Embedded Files
Studying suggestions to become a successful student
Studying suggestions to become a successful student
by Catrin Edwards
As we all know, being a student is challenging, but trying to maintain motivation throughout the academic year is even harder. You have probably heard so many different ways about becoming studious and trying to obtain the best possible grades but, trust us, we have been there and are still going through it.
When tackling homework, exams, social life, and clubs, we know life can get stressful so here are a few tips that can hopefully help you as we welcome in the New Year.
As a student myself, I had found that one of the biggest problems for me was organisation. To tackle this, try to find a place in your home where you feel you are most effective.Finding a place where you are comfortable can be super helpful for you, whether it be a desk, the floor or your bed.
Secondly, try to organise your notes efficiently, you may think that it is boring at the time, but in the future you will thank yourself and it will help to reduce the workload. For example, you could organise your notes in colour-coded folders, keeping homework and other sheets in polly pockets, writing flash cards after school and sticking to a planner. This will be very beneficial to you come exam season. The amount of worksheets that I lost during my GCSEs is unbelievable and I wish I organised my notes better. Therefore, by being proactive now with organising your notes, you will be able to see a giant step in your progression.
One major tip that should be recognised when starting to revise, is ensuring that you have a positive mindset. Trying to do your homework or revise all in one night? We know it's not easy to be constantly motivated, it's even harder when you think negatively about studying. Sure, it's definitely easier said than done, but try not to create battles with yourself and believe that studying is for your own benefit in the long run.
Studying is a habit rather than a chore. It may seem impossible, but rewarding yourself with a break after 20 minutes will help you to avoid burnout. Try to make it fun, do cue cards with your friends and family or make your favourite snack. Instead of cramming notes the night before, (hands up everyone, we've all done it), break up your revision over the week or read over what you’ve learnt that day.
It is, however, very important to remember that life isn't all about doing work, it's also about enjoying the little things, so make sure to have the right balance and the right work ethic.
As a summary here are some quick tips;
Organising notes - folders
Positive outlook
Creating a timetable
Making work a habit
Sporting Success at Stanwell
Sporting Success at Stanwell
by Nia Jones
Stanwell School displays an incredible degree of sporting talent from both team success to individual triumph. From school team wins, county success or international conquest, students here at Stanwell never fail to impress. Aptitude does not discriminate and the remarkable accomplishments of our very own students underpin this.
In this edition we aim to highlight the success of our students, and acknowledge the achievements being accomplished away from the school grounds. Here are just a few of the fantastic achievements of our students:
Saffron Taylor (Year 7) → Artistic Roller Skating roller cup champion of 2022.
Amelia Bouise (Year 10) → Selected for the artistic roller skating national finals competition and placed top 5 in the country.
Dan Powell (Year 10) → Sails Topper Boats for Wales, receiving 14th in a National Event!
Joe Evans (Year 10) → Competed in Budapest and Sofia in the GBR U17 fencing team and individual at just 14.
Heidi Stokes (Year 11) → Competed for Wales in ‘Double-mini trampoline’ (DMT) at the international challenge cup in Sheffield. She placed 3rd in Wales for DMT!
Dylan Davies (Year 11) → Selected for U16s Cardiff South rugby squad.
Josie Isherwood (Year 11) → Selected for U17 Welsh Netball and Celtic Dragons squad!
Tom Sheldon (Year 12) → Represented Wales in the European Surfing Championships in Portugal.
Ruby Hamed-Jones (Year 12) → Received her U16 Welsh Football Cap.
Catrin Edwards (Year 12) → Won her first tournament in Historical European Martial Arts specialising in Italian Longsword.
Elliot Van Steen and Harry Davies (Year 12) → Selected to play for Wales for Euro Hockey 5s in Switzerland.
Liam Brooks (Year 13) → Received his Level 1 Rugby Coaching award!
The overflow of talent in Stanwell means that inevitably some of your achievements may unfortunately have been missed. We are proud of each and every achievement and would love to hear about your successes, no matter how big or small.
This Google form will remain open for you to voice any accomplishment you are proud of.
