G-Mag

G-Mag Welcome Meeting!

2010-09-09T22:16:00.001+01:00

Thanks to everyone who volunteered to be part of the team! We will be holding a welcome meeting on Tuesday 14th September at 3.30pm - please meet in main reception and bring along your ideas!

Look forward to seeing you!

2010-07-25T14:48:00.001+01:00

From the entire team at G-Mag, we hope that you all have a fantastic summer holiday!

Summer Holidays

2010-07-16T20:47:00.000+01:00

End of School Year

The Summer Holidays are almost here and everyone’s looking forward to them. School finishes at 12.30pm on Thursday 22 July. During period 3, there will be a leaving assembly . We will be saying goodbye to:

Mrs Eagle
Mrs Fleet
Mr Pocock
Mr Lay
Mr Maslen
Mrs Burke
Miss Clements
Ms Carpenter (TA)
Miss Spalding (TA)
Ms Bennet – who is having a gap year.

Everyone will miss them.

So from everyone in G-Mag – have a fun filled summer and see you in September.

Marcus Jones
Year 7

Houses

2010-07-09T21:03:00.002+01:00

At the beginning of the term, 4 houses were formed with 2 tutor groups from each year in each house. They are:

Berners Lee Yellow Head of House - Mr Jones
Holmes Blue Head of House – Ms Snook
Pascal Green Head of House – Mr Williams
Moore Red Head of House – Mr Russell

2 new tutor groups are being made in Year 8 and 9 so there are 8 tutor groups in each year.

Most people liked the colour and some like the leader but none of the people asked particularly liked their house name. One person didn’t even know their house name.

The house provide more opportunities to take part in different competitions such as quizzes and house matches. The overall winning house will receive a trophy at the end of the year.

The houses will start in September.

By Marcus Jones

Year 7

Peer Mentoring

2010-07-09T21:02:00.000+01:00

Being a peer mentor, I was with a tutor group over the 3 days and I have to say that they got on very well. They all left on Friday with a positive attitude towards Greendown and they couldn’t wait until September and I’m sure that all of the other tutors couldn’t wait either! Also, just a quick reminder to the Year 6’s that when you come up into Year 7 to bring back any forms or locker money.

Will see you all in September and I’m sure you will all get on really well in Greendown and who knows – the G-Mag team might be getting some new reporters!

By Josh Talbot

Year 9

2010-07-09T21:01:00.006+01:00

A quick note - could anyone catching the coach to the county ground for Sport’s Day please remember to bring their £2 otherwise they might not be able to get a lift there.

Want to become part of the team?

2010-07-09T20:44:00.004+01:00

As a year at Greendown comes to an end, G-Mag looks forward to welcoming new members in September.

During Year 6 induction, they were given the chance to sign up.

We are also looking for students from each year group to come along and participate, if interested.

In September, when the new Year 7s join us, we're hoping to expand in other year groups as well.

If you are interested, please attend the meeting on Friday, 3rd September at 3.30pm in the conference room. This will give you the chance to see whether G-Mag is for you.

If you are unsure of the location, please come to main reception, where someone from the team will be.

Any ideas are welcome and appreciated!

Upcoming L.E.Day

2010-07-09T20:39:00.004+01:00

Next Monday, the entire school, minus a few, are participating in a Learning Enrichment Day.

Each year will be doing a different activity, with Year Sevens spending the day in Humanities, while a fraction of the year are going to Bristol Zoo.

While Years Eight and Nine activities are being kept a surprise, Year 10 will be spending the day planning “prom”. The winning team will then have the chance to help in the planning of the prom itself.

We hope that everyone enjoys whatever they’re doing for the day and make the most of it!

By Nathalie Cannell

Year 10

Half term coming

2010-05-26T17:37:00.003+01:00

As many of you will know, its time to go on our half term again!
School will end at 2:20 on Friday 28th May.
So here at G-mag we wish you all a great half term :)

It's time for a change

2010-05-26T17:34:00.003+01:00

It is also the time that we make changes within the team. This is where we are going to say our good byes, and our hello's.
The Team will be saying good bye to our year 11 members,
and we will be saying hello to the new members that will joining in September, and also the people that will be stepping into new roles.
It is great how the pupils of our school, get to have say in what we do and we also get to run our own magazine, this magazine is written by the pupils for the pupils.
So lets keep that in mind and wish everyone Good luck :)

The end has come!

2010-05-26T17:26:00.003+01:00

It't the time of year that we say bye to our year 11's.
On Friday 28th May our year 11's will be leaving us.
We would like to wish them luck in their exams that will be coming up in June. Even though some of them have started already, sprits are high within the year, with mixed feelings about leaving, but we can say that the class of 2010, have been a great year group. They have done so much and every year has something different about them, and this years, year 11, were involed in the school alot. We shell miss them here at Greendown, but we hope that they go on to bigger and better things :)

We haven't updated for a while...

2010-05-25T15:57:00.005+01:00

On Friday we had our L.E.D. day.
Year 11's start exams this week.
Leavers Assembly this week.
Start of Athletics season started last week.
Dance show is on tonight and tomorrow night.
School breaks up 2:20 Friday.
Year 7 exams start after half term.

By Josh Talbot, Marcus Jones and Charlotte Tilling

Years 7 and 9

Learning Enrichment Day

2010-05-17T20:26:00.002+01:00

This Friday is Learning Enrichment Day and many trips are taking place.
For year 7, they are going on an IT trip to Legoland. Year 8 are going to the Martime Museum for Humanities. And year 10 are going to Thorpe Park for business studies.

The remaining pupils will have fun participating in an LE Day at school.

Year 11, however, are only in if they are doing GCSE PE. All other year 11's have a study day.

By Marcus Jones
Year 7

New After School Clubs

2010-05-08T13:31:00.002+01:00

The new summer after school clubs have been organised and are up and running.

On Monday:

Dance show practise;
Members only - Fitness Suite.

On Tuesday:

Basketball - Sports Hall 1;
Cricket Nets - Sports Hall 2;
Cricket - Astro;
Open session - Fitness Suite;
Rounders - Field.

On Wednesday:

Netball - Sports Hall 2;
Open session - Fitness Suite;
Athletics - Field.

On Thursday:

Girls Football - Astro;
Cheerleading - Dance Studio;
Athletics and Rugby (Year 7 + 8) - Field.

On Friday:

YLA - Dance Studio;
Members only - Fitness Suite.

By Marcus Jones and Charlotte Tilling
Year 7

Year Nine SATs Week is Over!

2010-05-08T13:19:00.002+01:00

As the Year 9s will gladly know, the Year 9 SATs week has finally ended! I'm sure that all of you will be glad not to be doing any more revision or tests for a while now and I'm sure that you all did great!

So, have a relaxing, study free weekend and I hope that you do as well in class as you have performed in the exams!

By Josh Talbot
Year 9

South Africa Update

2010-05-08T13:16:00.003+01:00

After the recent success from the fashion show, which raised £510.25, we have more plans for fundraising already organised, such as:

Bag Packing;
Car Washing;
Stalls at local fetes and events including "The Mix" at Shaw Village Centre.

If you would like to make any donations toward the South Africa fund, please contact Ms Bennett in her office in the English block.

By Dan Waller

Year 11

Fashion Update!

2010-05-08T12:58:00.002+01:00

As we all know, summer is coming and the weather is starting to warm up. Time to find out what's hot and what's not for both boys and girls.

Florals are in for the girls - bright, colourful flowers. Maxi dresses are great for very hot days - these work for both casual and formal.

Sunglasses are back, especially the big and bulky ones. The reflective type are best for the guys.
Pumps are in! Especially with 3/4 length jeans! But with men, knee shorts. Do not wear socks with sandals!

So, when you hit the beach during summer, you'll look and feel smoking hot!

By Rhiannon John and Megan Keel
Year 9

"Think of the other person"

2010-04-29T22:32:00.003+01:00

Many of you will know, that the most important rule in greendown is "think of the other person." now what does this mean, does this mean that only pupils should follow this, with other pupils?
Or is it a rule that runs from pupils right up to staff. When looking at "think of the other person" it's something that has court the eye of many people and pupils.
Many pupils will back this up that when it comes to thinking of the other person it doesn't work. Yes it will work for their friends but that is a two way thing. However when it comes to people starting to shout in your f and be rude, should you still be thinking of the other person at that point? This is because we had someone tell us about a problem what they faced, this was when a member of staff started shouting at them because they didn't do something. Now this problem was outside of a lesson and happened as a pupil walked passed. Thinking of the other person doesn't seem to work. This is because thinking of the other person can't just be said for pupils it has to run through out the whole school.
Now many people may disagree with this story as people have the right to, but ask your self this is it time we changed the rules, isn't time we updated our rules, and isn't time that we as pupils got the chance to re-write the rules in OUR school?

We believe that it is the time of change and the change that we want to make here at Greendown is "thinking of the other person." that needs to go and should come in with a new one. The one that this reporter believes is that it should be "treat someone how you want to be treated."
Now i know this may not be a good pick of words but it's true.
Pupils make up the school because without pupils there isn't a school,
But teachers make up the school too because with out the teachers we wouldn't have our education.
We believe that it's time to make a better link with our teachers, with the people that run our school.
It's time to make the change that should happen, lets think of the other person one last time and make it count.
If you believe in what this story talks about then please leave a comment, or if you don't or you believe that this story should be improved then please feel free to email g-mag@live.co.uk or if you write a letter hand it in to Main Reception and address it to G-Mag.

Lets go from " Thinking of the other person." To " treat someone how you want to be treated."
It's time we had a change and lets do that change together as one School.

Year 7 Subject Consultation Evening

2010-04-20T16:13:00.003+01:00

On the 28th of April year 7 students parents will finally get to meet there subject teachers. The evening will be running from 4:30 to 8:30. Make sure you have all the times before the evening.

Written by Patrick Hellewell and Marcus Jones

New catering: Caterlink.

