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Match Report - U10A Rounders v Queen's College U11B

2013-05-23T00:00:00

Stover U10A Rounders v Queen's College U11B

Stover WON 21.5 – 20

What an exciting match! Stover fielded first and took a little time to grasp their individual responsibilities, allowing Queens to take advantage and score 12 ½ rounders. Stover responded by scoring 9 ½ rounders but were determined to make up for it in the 2nd innings, which they did! Sharp fielding resulted in several run outs and the girls managed to keep Queens to 7 ½ rounders. Well done to Sophie Grigg out in the deep, for demonstrating good use of the long barrier and preventing several score opportunities. Now more determined than ever to win, the girls batted with grit and displayed some outstanding hitting, eventually scoring 12 rounders to win! Well done to Jessica Powis for scoring 4 rounders in the 2nd innings. What a great and nail biting match! The team should be proud of themselves.

Players of the match:

Annabel Tregoning for consistent bowling and good hitting.

Sophie Grigg for demonstrating good use of the long barrier stop.

Jessica Powis f or outstanding hitting.

Match Report - U10 Cricket v Queen's College

2013-05-23T00:00:00

Stover U10 Cricket v Queen's College

Stover batted first, scoring 348 runs with some strong performances from Bertie Wotton, David Moors, Jamie Towers and Jacob Whitbread. In reply, Queen's College started fast and were chasing the Stover total hard. They were beating Stover’s run rate up until half way through their innings when the Stover team put the pressure on with some effective fielding and some assured bowling from Louis Nieuwoudt, Ollie Milstead and achieving his first wicket, Elliot Edwards. Stover ran out comfortable winners with Queen's College achieving a total of 308 runs. Well done to all who represented Stover School.

Year 6 adventurers

2013-05-22T00:00:00

Year 6 adventurers

Our wonderful Year 6 adventurers set off this morning at 9.00a.m for their Mountbatten adventure. With cuddly toys in their arms, they said their goodbyes to parents and families and set off to the edge of the Plym Estuary just around the corner from the historic Plymouth Sound, where they will start their week of sailing, kayaking, team pursuits, having fun and conquering fears.

South Devon Athletics Selections

2013-05-22T00:00:00

Congratulations to Gemma Bulblian (High Jump), Bethany Mathews (Shot and Discus), Lucy Rast (High Jump and Long Jump), Ben Barker (Shot), James Lace (800m) and James Bushby (Long Jump) who have all been selected for the South Devon Athletics Team. They will be competing in the Devon Schools Athletics Championships at Exeter Arena on Saturday 8th June, 11.00-6.00pm.

SPS African Assembly

2013-05-21T00:00:00

SPS African Assembly

On Friday 17th May we were delighted to welcome special guests to lead our assembly. Mr David Goss and his wife Jewel along with their friend Judith, came to share news of their recent trip to the Gambia to visit Binta’s village, Bwiam. SPS has been sponsoring Binta’s education for several years now and we love to hear of her progress and news of her life in Bwiam. We all enjoyed David’s colourful presentation with lots of pictures of life in the Gambia. Jewel and Judith also shared interesting information about the developments in the village, the school and the food eaten in the area. It was lovely to see photographs of Binta and her little sister, not to mention Stover Ted in her school classroom! Our pupils then had the chance to ask questions about life for Binta and her family and friends.

Our next fund raising event for Binta will be a Talent Show. This was at the request of the School Council. This special event will take place on Wednesday 3rd July commencing at 5.00pm. The Prep School Choir and SPS Chamber Choir will perform, along with approximately twenty acts from pupils throughout the Prep School. Auditions for these will take place after half term. A letter will be sent home with the children this week with a sign up slip for auditions. We are certain we shall have lots of young performers eager to participate in this special event. We certainly know that ‘Stover’s Got Talent!’ We look forward to welcoming pupils, parents and friends to this show.

Mini Crolf Tournament

2013-05-21T00:00:00

Two teams were entered for the mini CROLF tournament that was held at Stover on Wednesday15th May.The event was organised by Becky Mason of South Dartmoor Community College and hosted by Stover School, and equipment was provided by the inventor of Crolf, who is based in Devon.

The sport is a cross between croquet and golf: played with large mallets and large wooden balls, players have to hit the balls using a golf swing to get the ball through a "hool", a 3 sided hoop. Scoring and etiquette are like golf. In all, 5 schools participated in the event with a total of 40 players and Stover were runners up.

U15s thank Mr and Mrs Dinnis!

2013-05-20T00:00:00

Thank you to Mr and Mrs. Dinnis for supporting Football at Stover. The Under 15 squad are proudly wearing their new shirts for the 2013/14 season sponsored by White Horse Motors. http://www.whitehorsemotors.co.uk/

Helping Sian in Nepal

2013-05-18T00:00:00

Helping Sian in Nepal

Former Stover School pupil Sian Wood is currently in Nepal for part of her gap year. Sian is spending some of her time volunteering in an orphanage, with four others. As the orphanage is unfortunately short of money, Sian and her friends have decided to do some fundraising. For each target they reach they are going to do something silly - such as waxing boys’ legs!

Updates will be added to their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/FundraisingForNepaliOrphans

If you would like to support Sian please visit justgiving.com.

http://www.justgiving.com/nepaliorphans

Match Report - U9A Cricket v Plymouth College

2013-05-17T00:00:00

U9 A v Plymouth College

Stover won the toss and opted to bat. They got off to a slow start and found runs hard to come by, this was due to Plymouth’s tight and accurate bowling. Stover managed to get to 223 runs off 8 overs.

During Plymouth’s innings Stover managed to keep the run rate down till the fifth over when their stronger batsman started to stretch the lead. This also stirred on the Stover boys and Charlie Towers took two wickets in one over reducing their score to 228 with one over to go. Andy Tupman had the last over and he knew we had to take wickets, this he did with his first ball of the over, so it was all square with 5 balls to go. Unfortunately two stray balls cost us four runs and with the last ball being blocked, Plymouth survived with 227 runs. Winners by 3 runs! As Mr Cottrell of Plymouth, said it was a nail biter! A great match!

Man of Match – Charlie Towers for his two wickets in one over.

Match Report - U9 B v Plymouth College

2013-05-17T00:00:00

U9 B Cricket v Plymouth College

They ran out winners with 236 off 8 to Plymouths 217 off 8. Despite it being quite a chilly afternoon, it did not dampen the spirits of our eager Stover B-Team cricketers. After warming their hands with a fielding warm up, Exeter Junior School won the toss and decided to field first. Freddie Powis and Ben Walwyn took to the crease and put some impressive runs on the board, scoring some fours in the process. Ben Cummins and Harvey Camilleri also batted with extreme confidence-striking the ball skilfully and exploiting lapses in concentration of the Exeter fielders. Stover we all out for 236.

After a well deserved tea break, Stover continued their work ethic-fielding with care and due attention with a commanding wicket keeping display from Roman Cresswell., while Henry Hinde fielded with equal assurance, claiming four wickets. Helped by his fellow fielders Stover soon dispatched any accumulating threat by the Exeter batters.

In summary, a commanding display and determined attitude by our Stover B-team. We wish them well in their next competitive match.

Ten Tors 2013

2013-05-17T00:00:00

Ten Tors 2013

Stover School’s Team Managers Colin Brown and Amanda Head were very proud of all the pupils who took part in this year’s annual Ten Tors event. Stover entered its first ever team in to the Jubilee Challenge event this year. Our team consisted of Anna-Mae Cole (Captain), Maddy Hopson and Riccardo Munafo. And they were the 3rd team back in the whole event – fantastic!

Sidney Raynor (Captain), Jake Williams (Navigator), Orla Cahill, Ben Barker, Sam Hicks, Katja Tobias made up Stover’s 35 mile team. They finished in a time of 1352 hours and were the first team back on their particular route.

Team Managers Colin Brown and Amanda Head are very proud of all of them. “We are so impressed with their commitment and determination to succeed, even when the going got really tough. The 35-mile team showed a great depth of maturity and we know they’ll all be back for another go next year.

Match Report - U9 Triangular Rounders Tournament

2013-05-17T00:00:00

As won Vs Plymouth College (9.5 rounders to 7.5 rounders)

As won Vs Exeter School (13 rounders to 10.5 rounders)

The first match of the season finally kicked off today and what a great start it was! The A team seemed a little apprehensive to begin with and some players were run out during our first batting innings as a result. A very consistent bowling action from Anna Perkins allowed us to retain our lead and win the match. The batting in the second match was very much stronger as the girls nerves seemed to have settled. A very strong batting performance from Jessica Elston saw her awarded player of the match for her contribution of five rounders. The weather managed to hold and the girls enjoyed their first win of the season. I’m sure there will be a few fielding drills to work on next week! Well done, girls!

Player of the match – Jessica Elston for her strong hitting.

Bs won Vs Plymouth College (7 rounders to 4 rounders)

Bs lost Vs Exeter School (11 rounders to 10 rounders)

The B team not only played their first match of the season, but it was also a first rounders match for many players. We got off to a good start against Plymouth College, with some good fielding skills being displayed. The match vs Exeter was very close and could have gone either way. Well done to Chloe Grant for some strong hitting and Talia Rothwell for consistent bowling. A good start to the season!

Player of the match – Chloe Grant for her strong hitting.

Match Report - U15 Cricket v

2013-05-15T00:00:00

U15 Cricket v St. Cuthbert Mayne

Stover U15’s gave themselves too much to do in their match against St. Cuthbert Mayne, in the 2nd round of The Lord’s Taverners Colts Trophy. However, chasing a target of 175, Toby Lovell ( 52 n.o.) produced the batting performance of the season so far, reaching his half century in the last over of the innings as Stover finished on 110-6.

Match Report - U13 Cricket v

2013-05-14T00:00:00

U13 v Churston Ferrers Grammar School

Stover U13 cricketers’ put on a spirited performance in their match against Churston Ferrers Grammar School in The Rotary Twenty20 Cup. Toby Goodman produced an excellent spell of bowling and Harrison Gorny (34) and Euan Trower (17) led the run-chase, with a fine partnership of 45.

Result: Churston Ferrers G.S. 161-1 Stover 91-4.

Winning Wallpaper Designs

2013-05-14T00:00:00

Winning Wallpaper Designs

Year 5 pupils have been studying the work of artist William Morris. Having made careful observational drawings of flowers they created their own repeating patterns using his style. Mrs Murphy, one of our Year 5 parents, upon hearing of this activity from her daughter Lucinda very kindly offered to make two of the pupils’ designs into wallpaper. Mrs Howard, The Head of Art in the Senior School and Mrs Wightman Senior School art teacher, were invited to the Prep School to judge the pupils’ designs. Unbeknownst to the two winners their designs were made into rolls of wallpaper which were presented to them in our Awards Assembly on Friday 10th May. Many congratulations to Isabelle Perren-Smart and Thomas Putt, the worthy winners. We should also like to thank Mrs Murphy for her most generous assistance with this exciting project.

Swimming Success

2013-05-14T00:00:00

Swimming Success

Madeleine White, Year 6, is a keen swimmer who trains at Plymouth four times a week after school and at weekends. She recently met with huge success when she entered a gala at the new Plymouth Life Centre. Madeleine won numerous events, coming home with several trophies. She was the fastest freestyle swimmer in her age group over 1000 metres and also won the cup for winning all the 200 metre events in every different stroke. What an achievement! We were pleased to present Madeleine with her trophies in our Awards Assembly on Friday. Many congratulations, Maddie!

What a successful day at Kings College Taunton!

2013-05-13T00:00:00

What a successful day at Kings College Taunton!

What a successful day at Kings College Taunton! It wasn't the warmest of days but the medals and the chocolate muffins made up for that! 12 children from the Prep school and 10 children from the Senior school kindly gave up their Sunday to compete in a variety of athletics events. We return home triumphantly with a fantastic collection of 11 medals in total and I must say a massive congratulations to the pupils listed below for their tremendous efforts. Thank you to all of the parents who came to show support! (Written by Miss Edwards)

Harry Langabeer - Gold (600m)

David Moors - Gold Medal (cricket ball throw) Amy-Beth Curtis - Silver (long jump) & Gold (150m) Roo Woodleigh-Smith - Bronze (rounders ball) Chloe Olford - Bronze (600m), Silver (high jump) and Silver (80m) Alex MacKenzie - Bronze (100m) Gemma Bulbulian - Bronze (long jump) and Gold (high jump)

Principal's Blog

2013-05-13T00:00:00

Dear Parents and Guardians

Just a note to let you know the Principal’s latest ‘blog’ has been uploaded today –

at http://www.stover.co.uk/2354/senior-school/principal's-page/principal's-blog/

Congratulations to the Stover Ten Tors and Jubilee Challenge teams.

Mathematics Masterclass

2013-05-10T00:00:00

Mathematics Masterclass

Yesterday Gemma Bulbulian, Honor Burton, Alex Lee and Will Mathews went to Plymouth University with Mrs Cocker to attend a Mathematics Masterclass. We spent the day with 3 other schools studying statistics and its uses in day-to-day life. All 4 pupils enjoyed the day, especially the afternoon activity where we were able to conduct our own piece of research and statistical analysis when given a tube of Smarties each – the Maths had to get done before we were allowed to eat our data source though!!

Ten Tors Weekend 2013

2013-05-10T00:00:00

Ten Tors Weekend 2013

Team Ref K1102

Good Luck to our pupils who are, once again, taking part in the Ten Tors Expedition, on Dartmoor. There are three levels of challenge which are over one of 26 specific routes; the bronze routes are 35 miles long for pupils aged 14 - 15 years. The silver routes are 45 miles long and open to 16 and 17 year olds. The gold routes are 55 miles long and open to 17 - 20 year olds.

The idea of the main challenge is for teams of youngsters to walk across Dartmoor on a set route which visits 'Ten Tors' and lasts over two days. The teams meet at the Okehampton Army Camp on the Friday where they prepare kit and camp overnight. On Saturday morning the teams set off at around 7.00am. The bronze participants must camp on a Tor whereas the silver and gold teams can camp anywhere on the moor. The next day the teams must have visited the furthest Tor on their route and return to the Okehampton camp by 17.00pm thus completing the expedition.

Good Luck! Stover On Tor 2013

2013-05-10T00:00:00

Stover On Tor 2013

Devon County Show

2013-05-10T00:00:00

Dear Parents and Guardians

I am pleased to confirm that Stover will again be represented over all three days at the Devon County Show and we would be delighted to see parents and their families.

Please see us at our Stand (Avenue A Stand 86) where we will have refreshments available.

We look forward to seeing many of you at the Show site in Exeter.

For more details about the Devon County Show please visit www.devoncountyshow.co.uk.

With best wishes

Mrs Sue Bradley

Principal

Stover Tennis Club Open Afternoon

2013-05-09T00:00:00

In safe hands

2013-05-03T00:00:00

In Safe Hands

James Snell and Ben Tanner have recently received lifesaving awards from the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) after months of training and hard work.

Both pupils were invited to the Devon and Cornwall Police Families Lifesaving Club awards ceremony to celebrate and recognise the incredible achievements of local young people.

Joining James and Ben were the Mid Devon Police Cadets, along with pupils from Cullompton Community College, Tiverton High School, Uffculme School, Blundells School and Clyst Vale Community College.

The awards were presented by the RLSS Devon Chairman Mr Nick Bradford and the RLSS Southwest Regional Chair Ms Nicky Knight.

Devon and Cornwall Police Families Lifesaving Club teaches swimming and lifesaving to young people, some who are only 4 years old. Pupils benefit from gaining lifesaving, instructing and teaching qualifications as well as valuable life skills.

Congratulation!

Thank you to the Newton Abbot Bee Keepers

2013-05-03T00:00:00

Stover School would like to thank Newton Abbot Bee Keepers for coming into School to show the Bee club how to inspect a hive. Pupils wore full bee keeping suits and used a dummy hive with pictures, not real bees before smokers were then lit.

Stover is very grateful to the Newton Abbot Bee Keepers and thank them for such a wonderful experience.

Educator Feels The Heat

2013-05-02T00:00:00

EDUCATOR FEELS THE HEAT

Issued on behalf of Lloyds TSB Commercial by Citypress.

