newsletter

1. ISSUE 4: July 2011
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WELCOME What a busy and successful first year However, I am delighted at the
Knole community has had. We amount of successes we have
continue to work hard to ensure that achieved and would like to pay
Knole Academy students achieve tribute to the governors, leadership
their full potential. Many staff have team and whole staff for their huge
given of their time and expertise, efforts and generosity of time and
working Saturdays, evenings during expertise in both setting up and
holidays, sometimes with establishing Knole Academy as a
remuneration and sometimes vibrant and inspiring place for
voluntarily to ensure that students teaching and learning. It is a
‘Education is not are as prepared as possible for public measure of the success of the
the filling of a examinations. academy that so few of our quality
staff are leaving (2 retirements and 1
We are delighted that we will be
pail, but the on one site next year as this should promotion).
ensure that we have further capacity Next year will bring its own
lighting of a fire.’ to improve. We are also pleased that challenges in terms of re-establishing
we have secured almost £900,000 for vision and expectations on one site
the capital bid, more details of which but the staff are ready and willing for
William Butler Yeats will follow shortly. this challenge.
Poet and Playwright Looking back on the year it would
be easy to criticise what we have not Mary Boyle
yet quite achieved and it is the case Principal
that we were extremely ambitious.

2. SUMMER EXHIBITION
TUESDAY 21st JUNE MEDIA STUDIES
Knole Academy held its first summer exhibition to
show case the outstanding work of the A level art, Knole Academy media studies students
textiles, graphics and media students. The evening celebrated their first ever exhibition of
was a visual feast. Work was displayed in three
work and awards ceremony alongside the
areas of the school and the highlight of the evening
was the A2 media student’s film premier followed
art exhibition and catwalk show this term.
by the A level textiles students’ catwalk show. We The A2 students, in particular, produced
were able to award a significant number of prizes some stunning video and art coursework
to outstanding students, generously sponsored and every one of them should be
by Sevenoaks and Knole branches of DFAS, Gary congratulated for their effort and
Gabriel Associates, Gordon Phillips (our lead amazing creativity. A2 students Alice
sponsor) plus Knole Academy prizes. Jamieson and James Coomber were both
awarded well deserved art and media
The galleries and auditorium were packed with not awards and the AS media award went to
only students and their families but local Rebekah Burgess who is proving to be an
dignitaries, sponsors, eminent artists, staff past and
extremely competent film maker. I would
present and many, many friends of the school. All
were overwhelmed and delighted with the
like to wish all the media students leaving
exhibition. us this year all the very best for the future.
Mrs Leith
02

3. RATTUS NORVEGICUS
Science students have their pound of flesh
Mrs Corbett and Mr Deighton’s Year 12 AS Applied Science class set out on their first
dissection of a full, complex organism — a brown rat, Rattus norvegicus.
The students were guided through each stage of the process as they established
how multifaceted living ‘machines’ function. Each tiny organ was carefully removed
and examined. Eager student, Rimini
Stone perused the rat before she commented, “It is fascinating to see
the sizes and establish the weights of the organs”.
As Kacey Broad carried out her exploration of the heart and lungs she
described how thrilled she was, “Dissecting a rat was one of the most
interesting experiences I’ve had. Being able to take a close look at the
organs was fascinating.”
Students were fully engaged and the task enabled them to develop
their scientific capabilities. Ollie Nichol excitedly summed up the
thoughts of the class, “A great experience! Fantastic to see the
physiology of the rat in real life.”
MATHS CHALLENGE
The UK Maths Challenge is run by Leeds University and allows selected students to sit a complex maths test. The
most recent test was sat by students in year 7 and 8 and we are proud to announce that the highest scoring students
from Year 8 were: Richard Lusher (Gold), Chloe Farwell and Jamie Parker (Silver), Robert Nicholson, Aran Kaina, Ellie
Minshull and Charlotte Taylor (Bronze). Well done also to Craig Norris and Frank Smith (Year 7) who also won bronze.
Congratulations to those students for an outstanding effort.
Competition: All students are invited to attempt our maths competition. The first student with the correct
solution to Mr Cason will win a prize.
Question:
Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers. 1 peck =1/4 bushel and 1 bushel = 1/9 barrel. How many more
pecks must Peter Piper pick to fill a barrel?
A) 12 B) 13 C) 34 D)35 E) 36
Twelve of our Year
11 students opted
to undertake rock
climbing and use it
as an assessable
option as part of
the practical
component of their
GCSE PE
GCSE PE course. It
proved to be a huge
success. They all
STUDENTS
attained either an
A or A* grade and
REACHING
had a thoroughly enjoyable time in the process. Laybacks, fist
jams, belaying, abseiling and knot work were just some of the
skills that our students perfected over the two-day course at
THE HEIGHTS the Bowls Outdoor Education Centre in Sussex. The students
demonstrated bravery, courage and determination
AT BOWLS
throughout and readily accepted that a total reliance upon
the maturity and ability of their peers was
essential in order to ensure safety. Next year our
Year 10 GCSE PE students will be offered the
same opportunity. I’m sure they will grab it with
both hands. 03
03

