in a tasting session, which involves
consumption of pasties, steak pies and sausage
rolls!
music
LANGUAGE WEEK
CONCERTS, CAROLS AND
CHRISTMAS SHOWS!
Christmas is fast approaching and is always a very busy and exciting time in Music;
we’ve been busily preparing concerts, Carols and Christmas Shows.
Rehearsals have taken place all term with College Concert Band, KS3, KS4 and
KS5 Bands, Choir and Strings, as well as with other smaller ensembles and groups.
The Staff Choir have also been rehearsing on Friday lunchtimes and we’re looking
forward to performing at some of the Christmas Concerts.
HOLIDAYS ARE
COMING!
Everyone has different things that make them feel as
though Christmas is just around the corner. It might
be finishing your Christmas shopping, wrapping
presents under the tree, or the iconic adverts of John
Lewis or Coca Cola. However, I have never known
anyone who doesn’t begin to feel the Christmas
cheer when they attend a Carol Service.
The department also promoted their love for languages in a week
of activities for Language Awareness Week, which was celebrated
the week before half term. Years 7 – 9 spent a lesson exploring the
importance of languages and creating a new word to use within their
own vocabulary.
Some of the funny and imaginative words that were invented were
“Paswii”, which means that awful feeling you get when you open a
present and don’t like it, and “Sneezetapation”, which is the feeling
when you start sneezing but then you stop. Who knows, they might
even make it into the dictionary! Years 8 and 9 also learned to express
their love in different languages.
During the week, a whole school competition was launched and
pupils were asked to create a jigsaw puzzle piece which aimed to
represent “connecting” with different cultures and societies. The final
celebration was on the Thursday during open evening when Miss
Brown, Miss Collins, Mrs Mahon, Miss Oliver and Mr Banner dressed
up in cultural costumes such as Flamenco dancers, French men and a
Roman soldier.
THINGS TO LOOK
OUT FOR
The department is also busy organising our second Year 8 trip
to Paris and Euro Disney next March which has received an
outstanding response from students wishing to participate in this
adventure.
At the start of the
Easter holidays
approximately 100
students will spend
6 days in France
participating in a
range of activities
from a full day in
Paris – visiting the
Eiffel Tower, a river
boat cruise down
the Seine, two full
days at Disneyland Park and Studios and not forgetting evenings at
the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show and the famous evening firework
display. On the journey home the staff and students will enjoy a visit
to a chocolate factory.
OPEN EVENING
We are delighted to announce that we will be once again offering
Languages to Sixth Form students next year! Our Open Evening was
celebrated once again in our Flamenco and French costumes and we
offered a range of tasty snacks, such as bread, chorizo, brie, olives and
brioche!
COLLEGE CAROL SERVICE AND
‘HIDDEN GEM’ CAROL SERVICE,
MANCHESTER.
Our annual Carol Service takes place on Tuesday 15th December at 7pm in the College Chapel. All
are welcome to attend.
One of our favourite trips every year is the Carol Service at The Hidden Gem in Manchester. We
have performed at this service for many years and the Student Choir always perform beautifully.
Students perform Carols and other festive songs before enjoying a visit to the Manchester Christmas
Markets on Albert Square, as a festive reward. All parents are welcome to attend on Thursday 17th
December from 11.30am onwards.
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english
roald dahl day
CELEBRATING ROALD DAHL DAY
AN EXCITING ERA
IN ENGLISH!
September is Roald Dahl’s birth month, and each year it is celebrated in school with a wonderful array of events centred around his birthday on
13th September. Here’s what we got up to…
Dahlicious morning of pastries…
Following another extremely successful set of results in the
summer of 2015, the English Department has embarked on
another exciting phase as we constantly aim higher for all our
students.
The Year 10s have begun a brand new curriculum – where
all students have the fantastic opportunity to study some of
the great classics of our rich literary heritage. Everyone has
thoroughly loved studying how characters and themes are
created in pieces of drama such as ‘ An Inspector Calls’ and
‘Blood Brothers’ and many are well on their way to completing
studies on the classic festive tale ‘A Christmas Carol’.
Our Year 12 students have also embarked upon new courses in all
3 of the English disciplines on offer. New texts, new tasks and a new way of being examined – it’s been
all change here as well! This is a challenging but exciting time for our Year 10 and 12 English students –
but, ably assisted by the ever enthusiastic department we are all confident that they
will rise to this challenge.
When and Where: 8.15am-8.45am in the lower school Learning
Resorce Centre. We hosted a ‘Roald Dahl Day Breakfast’ in our
main school library to kick start the fun! Whilst fuelling their brains
with delicious pastries and scrumptious chocolate milk, our students
were invited to take part in our quiz surrounding one of the nation’s
most loved authors! Questions from Matilda to The BFG to George’s
Marvellous Medicine were given out to students as they used their own
knowledge (and the internet) to come back with all the answers!
CHARLIE PARTY
AS CREATIVE WRITING
We also threw our own Charlie party!
When and Where: 12.45pm-1.25pm in room 4 (English Corridor)
as we were also celebrating 50 years of Charlie and the Chocolate
Factory this year – we decided to throw our own ‘chocolate’ bash and
bring Willy Wonka’s World to Thornleigh. On Monday and Tuesday
lunchtime, there was a film screening of one of our all-time favourite
Dahl adaptations, with sensabulous
sweets and gobblefunk chocolate
galore!!!!
Inspired by their studies in Year 10 of great writers such as Orwell, Steinbeck and
Miller, around 15 Year 11 students have taken up the challenge of embarking on an
AS course in Creative Writing.
This is a fantastic opportunity as it is a course that encourages creativity and
independent work and helps with practical communication and technical writing
skills.
Students will have the chance to create a portfolio of writing,
including fiction, poetry, journalism and blogging. Alongside the
obvious benefits to the students as writers in terms of developing
technical writing skills and an awareness of different writing forms
and genres, it will also foster critical and analytical skills, team
working and redrafting and editing skills. And, at the end of it all,
we may have our very own JK Rowling beginning their career up
in room 1! So, good luck and get writing!
LESSON FUN!
INTERVIEWS
Just to finish off, we interviewed staff and students – and found out
what people really thought about his books!
Mrs Coogan (English Department):
“He brings to life what children dream about…”
In English lessons, Year 7 students had the opportunity to read
some of Dahl’s greatest work – focusing on the art of persuasive and
descriptive language. Then, they had a go at creating some of their
own! Here’s a preview of what some of the lesson involved…
Mary-Jane Macrae (Year 10):
“Childhood dreams become a reality for us as readers!”
