﻿<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"><channel><title>Home Blog</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net</link><pubDate>Thu, 17 May 2012 22:21:37 GMT</pubDate><description /><lastBuildDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 11:32:57 GMT</lastBuildDate><item><title>SHHS Designers win Young Inventors 2012 awards</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/shhs-designers-win-young-inventors-2012-awards</link><pubDate>Fri, 11 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Sara Bell</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>Two Year 10 DT students, Paige and Alison, were recognised with top awards for their inventive and contemporary lamps at the Young Inventors competition held on Thursday, 10 May 2012. Out of 56 projects, Paige was awarded first place in the Resistant Materials category for her self-sculpture light. Alison took second place in Graphics with her lampshade made entirely from paper cups.<br />
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<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/DT_Erridge.jpg" /><br />
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<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/DT_Alison.jpg" /></p>
<p>Eleven SHHS designers were through to the final of the competition with inventive and beautiful projects that included an intricate baby mobile, bone jewellery, a cupcake chandelier, a coffee table and an childs game with interlocking pieces based up on the Parc de Villette, Paris  to name a few.</p>
<p>Well done girls!!</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/shhs-designers-win-young-inventors-2012-awards</guid></item><item><title>Paris 2012</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/paris-2012</link><pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>Eight Art History students spent six days in Paris during the Easter break concentrating mainly on 19th century architecture, sculpture and painting. This video by Georgia gives a fleeting view of their experience at various moments in the Louvre, Opera and other spots. </p>
<iframe width="470" height="260" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/41910605?title=0&amp;byline=0&amp;portrait=0" frameborder="0"></iframe>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/paris-2012</guid></item><item><title>SHHS Pupils Win NHS Competition</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/shhs-pupils-win-nhs-competition</link><pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Sara Bell</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>Three students from South Hampstead High School in north London have won a competition run by NHS Careers. Three Year 8 girls, Georgina, Genie and Zoe, were today announced as the London regional winners of the annual Step into the NHS schools’competition and Laura, Camilla, and Megan received highly commended for their entries.</p>
<p>Students were tasked with researching one of the 350 different career opportunities in the NHS and producing a job advertisement and either a job description or a CV of the ideal candidate for their chosen role. Over 1,250 students from across England entered the competition.<br />
<br />
<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/NHS_Web_Pic.jpg" /></p>
<p>The Year 8 girls decided to look at the role of a surgeon in the NHS. The judges were particularly impressed by their creativity and understanding of the role in developing a range of materials including an animated video which really demonstrated the impact surgeons have on people’s lives. Click&nbsp;<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NU2gp1F6usg">here</a> to view the advert.</p>
<p>Georgina, Genie and Zoe were each presented with their prizes of £50 Amazon vouchers by Professor Fares Haddad, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at the University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, during a special presentation at the school.</p>
<p>Mrs Stephen, Headmistress, said, “We are thrilled that our students have won this important prize. This competition has proven to be a valuable classroom tool, engaging students with the workings of the health service and the different career options available to them. The hard work and effort invested in this project reflects their commitment and dedication.”</p>
<p>Georgina, Genie and Zoe, said, “We enjoyed taking part in the competition and now we are more aware of the jobs available in the NHS. We chose to look at the role of a surgeon as we wanted to learn more about what people do in this role and how they help people suffering from injuries and diseases. Through the research we did for the competition, we have learnt a lot about the day-to-day work of a surgeon and are seriously considering a job in the NHS when we finish school.”</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/shhs-pupils-win-nhs-competition</guid></item><item><title>The Other Art Fair</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/the-other-art-fair</link><pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Nina.jpg" /></p>
<p><a href="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Complimentary_Ticket.pdf">Download Your Complimentary Ticket Here</a></p>
<p>Nina Fowler's booth is number 138</p>
<p>The Other Art Fair Returns to London</p>
<p>Following the success the of inaugural launch of The Other Art Fair in November 2011, this Spring a larger, second instalment of the fair will open at the Ambika P3 at University of Westminster. A truly unique artistic venture, The Other Art Fair will once again give audiences the opportunity to see the brightest emerging artists working in Britain in one location from 10 May – 13 May 2012. With the inclusion of more artists in a bigger venue, The Other Art Fair is unlike any other, providing a platform for artists that allow them to build their profile whilst also giving the opportunity to connect with collectors and gallerists directly.</p>
<p>Last year The Other Art Fair debuted as a brand new contemporary art fair at The Bargehouse on London’s South Bank. Over three and a half days, the fair received 4,300 visitors and 1,200 attended the private view. Collectors spent over £120,000 on art with thousands more spent after the fair. One artist single handily sold over £10,000 worth of art works while many were approached by prominent galleries for representation including Scream, Rove, Opera Gallery, Rook and Raven and Rosenfeld Porcini.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/aert_fair.jpg" /></p>
<p>Applauded for its exceptional foresight, The Other Art Fair diverts from the formulaic approach of other fairs by encouraging emerging talent to sell their works directly to the public and allowing galleries to view some of the best, undiscovered talent working in Britain today in one location. As demonstrated by the first edition, The Other Art Fair can claim to be a source of artists who will go on to be represented by London’s top galleries, thus providing collectors with an early opportunity to purchase work which is likely to escalate in value.</p>
<p>At The Other Art Fair, viewers will be able to see work created by the winner of the Club Monaco Art Prize, Dan Hillier, who was chosen from the top exhibiting artists of the previous fair. He comments: “I think the way in which The Other Art Fair supports artists is spot on and makes a welcome change to the way a lot of organisations seem to go about treating artists generally.” This year the selection of the participating artists has been just as rigorous with a committee that has a diverse range of expertise in the art world:</p>