4. YEAR 7
PASTORAL CARE
As Knole Academy’s first year 7 group approach the
end of their first year it is a good time to look back
and see how far they have come in this time. In
September 2010 they came to the Academy excited
and quite anxious, mainly about getting their lunch
and finding their way around school. The ‘Show
and Tell’ event showed everyone how well they
had adjusted to secondary school. They are now
well settled in the Academy and making good use
of all opportunities they are given. Most students
have participated in extra curricular activities and
all have grown in confidence. It is good to see that
most students have a positive attitude from the
attendance records. The average for the year group
is 95% and over 40 students have attendance of
more than 99%, which is fantastic. Next year we
hope to see even more students with excellent at-
tendance. I am sure that they will take the
confidence that they have developed this year with
them into year 8 and become excellent role models
for the new year 7 in September.
YEAR 8
PASTORAL CARE
Blazing moments
Year 8 seems to have flown by very quickly. Year 8 students
have continued to maintain their excellent attendance
records. The average attendance for the year group is 95%
and 33 students have attendance of more than 99%, 13 of
whom have 100%. These students have to be congratulated
and will be rewarded with a trip to Thorpe Park.
I asked some Year 8 students to share their highlights of
Year 8.
“This year I really enjoyed the school trip to the Royal Ballet.
We saw really talented people, doing what they do best”
Amy Edwards 8DT
“My highlight this year was doing my GCSE Maths exam
early. We (Giuliana Jelly, Chloe Farwell, Sophie Allchin, Katie
Slade and Heather Campbell) did our GCSE Maths on 6th
June and 10th June 2011.” Giuliana Jelly
I now look forward to Year 9 and hope that every student will
continue to flourish with the range of opportunities
available to them at Knole Academy.
Mrs McGauley
04

5. YEAR 9 PASTORAL CARE
As the end of key stage 3 approaches year 9 and their tutors have taken
a little time to reflect upon their memories, achievements and how they
have changed.
‘I remember their first day at secondary school the pensive, anxious
faces and that was only the parents.’
‘I have enjoyed all the times in form where we have laughed together’
‘I have enjoyed doing the drama challenges’
‘I am proud of when I came first in the 100 metres last sports day’
‘My best friend taught me to draw a star in art’
‘I had 100% attendance’
We are now about to embark on a big transition into key stage 4. I want
to wish the girls lots of luck on their next journey at Knole Academy.
YEAR 10 GIRLS YEAR 11 GIRLS
PASTORAL CARE PASTORAL CARE
What a busy yet challenging year we have had. It
The year 10 students started their GCSE studies in has been a real pleasure and a privilege to work with
September by attending a workshop at Knole East. the Year 11 girls. This is the year when serious work
The day marked the beginning of a new stage in their needed to be done and many deadlines had to be
education. Since then it has been a very busy year and met. It is also a time when stress could have taken
they have realised just how quickly their GCSE studies over and affected performance and behaviour. I
progress, with GCSE examinations and controlled must be a very lucky year leader but I am proud that
assessments before Christmas. They are now more than every single girl did their best. I am also delighted
half way through their GCSE courses and have a very that attendance and punctuality for GCSE exams was
good idea of what they need to do to be successful excellent. Now the time has come to wait for results
next year. They have also continued to play a full part and hope that all that potential has been
in school life, with students taking up opportunities to realised. Throughout the four years that I have been
perform in the school production, in school year leader for this year I have never felt
concerts and sports events. They have also had events disappointed. Many girls have been motivated to
to prepare them for their careers and are looking study and revise following the advice given
forward, mainly with excitement, to their work during PSHE lessons and assemblies. Girls embarking
experience placements. Now it is really important that on their own personal journey have found the help
they maintain their confidence and hard work into year given about a choice of career, and particularly on
11 so that they can achieve the GCSE grades that they how to do a really good job interview, invaluable. All
are capable of. the Year 11 Tutors are sad to have said goodbye to
their young ladies. I can honestly say that the leavers
YEAR 10 BOYS
assembly was very moving and in its own way an apt
tribute to such an outstanding and charming year.
PASTORAL CARE Miss K Hughes.
YEAR 11 BOYS
PASTORAL CARE
The last two terms have had a rather different feel for
the current year ten boys. All students have had to get
used to life in their option classrooms without their May I take this opportunity again to wish all year
year eleven peers, as they have now gone on study eleven students the best of luck in their remaining
leave. I have been really impressed with the manner exams this summer? The year eleven leaving
in which the students have conducted themselves in celebration was thoroughly enjoyable but I do
preparation for and during their GCSE exams this term. however need to formally apologise for the
It is an exciting time to think that, come August, some horrendous rendition of American Pie sung by
year ten students will already have up to eight GCSEs. myself and Mr Massey. As I said on the day, you
This number will only increase as students complete were a fantastic year group to lead and
their core GCSE subjects next year alongside an work with. I wish you every success in
05
additional one year optional qualification. Good luck the future. I will see you all on results
lads. day.

