St Wilfrid's News

St. Wilfrid's day in Parliament

2010-03-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

Seven o’clock, Monday the 8^th of March on a cold frosty morning, a party of 19 student councillors, all wide awake, accompanied by 4 dutiful members of staff, set off on the journey to Westminster to meet local Labour MP John Trickett.

Two political researchers waited there to practise their skills as tour guides and our grand tour of the Houses of Parliament began. On the itinerary: Westminster Palace with angels supporting the roof beams; the broom cupboard where Emily Davison hid from cleaning duties; various statues and portraits of Prime Ministers, including Winston Churchill’s well rubbed toe; the House of Lords with the Queen’s throne, Woolsack and red benches; the door battered by Black Rod on the state opening of Parliament. Then into the Chamber of Commons, (no sitting on the green benches!), the Speaker’s Chair, (and footstool), Dispatch Box, TV cameras and microphones.

So it is a real place after all – not just a film set for the News!

The Question and Answer session in the Committee room showed everyone had been very attentive and meant everyone received a badge and pencil as prizes including Mr Maltman. Some very interesting questions were put to John Trickett about an MP’s lifestyle and salary, not to mention life inside 10 Downing Street with PM Gordon. No time for shopping but everyone posed for the group photo taken in the 800 year old Palace of Westminster (where Henry VIII played tennis and Charles I faced trial). Back on the tube to King’s Cross, up and down escalators, quick bite to eat on the station platform and return to Wakefield.

I wonder what John Trickett thought about it all?

“Jon Trickett met a group of very intelligent young students from St Wilfrid’s in Featherstone when they came to the House of Commons yesterday. They had a tour of Parliament and then received a briefing from staff in my office and the office of Yvette Cooper about how Parliament works. I joined them in what was a busy day for a question and answer session. I have to say that they were very tough in their questioning but also fair!"

(entry on John Trickett’s Facebook page)

Mr N Turner (NELC Coordinator)

6th Form Swim for Haiti

2010-02-09T06:31:00.000-08:00

St. Wilfrid’s Catholic Sixth form College last week contributed to an extraordinary whole school effort in aid of the Haiti Disaster Relief Fund. Around 80 swimmers signed up to swim 44 miles collectively, which is the distance to France and Back from Dover. The Sixth Form’s own Student Voice panel originally thought of the idea. The students and staff at the college all clubbed together in a huge community effort filled with enthusiasm and spirit. The students aimed to swim to France and Back or 44 miles, but with the extra effort of the students they managed to swim a huge 68 miles with only another 20 miles to go before they could swim back again from France after completing their initial target. Staff at the college have stepped up to the challenge to swim the extra 20 miles required. The school as a whole has been raising money for the Haiti Relief Fund with a range of activities including a wrong trousers day last week. Josh Angell, Student at the college said “It’s been a challenge to complete the swim, but the community spirit in and around the pool and college has been fantastic, it’s not only helped raise money for a very worthy cause but it has also formed new stronger relationships between peers at college!” Andrew Daly, Director of Post Sixteen at the School said “…the sixth form students had planned to complete a charity sponsored swim event but when the disaster in Haiti occurred the students were really keen to do as much as they could to help the disaster fund. The community spirit and encouraging environment was superb highlighting what the Sixth Form at St Wilfrid’s is all about. I was very proud of all the swimmers and all the other students who have contributed to the fundraising effort”
Sixth form student Marc Ridley has also organised a week long festival of music titled “Help for Haiti” the Live Aid style festival is to feature some of the schools best musical talent and the school is now well on track to raising it’s £2000 target, which will of course significantly help the relief work in Haiti. Thank you to everyone who has supported the fund raising efforts!

Mr S Hall

Silverware for St Wilfrid's food.

2009-12-08T06:32:00.000-08:00

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall presented the prestigious Food for Life Partnership Silver Award to St Wilfrid’s, as we have excelled in transforming our food culture. The award ceremony took place at the organic farm and eco conference centre; Sheepdrove, on the 2 December 2009.

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall said: "What makes this project so inspiring is the way that young people in more than a thousand schools are now learning about real food in a hands-on way, growing and cooking it themselves and even rearing their own chickens! I would urge the Government to do more to encourage all schools to follow their lead."

St Wilfrid’s now serves school meals on plates, not flight trays, and has a range of locally sourced and organic items on the menu. All chicken, bacon and sausages served are Freedom Food certified or free range and no fish from unsustainable sources is served. St Wilfrid’s also has a cooking club, and pupils get to cook with and eat the produce grown in the school growing area. Parents and the wider community get involved in food education via food-themed events.

Emma Noble, Director of the Food for Life Partnership said: "This school shows what real 21^st century education is all about. By empowering young people to make informed food choices and giving them the skills to grow and cook food for themselves and their families, Food for Life Partnership schools lead the way for a more sustainable future."

Rikke Bruntse-Dahl

Investors in Pupils

2009-10-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

We are working towards achieving Investors in Pupils status this academic year. The student voice representatives from each form who meet on a weekly basis are developing the principles of Investors in Pupils which are:

An Investor in Pupils tutor group is committed to the development of all its members
An Investors in Pupils tutor group regularly reviews the needs of all its members
An Investors in Pupils tutor group takes action to develop members in line with the class plan.
An Investors in Pupils tutor group understand the difference the development of its members makes to class performance.

The Investors in Pupils award is based on four principles:

Commitment.
Review.
Action.
Improvement.

These are evidenced through five key areas:

Learning.
Behaviour.
Attendance.
Classroom Management.
Induction.

The student voice representatives when they meet formulate agendas from their year group peers based on:

Teaching and learning.
Governance/leadership.
The environment/facilities and
The community.

Please contact Mr A Maltman if you have any questions about Investors in Pupils.

Mr A Maltman
Vocational Studies

TES Conference: Food For Life

2009-10-09T04:24:00.000-07:00

In May 2008, St Wilfrid’s was chosen by Food for Life Partnership to become a Flagship school. A School Nutrition Action Group was soon set up, made up of pupils, teachers and governors to discuss ways of improving the way we see food within school and the local community. Ideas ranged from changing suppliers - increasing the proportion of locally sourced and organic food in school meals - to creating a school garden and allotment plots. The greatest visible outcome of SNAG’s work however has been the brand new canteen area, created during summer this year. Our success with the FFLP was furthered in November last year, when Lee Dawson, Josh Angell, Ben Oldroyd and Miss Egan made a great impression at the YouFood Youth Conference in Bristol. Lee, Josh and Ben helped to create a student manifesto that was presented at the National Soil Association Conference alongside Monty Don. Due to this influence from Food for Life, St Wilfrid’s is only a short step away from becoming the first Secondary school in England to receive the Silver award.

The National Hall, Olympia, was where the presentation at the conference took place. Fiona White, the FFLP London Manager introduced the presentation “The Future of Our Food”, before Lee and Josh began to present, outlining St Wilfrid’s position on food culture before FFLP involvement. Mrs Wright then gave an overview of the SNAG group, its achievements and role within school before leading on to “Wow! That’s a mouthful!” a film about our schools success created by sixth form Media students last year. Josh and Lee returned to the stage to explain the extent of the improvements in food culture at the school, with photographs of the new canteen, community involvement events and farm visits. This led on to a summary of St Wilfrid’s plans for the future regarding food by Mr Walsh, before Fiona concluded the presentation.

Guest Duncan Goodhew was complimentary about the presentation and Fiona White later said, “Lee and Josh really were terrific yesterday and I think our programme is very lucky to have two such enthusiastic and committed, and confident, students involved. I know that Emma Noble (Director of the Food For Life Partnership) feels the same.”

Lee Dawson

Duke of Edinburgh's Award

2009-10-01T05:04:00.000-07:00

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was launched in school last week giving pupils in Y10 and Y12 the opportunity to take part. Students achieve an Award by completing a personal programme of activities in four sections which will involve them helping people or the community, getting fitter, developing skills and going on an expedition. Three of the four sections (volunteering, physical and skills) will need to be completed in students own time therefore, participants need to be enthusiastic, motivated and committed. Disability does not preclude anyone from participating.

Each programme is individual and can be full of activities and projects that personally interest each student. Along the way they’ll pick up experiences, friends and talents that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. The expedition and training will take place in the spring/summer term.

Year 10 students are being given the opportunity to complete the Bronze Award whilst Year 12 are being can complete the direct entry Silver Award which is a great opportunity, especially for those looking to build up their CV before university/job applications.

For Y10 students and parents to find out more about the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award at St Wilfrid’s, an open evening will be held in the school theatre on Monday 5^th October, 2009 at 6pm.

More information on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award can be found at http://www.dofe.org/ or please contact Miss Egan at school.

Brand New Chapel

2009-07-02T03:48:00.000-07:00

The Chapel in school has recently undergone a makeover. Although the basic structure is the same as before, the improvements are amazing. Two interior walls have been removed to maximise the available space and the folding doors, that used to separate the Chapel from Bruynseels Hall have been replaced with a solid wall, which allows the Chapel to now be a completely contained area. With all the work completed and the workmen gone, the Chapel is a now a calm, peaceful oasis in the middle of a busy, thriving school. Morning Prayer takes place every morning at 8.20 and a Form Mass takes place at lunchtime on Friday. Although each particular form is involved in the weekly Mass, everyone is welcome to attend. As the image shows, the Chapel offers a bright and welcoming space that is conducive to a prayerful experience.

Kathleen McKnight

Lay Chaplain

Drop Everything...

2009-06-24T05:12:00.001-07:00

...And Read

D.E.A.R. - A Government survey found that in 2005 two out of three adults were choosing to pick up a book in their leisure time, compared to just over half in 1977. In contrast, the media frequently publicise how teenagers rarely read and have turned to computers and the internet for entertainment instead. So, how can we continue to show teenagers that reading has many benefits and is an enjoyable experience?

St. Wilfrid’s hopes that the new initiative of ‘Drop Everything And Read’, which has now become a permanent fixture in the school’s calendar, will help to either get students back into reading or to simply give them a chance to enjoy their love of reading in school hours.

The concept is simple. Everyone on the school site, from teachers to students and from site staff to visitors, on the sound of the school bell, drops everything and reads! The event takes place at different times throughout the school year to show our students that reading is a part of everything that we do and not simply limited to English lessons and visiting the library.

After a very successful trial event with students in Years 7 and 8, the first whole school event, which involved all students from Years 7 to 13, took place on Tuesday 31^st March. The event was a massive success, and both teachers and students commented afterwards how refreshing it was to simply stop the normal proceedings of the school day and enjoy ‘a good book!’

Usage of the school’s library is now on the increase and with our final DEAR event of the year taking place on Friday 10^th July, students are busy making sure they are ready with a book of their choice.

Whilst busy preparing for the first whole school event, a pupil informed me that the DEAR event would coincide with her PE lesson. When I asked her how she felt about this, her reply made it all worthwhile!

‘We get to do some PE and then sit down and read; it’s great! It just goes to show you can read anywhere Miss!’

Miss Laura Jimmeson

Assistant Head (Director of English)

Great North Run(ners?)

2009-06-18T02:57:00.000-07:00

Mr Daley (Head of Sixth form) and Mrs Wright (Head of Food) are going back to their roots to take part in the Bupa Great North Run. Miss Jimmeson (Assistant Head) is joining them on the 20th September in support of one of the schools main charities CAFOD.