A special mention to one of our past students Louie Gwatkin, for organising and hosting the Firefighters Cup. Hosted at Penarth RFC on the 22nd of December, Louie organised the game in aid of Velindre cancer support charity, a charity particularly close to his heart. Thank you to all our current and ex-Stanwell students for playing and/or donating to such a fantastic cause. Stanwell's support didn’t go unrecognised.
Higher Education;
Higher Education;
where’s next for you?
where’s next for you?
by Izzy Duffy
Finding a university that is best for you can be difficult. There are a lot of aspects to consider when choosing. The most important factor can be the courses; if they are right for you, if they have your specific subject or even where that course is.
For those struggling to find a course, some reliable websites that can help to find the course you wish to pursue is:
Everybody is able to access these websites, which inform you of the top universities for each subject. There are also many quizzes and questionnaires personally suited to your interests and how you can pursue them.
APPLYING
Another important thing to know is how to apply. A good way to apply to a university in the UK is through UCAS. UCAS is a useful website and has many parts to it; including a section for people who do not know what to study at university, a selection of courses and you can enter your A-Level options to see what course suits your abilities. However, bear in mind that when applying through UCAS, it costs up to £27 to apply to up to 5 universities.
LOCATION
The university's location is another major point to consider when choosing a course. Are you a city person or do you find peace in the countryside? This can affect the total amount you spend. You should always conduct research on the university's location and choose one which suits you the most. For example, if you want to attend a university in the city, you may choose one like the University of Manchester. However if you would rather attend a university located in the countryside, you may prefer one like Bath Spa University, which has a bus system transporting you between the University and the city centre of Bath. The location of the university can also affect the average amount you spend on everyday things. If located in a popular busy city, living costs are likely to be more than if you were located in the countryside. You should also consider how far the university is from your current home. This will affect the amount you spend on travel and how often you can come home in the holidays.
TRAVEL/TRANSPORT
Travel and transport are also dominant factors to research before deciding which university to go to. You should make sure that there is effective transport available into or around the area, so you can get there easily. A common option of transport among university students is owning a bike; you can get around as you please and it's a much cheaper alternative than owning a car. However, if you were to get a bike it is important to ensure you have a safe place to store it by purchasing a strong and secure lock, as bike theft is common in many UK cities.
FINANCE
Researching the general costs of the university area is very important, as it can hugely affect the way you want to live. For example, attending a university in a major city means you will be spending more money on general living costs. Consider making and planning a budget per month. Yet, most students are able to apply for a student loan, which would pay your university fees and living costs. This only needs to be paid back after you have graduated and are earning money from a job. Students who come from families with low incomes can apply for a student grant, meaning you do not have to pay the money back.
ACCOMMODATION
Student accommodation is managed by the university and is known as ‘halls of residence'. It is a good living option if you are considering going to a university away from home, as you are at the centre of student life and in the same area as everyone else like you. This also means that you can receive subsidised food, such as cafeteria meals included in your costs. Another popular option is renting out an apartment or house near the university with other students, whilst splitting the cost between you equally. This option would also give you time away from the busy jungle of a campus and could allow you to feel a part of a small community of like-minded people, as well as enjoying student life.
Brilliant Bronze Award
Brilliant Bronze Award
by Amara Neale
The Child Friendly Cities Initiative is an enterprise led by UNICEF, that awards cities for adhering to the rights of children at a local level by using the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child as its foundation. Cardiff is in the process of becoming the first UNICEF child-friendly city in the UK.
This means that not only must they comply with all 42 Children’s Rights, but they must also scrutinise how they are implementing and following the 42 Children's Rights articles. Consequently, an initiative has been set up in the UK, where schools can apply to be recognised as a Rights-respecting school.
Back in June, Stanwell was awarded the Bronze Rights Committed UNICEF Rights Respecting Schools Award! Here, I'll be looking at some of the 42 children’s rights where they have been implemented within the School successfully. Today, I’ll be looking at Article 31, what it means and how Stanwell has been awarded with this outstanding achievement.
Let’s have a look at Article 31 which is about leisure, play and culture. The definition of this article is that ‘every child has the right to relax, play and take part in a wide range of cultural and artistic activities.’ This means that, as a child/young person under the age of 18, you have the right to access activities you enjoy and that celebrate your identity. This includes participating in sports, the arts, languages and many other creative activities.
