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Nuntius Summer 2014 Cross Lane, Bebington, Wirral, CH63 3AQ Tel: 0151 644 0908 www.wirralgrammarboys.com WIRRAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL A Business and Enterprise School for Boys ‘Nuntius on-line’ Larger articles can be found by accessing the ‘Nuntius On-Line’ link via the school website www.wirralgrammarboys.com Year 10 Handball Team Congratulations to the Y10 boys who have reached the National finals in Birmingham on the 26th June. This a fantastic achievement and puts this school in the top 4 playing schools nationally. The following boys were involved. JACK PRICE MATTHEW DALTON SCOTT SOUTHWELL LOUIS KENTON ANDREW ROGERS ALEX MCBAIN NATHAN MCKINNEY DANIEL O,HALLORAN BEN DOBBINS DAN EAMES Good luck to all of the above. Mr Money Sixth Formers Through to BASE National Finals Our Sixth Form students gave a brilliant ‘account’ of themselves at a business competition in Chester recently. Our two teams took both first and third place and were highly commended for their professionalism, application and presentational skills. The BASE (Business and Accounting Skills Education) competition is organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants. It involves teams of six students competing in heats to devise the best solution to a business scenario. The teams were given a large document to digest with three business problems to deal with; they had just two hours to produce and present their strategy. With the assistance of a mentor, they had to assess, analyse, debate and develop recommendations and then devise a presentation for a panel of judges, outlining why their ideas were the best. Competing against 8 other teams. First placed were Toby Brennan, Andrew Williams, Graham Fisher, Will Thomas, Sam Chapman and Brian Davies, while James Evans, Andrew Oake, Connor Ritchie, Taylor Craven, Daniel Crangle and Ryan Clarke took the third place position. Afterwards, Peter Harrison (Deputy Headteacher) representing our Economics & Business Studies Department commented “I’m immensely proud of both teams and their performance on the day. The competition is a great way for students to apply what they have learnt in a practical setting. It also tests their ability to work as a team, to understand complex data and to present effectively. These are all skills which are highly valued by employers and will be invaluable to the students in later life.” Good luck to the winning team which now progresses to the national finals in Birmingham in June First Year 9 Science Fair On May 21st the first WGSB Science Fair was held in the school hall. This was the culmination of Year 9 projects on the topic “Fit and Healthy” and gave the boys involved the chance to present their finished project ideas to a public audience of parents and teachers. These included: Healthy smoothies; energy drinks; a revision guide/textbook; an anti-smoking campaign; a multi-gym; a sports centre; live dissections; an album of biology based cover versions and a health website. The attendees visited each one of the stalls to hear the pitch from each of the groups and then were invited to give some brief, written comments to suggest ideas for improvement. As with all projects, much was learnt, both by the boys involved and myself, about how to successfully complete a project from start to finish, how to work together, how to manage time and how to pitch an idea to an audience. All those involved, including parents, had a positive opinion about at least some aspects of this way of learning. So, it is hoped that there will be many more opportunities to do similar learning activities in the future. Thanks to all the boys involved for their efforts. A big thank you also to all the parents and members of staff who took the time to attend this event and make it successful.
Transcript
Page 1: Nuntius - Wirral Grammar School for Boys · Nuntius Summer 2014 Cross Lane, Bebington, ... WIRRAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL ... each year presents new opportunities, successes and

NuntiusSummer 2014

Cross Lane, Bebington, Wirral, CH63 3AQ Tel: 0151 644 0908 www.wirralgrammarboys.com

WIRRAL GRAMMAR SCHOOLA Business and Enterprise School for Boys

‘Nuntius on-line’ Larger articles can be found by accessing the ‘Nuntius On-Line’ link via the school website

www.wirralgrammarboys.com

Year 10 Handball Team

Congratulations to the Y10 boys who have reached the National finals in Birmingham on the 26th June. This a fantastic achievement and puts this school in the top 4 playing schools nationally. The following boys were involved.

JACK PRICE MATTHEW DALTONSCOTT SOUTHWELL LOUIS KENTONANDREW ROGERS ALEX MCBAINNATHAN MCKINNEY DANIEL O,HALLORANBEN DOBBINS DAN EAMES

Good luck to all of the above.Mr Money

Sixth Formers Through to BASE National FinalsOur Sixth Form students gave a brilliant ‘account’ of themselves at a business competition in Chester recently. Our two teams took both first and third place and were highly commended for their professionalism, application and presentational skills.

The BASE (Business and Accounting Skills Education) competition is organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants. It involves teams of six students competing in heats to devise the best solution to a business scenario.

The teams were given a large document to digest with three business problems to deal with; they had just two hours to produce and present their strategy. With the assistance of a mentor, they had to assess, analyse, debate and develop recommendations and then devise a presentation for a panel of judges, outlining why their ideas were the best.

Competing against 8 other teams. First placed were Toby Brennan, Andrew Williams, Graham Fisher, Will Thomas, Sam Chapman and Brian Davies, while James Evans, Andrew Oake, Connor Ritchie, Taylor Craven, Daniel Crangle and Ryan Clarke took the third place position.

Afterwards, Peter Harrison (Deputy Headteacher) representing our Economics & Business Studies Department commented “I’m immensely proud of both teams and their performance on the day. The competition is a great way for students to apply what they have learnt in a practical setting. It also tests their ability to work as a team, to understand complex data and to present effectively. These are all skills which are highly valued by employers and will be invaluable to the students in later life.”

Good luck to the winning team which now progresses to the national finals in Birmingham in June

First Year 9 Science FairOn May 21st the first WGSB Science Fair was held in the school hall. This was the culmination of Year 9 projects on the topic “Fit and Healthy” and gave the boys involved the chance to present their finished project ideas to a public audience of parents and teachers. These included: Healthy smoothies; energy drinks; a revision guide/textbook; an anti-smoking campaign; a multi-gym; a sports centre; live dissections; an album of biology based cover versions and a health website.

The attendees visited each one of the stalls to hear the pitch from each of the groups and then were invited to give some brief, written comments to suggest ideas for improvement. As with all projects, much was learnt, both by the boys involved and myself, about how to successfully complete a project from start to finish, how to work together, how to manage time and how to pitch an idea to an audience.

All those involved, including parents, had a positive opinion about at least some aspects of this way of learning. So, it is hoped that there will be many more opportunities to do similar learning activities in the future. Thanks to all the boys involved for their efforts. A big thank you also to all the parents and members of staff who took the time to attend this event and make it successful.

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WIRRAL GRAMMAR SCHOOLA Business and Enterprise School for Boys

Headteacher’s WelcomeAs another school year comes to a close, we are able to look back on a wide range of both academic and extracurricular achievements.