Miss Carroll (English Department):
“Even as adults, we allow ourselves to escape back to childhood…”
LET’S TEXT MARK TOGETHER DESCRIPTIVE WRITING
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//
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The meaning is unclear
Mr Willy Wonka can make marshmallows that taste of violets, and rich caramels that change colour every ten seconds as you suck them, and
little feathery sweets that melt away deliciously the moment you put them between your lips. He can make chewing-gum that never loses its
taste, and sugar balloons that you can blow up to enormous sizes before you pop them with a pin and gobble them up. And, by a most secret
method, he can make lovely blue birds’ eggs with black spots on them, and when you put one of these in your mouth, it gradually gets smaller
and smaller until suddenly there is nothing left except a tiny little pink sugary baby bird sitting on the tip of your tongue.
Thanks to everyone who took part and helped us celebrate the legend of the literary world – Roald Dahl!!
Something is missing (letter, word)
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Poor grammar or written expression
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9
maths
sCIENCE
CAM-BODES WELL FOR
THE FUTURE
The week before half term, Miss Richards and I visited
Cambodia. Previously, the furthest Miss Richards had
travelled was The Trafford Centre, so she was very nervous.
We were invited by the British Embassy and the
Cambodian Ministry of Education to help improve the
quality of their maths teaching. We visited many schools
and worked with hundreds of students and teachers from
across the country. When we spoke, we had a translator, but
Miss Richards learned some Khmer, which is the national
language of Cambodia. When she said “Akun”, I passed her
a tissue, but apparently she was saying thank you.
During our time, we fully immersed ourselves in the local
lifestyle. One night we ate in a local Cambodian restaurant,
eating traditional food called Plea, which
had a rather disturbing effect on both our mouths and our stomachs. The next night we went to KFC.
The teachers and students were lovely. After one particular talk they queued up for 15 minutes to have their photo taken with me. I thought I
must be a national celebrity in Cambodia, but the British Ambassador pointed out that they had probably never seen anyone with ginger(ish)
hair before.
A huge thank you to school for allowing us to go. It was an amazing experience teaching classes with over 100 students, and watching them
come out of their shells. The teachers also learned a new word – “Diffy”. Hopefully the work we have done will make a lasting difference to
their education.
Mr Barton (Maths department)
MATHS CLUB
Over the last half term in Maths club we have been making
cartoon characters out of pixels. The students started designing
their characters using squared paper then created them out of
individual coloured squares. Over the next few half terms we are
going to be looking at fruit ninja fractions, folding Christmas
trees and the hand shaking problem. Maths
club is not about completing questions on
maths - we are using maths and art combined
to create really fun activities and pieces of art
work. Maths club is open to all year groups
and takes place every Wednesday lunch time
in room 10 with Miss Murphy.
Miss Murphy - Maths
NUMERACY
CHALLENGE
Students from Years 7 and 8 have once again been able to participate in
the weekly numeracy challenge this year during morning registration.
One question is sent out each week and students are encouraged to use
the skills they have been learning in their maths lessons to answer a
tricky problem solving question. A leader board is updated each week
and there has been some fierce competition between certain forms for
top spot.
In particular, students in the forms of Mr Gavin (7 Omega), Mrs
Crosby (7 Sigma) and Mr Fairclough (7 Kappa) have dominated the
leader board with some excellent numeracy skills being demonstrated.
Congratulations to the following students who finished joint first at the
top of the leader board at the October half term.
• Alex Holt (7 Sigma)
• Mattie Pollitt (7 Omega)
• Mateusz Rudski (7 Kappa)
• Samuel Smedley (7 Kappa)
• Meg Walsh (7 Omega)
• Jack Warburton (7 Omega)
• Jessica Wallace (7 Sigma)
The answer is 78.
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Thornleigh Salesian College
SUPER LEARNING DAY
IN SCIENCE
The 20th October saw Year 8 students enjoy super learning day in the science
department. There were 2 activities that the whole year group took part in.
The first activity was to design and make the most cost effective way of dropping
food supplies to people who live in remote areas of the world to ensure they get a
plentiful supply. The students worked in groups and had to buy their materials to
design, make and test the most protective way of delivering a parcel of food from an
aeroplane.
The competition was fierce with some great designs being invented.
The second activity was to make a new type of bath bomb and to come up with an original marketing campaign to get the product onto
retailers’ shelves.
The whole department had the aroma of lavender wafting through as the students made their bath bombs from a range of ingredients. The
best of these are to be used on the stalls of the Christmas fayre later this term.
SCIENCE CLUB
The first half term has seen two successful science clubs, attended by over
40 students. The first of the year was a bridge building competition with
help from special guest engineer Miss Smith. The bridge builders had
to contend with limited equipment, high prices and a heavy load. The
winners of the competition, Holly Scott, Oliver Harding-Jeans and Jemma
Stephens built a bridge that was able to withstand a weight of 6.9kg. Very
impressive!
The second science club was Halloween themed. The brave students tried
to guess what was hiding in the gruesome feely boxes, then moving on
to making their own sparklers and special slime. This was followed by 3
exciting demonstrations including the famous screaming jelly baby!
Science club will be held every other Thursday, starting again after half
term. All Year 7s and 8s welcome!
ENGINEERING
CHALLENGE
A very enthusiastic and talented group of Year 9 girls will be
entering a national competition based around finding a solution
for a 21st century engineering problem. The girls will be
working independently for a stretch of 8/9 weeks, checking in
each week to go through their research and plan for the project.
Both groups will be creating a different way to present their
ideas so far, including, creating a working model of a renewable
power station and looking into how to build cheap and robust
accommodation for refugees in Jordan. The girls have been
working really hard so far and could have a really good chance in
this competition.
Thornleigh Salesian College
11
sIXTH fORM
sixth form
THE BRILLIANT CLUB
PRESENTATION YEAR 13
A group of 8 students from our sixth form were selected to go to Manchester
University and have a taste of university life.
The students were expected to sit in on a small lecture, taught by one of the PHD
students, and then had to write a small essay of 2,500 words on what they had
learnt. The students had a brilliant day and have described it as a success. Ayesha
Lala, one of the selected students, explained that “Being part of the brilliant
club allowed me to work in seminar-style groups and complete a short course
of undergraduate work. It gave me an opportunity to experience the style of
undergraduate work with help from a PHD tutor. It was an extremely beneficial
experience and I am glad I was able to pass my final assignment and attend
graduation day.”