A Newton Abbot school has become more environmentally friendly with the installation of a whole school biomass boiler heating system, supported by Lloyds TSB Commercial Banking.

Stover School, founded in 1932, is an independent co-educational day and boarding school for age ranges 3 to 18 years set in 64 acres of parkland. The school benefits from the historic buildings that were part of the original Stover Estate as well as modern building added by the school more recently. The ever increasing cost of energy led the school to convert to using green technology and Biomass Boilers rather than remain reliant on fossil fuels and5D Energy Group were commissioned to install the two biomass boilers and over 600 metres of underground pipework.

The biomass project at Stover School has been approved by Ofgem under the renewable heat incentive scheme and the school will benefit from regular payments under this scheme. The installation is one of the largest installations of its kind in the region and represents a major investment by Stover School in green technology..

The school approached Lloyds TSB Commercial Banking, which has previously extended finance for a new sports pavilion and also provides a working capital facility. Plans are now also in place to extend the school’s boarding facilities to to provide additional facilities for boys.

Henry Cummins, head of finance and operations at Stover School, said: “The new biomass boilers are making a huge difference to the school and the environment. By using wood chip instead of oil or gas, we are less susceptible to price increases and we can keep bills down, meaning the savings can be used to invest in the school. The project has also proved very popular with all parts of the school and complements schools membership of the national eco school programme.

“Lloyds TSB Commercial Banking has supported the school for many years and we now look forward to expanding the boarding house with its help. Having the working capital facilities provides a support network for the school as we always have the money there if we need it.”

Patrick Jenkins, relationship manager at Lloyds TSB Commercial Banking, said: “With over 400 pupils, the school has grown to accommodate the demand for education. Stover School is well established and the new boilers not only lesson its environmental impact but the cost savings mean it can reinvest in its facilities”.

“It is great that Lloyds TSB Commercial Banking is able to support such a highly recognised school and its attendees. At Lloyds TSB Commercial Banking, we have specially trained education relationship managers who are immersed in the sector and fully understand the opportunities and challenges faced by institutions such as Stover School.”

Match Report Under 15 Cricket v Brixham College

2013-05-01T00:00:00

In the Lord’s Taverners Under 15 Colts Trophy, Stover won a nail-biting match against Brixham College, to move into the second round where they will play St. Cuthbert Mayne School. Max Theobald (2-11) was the pick of the bowlers for Stover. Toby Lovell top-scored with 32 and Tom Orr ( 19 not out) and Harry Eastley-Jones steered the team to victory, with just one ball to spare!

Result:

Brixham College 100-3 Stover School 101-7 Stover won by 3 wkts.

Within 2 degrees of the target temperature

2013-04-29T00:00:00

Salters Festival of Chemistry

A select team of three year 8 students (Emily Eastley-Jones, Alex Mackenzie and William Mathews) recently represented the school at a Salters Festival of Chemistry, held at the University of Plymouth. During this day they were set two chemistry challenges, competing against 15 other schools from the South West. The first challenge was to use forensic science techniques to solve the murder mystery of the Body in the Staff Room!

The teams were judged on their ability to work safely and with the minimum of supervision, as well as identifying the correct solution – that the Principal had been killed by the PE teacher! A second challenge was presented as a Harry potter potions scenario and involved some cool thinking in how to keep a potion cooled to a precise temperature, using just water, Citric acid and bicarbonate of soda. Our team came within 2 degrees of the target temperature but not close enough to win the prize. They did, however, achieve second place in the forensic challenge, winning two Moly-mod kits for the school! Following their hard work in the lab, the teams were treated to a fiery presentation involving explosives and liquid oxygen! Congratulations to all three for a well deserved result.

Match Report - U11 Rounders v St Peters

2013-04-25T00:00:00

U11 Rounders v St Peters

A team won 23 rounders to 21.5

A win to start off the season, congratulations girls! This was a high scoring and tough match against a very well-oiled fielding team. St Peters were very competent at throwing between the bases, however, our girls batted strongly and managed to take the lead in the first innings. A special well done must go to Lauren Ramage and Amy-Beth Curtis for adding so much to our score sheet! Stover fielded well and kept the pressure on the visiting team, but it was clear to see there are some tactics and fielding drills to be worked on. It was great to get our first match under our belts!

Player of the match: Lauren Ramage for outstanding batting.

B team lost 18 rounders to 6

The B team were up against a strong St Peters squad who unfortunately dominated the game. It was great to see some rounders scored and some promising batting potential. I am sure that with a little extra work in the field the girls will feel more confident with their throwing and catching skills. There is plenty to work on next week. Well tried girls!

Player of the match: Georgie Glossop for demonstrating some promising batting potential.

Stover Preparatory School Summer Class Newsletters

2013-04-19T00:00:00

SPS Summer Term Class Newsletters

SPS Summer Term Class Newsletters are now available to view online. Please visit http://www.stover.co.uk/2373/prep-school/letters-to-parents/

Chess Champions

2013-03-28T00:00:00

Chess Champions!

SPS Chess Club goes from strength to strength! At total of 28 pupils took part in our annual in-house Chess Challenge this term. The matches were hard fought, with everyone keen to win. Congratulations to David Moors (Year 5); Max Milward (Year 6); Ben Walwyn (Year 3); Toby O’Donoghue (Year 5); Oscar Bann (Year 4) and James Bamsey (Year 5) who came out on top. Toby was the overall winner with Ben being awarded the medal for best newcomer. These six boys will now go on to the next round at Churston Grammar School. Well done to all our chess players for an excellent season.

Musical Delight

2013-03-28T00:00:00

Musical Delight!

Where can you hear children aged seven to eleven years playing instruments as varied as the cello, harp, violin, drums, piano, electric guitar, guitar and singing solos? SPS, of course! Our music assemblies remain a highlight of each term with pupils showing their incredible musical talent as they perform to the pupils and parents. Do check the dates in the calendar for next term. All parents are invited to attend even if their child is not performing. Special events such as these are not be missed, we can assure you!

U9 Exeter tournament

2013-03-27T00:00:00

U9 Exeter tournament

Drew 2-2 v Exeter Cathedral

Drew 0-0 v Maynard

Lost 4-1 v Exeter

Won 1-0 v St Peters

What a lovely sunny day for a few games of netball! We took a large squad of 10 to this tournament and all girls participated and tried hard.

The girls came away with some good results. Many of the games were close and stover even went up 1-0 in the game we lost, however, we were unable to hold onto the lead.

This was a lovely way to end the season and it is clear to see the girls are playing with more fight, determination, and confidence and are also learning to move the ball more quickly. Well done girls! Rounders next!

Player of the tournament for quick distribution of the ball and good shooting skills - Anna Stone.

Phyllis Dence Day

2013-03-27T00:00:00

We had another varied and exciting day for this year's Performing festival in memory of Phyllis Dence (Headmistress from 1935 -1967).

Miss Dence was a keen advocate of Music and the Performing Arts in education and established the strong tradition of Music and Drama we have at Stover.

The day consisted of rehearsals for the House Song Competition and wide ranging workshops led by our own staff and outside visitors allowing pupils the opportunity of experiencing a range of activities.

The afternoon concert featured performances and demonstrations from the workshops, with almost everyone in the school performing at some point, including Africa Drumming, Photography and the inaugural performance of the 6th form choir. There were performances from the winners of the previous day’s music competition. Our guest performer was Elvis Presley, aka Maurice Broadway – ‘The Devon Elvis’. His inspirational story of overcoming performance anxiety, was matched by the quality of his performance and the appreciation of the audience. He was also there to judge the House Singing competition in an expert capacity, as this year’s theme was ‘Elvis: The Vegas Years’ – he was very impressed the quality of the singing, and announced that Mary Templar were the winners. The afternoon was completed with a rousing performance of ‘Viva las Vegas’ by the whole school and Elvis.

The Friends of Stover Bazaar

2013-03-25T00:00:00

The Twelfth Night arrives...

2013-03-21T00:00:00

The University of Exeter MA/MFA students who came to perform ‘Twelfth Night’ on Wednesday 13^th

March here in Jubilee Hall for our Year 9 pupils, some of who have been studying Shakespeare’s play this term in English. A vibrant, playful and well-adapted production playing for an hour and a quarter, entertained pupils with slapstick comedy, finely delivered and intoned dialogue and witticisms, song and dance. Malvolio’s yellow cross-gartered stockings were something else! Sir Toby Belch’s audience participation when he drunkenly plonked himself/herself down on the front row of the audience, was both a shock and a hoot!

The University Drama troupe was touring around village halls in Devon as part of the students’ Staging Shakespeare course.

We were very grateful for such a lovely chance to see and experience a live performance of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy and delighted to continue to forge this strong association between the University Drama Department and our own English and Drama Departments.

SPS Gifted and Talented Workshop

2013-03-19T00:00:00

SPS Gifted and Talented Workshop

16 pupils showing artistic promise from Years 5 and 6 were invited to create scenery for their Drama Production, “What a Knight”.

The children worked under the guidance of our visiting artist, Julie Perren, a professional scenery designer to create a magical Camelot castle set. They learnt a variety of techniques, including drawing designs to scale from a small picture on to a large 8m canvas. They also found out how to mix and use different shades of paint for background colour and how to affect the illusion of texture by sponging and rolling paint on to the canvas. Others worked painting very detailed areas, whilst another group learnt the art of applique with Mrs Howard, our senior Art teacher showing the way.

The girls and boys showed amazing energy to keep going for the whole day to complete the entire set.

We were so lucky to also have the help of Helen White, (Maddie’s mother) and Jessica Brown, mother of Sorrel and Romilly. These wonderful ladies produced fabulous designs and oversaw the children painting detailed interior scenes of Merlin’s workshop and the castle kitchen.

Our thanks go to all the adults and children involved for such a successful and Special Gifted and Talented Art Day.

English GCSE News

2013-03-19T00:00:00

GCSE News

Last week , the AQA Speaking and Listening Advisor paid the English Department a visit to see how we are conducting our oral controlled assessments, which are worth 20% of the total GCSE in English Language and English. This involved a number of Year 11 students being brave enough to demonstrate a range of our activities.

Emily Morris, Clara Finnigan, Jessica Doyle and Joseph Wagner did themselves proud in a discussion session on “What is the place and purpose of marriage in the 21st century?”. Ben Tanner and Annabel Kennedy showed role play based upon literary characters, whilst Sean Large and Beck Savva did individual presentations about their passions ( for horror films and Liverpool Football Club!).

The purpose of the visit was really to ensure good practice and that teachers’ marking is in accordance with the examination board; nevertheless, we were very proud of all our students and the way they showed themselves off to the best of their abilities. The Advisor commented that the board feel that they “rarely see top Band 5 work” but he still managed to award top marks to Emily, and near-top marks to Jess and Annabel. He praised the “positive approach” shown by all students and was struck by “how keen” they were to demonstrate their skills.

We are pleased to receive official confirmation that Stover is “very successful in engaging students, supporting them and encouraging them to reach aspirational targets”. Being a confident, effective speaker and a sensitive listener are important life skills, whatever the future may hold for our GCSE students.

U9 B & C Netball v Exeter Cathedral

2013-03-18T00:00:00

Netball U 9 B Team

Won 2-0

The B team got off to a good start today in our match against Exeter Cathedral school. In the first half it seemed that the two teams were very well matched as both had equal shots at goal. By the end of the first half the girls were defending very well. In the second half their attacking had vastly improved allowing two excellent goals to be scored by Jasmine Downes!

PLAYER OF THE MATCH: Jean Simmons

Netball U9 C Team

Won 4-3

In today's match against Exeter Cathedral we came away successful with a win! At the start of the game we moved some of the positions around so many of the girls were playing for the first time in these new roles. This proved to be a good tactic as our defence was strong and worked well together. At the end of the first half the score was 2-1 to Stover. Exeter kept attacking and managed a comeback in the 2nd half in what was a very close game, but thanks to some superb shooting skills from Rosie Lacey a last minute goal was scored to seal the win!

PLAYER OF THE MATCH: Rosie Lacey

Principal’s Commendations

2013-03-18T00:00:00

Principal’s Commendations

Jake Williams for Two excellent write ups following Year 10 Geography Field Trips to Bristol (Mrs Head)

Amie Tradelius and Emilia Crabtree, excellent projects on the life of Charles I (Mrs Gardener).

And from Mrs Wimsett, the Year 7’s did a project on “The imaginary world” after studying the Judeo-Christian Creation story.

The models are displayed around the school, in the entrance hall and outside my office.

Commendations go to:

Grace Maxwell

Olivia Tutty

Freya McAlary

Tabitha Munk

Henri Poole-Birrell

Tom Chapman

Tamar Warwick

Ellie Howes

U9 Exeter Netball tournament

2013-03-15T00:00:00

U9 Exeter tournament

Drew 2-2 v Exeter Cathedral

Drew 0-0 v Maynard

Lost 4-1 v Exeter

Won 1-0 v St Peters

What a lovely sunny day for a few games of netball! We took a large squad of 10 to this tournament and all girls participated and tried hard.

The girls came away with some good results. Many of the games were close and stover even went up 1-0 in the game we lost, however, we were unable to hold onto the lead.

Player of the tournament for quick distribution of the ball and good shooting skills - Anna Stone.

A Team U11 and U10 Netball v Blundells

2013-03-15T00:00:00

A Team U11 and U10 Netball v Blundells

A Team WON 8-3

Player of the match – Roo Woodleigh-Smith (voted by Miss Edwards)

Violet Leverson-Gower (voted by Blundells)

The A team got off to a strong start, with a few new faces featuring in the team. The girls moved the ball confidently and generated a solid 6-1 lead. During the 3rd quarter their movement and passing became a little complacent, however, conceding a goal gave them the wake up call they needed. Their defence and marking improved as the match progressed and the forward movement from the attackers was outstanding. Roo and Violet thoroughly deserve to be voted player of the match.

What a super season girls, well done!

B Team U11 and U10 Netball v Blundells

2013-03-15T00:00:00

B Team U11 and U10 Netball v Blundells

Bs WON 10-3

Player of the match – Jessica Powis

This match was a good opportunity for the U10s to all play as one team. The game started slowly but the team steadily improved their passing and movement. The girls went 3-1 down but continued to challenge for the ball. With a couple of positional changes and some outstanding shooting by Jessica Powis, Stover managed to claw the game back by the first half. The girls continued to grow in confidence and pressured the opposition with their marking. They to deserved the win, what a great end to the season!

Year 12 UCAS Convention

2013-03-15T00:00:00

Year 12 UCAS Convention

The whole of Year 12 went on a trip this week to the UCAS Convention in the Westpoint Arena in Exeter. The convention featured over 100 stands from Universities, Colleges and other organisations which provide opportunities for post-18 students. This was the first chance our students have had to start thinking about what they might do after they leave Stover. They were able to ask questions directly to the admissions teams of many of the country’s universities and also took away a great deal of information about possible courses. Stover supports its sixth formers throughout the process of choosing and applying for whatever they decide to do next and this was, for many of them, the first step along that road.

Junior Team Mathematics Challenge

2013-03-15T00:00:00

Junior Team Mathematics Challenge

Callum King (Yr 9), Saul Kurzman (Yr 9), Honor Burton (Yr 8) and Alexandra MacKenzie (Yr 8) represented Stover in the UKMT Junior Team Maths Challenge Competition. They travelled to Plymouth Guildhall with Mrs Cocker where they competed against 16 other schools from the Devon area. All four pupils worked well together as a team solving a variety of very challenging mathematical problems. Unfortunately they did not win the regional final but had an enjoyable day out and represented the school very well.

Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night'

2013-03-15T00:00:00

Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night'

Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night' was brought to Stover by the University of Exeter MA students. This is the fourth production they have toured here. The Year 9s, some of who are studying the play this term experienced this farcical Shakespeare comedy in its original staging form. The bawdy low life characters of Sir Toby Belch, Andrew Aguecheek and Maria, the housekeeper and their plot to bring down the arrogant Malvolio, had us rolling in the aisles. The mistaken identity, gender swaps and passionate outbursts kept us guessing throughout!

