Paris
This term, our Year 8 and 9 visited the wonderful city of Paris for a 3 days residential trip that was truly amazing! The group had a guided tour of the Stade de France, saw the Olympic swimming pool ready for 2024, wandered around Notre-Dame, the Trocadéro before discovering the sheer size of the Eiffel Tower. We enjoyed a mini-cruise on the river Seine showing us all the wonders of Paris before heading to Montmartre and the Sacré Cœur to see street artists.
On the way home we stopped in Vimy Ridge to pay our respect to WW1 soldiers. Where will be going to next?!
Gurdwara Trip
Year 7 students had a wonderful opportunity to visit the local Gurdwara Nanaksar on Thursday 13th July. Students listened to a talk from some local Sikhs to expand their current knowledge on Sikhism. Some students even got the experience of having a turban put on them. Students were also welcomed into the Langar (free food kitchen) where they got to experience traditional Indian cuisine. All staff and students had a wonderful experience and went away feeling enlightened and full!
WWF Visit
On Wednesday 12th July a team from the WWF Project visited the academy to engage with our students about sustainability diets and the environment. The insightful session took place in our Learning Resources Centre. A huge thank you to Chloe Clarington, Owen Reynolds, Demi Harris & Alan Moody who attended.
As a reward the students were given a dining loyalty card for the week which entitled them to a free item of their choice at break times.
International Basketball Tournament
In July, Ellie Blunt had the exciting opportunity to attend an International Basketball tournament in beautiful Barcelona.
Ellie said;
"The Euro Basketball Camp, Barcelona has been such an amazing experience! As the youngest team they’re playing against 15/16 year olds, we were really challenged. Each game we improved more and more, it was great to spend time with my teammates and coaches who I won’t be playing alongside next season! We made so many memories. The highlight of my trip was scoring 2 back to back threes, which took me to be the top scorer of the game against an American Team! I hope to go on many trips like this again!"
Well done Ellie!
As the year winds to a close we are so proud of the achievements of our high prior attaining students. Across both KS3 and KS4 we've had so many opportunities for our students to challenge themselves and extend their skills.
In Year 7, we invited our curious learners to attend EXTEND led by Miss Harman and Miss Hopkins, this is a group for students who want to experience the life of an entrepreneur and have planned, devised, advertised, budgeted and totally organised a Year 7 fair which will be held on the last week of the school term (you'll have to check our Facebook page for photos as at time of going to print we still had a few days to wait). All proceeds from the Summer celebration will go towards the RNLI. At lunchtimes, other worldly-wise year 7s have been heading to PROVOKE, a club for students who want to know more about the world around them by examining the newspapers and discussing the big stories of the day.
Year 9 EXTEND students completed their ambition award this year and have spent the last few weeks putting their leadership skills to good use -supporting our new Year 6s on transition day, giving tours of the school to new staff and generally being amazing role members for the rest of Key Stage 3.
Also in Key Stage 3 and across Key Stage 4, our amazing Debate Clubs have continued honing their skills and developing their persuasive powers and are in the early stages of planning a city-wide competition early next year. I know Iza, Heidi, Julia, Bernard, Chloe, Chloe, Doris and Hugo can't wait to be challenged by fellow Sotonians.
BOAST has continued to go from strength to strength with staff across the school being keen to give up their lunch time to share academic lines of inquiry that fascinate them with a willing audience, keen to explore new ideas. BOAST will be back in September!
The amazing Scholars Programme, run in partnership with the Brilliant Club continued to excel this year, with over 27 students across years 9 and 10 graduating from the intensive course that pushes students to study at a far higher academic level than their year group denotes. Students celebrated in style at Oxford University and who knows they may find themselves there again as students rather than visitors ...
All this and a host of trips to Universities and Colleges from the Careers Team have helped encourage our students to be future ready, excited about their next stage of learning and ambitious pursuits ...
This week, the attendance team have celebrated with the best and most improved tutor groups from each year with a delicious breakfast for our students including croissants, pain au chocolat’s, bacon rolls, watermelon and orange juice. We have had over 230 students, tutors and staff celebrate all their hard work and effort this year.
It was so rewarding to see the students enjoying the end of the academic year with their tutors and friends celebrating their attendance as a tutor group. Well done everyone and we look forward to celebrating with more of you all next year.
Our Sports Day saw over 170 students compete across 60 events at the Southampton Sports Centre. In hot conditions of 28 degrees, a fantastic day saw some excellent performances and a host of sports day records broken!
Well done to Joe Chick (Y7 High Jump), James Humby-Farmer (Y9 Long Jump), Stanley Shacklock (Y8 800m), Leo Shacklock (Y10 800m), Vander Thompson (Y10 200m) who all recorded new school records.