It is clearly evident that Stanwell has embarked on Article 31 and has made it accessible to all pupils from year 7 all the way to year 13. Also, there are a range of clubs and activities appealing to all interests. There is an endless list of activities, which include:
- Debate club
- Eco club
- Football
- Rugby
- Art club
- Orchestra
- Choir
To have a look at all 42 Children’s Rights, you can by looking at the display board next to the new sports hall and on the UNICEF website:
There are many reasons why it’s so important that young people and adults educate themselves on Children’s Rights. In recent years, more and more young people have become active in things such as politics and activism, and have made their voices heard to speak on issues. Many changes in society have a disproportionate impact on children and young people. These rights recognise this and ensure children and young people are especially catered for in all parts of society, as we are the future. Stanwell’s Rights-respecting award means our school recognises us as individuals and makes sure our well-being and education is in strict guidelines within these rights.
FILM REVIEWS:
FILM REVIEWS:
by Catrin Edwards
Surf's up
Surf's up
Film rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As more of a lighthearted film to watch whenever the weather, I recommend Surfs up.
It's about a penguin named Cody, who wishes he could become his surfing idol and compete in the nationals. The surfing in this film is beautiful and who would have thought a chicken could surf? It's also about never giving up on your dreams no matter what happens. The soundtrack is astonishing and the characters in it are loveable. The soundtrack includes absolute bangers from bands including Green Day. Not only is this film motivational, it also contains some great scenes of comedy and a little bit of romance. Overall, if you are looking for a comedic animation, then this is definitely the film for you. A great film to watch any night of the week.
AGE RATING: PG
Million Dollar Baby
Million Dollar Baby
Film rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Not only does this film have brilliant actors such as Clint Eastwood and Morgan Freeman but, this film is a story about determination and resilience.
The story revolves around a boxing trainer who takes a young girl under his wing, transforming her into a magnificent fighter. This film is very inspiring, yet very sad due to her struggles along the way. This film shows the magic of sacrificing everything for a dream that nobody sees except the dreamer. The cinematography, score and direction is amazing but it does not distract you from what the film actually entails. It is an example of self-improvement even if the protagonist might not have the ending you expect. Although it came out in 2005, it has aged like fine wine. Overall if you're looking for an emotional rollercoaster of a film this is definitely worth the watch if you have the time.
AGE RATING: PG-13
Extra curricular with Eleeza
Extra curricular with Eleeza
by Eleeza Khan
Ever wondered what happens after that much anticipated 2:55 school bell? Are you looking to add a little something to that dreaded personal statement to enhance your extracurricular paragraph? Fear not, you are in the right place. Extracurriculars with Eleeza is the perfect place for you. Here, you can learn about all the extracurricular activities Stanwell has to offer, from Hockey club to Debate club; Stanwell really does offer a lot.
Each edition, I will focus on around 2-3 after school clubs and will provide detail about what they entail. In this term's edition, I will be covering the Eco club, Debate club and the Charity committee.
So, Debate club, where to begin? Mr Oxenham’s famous Sixth Form Debate club is the place to be if you love a good discussion. These controversial yet organised and structured debates allow you to experience different viewpoints you may have never considered, as well as obtaining an idea of what debating in the outside world looks like. Everything from the lighthearted stuff, such as ketchup or mayonnaise to the more serious civil debates, such as ‘should Andrew Tate be allowed on social media’. Every argument is discussed with a mature understanding.
Although the Debate club may occasionally get a bit riled and over-excitable, it is a great space if you want to work on your public speaking, confidence and compassion for others. If so, debate is the perfect place for you. Every so often, the members are asked to step into the shoes of the opposing viewpoint, one you may not actually agree with. This allows the members to gain a better, deeper understanding of others and how they may think, as well as their justifications for things. Debate is a great place for future/aspiring lawyers, politicians, police officers, philosophers and a whole range more. If these careers do not interest you, there is still a place for you in Debate club, since there will definitely be a time in your life where you are faced with someone who has opposing views. The skills you can build up in Debate club are also applicable to almost any career, as they are very transferable.
