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TodayCABARET‘A Roaring Success’ Report and pictures
Spring 2013No. 2
A Showcase of Students Artwork
The Alumni Magazine
Past Students report on life after AGS
Old Boys Rugby past team photos
June 2013
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The next edition of
will be available in December 2013
to ensure that you receive a copy please register your details at
www.alcestergs.co.uk
click on AGS Alumni/Update Your Contact Detailsor alternatively email [email protected]
Today
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Welcome
EDITOR: Wendy Cox
SUB EDITOR: Denise Chapman
ALUMNI ENQUIRIES:Wendy Cox
Alcester Grammar School
Birmingham Road
AlcesterB49 5ED
Tel: 01789 [email protected]
AGS TODAY is also available to view on the school website:
www.alcestergs.co.uk
The new
mural by Holly Clifford
Dear Alumni,
I am pleased to report that the our plans for our new £2.3m classroom
block have been passed and the
construction will commence next month. In addition we will be
building a new all-weather pitch to the rear of the Sports Hall as well as
beginning an extensive programme
of re-modelling buildings across the site. In view of our planned
expansion ( the first 4 form entry arrive in Year 7 this September ) we
are extending and developing study
facilities, ICT resources, catering areas and recreational space as well
as re-suiting some subjects, creating an 11-16 pastoral hub and enlarging
the Sixth Form Studio space.
Suffice to say we will be busy over the next 18 months improving the
school and making some very exciting and attractive changes.
Now where did I put my hard hat?
We began the term with the sad news that Mrs Crisp is being
treated for breast cancer and is on
sick leave. I know that you will want to join me and the whole
school community in wishing her a full and speedy recovery. Happier
news came at Easter when Mrs
Turner gave birth to her second son, Noah, and we all congratulate the
Turner family on their new arrival. Mrs Lis Coates who has worked in
the AGS School Office for many
years also retired at Easter and she goes with our best wishes and huge
thanks for her massive support for the school. In view of these staff
changes I am pleased to welcome
Mrs Barbara Minards to the management team as Vice Principal,
Mrs Kathryn Farrelly becomes acting Head of Key Stage Four
( Years 10 and 11 ) and Mrs Jacqui
Dyos joins the office staff as PA to the management team. Other
changes include the promotion of Miss Katie Underwood to Deputy
Head of Sixth Form and Mrs Sarah
Leeds to Second i/c Maths. Miss Sarah Enderby returns from
maternity leave and I am grateful to Mr Danny Kendall who has taught
History in her absence ( we wish
him luck in his role as newly elected WCC Councillor for the
Wellesbourne ward! ). I will update you in due course regarding any
other staff changes for the new
academic year.
Iain Blaikie
Principal (2002 - Present)
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Wishing all 2013 Leavers
every success in
the future.
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Today in this issue...
14
A Showcase of ArtworkA selection of artwork by our talented GCSE, AS and A2 students, pages 16 and 17.
CabaretAGS theatre was transformed into Berlin’s coolest venue in town, The Kit Kat Klub, for three evenings in March! Read more on pages 28 and 29.
11
23 9 16
Alcester Schools’ Book AwardAcclaimed author Dan Freedman visited AGS to talk to students from three local schools, page 15.
Year 13 LeaversEnjoy the photographs of the last day for former Year 13 students on page 11.
Old Boys RugbyEnjoy a nostalgic look at past rugby achievements and highlights on pages 18 and 19.
17
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Cabaret Special
Alcestonian6 School News
7 Curriculum News10 Letters and Emails12 Alumni News, Meet the Team
14 Reunion Information 24 Notices
30 Forthcoming Productions31 Notices 32 The Gift of a Legacy
33 Principal’s Annual Appeal34 Facilities Hire35 Dates for Diary
Features9 AGS Servicemen, WW111 Year 13 Leavers
15 Alcester Schools’ Book Award 16 A Showcase of Artwork18 Old Boys Rugby
Today
20 Maths Partnership Project21 International News22 Duke of Edinburgh Award
24 Olympics One Year On26 The Wider Community
27 A Celebration of Music28 Cabaret
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Spencer
School News For further information on
School News please visit
www.alcestergs.com
The new teaching block to be ready by Summer Term 2014
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Callum McCrae
Congratulations to Callum, who has just had his first book published, “Learning from j Query”. Callum is a JavaScript developer and this concise guide helps to expand knowledge of the language. Callum noticed a gap in the market and decided to apply his JavaScript expertise. His book was immediately
accepted by an American publishing house. A signed copy is now available in the Library. We wish Callum lots of success for the future. Further information can be found via http://
my.safaribooksonline.com
MFL News
French Exchange
Well, it was ‘different’. A long week in March but with two days snowed up in the heaviest snow the French had seen in Northern France for 40 years. Some visits had to be cancelled or changed and the French school closed but we managed a visit to a chocolate factory and goat farm in Le Touquet, a walk around Arras and Disney, of course , where that far south they hadn’t seen a single snowflake, much to the teachers’ delight! But the welcome at the Collège Adam de la Halle in Arras was - as ever - as warm as you could get and thanks go to our French colleagues in
Aras for coping in a difficult situation. This has proved to be a popular exchange, now in its sixth year but with pupils who have been back now for the third time! So hopefully no snow next year and a chance to get to Bruges in 2014, and the Vimy Ridge, and to defend AGS’s reputation in the exchange’s traditional Franco-British basketball tournament.
The return leg was at the beginning of this term, with kinder although cold weather, and the familiar visits by the French party to Warwick, Oxford, the Cotswolds, Stratford and London. Lots of tears this year at the end of each leg, so it wasn’t that bad an exchange.
Thanks to Miss Knapp, Mr Wells and Mr Thatcher who accompanied the exchange visit.
Literary NewsEnglish Department meet Sally Gardner
As part of the Stratford on Avon Literary Festival, published author Sally Gardner recently offered fourteen Year 7 students a fun, practical writing workshop session, helping them create atmosphere, mood and character in their written work. Each student was able to draw on Sally’s immense expertise and she was equally impressed with their creations.