CAFOD works to end poverty and make a just world. In over 60 countries: It works alongside the poor regardless of race or religion; Builds global partnerships for change; Campaigns for a fairer world and puts faith into action.
Charity Registration No 285776

Mrs Wright is taking part in the 13.1 mile run for the second year running. Last year she raised over £500 for the British Heart Foundation. Mr Daly and Miss Jimmeson have taken part in many sponsored runs but have never ran 13.1 miles but they are ready for the challenge. They are aiming to raise £800 and any parents/guardians who wish to sponsor them should visit the fund raising website at: www.justgiving.com/stwilfrids1 or follow the link on the school website.

Mrs Wright

Leeds Met: Film and Interview

2009-05-12T05:36:00.000-07:00

Leeds Metropolitan University came along with a film crew to St Wilfrid’s to make a promotional DVD for their Progression Module course. This DVD will eventually be available to promote the course to Post 16 students up and down the country. Our students, chosen because of impressive effort on this course, were interviewed for the DVD and filmed doing presentations that they had prepared individually. The Leeds Met staff were hugely impressed with the quality of our students.

Andrew Daly
Head of Sixth Form

International Week '09

2009-04-01T04:03:00.000-07:00

On Monday 9th March, St. Wilfrid’s opened its doors to around 250 international students and teachers to celebrate the 9th Annual International Week. It was a pleasure welcoming old friends from Bulgaria, Germany, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden and Ukraine who return year on year. This year we were also fortunate enough to host new schools from France, Poland and Turkey who, having heard of our international reputation, were eager to establish partnerships.

Our first event was the Primary International Extravaganza of Talents when around 450 Year 5 pupils from 13 primary schools came to perform songs and dances in a number of languages. The pupils dazzled us with their ability to sing in such languages as Spanish, Welsh, French, Polish and various African languages. Traditional dances and amazing costumes also featured, demonstrating the amount of time and effort devoted to the event by teachers and pupils alike.

Tuesday morning saw the official launch of our international theme, One World-Many Colours. The Bruynseels Hall was awash with colourful flags and performances from our resident choir and Performing Arts group as well as a lively set from a Bollywood dancer. After lunch all students took part in an International Citizenship Afternoon when our Key Stage 3 groups were given the opportunity to view an exhibition of photography and poetry submitted by students from sixty countries. Key Stage 4 students took part in a number of cultural sessions provided by visiting international students from Leeds Metropolitan University and representing their home countries of Bangladesh, China, India, Italy, Libya, Poland, Spain and Taiwan. Inspirational business leader Randolph Victor and Asylum & Refugee Expert Olivier Nkunzimana enthused our Sixth Form students with presentations during an international conference.

On Tuesday evening we hosted our second annual International Family Evening, which offered people the chance to sample delights such as Irish dancing, Spanish tapas making, Bavarian dancing, Polish for beginners and Japanese art (both taught by students from St. Wilfrid’s). More than 500 people took part and many were keen to pursue their new-found interest!

On Wednesday around 300 people, including hosts and International Committee members, descended upon the City of York to soak up the atmosphere on the cobbled streets and visit a number of museums. Perhaps the scariest part of the week was the visit to York Dungeon, where many a scream could be heard! On our return from York it was time to sample the culinary delights of pie & peas, served by our dedicated catering team and assisted by Mr Kevin Walsh. As people munched away they nervously awaited the beginning of the International Festival of Talents. Around 750 people packed the Cannon O’Grady Sports Hall to enjoy an evening of performances from Diablo throwing, French accordion playing, Eastern European dancing and rock bands to name a few. As usual, our resident comperes Cath Smith and Karl Reiff hosted in their faultless glitzy and glamorous way and entertained the crowd with their array of one-liners. The Choreography and Costume awards went to Ukraine and Slovakia respectively, whilst the overall trophy was won by Sweden for their rendition of Pink’s 'So What'.
On Thursday our international guests enjoyed a morning of sport with members of the PE department. Following this, they returned, looking exhausted, to work with their hosts and ambassadors, in multinational groups, on a project to design their own country. Thursday evening was the perfect opportunity for our international guests to spend a final evening with their hosts and ambassadors and reminisce about a packed week of events.

The week would not have happened had it not been for the generosity of families from St. Wilfrid’s who were kind enough to host many of our international guests. Furthermore, our International Committee, led by Lee Dawson and Eve Bontoft (Year 11), were the organisational backbone before and during the week. Their tireless efforts, team work and professional attitude really showed our international guests what St. Wilfrid’s is all about.

Many thanks to everyone who helped make the week the success that it was. Long-lasting friendships were built and many tears were shed on the final day. People are already looking forward to next year’s event when we will celebrate 10 years of the international dimension at St. Wilfrid’s!

Ian Storey
Head of the International Dimension

Rhubarb, Rhubarb...

2009-04-01T03:32:00.000-07:00

This is the first review of our in house catering service here at St Wilfrids by the School Nutrition action Group, SNAG.

Queues in the dining area were minimal and service was quick and efficient. The menus were displayed clearly and excited the taste buds as the menu had become more adventurous. The menu featured such dishes as stuffed peppers with couscous and rhubarb and rhubarb sausages. I opted for the rhubarb sausages, served with roast potatoes, garden peas and gravy. Lee had the stuffed peppers served with potatoes and garden peas. At first the thought of rhubarb and pork was daunting, but as soon as it touched the palette it was clearly apparent that the butcher knew what he was doing. I would even go as far as to say he was a culinary genius when it comes to locally produced meat. They were cooked to perfection as well! The garden peas changed my whole perception of school canteen vegetables and the gravy and the roast potatoes were fine.

It was good to see rhubarb on the menu this week as it is rhubarb week in Wakefield and as I am sure you already know, we are part of the rhubarb triangle and to see this locally produced food clearly on the menu was fantastic. I was also impressed by the responses from the catering staff when pupils asked about all the rhubarb on the menu. I liked the adventurous stuffed pepper on the menu, it was nicely presented but the rhubarb was slightly bitter alongside the pepper, however it was a great idea with thought and passion which is fantastic to see.

For desert we had the crumble I’m sure you can guess which fruit….. yes rhubarb! It was great and the accompanying custard was hot, full of flavour, smooth and fresh. The dining environment is yet to be improved, however the addition of the LCD screen and music added more of an atmosphere to the room. Overall it was a good experience. I must say that over the last year or two the catering has improved dramatically. Well done to all the catering staff. Keep up the good work!

Josh Angell

First Aid Course Success

2009-04-01T03:19:00.000-07:00

On 2nd March, all year 13 Health and Social Care students took part in a first aid training course. This was an intensive 6 hour course designed to cover CPR, fractures, burns, hypoxia, head injuries, choking, bleeding and poisoning. Students also learnt how to deal with the unconscious casualty and mange incidents with regard to their own safety as well as the casualty’s.
The course was run by two Saint John’s Ambulance trainers who felt that the school was one of the friendliest and most helpful they had ever visited. They commented that this being a Catholic school was clearly shown in the behaviour of both staff and students.

All students were successful and will now have a three year first aid certificate to take with them when they move to employment or further education at the end of this year. Congratulations to all who took part.

T. Morris (Health and Social Care teacher)

Down on the Farm

2009-04-01T03:03:00.000-07:00

Recently students from St Wilfrids visited two organic farms, Swillington Organic farm on the 25th of February & Clever Cow Organic farm on the 4th of March. The trip was taken by post-16 BTEC Science students as part of one of their Task investigating the physical and chemical properties of different soil types.

Swillington Farm

Swilington farm is an organic farm which raises cows, goats, ducks, pigs, chickens and sheep. Students collected eggs from the farms chicken sheds, a few lucky people got to play with the farms goats and everyone was able to buy delicious organic ice cream and chocolate from the farms shop, whilst one unlucky teacher narrowly escaped an over-excited goose! The class spent the morning touring the farm site used for a range of activities including farming animals, growing Christmas trees, fishing, and nature works. In the afternoon students carried out an investigation into different soil types across the farms site, using scientific techniques to determine different types of soil.

Clever Cow

Clever Cow farm is a diary farm located near Thornhill. The farm is run by the Rawson family and currently 3 generations of the family live on the farm. The farm is currently run by the family’s son, Tom, who uses a range of cutting-edge farming techniques to ensure that the far m has most efficient use of land for feeding their cows. The farm not only makes it own milk but it also bottles and sells its own brand of organic milk and cream, which are used by St Wilfrids in the school canteen. The farm uses a cross bred of black & white and Jersey cows (seen on the left) At the farm students got to see the farms herd of cows, as well as a tour of the whole of the farms site which involved team working skills because SOMEONE let one of the cows escape and the group had to conjure up and implement a recapturing plan! Pupils also got to see the milking shed and the bottling plant at the farm. As a special treat pupils were able to see newly born calf’s and had the chance to play with them. For lunch the family put on an assortment of cakes and scones with tea, all using the Clever Cow farms produce. They were delicious. In the afternoon pupils carried out soil tests across the farm site and found a range of different soil types.

Special thanks to Mr Lee who drove the mini-bus to Swillington and Mr Larrington who drove the mini-bus to Clever Cow Organic. For more information about farm trips contact Miss Sanderson in the Science department.

Article by Miss Sanderson

Our first Primary School reading mentors ‘lend a hand’!

2009-02-27T06:11:00.000-08:00

Five of our Year 9 pupils have become volunteer reading mentors for Year 5 and Year 3 pupils at All Saints’ Primary School, Featherstone. Pupils, who previously found reading to be a chore and uninteresting, were trained to become reading mentors to Primary School children, who find reading difficult. Pupils were encouraged to see the many benefits to reading and trained to offer support and help to children younger than them, who do not find reading easy.

The training offered by Miss Midgley, to our Year 9 pupils, introduced them to many reading mentor techniques, such as the ‘five finger’ test and reading simultaneously with their mentee, until they deem it appropriate to stop reading and allow their mentee to continue alone, without assistance.

The reading mentor scheme has proved highly successful and both our pupils and All Saints’ pupils have seen many benefits. Our pupils can now see how reading helps you to develop your own vocabulary and how books introduce you to new and exciting worlds. All Saints’ Primary School pupils are excited every week, at the prospect of seeing their mentor, who comes to see them from ‘big school’. They see their reading time with our Year 9 pupils as a privilege and have taken the opportunity to develop their own reading skills on a regular basis.

Overall, the new initiative has proved a real success and praise needs to be given to our five Year 9 pupils who have worked hard to make a difference.

Miss Jimmeson (Assistant Head, Director of English)

Visit from charismatic author GP Taylor!