And well done to all who competed! Effort, determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship was on show throughout!
Year 7 Life at OAS
Our Year 7 Tutor Reps and Anti-Bullying Ambassadors have welcomed the Year 6 students to OAS for their transition day. Year 7 were super excited to share their knowledge and experience of what it is like to complete your first year at secondary school with the Year 6 students, and the Year 7 students were an absolute credit to the academy.
The Year 7 students conducted themselves with maturity and went out of their way to make every Year 6 student feel at ease during the transition day on Wednesday 5th July. It was amazing to watch them share their experiences and to see how much they have grown up since completing their own transition day a year ago.
Four of our Year 7 students even volunteered to come back and speak to the Year 6 parents during Mr Brown’s presentation on the Thursday evening. Lewis Delves, Joe Chick, Hattie Fairclough and Ciaran Miller spoke to nearly 300 people to share anecdotes from their Year 7 life at OAS.
Year 7 have just celebrated a successful first year at OAS by going on a trip to Paulton's Park. They behaved impeccably in the park and thoroughly enjoyed themselves during their day out. Thankfully the weather also behaved, and Dr Saunders was able to capture some of the year group enjoying themselves on the rides. I have included some photos below.
Year 7 continue to remain top of the school for the number of positive reward points earned per student and this reflects Year 7’s positive attitude to learning, which is something they should be proud of and continue to celebrate as they move into Year 8.
Year 7 have also remained top of the school for having the best attendance, and 7VN are to be congratulated as they have remained the tutor group with the best attendance in the school, with 96%. 7IS are close on their heels with 94% and 7IN with 93%.
Our top thirty Year 7 students with the most reward points in the year group are listed below.
Thank you to the following student who made speeches at our Year 6 Presentation Evening: Lewis Delves, Joe Chick, Harriet Fairclough & Ciaran Miller
Well done Year 7. Keep up the good work as you move into Year 8 and into the care of Mrs Sydenham, it has been a pleasure to have been your Head of Year 7!
Mrs Rolls, Head of Year 7
Year 8 Life at OAS
So here we are, at the end of Year 8, with an opportunity to reflect over the year, and what a year it has been! Our Year 8 students have been spectacular and I am so proud to have been their Head of Year. They have had some wonderful experiences, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the students and how amazing they were on our recent trip to Paultons Park. They were impeccable and a true credit to the school, but most of all, we all had a brilliant time! I’m very much looking forward to getting back out as a year group and going on more adventures in the future. But this was not their only excursion as a year group, they were also out and about this year in Winchester, when they visited the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium. A journey of discovery and wonder had by all, delving into the world of science, technology, engineering and maths.
It has been a pleasure of mine to have been able to see the creativity of our inspired Year 8’s. The art work produced this year has been of excellent quality, the rhythms coming from the music room has been beautifully melodic, and let us not forget the fabulous production of Frozen at Christmas – a real festive treat!
The students have had a great array of sporting opportunities across the year, thanks to our PE department. Looking over the list alone made me think about taking a rest!
Cricket, Dodgeball, Football, Rounders, Badminton, Athletics, Fitness, Multi-Sports Club
Clubs attended
Alongside all the great sporting activities, clubs and events (in which the year 8’s have had much success), there has been a great presence of our year group in all the afterschool clubs – continuing to build our community spirit…
Dungeons & Dragons, BOAST, Crochet Club, KS3 Maths Club, Book Club, LGBTQIA+ Club, Board Game Club
As we close the year, I must congratulate our students that manage to maintain their 100% attendance! Attendance makes such a big impact on student progress, I am so impressed by this group, a very hearty well done!
Joshua A, Melissa B, William F, Ryan G, Hayden H, Jessica L, Jack M & Emily S
Throughout the year, the students have been pouring in their achievement points, showing all their hard work and representing the Oasis 9 Habits beautifully. With over 82530 points, we have had a very successful year and I’d like to thank each and every student for every point they have earned. Our top 30 earners of the year are:
Brooke P, Jared W, Imogen H, Caleb G, Jack M, Neo H, Millie P, Neeya P, Ruby K, Amber C, Noah S, Demi-Louise H, Riley C, Louise M, Endeavour P, Sophia W, Ezekiel L, Jack P, Bobby P, Dua E, Sophie S, Oliver S, Hadifa A, Lillie B, William F, Emily P, Adisa P, Ellie B, Petra T & Sidney S
A fantastic effort by all I am sure you will agree. Which brings us to a close! Inspiring, amazing and packed full of great moments. It has been a pleasure to support Year 8 across this time and very much look forward to returning in September as the new Year 9 cohort.
Wishing you and your families a marvellous summer holiday.
