Year 13 Biologists visited Kew Gardens to complete their ecology fieldwork. Students worked in groups to study and compare two areas (one wild and one landscaped). They used different equipment to measure the abiotic factors in the area, including light intensity, soil temperature and moisture levels). After this first session, students were given free time to explore the gardens and the different greenhouses. Students enjoyed viewing the record-breaking giant Victoria Boliviano in the Waterlily house. It was named a new species by a team from Kew in 2022, and its lily pads grow up to three metres wide! Another fascinating plant was the Mimosa plant; its leaves fold inwards when touched! At the beginning of the day, students were informed that we would enter them into a photography competition - with the winners winning a £10 Amazon gift voucher! 

Triumph at CCF Winter Camp: Pinner Students Make History

The recently concluded CCF (Combined Cadet Force) Winter Camp stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements of our students. Their outstanding performance surpassed all expectations, resulting in an exceptional victory, with our team securing triumph in 5 out of 6 competitions.

A pivotal highlight of this success story was the remarkable feat achieved by our Team Leader, Yaqub Rahman. Not only did he excel amongst all Non-Commissioned Officers, but his exceptional performance earned him the prestigious promotion to Sergeant.

This triumph is even more significant because it marks the first instance in Pinner's history that our team has claimed the top spot. Surpassing the private schools that hosted the event, our students showcased unparalleled determination, skill, and perseverance.

This victory is a testament to our students' dedication and hard work, showcasing their unwavering commitment to excellence. It's a momentous occasion that will be remembered in the annals of Pinner's achievements, setting a new standard for success and determination.

Sports Updates

It looks like the school's sports teams have been absolutely crushing it lately! Check out these impressive results:

• Year 8 Girls dominated against Hatch End and Rooks Heath in Netball, securing impressive wins of 17-0 and 20-0 respectively.
• Year 9 Girls continued their winning streak in Netball, triumphing over Hatch End with a score of 24-1 and securing a stellar 28-0 win against Rooks Heath.
• The Year 10 Boys (and a Girl) showcased their prowess in football, triumphing over Claremont 8-1 in the first round of the Middx Cup.
• The Year 10 Netball team soared to victory, claiming the title of Netball Borough Champions.
• In football, the Year 8 Boys triumphed in all three borough group games, securing a spot in the semi-finals. They also aced the first two rounds of the county cup, advancing to the last 16.
• The Year 8 basketball team demonstrated their skills by making it into the borough semi-final against Rooks.

Continuing the success, the Year 9 Boys dominated with wins in all three group games, earning them a spot in the football semi-final.

These achievements showcase not only the talent and dedication of the school's sports people but also the remarkable teamwork and sportsmanship across various sports. Congratulations to all the teams for their outstanding performances!

Exploring Theatrical Depths: KS4 and KS5 Drama Students’ Outing to the Harold Pinter Theatre

Gathering 80 students from KS4 and KS5 Drama, a trip to the Harold Pinter Theatre in central London offered an evening filled with anticipation and intrigue. The focal point of the excursion was the performance of "Dr Semmelweis," featuring Mark Rylance, a renowned actor known for his compelling roles.

Navigating the hustle and bustle of central London, the students arrived at the Harold Pinter Theatre, a venue steeped in theatrical history. With a mix of curiosity and scepticism, they settled in for the performance, unsure of what awaited them.

"Dr Semmelweis," headlined by Rylance, unfurled its narrative, weaving a tale that demanded attention. The students observed, some finding resonance in the storyline while others remained detached. Rylance’s performance was a focal point, yet opinions varied on its impact, leaving some unimpressed.

 

The first interschool chess tournament was held on 10th November; the schools that participated were Bentley Wood High School, Hatch End High School and Pinner High School. It was also supported by the Harrow Chess Club. Pinner High School was awarded the best chess-playing team. The chess champion was Manmay Chopra from PHS; Arthur Cann from HEHS won 2nd place and Brian Ng won 3rd place.

Cyber First: Year 8 Girls Pioneering in Cybersecurity

Our Year 8 girls are boldly stepping into cybersecurity through Cyber First, igniting a transformative journey of learning and empowerment. Beyond a mere competition, it's a gateway to hands-on exploration, unravelling digital puzzles, and cultivating essential skills beyond the classroom.

These girls aren't just decoding codes; they're honing problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience – tools vital for future challenges. Cyber First isn't just about winning; it's a confidence boost, instilling the courage to chase dreams fearlessly.