2008-11-27T02:17:00.000-08:00

Pupils and staff alike were eagerly anticipating the arrival of G.P. Taylor, New York Times bestselling author, to St. Wilfrid’s on Wednesday 26th November. Year 8 pupils have been on the receiving end of exciting and engaging lessons in English and Art which are related to the author’s books and characters.G.P. Taylor, formerly an Anglican Minister from Scarborough, was disturbed by the amount of occult and witchcraft in children’s stories. After relaying this message to his clergy some years ago, they suggested that he should write one of his own.The author subsequently created a story encompassing Christian imagery, set on the Eighteenth Century Yorkshire coast in Britain called Shadowmancer. The novel narrates the story of an evil vicar, Obadiah Demurral, who attempts to achieve world domination, but is overpowered by three teenagers and a smuggler.Shadowmancer was first published in Britain in 2003 and was soon referred to as the Christian alternative to Harry Potter. The book surged to the top of the paperback best-seller list, outranking its secular rivals, the Harry Potter books, for 15 weeks in a row. Mr Taylor states: ‘I wrote Shadowmancer and Wormwood as a rebuttal to the writings of Philip Pullman as I was outraged by what he said about the church’.Graham Taylor now dedicates much of his time to inspiring reluctant children and teenagers to read; his latest books The Dopple Ganger Chronicles have been revolutionising reluctant readers’ attitudes in several countries across the globe. Children with learning difficulties have been enjoying these aesthetically appealing books and previously reluctant readers have reportedly been ‘devouring’ them. G.P. Taylor’s books are inspiring pupils at St. Wilfrid’s Catholic High School with pupils of all abilities now scrambling to get hold of one of his books from the library. It was an absolute delight to watch many pupils crying with laughter at the author’s performance which conveyed a very clear message: if you wish to succeed in life then reading and writing are of paramount importance. Around 200 pupils queued eagerly for over half an hour to purchase a signed copy of one of his texts, and meet the author personally. We hope that our pupils will allow God to burst through into their lives as well as having improved attitudes towards reading, writing and literacy.
Miss Kate Midgley Head of KS3 English

G.P. Taylor had a fantastic time at St. Wilfrid's and emailed after the evening of the event, stating:

"I have done some school visits in my time and never been to one where so much effort has been put in before hand. It was truly amazing.The children were really good and I mean REALLY good. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I am so thankful to you and your mates in the English Dept for all that you have done. I loved the children's work and it was a really inspirational time.You will never know how happy I was today - the best visit ever... I couldn't stop thinking about it all the way home - the look on the faces of the children was amazing.Please would you thank everyone concerned! You will go far in education if that is the standard of your work.I was truly blessed."
We look forward to welcoming G.P. Taylor back to inspire and motivate other pupils in the future.

Miss Kate MidgleyHead of KS3 English

WOW! That's a mouthful Episode One

2008-11-18T03:37:00.000-08:00

Wow! That’s a Mouthful is a short film made by a group of 7, 6th form students from St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School. It was funded by the Food For Life Partnership. In the film 6th form student Tara, sets off to find out what has happened to her school meals? Why have they got rid of all the chips, burgers and fizzy drinks. She discovers that it is not just to make the school healthier. By tracing the beef in a bowl of spaghetti bolognaise from field to plate she discovers that they (the school) are support the local community and help save the environment. Episode Two to follow.

Food For Life

2008-10-14T07:21:00.000-07:00

St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School is selected to become national leader on school meals and food education

St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School has been selected by the new Lottery-funded Food for Life Partnership to become one of 180 Flagship Schools and Communities across England that will be recognised as national leaders on food quality and food education.

Taking up the challenge laid down by Jamie Oliver’s school dinners campaign, the Food for Life Partnership has been funded by the National Lottery over five years from 2007 to help transform food culture in schools across the country.

Building on St Wilfrid’s achievements to date, the Food for Life Partnership will now help put more fresh, local & organic food on the menu and get our pupils – and interested parents and community groups – cooking and growing food and visiting local farms.

St Wilfrid’s will now receive hands-on support from Food for Life Partnership staff to achieve a Food for Life Partnership GOLD Mark, which will put us at the top of the league table on food culture in school. This will mean that:

· Our catering team will get help sourcing at least 75% fresh, 50% locally sourced and 30% organic ingredients for our school meals.

· For one week we will host the Food for Life Partnership Cooking Bus, which will welcome, staff, parents and community groups on board alongside pupils to teach useful cooking skills in practical hands-on sessions.

· A garden education officer will help the school community [further] develop an organic growing area in which pupils can grow food for school meals and cooking.

· We will build stronger links with community food businesses and one or more local farms.

· Pupils will be given some of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences of their school lives, cooking and growing food and linking with a local farm.

Press Release August 2008

2008-10-14T07:12:00.000-07:00

Students celebrate another record breaking set of GCSE results

Year 11 pupils at St. Wilfrid’s Catholic High School and Sixth Form College are celebrating today after achieving a record-breaking set of GCSE results. There was an increase in the number passing the benchmark standard of five A* - C passes to a very impressive 92.5% and a substantial increase in the numbers achieving the figure including English and Maths to 61%.

John McNally, Head Teacher, described the results as “a massive achievement for the pupils and their teachers”. He said, “I am delighted for all the pupils. They have worked really hard and have been a pleasure to teach. The figures are particularly strong when you consider that all St. Wilfrid’s pupils take a good balance of courses including maths, English, a foreign languages and double science. The students are now set for further success in the Sixth Form and can look forward to higher education or meaningful careers.

“You hear many negative stories about young people these days but the truth is that the vast majority are extremely hard working and pleasant. It is only right their achievements should be recognised.

“I would like to publicly thank all the staff who have worked so hard in helping the students and continue to deliver improvements year on year. Our pass rates have increased by 31% over the last five years and by 21% for the figure including English and Maths. These figures are a testament to their professionalism and dedication to the students.

“I am also really pleased for the pupils’ families. They have supported us fantastically well over the last five years and should take pride in their achievements too.”

There were many success stories, including 32 particularly able students who achieved at least five GCSEs at the top A* and A grades. Five pupils even managed to obtain at least 10 grade A’s and A*’s.

Pupils from other high schools may be interested to know that St. Wilfrid’s is accepting record numbers of students into its Sixth Form this year. Anybody interested in joining the school should contact Mr. Andrew Daly in the first instance (details below).

Please telephone or e-mail John McNally, Headteacher, or Andrew Daly, Head of Sixth Form, at the school for further information. Telephone number: 01977 69100, fax 01977 723569, e-mail swhschool@aol.com.

St. Wilfrid’s Catholic High School and Sixth Form College
A’ Level Results 2008 – Press Release

Students celebrate after another big increase in pass rates

Staff and students at St. Wilfrid’s are celebrating today, after achieving their best set of A’ level results ever. Students achieved an average points score of 778, equivalent to a grade A and two grade B’s.

Eleven students gained at least three grade A’s, with Craig Bettney, Michael Cahill, Oliver Hill, Jon Machin and William Marchant each achieving a highly impressive four grade A’s each. Oliver also passed with a distinction in the very demanding Advanced Extension Award in History.

John McNally, Head Teacher, congratulated the students and their teachers, saying,

“We’re very proud of all our students this year. They have worked tremendously hard for these results and deserve to celebrate their success today. Many have exceeded their predicted grades and those students who worked hard to pass one or two A’ levels deserve as much praise as those who passed with flying colours.

“I particularly want to thank their teachers, who have worked tirelessly to support the students, giving up free time to offer extra revision classes and making themselves available whenever help is needed.

“I wish the students every success for the future, as they embark on new courses at university or take up new careers.”

Everybody who applied to university was successful in finding a place and the pass rate for all entries was 98%.

Readers may be interested to know that St. Wilfrid’s welcomes 6th form students from a wide range of local high school and has a very broad range of courses, including a large number of vocational options.

You can get further information about the Sixth Form from Andrew Daly, Assistant Headteacher in charge of the Sixth Form. Telephone 01977 691000, fax 01977 723569 or e-mail swhschool@aol.com.

Lourdes Prilgrimage 2008

2008-10-14T07:09:00.000-07:00

Twenty-one pupils from St Wilfrid’s joined nearly 400 other year 10 and 12 students, from across the Diocese of Leeds, for this year’s Lourdes Pilgrimage. The shrine at Lourdes was celebrating 150 years since the Our Blessed Mother first appeared to St Bernadette. Lourdes was bursting with pilgrims from across the world. In amongst the crowd the youth section stood out as a vision in yellow!
Students were responsible for the care of sick and elderly pilgrims. They put aside their own concerns to serve the needs of others, pushing them from place to place in order that they may fully engage with all Lourdes has to offer. All pilgrims, young and old participated in the Torchlight and Blessed Sacrament processions, visited the baths and got involved with numerous Masses and liturgies.
A highlight of the pilgrimage was the Stations of the Cross. Students from St Wilfrid’s made up part of a choir who lead the pilgrimage through a musical adaptation of the last moments of Jesus’ life. The powerful witness of the young people left many of the congregation moved to tears.
The pilgrims, looked after by our students, found the help of our students invaluable, praising the care and friendship they received.

Music Trip to France

2008-10-14T06:53:00.000-07:00

Once again pupils from St Wilfrid’s music department performed on the international stage in Europe. This year’s school music trip to France featured pupils from the school orchestra, choir, jazz band and music technology students. The pupils performed in three concerts in different locations in Normandy. The final concert in St Aubin was a great success with a large audience made up of local people. The local press were also present to celebrate the St Wilfrid’s concert and took pictures to be displayed in St Aubin’s local newspaper.

English Department Murder Mystery 'WhoDunnit?'

2008-07-04T06:58:00.000-07:00

The English Department’s spirits were almost as high as those of the 48 Gifted and Talented pupils, who arrived from 15 different primary schools in Wakefield on Wednesday 2nd July. English staff worked hard to create and host a full day of events for the Gifted and Talented ‘Smart Day’, including an exciting murder mystery organised by Miss Henderson and creative writing workshops by Miss Midgley and Miss Shaikh.

After an introduction to the day, any ‘ice’ was swiftly broken when the competitions began. The year 5 and 6 pupils soon exhibited their gifts and talents as they answered a succession of difficult riddles, such as: ‘I am weightless, but you can see me. Put me in a bucket and I’ll make it lighter, what am I?’ (Answer at the end!)

In addition to enhancing their ability to ‘think outside the box’, pupils developed their deductive and reasoning skills in the fabulous murder mystery event. Full costume donned by English staff, (including Miss Martland, Mrs Fennell, Miss Davies and Mrs Lindley), was complemented by the spooky music, elaborate props and ‘after theatre party’ setting in the murder mystery room. Star appearances were made by Mr O’Donnell and Mr Maltman. Pupils were presented with drama, an array of clues and medical evidence. They then had limited time to interview selected suspects and figure out ‘who dunnit’ in the Mimi La Rue murder case, before submitting their final answers.

Advanced poetic techniques, usually taught at GCSE level, and imaginative skills, were also heightened in the cross-curricular creative writing workshops – thank you to Ms Richards and Mrs Flanagan for their help in delivering these. Primary students left St. Wilfrid’s excited and eager to apply the skills and knowledge they had learnt to their future studies. A huge thank you to all staff involved, especially Miss Henderson for organising the murder mystery event. We hope to host this event for Gifted and Talented pupils again next year.

Miss Kate Midgley
Answer to riddle: a hole.

Year 8 Charity

2008-07-04T06:54:00.000-07:00

On the 24th of June Year eight hosted a fun fundraising morning in order to raise money for our year group charity ‘SHELTER’: An organisation which caters for homeless families who need support and offers housing advice for those people in housing need.

Students contributed by purchasing various goods and bringing home made products to sell on the morning,
Everyone worked together and in the spirit of the day, had fun and raised over £300 towards the charity; over the remainder of the term there is a prize raffle for a Nintendo wii

Activities included bring and buy, various raffles, ice cream & chocolate fountain stalls, coconut shy, sponge the teacher , face painting , gladiator challenge & sporting activities

Mr Wass (Head of year eight) commented:
“I am very proud in the way the students and the staff all contributed in making the morning a successful fundraising adventure”
He also said:
“The Year Eight student voice had worked extremely hard before the event in preparing for the day and they are now developing their own role within school
The school wishes to thank Morrisons Pontefract & Trebor Bassett Pontefract for their support and we are looking forward to future events.

