Highfields Celebrates UK Maths Challenge Success

Highfields School proudly hosted an event to present certificates to the 80 Year 7 and Year 8 students who achieved Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards in the UK Maths Challenge, which took place in April. Out of 150 students who participated, we were thrilled to see so many of them excel and earn these prestigious awards.

The UK Maths Challenge is a nationwide competition that inspires a love of problem-solving through unique and challenging mathematical questions. We are delighted at the achievements of our students, with 11 being awarded Gold, 27 Silver and 42 Bronze.

Freddie Hambrook in Year 8 achieved the best score from our school, while Orlaith Doyle achieved the highest result for Year 7. These outstanding performances highlight the dedication and mathematical prowess of our students.

This event not only celebrates their success but also encourages a continued passion for maths and problem-solving. Congratulations to all our award winners!

Thank you to all students who participated and to the teachers who supported and inspired them. We look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence in maths at Highfields.

Highfields Students Shine in Spring Term School Games Competitions

This Spring term, Highfields students have showcased their talent and dedication in a series of inter-school sports competitions as part of the School Games. Competing against several local schools, our athletes have demonstrated exceptional skills, sportsmanship, and determination across various events.

Our students' commitment to developing their skills in PE lessons and extra-curricular clubs has paid off, resulting in numerous standout achievements:

• Year 7 Boys Football Team: Finished joint top of their league, narrowly missing the league title by goal difference.

• Year 7 Girls Futsal Team: Secured 1st place in the city tournament.

• Year 8/9 Girls Futsal Team: Achieved 1st place in the city tournament.

• Year 7/8 Girls Football Team: Finished 1st in the city tournament.

• Year 9 Netball Team: Took 1st place in the city tournament.

Here’s a full roundup of students’ outstanding performances and achievements during the Spring term:

A big well done to our students for their hard work, perseverance, and enthusiasm. You have all exemplified the true spirit of sportsmanship, and we are excited to see you achieve even greater heights.

We look forward to sharing more updates on our achievements in the Summer term as our students compete in inter-school games competitions, including rounders, cricket, and athletics!

Keep up the fantastic work, Highfields athletes!

Rising 'Pot'stars - Year 8 master ceramics

This year saw the introduction of a brand new course to Highfields, GCSE Art, Craft and Design. Replacing GSCE Fine Art, this course seeks to broaden the creative horizons for the students allowing them to express through different mediums. To prepare future GCSE students for this exciting new course, ceramics has been added to the Key Stage 3 curriculum giving them access to exceptional pottery facilities, complete with a wide array of glazes, state-of-the-art equipment, and a large electric kiln.

Recently, Year 8 students have had the chance to immerse themselves in the world of ceramics, creating impressive final pieces over the last two terms. During the spring term, five Year 8 classes embarked on a project, themed around "fungi." Students delved into the intriguing realm of mushrooms and toadstools, crafting ceramic spoons inspired by the Turkish studio potter Victoria Baba. They also created 2D artworks influenced by Turkey Tail fungus and the artist Raymond Saa, exploring both the artistic and natural beauty of fungi.

In the summer term, four Year 8 classes focused on creating ceramic "Evil Eye" hanging amulets. After researching the symbol's significance in various cultures and producing detailed pencil drawings of eyes, students designed their own unique "Evil Eye" pieces. They also studied contemporary craftspeople inspired by the symbol, including ceramicists and textile artists who are successfully selling their work globally.

Throughout these projects, students employed a range of pottery techniques, such as slabbing, modeling, coiling, and sgraffito. Their creations underwent a biscuit firing followed by an earthenware glaze firing, resulting in vibrant and colorful finishes.

The dedication and creativity displayed by the Year 8 students has been remarkable. Their efforts not only highlight their artistic skills but also their ability to connect with diverse cultural themes through the medium of pottery. Highfields School is proud to support and nurture the talents of these young artists.

A Royal Welcome for Gold DofE Award Achievers

Over the weekend a number of Highfields leavers celebrated achieving their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award in Buckingham Palace Garden, hosted by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh as Patron of the DofE charity.

The ex-students joined thousands of young people and their loved ones from across the UK for a festival-style celebration which was one of four taking place over two days at the Palace, recognising over 8,000 young people who have shown extraordinary perseverance, creativity and resilience to complete their Gold DofE in schools, community organisations, youth groups and workplaces, all over the UK.

Buckingham Palace Garden had been transformed into a festival-style celebration for young people, with giant deckchairs, bunting and garden games and activities. Attendees had the chance to hear from famous DofE Award holders and other inspiring speakers, such as broadcasters Vick Hope and Clive Myrie – both DofE Award holders themselves – astronaut Tim Peake and TV chef Matt Tebbutt. Attendees also had the chance to pick up career advice from actors, presenters, authors and campaigners, at stages throughout the garden.   

Ruth Marvel, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said: "The young people here today have achieved something exceptional, and it is wonderful to see them celebrating together, sharing their experiences and hearing their aspirations for the future. DofE is all about proving to yourself just what you are capable of, and the young people here today have showed the world that their potential is limitless. I can’t wait to see what they go on to do next.”