From page to Stage - Spring Drama at Stover

2013-03-11T00:00:00

FROM PAGE TO STAGE - SPRING DRAMA AT STOVER

The LAMDA Drama Showcase took place on Tuesday, 26 February in Chamber Hall. This is an informal evening of performance where LAMDA students taught by Jane Berry present their acting examination pieces to a live audience of parents and boarders. This year's showcase was especially timed so pupils could gain experience in front of an audience before the formal examinations.

As well as many fascinating and varied extracts from classic and contemporary plays, we had the addition of a wonderfully exciting and energetic hiphop routine from Huanye Heng in Year 9 to complete the evening of performance. Huanye surprised us all with a highly polished and skilful dance routine, choreographed by himself, proving dance is not just for girls!

The following young actors and actresses performed either in solos or duologues:

Molly Barratt, Abigail Bulbulian,Venetia Blelloch, Aylish Derry, George O'Reilly, Dylan Heer-Deaville, Shane Freeman, Tamar Warwick and Alex MacKenzie. The play extracts ranged from Greek tragedy, 'The Trojans' to J B Priestley's 'When We Are Married', as well as plenty of modern work, including 'The Emperor's New Clothes' and 'A Brief History of Helen of Troy' by Mark Schulz.

The LAMDA examinations are being held this Monday, 4 March and we wish all involved every success.... break a leg in the nicest possible way!

Peripatetic LAMDA lessons are designed to develop confidence, public speaking skills, dramatic technique, collaboration skills, imagination and creativity. They also aid sight reading skills and self-esteem. Entrance for this series of exams range from Level 1 to Silver Medal and Ms Berry and Ms Oliver have ably supported and encouraged pupils throughout the year in their private lessons.

LAMDA is fully accredited, providing students with UCAS points for entry to Higher Educations at Medal Level.

Year 10 GCSE Drama students have also been busy in class, devising improvisations based on cloning and dystopieas, while Year 11 Drama students are embarking on the practical examination work Both year groups have recently experienced a Noh Theatre workshop, led by a professional opera director and specialist trained by the classical male artists in Japan in this traditional and highly disciplined art of mime, chanting, percussion and stylised movement.

Orpha Phelan gave us the tools to develop oriental dramatic techniques which are the basis of the popular epic and total theatre styles of Shakespeare and Brecht, believe it or not.

The Year 11s also created their own intriguing Noh and Kabuki style make-ups in a teacher-led workshop in preparation for their examination work (see attached photos of Noh Theatre workshops and Kabuki style make-up).

'Sailors and Sweethearts'

2013-03-11T00:00:00

Last Wednesday, 6 March, there was a GCSE Drama trip to see 'Sailors and Sweethearts' by Nick Stimson - a new play by the community of Plymouth for the Plymouth community, showing at The Drum, Theatre Royal.

On Friday, 8 March, a group of Sixth Formers studying English Literature saw 'The Importance of Being Earnest' by Miracle Theatre at the Hall for Cornwall in Truro. A great way of really getting to grips with Oscar Wilde's text and brilliant repartee is to see it live on stage!

Our next GCSE Drama theatre trip is on Monday, 11 March to the Exeter Northcott to view Theatre Alibi's adaptation of Charles Dickens' Old Curiosity Shop. A couple of tickets left for keen theatre goers.

Comic Relief - Milkshake Monday

2013-03-11T00:00:00

U 11 Netball v Mount House

2013-03-10T00:00:00

A team lost 13-1

Player of the match Haleemah Afolabi

The A team had a tough fight in this match. Mount House proved to be a very strong team with good marking and attacking skills. Stover showed great attacking potential but made some unfortunate handling errors. Playing on an indoor court slightly disrupted their focus and although Stover's defending improved Mount House outplayed them in this match.

Written by Miss Edwards

B team lost 16-0

Player of the match Annabel Tregoning

With one key player off school unwell the B team had to deal with some changes and girls were asked to play positions they had not played before. Their movement was improving throughout the game and they were all managed to use the space more productively, but due to the excellent shooting skills of the Mount House goal attack and goal shooter we sadly lost 16-0. I was still very impressed with our girls throughout the game as they listened and took on board the constructive criticism they were given and improved on their weaknesses.

Written by Ella Ettridge (6th Form)

Winners! U11 A and B v Mount House

2013-03-07T00:00:00

Winners! U11 A and B v Mount House

Cross-Country at Stover

2013-03-05T00:00:00

Gallery - Click

Technical Difficulties

2013-03-04T00:00:00

Stover School is currently experiencing technical difficulties affecting email and internet communications.

Sorry for the inconvenience, we apologise.

Stover vs Wellington U11 Football

2013-03-01T00:00:00

Stover vs Wellington U11 Football

On Wednesday the 27th of February, the Stover U11 football team played against Wellington school. We won the toss, and Wellington kicked off, as we had chosen to start facing up, just like we planned.

Soon enough, David had the ball between his feet, and immediately banged it into the back of the net, leaving the goalkeeper shellshocked.

Minutes passed, and it was a Stover corner, Harrison to take it. He kicked the ball at a perfect height for Oliver Milstead to get his boot on the end of it, and wallop the ball into the goal.

Wellington kicked the ball into our half and were near to the goal, but luckily they couldn't beat our defence, and it was up in their goal before you could say football, all thanks to David.

David was having a good day because- sure enough- he scored a final goal just in time for the final whistle. 4-0 to Stover!

This was a true and well deserved win for us, once again.... Well done Stover!

U11 Netball Vs Wellington

2013-03-01T00:00:00

U11 Netball Vs Wellington

A team lost 11-2

This game was fantastic to watch, the passing and movement was fast paced and of a very high standard. The score did not reflect what was actually a close fought, end to end match. The Wellington team were very strong with some tall players. Stover attacked and passed the ball effectively but unfortunately were unable to convert as many of their shooting opportunities. The Wellington coach complimented the Stover girls saying ‘I have not seen such fast movement and passing’. I am most proud of the girls performance in this match, superb netball!

Player of the match: Amy-Beth Curtis (voted by Wellington)

Maddie White (voted by Miss Edwards) for demonstrating great improvement at moving into space and distributing the ball.

Written by Miss Edwards

B team lost 10-2

In this week’s match the B team got off to a fantastic start with their defence looking very strong, but unfortunately by the end of the first quarter 3 goals had been scored by the opposition. While fighting to win back the game in the second quarter, a further 4 goals were scored by Wellington but Stover were steadily gaining confidence having just scored 2 of their own. In the third quarter Stover scored yet again after a change in the team and the subs coming on. Unfortunately the final quarter concluded with Wellington scoring 3 more times. Even though we didn’t win I was very impressed that the girls had listened to advise and taken on board the constructive criticism that they were given. I was proud to have been their coach in that match!

Player of the match: Lucie Murphy

First Steps Nursery Study Transport

2013-02-15T00:00:00

First Steps Nursery Study Transport

The First Steps Nursery are looking at Transport this term. Tom the Master Technician kindly visited with his DAF lorry and talked about his profession. Great time had by all.

U9 v Kelly College

2013-02-15T00:00:00

A team drew 3-3

Player of the match Anna Stone

The A team had a fairly evenly matched game against Kelly College. Stover went ahead on a number of occasions but quickly conceded shortly after. The girls are showing improvement each week but still need to be more assertive in order to retrieve and maintain possession of the ball. The opportunities we had were taken very well by our shooters, however, the ball was given away softly on a number of occasions.

B team won 5-0

Player of match Samantha Clarke and Clem Bantock for outstanding play.

Each week the girls have tried out various positions in order to determine their strengths. This week things fell into place and the team gelled really well together. The ball moved quickly to the attacking end, with players travelling into space effectively. Our goal shooters, Clem Bantock and Samantha Clarke worked well together in the 'D' and deserved to convert their shots.

FOS 'Food For Thought' Quiz Night

2013-02-15T00:00:00

Stover U11 B's romped to a 16-1 victory over St Johns

2013-02-15T00:00:00

Stover U11 B's romped to a 16-1 victory over St Johns

Stover U11 B's romped to a 16-1 victory over St Johns. In difficult conditions both sides struggled to control the ball. However, Stover were aggressive in both attack and defence and were 9-nil up at half time. As Stover continued to push forward St Johns caught Stovers defence out of position and scored a consolation goal.

Man of the match- Goal Keeper, J Towers who manfully held the defence as the rest of the team went in search of goals. He made some very good saves and was reliable when called upon.

Goals: J Camerilli- 3
          J Whitbread- 2
          O Jelley- 5
          O Allen- 4
          L Nieuwoudt- 2

U9 Football v Kelly Prep

2013-02-15T00:00:00

U9 Football v Kelly Prep

Stover U9’s played a good game against Kelly Prep yesterday, unfortunately losing 3-1. The game was played on Astro turf due to Kelly’s flooded pitches and the Stover team struggled with the fast pace of the ball. Both teams battled hard throughout and for the majority of the game Stover were down by just a goal, but late on and with Stover players pressing hard in attack Kelly caught the team on the break and scored their final goal. Overall a good game and the boys worked hard. Man of the Match Ben Cummins for his long range goal.

U11 Football Match Report 'A'-Team-Stover V St John's

2013-02-15T00:00:00

U11 Football Match Report 'A'-Team-Stover V St John's

On the back of an away win against Exeter Cathedral, in our last competitive match, the boys' were keen to continue their encouraging run of form against St John's.There was no rain, but numerous downpours at the start of the week, meant that the pitches were extremely muddy, with some patches of heavy laden water. Conditions were not in our favour but the team were determined to maintain good footballing habits: passing and moving and being determined in the tackle.Our starting line-up was slightly different this week as we played in a seven-a-side game, so the players had to work really hard on a larger pitch area. One and two touch football in the first half and some super wing play from Oliver Milstead and Max Milward ensured that out attacking midfield and striker (David Moors) had plenty of opportunities to pepper the goal. It did not take long for the boys' to score three goals in the first fifteen minutes, one of which was a superb solo effort by a confident Moors.He even managed to score from a left side corner kick! With a confident goal-keeping display from Alfie Raynor and a calm yet measured approach to the game by Archie Walwyn in defence, Stover looked good at 4-0 by half-time. However, not too far in to the second half, the players began to look tired- playing up hill was always going to be arduous on the mind, body and legs. So it did not take long for St John's to take advantage playing down hill. they scored two goals in quick succession, with some quick passing in midfield and runs into space. Our defence were over-stretched but when we played the ball quickly out of defence on one occasion, Hugo Longrigg managed to wrap his boot around a rasping shot which struck the under side of the St John's cross-bar, only for David, once again, to pounce. St John's continued to plug away and were given a dubious goal when the ball appeared to rebound of the upright and roll across the line after a goal keeper spillage. At 5-3 Stover began to tire and the pressure began to pile on, so much so that St John's hit the post on two occasions. With other clear chances missed by Stover, but for slippages in the penalty box and the St John's defence thwarting our striker's shots on goal, we might have extended our lead still further.

Summary: Another gritty performance in testing conditions with players showing a good team dynamic, although due to the 7 a-side, we did at times lose a little organisation due to the on and off nature of substitutions- as we had 9 players.This is now the A-team's third win on the bounce and the boys' are 'chomping at the bit' to play in their next competitive match after the half-term holiday.

Final Score: 5-3 (Stover) WIN

Player of the Match: David Moors (Hatrick) Report by:

Year 12 Geographers Visit Teignmouth

2013-02-15T00:00:00

Year 12 Geographers Visit Teignmouth

As part of the AS Level Geography course the students visited Teignmouth to study land use within the resort and how the economic activities have changed over time. Pupils also collected data on the impact of tourism and investigated ways in which this is managed. At the end of the afternoon, pupils inspected the new £4 million flood alleviation scheme and saw how Teignmouth will be protected from tidal flooding in the future.

SPS Cross country report

2013-02-14T00:00:00

Cross country report

The moment we stepped off our bus in Bude we instantly could smell the refreshing sea breeze. Clumps of schools gathered, like a swarm of wasps. We collected our lunch and then set up a base where our bags stayed. We greedily ate our lunch which we were dying to eat on the bus.

The order of races went like this: under nine boys, under nine girls under eleven boys then finally under eleven girls (our year). Every one of us was anxiously waiting and anticipating what was in store for us. We wrapped up in our woollies then Mr.Brown walked us around the gargantuan course.

The race was exhausting but pleasurable, and the feelings of achievement as we crossed the finish line were over powering. Although we all felt a pain streaking down our legs we persevered down to our base then flopped on our bags. As we were the last race we all gathered up our belongings and headed towards the bus.

The Stover boarders reign supreme in their first basket

2013-02-14T00:00:00

The Stover boarders reign supreme in their first basketball match of the Season!

The Stover Boy (+1 girl!) Boarders recently took their crack team of Basketballers off to Queen Elizabeth’s Community College for their first away basketball match of the year, and came away with a maiden victory! Notable performances came from Man of the Match Michael Yu, along with a fine and feisty display from his ball-handling partner Tim Lee. The big guys – Leon Hui and Ken Hui were both solid King-Pins in the centre of defence and on attack, with Leon netting most points, and they were supported with an excellent shooting display from Kelvin Chueng. A strong defensive display from Nuk Nawarak with his lively and physical approach, and the ‘salmon-like’ rebounding from Will Chueng made for an entertaining end to the game. Cameo appearances from Kimme Wu, Luke Dejawatanakomol, Long Ma and Tom Chan made it a great overall team performance from the Boarders. Final score was 36-29, and QECC were very gracious in defeat, whilst also lending us a kit! We were invited up to their boarding house after the game for a wonderful spread of food and drink, and it was a pleasure to see the Stover boarders’ making some new friends at what was a very friendly and welcoming school.

SPS annual cross country event in Bude

2013-02-12T00:00:00

SPS annual cross country event in Bude

Last Friday 24 SPS pupils from Years 3 – 6 travelled all the way to Bude in Cornwall for the annual cross country event held in this beautiful, if exposed, location. Despite a challenging route and tough competition from the hundreds of other competitors all the children gave of their best. Congratulations to you all.

A very special mention must go to Harry Langabeer who achieved an impressive 4th place out of over 90 children in his Under 11 race. What an incredible achievement, Harry!

Torquay Utd Come to Stover

2013-02-12T00:00:00

Torquay Utd Come to Stover

On Wednesday 6th February, two coaches from Torquay United Football In the Community Charity visited Stover Preparatory School, to talk to Year 5 & 6 Boys’ about RESPECT.

Matt & Ollie warmed us all up by asking us to write some examples down of respectful actions when we play sport, on sticky-notes. This was a really thought-provoking exercise, as it made us think very hard about behaviour, helping the elderly and all members of the community.

The Torquay Utd coaches told us about instances when a player might argue with the referee and we all reflected on how wrong this type of action would be if we played in a football match where we saw this going on.

This special visit was fun, informative and relevant to all pupils’ and how we should all aim to act in a sportsman like way when playing sport of any sort. We all look forward to Torquay Utd Football In the Community visiting our school in the near future, where other pupils’ can benefit from ‘excellent sporting advice from professional organisations’.

All the staff and students from Year 5 & 6 would l like to thank Torquay Utd Football In the Community for coming and visiting us at Stover.

Stover U9 B Football v Blundells

2013-02-12T00:00:00

Stover U9 B Football v Blundells

Stover U9 B team took part in an excellent game against Blundells School. Stover responded to the 9-nil loss to Exeter Cathedral School the previous week and showed real character. Blundell’s had the majority of the possession throughout the game scoring two goals. The work rate and effort by the Stover team to tackle hard and attack the opposition team when they had the ball was a joy for all the travelling support. All the team should take credit in what was a marked improvement from the previous week and showed the teams real ability. Special mention must go to Felix Brewer who troubled the opposition whenever he had the ball and to Harry Lanyon who gave a 100% throughout the game. Man of the Match- Archie Longrigg who was everywhere! Tackling every Blundells player and ran hard with the ball at his feet. In the dying minutes of the game Archie scored Stover’s only goal with an excellent long range effort. The scores finished 2-1, a fair reflection of the game. Well done boys!

National Art Competition Success

2013-02-11T00:00:00

National Art Competition Success

Stover School pupil Henri Poole-Birrell has been awarded an £80 art set and a laptop computer for the School, for winning the art section of the ‘The wildlife at your School’ Art and Literacy competition hosted by the National Gamekeepers Organisation Educational Trust.