ANZA Tour

2008-07-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

Well what a journey!!! One Spring afternoon in the St Wilfrid’s staffroom back in 2005, I was
sat having a coffee and a chat with Iain McCabe and he asked the question;
“Do you fancy a round the world trip?” Three and a half years later and the
dream has become reality. The fundraising process has been quite remarkable, we have raised £180,000
and I would like to sincerely thank anybody who has been involved in any aspect of the tour fundraising process. Special thanks must go to my colleagues at St Wilfrid’s and the tour committee, the students for all their efforts and most importantly the parents, who have been amazing. We are so fortunate to have obtained such a fantastic level of sponsorship from Mr Michael Lagan of Lagan Construction and Dew Piling. Due to Michael’s generosity of pledging £25,000 towards the tour kit costs we are travelling as probably the smartest school group ever. Many thanks Michael we really appreciate your support.
With such a bold venture over such a long period of time there has undoubtedly been some highs and lows but the whole experience has been amazing. I cannot begin to explain how proud I am of what we have achieved but I know every hour spent in preparation for the tour will be worth it. I know the students will be fantastic ambassador’s of St Wilfrid’s and will uphold the values and beliefs of our community with respect, dignity and pride. We will depart on Friday 25th July an return on Monday 18th August.

I must mention two special people who without their support over the past three years I really would have struggled to keep going and achieve our target.
Firstly, I would like to say a big thank you to my partner Denise Rennison who has had to put up with a ‘stressed Eric’ for a considerable amount of time and I know I would have thrown the towel in on several occasions but for her support. Thank you Den. Secondly, a big thank you to Mrs Claire Appleby, the Office Manager here at St Wilfrid’s ‘my personal ANZA secretary’ who has spent many hours supporting me with
all my administrative tasks. Thank you Claire.
Finally, I would just like to say that I hope all the students have a truly fantastic touring experience, enjoy their sporting encounters, make new friends and form happy memories that will last a lifetime. I am confident we are going to have ‘the time of our lives’.
Thank you,
Simon Hall
“I hope you have the time of your lives.”

Expressive Arts Evening

2008-07-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

The evening was a great success. Held on Wednesday June 25th, parents, families and friends were able to enjoy a wide variety of performance and display. The selection of work presented on the evening was really impressive and the Expressive Arts students are to be congratulated on their talent and skill. This really was a ‘showcase’ for those students and staff who are involved in the arts at St Wilfrid’s, and audience members commented on the quality of entertainment. The performances were organised by music, drama, dance, art and media teams. The evening was topped off with a brilliant art exhibition which the audience were invited to view as they gathered for refreshments in the art block.

One Planet Food

2008-06-04T02:26:00.000-07:00

On May 21st 2008, 27 year 7 students took part in the One Planet Food workshop, run in association with the schools Food For Life Partnership. During the day, the pupils were split into groups and researched various food related issues including investigating where our food comes from, how we could get locally sourced produce at school and how food can be seasonal and organic. They spent the morning gathering information and preparing presentations and in the afternoon presented their findings in assembly to the whole of year 7. The presentations varied from using powerpoints to role plays and were very successful. The pupils worked hard developing their knowledge and skills and worked brilliantly under pressure to finish the presentations on time. Well done to all who took part.

Year 13 Leavers Mass

2008-06-04T02:24:00.000-07:00

Fr Paul Grogan, Vocations Director for the Diocese of Leeds, celebrated the Yr13 Leavers Mass this year. In his homily, he spoke of every one searching for the right path to follow in their lives, guided by the principles they had learned at St Wilfrid’s (he hoped that some might consider a religious vocation as their future path !). Fr Paul is also chaplain at Trinity & All Saints College in Leeds.
The picture shows the readers in the mass. Names of the students are (l-r in order) : Michael Cahill, Stacey Hickling, Nick Brown, Amie Senkiw, and Oliver Hill.

National leader on school meals

2008-04-29T05:01:00.000-07:00

St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School has been selected by the new Lottery-funded Food for Life Partnership (FFLP) to become one of 180 Flagship Schools and Communities across England that will be recognised as national leaders on food quality and food education. St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School is one of the first 6 schools to be chosen in the Yorkshire and Humber region.

Taking up the challenge laid down by Jamie Oliver’s school dinners campaign, the Food for Life Partnership has been funded by the National Lottery over five years from 2007 to help transform food culture in schools across the country.

Building on St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School’s achievements to date, the Food for Life Partnership will now help them put more fresh, local & organic food on the menu and get pupils – and interested parents and community groups – cooking and growing food and visiting local farms.

St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School will now receive hands-on support from Food for Life Partnership staff to achieve a Food for Life Partnership GOLD Mark, which will put us at the top of the league table on food culture in school. This will mean that:
1. Our catering team will get help sourcing at least 75% fresh, 50% locally sourced, and 30% organic ingredients for our school meals.
2. For one week we will host the Food for Life Partnership Cooking Bus, which will welcome, staff, parents and community groups on board alongside pupils to teach useful cooking skills in practical hands-on sessions.
3. A garden education officer will help the school community further develop an organic growing area in which pupils can grow food for school meals and cooking.
4. We will build stronger links with community food businesses and one or more local farms.
5. Pupils will be given some of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences of their school lives, cooking and growing food and linking with a local farm.

Headteacher Mr J McNally said: “I am delighted St. Wilfrid’s has been selected to work with the Food for Life Partnership on this project. The partnership recognised our achievements in providing healthy food for our pupils and raising awareness of healthy, sustainable lifestyles but this support will help us take this to a new level. I very much hope and expect our partnership will provide new opportunities for the whole of our local community to learn more about all aspects of food, including its production. I know our pupils will really enjoy the extra experiences we will now be able to offer. ”

Quote from Catering Manager…..

“This gives the catering team a great opportunity to change the food culture of St Wilfrid’s.

The staff will have the opportunity to work with the Food for Life Partnership organisations, and build on their knowledge and skills around food and nutrition.

We already embrace giving our students some locally sourced food and we look forward to developing this provision with the help of the Food for Life Partnership”.

Amanda Donnelly, FFLP Yorkshire and Humber regional co-ordinator, says: “St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School has been selected as a Flagship School because they are committed to giving food the priority it deserves as part of their commitment to the life-long welfare and skills of their pupils, and are willing to share their learning with other schools. Other schools wanting to get involved should visit www.foodforlife.org.uk

It is more important than ever before that young people learn in school about the impact of food on their health and that of the planet. On current trends, by 2020 over one quarter of children will be obese and children will have a shorter life expectancy than their parents. A fifth of our climate change impact comes from the food we eat.”

Notes
1. The Food for Life Partnership is a five-year Lottery-funded initiative, led by the Soil Association, to transform food culture in schools and communities across England, bringing together the practical expertise of the Focus on Food Campaign, Garden Organic and the Health Education Trust.

The Soil Association is the UK's leading environmental charity promoting sustainable, organic farming and championing human health.

The Focus on Food Campaign is the leading food education support programme for the teaching of cooking in the UK’s primary and secondary schools.

Garden Organic is the UK’s leading organic growing charity dedicated to researching and promoting organic gardening, farming and food.

The Health Education Trust is the national charity dedicated to initiating and supporting work with children and young adults to encourage the growth of healthy lifestyles.

The Food for Life Partnership works to transform school and community food culture across England, by harnessing the ideas and initiative of young people and community leaders. Our mission is to reach out through schools to give communities access to seasonal, local and organic food, and to the skills they need to cook and grow fresh food for themselves. We want a new generation to explore how their food choices impact on their health and that of the planet, and to rediscover the pleasure of taking time to enjoy real food.

2. Other schools wishing to become Flagship Schools should go online and join the Food for Life Partnership at http://www.foodforlife.org.uk/
6 schools in Yorkshire and Humber have been selected this time round – 14 more will be selected from 2008 onwards.

Easter Service

2008-03-14T07:03:00.000-07:00

The Lenten message at the end of this term was a powerful and moving reflection on 'Kingship'. Jesus came into the world as 'King' manifested by the gifts of the Magi; the wise men on their visit to the newborn Jesus. Years later, the gifts were to be recognised as the gifts of kingship, of prophecy and of the death that Jesus was to succumb to. Jesus was a different type of King. The Jews were expecting a political king, coming to kick out the Romans from their land But Jesus was nothing like this. His 'Kingdom was not of this world'. When they realised this, days later, the same crowds were shouting, ‘Crucify!’. The refection were read by Stephen Poston -Robinson and Lee Dawson.

The service continued to reflect on the great sacrifice that Jesus made for each of us. He offered himself to show his love for us, so that we could be a people of joy, knowing that we have the promise of eternal life. The journey to the cross began – with palms, coats laid on the ground, and ‘Hosannas’ filling the air. 9 Clitherow and Miss Midgley worked hard to prepare a short dramatic piece of welcoming Jesus, Alex Copley of Year 10, into the city of Jerusalem and their improvisation of the some of the miracles Jesus performed. This was followed by everyone singing 'We want to see Jesus lifted high' conducted by Rehan Sooltan in Year 11, with the Orchestra and the Junior Choir.

Mr O'Donnell, our Deacon, in his homily, talked about truth and the challenge to seek the truth despite those who refuse to accept it - that Jesus was asked how much he loved us and stretched out his arms on the cross and said "this much"! The service ended with a moving and thought-provoking song 'In my arms' by Steffi and Eve Bontoft accompanied by Matthew Archer on the piano, and the challenge to everyone: This Easter, make time for your families; make time for yourself but more importantly, make time for God by visiting Church and giving some thought to how important Jesus' death and resurrection means for all Christians.

Special thanks to the Liturgy Team, the Music Department, Mr Haddleton with Adam and Billy on sound and lighting respectively, the PE Department for the use of the Sport's Hall and the Facilities Supervisors for their support.

James Aitchison

Angell’s Delight

2008-03-14T05:05:00.000-07:00

For the second year running Saint Wilfrids has won the title ‘Wakefield Junior Amateur Chef of the Year’, Josh Angell beat four finalists to become the top-placed chef. During a tense final, in which the mayor and the Yorkshire Post food critic judged, Josh producing a winning main dish of ‘Toad in the Air’ (a twist on the traditional Yorkshire dish of Toad in the Hole using Pheasant stuffed with prunes) and a dessert of Rice Pudding with Apricots in a Butterscotch sauce. The final at Brassiere 99 was a close fought battle with Saint Wilfrids very own Billy Roche coming a close runner-up to Josh.
The winning prize was an I-pod Nano and the opportunity to star in the ‘Wakefield Food and Drink Festival’, which Josh was very eager to take up. On Saturday 8th March, Josh produced his award winning dishes in the food marquee for the festival. Josh said of the experience ‘I have never done anything like this before but its been fantastic, working in a professional kitchen has been hard and I really felt the pressure but I want to take up a career as a chef so its been a great experience’ It has also been great for Brassiere 99, who were so impressed with Josh’s talents that they asked him to work a busy Saturday night cover, Josh is now hoping this will lead to a permanent Saturday job.
If you visit Brassiere 99 in the next month you can sample Josh’s dish, which is now on the menu.

Leigh Wright

International Week 2008 “Future is Now!”

2008-03-14T05:03:00.000-07:00

Press release from International Week 2008.

