Hot Air

At the end of January our Year 11 debating team, comprising Chris Powell, Sara Hessam and Hannah Snelling, took part in the first round of the Rotary Club’s “Youth Speaks” competition held in Bassaleg School. They were debating the motion

“This House believes that social networking is making us anti-social”.

Bassaleg entered two teams and, as usual, the competition was strong. However, they weren’t strong enough and we were delighted when the judges awarded Chris “Best Chairperson” of the night; it was the first time Chris had competed. We were even more delighted when our team was declared “Best Team”! They now move on to the next round of the competition to be held in the next fortnight. Well done, Chris, Sara and Hannah.

English Department

(further Information).

In Year 11 ALAN testing is also available. This is an on-line exam which tests literacy and numeracy, and again provides national qualification.

The English Department also oversees Media Studies in the school, at both GCSE and A Level. This subject appears in the options columns for Years 10 and 11, and is a popular choice with many students. Coursework and exam form the assessment process.

Awards and Successes.

We are delighted by the successes of our students in a number of areas:

Students are often encouraged to take part in competitions. During 2008, students in KS3 took part in a competition to promote road safety. We were surprised to find we had submitted more entries than any other school in the area; these were of a high standard and Emma-Leigh Davidson was awarded second place.

Every year students in Years 7 and 8 take part in Readathon, a sponsored read to raise money for two charities - The Roald Dahl Foundation and Sargent Cancer Care. We are delighted that over the last ten years we have sent over three thousand pounds to help young people who are suffering.