GCSE and A Level results at the start of the year demonstrated a continuation of excellent standards. As always, Nuntius provides a flavour of the extracurricular life of the school throughout the term. While the rhythm to each year is broadly the same, each year presents new opportunities, successes and challenges. Achievements in sport have been especially notable during 2013/2014 with boys excelling in all areas of sport. No doubt you will be aware of successes at both regional and national levels in Rugby, Handball, Athletics, Hockey and Cricket. Earlier in the year our school was recognised as being in the top 30 schools in the country for participation in national competitions.

We have also enjoyed excellent musical performances with our Chamber Concerts and termly Music Society Concert, and our school production, ‘West Side Story’ was a roaring success; in fact, many who saw the production felt that it was one of the best that the school has done. I am pleased to announce that our School Production in 2015 will be ‘Evita’ and plans are already being made to hold auditions for cast members.

The Awards Ceremony at the end of term provided the opportunity to celebrate the boys’ achievements during the course of the school year and I congratulate all pupils on their successes whether they be in the classroom, or the sports field or through the wide variety of extracurricular opportunities. Hardly a week goes by without the news of a significant achievement by individuals or a group of pupils.

At the end of the year, we will be saying farewell to Mrs Craze (MFL) Teacher who is retiring after 35 years of service, Mrs Trinder (English) who is retiring after 20 years of service, Mrs Guest (Reprographics Technician) who is retiring after 28 years of service and Mrs Brinkman (Maths) who is leaving after 11 years of service. Mr Marshall-Clarke is leaving after 5 years service to take up a post at the Life Science University Technical College Liverpool. We also say goodbye to Miss Cooke (MFL), Mr Dickinson (MFL) and Miss Taws (Teaching Assistant). We wish them every happiness for the future and thank them for their excellent service.

From September, we will be welcoming the following new staff to our school: Miss Kirsty Humphreys (Biology), Miss Helen Murphy (MFL), Miss Elizabeth Jones (MFL), Miss Sarah McKenna (English) and Mr Craig Pickering (Reprographics)

I would also like to thank all parents for the superb support that they have given the school again this year and I hope that all families enjoy a relaxing summer. Our new academic year commences on Wednesday 3rd September 2014. Within the first two weeks of the term I will write to all parents with details of our examination results and our calendar of school events for 2014-2015.

Best wishes for a relaxing Summer.

D R Hazeldine Headteacher

Open EveningsParents of boys who will be in Year 5 at their Primary School in September are invited to attend one of our Open Evenings on Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd October 2014 at 6.30pm. Our Open Morning will take place on Friday 3rd October 2014 from 9.30am until 12 noon. Mr David Hazeldine, Headteacher, will talk to parents in the school hall. Talks will be repeated at intervals during the evening. The whole school will be open for parents to view the work and activities of all Departments and parents and pupils will be able to talk to current pupils about life at Wirral Grammar School.

A ‘Clean Break’ for SandraOn Friday 28th March 2014, Mrs Sandra Houston retired after 37 years of outstanding service to the school as one of our cleaning staff. Over this time, Sandra has seen many changes to the school, mainly from the building programme that has resulted in new and refurbished accommodation across all areas of the school. On her departure, Sandra said “I will really miss everyone. I have loved working here”. Sandra is pictured in the centre of this picture.

Head Boy Team: Appointments 2014-2015Following the process of staff and student nominations and candidate interviews, the following students have been appointed:

Head Boy: James EvansDeputy Head Boys: Aaron Drury Joseph LawtonSenior Prefects: Robin Leach Conor Ritchie Jack Abel Matthew Herbison

We wish our new Head Boy Team every success for their period of office in 2014-2015.

Parents’ Surveys - The 2013/2014 Analyses

Many thanks to all parents who have reported through our Parents’ Evening surveys which are always available at our Parents’ Evenings. The full analyses for all year groups will be available very shortly. Please follow the link from our website home page.

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Nuntius

To our four outgoing House Captains – Bence, Daniel, Isaac and Matthew as well as our Head Boy and Deputies, George, Jawad and Oliver – they have been a great team to work with and highly successful in raising the profile of both charity and house.

It has been a hugely successful year, with all our house captains fully embracing their role and setting a very high standard for their successors to follow. From their assembly presentations alongside Dr Randell, Mr Harrison, Mr White and Mrs Kahn, to their visits to house groups, charity events, chairing of house councils and even the chasing up of non-uniform debts they have been tireless in their commitment. The momentum has been maintained right to the end of the school year by their assistance with the successful running of the first ever House Captains Elections on May 8th, an event securing a 70% turnout and the successful elections of Daniel Dorda (B), Jack Hulme ( D), Udit Shankar (L) and Jack Kelly ( H). I wish the House Captains elect the very best of luck for their year in office and hope they are ready for the challenges that lie ahead.

On behalf of the school, a final thank you to all of the senior prefect team for your hard work this year and best wishes for your university years!

Mrs Ahern

And a parting shot in their own words:

Barber House

Bence Barton Barber House Captain 2013-14

This year genuinely has been a great one

for Barber. The cake sales were a constant success, the treasure hunt raised a surprising amount of money and the scratch competition produced a variety of games that

were actually enjoyable. Not only have you all been willing and enthusiastic, you’ve made these events possible by taking part and often helping myself and the head boy team organise them. We’ve pretty much constantly been at the top of the House Commendation and charity pot collection ladders, and I hope that’s where we’ll stay until the end of the year. It really has been a pleasure being Barber’s house captain and I wish Dan Dorda the best of luck next year – I’m sure he’ll do a great job.

Dodds House

Daniel Kowalski – Dodds House Captain 2013-4

Dodds has ended the year on a high with the

culmination of the school University Challenge competition, and the Dodds Fayre. Each house group worked tirelessly to plan and produce their own stall, raising over £200 for the School Charity. The

effort of the House Council representatives, and all those in Dodds who have engaged

in the events throughout this year has been consistently praiseworthy and I wish them all luck in the future; under Mr Hulme I’m sure the house cup is within our grasp. Nil sin Victoria.

Hodgson House

Isaac Barnes - Hodgson House Captain 2013-4

Well, where to start? It’s been an exciting year, not

just for the House Captains. There’s been so many changes throughout school and it has been a pleasure to be right in the midst of the action, helping out where I can!

Hodgson House has had its ups and downs throughout the year, competing valiantly for a top spot on the house leader boards. All those who have competed for Hodgson this year have done Mrs Kahn and me proud, helping us to maintain our competitive position. Whatever the outcome this year, all boys can be proud of the success we have achieved and the knowledge that Hodgson will be a keen competitor in years to come. I am positive there will be greater achievements in the coming year. I am, and always will be proud to call myself a Hodgson lad.

Looking back almost a year now I can say I had no idea what I was letting myself in for as a member of the Head Boy Team, the commitment, the time management and stress to name a few. However I can honestly say that what the Head Boy Team has achieved this year could not be done without the support we each gave. It has been a pleasure to work alongside each member of the team.