6. AIR FIRE Dear all,
A really good year for the A team so far. All members of the Fire house have continued
All you Air heads out there should be very to put in maximum effort in all activities under-
proud of the fact that we are currently taken and we are at the top of the house point
running in second place for total house league at present with 5082 points. We are
points scored since September. hoping that with the house competition results,
Sports day as well as creativity week, we can ac-
cumulate more points and take the cup home to
We are only 765 points behind the current
FIRE.
leaders Fire. I know I said winning isn’t
everything, it’s the only thing, but try Congratulations to Liberty Brown 8EW with 377
telling that to JLS or Lemar. Anyway as Mr house points, Chloe Baldock 9BE with 343 house
T said, ‘I pity the fool’ that challenges our points and Chelsea Rowe 7JA with 170 house
house on sports day, good luck. points. The top three fire girls!
TI- Remember Flames never give up and never
surrender.
Sincerely
TOP FLAME.
‘Fire is made up of many flames,
So lets all remember to play the game.
Don’t be afraid to trust the dream,
That we will be the winning team!
Through storms, hurricanes,
And all kinds of weather,
We will brave the elements
And never flounder!
Through harvest, Christmas, Easter and summer,
We will tread the earth and cross the water.
We will calm the wind and always remember,
WATER
To never give up and never surrender. ‘
Vital for all forms of life I would like to tell you all about my experience of
being in the house ‘Fire’. Everyone in Fire works towards
We began the year with great enthusiasm and getting as many house points as they possibly can, out
the members of WATER house are still inspired of all four house groups we have the highest amount
to put out the fire, turn earth into mud and air of house points so far this year. Every time we walk
into rain. in to the auditorium we always have our theme tune
playing ‘The Ring of Fire’ by Johnny Cash. Our proud
We will rock your boat. leader of Fire Madame Hughes always has a red feather
boa round her neck and is always singing along to the
theme song!
Thanks are due to our house captains Poppy
Diggens, Brooke Holford and Joe Watts for all Some of you may know that we have sports day soon
their hard work and to the members of 7RS who and I know that all of our house are going to do their
have learned the Haka with Miss Laliberte and very best to win and, even if we don’t win it, it isn’t the
have been practising their cheerleading skills winning that matters it is the taking part!
during lunch breaks. Fire is a very supportive house; we all work as a team
and are there to offer support to people who need it
Be afraid; thunder goes with rain. and we always respect and encourage our team no
06
matter what!
06 See you next year.
Rebecca McAllister 8EW (an ardent flame!)

7. LA PIZZA - J’ADORE GEOGRAPHY
Last week the year 10 French The Year 11 BTEC Travel and
GCSE groups had an unusual Tourism students put on a fantastic
preparation for their and very professional exhibition
forthcoming Controlled as part of one of their coursework
assignments. This was attended by
Speaking Assessments. They
staff and students from a range of
made pizzas and salads, laid
year groups. The Year 11s worked
the table whilst the pizzas extremely hard to produce a display
were cooking and then they about places to go and things to do
all sat down to eat the meal in the local area and the south east
together and discuss it. The more widely. All this hard work paid
next step is to talk about it for off, as they girls received a raft of
four to six minutes and have positive comments from those who
the conversation recorded. attended. Well done Year 11 and
Miss Shaw.
READING
Miss L Towse
We have been delighted with the
response to Mrs Boyle’s request for
volunteers to help with extra reading.
Friends of the Academy meet once
a week with small groups of Year 10
students at both Knole East and
Knole West.
We have found that these groups
promote not only reading confidence but
also social skills. Students are now more THE GLOBE PLAYERS
receptive to others’ opinions and keener
to make their own
YEAR 7 PERFORMANCE
We thought it was going be another rainy Wednesday
contribution.
afternoon. Until our teacher told us we were going to
see a play to do with William Shakespeare. We all sat
This initiative has only been possible with in the auditorium in a big circle. We didn’t know much
the dedication of the volunteers and Mrs about Shakespeare, we were very enthusiastic about it.
Burns’ hard work in organising it. There weren’t many props but that’s what it was like in
Thank you all very much indeed. Shakespeare’s times. The people told us we had to use
our imagination and listen to the words they were saying
Mrs Guy carefully. There were six interesting plays, our favourites
were Romeo and Juliet and The Twelfth Night. Between
plays the people who were acting told us William
Shakespeare’s life and more about the plays as we only
saw a bit of each. The costumes were limited so again
you had to use your imagination. One of the plays we
had to use our imagination a lot was about two pairs of
identical twins but the actors really didn’t look
ANYTHING alike! In Romeo and Juliet the girl actor was
so inspiring that when Juliet had to cry she had a
believable expression on her face and even managed to
cry. It was a very interesting and enjoyable afternoon.
Jessica Green and Ellie Moore
07

