Year 12 students Emily G, Tilly R and Eva O’D have re-established Gresham’s History Society as a pupil-run academic group open to all pupils studying History in Years 11-13.Â
The first event was a Sixth Form History Social and Quiz organised by Emily and Tilly. From January 2024, historians will have an opportunity to present historical papers and to discuss topical events on Tuesday evenings four times a term.
Our U11A girls hockey team played in the East regional finals of the England Hockey In2Hockey Championships on home turf last week. The girls had a great start, winning their first two matches with ease. They then came up against the bigger challenge of a skilful Perse side. Things didn’t go to plan with them losing 0-2. However, the testament of a good side is the ability to bounce back and this they did by winning their remaining group matches to finish 2nd in the group and qualify for the semi-finals. This was a tough local derby against Langley Prep School, things were very tight throughout and they fought back from lots of strong play with excellent defending. Thankfully, they managed to score in the closing minutes to reach the final, once again facing The Perse. This time, the girls executed the plan with real commitment and managed to score late in the second half and hold off last minute pressure to win the title. This is a trophy Gresham’s haven’t won in recent history and is certainly an achievement of which to be hugely proud.
In the first basketball fixture of the new term the squad, ably managed by Eduvie and captained by Luke C, were excited at the prospect of a home fixture against King’s Ely. After a slightly delayed start, the team started strongly with points being accumulated through clinical play by Joshua Y and Luca V. The team were leading at half time with strong defensive performances from Liam M, Ravil R and Freddie B. B. King’s Ely came out strong in the second half and began to rack up points of their own and the game was level with 3 minutes to go. Jake F then set the heart rates going with another 3 pointer to give Gresham’s a 3 point lead with 90 seconds left on the clock however King’s fought hard and levelled the scores. Chances came and went for both teams with the game finishing all square at 25 points each. The players, coaches and crowd were enthralled with the events and very much all look forward to next basketball fixture.
The Piano Showcase on 22nd November saw a combined programme from the Prep and Senior Pupils, launching the start of the new Steinway Status school. Ranging from Classical piano solos, and contemporary duets, to a boogie-woogie number and a four – part paso double, the performances were incredible and showcased the full range of the new piano, and the variety of genres being taught and enjoyed across the schools.
Visiting director, Ian Murchie, led all our Year 7 pupils in a whirlwind production of ‘ Romeo and Juliet’. Put together in just 2 days, pupils delivered a fantastic performance.
Our GCSE RS pupils recently enjoyed a Field Trip to Walsingham. They had a great time exploring one of England’s most prominent places of pilgrimage and quizzing a Bishop with a variety of ethical and philosophical questions.
The competition marked the 650th Anniversary of Julian of Norwich – believed to be the first woman to write a book in the English language. Gresham’s pupils won First, Second and Third prizes in the competition with some brilliant examples of creative writing. The prizes were presented by Fr Richard from St Julian’s Church, and representatives from the Friends of Julian of Norwich, on Wednesday in Chapel.
On Monday, Gresham’s A and B teams participated in the first online round of the ESU Churchill Public Speaking Competition.
Our A team was Cerys D (Speaker), who spoke brilliantly on the theme of ‘Great Britain is still great’, Pablo B-G, who was a very effective Chair, and Pullo W, a highly forensic Questioner. This team progressed as one of the best three teams in the heat to the in-person second round which will be held early in 2024.
Our B team were all Year 9 pupils entering this competition for the first time: Olivia E was Speaker and addressed the topic ‘Confidentiality should always be observed’, Alex B made his debut as Chair, and Irene T impressed as Questioner. Thanks also to William M for serving as reserve for both teams.
It’s always so positive to welcome back Old Greshamians to talk about their career path to current pupils.
OG Calvin Chan ARAeS I-CEng F (2013 – 15) returned for Gresham’s STEAM week to give insight about his professional role with NATS – the UK’s leading provider of air traffic control services. It was a superb opportunity to learn more about NATS, ask questions and find out about the variance of job roles and careers they offer
Furthermore, Year 13 pupils were treated to an insightful talk from OG Camilla Foster C&E (2000 – 10) on her pathway to becoming a qualified, practising dentist. The message along with her hard work and study was ‘you can achieve and reach your goal’.
On Thursday 16th November, 88 members of the Upper Sixth attended the Tallis Queens’ ‘Midnight in Paris’ Ball. This was a Black-Tie three-course sit down meal complete with games – guess the HSM from the baby photo competition – and some very questionable karaoke. The pupils were in great fettle and good time was hopefully had by all!