Some final words of thanks must also go to Mrs Ahern, for the immense amount of help she has given the team over the year, to Mrs Kahn for supporting all of Hodgson’s crazy ideas and assemblies and who has always been happy to give advice when I needed it. Lastly to all the boys in school, whom it has been a great experience to support and represent.

I wish the greatest of luck to all the boys next year, to the Head Boy Team who will continue where we left off and to my successor Jack Kelly, who I’m sure will make great strides in helping Hodgson compete for the top!

Lever House

Matthew Stewart – Lever House Captain 2013-4

It has been a fantastic year for Lever under

the new house reform, raising thousands of pounds for the school charity, but also challenging top place in the commendation stakes, regularly having spells at the top

of the leaderboard. A notice has to be paid to many members of our house: Gurditt Singh for selling muffins throughout the year adding to the pot for charity, Jonny Wilkinson for putting

in hard yards to make the FIFA competition a lasting legacy, and finally the House Council who have met fortnightly over the past year, adding valued advice and setting up events for all of you to enjoy.

Looking into the future, I would like to wish the new Lever House Captain, Udit Shankar, the very best of luck in his new role and hopefully in keeping Lever at the top of the pile where we belong.

AND LAST, BUT BY NO MEANS LEAST:

George Anderson - Head Boy 2013-2014

In my final Nuntius article, I am pleased to report that this year has been incredibly successful, raising thousands of pounds for charity from activities that have taken place all year. These range from FIFA tournaments to cake sales, and could not have been done without the dedication and commitment of the House Captains, who have been brilliant leaders this year. Another thank you goes to the prefect team which have been helping out at many of the school events, in particular for the induction of the current Year 7 and various parents’ evenings. Staff from all over the school have been incredibly supportive and we would not have been able to achieve what we have done without them: thank you. At time of writing, with half a term still to go, we now have over £6,500 destined for Alder Hey Hospital. Thank you and well done to everyone who has contributed in any way to this total and please let’s keep on working hard to support this very important cause!

It’s been a busy year. I’ve enjoyed the past seven I have spent here, and I have been very grateful for the opportunities that being Head Boy has bestowed upon me. Thank you Wirral Grammar School for Boys, best of luck to everyone for the future, and goodbye! Good luck to team 2014-15!

THANK YOU!To all members of the four house councils

2013-4

Your contribution to the successful organisation of

house events and fund-raising this year has

been invaluable.

House Council meetings will recommence in September – have a think about joining to represent your

house group and play your part in the next successful year of house events.

Mrs Ahern

House Matters - THANK YOU!

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WIRRAL GRAMMAR SCHOOLA Business and Enterprise School for Boys

Congratulations to Professor Rachel Williams, our Vice Chair of Governors

Rachel has been named as one of the UK’s most inspirational scientists and is one of ten scientists and engineers on a list compiled by the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council from hundreds of nominations from across the UK. Rachel’s work

within Liverpool University’s Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease centres on creating materials which can be used to prevent or delay loss of sight. She is currently working on a project to develop a synthetic membrane on which retinal pigment epithelial cells can be grown and transplanted under the retina in the eye of a patient with age-related macular degeneration.

Within School, alongside her role as School Governor, Rachel provides advice, guidance and interview practice for students intent on pursuing medical and related courses at University. On gaining her recognition, Rachel commented “I’m honoured to be in the top ten list”.

A first for Wirral Grammar School For Boys: House Captain Elections - May 8th 2014

From the perspective of some of our in-house journalists:

Jack Kelly (Hodgson) Udit Shankar (Lever) Jack Hulme (Dodds) Daniel Dorda (Barber)

Jacob Bradshaw Y10 reports:

On Thursday 8th of May, Wirral Grammar School for Boys held its first ever house elections, trying to discover who would be the best interactive, most persuasive and actively helpful applicant. Each contestant had been campaigning for some time before and finally the great day arrived. Early that morning the polling station was set up, the candidates waited outside the hall and the doors were opened to everyone…

The methods by which students could vote was simple: each person who wanted to participate was given a slip (of their house colour) with the four applicants written on with tick boxes on each. They were ticked off so no-one voted twice and their vote was put into the box. The hall was open most of the day and the overall turnout of students who voted was over 70%! Well done to everyone who voted, the 16 candidates who entered and congratulations to those elected. We wish you all the best of luck next academic year as house captains and are sure you’ll do an excellent job. Thank you again to everyone who participated in the house election; I’m sure with the excellent turnout and successful organisation, we may see another one next year…

Our Lever Correspondent, Alfie Hardcastle reports:

Lever House Election

When I first heard about the school election, it came as a bit of a surprise. Seeing as I have spent two years without having to pay too much attention to the way a house captain is picked, I’ll have to admit I was a little bit surprised. Still, a lot of people in this school like voicing their opinion, so the idea of it went down well. What actually happened though? Seeing as I was covering Lever, I kept my eye on that house especially.

8:30 The doors to the hall have just opened and a lot of people have come early to put their vote in before school starts. I was one of them, and the word is that Udit Shankar has taken the early lead in the house. Steady streams of people keep coming in, and surprisingly they seem eager to vote. There was also some entertainment when one person, who shall remain unnamed, had no idea how to vote and ticked all the boxes.

8:50 The bell goes and the voting is temporarily stopped until break. From what I have seen, Udit still leads and it looks like it will stay that way. Eventually everyone clears away for the first lesson of the day.

11:20 Voting has resumed, and less people are coming in than before. Still, there are a few people coming in and putting in votes. Some potential house captains are in the hall watching on nervously, and some teachers have dropped by to put their votes in the big yellow box. I pity the person who has to count them all up at the end of today. The voting halts when the bell goes at 11:40 is Udit’s lead unassailable?

12:40 A few people come into the hall to place their votes. Just as a side note, a massive round of applause to the people who have helped with the voting. Their service and the speed they have conducted voters with have been incredibly efficient. Towards the end of lunch, the stream of people coming in starts to whittle down slightly. To me, this might mean that the amount of people who haven’t voted has begun to shrink. The bell goes at 13:30.

At the end of the day, the result of the election was a victory for Udit Shankar! So Udit held on to that lead he had at the start- this meant he is the new leader of Lever, and congratulations to him. All in all, it was a very well done event, and it could easily be done in the future.

Parents’ Association Meeting Dates for 2014-2015Our Annual General Meeting takes place on Tuesday 9th September 2014 in the dining hall at 7pm. Following the AGM, there will be a Committee Meeting at which officers will be appointed. All parents are welcome to attend. Extra support is always welcome.