2010-04-20T15:59:00.005+01:00

As many of you may have noticed by the new signs at the entrance of the Large atrium and the snazzy new clothing catering staff are wearing, you may have caught on that our food supplier has changed to a company called Cater link. By my experiences this week and the reactions of my peers we are loving the new selection of food at break times, Lunch and snacks. I have asked around G-mag and they like the wide selection now available to them at lunchtimes, although others are noticing differences that they aren't very keen on...

But I'm sure after a few more weeks of having the new catering company running our food selection in school, everyone will start to love it as much as me and others!

Josh Talbot 9KM - Head reporter

Year 7 Tutor Tournaments

2010-03-23T16:21:00.002Z

On the 24th March, there is tutor tornament. Boys are doing football and girls are doing netball. Boys should bring their PE kit. Trainers and studs were needed in case of bad weather.

Last time, boys' victory happened for CH. Let's see if they can do it again this time around!

By Marcus Jones and Patrick Hellewell

Sports relief a success!

2010-03-23T16:12:00.003Z

Many people were very tired after school last Friday because it was sport relief and people decided to either run, walk, 3 legged, fancy dress or other things that they decided to do for a mile.

Pupils could Pay either £1 to wear non school uniform in the afternoon to take part in the mile, or you could pay £2 for the sports relief socks.

All in all, sports relief turned out to be a success and we must have raised a lot of money for such a great afternoon!

Article by Josh Talbot, Megan Keel and Rhiannon John

Year 11 Easter Revision Classes

2010-03-23T16:07:00.002Z

The holidays are fast approaching, meaning that year 11 are getting closer to their all important exams. This year, the department's around the school have decided open drop in sessions for different revision classes. Many classes have been organised and you may come in your non-school uniform. Due to the teachers applying their time into your studies it would be on idea to attend.

Greendown has new building plans!

2010-03-16T16:11:00.003Z

May of you wont be aware that Greendown are getting a new building! G-mag sent me (Josh) and one of its new reporters (Hannah) to interview the architects:

''Why are you building a new building?''

The school has been recognised that it needs a place for children with particular needs to be able to have the same facilities as other specialist schools in England.

''How much is it costing the school to build?''

The project wont cost the school anything.

''How much will it cost 'you' to build?''

Its costing us around half a million pounds to build but we cant give definite cost as its confidential.

''How many rooms will the building have?''

It will have:
2 teaching rooms
2 group rooms
Office space
Toilets
Break time space with lighting.

''who picked you to manage the project''

Capita architects (us) have a partnership with the council, we provide them with services and they have asked us to build your school the new building.

''Where will you be building this new building?''

It will be built where the bike sheds are located at the moment, the bike sheds will be moved to another area at the front of the school (still easy to access). The new building's area will have no distractions from other students and will be close enough to the main school building for them to feel part of the school.

Article by Josh Talbot - Head reporter and Hannah Magill - Fashion Reporter

How do you feel about school?

2010-03-14T22:47:00.002Z

We want to hear from you, on what you feel about school. We are trying to see what makes different people do well in school.
So if you are a pupil at Greendown or even a member of staff then please send us in a email on the the G-Mag email Gmag@live.co.uk or by a comment. We want to know how you feel, and if you don't feel good in school or you don't feel safe in schoool. We will do something about it because we believe although we come here to learn we must feel good about our selfs and also we must feel safe. So please get in touch we want to here from you! :)

Thank you :)

Want to become a member of the team?

2010-03-14T21:05:00.003Z

As many of you know, its going to be coming to the end of the school year soon. Although many of you are happy and your counting down the days un-till you leave. Here at G-Mag we are happy too! and we can't wait to get the summer off. However once the summer holidays start, we lose 5 very important people to our team. Even though some of these roles will be filled within house. We are now wanting to look for New Reporters, New Sports Reporters and New everything!
This is were we are looking to get more people from school involved because as many of you know now G-Mag will be spreading it's wings around the school and also in the community.

So if you want to be apart of this, then please email Gmag@live.co.uk Or Carneybonner@hotmail.com
Thank you very much

Spring Fashion

2010-03-14T20:23:00.004Z

This season we all want to look good! But here's the right way to do it :)

Flowery patterns/prints make you stand out of the crowd and show you aren't afraid to try new things.
Jeggings are comfortable, they look good, and they go with all the shoes and tops in your wardrobe.
Triangle scarfes are back! cool and they stand out :)
Chunky jewellery compliments your outfit as long as it matches!
Hair dye is great, it is a good change and makes you stand out!
A new hair cut, makes you feel good but make sure it suits your face shape.
Make-up natural is the key. make sure you blend your foundation in.
Lipgloss, shiny fruity and clear, makes your lips look hydrated(dry lips equals but NO NO!) and lushous.
'Use loreal because we're worth it'
Always remember to work it!

C'mon girls let's say it! because We're worth it!

World book day

2010-03-12T16:03:00.002Z

World book day has come around again, most schools get a £1.00 off token that's valid till the 28th march. World book day is a charity/promotion that celebrates books and reading. This year many books can be brought for free with the pound off token such as:

Walking the wall
The way of fire
Born to play e.c.t.....

Bitz 'n' Bytez

2010-03-12T15:58:00.002Z

Bitz 'n' Bytes is a new club for years 7 - 9 that is on every lunchtime in the English block, room B2.13. This is a room where you can come and relax, play games and do many other things. It has been set up by half of the BAF diploma team and so it is completely in the control of the students. Beth Mitchell, Ben Woodley, George Leahy, Lawrence Campin and myself set up and run the club, with each of us appearing at different lunchtimes to supervise what you are doing.

This club will continue until March 9th at definite, shutting on the 10th, so that we can have a meeting and assess the club's success. Your feedback in the club is very important to us, so we hope that you come along and talk to us. We will try our best to improve but we have to consider a lot of things first. If you have any questions about the club, you can visit us at lunch time in B2.13 or visit H1.9 in tutor time and ask for Chris Margetts.

Christopher Margetts
Year 10

Hats for Haiti

2010-02-09T16:13:00.002Z

On Friday the 12th of February we will be wearing non-uniform and most importantly a hat, to raise money to lend aid to the disaster that struck Haiti in the form of an earthquake earlier this year. As a community school we feel that we should lend a helping hand to the global community, so even if you don't wear a hat we hope you still understand and appreciate the need to give aid to so many people who have lost so much during the earthquake.

There are a lot of hats that are trendy and fashionable that you could wear, or you could go for something really funky! Here are some cool suggestions:

Micheal Jackson style hat
Barrettes
Cowboy/girl
Make a boring hat interesting by adding your own touch!
BIG HATS
Paper can make a hat if you really get stuck
DAPPY HAT!

Isle of Wight

2010-02-09T16:05:00.003Z

The day of departure is fast approaching, years 7, 8, 9 and 10 are all going on this trip. Camp Little Canada is where they will be visiting and provides specialist courses in the computing and sports sectors. They will be taking part in many activities ranging from the Matrix to computer workshops. This trip will depart on Friday the 12th of February at 1.20pm to arrive on the Isle of Wight for 4-5pm. Reminder for all pupils that even though you will be wearing your own clothes for the trip on the day it would still be nice to bring in a pound and wear a hat for Haiti!

Hope to see you all there!

Year 9 Options Booklets

2010-02-09T15:54:00.002Z

Year 9 students were given their GCSE options booklets to be handed in on the 26th of February.

Pupils have been given two choices and 2 back up choices to pick for their GCSE's. There are several pathways that pupils have been placed on based on their compatibility; these pathways affect their combination of GCSE options. Pupils put on a language pathway have been given the choice of either Spanish or Italian.

Year 9 pupils choosing the Diploma pathway are given the choice of Business and Finance, Engineering, Sport and Active Leisure, Construction and the Built Environment, Hospitality and finally Hair and Beauty.

If you have been chosen for the industry pathway then you have a choice of Business Communication Systems, Media Studies and National Certificate of Sport.

As a reminder, all pupils in Year 9 must attend the options evening on the 10th of February, (tomorrow). It will be from 5.00pm-6.00pm and parents are also advised to attend.

HALF TERM!!

2010-02-09T15:46:00.001Z

Just to let you all know, half term begins on Friday the 12th of February and we will be breaking up at 2.20. It will be a non-uniform day with a twist, we will be wearing hats for Haiti to help raise money for the disastrous earthquake that hit Haiti earlier this year.

Also remember to sacrifice a bit of time to get on with work so that you are not stressed after the half term with a mountain of work on top of you! :)

Youth Parliament

2010-02-09T15:36:00.002Z

Carney Bonner has stepped into the important role of Swindon's youth MP representative. Considering he is also full time editor in chief for the school's magazine, this is an amazing achievement for such a busy person.

After winning the majority of 5392 votes he has replaced the former MYP Jenny Renard. Jenny Renard has know taken the role of Carney's deputy MYP along with one of the other candidates, Sam Cantlon.

Carrney was speechless when the result was announced, and so he should be! He explained that he will put his full effort into important issues such as the anti-bullying campaign and will use Greendown Community School as his starting point.

We wish him all the best and a successful term of office.

Learning Enrichment 03.02.10

2010-02-02T16:27:00.002Z

With learning enrichment day coming up, pupils are becoming excited about the medley of activities coming up on the 3rd of February.

The Year 7's will be participating in fulfilling Physical educational activities for the day.

The Year 8's have the opportunity to create a brand new Olympic sport.

The Year 9's will be discovering themselves in a new language for the day. The first three lessons will be English and for the last two pupils will be spending their time studying a new language.

We have not received any guidance as to what the Year 10's will be doing however we are sure it will be a fun filled day no matter what!

The Year 11's will have the day to spend brushing up on Science coursework or taking part in other Science based activities.

Biking It For South Africa!

2010-02-02T16:16:00.004Z

In late February 2010, three intrepid people are going to descend on the town of Corsham, on their bikes! The whole journey there will be 46 miles of hard, solid bicycle riding. This bicycle ride is to raise money for seven hard working year 11 students to complete an exchange between them and pupils in their partnership school in Clarens, South Africa. One of the dedicated bike riders is also one of the pupils visiting Clarens.
If you are interested in lending a welcome hand in this ongoing fundraising journey, (it never ends as we are constantly raising money to help our partnership school), please contact Ms Bennett, or enquire at main reception if you wish to speak with one of the seven pupils.