The National Gamekeepers' Organisation Educational Trust was established in 1999 to promoting public awareness of the need for sustainable wildlife management in our countryside, and stressing the importance of the conservation work carried out by gamekeepers.

The theme of the competition was ‘The wildlife at your School’ and enabled pupils to become motivated by the wealth of inspiration that can be found within the School grounds.

Henri came first in the Art competition and finished overall runner-up to secure the art set prize and a laptop computer for the School. Judges described Henri’s winning painting as ‘vibrant with images beautifully structured and coherent. It synthesises the variety of the natural world’.

A comment made by one of the judging panel, himself a teacher, said; "the quality of the entries was astonishingly high and it is heartening to see that there is such talent being well nurtured in the Primary and Junior schools across the country".

Boys Boarding House Open Day

2013-02-10T00:00:00

Dear Parents and Guardians

I would like to invite you to an event in the Boys Boarding House - Clock House.

It will be an open house, with refreshments and tours, which will take place on Tuesday February 12th at 4pm.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to see one of the new projects at Stover and you will be welcome to look around. Housemaster, Mr Rudkin, Assistant Housemaster, Mr Brown, and the boys are very proud of their house, and I know they will be happy to show you around.

I very much look forward to seeing you on the 12th February.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like to discuss boarding at Stover and although not essential, please could you let me know if you would like to attend by email – gbaily@stover.co.uk .

Kindest regards

Graham Baily

Director of Boarding

HIGH5 Open Week

2013-02-07T00:00:00

HIGH5 Open Week

The open week will be for prep school groups as follows:

Wed: 12:20 - 12:55 Reception and year 1
Wed: 12:55 - 1:35 Year 3&4
Thurs: 12:20 - 12:55 Year 2
Thurs: 12:55 - 1:35 Year 5&6

During the sessions we will be showing the parents some of the activities and challenges the children have been working towards over the past term.

This will include the challenges that the players must complete to earn their next LTA Mini Tennis Rally Awards Certificate.

New Recording Studio

2013-02-07T00:00:00

Stover launched a new recording studio this week. It is located within the Music department next to the Chamber Hall. It consists of a computer running Cubase, KRK monitors, a Roland keyboard, a Yamaha mixing desk and a Tascam Digital to Audio interface. It will enable pupils to get a ‘hands on’ experience of creating and recording their own music. We will be posting their recordings onto the School Website in the future. Parents may also aspire to be a star of the future and you are very welcome to join us in the studio!

U9 Netball v Blundells

2013-02-07T00:00:00

U9 Netball v Blundells

A team lost 7-1

Player of the match Anna Perkins (voted by Blundells)

Although the score appears fairly one sided this was a well contested match. Stover were their usual polite and gentle selves, which meant we went 4-0 down after 2 quarters.The girls gradually got into the spirit of the game and even won the 3rd quarter 1-0. We need to work on maintaining more possession of the ball. Keep up the good work girls.

B team lost 9-1

Player of the match Clem Bantock for using space effectively.

Again, the B team took a little bit of time to warm up, and there were a few avoidable errors early on which opened the door for Blundells. The team seem to gel a little more in the second half and it was encouraging to see them marking their opposite player.

U9 Football v Blundells

2013-02-07T00:00:00

U9 Football v Blundells

Thursday the 7th of November saw our U9 A and B football teams take on their counterparts at Blundells Prep School. Both teams’ performances showed notable improvement in terms of skill and endeavour and , although we came away on the losing side, the boys should be proud of the team effort shown on the day. The A team dominated possession and territory for much of the first half but fell behind to some breakaway goals. They kept battling throughout the match and were unlucky to miss four very good scoring opportunities.

A Team lost 5-1 Player of the Match: Ollie Chapman

B team lost 2-1

PC Lawrence Wills visits Reception Class

2013-02-06T00:00:00

PC Lawrence Wills visits Reception Class

Reception Class had an exciting visit from PC Lawrence Wills. He talked to us about his role in the community, let us look in his Police van, try on real police hats and also let each child press the button to turn the siren on!

Ten Tors Training 2012

2013-02-05T00:00:00

Ten Tors 2013

Ten Tors training 2013 was launched with a weekend residential based at Bachelors Hall, a bunkhouse near Princetown. The squad of 10 pupils from Years 9 and 10 navigated their way over a distance of 25 miles in 2 days and also had the chance to practise their campcraft skills. After glorious sunshine on Saturday we all enjoyed an evening in front of the wood-burning stove and Mr Brown’s cooking before setting off again, this time in thick mist.

Principal's Newsletter

2013-02-04T00:00:00

Dear Parents and Guardians

The Spring term is well under way and pupils in both the Preparatory and Senior School continue to work hard as well as being involved in a wide range of activities outside the classroom. Sixth Form and Year 11 pupils have recently completed public and mock examinations.

I would like to thank everyone who recently completed our NFER Parent Survey Questionnaire. Your feedback is very important to the school and we are in the process of analysing the results, which will help to inform future planning.

At the start of term we welcomed our new Gap Students from Australia, Miss Sarah Lattimore and Miss Courtney Berryman. We also recently welcomed Miss Victoria Peacock, Learning Support Assistant, and Mrs Maureen Bradford, Classroom Assistant.

At Half Term we have some goodbyes to say to staff. Mrs Glenda Fletcher is retiring from her role as Teacher of Home Economics. Mrs Liz Barnes who joined us last term will now be teaching these groups. Mr Stuart Pillinger, our Economics Teacher, will also be leaving at this time and Mr Lee Turnbull, who is currently teaching Economics and Business Studies, has been appointed to teach our A Level classes at Stover.

I would like to thank Mrs Fletcher who has been a member of staff for 10 years and Mr Pillinger who has been with us for 6 years for all their hard work with our pupils during this time.

The Stover website continues to be updated on a daily basis and we hope you find it both informative and of interest. Mrs Coyle, Head of the Preparatory School, and myself will continue to post our Newsletters on the website. I hope you will also keep up to date by reading our ‘blogs’.

Links are attached herewith:

Principal’s ‘blog’

Head of Preparatory School ‘blog’

In addition, to highlight our extensive academic programme and pupil achievements our Academic Newsletter will shortly be published. Principal’s Senior School Commendations for outstanding work are also published on a regular basis.

To ensure effective electronic communication, please do keep us updated with your latest contact details, in particular your email and mobile telephone numbers to receive our Clarion Call messages. You can do this by phone to the school offices or by email at mail@stover.co.uk.

For pupil absence reporting please use the form on the website. Alternatively, the email address absence&travel@stover.co.uk will route to the relevant administrative staff.

I look forward to seeing you at events throughout the term and hope we soon begin to see some Spring sunshine.

Pastoral Newsletter

2013-02-04T00:00:00

In the news

‘Time for action to address self-harm epidemic amongst young people’

5 Dec 2012

Figures released by ChildLine show a 68% increase in the number of young people who have self-harmed contacting the charity in the last year.

A recent Young Minds report with the Cello Group ‘Talking Self-Harm’ revealed that:

· 3 in 4 young people don’t know where to turn to talk about self-harm

· A third of parents would not seek professional help if their child was self-harming

· Almost half GPs feel that they don’t understand young people who self-harm and their motivations

· 2 in 3 teachers don’t know what to say to young people who self-harm

If you have concerns about a young person or would like to know more about what you could say to someone to best support them you can talk to the school nurses or Lucy Packer. Keeping it a secret is not the best thing to do, for you and them. Make sure you get advice and support about what to do. You can find out more from Young Minds www.youngminds.org.uk

Full article available at: http://www.youngminds.org.uk/news/news/1178_time_for_action_to_address_self-harm_epidemic_amongst_young_people

What’s on at Stover

All About Me Club

This club has been running since last spring and has been very successful so far. The club is held in the Mansion House Boarding Common Room every Thursday between 17:00 and 18:00. It gives the boarders the opportunity to talk about the things that matter to them. We also look at different topics which have included assertiveness, the media and its impact on young people, life skills, what it is like to board and study and exam stress. Everyone in boarding is welcome to attend the group and everyone’s input is welcomed.

NEWS! The All About Me Club is now available to day pupils on a Friday between 12:00 and 12:45 in English room 9. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Social Communication Skills Groups

These groups have been running since last term and focus on supporting pupils to improve the skills essential for helping us to communicate with each other. These include listening skills, sharing, taking turns and many more. The groups run in both the senior and prep school and are facilitated by Kerstin Sorensen-Parkes, Maria Wolbold and Lucy Packer.

Coming soon

Workshops for staff - Mental Health and young people – the impact in the class room.

Lucy Packer will be running informal training for staff to help support our understanding of young people’s mental health, their behaviour and how this can impact on school life. Teachers are welcome to bring examples of situations they have had with pupils to help us gain some insight in to different situations and ways we can best manage them. We will look at our different roles and responsibilities and the different ways we can support ourselves in our work, whether it be teaching, pastoral or both.

If there is anything you would find helpful to know more about please contact Lucy and this can be worked in to the program.

lucyguardian@gmail.com or 07904 863088

Stover U14 Football v St John's

2013-02-04T00:00:00

Stover U14’s found their shooting boots in the international encounter against St. John’s School, Sidmouth. William Willcocks gave the home side the lead late into the first half. Then, two stunning, long range efforts from Tom Orr and Joe McFarlane, and a solo run from Henry Wix-Pollard in the second period, sealed a comfortable 4-1 victory.

U11B Football v Exeter Cathedral

2013-02-01T00:00:00

U11 B Football

Stover v Exeter

In windy conditions the U11 B team drew 2-2 with Exeter Cathedral school. Thoughtful passing and an early goal from Ollie Jelley meant another Stover victory looked a distinct possibility. However, Exeter drew level before half time with a strong shot. After the interval Luke Lacey put the visitors in front, however Stover sat back when Exeter had the ball and again a long range effort tied the scores. The boys made every effort to win the game and were rightly disappointed after the match not to have done so. Man of the Match- Jamie Towers who was a commanding presence whenever the ball was near the box. Louis Niewouldt deserves a special mention as Exeter were unable to deal with his ability when he had the ball at his feet. A highlight was the able performances of Ben Boules and James Bamsey who made their debuts in this match.

U9 A Football v Exeter Cathedral

2013-02-01T00:00:00

U9 A Football v Exeter Cathedral

The U9 A team enjoyed their first victory of the season with an impressive 3-2 win over Exeter Cathedral Prep School. Playing in very muddy conditions, we dominated the first half, with Ollie chapman scoring twice and Charlie Eastley-Jones netting the third. It was great to see the boys’ spirits lifted by the goals which came as a reward from some skilful running and passing. Cathedral came back at us in the second half and we got caught out as we pressed up the field and forgot our defensive formation. Overall, an excellent result and one which the boys should be proud of.

Man of the Match: Freddie Powis: for his excellent tackling in the first half and for playing in goal for the second half to allow Andy Tupman a chance to play outfield.

U 11 A team v Exeter Cathedral

2013-01-31T00:00:00

Netball

Won 11-6

Player of the match: Haleemah Afolabi (voted by the Cathedral girls)

On a sunny but very windy afternoon the U11 A team overcame the challenges of the conditions to demonstrate a confident performance against Exeter Cathedral. Cathedral put up a fight during the last two quarters but the Stover A team displayed some outstanding movement and linked together some great passes. Well done to the two goal shooters, Jessica Powis and Violet Leverson-Gower for their persistent efforts.

U11 B team v Exeter Cathedral

2013-01-31T00:00:00

Netball

Lost 3-1

Player of the match: Maia Phillips

The U11 B team performed well this afternoon, however, having conceded early on in the game found it difficult to keep their spirits up and fight back. The windy conditions did make it difficult so well done to the girls for scoring and we must remember ‘it’s not over until it’s over!’, keep your spirit and determination going!

Exeter Cathedral V Stover AWAY

2013-01-31T00:00:00

Football

Exeter Cathedral V Stover AWAY

On a water-logged pitch, at the Exeter Cricket Ground, and with the sun shining (to our surprise) the A-team footballers played excellently as a unit: passing the ball firmly through thick mud, tackling ferociously and crossing with accuracy. Despite the obvious challenges, our boys remained determined and resolute and continued to exert pressure on the opposition. Exeter Cathedral were no push-overs! They started brightly and we had to be on the top of our game-and alert! Quick play and man-marking were our strengths, coupled with an increased potency up front. We had numerous shooting opportunities and within 20 mins Stover were ahead; courtesy of an accurate through pass from David Moors to Harrison Gorney- who slotted the ball home. Within minutes a free-kick to Exeter Cathedral resulted in a bounce back off the cross-bar, followed up by a simple tap in. 1-1. A missed penalty in the second half by Stover was so undeserved but a prompt reply from Harrison, once again, meant Stover took the lead. Stover continued to drive forward all through the second half, taking the game to Exeter Cathedral who, at this stage of the match, found our free flowing football and organisation at the back, hard to cope with. Needing an equaliser, Exeter Cathedral attempted to hit Stover on the break, but this only left gaps in their defence. Another wing pass found Harrison (our player of the moment) who quickly laid off a pass to our captain, Hugo Longrigg, who was really coming into his own. Hitting the ball on the stride, he looped the ball brilliantly over the keeper from distance. It was a dream goal-certainly one to remember!

Summary: A dominant display with a tighter midfield performance all round, with players remembering their roles to good effect. The players attitude was exemplary, and they were keen for their second win out of three matches played. As a coach, this was a most pleasing display. This performance will instil even more confidence in the squad, and prepare us for the busy schedule of games which follow over the coming weeks.

Score Exeter Cathedral 1 Stover 3 (WIN) Player of the Match Harrison Gorney

Well done boys!

Victoria Sandwich Coastal Features by Year 8

2013-01-31T00:00:00

Year 8 pupils made Victoria sandwich cakes and decorated them with coastal features as part of a joint Geography and Home Economics project. The pupils designed and prepared their cakes in advance. They bought sweets, chocolate pebbles, sherbet and other sweets for applying the decoration the following week.

The cakes were judged by the Geography department and the winner was Amie Tradelius who worked very hard carving her cake into a shape with many geographical features. Amie iced her cake then painted it with edible colouring. The chocolate rocks were very effective!

George Leveson came second with his colourful cake with some very good features. The two runners-up were Emily Eastley-Jones and Mollie Crabtree who both made good cakes with effective designs.

A great effort by all of year 8 Well done!

SPS - U9 A and B Teams v Exeter School

2013-01-28T00:00:00

SPS - U9 A and B Teams

Our A team, which includes four younger Year 3 boys, came up against an experienced and highly skilled Exeter team. Not used to playing on the faster Astro-Turf, we quickly fell behind to some well taken goals. Although we started to mark better and put a few more passing moves together in the second half, we were thoroughly outplayed up to the final whistle. Despite the 13-0 scoreline, the boys never lost heart and continued to try hard throughout the match.

Man of the Match: Charlie Eastley-Jones for tracking back well to help the defenders.

U9 B's - A one-sided match against Exeter prep led to Stover losing 8-2. The boys struggled to keep up with Exeter’s passing ability and they trailed throughout the game. There were signs of structure from Stover which led to Joseph Allen’s goal, however work is needed. Man of the Match- Harry Lanyon for his high work rate and well taken goal.

Clarion Call

2013-01-22T00:00:00

Notice from Mrs Bradley

The Police and Met Office forecast heavy snow from 2pm. Buses will be leaving at 3pm and children may be collected from now onwards. You may contact your child directly on their mobile phone or via school office. We would like all day pupils to be collected by 3.30pm. Pupils staying in school after 3.30pm will be in the entrance hall in the main building supervised by staff.

Solly Irving, a Holocaust survivor, tells his story.

2013-01-17T00:00:00

A group of 13 pupils and 3 staff went to hear Solly Irving, a Holocaust survivor, tell his story. Solly lives in London and comes every year to Plymouth to explain his experience of living in a concentration camp during the second world war. The visit is sponsored by the Holocaust Memorial Trust and the Plymouth Centre for Faiths and Cultural Diversity. Pupils were very moved by his story and to hear about the terrible conditions within the camp and the loss of his entire family. Solly explained to the students that the reason that he continues to tell his story is so that the children of today know that the Holocaust did actually happen. To date he has told his story to 20,000 Plymouth schoolchildren.