The following meetings will all take place at 7.00pm at school

AGM Tuesday 9th September 2014

Wednesday 15 October 2014

Monday 10 November 2014

Saturday 29th November – Christmas Fair

Tuesday 13th January 2015

Monday 2nd March 2015

Thursday 30th April 2015

Thursday 11 June 2015

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‘Nuntius on-line’ Larger articles can be found by accessing the ‘Nuntius On-Line’ link via the school website

www.wirralgrammarboys.com

Music UpdateThursday 1 May saw another outstanding collection of solo performances in the summer Chamber Concert. All 26 boys performed admirably and were well received by an appreciative audience. A particular mention should go to the 10 boys who performed for the first time – never an easy thing to do – including the following boys in year 7:

THOMAS PEAKE PIANO & GUITAR

SETH COLLINSON VIOLIN

JONATHON KOWALSKI FLUTE

ADAM PULLIN DRUMS

BEN FRAMPTON CLARINET)

MATTHEW PARKES DRUMS

MAX TITTLE VOICE

A number of boys took part in “Postcards from the Front”, a music and arts festival held in Christchurch Community Centre on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June. As well as displays of artwork from boys in years 7-9, there were performances of World War I melodies by some of our sixth form. This begins a series of commemorative events to mark the centenary of the start of the First World War.

Continuing the Department’s visits to primary schools during the summer term, we were able to visit 5 schools on Wednesday 2 July. The Junior Brass Group, String Group, Woodwind Group, Ukulele Group and Year 7 Choir, as well as a number of soloists performed at St Andrew’s, Mendell, Christ the King, Poulton Lancelyn and Heygarth primary schools throughout the day, and over 60 boys in years 7-10 were involved. 67 local primary schools have now received performances in the last 14 years, and this is now one of the Department’s most important annual events.

All of these groups and more performed to the usual high standard at the Summer Concert on Thursday 10 July, whilst the Music Society Dinner proved to be its normal gastronomic success on Friday 11 July. Many thanks to our Guest of Honour Mr Philip Duffy, who was Master of Music at the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral for over 30 years and famously received Christmas Cards from the last Pope, for a most enjoyable speech, along with the other members of the Music Forum reporting on their ensembles.

A number of boys took music examinations this term, but with the results not yet with us, congratulations will have to wait for Autumn’s Nuntius. However, the results from some of last term’s exams did not make the Spring edition of Nuntius. Congratulations therefore to the following list of successful candidates, and to the high number of merits and distinctions:

Name Form Instrument Grade Result

Max Tittle 7H/AB Singing 1 Distinction

Raghuram Sridhar 7B/KC Piano 2 Pass

Kieran Shingler 8B/KJS Guitar 1 Distinction

Ethan Gibbons 8L/BC Guitar 1 Distinction

Andrew Taylor 8H/GA Guitar 1 Merit

John Fleetwood 8D/NM Keyboard 1 Merit

Morgan Williams 8L/PAT Keyboard 2 Distinction

Oliver Ritchie 8L/HS Singing 3 Merit

Harry Pickard 9B/KLJ Singing 1 Distinction

Frank Larty 9H/MH Guitar 1 Merit

Balaram Sridhar 9B/AW Piano 2 Merit

AdamRasel-Watson

11D/PM

Guitar 5 Distinction

Ben Turner11H/SLJA

Singing 8 Distinction

Ben Turner11H/SLJA

Keyboard 8 Distinction

A particular mention should go to Ben Turner, who managed the quite extraordinary feat of obtaining distinction in Grade 8 on both keyboard and singing exams on the same day. Rumour has it he also had a minor role in the school play to negotiate.

Finally - and as I always say - as the long summer months get under way with a vengeance, remember that 7 weeks without music lessons does not mean 7 weeks without practice!

Mr P Thomas

Music Department

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WIRRAL GRAMMAR SCHOOLA Business and Enterprise School for Boys

‘The BBC and me!’ In February Years 7 and 8 were set homework to enter the BBC Radio 2 500 Words story competition. I got on with my homework, submitted my story, ‘Albert Onions and Me’, and handed in my confirmation email. On 3rd April, I got an email telling me I was in the last 3500. A couple of weeks later I got an email saying I was in the Final 50 – out of over 118,000 entries! I was invited to the live Radio 2 Breakfast show at the Hay Festival.

On Friday 30th May, a bus with all the finalists left our hotel at 5.15am. We had to be in our seats for the Breakfast Show to start broadcasting at 7am. During the news bulletin we had to get to our seats – then the final began. Within minutes Chris Evans was introducing Barney Harwood to announce the Bronze winner. He opened the envelope and read out my name and the title of my story. It took me a moment to realise it was me – my photo appeared on a large screen above the stage – Owen Storer, Bronze Winner! I chatted with Alex Jones live on the radio, then Barney read my story on air. I was given my bronze medal and read the next link on the show. After all the winners were announced there was a photo call and I was interviewed for TV. I was invited onto The One Show that evening. I was very nervous but it was fun. All day people kept noticing my medal and congratulating me, saying they had heard my story on the radio.

When I did my homework I hadn’t expected anything to come from it – now my story has been heard by over 9 million people, I’ve won a national competition and I’m waiting for my prize – my height in books! It has been a great experience.

Owen Storer 8B/ASD

Postcards From the Front – World War 1 Commemorative Exhibition

“Postcards From the Front”, an Art and Music exhibition to commemorate the start of World War One was held at Christchurch Community Centre on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th June.

All WGSB pupils in Years 7 to 9 had produced handmade poppies for the exhibition together with a digital piece of artwork in the format of a postcard, each dedicated to a fallen soldier from the Wirral. The event was open to the public and was attended by several members of the community who had lost members of their family during the war. Musical items were ones dating back to the war years.

The display of postcards and poppies will be on show in our Atrium entrance next November as part of our Remembrance activities.

Mrs Johnson – Head of Art

BBC Radio 2 Short Story WinnerWell done to Owen Storer in Year 8 who won the Bronze Award in the BBC Radio 2 ‘500 Word Short Story’ Competition out of 120,000 entries. Owen found out about his success on the Radio 2 ‘Breakfast Show’ when it was announced to him by Chris Evans. Owen also appeared on ‘The One Show’ later the same day. Owen’s story is called ‘Albert, Onions and Me’ and is inspired by part of his walk to school.

Hear Owen’s story called ‘Albert Onions and Me’ read by Barney Harwood. http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0201j8g

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‘Nuntius on-line’ Larger articles can be found by accessing the ‘Nuntius On-Line’ link via the school website

www.wirralgrammarboys.com

Year 8 Ingleton Trip On the 3rd April 2014 Year 8 travelled to White Scar Caves in Yorkshire to learn more about limestone. It was a two hour journey to the caves and we were glad to step off the bus. First of all our group went into the cave network, which is the longest show cave network in the U.K.