Alex Daily, another one of the selected students said, “It was an eye opening
experience which gave me the insight into university life. It was a pleasure to be
involved.” Another student, Adele Hennessey, has described the day as amazing,
she said, “the Brilliant club allowed me to gain an insight into an academic piece
of extended writing using information from scientific studies.” We are very proud
of all the students that attended The Brilliant Club at Manchester University and
hope that more students will work hard, to gain experiences just like these, over the
next few years.
PJ DAY AT THORNLEIGH
SIXTH FORM
On Friday 13th November the Sixth Form Student Committee organised a Pyjama Day, its annual fundraising event, which has become
somewhat of an unspoken tradition within our Sixth Form. The money raised will be donated to children in Tanzania, and some of our
students will be presenting them with it on our bi-annual trip there. Both students and staff see the fundraising as a fun and different way to
get involved, all for a great cause. Alongside the students being in pyjamas and onesies, the Sixth Form Committee also organised a cake sale
throughout break and a fun quiz for the students to take part in. All in all, a good day was had by all and as a collective we raised £173.
TARGET LANCASTER
Year 12 students have had a fantastic opportunity to apply to the Target
Lancaster programme. The focus of this programme is to provide
additional support to year 12 students in making the right course choice,
preparing for the UCAS application and information on student finances.
There are 14 applicants in total. These students will benefit from expert
guidance with experienced mentors from Lancaster University and will
also be guaranteed an offer when they submit their UCAS application
next year.
There are similar programmes available at other top universities such as
the University of Manchester (Manchester Access Programme).
UCAS
Year 13 students have been busy all term completing their UCAS
applications. They have been finalising their choices and writing
their personal statements.
We have 9 students this year applying to Oxbridge and Medicine
which is a big increase in numbers from previous years.
THE SKILLS COMPANY
10th NOVEMBER YEAR 13
The skills company are one of the largest providers of apprenticeships in the UK and came in for a session about opportunities available after
sixth form. They explained the different levels of apprenticeships and what types of apprenticeships are available for school leavers.
12
Thornleigh Salesian College
STUDENT COMMITTEE
As a newly established Student Committee, this term we have looked to consolidate, making sure everything is set in place for the rest of the
year to run smoothly. This has involved an initial ‘Welcome Meeting’ at the start of the year, led by Mr Passarello, and two weekly Senior
Committee meetings where we have discussed any issues within the Sixth Form and ways in which we can resolve them.
A Year 12 sub-committee has also been formed to ensure Year 12 are represented – Lily Duignan and Ben Carradus have been appointed Year
Representatives and provide that Year 12 voice in all meetings that we have – something the whole Senior Committee feel is important.
Year 13 are also represented through both the Senior and a sub-committee also, ensuring all areas of the Sixth Form have a voice.
Since the start of the year, the Committee have also held events within the Common Room every Friday. These events have ranged from quizzes
to Bingo and have been well received by all.
Looking ahead, we hope that the Committee will continue to grow and develop. Next term we will look at fundraising and do our utmost to
support the Tanzania project of 2016. What must be stressed is that we are there for the students – so, if you have any issues, ideas or comments,
please do come and speak to us and let us know!
From Zach Pierce and Lydia Buchannan (Head Boy & Head Girl)
Senior Comittee
Head Students Girls:
Head Girl: Lydia Buchannan
Deputy: Harriet Mercer
Head Student Boys:
Head Boy: Zach Pierce
Deputy: Alex Daly
Pastoral Support
Adele Hennessey (Chair)
Rachel Almond (vice)
Ammaarrah Siddique (Tanzania Vice Chair)
Marketing
Head Boy and Head Girl (Chair)
Tresor Mbuyi (Vice)
Social Events/Common room
Romana D’ Attorre (Chair)
Sameera Mank (Vice)
BLACKPOOL
Thornleigh Sixth Form are always looking for ways to further enrich the lives of the young
people who attend the college.
This academic year we have started to host first aid training, literacy support and links to the
National Citizenship Qualification, excellent EPQ support and qualifications that can be
gained from MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses). More enrichment is planned for the
spring term but students especially wanted to highlight their ‘team-building’ visit to Blackpool
as part of the whole school Mission Week celebrations in October. Okay, let’s be honest, we
just wanted to have a day of fun to put into perspective the fact that we work hard every day.
Everyone had the pick of the rides at Blackpool Pleasure beach, the site was virtually empty.
Whether it was the site of Mr Gregson and Miss Leaf hurtling around the Big One or Miss
Derbyshire and Miss Ferraro rattling round the Grand National, both staff and students had a
ball. The highlights of the day included watching students getting drenched on Valhalla and
then choosing to risk flu rather than pay a pound for the person-sized drier. The real talking
point was when a group of students invited Mr Passarello to accompany them on the Passage of
Terror; a haunted house experience hosted by trained actors. Mr Passarello has never laughed
as much in his life and the students have spent the past few weeks trying to rebuild their ego’s!
Many new friends were made on this day; students were really positive about the day and are
looking forward to Don Bosco day activities in January.
Thornleigh Salesian College
13
latin
LATIN AND CLASSICS
TRIP TO NAPLES
On the 29th August AD, 79 Mount Vesuvius erupted with enormous force
and buried the ancient Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
During the October half-term break, a group of 46 students and 4 teachers
visited the Bay of Naples to explore the remains of these 2000 year old
settlements and climb the volcano that is still active to this day.
The group flew directly from Manchester at 7am on the Monday morning
to Naples airport before travelling into the centre of the city to eat pizza
in the heart of the place in which it was first made. After lunch the
group visited the world famous Naples Archaeological Museum which contains
almost everything from paintings and statues to even carbonised food that was found within the ruins of the Roman sites.
Following an afternoon exploring this vast museum, a coach then took everyone around the Bay of Naples to Sorrento and the hotel near the
town square and port that would be the base for the rest of the visit.
Another early start on the Tuesday, both staff and students crowded onto the Circum Vesuviano railway to travel to Pompeii. After a busy
morning, exploring the amphitheatre and viewing the casts and skeletal remains of the Roman inhabitants, lunch was spent sat in the forum
relaxing in the sun. The afternoon involved visiting various houses and Roman baths
as well as visiting the superbly preserved theatre where Thornleigh Sixth Form’s Head
Boy, Zach Pierce, took to the stage to perform Shakespeare and demonstrated the still
fantastic acoustics.