8. CANARY WHARF & YEAR 10
MOTOR EXPO BUSINESS STUDIES
TITLE
On Monday 28th March we went on a business
trip to Bluewater to find out about how the
businesses work and about whether staff and
customers are happy with the service provided
and their jobs.
I really enjoyed the trip, firstly we had a tour
around Bluewater. The tour man told us about
the architecture, how it was designed and some
information on the amount of staff and average
spend of each person that goes there.
We then had some tasks to do, we had to ask
staff and customers our questionnaires that
we designed in our business lesson. We asked
staff in different shops and customers that were
Students from Yr12 and 13 Business Studies visited different ages to get a range of answers. For our
Canary Wharf and the London Motor Expo on June other tasks we needed to collect some research
8th 2011. The visit exposed students to a working day from the core stores at Bluewater and then we
in London’s financial hub – home to companies such applied the research to say how they use the
as Barclays, Credit Suisse, HSBC, Citigroup and marketing mix. Overall I found the trip
Thomson Reuters - and allowed them to walk around educational and it was fun at the same time.
and view exhibits from Europe’s premier motor
manufacturers. Chloe Shears
Students quizzed Land Rover and Bentley staff as to
the core purpose of the show: “to showcase
innovative products, to stimulate public interest and
to collate customer contacts for future marketing, test
drives and hopefully sales” was the response received
from both firms. ICT
Students were driven around Land Rover’s off road This term has been very busy
experience, learned about new green’ technology for the ICT department with
from Nissan and Vauxhall and found vehicles they can looming coursework deadlines
aspire to own in the future. for the National Certificate.
Final figures are not yet ready
Attended by: Frank Puxty, Kirsty Dixon, Christie but it is looking like a bumper
Monahan, Jenny Healey, Sarah-Jane Levings, Tolu Ajao, year for ICT results, with many
Rimini Stone, Kacey Broad, Tamannah Miah, Elizabeth students achieving a B grade
Foster, Lauren Debenham, Ashley Chinyani, Charlie and above.
Silvester, Joe Decoine, Lisa Roberts, Mr Dewey and Mrs
Grant Meanwhile years 7 and 8 have been using new
interactive software 'ActivExpresions'. This allows
students to each have an interactive handset with
which they can answer questions posed by staff.
This allows the students to test their own
understanding of topics studied in class.
We would also like to thank parents and
students for donating Tesco’s Computers for
Schools vouchers, we collected just over 6000,
however we have decided to bank them until
next year when we hope to add to this year’s
08 total.

9. NEW HAIR AND
HAIR AND BEAUTY
6th form hairdressing and textile students have shown great creativity BEAUTY COURSES
this year. Excellent examples of their hard work were displayed during
the ‘Cat Walk’ show on 21st June. BEING OFFERED
Achievement for year 11 has
been pleasing this year. A
NEXT YEAR
large number of students, 48% Nail Art Certificate at level 2
achieved the Diploma in
Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy Long hair dressing &
rather than the certificate this Photographic make-up
year.
Award at level 2
The department review for Work Workskills BTEC at level 2
Related Learning identified
some excellent practice during
teaching and learning. It was
considered learners made good
progress on courses and were
well supported in their studies.
CONSTRUCTION
This year students have learned about and have acquired skills in:
plumbing, brick-laying, carpentry, electrical installation, health and
safety, technical drawing including CAD and painting and
decorating. Tasks including soldering in plumbing using blow
torches, and setting the solder on fittings to complete a pipe system
during their practical assessment. This was only allowed because of
the students’ maturity and sensible approach to the course.
ASDAN
Throughout, the students have demonstrated an ability to assist
their peers and work as a team to ensure everyone achieved the
task set.
Certificate of Personal Effectiveness
Year 10 were given the opportunity of visiting K College Brook Year 11 girls have now successfully
Street site, where they listened to a talk given by various people completed their portfolio and are awaiting
involved in “Campus 21, Completion and Beyond”. Speakers moderation on the 1st July 2011.The girls
included Galliford Try which is a national housebuilding and worked very hard over the two years and
construction company and Davis Langdon which is a global have produced some stunning work and we
construction consultant. therefore do not anticipate any problems
with their success which will give them a B
The students were given the opportunity to ask questions regarding grade GCSE.
the construction process of the new college building, look around
the site area that is still being completed and participate in group Year ten girls have successfully completed
work activities. The students’ conduct during the day was their production of children’s story books
commented on as being exemplary and moved onto a new challenge where in
and a credit to Knole academy. groups they had to produce a two course
vegetarian meal. They successfully
Year 10 students will continue to produced these and invited a number of
study construction next year whilst staff to trial the dishes who gave really
several of the year 11 students will positive feedback. Currently they are
KNOLE PASSPORT return to K College to start courses investigating a foreign country they would
in their chosen field from like to visit and are producing a persuasive
construction; one student will be brochure on their chosen destination.
starting a new career in carpentry
and hopefully attending college
one day a week to achieve a higher
qualification. 09