If you are interested in joining Debate club, it takes place every Tuesday after school in the Year 12 study area from 3-3:30PM (it usually runs over)
Next up, the Charity committee. This is a great place for the philanthropists among us. Ever wondered who plans our annual Children in Need events or our Jeans for Genes day? Well, you're in the right place. The Charity committee allows you to do everything from plan our events, to even taking part in the cash collection. Members of the Charity committee are also given the chance to attend exclusive events, such as Vale Food Bank collection trips every Christmas. This trip allows you to go to the Vale Food Bank and personally donate all of the food that the Stanwell pupils donate.
As well as this, meeting workers at the Food Bank is a great opportunity to develop your personal skills, such as public speaking. If you even stay until year 13 you will have the opportunity to become leader of the committee and lead the discussions, as well as gaining the opportunity to communicate your ideas with the Senior staff team and Mr Watkins. As well as the annual charity events Stanwell holds, such as Wear Red for Velindre, the committee also has the opportunity to raise money for something they feel strongly about, like current affairs topics, such as the war in Ukraine or the floods in Pakistan. The committee is a great place for you to become more charitable, but it's also a great place for you if you like planning and organising events, since a large part of what we create is done by the students' hard work.
If you are interested in joining the Charity committee meetings take place in the year 13 study area every Wednesday from 3-3:30PM
Last, but certainly not least, the famous Eco club. Stanwell takes pride in being an Eco-friendly school, but acknowledges that there are still things we need to work on and improve. The school's Eco club is the perfect place for that. If you're inspired by Greta Thunberg or are eager to inform people about slowly reducing their carbon footprint, Eco club helps to educate all those looking to help the environment as best they can. Whether you are trying to learn about the environment or the role we can play or, even, how we can make Stanwell more Eco-friendly, this is the club for you.
However, many of the members will agree, although quite educational, Eco club is one of the loudest, enthusiastic and popular clubs in the school! Each week or every couple of weeks a new environmental issue is covered and it’s a great chance for everyone to pitch in their ideas. For example, just last term the members split into groups and each made a powerpoint on the different environmental issues that occur at Christmas. The aim was to see how we could try and be more Eco-friendly at Christmas. Some powerpoints included sustainable gift wrapping and real vs fake trees were created. This was then emailed to all teachers to put on the bulletin to show all students. This is just one out of countless examples of the students researching and educating themselves, as well as others issues surrounding Christmas.
It is an incredibly social place if you want to meet new people and make new friends; the whole club is very welcoming. Eco club allows you to also gain essential skills that can be applied to most career paths, such as IT skills, teamwork, brainstorming ideas and presenting your work to others.
If you now feel inspired to join Eco club, meetings take place in G34 led by Miss Thomas every Wednesday from 3-4PM
Book Review: Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
Book Review: Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
By Abdullah Al Zubaidi
I have recently decided to start reading Agatha Christie’s Poirot series and I started with the book, The Murder on the Orient Express. It is one of the best crime/mystery books I have read, due to the structure of the novel and the character development throughout the story.
Book Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I recommend this book to ages 14+, because it does contain difficult vocabulary. Yet, it is a very good book to help you use better language techniques and to develop your vocabulary. Furthermore, Agatha Christie is known for her renowned stories, so if any one of you is interested in gruesome murders with multiple plot twists, she is the right author for you.
Some people may struggle to finish some of her books, because there is nothing interesting or compelling enough to keep them turning the page. Do not fear, this book will keep you up at night trying to think of what will happen, urging you to finish it to find out whodunit.
It's like bingeing a tv show all in one night, but you’re actually just binge-reading, wrapped up in a blanket on your sofa, or even in your bed. Agatha Christie’s considerable talent can be found in this book, the emphasis placed on every small detail and its' importance to the conclusion. Your imagination and solving skills will be tested to see if you’re actually focusing on every word. If you don’t notice every small detail, Poirot will. He will explain how that detail links to the motive of each character, allowing readers to question whether it is them or her or him.
If you are eager to know the end of this book, then trust me, you will love all of Christie’s collection. This is by far the best novel to start with, introducing you to the insightful investigative techniques used by Poirot himself.