Wednesday began early again with a coach to the partially buried site of
Herculaneum which, like Pompeii, was once situated by the sea but now lies half a
mile inland as a result of the volcanic eruption. Unlike Pompeii, where the remains
of bodies have been found scattered around the site, Herculaneum’s inhabitants had
rushed to the beach as the sky darkened. Until the beginning of the 1980s, it was
believed the population of the town may have escaped the eruption, perhaps by sea.
However, the gruesome discovery of over 300 hundred bodies huddled together
in the boat sheds by the ancient shoreline soon disproved this theory. Instead the
inhabitants had been carbonised in an instant and killed by thermal shock as a
pyroclastic surge shot down the side of the volcano at over one hundred miles an hour and buried the town. The students were shown the
grisly sight of the skeletons clinging to one another and were able to compare these bodies
with the equally sad plaster casts seen the day before in Pompeii.
Wednesday afternoon in contrast was spent climbing Mount Vesuvius and viewing the
steaming crater as well as the spectacular view of the Bay of Naples. This same view was
seen again from the opposite side of the bay on Thursday, when everyone travelled by
ferry to the beautiful island of Capri. High above Capri town lays the remains of the
once spectacular Vila Jovis, the notorious pleasure palace of the second Roman emperor
Tiberius. Sadly much of the building has not survived to this day but the view from what
remains is still as impressive as ever and a beautiful break in the morning’s rain cleared to
provide an impressive vista of the whole coastline under a beautiful blue sky. The final full
day in Italy was then spent exploring Capri town and for some of the younger students,
playing on the beach whilst waiting for the ferry back to Sorrento.
The whole week in Italy was thoroughly enjoyed by all who took part and for some it was the last of three trips abroad to see the classical
remains of Greece and Rome with Thornleigh Salesian College. The next Latin trip will be to the border of Scotland and Hadrian’s Wall next
July for all current Year 10 GCSE and A-Level students.
latin
STRETCH AND CHALLENGE IN
LATIN: DOCENDO DISCIMUS
The study of Latin has been universally acknowledged for over two thousand years as both
academically challenging and rewarding.
The experience of studying Latin, in the words of Michael Gove’s favourite grammarian and literacy
advisor Neville Gwynne, provides ‘a training and development of the mind and character to a degree of
excellence that no other mental or physical activity can come anywhere near to bringing about.’
At Thornleigh Salesian College, Latin has been a part of the curriculum (itself the Latin word for ‘course’) since the foundation of the
school in 1925. Today, only the highest scoring students in English learn Latin, and gain an understanding of how languages work via one
extra lesson a week at Key Stage 3 and three lessons at GCSE (including an additional GCSE in Latin Literature). Naturally some students
respond more quickly to the rigours of linguistic studies than others and in classes that are filled naturally with MAP students, this progress
and thorough grasp of the subject is now being enhanced by following the advice of the Roman writer and teacher of the Roman emperor
Nero, Seneca the Younger. Seneca wrote in a letter of advice to Lucillius Junior nearly two thousand years ago that we learn by teaching
(docendo discimus) and in the spirit of Seneca’s advice, a number of Latin students from each year group aged 11-16 have been appointed as
subject ambassadors to assist and mentor their peers both in class and in lunchtime support sessions. By teaching other students our subject
ambassadors are themselves developing their own understanding of the Latin language, and developing a range of useful skills and increasing
in confidence.
Congratulations to the following students on their appointment this term:
Jonathan Wright, Liberty Costello, Rohan Patel, Rebecca Raper, Victoria Kerrigon
GEogoraphy
This term Geography students in the sixth form have
taken part in several visits.
In October Year 12 went to Rivington to study water
basins and the features of the upper part of a river.
Both Year 12 and 13 went to Ainsdale sand dunes to
practise fieldwork techniques and observe the formation
of sand dune systems. Both luckily in bright Autumn
sunshine. In wet and windy November, Year 13 visited
Manchester to look at the regeneration of Castlefield
and Deansgate and how Manchester City Centre had
developed after the IRA bomb and faced the challenge
of the Trafford Centre.
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Thornleigh Salesian College
Thornleigh Salesian College
15
ECONOMICS
art/graphics
COLLABORATION
COMPETITION TIME
On Tuesday 17th November 2015, a team of six economics students
entered the ICAEW Base National Business on an accounting
competition. The competition consisted of young adult’s ages 16 to 19
competing for a place in the national final. Our team from Thornleigh
Sixth Form consisted of Hannah Smith, Lucy Walker, Joe Jordan-Vause,
Josh Kerrigan, Rob Singlehurst and Joe Marshall, none of whom knew
what to expect from the day.
They were met with 7 other groups with whom they would be competing
with and were allocated a charted accountant who helped them out
with the technical aspects of the tasks throughout the day. The students
also received information from their helper about what it is like as an
accountant in the real world. One of the tasks the students were given
was to evaluate a business proposal for a film and present it to their board
of directors. Thornleigh Salesian College team performed exceptionally
well and despite a strong presentation unfortunately did not qualify to
the finals, however; overall, all the students had an enjoyable experience
and gained key skills that will aid them in their prospective futures.
literacy across the whole school
NATIONAL
POETRY DAY
Poetry Day was founded in 1994 by William Sieghart and has
engaged millions of people across the country, reading, writing and
listening to poetry.
From 1999 onwards, National Poetry Day has been loosely themed to
kick start ideas and inspiration. This year, the theme was ‘Light.’
National Poetry Day celebrated its 21st birthday on Thursday 8th
October 2015. So obviously, here at Thornleigh Salesian College, we
did not want to miss out on the party!
So what did we do? Our team of Literacy Leaders promoted the
competition in assemblies and form time, hoping to inspire as many
of our students to take part. We had so many interpretations of
‘Light’ and a plethora of poetry forms, from acrostics to limericks,
and rhymes to half rhymes – it was clear to see we have some creative
writers in the making!
Not only did we encourage poetry entries, but we hosted a Treasure
Hunt in the library during lunchtime, where students had to locate
the ten lines of poetry. Once they had been found, students had to
work together as a team to build the poem back together.
We had an excellent turn out – and the hunt was a success! The poem
was successfully sequenced correctly and everyone won a prize.
Thanks to everyone who helped to make National Poetry Day a
roaring success!
From the Literacy Leaders Team
16
THINK SMART AND
READ FOR PLEASURE!
Form time reading here at Thornleigh Salesian College is truly taking
off!
