Blog week ending 15th October
This evening, WGSB will welcome students, families and guests to our annual Academic Awards Evening. The occasion provides an opportunity to celebrate not only academic excellence, but also the character, commitment and sense of belonging that underpin life at our school. Through awards recognising achievement, personal development and contribution to the wider community, we celebrate the many ways our students enrich WGSB and support one another to succeed. We look forward to sharing photographs and highlights from the evening in our next blog.
Students and staff recently shared a glimpse of their summer adventures through WGSB’s Holiday Photography Exhibition. Featuring everything from striking architecture and spectacular sunsets to beloved pets and coastal landscapes, the exhibition showcased a wide range of accomplished photography. Displayed in the lunch hall for all to enjoy, the images captured the experiences, interests and passions that enrich life beyond the classroom, celebrating the diverse perspectives and talents that contribute to our vibrant school community.
Below a (very small!) selection of the amazing pieces on show!
There was plenty of energy and enthusiasm in Mrs Valbuena Castillo’s Year 7 French lesson as students developed their speaking and listening skills through a series of interactive activities. Exploring the question Comment est ta personnalité? students confidently identified and used a range of vocabulary to describe different personality traits, demonstrating confidence and a growing love of languages.
That enthusiasm extended beyond the classroom as students recently celebrated European Day of Languages through the highly enjoyable European Passports Adventure. Armed with personalised passports, students gathered as many ‘stamps’ as possible by solving puzzles and completing challenges across the school, earning valuable House points along the way. From finding a Maths teacher who could say ‘good night’ in Italian, to asking the librarian to recommend a book by a European author, the treasure trail encouraged students to discover the many ways languages and cultures connect with everyday life. The completed passports, proudly displayed by students at the end of the challenge, were a testament to their enthusiasm and sense of adventure.
PE Department match update. Just a quick note to say thank you to all those who came along to support the Year 9 rugby team last Friday. Having staff there really meant a lot to the boys and helped make it a special occasion.
What a game it was! The boys came out on top 36-29 in a real thriller against a strong touring side from Cork. It was an excellent match to watch and a great showcase for sport at WGSB. The way the students conducted themselves throughout the evening was outstanding. They were respectful, humble and represented the school brilliantly both on and off the pitch.
Fixture Results – congratulations to all WGSB sportsmen, for what has been a busy season of fixtures so far this term!
Football
Year 7 Kent Cup R1 – 1-2 defeat to Ravenswood
Year 8 Kent Cup R1 – 4-1 win vs St Paul’s
Year 8 Kent Cup R2 – 3-2 win vs Ravenswood
Year 8 National Cup R2 – 1-0 win vs King John (Essex)
Year 8 National Cup R3 – 5-2 win vs School of Science and Tech (Maidstone)
Year 9 Kent Cup R2 – 10-0 win vs Bonus Pastor
Year 11 Kent Cup R1 – 3-2 defeat to Ravenswood
Year 11 vs 1st XI Friendly – 5-5 draw
1st XI League – 3-3 vs Gravesend Grammar
1st XI League – 3-1 win vs Bexley Grammar
1st XI League – 3-1 win vs Hayes
Rugby
Year 8 Friendly – 65-25 win vs Gravesend Grammar
Year 8 Friendly – 35-30 win vs Bennett Memorial
Year 8 North Kent Cup – 55-5 win vs Bexley Grammar
Year 9 Friendly – 17-22 defeat to Gravesend Grammar
Year 9 Kent Cup R2 – 78-0 win vs Hayes
Year 9 Kent Cup QF – 29-36 defeat to Bennett Memorial
Year 9 Friendly – 36-29 win vs Cork touring side
Year 10 Kent Cup R1 – 29-26 win vs Chatham & Clarendon Grammar School
1st XV League – 0-40 defeat to BETHS
1st XV Friendly – 0-40 defeat vs Roebucks Academy
The Year 7 Saturday Sports Programme has been a hugely enjoyable and positive experience, with new students readily working together, learning new skills, honing existing ones and building friendships and camaraderie with their peers. “It has been a joy to be part of, working with students as they grow in confidence, challenge themselves, try new experiences and develop strong bonds with their peers,” said Head of PE Mr Lynch.
The programme concluded with a fitting finale: an inter-House Rugby Tournament. Every student played with spirit, determination and skill, making for a series of exciting matches enjoyed by players and spectators alike. Special congratulations go to Keller House, worthy winners of the tournament.
On behalf of Mr Lynch and us all .. a sincere ‘thank you’ to all staff, families and our wonderful PTA who gave up their time to support our students, all contributed to the uplifting nature of the programme!