Originally from Birmingham, Sally was Smarties Children Book Prize Winner 2005 and Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize winner 2009. Sally’s latest novel ‘Maggot Moon’ has won the Costa Children’s Award 2013 and has also been nominated for the Carnegie Prize 2013. For more information please visit http://
www.sallygardner.net/
Curriculum News
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Physics News
Y8/9 Physic Trip to Fleet Air Arm Museum
On 19th April we took 25 Year 8 and 9 girls down to Fleet Air Arm Museum in Yeovilton to take part in an initiative called Girls Get Set. The event is run by GE Aviation in Cheltenham and is aimed at promoting science, engineering and technology (SET) amongst teenage girls.We joined forces with girls from Ridgeway Middle School to take part in a design an aircraft challenge.The girls were given an emergency situation which required an aircraft rescue at sea. They were given a series of objectives and had to design an aircraft that could be used in this situation.Having been set their task they were assigned an “expert”
from GE and were free to roam the museum amongst the Concorde, MIGs and Wessex Helicopters, and a variety of other aircraft where they had to research the different types of engines, wings, propellers etc to enable them to design an aircraft that met the brief.They spent time in their teams producing drawings and presentations which were then shown to the rest of the group and a panel of judges from GE. The girls worked brilliantly in their teams despite some initial reservations about working with people they didn’t know.When the time came to present, the girls were confident and knowledgeable and were able to explain why they had chosen the relevant components given their initial brief. Certificates were awarded for the team who worked together most successfully, as well as for the team
who came up with the best design. It was a long day but a really enjoyable one, with the girls learning a bit more about aviation and engineering, as well as how to work together to solve a problem, and present ideas to a judging panel; we even got to go on Concorde! I was thoroughly impressed by the girls throughout the day, and very much look forward to taking them on the final celebration event to be held at GE at the end of term.Lauren James, Head of Physics
House News
We are pleased to announce that from September there will be a fourth house to accommodate in the first instance, the extra Year 7 form. The staff nominated names and voted for the new house to be named ‘Dobell’ after Richard Dobell who gave so much of his life to our school.
Spencer
Wells
Newport
Dobell
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AGS Involvement in World War One
Background:
War was declared on the 4th August 1914. The Alcester
Chronicle put out “A call to Arms” for King and Country in the 19th September edition. A total of 76 men from the
area volunteered as a result of this request.
AGS involvement. Thirty Three former scholars from the
school volunteered during the War years,. Three were
killed in Action (KIA). Their details are listed below.
Arthur Boobyer Jephcott KIA 4th August 1916, age 26. The eldest son of Edward and Agnes of Icknield House Alcester.
Leaving school in July 1906 he studied Electrical Engineering and in 1912 went to NSW Australia
where he held a post with the Government Rail and Transport Department.
He enlisted in the Australian Army in 1915 and served
in Gallipoli where he was wounded. Returning to England he made a recovery in the KG Hospital
London. Eventually returning to his Regiment he travelled to Egypt then on to France again being
wounded. He was killed by shellfire at Pozieres. With
no known grave he is commemorated on the Villiers Bretonneux Memorial France.
…………….
Edgar Charles Mills KIA During the battle of Lys on Tuesday 16th April 1918, age 25. The Son of Constance Mills and B Rudlin.
He served first with the Royal Warwickshire
Regiment then with the 1st Leicester Cycle Corps.
Prior to the war he was employed by the Alcester Cycle Works.
With no known grave he is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, West Vlaanderan,
Belgium.
…………….
Henry Hyatt Overbury KIA Sunday the 6th May 1917, age 29. The eldest son of Henry and Emily of York House, High Street Alcester.
He served with the Buffs (East Kent). Before the War
he was employed at Lloyds Bank.
Buried in the Wancourt British Cemetery, Pas de Calaise.
…………….
There are over 2,500 cemeteries in France and Belgium. Thousands more names are recorded on Memorials of
those who fell with no known graves.
…………….
AGS Servicemen World War 1 Major RG Woodfield MBE
Note: Further details of former AGS Scholars who saw service in WW2 will be made available in the next AGS Today magazine.
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Letters andEmails
What a super publication “AGS
Today” Winter 2012 is! Congratulations! So far I have
only had time to dip into it but I
look forward to reading it thoroughly.
Barbara Winter
FABULOUS.....I am already
enjoying reading and catching up. Thanks so much for
including me!
Sarah Douglas
We welcome letters for publication, which can either be sent by post or by email. We reserve the right to
edit them to meet space constraints. The best way to avoid
this is to keep letters to 200 or fewer words.
Email your letters to:[email protected] to Wendy at:
Alcester Grammar SchoolBirmingham Road,
Alcester, B49 5ED
Reunion Letters
Dear Bob and Joan,We really appreciate your
sterling efforts in organising
such a grand occasion - the AGS Spring Lunch.The meal was
excellent (we had pork)!As one of the ‘outlaws’, as John
Bingham calls us, I thoroughly
enjoyed it!Whatever you decide for next
time we will support you.With our very best wishes,
Ruth and Peter
(Peter Butler, 1942-44)
Dear Bob and Joan,Sorry it has taken me so long to
put pen to paper - no excuses!
Anyway thank you both most sincerely for keeping AGS Old
Scholars up and running and for the most enjoyable luncheon last
week.
Keep well.Regards,
John(John Yeoman, 1943-47)
Can we have a nice silk old school
tie please?
Richard Evans Lacey
25 years since we left in 1988.
About time for a reunion?
Susan Jarah
How about a 1971/72 leavers
reunion?
Bill Dodwell
Dear Bob,
Many thanks for organising the dinner yesterday.
It was a most enjoyable occasion
and an excellent opportunity to talk over old times.
Very best wishes,
Margaret and Michael(Michael Caton, Son of the
Head in the 1940’s)
www.facebook.com/AGSalumni
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Leavers' Assembly and lunchtime farewell On Friday 10th May the Year 13 elected students took full school assembly to bid farewell to the rest
of the school and officially step down from their roles as Head/Deputy Boy/Girl and Chairpersons.
The assembly (interrupted by pacman and culminating in a whole school dance routine)
featured all seven elected students giving their one favourite memory of a particular year at AGS. Not
a dry eye in the house.At lunchtime Year 13 met in the Maths Quad for
speeches, 'awards', music and the traditional gunging roulette played by Chris McIsaac, Maddie
Glasbey and Mr Young - with a contribution of dead fish and kitchen waste from new Head Boy
and Girl, Griffin Mosson and Jess Smith.
