Year 8 Christmas Dinner

13 Pages·2016·1.9 MB·English

January 2016 Januianfroyr 2m016
inform
A Ballyclare Secondary Publication First for School News & Views
Year 8 Christmas Dinner
On Tuesday 8th December 2015 the Year 8
Pupils enjoyed their Christmas dinner which
was hosted in the Assembly Hall. Principals
and school representatives from our local
primary schools were also invited to attend.
All pupils enjoyed the lunch and it was a
great opportunity for their former teachers
and principals to see how well they have
settled into life at Ballyclare Secondary
School.
First for School News & Views page one
inform January 2016 January 2016 inform
House Theatre Trip - Grand Opera House
Year 8 Quiz Points Running Total
McConnell 4 4 “Hath not a Jew eyes? Hath not a Jew hands, organs, dimensions, senses, affections, pas-
sions?” 
Ollar 1 1
Table
Collin 3 3 “The quality of mercy is not strained, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven . . .”
Lindsay 3 3
Famous lines from one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays, “The Merchant of Venice” which
was brought vividly to life at the Baby Grand at the Grand Opera House’s C21 production on
Quizzes Year 9 Quiz Points RunningTotal Wednesday 21st October 2015. That’s all it takes to make the Bard come alive again – a good
theatre trip!
McConnell 2 2
Ollar 3 3
The Baby Grand offered an intimate setting
Our 1st Whole School House Competition of
Collin 4 4 for a play written over four hundred years ago
the academic year was a table quiz for each
but which still resonates with us today with
year group. This took place in October 2015, Lindsay 1 1
themes ranging from prejudice, power, control
see below:
and the role of women in society. The staging
was minimalistic which laid bare more starkly
Year 10 Quiz Points Running Total
Monday 5th October Year 12 the rampant racism expressed towards Shylock
McConnell 4 4 merely for being a Jew, yet the mood was lifted
Tuesday 6th October Year 11 Ollar 1 1 cleverly at times by comedic effect from the
Princes of Arragon and Morocco.
Collin 2 2
Wednesday 7th October Year 10
Lindsay 3 3 The joint Year 12 and Year 13 English Literature
Thursday 8th October Year 9 trip was thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated by all, particularly with our front row seats and, of course, meeting Shylock himself afterwards!
Year 11 Quiz Points Running Total
Friday 9th October Year 8
Year 8 Residential Programme 2015
McConnell 2 2
Monday 12th October Years 13&14 Ollar 3 3
As part of the ‘Year 8 Residential Pro-
Collin 4 4 gramme’, all classes in Year 8 have had the
Friday 23rd October Staff
opportunity to stay at Woodhall Residential
Lindsay 1 1
Centre in Kilrea, County Londonderry.
Competitiveness, eagerness and team spirit
was displayed by all at our Year Group and
Woodhall is used by school groups for
Year 12 Quiz Points Running Total
Staff Table Quizzes in October. Rounds
educational purposes on a residential basis.
included a selection of questions on Science, McConnell 3 3
Formerly a large, private residence, Woodhall
Anagrams, Mathematics, The Bible, Geogra-
Ollar 4 4 is situated on the outskirts of Kilrea village,
phy, Faces, Television, History, Food, Music,
in its own grounds overlooking a small
Sport, Current Affairs, World of Business, Collin 3 3
sheltered lake. The centre has an attractive
Foreign Currency/ Language and Structures/ Lindsay 1 1 geographical position central to the Board’s
materials.
area and within convenient range of natural
amenities offered by the North Coast, River
It was fantastic to see everyone entering Year 13&14 Quiz Points Running Total Bann and Sperrin Mountains. Pupils had the
into the spirit of a House System. The pupils opportunity to take part in a wide range of
McConnell 3 3
certainly enjoyed the quiz and were provided activities such as canoeing, archery, high
with toast and pancakes to keep their brains Ollar 2 2 ropes and orienteering. The experience is a
Ballyclare Secondary School inauguration
fuelled! Collin 1 1 fantastic way for pupils to meet new friends
and complete team building activities with
of its new Senior Prefects for 2015-2016
Lindsay 4 4
Names of the Ballyclare Secondary School their classmates.
Houses:
KS3 KS4 Post 16 Staff Overall Points
C – Collin (green)
McConnell 10 5 3 0 18
O – Ollar (blue) Ollar 5 7 2 0 14
Collin 9 7 1 0 17
L – Lindsay (yellow)
Lindsay 7 2 4 0 13
M – McConnell (red)
Well done McConnell!
page two First for School News & Views First for School News & Views page three
inform January 2016 January 2016 inform
Duke of Edinburgh continues to flourish
Business Dinner
What a busy start to the year it has been for now able to offer the “world’s leading youth in a new area and to improve their overall
On Thursday 1st October 2015 Ballyclare Secondary School opened its doors to the world of business by hosting a very successful Busi-
the pupils and staff of Ballyclare Secondary. achievement award” to more of our year ten, fitness. It is heart-warming to see pupils be-
ness Dinner. It was a night to celebrate the achievements of 2014-2015 and to begin planning for 2015-2016. The school catered for and
With the introduction of the Silver Award and eleven and twelve students. ing involved in things like: cookery, language
entertained a grand total of 105 guests on the evening. Many new links and ventures were discussed on the evening with great plans for the
a boom in numbers for our Bronze award, it skills, netball, craft making, drawing, music,
future coming from this event.
is safe to say that The Duke of Edinburgh’s The beginning of November parents and woodwork, jujitsu, swimming, rugby, hockey,
Award is going from strength to strength at pupils were invited in for an information animal care, car maintenance, etc. The list of
our school. evening. With such high attendance it is activities that our pupils are partaking in is
clear that parents and carer value this seemingly endless.