On Monday 3rd March 2008, St. Wilfrid’s Catholic High School in Featherstone will play host to just under 200 international students and teachers fro the 8th Annual International Week.

Fifteen schools will be represented from the following countries: Bulgaria, Germany, Ghana, Italy, Pakistan, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden and Ukraine. Some of these schools, such as Bulgaria, Ghana, Pakistan and Slovakia are joining us for the first time, whereas our partner school from Balingen in Germany is visiting us for the 19th consecutive year. More than 120 our international guests will be hosted by families.

The theme for this year’s International Week is “Future is Now! The principal aim of the week is to explore the complex and ever-changing world in which we live. As global citizens we all face a responsibility to help shape the changing face of our planet for the better. During the week participants will consider how events in the past have shaped the world we currently live in. We will also explore the gifts and talents our young people bring to the world and consider their hopes and fears for the future.

Students from St. Wilfrid’s and our partner schools will work on a range of projects to reflect the focus of the week. Some of these projects will be art-based, such as creating collages, posters for peace, indoor garden, global villages of the future, whilst others will be media based, including creating TV adverts for a greener future, web pages, radio broadcasts and podcasting. In addition to this there will be an educational excursion to Beamish Open Air Museum in County Durham where students will learn about life in the early 1900s and experience a Victorian lesson in the Old Board School.

On Tuesday 4th March the school will also host an International Family Evening. Guests will have the opportunity to take part in a number of workshops, including Spanish cookery, Japanese calligraphy & origami, Bollywood dancing, yoga sessions and Korean drumming.

Perhaps the liveliest event of the week will be the International Song Contest on the evening of Wednesday 5th March. Sixteen acts will take to the stage to battle it out for the winning trophy. This Eurovision-style event proves more and more popular each year.

The International Week will come to a close when all international guests will return either to their respective countries or spend some time exploring other cities in the UK.

Ian Storey
Head of the International Dimension

Newsday

2008-03-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

Fifteen Year 7 students took part in the exciting challenge of ‘Newsday’ on 11th March. This is a national schools competition run in association with the Guardian newspaper, encouraging students to take on the role of journalists for the day. The event involved reporting on the breaking news stories that day, as well as making sure that the finished newspaper made it to the publication deadline! The group of budding journalists had spent several weeks prior to the actual event preparing features on topics as varied as the environment and fashion. They conducted interviews and took photographs in order to create leading articles for ‘The Voice’ – their chosen name for their newspaper.
On the actual competition day, the participating students worked brilliantly under pressure to produce the newspaper, showing real organisational skills and writing talent.
Well done to all involved!

Kate Henderson

Year 10 Vocational Event

2008-03-07T02:32:00.000-08:00

As part of this year’s PSHCE programme, Year 10 took part in a Vocational Event led by Compact Education & Business Services (CEBS). The aims of the morning as introduced by CEBS Managing Director, Andrew Czolacz, were to gain an understanding of and engage in Enterprise activities, apply these skills to solve problems and relate them to school and employment.

Twenty-four groups of 12 students were assisted in their tasks by their form tutors and activities were facilitated by representatives from local businesses, employers and industries. These volunteers included such diverse individuals as a freelance graphic designer to a social worker, an office administrator to a Royal Marine! The tasks students undertook included word puzzles, a desert survival game and construction of a newspaper lighthouse (with flashing bulb!).

The skills students used in the tasks included:
Problem solving
Creativity
Leadership
Team work
Decision making and
Communication.

Well done to everyone who took part, especially those who received prizes for best team work and best lighthouse!

Damian Ward

Good luck Josh & Billy!!

2008-02-28T03:49:00.000-08:00

Yet again two St Wilfrid’s students have made it into the final of ‘Wakefield Junior Amateur Chef of the Year’ again which will be held this Saturday, 1st March, at Brasserie 99. They will be up against two other students from Wakefield Girls High and Airedale High School. Josh Angell and Billy Roche are up for the challenge of regaining the title of ‘Wakefield Junior Amateur Chef of the Year’ for St Wilfrid’s. The boys are keeping their recipes a hidden secret to surprise all on the day. Earlier today Josh said “It’s a fantastic opportunity to show my skills and ideas. I’ve always enjoyed Food Technology and I would love to win to get the chance to work in a professional kitchen.” Billy would love to realise his ambition to work in the food industry and said “Food is a career I would love to follow and winning the competition will give me the chance to see how a professional kitchen work and hopefully give me lots of new skills and ideas that I can use back in school for my GCSE coursework.” The judges of the competition include Wakefield Mayor and a Food Critic. The winner will get the chance to display their talents in one of the tents at the Wakefield Festival of Food and Drink.

Leigh Wright

Junior Amateur Chef of the Year

2008-01-23T07:17:00.000-08:00

On the day that Schools Secretary Ed Balls announced cookery lessons are to be compulsory in England's secondary schools for children aged 11 to 14, St Wilfrids pupils attended an exciting cookery demo by Chefs from Brasserie 99. As part of Wakefield Festival of Food and Drink 2008 pupils will again be entering Junior Amateur Chef of the Year. Can we be as successful as last year and win? Our budding Jamie Olivers and Nigella Lawsons attended the demonstration by chefs Simon and Paul who demonstrated good kitchen practice and made a fantastic pasty in just a few minutes. Suma Wholefoods were there to educate pupils about the healthy, sweet and delicous taste of dried fruits such as apricots and mango, as well as the nutrious use of lentils and beans. The prizes are a fantastic iPod, plus a weeks work experience atBrasserie 99 alongside a top chef as well as a trip to Alton Towers and a meal for 4. Good Luck to everyone who enters!

Disco Inferno Tickets NOW ON SALE

2008-01-23T06:09:00.000-08:00

Since September students from St Wilfrid's Catholic High School have been rehearsing

extensively for the annual musical production. This year they will be taking the audience back to the 1970s with an exciting collaboration of singing, dancing and acting based around the fictional nighclub the "Disco Inferno". The show is full of songs that the audience can singalong to, with favourites such as "Celebration", "YMCA" and "Play that Funky Music". "Disco Inferno" will be shown in Brunseels Hall at St Wilfrids friom Tuesday 5th February to Friday 8th February at 7pm. Doors open at 6.45pm. Tickets are £6 (adults) and £4 (concessions). If you are interested in booking tickets you can contact the Performing Arts Department on 01977 691000 (ext 212). Michelle Birkett

Advent Carol Service

2008-01-23T05:58:00.000-08:00

The end of term concert this Christmas was a wonderful joyous, Christian celebration held in the new sports hall. Gerry O'Donnell spoke about the meaning of Christmas and one student conducted the orchestra! The dancing and singing were uplifting, with a particularly good rendition of 'White Christmas' by Beth Rowett.

Senior Citizens Christmas Party

2007-12-13T04:28:00.000-08:00

It gave us great pleasure to welcome the Senior Citizens of North Featherstone to St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School for an afternoon of entertainment. After a Christmas celebratory drink of sherry the delicious food provided by our on-site caterers was well received. The musical entertainment was courtesy of Mr Rob Clarke (Director of Expressive Arts/Music) and the school choir, the medley of carols and traditional Christmas songs went down very well with everyone joining in. This was followed by the Prize Bingo called by Mr Ray Rowett and his lovely assistant Mrs Judy Dakers, or is that the other way around? Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to Everyone!!

Disco Inferno

2007-12-11T01:48:00.000-08:00

It's 1976 and passions are on the dance floor, St Wilfrid's are getting into the groove, performing the hit musical 'Disco Inferno'. The funkiness starts 5th February 2008 until the 8th. Choreographed by Michelle Birkett this unstoppable show will take you back to the moves, grooves and styles of the 70's. Musical Director Rob Clarke leads the school band in playing all the famous hits of the 70's, guaranteed to get you up on the dancefloor!.

Student Press Release.

Performing Arts Facilities

2007-11-16T01:02:00.000-08:00

Over the summer there was extensive building work taking place in Theatre 1 and Theatre 2 that has produced fantastic new facilities for the Performing Arts. Theatre 1 has been developed into a larger performance space with a brand new sprung floor so that it is also suitable for dance. The space is custom made for performances and it can hold an audience of over a hundred. There are even more dramatic changes to Theatre 2 which has been developed into a state of the art dance studio equipped with mirrors, ballet barre and sprung floor. The students on the various performing arts courses are delighted with the new spaces and feel that it is a fantastic place to work.
See the new facilities in action at the open evening on Thursday 15th November where A’ Level Drama and Theatre Studies, BTEC National Performing Arts, and BTEC National Dance students will be showcasing a variety of their work for potential sixth form students and their parents. The showcase starts at 6pm and refreshments will be served at the end.

CAFOD Family Fast Day 5th October

2007-10-16T07:12:00.000-07:00

St Wilfrid’s was quieter than usual on 5th October, as many students in Yrs 7 & 8 took part in sponsored silences through the day. Assemblies for all year groups through the week focussed on CAFOD and its work, reminding students of the need for us as Christians to support those in need through agencies like CAFOD. As ever, the students responded with enthusiasm, and the sponsored silences were just a part of the overall fund raising efforts. Also taking place was a ‘Rich Man Poor Man’ lunch, when students bought a ticket for the chance of a full hot meal – or soup and a roll if they were unlucky in the draw. The meal drew attention to the inequality in the world, when some have more than enough and others starve. The pictures show the students during the meal, both rich and poor playing their part.

Gerry O'Donnell Oct 2007

BTEC Construction course launched for Year 9 pupils

2007-10-09T07:31:00.000-07:00

September has seen the launch of out BTEC level 2 Construction course. This gives students an insight into the construction industry and also the opportunity to develop their skills in plumbing and electrical work; students work in a structured way to solve real life problems. This course is a welcome addition and compliments the range of Design Technology courses offered at St. Wilfrid’s.

Dave Parkinson, Sept. ‘07

Open Evening

2007-10-08T01:49:00.000-07:00

Our Open Evening will be held on Thursday 4th October 6.30pm -8.30pm for pupils entering Year 7 in September 2008 and parents who wish to learn more about the school.Applications are welcome from Catholic and non-Catholic children, wishing to benefit from our caring, Christian community.

Students celebrate record breaking GCSE results!!

2007-10-08T01:47:00.000-07:00

Year 11 pupils at St. Wilfrid’s Catholic High School and Sixth Form College are celebrating today after achieving a record-breaking set of GCSE results. An incredible 92% of pupils passed the benchmark standard of five or more passes at grade C or above.
John McNally, Headteacher, described the results as “a really impressive achievement for the pupils and their teachers”. He said, “I am delighted for all the pupils. They have worked really hard and have been a pleasure to teach. The figures are particularly impressive when you consider that all St. Wilfrid’s pupils take a good balance of courses including maths, English, a foreign language and double science. The students are now set for further success in the Sixth Form and can look forward to higher education or meaningful careers. I am even more pleased that the pupils are well-rounded and caring individuals who will make a valuable contribution to society. I would like to publicly thank all the staff who have worked so hard in helping the students, and parents, who have supported us fantastically well over the years.”
There were many success stories, including an amazing number of 26 particularly able students who achieved at least eight GCSEs at the top A* and A grades. The average points score was 589, which equates to ten GCSEs at grade A* or eleven at grade A.
Pupils from other high schools may be interested to know that St. Wilfrid’s is accepting record numbers of students into its Sixth Form this year. Anybody interested in joining the school should contact Mr. Maltman in the first instance (details below).
Please telephone or e-mail John McNally, Headteacher, or Alan Maltman, Head of Sixth Form, at the school for further information. Telephone number: 01977 691000, fax 01977 723569, e-mail swhschool@aol.com.