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Update Your Contact DetailsTo update your details or register as a new alumni member please logon to www.alcestergs.co.uk and click on AGS Alumni/Update Your
Contact Details or alternatively email [email protected]
Alumni News
Alumni Enquiries: [email protected]
Meet the TeamI joined AGS in 2008 as the Primary Partnership
Coordinator for the school's Science Specialism. Having initially come from a business background, I then pursued a career in primary teaching, gaining my NPQH
(Headship qualification) in 2007. I made the leap into secondary education and now find myself having the
exciting role of Head of Strategic Partnerships. This means I lead the Development office which comprises Alumni Relations, Business
Denise Chapman - Sub Editor
September I will be involved in Marketing, Alumni and assisting Wendy
in the Development Office.My background is in Photography and I previously worked at The Stratford
Herald, which has really helped with the production of the Alumni magazine and
promotional material for the school.
Development and Special Projects. I am astounded by the extent to which the Alumni side has taken off, our database of alumni grows day by day. As a school we enjoy re-engaging with our former students through reunion events
etc but the real value is what our former students give back - many generously come back to talk to current students about their career paths since leaving
school - 1st hand experience which our students relish, helping to inform their own subject choices and difficult career decisions.
Laurence Thatcher - Board MemberI joined AGS in 1990 as Head of Sixth Form taking over from Andy Shearn who had become
Headteacher. At that time there were 225 students in the Sixth Form and the whole school held assemblies in what is now the Theatre but was then called the Hall.16+years.I taught History throughout the school, but as the sixth form grew in size I taught less and less,
ending up only teaching Years 12 & 13 (Lower and Upper Sixth). I left in 2008, by which time the sixth form had reached about 480.
Since then I have been involved in the running of the Roman Museum in Alcester and, more recently, with the Birmingham Jazz and Blues Festival.
As a result of passing the Newport Exam for admittance to the school I arrived in the summer term of 1943.Four wonderful years though not as an academic, lots of sport and wonderful teachers. With time spent in the school ACF I decided to join the Military, and with National
Service looming on the horizon, definitely not wanting the RAF or Navy, an easy way out, the Army. In 1948 I signed up for the Grenadier Guards in which I served 35 years including time
in the Parachute Regiment.On retirement in 1983 I was appointed Cadet Executive Officer Shropshire ACF.At the ripe old age of 65 it was a move back to Alcester, no regrets and keeping busy. My
Bob Woodfield - Board Member
hobby is on the Military side, assisting with the Regimental Museum in Shrewsbury, Mounting medals and making medal showcases.Am now Chairman of the Alcester British Legion and with other hobbies, keeping busy.
Wendy Cox - EditorI joined AGS in 2008as an Administrator in the Performing Arts
Department. My role within the school has
grown over the past few years and from
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Peter Wilkes - Board MemberI was a student at AGS from 56-61
(the time of Dabber, Daddy, Billy and Ding Dong!)My fondest memory of AGS is the
enjoyment of our years there, which is the general feeling of
most of the class and being reminded of the innocent pranks we got up to.I am now semi retired from my last twenty plus years as
a professional gardener.
I look back, with fondness, on my life at AGS from 1948 to 1955, which was average until selection of final subjects. At this point I had the good fortune to be educated by some inspiring teachers who led me to good qualifications, and the role of head-boy in my final year.
I eventually progressed into a career as Production Project Engineer in the heavy vehicle/tractor industry until retirement.
We always welcome new members to the team
Steve Walter - Board MemberI have been Parent Governor for the last
4 years and have taken on the role of Alumni link Governor following on from the AGS centenary celebrations last year.
Although not an ex-AGS student myself, I have been associated with the school
through my children for the last
We have been very grateful for the superb education they have all received, and appreciate the unique ethos of the school.
16+years.
Paul Davis - Board Member
I started at AGS in 1958 following my three older sisters,
so teachers would often call me by one of their names! I left in
1965 to go to the University of Kent at Canterbury. My three children were at AGS
in the 1990's
Patricia Wyspianska - Board Member
At AGS 1974-81, form teacher Dave Cowell through most of this time.
Enjoyed every minute at "the grammar" although it took me a few years to
really appreciate this. Am now Director and shareholder of a company that sells Automotive
products.
Chris Ashton - Board Member
The Benefits Of Belonging To AGS Alumni
A connection with your ‘old’ school, the experience you had within the school walls is part of your history - a little bit of
nostalgia
A dedicated alumni page (via a link from the school website)
A biannual magazine, informing you of how the school has changed, latest news and what your contemporaries are up to
Reunions, events, school tours, meetings and social gatherings all in the name of networking and fundraising for the benefit of the school
A ‘School for Life’ - providing support for all our pupils throughout their entire life, professional networking and intellectual support
‘Give something back’ - providing careers advice/guidance to current students
Generate exposure for the school- increase public awareness of AGS
Establish an AGS community
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Future Events - Class of 81All leavers are welcome to attend the Class of 81 Reunion in September at Alcester Grammar School. The cost is
£10 per person which includes an evening buffet and there is a pay bar.For further details please contact [email protected]
For further details of future
reunions please contact Bob Woodfield -
Reunion Information If you hold your own reunions anywhere in the world - please let us know and send us a photo!
Local GroupsClass of 56 ReunionThe Class of 56 recently held their 21st reunion in Shipston on Stour. This
comprised of a sumptuous lunch at one of the group members house, followed by a visit to the house and gardens of Chastleton House, near Stow
on the Wold and then dinner at The Fox Inn in Broadwell.
23 past students attended and all had a fantastic day. The reunions seem to be enjoyed more each time.
The next function will be held in August and will start with a visit to the Forge Mill in Redditch followed by a garden party at one of the groups house
in Sambourne.
Contact Peter Wilkes for further details of the next reunion or if you would like further information on joining the group - [email protected]
30’s - 50’s Old Scholars Group Reunion There were 64 Old Scholars/
wives/partners sitting down at the last lunch at the Kings
Court Hotel, which was
thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.
The intention for a get together next year will be a
buffet lunch, again at the
Kings Court Hotel, probably in May.
Class of 48 Reunion Group
The photo above was taken at the
2010 reunion.The next reunion is Saturday 12th
April 2014.
