FAB Book Awards

Some of our keenest readers attended the Wandsworth Schools’ FAB Book Awards early in April. They were able to meet authors Bea Fitzgerald (‘Girl, Goddess, Queen’), Frances Hardinge (‘Unraveller’) and Elle McNicoll (‘Keedie’) and hear from them about their books and writing process.

“An experience of a lifetime, getting a one-on-one conversation with an author like Elle McNicoll.” Jewel O (Year 7)

“I’ve really admired Elle McNicoll’s work for a long time, so being able to meet her was fantastic. It was really nice to hear from the authors about their methods and inspiration for writing and I think Bea Fitzgerald really deserved her award! “ Joanna C (Year 9)

“This was such a fun experience, meeting the authors after reading their books. I’m glad I was a part of FAB this year.” Titus A (Year 8)

Brighter Sounds at the Royal Albert Hall

We are incredibly proud of the 140 pupils and students from Saint Cecilia’s Musical Theatre Club, Concert Band and Choir who took part in this week’s concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Our school had the honour of leading the ‘West Side Story’ collaboration, and every player and singer rose to the challenge, delivering a spectacular performance of this demanding music. The Choir also shone in their breath-taking renditions of ‘O Fortuna’, ‘Sway’, ‘Lullabye’ and a Beatles medley, performed alongside other secondary schools. Click on the links to view the magical performances: ‘Tonight’, ‘Somewhere’ and ‘America’.

The Wonders of The Spring Concert

Before the Easter holidays we held our Spring Concert; a superb evening of outstandingly high quality performances from all the soloists, duets, groups and our larger ensembles. Thank you to all the pupils and students involved, the Friends for organising refreshments and to the parents and families who came along to support. The small selection of photos below (taken by Grace E Year 13) reflect the vibrancy and energy of the evening.

Student Wins Prize in Prestigious King’s College London Writing Contest

A huge congratulations to A Level student Bethan B, who impressed judges in the annual writing competition hosted by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures at King’s College London! Challenged to explore the theme of food and migration, Bethan took a bold and creative approach with her imaginative article, ‘What If Christopher Columbus Had Been a Woman?’  Her thought-provoking take on historical revisionism stood, earning her an impressive second place.

Bethan’s achievement was recognized with a £50 voucher and the publication of her article in ‘Jargon – Comparative Literature’, a platform celebrating creative and academic writing. She also attended a special workshop and prize-giving event at King’s College. Her success highlights the power of originality and critical thinking.

Year 8 Get a Taste of University Life at Roehampton

Year 8 pupils got a glimpse of student life during a fun-filled visit to Roehampton University. From budgeting and choosing accommodation to tackling the challenge of making a bed, they explored what it takes to live independently in activities based on ‘A day in the life of a student’. After a campus tour, they quizzed Roehampton’s Student Ambassadors and wrapped up the day by pitching their own creative university designs. A fantastic introduction to higher education!

Artist of the Week - Hannah H

This beautiful submission for the Royal Academy Children's Summer Exhibition was painted by Hannah H in Year 9. She has drawn from one of her own photographs of a seaside town, showing not only a photographic likeness, but a real sense of atmosphere. Small brushstrokes show the movement of waves and shimmering light, with a strong light and dark contrast that creates a calming effect. Well done Hannah for this extremely skilled piece and good luck in the competition!