Every Monday, it is a delight to see a number of students lost in their
books, intently reading the words of a range of authors. From Young
Adult to Non-Fiction, the variation of books is endless! Some readers
are taking it to a whole new level by not only doing independent, silent
reading but also sharing passages of novels, generating debates and
analysing extracts! A number of pupils have successfully completed
their reading records and have subsequently received a number of smart
awards for their efforts!
Remember that you can always explore new books through the Main
School Library and with the new haul of requested books coming soon,
our library will be at its very best.
From Shaz Khan (Year 7 Literacy Leader)
Thornleigh Salesian College
Collaborative artwork produced mainly by Year 10 students for this
years’ mission week. The students wanted to represent the theme
of journeys and ‘finding your way’ using collage, string, straws and
paint to create the completed work. Students considered the different
directions we can all take on our
individual journeys.
This year we took part in
the national big draw event.
Designed to encourage staff
and students alike to embrace
drawing, to relax, enjoy and
create. The main school hall
was transformed into a gigantic
blank canvas, for everyone to
express their artistic flare.
FRAME IT
COMPETITION
This competition saw entries from across all year groups, tasked with
the challenge of filling a frame. Entries included sculpture, collage,
drawing, painting and 2D relief.
The winner Bryony Waring in Year 8 produced a 3D sculpture
representing the 4 seasons and the runner up Faye Heywood in Year
10 produced a beautiful painting and 2D relief work. Each receiving
art supplies as prizes to help them to continue to refine their passion
for the arts.
WWI PHOTOGRAPHY
PROJECT
The stunning photographs taken by photography students during
the WW1 photography project are currently framed, on display and
looking very professional.
The students have carefully considered; composition, lighting and
have empathetically captured the essence of the project, showing
respect and appreciation for all of those that gave their today for
our tomorrow.
COMING SOON…
Remembrance clay poppies:
Art club students have been invited to help us to create a tribute to the
major art installation Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red at the Tower
of London which marked one hundred years since the first full day of
Britain’s involvement in the first world war.
We are excited to reveal our completed work soon to be installed…
Thornleigh Salesian College
17
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
BOYS’ FOOTBALL
Football continues to prove hugely popular amongst students at
Thornleigh Salesian College with huge numbers regularly attending
practices and fixtures. We have played a significant number of fixtures
this year in a variety of competitions including the Bolton School
Merit League, Bolton Schools Cup, Greater Manchester County FA
Cup and the English Schools FA Cup.
We have experienced many positive results and have progressed well
in many of the cup competitions. Y8, Y9, Y10 & Y11 reached the
quarter-final stages of the Bolton Cup.
A huge thank you must go to Mr Birchby, Mr Russell, Mr Smith, Mr
Gregson and Mr Lewis who
all give up their time to
contribute towards ensuring
we have the maximum
amount of fixtures possible.
Well done on a positive
start to the season and keep
up the hard work.
Bolton Schools Merit League Results
Opponent
Y7
Y8
Y9
Smithills
W 4-2
W 10-0
St. James’s
D 5-5
W 3-1 W 3-2
Turton
L 2-1
L 2-0
D 4-4
Little Lever
W2-1
D 1-1
Mount St. Joseph
St. Catherine’s
W 9-2 W 6-3
Harper Green
L 6-1
Rivington & Blackrod
L 4-2
Kearsley Academy
Opponent
Rivington &
Blackrod
Mount St. Joseph
Turton
Cup Competitions
Year Group Competition
7
Bolton Cup
8
9
Kearsley Academy 10
Kearsley Academy 11
Bolton Cup
Bolton Cup
Bolton Cup
Bolton Cup
Y10
Y11
W 7-0
L 3-2
W 7-1
D 5-5
W 4-0
L 1-0
W 3-1
W 3-1
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
YEAR 10 FOOTBALL
The Y10 football team continue to make good progress in the U15
English Schools FA Cup and at the time of going to print have made
it to the last 64 teams in the country. A home tie against Saddleworth
School, Oldham, in Round 5 is the next fixture. The boys have
continued their success from last season when they won the Bolton
Schools Merit League, The Bolton Schools Cup and The Greater
Manchester FA Cup. We hope to update you on their success in our
Easter issue.
Round 2
Round 3
Round 4
Round 5
W 9-1
The badminton season began just after October half-term and the
side have made a positive start, after many promising performances
last year.
We were once again struck with the curse of injuries at the start of
the season but a large influx of KS3 students has bolstered the squad
and strengthened the challenge for places in the team.
W 3-1
NETBALL
W 4-1
We have had a very successful start to the netball season for all year
groups. Practices have been well attended and we have had some
pleasing match results against various teams from the borough.
Our Y7 team have been particularly impressive winning all of their
matches, often by a massive goal winning margin. Netball will
continue after February half term with 9 fixtures still to play. Each
year group has also got their tournament to look forward to.
TBC
Gymnastics has been well attended this year with nearly 50 gymnasts
training hard at extra-curricular practices. Students are preparing
for the Bolton Schools’ Gymnastics competition that will be held in
February 2016. In order to select the team for the championships
we are holding the inaugural Thornleigh Gymnastics Competition at
school on Monday 18th January… more details to follow.
Y9 Hockey Team
Badminton
W 4-3
GYMANSTICS
Many students are still relishing the challenge of stepping up into
the team and there are regularly over 30 students attending practices
every Wednesday after school and many more attending Monday
and Wednesday OOSHA sessions. After-school sessions have also
been strengthened this term by Mr Fairclough who is also a great
support at match fixtures, providing players with expert knowledge
and tactical awareness. We hope to produce lots of positive results as
the season progresses and look forward to reporting our successes at
Easter.
RUGBY
Result
L 4-2
Bolton Schools Netball Results
Opponent
Y7
Y8
Y9
St. James’s
W 20-0 W 10-0 W 17-13
Rivington &
W 18-1 L 25-2 W 25-8
Blackrod
Canon Slade
W 10-2 L 12-4 L 18-17
ESSA Academy
W 19-0 W 9-0 W 35-0
Bolton St.
W 34-1 W 14-1 W 24-10
Catherine’s
Y10
L 14-4
L 18-3
L 17-2
D 4-4
Y11
L 27-2
L 22-2
D 4-4
Rugby has started well this year with each year group competing in rugby fixtures every other Monday night.
These games have taken place at numerous venues against a variety of schools including St James, Ladybridge, Little Lever, Westhoughton and
St Joseph’s. The results have been mostly positive and the determination and resilience of the players continues to be excellent. The turnout has
also been excellent this year for training after school on a Thursday night with over 50 students attending the sessions to develop their skills.
Touch rugby also takes place every Thursday at lunchtime on the astro-turf which gives the players valuable passing experience.
