On Friday 1 March, a group of Year 11 girls went to a lecture at St Albans School given by Dr Chris Smith, founder of the radio program “The Naked Scientists”. He gave us all an insight into his work, adding a humorous twist to some scientific questions asked by his listeners.

One question in particular that intrigued us was “How much fat would a person need to have on their stomach in order to stop a bullet?” As with all of the other questions Dr Smith wanted answered, he did the experiment, and the answer was in fact 75cm.

On Tuesday 21 February we had a very interesting visit to a paper mill that is close to our school. We have been learning about materials and we wanted to find out how paper is made. First of all, a lady called Sue talked to us about the paper mill. She told us that there had been six paper mills in the area but Frogmore paper mill is the only one left standing. The paper mill is on an island made by the River Gade. When you are making paper, you need a lot of water so this is a good place for paper making. (Written together by the class)

On Monday 20 February, Year 10 and Year 11 GCSE Art and Design students travelled by coach to London on a gallery safari. The first exhibition we attended at the Royal Academy of Arts showcased David Hockney's landscape work. With works spanning 50 years, the exhibition explored the artist's fascination with landscape.

Inspired by his native Yorkshire, many of the large-scale paintings were created specifically for the exhibition. The landscapes were shown alongside related drawings and films.

On 3 October, Year 11 GCSE science students attended a Careers in Science conference at Cambridge organised the Girls' Schools Association. The aim of the conference was to inspire young women to look at careers in science, and Physics in particular. It was targeted at both Sixth Formers and Year 11s, with a view to encourage and advise the latter on science-based A levels if they were interested in a career in this field.

Isle of Wight Trip Poem

Girls in welly boots having fun
Erosion, Corrosion, Abrasion, Attrition and Hydraulic Action
Over hills, many we can see

“I reach towards a hatch that opens on an endless sky to fall or fly” Simon Armitage.

Year 10 finished off the half term with a packed day of poetry readings from some of the nation's best known poets.

Year 10 will be travelling to the Dominion theatre on Friday 18 February to the Poetry Live event.

On Monday 17 January Year 5 went to the Safety Centre in Milton Keynes and learned about keeping themselves safe!