U11 v Kelly

2013-01-16T00:00:00

U11 v Kelly

As won 10-1

Players of the match:
Lauren Ramage for her outstanding movement and courage.
Violet Leverson-Gower for outstanding shooting.

Bs won 1-0.
Player of the match Roo Woodleigh-Smith for scoring a lovely goal.

SPS pupils ‘Spring’ into their new term with activities

2013-01-14T00:00:00

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SPS pupils ‘Spring’ into their new term with activities to promote teamwork!

On the first day of the Spring Term all the SPS pupils were involved in an afternoon of SEAL activities designed to support social and emotional development through the theme of ‘Going for Goals.’ The teachers spent a good deal of time planning group activities that encouraged team work and personal development. The afternoon was a huge success with all the children saying how much they had enjoyed themselves and how much they had learnt from their experiences. Following the success of this special event we are pleased to announce that it will now take place annually.

My memories of the Seal Workshop

All year 6 pupils and year 5s were gathered together on the first day of term. We were told that very morning that we would be split into four different groups for 3 interesting activities involving SEAL, one way or another. We were all itching with excitement and couldn’t wait for the afternoon to arrive.

My group was A , we were combined with B to do drama first. Play script writing was the theme, the Seal aspect was ‘Going for goals’. Once again we were put into smaller groups. My group was Maia, Annabel, Elliot, Dylan and Jack. Eager to start we choose our idea, it was of a dad who was allergic to dogs when his son got a dog for Christmas. The dad was a scientist so one day he went into his workshop he was fixed on making an anti-allergic dog potion. After many attempts it worked! We then got to perform it to the group, an amazing feeling.

Maia, Violet and I were intrigued to think what we were going to do next. It was movement with the teacher, Miss Edwards! We were really looking forward to it. When we were there we were told to act out an emotion. Our emotion was scared. Once we practised again and again to perfect it we performed it and ours were the best one!

Our final activity was ICT with Mr Appleby, we had to draw what our goal was in later life, mine was to become a doctor. An awesome experience! If it happened again no doubt I would enjoy it.

By Lauren Ramage (Year 6)

Stover SEAL Afternoon

On Monday 7th January, I took part in the Stover SEAL afternoon. First, we were in groups. This really worked well, because it helped stop overcrowding in one room.

In one of the activities, I had to draw what I’d like to be when I’m older. I particularly enjoyed this activity! I think there should be another SEAL afternoon, as it was really fun, and nice to see each other’s ambitions.

By Ben Hooper (Year 6)

Year 3 and 4 SEAL Day

Years 3 and 4 split up into 3 teams to participate in SEAL activities, yoga, art and sport lead by Mrs Holmes, Mr Futrell and Mr Brown. In art we made certificates under the subject of ‘Going for goals’. In yoga we learnt how to calm ourselves down, also how to relax. We learnt the positions of the lion, the warrior and the cat. This linked in with the subject of PHSE, anger and calming yourself down. The other activity was outdoor education where we learnt to work together. We had to build a bridge a sort of together to get over obstacles in the playground. Together Jean and I decided our favourite was the outdoor activity.

By Archie Longrigg and Jean Winser (Year 4)

SEAL Afternoon

On Monday afternoon we had SEAL afternoon and SEAL afternoon is when we do the teacher’s activities and this is what did. Someone in Mrs Rose’s class painted a happy dinosaur and a happy puffle and those people were in the happy group. Some people did sad painting and people did angry paintings but the people who did the puffle and dinosaur were in the happy group. In Mr Ayer’s group we did a house race where you have a green piece of paper and the one with the most houses on the piece of paper wins! But we had to share the things like pencils, scissors. In Mrs Reynolds group we played charades. We had to be happy, sad, hurt or grumpy. It was a super afternoon.

By Patrick Burton and Henry Bill (Year 2)

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SPS Spring Term Vice House Captains and Form Captains

2013-01-14T00:00:00

Congratulations to the SPS pupils who have been elected as Vice House Captains and Form Captains for the Spring Term. We wish them every success in their new roles.

SPS Vice - House Captains

Spring Term 2013

House	Name
Victoria	Haleemah Afolabi
Elizabeth	Lucinda Murphy
Mary	Lily Patterson
Templer	Thomas Putt
Seymour	Oliver Milstead
Courtenay	Elliot Edwards

Form Captains

Spring Term 2013

Form	Name

Year 2	Amy Pearse
Year 3	Clem Bantock
Year 4 JJ	Samuel Oliver
Year 4 SH	Anna Stone
Year 5 FE	Thomas Putt
Year 5 MP	Jessica Powis
Year 6 FW	Harry Langabeer
Year 6 MAp	Matthew Jones

U11 B v Blundells

2013-01-10T00:00:00

U11 B v Blundells

The U11 B’s lost a thrilling first match of the term 1-0. Stover had the majority of possession and territory throughout the match, however a quick break from Blundells and a strong shot led to Stover trailing and unable to level the scores. A strong performance from all the side with special mention for Jacob Whitbread and Ollie Jelley for their efforts. Man of the Match for his awareness on the pitch and solid performance in defence- Joseph Camerilli.

U11 A v Blundells

2013-01-10T00:00:00

A determined display and a score line which did not reflect the boys standard of play. There were some super saves from Alfie Raynor in goal and excellent wing play from Oliver Milstead and Max Milward. Stover peppered the opposition’s goal but were frequently thwarted by a confident Blundells goal keeper. Stover strikes at goal 18, Blundells 7. The team played confidently together for a first outing against physical and well drilled opposition - our players agreeing to make improvements to our midfield play next week against Kelly College. A gorgeous afternoon of weather was accompanied by great sportsmanship by our boys. Well done to Hugo Longrigg (who is this week’s Man of the Match) for an outstanding header into the opposition’s net in the second half, and for its inspiring a late surge for an equaliser. Well done to all the boys!

Cross Country Success!

2013-01-10T00:00:00

Cross Country Success!

Congratulations to Hannah Brocklehurst, Tamar Warwick, Harriet Brocklehurst, Ben Barker, Lucy Rast, Anna-Louise Mead and James Lace, who have all been selected for the South Devon Cross-Country team in their respective age groups. Good luck in the Devon Schools Championships which are being held on Saturday 19th January at Central Park, Life Centre in Plymouth, 9.30am-2.00pm.

Healthy Eating Games by Year 7

2013-01-09T00:00:00

Healthy Eating Games by Year 7

Year 7 designed and made Healthy Eating games as part of their prep. They enjoyed playing the games as an activity at the end of term, trying out each game in turn. There was Spin the Wheel, made by Tamar which included some searching questions on Healthy Food. Lara made a large board game with wooden skittles which was very popular. There were wild cards and bonus cards in the games with dice which were well thought out by the pupils. There was a 3D game made by Henri and a Monopoly type game made by Thomas. They had fun making these games and they will have fun playing them for many years.

Senior Kangaroo Maths Challenge Results 2012/2013

2013-01-09T00:00:00

Senior Kangaroo Maths Challenge Results 2012/2013

James Li and Jane Chen were invited to take part in the Senior Kangaroo Maths Challenge after both obtained high scores and gold certificates in the Senior Maths Challenge earlier in the year. This is a competition for the most able Mathematicians in Years 12 and 13.

James received a certificate of participation and as Jane’s score was in the top 25% of participants nationwide she received a merit certificate.

Congratulations to both students for their achievements within the UKMT Mathematics Challenges.

They are now focusing on preparations for the national finals of the Senior Team Maths Challenge in February and we wish them and the rest of their team (Ngoc To and Andra Zaharia) the best of luck for their trip to London.

Mary House Report

2013-01-01T00:00:00

Mary House Report (Year 6 (Inter-House Hockey)

Although all of the matches were great to participate in, the match against Victoria was my favourite. The pitch was very cold and icy so it was a struggle to stay on my feet-most of the time! Mary had never won before so we fought our hardest to win.

Victoria were pushing up towards our goal. Some saves (by our keeper) were very close but we managed to hold out. Our victory came when I scored our first goal before half time. In the second half the ball was dangerously close to our goal on many occasions but we managed to withstand the pressure by continuously hitting the ball out and away from our defensive area. A great result on a not so pleasant playing service. Well done to everyone!

Eco-Schools Committee

2012-12-20T00:00:00

Eco-Schools Committee

Stover Preparatory School presently holds a Bronze Eco-School Award and we are now aiming to reach Silver status in the coming year. With this in mind, Mr. Appleby, together with Mr Futrell and Mr Ayer, have formed a working party and a pupil committee to put into practise Eco-initiatives. This will help the school reach its target of being even more ‘eco-friendly’.

On 30th November we had our very first meeting with the children, where we discussed the role of the committee, and listened to pupils ideas on matters relating to the environment. We also introduced The Pod (an invaluable learning resource) that can be used by adults and children alike. In the new year the committee will be drawing up an action plan based on criteria for the silver award, from data gathered from Environmental Pupil Questionnaires and will complete a School Review. In addition, we will be drawing up an Eco-Charter, which will be displayed in the entrance hall.

We are all extremely excited about this new and important initiative and how it will increase pupil awareness of local and global issues.

Merry Christmas

2012-12-19T00:00:00

Lizzie's Inter-House Matches

2012-12-19T00:00:00

Lizzie’s Inter-House Matches

The autumn term Inter-house matches were held on the 12th December. It was a sunny but cold afternoon. The Lizzie team comprised: Rosie, Amy-beth, Annabelle, Emma, Lucy, Jasmine and Izzie. The second match, against Mary, was my favourite. The first half went well because Rosie made some fantastic saves as GK. In the second half I had the chance to score a goal. I took the opportunity and scored, we cheered with happiness, then we were told it was disallowed (outside of the D). For the rest of the match our forwards and defenders were working really hard to achieve a goal. The final score was 0-0, we were all looking forward to a well-deserved rest.

Inter House Rugby Matches

2012-12-19T00:00:00

Inter House Rugby Matches

Seymour vs Courtney

I ran as fast as I could to catch Harry up and I did I grabbed his legs vigorously to bring him down, just before he got to the try line and pulled he fell and dropped the ball everyone said “YES”. The team ran back to the line where we had a penalty from, Eliot passed to Luke and he ran up the pitch and went into contact he went down and got back up and rolled the ball through his legs. Ben got the ball and passed it to David who ran and passed it back to Ben who scored a brilliant try.

Courtney restarted and passed to their strongest player called Archie he rampaged through everyone but at last Ben and Luke tackled him and brought to ground. He rolled the ball under legs to Hugo who got the ball and passed the ball to Harry their fastest player who bulleted down the pitch to score a amazing try. Then the whistle blew from the referee, he told us that it was three all or fifteen, fifteen because each try is worth five points, the adults cheered at both teams we all shook hands with each other and that was the end of that match.

Seymour vs Templer

Ben ran up the pitch as fast as he could and then passed to Oli who scored a beautiful try. Templer restarted and past to Alfie their fasted player who bombed it up the pitch passed Luke, Elliot and Ben it was up to me now I ran up the pitch as fast as I could grabbed his T-Shirt and pulled him into me grabbed his legs and pulled, he fell to the ground and landed on the white long sphere shaped flag pole.

I passed the ball to David who ran up the pitch and passed to Luke, he passed to Matthew who passed to Ben who scored a magnificent try. The other team restarted again and Max passed to Harrison who ran like the wind down the pitch and then passed to Alfie and scored a try. This time though Seymour kicked off, Elliot passed to Oli who ran and then passed to Ben who went into contact, he rolled the ball through his legs and I picked it up and passed to Matthew who ran and went out. Then at the last second the referee blew his whistle and said three, six or fifteen, thirty because each try is worth five points, we all shook hands and that was the end of the match.

The South Devon Schools Cross-Country Championships

2012-12-19T00:00:00

The South Devon Schools Cross-Country Championships

The South Devon Schools Cross-Country Championships were held at Stover School recently. Runners from sixteen schools in the area competed over various distances on the demanding Stover course, which includes the daunting `torture field’. Stover entered 6 teams and all of the athletes ran well and rose to the challenge, in their first competitive race of the season. In the Under 12 age group, Hannah Brocklehurst(13th) and Tamar Warwick(14th) were the highest placed runners in the girls event. Harriet Brocklehurst finished an excellent 6th in the Junior section and Lucy Rast (11th) ran very well in the intermediate group.

In the boys’ events, Ben Barker produced a strong performance to finish 13th in the Junior race and James Lace was outstanding in the Intermediate race , finishing in an excellent 6th place. We will find out next term who has qualified for the South Devon team.

Senior House Rugby Results

2012-12-18T00:00:00

HOUSE RUGBY RESULTS 2012.

Years 7/8. Results Tables.

Templer 30 Seymour 0. 1st Courtenay.

Courtenay 30 Templer 5. 2nd Templer.

Seymour 5 Courtenay 35. 3rd Seymour.

Years 8/9.

Templer 5 Seymour 22. 1st Courtenay.

Courtenay 17 Templer 7. 2nd Seymour.

Seymour 0 Courtenay 33. 3rd Templer.

Years 10/11.

Seymour 40 Courtenay 35. 1st Seymour. (3pts, 14 tries.)

Courtenay 30 Templer 15. 2nd Courtenay. (3pts, 13tries.)

Templer 35 Seymour 30. 3rd Templer. (3pts, 10 tries.)

OVERALL RESULT.

1ST COURTENAY 15 PTS.

2nd SEYMOUR 6 PTS. ( 22 TRIES.)

3rd TEMPLER 6PTS. ( 19 TRIES).

The House matches were again well contested this year and there were some exciting individual and team performances. Courtenay dominated the junior games, with fine performances from Tom Chapman and Toby Goodman in particular. Ben Barker also led the Year 9 team to victory, although they had to work hard for their win against a resilient Templer side. Seymour nearly caused an upset with a deserved opening win against Templer. A great team effort and two stunning tries from Alex Williams took Ralph Wood and his men by surprise and opened up an unassailable lead.

The Senior competition was hard fought and there were a number of close matches. Each House secured one victory, with Seymour pulling off a historic 40-35 win over the favourites Courtenay and finishing winners of the group by scoring one more try than Courtenay.

However, overall, Courtenay played consistently well and had the strength in depth to claim the House Rugby Cup 2012.

Well played, Courtenay!

Stover Carol Service at Exeter Cathedral

2012-12-17T00:00:00

Stover Carol Service at Exeter Cathedral

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NACR Concert

2012-12-12T00:00:00

Stover School musicians entertain charity fundraisers

Musicians from Stover School in Newton Abbot gave a Christmas concert in aid of Cancer Research UK.

The event was organised by the committee of the Newton Abbot Cancer Research Trust and took place at the school.

The audience was entertained by Stover’s orchestra, award-winning Cantabile chamber choir and talented soloists. The varied programme included pieces by Prokofiev, Vangelis, Marvin Hamlisch , Vivaldi and Mozart, followed by carols.

The music was led by Stover’s Head of Music, John Tizzard and choir mistress Sarah Farleigh.

Following the concert, guests enjoyed dinner in the school’s dining room.

Stover Preparatory School Success

2012-12-10T00:00:00

Stover Preparatory School Success

Stover Preparatory School pupils entered the annual Christmas Card competition hosted by Anne Marie Morris, MP of Teignbridge. Hundreds of pupils from schools all over Teignbridge entered the competition and Stover is delighted that 3 pupils from the Preparatory School were winners of their categories. Mrs Anne Marie Morris was invited to a special assembly to present prizes to the winners and the lucky winners were Jessica Powis - Year 5, James Bamsey - Year 5 and Oliver Allen - Year 6. Pupils won a framed copy of the final printed Christmas card along with vouchers for Austins and Teignbridge theatre vouchers. Congratulations to all pupils who took part.

Preparatory School Nativity Production

2012-12-07T00:00:00

Preparatory School Nativity Production

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This year all the Pre-Prep pupils took part in the Nativity musical Hey Ewe! It told the Nativity story from the point of view of the smallest, youngest sheep in the shepherds flock. He was the most inquisitive, always asking questions and, to the irritation of the rest of the flock, demanding to know exactly what is going on. One night, however, some extraordinary events unfold that excite his curiosity more than ever before!