Lourdes Pilgrimage

2007-07-20T01:56:00.000-07:00

Y10 and Year 12 students went on pilgrimage to Lourdes from 5th –13th July. All pupils were assigned to a sick member of the adult pilgrimage. Some of these pilgrims were terminally ill. Their responsibility was to transport these people to the many pilgrimage events in Lourdes and to be a support for partners or companions of these sick people. The pupils were deeply touched by the experience. Talking, listening, caring for the sick and giving practical, physical support affected them emotionally and spiritually. They could see the value of working with those less fortunate than themselves. Some of their future career choices would be ultimately affected by this profound experience.

Mr Aitchison, Miss Rylands and Miss Couttie were very proud of the way each and every student responded to every task and responsibility they were given. Mr Aitchison said “We are privileged to witness the attention and affection the students gave to the person(s) they were looking after. The pilgrimage is tiring work. After travelling 27 hours to arrive in Lourdes, the pupils were set to work straight away. They often worked from 7.30am to 10.30pm. To see these young people enjoying the experience and leading them in various events and liturgies which had an affect on them spiritually was a humbling experience. You build a very trusting and loving relationship with the students and there are moments when staff are sought after to offer spiritual guidance, support and a listening ear”.

James Aitchison

JUMP INTO HEALTHY EATING!

2007-07-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

September is the start of our new in-house catering provision using the first phase of our refurbished kitchens. Jump into Healthy Eating is our new logo (designed by Elizabeth Atkinson in Year 8) and our new ethos. Our new service provision is in the capable hands of Babs Askham, our catering manager and her wonderful team who have been with us for many years.

If I asked you what the phrase “being healthy” meant to you, what would you say? Eating five fruit and vegetables a day? Exercising daily? Looking after yourself? Being healthy to me and our school means being equipped to make the right choices to ensure we are healthy. It is having a balanced approach to living and learning. This involves body, mind and soul, physically, mentally, emotionally, socially and spiritually.

As you know the government has introduced new food-based standards for lunchtimes and we have set up our service with these in mind. Our baguette bar in the tuck shop area along with a new vending bank, offers healthy and nutritious drinks – and also a food vender for fresh sandwiches, fruit and yoghurts is available when all other services are closed, especially for after school activities. We are introducing a new Pasta Bar in the main hall, with our new main meal menus being delivered from the “some like it hot” serving station along with baked potatoes and soup. In the sixth form the deli station will be extended; a new fridge cabinet for all-day snacks, baguettes and sandwiches will be available, a pasta bar and a help-yourself salad bar, jacket potatoes and a free-trade coffee machine will also be available.

Under government regulations confectionery is not available in school, as you know they are high in sugar and some are high in fat and do not make a valuable contribution to a child’s nutrient intake. We want to encourage everyone to eat a balanced meal. If you do provide a packed lunch please make it a healthy one !

Please follow these links for suggestions/ideas for healthier packed lunches.

http://www.foodfitness.org.uk/

http://www.schoolfoodtrust.org.uk/content.asp?ContentId=295

http://www.nutrition.org.uk/upload/Healthy%20Eating%20for%20School-aged%20Children.pdf

http://www.nutrition.org.uk/home.asp?siteId=43§ionId=1381&subSectionId=1123&parentSection=303&which=6

Battlefields Trip

2007-07-18T07:48:00.000-07:00

The Year 9 and Year 10 History students enjoyed a fascinating trip to the World War One battlefields of northern France and Belgium. During the trip the pupils visited several graveyards and war memorials, which helped to illustrate the sheer scale of the human loss during the Great War.

The students were also able to visit many of the trenches and battlefields that became a major part of war on the Western Front, highlighting the terrible conditions suffered by thousands of soldiers at the time.

They were accompanied by Mrs Keddie, Miss Moseley, Mr Fitzpatrick, Mr Mellor and Miss Beevers.

Matt Fitzpatrick

Simon Armitage – a famous Yorkshire poet – visits St. Wilfrid’s

2007-07-12T07:14:00.000-07:00

Friday 15th June 2007 arrived and many teachers and Year 10 pupils were eagerly awaiting the performance of prominent Yorkshire poet and novelist, Simon Armitage. Simon previously won the Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year Award and has worked extensively in radio, film and television. The vast majority of pupils in the country will study his poems at GCSE level.
Despite his indisputable acclaim, Simon transformed pupils’ expectations of what a ‘typical’ poet might be like; he was funny, down to earth and inspiring. It was an invaluable experience for pupils to hear poems they have studied and seen on the page performed and brought to life by their creator.
Despite animating his own poems, Simon even upheld his modesty when it came to discussing the ownership of his work. When questioned about his poems’ meanings he humbly announced: ‘Once I’ve written something it doesn’t belong to me any more – the meaning belongs to the reader’.
This was fabulously empowering for pupils to hear; individual interpretation and creativity are essential tools in the successful study of Literature and Simon actively encouraged pupils to use their imaginations in their studies. And that is the beauty of all literature; it creates new worlds and experiences – no exact interpretation of any text is ever entirely right or wrong and Simon reaffirmed this for everyone.
We hope to welcome Simon back next year and he has promised to be our ‘pet poet’.

Kate Midgley

St. Wilfrid’s Praised by OFSTED Inspectors

2007-06-06T07:17:00.000-07:00

Pupils and staff at St. Wilfrid’s are celebrating after receiving a glowing report from OFSTED inspectors recently. A team of five inspectors visited the school in May and identified “a strong and inclusive Christian ethos [which] underpins the work of the school and supports a community in which pupils can thrive.” They also noted that, “pupils enjoy coming to school: they are well motivated and keen to learn” and “pupils work hard and make outstanding progress”. John McNally, Headteacher, said he was delighted with the report, saying, “The Inspectors were really impressed with our pupils, noting the pride they and the staff take in St. Wilfrid’s.

I am particularly pleased that OFTSED also recognised we are set for even higher levels of success in the near future, describing us as still improving. This report is a testament to everybody involved with the school and I would like to publicly thank pupil, parents, staff and governors for their hard work and dedication to St. Wilfrid’s”.

Make a note to access our learning platform!

2007-06-06T07:15:00.000-07:00

Hosting problems mean that our website it currently unavailable at it's usual location of
www.st-wilfrids.wakefield.sch.uk
Make a note of the addresses below and use those instead.
Website http://home.btconnect.com/BT-Ignite-Y-H-Pr/
Learning Platformhttp://www.stwilfrids.wakefield.yhgfl.net/mydesktop/
Normal service will be resumed as soon as possible. Apologies!

The Royal Navy and the Royal Marine Commandos

2007-06-06T07:06:00.000-07:00

On Friday 4th May during Personal, Social Education morning Year 11 pupils attended a talk from the Royal Navy in the new sports hall. The talk gave pupils information on the careers available within the Navy, the opportunities to travel and see the World, and to learn a trade. The presentation was given by serving members of the Navy and the Royal Marine Commandos. After the talk pupils were able to visit the Navy’s mobile recruitment unit, which was parked in the school car park and were able to ask questions and find out more detailed information about the opportunities available to them.

Throughout the rest of the morning the pupils in their form groups were able to attend training sessions that were instructed by the Royal Marine Commandos. Pupils were put through their paces and were able to experience some of the training a new recruit would go through.

Pupils participated in the bleep test which tests their stamina and endurance whilst running between two cones as the time allowed decreased and finished off the session with a game of rounders. Through the activities in the sessions pupils were able to know how physically demanding it is being a serving member of the Royal Marine Commandos. Pupils participated well during the sessions and came away with a clearer idea of what is involved in joining in addition to having some fun!!

Sam Pullan

Trip to Leeds Metropolitan Higher Education Fair

2007-05-09T08:12:00.000-07:00

On Thursday 26th April 40 students from St Wilfrid’s 6th form attended the Higher Education Fair held at Leeds Metropolitan Beckett’s Park campus. The two-day event gives students the opportunity to research courses and Universities and assists them in the decision making process. At the event students were able to talk to the admissions, college and school liaison representatives about the courses and the admissions policies at the Higher Education institutions. Over one hundred University’s and Higher Education Institutes from all over the Country attended the event, which gave the pupils a wide and varied look at the Universities and courses available. The event was very busy and was well attended by schools and colleges from across West Yorkshire. During the day students were also able to attend various seminars on subjects varying from the UCAS application process to student life and finance. The Higher Education Fair is an integral part of the Higher Education program here at St Wilfrid’s with outside speakers booked for later on this term to advise students on UCAS application and student finance.

Samantha Pullan
Careers Co-ordinator

Dance triumph for Alice Wilkins!

2007-04-30T01:16:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to 16-year-old Btec Dance Award student Alice Wilkins who has successfully auditioned for a place in the prestigious Yorkshire Young Dancers Company. This company is made up of 13-17 year olds with exceptional talent in contemporary dance. Alice will have to attend contemporary classes three times a week as well as intensive weekends and summer schools. It will give her the chance to be taught by leading contemporary dance teachers and professional choreographers.
Competition into this company is fierce with Alice winning a place out of two hundred other young dancers. She had to participate in two gruelling auditions where she had take part in contemporary dance and ballet technique classes and also choreograph and perform a one minute solo.
Alice has been interested in dance and gymnastics from an early age. She has trained in a variety of styles from ballet to disco at the Victoria Wills School of Dance and has developed a love of contemporary dance since she participated in GCSE Dance at Carlton High School. Alice joined St Wilfrid’s Sixth Form Centre this year specifically to continue her dance training and is an exceptionally dedicated student on the Btec Dance Award course. Since being at the school she has been a lead dancer in Fame! She has also won the Northern region of Festival 4 Stars in the duo competition alongside fellow Btec Dance Award student Rebekah Barraclough.
Alice is really looking forward to being part of the Yorkshire Young Dancers Company and hopes that it will help her achieve her dream of becoming a professional dancer.
If you want to see Alice in action, alongside the other Btec Dance Award students, come and see the “Evening of Dance” at St Wifrid’s on Wednesday 16th May. Tickets are £4 for adults and £2 for concessions and will be available soon.

Michelle Birkett

Mission Day

2007-04-30T01:08:00.000-07:00

Anna Cowell, Hannah , Fr Martin Kelly and Franciscan Brothers Simon and Thomas visited St Wilfrids on Thursday 19th April for the school mission day. The day reminded students of the Diocesan programme ‘Come and See’ and this years theme of Reconciliation. Each session began with a warm up game followed by a dramatic interpretation of how humankind became separated from God and how this was reconciled. Fr Martin gave a testimony of his call to priesthood which then moved into a presentation of a very moving film called ‘team hoyt’ about a Fathers love for his Son. This left a lasting impression with staff and students reminding them of love, love God lavishes upon us. The day was a great success and we look forward to more days like this in the future.

Incredible Gianna

2007-04-30T01:06:00.000-07:00

Gianna Jessen visited St Wilfrids High School on Monday 19th March to speak to students in year 10 and 11. Gianna has been a guest on numerous radio and television programmes. She travels frequently, sharing her testimony .Gianna told her incredible true story of her courageous journey from Abortion survivor to steadfast defender of life. She captured students with her story of determination to make the most of her God given opportunities. Speaking for those who can’t, she brings encouragement and hope to youth and adult audiences.