For further details contact Paul Davis - [email protected]
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Dan Freedman Author Visit
Students from three local schools came together for an author visit, which is part of the Alcester Schools’ Book Award. They were joined by acclaimed author, Dan Freedman, writer of the highly successful series of Jamie
Johnson football novels, whose first novel in the series is on the short list for the Award.Alcester Grammar Academy, who hosted the event were joined by Alcester Academy and St Benedict’s School to listen to Dan talk about his series of novels and his career.The students were fascinated to hear how Dan grew up
wanting to be a professional footballer, but went on to become a top football journalist working for the FA, meeting and interviewing football stars from around the world.One of our students said “Dan Freedman was inspiring. He used different media to portray his books and also how football is very important in his life. It was interesting to have him at AGS and I hope he comes again to inspire more children to read and to write”.Dan was interested to talk to Tom Lang, a Year 11 student, who has been signed by Birmingham City Under 16s for the next two years and who recently made his debut for Scotland.
Tom said, “Dan, very kindly gave me one of his books to read as I would be able to relate to Jamie at this stage of his career dealing with the school and sport balance”.Part of the Award process for the students is reading five books chosen by the Library Managers of the participating schools. The schools will come together for the final event in June when the students will vote for “the best read” and announce a winner.
ALCESTER SCHOOLS’ BOOK AWARD
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A Showcase of Artwork
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GCSE, AS and A2 2013
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Old Boys Rugby
Fortunes have always been mixed for Alcester Grammar’s 6th form Rugby team. The main difficulty with the 1st XV has always been not knowing who, or how many players will arrive in year twelve each September, along with organising a fixture list that will be challenging, but achievable. Teams have always taken a few weeks to ‘gel’ and even longer to play effectively as a team rather than a group of individuals. Having said this, without fail, each year teams have had achieved a great sense of camaraderie by the end of the season and played with true commitment and enthusiasm. Some highlights in recent history include the 05-06 twelve game unbeaten season (Dave Toseland’s final season as coach), the 06-07 teams 3rd Round exit of the Daily Mail Vase, the 09-10 team having a 40 man squad, fielding two teams and Rogan O’Connor’s all time points record of 89 points in a season. Many players have achieved district and county representation whilst at AGS (a staggering nine South Warwickshire players this season) and pleasingly, many continue playing post-AGS. We have alumni that have represented a wide range of universities, many local clubs plus national league teams including Bromsgrove, Nottingham and Rotherham.
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Despite the achievements of talented individuals, the ethos encouraged has guaranteed that rugby players have enjoyed their time in the Sixth Form and truly felt part of a team. Yes, there has been plenty of knock-on’s, many missed conversions and even a few backwards kicks (you know who you are!), but there has been an abundance of laughter and a hefty amount of success too. Towards the end of 2013, we are looking to field an ‘AGS Alumni’ team, against a local club or other alumni organisation. This is a great opportunity to bring players back together and pull on an AGS shirt – with the added bonus of not having to take it home and wash it. We would like to hear from ex-students who would be interested in playing or from teams who could offer opposition, plus any companies who would be interested in sponsorship opportunities. Please contact [email protected] (1st XV) coach or [email protected] (alumni co-coordinator) if you would like to be involved. We will be in touch, should we achieve sufficient numbers.
AGS 1st XVTop Point Scorers - All Seasons
Name1. Rogan Connor
2. Tom Burgess3. Rogan Connor4. Charlie Burn
5. Martin Gurr6. Matt Williams
7. Sam Kirby8. Dom Lorimer9. Ryan Clark
10. Chris Pick11. Mike Conway12. Sam Kirby
13. Fraser Jackson Will Fletcher
Dale Glover16. Tom Mayrick17. Charlie Burn
Greg Williams Chris Harvard
20. Josh Rees-Averill Dan Whitby Ben Elliot
James Jackson24. Dave Green
25. Bill Whetton Will Barnett Jamie Kirk
Total89
737265
6361
555350
464037
3535
353332
3232
303030
3027
252525
PositionFly Half
Fly HalfSrum Half
Wing
Fly HalfI/Centre
O/CentreFly Half
O/Centre/Wing
Full BackI/CentreO/Centre
Full BackFlanker
Fly HalfFull Back
Wing
Fly HalfScrum Half
WingWingNo 8
CentreWing
LockI/Centre
Prop
Season05-06
08-0906-0707-08
09-1005-06
07-0810-1112-13
07-0805-0606-07
11-1211-12
11-1212-1308-09
08-0911-12
07-0807-0805-06
12-1312-13
08-0909-1011-12
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Maths Partnership ProjectHot Property
Ever wanted to crash the gavel? Ever felt the urge to outbid your adversary? Ever wondered what it would be like to be a property magnate and build a portfolio of your own? Well on 12th December 2012 the whole of year 10 were introduced to the exciting world of the property auction house with the aim of understanding finance in action including the highs and the lows, the bids and the non-bids and critically the dos and the definitely don’t dos. This wonderful opportunity to splash the
cash was delivered in a mathematics workshop run by Mr James Walton, a chartered surveyor from Sheldon Bosely,a company which specialises in residential and commercial
property. So let’s get to the exciting bit. Forty five students at a time
experienced how a house auction would be conducted in real life but instead of houses students made bids on items such as: “A days shopping at Touchwood with Harry from One Direction” or a “Private screening of the latest Twilight film at Stratford Picture House”. Students were put into 10 groups and were
given instructions according to the client’s wishes. They were then informed which items the client was interested in and were
set an upper price limit. Students really enjoyed the fast moving pace of the auction, and although occasionally they got carried away and bid more than they were allowed to,
they understood the consequences of not sticking with the auction instructions. At times they resembled the cool clinical
Mr Bond at the casino and at other times the frenetic traders on the floor of Wall Street or the London Stock Exchange. It was
marvellous to see the teamwork and thinking strategies we prize at AGS in full flow.
The last forty five minutes were electric as students got out of the comfort zone of virtual bidding and into the real world of an
actual problem. They were required to advise a client on how and whether to transfer the ownership of a number of properties to his children. The decisions the students were considering had huge financial implications in terms of inheritance and/or capital
gains tax and they had to be analytical, informed and certain that the advice they were giving was the best available. A daunting task but one which our students carried out with
aplomb. The sessions were really lively with students asking relevant
questions and thinking about the implications of their decisions. Students also had a chance to get to know about other aspects
of chartered surveying which straddles a range of different walks of life. The workshop was a real success and which will
definitely be repeated next year. Now where did I leave that gavel?