Techniquest

2010-02-02T15:56:00.004Z

Techniquest was a great success, everyone enjoyed it! Techniquest is a museum that is combined with scince and music and is in Cardiff. During the trip we looked at lots of ehibitions and someone taught us about sound and how it travels. Charrotte tilling said "I really enoyed it, it was a good day," I would Recommend it to children in year5 or year6 and they would have a great time at techniquest.

Charlotte Tilling and Josh Harris year 7

2009-12-25T15:58:00.003Z

We wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year:)
thank you to all of our reporters on a great 2009. We couldn't of done it with out all of you
Thank you so much :)

Greetings from the World - A Primary School Languages Cluster

2009-12-15T16:17:00.002Z

On Thursday 10th December, primary schools from West Swindon came down to Greendown's Drama Studio to get into the festive spirit.

Songs were sung in both French and English.

Oliver Tompkins, Tregoze and Peatmoor were amazing and sung beautifully and the performances were stunning.

Year 8 bloggers who had a partnership with the primary schools were there to say hi to the pupils they comment for.

The bloggers were extremely braves and sung a song in French called 'Nations United at Christmas!'

By Aneela Amed
Year 8

Gifted and Talented Day

2009-12-15T15:49:00.002Z

On the 10th December, 12 pupils from Greendown went to Nova Hreod to take part in a competition between many schools around Swindon involving many different subjects including maths and English.

They all had to plan a rescue, write a poem to perform, test reflexes and many other fascinating activities.

If you won these, points would be awarded. Greendown did fantastically well and came first!

Congratulations to everyone who participated!

By Ellen Forster and Marcus Jones
Year 7

Yr 11 mock exams

2009-12-11T16:24:00.002Z

Yr 11's are getting very nervous because they will be getting their mock exam results next Tuesday.
We are sure that they have been working hard on their exams all week making sure they will get good results. People have taken the respect by being silent and considerate so the year 11's can concentrate on their exams.
G-Mag members congratulate all of you that now you can relax and look forward to seeing your results.

Year 9 Cadbury trip IMPORTANT note!

2009-12-11T16:11:00.004Z

Hello everyone! Just a quick note to remind you all that if you would like to go on the Cadbury world trip, go and see Mrs Al-Hassini for a letter as at the moment there aren't enough people to go, and the trip is in fear of being canceled! So if your in year 9 and want to have a chocolate filled day, get to Mrs Al-Hassini as soon as possible!

Cadbury world trip review

Last Thursday some chocolate loving year 9’s went on a science trip to Cadbury world. We were greeted by free chocolate (and melted chocolate (and marshmallows in mine!) In the essence production near the end). Also we learnt a lot of chocolaty knowledge from the classroom part of the day, and got to buy some chocolate and gifts from the Cadbury shop! All in all it was a great day and I would definitely go back again!

How to dress to impress for boys!

2009-12-08T16:21:00.003Z

This Winter the boys can wear the following items of clothing for the best impressions!

Jeans! As they go with everything, so these are a must!
Hoodies! we know they re popular but they keep you warm and look stylish with jeans!
Or... Jumpers! as these look good underneath a zip up hoodie! (or on their own...) for extra warmth and extra fashion!
sneakers and converse! these shoes are a must, have you seen anyone wearing these out and about? if not, then you should be a first and spread the converse trend to your friends!
Beenie hat! keep your ears warm and still look good!
A scarf! A contrasting colour to match your hoodie, the jumper and your beenie hat!
A leather man bag! for those who carry lots and want to look trendy!
If you don't feel like wearing a hat, then gel up your hair! (make it look messy but not straight up as you don't want to look like Jedward! :S

By Josh Talbot, Rhiannon John and Michelle Chirimuuta! :)

Cross Country

2009-12-01T20:15:00.002Z

For almost every school in Swindon, on Saturday 21st, there was a cross country event that took place at Hreod School. The top 10 from each group would represent Swindon in the Wiltshire trials.

Our school, as a whole, did exceedingly well, with many of our pupils ranking on the leader board.

Nyle Clinton stole the show and made it to 2nd place. Hayley Elbourne and Jodie Watt also made the top 5!

Here at G-Mag, we are sure that the school is extremely proud of all of the students who participated in the event and believe congratulations are in order!

By Josh Talbot
Year 9

Best of the West Tournament

2009-12-01T20:01:00.002Z

Although the weather was gloomy, the teams of Swindon were still enthusiastic to win 'The Best of the West' football tournament, last Saturday.

All of the teams tried their best and finally, the results were in and the mayor gave out the trophies. The runners-up were the 'Toothill Soldiers'. Second were 'Youth-First' and finally, in first place, was 'West'.

After a great game there was a penalty 'kick-off' with the police. Everyone had loads of fun! The ones to thank for all of this are Huw Solly and PCSO Richard Lane.

We can't wait for the next one!

By Charlotte Tilling
Year 7

Wilts AA Cross Country weekend

2009-11-30T08:36:00.001Z

Team Greendown made the most of their recent successes whilst running against the best runners in the county.
Greendown was the only school that put teams into the competition, which was a surprise to Miss Hunter as she was expecting the mighty force of Ridgeway to be there!! But this was a credit to the students and parents who made the drive up to Corsham Park to compete.

The course was likened to Lydiard Park, but the wind and the rain was the testing factor in the races.

Under 13 girls was the first race, which was years 7 and 8 joined together. The team did extremely well and came in first, medals are to follow to school!!
· Charlie George came in 6th
· Rhianna Jones 11th
· Chelsea Hall 12th
· Jasmine Kutassy 13th
· Bethany George 14th

Under 13 boys…
· Taylan Ozdemir 8th
· Kyle Radmore 11th
· Tom Sewell 13th

I was extremely pleased with the efforts of all our runners, they achieved lots against strong Wiltshire runners. Please take the time to congratulate those pupils that run as it is a brilliant achievement for them and for the school!!

Best of the West Follow Up

2009-11-27T16:29:00.003Z

Everyone knows it's happening but who's coming?

The mayor? Politicians? Important people - VIP?

Well, you're in luck.

Michael Dickinson, the counciller for Freshbrook and Grange Park, and other politicians, the mayor and mayoress are all coming along to this wonderful event.

The event sees people, players and teams from all over Swindon play in the tournament. This is for people 13-17 to participate, but all ages are welcome to come along and spectate. There will be bacon butties, jacket potatoes, teas, coffees and more served in the cafe. All of this food will be coming from Freshbrook community cafe. Leisure services will be provided and a taster session for dodgeball as well as basketball. It's sure to be a fun day for everyone!

By Ellen Forster, Amy Biggs, Charlotte Tilling, Aneela Ahmed
Year 7 and 8

Post 16 Recap

2009-11-27T16:25:00.002Z

People from New College, Cirencester and Swindon College came in to talk to the year elevens about their future courses in college. They talked to everyone about what their colleges had to offer and the different facilities they had at their college. After the colleges spoke, parents and students had the opportunity to talk to them about the courses available at each college. The school also had a FairTrade cafe where you could buy a variety of tasty snacks and drinks.

By Matthew Ryan
Year 11

Bag Packing for South Africa

2009-11-27T16:19:00.003Z

In February 2010 and 2011, two groups of seven students are going to Clarens, South Africa to experience how people in South Africa live their lives and deal with less money. The students going on these two trips are:

Carney Bonner, Rhys Spackman, Daniel Waller, Zoe Smith, Faith Townsend, Allanna Ellis and Amy Prictor.

These people have to raise £7, 000 to experience first hand the fabulous culture and brilliant sights of South Africa.

To help start the ball rolling, as they say, we are packing bags at Asda, West Swindon between 10 and 2 pm. So, if you want to do shopping and you would like someone to pack your bags, come along and have a Greendown student do it for you! If you are uncertain, then please go to the Greendown homepage and watch the video in the top right hand corner.

By Daniel Waller
Year 11

G-Mag Questionnaire for Year 7

2009-11-27T16:14:00.003Z

'Do you feel safe in school?'. This is a questionnaire made by G-Mag to ask you year sevens if you feel safe in school. We are also after your opinion on bullying. For all of you year sevens, you will be receiving this questionnaire on Monday. You will need to fill it in properly as this will be important for our school! But don't worry! We haven't made this questionnaire hard at all!

So get into your anti-bullying frame of mind and be ready for Monday!

By Josh Talbot
Year 9

Mock Week

2009-11-27T16:07:00.002Z

Exams.
Next week will decide your future. Make sure to sacrifice this weekend for revision - hard, solid revision. It is an extremely important week for all of year 11. Whether you are looking to go to college, to do an apprenticeship or to go straight to work, you results will decide the outcome of your life.

On a brighter note, year 11 is on block release, when you have finished your exam there is no need to sign out if you have no more exams after. It is important that you arrive in your exam at the minimum of 10 minutes before hand. Also, if you need to study between exams, find out which rooms are open and study away! Work hard guys, we at G-Mag are sure that you can manage one week and have fun!

By Rhys Spackman
Year 11

Year 7 Tutor Tournaments

2009-11-27T15:49:00.002Z

This week, year seven took part in their first taste of tutor tournaments. The boys got to compete in a rugby tournament and the girls played hockey. For each tournament, there was only one clear winner. Girls get their first taste of hockey in year 7, being taught the skills needed in order to successful win a game. Boys, on the other hand, learned to play full contact rugby, which many of the boys excelled in.

By Charlotte Tilling and Ellen Forster
Year 7

A Stamp for an Albatross

2009-11-24T16:01:00.002Z

All over the world, beautiful birds are dying everyday due to human little and waste. In the one minute you read this article, five albatrosses will die because of us. By the time of 2012, we could be faced with the fact that the race of the albatrosses could be as low as 100 at the most.