10. YEAR 10 GCSE LANGUAGES
FOOD TECHNOLOGY TASTER DAY
Food Technology really is a fantastic subject, as you On Wednesday 22nd June we went to
learn not just about the preparation and cooking of Sevenoaks School for a taster day in
the food but you also get to know marketing Russian and Mandarin Chinese. We were
techniques, safety and hygiene and the processes divided in to two groups and taken off to do
which the foods actually go through to end up on either Mandarin or Russian. The groups then
your plate. Year 10 food technology is taught by swapped for the afternoon so that everyone
Mrs McGauley. Every Wednesday she stays after had the chance to do both languages. In
school to help the GCSE students to do research and Russian we learned the alphabet and how to
coursework – until 6:00pm! I stayed behind on my form a basic conversation - then we made
birthday to show my gratitude. posters using the words we had learned. It
was great fun! In Chinese, we sampled
We are currently working on shop surveys, design traditional Chinese food, learned a basic
briefs and design specification. I have looked at conversation , tried our hand at calligraphy
the different brand ranges and nutritional details and made Happiness signs. We had an
of foods to make sure that they are suitable for my amazing, fun day. Everyone we met was
target audience. polite and welcoming.
Brooke Smith Ella Cullom and Kirsty Holden-Murphy
CHILD HEALTH AND
DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL CARE
In Health and Social Care Level 2 there are 6
In child development we have investigated play different units of work to complete.
and why it is important for children. We were
learning how making a creative activity out of In the units we learnt about the way service
boxes will encourage a young child’s learning and users should be treated. We gained an
development. Our class had fun when we made a understanding of how to help the elderly and
train, robot, castle, playground and house out of young children.
shoe boxes and cardboard boxes. Mrs. Boyle judged
our models. We found that making items from We had work experience every Tuesday. I
boxes encourages a child’s imagination when they went to Gloucester House and this gave me
choose the item to make, materials and the colours the opportunity to work within a care setting.
to use. We found that making and playing with the
items we made encourages all areas of a child’s During our work experience placement we
development. attended training and gained certificates in
Moving and Handling and Health and Safety
We have started our child study and we have Awareness. We were given the chance to
completed an introductory visit to our child to find lead our own activities, which we were then
out what stage of development they are at We graded on and several of us received a
need to plan activities that we can do over the next distinction.
four visits to our child where we can observe how
they are growing and developing. In unit 1 we learnt about the laws within care
settings and how they must be implemented.
Lauren Aldridge I found this very interesting.
Shenhaz Ali
10 Natalie Fisher
Bethany Stewart
Vickie Bright.

11. DUKE OF
EDINBURGH
AWARD SCHEME
Knole Academy’s first DofE group are commencing their
Bronze Award and have started their volunteering,
physical activity and skills sections of the programme. Over
the coming months they will start planning and training
for their Bronze expedition: learning to use camp
equipment, first aid, map reading and navigation.
The DofE Award scheme recognises students’
teamwork and initiative skills as well as their
contribution to their local community. Our first
group are all in Year 12 and the scheme will be
open to all students over the age of 14 from
September 2011. Contact our DofE unit leader, Mr
Dewey for more information.
Current Participants: Rimini Stone, Faith Allfrey,
Christie Monahan, Lauren Debenham, Tammana
Miah, Kacey Broad and Elizabeth Foster
KNOLE PASSPORT
We are very excited about the Knole Passport which is being launched next year. This will be a fantastic
opportunity for students to work towards an award that will recognise their hard work and effort in and
out of school. There will be lots of activities in which the students can participate in order to achieve
their Bronze, Silver or Gold Award and it will be an excellent introduction to the Duke of Edinburgh
Award. I am sure that the ‘Home Life’ challenges will prove very popular with parents as the students
start to help more with the household tasks and chores. Please do encourage your child to sign up to
the Award.
11