Moreover, their participation isn't just ground-breaking; it's a beacon of inclusivity, shattering stereotypes in the cybersecurity sphere. These girls aren't just contestants; they're potential leaders, shaping a diverse, innovative future for digital security.

Empowering Year 7 Students During Anti-Bullying Week: Freezing Frames from "The Terrible Fate of Humpty Dumpty".

During Anti-Bullying Week, Year 7 students explored "The Terrible Fate of Humpty Dumpty" by David Calcutt. They created freeze frames based on Scene 1, focusing on peer pressure, bullying, and family dynamics. These frozen moments highlighted the importance of seeking help from adults when bullied and showing kindness.

The freeze frames depicted moments of peer pressure, with students torn between fitting in and staying true to themselves. Some showed the isolation felt by victims of bullying, emphasising the harsh realities faced by many. Others portrayed seeking guidance from trusted adults, highlighting the need for help in difficult situations.

Amidst these scenes, acts of kindness emerged as impactful moments. Students showcased compassion and empathy, underlining how simple acts of kindness can counteract bullying and create a supportive environment.

This creative exercise allowed students to explore the play's themes while internalising its crucial messages. The freeze frames served as a reminder of empathy, speaking out against bullying, and seeking support during tough times. As Anti-Bullying Week concluded, these freeze frames reflected the students' commitment to fostering kindness within their school community.

Investigating Anatomy: 6th Form Medic's Society's Rat Dissection

In a recent lesson, the 6th Form Medic's Society explored rat dissection to learn more about anatomy. This hands-on experience helped students improve their dissection skills and understand how to identify organs in-depth. With expert guidance, they carefully dissected rats, uncovering the inner workings of these creatures' bodies. 

The session wasn't just about cutting; it was a chance for students to see how organs fit together and how the body functions. As they carefully examined each organ, they understood how things work inside living beings. This practical learning connected classroom lessons to real-life scenarios, making the study of anatomy more tangible.

This hands-on approach sparked curiosity and laid a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing a career in medicine. It highlighted the importance of practical learning in understanding the human body's complexities, leaving a lasting impression on future medical professionals.

Year 12 biologists attended Biology in Action at the Emmanuel Centre in Westminster, where they attended five lectures led by scientists in their field. The lectures were as follows: Consultant Ophthalmologist in Genetic Eye Disease from Moorfields Eye Hospital discussed her research and how it intertwines with the clinical care she provides her patients. We then listened to a PhD student whose work on ancient skeletons identified the earliest evidence of plague in Britain (4000 years ago). She discussed how diseases like leprosy and the plague leave visual evidence on bones, only to be uncovered by archaeologists thousands of years later. A bee specialist from the University of Sussex then discussed the many causes of insect decline and possible solutions to this crisis. Dr Helen Pilcher, a science and comedy writer, discussed the dilemmas posed by modern-day conservation. Finally, we learnt from a consultant at Queen Mary University London how understanding blood clotting has driven the improvement in treating trauma and explained how current research aims to save even more lives.

Year 10 took their baking skills to new heights with a surprise spontaneous challenge – a Bake-Off featuring their delightful Raspberry Cream Slice cakes. The unexpected twist of presenting their creations to a surprise panel of teacher judges added an extra layer of excitement to the bake.

The teachers, taken aback by the unexpected task, stepped up to the plate, wielding their judging spoons with the utmost seriousness. Each cake was meticulously assessed, dissected, and savoured, as the teachers earnestly fulfilled their newfound roles as judges.

After much deliberation, the winners emerged, their efforts celebrated with the coveted Golden Tickets. The competition showcased not just the students' baking prowess but also the dedication and enthusiasm of both the participants and the teachers-turned-judges, making it a flavourful and memorable event for all involved.

Throughout this term, Spanish students have been honing their creative writing skills, crafting vibrant postcards that transport readers to imaginary holidays in Year 8, detailing hobbies in Year 10, and mapping out their financial lives in Year 11. These exercises not only strengthen language proficiency but also foster imaginative expression and communication in Spanish.

In addition to these engaging writing tasks, language assemblies have taken centre stage, emphasising the importance of embracing continuous learning in foreign languages. Students were urged to recognise the lifelong value of language acquisition, highlighting how further study can significantly benefit their future careers.

These assemblies served as inspirational platforms, encouraging students to ponder the professional advantages that multilingualism can bring. They underscored the relevance of language proficiency in an increasingly globalised world, promoting the idea that proficiency in a foreign language isn't just a skill but an asset that opens doors to diverse career opportunities.