For the first part of our expedition we had to squeeze and slide through cracks and crevasses. Next we were shown all of the stalactites, stalagmites and fossils that the cave had to offer. Our guide was brilliant; he told us all we needed to know about the cave networks, such as that the caves were formed 450 million years ago. For the second part of our trip into the caves we had to duck under the low ceilings. This proved hard for the taller members of our group seeing as the ceilings were only 3ft high.

After lunch we set off on a walk over the hills of Ingleborough. This resulted in us seeing some breath taking scenery of the beautiful landscapes. We were told all about how the limestone was formed 100’s of millions of years ago. This was quite amazing seeing something that was forming around the same time as the dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

Overall I really enjoyed the trip to White Scar Caves and on behalf of all of year 8 I would like to thank all of the teachers involved in making this trip happen.

Tom Palin 8(4)

Annual GCSE and A-level Art ExhibitionTo celebrate the hard work of the art pupils over the past two years the Art department held its annual GCSE/AS and A2 art exhibition private view on Monday 30th June.

The GCSE pupils completed two pieces of coursework, one based on natural structure and one on urban structures. However, the terminal examination allowed pupils to work more independently and to choose their own subject matter and material base. A wide variety of work was displayed showing the diversity of our students work and allowing us to celebrate two years of hard work by both the pupils and art department staff.

The work displayed by the AS and A2 pupils was much more independent, each pupil being able to develop work in their own style. Many of these pupils had the opportunity to extend their artwork through a residential at both the Conway Centre, Anglesey and a trip to Paris this year. These trips have formed a large part of many of the pupils work and could be seen referenced in their sketchbooks. These pupils were also lucky enough to take

part in a series of workshops run by local artist Emma Rogers, including a trip to her house and studio. All of these extra activities running alongside a school based curriculum ensured that our pupils have had every opportunity to excel in their art portfolio.

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Belgium and Netherlands History Trip Easter 2014One of the boys that went, Andrew McCasey of Year 9.5, wrote this…

“This past May we went to Belgium & the Netherlands as part of a school trip for history. We were primarily there to learn about World War 1 & 2 but of course that’s not all we did there. There was a mix of educational and fun things to do.

To learn about WW1 we first went to a German and British cemetery with our Belgian guide to explain about the graves and educate us about the lives and experiences of some of the lost soldiers. We then went to the Flanders Fields’ museum which was an interactive memorial site for us to explore. Later that evening we went to the Menin Gate which was a gigantic memorial site for soldiers in the form of a bridge with names written around it. Two of our boys, Jamie Gunn and Cameron Wedd, laid a wreath at the ceremony.

When we went to the Netherlands we first went to the former transit camp for Jews that were sent to Auschwitz and other Extermination Camps, called Vught. This was quite moving. We then went to Amsterdam where there was Anne Frank’s house to explore and a guided tour of all the city’s history.

There were also many non-educational activities we did. In Belgium we had free time around the town we stayed in and ate out every night. In the Netherlands we had free time around Amsterdam and had a trip on a boat around the city. Going to Walibi theme park was also a great activity. We also went out bowling.

All together we had a fantastic trip and will be remembered forever by everyone.

Mr McKibbin writes “It was indeed an excellent trip. Taking 74 boys from Years 9 and 10 with 7 staff was an experience in itself. But, they all did themselves proud, and we were regularly complimented by members of the public and the tour guides for their attitude and behaviour. So thanks to them!” I would also like to thank the staff who went, otherwise the trip wouldn’t have run. They were Mr Taws, Mr Edwards, Mr C Hughes, Mr Metcalf. Mr Brick and Mr Shaw. Next year’s trip to Berlin is already under preparation and I am sure that the boys are already looking forward to it!

Mr McKibbin

Salter’s Chemistry CompetitionOn Tuesday 13th May, four year eights and Mr Mountford went to John Moores University to compete in a chemistry competition.

This annual competition involves many different schools, including us, Bebington High School, and West Kirby School. We arrived at JMU via train early in the morning. We were met by Professor Bradshaw in the lecture theatre and told we had to solve a crime and do a test. We returned to the lab where we began to solve the case of the missing gnomes. We were given 6 suspects and their alibis. Motives were also supplied. We had to do various chemical tests on evidence such as ink found at the scene and a white powder found. This tested our knowledge of chromatography and basic reactions. After an hour of tests we reached the conclusion that the chef, Nigella Awesome, had committed the crime. The ink at the scene matched the ink in her pen and the white powder was salt. She wanted to buy a house in the area but couldn’t so took out her anger on gnomes. After lunch we continued our day. We were challenged to slow down the reaction of 2 chemicals. We had to slow the colour change of two chemicals from 20 seconds to 40. This tested our knowledge of heating and cooling, and basic reactions. The closest we got was 38 seconds. After all of this we went back to the lecture theatre for the award ceremony. Unfortunately, we did not place in any challenge, however we thoroughly enjoyed our day and left with prizes for ourselves.

Dylan Owen 8/1 DA/S

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‘West Side Story’ Review The tale of Romeo and Juliet is a story familiar to everyone. Two star crossed lovers attempting to stay together despite everything that their warring families -and apparently the rest of the universe- did to prevent their happiness. Shakespeare’s story has survived the test of time, even if the language has been proven to be a little archaic now and again, particularly now, when there are fewer people willing to sit through it. And frankly that’s the problem with the story - people aren’t always willing to sit through it, which is why ‘West Side Story’ is the perfect option - it has the same story, in a more modern setting, with catchy songs and an accessibility which the original sometimes seems to lack.

So, when it was announced that ‘West Side Story’ was to be this year’s production, it seemed to be the perfect choice. With a promising cast and such a good musical, I felt that this production could be the best for many years, which is saying something, given how each year there is a continually high standard.

Frankly, I and the rest of the audience weren’t disappointed. In truth, whilst I knew that we were in for an enjoyable evening, I didn’t fully predict how good it was going to be - the cast were perfect for the roles, the costumes were exquisite and the choreography was flawless. I think that the best way to determine how good a play was is to see how the audience responded throughout.

They were enamoured by the whole show, and gave particularly rapturous applause after both ‘America’ and ‘Gee, Officer Krupke’. Whilst the entire cast deserves all the credit they can get, notable mention needs to go to Jack Fletcher, who stood out from a crowd of immensely talented actors- his performance was one of the highlights of the show.

After several nights of standout performances, everyone involved with the production, from the cast to the backstage crew and more, should feel glad that their months of dedication and hard work has finally paid off.

Daniel Thompson U6 L/HS

Reading RewardMany congratulations to the following pupils who each won a £10 book card in our most recent Reading Reward draw

Year 7-Jay Johns, Jonathan Kowalski and James Wright

Year 8- William Everard, Robert Golightly and James Snell

The Reading Reward draw is just one of the many strategies Wirral Grammar School has in place to encourage and support reading.