It's not just humans that are the problem - long line fishing is also a culprit of albatross deaths. Fish trapped in nets are visible from the air, so birds fly down in an attempt to feed. By doing this, they get caught and are dragged under the water - this way they drown. By sending in your postal stamps, you can raise enough money to prevent this from happening.

Sixty pounds is enough to buy an 'Albatross Kit', which contains flags on ribbons used on the boat to scare the albatrosses away, and a pack of blue die to die the fish and bait blue - this makes them invisible from the air.

If you have any stamps (not collectibles), please bring them in to main reception at Greendown and ask for the 'stamps for the Albatross fund'.

By Amy Biggs and Luke Joynson
Year 7

Swindon Cross Country

2009-11-24T16:00:00.000Z

At the weekend 60 pupils represented Greendown at the Swindon Cross Country trials. With 68 places (inc. two reserves) across the age groups up for grabs, the challenge was set.

Results compiled out of the 10 Swindon Schools that competed. Each race had an average of 100 runners in the minors and juniors and 50 in the Inters. Individual pupils won the Minor Boys and Minor Girls races and came second in the Inter Boys and Girls. We are Swindon Team Champions in the Minor Girls and Inter Girls and Runners up in the Minor Boys. 18 places out of the 68 available we taken by Greendown pupils. 26% of the team is made up of Greendown pupils. When you consider that this is split between 10 Swindon Schools, we have done very well.

Minor Girls (year 7) – Team Finished 1st - SWINDON TEAM CHAMPIONS
Charlie George – 1st SWINDON CHAMPION (won by about 400 meters)
Ashleigh Rae-Cleverly – 3rd
Jasmine Kutassy – 9th
Annabal Gladman 12th (Reserve)

Minor Boys (year7) - Team Finished 2nd - SWINDON TEAM RUNNERS-UP
Taylan Osdimier - 1st SWINDON CHAMPION
Tom Sewell – 3rd
Kyle Radmore – 12th (Reserve)

Junior Girls (Year 8/9) – No team placing as only 4 runners (No year 9 girls would run)
Jess Dodson – 8th
Bethany George – 11th (Reserve)
Rhianna Jones – 12th (Reserve)
Chelsea Hall – 13th

Junior Boys (Year 8/9) – Team Finished 7th (Team made up of mainly year 8’s)
Troy Foster – 7th
Lee Evans – 11th (Reserve)

Inter Boys (Year 10/11 Boys) – Team Finished 3rd
Nyle Clinton - 2nd – Runner-Up
Jermone Dodson – 12th (Reserve)

Inter Girls (Year 10/11 Girls) – Team Finished 1st – SWINDON TEAM CHAMPIONS
Jodie Watt – 2nd – Runner-Up
Hayley Elbourne – 4th
Jo Gillingham – 6th
Jess Nickells – 7th

Monthly Fashion Update

2009-11-20T15:52:00.004Z

Accessories

These days accessories are a must! People wear them with everything, either it be school uniform or formal dress. So here are some that you can wear:
Long chained necklaces with clustered charms,
Coloured plait hair bands,
Coloured bangles,
Watches,
Studded or Dangly earings,
and rings.

Clothes
Clothes are getting more and more fashionable these days. So how can you keep up with the trends? Keep reading on and you'll find out the things that you need to keep up with the pace of the fashion world:
Long cardigans,
Jeggins,
Leggins,
Hoodies,
Flat shoes,
Daps,
Converse,
Uggs,
And Checkered shirts with belts.

Hair and make up
Next time you go to get your hair done, ask your hairdresser to give you a hair style that fits the type of the face you have. Also, choose a hair colour that fits you. This season, plaits are in and just one plait can do the trick.

When you're doing your make up, keep it natural and neutral for that fine and flawless finish! Make sure you apply the foundation properly to avoid any visible marks. Put on some lip gloss that matches your skin tone and ease off the eyeshadow!

Next week we will give you an insight on mens fashion this season!!!

Children In Need

2009-11-19T13:45:00.001Z

We would like to remind you that tomorrow is children in need :)
and this year as normal Greendown will be having a non school uniform.
So if you come in wearing non-uniform then please remember to bring, you £1.
This money will go to chirldren in need. So lets make more money this year then the years before. We can all change a child's life by something so small, lets make the world a better place for us. As one as a community as a whole.

Have a great day tomorrow and remember to watch children in need as it is going to be a bang. :)

Team Building

2009-10-13T16:33:00.002+01:00

This year in G-Mag, there was a huge amount of new, eager reporters wanting to join us. That being so, Carney, our editor-in-chief, thought it'd be a great idea to start a weekly team building activity for the team to partake in. This happens each Friday after school, ranging from bench ball to dodgeball! This is a great way for all of G-Mag, the old and new guys, to get to know each other and learn some vital team building and social skills for future life!

By Josh Talbot and Kieron Parker
Year 9

Half Term Reminder

2009-10-13T16:16:00.004+01:00

Just a reminder for all of you keen to break up from school that the Autumn half term is coming up very soon. Our final day of this current term will be on the 21st of October and the half term will run through to the 2nd of November. Remember that if you unsure, all term dates can be found in school, and you should have had a sheet with all this information given to you at the beginning of the year. Also, Halloween is approaching, so if you have not already planned anything for the 31st, bear in mind that there is an exciting Halloween event going on at the Link Centre on the 31st. On the 31st of October from 6pm-10pm there is a fun Halloween celebration at the Link Centre; there will be great activities such as, various sports, street dance, rock climbing, and many Halloween based activities. The event is free and has been organised by the Swindon Borough Council Youth Service, so if you are looking for something to entertain yourself that night, then pop in with your friends and family and enjoy a great night!

By Rhys Spackman 11UR

Celebration of Books

2009-10-08T20:18:00.002+01:00

Last week, we talked to Mrs Eagle about the upcoming celebration of books. Here's what you can expect:

Monday 9th November

On the Monday, 6 students from 11 schools throughout Swindon (girls and boys from Year 7, 8 and 9) will be going to Dorcan School for a book quiz.

Tuesday 10th November

On the Tuesday, 'spread the word' will be happening: 4 schools, 4 novels, 36 students and only one winner! "You can find out on the 11th which book will be the winner, then you have the chance to see if you agree!" Mrs Eagle said, also stating that Patrick Ness is going to be coming to Greendown, which will act as a host to the many different schools that will be coming to workshops with him.

Wednesday 11th November

Pupils will have a chance to meet Sarach Singleton!

Thursday 12th November

Year 7 students will be working with Year 6's from partner schools, having a chance to take part in drama and poetry workshops for children who will be coming up to Greendown.

Friday 13th November

This is the day of the headline act. 50 people are going to see Darren Shan at the Wyvern Theatre, which will be a free event. Mrs Eagle said that if you have entered for a chance to get a place on this great trip, bringing a book for him to sign is highly advised! At the same time as this event will be happening, another book author, Fred Blunt (a comic writer) will be doing a workshop in school, shared with Isambard, to do story-boards and cartoon drawings.

IN OTHER BOOK RELATED NEWS

There will be an Illustration Competition for Year 11, based on the book called 'Bog Child'. Speak to Mrs Eagle for more information.

'Send a Friend' has now gone global! This is, for those who don't know, when you send a recommendation to annother person of the same age and gender around Swindon.

By Josh Talbot
Year 9

FairTrade

2009-10-06T16:18:00.002+01:00

Today, Mrs Mochan, from the Spanish department, sat down with us to talk about FairTrade within the school.

Q. What will be sold at the open evening tonight?
A. We will be selling cookies - ginger, chocolate, brazil nuts etc.

Q. What is the Spanish department doing today?
A. The year sevens will be showing their parents what they have learnt in class so far. There are also, in another room, computers set up with Spanish games to play.

Q. Do you buy FairTrade yourself?
A. I always try my best to!

By Josh Talbot and Emily Souter
Years 9 and 7

Year 11 Rugby - Last game

2009-10-06T12:16:00.000+01:00

A valiant effort by the Greendown Y11s. Proud soldiers everyone of em. To a man they gave it their all but just could not over come the odds that were stacked against them. St johns were previously the Wiltshire champions and play rugby 24/7 including Saturday fixtures. However after the final whistle went they new they had been in a game. The boys shipped an early try through sloppy defending and were staring down the barrel of a heavy defeat at this rate. A qickpep talk from inspirational captain Josh Jeffries, had the boys rallied and it was he himself who powered over to bring the scores level. Having been camped in the opponents 22 from most of the half it was a relieved St Johns that went in at 5-5 at half time.

The second half resembled a scene from M.A.S.H with bodies being cas evacuated everywhere from both sides. Each team new the significance of not yielding a backward step. The impressive St Johns outside centre scorched through some would be tackling to take the visitors 12-5 up. Still the boys believed. A few close calls went begging but it was not long before that danger man crossed again. Drastic actions were needed and a decision was made to put Englands ABA boxing champion opposite him. This seemed to stemmed the flow significantly.. However a nasty injury to Ryan Shoulder marred the game. Fingers crossed he ok for Boxing tournament.

The Grammar school went 22-5 up with the game just out of reach. The boys never say die was amplified by the final play of the game which say our man Trigger (Dan preston) crossing over in the corner. The boys were gracious in defeat. The opposition dropped to the knees in exhaustion. A great game and a huge step forward for the school. The boys showed they can compete with the posh boys from grammer school. I was proud of every last one of them. they did the school proud.

A big thankyou to a beautiful crowd that included: Dom Salmon, Kenley Thomas, Mark Carter, Cody Messiah, Simon Boxall,Gail Davis, Owen Russel. The boys really appreciated your support after a long day. - Mr A Buchalik

Final score 22-10

Congratulations!