<p>The Committee:</p>
<p>Chris Levine’s progressive light work for Massive Attack, Grace Jones and his iconic holographic portraits of HM Queen Elizabeth II have positioned him as a leading figure working within the developing area of light as an art form. Using media such as laser, optics, LED and natural light, Levine aims to inspire a sense of wonder in viewers, taking them to unexplored sensory and spiritual territory in the process. The technology he uses is a means to an end; his work is about the beauty of light and the way we see and feel imagery. His work has graced galleries, fashion shows, band tours, and advertisements.</p>
<p>Francesca Gavin is a writer, curator and editor. She is Visual Arts Editor at Dazed &amp; Confused and Twin Magazine, and is a Contributing Editor at AnOther. She has also written for publications including, Vogue, Wallpaper*, Elle, Guardian online and Timeout. The author of several books relating to the visual arts, including most recently 100 New Artists, which charts the upcoming generation of artists who will create the aesthetics of the next decade.</p>
<p>Kenny Schachter is an art dealer, curator and writer currently living and working in London. A renowned art collector, he owns works by artists including Vito Acconci, William Pope, Zaha Hadid, the Campana Brothers, Richard Woods, Keith Tyson, Franz West, Chris Burden and many more. Director of Hoxton Square’s Rove Gallery amongst other projects, Schachter defies categorisation, but is nonetheless hailed as a true innovator in the art world and elsewhere.</p>
<p>The Other Art Fair will also offer a range of interactive activities including:</p>
<p>Joffe &amp; Pye’s Other Other Art Fair will provide visitors with the chance to visit an art fair within an art fair. They will present the work of ten emerging artists and will award one of them an exclusive “Superstar YBA of the Next Generation” prize, also tempting visitors with champagne and goodie bags.</p>
<p>Tom’s Shoes will once again seek out the artistic talent amongst fair-goers, this time looking for a winning design for a pair of sunglasses. After the fair the winner will then be presented with the finished product.</p>
<p>Hey Picasso Junior, Get in the Interactive Kid Corner! will be a supervised area for children to experiment with art materials from paint to playdough, leaving parents to explore the fair at their leisure.</p>
<p>Under 100 has been brought about by the Other Art Fair to offer each and every visitor the opportunity to become an art collector. For under £100, pieces by emerging artists will be a key investment, with their reputations set to grow in coming years.</p>
<p>Curated Walks, led by Jotta, these walks will cover topics such as ‘Buying your First Piece’, and ‘Investing in Art’ to give new buyers an insight into art collecting. Taking place three times a day, visitors should be sure to book in advance.</p>
<p>The Other Art Fair Unplugged will provide live music each day at the fair from a variety of emerging musical talent. A highlight will be Sunday’s performance from folk sensation, the singer-songwriter Emily Barker.<br />
FAD OFFICE will be presenting a fictional construct of a 1970’s magazine, FAD then, a fully functional office space will open at this year’s Other Art Fair (2012). FAD looks to the past to re-imagine the role of the publisher in the future, using the office as a testing site to research and critique ideas that are not openly discussed today. To comment on the shifting values in art both politically and socially. FAD asks; do we need to look back in order to move forward? And what will the future hold for art?<br />
In a hope to bridge the gap between the online and physical incarnations of FAD, FAD Office will present a curated programme of presentations with invited artists and curators; a series of in-depth interviews all of which will be documented and available online. The responsive staging of the office will take place over the four days for the public to watch - welcoming critical and collaborative discourse and exchange.</p>
<p>Where: Ambika P3, University of Westminster, 35 Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LS<br />
When: 10 May – 13 May 2012<br />
Nearest Tube: Baker Street<br />
More Info: http://theotherartfair.com</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/the-other-art-fair</guid></item><item><title>Year 7 Trip to Normandy</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/year-7-trip-to-normandy2</link><pubDate>Tue, 01 May 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Sara Bell</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>The Year 7 French trip to Normandy was a huge success again this year, with 29 pupils and 3 teachers enjoying a week of French immersion, adventure activities and exciting excursions at the beautiful Chateau de la Baudonnière. The girls made rapid progress thanks to the Chateau’s insistence on French as the only means of communication, from breakfast until bedtime. Our days were packed full of activities, from “Aéroballe” (basketball on trampolines!) to “Tir<br />
à l’arc” (archery), with the “Parcours de santé” (assault course) being the very muddy highlight for many. </p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Normandy_Trip_1.jpg" /><br />
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<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Normandy_Trip_2.jpg" /><br />
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<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Normandy_Trip_3.jpg" /><br />
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We had a lovely outing to the Mont Saint Michel, where we had a tour of the Medieval abbey and shopped for souvenirs and crêpes. <br />
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<img alt="" width="470" height="567" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Normandy_Trip_5.jpg" /><br />
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Our other excursion was a day in Bayeaux, where we put our French to the test in the market, visited the gothic cathedral and saw the famous tapestry, bringing to life what had been learnt in History lessons at school.<br />
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<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Normandy_Trip_4.jpg" /><br />
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The food at the chateau was fantastic and mealtimes presented another opportunity to practise our French. While the first breakfast was a little overwhelming for some, by the end of the week, everyone was taking their turn to ask for “encore du pain” or “encore de l’eau” at the kitchen. The girls wrote a diary in French every day and they had extra French lessons with me in the chateau grounds. On the penultimate evening we had a French themed fancy dress evening, with snails as our starter at dinner, which was served by Astérix and Obélix. Hundreds of South Hampstead girls have enjoyed the chateau experience over the years and it really is a fantastic opportunity. I would like to thank this year’s group for being such lovely company and for approaching all of the activities with such enthusiasm. I would also like to thank Miss Forsey and Miss Reynolds for their tireless help and support of the girls during the week.</p>