Drama Cup 2014The Drama Cup is awarded each year to the person who has made the most impressive contribution to this year’s production. This year’s winner, chosen from a very strong field, is Jack Fletcher.

Jack has been a member of the Drama Society for two years and has been one of its most influential members. Always supportive of other company members, he has proved himself a committed and noisily enthusiastic member of the team. Jack is also a fine actor, dancer and singer. He played Stewpot in ‘South Pacific’ last year; however, it was as Action, a member of the Jets that he really excelled. Cast against type, he gave a totally absorbing portrayal of angry, disillusioned youth, always on the brink of violence. No-one who witnessed his performance is likely to forget it. Congratulations Jack!

The cast of ‘West Side Story’ was one of the finest the school has assembled and I would like to say thank you and farewell to the others who made the last two years’ productions so much fun to do: Jack Hughes, Isaac Barnes, Nathan Thompson, Jordan Langton, Liam Nye, Ollie Wedgwood, and Christian McEvoy. They will be missed and we wish them every success in the future. Let’s hope they keep up the acting.

Mr G R Hinde MBE

Director

STOP PRESS...STOP PRESS...The 2015 Joint Schools’ production will be EVITA by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Audition material available from the WGSB School Office now.

Mr G R Hinde MBE, Director

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Wynn Davies, Wirral Grammar’s Bletchley Park HeroOn the school’s Roll of Honour in the main hall can be found the name of D H W Davies who went on to study Classics at Cambridge in 1941. Known to everyone as ‘Wynn’ he had just commenced his first year studies when he was informed that he would be leaving to take part in vital war work. So secretive was his mission that even when he found himself in a classroom with others taking a crash course in Japanese he had no idea what he would be doing and thought he was to be sent to the Far-East to fight as a soldier against the enemy.

Wynn’s destination was much closer to home. A few weeks later he found himself being discharged unceremoniously from the back of a lorry at night in a place so secret that it never officially existed until recently. Bletchley Park was the home of the government’s code-breakers and secret intelligence gathering for WW2. The Japanese had recently entered the war and sunk the battleships Repulse and Prince of Wales followed by the fall of Singapore. The Royal Navy urgently needed intelligence about the enemy’s naval deployments and Wynn and his colleagues set to work to break their codes.

So important was the work carried out at Bletchley Park that Winston Churchill later said that the work carried out ‘shortened the war by as much as two years’. Our own hero from Wirral Grammar Boys, Wynn Davies played his part and is remembered today on Bletchley Park’s Roll of Honour. The Citation reads:

Mr D H W Davies

1939-1945

FO Civilian TJAO

‘For service in support of the work of Bletchley Park during World War Two. We Also Served’

Bag Pack for the IWELE Project

In May students and staff took part in a bag-pack at Tesco’s in Heswall to raise funds for our IWELE Project. The project aims are to link and assist partner schools in South Africa and Namibia and facilitate students and staff from the African schools to visit the Wirral to observe and compare different educational and social cultures.

The public of Heswall gave generously and over £400 was raised in just a few hours. Many thanks to all involved including the management and staff of Tesco’s for their excellent support.

Mr P Ronayne

Community Partnership Manager

Rainforest RoadshowOn Friday 23rd May, Year 9 took part in the ‘Rainforest Roadshow’. For this, a visitor came into the school with pictures, stories and souvenirs of her experiences in rainforests across the globe.

Firstly Sue showed us two stick insects - we got to stroke them and she explained that they were found in Guinea. With reference to pictures we were shown how the indigenous people in the rainforests go about their lives, such as how they hunt their food .She showed us the darts and a blowpipe and how they are made. When she demonstrated this we had a shock at how fast the dart could travel and how deadly it could be. Sue also explained how they entertain themselves with the making of their masks and musical instruments. After that, she showed us a scorpion, a beetle and a tarantula. Many of us enjoyed touching and learning about these creatures and we found it fascinating to see them in the flesh. Finally, she ended by talking about orangutans, what they eat as well as why they are an endangered species. Overall the Rainforest Roadshow was very informative and enjoyable, so much so, I believe that everyone would love to see them again.

Tom Rogers 9H/GA

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The Height of SuccessWhen deciding on where to have my eighth birthday party, my dad recommended a climbing centre in Liverpool, Awesome Walls.

Identified as a gifted climber, since then, I have dedicated myself to the sport of Wall Climbing. In 2010 I entered a competition and jumped at the chance of showing off my climbing skills. In competitions, points are based on how high you get up the wall, with a maximum score of 100 points for the top hold on each climb. The person with the highest overall points score at the end of all 6 climbs wins. Three climbs are routes with ropes; the others are lower level bouldering problems.

In my first competition I finished second place behind an older climber who was already in the British Junior Team and this meant that I qualified for the national finals. In 2011, I participated in and won the national finals in Wolverhampton and became National Champion.

I train two to three times a week at the Boardroom in Queensferry and The Climbing Hangar in Liverpool. My sister now climbs with me and she was National Champion in 2012. We enter approximately 25 competitions each year, based on both disciplines of climbing (routes and bouldering). They are based all over the country, which means we get to go to new climbing centres to experience different climbs.

My personal ambitions in this sport are to reclaim my title this year in Edinburgh, make the British Team and ultimately represent the country in an international competition. Climbing is being considered for the Olympics in 2024 and it is one of my long term goals to be able to compete at this event.

Elliot Verry 8B/JHH

Chess ClubThe chess club has been continuing the UK Schools Chess Challenge tournament that started before the Easter break, with all of the games now finished. In the final stages of the tournament, it was not hard to see that it was going to be a three-horse race between James Lee (Yr8), Seth Collinson (Yr7) and myself. All of us had played against each other and drawn, whilst fighting off others in the competition. The fears of a three-way tie for 1st place came to a reality as all of us won our last few games to finish with 19/21 for our overall scores (7 rounds: 3 points for a win, 2 points for a draw, 1 point for a loss). A mention to Corey McWilliams (Yr7) who finished with an excellent 17/21 after winning five games and losing two hard-fought battles. Also, congratulations to all the other players who scored 15+ points to qualify for the regional tournament in Cheadle and well done to all other participants who all played fairly with great courage and determination. From the Cheadle tournament 3 players qualified for the Northern section Gigafinal, to be held in Manchester in July.

The question was, “How were we going to decide the overall winner of the tournament?”. After discussing many ideas, we eventually agreed to play a round robin tournament which would be timed with 20/25 minutes each (depending on the amount of time left of lunch). In the first week, James Lee secured a victory over Seth Collinson to take an early lead in the round robin. James was against me in the second week and after a long game, this time it was me who secured the points. In the third week, I was up against a very strong competitor in Seth and after what was another long battle, it was me who won the game and the tournament with it.

We are now continuing with the chess ladder which is the competition that goes on for the whole of the year, except when the Chess Challenge tournament is on. All positions are hotly contested and we will definitely see some interesting chess until the end of the school year.