Students from Years 9 and 10 took part in a Holocaust Education Trust workshop, designed to deepen their understanding of one of history’s most significant and challenging periods. Through expert-led sessions, students explored the experiences of those affected by the Holocaust, reflecting on the importance of remembrance, tolerance and respect. As part of the programme, students also used virtual reality headsets to take immersive tours of key historic sites, helping to bring their learning to life and deepen their understanding of the human stories behind the events studied. The workshop prompted thoughtful discussion and mature reflection on themes that remain highly relevant today.
Mrs Morrison’s Year 10 GCSE Biology students recently undertook heart dissections as part of their current topic on the circulatory system. The practical activity enabled them to correctly identify key features of the heart and gain a deeper understanding of how its structure supports its essential role within the circulatory system.
Miss O’Dwyer’s Year 11 Maths students demonstrated an impressive level of confidence and understanding while studying algebraic fractions. Students were able to explain their methods, complete calculations accurately and justify their reasoning when questioned, showcasing the depth of knowledge and mathematical fluency they have developed as they prepare for their GCSE examinations.
Congratulations to our WG6 mathematicians who recently took part in the national Mathematical Competition for Girls designed to challenge and inspire young female mathematicians. Competing against students from across the country, they represented the school superbly and achieved some excellent results. Special mentions for Paige H (Y12) and Emily S (Y13) who both achieved merits and the best in their year groups. From the Junior Mathematical Challenge through to the Intermediate and Senior Challenges, students across the school enthusiastically participate in a range of UK Mathematics Trust competitions with the WG6 cohort recently sitting the Senior Maths Challenge – results pending.
Beyond the classroom, our Head of Mathematics, Miss O’Dwyer is currently training for London Marathon in support of The National Autistic Society. We wish her every success with both the challenge and her fundraising efforts. To read more about her story and support her fundraising page please click here
Our students (and staff) never cease to impress us with their concern for others and their determination to make a difference. The following fundraising initiatives demonstrate not only generosity of spirit, but also an understanding of the role each of us can play in supporting those facing challenges in our communities and beyond.
Year 13 student Talin W has provided the below feature to document his work on behalf of a charitable enterprise that aims to raise awareness and valuable funds for men’s health issues.
More Than a Moustache: My Movember Journey
This November, I am taking part in Movember, a global movement that raises awareness and funds for men’s health. By growing a moustache (and a goatee) and encouraging donations, I hope to support an important cause and help start conversations about issues that often go undiscussed.
Men’s health covers a range of important issues, including mental health, suicide prevention, and awareness of prostate and testicular cancer. These topics affect people and families across the country, yet many men still feel uncomfortable speaking openly about their struggles or seeking support when they need it.
The scale of this challenge is significant. Thousands of men in the UK lose their lives to suicide each year, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Campaigns such as Movember encourage people to talk openly, support one another, and access help when needed.
This is where Movember comes in. By growing a moustache or taking on a personal challenge, participants show their support for men’s health and help raise valuable funds for research, support services, and awareness campaigns.
As part of my own Movember campaign, I will be growing a moustache and goatee while also running 80 kilometres throughout November. This is the equivalent of almost two marathons and will be a considerable challenge, but one that I am proud to undertake in support of such an important cause.
If you would like to get involved, there are many ways to support the movement, whether through a donation, taking on your own fundraising challenge, or simply helping to raise awareness. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference.
If you would like to support my campaign, donations can be made by clicking here to visit my Movember page.
Movember is about much more than growing a moustache. It is about raising awareness, supporting those who may be struggling, and helping to improve men’s health around the world. Any support for the campaign is greatly appreciated.
Harrison and Rob of 7B together with friends and fellow Scouts, Neo , Hari, and Kaya took part in the Big Sleep Out for local charity Porchlight … by sleeping out in a cardboard home of their (very specific!) design! They were determined to both raise awareness and funds for their chosen charity .. and didn’t let a little bit of rain dampen their enthusiasm to help. Porchlight offers tangible support to help people break the cycle of homelessness – whilst tackling the causes and consequences of poverty and inequality. Harrison and Rob’s Eynsford & Farningham Scout Troop have already raised a very impressive £1,600 – if you would like to make a small donation please click here to visit their fundraising page
Sam S of Year 10 was recently awarded his Chief Scout’s Gold Award, which is the highest award available within the Scout section. It is earned through consistent participation in weekly sessions, completion of a range of challenge awards, and additional activity badges. Sam was presented with his award by the Worshipful the Mayor of Dartford at the Civic Offices. We are all extremely proud of Sam and would like to congratulate him on this prestigious award – a significant achievement indeed.
Upcoming PTA Events. Pizza Making Workshop – Tuesday 20th October, 6:00–8:00pm. Join us for an evening at Enzo’s Pizzeria in Sidcup, where the boys make their own pizzas from scratch while you sit back with a drink, or roll up your sleeves and join in the fun. It’s also a great chance to meet other WGSB parents. Tickets are £15 for children (includes a free soft drink) and £20 for adults (includes a glass of prosecco). Spaces are limited and allocated first come, first served, so book now on iPay.