2009-10-01T07:53:00.000+01:00

Please congratulate all of the pupils that took part in our trial race against Ridgeway last night. All of our pupils were excellent and a credit to our school. Over 60 pupils competed and I now have the interesting job in selecting a team for the competition next week.
Please encourage them to keep training on a Tuesday afterschool and Friday morning
Thanks for your support
Mr C Dobbs

Year 10/11 RUGBY

2009-10-01T07:46:00.002+01:00

If anyone would like to know what it is like to go from manic depressive to euphoria twenty times an hour, may I recommend the position of head of rugby at Greendown school. The emotional roller coaster is giving my poor heart trouble. If I had a single hair on sprouting from my bold dome, it has certainly gone now. The teacher at Highworth nearly had one over on me. Firstly he said that he only had Five Y11 players to choose from, (the rest being made up by Y10) and secondly he said they have never played. Imagine my joy when 10 minutes into the game we were 12-0 down with half the Highworth team sporting beards and having driven to the game!! Looking at the Y10 side I had fielded in sympathy, thinking of a motivational team speech, whilst applying cotton wool to broken noses. Luckily, like all great masterminds I had a plan. This one was in the shape of Blond Bomb Sell Joe Shepard. Who played like a man possessed. Despite his girly looks and peroxide hair. Joe Shep played like a man on a mission. Rallied the troops and dug out the win.
The Highworth boys were big and strong and the 12-0 start really took the wind from our sail. With the Bassett defeat from last week fresh in the memory, the boys had two choices. Roll over and take a drubbing or man up and take the big boys on. Some inspirational tackeling from Ben Woodly and Joe Shepard planted the seeds of belief in the team. It was not long before Josh paradise had worked some magic and found a hole in the defence, only to stumble and face plant into the ground 5 yards short., with the opposition looking miffed as no one was within 5 yards of him. It did not take him long to make amends the this comedy error, whereby he scorched through under the sticks for 12-7. Dignity restored. Braedon Cleverly got in on the act shortly after. Taking the ball hard and fast off Shep deep into the opposition 22 and grounding to the left of the posts. 14-12. Greendown. The introduction of Dequan Barrow was an eye opener. His aggressive poaching of the opposition lineout and strong running brought the next score and with it the heart of the Highworth team. Greendown started to play some tactical rugby and ran the Warnford side ragged for the remainder of the half. Moving the ball freely from all sides of the pitch. 24-12 half time
Second half was much the same with Highworth chasing shadows. Shep scored a brace. Paradise bagged another and some fine footwork allowed Jerome Dodson to speed down the touchline to score his first try in a Greendown shirt. With the floodgates now open, captain Matty Johnson scooped up a loose pass from the defence and scored under the posts to seal the win. Highworth made a fight of it in the last quatre but strong scrumaging from Ethan Cook , Steph and Scafee allowed scrum half Jack Birch to send the ball into the crowd for the final whistle. A good game, a lot of new players blooded (literally). The Greendown Train is back on track and rolling n to Dorcan next week. Lets go win us another match!!!!!
(Team mascot Luke Hynd was a credit to the school binging on the kicking tee and water bottles, he clearly a lucky charm) Mr A Buchalik 01/10/2009

Our school kitchen

2009-09-29T16:30:00.002+01:00

We as a team would like to say a big thank you to our staff in the kitchen. This is because day in and day out they do a amazing job and they have never been thanked. We have had, a year 7 parent's evening tonight and the kitchen have been offering free samples and the food has been amazing. We feel that the school as a whoole don't give the kitchen enough support. We think that it is time to make a change, a change that will put our great kitchen back on top. We feel that as a school it is time to "think of the other person" this is something that our school, stands by so lets follow by their example and start thinking about the kitchen. So we call that on Friday we should all buy a hot meal, and you will see how great the food is.

So lets start to supporting our kitchen and make a difference. Lets make 2009 our best year yet. Thank you.

Innovative New Layout or Obtrusive Waste of Space?

2009-09-29T15:58:00.002+01:00

The new layout in the large atrium came as a shock to the pupils of Greendown School. For the people who can't deal with change, this could have been a burden on their lunch lives. However, for people with more open minds, it could be a new beginning for the large atrium.

The new layout was arranged in a way that will shorten queues and attract more customers to the financially struggling canteen. So, has it worked? To start, the new layout does look more attractive than the previous one. With more open space to browse what you are purchasing, it gives the customer more time to think about their purchase rather than being shoved through a large bustling queue, trying to grab whatever possible. Another helpful attribute that this layout has it that everything is in one place, so there is no need to dart back and forth across the atrium to find what you are looking for. Furthermore, there has been much less theft as there are staff constantly patrolling and keeping an eye on all areas of the layout; you have to buy something to leave the area.

So far, the new layout is sounding very inviting to pupils looking to give up their packed lunches and spend their cash at the canteen. However, the grass is never greener on the other side and the new layout has had a knock on effect on other aspects of lunch life. Because of the amount of space the new layout takes up, there is less seating system has, unfortunately, been suffering due to the influx of cash payments. The queue to the cash till has recently been considerably longer than the cashless till; this is very bad for the canteen's finances, as pupils bringing in loose cash are more likely to spend it elsewhere! The canteen itself is loosing money with only around 300 staff and pupils using the canteens on average daily. So, the system might not be working the way it was intended to.

The whole reason for the new ideas such as this layout, is to attract more customers to the canteen, but in fact the canteen is still not making substantial profit! So, is this layout really doing what it is designed to do? If you have any queries about or even solutions to this layout, or just want to tell us that you think it's working fine then feel free to contact G-Mag and its members.

By Rhys Spackman
Year 11

Year 7 Disco

2009-09-29T15:52:00.003+01:00

On Wednesday 16th September, year 7 were given an extra special welcome to Greendown with their very own school disco.

"DJ Dobbs" provided the entertainment, playing cool tunes from N-Dubz, Lily Allen, Black Eyed Peas, Michael Jackson and many more!
"The DJ was probably the best thing!" Ellen Forster recalls. A favourite of the evening was a mash-up of 'Thomas the Tank Engine' and 'Soulja Boy'.

The excitement of the disco lights, music and non-stop dancing has left year 7 hungry for more. Roll on the Christmas disco!

By Charlotte Tilling
Year 7

Year 9 Rugby

2009-09-23T09:09:00.001+01:00

Just when all looked rosy in the Greendowns garden of rugby the 22nd of sept happened. With a comprehensive clean sweep of Nova Herod last week and a great training session under our belts, the team was raring to go. To say we had a spot of bad luck would be akin to stating that Attila the Hun was partial to the odd Mood swing. Firstly 2 key players dropped down with the viral flue that afternoon (I thought that was restricted to girls…) and secondly I would love to know the reaction of Sir Alex Furgerson if, 2 minutes before the bus was due to leave Ryan Giggs informed him tha he had a paper round to do.
So it was that the Greendown 12 set off on a quest to take on the best rugby side in the area Wootton Basset. To be fair with the training we had done I still felt we were in with a shout. With a few tricks up the sleve with shuffled the team and made a real go of it. We found ourselves 7-5 up with 15 minutes on the clock. Heroic tackles from Niman, Liam Belcher and Elliott Adams gave the team genuine belief that we could pull it off. A foot in touch denied strong running Bipin a 60 yard run to take us further into the lead….Then it happened. After calling for the boys to double their efforts in defence and to get stuck in. Our enthusiastic outside half Conal Reese and Inside Centre, David Brickel clattered into a tackle and had a nasty clash of heads that made both players needing to leave the field. I am no mathematician but 11 into 15 doesn’t go. The Bassett attack used the overlap and picked holes in our defence at will.
Still there were heroes in the mists of ruins. Niman must have covered every blade of grass on the pitch that evening and tackled his heart out. A deserved man of the match. Liam Belcher found another gear and showed the Bassett team why he has county trials on Sunday to do battle with some friends and foe again. Troy Foster was dogged in defence and Jamie Clements never gave up or gave an inch. Bravery in defeat. We’ll ‘ave em next time. 34-7. I blame the Advertiser. Mr A Buchalik

Important dates

2009-09-22T15:46:00.003+01:00

29th September 2009 - Year 7 tutor consultation evening
6th/7th October 2009 - open evening (6.15-8.30pm)
21st October 2009 - End of term 1 (pupils leave school at 2.20pm)
3rd November 2009 - Start of term 2 for pupils
9th November 2009 - Year 11 "key to success" evening
30th November-4th December 2009 - Year 11 mock exams
4th December 2009 - Staff training day (no pupils in school)
15th December 2009 - Year 11 subject consultation evening
18th December 2009 - End of term 2 (pupils leave school at 12.30pm)
4th January 2010 - Start of term 3
13th January 2010 - Year 10 subject consultation evening
10th February 2010 - Year 9 option evening
12th February 2010 - End of Term 3 (pupils leave school at 2.20pm)
22nd February 2010- Start of term 4
4th March 2010 - Target setting/ Consultation day
5th March 2010 - staff training day (no pupils in school)
11th March 2010 - Year 9 subject consultation evening
31st March 2010 - Year 8 subject consultation evening
1st April 2010 - End of term 4 (Pupils leave school at 12.30 pm)
19th April 2010 - Start of term 5
29th April 2010 - Year 7 subject consultation Evening
3rd May 2010- May Day (school closed)
4th - 7th May 2010 - Year 9 exam week
19th May 2010 - GCSE examinations start (provisional date)
28th May 2010 - End of Term 5 (pupils leave at 2.20 pm)
7th June 2010 - start of term 6
28th June - 2nd July 2010 - Year 10 work experience
21st July 2010 - End of term 6 (Pupils leave school at 12.30pm)

Rugby year 10 report

2009-09-18T14:24:00.001+01:00

Rugby Year 10 17/09/09

Nova Hreod 19 points vs. Greendown 23 points

Going to the match yesterday was a big challenge for the boys, seeing as last year Nova luckily scraped a win - not this time though! Two quick tries from Josh Paradise and Harrison Batty set the pace, but unfortunately were not converted for the extra points. Nova managed to pull one back after terrific defence from the team, and in particular some big tackles from full back Christopher Durrant. Two more spirited tries from Karl Godwin, on hand to support the hard yards gained by Harrison Batty, really set the tone. Nova managed to fight back in the second half and pull another two tries back, (but they had to as they were roared on by a large group of Mums and girlfriends!!) despite more excellent Greendown defence. In the closing skirmishes with only 4 points in it Greendown boys defended with just about everything they had and spent the final four minutes encamped in the Nova 22 yrd area. A very good match and Greendown defying the odds deserved their victory. My man of the match would have to be Karl Godwin for his two tries and try saving tackles closely followed by Josh Paradise and Christopher Durrant for outstanding play.