Due to the recent dark nights all the fixtures have now been stopped until February when we will start again with our weekly fixtures to
conclude the season.
D 4-4 won
on penalties
W 9-1
W 3-0
U16 Basketball Team
18
Sacred Heart
Catholic College,
Sefton
St. Wilfrid’s
Academy, Blackburn
Blessed Trinity RC
College, Burnley
Saddleworth School,
Oldham
Y9 Rugby Team
U14 Basketball Team
Thornleigh Salesian College
Thornleigh Salesian College
19
the show
“NEVER WORK WITH
ANIMALS OR CHILDREN”
As the famous industry saying goes, you should “never work with animals or children!”
Well this year, we’ve thrown caution to the wind and decided to do both!
2015 has seen a return to the traditional Thornleigh Salesian College Show and a full
musical production of the classic stage version of ‘Annie’! The show starred a large cast
of young people and a real, live dog!
THE STORY:
THORNLEIGH
TALENT:
Whilst it goes without saying that everyone involved in the show
contributed to the overall success, there are one or two members of
the cast for which this is their last ever Thornleigh Salesian College
production.
A Special mention must be given to Zach Pierce, who has been
involved in every school show from the moment he arrived in Year
7. Now preparing for a university course in theatre, we are delighted
to have been part of his theatrical journey. He now passes the
proverbial baton to some of our younger students; stars of the show
like Annie – played by Kiera Thomasson in Year 7.
We wish all the year 13 students, for whom this is their last show,
every success for the future… and you never know, maybe one
day they too will return to direct a production here at Thornleigh
Salesian College.
Set in New York City in the 1930’s, the play follows the plight of
Annie; a fiery young orphan who must live in a miserable orphanage
run by the tyrannical Miss Hannigan.
Her seemingly hopeless situation changes dramatically when she
is selected to spend a short time at the residence of the wealthy
munitions industrialist, Oliver Warbucks. Quickly, she charms the
hearts of the household staff, and even the seemingly cold-hearted
Warbucks cannot help but learn to love this wonderful girl. He decides
to help Annie find her long lost parents by offering a reward if they
come to him and prove their identity. However, Miss Hannigan, her
evil brother, Rooster, and a female accomplice, plan to impersonate
those people to get the reward for themselves; putting Annie in great
danger!
Enriching the Lives of our Students:
In a bid to enhance the experience of our very talented cast, this year
we decided to employ a professional director. Students have been
thrilled to work alongside somebody from the industry who has been
able to give them a flavour of what a career in performance might
feel like. Beth Eccleshare has produced a number of amateur and
professional productions in and around Bolton and further afield, and
has really inspired our students to raise their game on stage. We are
proud that Beth is also a past student of Thornleigh Salesian College,
and it was wonderful to see her return to enthuse our current pupils.
BRINGING THE
SHOW TO LIFE:
Bringing a show to life is not an easy task, but the dedication and
commitment of the cast and the production team meant that creating
the show has been a wonderfully fulfilling experience. Here are some
“snaps” from rehearsals to give you a little back stage peak of all the
hard work that goes into producing a show in 10 weeks!
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Thornleigh Salesian College
OPEN EVENING
ENGLISH
The atmosphere was absolutely buzzing up on the English corridor for Open Evening in September. As
ever, the whole team was involved in a variety of interactive activities, including a collaborative story writing
activity, investigating your character and family background through the creation of individual coats of arms
and some truly exhilarating live (and interactive!) performances of poetry. A real highlight this year was
the room where you could create, write about and even dress up as your own alter ego. Using the text ‘The
Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ as inspiration, this proved to be a really popular destination and
there were some very creepy characters created.
YEAR 8
SCIENCE
OPEN EVENING SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
A great atmosphere in the science department on open evening saw
4 rooms open to our prospective Year 6 students and their parents.
It was a hugely popular event yet again with over 70 of our own
young people volunteering to help out on the evening, and it was the
contribution of these volunteers and the science department staff that
made it another great success.
Each room was packed full of activities with the aim to get the
prospective young people immersed in the wonders of science.
The chemistry room was full of bangs, pops and chemicals changing
colours whilst the physics room had Mr Leslie showing wave
dynamics using music played from an IPod through the Reuben’s
tube. A ‘shocking’ time was also had by all who had a go at creating
static electricity using the van der Graaf
generator.
The technology room was full most of the
evening with some of our Year 7 and 8
students presenting a 3-D show looking at
organs such as the eyes and the heart and
looking in detail at cells in animals and
On 14th October 2015 Thornleigh Sixth Form hosted their open
plants.
evening for prospective Year 12 students.
This is always an excellent opportunity for departments to show their The Year 6 students also had the chance to
vote for our Year 7 health and safety poster
curriculum plans, resources and to demonstrate practical areas of
competition.
courses.
What really promotes our college to anyone are the students who can
talk so passionately about the courses that they do and the skills they A hugely popular event of the evening took place in the biology room
with dissections of a rat bringing the crowds in (if they could stomach
demonstrate that have been developed through learning.
it!). Also taking place was dissections of eyeballs and the opportunity to
This year we had performances by the Dance team, the Music
use lots of the science equipment for a real hands - on experience.
department performed four pieces of instrumental and vocal
The evening was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
compositions and the Science team conducted an array of
experiments to engage all visitors. The RE department turned their
teaching room into a courtroom and hosted a session to show how
people use a variety of ethical theories to make moral decisions.
History recreated their own ‘speakeasy’ to highlight their topic on
1920’s America and the issue of prohibition.
This year our student committee helped to organise the event,
they welcomed parents and students and guided them around our
site. They also talked passionately about their involvement in the
leadership of the sixth form with their new Director, Mr Passarello.
They spoke to visitors about the charitable mission to Tanzania in
Summer 2016 to highlight the variety of enrichment opportunities
on offer at Thornleigh Sixth Form. Mr Passarello was eager to
explain to parents how the college has a great reputation for allowing
students to leave with higher graded level 3 qualifications than they
are expected to achieve compared to GCSE performance.
Everyone left with an official, environmentally-friendly Thornleigh
Sixth Form bag containing lots of important advice about post 16 options and some well deserved goodies. We look forward to
welcoming all 2016 leavers to our Year 12 Induction day on 30th
June 2016. Good luck in your exams.
Some of our Year 8 students took part in the Open Evening
biscuit making activity. They were very organised and worked as a
production line. The biscuits were extremely popular with the visiting
parents and children and there were not many biscuits left by the end
of the night. The students worked really hard during the evening and
were a credit to Thornleigh Salesian College.