Mr Macdonald
Year 9
As we head to the end of Year 9, we would like to do some celebrating of our wonderful students. We asked our tutors to nominate students in their tutor groups for an award. Below are the students who were selected, along with their reasons for nomination. This would be a great opportunity to shout out to our tutor team who have been fantastic.
Jake C: For a consistently positive attitude and work ethic.
Izzy F: For her excellent achievements this year and contributions to tutor time.
Doniyor D: For his adaptability, positive attitude and being a great addition to our tutor group.
9AS
Blessy L: Continuously getting it right since joining us
Jack L: Resilience throughout this year
Sanjog R: Always putting yourself forward to represent the tutor
9IN
Darcey J: Is a star in tutor
Dylan W: Always willing to contribute
Frederick B: Always helps out when needed
9IS
Alan M: Always put himself forward for exciting opportunities at school such as being the tutor rep, eco council member and anti-bullying ambassador. He is always thinking of ways to improve pupils experience on school site.
Elena C: Who always seems to get it right on school site. She has a massive amount of positive points and is someone I can always rely on to listen and follow instructions.
9TN
Jack F: Outstanding commitment and thoughtful consideration of others
William J: Excellent class involvement, leads in class discussion, communication with others
Reggie S: Fantastic attitude in Tutor time always kind, caring and thoughtful towards others
9TS
Amiel, Ethan and Lydia have been nominated for a tutor award for their continued hard work, good behaviour and contribution to tutor. These students are consistently ready to learn and are valued members of our tutor team!
9VN
Tom M: Has achieved the most plus points over this year
Max C: Is always engaging to talk to, who is compassionate and interested
Caitlin O: Has shown great resilience this year, who works quietly and shows determination
9VS
Jake S: Continuous hard work throughout the year, willingness to help others.
Chloe M: Helping with tutor tasks throughout the year, kindness to others.
Ellie-Mai F: Continuous hard work and kindness to others.
The following students gained the highest number of reward points over the year. Well done.
Well done Year 9...have a great Summer!
From the Year 9 team
Year 10
A year from now, the current Year 10 will have completed their GCSE exams and have left for a well deserved long summer break. This has been an incredibly busy end of term with thoughts turning to life beyond Oasis Academy Sholing. The whole year group spent a day at Itchen College last Thursday taking part in a range of taster lessons in subjects that students had chosen. I was pleased to be told that many of the teachers at Itchen had commented on how great the students had been to work with. Along with the day at Itchen, nearly all the year group are spending the week this week on Work Experience. This is the first time we’ve managed to do this since Covid, and I know it was harder to arrange than in the past with many organisations now having staff working from home so unable to host our students. I’m very grateful to our parents, families and friends along with the school careers team who did manage to arrange so many placements.
It is so important that our students begin to develop a vision where they want to be in the future at this stage in education so that they know, and are hopefully excited about what they are working towards next year. The GCSE exams are by their nature challenging and stressful, and we can’t take that away, but we will supporting all our students to be the best they can be next year so that they can leave school in the best possible position to get on the college courses, apprenticeships and employment routes that they want to be on.
We’ll be ending the year by recognising the achievements of our students who have had excellent attitude to learning, behaviour and attendance with the Thorpe Park reward trip, a rewards afternoon and celebration assembly. A particular mention must go to the following students who have managed to maintain a 100% attendance record this year.
Jack Baldwin, Lydia Court, Rodrigo Goncalves Saboia, Samuel Jackson, Eddie Lin, Jedrick Linatoc, Ropafadzo Shonge, Kiaran Shotter, Luke Slade.
Well done and congratulations to you all.
Finally, thank you to the following student leaders who made speeches at our Year 6 Presentation Evening: Head Girl - Millie Bennett, Head Boy - Luke Groen, Deputy Head Girl - PJ Kaur, Deputy Head Boy - Layton Gillette.
Have a restful summer
Mr Wilkinson
Year 11
After five years together it is now the end of an era. I cannot put into words how much this year group have meant to me, through all our ups and downs and as I told them recently “To me, they simply are the best”. During our leavers assembly the students were delighted to see all the staff perform to Simply the best theme tune including fire from the science department to Mr Brown playing the saxophone, there were lots of laughs and giggles.
Prom was fantastic and seeing everyone arrive in their amazing suits and colourful dresses not to mention a whole range of transportation was wonderful.
We spent most of the evening dancing away and taking silly photos, some fabulous dance moves were also on display and of course lots of laughter with staff and students alike. I could not be prouder of your behaviour on this very special night, you were excellent.
Education is not a destination it is a journey. The last five years have been part of that journey. Whilst all of this is important, I hope that we have left you other special memories that make you smile whenever you think of your time here with us all. Whether that be Avon Tryell, Kidszania, dressing up for sports day, performing in a show or listening to an inspirational speaker. The aim has and will always be to be well rounded individuals who are happy.