Match reported by Harrison Batty (cpt)

Note from Mr. Harding: Harrison Batty displayed not only a high level of skill, determination and courage, which had a positive effect on the whole squad, but also fantastic leadership qualities and a superb motivator on the field of play. Well done to ‘Harry’, and to a group of very proud Greendown lads. A pleasure to be with.

YEAR 11 RUGBY MATCH REPORT

2009-09-18T09:05:00.002+01:00

Word is the revolution has begun. No longer do the Greendown rugby coaches have to scour the darkest corners of the school to find representatives for the first XV. The Y11 team want to go out with a bang and they made a terrific start by blowing away Nova Herod by 43-10. A welcome return to the arena was Carney Bonner, Ryan Martin and Josh Woods. For the first time ever coaches have selection issues. Carney at 6ft 2 and Ryan Martin the England ABA Boxing champ made up the bench, which shows the quality of athlete that made the final cut.

The Greendown men got off to a cracking start. Fast ball provided space for danger runners, RJ, Trigger, Aiden Stevens and Josh Jefries. Holes appeared in the defence and it was not long before Louis Butcher had gone over in the corner. This opened the flood gates. More trys from Dan Baker x 2, Trigger, Ryan Martin and another by Louis saw us take a comfortable lead. However this was not the end of the story. Influential captain josh Jeffries and stand in outside half James Harden were forced to leave the field and the game became a contest.

The Herod scrum half caught the Greendown defence napping and squeezed over in the corner, followed by another break away try under the sticks.

Greendown were to have the last say in the game. The Greendown army camped out on the opposition line for 5 mins. Josh Cox came close to scoring, diving over the line but forgetting to take the ball with him. It was left to Harry Lloyd to seal the win with a terrific run at the death.

Final score 44-12 Greendown - Mr A Buchalik

Year 8 Match Report

2009-09-16T08:42:00.000+01:00

The Y8 rugby season got off to a cracking start. A victory against Nova Herod by 22-18. However like ducks swimming on the water, it was calm on the surface but feet were going ten to the dozen beneath. A few “larry last minute” letdowns and the absence of influential hooker Corey somanski, saw the Greendown boys have to field a team of 13. However this gave a fantastic opportunity for a few of the other boys to shine.
The Swindon champs got the ball rolling with a fantastic solo effort from Elliott- maggs franklin. A 40 yard effort, taking on his opponents on the outside. Supper quick. However this was not going to be a walk over. Herod hit back with a try under the sticks straight away. 7-5 Herod.
The game went back and forth for the next 20 mins. James Lewis and Elliott maggs Franklin tackled their hearts out and must have covered every blade of grass on the pitch. Solid srummaging from ally Baker and Alex Webb kept the opposition on the back foot despite having no flankers.
Sean Reese and George Russ Combined to make the score 10-7 Herod with a well worked try from set piece.But, again Herod hit back straight away with a questionable try. Followed by another. 17-10 half time.
A stern team talk at half time (the usual…you are all walking home if we loose) did the trick. Alex Webb scored a quick try from a clever tap penalty from George Russ. Put us well and truly back in the game. Our summer recruit from Poland Filp Zukowski made a dramatic impact winning the majority of lineout ball and fellow debutants Kyle Gentleman made a valuable contribution.
In the last 5 minutes of play George Russ sealed the win with a quick tap penality and dart down the flank. A terrific effort. This led to a final 4 minutes of try line defence. 3 nerve wrecking scrums on our own try line took 2 years off my life. The forward cleared it and victory was ours. Great start lots to work on. training on Weds.
Mr A Buchalik

Welcome back:)

2009-09-15T16:00:00.004+01:00

We at G-Mag would like to welcome you back to the new year.
We are looking forward to hearing all about the new things happening within the school.
So, if you have any new ideas, please inform us.

Have a great year!

G-Mag wishes all of our readers a happy summer break!

2009-07-22T14:12:00.002+01:00

From all the editorial team who will be back in September!

Bugsy Malone

2009-07-16T13:35:00.002+01:00

Keep posted for news on Bugsy performance!

Champions!

2009-07-16T08:36:00.002+01:00

To top off a great sporting year the Y7 Rugby lads took home the Swindon 7 aside trophy defeating Commonweal in the Final 15-5 despite being 5-0 down at half time. The hair dryer treatment was issued and the threat of having to walk home brought about the killer instincts of Elliot Maggs Franklin and Jemal Lewis, who scored in the latter stages of the game. If you see any of the following please congratulate them for a hard earned victory.

Sean Reese- Fine all round game and captain of the ship
Correy Somanski- The hardest thing on 2 legs. A complete one off
Jemal Lewis- Fastest thing on 2 legs when he put his mind to it
Alex Webb- Big and strong and fast, usually you get one of the 3
James Lewis- Brave as a lion and great skills
George Russ- Great sevice and a great tactician
Carl Reid- Big and strong and injured
Callum Aslantape- Fast and loves the rough stuff, his wrestle skill have really helped. Had to ban the lycra though.
Elliott Maggs Franklin- Player of the tournament. Rapid. Going to be a great rugby player. Be nice and you may get international tickets one day
Dan Watt- A great find for next season, another one as brave as a lion and small as a mouse.
Loie Paradise- injured early but a fine player
Matty Margates- getting better and better every game. The ability to hurl himself in the way of great danger was very reassuring for me

A Buchalik

Year 10's make Prom Pitch

2009-07-10T14:21:00.003+01:00

On Tuesday July 7th, the Year 10s were given an enterprise challenge fit for The Apprentice: working in teams, the students had to take on the role of a catering company bidding for the tender to put on a Year 11 Prom dinner within a fixed budget. This meant working out all the costings in detail as well as creating a theme, menu and company logo, writing a persuasive letter of tender and then pitching their presentation to their peers.

This is the second year we have held the ‘We’re in Business’ event, one of several ‘real life scenarios’ produced by NatWest Bank as part of their MoneySense for Schools programme, set up to develop business and financial skills among young people.

Once again we saw some fantastic efforts and displays of creativity and financial skills. Themes chosen for the Prom dinner ranged from the ever-popular masquerade ball and Moulin Rouge to casinos, kangaroos and hip-hop. One team even researched thoroughly into Renaissance history to enhance their Renaissance-themed Prom idea.

“This is much better than doing lessons like Maths and English!” was a typical comment from students. But of course that’s just what they were doing! Other enterprise skills being put to work were teamwork, communication, initiative and creativity and that essential entrepreneurial ingredient – daring to be different.

The judges at the final presentation – Mr Zimmerman, Mr McGlaughlin, Ms Davies, Ms Griffin and Ms Matthews from NatWest – had the hard task of finding a winner among the many excellent presentations, but the team that ticked all the boxes, making a very professional pitch with their ‘Delectable’ theme, were from 10RJ: Katie Tonks, David Ruddle, Brandon Soo, Joni Collier, Nadia Adofo & Robbie Swainsbury. And their prize? They get to plan the real thing next year as part of the Year 11 Prom Committee!
see it here on youtube! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MmisY6_80I

Julia Wilkinson
Enterprise Coordinator

Upcoming Bus Trips - Watersports and Shopping

2009-07-09T17:32:00.002+01:00

This upcoming Monday, the remaining two trips for the bus will take place, both for an array watersports at South Cerney and shopping and bowling in Bristol. Shopping has been a regular favourite, proving yet again it's popularity by maxing out the number of spaces available. A new addition to the trips available this year, watersports, was an immediate hit with there being interest from the beginning, and with those who fail to go to Thorpe Park will be enjoying an alternative day in South Cerney.

Unfortunately, if it starts to rain, the students will be brought back at lunch time and return to their normal timetable - hopefully, this won't happen!

The shopping trip will start with two games of bowling, followed with lunch. After that, students will be taken to Cribbs Causeway for an afternoon of shopping.

By Rhiannon John
Year 8

Induction Days

2009-07-09T17:21:00.002+01:00

This week, Greendown invited over 200 year 6s into the school to begin the experience of joining our school. Induction started when the eight new tutor groups were introduced to their tutors, followed by a tour of the school and their first break as part of the school.

Lessons commenced at 10:15, with the primary school students going to lunch 10 minutes earlier than the rest of the school. Leaving school early, they prepared themselves for the following 2 days as "Year 7".

Thursday saw further mingling within tutors and more taster lessons.

One more day of induction still to come, and then the primary school students return to us in September as Year Sevens.

By Nathalie Cannell
Year 9

Annual Bus Trip - Thorpe Park

2009-07-09T15:59:00.005+01:00

As you all know, people who were lucky enough to get on the bus to Thorpe park went on the 6th of July. As one those people, I can tell you that it was great! We had the chance to go on the water rides and stealth - personally, this was the best ride I went on and Carney, our editor-in-chief, thought it was amazing. The weather, however, disrupted the day, but, if you were lucky enough to be on the water rides at the time, it wasn't a problem! Luckily, it soon cleared up just in time for those who hadn't to go on stealth. Unfortunately, when everyone arrived back on the coach, it absolutely poured!

Hope you can get the opportunity to go to Thorpe park like many of us did this year. It is definitely worth it!

