Category: News

Alton School CCF Exercise Devils Jump

The story begins back in September 2023, when a couple of cadets approached me about the possibility of taking part in a Parachute Jump. I spoke with Captain Knight about it and we agreed it was a great idea.

Due to age restrictions, only the Senior cadets were able to take part. It was something they wanted to do and suggested making it a charity event. We originally wanted to do a static line jump, this entails a 1.5-day training and a jump attached to the aircraft which automatically deploys the parachute and then the student needs to take control of the parachute until landing. Much more interactive. However, on contacting the Army Parachute Association (APA) they were unable to fit us in on the available days we had, they could however fit us in to do a Tandem Jump.

A Tandem Jump is a one-day event consisting of safety drills, what to do whilst under canopy and how you will be attached to your instructor followed by “throwing yourself out of a perfectly good aircraft attached to an expert”.

The day finally came on the 30 March 2024, the Senior Cadets were dropped off at the school by their parents, and full of trepidation, anxiety, and many other emotions we left for Netheravon Airfield.

We reported to the APA, and within 30 minutes the training started, some worried faces appeared as it was all getting very real for them. After the safety brief, body positions and signals were talked about and what to do on landing. Then introduced to their instructors.

Within an hour the first 5 Cadets boarded the aircraft and took off anxiety levels were through the roof. Twenty-five minutes later and at 13500 feet they individually leapt with their instructor from the aircraft, each freefalling for about 2 minutes before the main parachute was deployed and then all they had to do was admire the scenery.

Then it was the turn of the second group to go through the same process, but with a thousand butterflies in their stomachs after listening to the first group talking about their jump.

Both groups landed safely and were beaming with smiles and full of adrenaline, one, Cpl Smiley even declared that she wanted a planned career change to do sky diving full time. All cadets thoroughly enjoyed the experience, even those that needed some extra pep talk are glad that they took part.

It was nice to see so many parents at the event and supporting their child during the build-up and gaining sponsorship for the nominated charities, at the time of writing we had raised £2600, and possibly once all monies are collected could become £3000.

Exchange trip to our Sister School in Colombia

On 9 February, a group of students from years 10 and 11 went on an educational exchange trip to Colombia. This exchange programme was facilitated through our Sister School, Colegi Buen Consejo, and was made possible with the support of Mr Sanderson and Mrs Brown, following the successful hosting of our Colombian exchange partners in October. The purpose of the trip was to provide students with an immersive cultural experience and to foster international friendships.

During their two-week stay in Colombia, the students had the opportunity to explore various aspects of Colombian culture. They lived with host families from Colegi Buen Consejo, which allowed them to gain firsthand insights into Colombian daily life. Throughout their stay, they visited numerous cities, including Cartagena, where they were exposed to the rich history, architecture, and diversity of the country.

One of the highlights of the trip was the participation in the Barranquilla Carnival, one of Colombia’s most celebrated cultural events. The students not only witnessed the colourful festivities but also actively took part in the carnival, experiencing the vibrant traditions and energy of Colombian culture.

Additionally, the students had the chance to join in with the school day of students in Barranquilla, providing them with valuable insights into the educational system and student life in Colombia. This firsthand experience contributed to their understanding of global perspectives on education.

Throughout their time in Colombia, the students sampled new foods, learned about Colombian traditions, and visited significant cultural landmarks. They expressed great enthusiasm for their experiences and thoroughly enjoyed their time in the country.

This trip allowed the students to gain invaluable cultural insights, forged lasting friendships, and developed a deeper understanding and appreciation of Colombian culture. Such exchange programmes play a vital role in promoting cultural exchange, fostering international understanding, and enriching the educational experience of students. Special thanks to Mr Sanderson and Mrs Brown for their support and guidance throughout the trip.

ISA Easter Egg Competition Winners

We are delighted to announce the winners of the ISA Easter Egg Competition, and congratulations are in order for Year 2 for their exceptional achievement in clinching the “Best Group” title.

Their creations shone as they crafted a stunning array of clay eggs, each designed with an animal theme. From rabbits to sharks, the pupils’ imaginative interpretations impressed the judges.

Well done to Year 2 for their outstanding creations and thank you to Mrs Naylor-Davis for your hard work and support that made this possible.

Lower School Fundraising Afternoon for Maddy’s Mark

Lower School pupils and teachers at Alton School organised a fundraising event aimed at supporting Maddy’s Mark Charity. Maddy’s Mark was established to remember Maddy Lawrence and raise funds in her name to promote positive mental health and wellbeing in young women, through the sport of rugby.