Please go forward into your lives and remember to treat people with respect and most importantly be kind to each other.
I will miss you all dreadfully and please keep in contact to let me know how you are all getting on, I am so proud of you and all the achievements you have made.
Goodbye class of 2023 and good luck!
Miss H Sydenham
SEND
This section is written in the OpenDyslexic font to aid accessibility.
Summer Holidays
The SEND department have had a great year supporting your child and our thoughts lean towards helping you in the Summer Holidays. For some, the thought of the school holidays can be very stressful, due to the lack of structure and change in routines. Our advice, from a range of sources is as follows:
Routine: Just because there is no school doesn’t mean there has to be no routine. There are things that can remain the same such as morning routines, time for activities, sleep routines and meal times. This will help with coming back in September.
Plan in advance: If you’re going to be doing a fun activity or spending some time outdoors, it’s good to let everyone know in advance so that they know what to expect. This may help to avoid any anxiety.
Be kind to yourself: Make time for you, to have that cup of coffee, to call that friend and know that you are doing the best you can.
Local Autism Charity Re:Minds comes highly recommended by many of our families. ‘Re:Minds ReCharge’ is a wellbeing and resilience course for parents. It provides a chance for parents to think about their own well-being and talk to others in similar situations.
The course runs over 5 weeks and covers topics including: • Unhelpful Thinking • Dealing with Worries • Mindfulness • Discovering local support that's available Starting Date: 14th September 2023 Face-to-Face.
For the Q&A Guide for the ReCharge Course, click here.
No Limits: Emotional Resilience
Emotional Resilience is a 9 week group for anyone aged 11-25 (split into different age groups) and living in the SO14-SO19 postcode.
This group covers understanding and identifying emotions, the responses to stress and physical effects of emotions, negative thinking, triggers, self-esteem, and self-compassion. This is a safe place to meet people with similar feelings and experiences. The programme can be flexible to ensure that we can meet the support needs of those attending.
When and where: Face-to-face at the Advice Centre on Tuesdays. This is a closed group and attendance is expected at all sessions. Referrals are open and groups run for 9 weeks consecutively.
If you would like to join this group, refer yourself here, refer a young person here, or phone 023 8022 4224.
Athena
Our SEND provision, Athena, has moved. This is so we can continue to provide a quiet space for interventions before building work commences at the front of the school site.
The new provision is near our Creative Arts block in class HE17 and is spacious with plenty of natural light, plus we have installed another sensory room over there. So far, students who access it are very happy.
PE
It has been a really busy term of sport!
We have been fortunate to have five world-class athletes in sessions with our students this summer, including Mo Elyounoussi and Lucia Kendall from Southampton FC, Katie Stainton, an international Heptathlete, Joe Weatherley of Hampshire Country Cricket Club and Southern Brave, and finally Danielle Gregory, of Surrey County Cricket Club and Southern Brave. On top of that, fixtures in cricket and athletics, with a number of students also achieving accolades at county and regional level across track & field, football, cyclo-cross, swimming, and rugby, as detailed below.
Thanks to the parents for all your support in encouraging your children to participate in events across our department.
Mr Bentley, Head of PE
Sports day House Point Totals
Congratulations to Aqua who won the Overall Sports Day Competition, the results were as followed:
1st Place: Aqua 498 points
2nd Place: Ventus 478 points
Student Recognition
Vander Thompson
Vander has been selected for the Under 16 England Rugby 7s squad, they will have their first meet up and training sessions at Epson College in August. Congratulate Vander when you see him, a fitting reward for the dedication and focus he has towards his passion.
Zach Johnson
Zach spent last weekend in Sheffield, having trial for England’s Ice Hockey Development Programme, he will find out soon whether he has been successful. Congratulations to Zach for being selected and we eagerly await the Programme’s decision.
Erin Ward
After 5 years at Southampton FC, Erin has been offered a 5th contract with them and will therefore continue her journey with the club. She will play next season with the U16’s and this brings her one step closer to the Women’s first team. Erin has worked extremely hard to reach this point and her dedication and talent have shone through for yet another season. Only half of Erin’s team were offered contracts for next season, so Erin has done extremely well. Please congratulate Erin on this fantastic achievement when you see her!
Hampshire Schools Athletics Championships
Four of our students represented Southampton in the recent Hampshire Schools Athletics Championships in Portsmouth. James Humby-Farmer came 5th overall in the Long Jump, Vander Thompson (100m) and Leo Shacklock (800m) just missed out on qualifying for their respective finals, and Stanley Shacklock won the pole vault competition!
Stanley will now represent the Hampshire team at the Regional Championships, congratulations!
