Weekly Newsletter – 17th June 2016

17th June 2016
Issue No 108
Weekly Newsletter from the Headmaster
www.shebbearcollege.co.uk
Many pupils visited and helped out on our stand at Royal Cornwall Show
Dear Parents,
In the ground rush towards the end of term there are so many
events happening at school that it is hard to do them justice. The
best (and also saddest) event last week was the Leavers’ Service
held in Lake Chapel where we said farewell to our Upper Sixth
and Fifth Form leavers. We also, of course, said goodbye to many
parents who have been associated with the school for a long
period of time and entrusted their children to us. Mrs Purdew gave
a thoughtful and poignant address and a convivial evening was
enjoyed by all in our new Sixth Form Centre.
I was at the Royal Cornwall Show last week where it was good to
hear that Shebbear parent Farmer Luxton had won an award for
his Aberdeen Angus bull. I also visited the ‘Farm for City Children’
in Iddesleigh that was founded by Michael Morpurgo. As a true
London boy this was probably more useful for me as I learned
where milk and eggs come from. This a very important charity that
the pupils have supported over the years and it is good to see it
going strong. Incidentally our agricultural show display includes
Mrs Wahl’s amazing new community art project - please go along
to one of the forthcoming shows to enjoy this.
The ‘Circle of Life’ theme continued with the announcement of
the new prefect posts for the next academic year. The selection
process was always going to be extremely difficult given the high
calibre of persons in our Lower Sixth. However I had to make a
decision (where have I heard that one before?) and I am delighted
to announce that Lucy Taylor will be the Head Girl and Harry
Dymond will be the Head Boy. The Deputy Head prefects will be
Anna Bennett, Nadia Blaskiewicz, Patrick Marks and Will Cox - a
brilliant team!
Next week is Activities Week for the Senior School and the fantastic
annual production from the Prep School of ‘The Pirates of the Curry
Bean’. I hope the latter ‘break a leg’ and the former don’t.
Simon Weale
17th June 2016
Issue No 108
Weekly Newsletter from the Headmaster
www.shebbearcollege.co.uk
News from the Prep School
Meanwhile, our Prep 2 class grabbed their buckets, spades and
other rock-pooling paraphernalia and spent a wonderful day on
the beach at Westward Ho! whilst our sporty U9s headed off once
again for another fixture, this time at Kingsley School. There was
also time for some of our budding footballers to play matches in
the local evening league at Halwill, guided by the expert coaching
of Mr Willetts.
What a contrast in the weather we have had over the past two
weeks; a week of glorious summer sunshine followed by a week
of heavy showers driving us all back indoors. However, for the
Prep School the timing of this change in the weather was rather
fortuitous.
Last week, while the sun shone, our Year 6 were out on their
bikes completing four days of cycling proficiency, our Year 3 and
4 classes headed to Rosemoor to explore the wonderful gardens
there, our U9 sports teams were in action at West Buckland School
and the Kindergarten were down on the beach - the perfect place
to enjoy the sun.
But there is no escaping the fact that all of this extra activity is
taking second stage to the main event of the moment which is our
nautical adventure ‘Pirates of the Curry Bean’. Rehearsals are
going well and as yet our resident ‘lovey’ Mrs Jones still seems
quite calm. It is wonderful to see the children enjoying themselves
so much up on the stage and I urge you to book your tickets if you
haven’t already done so, as you are in for a real treat.
Before signing off for another week I would just like to say
congratulations to Emily Forwood in Year 6 who took a day off
from rehearsals to compete in, and win, the Great Torrington
Aquathon. This was the fourth occasion in which Emily has taken
part in the event and as a result she now has a collection of three
gold medals and one silver. A true champion!
Mike Furber
Next Week in the Prep School:
Wednesday 22nd June
Thursday 23rd June Friday 24th June When the weather turned against us however, it mattered not, as
attention turned to this year’s Prep School drama production and
pupils headed to the Memorial Hall to focus on parrots, planks,
palm trees and pirates.