Amazingly, we had close to 100 hundred programme as we do. The night involved
applications for Bronze followed by some a presentation by Mr Nicholl followed by As the year progresses our pupils will be at-
rigorous physical activities. With a surge an opportunity to ask questions, talk to a tending training on: map navigation, first aid,
in staff joining the school’s committee Cotswold representative about equipment cookery, packing equipment, countryside
there will now be 45 bronze students, 15 / clothing and chat to staff about what the code, route planning and tent construction.
silver students and 13 members of staff all year ahead looks like for our hikers. We What an incredible year it is going to be!
working to achieve outstanding levels of would like to take this as an opportunity to
success. With such a committed staff we are thank all pupils, parents and staff who took We look forward to reporting on our spring /
the time to come along to this evening. summer expeditions.
As of this month pupils have started to
train, seek out activities for their respective
areas and entrench themselves in the Duke
of Edinburgh life of our school. Pupils are
reaching out to the variety of extra-curricular
clubs and societies that we offer at school to
fulfil their role as a volunteer, develop skills
Think Pink for Breast Cancer Research 2015: Cancer Focus
Fire Safety for Year 8 Pupils
During the month of October, the PE Depart- to be incurable are now being treated suc- Well done to all staff and pupils for their
ment organised a variety of sponsored activ- cessfully as a result of scientific research. continued support for this charity. We have a
ities during PE classes. The girls (and some cheque for £1751 for Cancer Focus N.I.
of the boys!!) enjoyed the fun involved in the
activities as well as having the opportunity To date Ballyclare Secondary School has
to dress up in something pink!! Merchandise raised £21,527.92 for Breast Cancer an ab-
was also sold throughout the school to raise solutely fantastic amount raised. Well done!
money for this charity.
Breast Cancer research is essential. It helps
identify the causes of breast cancer and
discover improved methods of diagnosis and
treatment. Many cancers, previously thought
Sea Cadet National Combined Regatta Read On - Northern
Ireland Cancer
Year 10 pupil Lauren Mitchell has recently week, in Lough Neagh all the hard work has
represented Northern Ireland at the Sea paid off. Well done Lauren!
Cadet National Combined Regatta. The Fund for Children
event took place on September 5th at
the Excel Centre in London’s Victoria Dock.
Year 10 pupils participated in a very suc-
Lauren competed in the Junior Girls double
cessful Read On event raising a grand total
kayaking time trial marathon, along with her
of £1008.77 for The Northern Ireland Cancer
team mate Catie Peden. The girls faced stiff
Fund for Children.
competition with competitors coming from
6 other regions throughout the UK. After a
Ballyclare Secondary School has supported
steady start Lauren and Catie began to pow-
this very worthwhile charity for many years
er ahead winning by approximately 20 boat
now, which not only benefits a local charity,
lengths and taking gold for Northern Ireland!
and therefore local children with cancer
After a long summer of training, 3 days a
by raising vital funds, but also helps pupils
develop their reading skills by participating
in a sponsored reading event.
page four First for School News & Views First for School News & Views page five
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Year 8 Christmas Card Designs Modern Languages Department
Year 8 were given the opportunity to design and colour their very
Doriane the French Assistant
own Christmas card. 8M worked very hard on their creation during
class assembly. They are photographed with their fantastic designs.
Hello Ballyclare Secondary School,
The designs have since been sent away for scanning and printing.
8M were delighted to have received a professional copy of their
Christmas card and many have ordered copies for Christmas! A My name is Doriane and for those who don’t know me - because they made the terrible
fabulous experience was had by all. mistake of dropping French - I have the pleasure of being your French Language Assistant
this year. I come from Brussels in Belgium. Belgium is tiny and absurd but is a really friendly
kingdom next to France where we speak three official languages (French, Flemish and
German). Belgium happens to have a few similarities with Northern Ireland: the lovely rainy
weather and the chips!
I really enjoy working in Ballyclare Secondary School. The French Language Department is
great and I love teaching French. I am also delighted to live in Northern Ireland for a while
and I have already had the chance to visit really nice places such as the famous Giant’s
Causeway.
I am hoping to share my love of French with you throughout the year. My door is always
open: if you have any questions about French, just come and ask for my help.
Doriane
Year 13 & 14 Royal Ulster Academy Trip 2015
Claude’s Crêpes- Onatti Theatre Modern
European Day of Company Language
Art and Design AS and A2 Level pupils had
the opportunity to visit the Royal Ulster
Languages On Friday 16th October the pupils of Ball- Department
Academy at the Ulster Museum in Belfast
yclare Secondary School were treated to a
on 16th October. Pupils were able to see
fantastic play. Following the success of last
first-hand artwork produced by local artists To mark the European Day of Languages at visits Ballyclare
year’s performance, The Modern Languag-
to inspire and develop their own work. All Ballyclare Secondary the Modern Languages
es Department invited the Onatti Theatre
pupils thoroughly enjoyed the exhibition department invited a French crêpe-maker to Company back. Primary School
and came away with a variety of photos school.  Claude was dressed in stereotyp-
and ideas. They were also able to see Colin ical French attire and his favourite French
Davidson’s paintings of portraits of people music was playing from his stall.  Pupils As part of the European Day of Languages
affected by the ‘Troubles’. This exhibition had to order their crêpes in French and they Celebration Week (21st-25th September) the
was very moving and was a fantastic insight had been practising hard with ‘Je voudrais Modern Language Department from Bally-
into portrait painting. Pupils were able une crêpe s’il vous plaît’.  They all enjoyed clare Secondary finished their week’s events
to see the movement and freedom of his crepes with a wide variety of flavours on with a visit to Ballyclare Primary School to
painting technique as well as the exceptional offer, ranging from Claude’s own home- join in with their celebrations.