By Josh Talbot
Year 8

Bugsy Malone - 15th & 16th July Don't miss

2009-07-08T16:02:00.004+01:00

TICKETS GOING FAST - Adults £5 - children £3.50

CAST LIST
Daisy Smale
Sarah Finney
Izzy Waite
Rosie Free
Zoe Samwell
Oliver Jackson
Katie Povey
Adam Bradford
Daniel Waller
James Wood
Ryan Turner
James Reid
Faye Rogers
Jess Harmer
Anna Waddington
Stephen Indge
David Ruddle
Abigail Upfold
Zoe Smith
Mollie Tuttle
Andrew Larkin
Hannah Hewson
Louisa House
Jacob Cripps
Sam Ward
Bobby Davies
Jessica Bryant
Oliver Fry
Mollie Soley
Jessica Jenner
Jorja Newman
Jayde Weatherly
Skyler Eck
Alex Livingstone
Olivia Pike
Chloe Gamble
Courtney Johnson Mitchell
Sarah Clarke
Ronni Ricket
Jemma Burren
Joshua Thompson
Ben White
Chris Middlecoate
Jack Duffy
Matthew Birt

Natalie Burke
Professional Tutor/Head of Creative Arts/Teacher of Drama

Sports presentation evening at the De Vere

2009-07-03T09:10:00.004+01:00

The school held the 2009 sports presentation evening last night, and it was the most successful evening yet. Look at some of the letters we received the very next day!
Pictures to follow!!
'Hi Christian,

My name is Justin, Lee Evans’s dad. Firstly just to say what great night it was last night, it was fantastic to see all those achievements recognised.

Secondly, my dad works for the Swindon Advertiser and I have asked him about getting the event published as I think it deserves it for all the work the school puts in. So if you wanted to get as many photos of the winners on the night, with names and age groups, to me I can forward them on and he said he would ensure it goes into the paper.

Thanks again,

Kind Regards,

Justin Evans

IT Innovations Solutions Limited'
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'Good morning Chris,

Corene and I felt we just had to drop you a line after last nights awards evening at the De Vere to let you know what a great evening it was, splendid venue, excellent food, professionally run, organised and presented. Congratulations to you and your team, you deserve a large pat on the back. What a long way the evening has come over the years. Hayley as you know trains at the Swindon Harriers and often when I am track side listening to the kids and parents gathered there, I hear people saying how they wished they were at Greendown doing sport, it has great teachers, facilities, and is becoming a force to be reckoned with. We believe credit should be shown to you, after all you have inspired and supported many students and made sport fun and challenging. Well done'.

Nick & Corene Elbourne
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: Christian DobbsCc: Clive ZimmermanSubject: Last night

'Just wanted to congratulate you and your team for last nights outstanding event. It was slick, glitzy, professional and above all it was a night that belonged to the students. Seeing the energy of the students, especially the table of year 11s, made me wish I was their age again! The venue was amazing. You should all be very proud. David was delighted with his award. Sport is so much part of his life and I thank you all for helping him to discover more. As a teacher I know how hard you all work and the results of that were there to be seen last night. I am passionate about local schools for local children and I am so glad that Greendown is my children’s local school.'

Thank you once again

Ian Howard
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Marc Radford
Sent: 03 July 2009 09:27
To: Christian Dobbs
Cc: Mark Lanchester
Subject: Sports Eve comments

Chris

Texts I received from 3 sources re: last night fyi:

1. Super evening
2. Cracking evening
3. Good organisation
4. Must keep this venue next year
5. Will come again for sure!

Marc R Radford BA (Hons)Lon, MA, PGCE
Français, Italiano, Español, ICT, WRC
School OSHL Coordinator
Greendown Community School
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Cristina Bennett
Sent: 03 July 2009 09:40
To: Christian Dobbs
Subject: RE: G-Mag

Hi Chris,

Mark got in there before me with congratulations - I echo his comment about the best yet. It was a really great evening - I agree the best ever. It had an 'awards ceremony' feel which really made each student's achievement something very special; and the pride of parents and siblings taking photos of their 'winners' was well-worth seeing.

Jenny Pacey was great - a personal and genuine speech and a great inspiration for so many young women. All in all, an evening with an excellent combination of entertainment: cheer leaders were brilliant; 'live' voting was a great way to involve the audience; all MCs and announcements were slick; involving the sports council was great (perhaps each pair of reps from each year group could do a speech about that year group's achievements? Then they could all have a role to play). To make the most of the sports council reps' moments of glory, perhaps they could have some coaching in public-speaking to give them more confidence? (English dept could help on this - or, perhaps we could work on an extension of the CLIC speaking and listening section about individual presentations to a big audience??

So, congratulations to all of you who made it such a special evening - perhaps you'll have to re-name it, "Sports Oscars Evening" ? (only joking!)

Finally, when's the picture of Jenny Pacey carrying Clive Harding going to be released??

Thanks again for a fantastic evening - and I won a raffle prize!

Cristina
Cristina Bennett
Literacy and Global Partnership Co-ordinator Greendown Community School

Upcoming Sports Day!

2009-07-02T16:11:00.003+01:00

As many of you know, our next sports day is being held at the County Ground. We have been told that, as per usual, we will be doing this event in our tutor groups. Many students have been busy creating wonderful banners and all of the ones I have seen are looking great! Remember to get your transport forms back in to your tutors to tell them how you will be arriving at the County Ground!

If your not getting a lift there, please remember to bring your £2 for the school bus!

By Josh Talbot
Year 8

Year 9s Do Peer Mentor Training

2009-07-02T15:48:00.002+01:00

On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, 25 year 9s spent the day at Lydiard Park, along with Miss Carreiro and Mrs Barratt. In non-uniform, they were trained by professionals, focusing on the issues that may arise when dealing with scared, nervous Year 6 students. With help from Mr Thomas and Miss Hesten, pupils played 'ice-breakers' to familiarise themselves with activities they could use to help bond tutor groups.

Induction days are next Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, with over 200 primary school students making their way to Greendown for their first glimpse of secondary school life.

By Nathalie Cannell
Year 9

Any unused walkmans out there?

2009-06-29T16:14:00.004+01:00

If anyone out there still has one of the old fashioned tape player walkman that is sitting in a drawer and no longer used, (but working) we would be pleased to take it off your hands!
It can be put to good use by our Resource Centre. Contact Mrs Eagle - RC Manager or just send it in if you can! Thanks
M lanchester

Swindon Chamionships - results!

2009-06-29T15:56:00.002+01:00

I am pleased to report the latest set of results from the county ground….

Year 7 - Boys -SWINDON CHAMPIONS – 1st 101 points (first time in schools history that a year 7 boys team has won), nearest competitors had 71, performance of the day, Jamael Lewis running 12.6 in the 100m, also excellent performances from Dan Watt (triple), Elliot Mags-Franklin (200m + Long Jump), Louie Paradise (400m), Jack Phillips (High Jump)

Year 7 - Girls - 3rd place. Best performance by Jess Jenner 100m (14.2)

Year 8 - Boys - 4th

Year 8 - Girls - 6th

Please congratulate any pupil that represented the school in the athletics

Thanks

Christian Dobbs
Director of Sport

South West Pentathlon Championships

2009-06-29T14:26:00.001+01:00

Braedon Cleverly and Josh Paradise took part in the South West Pentathlon Championships at the weekend. Both performed to the best of their ability. Josh achieved 4 PB’s, Braedon 2.

Braedon finished 4th and qualifies for the national finals, representing the South West (From Berkshire and all counties West and down)
Josh is a reserve after finishing 6th

Please congratulate both boys on an outstanding achievement.

Christian Dobbs
Director of Sport

National Cheerleading Championships

2009-06-29T13:49:00.000+01:00

The girls who took part in the National Cheerleading in Manchester this weekend were:

Yr 7 – Chloe Proctor
Yr 8 – Carmen Lee
Hannah Adams
Jodie Tielmanns
Emily Hayward
Yr 11 - Jordon Bonello
Laura Read
Carly Thomas
Danni Soffe
Hannah Godfrey
Emma Milsom
Molly Grey

They were a credit to the school and performed their routine perfectly in a huge venue in front of a big crowd. They finished 3rd behind teams who had been competing at this level for years. Roll on next year!

Thanks to Tammy who choreographed the routine and spent hours training the girls to this level.
Gail Davies

Houses

2009-06-26T12:47:00.002+01:00

As some of you know Greendown may be considering making houses. Houses are different groups (not tutor groups) that work as a house during the year, we would no longer have tutor groups just houses, and the school may take away the idea of merits and just have house points, the winner will receve a trip out (like the bus trip), the other houses will get a chance to go too but would have to pay to get a seat. Do you think this would be a good idea to do? if you feel like telling us your veiws, please post a comment on the bottom of this post and let us know.

Josh Talbot - Reporter year 8.

GREENDOWN PUPILS RUNNERS UP IN NATIONAL COMPETITIONS FOR SONG, POETRY AND POP VIDEO!

2009-06-24T14:28:00.000+01:00

Y8 pupils Hannah Mitchell and Jodie Tielemans secured a double whammy recently for themselves and the school with a song they wrote in Spanish about what they were going to do in their spare time. Hannah also composed the music and together they choreographed their performance of it. They were asked to compose something following a unit of work on future plans with their Spanish teacher Señora Mochan back in the Spring Term. She was so impressed she showed it to the whole class who agreed it should be forwarded as an entry to two different competitions.
Free Spirit organised by University of West of England is a National Song and Poetry competition run annually and Pop Video was run by Routes into Languages.
The girls were delighted to receive the news that they had come runners up in the Spanish section for Song for the Free Spirit competition and winners in the Pop Video competition.
On 22 June they went with Señora Mochan up to the Goethe Institut in London where they were first to perform their entry to an audience of judges from a variety of embassies and other competition entries. Alison Taylor from UWE commented that 87 schools had taken part and that some of those had multiple entries and reiterated how well those present had done in the face of fierce competition.
It was a wonderful celebration of pupil creativity in a variety of languages and spanning key stages 2-5. It was also noticeable that the majority of other winners were from private schools and a further accolade of the girls’ achievement. They each received a sum of money, certificate presented by a representative of the Spanish Embassy and pencil case. A further outing to receive the second prize is planned shortly.

Interview with Mrs. Mochan on the Spanish Exchange

2009-06-16T09:40:00.002+01:00

This week, a group of Spanish exchange students came to Greendown. They will be staying with a selection of the Greendown students all week and in the summer holidays, the Greendown students will be travelling to Spain (Seville). We managed to talk to Mrs. Mochan about her views on the exchange.

How long does it take to plan something like this?