We here at Highfields would like to congratulate the students on such a fantastic achievement and we cannot wait to see all that these remarkable young people will go on to achieve.

YOU'RE HIRED! Year 12 practice interview skills with Microsoft

In an initiative aimed at equipping students with essential employability skills, over 50 Year 12 students at Highfields recently participated in mock interviews conducted by 10 esteemed professionals from Microsoft.

The day-long event, a cornerstone of the school's annual calendar, provided students with a unique opportunity to experience the intricacies of real job interviews. Prior to the interviews, students underwent a formal application process, mirroring the steps involved in a genuine job application. Only those who successfully secured an interview invitation had the chance to participate, adding an element of authenticity to the experience.

Throughout the day, students showcased their talents, aspirations, and potential to the Microsoft professionals, who offered valuable feedback and guidance tailored to each individual. From refining their communication skills and learning to articulate their strengths and ambitions, students benefited from the opportunity to engage with industry experts.

The mock interviews served as a stepping stone for students as they navigate their career journeys. By simulating real-world interview scenarios, the event instilled confidence and also provided invaluable insights into the expectations of prospective employers.

Highfields would like to thank Microsoft for their partnership and commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent. The school looks forward to continuing this tradition of excellence, empowering students to realise their full potential and pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.

Building for Success: Year 10 Visit Lovell Homes Construction Site

Last week, Year 10 Construction students from Highfields embarked on an insightful journey to a housing estate under construction by Lovell Homes in Oldbury, Birmingham. The purpose of the trip was to acquaint students with potential construction job roles and provide inspiration for their upcoming coursework.

Upon arrival, students were treated to an induction video, a prerequisite for all new contractors. Chris and Colin from Lovell Homes then took the reins, guiding students through the initial steps on the career ladder. They discussed college and apprenticeship options, highlighted potential careers, shared common pay scales, and outlined the essential skills required for success in the industry. They addressed all student queries, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities available.

Following the informative talk, Chris and Jackson led the students on a tour of the construction site, offering glimpses into homes at various stages of completion. From groundwork and foundations to internal structural fittings and the impressive show home, students were immersed in the intricacies of construction. Their keen interest was palpable as they learned of each stage and witnessed the craftsmanship firsthand.

Highfields would like to thank Chris, Colin, Jackson, and Lovell Homes for generously hosting the visit and providing invaluable insights into the construction industry. Special thanks are also due to Penny from the Department for Work and Pensions for her assistance in organising the trip, which has empowered our students to envision and pursue their potential future job roles.

Remarkable Reading - Years 7 and 8 Rewarded with Theatre Trip

On Wednesday 17th April, 29 high achievers on Accelerated Reader from years 7 and 8 were rewarded with a trip to the Grand Theatre to watch a performance of The Boy at the Back of the Class. Based on the bestselling book by Onjali Q Raúf, it tells the story of a 9-year-old girl and her best friends who suddenly find the empty chair at the back of their classroom filled by a strange new boy who never talks, never smiles and doesn’t like sweets- not even lemon sherbets! After learning that their new friend, Ahmet, has fled a war-torn country, they start work on “The Greatest Idea in the World”- to reunite Ahmet with his family.

As described by the Grand Theatre website, “Told from a child’s perspective, balancing heart and humour, THE BOY AT THE BACK OF THE CLASS highlights the power of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn’t always make sense and reminds us that everyone needs a place to call home.”

This show was a clear choice as a reward trip as it is important for students to see and understand the views of others and to empathise with those who may have been affected by war and/or displacement. The themes of the show help to educate and encourage peace and acceptance of everyone in society, and remind us of the importance of friendship and- as our protagonists mother points out- how kindness is stronger than anything.

I really enjoyed the show, the performances were amazing and it made me really think about how war can effect people's lives.  - Scarlett Year 7

The actors were really realistic and this scenario could happen anywhere. The show made me think about what things people could be going through that we don't know about. The performances were really emotional and the actors were really convincing.  - Alana Year 7 

Our students once again were a credit to the school, with staff at the theatre calling them a really good group and complimenting their behaviour, particularly during the theatre’s school dismissal procedures.

The Accelerated Reader programme continues to produce high achievers, with many students in lower school now having earned their bronze certificates and more and more reaching silver, undoubtedly leading to many more reward trips for the department!

Ooh La La! Year 8 Experience the Francophile Roadshow

Year 8 French students from Highfields recently explored French culture at the Francophile Roadshow, organised as part of the school's affiliation with Tudor Grange Academy. This vibrant event, held in honor of Francophile Day 2024, offered students a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of French heritage and language.

The day was filled with engaging activities designed to celebrate French culture and enhance language skills. Students enjoyed Olympic games bingo, based on the upcoming Parisienne games, a virtual tour of Notre Dame using VR headsets, and even got creative by crafting their own clay gargoyles inspired by French architecture.