detail he had created in the eyes. made nut-free chocolate spread to lemon
and sugar. This event kicked off a week of
events throughout the school in celebration
of European Languages. Tuesday involved a
special European lunch menu in the canteen, This year, they performed their play “Les
while throughout the week pupils found Garçons”, which was a humorous play
class signs in French. Also on Tuesday there performed by native-speaking actors. Year
was a novice French-Belgian chef at cookery 9 and 10 pupils, along with pupils studying
club to help the pupils perfect ‘la cuisine de French GCSE and A level, watched their per-
Belgique’. formance and some even had to participate!
Pupils felt immensely proud, as they were Three GCSE French pupils along with the
able to understand all the play, while even French assistant visited the P4s who had
picking up some new French words. It was a been learning about France. The primary
wonderful opportunity for everyone to enjoy pupils showed off what they had learnt and
French outside the classroom. also displayed their fabulous outfits!  In
return, they got to learn ‘Head and Shoul-
ders, Knees and Toes’ in French and it was
fantastique!
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Paris Trip 2015 Interviews with Head-Boy and Head-Girl 2015-2016
On Tuesday 16th June 2015, a group of 42 all remembered it, we got munching. After a Eventually it was time to go home. We were for my A2 exams, this will ensure I can fulfill role of Head Girl. My interview highlighted
pupils and 5 staff from Ballyclare Secondary well-deserved tea we played games in the gutted and wanted to stay, but the fun had my full potential and get into university for my enthusiasm for the school as I have been
School set off to Paris in France. park and football at the centre and went to to end at some point. Well that’s what we the course I want to study. I also intend to committed to Ballyclare Secondary through
bed to prepare ourselves for the long day thought, however, as it was our last night enjoy my final year at Ballyclare Secondary sport, Scripture Union, Class Prefect, 100%
On the day we arrived in France, we trav- ahead. we had one more vocabulary refresh and School and make the most of my time here, attendance and my relationship with both
elled by coach to the Golf D’ozoir-la-Ferri- our last dinner with SNAILS!!! Then it was whilst also trying to improve the school life staff and pupils.
ere, to our hotel. When we got into the hotel time to PARTY THE NIGHT AWAY… well until of younger pupils and encourage them to
Miss Dundas introduced us to Malikic our bedtime. We had lots of fun, made some new succeed within the school. What are your roles and responsibilities?
French guide. He then gave us twenty min- dance moves and made the most of our last As Head Girl my daily role is to be an am-
utes to unpack. My room was pretty nice and night in France. Ryan and Zara had a dance Final Thoughts bassador of Ballyclare Secondary and set an
cosy and I shared with Dylan, Josh and Alan. off and after hard dancing and tricky dance I think our school has progressed so much example to my peers through my behaviour
moves it was finally decided it was a draw. in the last few years and I hope to help it and appearance. One of my daily respon-
The atmosphere in the dinner hall was really When the party was over it was straight to Head Boy- Curtis Brown keep improving, It will be an honour to have sibilities is to oversee prefect duties and
good and after dinner we played games bed for all of us. the role as head boy for this year. I have ensure prefects are happy with their jobs.
before heading to bed at 10pm. The next day What was the interview process like and thoroughly enjoyed my 7 years at Ballyclare Another one of my roles is to work along-
we got up at 6.30am and headed down for The following morning was our last day. how did you prepare? Secondary School and I will miss it when I side the Head Boy and deliver a speech at
breakfast at 7.30am. We then got a coach We dragged ourselves out of bed and got I received a letter a few weeks prior to the leave at the end of year. Presentation Evening, represent the school
to central Paris to visit the Notre Dame to tidying our rooms and got out in time for start of the school term and immediately got on Remembrance Sunday and later in the
Cathedral. It was so grand and beautiful and our bedroom check, where we sang ‘Joyeux to work on preparing my presentation. The year undertake the responsibility to organise
an amazing experience. We then took a boat Anniversaire’ to Jessica. Once we got the all interview process was quite nerve-racking, our annual school formal.
ride that was very interesting, but it was clear we went on the bus for some shopping as I had to present to five of the senior
very, very hot. in Paris. We bought lots of souvenirs and teachers within the school. However once I What plans do you have for the incoming
then to top it off we went to visit the le Sacré started my presentation I become more re- year?