Fantastic Inset

2007-04-30T01:04:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 13th March Jason Bangbala led the staff in their INSET on behaviour for learning. He was a very charismatic speaker whom enthused and motivated staff to experiment with a positive approach to learning. Staff welcomed the training day and some have stated ‘It was the best INSET ever’ and ‘We should have more INSET like this’. Jason will return to the school next academic year to work with teams of people on behaviour for learning strategies.
Here are just some of the pointers he provided:
Behaviour for learning pointers

Believe you can make a difference
Be calm
Plan for the behaviour before it happens
Focus on the good pupils
Praise good behaviour
Reward good behaviour
Focus on what pupils should be doing
Give pupils escape routes and options/choices
Give pupils responsibility for their own behaviour
Be consistent – take the action you promise
Intervene quickly and calmly when inappropriate behaviour occurs – don’t let it escalate
Don’t take inappropriate behaviour personally
Be non confrontational
Avoid shouting – be assertive not aggressive
Have a sense of humour
Enjoy what you are doing
Be positive
Use smile therapy
Body language

Easter Prayers

2007-03-30T05:26:00.000-07:00

Lord, by the Easter mystery you touch our lives with the healing power of your love. You have given us the freedom and the promise of eternal life. May we celebrate your gift, and find joy in it forever in heaven. May each of us make your love known in all that we say and do. May we give to others the sense of hope that you give to us. Amen.

Risen Lord Jesus, the truth of your resurrection echoes throughout this Easter season. Help me, my family and friends to grow strong in faith and know your presence. Amen.

International Week 2007 "Every Child Matters"

2007-03-30T05:02:00.000-07:00

On Monday 5th March 157 students and teachers from 6 countries descended upon Featherstone for the 7th annual International Week at St. Wilfrid’s. Visitors, old and new, came from partner schools in Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Sweden and Ukraine. Our partner school in Spain joined us for the first time, whereas our German partner school was visiting for its 18th year!

On Monday afternoon some of our primary feeder schools got the week off to a great start by taking part in the 2nd Primary Song Extravaganza. The event was organised by Jane Johnson, Primary Languages Coordinator and gave the students the perfect opportunity to show off their languages skills.

Over 100 hundred of our guests were hosted by families of students at St. Wilfrid’s. This gave our international guests the chance to experience life in an English home. Our English families made our students feel so welcome that most of them didn’t want to leave at the end of the week.

This year’s theme was “Every Child Matters” and international students, alongside students from St. Wilfrid’s, worked in teams on an exciting project. It was their task to adopt a virtual child from cities including Johannesburg, Bangkok, Marseille and Sarajevo. During the week, groups researched their given cities to create a life for their virtual child. On Thursday, all of their hard work was exhibited in school to Year 7 students. The exhibition was also displayed to specially invited guests, including the Mayor of Wakefield, on Thursday evening.

During the week students actively involved themselves in a range of other activities, including cookery workshops, origami making, Bollywood dancing and yoga sessions. Excursions also took place to York and the National Coal Mining Museum.

Perhaps the most memorable and lively event of all was the International Song Contest on Wednesday evening. Thirteen superb acts took to the stage to battle it out for the winning trophy but there could only be one winner. Our partner school in Lodi, Italy won the contest with a song and dance routine.

The week was not only an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to experience life in England, but also a week to build long-lasting friendships and take away very happy memories. We definitely succeeded in doing this and many of our partner schools enjoyed the week so much that they have already started planning for next year!

Ian Storey
Head of the International Dimension

Matthew's British Biology Olympiad success - wish him luck!!

2007-03-23T04:36:00.000-07:00

The BBO is a competition open to all 6th form colleges in the country, and about 1500 people sat the first exam. Sixth form student Matthew Stammers received a Gold Medal from the first round, and was selected to sit the second paper. He has subsequently finished in the top 12 candidates,and has been selected for the practical training at Birmingham University over Easter. Four people will then be selected to represent Britain in the International Biology Olympiad in Canada.
This is an outstanding achievement for Matthew. The vast majority of successful competitors are from the top private schools. The exam papers are extremely difficult, and include material that is far in excess of what we do at A level. Matthew has shown a phenomenal understanding of the subject, and we wish him luck in the next stage of the competition.

Year 7 Reconciliation Service

2007-03-23T04:34:00.000-07:00

On Thursday 15th March 2007, all members of Year 7 were given the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, as part of the school’s Lenten preparation. The School theme for the year is “Back to the Father” which ties in well with the theme of “Repentance and Reconciliation” for the second year of the Diocese of Leeds Come and See renewal process.

At the start of the morning, there was a reconciliation service for all of Year 7, led by Mr Russell, with readings by members of 7Fisher. Students were reminded of the story of the Prodigal Son, and of the importance of the Sacrament. After the service, four of our local priests, Canon Maguire, Fr McGeough, Fr Reilly and Fr Powell spent the morning at school, hearing confessions from students. The priests said afterwards that they were impressed with the honesty of the students, and the way that they had been prepared to receive the sacrament.

England Rugby Union Triumph for Joe

2007-03-23T04:21:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Joseph Quinn in Year 11 who has been selected to represent England at Rugby Union at U16’s.
He has been selected as first choice Second Row and will be playing against France, Wales and Scotland over the Easter period.
This is an awesome achievement for Joe who plays for Leeds Tykes U16 Academy.
Good Luck Joe, we wish you well with the fixtures.

Cook off competition!

2007-03-23T04:14:00.000-07:00

On Thursday 15th February Charlotte Thorpe and Ben Oldroyd went head to head in a competition cook off at Wakefield Restaurant Brasserie 99. The competition was held as part of the Wakefield Rhubarb Festival and was organised by the Primary Care trust to help promote healthy eating in schools and to highlight the importance of eating fresh, seasonal, locally produced ingredients. Charlotte and Ben were each assigned a chef to help them prepare their own two-course meal for the competition judges headed by Wakefield Lord Mayor Cllr. Darren Travis. After a great deal of discussion and taste testing Ben was awarded first prize with Charlotte the runner up.

The following Saturday, Ben cooked his winning menu again in front of an audience of 80 in the marquee erected for the festival in the city centre. Ben said that although there were far more people watching him in the marquee he found the actual competition day had made him much more nervous. Both Ben and Charlotte had an amazing experience and coped admirably with the pressure of such a high profile event.

Careers Fair

2007-03-20T09:30:00.000-07:00

In February we held our first annual Careers Fair in the newly built Newland building. A variety of employers and Higher Education institutes attended the two-day event and were able to talk to and advise pupils with their career questions and career opportunities.

Pupils in Years 10 and 11 attended the event to assist them with their post-16 options and long-term career goals. Members of the sixth form were particularly interested in the assistance and advice offered from the Cambridge school liaisons officer who was able to share valuable knowledge about what makes a good University application with pupils.

The organisations that attended the Careers Fair were from a variety of industries such as catering, finance, the motor trade, the local council and trading standards to name a few. The Armed Forces were represented with all three forces in school and found themselves to be very busy and for their stalls to be well attended. Higher Education Institutes also attended the event including Trinity and All Saints College, University of Huddersfield and Cambridge University. The Higher Education Institutes handed out prospectuses to the pupils and discussed the courses available.

Pupils enjoyed the two-day event and came away with free pens, pencils and other promotional gifts, but most importantly a clearer idea of the opportunities available beyond their time at St. Wilfrid’s.

Samantha Pullan
Careers Co-ordinator

Army Exhibition North Trip

2007-03-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

During the summer term 2006 a group of Year 9 and 10 pupils visited the Army Exhibition North held at Catterick Garrison Barracks in North Yorkshire. The annual three-day event showcases the different regiments, trades and careers available with the Army.
Pupils were able to talk to serving soldiers about their job roles, sit in heavy machinery and tanks, fly down a zip wire, complete a simulated parachute jump and join in many more activities that they normally would not get to do.
The pupils had a fantastic day and gained a lot from the experience.

Samantha Pullan
Careers Co-ordinator

Careers Team

2007-03-20T06:58:00.000-07:00

Here at St Wilfrid’s we are lucky to have a well-resourced and staffed Careers Centre, which is located on the middle corridor in the Lindesfarne building. We have a variety of information available for young people to access including University prospectuses, career guides and DVD’s showing different job roles.

The Careers centre is staffed by Miss Pullan Careers Co-ordinator, Sally Hodgkinson Careers Personal Advisor from Connexions and the recently appointed Tim Dowey Intensive Personal Advisor also from Connexions. Sally’s job role includes advising young people on a range of options available to them both at post-16, post-18 and Year 8 pupils choosing their GCSE options. Tim’s job role includes assisting young people who have barriers to learning and offering them additional support.

The resource is available for pupils in all year groups to access during break and lunch times. If you would like to speak to a member of the team please contact through the main telephone number for the school.

Samantha Pullan
Careers Co-ordinator

Kickboxing Superstar Beth!

2007-03-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

Who would believe that polite and charming Year 8 student Beth Billington is in fact a champion Kickboxer! Beth is THIRD in the World for her weight and has titles of 1st in England and 1st at British Championships. From Kinsley Hotel where she trains with tutors Ian Womersley and Debra Hicks she has travelled as far as Switzerland, Spain and Canada to represent her Country. Beth continues to have fun attending Team Strikes Club where she trains.

St Wilfrid’s Achieves Safe Mark Award

2007-03-14T04:46:00.000-07:00

The safe mark award scheme was seen as a ideal opportunity to extend recent improvements in behavioural standards beyond the school gate.

The safemark consultation phase involved students, bus drivers, teachers, governors and local police. Safemark’s aim is to reduce unacceptable behaviour on buses and to improve the quality of the journey to and from school.

Joshua Angell and Valentine Nguhi, pupils from school, travelled with Mr Ray Rowett to collect the award from Councillor Mick Downes (Leeds City Council) at a ceremony held at Metro House Leeds.

Great Britain Water Polo Youth Team

2007-03-12T07:02:00.000-07:00

With 14 years combined experience at water polo it's not surprising that pupils
Shaun Greatorex and Elliot Thompson have been chosen for the Great Britain Youth Team. They've both played for County and two weeks ago attended youth academy trials and were selected for the Country team. Both keen sportsmen they will attend training at Millfield School in April followed by an exciting trip to Bulgaria in the summer to represent their country!

After School Club

2007-02-26T07:58:00.000-08:00

Back in October, we sent out a survey to find out if parents would be interested in an after school club for Year 7 and/or 8 children. The response was amazing and as a result we are happy to to say that from Monday 26th February, we will offer the service asked for! For just £2 an hour per child, we will provide a comfortably furnished room together with activities and professional carers. There will be a selection of traditional board games, video games, computers, DVDs and craft activities like glass painting. Parents can arrange attendance with one week’s notice and collect their child when convenient between the hours of 3.10 (end of the school day) and 6.00 pm. We will require pre-payment in order to create our evening’s register and will make immediate contact should a child not attend the club as expected. What could be easier or more convenient?
The extended school club will be situated in B16 facing the school’s bus bay so that we can see parents arrive to collect their child. Just follow the signs from the ‘B” Block entrance to the club room.
Just £2 an hour (available from 3.10 to 6.00 pm)
FUN ACTIVITIES. GAMES, COMPUTERS
PROFESSIONAL MINDERS (FULLY CRB CHECKED)
STARTS MONDAY 26TH FEBRUARY 2007, AVAILABLE MONDAY TO FRIDAY

Damian Ward Assistant Headteacher (Vocational)

Sold on e-pray!

