Friday 17 May 2024

Mental Health Week

One of the most important things we can do to help protect our mental health is regular movement. Our bodies and our minds are connected. Looking after ourselves physically also helps us prevent problems with our mental health. (Mental Health Foundation) 

This week AHS has been marking Mental Health Awareness Week.  Green was the theme and the focus this year was Moving More for our Mental Health.

Abi and Simrah, two of our Wellbeing Ambassadors, recorded an assembly and students and staff incorporated something green in what they were wearing. 

Shalani, the Wellbeing Rep for 9M, set up a stall selling edible treats to raise money and Olivia ran a stress awareness workshop.  All proceeds are being donated to the Mental Health Foundation. 

Wellbeing reps in each form encouraged their forms to move more, drawing inspiration from playing check in Bingo and following a movement calendar.  It was a great opportunity to support this cause and be able to learn more about how we can all take care of ourselves and others through small tasks we can do everyday.

Thank you to all our amazing Wellbeing Reps and Wellbeing Ambassadors for all their hard work this week, leading and encouraging everyone to find moments to move. 

Mrs Westcott

Bronze DofE First Aid and Expedition Training 

142 Year 10 students have completed their DofE Bronze Training. They have covered first aid, basic campcraft, navigation and route planning.  All groups have planned routes as hard copies, electronic copies and route cards; they have a sound foundation of expedition skills and are prepared for their Assessments in June.

Thanks to the volunteers who support DofE, AHS staff and our DofE Ambassadors, and to Expeditions Wales, our approved provider. 

The Aurora captured during our overnight camp last weekend

Ms Sowah

Greenpower at Lotus Hethel 12 May 2024

On Sunday, six students along with their parents and myself had a very early start to get to the Lotus test track near Norwich for a day of car racing.  This was my first event but fortunately most of the team were old hands and completely took over running the day.  The car passed a very rigorous safety check then it was on to practice laps on the track.  After fitting fresh batteries, we were ready for the first race.  This involved completing as many 2.2 mile circuits as possible in ninety minutes, with at least three drivers over the race.  This meant two pit stops for driver changes.  Along with the person driving, there was a pit manager and a team member responsible for escorting the car safely through the pit.  Our two first timer drivers took part in this race and showed great promise for future events.  After lunch and another battery change, we were ready for the second race with the same format.  At the time of writing the results have not been released but the car and all the team did incredibly well on a very hot day. 

We are always open to new members and meet Tuesday lunchtimes in the workshops.  Our next event is on the 2nd June in Wiltshire. The team is entirely funded by sponsorship. If anyone knows of companies that might be interested in helping, do please let me know.  We can add sponsor details to the car and this is a great way of encouraging students to get involved in STEM subjects. 

Student present: Ayla, Sofia, Lucy, Zakeyah, Prarthana, Devika, Evie 

Mr Sparkes - gsparkes@ahs.bucks.sch.uk