SIXTH FORM
Thornleigh Salesian College
21
personal achievements
STUDENT COUNCIL
A DAY WITH THE MAYOR
My mum actually came home with an application for this opportunity and was questioning
whether I would like to do it. In the end I thought it would be better to sign up and not
win than not sign up at all so I filled in an application to be sent off. When I found out I
had won I was quite shocked. I didn’t think I would win and when I got the call off Ciara,
I was in a slight state of confusion. I enjoyed doing everything and Madam Mayor herself
was very welcoming. She told us a lot about what happens within the town hall as well
as the charities she supports. The trip to Greenhalghs bakery was really interesting and
I didn’t know how big the company actually was. When I found out that I was going to
shadow the Mayor I was looking forward to seeing what her day was like on a daily basis.
She is busy all the time.
When we first met the Mayor, she told us about Citizenship Ceremonies as that’s what
we were going to do that morning. We walked over to the Library and watched people
from all over the world get UK Citizenship given by the Madam Mayor and Mrs Diane
Hawkins who is the deputy lieutenant for Greater Manchester. You could see that
everyone getting their certificate was really happy after going through the process which
can take months.
Bolton FM wanted to interview us so, the Mayor, Ketan and myself headed on to the
town hall where we stepped inside the station. We got asked a few questions live on the
radio and it was also filmed.
After that, we had lunch with Madam Mayor, we talked about how she became the Mayor, about what it’s like to be a councillor among
other topics. It was really insightful to hear about all the other towns mayors compared to ours. Just before lunch we met Cliff Morris who is
the leader of the council.
Finally, we went on a trip to Greenhalghs bakery where David Smart, the owner of the company, told us about how his products are made
and took us on a tour of the bakery. We watched sausage rolls being made, cake being cut sonically and we even stood in a deep freeze.
It was such a good opportunity and I would like to thank Bolton Youth Council for setting this up.
Written by Olivia Prince
BRITISH VALUES
BRITISH VALUES
Thornleigh Sixth Form has been promoting the idea of British Values throughout college,
of which there are 5 core principles.
We have had a push on British Values and what it means to be British. These 5 principles
are Democracy, The rule of law, Individual Liberty, Mutual Respect and Tolerance.
Students have chosen to listen to some classic British music to understand the roots of
British Values but all students have attended an assembly to outline the principles and
how they are shown in college. In every assembly the 5 principles are highlighted within
the weekly agenda.
importance
of hard
work
Values
22
Tolerance
Control
Democracy
Tolerance Of Others
STUDENT COUNCIL SO FAR
The School Council has been very busy since the start of this term!
In September we delivered our first round of assemblies to Years 7 to
11. We focused on three different themes, a new start, being the best
you can be and also caring for our environment.
This was quickly followed by preparations for the “Make Your Mark
Campaign”.
We worked closely with Bolton Youth Council to make our students
aware of social and political issues that have an impact on the lives
of young people, for example, Transport, Mental Health, Racial
Discrimination, A Living wage, A Curriculum for life, Ending
childhood poverty, Votes at 16.
During this month volunteers have met to plan a way forward for
the School Radio. We are hoping to train up a number of students
from different Year groups to deliver music and news to the school
population at various times during the week.
In October, representatives from Year 10 were invited to spend the
weekend at Savio House in Bollington. The aim of the weekend was
to meet up with other Salesian schools from around the country, to
spend time reflecting on themes such as trust, communication and
friendship. We arrived after school on the Friday evening, a little shy
and apprehensive. By Sunday firm friendships had been established
and everyone had been challenged at various times over the 2 days
to go beyond their “comfort zone” There will be a follow-up event in
February.
On October 21, thirty School Council representatives from Years 7
and 8 participated in an “Anti-Discrimination” event at the Macron
stadium. They took part in workshops which challenged stereotypes
and promoted lively discussions. They were also treated to tours of the
stadium. The day ended with a question and answer session with some
of the stars from football-past and present. It was an opportunity to
take photos and to reflect on the issues that had been raised during the
day.
On October 22 we organised and took part in the first Northern
Salesian Schools Student Council Conference here at Thornleigh
Salesian College. Representatives from Savio College and St John
Bosco Arts College in Liverpool spent the day with representatives
from our School Council, discussing our “journey so far”. It was a very
productive and creative day which we hope will be repeated in the
future.
In November representatives from all Year groups met with Mellors
- School Caterers - to give feedback on what we liked and what
we disliked about menus that were available during the day in the
canteen. We know that some issues concerning fried food, salt content
and sugar are determined by Government Legislation. Consequently,
as popular as the breaded chicken might be, it cannot be served every
day! The students enjoyed sampling the rice boxes, sandwiches and
pizzas. They asked for a greater variety of sandwiches for the grab bags,
different sizes of pasta pots, less butter on the barm cakes and for hot
chocolate to be available throughout the day.
November 16-20 was National Anti-Bullying week. The School
Council prepared and delivered assemblies to all Year groups. This
was an opportunity to remind everyone about the possible dangers of
the internet and to give some advice on the use of Social Media. This
week also saw the launch of our “Smiley Faces” initiative to support
any student who may be in need of a friend to talk to. The Year 11
students, identified by their “smiley faces” badges will be in the library
every lunch time.
December
Over the last year we have formed a link with a school in Poland. We
hope to develop this still further by facilitating letter writing - in the
form of penfriends - between our two schools.
Before we finish for the Christmas holidays the School Council will be
organising our last event for 2015. On the last day of term all students
are being encouraged to make a donation to go to local charities. In
return they will come to school in a Christmas inspired outfit. No
doubt there will be lots of sparkle and tinsel on show!
Last March we applied for a donation of trees for planting around
school. The ECO group have already tidied up the planters and
bedding areas around the entrance, but last week we created a new
wooded area - or at least it will be when the saplings grow near to the
Bosco Centre. Thank you to the Woodland Trust who supplied the
trees.
The School Survey on Extra-Curricular activities took place in
November. Over 700 students completed a survey about the activities
which they are involved in outside of school. Over 300 students
are involved in some kind of sport, ranging from football to baton
swirling.
Aspiration
ResponsibilityCompassion
RULEOFLAW
Mutual Respect
Education humility
Unity
Thornleigh Salesian College
Thornleigh Salesian College
23
tanzania
ONCE IN A LIFE TIME EXPERIENCE
In summer 2016 a group of 14 students from our sixth form will be heading out to Tanzania to do Charity work in the town of Moshi.