Mrs J Turner

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Year 8 Cricket ReportThe Year 8 team has played 4 matches up to the writing of this report, won 3 and lost 1. They are due to play in the Cheshire Cup later this month.

The first game against Brine Leas school saw Wirral win by 30 runs. Louis Botes scored 39 for Wirral and Ollie Roberts took 3 for 7 to help the win. Against Calday at home Wirral batted first scoring 98 for 2 with that man Botes scoring 56. In reply Calday only managed 61 all out with McKeown, Strahan and Verry taking two wickets each. At home to St Anselms, Wirral contained the visitors to 69 for 5 with Robert Gibson taking 2 for 9. In reply Jack Gerrard made 26 and skipper Botes 34 in a 9 wicket win. The fielding have been particularly good in the matches played as well as the tight bowling. My thanks to Louis Botes for being Captain and leading the side so well.

The boys who have played for the school team are: Louis Botes (Captain), Jack Gerrard, Elliott Verry, Adam Strahan, Lewis McKewon, Tom Palin, Cameron Daulby, Callum France, Sam Croll, Oliver Roberts, Lewis Quail and Robert Gibson.

Mr McKibbin

Year 7 Cricket ReportThe Year 7 Cricket Squad was developed after the Easter break after some squad sessions in the sports hall. It was apparent that we had a very talented group and an enthusiastic set of lads.

The effort from the group in those session has seen two teams selected. We began playing St Anselms in the first game which was rain affected, but a well structured innings from Tom Green saw Wirral home in a close fought game. In the Cheshire Cup first ound the boys played Calday away, and despite bowling well and reducing Calday to 95 for 8 wickets, Wirral started poorly being 21/4 after 9 overs. A superb innings from D Vasooja and C Baker ensured that the scores were tied at 95 for 6 wickets each, but the rules stated the team that had lost the fewer wickets progressed. We went through to the second round playing Birkenhead. The same day, the B Team won easily with superb performances from B Brady-Jones, A Manger and S Naylor. We played Birkenhead and despite reducing Birkenhead to 92/6, we fell short getting 78/5 in which the two spin bowlers from Birkenhead restricted our lads in the middle overs. Lessons were learnt and a very good couple of games against Merchant Taylors and Bluecoat in which we won well, has seen the lads improve and gain confidence during the summer term.

In the last two weeks we have played school house matches with the following results.

Year 7 House Cricket

Barber v Dodds. Dodds beat Barber by 5 wickets after a man of the match performance from T Green who scored 16 and got three wickets. Barber scored 72 all out, with Manger contributing 13. Despite good bowling, Dodds won with 2.3 overs left.

Lever v Hodgson. In a well fought game Lever beat Hodgson by 1 run. Great performances from Vasooja and Darlington saw Lever post 92. There was a great fight back in which Baker (15) and Brady-Jones (22) got them close, but just not enough as they lost by 1 run!! Hodgson won by 18 runs in a game in which they posted a solid score of 60 from the 16 overs, with Baker staring with 18. Barber bowled well with a special mention to Battersby with three wickets. In Barber’s reply, poor batting and despite A Jones scoring 15, they finished 18 runs short all out for 42!

Lever beat Dodds after a very close game winning with a wide to win on the last ball by 5 wickets. It was a well-structured innings by Naylor (22) and Green (18no) that got Dodds off to a good start, in the end scoring 82 from the 16 overs. In reply Lever started slowly losing Clark first ball, but rallied, and the partnership between Byrne and Darlington, got Lever within reach of the score. A wide from the last ball ensured Lever took their second win to lead the House Matches after two games.

Well done to Nathan Bradshaw and Harry Darlington who have captained the A team this year, and Sam Naylor and Josh McKinney who have captained the B Team. I hope that the lads can finish the summer well enjoying their cricket, whether it be in games, house matches or representing school. I would recommend that the lads join a local team to enhance their skills and to play competitively.

Mr A Metcalf

Year 9 Cricket ReportCongratulations to the year 9 players who have reached the semi final of the Cheshire Cup.

They reached the semi final by beating Cheadle Hulme School in an amazing T20 clash, Cheadle scoring 152 for 5 and the game almost beyond reach. Wirral replied with a run chase to remember. Wirral won by 7 wicket with 6 balls to spare. 153/3. Captain Ben Thomas batted through the innings and Louis Botes (y8) hit 20 runs off the last but one over to win the game,6,6,4,4. The winning team was

Ben Thomas (Captain), Jonathan Beaver, Sean Hayes, Cameron Crabb, Louis Botes, Will Flannagan

Conor Morris, Jack Curreton, Lucas Barratt, Mo Hyatt, Cameron Pebberdy, Dylan King.

Good luck, we play The Kings School Macclesfield in the semi final.

Mr Money.

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AthleticsThe short summer term has resulted in the Schools’ Track and Field Athletics Programme becoming somewhat protracted. Added to this, summer examinations, a certain apathy amongst some establishments and our unpredictable climate and opportunities for boys to participate in track and field athletics are increasingly limited! However, we do our best and this year especially, there have certainly been some highlights.

We started the season with a ‘bang’, back in April, when we fought off some very strong opposition from St Anselm’s College to win the first event of the Summer, the Wirral Schools’ Relay Championships at the Oval. Our

4 x 100m and 4 x 800m Relay Squads from Years 7 to 10 were superb in the defence of a trophy we held from the 2013 season.

Our Junior and Inter teams were both runners up in their respective English Schools’ Track and Field first round Cup Competitions. As a result, both teams won an ‘A’ final spot at the North West Regional Finals in Blackpool. Only the top twelve teams in the region qualify for this prestigious Meeting, where competition for a National Final place is fierce! Our Junior team (Year 7 & 8) came a very creditable fourth in a very tightly fought Competition in which only a handful of points separated the top teams. The Inters were placed seventh in another very close Competition, again very few points separating the best schools.

There were many excellent performances, but perhaps the most outstanding were from Juniors : Harvey Darroch (100m : 12.7, Long Jump : 5.00m), Matthew Munnerley (100m : 13.0, High Jump : 1.47m), Jacob Dimon Ainscough (Javelin : 32.10m), Tom Lockwood (Discus : 26.71m), Dan Carrol (Shot : 10.31m), Jonathan Head (800m : 2.25). And Inters : Tom James (300m : 39.4, High Jump : 1.56m)), James Richards (100m : 11.8, Long Jump : 5.38m), Will Tyrer (100m : 12.1, Javelin : 35.25m), Alex McBain (1500m : 4.24), Charlie Norman (800m : 2.13), Haydn Ward (200m : 25.0), Joe Totty (Discus : 28.41m), Matty Dalton (Discus : 27.57m), Ben Elliot (Javelin : 36.0m).