Under 13 Cricket
Sholing opened the batting against the league champions and started well with Max Butcher hitting two boundaries in the first over. James Stinchcombe did well with the bat to ensure he was able to bat out the innings to see Sholing score 48 for 4.
Some great fielding from Sholing meant that St George started slowly, with two great catches from Kunj Patel and Kai Lynch claiming the opening batsmen’s wickets. Caleb Groom was fantastic as wicket keeper and was very tidy with the gloves. The highlight of the game was a superb wicket maiden over from Endeavour Poore. However, St George managed to score 50 for 3 and ended the game winning by 7 Wickets.
En classe de Français
We have had such a busy year with all our learners across the years. It has been amazing to have something exciting to look forward to in the summer term!
Studying a wide range of topics has been an eye opener at time for our students with so much cultural input including French music and cinematography to cover.
Across KS3-4, we have covered the topics of Family, Freetime, School, Post -16, Holidays, Mobile Technology, Social Issues, Healthy living, Fashion and let’s not forget the topic of Environment of course!
French events have also been an interesting topic to discuss with our KS4 learners.
Our last term was our Film study for all year groups and it is always fun to see that actually we can understand more than we think and see different aspect of life we don’t get to see when studying in class.
Comparing countries and cultures is always a fun way to learn and making us realise that we all live so differently from our close neighbours.
English
Year 7 have finished their study of poetry and have began reading Danny Champion of the World. We have had massive amounts of positive feedback regarding the book with students saying they are enjoying discussing how Danny is not only unconventional but also has had an idiosyncratic upbringing. Students have been able to express their creativity through newspaper articles and the spoken word in this final term.
Year 8 are finishing up their study of the canonical text Animal Farm. Students have looked at oppressive governmental regime and why we should challenge authority. Students have enjoyed challenging and arguing over the oppression of the animals and what is just and not just.
Year 9 have been preparing for their GCSEs by looking at a series of Romantic poems. These poems look at themes of modernity, corruption and oppression - all potent ideas that students have been looking at the significance of challenging in the world around them. They have also been look at new techniques for creative writing to be able to better express themselves.
In Year 10 English, students have been studying their final text of the year: ‘An Inspector Calls.’ They have been learning about Priestley’s attempts to create a better and fairer society, and how he achieves this through the play. Students have also been revising for and completing their Language and Literature mocks. If they wish to do additional revision for English over the Summer break, there is a revision booklet that has been sent to their school email.
In the last week of school, Year 10 will be completing their Speaking and Listening assessment. This gives them a great opportunity to share their voice and speak up about a topic they feel passionate about.
Library
This past year has flown by in the library! In autumn, we proudly took part in the Book Buzz initiative, purchasing 145 books for children entitled to free school meals in Year 7 & Year 8; we hosted the Scholastic Book Fair in the spring, resulting in the library receiving £347 in free books and this month, we are busy with our first Book Swap and our Take 10 minutes to read campaign, encouraging students, staff and parents to start a daily reading habit this summer.
In addition, we have loaned almost 1000 physical books and over 600 audio and e-books to students and staff. Our library has also been home to thriving clubs, including Dungeons & Dragons, Crochet, KS3 Maths, BOAST, Books and Boardgames. It’s been a safe haven for those in need of a quiet space, a learning zone for those who need additional help with reading and a social hub to celebrate achievements. I can’t thank the students, parents and staff of OAS enough for their support in making this such a successful and fulfilling year.
I can’t sign off for the summer without reminding you all that choosing to read boosts your wellbeing and helps you to relax, feel calmer and improves your memory.
So this summer, take 10 minutes to read every day. Choose fiction, non-fiction, comics or magazines. Audio books are great for long journeys, so why not download the E Platform app and log into the Oasis Academy Sholing library with your school email address and password? With over 1,500 eBooks and 1,000 audio books at your fingertips, you can lose yourself in fabulous stories during the holidays!
Still not sure what to read? Check out our digital school library AccessIT Oasis Academy Sholing and take a nose around the Quick Lists menus or pop in and see me and I can help you find a page turner of a book! The library is open from 8.30am to 4pm Monday to Friday.
If you are currently a Y6 or Y7 student, keep an eye out for the Take 10 minutes to read competition packs coming home soon. Complete and return them by 15 September 2023 and win a small prize!
Have a great summer break and I’ll see you all soon. Mrs Ridley, Librarian
Maths
Key stage 3
This term has seen students in Years 7, 8 and 9, sit their end of year assessments. All assessments have been based on the skills practiced over the year, as well as some of the basic skills that underpin all of their knowledge.
Assessments were all sat in class and students have been well behaved and focused throughout.
Year 7
This half term Year 7 have been looking at ratio and percentages. They have been looking at splitting values into a given ratio and finding percentages of amounts. These skills have been used further, looking at how they relate to fractions and decimals. Many students are now confident with working between fractions, decimals and percentages.