The third day was spent in Disneyland Paris Coeur and bought souvenirs and crêpes in laxed and confident. I prepared for my inter- My plans for the incoming year are to contin-
and it was raining, although that didn’t stop We woke up to the sound of teachers the Montmartre area. Eventually we went on view by making a PowerPoint presentation, ue working hard for my A2 exams next sum-
us from going on the thrill seeking rides. knocking on our doors to get up and get the bus for one last time to take us to the the presentation included headings such as mer in order to get the grades for Queen’s
This was personally my favourite day of the dressed for breakfast, which resulted in the airport, were we waited exhausted, ready to ‘Personal skills and Experiences’, ‘Contribu- University to study Midwifery/Nursing. As
whole trip. French essential breakfast foods; we had board the plane and go home. tion to school life’ and ‘What I thought the Head Girl I plan to help Year 8 pupils settle in
delicious croissants or pains au chocolat and role of head boy meant’, I had also prepared Head Girl- Bethany Stewart to school life at Ballyclare Secondary, as this
bowls?! of chocolat chaud. There was also When we got home there were lots of hugs notes to read during my presentation to is a big transition in their lives. Also, I intend
The final day was spent visiting the le Sacré
Coeur and again it was an amazing experi- cereal, bread and fruit. Then we had to get for our parents and we all went our separate make the whole process easier for myself. I What was the interview process like and to continue my role as Class Prefect for the
ence and a very beautiful church. our bag and our lunch and head for the bus, ways to have a weekend’s rest before the thought my interview went very well and the how did you prepare? current Year 9 class who I visited twice a
which took us straight to Paris… Hooray! last full week of school. teachers seemed to agree. After receiving a letter inviting me for an week last year and built a great relationship
We saw some absolutely amazing sites, the Zara (Year 9) interview for the position of Head Girl for with. I hope that my time as Head Girl will
Overall, I completely loved the trip and the
Eiffel Tower, le musée d’Orsay, la cathédrale Why do you think that you were chosen? 2015/16, I was excited and thoroughly impact on someone and encourage them.
teachers were amazing. I definitely recom- Notre Dame, we went on a boat ride to eat Cookery Club I think I was chosen due to how I present- began to plan out my PowerPoint pres-
mend it!
our packed lunch. We were roasting because ed and promoted myself throughout the entation. I thought about my contribution Final Thoughts
Ryan (Year 10)
of the heat and our teachers and Malik (our and Hardbacks interview process. I tried to stay calm and to school life, my passion and dedication to I am honoured to be Head Girl for Ballyclare
leader) very kindly squeezed in an ice-cream relaxed throughout my presentation and Ballyclare Secondary and my own personal- Secondary School 2015/16 as it is a role
We met at Belfast city airport bright and ear- and drink stop. Then after a fun-filled day it I think this helped to impress the senior ity. I prepared a 5-7 minute long presenta- with many great opportunities and respon-
ly, all packed, full of excitement and ready was on the bus and back to freshened up go French! teachers. I have also been vastly involved in tion along with flash cards. I practiced my sibilities. I would love to inspire others in my
to go. Little did we know that we would be and refresh our minds on the vocabulary we school life over the past 6 years, attending presentation several times in front of my school, as I once aspired to be like a pre-
coming home wanting to go straight to bed learnt on the previous night. Then it was din- The culinary skills of Ballyclare Secondary’s many extra-curricular activities and volun- family and friends and I was mindful of my vious Head Girl. I have had a great 7 years
because of all the action-packed activities nertime, which was really good. We played budding cooks were challenged during Eu- teering for different events. My academic timing, content and clarity of speech. This at Ballyclare Secondary and I have gained
the hostel had in store. team-building games and brainteasers and ropean Languages week as a novice Belgian success at GCSE and AS-level has proved was delivered to Mrs. Bell and several other many skills, academic achievements, friends
the girls beat the boys each time! chef helped them make Belgian waffles. that I am a hard working individual and the senior members of staff. Whilst the overall and great memories. I intend to complete
We arrived in France around 5pm and we right candidate for the role. interview process was formal and daunting, I this role to the best of my ability and contin-
were already knackered after the flight The next day some of us didn’t even have Hardback members also enjoyed having Le was made to feel very welcome and I imme- ue to fulfill the motto of Ballyclare Second-
and the early start but we continued on the to get woken up as we were raring to go to navet géant (The Giant Turnip) read to them What are your roles and responsibilities? diately felt at ease when presenting. ary, which is ‘Building Success Stories’.
bus and after a long bus journey we were Disneyland, which I thought we had been in French by Doriane Djijakli, this year’s Some of my roles include, speaking at pres-
there. Once we got inside we were given waiting long enough for! We had our tasty French assistant who comes from Brussels. entation evening, attending remembrance Why do you think that you were chosen?
our keys, we were told the rules and then breakfast, got our bags and packed lunches Sunday with the school and organising the I believe I was chosen as Head Girl because
were allowed to go upstairs to unpack, and went on the short bus ride to Disn- school formal. I also believe I have a respon- of my passion and dedication to Ballyclare
change and freshen up. We were then let eyland. When we got there everyone was sibility in promoting the school and most Secondary. I believe I am a role model to my
out to play some fun team games and after screaming with excitement… we were actu- importantly I am required to be a role model peers and would describe myself as being
all that adrenaline it was back to the hostel ally in Disneyland…WhooHoo. We split up in to fellow students. an approachable and trustworthy person.
for food… but there were consequences; our groups and went on nearly every single
My overall presentation was well prepared
what is the point of going to France and not ride. We then met up for lunch and were let
What plans do you have for the incoming and I thought my composure when pre-
learning any French? So we learnt all our lose (with our teachers, obviously!) to go
year? senting demonstrated my mature nature,
cutlery vocabulary and eventually once we on some more rides, buy food or souvenirs.