Krispy Kreme Doughnut & Samosa Sale – Friday 23rd October. Catch us at break times (10.00–10.25 and 10.50–11.15) for Krispy Kreme doughnuts and freshly made samosas, £1.50 each or £2.50 for two. Fancy stocking up? Pre-order a box of 12 doughnuts for £12, or a box of 6 samosas for £6, through iPay. Please note the doughnuts aren’t suitable for anyone with wheat, egg or milk allergies and please see the Krispy Kreme website for their full allergen list.
Christmas Puddings – Order by 20th November. Handmade by Freshfield Bakery in Knowsley and beautifully finished with the school crest, our Christmas puddings make a lovely addition to the table, or a gift for someone special. Choose from:
• The Ultimate Christmas Pudding (vegetarian, alcohol-free) – Small (serves 3–4) £9, or Large (serves 6–8) £14
• Sticky Toffee & Luscious Lemon – Small (serves 2–3) £9
Order via iPay and collect at the Christmas Fair on Saturday 28th November
Donations for Christmas Fair – Friday 27th November – am. We will be requesting donations from students to include bottles and chocolates for our tombola at the Christmas Fair.
Christmas Fair – Saturday 28th November, 11am–2pm. Join us at WGSB for a festive day of fun for all the family! Entry is £1 and includes a raffle ticket, plus there’ll be a tombola, food stalls, Christmas stalls with unique gifts and handmade treats, music, and fun and games for everyone. Everyone welcome!
Christmas Raffle – Draw at the Christmas Fair. Fancy more chances to win? Extra raffle tickets are £1 each, purchased on iPay, with prizes including Bluewater vouchers, hampers, dining vouchers and lots more. The draw takes place at the Christmas Fair on Saturday 28th November — good luck to everyone who enters!
We can’t wait to see you at these events — thank you as always for your generosity and support.
The WGSB PTA
Below, local events and opportunities that have been shared with us that we hope will be of interest.
RAF Manston History Museum has asked us to share their forthcoming event.
“We are reaching out because we have our Modelfest at the Museum event being held on the 24th and 25th October this year. This event is home to display of all kinds of models including trains, helicopters and tanks, from all different companies and brands.”
Kent Libraries are part of the Youth Engagement Network. The aim of the network is to develop youth led co-creation and engagement, working with young people aged 11–16. This is an opportunity for young people to shape library spaces and services. We are hoping to encourage participation by providing free refreshments at these drop-in sessions including pizza, soft drinks, or other freebies! We don’t have a defined outcome in mind, it could be about changing the young people’s area at Dartford Library to make it more appealing, it could be about choosing different books for young people, it could be about developing groups or activities for young people, it could be about how we communicate what the library can offer to young people. We have an open mind about how this work can develop and are committed to listening to and co-creating with young people.
As the first step in this project, we are hosting three drop in sessions at Dartford Library to engage directly with young people about what they would like to see from our libraries.
These sessions will take place at Dartford Library on:
Saturday 17 October, 11am to midday
Thursday 29 October, 4.30pm to 5.30pm
Ebbsfleet Young Design Group’s October half term programme.
I wanted to reach out to you about our Ebbsfleet Design Group programme for 16-25 year-olds local to Ebbsfleet (including those living in Dartford, Greenhithe, Swanscombe, Northfleet and Gravesend).
Led by architecture studio Flimsy Works (who also led last year’s programme), the Ebbsfleet Design Group 26/27 programme will work with the Design Group to continue designing and building new community resources for Ebbsfleet Garden City.
This will involve a series of practical, hands-on workshops alongside other opportunities for the Design Group to take their building work to local events in November, March, and June.
By joining the Design Group, students will:
- Learn new design and practical skills using recycled, natural, and locally sourced materials
- Take part in workshops with professional artists and designers who put sustainability at the heart of their practice
- Meet and collaborate with other young people interested in sustainable design and architecture
- Make real-world interventions in the new garden city in Ebbsfleet.
The link to sign up to the Design Group can be found here:
The full programme schedule is as follows:
October Workshops
Tuesday 27th October
Wednesday 28th October
Thursday 29th October
November’s Local Event:
Saturday 21st November
Forthcoming Dates:
Academic Awards Evening – 15 October 5.30pm tonight!
WGSB Open Morning – 20 October 9.30am-12noon (by appointment only)
WGSB Open Evening – 21 October – 4.30pm-7.30pm
PTA Doughnut & Samosa sale at break – 23 October
Last Day of Term 1 – 23 October
First Day of Term 2 – Thursday 5 November
Best wishes,
Stuart Harrington
Headteacher