Year 7 Stars
Rebecca Salvagain, Juliet Slator, Abigail Saunders, Ella Featherstone, Athalia Philip, Casey Louw, Oliver MacKinnon, Frances Turnbull
Year 8
Year 8 have been looking at finding the area, surface area and volume of different shapes. They have been using the formulae to help them with their calculations and having to memorise some formulae!
As well as looking at shapes such as squares, rectangles and triangles, along with their corresponding 3Dimensional versions, the students have also been looking at finding the circumference and area of circles. This has led to students needing to learn about using the ∏ symbol on their calculators. Most students could now tell you that the value of ∏ is 3.14.
Year 8 Stars
Eve Turner, Thomas Phillips, Mylee Harris, Thomas Wilkins, Petra Thompson, Lillian Brindley, Eva Roper, Brooke Palmer
Year 9
Year 9 have been looking at probability and statistics. They have been looking at the chances of winning games or the chances of something happening, given the results of previous experiments. They have been seeing that probability can be written as fractions, percentages or decimals, however, whichever units you use they will always add up to one.
This year group have been deepening their understanding of venn diagrams and frequency trees, understanding why sometimes it helps to organise data in a systematic way.
Year 9 Stars
Louisa Adams, Samuel Rowlinson, Imogen May, Nathan George, Aimee Rose, Judith Milanzi, Brendin Brown, Archie Whiting
Maths Homework Club
Need help with your homework? Maths Homework club is on every Wednesday after school in the Library.
Year 10
Summer term has seen our Year 10 students sitting their first set of Mock examinations. Both higher and foundation students have sat two papers— paper one being non-calculator and paper two being calculator. This has been many students first view of GCSE papers, how they look and what is expected from them.
This half term Year 10 Higher students have been looking at probability and statistics, looking at the benefits of tabulating data and how you can use data to form predictions. This data has been shown visually in different types of graphs, including cumulative frequency graphs and histograms. Some students have gone even further and looked at comparing two different data sets.
Foundation students have also stated looking at data. They have been ensuring that they can find the mean, median and modes of data sets. They have also been looking at collecting their own data and ensuring that this is
Year 10 Stars
Dale Leach, Joshua Herring, Lisa Nicholls, Konrad Lejman, Callum Hutchins, Lydia Court, Curtis Sandhu, Daisy Medley
Year 11
Year 11 have finished their exams and are getting ready to move onto their next challenges. Many turned up to the morning masterclasses and revision sessions.
Good luck to all the Year 11s in their future endeavours, we look forward to seeing you on results day!
Equipment
Many students are coming to maths lessons equipped with pens and pencils. However, so that they are able to achieve the most in their maths lessons it is important that they also have: a ruler, protractor, set of compasses and a scientific calculator. These are available through school if needed, at a reduced price compared to supermarkets and stationary stores.
Sparx Homework
Most students are continuing to engage with their Sparx homework. Many are watching videos and all are welcome to attend Maths club on a Wednesday after school in the Library.
Each year group is given a week to complete homework and homework is set on the same day each week. Year 7: Tuesday / Year 8: Monday / Year 9: Thursday / Year 10: Friday / Year 11: Wednesday.
Maths Puzzles
Using the numbers from 1-4, complete the grid.
The numbers in each heavily outlined set of squares must combine, in any order, to produce the target number in the top corner using the mathematic operation indicated (+,-,x,÷).
- Use each number only once per row and once per column.
- Cages with just one square should be filled in with the target number in the top corner.
- A number can be repeated within a cage as long as it is not in the same row or column.
Geography
In the last unit of work, Year 7 have had the opportunity to learn outside of the classroom, completing a mini investigation around the school site. They used fieldwork equipment to gather data about temperature differences around the site to test the hypothesis ‘Oasis Sholing is prepared for more extreme temperatures.’
In May, some Year 9 students visited London to visit the BBC Earth Experience. Here they were able to discover more about the natural world they live in and explore the extraordinary diversity of our seven continents. It was an incredible experience where there was narration from David Attenborough as well as incredible footage from Seven Worlds, One Planet, projected on multiple multi-angle screens where students could sit back and enjoy.
On the 29th of June, the geography department took five passionate Year 9 students to compete the Geography Mastermind Quiz representing Oasis Sholing at Southampton University to compete against other Southampton schools.
It was an action-packed afternoon with multiple in-depth rounds testing the student’s knowledge on both a local, regional, and global scale. Rounds ranged from global general knowledge to Lego landmarks. From flags to different locations. Even naming countries based off a few clues and its outline.
The Oasis Sholing team put in a great performance finishing runner up to Upper Shirley High by a mere 1/2 a point. It was a fun and enjoyable afternoon by all who attended! Well done to the students pictured below.