Mrs Tunde Warren - Head of Maths
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International NewsY13 Physics Visit to the Large Hadron Collider 2013
A few weeks ago we joined forces with students from
Bromsgrove School and visited Geneva. The main aim of the trip was to visit CERN and the Large Hadron
Collider; the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator, but whilst we were there we were lucky
enough to be able to spend some time exploring Geneva.
The LHC had just been turned off to undergo
maintenance so we were lucky enough to be able to take
the long journey 100m underground to visit one of the smaller detectors. Donned with our hard hats we got
into the elevator, accompanied by two of the leading physicists currently working on CMS, the detector we
visited. Despite being one of the smaller detectors it’s
size was impressive and it was difficult to imagine the
amount of time that must have gone into engineering
such a huge piece of machinery.
During this time we were able to ask questions which
had cropped up during our work in lessons on particle
physics and it was great to hear leading scientists speaking so passionately about what they did; even if at
times bits of it went a little over our heads!During our visit we were also able to visit Geneva’s
“History of Science” museum and the United Nations
building which was really impressive; a huge building with extremely high levels of security (rumour had it
Ban Ki-moon was visiting that day!) We also explored the city, making use of it’s brilliant public transport and
sampling some of it’s delicious, if a little expensive,
food!!!
All in all we had an incredible time visiting Geneva, and
came home wearing our CERN t-shirts to prove it.Heather Britton, Year 13
The Ogden Trust
We spent 2 days at
CERN beginning with a guided tour around the
control rooms where they
monitor all the data received by the detectors. The Ogden Trust is a leading
educational charity supporting physics education. AGS is part of a science
partnership with Bromsgrove School, St
Augustine's Catholic School and Woodrush High School. They have benefitted from
£5000 of funding for physics visits, equipment, guest speakers etc and are just
about to apply for a further grant of £10,000.
Lauren James - Head of Physics
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I am sure that you will all be pleased to hear that the Duke of Edinburgh award is still going strong at AGS. We are currently in the middle of another busy expedition season with over 220 students actively involved in awards at each of the 3 levels (Bronze, Silver and Gold). The year 10 students have already successfully navigated their way through their Bronze Assessed Expedition in the Malvern Hills despite night time temperatures of -2°C. Over the coming weeks we have a further 3 expeditions with the Year 9 students going on their Bronze Practice Expedition to the Banbury area, Year 11s going to the Long Mynd for their Silver Practice and Year 12s heading to Snowdonia for their Gold Practice Expedition.
Over the past 2 seasons, we have been lucky enough to have enrolled the help of two ex-students Adam Brown and Chris Mason to assist with expeditions. Both completed their Gold awards last year and were keen to continue their involvement with the school. As a result, we have supported both Adam and Chris through their Mountain Leader (ML) training course and will continue to support them through to their ML assessment. I would love to build up a larger team of alumni expedition helpers especially those who wish to gain experience in working with young people or those who want to gain an outdoor
leadership qualification so please get in touch if you are interested.
It is always great to see current or past students gaining their DofE awards especially those who make it St. James’s Palace. Unfortunately, after all the effort that goes into the expeditions, far too few actually achieve their Gold award so I am always very keen to help alumni complete their awards. If you are still under the age of 25 and need assistance in completing your award then please contact me at [email protected]
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
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My D of E Experience
by past student Amy Bloom
There are so many opportunities available at Alcester Grammar, from chamber choir to astronomy and fencing to the exchange trip to China that it can be difficult to decide which to choose. From the moment I started in Year 7, I remember being surprised, but captivated at the number and variety of opportunities that were waiting for me as I moved through the school. There was such positivity, support and encouragement, especially from teachers, to try these experiences and achieve your potential. It is inevitable that you find one that really sticks in your mind.
So when we were introduced to the Duke of Edinburgh Award, naturally I was interested by it, but I didn’t have any clear idea what was involved. Once I had researched it though, I only discovered positive things; the challenges presented, as well as having the opportunity to overcome them was something that really appealed to me. I was soon
learning Mandarin Chinese (something that I continued to GCSE), Street Dancing and volunteering at my local library. For the Bronze award, especially, it is a very popular extra-curricular activity at AGS – and it’s not difficult to see why.
Despite the awful weather (you don’t know how much it can rain until you’ve done D of E!) I was completely and utterly hooked by the expeditions. Nothing for me compared to that feeling of accomplishment from reaching the finish line - even though our tent had flooded, we were covered in mud and soaked; we never stopped laughing and stayed optimistic throughout. The three awards were a great chance for me to take part in activities that I would have never known about or been involved in without them. Receiving my award at the end of the whole experience was the icing on the cake as I was lucky enough to receive my Gold in London at St James’ Palace with Prince Philip. It was a great day, and showed me the rewards for hard work.
I could make an endless list of advantages to the Duke of Edinburgh award, but I would say more than anything it has shown me the rewards of teamwork, how I
have the ability to overcome difficult situations and the necessity for prioritising and time management. There is no doubt that you also become more confident and willing to try new things. For me though, it acted as a platform to join Raleigh International in Costa Rica and Nicaragua for 10 weeks from July 2013. I will be involved in helping disadvantaged communities, for example, through building schools to help improve access to education. I could also help the continuing conservation of their rainforest or protecting turtle eggs from poachers and finally be challenged further as I take part in a 19 day 250k expedition across the two countries.
I took part in D of E and am volunteering with Raleigh International, not because they are things I felt I should do, but because they are things that I wanted to do. Accept the challenge and you’ll love it. And at the end of the day, you will get so much more out of it and be thankful you took part.
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Olympics One Year Oninterview with Andy Pozzi
1. What did you like most about attending Alcester Grammar School?
I loved my time at Alcester Grammar School. I enjoyed the way that we, as students in the sixth form, were treated by staff as young adults. I found that the atmosphere at Alcester Grammar School was my favourite thing about attending. I made some excellent friends and I felt that there was an excellent approach towards education, enjoyment and extra-curricular activities.
2. What were the most valuable things that you learnt at AGS which gave you the inspiration to be successful today?
Whilst at AGS my athletics career was largely on hold due to injuries and for that reason I learnt the importance of continuing my studies as a back-up to my athletics career and the necessity of future planning past, what is typically, an early retirement age. I feel that I developed as a person whilst at AGS more than I did as an athlete but it has proved equally valuable to me in my approach to competing professionally as an athlete and planning for my future.