A large number of our athletes competed very successfully in the Wirral Schools’ Trials and were selected to represent Wirral Schools’ at the Merseyside Championships in June, including ten Year 7 boys, which obviously bodes well for the future!

At the time of writing, our Year 7 and Year 8 teams are both preparing to defend their titles at the Wirral Schools’ Year 7 and 8 Track and Field Championships, and from what we have seen so far this season, they must stand a very good chance of retaining the trophies. All in all, not a bad year again, for Wirral Grammar School Track and Field Athletics!

Mr P CrowleyHead of Physical Education

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JUNIOR BANTAMS (year 8) Cheshire Cup Semi FinalWirral vs Christleton HS 1st April 2014

Wirral went into the game very unsure of what they were about to face. We have never played Christleton, but knew they had beaten a very good Lymm side in the previous round. However our fears were unjust as we comfortably won 50-5 and progressed to the Final of the County Cup.

Cheshire Cup Final at Wirral RUFC vs St Ambrose College 9th April 2014

After a long, hard season the most important game had finally arrived and we were well up for it. A couple of good, intense training sessions prepared us for the battle against our biggest rivals, St Ambrose College. In our previous encounters we had lost at 15 a-side and in the Final of the Birkenhead 7`s tournament, so we started as big underdogs. Ex- International Dave Edmunds was the referee, Wirral Rugby Club had prepared an immaculate pitch, all was ready for a scintillating final and that is what we got.

Wirral started quickly and took the game to St Ambrose. There were some big hits from both sides and none more so than a massive tackle by Matthew Munnerley on their huge winger. This set the tone and Wirral dominated the first half. After some great support play Wirral took the lead through a Tom Lockwood try. The conversion was missed. Wirral 5 St Ambrose 0. Again, after rugged defence and a turnover, Wirral produced some excellent play to score another try from Louis Botes. Again from out wide the conversion was missed. Wirral finished the half strong and led 10-0 at half time.

The second half started with a deep kick into St Ambrose territory. The blue wall appeared on the 22m line and a Wirral turnover ensued. From this Wirral ran the ball and were unlucky not to score. However a penalty was given 5m out from the St Ambrose line. We tried to run the ball but were held up over the line. This proved to be the turning point as a strong Ambrose outfit worked their way back into the game. Two tries, one converted meant the score was Wirral 10 St Ambrose 12. Wirral fought valiantly to the end and still had a chance to win the final. Unfortunately it was not to be.

It was a fitting finale to the season and I am sure the team will go from strength to strength. I would like to thank all the Year 8 squad both A and B for a wonderful season and wish them the best of luck with Mr McKibbin in year 9. Finally a big thank you to Jacob and Louis for their efforts and for the gifts at the rugby dinner.

Mr A McKinneyJunior Bantams Coach

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TAG Rugby TournamentIn May, we ran the twelfth Annual Wirral Grammar School Primary Schools’ Tag Rugby Tournament. 160 Primary pupils plus their teachers and many parents enjoyed the beautiful weather and as usual, some excellent tag rugby. The Final was contested by two local schools and old adversaries, Poulton Lancelyn and Higher Bebington; Higher Bebington eventually running out 5 – 4 winners in a very keenly fought Final.

Congratulations to all the teams who took part, for providing us with such an entertaining afternoon, and many thanks to the sixth formers who refereed so efficiently all afternoon, and Mr Brendan Bailey and Chris Hughes, who prepared them for the Tournament.

Mr P CrowleyHead of Physical Education

1st XV Rugby - Cheshire U18 CupAt the end of a long and successful season, the 1st XV took to the pitch for the last time on Thursday 1 May at Lymm RUFC for the Final of the Cheshire Cup. It is ten years since we won this trophy, which has in recent years, been dominated by schools from East Cheshire.

Our excellent season was completed with a very satisfying 22 – 5 victory against a strong Sandbach School side, who we had had to overcome already this season in Round 6 of our very successful run in the NatWest Competition. Tries from Sam Wicks (2) and Lewis Beamish plus two conversions and a penalty from Ben Brooks sealed the victory in a very accomplished performance, in which our defence was once again, outstanding!

Congratulations to the whole 1st XV Squad. These days it is very much a 22 man game, not just about the starting XV!

This has been the most successful season both in terms of results and the way we have played the game in a number of years and the players deserve great credit for that! My thanks also to Mr White, Mr Davies and Mr McKinney for their assistance in making this happen. Well done everyone!

Mr P CrowleyHead of Physical Education

Commonwealth HonourOn behalf of Liverpool Council I was very honoured to be nominated to carry the Commonwealth Baton through the City of Hull. After the Ceremony, Hull challenged Liverpool to a table tennis match in the City Hall. 1000 spectators came to watch and thankfully the Liverpool team won 8-2. The day was an amazing experience and one which I will remember for a long time.

Mr J Taylor

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Admission EnquiriesEnquiries relating to admissions should be directed to our Admissions Manager, Mrs Tanya Fry on 0151 644 0908 or by visiting the school website: www.wirralgrammarboys.com

Ways to Keep In Touch Wirral Grammar School for Boys has a Twitter feed and we can be followed @WGSB

Those with Facebook can be kept up-to-date with achievements, developments and events through our secure, school managed

Facebook page: Wirral Grammar School for Boys (Education).

To have our up-dates in your Newsfeed, simply ‘like’ this page.

Cashless Purchasing Accounts are available for ‘top up’ at the relevant paying stations but parents are also able to ‘top up’ their son’s canteen allowance through our on-line service via ‘Parentmail2’. Using our on-line facility means that boys do not need to queue up at the payment point in school.

Created by www.concept4.com (ref J8051-06/14), an ISO9001 Quality and ISO14001 Environmental accredited company.

Visited our website recently?Over the last two terms, our website has grown into a very important source of information about the school: news, forthcoming events, guidance materials, sporting achievements etc are all to be found on the website www.wirralgrammarboys.com

Absence RequestsParents are reminded that the rules have changed regarding parental requests to take boys out of school during term time. The new regulations now clearly state that “Headteachers may not grant any leave of absence during term time”.

Parent Mail: Is your email address up to date?The majority of parents with computer access have registered an e-mail address with us and ‘Parent Mail’ is proving to be a fast and effective means of getting letters and messages to parents. To remain effective, parents need to keep their e-mail address information up-to-date. If you have not registered, or if your e-mail address has changed, this can be amended by logging into the Parent Mail website: www.parentmail2.co.uk and following the ‘parent login’ link or by contacting the school Finance Office.

www.wirralgrammarboys.com• news • achievements • events • admissions

Mobile Phone Policy – ReminderOur policy on mobile phones is very clear. Pupils are permitted to have phones available for use before and after school but during the school day they must be switched off and out of sight. Staff will confiscate mobile phones that are on view/in use during the day and they will not be available for collection until the end of the next school day.


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