Amidst laughter and camaraderie, students enthusiastically practiced their French vocabulary while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the event. The Francophile Roadshow left a lasting impression on students, deepening their appreciation for French culture and igniting their passion for language learning.

Highfields extends its gratitude to Tudor Grange Academy for organising this experience, which has further enriched the school's cultural and educational landscape. Through initiatives like the Francophile Roadshow, Highfields continues to offer students an environment where they can thrive and embrace linguistic diversity.

Highfields Students Immerse Themselves in Contemporary Art Exploration

Yet another journey of artistic exploration took place on Thursday, as Year 9 students from Highfields delved into the captivating realm of contemporary art, courtesy of the 'Contemporary Art in the Classroom' project funded by Arts Connect. This initiative aims to create arts and cultural opportunities for children and young people in the West Midlands, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural understanding.

Before Easter, the students began a project designed to delve into the challenges faced by immigrants in Wolverhampton during the 1970s while also celebrating the invaluable contributions of the Punjabi community to the cultural fabric of our city. To enrich classroom learning, 14 students embarked on an enlightening excursion to the New Art Gallery Walsall, where they immersed themselves in a thought-provoking contemporary art exhibition and engaged in a stimulating workshop led by a renowned artist.

Entitled 'The World that Belongs to Us,' the exhibition showcases the work of artists with a South Asian cultural heritage, exploring themes of community, belonging, friendship, and intimacy through the lens of migration and settlement experiences in the USA, Canada, and the UK. With a focus on joy, pleasure, and the power of imagination, the exhibition invites viewers to ponder alternate worlds and narratives.

Upon arrival at the gallery, students had the opportunity to explore the diverse artworks spanning different eras and genres, gaining insights into the rich tapestry of artistic expression. They then met the artist who would guide them through the workshop, delving into the significance of the exhibited works and sparking thought-provoking discussions.

The workshop, held in a dedicated studio space, provided students with a hands-on experience, allowing them to unleash their creativity using a variety of collage materials. Drawing inspiration from artist Chila Singh Kumari-Burman's Pop art style, students eagerly immersed themselves in the creative process, with glittery stickers and stick-on jewels adding a touch of magic to their artworks.

For both staff and students, the trip proved to be a source of inspiration and artistic enlightenment, fueling a deeper appreciation for contemporary art and its potential to provoke thought, spark dialogue, and foster creativity. As they return to the classroom, students are eager to draw from their newfound experiences and insights to enrich their learning journey and embark on further artistic explorations.

Wonder of Wolves - Year 9 Discover the Rich Art Culture of Wolverhampton

A vibrant journey into the world of art unfolded on the 22nd of March as a group of our Year 9 art students embarked on an inspiring trip to the Wolverhampton Art Gallery and the Wolverhampton School of Art. This immersive experience provided a glimpse into the rich cultural landscape of Wolverhampton and offered invaluable insights into the diverse career opportunities available in art.

The day kicked off with a tour of the Wolverhampton Art Gallery, where students were guided through an array of captivating artworks by community engagement coordinators India Birtwistle, a third-year illustration degree student, and Dinosaur Kilby, an Artist-Curator and Digital Producer. As students explored the gallery's exhibitions, they were encouraged to appreciate the beauty and significance of art in our society.

The journey continued with a digital art workshop, where students had the exciting opportunity to digitally redesign works found in the Georgian Gallery, exploring their creativity and challenging their digital art skills under the guidance of experienced instructors.

A highlight of the day was the introduction to the BLK Art Group, a pioneering collective of black British artists whose groundbreaking work challenged conventions and ignited conversations about race, identity, and socio-political issues throughout the 1980s. Through thought-provoking discussions and engaging presentations, students gained a deeper understanding of the power of art to provoke change and inspire social awareness.

The exploration of Wolverhampton's creative landscape continued with a tour of the Digital Screen School, led by Dr. Pritpal Sembi, Deputy Head of the Media School. From game design to animation, students delved into the fascinating world behind our screens, gaining insights into the diverse fields of digital media and visual communication.

The day continued with a hands-on workshop where students stepped into the shoes of news presenters, delivering a segment on the BLK Art Group for 'Wolves Unleashed' alongside professional reporter Gareth Owen. This immersive experience allowed students to develop their communication skills while delving deeper into the stories that shape our world.

The journey concluded with a tour of the Wolverhampton School of Art, where students discovered the classes available, ranging from Fine Art and Textiles to Fashion, 3D Design, Illustration, Print, Photography, Ceramics and Glass. The highlight of the visit was an exhilarating live demonstration of the art of glass blowing, showcasing the fusion of creativity and craftsmanship.

As the students returned to Highfields, they carried with them a wealth of inspiration, knowledge, and newfound appreciation for the transformative power of art. The trip broadened their horizons and ignited their passion for creativity, paving the way for future exploration and artistic endeavors.

Highfields extends its heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in organising and facilitating this enriching experience, which has left a mark on the artistic journey of its students. With their creative spirits ignited, the Year 9 art students are poised to embark on a journey of discovery, innovation, and self-expression, empowered by the boundless possibilities that art offers.