The children all enjoyed learning their parts and dressing up in the glittery costumes. The sheep particularly enjoyed their dance routine! Some of our youngest pupils played the key roles of Mary, Joseph and the donkey with our older children (still only 7!) taking the speaking parts.

The show was a key part of our speaking and listening curriculum and all the children worked hard and achieved good results.

The Parents, when collecting their children, praised everyone and said that they thoroughly enjoyed the show!

The U11’s B team played Exeter which ended 37-5 to Exet

2012-12-06T00:00:00

The U11’s B team played Exeter which ended 37-5 to Exeter

The U11’s B team played Exeter which ended 37-5 to Exeter. However it was a cracking match and the boys played really well. Clear progress has been made from the start of the year and this has been most pleasing! Man of the Match- Jack Trescher who was everywhere and a real thorn in the Exeter side. He did score a try, unfortunately it was on the opposition 22 and not the try line. Special mention goes to Joshua Bowles who tackled everything that moved, Matthew Perkins who made his debut for this year and Jamie Towers for his overall performance. Elliot Lukies scored the try

Stover School Carol Service

2012-12-06T00:00:00

The Stover School Carol Service takes place in Exeter cathedral on Friday 14th December commencing at 11.30am. For more information please contact felicity White on Tel: 01626 354505 or Email: registrar@stover.co.uk

First Steps Nursery Nativity

2012-12-06T00:00:00

First Steps Nursery - Nativity Celebrations

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Principal's Praise

2012-12-06T00:00:00

Principal's Praise

Commendation certificates have been award to :

Tom Chapman

Lara Louise Jones

Katharine Haith

Olivia Tutty

Jessica Bamsey

This is for their Motte & Bailey Castles

'Book Track' success for Jodie

2012-12-06T00:00:00

Congratulations Jodie!

The Prep School were pleased to welcome Mrs Longhurst from Newton Abbot Library to their assembly. Mrs Longhurst was here to present Jodie Burlace (Year 4) with a certificate and badge in recognition of her successfully completing the ‘Book Track’ reading challenge which involved reading grand total of 100 books! Congratulations Jodie!

My Cardiff Trip - SPS

2012-12-05T00:00:00

My Cardiff Trip by Benjamin Hooper

On Friday the 16th of November, I, along with a few other rugby friends, headed off for Wales, to play against Llandaff Cathederal School.It was a fairly long drive, but luckily Luke and Bertie had some virtual games, and I had cheese and biscuits! The highlight of the journey was when we drove over the Welsh border, and we all cheered!

The bus finally parked at the school, and everyone hopped off. A Llandaff boy soon showed us to our changing rooms, and when our tracksuits were off, we stepped onto the pitch. Llandaff kicked off and we caught it. We ran to the half way line, and Llandaff made a tackle....... Not long after, Harry, our speedy center, took the ball and ran to the try line, and touched it down. Hugo made a great conversion, and we were ahead by 7 points.

Minutes passed, and excactly the same thing happened again. 14-7 Stover! "You little beast!" I said to Harry. In the second half, Llandaff scored and converted,but it was never enough to win the match. Victory was ours! Afterwards, they took us to the dining hall, and "fed me untill I wanted no more!"

Next, we walked to the Millenium Stadium, but first, we visited a little shop, in which I bought my soft Welsh rugby ball, and my drawer fragrance for my mum.When we were in the stadium, my heart was racing- the atmosphere was amazing!Sadly for Wales, Samoa won 26-19. So everybody got on the bus, and we started driving back to England. Most people fell asleep on the bus, but I was busy listening to one boy shouting "Samoa! Samoa!" in his sleep!

When we arrived at school, me and Oliver Jelley walked straight to the boarding house, and jumped in bed.They were really comfortable, so I slept like a log! In the morning, Oli sat on my bed, and we started talking about how great the trip was, when I made a joke, and leaned back with laughter, and banged my head, and Oli also leaned back and banged his head too! After a nice, hot shower, my dad came to pick me up, but I was sad to leave, because I felt so at home there.

I reccomend that if anyone has the opportunity to do anything like I did, take it!

By Benjamin Hooper, SPS Pupil

Stover under 11A Trip to Wales

2012-12-05T00:00:00

Stover under 11A Trip to Wales By Hugo Longrigg

On the 16th Of November 2012 Stover A under 11 boys headed off to Wales to play against Llandaff Cathedral School and watch an International game (Wales Vs Samoa)

The young boys didn’t enjoy the long three hour journey on the way. But when we arrived we were raring to go. The Match kicked off at about half past two.

Alfie Raynor (Captain) lost the toss; Llandaff chose to receive so Stover’s Hugo Longrigg got the game underway. The ball was caught by one of Llandaff’s second rows and took into a maul. A couple of phases later Stover turned the ball over thanks to the forwards. The ball went through the hands of Longrigg’s and Wotton’s then reached Harry Langbear’s who ran around a couple of players to score between the uprights.

Then Longrigg added the extras sending the ball flying through the posts. Then The Llandaff Fly Half started the game again with a good restart. Lots of the play was getting played in the middle of the field. Then good handling again from Stover meant that Langabear could dive over for his second. Then Longrigg added the extras with another good kick.

After some good play from both sides Llandaff got over Stover’s line, at first the reff thought it was held up but a second later he awarded the try. Then Llandaff’s fly half added the extras. In the final play it was on Stover’s line some good tackles lead to a mistake by Llandaff which ended the game. (14:7) To Stover.

After the game the boys had tea at the school then got on the bus to go to the Game. On the way the boys stopped at a castle and at a small gift shop selling all sorts of souvenirs.

Then we went to the stadium the atmosphere was immense. We got a hot dog and a drink. The hot dog was very salty!

The game was great Max and I were supporting Samoa but everyone else was supporting Wales.

The standard was brilliant the skills were immense and the players played there rolls I hope that I get to go on a trip like this again in the future It was so fun!

By Hugo Longrigg

Children in Need

2012-12-05T00:00:00

Children in Need

On the 16th of November 2012, the year 6’s were set the challenge of running a range of fundraising stalls for Children in Need. Pupils from the prep school paid £1.50 to wear their pyjamas for the day. After lunch break the year 6’s set up their stalls. We worked in pairs and devised our own fun games to raise money. Younger pupils were able to have a go at: Ballarama, Eatie Sweetie Paradise, Hoooopla, Spin to Win, Marble Dash, Ping-Pong Prizes, Knock ‘em Over, Soak the Teacher plus buying delicious cakes. Soak the Teacher was the most popular stall, my form teacher, Mr.Appleby, kindly volunteered to be the one who got soaked! Everyone really enjoyed themselves, our Children in Need day was AWESOME.

By Amy-Beth Curtis

News and Updates

2012-11-30T00:00:00

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We hope this email finds you well and that you are looking forward to the Christmas festivities!

We just wanted to make you aware that all of our news and photos from the Senior, Preparatory and Nursery school gets updated regularly on the website. It then feeds in to our Facebook and Twitter. It is sometimes there even on the day it happened!

For example recent news –

Sensational success at Senior Maths Challenge – Stover Won!!
Year 7 History project photos
SPS boys in Cardiff for Rugby
6th form Philosophy conference
Pre-prep Music assembly
Year 2 sports day in South Devon Sports Festival

If you’re not ‘liking’ and ‘following’ us on Facebook and Twitter – then what are you doing?! Let’s get Stover School ‘trending’!

Facebook – www.facebook.com/stoverschool

Twitter – www.twitter.com/StoverSchool

**Coming Soon** The Stover App. Available soon in the App Store, the Stover App will give you direct access to the news feed, fixture results, calendar and calendar updates, galleries, videos and our social media.

Registered Office: Stover School, Stover, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ12 6QG
School Office: 01626 354505 Preparatory School: 01626 331451 Finance Office: 01626 335240
Fax: 01626 361475 E-mail: mail@stover.co.uk Web: www.stover.co.uk

Stover School Association is a Registered Charity No. 306712.
It is Registered in England as a Company Limited by Guarantee No. 565995

What a Performance!

2012-11-30T00:00:00

What a Performance!

Nineteen pupils from Years 3-6 performed at the Prep School Autumn Term Music Assembly. The appreciative audience were treated to solos on the piano, violin, keyboard, cello and guitar. Two Year 6 pupils sang solos accompanied by the piano. What a wonderful way to start to day! Well done everyone and thank you to the parents, family and friends who came along to support our young musicians. I know we are all looking forward to more music at the Pre- Prep Nativity Performance on Friday 7th December and the Stover School Carol Service at Exeter Cathedral on Friday 14th December. We hope to see you there.

Year 9 Celebration Cakes

2012-11-30T00:00:00

Year 9 Celebration Cakes

Winner - Francesca Allen

A Team SPS Rugby Visit Cardiff

2012-11-28T00:00:00

The Stover Preparatory Rugby ‘A’ Team went to Cardiff to play a match against Llandaff Cathedral School and then go to watch the Wales vs Samoa international game.

After the long 3 hour bus journey there, we got off at the Cathedral and one of their players welcomed us and then took us to the changing rooms. When we were changed into our kit, we came out onto the pitch and did some passing drills before the referee blew his whistle and called over the captains. Alfie was our captain, and when Hugo kicked the restart, the match was underway!

It was a tough, tense match but when Harry scored and Hugo knocked over the conversion, we were buzzing! Going into half-time, we were quite happy with the first half performance but we knew we would have to be better if we were going to win.

Their fly-half got us off again, but then soon after, Harry scored again! Hugo once again got the conversion, before Llandaff got one of their own. Going into the final minute, they had the ball right near our line but when they dropped it, we had won! Chuffed about that win, we went into the changing rooms feeling happy and cold, which changed when we had hot showers.

We took the short bus journey into town and stopped at the castle and the shop opposite it. The shop had all sorts of soverniers and most of us bought these little dragon toys. When we were out, we took the short walk down the road to the Millennium Stadium and when the ticket lady had let us in, we went straight up the stairs to where we would sit for 80 minutes. When we had eventually found them, we went back down to where you could buy drinks and food. Most people had a hot dog and a drink but I just had hot chocolate!

When the match had started, me and Hugo’s Samoa cheering couldn’t be heard over the amount of Welsh supporters! Samoa got the first try in the first minute, a nice move rounded off by their number 15. The next try came to Wales, the Samoan fly half throwing an interception and their number 13 racing clear to score.

At half time, Wales lead 13 -10, but in the second half Samoa turned that around in the second half, with their replacement centre latching onto a kick from the wing to confirm victory, 26-19!

On the way back to school we fell asleep, except Ben! (And the teachers!)

See Photo Gallery

The Philosophy Conference for the 6th form

2012-11-27T00:00:00

Recently, seven year 12 and 13 students with Mrs Gardner and Mrs Bradley attended the Philosophy Conference at Westlands Leisure Centre in Yeovil. We braved the rain and the wind to get there as did about 1000 other students from around the West Country. Peter Vardy, a renowned Philosophy lecturer and author, was the key speaker and we listened to presentations on subjects as diverse as Religious Experience, the Cosmological Argument for the existence of God and the Psychology of Religion. At the end of the day there was a debate on the subject of Religious Language.

All of the students found the experience useful and were all given a booklet full of interesting and relevant resources for the exams.

Pre-Prep Music Assembly

2012-11-27T00:00:00

Year 2 sport in the South Devon Schools festival

2012-11-26T00:00:00

Recently, our Year 2 took part in the South Devon Schools Partnership Programme Year 2 Festival, hosted here at Stover, with 5 other local primary schools. The events were run by GCSE sports leaders from other schools and a couple of our 6th Form Sports Leaders - Amy Large and Ella Ettridge. Several Year 6 Sports Leaders also took on the roles of team managers, which they performed exceptionally well. Doesn't the dome look stunning in the pics of the silhouetted trees?!!

'Bottle & Box Mufti Day'

2012-11-26T00:00:00

Sensational Success at Senior Mathematics Challenge

2012-11-22T00:00:00

A team of four sixth formers to Exeter University to represent Stover in the Regional Senior Team Mathematics Challenge. The good news is: WE WON! This really is a sensational success.

Stover were competing against 15 other schools from the region, including Exeter School, Maynard School, Blundells, Colyton Grammar School, Wellington College, and similar so the opposition was very strong. Our team consisted of James Li and Ngoc To from Year 13 and Andra Zahara and Jane Chen from Year 12 who did brilliantly in gaining a score of 133 out of a maximum of 176. Some of the questions were of a standard well beyond Further Mathematics A Level and demanded mathematical flair and creativity in determining the best approach. In addition, the questions had to be answered under very tight time pressure. Because of the team nature of the event, they also had to demonstrate shrewd stategic thinking in determining how the team divided up the work on the questions.

The Challenge is run annually by the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust jointly with the Further Mathematics Support Programme and this year was sponsored by Rolls Royce. At regional level, it consists of three rounds of different types of questions where the marking is very strict with no marks for correct part-answers or for using the right method but with calculation slip-ups or for going broadly in the right direction!

Having won the regional heat, our team has been invited to participate in the National Finals in London on Tuesday 5 February 2013, competing against the winners of the other regional heats. This will be a full day event with an additional fourth round based on work prepared in advance. It will be essential for our team to continue with the weekly classes that I have been holding for them since almost the start of term if we are to maximise our chances of further success.

Pupils received two certificates each - one for being part of a participating team and the other for gaining first place as part of the regional winning team. These are to be presented in Whole School Assembly together with our congratulations.

FOS November 2012 Newsletter

2012-11-21T00:00:00

Christmas Bazaar

2012-11-19T00:00:00

'Open' Ballet Classes at Stover

2012-11-16T00:00:00

STOVER BALLET CLASSES

The Autumn Term is whizzing by and certainly the second half of the term is “action packed”. During the week commencing Monday 3rd December, all the ballet classes will be “Open Classes” where you, your family and friends are most welcome to come and see the girls and boys in action. The classes are held in Turkey Hall at the following times:

Monday 3rd December

Year 2 10.00 – 10.40

Nursery 11.45 - 12.15

Year 5 12.30 – 1.10

Year 1 2.15 - 2.55

Year 4 3.50 – 4.30

Tuesday 4th December

Year 6 12.30 – 1.10

Reception 2.15 – 2.45

Year 3 3.50 – 4.30

Another class may be in progress before your child’s class takes place. In order to avoid any disturbance to classes, please will you wait in the entrance passageway where the Prep School’s House Points Boards are located. I will let you know when to come in. Thank you for your co-operation.

Please will you ensure that all the required ballet kit is in school. I would greatly appreciate if long hair can be put up in a neat ponytail and short hair gripped off the face due to the timetable for Monday being quite tight for the usual hair/hairspray sessions.

Both the children and myself look forward to seeing as many of you as possible.

National Debating Matters Competition

2012-11-16T00:00:00

Four sixth formers ( and 3 supporters) went to Bodmin College on to take part in the national Debating Matters competition. Stover were in the Devon & Cornwall qualifying round, up against Bodmin College and Exeter College (a fourth school, Stoke Damerell had dropped out at the last minute). In the first debate, Katie Mudge and Anastasia Korotkova were speaking against the motion that ‘Copyright benefits the Arts’. Their opening arguments were very well received and they gave a good account of themselves in the ensuing discussion, which was both lively and testing. However, after a long wait for the judges to make their decision, it was the pair from Exeter College who went forward to the evening’s final. This meant that our second pair, Charlotte Killick and Saxon Mudge were unable to take part. However, they did ask some telling questions from the floor which helped Exeter College win the second debate as well, to go through to the regional finals.

Stover School Success at Plymouth Music Festival

2012-11-15T00:00:00

Piano Students from Stover School recently took part in the Plymouth Music festival at the Central Methodist Hall in Plymouth. The adjudicator Helen Deakin was very impressed with their performances. Velika Lee won the Neldar Cup for Under 17 Year Old Pianists, and she also won the Elizabeth Peckett Herron Memorial Cup with Denise Lee in the Under 17 Piano Duet class. With Heidi Chim and Charlotte Lai they also picked up commendations in 8 other classes. Congratulations to the students, and also thank you to their teacher Mrs Brown.