Computer Science
Year 7
Students have been learning about Computer systems, including how to build a computer and what the components do. For example the processor acts as the brain of the computer whereas the RAM is the memory.
Year 8
Our Year 8s have been learning how to create websites including adding in images and hyperlinks. Students are in the process of creating and designing a website that acts as an information page for Computer Science.
Year 9
Recently students have been learning about Cyber security and how to protect themselves from cyber threats. This includes protecting against ransomware – where files are encrypted and the attacked demands payment for release. Secondly brute force attacks – where every combination of password is tried in an attempt to gain access to a system. Students are now aware of the importance of secure passwords and vigilance when clicking on links and opening attachments on emails.
Year 10
In GCSE computing students have been learning about how data is represented in a computer, including images and sound. Did you know that images are stored as a grid of numbers, where each number denotes a colour, whereas sounds are stored as a list of amplitudes which are put together to reproduce the sound in the future!
Extra Curricular
In computing robotics club, students have been making 3D models to test the new 3D printer that we have purchased to use in the next academic year. We are also excited to use this for the rest of the school, and have already created a 3d printed bottle rocket launch pad for the Science club. All students will have the opportunity to use the 3D printer as part of in-class topics form September, for example designing and printing their own key chains.
Raspberry Pi Competition
This year, Raul has created a sun-tracking solar panel. The energy created by the panel can be viewed online as well as consumption, making for easy remote access to the system. The whole system runs off a Raspberry Pi 4B. The website is linked directly to the sensors which read from the solar panels. The panels are moved by a custom-made metal bracket and a stepper motor, turning it by precise amounts to face the sun and therefore produce as much energy as possible throughout the day. The images show the sun-tracking panel as well as a print screen of the information available on the website. We wish Raul Peica Balosache good luck in the competition and look forward to hearing how he has got on!
Science
Year 7
We began the half term looking at our big question on how information spreads, reinforcing the idea that both sound and light “radiate” from a source. This enables students to build a sense of the similarities between light and sound. The key similarities being that both transfer energy and information from source to detector. Both types of “radiation” carry information that humans can detect.
Students then move to the next topic, building upon students’ concept of the “particle model of matter” introduced in chemistry. The term “kinetic” will be explicitly linked to students understanding of energy stores. Students have learnt how this understanding explains how thermometers work and why some materials are better at storing thermal energy.
Year 8
Students began the half term studying how scientists make sense of biological structures in both humans as animals and plants. They then focused on the essential body systems required to provide cells with the second substance required for respiration, oxygen, after studying how cells are provided with glucose in the previous topic. They have learnt how these two substances are used by the mitochondria in cells to provide energy for all body functions. Further, students will study the muscular skeletal system, a system hugely important for human movement and health. Students then learnt some examples of infectious disease. Then, they studied the amazing systems that have evolved in the human body to destroy these diseases. Further, students will understand how vaccines develop immunity.
Year 9
Students began the topic acknowledging the difference between communicable and non-communicable diseases, before studying the range and several examples of micro-organisms responsible for communicable diseases including bacterial and viral diseases. Then, they studied the amazing systems that have evolved in the human body to destroy these pathogens. Further, students will understand that science, engineering, and technology have played in developing preventative and reactive measures to improve the health of the human species.
Year 10
In the summer term our students have sat their first round of mock exams and we want to say a massive well done to the students who took time to prepare and tried their best! Students have also spent time learning how to measure the rate of chemical reactions, including investigating the effect of surface area and concentration. We now look to start preparations for these students heading into year 11 in September, we will send regular updates to both students and parents containing important information needed to support your child in Year 11 science.
Year 11
The science department want to send a massive well done to our class of 2023 Year 11 students for the successful completion of their GCSE exams. We are really impressed by the hard work and dedication our students showed and we wish them all the best as they move onto the next stages of their education journey.
Science Capital
Marwell Trip
110 Year 10 students had the opportunity to visit Marwell Zoo to discover how Marwell Zoo run their conservation programme and how they select the animals they support. They also had the opportunity to explore the zoo and see such animals as Rhinos, Giraffes and Zebras. During their conservation workshop, they learnt that Marwell were involved in helping to support the Southern White Rhino to bring their numbers up from 20 in the wild up to 20,000!
During the trip we ran a competition for best photo, the photos are going to be used in our Year 10 lessons when they learn about conservation. There will also be a prize for first place!
Well done to:
Joint 3rd place: Megan Salmon and Keira Williamson. Megan took the photo of the tiger and Kiera the photo of the rhino.
2nd place: Jack Bower - Jack took the photo of the Bearded Dragon.
1st Place: Maddison Groves - Maddison took the photo of the Monkey and is pictured collecting her edible prize!