For this year, I plan to work and study hard reliability and my appropriate skills for the
page eight First for School News & Views First for School News & Views page nine
inform January 2016 January 2016 inform
Scientific Sue visits Ballyclare Secondary
Celebrating Success Stories at Ballyclare Secondary
‘Scientific Sue’ aka Sue McGrath is the
On Thursday 22nd October 2015 Ballyclare
Director of Science2Life, an outreach edu-
Secondary School held its annual awards
cational provider and consultant dedicated
evening for the Presentation of Certificates
to the communication of STEM (science,
and Trophies. Principal, Mrs Bell welcomed
technology, engineering and mathematics)
parents, carers, staff, Governors, pupils and
in a passionate and engaging fashion. Her
guests to the evening.
aim is to “effect change, achieve results
and make science fun!” and on Friday 27th
Guests of honour at the event were Mr and
November she certainly did that on her visit
Mrs Euel Agnew. Mrs Agnew served as a
to Ballyclare Secondary School.
teacher in Ballyclare Secondary School for
over 30 years. During that time she held a
During her show ‘Scientific Sue’ introduced
number of positions of responsibility includ-
Year 10 classes to the science and technolo-
ing Head of Geography Department, Primary
gy behind the “How to train a dragon” books
School Liaison Officer and Teacher in Charge
and film series. Pupils and teachers were
of Year 8 Induction. Mrs Agnew ensured the
successful transition from Primary to Post successes throughout the year. Mrs Bell also learning and teaching environment it will thoroughly engaged and entertained as we
Primary School for literally thousands of highlighted the many popular extracurricular provide for young people and staff. were taken on a journey through the science
young people and it was lovely to welcome activities which take place throughout the of dragons – from how they fly and breathe
her back to school following her retirement year, In closing her annual report, Mrs. Bell fire to their disgusting digestion.
in August. welcomed the new members of the Board
Mrs. Bell commended the teaching staff for of Governors and thanked them for their
Mrs Bell’s theme for the evening was to their efforts over the past 12 months, and dedication, faithful attendance at meetings Attendance Rewards Assemblies
“celebrate” the many successes of the also paid tribute to the Board of Governors and contribution to the school and stated
young people in all aspects of school life and and the Education Authority for their support that Ballyclare Secondary School had, once
to commend the endeavours of the staff. and encouragement throughout the year. again, demonstrated that it is a very good
school and she paid tribute to students and
During her annual report, she outlined the The Principal went on to comment on the staff alike for their contribution in making it
excellent standards achieved by pupils at three major areas of the school - Pastoral a year of outstanding success and progress.
GCE A level, GCSE level and in the Cam- Care and Pupil Welfare, Educational Provi-
bridge Technical Business Course pointing sion and School Organisation and Improve-
out how more pupils than ever before are ment. She highlighted the work and support
staying on to sixth form to continue with of her Senior Leadership Team.
their studies. Mrs Bell commented on the
broad and varied curriculum offered to pupils Turning to the issues affecting secondary
and how this provided different pathways for education Mrs. Bell commented on the
pupils of all abilities to follow and to achieve current proposals for Area Based Planning
their own personal levels of success and and that Ballyclare Secondary School was
that all were worthy of celebration. She also currently benefiting from inclusion in the
highlighted the exam success of students School Enhancement Programme. Mrs. Bell
who took courses run in conjunction with detailed the major new extension to the
Ballyclare High School as part of the now school providing a new state of the art Home
well established Ballyclare Learning Com- Economics Suite, Drama and Performing Art
munity. facilities, new entrance hall and a signifi-
cant number of new classrooms. Mrs. Bell
Praising the pupils for their hard work and acknowledged this major investment in the
dedication in all aspects of school life the school by the Department of Education at a Student Forum visit new school buildings
Principal reflected on the work of the Music time when there are such tight constraints
Department, Home Economics Depart- on the public purse and that she was very On Tuesday October 20th representatives
ment, Charity Work and the many sporting much looking forward to the enhanced from the Student Forum had the opportu-
nity to get a tour around the new buildings,
which are currently under construction.
Accompanied by Mrs. Bell and the site man-
ager the pupils got to see where the new
learning areas would be and also got an in-
sight into how certain parts of the buildings
have been constructed. We are all looking
forward to seeing the final outcome!
page ten First for School News & Views First for School News & Views page eleven
inform January 2016 January 2016 inform
Careers at Ballyclare Secondary Profile of an A Level student’s Career choice: Nicole
Reid
Nicole has been really interested in working within the medical
Year 12 Interview Skills- Monday 23rd November &
profession for a long time. Her work experiences have reflected
this , work shadowing the nursing department at Antrim Area
Tuesday 24th November 2015 Hospital and more recently shadowing a consultant in the surgery
wards at the Ulster Hospital.
The Careers department in conjunction with
Her part time job in a nursing home has highlighted her caring
BH Communications had two interview skills
nature which will be well suited to her chosen career path. In
Training days.
addition to this her thirst for more knowledge in the field of med-
icine, was further enhanced through her participation at Oxbridge
On the day each pupil had the opportunity to
Summer school for Molecular Medicine for two weeks. The feed-
receive help in writing a CV, assessing their
back from this, was excellent and very motivating for Nicole.
own application forms and also experience
a ‘mock’ job interview. This experience is as
In her performance in tutorials her tutor described her as a
close to the ‘real’ interview situation, with
‘promising student’ with a good theoretical background and clear
the help of advisors and interviewers from
interest in this field. She had two set works to perform, one dealt
the World of Work.
with critically reading and summarising a scientific review, com-
paring molecular strategies used by plant and animal stem cells, whilst the other was more creative. She also had to formulate a hypothesis
The guidelines given by Barbara Hume were
based on described data and propose experiments to test it. Her tutor stated “Nicole’s set works were among the best in the class.
invaluable, Prepare, Practice and Present,
and there were many activities to highlight
She is a talented writer, communicating her ideas in a clear and logical way. She searched for additional information in the literature and
these important points.
skillfully incorporated it into her essays”. This clearly shows Nicole’s passion for medicine and her very positive work ethic. Nicole also spent
one week at Queens University Belfast, studying chemistry and chemical engineering. Her attendance at Medic Mentor highlighted the range
of roles within the medical profession, and she gave a presentation on why she wanted to study medicine at university in front of a packed
arena. For her excellent work placements she was presented with the Work Experience cup for outstanding placements in LVI. Nicole hopes
to study medicine at university and we wish her all the best in pursuing this as her career.