Guest Speaker Adisa

Pinner High School was buzzing with excitement as they welcomed the talented spoken word poet, Adisa Steven-Ezeocha. Adisa's presence left an indelible mark on Year 9 and 10 students as he masterfully weaved words and emotions through his poetry. His powerful performance not only showcased his literary prowess but also ignited a passion for storytelling and self-expression amongst the students. Adisa's visit was an inspiring and thought-provoking experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the written and spoken word amongst the students at Pinner High School.

Pinner High School marked National Poetry Day with a vibrant celebration by hosting a poetry slam event. The gathering showcased a diverse array of talented poets, each delivering their unique and stirring verses. The event resonated with the power of words and the beauty of creative expression, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for the art of poetry. It was a momentous occasion that brought together students and poetry enthusiasts alike to revel in the magic of spoken word.

Exploring Forensic Science: Medic's Society's Insightful Career Chat

The Medic's Society recently engaged in a captivating career chat with a forensic scientist from the MET police, delving into the intriguing realm of forensic science. The discussion illuminated the significance of DNA evidence and the application of luminol in crime scene investigations.

The session proved particularly relevant for A-level biology students, aligning with their curriculum on DNA amplification, genetic fingerprinting, and sequencing. Insights into how PCR amplifies small DNA samples recovered from crime scenes and the intricate process of genetic analysis offered a tangible connection between classroom learning and real-world forensic practices.

The discussion with the forensic scientist not only expanded the students' understanding of forensic techniques but also emphasized the practical applications of biological principles in solving criminal investigations.

Sixth Form

Kyle Patel's nomination for the St John Ambulance Award is a remarkable achievement. Such recognition typically highlights exceptional dedication, service, and commitment within the realm of first aid and healthcare. The nomination itself speaks volumes about Kyle's contributions, his skills, and his selflessness in aiding others. It's a true testament to his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in his community.

What a fascinating outing for the A-Level Sociology and Psychology Students to witness Agatha Christie's "Witness for the Prosecution." Such an immersive experience undoubtedly provided them with an opportunity to explore and analyse human behaviour, societal constructs, and the intricacies of the justice system firsthand. The play's narrative complexities likely served as a rich ground for discussions, offering insights into the complexities of human nature and the dynamics of legal proceedings. This engaging extracurricular activity likely complemented their studies, providing a practical lens through which to examine concepts from their coursework. It's wonderful to see education extend beyond the classroom, allowing students to engage with real-world applications of their academic pursuits.

Other Sixth Form News:

Several students underwent interviews at both Oxford and Cambridge, showcasing their academic potential and ambition. Additionally, a commendable number of students secured acceptance into the Oxford Inspire Programme, a testament to their dedication and scholarly achievements.

The Year 13 Parents Information Evening, delivered in collaboration with Elevate Education, likely provided valuable insights and guidance for both students and their parents regarding academic pathways and study strategies.

Furthermore, the initiative involving 51 Year 12 students being trained as mentors to support younger peers in the lower school reflects a commendable commitment to fostering a supportive academic environment. This mentorship program is bound to enrich both mentors and mentees, creating a positive and collaborative learning atmosphere within the school.

Oxbridge Club

Recently, the Pinner High School sixth form team, namely our Head of Sixth form, Mr Pandya, with the help of an external teacher and published author, has kindly set up an after-school club for pupils interested in applying to Oxbridge. Aside from providing general and personalised guidance in making a highly academic application for further education, the club has a significant focus on generating and nurturing curiosity within student's chosen subjects beyond school. With weekly research projects and presentations, students are taught wider skills to allow them to not only explore topics which realistically cannot be covered in a classroom environment, but also the necessary ability to be able to display and communicate these ideas and findings with others. The connection fostered between students within the club also provides collective support for the heavy stress which is often faced by students applying to Oxbridge or other very academically demanding universities, as well as an open environment where like-minded students can build upon ideas with one another. While the Pinner High school Oxbridge club is still new and developing, there is very little doubt that it will eventually grow to become a staple within the sixth form, encouraging more students who may be hesitant to foster their aspirations, to assess if Oxbridge could be the place for them.

The Year 13 Economics students visited the Bank of England for a talk on the history of the bank and how they use monetary policy to try to control inflation. They visited the museum and looked at the various exhibitions about money, gold and the history of transatlantic slavery through its connections with the Bank of England, which was fascinating. The students were able to ask questions about how the Bank of England is controlled and some of the measures they take to manage inflation in the UK.