<p>M. Smeaton May 2012</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/year-7-trip-to-normandy2</guid></item><item><title>Spanish Exchange to Barcelona April 2012</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/spanish-exchange-to-barcelona-april-2012</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Sara Bell</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>The Spanish exchange was an amazing experience and everyone had such a great time. It was really interesting to see and experience a new and exciting culture.<br />
<br />
<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Spanish_Exchange_1.jpg" /></p>
<p>While in Barcelona, we visited many remarkable sites including el Palau Guell and el Parque Guell both by Gaudi, the Dali museum in Girona and we had a very interesting tour of the old Jewish quarter. We saw a cathedral, also by Gaudi, called La Sagrada Familia. This was my favourite of the sites we visited, it was very unusual. Gaudi’s designs were based entirely around nature which gave the cathedral a light and open atmosphere; everyone found the effect breath-taking.<br />
<br />
<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Spanish_Exchange_2.jpg" /><br />
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The exchanges and their families were incredibly warm and friendly and very willing to help us to learn the language. They welcomed us into their homes and showed us how it’s done in Spain! We all enjoyed ourselves enormously and would like to say Thank you to both Mme Finley and Ms Bell for leading the trip!</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/spanish-exchange-to-barcelona-april-2012</guid></item><item><title>World Book Day at the Junior School</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/world-book-day-at-the-junior-school</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Sara Bell</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>To celebrate World Book Day this year we hosted talks by two authors, Karin Fernald who talked to year 3 about her book on the young Queen Victoria and Caroline Lawrence who gave a very amusing talk to years 3-6 about a wide range of topics including her Roman Mysteries books. Daunt books held a very popular book fair with some wonderful new, as well as more familiar, titles for sale.<br />
<br />
<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/WBDWebsiteImage2.jpg" /><br />
<br />
For the first time older girls were paired with younger girls to share their favourite stories, an experience which was greatly enjoyed by everyone. World Book Day marked the end of the Readathon, a four week, sponsored read during which time the girls raised an amazing £4,422 for charity. No World Book Day at the Junior School would not be complete without the costume parade where all staff and pupils dress as their favourite book characters and, as usual, there were some fantastically inventive creations. </p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/world-book-day-at-the-junior-school</guid></item><item><title>Henry Moore Junior School Visit</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/henry-moore-junior-school-visit</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Sara Bell</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>On Wednesday 18th April Year 6 visited the Henry Moore Foundation at Perry Green, Hertfordshire. The excellent guided tour included a walk through the extensive grounds amongst the large bronze sculptures, a visit to the maquette studio as it was during Moore's lifetime and to the newly opened plaster gallery where girls were able to sketch. <br />
<br />
<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Henry_Moore_5Web.jpg" /><br />
<br />
In spite of wind and driving rain when we first arrived the trip was truly memorable and the girls had the place to themselves!</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/henry-moore-junior-school-visit</guid></item><item><title>Over 600 pupils walk 10K to Downing Street</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/over-600-pupils-walk-10k-to-downing-street</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Stacy Street</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>On 28 March, South Hampstead High School pupils collectively walked over 6,000K to raise a target of £50,000 for Plan UK’s ‘Take the Vow’ campaign which aims to break down barriers to education for girls in the developing world.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/BIAAG_1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
On the 10K route from Canary Wharf to Westminster, teams shared the carrying of five-litres of water as a symbolic gesture of the chores that keep as many as 75 million school-aged girls out of education some of the world’s poorest countries.</p>
<p>Pupils were invited to Downing Street to present their petition in support of Plan UK’s drive to break the global cycle of poverty and discrimination through education.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/BIAAG_2.jpg" /><br />
<br />
A number of celebrities and MPs took part to support the cause, including London Mayoral candidate Siobhan Benita; Glenda Jackson, MP; and, GB Olympic fencer, Laurence Halsted. </p>
<p>Claire Kelly, Deputy Head of Pastoral Care at South Hampstead High School helped the girls see their challenge come to fruition:</p>
<p>“It is fantastic that our girls are so inspired to support young women worldwide, and for a second year in a row. Their political awareness has grown as a result and they have organised all aspects of the event from planning the route to writing letters to MPs to raising money. We’re very proud of them.”</p>
<p>The event follows the school’s successful 10K ‘Because I Am A Girl’ walk to Downing Street in 2011 which raised over £40,000, enough to educate 448 girls for one year, or 34 girls for life (5 - 18 years of age), in the developing world.</p>
<p>So far, the 2012 event has raised over £28,000 and funds are still coming. </p>
<p>Over 10 million girls will marry before the age of 18 in the developing world. Many will spend their day walking 6 kilometres to collect and carry 80 litres of water or more to maintain their family’s basic drinking, sanitation and hygiene needs, on average.</p>
<p>You can find out more about the ‘Take the Vow’ campaign and the valuable work of Plan UK&nbsp;at www.plan-uk.org.</p>
<p>To make a donation, please visit our JustGiving page&nbsp;- <a href="http://www.justgiving.com/SHHS-because-i-am-a-girl">www.justgiving.com/SHHS-because-i-am-a-girl</a>.</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/over-600-pupils-walk-10k-to-downing-street</guid></item><item><title>Support for SHHS BIAAG in The Daily Telegraph</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/girl-power-with-a-bucket-of-water-the-daily-telegraph-24-march-2012</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Stacy Street</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>‘Girl Power with a bucket of water’ - Judith Woods,&nbsp;The Daily Telegraph 24 March 2012</p>
<p>Girl power! Now there’s a concept that I thought had gone the way of all (Victoria Beckham’s) flesh. But the feisty sorority is alive and kicking – albeit in Start-rites and straw boaters rather than platforms and jailbait pigtails. Next Wednesday the massed pupils of South Hampstead High School will stage their second annual ''Because I’m a Girl’’ march to raise money for the education of their less privileged sisters in the world’s poorest countries. </p>