University Open Days
Year 12 Study Skills University Open Days are a great way to see what a university is really like. The wide range of courses and faculty criteria is outlined through
talks, as well as by exhibitors The students get a feel for the place by visiting the campus speaking to tutors, current students, and take a
look at facilities. They Visit Queens University Belfast, Ulster University and Stranmillis University college. Many do go to other university open
On Tuesday 20th October all Year 12 pupils had the opportunity to participate in the Study
days on the mainland too.
Skills programme. Led by Mrs Beattie and Mr Adams each class in Year 12 takes two periods
to complete a range of study skills activities including the completion of an individual study
skills booklet. This is an extremely useful exercise in the preparation for the Year 12 mock
exam week.
Why do we need Study skills?
These are the skills we need to enable us to study and learn efficiently. Study skills are trans-
ferable because you will take them with you beyond education, for example organisational
skills, time management, prioritising, learning how to analyse, problem solving and self- dis-
cipline that is required to remain motivated. Study Skills relate closely to the type of skills
that employers look for.
How can we be successful with our study skills?
Discover your learning style, if you understand your
own learning style you can improve techniques that will
improve your learning skills.
VAK questionnaire is carried out on the 1st of Septem-
ber for years 8 – 14 to assess the best way that a pupil
can learn.
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inform January 2016 January 2016 inform
UCAS Information Evening-Thursday 8th October Year 12 Work Experience 28th September- 2nd
2015 October 2015
On Thursday, October 18th Ballyclare Secondary School invited Year 14 pupils to attend a UCAS Information evening. The aim of this event is Work Experience has an important contribution to make to the education of all our pupils in order for them to make an effective transition
to inform the pupils, parents/carers of the UCAS process and the requirements for University Life. from school to adult working life. Year 12 participated in this programme from 28th September to 2nd of October 2015. Work Experience has
many benefits not only for the pupils but also the school and local industries and businesses.
Objectives:
Advantages of Work Experience for Pupils
• To ensure pupils are aware of the different university and college options.
• To develop a structured approach to the decision making process for the success of UCAS applications. • improves pupil’s self-knowledge
• Ensure pupils, parents/carers are made aware of the importance of researching the Internet to get additional information, advice and • increases pupil’s employability skills
guidance on Higher education provision. • increases pupil’s motivation to learn
• gives relevance to the work pupil does in school
Important points covered: • encourages pupil to consider the wide range of jobs available
• gives pupil an insight into the workings of business and industry
• highlights the skills, qualifications and experience needed by employers
• What is UCAS? (Pupil Fact sheets and Parent information booklet)
• Things to Do?
• Personal Statement Advantages for School
• Other things to think about? (Tests, auditions etc.)
• Making choices- Choices explained for the UK and Eire • brings the curriculum to life
• The Process- Helpful step by step guide for applying to university • develops closer links with business and industry
• Key dates stressed and the importance of hard work • allows staff to gain an insight into the world of business and industry
• Types of Offers • provides opportunities for teachers to develop new skills
• Student Finance (Booklet: Student Finance N.I.)
• UCAS Parent Guide- Relevant information for applying for UCAS Advantages for Employers
• Relevance of attending Results Day in August.
Highlights the essential employability skills needed for future employment, employers gain an insight into developments in education and can
relate education to the work environment.
Ballyclare Secondary School is
Working Towards
Investor in Careers is a quality standard for the management of careers education, infor-
mation, advice and guidance (CEIAG) and is now the most widely used quality award of its
kind recognised nationally across the country. The Investor in Careers (IiC) standard is about
improving student’s awareness of opportunities, raising their aspirations and working with
them to ensure they achieve their full potential.
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inform January 2016 January 2016 inform
Formula 24 Fundraiser- Bambou Restaurant
the other cars was way beyond what Forget Fossil had expected. sion when we gave the whole team the opportunity to have a drive
Nevertheless the first practise session was beginning at 9:30am and round the track in the kitcar. For some of the team this was their first
On Thursday 17th September a group of staff and pupils from the pupils were raring to go. time behind the wheel.