This has been ongoing since last year. It takes a lot of planning and a lot goes on behind the scenes. We have to get permission from senior management and see how many children would be interested. Last year there were a lot more Spanish people on the exchange than English, of course this means that some of the Spanish children had to stay with some voluntary teachers, so that was quite a stressful time. In Spain they are very keen for their pupils to learn English. They have even started to teach subjects like Maths and Science in English to help the students learn in more detail. In this particular exchange, the students have been able to contact each other easily on msn so they got to know each other well before they'd even met.

Do you enjoy the exchange?

It takes a lot of hard work organising flights and sorting out money but it's always worth it when the pupils enjoy it so much afterwards.

Thank you Mrs Mochan! We are glad the exchange was such a success!

By Faye Rogers & Jess Harmer 8DS

Wiltshire Athletics Trials

2009-06-15T08:29:00.001+01:00

On Saturday Janine and I took 20 of our pupils to represent Swindon in the Wiltshire athletics trials. All of them competed well and did the school and Swindon proud. The best performances and qualifiers for the SW trials are written below. Success in the SW trials will see our pupils reach the national athletics finals.

Braedon Cleverly – 1st in Hurdles 12.7s (NEW SCHOOL RECORD), 2nd in Long Jump 4.30 (NEW SCHOOL RECORD) – SW trials
Jo Shepherd – 2nd in 800m, ran 2m06s – SW trials
Carney Bonner – 2nd High Jump (1m70cm) – SW trials (Equals school record)
Jess Nickels – 2nd High Jump (1m44cm) – SW trials
Nyle Clinton – 3rd 1500m (4m36s) – got qualifying time so should run at SW trials (NEW SCHOOL RECORD)
Josh Paradise – 3rd Triple Jump (reserve 10m45cm )
Elliot Maggs-Franklin – 3rd Long Jump (reserve 4m30cm)
Jamael Lewis – 3rd 100m (reserve 13.1s) – NEW SCHOOL RECORD
Jess Jenner – 3rd 100m (reserve 14.4s)

Please congratulate them if you see them

Christian Dobbs
Director of Sport

Spanish Exchange Programme

2009-06-09T09:38:00.002+01:00

Programme for Exchange visit

Mon 8-Mon 15 June
Mon 8/6
Pick up from Heathrow IB5635 at 17.00, return to be met by host families at Greendown at 18.30pm approximately. Settle in with host families, explore a little of West Swindon
Tom and Marcus

Tue 9/6
Host partner brings exchange partner to Greendown for official welcome by CZ then Spanish group off to visit Bristol and Glastonbury/Wells. Return to Greendown at 5.30pm to be met by host family
Tom & Matthew

Wed 10/6
AM Students in lessons at Greendown
PM Visit Swindon town centre, outlet village etc with exchange partner and suggest activity such as bowling, ice skating, laserquest, oasis etc, go directly home with exchange partner
EM and Spanish staff

Thur 11/6
8am Whole group to LONDON return by 8pm- drop at London Eye, walk along South Bank to Globe theatre stopping off at Tate Modern, cross over to St Paul’s and Trafalgar Square, National Portrait Gallery, Covent Garden etc
Tom, Matthew, Marcus and EM

Fri 12/6
9am Spanish group to Bath and Stonehenge returning via Marlborough and Avebury by 5.30pm to be met by host partner at Lydiard Park for farewell BBQ for all families
Tom & Matthew

Sat 13/6
With Host Family

Sun 14/6
With Host Family

Mon 15/6
2pm Depart Greendown for return flight from Heathrow IB5636 at 17.35
Tom and Matthew/Marcus

Cheer To The Nationals!

2009-06-09T09:12:00.002+01:00

Our school cheerleading squad is going to compete in Manchester against the rest of the teams in Britain.The competition is very important because it is the British nationals. So we will wish the team much luck,and are excited to hear how they have done.
By Hannah Adams and Zoe Samwell

Africa teacher trip

2009-06-02T10:01:00.003+01:00

As many of you know, four teachers were lucky enough to go to Africa in this half term to visit partner school Moriting Wa Thuto. We interviewed Mr Williams, and asked on his first experience in Africa. He told us that he really enjoyed his time there and the teachers went to learn from them and see how their school worked. They went there for one week, stayed in a small hotel and went to their school every day. Mr Williams also expressed the Moriting Wa Thuto pupils interest in Greendown's staff, asking an array of questions about school in England, as well as families and daily life. Overall, the teachers had a great time!

Article written by Josh Talbot, info collected by Josh Talbot, Joe Barnard and Kieron Parker

Sustainable Swindon competition

2009-06-02T09:42:00.002+01:00

As we have reported a few weeks ago, a group of children from Greendown school won a competition to film a documentary with a professional film crew (four of the G-mag students are taking part in this documentary. They are: Faye Rogers, Jess Harmer, Joe Barnard and Zoe Samwell). The documentary will be based on the subject 'Sustainable Swindon' and will be shown on the BBC big screen in the town centre.

Our final documentary will include interviews with the public about how they feel about the possible construction taking place in Swindon countryside and their views on how to keep Swindon sustainable.

On Saturday the 23rd May the students had a training day at create studios so they could learn how to use the specialist equipment. We got to practise using:

Stills cameras
filming cameras
Sound kit (including boom mics)

We also learnt how to do a professional pitch as we would be approaching others to give us ideas about what they think about sustainable Swindon.

On Saturday the 30th May, a section of the group went to Lydiard park to start their interviews and film part of the documentary. We had a brilliant time and got some great footage of the park and visitors of Lydiard. Now we have some idea of how people really feel about Swindon and sustainability.

This coming Saturday, another section of the group will be interviewing in Coate water and on the 13th June, 3 of the G-mag students taking part in the filming will be at the Brunel centre doing more interviews.

So, if you're interested in being featured in our documentary and want your views heard, come along to the Brunel centre on the 13th and look for the kids with the cameras.

By Faye Rogers & Jess Harmer 8DS

More good sports news.........

2009-06-01T13:27:00.000+01:00

Jo Shepherd, Braedon Cleverly, Josh Paradise and Jess Nickels have all been selected to represent Wiltshire in the South-West Pentathlon Championships in Exeter on June 27th/28th. This is the first time we have had more than one competitor representing the school and Wiltshire, therefore please congratulate them as and when you see them
Thanks

Christian Dobbs
Director of Sport

On the last day of term Greendown did very well at the County Pentathlon….

2009-06-01T11:01:00.001+01:00

Year 8 Boys – TEAM WILTSHIRE CHAMPIONS
Troy Foster – 4th
Niman Gurung – 6th
Conall Rees – 7th

Year 9 Boys – TEAM WILTSHIRE CHAMPIONS
Braedon Cleverly – 1st
Josh Paradise – 3rd
Aaron Stubbs – 5th

Year 10 Boys – TEAM WILTSHIRE RUNNERS-UP
Jo Shepherd – 2nd
Lewis King – 5th
Carney Bonner – 8th

Year 9 Girls –
Jess Nickels – 5th
Hayley Elbourne – 13th

Please congratulate them if you see them

Christian Dobbs
Director of Sport

Kickstart the Holidays!

2009-05-19T09:47:00.001+01:00

Please remember that school finishes at 2.30 for all years on Friday.

We hope you have a nice holiday!

Pupils take maths to town - from Swindon Adver..

2009-05-18T15:43:00.001+01:00

MATHS came out of the classroom and on to the high street as a school brought the overlooked subject to the masses.
The object of Greendown Community School’s Maths Day held in the Parade in the town centre was to demonstrate the role it plays in business and everyday life and encourage people to improve their numeracy skills.
The school has been designated a specialist mathematics and computing college and Gill Sarjent, director of specialism at Greendown, came up with the idea to promote maths in the community.
With additional stalls provided by New College, the Water Research Council, construction company Beard and feeder school Tregoze Primary, the event outlined the role of maths in arenas including nature, the body, magic, sports, construction and art.
There was also a maths competition to win an iPod Touch.
“We’re showing that maths is everywhere and that people use maths all the time and to show that it’s going to be important,” said Mrs Sarjent.
“It’s needed for everything – we wouldn’t have technology without maths.
“Life would be very different. People admit to needing help with their literacy and will go for help with it, but sometimes people are perversely quite proud that they cannot do maths.
“People are afraid of maths, but we want to show it’s nothing to be afraid of, that we use it all the time and it can be fun.”
Greendown headteacher Clive Zimmerman said the school was trying to make parents and children aware of the importance of the subject, with a view to expanding this to provide family learning courses.
South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove had brought along MEP for the South West Glyn Ford to see the initiative. She said: “I’m so pleased that Greendown as a community school is coming out into the heart of the community in Swindon.
“We all need maths and what they’re doing is showing maths has a role in jobs and in the world.
“Schools should be doing more of this – the days of closing the gates at 3.30pm after the last bell has rung have gone forever.”
Mr Ford said: “We should not be intimidated by science and maths.”
Tregoze Primary pupils Akash Rajendrakumar and Shona Dwyer, both 11, ran a maths stall, which included fortune-telling to demonstrate probability, and said it was one of their favourite subjects.
“Maths is not scary,” said Shona. “It’s something that you use every day in any job.”

PS One lucky lady from Cirencester won our IPOD touch and its in the post to her!

National Cup Results

2009-05-15T09:49:00.001+01:00

Inter Boys – 3rd (out of 8)
Junior Boys 5th – (out of 9)
Junior Girls 7th – (out of 10)

Some good individual performances yesterday… the Inter Boys have an outside chance of qualifying.

Particularly good performances

Ryan Martin and Jo Shepherd 800m (ran 2:11 and 2:12 – excellent times)
Carmen Lee – 800m
Harry Batty and Josh Paradise – 400m (both 60s)
Ryan Martin – Discus (34m)
Josh Jefferies – Shot (11m+)

Thanks for allowing them to represent the school, they were a credit to Greendown and despite being asked the time and ‘when is my event?’ 40,000 times, they really were very good

Christian Dobbs
Director of Sport