<p>They will stride from the Olympic site to Westminster, carrying not a flaming torch, but a bucket of water, to symbolise the chores that keep 75 million girls at home, later to be forced into marriage. Last year they raised £40,000 for Plan UK – enough to send 448 girls to school. Occasionally we all need reminding that education, like water, is our most precious commodity. </p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/girl-power-with-a-bucket-of-water-the-daily-telegraph-24-march-2012</guid></item><item><title>Siobhan Benita supports SHHS BIAAG 2012</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/siobhan-benita-supports-shhs-biaag-2012</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Stacy Street</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>London Mayoral candidate, Siobhan Benita is supporting BIAAG and walking with our girls on Wednesday.</p>
<p>Speaking ahead of the walk Ms Benita who is standing as an independent&nbsp;candidate in the London Mayoral elections said:</p>
<p>"Forced marriage is a massive global issue affecting the lives of millions&nbsp;of girls the world over, whether they live in developing nations or in&nbsp;richer parts of the world like London.</p>
<p>"As the mother of two girls, it is inspiring to see schoolgirls take action&nbsp;on an issue that affects the lives of so many girls and women around the&nbsp;world.&nbsp; I am proud to be a part of South Hampstead High School's activities&nbsp;in support of this campaign."</p>
<p>We look forward to welcoming her on Wednesday!</p>
<p></p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/siobhan-benita-supports-shhs-biaag-2012</guid></item><item><title>Countdown to BIAAG 2012</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/countdown-to-biaag-2012</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>On 28 March, over 600 South Hampstead High School pupils will walk 10K to raise £50,000 for Plan UK’s ‘Take the Vow’ campaign which aims to break down barriers to education for girls in the developing world.<br />
<br />
Girls will walk the route from Canary Wharf in east London to Westminster in teams that will share the carrying of five-litres of water as a symbolic gesture of the chores that keep as many as 75 million school-aged girls out of education some of the world’s poorest countries.<br />
<br />
SHHS pupils have secured the support of a number of celebrities and MPs, including London Mayoral candidate Siobhan Benita, Baroness Floella Benjamin and Glenda Jackson.<br />
<br />
Claire Kelly, Deputy Head of Pastoral Care at South Hampstead High School has helped the girls see their challenge come to fruition: “It is fantastic that our girls are so inspired to support young women worldwide, and for a second year in a row. Their political awareness has grown as a result and they have organised all aspects of the event from planning the route to writing letters to MPs to raising money. We’re very proud of them.”<br />
<br />
The event follows the school’s successful 10K ‘Because I Am A Girl’ walk to Downing Street in 2011 which raised over £40,000, enough to educate 448 girls for one year, or 34 girls for life (5 - 18 years of age), in the developing world.<br />
<br />
Over 10 million girls will marry before the age of 18 in the developing world. Many will spend their day walking 6 kilometres to collect and carry 80 litres of water or more to maintain their family’s basic drinking, sanitation and hygiene needs, on average.<br />
<br />
You can find out more about the ‘Take the Vow’ campaign and the valuable work of Plan UK <a href="http://www.plan-uk.org/what-we-do/campaigns/because-i-am-a-girl/get-involved/take-the-vow" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
To make a donation, please visit our <a href="http://www.justgiving.com/SHHS-because-i-am-a-girl" target="_blank">JustGiving page </a>.</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/countdown-to-biaag-2012</guid></item><item><title>Another great year for Chamber Music!</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/another-great-year-for-chamber-music</link><pubDate>Mon, 19 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>South Hampstead’s chamber musicians have enjoyed another highly successful year. Two groups reached the Finals Day of the Pro Corda National Chamber Music Festival for Schools (the fourth year in succession that SHHS groups have progressed to this stage of the competition), giving outstanding performances of music by Purcell and Tchaikovsky. The adjudicator remarked on the poise and energy in Purcell’s Three parts on a ground played by Kiki, Mari, Alex and Sarah, all in year 7, and praised the sincerity and conviction in the first movement of Tchaikovsky’s Piano Trio in A minor, played by Mathilde, Eliza and Tanya.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/chambermusic.jpg" /></p>
<p>South Hampstead groups have also performed with great credit in the Spring Grove chamber music competition, with a piano trio consisting of girls from year 11 and year 9 (Charlotte, Lizzy and Emily) giving a stirring account of music by Smetana in the Classical Final. Meanwhile, the Clarinet Quartet, making their debut in chamber music competitions this year, were winners in the Popular category. Director of Music Daniel Webb paid tribute to all of the girls involved. “They have all worked extremely hard and shown great maturity in their playing. We are extremely proud of them and they can reflect with great satisfaction on their performances. Their teachers, Caryn Cohen and Sarah Clarke must also take credit for preparing them so thoroughly and for giving them the confidence to enjoy themselves in performance.”</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/clarinets.jpg" /></p>
<br />]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/another-great-year-for-chamber-music</guid></item><item><title>Twenty Twelve</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/twenty-twelve</link><pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>TwentyTwelve is&nbsp;one of this year's Young Enterprise companies. Run by a dynamic group of&nbsp;year 12&nbsp;South Hampstead girls, Twenty Twelve are selling vintage posters, postcards, headbands and bags.<br />
<br />
The whole idea of our products is to celebrate Britain, with this year being very important&nbsp;due to&nbsp;the London Olympics and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. </p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/New_Image.JPG" /></p>
<p>We have chosen to celebrate our heritage through creating our own handmade bags with simple icon British images on them, as well as printing our vintage posters with photographs taken in 1950's. We've been selling in market places around London as well as around school, trying to promote our brand and celebrate this historic year.</p>
<p><a href="http://twentytwelvemerchandise.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Find out more here.<br />
<br />
</a>If you would like to buy or check out our products <a href="mailto:twentytwelveyoungenterprise@gmail.com">email us</a>.</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/twenty-twelve</guid></item><item><title>The Lemonade Kids</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/the-lemonade-kids</link><pubDate>Fri, 09 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Sara Bell</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>On Thursday 15th March year 4 girls put on a rootin' tootin' Wild West musical 'The Lemonade Kids' telling of a town being tamed against all odds by a plucky bar-girl and the only men brave enough not to carry a gun!<br />