Sandwiched in between was a significant moment in the lives of
our Prep 6 pupils as they spent an enjoyable induction day, under
the care of the lovely Mrs Lovett, finding out about life in the ‘big
smoke’ of the Senior School, ready for September.
Production dress rehearsal
‘Pirates of the Curry Bean’ 6.30pm
‘Pirates of the Curry Bean’ 4.30pm
Whole School Photo - ORDER NOW!
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17th June 2016
Issue No 108
Weekly Newsletter from the Headmaster
www.shebbearcollege.co.uk
Devon Athletics Championships
Following the North Devon Schools Athletics Championships at
Northam, congratulations go to the following pupils who qualified
to represent North Devon Schools at the Devon Championships at
Exeter Arena.
Eevee Banbury - 3000m and 1500m Steeplechase
Elisa Banbury - 1500m
Amy Taylor - 800m
Jessica Biggs - High Jump
Stuart Williams - 800m
William Cowan-Dickie - Triple Jump
Will Cunningham - Shot Put
Arron Steel
Lower School Chamber Concert 2016
Bideford Town Band Contest
There were 88 entries for Bideford Town Band’s 26th annual
solo and quartet contest held last Saturday at Kingsley School in
Bideford. With entrants coming from all over the South West and
Wales, Shebbear College was well represented with 4 players
performing solos, duets and a quartet, under the guidance of Mr
Adrian Edwards, the college brass music teacher.
Harrison, Samuel, Archie and Jessica all played solos in their
relevant age groups, with Samuel being awarded 4th prize in his
class of 16 players, just being beaten from 3rd place by half a point.
The best result of the day came in
the Junior quartet class when Archie,
Samuel and Jessica were joined by
Alex Cole from Hatherleigh School to
play ‘The Pirates of Penzance’. After
much deliberation from the adjudicator
they were awarded 2nd place, just
behind a quartet from Upper Rhondda!
Samuel, on trombone, was awarded a
special award for the best player in the
quartet class and carried off a great
shield as his prize. Well done all!
Senior Sports Awards Dinner
Shortly before half term we celebrated pupils’ sporting achievements
at our annual Senior Sports Dinner, hosted by the Union Inn at Stibb
Cross. The evening began with a three course meal and finished
with a brief presentation of prizes, along with match reports from
captains of each sport. Thanks go to Mr Law for his hard work in
organising the event. The winners of prizes were:
Most Valuable Player - Girls’ Hockey - Lucy Taylor
Most Valuable Player - Netball - Ruari Mills
Most Valuable Player - Cricket - Jabez Weale
Most Valuable Player - Football - Harry Dymond
Most Valuable Player - Boys’ Hockey - William Murch-Seage
Most Valuable Player - Rugby - Max Warren
Overall Sporting Contribution - Girls - Eloise Maxa
Overall Sporting Contribution - Boys - Harry Dymond
Congratulations to all our players on their efforts this season.
Arron Steel
It was a warm balmy June evening overlooking Tower Field and
those of us that attended the Lower School Chamber Concert were
in for a treat.
Along with a cream tea, made the traditional Cornish way, the pupils
of the lower school, enthusiastically supported by their specialist
music teachers, entertained us with spell-binding performances.
The young ensembles demonstrated their ability to perform as
a group with the Saxomania quartet setting the mood ‘A Groovy
Kinda Love’; the Clarinet Ensemble performing a challenging Mozart
Divertimento with confidence and flair and the Brass ensemble
playing a Medley of Gilbert and Sullivan tunes in preparation for their
competition this weekend at Kingsley School.
Year 6 pupils Eliza Stenning, Lillie Sealey and Aleyna Singleton
from the Prep School gave us glimpses of things to come with some
delicately performed pieces on the new Steinway piano and Adam
Pennington wowed the audience with his confident saxophone solos.