Thank you to all Year 10s who sent in their excellent photos! The students had an excellent day, and the weather was phenomenal, well done and thank you to all who attended.
University of Portsmouth Trip
For our final Science trip this year, the students who successfully completed Uni Pathways with Dr. Saunders or Mr Winstone, along with some of our Separate Scientists visited the University of Portsmouth. Students toured the campus, had an introduction to what an architecture degree may involve, and learnt how to budget for student life. They had an amazing day exploring the campus and learning about university life. Did you know in the UK, there are over 50,000 different courses available?
GROWTH Team
Our GROWTH team have been busy filming mental health videos this term ready to share with local schools in the Autumn. A huge congratulations to Darcey, Grace and Phocea who this year, have presented at an international conference, have run mental health workshops with Year 7 and have driven this project throughout the year.
Next year looks to be an exiting year with more trips in Science already planned.
Can’t wait until next academic year, why not try some of these….
- For the budding Science artists there is the Royal Society of Biology Nancy Rothwell Award.
- Thinking about engineering or working with an environmental consultancy firm. Why not sign up for the virtual work experience at WSP?
History
On behalf of myself (Mr Parsons), Mr Smart and Mrs Jeffreys we would like to thank all our hard-working historians. Across Years 7-9 we have covered 1,000 years of History starting in Year 7 at the ancient city of Constantinople and ending in Year 9 by looking at the Civil Rights movement in Britain. We have show cased the role of individuals throughout our curriculum and we all passionately believe that ‘ordinary people can do extraordinary things’.
For those who want to spend the summer months exploring some local history we have put together some suggestions.
1. See The Old Town Walls
The town walls of Southampton are a sequence of defensive structures that Normans built around the city after the French raid (1338). These walls, made of stone, stretch over 1.25 miles (2 km). You can find the Old Town Walls in the centre of Southampton, just north of the River Test. In the past, the wall served as protection from invaders, but these days, it is an attraction many people look to explore when visiting Southampton.
2. Visit Bargate
Bargate is a mediaeval gatehouse in Southampton’s city centre. These gates were constructed in Norman times as a part of the Old Town Walls and served as the main entrance to the city.
Normans made Bargate out of flint and stones, with construction starting in 1280 and ending in the 1400s.
3. Check Out Netley Abbey
Netley Abbey is a historic site containing the remains of a mediaeval monastery that dates back to the 13th century. This site, near the town of Weston, has become one of the top attractions in Southampton.
Some of the remains in Netley Abbey include some monastery premises, an old church, fragments of an old mansion and the abbot’s house.
4. Go Inside Tudor House
Tudor House and Garden is a historical structure and one of Southampton’s most popular tourist attractions. This house, located at the heart of the Old Town, reveals 800 years of history.
The earliest housing version was a Norman home built in the 1180s. However, Sir John Dawtrey developed the main body of the house in the 15th century. The earliest housing version was a Norman home built in the 1180s.
A visit to this building gives you an insight into the lives of its residents through the years. Tudor House is home to a range of artefacts and other interesting structures that appeal to visitors of all ages and interests.
5. Walk The Titanic Trail
Southampton remains an important part of the history of the RMS Titanic, the infamous ship that sank on its first journey (to New York). The Titanic Trail in Southampton tells the tale of those onboard the ship.
Walk the Titanic Trail through the city to see where the crew and passengers spent their last days before the journey. You also get to visit various memorials in the city dedicated to those who died when the ship sank in 1912.
6. Visit The SeaCity Museum
Located in the heart of Southampton, the SeaCity Museum tells the story of the city’s maritime history through its various exhibitions. The museum offers various hands-on activities and interactive exhibits to stimulate the entire family.
The highlight of your visit to the SeaCity Museum will be its 1:25 scale interactive model of the Titanic, which provides an immersive depiction of the tragic story of the gigantic ship.
The museum also uses its unique historical collections to narrate the stories of those who have left or arrived at the Southampton port over the past 250,000 years.
Credits:
Created with images by neirfy - "Arc de triomphe, Paris, France" • Bits and Splits - "Basketball hoop with net" • Mi.Ti. - "Breakfast with croissants. " • Elena Noeva - "Ferris wheel and roller coaster in motion in amusement park" • chandlervid85 - "Colorful summer slushies on wood " • Leonid Andronov - "The Guillaume Gate at sunset in Dijon, France" • librakv - "Love letter and rose" • andranik123 - "Calculator on the blue background." • sdecoret - "Sunrise over planet Earth in space" • Hans Lennon - "computer mother board" • Souvik - "Colorful solution in conical flask lined on a bench in a chemistry lab with blur background organic chemistry experiment photography" • Leonid Andronov - "The Bargate, a medieval gatehouse in Southampton, England"