Teacher of the Term: Mr Flatley
Teacher of the Term: Mr Flatley
By Olivia Lyons
Mr Flatley is an incredibly busy man, from meeting with Year Tutors to discuss pupil issues, such as attendance and pastoral concerns. In addition, he writes references for students, teaches French and German 15 hours a week and leads sixth form opportunity programs to ensure sixth formers have the best Higher Education, Careers and Apprenticeships opportunities.
Working with young people, Mr Flatley says, is the best part of his job because of their creativity and interesting perspectives on any matter. As well, he enjoys making a difference in his work and finds his job incredibly rewarding, especially when he sees students achieve incredible achievements at GCSE and A-Level. It is also extremely satisfying for him to help and support pupils enter universities and watch them achieve their potential. Furthermore, watching the hard work and dedication from the teachers is something Mr Flatley values most here at Stanwell.
Yet, Mr Flatley would like to see a more united Sixth Form, with the two years working together as a community. He feels the year twelves would benefit from the year thirteens passing on their knowledge and experience. In his opinion, the best thing students can do for exam success is to follow the advice and guidance from their teachers, as well as using the VESPA model. It provides students with a structure for enhancing their study skills. This model focuses on 5 key elements to student success: Vision, Effort, Systems, Practice and Attitudes.
Even though Mr Flatley appreciates his role as Head of Sixth Form, it can be incredibly challenging! In particular, with ensuring all pupils meet the UCAS deadlines. Not working as much with the MFL department is a drawback too, when in the role as Head of Sixth Form, because Mr Flatley is a language enthusiast! He loves that when speaking a new language, one can become a new person and experience an entirely new world and he adores the way that knowing another language gives you access to another culture. Although, as English speakers, we don’t have much of an incentive to learn other languages, (because English is the global language), Mr Flatley sees learning languages as being all about enjoyment and enriching the mind.
In addition, Arabic would be the language Mr Flatley would most want to additionally speak, due to his desire to learn more about the Arab countries and their distinctive culture, which interests him. In the future Mr Flatley would like to visit Iran, due to its' rich culture and beautiful landscape. Interestingly, Mr Flatley would choose to be an elephant if he could be an animal, due to their wise and relaxed nature and their ‘cool trunk’!
In regards to food and drink, coffee is his preferred hot beverage and he relishes salt and vinegar Kettle chips, Choco Leibniz and his daughter's Cadbury Mini Animals.
Must Maths be Mandatory?
Must Maths be Mandatory?
By Olivia Goodman
You’ve all seen it. You’ve all probably groaned. Some can fathom the idea and others have just moaned. The dread. The anxiety and, well, you may question, why would somebody choose to do this? Simply, nobody exactly knows the reasons behind this proposition. So, shall we try to grapple with what the public think? Are you ready to find out?
Following his first speech of 2023, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak set out plans to make maths mandatory for children up until the age of 18. However, instead of just solely focusing on A-Levels in particular, alternative routes would be implemented in schools. The idea put forward by Mr Sunak would be to teach students maths skills, helping them to succeed in any industry when transitioning into a post-education world.
He stated that, “Right now, just half of 16-19 year olds study maths at all. Yet, in a world where data is everywhere and statistics underpin every job, our children’s jobs will require more analytical skills than ever before. And letting our children out into the world without those skills is letting our children down.”
However, what do students and teachers think about this praised, but problematic proposition? When speaking to two year 12 A-Level maths students, Mya Singh-Landa argued that she doesn't "believe that making it mandatory is a good thing, because it can cause a lot of stress for young individuals". She discussed the potential impacts surrounding this burgeoning burden, suggesting that mandatory maths lessons would put ‘‘unhealthy pressure on young developing minds'’.
This was closely echoed exactly by another year 12, who said "No, I don’t agree, because I feel it may disadvantage students getting into their chosen University, where maths might not be required". With an increased amount of concern, also comes a lot of confusion. As one source put it, "I also feel as though there hasn't been enough detail provided in his [Rishi Sunak] proposal". Clearly, those who have chosen to continue with maths, cannot celebrate or adhere to a compulsory concern.
Yet, luckily for those living on this side of the Bristol Channel, the idea would only affect students in England. So, Welsh students, you can now breathe.