3. What was your reaction when you knew that you would be participating in the London 2012 olympics?
I was incredibly pleased when I won the UK Championships and Olympic Trials which ensured my place in the GB Team for the Olympic Games. It was a high pressure race and lots of people had come to Birmingham to watch me so
crossing the line in first was incredible. It was also the first time I had won the UK Senior Championships having just turned 20 years-old so that was a huge achievement too. I had run the qualifying standard very early in the season and it was an agonising experience waiting until the Olympic Trials to guarantee my place in the team by winning, I remember receiving so many messages of congratulations which added to my elation.
4. How did it feel to take part in the Olympics and what was the atmosphere on the start line?
The Olympics was a very mixed experience for me. In truth, I didn’t enjoy it very much. The atmosphere was like nothing I had ever experienced and, quite possibly, something that no British athlete will ever experience again. There were 80,000 people who were unbelievably supportive and it was overwhelming to see what the Olympics in London meant to our Country. It was hard to look past the disappointment of being injured and not feeling able to compete with the promise I had shown all year although the magnitude of the event was incredible to be a part of; it was an invaluable experience for me that I hope to utilise when approaching my preparation for the next Olympic Games.
5. Which sportsperson do you find most admirable (are they your role model?) and why?
I don’t have many sporting role models really but I do really admire both Colin Jackson and a Chinese hurdler called Liu Xiang, for different reasons. I am friends with Colin now because of his long term involvement with my coach and being able to learn and take advice from a World Record holder and World Champion is incredibly helpful. I also admire him more because I know about the trials and tribulations that happened throughout his career behind the scenes. I admire Liu Xiang because of the way he has conducted himself as a Chinese sporting icon since winning the Olympics in 2004 aged 21. He has dealt with huge disappointments and maintained an admirable work ethic throughout and I think this is a testament to his success and something that I should try to emulate.
6. Where do you train and what is a typical training day like?
I train at the University of Bath six days a week for anywhere between 3-4 hours in the morning and then an hour in the evening. I train here because of the excellent facilities that are available to me and because it is my coaches full time base. I train six days a week between 9:00am – 13:00pm. My training changes daily but it is roughly split between sprinting, speed endurance running, hurdling technique, circuits and Olympic weight lifting.
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After training I often spend time with medical staff or sports science staff to look at ways in which we can improve my performance and improve my career and wellbeing generally. In the evening I usually do some conditioning exercises and circuits as well as a lot of stretching to improve my flexibility. When I am not at university after training I am often catching up on work or involved in activities with my sponsors.
7. Are you hoping to compete at the Rio olympics in 2016 and other future events?
I am indeed hoping to compete in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. Before Rio there are 2x World Outdoor Championships, 2x World Indoor Championships, 1x European Outdoor Championships, 1x European Indoor Championships as well as the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
There are loads of events that I will be preparing for over the next 3 years before the Olympic Games in Rio where I hope to have a more successful time than in London.
8. What advice would you give to current AGS students if they want to be successful sportspeople?
The advice I would give to current AGS students hoping to compete successfully in sport is to join a local club and enjoy it as much as possible whilst working as hard as possible. I don’t think that it is really important to take sport too seriously until sixth form age and even older. I would recommend that any budding sports enthusiast finds out as much information about it as possible which will enable them to train efficiently rather than unnecessarily. It’s really important to enjoy it and make training effective because then it makes the hard work a lot more bearable.
9. What is your favourite food, TV programme and music?
I am a very boring with food but I would say my favourite dish is Spaghetti Bolognese, although I am also a chocolate connoisseur which isn’t very popular with my nutritionist. My favourite TV programme at the moment is probably an American series called Suits. My favourite music changes quite frequently and I don’t really have a genre that I stick with for too long.
10. What is your favourite thing to do when you aren't training?
When I’m not training I’m normally pretty shattered and therefore resting. In this time my favourite thing to do is to read or watch TV series/ films. I’m really into films and TV series and it is a really good way to spend time whilst resting from training.
Andrea Griffiths
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The Wider CommunityAs I have always aspired to become a teacher, the option of teaching children science or maths greatly appealed to me.
Being able to join the Silver Crest Award project was incredibly rewarding, teaching children lessons that we had created as a pair. It is something that is rare in any other work experience, as you are able to create and conduct fun and interesting
lessons based upon the children themselves. Over the time at the school, you create a greater understanding of the individual needs and learning techniques of the different children, which helps you to sculpt your lesson. The small, after
school classes also allow you to get to know the children as individuals, making it easier to adjust the lesson to make it more fun and worthwhile. My first choice of university is Nottingham Trent, as it provides the course most suitable to me and
what I want to achieve by the end of the course. When at the interview, the portfolio from Silver Crest Award gave an extra
dimension to my previous work experience, as it represented that: I had taught as one of a pair; created lesson plans; considered health and safety aspects and monitored the development of children in the specific subject. The knowledge
gained from the award allows you to stand out from the crowd as you have a small, yet significant experience of a real teaching career. I have always wanted to teach as I am passionate about inspiring young children to learn and develop their knowledge to reach their full potential. My beliefs have been confirmed by the Silver Crest Award and it has helped me to
develop my knowledge, skill and started me on my journey to a potential teacher.
Ellie Muitt and Haselor Primary School
Year 12 Community Day
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A Celebration of Musicby Lennox CumberbatchMayor of Alcester
In and around Alcester we are lucky to have an abundance of local talent which I wanted to see celebrated
before standing down as Mayor of the town.
I was delighted to see Alcester Grammar School’s theatre almost packed out on Friday 19th April for
my ‘Celebration of Music’ night, organised to showcase local talent
and raise money for local mental health and dementia services.The evening was opened with a
performance from Alcester Musical Theatre Company who are celebrating their 50th anniversary
this year. They set the tone for the evening with an excellent
performance. They were followed by father and son combo Tex and Ollie Austin. Tex sang and played the
guitar and Ollie, a very talented young man, accompanied him on the
piano before entertaining the audience with a superb solo piece - ‘Chopin’s nocture in E Major’.
Local favourites Alcester Junior Drama and Youth Theatre sang a
couple of great songs, before Jessica-Grace Griffin and Matthew Dyde from Alcester Academy took
the stage and performed two songs from Sweeney Todd. Jessica and
Matthew highlighted the young talent present in our local school. Just before the interval children
from St Nicholas CofE Primary School Choir entertained the
audience with a selection of well known songs. It was great to see the very young taking part in the
evening and enjoying themselves as much as they did.