Ballyclare Secondary School ran a fundraising night in the Bambou
restaurant, Templepatrick. The purpose of this event was to raise
The first practise session brought back some bad memories of our Sunday International Race:
money for the upcoming trip to Rockingham Speedway in England.
initial tests of the car. The back axle moved slightly and therefore
The students, under the team name Forget Fossil, designed and built
the chain had come off the sprockets. In the build-up to the final the There were 78 competitors in the F24 International Final on the
an electric Kit-car, which competed in the Green-power regional
team had drilled holes for locating the axle grub screws to stop this Sunday. It really was a magnificent sight. The paddock area was a
final at Nutts Corners Race Track in May. The aim of the competition
problem but they quickly realised, at Rockingham, it was the grub hive of activity as teams from across the whole of the Uk got ready
was to get the Kit-car to travel as far as possible in ninety minutes.
screw vibrating loose that was the problem. So the team pitted and for the race. The team were much better prepared for this race,
The team performed extremely well and came away from Nutts
brought the car back into the paddock were they removed the grub having charged up the batteries from the night before, pumped the
Corner with three individual awards including the fastest lap and
screws from the back axle and put them back on with Thread Lock wheels to their max PSI and worked out a quicker Pitt stop routine.
third place. Raising over £1000, the pupils went to the Rockingham
in an attempt to keep them in place. Just in case they didn’t stay in Thankfully our kitcar managed an extra lap around the track. We
Finals in October. The school would like to thank all the staff, pupils,
place the team decided they would Pitt every four laps. This was go- finished 72nd.
parents and sponsors who attended the evening and also to all those
ing to reduce the number of laps we would be able to complete but
who generously supplied raffle prizes.
it meant not having to waste time putting the chain back on which
WHAT AN EXPERIENCE
would be more time consuming.
Although Forget Fossil didn’t finish high up in the field, none of the
group will forget the experience of going and competing at Rocking-
ham. The sight of all 78 teams lining up on the race track, the shapes
and sizes of the other cars, the camaraderie they had with their own
teammates and other teams will stay with them for a very long time.
Getting to see the quality and standard of the other schools and
what is capable when time, effort and expertise are all utilised to
the maximum. Can Forget Fossil Mk2 improve on Forget Fossil Mk1?
Of course, now that they have witnessed the standard at the very
highest level it will be much easier to know the next step: a lighter
chassis, thinner and smaller wheels, a belt drive to replace the ex-
isting chain one, a motor speed control unit, a throttle rather than a
FORMULA 24 Forget Fossil - Rockingham switch. The possibilities for Forget Fossil MK2 are endless and we at
Ballyclare Secondary School are looking forward to the next year and
the challenge that it will bring for the next group of students.
International Final 2015
Race One:
On Friday 9th Oct eight pupils from Forget Fossil, Ballyclare Second-
ary School’s Formula 24 team, set off to compete in the Greenpower As the cars lined up for the start the difference between the regional
International Final. and now was very clear, with 12 cars competing in NI and 38 racing
in Rockingham. The Forget Fossil team were apprehensive and ex-
cited for the first race. Crawford Ewing drove the car during the first
Forget Fossil are the first ever Ballyclare Secondary School Kitcar
few laps and Kyle Barr took over after four. The Pitt crew checked all
team and after an excellent performance at the regional final in
grub screws were tight and the chain was still in line during each Pitt
May were very excited to have qualified for the International Final at
stop as well as assiting in the driver changeover, it’s not easy to get
Rockingham Speedway in Northamptonshire, England.
in and out of a small kitcar. At the regional the car averaged 21kph
but here it was only reaching 15.6kph. The drivers put this down
On arrival at Rockingham Speedway on Saturday morning at 7:45am
to the slight but very long incline on the last half of the track which
there was already a real buzz and atmosphere around the circuit,
was 1.47 miles long. In the end the car drove for 73 minutes and
even though it was very early in the morning! Forget Fossil immedi-
managed a distance of 19.1km. This put us in 34th place. Although
ately went to garage 11 to get their Kitcar. The kitcar had been kindly
we weren’t near achieving a podium position the pupils all enjoyed
crated up by WS Denison the previous week and taken to Rocking-
the racing experience.
ham by Woodside Haulage. Without their help the team would have
had no kitcar to race. After reassembling parts of the car the team
The afternoon was the F24+ race. The cars in this race were very
went to register and find their paddock/pitt area for the two day
At 8:30am the car had to go through its MOT, just like a normal car impressive hitting speeds of up to 40kph, using the same motor and
competition. Forget Fossil were in paddock 29. They were to share
would. The scrutiniser was very thorough, checking that Forget Fossil batteries as we had. It definitely inspired Forget Fossil and showed
the paddock with two other teams from the USA, one from Huntsville
had manufactured everything on the car to the correct tolerances them what was possible with the right engineering. Getting to see
Alabama and one from Boston Massachusetts. The moment they en-
and within the regulations of the competition. After a nervous ten the engineering Graduates from Land Rover Jaguar and Cummings
tered the paddock they realised this was a huge step up in standard
minutes the car was given a pink sticker to signify its passing of the compete was fantastic. Some of the F24+ teams had live transpond-
from the regional final! Beside them in paddock 28 was two teams
test. The team then had an opportunity to have a look at some of the ers to feed information back to the Pitt crews to analyse their cars
from Poland, and to our other side was a team from Berkamstead
other cars they would be competing against over the two days. We performance. Our pupils were so impressed by the technology these
School, Hertfordshire. When the Huntsville Alabama team tell you
were one of the very few first time teams at the event and it was teams had in their cars.
that NASA help develop their car you know you might be slightly out
obvious the majority had been there before. The standard of shell
of your league.
and chassis design was phenomenal. The scope of electronics within Before the team left for the evening there was another practise ses-
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Productive term for Horticulture Pupils
Belvoir Park - Scripture Union
Occupational Studies Environment & Society Bowden, David McConkey and Jenny Hunter. planted 850 purple crocus bulbs in the front
Science Field SU is open to all pupils in Years 8-14. We Another feature this year was a special Studies, Horticulture, have had a busy first bed, the significance of the purple crocus is,
begin our meetings by having lunch and movie entitled ’I’m a teacher get me out of term. Year 11 developed their floristry Early November, saw the creation of a Poppy every child vaccinated, gets a purple spot of
chatting to our friends. The rest of our meet- here’. Pupils got the chance to see another skills early, creating arrangements for display by Jack Bowden to support Armistice dye permanently on their finger.