NADSA Piano Recital at Stover School

2012-11-15T00:00:00

18th November 2012

Mark Bebbington

Piano Recital at Stover School SUNDAY 3pm

To include

John Ireland Chelsea Reach Ragamuffin

Chopin Sonata in B minor op. 58

Debussy Preludes

La Cathedrale engloutie (The Submerged Cathedral)

Ce qu'a vu le vent d'ouest (What the West Wind has seen)

Liszt/Wagner Liebestod from Tristan and Isolde

Liszt/Verdi Rigoletto Paraphrase de Concert

Sponsored by the The Ireland Trust, C&M Pike Trust

Over recent seasons Mark has toured worldwide both as recitalist and as concerto soloist with many of the world’s leading orchestras. Within the UK, he has appeared with the London Philharmonic and Philharmonic Orchestras, London Mozart Players and the Orchestra of the Swan, at all the major London concert halls and Birmingham’s Symphony Hall. He has featured on BBC Television and Radio and also on major European Television and Radio networks.

Mark studied at the Royal College of Music where he was a recipient of numerous international awards and prizes, including a Leverhulme Scholarship, a Winston Churchill Fellowship, the Chappell Silver Medal and the Ivan Sutton Recording Prize – the latter awarded to the one outstanding graduate of the combined London Music Colleges. He later studied in Italy with the legendary Aldo Ciccolini.

Dartmoor Sport Partnership Indoor Cricket Tournament

2012-11-14T00:00:00

Stover pupils participated in the Dartmoor Sport Partnership Indoor Cricket Tournament at Seale Hayne. Stover had a squad of 9 players, who were: Callum, Ethan, Euan, Tom, Tom, Kyle, George, Jamie and Toby.

The boys played two games in their pool again South Dartmoor B and Teign A. We lost by 4 runs against South Dartmoor B team, and we won by 20 runs against Teign A team.

This meant that we finished second in our pool, so for the finals, we were set to play South Dartmoor A and B teams. We lost by 23 runs against South Dartmoor B, and we lost by 6 runs against South Dartmoor A team. Overall, we therefore, finished 3rd out of 6 teams.

The boys did play extremely well, with some really good, accurate bowling being demonstrated, and narrowly losing some of our matches, the result could have been a little different.

Budding Tennis Player, Bethany Matthews

2012-11-14T00:00:00

Budding Tennis Player, Bethany Matthews

Budding tennis player, Bethany Matthews, is celebrating after winning a prestigious competition. Thirteen year old Bethany, a Year 9 pupil, has won the Under-16 County Tournament in Barnstaple. Bethany had previously found her form at the Ivybridge half-term tournament, reaching the semi-finals in both the under 14's and under 16's sections, along with the main draw doubles final for the under-14's.

The prize-giving ceremony in Barnstaple was made even more special when Bethany was presented with her trophy in front of a large crowd, alongside the winners of the Aegon GB Pro-Series Women's Final, which had been taking place at the same time.

Bethany says she was excited to be rubbing shoulders with top athletes at the women's event, which offers a purse of 75,OOO Pounds.

Autumn Term Performing Arts Evening

2012-11-13T00:00:00

Come and enjoy a flavour of drama, dance, music and song, rehearsed and devised in the Drama Club activity. Enthusiastic pupils from Years 7, 8, 10 and 11 have worked in the activity slots to: develop their performing arts skills and work collaborat

Far from the Madding Crowd indeed....

2012-11-12T00:00:00

Year 10 GCSE English Language/Literature set are busy performing their “drama-based” orals, in which they have to speak in role.They have each chosen to be a character from Thomas Hardy’s novel “ Far From the Madding Crowd”. It’s a challenging task, especially if standing up in front of people is not your favourite activity. However, so far we have had some wonderfully imaginative presentations: Dougie as Cainy Ball the shepherd boy; Jake as Sergeant Troy on the beach; Katie as the ghost of Sergeant Troy, Emily as Farmer Boldwood in gaol. I am really pleased with how well they have prepared the task and how generous they have been in their support of each other when performing to the class. Well done, Year 10!

Lest We Forget

2012-11-11T00:00:00

‘Lest We Forget’

Our annual Remembrance Service was held on Friday 9^th November 2012 at 10.30am. We were once again very pleased and thankful that serving members of the Armed Forces, Mr Robin Barlow, High Sheriff of Devon, and Lord Clifford of Chudleigh were able to join us as our guests, on such a reflective occasion.

The service began with our choir singing a beautiful version of ‘Hero’ and reminding us how lucky we are to be here, in the beautiful grounds of Stover School. Our Year 10 pupils followed with emotional and heartfelt reflections of their recent visit to the battlefields of WW1. Stover School’s Chaplain, Fiona Wimsett followed by presenting a fundraising cheque, to Mr Philip Hutchens from ABF The Soldiers Charity, raised by our pupils at the annual Curry Lunch and Mufti Day.

The choir finished the service by singing the Military Wives’ song, ‘Wherever You Are’, as we lifted all serving personnel we know and love up in prayer. The prayers were read by Ken and Carolina in their own Cantonese and Moldovan languages, reminding us that our prayers for peace embrace the whole world. The Last Post was respectfully played as we observed a two minute silence.

STOVER TURN ON THE HEAT IN THE WILLIAM COLE CUP

2012-11-09T00:00:00

STOVER TURN ON THE HEAT IN THE WILLIAM COLE CUP

The inaugural William Cole Cup was held at Stover School recently, to recognise the achievements of former pupil Will Cole, and the home side didn’t disappoint. The Stover under 14 teams’ passing game and expansive-style of rugby was the key to their success and after a tense 20-14 victory over Shapwick School in their opening game, they went on to win their remaining matches against Trinity, St. Wilfrid’s and Tower House School convincingly.

A jubilant Mrs. Cole said “The Stover lads did us all proud ! They were on fire today and were deserving winners of the Cup”.

Ben Barker, the Stover captain, was named player of the tournament, and he received the Cup from Will Cole, who is now playing for Devon Under 18’s and an Exeter Chiefs Academy player.

Thanks to Glenn Channing and the Exeter Chiefs Academy squad for helping to run the event and coach the younger players during a memorable afternoon.

Photograph IMGP0553 – Stover School U14 Winning Team with William Cole

From Left to Right – Will Cole, Alex Williams, Tomm Orr, Joe McFarlane, Ben Barker (Capt) Sam Hicks, Ralph Wood, Colin Brown (referee) (Back Row)

Dan King, Dan Dennis, William Hoare, Jonty Tupman, Henry Wix-Pollard, William Willcocks (Front Row)

Newton Abbot Entrepreneur visits Stover School

2012-11-06T00:00:00

Newton Abbot Entrepreneur visits Stover School

Stover School’s Economics and Maths six form students listened fascinated to local businesswoman Anne Walker MBE when she came into school to tell them the story of how she built up her company International Dance Supplies Ltd into a multi-million pound exporting business.

A true entrepreneur, Anne grew her business, based in Newton Abbot, virtually single handed from a simple start in Liverpool. She told the students about the many major decisions and challenges she faced, successfully, during more than 35 years.

In a talk which was full of many interesting points, it was particularly interesting to learn about the importance Anne places on having and valuing good staff, with strong training programmes and promoting staff from within the company, developing their talents and abilities.

On the financial front Anne explained how the business had been developed mainly through internal financing, from earnings, retained profits, keeping gearing low and avoiding the costs of external finance.

Her latest venture, the recent highly successful move into the US market, took courage and good planning - in true entrepreneurial style!

After the talk students had many questions for her and she was most generous with her time and, as we know for a business person, time is money!

FOS Car Boot Sale

2012-10-08T00:00:00

FOS Bonfire and Fireworks Night

2012-10-05T00:00:00

Stover Sixth Form visit Paralympic Games

2012-09-25T00:00:00

Mrs Machin and Mrs Cravern along with four of our Sixth Formers, went off to London at the start of term for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Paralympic Games.

The group set off on the previous day to make sure they were early for the morning session. They saw the triple jump for those with visual impairment and enjoyed following Li Duan from the People's Republic of China win Silver.

They were particularly delighted to see Team GB's Beverley Jones, take the Bronze in the discuss event. She performed several laps of honour to great applause from the crowd.

Theatre Alibi, ‘Cabbage Heart’, PSHE through Drama

2012-09-12T00:00:00

THEATRE ALIBI, ‘CABBAGE HEART’, PSHE THROUGH DRAMA

Dear Parent/Guardian

Stover Prep and Senior Schools are joining together as two families for a production by Theatre Alibi of their new interactive show ‘Cabbage Heart’. On Friday, 21 September in Jubilee Hall, Key Stages 1 and 2 will join with Year 7 (KS3) and Years 10 and 11 GCSE Drama students to participate in this drama.

The show is designed to support the PSHE, Art, Literacy and History curriculum and will be the focus of further learning in the classroom, both in the Prep School and Senior School. It has been specifically devised to develop self-confidence in children and to encourage them to support each other in their journey through life.

Cabbage Heart is all about creativity, has a painter and sculptor as central characters and there will be drawing and painting live on stage. It is a brand new show with live music, puppetry and lots of art created on stage! The show is an inspiring and magical adventure about being creative and overcoming the voice in your head that says “I can’t do it”.

For GCSE Drama students, this is an important example of a distinct genre and form of theatre which they will not have experienced so far. Again, class work will be designed around the show which will give them a point of reference for their own GCSE practical work for controlled assessment.

We hope you will appreciate the cost to parents/guardians of £5 per pupil. This will be added to your bill at the end of term. Please sign the confirmation/consent slip below and return it to your child’s form tutor by this Friday, 14 September. If you have any queries, please contact Mrs Coyle in the Prep School or Ms Absalom in the Senior School by email: ccoyle@stover.co.uk or pabsalom@stover.co.uk.

E Safety Training

2012-09-07T00:00:00

Dear Parents & Guardians

The health and safety of our pupils is extremely important. With the rapid advances in technology and the reliance of young people upon the internet and in particular, Social Networking Sites, I have arranged a day of E Safety training on Wednesday 19th September using the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) ‘Think U Know’ Programme.

Training will be delivered to all pupils in Year groups by Mr Alan Earle; a senior police officer seconded to the South West Grid for Learning who delivered an excellent training programme at Stover two years ago.

Mr Earle has arranged an age appropriate programme for year groups that will cover E Safety, Cyber bullying and the use of Social Networking Sites.

The programme of sessions is listed below and I would like to take this opportunity to invite parents/guardians to attend any of the sessions.

9.20am – 10.20am Years 5 and 6

10.40am – 11.40am Years 7 and 8

11.45am – 12.45pm Year 9

1.40 pm – 2.40pm Years 10 and 11

3.00pm Sixth Form

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support of the school in educating pupils on the appropriate use of the internet.

Exceptional GCSE results in Stover School’s 80th Year

2012-08-23T00:00:00

Exceptional GCSE results in Stover School’s 80^th Year

Stover School in Newton Abbot, which is marking its 80^th anniversary this year, is celebrating another set of outstanding GCSE results.

Top performers include Charlotte Killick, from Buckland Tout Saints, near Kingsbridge, who achieved 7 A* and 2 As and Samuel Ho, a boarding pupil from Hong Kong, who also gained 7 A*, 2 As and 1 B. Samuel says ‘The teachers at Stover are passionate about their subjects; because of Stover I have had the courage to explore the world and become a self-motivated and disciplined teenager. If students were minerals, Stover would be the miner who discovers and polishes them.’ Other high achievers were Rachel Hannon, from Ilsington, who achieved 6 A* and 4 As and Saxon Mudge from Kingsteignton, who gained 3 A* and 8 As. Rachel, Saxon and Charlotte will be joining the Sixth Form in September.

The co-educational independent school has maintained its 100% pass rate at GCSE with an increase in papers gaining the top grades of A* and A. Over 40% of pupils achieved an A* or A in Mathematics.

Bucking the national trend, Stover pupils also did very well in Modern Foreign Languages with six Year 9 pupils achieving 5 A* and 1 A.

The school also attained a 100% pass rate in ICT Nationals, run by the OCR examination board, which are equivalent to between 1 and 4 GCSEs with 59% of pupils gaining Distinction and Merit.

Stover Principal, Sue Bradley says ‘Once again we are celebrating excellent GCSE results. I am extremely proud of all our pupils and our dedicated staff. We have an impressive clutch of top grades but I am particularly heartened by the results of those pupils who have worked so hard to achieve their individual successes.’

MRS SUE BRADLEY

Principal

For more information please contact our Registrar, Miss Felicity White, on 01626 354505.

Email registrar@stover.co.uk

Parent Quote: - ‘The School has taught all 3 of my daughters how to learn with enjoyment.’

- ‘My son has reached his potential – it’s more than we ever hoped for.’

Pupil Quote: - ‘Every year has been amazing. The best highlight has been making my friends

here.’

- ‘My highlights have been getting my exam results, sports days, matches,

performances and general opportunities.’

Outstanding A-Level Results

2012-08-16T00:00:00

OUTSTANDING A LEVEL RESULTS AT STOVER SCHOOL

Students and teachers at Stover School near Newton Abbot are celebrating after another set of excellent A Level results.

Thirty-one candidates sat papers in nineteen subjects at the independent , co-educational day and boarding school, with 82% gaining grades A* to C. 33% of those grades were at A* or A against the national average of 26.6%. There was a rise in the number of students gaining top grades in Mathematic s and Further Mathematics, with 59% gaining either an A* or A grade.

The top performing student was Bobo Chan, from Hong Kong, who took six A Levels, gaining three A*s, an A, B and C. She will take up a place to study Civil Engineering at Imperial College, London.

Other high-achieving students were: AlexanderLui, who gained two A*s, an A and a B.TeodoraPeevska who achieved an A* and two A grades and will read International Relations at the London School of Economics.

In addition, talented singer,Harvey Seale, secured a scholarship to study Music at the Birmingham Conservatoire after gaining A Levels in Music, Drama and Religious Studies.

The Principal of Stover School, Sue Bradley, says: “I am delighted with these exceptional results and I am very proud of all our Sixth Form students. They reflect Stover’s growing reputation as an academic school, where individuals are nurtured to exceed expectations.I am particularly pleased that a number of students this year have chosen to take four or more A levels. These results are a culmination of inspirational teaching promoting a love of learning throughout the school.Our Sixth Form is expanding, with an excellent range of subjects, but is still small enough for staff and students to get to know each other”.

Stover School, which is celebrating its 80^th Anniversary this year, has 430 pupils aged 3 to 18.

MRS SUE BRADLEY

Principal

For more information please contact our Registrar, Miss Felicity White, on 01626 354505.

Email registrar@stover.co.uk

Parent quote:

“he has exceeded our expectations: A, A, B; he has achieved his dream of getting a place at University; something we hoped for”

“it’s a friendly atmosphere that encourages learning and we are very happy with the results”

Student quote:

“Excellent environment to learn and can obtain help when needed particularly with University entrance”

“School years are the best years of your life and Stover has prepared me for the big wide world”

Examination Results Day

2012-07-16T00:00:00

Examination Results Day

Results of A Level examinations will be available in School on Thursday 16th August, and for GCSE examinations on Thursday 23rd August. Our Examinations Officer, Mrs Cleaton, has written separately to those concerned about this. In line with more than sixty other independent schools such as Eton, St. Paul’s, Winchester, Marlborough and Radley; we have made the decision this year not to publish our results to the Independent Schools Council in August. These figures are used by national newspapers to construct ‘league tables’ of schools, which can lead to a situation where decisions are made on the basis of what is good for the institution, rather than for the individual child. This does not sit well with our values and the individualised approach in Stover, and we do not feel that it is in the best interests of education as a whole.

The Independent Association of Prep Schools

2012-07-09T00:00:00

The Independent Association of Prep Schools

I am delighted to report that Stover Prep School has just been accepted as a member of The Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS). IAPS is a professional organisation representing the head teachers of around 600 of the world’s leading prep schools. Founded in 1892 it is the largest Head's Association in the Independent Schools Council. Its members lead a variety of outstanding schools both in the UK and abroad. The aim of the member schools is to provide a challenging, purposeful education that makes a real difference to each child’s development and future opportunities.

All IAPS schools are committed to providing academic excellence; delivering an excellent, well-rounded education to the pupils in their care, using subject specialist teaching. They also offer a broad curriculum that places strong emphasis on the arts, sport and humanities as well as traditional academic subjects. They recognise the importance of instilling core social values; imparting the qualities of respect, service, compassion, discipline and integrity.