<br />
<img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Lemonade_Kids_JS.jpg" /></p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/the-lemonade-kids</guid></item><item><title>Take The Vow</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/take-the-vow1</link><pubDate>Tue, 06 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>South Hampstead High School ‘Take the Vow’: Pupils at South Hampstead High School officially launched the school’s ‘Because I Am A Girl’ 2012 campaign this week, writing 1,600 letters to MPs and peers for support in breaking the cycle of poverty and discrimination through education.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Biaagsigning1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
The school-wide campaign aims to raise £50,000 for Plan UK’s ‘Take the Vow’ initiative and will see over 600 SHHS supporters walk 10k between the 2012 Olympic site (pending approval from the relevant authorities) and Westminster while carrying water as a symbolic gesture of the chores that keep many young women out of school in some of the world’s poorest countries.<br />
<br />
The event follows the school’s successful 10k walk to Downing Street in 2011 which raised over £40,000, enough to educate 448 girls for one year, or 34 girls for life (five to 18 years of age), in the developing world. Over 10 million girls will marry before the age of 18 in the developing world. Many will spend their day walking 6 kilometres to collect and carry 80 litres of water or more to maintain their family’s basic drinking, sanitation and hygiene needs, on average.</p>
<p>Follow us @shhsbciamagirl</p>
<p><a href="http://www.plan-uk.org/enews/take-the-vow" target="_blank">Find out more about the ‘Take the Vow’ campaign.</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>To make a donation,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justgiving.com/SHHS-because-i-am-a-girl" target="_blank">please visit our JustGiving page.</a></p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/take-the-vow1</guid></item><item><title>Science Week</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/science-week7</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>Details of lunchtime lectures to celebrate National Science &amp; Engineering Week from 12– 16 March 2012 have been announced.<br />
<br />
The series of lectures explores different aspects of science and includes: an update on research from the CERN Large Hadron Collider; a scientific look at zombies; a talk on pain as a fundamental evolved defence; first-hand insight into research on the origins of individual learning and behaviour; and a look at Astrobiology and the hunt for alien life. Full details are provided below. These events, which take place in the theatre&nbsp;in waterlow, are free and open to the public. Please contact the school to reserve a place. <br />
<br />
The annual week of activity is designed “to raise the profile of science and show our girls the variety of careers and avenues there are to explore in the sciences, some of which they may not have considered,” says Dr Chris Everall, Head of Science at South Hampstead High School.<br />
<br />
Science is a strong part of the curriculum at South Hampstead High School. “In addition to the programme of external speakers, we are welcoming two former SHHS pupils who have gone on to pursue science,” said Dr Everall. “They will share their experiences as ecologist/veterinary scientist and space scientist and show our girls they can do it!”</p>
<br />
Monday 12 March 13.30 to 14.30
<h4>The large hadron collider – the search for the Higgs boson</h4>
<p>Things are moving very quickly at the CERN Large Hadron Collider, with new results coming in every week. Jonathan Butterworth, Professor of Physics at UCL and head of the UK part of the ATLAS collaboration – one of four detectors at the CERN Large Hadron Collider, will tell what we have learned so far and what we hope to learn in the future. This will include the status of the hunt for the Higgs boson, thought to be behind the electroweak symmetry breaking and the origin of mass. </p>
<br />
Tuesday 13 March 13.30 to 14.30
<h4>The Science of Zombies </h4>
<p>Dr Anna Tanczos of the University of Surrey will take a look at Zombies in modern popular culture, in history and stories of real-life Zombies in Haiti. The science includes toxins from puffer fish, sodium channels and compounds such as atropine; molecules associated with ‘Zombie Powder’. There are careers in Zombie science!” </p>
<br />
Wednesday 14 March 13.30 to 14.30
<h4>Pain, empathy, and evolution</h4>
<p>Dr Amanda Williams of University College London will cover pain as a fundamental evolved defence; why we and other animals express pain in our behaviour; and how this helps us understand empathy and helping others in need. </p>
<br />
Thursday 15 March 13.40 to 14.30
<h4>The scientific methods used in psychology</h4>
<p>Dr Rosalind Arden and Dr Yulia Kovas will describe a fascinating research project currently conducted at King's College and Goldsmiths College, with contribution from South Hampstead High School students. The project investigates the origins of individual differences in learning and behaviour, using the data from thousands of UK twins. We will describe all stages of this project development: from theoretical rational, to developing of the hypotheses, to developing and piloting of the research instruments, to collecting data, to data analyses and interpretation of the results, to preparing the results for dissemination.</p>
<br />
Friday16 March 14.00 – 15.20
<h4>Astrobiology, the hunt for alien life</h4>
<p>'Astrobiology' is a brand new field of science, encompassing research into the origins and limits of life on our own planet, and where life might exist beyond the Earth. But what actually is 'life' and how did it emerge on our own world? What are the most extreme conditions terrestrial life can tolerate? And where in the cosmos might we reasonably expect to find ET? Join Dr. Lewis Dartnell, University College London, on a tour of the other planets and moons in our solar system which may harbour life, and even further afield to alien worlds we've discovered orbiting distant stars, to explore one of the greatest questions ever asked: are we alone...?</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/science-week7</guid></item><item><title>Spooky, spooky house!</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/spooky-spooky-house</link><pubDate>Sat, 11 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>On the 12th January Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 had a visit from the author, <a href="http://andrewweale.com">Andrew Weale</a>. Every class got to spend some time looking at one of his books and Year 1 were especially lucky as they got to create an audio version of his book “The Spooky Spooky House”. Everyone really enjoyed the workshop and you can listen to the recording of “Spooky South Hampstead” below.</p>