Trip
ing usually consists of a talk from a visiting side to their teachers! These events created the MacMillan coffee morning. This was Day. Year 11 completed a visit to retail out-
speaker who teaches us how the Bible is a lot of fun and laughter but also encouraged followed up with a few weeks of preparing lets on 19th November and gained valuable Year 12, are rolling out an Eco project from
The Double Award Science classes took part relevant in our everyday lives. pupils to ask questions such as ‘How can for the school’s annual Business Dinner and ideas and products for their up and coming last year and are now selling paper fire
in their GCSE Field from Wednesday 7th to you believe in a God you cannot see? Or Why more creations were designed. Both year plant stall in December. The highlight of the bundles for burning in your open fire over
Friday 9th October. The day started at the The programme for each term is organised does God allow so much suffering? 11 and year 12 played an integral role this visit, was purchasing our three new resident the winter months, very cheap heat energy!
Field Studies Council NI office at Titanic by the SU teachers and a very enthusiastic year, in our annual Presentation Evening. BSS fish. The fish will hopefully move to This is a pilot scheme, to recycle our schools
Quarter, where pupils learnt the theory of SU committee. A team from Crown Jesus If you haven’t been along to SU call in to the Year 11 designed the planters, propagated their new Eco friendly home in the internal excess paper waste. If you would like to
what they would be investigating in the Ministries visited us at the beginning of lecture theatre on Thursday at lunchtime. from cuttings, which decorated the front of garden, at Mr Beggs corridor in the spring of purchase any paper bundles please speak to
field.  Pupils then travelled to Belvoir Park the term and challenged us to look at what You will be very welcome. the stage. Year 12 took a big step, to design 2016, so watch out for them! Mr Hill. The proceeds of our events through-
Forest in Belfast, where they used belt tran- being a Christian is all about. Ricky Mehaffy the flowers for the stage, entrance hall, table out the academic year will go towards new
sects to investigate the effect of changing from Ballyclare Youth for Christ also spoke to Upcoming Events arrangements and gift for our guest speaker OS horticulture is supporting the Rotary fleeces for Year 11, continuous resources
environmental conditions, such as light us in October and was invited back to take Mrs Agnew. This was a daunting experi- Purple Crocus Project, to raise funds to for projects and this year’s charity, Rotary
intensity and temperature on the distribution our ‘Shine’ events. ence, carried out to a professional standard, help eradicate the disease Polio in chil- Crocus Project. We thank you for your con-
of plant species.   SU Weekend big thanks to lead floral designers, Jack dren throughout the world. Year 11 have tinued support in our projects.
SHINE Events
Our SU weekend is planned for Friday
15th until Sunday 17th April 2016 in Cultra
Residential Centre. This will be a time when
pupils can get to know each other and learn
how they can grow deeper in their faith.
Booking Forms can be obtained from Mr
Beckington after Christmas.
SU Hoodies
SU hoodies will also be available to order
after Christmas.
Ricky and Scott presented ‘Wednesday
GCSE Home Economics Food Prep
lunchtime takeaway’ where we had a new
Ant and Dec encouraging pupils to take part
in ‘rare’ challenges e.g eating a blended The main focus for Year 12 Home Economics of healthy meals for us to sample. These students refine
Jonny Whites Chip, red sauce and coke or since the start of September has been the included Oriental lamb stir-fry, Italian Beef
acting out movie titles. completion of the GCSE practical exam. A stew and Curried lamb in a Pitta pocket. The
their culinary
wide range of exciting dishes were made to classes really enjoyed sampling new dishes
showcase how we can eat lots of fruit and and getting new recipes to try at home or in
vegetables in our diet. This included tasty class. skills
The weather was fantastic and we were able
soups, delicious stir fries, pizza, chicken
to have a picnic lunch in the forest. After
curry, cheesecake, fruit tartlets and home- Two Year 11 GCSE Home Economics classes This term the Year 11 Food Preparation
lunch we used pooters and nets to capture
made breads. visited ASDA to help complete their research classes have been very busy. Pupils kicked
invertebrate organisms.  The Field Trip was
section in the controlled assessment task. off the year looking at starters, the pupils
really useful in helping pupils understand the
Christine Craig, Community Life Champi- had to quickly grasp the principles of res-
theory they had been learning in class.
on showed us around the ASDA store in taurant style presentation and being able to
Ballyclare and pointed out all the effective cook two things at once! Their chef jackets
marketing techniques that ASDA use during arrived and we have to say they really look
the weeks leading up to Christmas. Pupils the part. In October the classes started work
were very impressed with the layout of the placement in the Templeton Hotel. The pupils
store and the relevant examples of price were transported to the hotel for 4 hours
The standard of presentation was very high promotions that they can now use in their of work with Ivan O’Neill and his brigade
and the pupils are to be congratulated on controlled assessment task. of staff. Ivan conducted master classes
their hard work. in scrambling eggs, scone making, pasta
making and haute cuisine presentation. The
In Year 11 two GCSE classes and an Occu- pupils have been lucky enough to sample a
pational Studies class had a visit from Liz wide variety of dishes from the menu includ-
Brown, a Home Economist from the Live- ing duck, lamb, fish and risotto.
stock and Meat Commission. She explained
to us the importance of buying farm quality
assured beef and demonstrated a variety
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