Sir Paul Nurse opens Maths and Science building

2nd November 2018J Godbolt

On Friday 9 November, Headteacher Mr Edward Rodriguez was delighted to welcome Sir Paul Nurse FRS, Nobel Prize winner and Chief Executive of the Francis Crick Institute, to Oathall to formally open the newly refurbished maths and science faculty building.

As well as formally opening the building, Sir Paul hosted a question and answer session with students where he was asked about his career in science and questions were put to him on scientific topics.

In cutting the ribbon to officially open the building, Sir Paul thanked our parents for their fundraising efforts and said that promoting the importance of maths and science was

“Looking to the future; the future of your children but also the future of your children’s children”

In a statement on the completion of the building, Edward Rodriguez said,

“I am extremely pleased to welcome Sir Paul Nurse to Oathall to formally open our newest facility. From the start of this project, we have been driven to create classrooms and laboratories and provide resources that will inspire our students to further develop a passion for maths and science. We want our students to experience these subjects through the skill and enthusiasm of our teaching staff, combined with cutting-edge technology and a truly inspiring learning environment. This effort has been encouraged by many different individuals and organisations. Notably, WSCC, who financially backed and supported the project and the successful crowdfunding campaign run by the PTA which raised over £30,000 to fund additional exciting teaching resources.

Having such an eminent scientist visit the school and meet our students is a real honour and a fitting way to celebrate the achievements of all who worked so hard to complete this project.”

 

Lest we forget

2nd November 2018J Godbolt

Oathall students & staff have marked the end of the First World War and remembered and honoured those who have paid the price for our freedom.

Students in year 9 spent the morning watching Peter Jackson’s First World War film ‘They Shall Not Grow Old’ after which the whole school gathered around the Oathall Field of Remembrance for a period of reflection and silence. The last post was played on the bugle by one of our students.

In recognition of the centenary of the end of the First World War, 100 crosses provided by the Lindfield branch of the Royal British Legion have been placed out in a field of remembrance. Each cross will be dedicated to an individual who has been nominated by members of the school staff and student body and a donation will be made to the Royal British Legion.

DRONE 500 Challenge

2nd October 2018J Godbolt

Oathall students and staff have attended the launch of this year’s Mid Sussex STEM Challenge. The event took place at Mid Sussex District Council offices and was officially launched by the High Sheriff of West Sussex Caroline Nicholls. The Drone 500 challenge has been developed to encourage an interest in STEM subjects amongst young people and to help them understand how these subjects will be applied in industry in the future.

In the first year, the challenge was won by Year 9 students from Oathall. In this, the second year of the competition, more schools from across Sussex have entered for the chance to win. Over the next six months, each school is being tasked to build a drone for £500. The drone will be required to meet a number of very specific requirements which will be tested at the final next March. As well as this each team will be required to produce a business case which they will pitch to a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style panel. Each team will be supported and mentored along the way by members of the local business community.

Head of Art and Design Technology, Pete Robinson said,

“This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain an insight into the world of engineering and design. Not only does it encourage an interest in STEM but it develops team building and a work ethic at an early age. We will, of course be working hard to retain our title!”

 

 

 

Post 16 Information and Advice

12th September 2018Mrs K Ferros

Following the recent Post 16 Opportunities Evening, students in year 11 should be planning their choices for continuing their education after their final year at Oathall.  A booklet containing advice and information about colleges, qualifications, apprenticeships and the application process is available under ‘Work Related Learning’.

Students are advised to check course information and entry requirements on the colleges’ websites as prospectuses are printed some time before and details do change. 

The deadline for all paper application forms to be given to Mrs Ferros in Reception  is MONDAY 26 NOVEMBER 2018.  

 The deadline to submit online applications is FRIDAY 7 DECEMBER 2018.

If you are unsure about anything connected with this process please speak to Mrs Ferros.