<iframe width="470" height="376" frameborder="0" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/36593924?title=0&amp;byline=0&amp;portrait=0"></iframe>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/spooky-spooky-house</guid></item><item><title>Arvon Creative Writing Course</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/arvon-creative-writing-course</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>On the 9th of January, a group seventeen, enthusiastic, Year 9 South Hampstead girls, Miss Crossley-Holland and Mr McLaughlin left in a coach to Sheepwash, a rural village in Devon. The Arvon Creative Writing Course was held at the thatched manor house, Totleigh Barton. As we entered the grounds, we were surrounded by vast fields, and, once in a while, we passed flocks of sheep or grazing horses. We reached the end of the winding path at around 3.30 in the afternoon. The directors of the Avon Creative Writing Course, Claire, Olly and Eliza introduced us to the four-day workshop we were about to follow, and gave us some time to unpack and get settled. </p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Arvon.gif" /></p>
<p>We were fortunate to have dedicated tutors: Frances Leviston, a poet and Chris Wakling, a novelist. During our time in Totleigh Barton, they introduced us to critical aspects of creative writing, especially in the morning sessions that went on till early afternoon. We were given a great amount of time and freedom to work on our poetry or stories, to take pleasant walks through rambling fields, and to read, chat or make tea and hot chocolate. This made the trip unusually relaxing and enjoyable as we were not on a tight schedule, striving to achieve something every minute of the day. We had immense freedom to do what we wanted to with our writing and creative process. We also had very productive one-to-one sessions with our tutors who shared their knowledge and their experiences so generously.</p>
<p>Apart from these activites, there was another exciting diversion: four of five girls along with one of the directors were allocated time in the evening to prepare dinner with a pre-planned menu. Nobody ever expected this to become a competition but we all ended up trying to see who would decorate the dining room most elegantly! Later in the evening we were expected to go back to the barn for further discussions with Chris and Frances. During these sessions we would do more light-hearted activities such as writing poems about two words we picked out of a hat. During one of these sessions one evening, short story writer, Tania Herschman, visited us. She read a few stories from her book ‘The White Road and Other Stories’ and some extracts from her current writing. After our evening sessions, most of us would head back to the kitchen, a cosy meeting point, to make tea hot chocolate and in, some odd cases, even scrambled eggs! We would then venture off to the living room and play games or talk about the day’s activities until bedtime.</p>
<p>On the last night of our stay in Totleigh Barton, we all read out one or two pieces of our work to the whole group. Though it was a short time, it was clear that we had all learnt and achieved much during the course of the workshop. Alas, time flew by and the day of our departure arrived way too soon. Seventeen dispirited girls, with seventeen pieces of luggage and two teachers left Totleigh Barton, wishing they could have stayed longer in the peaceful, serene surroundings of Devon. I can safely say, however, that every minute we spent there was fun, memorable and truly inspiring.</p>
<p>Imaan</p>
<p><a href="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Arvon_Anthology_2012.pdf">Download the Arvon Anthology here</a></p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/arvon-creative-writing-course</guid></item><item><title>Pink Day</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/pink-day</link><pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>A South Hampstead High School teacher spent the day dressed as a fairy to raise money and awareness of breast and gynaecological cancer, as part of the school’s ‘Pink Day’.</p>
<p>Pupils across the school raised close to £2,000 in the lead up to SHHS ‘Pink Day’ to see the Mathematics teacher and Charity Co-ordinator arrive to school on the Metropolitan Line wearing pink from head to toe including fairy wings and a tutu.<br />
<br />
“I want to encourage women to talk more openly about gynaecological cancers,” said Mrs Svoboda. “As a society, we’ve become comfortable talking about breasts and breast cancer which is great, but now we need to become comfortable talking about gynaecological cancers. We need more research and awareness in this area - if more women knew the warning signs and symptoms we could drastically increase survival rates . ”</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/PinkDay.jpg" /></p>
<p>'Pink Day' was celebrated across the junior and Senior school with fundraising activities and a Senior School assembly on female cancers. The money raised will be donated to two women’s cancer charities, Breast Cancer Care and the Eve Appeal.</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/pink-day</guid></item><item><title>Daisy Pulls It Off</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/daisy-pulls-it-off</link><pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>The year 10 production of “Daisy pulls it off” was truly a treat for all. The story takes place in 1927 and Daisy Meredith, "honourable, courageous, and straight in all things" as she cheerfully announces, is a bright elementary school pupil who has become the first to win a scholarship to the elite Grangewood School for Girls, normally reserved for children of the upper classes. Of course Daisy wins out and heroically comes up trumps saving the day on the hockey field, saving lives on the cliff face and saving the school from financial ruin via a hidden treasure find. It is all great fun and our two stars (Daisy and Trixie) steal just about every scene.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/daisy_web.jpg" /><br />
The play begins as if it were a real school production, with a marvellous monologue from the head teacher (Maho). This is a great opening to the play and sets up for a truly tremendous show. The scene in which we first see Trixie (Lily) and Daisy is spiffing, and they really capture the strong bond and friendship between the girls. That said there are fine showings from the piggy and nasty pairing of Monica (Olivia) and Sybil (Saydee). The pair added a great sense of both humour and drama to the play with their antics. The enigmatic Russian teacher played by Lily was a pleasure to watch whilst being critical to the plot line. There's a bit of help from the staff too playing teachers and other grown-ups, Miss Granville (Hannah) , daisy’s mother (Ella) and the librarian (Cassandra) all played their parts terrifically and really made the play what it was.<br />
The Hockey scene was staged marvellously and was really effect for the audience. Daisy, Belinda (Morag), Clare (Christiana) and Alice (Bella) were delightful whilst keeping the reality of the scene. Another outstanding scene was when Daisy heroically saved her two enemies from a tragic death. The scene was very emotional and really showed the high quality of acting involved in this play. Before the final scene all the mysteries were unravelled with a heartfelt monologue from the gardener who turned out to be Daisy’s long lost father. The play concluded with a final hymn and a happy ending.<br />
The costumes and sets give an added touch to the play. This is a topping production, full of incredibly talented actresses. Credit must also be given to the amazing Director who put it all together, Mrs Ashwell. </p>