The trip will be led by Mrs Burrowes with support from Mr Fairly, Mr Burrowes, Miss Brown and Fr Bob Gardner. Each of the students who
will be going on the trip took part in an interview process where they had to provide a five minute speech on a particular heading. All the
interviews were held in Thornleigh house by Fr Bob Gardner who selected the 14 students once all interviews had taken place. Students will
have the fantastic opportunity to help out in the hospitals and Primary schools. Whilst there students will have a great opportunity to teach
the young children and also see what it is like in the hospitals, with no NHS. This trip will be a life changing experience for all who are going.
The students will be working together to try and fundraise as much as they can before the trip to help lower costs and to also provide resources
to take over to the schools and hospitals that they will be visiting. The students have begun fundraising and some of them have even started to
plan events both in and outside of school. Look out for any of our upcoming fundraisers such as the Elvis night, Fr Ashton’s school disco and
also a music night for Tanzania, which is being produced and performed by students of our sixth form. Please feel free to come along.
CHRISTMAS QUIZ
GENERAL:
1.Name the original eight reindeer from the ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ poem?
2.What Christmas item was invented by London baker and wedding-cake specialist Tom Smith in 1847?
3.What is Father Christmas otherwise known as?
4.What is said to be lucky to find in a Christmas pudding?
MUSIC:
MOVIES:
5.According to the song `The Twelve Days of Christmas`,
how many ladies danced?
6.Where was Mommy kissing Santa Claus?
7.Fairy-tale of New York is sung by The Pogues and
who else?
8.Which act besides the Spice Girls is the only other act to
have three consecutive Christmas number one singles?
9.The character Jack Skellington appears in which
1993 Tim Burton film?
10.In which fictional land is it always winter but never
Christmas?
11.What character does Kermit the frog play?
12.Vince Vaughn played Santa’s older brother in which
2007 film?
BONUS:
Finish the lyric:
13. Oh the weather outside is frightful...
14. You better watch out, you better not cry...
15. So here it is Merry Christmas, Everybody’s having fun…
16. Been an awful good girl, Santa baby…
Match the movie quote to the Christmas film:
17. Merry Christmas ya filthy animal
18. Every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings
19. The best way to spread Christmas Cheer, is singing loud for all to hear
ANSWERS:
1.) Comet, Cupid, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Donner, Blitzen. 2.) Christmas Cracker.
3.) St. Nicholas. 4.) Silver Coin. 5.) Nine. 6.) Under The Mistletoe. 7.) Kirsty MacColl.
8.) Beatles. 9.) The Nightmare before Christmas. 10.) Narnia. 11.) Bob Cratchit.
12.) Fred Claus. 13.) But the fire is so delightful. 14.) You Better not pout, I’m telling you why.
15.) Look to the future now, It’s only just begun. 16.) So hurry down the chimney tonight.
17.) Home Alone. 18. )It’s a Wonderful Life. 19.) Elf.
24
Thornleigh Salesian College
Thornleigh Salesian College
25
Year Teams
Safeguarding
Team Who do I contact?
Care, Guidance and Support
Chris Bingley
Sam Dootson
Deborah Moss
Jennifer Yate
Lead Learning Mentor
Student Progress Co-ordinator
Student Progress Manager
Student Progress Co-ordinator
Year 7
Year 8
Mrs Ferguson
Mr Hockenhull
Assistant Headteacher
Director - CGS
Mrs Grundy
Fearghal Smith
Assistant Headteacher
Attendance
Student Progress Co-ordinator
Charlotte Taylor
Rebecca Denoual
Student Progress Manager
Student Progress Co-ordinator
Year 9
Miss Smith
Mrs Morris
Senior Clerical Assistant – CGS
Attendance Officer
Ms Leigh-Grosart
Counsellor
Ric Owen
Philip Kelly
Lead Learning Mentor
Navid Khan
Year 10
Student Progress Co-ordinator
Mrs Blackburn
Mr Fairley
Gary Whiting
Principal First Aider
School Chaplain
Lead Learning Mentor
Student Progress Co-ordinator
Joanne O’Grady
Student Progress Co-ordinator
& Nurture
Tonino Passarello
Director of Sixth Form
Samantha Leaf
Student Progress Co-ordinator
- Post 16
Year 11
?
Need help
Sixth Form
Ta l k t o u s !
26
Thornleigh Salesian College
Ged Gleeson
Deputy Director of Sixth Form
Thornleigh Salesian College
27
Dates to Remember 2015 - 2016
twitter
Christmas holidays Friday 18 December 2015
Spring Term 2016
Inset Day (students not in school)
Monday 4 January 2016
Term begins
Tuesday 5 January 2016
Half term holiday Monday 15 February – Friday 19 February 2016
Return to school
Monday 22 February 2016
Last day of term
Friday 18 March 2016
Easter holidays
Monday 21 March – Friday 1 April 2016
Bank holiday / Good Friday
Friday 25 March 2016
Bank holiday / Easter Monday
Monday 28 March 2016
Just a reminder that a number of our departments have
Twitter accounts. You will be able to keep up to date with
what’s going on in the classroom and the latest subject news
and information by following us on Twitter.
Thornleigh Salesian College
Thornleigh Sixth Form
@thornleigh
@tsf_sixthform
Chaplaincy@tsc_chaplaincy
PE and Dance
@tsc_pedance
Summer Term 2016
History@tsc_history
Term begins
Bank Holiday
Bank Holiday
Half term holiday
Last day of term
Summer holidays
MFL and Latin
Monday 4 April 2016
Monday 2 May 2016
Monday 30 May 2016
Monday 30 May – Friday 3 June 2016
Friday 22 July 2016
Monday 25 July – Monday 5 September 2016
@tsc_mfl_dep
Music@tsc_musicdep
Graphics@tscgraphics
Physiology and Sociology
@tsc_psysoc
Term Dates and Holidays 2016-2017
First day of term
Tuesday 6 September 2016
The 2015 Christmas newsletter is brought to you by the Year 12 BTEC Creative Media
Production team: Cara Leadbeater, Joe Murphy, Jake Royston and Lucy Summerton. Working
to a live brief, they have liaised with teaching staff to gather the information needed to create
the newsletter and have used industry-standard programmes to design and construct it for your
pleasure. Cara, Joe, Jake and Lucy would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a
happy new year.
Christmas Newsletter
Sharples Park, Bolton, BL1 6PQ Tel: 01204 301 351
thornleigh.bolton.sch.uk