2007-02-09T06:28:00.000-08:00

On Monday 12th February, a new initiative is starting at St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School, to ensure that all classes are able to start the day with prayer. The initiative, entitled ‘E-pray’, will mean that all staff will receive a daily e-mail with a prayer relating to the prayer theme of the week. The prayers will be incorporated into the regular start of day routine that takes place during the first lesson of the day.

Mrs Gilroy, Assistant Headteacher with responsibility for Chaplaincy, said that following research among staff and students aimed at ensuring that regular collective worship was taking place at school, it was clear that having a morning focus based around the theme of the week would enable prayer to take place more regularly and more effectively.

E-pray follows on from the School prayer book, which is produced on a half-termly basis to assist Form Tutors and Heads of Year in organising collective worship during afternoon tutorials and assemblies.

Phil Russell
Lay Chaplian

FAME! I want to live forever!

2007-02-06T08:05:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again – when the school hall gets transformed into somewhere new, and the distant (or sometimes quite close) sound of singing and dancing can be heard throughout the school. That’s right – it’s school production time. This year we are taking you back to the 1980s, with its garishly coloured leg-warmers and it's very dodgy perms, to bring you FAME – The Musical.

The production is being performed by a cast of 25 students ranging from Year 8 to Year 12, and involves the usual array of acting, singing, dancing and gymnastics – with even a bit of rap. This is all done to the fantastic music created by the band of 15, made up of students and staff.

The story of FAME shows the journey of a group of young people as they embark on a four-year course at the School of Performing Arts in New York. It follows them through auditions, classes, love scenes, knock backs and much more.

The show is running for 4 nights, from Tuesday 13th to Friday 16th February. The last 2 nights are already sold out, so hurry if you want to get a seat. NEW!! Special offer on Wednesday tickets 2 adults bring a child free! and Buy 2 child tickets get one free!

Click here to see the Catholic Post Photos of our 'Fame' production.

Sarah Page February 2007

Same, but different

2007-02-05T05:42:00.000-08:00

The events of the Holocaust, where the Nazis killed 6 million Jewish people during the Second World War, were once again commemorated at St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School this year. During assemblies throughout the week leading up to Holocaust Memorial Day on Saturday January 27th, the students were told about how racial discrimination by the Nazis led to them believing that all those considered inferior should be killed.

During the services, students read poems from Holocaust survivors, and listened to the stories of those who kept the Jewish faith alive during those dark days. They were challenged to think about injustice in our society today, and about how the differences between people should be celebrated. Pictured right Michael and Jake White in Year 11 who are identical twins to reflect the idea of same but different.
The services, which featured images provided by the Holocaust Memorial Trust, and appropriate contemporary music, were held in a respectful silence, as students reflected thoughtfully on the events of the Holocaust, and the actions they should take to make sure it never happens again.

After the services, students created a display of their fingerprints in the R.E. Department, to symbolise their diversity and their unity.

Phil Russell
Lay Chaplain

Brave Scott rescues neighbour

2007-01-24T02:36:00.000-08:00

At the end of last year Scott Bennett in Year 9 saved his neighbour from her burning house, he's now been put forward for an award by firefighters for this brave rescue!

Scott was on his way home from school when he saw smoke billowing from a neighbouring house. He said: "I was on the field behind the house and saw a load of smoke so I went to look and there was a fire in the kitchen. I went around to the front of the house and banged on the window and saw Mrs Bennett in her front room. I didn't really think about it – I just wanted to get her out of the house." Grateful Sue Bennett, 54, said: "If it wasn't for him I would be dead. I was having an asthma attack because of the fumes from the smoke – when I opened the front room door the flames had just whooshed up in my face. But he got me out of the house and then he rescued Molly, my West Highland terrier, who was trapped in the kitchen where the fire was." Scott called 999 and Wakefield firefighters attended the blaze. Mrs Bennett was taken to Pinderfields Hospital.Crew manager Pete Hemsworth said: "An electric deep-fat fryer had been left on one of the hob rings and it seems as though that caused the fire. "Scott's swift actions were excellent. He managed to get Mrs Bennett out of the house and call the fire brigade. He didn't try to tackle the fire, which was the right thing to do. We are hoping to present him with a commendation award." Mrs Bennett added: "I would not have got out of the house without him. I would like to thank him and the fire brigade for saving my life."

Vocational Specialist Blog

2007-01-22T08:08:00.000-08:00

NEW!! DECEMBER 2006 Damian Ward, Assistant Headteacher (Vocational) launches an exciting blog to chart our first year as a Vocational Specialist School.

http://vocationalspecialismschool.blogspot.com/

St Wilfrid’s Day Mass 2006

2007-01-22T08:03:00.000-08:00

The St Wilfrid’s Day Mass is our greatest opportunity to come together in prayer and worship as a school community. This year, our theme was “Back to the Father.” This theme focuses our thoughts on the Christian ideas of repentance and reconciliation.
During the entrance of students to Mass, the “Paradise Steel Band”, a steel drum band played a number of Gospel based hymns. Before Mass began, Miss Birkett’s dance group performed an interpretation to two songs which related to the theme of our Mass. The Mass was lead by Fr Simon Lodge who during his homily on the Gospel of the Prodigal Son spoke with knowledge and humour about the difficulties of living out the Christian life, and also the life of St Wilfrid. During Mass, the orchestra and choir, conducted by Mr Clarke and Miss Herrington, led the congregation in a number of contemporary hymns based around our theme. During the Our Father, students from Years 8 and 9 performed a piece of liturgical movement to the words of the prayer. The Liturgy was prepared by members of the school Chaplaincy team, and it is a testimony to their hard work and dedication that the Mass was such a success.
The St Wilfrid’s Day Mass is a way of both celebrating our school achievements, but also and most importantly, a time to come together and to remember our purpose as a school. As our Mission Statement says, “At the heart of our life is a desire to encourage students to lead a Christian life and be of service to others.” We hope that our St Wilfrid’s Day Mass inspires them to do this.

Phil Russell Nov 2006

Year 5 Art Day

2007-01-22T07:58:00.000-08:00

In November ’06 as part of St Joseph's Primary Schools Arts week St Wilfrid’s Art Department had the pleasure of working with 30 year 5 pupils for a day. Using Celtic Art as a starting point we ran two workshops – Mr Walsh and 6th form Art students provided a challenging experience manipulating day and providing the pupils with new skills and techniques. Mrs Beach and 6th form Art Students introduced Batik and textiles – a new experience to all of the pupils and something they all found very rewarding. Ideas were based on Celtic Animal Imagery and the pupils used hot wax to make a resist pattern then brushed on strong colour to make excellent individual vibrant designs.
Pupils from St Joseph's Primary School Pontefract working with Mrs Beach and 6th form Art Students. Using Celtic designs as their starting point the year 5 pupils used the strong pattern and images as inspiration to produce their own Batik Artwork.
Pupils from St Joseph's Primary School Pontefract working in collaboration with Mr Walsh and 6th form Art Students. The morning was spent on a collaborative project where pupils produced individual tiles to make a large FRIEZE. The afternoon was used to produce their own Gargoyle heads to ward off evil spirits. It worked – Mr Horodczuk was nowhere to be seen.

Paul Horodczuk Nov 2006

St Wilfrid’s Kart Club

2007-01-22T07:56:00.000-08:00

The Kart Club is a long established after-school activity in which the members learn how to repair and maintain the karts which they then race in competitions. The competitions are organised by the National Schools Karting Association which is recognised and approved by MSA (the approved Motor Sports Body) and at an event there may be over two hundred karts taking part. The karts belong to teams similar to ours or to private individuals and can be from across the whole Country. The team have enjoyed considerable success in the past both locally and nationally, winning a number of national titles. The most recent being the National Enduro Championships held at Wigan at the beginning of November!
Chris Rayner Nov 2006

Yr 11 Art Trip to London

2007-01-22T07:50:00.000-08:00

Yr 11 Art GCSE pupils made the long journey to London to stay overnight and visit some of the world famous galleries to help them prepare for their upcoming GCSE’s. We set off Friday morning and dropped our bags off at the Langham Court Hotel before going on to the Royal academy to see an exhibition of Amedo Modigliani work.The evening was spent in a local Italian restaurant before venturing on to the cinema for some ‘light entertainment’. Saturday was Tate Modern and the pupils found both inspiration and bewilderment at some of the work on display. It wouldn’t have been a trip to London without some time for shopping so a good quick excursion to both Carnaby St and Oxford St was included before leading back to the hotel to collect our bags and heading home.

Paul Horodczuk Nov 2006

Recording Studio!

2007-01-22T07:43:00.000-08:00

The music department have recently moved into a state of the art building comprising of 47 dedicated music computers using the latest Sibelius and Cubase music technology software. A dedicated Mackie 24 track recording studio with mixing room and adjacent classroom can now be accessed by pupils with the opportunity to compose and arrange their own pieces using professional sounds and microphones in order to produce professional sounding cds. Pupils now have the opportunity to learn how to arrange, produce and post produce their own pieces before mastering them down to cd. For the first time pupils can make use of equipment that can only be found in a dedicated professional recording studio and produce work of a standard for use in the professional media market.

Rob Clarke Nov 2006

Healthy School!

2007-01-22T07:41:00.000-08:00

Peter Ward, Assessor for Healthy Schools, was in school to meet with the Student Council and other groups in order that we may be awarded the Healthy School recognition!

Year 9 Rugby League

2007-01-22T07:40:00.000-08:00

At the first attempt the Year 9 Rugby Team got through to the Powergen Schools National Finals! After winning the Wakefield cup, the team progressed into the Yorkshire Cup where they continued on their winning run, beating last years National Cup winners in the final of the Yorkshire Cup.
This put them into the National Rounds as one of the favourites, a title they lived up to winning all their games to reach the Final.
In the final they played St John Fisher, from Wigan. The Finals Weekend was played at RAF Uxbridge, London. The final was played on Friday and then the Saturday all the teams went to the Challenge Cup Final at Twickenham and paraded around the pitch at half time. Unfortunately we lost the final but the experience of the whole weekend is one that is never to be forgotten by both students and staff alike. Roll on this year when our current year 7 and 10 (last years finalists) are at going to press on course for reaching the national finals! Iain McCabe Nov 2006

Opera North

2007-01-22T06:51:00.000-08:00

We had a fantastic day! On Friday 6th October, a team of three energetic workshop leaders from Opera North spent the day working with a group of 26 young people from St Wilfrid’s. The aim of the workshop was to teach our students about opera, and in particular, Rigoletto. Most of our young participants had very little understanding of opera, and of the singers who produce these huge voices.
One such voice belongs to Mark Evans who is a baritone and sang with us and for us during the day. He was accompanied by Sarah Tipple, director and Dominic Harlan, repetiteur. The workshop not only introduced us to the plot of Rigoletto, but also to the excitement of being onstage and singing with a large chorus.
We played games, we sang, and we staged scenes from Rigoletto. Then on Monday 9th October, we went to see the opera, Rigoletto, at the newly refurbished Leeds Grand Theatre, with students, their parents and staff. It was much more exciting to sit in the audience and watch the opera that we had worked on. Sally Eldridge Oct 2006