12. DRAMA CHALLENGE
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY
Drama took over KS3 for the morning to
host the 2011 drama challenge. This marks
the fifth year for the event and has once
again caused pupils to show their seriously
competitive streaks. The challenge gives
pupils in Yr 7, 8 and 9 the opportunity to
revisit skills previously learnt during their
drama course here at Knole Academy. Each
year group devises a 5 minute improvisation
using a given theme.
This year the themes have been:
KNOLE ACADEMY
Yr 7 – “SECRETS”
Yr 8 – “AMBITION”
Yr 9 – “HAUNTED TALES”
DEBATE TEAM
The debate team headed to Sevenoaks School on 12th
This year we were extremely lucky to have
professional actress Lexie Lambert
adjudicating the challenge.
May 2011 to test their debating skills. The girls had to take The winners are as follows:
part in two debates, one on whether Physical Education
Year 7 - Rumbidzai Chimbizi, Hollie Webb, Ellie
should be compulsory for students and the other whether
Hill, Georgia Armstrong and Elsa Waterfield
students should be provided with laptops. The team were
with Genie & Me.
fantastic in their efforts and came second winning a medal
each. They did really well and should be proud of their Year 8 - Zoe Maxwell, Amy Yandle, Rati Sivyer
achievement. and Amelia Obbard with Clumsy Fairies.
Year 9 - Maddie Bathe, Bethany Debenham,
Abigail Scott-Inglis, Kelly Bethell, Elizabeth
Bull, Megan Hadlow and Sophie Butters with
Come Play With Me.
Many congratulations to students and teachers
who participated.
Left to right: Gemma Sowten, Zoe Maxwell, Chloe Miller, Mrs V Hollidge - Drama
Molly Ironside and Ella Zeki
HISTORY
The importance of learning History
History has happened. Do we really need to look backwards?
YES! I firmly believe that it is essential that students learn history, because
of the vital life skills it develops. Hitler said “the broad masses of the
nation will be more likely to believe a big lie than a smaller one.” Students
of history will be less likely to believe big lies or small ones.
Don’t just take my word for it. Here are some comments made by A Level
history students:
“History is a fascinating subject, and is really interesting. Learning history really broadens your mind, and teaches the
essential skills needed to do well in your other subjects and in life.” Ollie Nichol 12CS
“I like learning history because it’s a very well respected subject to have on your CV.” Charlotte Taylor 12JL
“I enjoy learning history because it gives me an idea about what could happen in the future- history
repeats itself” Jacob Lowe 13RD
12
12 Jane Elliott - Subject Leader for History

13. DANCE DANCE AUDITIONS
FOR KNOLE CASCADE
Knole Platform
Congratulations to all the students who took part in
DANCE COMPANIES
(Junior & Senior) will be announced in assemblies in
the Knole Platform at Knole West on 4th May. September 2011.
Cascade Dance Platform FUTURE DANCE EVENTS FOR 2011-2012
Congratulations to all the students who took part in
the Cascade Platform at K College on 14th and 15th ANNUAL DANCE SHOW
May. JOURNEY TO THE THRONE
CASCADE CHRISTMAS PLATFORM
FREE RUN
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
I will be looking for dancers for the performances above.
Media Studies and Dance Trip to see FREE RUN Please check the performing arts board regularly for
performing at the E4 Underbelly Festival at the announcements. The board is located near the English
Southbank Centre area.
COMMUNICATIONS
Miss Simmons and Mrs Leith took a group of 30
PROJECT
students to see Free Run on 5th July.
The show was an hour display of explosive action of
free running, one of the world’s most exciting and The Change Schools Communications Project with year
dangerous extreme sports. The show stared 3RUN, 7 has been gathering pace since we last reported in April
the UK’s number one free running team, holders of and came to an exciting conclusion on 6th July.
fifteen Guinness world records. The performance
also displayed a fabulous film projection which gave Year 7 have been working on the theme of
a modern and exciting edge. communication with 4 other communities in the
Sevenoaks area – Dorton House School for students with
This was a truly amazing opportunity especially as visual impairment, Valence School for students with severe
this was the UK’s first ever free running stage show. medical and special needs, Rockdale Housing for the
elderly and First Steps Nursery. After initial contact with
each of these 4 partners which involved small groups of
students, everyone involved was very keen to organise activities which could include every student in the academy.
7K and 7E invited the whole of First Steps Nursery to a Teddy Bears’ Picnic on Friday 27th May. The challenge was to
design a series of activities that would interest and entertain the little children for the afternoon. Some students were
COMMUNICATIONS
able to incorporate some French into the games they devised for them. The nursery children were thrilled and
PROJECT
everyone enjoyed the entire afternoon including the ice cream part of the picnic.
7A and 7L visited Rockdale, one class at a time, to work with some of the residents on a sign language activity. They
taught each other symbols and messages and thought up how to sign messages to the world. It was a truly
collaborative experience.
7O and 7C visited Valence School on 2 separate occasions to undertake a challenge set by the Valence students and
staff to follow a trail and find answers to clues by following the lead of the Valence students. It was a cunning ploy
and stretched year 7 to their limits – not least in adding up the answers to clues in their head! Valence School has
wonderful grounds and the students loved discovering all the hidden corners and the beautiful nature trail which
also sports an inspiring outside classroom.
7M and 7N visited Dorton House School to follow a rotation of activities which ranged from playing football
blindfolded to putting together a radio show in their radio studio. At the time of going to press, the visits had not yet
happened, but if the success of the last 2 encounters between Knole Academy students and Dorton House students
is anything to go by, these 2 visits will have been highly enjoyable and worthwhile.
To summarise the process of the project, its aims and its successes there was a Gala Afternoon held in
school on Wednesday 6th July.
Alison Truphet - Project Manager
13

