Dear Readers

Aspiration Raising Day, Cambridge University

On Friday 14 th March, a group of 30 students from years 10 and 11 were given the fantastic opportunity to visit Cambridge University and meet some of the under-graduates who study there.

Based in Fitzwilliam College, we were given a humorous introduction to Cambridge and its history by our guide for the day. We then divided into small groups to question an under-graduate appointed to each group of us. They honestly and openly answered all our questions about the myths that surround Cambridge University.

After a morning of quizzes and questions, each group walked around the town with the guidance of their under-graduate. This gave us an opportunity to see the world that the students of Cambridge live in, and marvel at the beautiful colleges that overlook the streets of Cambridge.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Cambridge University, and have been inspired to work hard so that one day I can stay in Cambridge for longer than a day! I am hugely thankful to Mrs Brennan for the opportunity she gave us, and to Mrs Barley for agreeing to accompany us.

Alice Lucey 11C

GIFT comes to BUCHS

On 1 st March 2008 GIFT came to Brentwood. I joined other year 9 and 10 students in school on a course entitled “Murder Most Foul”.

The first activity in the morning was very exciting. We were given a fictional story about the death of a young girl. We then had to take on a character to be interviewed by two other students taking the role of detectives. Everyone worked together to create our own plot.

In the afternoon, we were introduced to another murder case, however this time it was non-fictional. The case was never solved; therefore it was our duty to come to a decision in a court case.

Both activities were very fun and inventive. Everyone enjoyed the day thanks to those who were running the event.

Stephanie Carter 9U

On 1 st March I went on my first GIFT day. I chose to do the activity called “Nexus”. This day was all about how you can communicate without using any sound.

During the day we looked at sign language, Morse code and semaphore. Although I liked all parts of the day, I especially enjoyed looking at sign language. We learnt how to sign our names, say where we lived, say how old we were and lots more. I also enjoyed the part when our leader was telling us about what it would be like to be blind. He took us around the playground in pairs and one of us was blindfolded. The other person had to direct her partner over tables, over ditches and down walls.

Overall, this day was very memorable, as I learnt much whilst having lots of fun.

Megan Duffy 7A

On Saturday 1 st March I, with many others, enjoyed an Egyptian experience. We looked at “Scenes from Everyday Life: Egyptian Style”. We learnt many things that couldn’t be found anywhere else – the Egyptian’s style of art, drawing and why tombs were so decorative. It was most definitely a fun-filled, interesting day!

Jennifer Templer 7B

Summer Concert

Tickets for the Summer Concert taking place in the school hall on Friday 25 th April at 7.30pm are now available from the Music office. Prices are £4.50 for adults and £2.50 for concessions.

Refreshments are being provided by the PTA and GCSE Food Technology students.

Singing Sensations at Disneyland, Paris

On Saturday 24 th May Singing Sensations and our African Drumming Group are travelling to Paris for a 4 day trip including a Disney Magic Music Day performance at Disneyland, Paris. There are a few spaces still available on the trip if any other students are interested in singing. The cost of the trip is £199 plus spending money. Please see Mrs Freeman in the music office ASAP for further details.

Outstanding Monies

As of today’s date the school is currently owed approximately £100.00. This is due to students borrowing money for dinner (£1.00) also make up/nail varnish remover (20p) they are not allowed to wear this at any time during the school day. Interest will be charged (10p) on money not paid back within 2 days and a letter sent home to parents.

Term Dates for 2007 / 2008

Spring Term 07/01/08 to 28/03/08

Half term: 11-15/02/08

Easter closure: 20-24/03/08

(School reopens 25-28/03/08)

Spring holiday: 31/03/08to 11/04/08

Summer Term: 14/04/08 to 18/07/08

Half term: 26-30/05/08

May Day: 05/05/08

Training day 03/09/07

Forthcoming Events

16 th April Year 8 Parent’s Evening

18 th April PTA Disco

24 th April Performing Arts Concert

25 th April Summer Concert

25 th April Citizenship Awards

2 nd May NON UNIFORM DAY – EMILY BEGG FUND