WHILE most students enjoy an hour of calm and coffee at lunchtime, at Lady Lumley’s sixth form we’ve completely turned the tables.

On the last Friday of every month all the students get the chance to both watch and participate in an Open Mic, organised by the students themselves.

Whether slightly tone deaf or a star in the making, everyone can get involved. In fact, the event has proved so popular that there’s rarely ever an empty seat in the sixth form common room.

The Open Mic is an example of the diverse range of student opportunities that extend beyond the classroom walls.

On the one hand, the organisers are able to develop their skills of leadership and organisation as they take on the managerial roles.

While on the other hand, the performers themselves can grow their confidence in an environment that is both supportive and enriching.

Year 12 student Oliver Burton, one the organisers and band member, said: “It’s a pleasure to be a part of uncovering the sixth form’s hidden talents and it’s even better seeing our hard work turn into showcases of not only musical diversity but also student companionship.”

Singer-songwriter Issy Zarb said: “Performing in the sixth form common room is a brilliant opportunity for me to develop my performance skills.

“It’s also a really enjoyable way to spend lunchtime.”

Of course, it is with the full backing from teachers that students have taken what started as an idea and brought it to life.

Clive Wass, head of music at Lady Lumley’s School, said: “It’s wonderful to witness the students initiate such team work and enthusiasm to create something fantastic. It really shines a light on what Lady Lumley’s is – a diverse, creative and supportive environment.”

Although it’s currently uncertain as to when Simon Cowell will be stopping off to get his own taste of the sixth form’s talent, the common room venue isn’t looking to close its doors anytime soon.

All-in-all the school continues to prove what the combination of inspiration, teamwork and determination can achieve.

Report by Anna Ward-Gow

 

Question time: Our team asked fellow pupils for their view on enrichment opportunities outside the classroom. Every Wednesday afternoon the sixth formers have the opportunity to be involved in diverse enrichment opportunities.

Molly Northcote: “Enrichment gives me the opportunity to use my time wisely; I’m able to consolidate the knowledge I have gained in class time. Our modern, spacious library is the perfect environment to do this in.”

Camilla Moody: “Enrichment provides the essential time for me to do my art coursework – something that is pivotal for my A-level grade. I can focus extra time on chosen subjects to maximise getting a good grade.”

Tom Wrench: “Enrichment gives me the chance to do something different with my time. It enables me to experiment with something I wouldn’t usually do and explore my strengths and weaknesses; working out in the school gym certainly does just that.”

Leo Rowell: “The Duke of Edinburgh award lets me set myself new goals and enables me to collaborate well in groups – a perfect opportunity to improve my confidence. Outdoor experiences include the chance to trek through the Himalayas with World Challenge this summer.”

Jess Hebron: “Enrichment has allowed me to do work experience at an elderly people’s home, giving me the opportunity to build my communication skills and develop empathy. I have also been provided with mock interviews ready for my interview at medical school.”

 

An interview with Mr James Ambrose, head of sixth form
by Tom Wrench

Q: Why did you decide to go into the teaching profession?

A: I had worked in industry for a few years, but didn’t feel enthused by the work. After a period of reflection, I decided to spend some holidays working in my local primary and secondary schools to gain some classroom experience as I felt that my skill set was better suited to this. I never looked back.

Q: What was it about biology that made you want to study it at university?

A: Even as a child, I was fascinated by the diversity of life and took a great interest in natural history programmes.

Living in a rural area, I felt in touch with nature and was fascinated by the interaction between animals and plants.

Q: What do you enjoy most about the Sixth Form at Lady Lumley’s?

A: I enjoy working with young adults on a day-to-day basis and helping them on both an academic and personal level. Every day is different and provides different challenges. Being part of such a dynamic sixth form is very satisfying.

Q: What hobbies do you pursue in your free time?

A: I love spending time with my family – my wife, Clare, and young children, Harriet and Charlie. I also enjoy mountain biking, cooking and entertaining friends and family.

Q: If you weren’t in the teaching profession, what would you be doing?

A: I would possibly be running my own business; probably something to do with antiques.

Q: Who inspires you?

A: I am inspired by so many people around me – professional colleagues, family members and students.

Q: What is your favourite TV Programme?

A: I don’t watch much TV, but loved Band of Brothers. It encapsulates the incredibly powerful and upsetting fact that young men from around the world fought in foreign lands and never came home. But for 50 years, that could have been me and my friends.

Q: What is your favourite food?

A: I love my wife’s home-made curry on a Friday night.

Q: What is your favourite album?

A: Radiohead’s OK Computer and any of the early stuff by The Black Keys.

Q: How would you sum up Lady Lumley’s School?

A: A very caring learning environment where every student and member of staff is valued for who they are and every achievement is valued in its own right.