Away from the political perimeter of SW1, much conversation and debate has arisen in the heart of where the topic lies; schools and sixth form. Some have argued the benefit, the negatives and others have questioned the logistics.
Sauntering into the much-loved History department, turn your head right to F27 and you will find the lovely Miss Clements. Teaching history, sociology and politics, Miss Clements said that making maths mandatory "would be positive for society going forward where, in most industries and creative ones too, elements of maths-based skills are now required". When discussing the details surrounding the concern, she conveyed that, "it should focus more on numeracy skills, instead of complex mathematical equations". Some may be surprised to hear that; in fact, might this be a positive step for the next generation?
Also, when talking about the strategy behind the proposal, some have questioned whether there would be enough funding, enough teachers and enough resources. One source hinted at the possibility of putting more money into GCSE maths, helping more students to pass. It was reported in the i newspaper that, 'in 2022, a third of students failed to achieve a standard pass grade of 4 in English and Maths’.
Although this is a concern to most, what is interesting to note is the reaction from maths teachers themselves. Taking a trip down memory lane, I spoke to my GCSE maths teacher, the wonderful Mr Mace. When discussing the matter, he said that "Globally, it sounds like an impressive idea, but realistically, it might place added pressure onto students, knocking their confidence in the process." He also added that, "I don't agree with making maths mandatory, because students already know what they want to do at this point". Discussing the impact on students, he said that, "already lots of students take maths" post-GCSE. Yet, for those who have struggled with maths, he argues that "it isn't good to force students to do something that they might fail". Closing the doors at G7, there is undoubtedly some apprehension. There is a mix of those in favour and others who completely oppose the idea.
A feeling of deja vu is certainly in the air. In 2011, the then-Prime Minister and Education Security, David Cameron and Michael Gove, commissioned a report prompting that all pupils in England should learn maths until the age of 18. This plan was abandoned. However, the incumbent Prime Minister seems intent on implementing this plan or, will his New Year's resolution cease to prevail, much like his predecessor's plans. They say that ‘dry January’ and ‘no chocolate January’ never passes that 31 day mark.
With maths, well, we will all have to wait and see.
What's New In Our Building?
What's New In Our Building?
by Alice Shields
As many already know, Stanwell school provides multiple facilities for pupils to use during their lessons and in extra curricular activities. There are numerous resources available to everyone, whether it be to do with sport, learning or mental health.
Before presenting to you the exciting extensions, some advice from me would be to ensure you remain aware of what is on offer to us so that you can simply take advantage of it! Discover as much as you can about yourself during your time in school; we’re young, resources are free and you can get your friends involved!
Recently, we have been lucky enough to have further equipment installed both inside and outside of the building. These will provide more opportunities to try activities you may not have considered before.
Read our first article for an update of what we’ve currently got going on inside of Stanwell's walls.
Our first corridor has had a makeover, presenting to pupils an array of new display boards. Next time you walk through, take a minute to look at what these signs have to say. For example, a list of the UN rights of the child and a chart which reflects the curriculum at Stanwell, gives students a healthy reminder of what the school truly embodies. It also helps to inform you about important and relevant facts that will help you, not just in school, but transfer into post-school life.
Moreover, the corridor also showcases Stanwell’s pupils, echoing a taste of what we achieve during our learning here. It outlines the shared vision and aspiration that our school has for its' pupils in our curriculum. These posters have been installed not only to provide an example to our visitors of what we do here in Stanwell, but also as an inspirational reminder to Stanwell pupils of what we can become before leaving education.
Stanwell school now also has a climbing wall installed! It is located in the new sports hall and can be used during PE or extra curricular activities. This is a brilliant opportunity for pupils to try something new that you may not have experienced before. Archery equipment for assisted PE lessons has also been purchased; again a chance to try an interesting activity. In the new sports hall, there are also now numerous new table tennis tables replacing our older ones. I personally love table tennis and if you do too, come along to the after school table tennis club to test our new tables!
Keep up with Stanwell’s newspaper The Archer Eye for updates of what’s new and our next edition 'What’s new outside of the building!'
Legally Blonde is back!
Legally Blonde is back!
And this time it’s getting “Serious”!