14. TOP ATTENDERS YEAR 10
Congratulations to all Knole students who have over
WORK RELATED
LEARNING
99 percent attendance this academic year. They will all be
invited on a trip to Thorpe Park in July as a reward.
D OF E AWARD
Good attendance is crucial in allowing students the best
opportunity to achieve their learning potential. It is also
On May 4th 2011, Year 10 enjoyed an exciting
work related learning activity at Knole East and
SCHEME
the first thing an employer looks at when assessing
candidates for interview.
Knole West. The students’ brief was to construct
an item that could be made from recyclable
household material. The students were divided
Our weekly attendance trophies for each year group have into groups and their task was to design and
added some healthy competition between tutor groups construct a prototype; package, promote and
and tutors, with attendance being a real focus for all
market their product by presenting it to their
students.
fellow classmates. The calibre of work produced
We are sure that students will really enjoy the trip and was of high quality and a testament to the
hope that next year even more students will qualify. dedication and hard work that was shown by the
students throughout the day.
Below is a list of all students with 100 percent attendance
this year – fantastic. On June 17th 2011Year 10 students had a Work
Experience preparation session. This was held at
both Knole East and West. Students were given
instructions on Health & Safety, Team Work and
Anita Adebola 7CG, Jessica Baker 11MH, Yasmin Problem Solving, First Impressions, Interview
Baldock 11LT, Sarah Bowen 7CB, Jade Cockburn 9TF,
Skills and Time-Keeping, Presentation Skills and
Emily Critcher 7RS, Laura Crowe 8DT , Rachel Easton
Work Experience folders.
11CC, Gemma Ellis 8IW, Hayley Ferrari 10HL, Hannah
Gallagher 8IW, Kate Hosiene 8SD, Charlotte Ham 8IW,
Chantelle Heath 11LT, Laura Hunt 9NC, Megan Keily 8IW, Both the days were well received by the year 10
Lucia Kitchen 8IW, Celine Lagos 7PB, Mix Lakaew 7CG, students and hopefully have given them the
Hannah Lowe 10TS, Rachel Macey 9BE, Bethany Millar confidence to go out into the world of work in
7CG, Megan Newton 9NC, Phoebe Nightingale 7KB, July and enjoy their work experience placements.
Zoe-Louise Paans 7CG, Maisie Piggott 7JA, Jack Randall
HIGHER
9DO, Savannah Riach 8EW, Elizabeth Satterley 7CG,
Joseph Slawinski 7MG, Jack Smith 8ST, Rachael Stothard
EDUCATION
8EW, Aiden Taylor 8ST, Samantha Tilley 7KB, Hannah
Uregbula 8IW, Rebecca Webster 8SD, Christopher
CONVENTION
Wilkinson 7KT, Georgia Winchcombe 9NC, Emma
Woodhouse 8SD.
On 28 April 30 year 12 students visited The
University of Kent, Canterbury for a higher
education convention. Students were able
to speak with representatives from a wide
range of universities as well as attending
seminars on student finance, gap years,
applications and personal statements as well
as tours of the campus. The visit was very
popular with students who gained a
valuable insight into the next stage of their
education.
“I now have a better “It helped me make a
14 understanding of course decision on what courses to
requirements” take”