<p><a href="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/latest-in-the-senior-school-gallery">See more photos in the Gallery</a></p>
<p>Paige</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/daisy-pulls-it-off</guid></item><item><title>Baroness Garden visits</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/baroness-garden</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>Baroness Garden of Frognal met South Hampstead High School Sixth Formers on Friday to discuss how students could engage more with the political and parliamentary process.</p>
<p>“A number of our girls are actively involved in politics, including a few card-carrying members of the Labour and Conservative parties,” said Coco Stevenson, Head of SHHS Sixth Form. “This was a fantastic opportunity for them to discuss issues and interact with someone who knows the parliamentary system inside out.”</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/speaker.jpg" /></p>
<p>The event was organised as part of the school’s Sixth Form Speaker Series, a programme designed to expose students to broader issues and provide the opportunity to think outside the subjects they are studying and challenge them intellectually. Recent speakers have included Esther Freud, author; Jonathan Charles, BBC news presenter; and, Richard Hurst, comedy writer and co-writer of Miranda.</p>
<p>The visit was arranged through the Lord Speaker’s&nbsp;<a href="http://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/lord-speaker/outreach-programme/peers-in-schools/">“Peers in Schools”</a> programme.</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/baroness-garden</guid></item><item><title>Knitting for Refuge</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/knitting-for-refuge</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>Over 50 knitters from South Hampstead High School joined in support of the Comfort Blanket Campaign to knit nine blankets and raise £280 for Refuge, the domestic violence charity.</p>
<p>The four-week appeal inspired knitters of all abilities to create 250 squares which were sewn into nine blankets, equivalent to 58,500cm2 of handiwork.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/knitting.gif" /></p>
<p>Amy Svoboda, Charity Co-ordinator in the Senior School and organiser of the event, said, “It’s a great ‘first knit’. These blankets will be donated to Refuge to distribute in their shelters. Often, victims arrive at Refuge shelters in the middle of the night, having left all of their belongings behind. Being given something new and comforting, like a blanket, is so important, particularly for the younger children.”</p>
<p>South Hampstead High School actively supports a number of charities, particularly those that highlight women’s issues, and assemblies on domestic abuse and how to avoid violent or abusive relationships gave deeper insight into the initiative for pupils.</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/knitting-for-refuge</guid></item><item><title>Festive Fair Breaks all Records</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/festive-fair-breaks-all-records</link><pubDate>Fri, 02 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>The FOSH Festive Fair which took place on Saturday November 26th has raised over £13,500, up nearly a third on the previous Fair. There was a record turnout with an estimated 650 people attending. <br />
The Silent Auction brought in over £6,500 and the other top selling stalls were the tombola which made nearly £1000, doubling its profits, and Refreshments &amp; Homemade Goodies which brought in over £1000. <br />
Girls running their own stalls had a successful afternoon too, raising hundreds of pounds for a variety of projects such as World Challenge, Young Enterprise, Far Frontiers and the 6th form ball.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/fosh">More about FOSH</a></p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/festive-fair-breaks-all-records</guid></item><item><title>Redevelopment Plans Unveiled</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/building-project</link><pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>We are delighted to announce our plans for the redevelopment of South Hampstead High School senior school. Work will begin in July 2012…. Read more</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/building-project</guid></item><item><title>Wise Pay</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/wise-pay</link><pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>Wise Pay is live and you&nbsp;can top up your account via the link in the Our Community section of our website, <a href="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/wise-pay">click here </a>to go there now. Personal ID and login information was sent by post to all parents on 24 August. If you have not received this information, please contact Reception. If you are having problems logging in, please contact the IT Department&nbsp;through Reception.</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/wise-pay</guid></item><item><title>Tanzania 2011</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/tanzania-2011</link><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>After months of fundraising, bleep tests and kit checks, we landed in Kenya. We spent our first night at a camp in Nairobi grappling with mosquito nets and geese. The following morning we got our first taste of ‘Africa time’ when our bus arrived an hour late to take us across the border (where we waited in lengthy queues and witnessed some blatant bribery) into Tanzania.</p>
<p>We set off from the hectic Moshi bus station the next day to Usangi for our acclimatisation trek. The journey took us up winding mountain roads into the lush green Pare Mountains, where we set up camp at Lomwe Secondary school. Our days were spent hiking the steep hills, chatting to the school-children, learning to use a machete, bandage blisters and cook with Mama. However, angry dogs prowling the grounds at night and blocked toilets made it hard at times. We took the ‘reggae bus’ back to Moshi and stayed with Methley, our Tanzanian guide, at his campsite (more poultry). We also went to Machame to plant trees with the help of local women in Kilimanjaro National Park. We planted over 300 trees!</p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/World-Challenge2011.gif" /></p>
<p>The next phase of the trip was the most daunting and exciting one- the main trek up Mt Kilimanjaro. Our practise trek in Epping Forest was no comparison. The demanding ascent was like walking through all four seasons: first damp rainforest, then hot and dry woodland, through to cold alpine desert and lastly, the ice-cap. We woke at midnight to attempt the summit. Battling cold, exhaustion, lack of oxygen and an assortment of ailments, we finally reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) delirious and relieved. The glacial, rocky surroundings and the crater were impressive although the ‘view’ we were promised at the top was annoyingly shielded by a heavy fog. Our porters and guide Whitey were fantastic; really funny and supportive.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/30315560?title=0&amp;byline=0&amp;portrait=0" frameborder="0" width="440" height="248"></iframe></p>