The brass players Harrison Mitchell, Archie Boycott, Sam Odlin and
Jessica Alexander, whose pieces required a mature understanding
of the musical phrase and the ability to sustain the melodic line, all
played their pieces with confidence and poise.
The pianists Bridget Astley-Taylor, Samuel Odlin, Timothy Parker,
Oliver Temple and Ellerker Singleton had their first opportunities
to perform on the Steinway grand and it was clear that their
performances where enhanced by the superior instrument from
the use of dynamics to the sonority produced. The performers all
commented on the ease of playing and can’t wait for the chance to
play more frequently on the new pianos.
The young violinists Bess Scambler Sophie Temple Laura Priest
continue to impress; their ability to produce strong, powerful sounds
on such challenging instruments is to be admired and the lyrical
nature of the pieces was clearly evident. First former Timothy Parkers
musically challenging Schubert Sonatina was executed with finesse
and Simon Cornish’s moving performance of Bartok’s iconic piece
‘An Evening in the Village’ was a most appropriate finale to what was
an excellent evening.
All performers are to be congratulated: there is much to look forward
to and our new music centre can only serve to unlock the potential
that was demonstrated this evening.
Kevin Parker
17th June 2016
Issue No 108
Weekly Newsletter from the Headmaster
www.shebbearcollege.co.uk
Our second trip was a little more energetic as the day was spent
on Summerleaze Beach in Bude. Joined by Rebecca and James,
our ever patient gap students, everyone had a wonderful day
building boats and sandcastles and dipping our toes in the sea.
After lunch we hunted for crabs in the rock pools and played frisby
on the sand. The day went by so quickly and amazingly no one
fell asleep on the way back to school!
International Summer School
Once again we are delighted to welcome to Shebbear a number of
students from all over Europe who have joined us for the second
half of this term, both to improve their English and experience the
culture of a different country.
Last week they visited Morwellham Quay and were joined by our
overseas cricketers, so there were students from Italy, France,
Spain, Latvia, the Czech Republic, Barbados and South Africa
experiencing various aspects of life in Victorian England.
They learned about child labour, rope making and life at a Victorian
school, as well as travelling down the old copper mine and taking
the opportunity to try on some Victorian clothes.
Andy Bryan
The children are already looking forward to their next outing
which is to the Big Sheep, as are their parents as they will be
accompanying them, which means there will be no more trips
on the minibus this year. Ruth has always taken us on our trips,
looked after us and helped in many ways. Thank you Ruth, I don’t
know what we’d have done without you.
Jacqueline Biddlecombe
EU Referendum Debate
As June 23rd approaches, Forms Four and Three got in on the
EU referendum debate. Both year groups met in the Assembly
Hall to try to get their heads around some of the complexities of
the debate that is confusing their parents! Approximately 80 pupils
votes at the start of the session, which resulted in a significant
‘Remain’ victory.
Following the initial vote the pupils looked at a number of key
issues, including terrorism and security, sovereignty, and the
immigration debate. After each of the topics was reviewed,
courtesy of online film clips from BBC Newsbeat, the pupils voted
again. The popular vote swayed and moved after each topic,
illustrating the complexity of the issues, and of the overall subject.
We considered fact and opinion, and the use of data by either side.
Lastly, Forms Three and Four voted again, having considered
carefully all of the above topics. I am unable to report the vote at
Shebbear College, in case it sways the actual voters reading this
article! Just have a chat with your son or daughter, and hear what
they think. It is their future after all!
Many thanks to Mr Wolverson and the staff who helped create a
very productive session.
Miles Rogers
Ruby Run and
Bude Lifeboat Run
Happy Days Full of Fun!
Travelling in the College minibus has to be one of the highlights
of our days out for the children in the Kindergarten. Recently
they have been on two trips, having two completely different
experiences.
The Queen’s Theatre in Barnstaple was our first destination
where they sat enthralled watching a performance of one of the
favourite stories, Stick Man by Julia Donaldson and Axel Sheffler.