And this time it’s getting “Serious”!
by Eve Webster
After multiple cancellations and postponements, the doors at Stanwell School had finally reopened, in the run-up to the holidays for a showcase of another celebrated Stanwell senior production. This year, the students and teachers were proud to present Legally Blonde: the Musical! As this was the first senior production since COVID-19, I felt it was only fitting that I explored behind the scenes and what truly makes Stanwell productions so memorable.
Photo: @StanwellSchool on Twitter
Needless to say, Legally Blonde was another success for Stanwell and everyone involved deserves the biggest applause for their dedication and resilience throughout. The work put in by all the cast and crew, particularly the teachers and year 13s, was incredible. The show has had nothing but positive reviews, with audience members describing it as “really entertaining” and detailing how excited they are for more shows in the future. I think it’s safe to say that this year will be the year that Stanwell shows make their comeback, and Legally Blonde has really set a precedent for that.
In an attempt to immerse myself behind the scenes of a Stanwell production, I signed up to be a member of the stage crew and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! If you are someone who feels less than comfortable standing under those beaming stage lights, (I'm right there with you), I would seriously recommend joining stage crew. It's the perfect way to get involved, dance along to some show tunes, and have a whole load of fun without ever being in the spotlight. A word of warning, though, it's not all fun and games. Missing props will become the bane of your existence, (wherever those disappearing red bull cans went, no one will ever know!), and there’s no way of anticipating the pranks the rival stage side will pull, (glitter was involved). However, the fun I had will certainly be memories that stick with me. Despite the feud between Stage Left and Stage Right, we were all able to bond as a quiet community steering the show from the sidelines. Plus… everyone knows that Stage Left is infinitely better!
It seems that pranking was not restricted to just between the stage crew. The orchestra found themselves feeling rebellious too, geared up on the sugar highs from their personalised Quality Street and armed with too many egg shakers to count. Sadly, Mr Alcalado’s fight for “proper percussion” was a battle fought and lost, and the egg shakers will continue to rule. A special shout out must go to all of the teachers in the orchestra for aiding and abetting the students in their shenanigans, as well as to Mr West for his “incredible outfits''.
Now, let us not forget the true stars of the show; the actors. Your singing, dancing, and comedic timing was unmatched and without your enthusiasm, I wouldn’t be singing your praises now. Yes, you may be the ones who get the applause on the night of the show, but it’s an applause well-deserved. Likewise, the principals, (you need not be reminded), were amazing and, despite some bumps in the road, you all showed a real passion for what you were doing, and that was really reflected in your performance. I had the opportunity to ask some of the performers what their highlights of the show were, with one prevailing answer: “the final bows”. It’s been described as “the moment where each cast and crew member came together to appreciate the arts”, as well as having a clear feeling of “love for each other in the air that night”. Seeing as the majority of the principal cast was made up of year 12s and 13s, it really felt as if the year 13s were passing on the baton to the year 12s, as they soaked up their final night on stage at Stanwell School. Here at The Archer Eye we wish those year 12s the best of luck as they now carry on the legacy of Stanwell Productions!
Even though I have a bias towards stage crew members, I still don’t think I could pick out the most important group or those who carried the show. If it was anyone, it would be the teachers, for all their patience and ability to direct a bunch of teenagers, (which I’m sure is like herding cats!). What I think truly makes a Stanwell Production work so well is the connection between all the areas involved. The flow between the actors, the stage crew and the orchestra, is what allows the audience to enjoy the night just as much as the performers. It’s like no other experience; everyone working together towards the same goal. Becoming a part of a Stanwell Production is something that I highly recommend, whatever area it may be, so don’t miss out this summer when the Junior show comes around!
Crossword:
Crossword:
by Beth Lannon
The creative reporter Beth has made her own crossword for you to conquer. If you are able to complete this creation, don't forget to check the answers right at the bottom of this section. Wait! Stop it! We know you might be tempted. Don't scroll down yet for a cheeky glance at the answers, give it a go and good luck.
Answers to the crossword:
Answers to the crossword:
How did it go? Did you manage to get it all right?
2 is clouds
4 is lily
6 is grass
8 is cave
11 is seagull
1 is forest
3 is soil
5 is tree
7 is river
9 is mountain
10 is cliff
-The Archer Eye-
Est. 2022
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