<p>Our next project was Oldonyo Sambu primary school. As well as cementing, plastering, sanding, scraping and painting the school building, we became close with the school-children and teachers. We played a football match against them (and lost 2-0) and they taught us some Swahili. Sadly, the expansive plains surrounding the school were arid and affected by drought and the water source was unhygienic; experiencing these hardships made us realise the daily struggles of the locals. The generosity of the Tanzanians despite their lack of resources left a deep impression on us all, especially when they thanked us for our work with bracelets, clothing and a Maasai dance.</p>
<p>Finally we drove to the coast for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. Peponi beach resort was a paradise: the turquoise sea, unspoilt beach and abundant flora were beautiful. And they had proper beds! One day we took the dhow out to a sand island for lunch and spent the afternoon snorkelling. We would sunbathe by the pool, laze around in the hammocks and have a delicious dinner in the evenings. We were sad that our trip was coming to an end, and after we got back to Moshi we celebrated with a group dinner.</p>
<p>On the last night back in Kenya, at the same camp where we had spent our first, we reflected on how much we had learnt and experienced over the past month. It was a truly inspiring and challenging trip; we would like to say ‘asante sana’ to Dave, Mr Keeler and Miss Sweeney for sharing their summer with us.</p>
<p>Amy, Year 13</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/tanzania-2011</guid></item><item><title>Barbados Tour 2011</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/barbados-tour-2011</link><pubDate>Mon, 10 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Niall Hunter</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>The&nbsp; sports tour to Barbados in the summer was a great experience; not only did it help me to improve as a sportswoman but it also gave me the opportunity to visit a beautiful part of the world which I would have most likely never seen. </p>
<p>The blistering heat, which makes this warm spell we are currently having look like Christmas in the Alps, did not hinder our determination and our sporting abilities as we continued to achieve great success throughout our stay, winning a large percentage of our matches in both hockey and netball (bear in mind we played one of the best netball teams in Barbados and still lived to tell the tale). </p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Barbados-2011.gif" /></p>
<p>Activities didn’t only consist of sports however; our afternoons and evenings were packed with a range of memorable experiences, from catamaran cruises where we snorkelled with turtles to watching the famous Bajan ‘Rhythm and Roots’ show which was accompanied by the island’s ...dishes. The trip allowed us to really experience the culture first hand where we were also able to talk to some local children in between matches. </p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.shhs.gdst.net/Websites/shhs/images/Barbados-2.gif" /></p>
<p>During the trip I was able to socialise with girls in my year but on top of that, girls in the years above and below and therefore the gap between years was broken and it allowed me to form friendships that would have otherwise not have existed. Moreover, the trip gave us all time to bid farewell to one of the best sports coaches I have ever had – Mrs. Brennan – who left the school soon after. </p>
<p>I think I can say with great confidence that all of us had an amazing time in Barbados and it was 10 days that we will definitely never forget.</p>
Rebecca]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/barbados-tour-2011</guid></item><item><title>Excellent 2011 GCSE Results</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/excellent-2011-gcse-results</link><pubDate>Thu, 25 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Stacy Street</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>South Hampstead High School posted another year of excellent GCSE results with 60% of pupils achieving A* and 91% achieving A*-A grades.</p>
<p>“We are proud of our girls,” said Jenny Stephen, Headmistress. “As a school, we provide the opportunity and support but it’s the girls that work hard and get the results.”</p>
<p>Over 20% of students earned a full house of 10 or more A*s and a number of girls received full marks in subjects including music, maths, geography, chemistry and history.</p>
<p>&nbsp;“When you look at what our girls are involved with outside of the classroom, the results are even more impressive,” said Mrs Stephen. “Our girls balance examinations with a wide range of extra-curricular activities. One of our musicians who has competed in a number of competitions in the UK and abroad this year received 10 A*s. A number of girls are actively involved in World Challenge and the entire year group worked hard over the past year to help the school raise almost £40k for the Because I Am A Girl campaign.”</p>
<p>Not deterred by the rain, a number of pupils planned to celebrate together at the Reading Festival.</p>
<p>The news follows the outstanding 2011 A Level results with 42% of pupils achieving A*, 83% A- A* and 97% A-B grades.</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/excellent-2011-gcse-results</guid></item><item><title>Top A Level Results for 2011</title><link>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/top-a-level-results-for-20111</link><pubDate>Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>Stacy Street</dc:creator><description><![CDATA[<p>South Hampstead High School Sixth Formers are celebrating the school’s highest A Level results on record. Forty-two percent of results achieved A*, 83% A–A* and 97% B - A* grades.</p>
<p>“We are delighted with this year’s results,” said Jenny Stephen, Headmistress. “Our girls have excelled in a diverse range of subjects which is a true reflection of the individuality and excellence at South Hampstead.”</p>
<p>Results for 2011 are the highest on record for the school and all pupils got into a university of their choice.</p>
<p>Thirty-five percent of students will continue their education at Oxbridge.</p>
<p>“Our girls have worked hard and deserve to celebrate their accomplishments,” said Mrs Stephen. “This year’s results are outstanding, but I believe the true measure of success for a school is the happiness of each individual.”</p>
<p>South Hampstead High School pupils were awarded A - A*s across all subjects from English Literature (100%) to Physics (90%) to Philosophy (100%), including 100% A - A* in eight subjects.</p>
<p>Eight pupils received four A*s, including:</p>
<ul>
    <li>Beatrice Cooke, who will apply to read History of Art;</li>
    <li>Anna Corby, who will read Medicine at Leeds University;</li>
    <li>Jasmine Finer, who will read Physics at Oxford University;</li>
    <li>Joanna Lau, who will read Natural Sciences at Cambridge University;</li>
    <li>Jaedi Lei, who will read Natural Sciences at Cambridge University;</li>
    <li>Emma Levinkind, who will read Geography at Oxford University;</li>
    <li>Roxanne Mehdyoun, who will read Economics at Cambridge University;</li>
    <li>Eva Sprecher, who will read Experimental Psychology at Oxford University.</li>
</ul>
<p>These results further support the view that girls thrive in core maths and science subjects in an all-girl environment.</p>]]></description><guid>http://www.shhs.gdst.net/top-a-level-results-for-20111</guid></item></channel></rss>