15. FAREWELLS TO...
Our first farewell is to Mrs Francene Kennedy who started teaching on the Knole West site in 1974 at
the then Sevenoaks School for Girls. She will be remembered as a science teacher, but also as a pastoral
leader for a number of years.
Mrs Elaine Moss, vice principal, started teaching art and design at Sevenoaks School for Girls in 1984.
she has been head of art and design, technology, assistant headteacher and deputy headteacher
leading on the visual arts specialism. Her contribution to whole school development has been
immense and her creative flair will be sorely missed by the students and staff. Fortunately, she will
continue next year to lead on the specialisms on a part time basis.
Mrs Isabelle Winstone has been offered a promotion at another school and we wish her all the very
best and thank her for her two years at the school. She has left her mark on A level textiles and Catwalk
shows.
We all wish them lots of luck for the future.
WELCOME TO...
The cashless payment system in the Knole West We are very pleased to welcome the following
Dining Room has been a great success – queues staff to Knole Academy in September. In
at the tills are almost non existent. Staff and English, we will have Mr Town and Miss Kimber.
students transferring from Knole East will be In Science Miss Alldis and Mr Dawes. In ICT Miss
added to the system in September and we Maginn and in maths and music we welcome
encourage everyone to use the online payment two part time teachers, Mrs Cheveley and Miss
and monitoring facility at Ive respectively. We look forward to making
www.squidcard.com/KnoleAcademy which will them all feel most welcome and a part of the
help reduce the peak time queues at the cash Knole Academy team.
entry machine.
HOUSE LOGOS
Earlier in the year students in each of the academy houses
submitted designs for a brand new logo to represent their house.
Many creative designs were submitted and it was very hard to
choose the best ideas. On Wednesday 15 June students who
produced a selection of the most exciting designs took part in a
logo workshop to review, combine, refine and finalise their ideas.
The outcomes from this workshop were then refined further by Miss
Miller using computer design software ready to be used in all future
House events.
Air Earth Water Fire 15

16. SUBJECT KEY DATES
REVIEWS 2010-2011 FOR YOUR CALENDAR THU 1 SEPT - FRI 16 DEC : Autumn Term
As we approach the end of the academic TUES 3 JAN - FRI 30 MARCH: Spring Term
year, I am pleased to be able to feedback on MON 16 APR - FRI 20 JULY: Summer Term
another series of subject reviews as well as
a review on Special Educational Needs and THURS 18 AUG: GCE Results Day 11am-12pm
Post 16 provision. (KW Auditorium)
The subject areas covered include THURS 25 AUG: GCSE Results Day 11am-12pm
construction, Asdan, hair & beauty, food (KW Auditorium)
studies, health & social care, child
development, business studies, law, science MON 5 SEPT: Term begins for ALL students.
and public services. As you can see, we have
been extremely busy with our monitoring
programme and, as always, we are very THURS 29 SEPT : Open Evening
grateful to the students and parents who
take the time to present to us their views
and opinions. The questionnaires gave MON 3 OCT & TUES 4 OCT: Open Mornings
positive feedback across the board with
over 90% of students and parents regularly
MON 24 OCT - MON 31 OCT : Half Term Holiday
agreeing that subjects are enjoyed, progress
is being made, work is clearly explained
and discussed with individuals and that STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAYS
students are expected to work hard and do Thursday 1st September INSET DAY
their best. It is also generally acknowledged Friday 2nd September INSET DAY
Monday 31st October INSET DAY
that students know their targets and how to
Wednesday 4th January INSET DAY
achieve them and that they can get on with Monday 16th April INSET DAY
their work without interruption, although
on this last point there were individual cases
where disruption in class was an issue. The PLEASE DO NOT BOOK HOLIDAYS
setting and marking of homework met with DURING TERM TIME - THEY WILL NOT BE
a varied response and students have been
recently reminded to ensure that homework AUTHORISED
KNOLE ACADEMY
is recorded in planners on a regular basis.
UNIFORM
As well as these focal points in the year
where parental comments are invited,
please note that parents are encouraged to
communicate their views to the academy Due to the difficulties with uniform supply that we
via student planners, form tutors, email or have experienced throughout this year and because
by attending the parent forum meetings. of the large number of complaints from parents
about the quality of a number of items (especially
Mr P R Derrick
the blazer and the skirt) supplied by Price & Buckland
Vice Principal
we have made the decision to use John Lewis as our
main uniform supplier.
SPECIALISING IN EXPRESSIVE
ARTS & LANGUAGES Price & Buckland will continue to supply the PE kit
and school tie for boys, as these items are very
Principal: Mrs Mary Boyle MA, MEd
enquiries@knoleacademy.org competitively priced and they wear well. The school
www.knoleacademy.org tie can also be purchased from the academy.
Tel: 01732 454608 Ordering of both school uniform and PE kit is done
on line. Please visit the Academy website for more
information and for the complete uniform list. If any
parents are unable to access a computer at home
16 please contact Mrs Mills who will send out a letter.