The second half was started beautifully by Ruth Alexander from AGS; a talented young woman who
played who played ‘Syrinx’ by Debussy on the flute.
Alcester Junior Drama and Youth Theatre performed another great couple of songs, before brothers
James (classical guitar) and Robert Girling (piano) took to the stage with a performance of ‘Adagio’ from
Concierto de Aranjuez by Joaquin Rodrigo. Robert is head boy at St
Benedict’s Catholic High School and older brother James will be shortly attending The Royal Northern
School of Music. Their performance, which was well received by the
audience, was classical music at its best. James is superb classical guitarist who has the potential to
achieve worldwide fame, and Robert’s piano interpretation was
excellent. The evening was rounded off the Alcester Musical Theatre Company,
and everyone agreed they were a great way to start and finish the
concert.My thanks go to everyone who performed on the evening and to the
Grammar School and staff for all their help.
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From the 20th March until the 22nd, the AGS theatre was transformed into Berlin’s coolest, and hottest, venue
in town- the Kit Kat Klub - as the setting for our
interpretation of the 1966 Broadway musical, Cabaret. Based on a book by Christopher Isherwood, this musical
is set in 1931 Berlin as the Nazis are rising to power. It focuses on nightlife at the seedy Kit Kat Klub and
revolves around the 19-year-old English cabaret
performer, Sally Bowles, and her relationship with a visiting young American writer, Cliff Bradshaw. Sixth
formers Jenny Bates and Griffin Mosson were utterly endearing in these lead roles, and successfully conveyed
the struggles this couple face in trying to build a stable
relationship in such challenging times.
It was not all doom and gloom though. Plenty of laughs were to be had as our charismatic Emcee,
played charmingly by Year 12 student Chavonne
Brown, led us through satirical song and dance numbers. The Kit Kat girls lifted the mood (and their
legs!) in impressive dance numbers involving the popular Can Can.
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Collaboration is certainly the word that sums up the reason for such a successful show. Crucial support was
given by Mrs Gregory and Mrs Bremner-Smith in
making, assembling and adapting the costumes for the show, and their help on the performance nights was
invaluable. It was a pleasure to unite the Music and Drama departments to produce this show, but the true
joy of the process was in seeing the vast number of
students unite and work so hard together to showcase, develop and enjoy their own unique talents. A huge
congratulations and thank you to all involved in the production. For that week at least at Alcester Grammar,
life certainly was a Cabaret!
A fundamental aspect of the show’s success was the highly gifted pit-band, the members of which had
clearly worked hard individually and collaboratively
to provide the score of the musical from professional parts. The punchy pzazz and romantic expression
from these players both delighted and impressed the audience, and the cast!
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FORTHCOMING PRODUCTIONS
For details on
all forthcoming productions or to
purchase tickets contact
Denise [email protected]
01789 762494
Grimm Tales RetoldThursday 11th July
7pm AGS TheatreLower School present their own interpretation of a
selection of tales by the Grimm Brothers.
An Evening of Contemporary Dance and DramaThursday 24th October
AGS Theatre
Romeo and JulietWednesday 27th and
Thursday 28th November
AGS TheatreYear 12 and 13 present an adaptation of Romeo and
Juliet, set in the Far East and featuring Samurai Warriors, Festive Chinese Dragons, Oriental Costume
and Japanese Tea Houses.
After Juliet by Sharman Macdonald
Thursday 5th and Friday 6th December
AGS TheatreYear 10 and 11 present a modern, political play about the
surviving characters from Romeo and Juliet, focusing
mainly on Rosalind.
Music and Mince
Pies ConcertWednesday 11th December
7.30pm AGS Theatre
Lower School Evening of DramaThursday 12th December
7pm AGS Theatre
Carol ServiceFriday 13th December
6pm St Nicholas Church
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Births
born on 2nd April, weighing 4lbs 10oz and Kobe Turner is now a
proud big brother! Jo would like to thank the brilliant team at the Special Baby Care Unit at The Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and the midwives for their exceptional care.
Notices BIRTHS APPOINTMENTSMARRIAGES AWARDSOBITUARIES
If you have any notices that you wish to appear on this page then email:
Or write to Wendy at:
Alcester Grammar School, Birmingham Road,
Alcester, B49 5ED
Mrs Jo Turner and husband Darren are proud to announce the
arrival of baby Noah.Noah Joshua Turner was
Obituary - Jean Young 1921-2013Jean Young passed away peacefully in Warwick Hospital on the 2nd February after a short illness. Aged 91 she taught at
the AGS and was Deputy Head at Southam School.She was an admired and respected teacher and friend to all who were fortunate to have known her.
The Funeral Service and cremation took place at South Chapel, Oakley Wood Crematorium, Bishops Tachbrook, on
Wednesday the 20th February.
The following eulogy was read out by Janet Bamford, past pupil at AGS:
‘My husband Eric and myself were both pupils at Alcester Grammar in 1945. She was our English and Drama teacher, and in particular, Jean produced the annual school play which introduced me to the delights of the stage. I give this tribute today on behalf of scholars, past and present, of both Alcester Grammar School and Southam School. Also on behalf of those of our families who have been fortunate enough to have been part of Jean’s long and rewarding life.Jean was an only child born of fairly elderly parents; she grew up in Lymm, Cheshire and won a place at Manchester University where she graduated with a BA Honours Degree in English Literature in 1942.Her first job was teaching at Pontefract Boys School. In 1945 she moved to Alcester Grammar, taking her widowed mother Lucy with her and her new little A30 motor car! As pupils of AGS we were taken annually by Miss Young to Stratford upon Avon Memorial Theatre to watch the examination play. In 1948 Jean took a party of 6th Formers for a long weekend in Paris, quite a brave thing to do so soon after the end of WW2!There are many people who will remember Miss Young’s impressive teaching techniques, especially perhaps with an unruly class of 13 year olds, teaching them to learn and appreciate William Shakepeares works. SHE had no need to raise her voice in lessons, she maintained respect and discipline by using a gentle hand signal, putting on her ‘big eyes and her silence. All were used to good effect, she poise and grace and above all she had CLASS. She was educated, with a verve for learning, she inspired many and maintained an ongoing interest in those who had the privilege of passing through her hands.Jean had fought her own corner all her life, she had to! She was a force to be reckoned with, but she had a heart of gold.’