They often choose to listen to this particular story during lunch,
but seeing it come to life added a new dimension to it. They were
a joy to see as they sang and clapped along, a truly magical
morning.
Shebbear
College
runners
have
been busy of late! Shebbear was well
represented in the recent Holsworthy to
Hatherleigh half marathon known as the
Ruby Run. Ryan (left) entered the main
race and finished in a time of 2 hours
and 8 minutes. In the relay race, Ella
Hughes took part in a cadets team and
Shebbear pupils made up most of the
Lamisell Beams team. Stuart Williams,
Jack Joslin, Patrick Faulkner, Will Blee,
Alessandro Aliberti along with a friend made up this team who
came 1st in a excellent time of 1 hour 18 minutes. Considering the
relay event was open to adults this was a fantastic achievement.
17th June 2016
Issue No 108
Weekly Newsletter from the Headmaster
www.shebbearcollege.co.uk
Will Blee was also busy on Wednesday evening competing in the
‘Bude Lifeboat Run’. Will set off at a great pace and eventually
came 2nd in the U15 race. Eevee Banbury competed in the 10km
adult race. Eevee showed her superior running skills by winning
the 15-34 womens age category and coming 2nd in the overall
womens race. Well done Will and Eevee, what a talented pair
you are!
Claire Cardoo
Charity Cake Sale - Wednesday 29th June
We will be holding the last cake sale of the academic year on
Wednesday 29th June. Please send in lots of delicious cakes and
biscuits on the morning of this day to be sold during tutor and break
time. All proceeds will be donated to charity so please help us to
make this the best ‘Cake Wednesday’ of the year!
Claire Cardoo
Uganda Trip 2017
If you have already expressed an interest in this trip, please note
that the deadline for deposits has been extended to the end of next
week - Friday 31st June. We realise it is a big commitment but we do
need you to sign up soon so we can confirm with Amigos and book
the cheapest flights. If you have any questions or concerns about
the trip please do come and see or email Mrs Aliberti or Mrs Lovett.
Bidding Starts Now!
The Friends of Shebbear College and OSA invite you to place your
early bids for the following:
Long weekend/mid-week break for 4 in ski apartment in
the popular resort of Morzine (France)
Cocktail workshop for 4 (includes 3 free cocktails each
at the Beach Hotel in Bude)
One whole lamb
A large Shebbear 175 decorated rich fruitcake
from Ladybird Cakes
Golf for 4 at the wonderful Championship Stoke Park Golf
course in Buckinghamshire
An orignal framed painting by Mark Charman - ‘Lake Scene’
acrylic on canvas
2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast for 2 people, including
a bottle of Champagne on arrival at the Beach Hotel in Bude
North Devon Show, Umberleigh
A round of golf for 4 at North Devon Golf Club
Countryman’s Fair, Werrington, nr Launceston
1 week self catering apartment holiday in Woolacoombe
7th August
2 tickets to see Tom Jones on 26th June at Eden Project
Okehampton Show
Round of golf for 4 at Holsworthy Golf Club
Final bids will be taken on the night of 175th anniversary Midsummer
Ball on 25th June. We welcome all early bird bids. You don’t need
to be a ticket holder to participate. Closing date for early bids is
10.00pm on 24th June. If you see a lot that takes your fancy, please
send your bids to [email protected]
Summer Shows
Thank you to all parents, pupils and Old Shebbearians who visited
us at Royal Cornwall Show last week. Please come and see us at
one of the following shows if you are able to, and bring the sunshine
with you!
Woolsery Show, Clovelly
25th July
Launceston Show
28th July
3rd August
11th August
Chagford Show
18th August
Holsworthy Show
25th August
17th June 2016
Issue No 108
Weekly Newsletter from the Headmaster
www.shebbearcollege.co.uk
A Plea from Finance - Library Books
to finish with three wickets of his own. At the end of their 15 overs All
Hallows posted 85 runs for Shebbear to chase.