The event featured a diverse array of activities including face painting, glitter tattoos, sweet stalls, name the stuffed toy, penalty kicks, obstacle courses, air hockey, and table football. The afternoon was a resounding success, with enthusiastic participation from both pupils and teachers. Among the attendees were Mr and Mrs Lawrence, the parents of Maddy, in whose memory the charity was established.

They raised just over £510 for Maddy’s Mark Charity which they presented to Mrs Lawrence.

Year 8 go to France

“We had a great time on the Year 8 French trip to Chateau du Broutel.  On Saturday morning, the pupils enjoyed going to a French market in the local town and stocked up on delicious items from the chocolaterie and boulangerie. Our guides gave us a tour of the town, pointing out many places of interest. That afternoon, we visited an organic goat farm where the pupils fed, held and even named baby goats. We also learned all about the production of fromage de chèvre and enjoyed doing a taste test! 

On Sunday morning the pupils took part in bivouac and orienteering activities with the centre’s lovely instructors. In the afternoon, we went to Nausicaa and saw a sea lion show with live commentary in French. After dinner pupils enjoyed a range of games outside and one evening they had a cosy campfire.

The food at the chateau was popular and many brave children tried cuisses de grenouille and escargots. Our coach driver, Dave, stayed with us for the whole weekend and kept us safe on the roads. 

We now look forward to reading their diaries of the trip, which are due in after Easter and should prove to be a lovely memoir of this visit.”

– Mrs Schofield

Milestones Adventure 2024

As a part of their ‘Old Toys’ topic, Reception and Year 1 went on a trip to Milestones Living History Museum in Basingstoke. They had a fantastic time visiting the old fashioned shops and looking at the old vehicles. They particularly enjoyed going into the toy and teddy bear shop. They played an old and new toy sorting game and handled some old toys which was great fun! The children also loved playing on the penny arcade on the seaside pier and choosing some sweets in the old fashioned sweetie shop. Everyone went home tired but having had a lovely day!

Year 9 to the Battlefields

This Term our Year 9s had the opportunity to visit the World War I Battlefields of Belgium and France. We spent a busy few days travelling down the Western Front from the town of Ieper to the Somme in France taking in the key locations and stories while learning about the sacrifices of past generations. Our students took the chance to lay a Poppy Wreath on behalf of the school community at the Menin Gate Last Post Ceremony and walk through the preserved trenches of The Somme. Chocolate shopping was also on the agenda and we hope some of it made it home for Mother’s Day. We sadly said goodbye to our long-term guide Mr Robert Watson who was retiring after many years of escorting our school on this special and poignant trip.

World Book Week 2024

This week, our Lower School embraced the magic of literature during World Book Week with a lineup of engaging activities:

Dress-Up Day: Students donned costumes of their favorite book characters, parading to music on the playground for parents to enjoy.

House Book Quiz: Houses competed in a lively quiz, showcasing their literary knowledge and fighting for victory.

Book Boxes: Pupils showcased their creativity by crafting book-themed scenes in show boxes as homework projects.

Author Workshops: A visiting author led workshops, exploring the intersection of rap poetry and literature, inspiring young minds with creative storytelling techniques.

Theatre Workshops: The Openbox Theatre Company captivated Lower School students with interactive workshops, immersing them in the worlds of magical toys, Roald Dahl, and Egyptian history. The day concluded with a delightful show, leaving students from Pre-school to Year 6 giggling with joy.

Fascinating HPQ Presentations

Over the past 18 months, our students have been pursuing their independent inquiry through the GCSE Higher Project Qualification. Their projects, ranging from building a working drift bike trike to investigating material properties for Latin-ballroom shirts, exemplify their creativity and ingenuity.

These endeavours have not only allowed students to explore their interests but have also equipped them with essential skills for advanced study. Through projects like creating rock songs online and analysing the future of electric and hydrogen-powered cars, students have delved into real-world issues with depth and insight.

By documenting changes in growth and health in enclosed ecosystems, students have demonstrated their ability to conduct scientific inquiry and analysis. These projects culminated in presentations to Years 11-13, providing valuable opportunities for reflection and learning.

As our students continue to develop independence, time management, and critical thinking skills, they are well-prepared for the challenges of A levels and university-level study. We commend their dedication and commendable achievements in their pursuit of knowledge and academic excellence.

Senior School Equestrian

Alton Equestrian team were out in force at the Farlington School Show Jumping Qualifer at Merrist Wood on Sunday. Laura Bilham came 1st and 2nd in the 90cm and 1m class to qualify individually for the NSEA National Championships at Addington in October. Amelia Mitchell came a competitive 8th in the 80cm to qualify individually for the Plate NSEA National championships also held at Addington in the Autumn. Emily Bilham finished in 10th place in the 70cm with her pony Teddy. Well done to all involved; we are looking forward to a busy season ahead.