MarriagesDrama teacher, Caroline Flood,
became Mrs Caroline Spencer during the Easter holidays, in marrying a fellow teacher of another
school, Michael. The reception was held at St. Mary’s Guildhall,
Coventry and was thoroughly enjoyed by the bride and groom.
Mr Dan Brewer and wife Jennifer are proud to announce the arrival of
baby Sebastian.Sebastian Charles
Brewer was born on 12th March, weighing 7lbs 13oz at Warwick
Hospital. A little brother for Megan Alice.
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The gift of a legacy is......A very personal way of giving future generations the opportunity to benefit
from the AGS experience.
MAKE A LASTING DIFFERENCEA legacy is one of the most meaningful and enduring gifts you can make. It is a personal way of benefitting the pupils at the School.
It may be made to express gratitude or loyalty; to remember a loved one, perpetuate a family name, or promote the ethos of the School.
THE 1912 SOCIETYThe 1912 Society, named in honour of the year that AGS was founded on the new site, has been set up as an exclusive Society for all those who indicate their intention to make a bequest for the benefit of the School and its pupils. By making a gift and to recognise your intent you will receive invitations to 1912 Society events.
The Development Office will also keep you informed of other events at the School, ensuring that you are very much a part of the AGS Community.Society membership is discreet and a request for anonymity will always be respected.
ADVANTAGES OF A LEGACYLeaving a legacy to Alcester Grammar School enables you to support a cause which may not have been possible during your lifetime. It also means that you can give something back to the School as a ‘thank you’ for the difference it made to you.
A gift of this kind is extremely tax efficient and may reduce the overall Inheritance Tax burden on your estate. Your solicitor will be able to advise on the legal implications.
MAKING YOUR WILLIf you wish to leave a gift to AGS, we suggest you consult your solicitor when preparing or amending your Will, to discuss the legacy options available. If you already have a Will, AGS can easily be included through the addition of a Codicil.There are numerous ways of leaving a legacy in your Will or Codicil. The five main types act in different ways with different benefits. Your solicitor will be able to advise you on what is best for you.
• A Residuary Legacy leaves all or a percentage share of your estate after your other legacies, expenses and taxes have been taken care of.
• A Pecuniary Legacy is a gift of a fixed amount - this can be index linked to protect the value of the legacy against inflation.
• A Specific Legacy is a gift of specific property such as land, shares, books, musical instruments and works of art.
• A Reversionary Legacy gives a named person the use of income from all or part of of your estate or assets during his or her lifetime, after which the capital passes to AGS.
• A Substitutional Legacy is a gift that passes to AGS in the event that the intended recipient is unable to receive it.
It is important that any gift you decide to make to the School works in the context of your Will and your estate planning generally. You should ensure that you take personal advise from your solicitor and financial adviser on the terms of your Will.
You can also make a bequest through your pension scheme or through a trust.
If you have a personal pension fund, you may be able to nominate Alcester Grammar School as a beneficiary of any benefits payable out of the fund on your death. As a gift to a charity, a payment of this kind is generally free of Inheritance Tax.
If you would like to discuss any aspect of leaving a legacy or making a donation please contact The Finance Manager at AGS on 01789 762494. Any
information you provide will always be kept completely confidential.
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Despite prudent financial management, current budgets do not allow us to carry out all the projects we would like. The Principal’s Annual Appeal, is the School’s vitally important fundraising tool, through which we seek to raise funds for specific projects, as well as subsidising music lessons, school visits and uniform costs. If you are interested in further information please visit www.alcestergs.co.uk and click on School Information/Principals Annual Appeal.
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Facilities HireTheatreThe purpose built theatre is ideal for plays, concerts, lectures, and dance. The theatre has a small welcoming area for guests and tiered seating that can accommodate approx.165 spectators. There is a backstage area for performers, a lighting box for qualified users and an area to serve refreshments.
Community/Conference RoomThe conference/community room is situated in the Sports Centre and is ideal for business meetings, community events and clubs. The seating can also be moved to accommodate classes such as Pilates and Yoga.There is a large Reception area, projector, screen, whiteboard and access to wired internet (no wireless)
ClassroomAlcester Grammar School has a variety of classrooms available for training sessions and educational courses. These can be used in conjunction with other bookings or on their own. Each classroom has a projector, screen, whiteboard and wired internet access (no wireless).
Café AreaThis is an informal area with chairs, tables and sofas and is an ideal space to serve refreshments.
Dance StudioThe dance studio is suitable for dance classes, yoga, Pilates and gymnastics. The facilities include a sprung floor, mirrored wall and extendable gym equipment.
Sports HallThe aim of Alcester Grammar School Sports Facility is to develop sport, particularly for young participants, by making the facility available to sports clubs who offer structured sporting opportunities, or by providing sessions run by qualified coaches.The Sports Hall is available for booking 6-10pm Monday-Friday. Weekend availability is dependent on business needs.
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Dates for Diary
Thursday 4th July Prospective Y7 Open Evening, 6.00 - 8.00pmThursday 11th July Lower School Production - Grimm Tales Retold, 7pmFriday 12th July Lower School Awards Afternoon, 2.15pm - 3.40pmWednesday 11th September Yr 12/13 Awards Evening, 7pmThursday 24th October An Evening of Contemporary Dance and DramaThursday 14th November Sixth Form Open EveningWeds 27th/Thurs 28th November Romeo and Juliet, performed by Yr 12 and 13 Thurs 5th/Fri 6th December After Juliet, performed by Yr 10 and 11Wednesday 11th December Music and Mince Pies, 7.30pmThursday 12th December Lower School Evening of Drama, 7pmFriday 13th December Carol Service, St Nicholas Church, 6pm
Olivia James FilmFilm and Sound Production
Film, video and sound production for all your needs!
• Short Film and Promos• Location Sound Recording • Audio Documentary • Events Recording • DVD Production
...and more!
Please Visit: http://oliviajamesfilm.webs.com Call: 07866 216 867
Email: [email protected]
Coming Soon - ‘Memories of AGS’ video
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‘At the forefront of education for over 100 years, Alcester Grammar School successfully blends
tradition with a forward- thinking, internationally-minded, educational philosophy that truly meets the needs of young people growing to adulthood in an
increasingly complex world’