Changes to Fee Insurances
Opening pair Freddie and Cameron started positively and kept the
scoreboard ticking over before Cameron’s dismissal gave the tourists
their first breakthrough. Freddie Stevenson produced a fantastic
batting performance, but as the run rate increased his wicket fell in
the final over. Jacob Luxton and Oliver Hawkins tried in vain to knock
off the final few runs, but unfortunately Shebbear fell five runs short
in the end of what was an excellent game of cricket.
Nick Law
Please ensure all Library books are returned before the end of term.
An email has been sent to all parents advising of the important
changes to these schemes. If you haven’t received this email please
check your spam and if you still cannot find it please email
[email protected] and another copy will be sent.
What’s On:
Saturday 18th June
Boarders’ Summer Extravaganza
County Cricket
Sunday 19th June
Congratulations to Sophie Gillies who has been selected for the
County cricket team to face Gloucestershire on the 29th June.
Monday 20th - Friday 24th - ACTIVITIES WEEK
Rounders
F2 Activities Week Trip to France departs
Friday 24th June
North Devon Surfing Championship
F2 Activities Trip returns
Saturday 25th June
175th Anniversary Midsummer Ball
Sunday 26th June
5th Form Prom, Westward Ho!
Please note: Our Senior School Sports Day will be held on Tuesday
28th June.
Cricket
The U15s bowed out of the Devon Cup in their semi final match
against a strong King’s Ottery team last week. After losing the toss,
the boys bowled well and were supported by some outstanding
catches in the deep by Rivaldo Clarke and Ali Aktar.
Ali also returned the best figures of 5-19, but received great support
from James Edge 2-21, Jed Foster 1-22 and Rivaldo 1-13.
The visitors’ final total of 122 all out was definitely one that could
have been chased down, but the innings needed a solid foundation.
Unfortunately, three wickets fell in the opening four overs and despite
some stubborn resistance from Ali Aktar (15) and an aggressive
knock from top scorer Stuart Williams (23), the innings never really
threatened to gain the necessary momentum and the final total of 73
all out was well short of the victory target.
However, the team should be congratulated on making it to the semi
final stage of a competition involving 23 schools from all over Devon.
Andy Bryan
Under 13s v All Hallows
On Tuesday, Shebbear U13s took on touring side All Hallows in their
second game of the day. Shebbear bowled first on Beckly Field with
Harrison Mitchell taking a good early catch to take the first wicket
of the innings. A series of dropped catches allowed All Hallows
batsmen to build a score until a change of bowling saw Cameron
Young bowl some excellent leg spin, claiming two wickets and
Freddie Stevenson finished off the innings with some quick bowling
U14 Rounders v Budehaven 15.5-11.5
U14 Rounders v Okehampton A 7-2
U14 Rounders v Okehampton B 7-3
The U14 Rounders team has had some superb victories in the
last couple of weeks in matches against both Okehampton and
Budehaven.
As a team they have shown excellent fielding skills to limit the
oppositions chance of scoring. There have been some superb
displays of skill, accuracy and decision-making when fielding. As
well as their strong fielding skills the girls are very talented batters,
scoring lots of rounders in all the matches, making them very strong
competition for our opposing teams.
Well done to Sophie Gillies and Maddie Traxton who were awarded
player of the match in these fixtures.
Kate Gunning
17th June 2016
Issue No 108
Weekly Newsletter from the Headmaster
Picture this ... Upper Sixth and Fifth Form Leavers Service
www.shebbearcollege.co.uk
17th June 2016
Issue No 108
Weekly Newsletter from the Headmaster
www.shebbearcollege.co.uk
Picture this ... Summer School and Royal Cornwall Show
Shebbear College, Shebbear, Beaworthy, Devon EX21 5HJ Telephone: 01409 282001
www.shebbearcollege.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
SHEBBEAR COLLEGE
PREP SCHOOL
Thursday 23rd June at 6.30pm
& Friday 24th June at 4.30pm
Tickets - £4.00
To reserve your seats contact Mrs Goode
[email protected] or call 01409 282009