All IAPS member schools are regularly inspected and accredited against strict membership standards.

We are proud that we have been selected for membership of this prestigious professional organisation.

Stover Bowl to Victory!

2012-07-05T00:00:00

Stover School hosted their annual Under 12, 8-a-side pairs Cricket Festival, following the successful opening of their sports Pavilion by Mike Gatting last season. Teams from Exeter Cathedral School, Trinity School and Blackpool School were lucky enough to enjoy a full day’s Cricket in the picturesque Stover grounds. The standard of Cricket was excellent and it wasn’t until the final round of matches that the competition was decided. Stover went into the game against Exeter Cathedral unbeaten, and an 11 run victory in a hard fought contest saw them regain The Stover Bowl trophy from their local rivals. Harrison Gorny (Stover) was pleased to receive the Man of the Match award for a fine, all-round performance, from Sam Wyatt- Haines, the Devon U16 Captain and former Stover pupil. Sam presented commemorative certificates, medals and the trophy to the Stover Captain, Toby Goodman. Thank you to TNW Financial Services Ltd and The Devon Youth Cricket Foundation for sponsoring this event.

Toby Goodman (Capt.), Callum King (wkt), Rory Simpson, Euan Trower, Jamie Rooke,

Harrison Gorny, Hugo Longrigg and Harry Langabeer.

Prep Prize Giving

2012-07-05T00:00:00

Prize Giving

We were pleased to welcome Mr David James as our guest speaker and to present the prizes at our Prize Giving Ceremony on 2nd July. Many pupils were recognised for numerous achievements in the areas of academics, music, sport, public speaking, leadership and good citizenship. Older pupils were given new roles and responsibilities which we feel sure they will carry out with dedication and pride. This very special event marked the end of a busy year in which all the children have worked hard and made excellent progress.

We wish all our parents and pupils a restful and happy summer and look forward to welcoming you back in September. To those leaving the Pre School, we wish you the very best in the future. We hope you will cherish many happy memories of your time at SPS.

Stover international pupils visit Paignton Zoo

2012-07-03T00:00:00

International Pupils visit Paignton Zoo

At the end of the Summer Term, the international pupils enjoyed a day trip to Paignton Zoo. The sun shone and a good time was had by all!

National Prep Schools Athletics Final

2012-07-03T00:00:00

Title delight at the Nationals

Stover School were represented by four athletes at this year’s National Prep School Athletics Championships held at Alexander Stadium, Birmingham.

Bethany Matthews qualified for the Under 14 Girls’ Discus and Gemma Bulbulian competed in the Under 13 Girls’ High Jump event, finishing in the top ten with a clearance of 1.30m.

However, Luke Bowen-Price and his twin sister Millie Bowen-Price took the Championships by storm!

Luke won the Under 13 Discus title with an all-time record-breaking throw of 43.56m. He then followed-up this performance by winning the Under 13 Shot Putt, with a new Nationals record distance of 13.97m.

Millie battled the elements to finish 2nd in the U13 Shot Putt with a distance of 9.67m and then, with her last throw of the competition, she became U13 Discus Champion with a throw of 25.99m

Last week, Luke and Millie were competing at the evening athletics meeting, run by Exeter Harriers, at Exeter Arena. Millie recorded a distance of 9.48m in the U13 Shot Putt and Luke recorded a distance of 14.48m, the longest Shot Putt ever, by an Under 13 UK athlete.

Sports Day

2012-07-02T00:00:00

School Administrator sent you the following text message at 15:53 02/07/12:-

Group: Senior School

Message: Dear Parents, Sports Day is cancelled tomorrow due to the wet weather.

Activities will go ahead after Final Assembly. It will be a Mufty Day & last day of term.

80th Anniversary Concert - Friday 29 June

2012-06-28T00:00:00

Tickets for the 80th Anniversary Concert on Friday 29 June have now SOLD OUT.

Senior School Sports Day - Cancelled

2012-06-22T00:00:00

Dear Parents/Guardians

Senior School Sports Day will not take place today as the ground is too wet.

Sports Day - Date to be Confirmed

Summer Fair

2012-06-11T00:00:00

We have received a fantastic offer from local photographers, Barrett & Coe, in South Devon to help raise funds for our Summer Fair which will take place at Stover on 16^th June, from 11am to 7pm.

They are offering you and your family a one hour portrait session during which they will photograph your family both separately and together. All your extended family may also be included in the photographs, including any four legged friends! This session is worth £75. Included in the offer is a personalised viewing of your images and a framed 8”x6” photograph worth £85. Other images may be purchased but there is absolutely no obligation to do so.

This fabulous opportunity to capture your family together is available to you for just £25 of which all sales come direct to us! The session, viewing and framed photograph has a combined value of £160, so you can see what a bargain you are being offered.

Check out their website on www.barrettandcoeportraits.co.uk/portraitstudios/southdevon for more detail.

If you can't make the day of the event itself, don't worry as we are making this available online.

Simply email fos@stover.co.uk to reserve your voucher pack. We shall then contact you to arrange the delivery of your voucher.

It would also make a fabulous present for family or friends!

Thank you for your continuing support.

Message of Thanks from Her Majesty The Queen

2012-06-01T00:00:00

Stover School have received a 'Message of Thanks' from The Queen for their congratulatory message to Her Majesty on the occasion of her Diamond Jubilee.

Olympic Torch Parade and Sport Afternoon

2012-05-28T00:00:00

The Olympic Torch passed through Devon, on its Official journey around the UK, to mark the countdown for the London Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012. All of the School Partnerships within South Devon marked this occasion by organising an Olympic Torch Parade and Sport Afternoon.

Through our links within the School Sport Partnership with South Dartmoor Community College, Stover had the fantastic opportunity to be a part of this once in a lifetime event.

10 Prep children participated in a fun-filled, action-packed afternoon, full of sports activities, commencing with a grand 'Olympic-style' Opening Ceremony, with Stover adopting Myranmar as our home country for this event.

Once the afternoon closed with whole school relay races, everyone disembarked towards Shaldon Bridge to get a spot to watch the infamous Torch pass by us all.

All of the children involved thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated the chance to be a part of such a prestigious occasion.

Competitive Music Festival

2012-05-28T00:00:00

Stover’s second Competitive Music Festival took place last Saturday. Its aim was to give young people, aged 9 – 18 years within the Teignbridge and surrounding area, an opportunity to perform and share their musical talents.

Stover Music festival started at 10am and ran throughout the day with a variety of performances including performances from local schools who were invited to take part. Winners included performances from Coombeshead Academy, Bovey Tracey Primary School, Spring Bank Music and Stover School.

The standard of entry was very high with outstanding performances from all participants.

A truly once-in-a-lifetime moment!

2012-05-25T00:00:00

A truly once-in-a-lifetime moment!

13 pupils from Stover School and a number of staff were invited to a truly once-in-a-lifetime ‘private torch moment’ at Hannah’s Seale-Hayne this weekend. A moment which will see pupils from Stover School marked in Olympic history. Pupils took part in activities such as archery, song practice and they added their own Olympic sport ideas to the art installation. Stover pupils had a very good afternoon and were excited to see the Olympic torch while also taking part in the singing of the Olympic song which they were also able to perform in sign language!

Trip to the Devon County Show

2012-05-23T00:00:00

On Saturday our boarders set off for the Devon County Show at Westpoint near Exeter. Although they arrived early, they were amazed to see so many people there and the extent of the show ground. Some of the boarders had only ever been to their small local shows at home. Everyone really enjoyed watching the Canadian Mounted Police on their beautiful horses. The alpacas were friendly and very photogenic but it was funny to see that they are not always well-behaved with their handlers in the ring. There were local bands performing at the show and you could learn how to make butter or handicrafts.

All the boarders went to the funfair and sampled some of the local cuisine which was especially enjoyed by Fu. By the time we met up for the journey home with Mr Brown who was driving, Miss Johnson, Mrs Fletcher and Ellen, we all agreed that it had been a great day out.

Devon County Show Honour

2012-05-18T00:00:00

Stover School choir were very pleased to have been invited to sing at the opening service of the Devon County Show at the Westpoint Arena on Wednesday 16th May.

The service, held in the Young Farmers’ marquee, was a dedication of the Show organised by the Devon Diocese. The address was given by the Bishop of Exeter the Rt Revd Michael Langrish Bishop of Exeter.

The choir from Stover sang two pieces at the event and helped lead the hymn singing, and their singing was warmly welcomed by the large audience who enjoyed the musical contribution.

Ten Tors Success!

2012-05-14T00:00:00

Stover School’s Team Managers Colin Brown and Amanda Head were very proud of all the pupils who took part in this year’s events.

Anna-Mae Cole tackled the Jubilee Challenge JC3 event walking almost 13 miles to earn herself a gold medal and is now determined to have a go at an even more challenging route next year.

The 35 mile and 45 mile teams crossed the finishing line within 20 minutes of each other and although the strong sunshine but wet conditions underfoot had made for tough going at times, they all certainly felt it had been worthwhile and for the younger students taking part for the first time, it was the experience of a life time.

Jessica Doyle, 35 mile Team Captain said, “It was harder than I had ever imagined, but to finish and see everyone waiting for us was something I will never forget – it was amazing!”

Ten Tors 2012

2012-05-11T00:00:00

Ten Tors 2012

Pupils from Stover School are, once again, taking part in the Ten Tors Expedition, on Dartmoor. There are three levels of challenge which are over one of 26 specific routes; the bronze routes are 35 miles long for pupils aged 14 - 15 years. The silver routes are 45 miles long and open to 16 and 17 year olds. The gold routes are 55 miles long and open to 17 - 20 year olds.

Teams at Stover start training for the event in the previous winter and continue up until the event start time.

Track our Ten Tors Teams online. Stover (35) I0910 and Stover (45) R1811

http://events.exeter.ac.uk/tentors/

Devon County Show

2012-05-11T00:00:00

Devon County Show

Stover will again be represented on all three days of the Devon County Show and we would be delighted to see parents and their families. Please come along to our stand on Avenue A Stand 84 – we can offer some refreshments.

We are delighted that Stover’s Senior and Preparatory School Choirs have also been invited to perform at the Show’s Opening Service on Wednesday 16th May, which will be led by the Bishop of Exeter.

We look forward to seeing you at the Show site at Westpoint, Exeter.

For more details about the Devon County Show please visit www.devoncountyshow.co.uk.

Summer Fair

2012-05-11T00:00:00

Cycling trip to Padstow

2012-05-10T00:00:00

Boarders Cycling Trip to Padstow

On a very wet day in Newton Abbot, thirty-five Stover School boarders headed for Padstow in Cornwall. There was a plan B in case the weather did not improve but luckily by the time the coach arrived at Padstow it was dry but blustery. There was great excitement as the cycle-hire shop very efficiently provided a suitable bicycle and helmet for everyone, including Mr Rudkin, Mrs Fletcher and Rachael. Miss Johnson had her own bicycle with her and we were soon heading off to Wadebridge and Bodmin in small groups. It was surprising to see what competent cyclists all our boarders were, although the boys seemed to arrive sooner at their destination with Mr Rudkin.

The scenery was wonderful and there were plenty of places to eat our packed lunch on the way.

We arrived back in Padstow later in the afternoon for a hot drink and by 6:00 o clock we were all ready for fish and chips at Rick Stein’s fish and chip shop. It was interesting to see the many different types of fish available. We arrived back at school later in the evening tired, and with a few aches and pains but we all agreed that it was a great day.

Primary Torch Olympics

2012-05-10T00:00:00

Stover has been invited to the forthcoming Primary Torch Olympics, through our links with the Dartmoor School Sport Partnership. This is a major event for our school to take part in, and will coincide with the Olympic torch passing through Teignbridge via the Shaldon bridge. We are working closely with Teignbridge District Council and our Torch Olympics will be part of large celebrations that will be happening in the Teignmouth area on that day.

As this weekend is the start of the torch’s progress across the country it will generate a lot of media attention. This will all be put together on the day to create an exciting Olympic/Paralympic afternoon for our pupils.

Date and Venue: Sunday 20^th May 2012 at Teignmouth Rugby Club, Teignmouth

Time: Event runs from 2-4.30, but we suggest arrival prior to this to set up your school’s “home base”.

Numbers: 12 pupils from KS 2 which can be any combination of age and gender.

Format: The afternoon will start with an opening ceremony where pupils will parade around the arena representing a country. They will then rotate around a series of stations based on the Olympic and Paralympic sports. The afternoon will end with a closing ceremony and awards. Whilst there will be winning teams, awards will be made for teams and individuals based on the Olympic/Paralympic values. We are planning a bright, colourful, busy, fun event and I really hope your school can join us.

Please contact Miss Alexis Titterton if you and your child are able to attend this upcoming event.

Arsenal Soccer Schools

2012-05-10T00:00:00

Arsenal Soccer Schools Success

Pupils at Stover School enjoyed a 12 week football coaching course run by Arsenal Soccer Schools.

The after school club has been a great success, developing individual skills and team play.

The players (pictured) were put through their paces by coaches Matt Tanner and Josh Heath, a former pupil at Stover.

Arsenal Soccer Schools are also using the school grounds for one of their Progression Centres, to develop the talents of young footballers at Stover and in the South Devon area.

Arsenal Soccer Schools have been operating since 1985 around the UK and have expanded internationally. The courses are based on the same principles used at the training ground, developing young player technical skills and passion for the game to ensure they become the best players they possibly can.

Geography Fieldwork Adventure

2012-05-10T00:00:00

Year 10 Geography Fieldwork

Year 10 Geographers spent two days gathering data for their GCSE course. On Wednesday, 2nd May they visited Bristol, stopping off at Cribbs Causeway and Harbourside before driving along a transect northwards out of the city to study features of the land use zones.

The weather was again kind on Thursday, 3rd May. Cadover Bridge on Dartmoor was the destination for our river studies, with the River Plym exhibiting interesting natural features and also showing evidence of human influence. The pupils became very proficient in measuring altitude, channel gradient, pH, velocity and river channel dimensions and took a lot of photographs as well as completing sketches.

Jane's Maclaurin Olympiad Success

2012-05-09T00:00:00

Jane’s Maclaurin Olympiad Success!

Stover School pupil Jane Chen was recently invited to take part in the Maclaurin Olympiad, a mathematics challenge which is, officially for Year 11 pupils. During the start of the term Jane’s teacher was able to give her some coaching in preparation for some of the really tricky questions.

This year over 1600 pupils took part in the 3 Olympiads for Years 9, 10 & 11. Jane obtained 34 out of 60 and was in the top 100 candidates in the country! She was awarded a Certificate of Distinction, a Key Fob and a Gold Medal! Jane has done fantastically and we are all very proud of her achievements. Congratulations.

New Boys’ Boarding House

2012-04-27T00:00:00

The first boys have been welcomed into the boarding community at Stover School near Newton Abbot. The independent school which is celebrating its 80^th birthday this year, has been mixed since 2001. But while girls’ boarding has been long-established, until now male students from outside of the area have only had the option of staying with host families during term-time.

The new accommodation sleeps fourteen boys and is situated in part of a converted stable block at the historic school.

The Principal of Stover School, Sue Bradley, says: “The development is in response to a growing demand for boarding places. This is coming from families in this country and internationally. Some of the enquiries are from parents serving in the armed forces who want to keep siblings in the same school. The new accommodation enables us to offer a great deal of flexibility, as apart from the full-time places, we also have short-term and occasional boarding. This is important because Stover day pupils come from all over Devon and our wide programme of extra-curricular activities sometimes means they have to stay on into the evening. Stover School has the great advantage of being situated in seventy-acres of glorious, secluded grounds, providing excellent sports facilities and a safe haven for our students, while being close to major road links.”

The boys’ boarding house is part of a programme of expansion at the school, which also includes plans for the development of a new Sixth Form Centre.

In addition, the school, which caters for pupils from the ages of three to eighteen, will become fully-educational from September. Until now, boys and girls from Years 7 to 9 have been taught in parallel classes. The school day is also being extended until 4.30 pm, with an increase in teaching time.

Cookery Apron Challenge

2012-04-26T00:00:00

Year 6 pupils were set a challenge to design a cookery apron incorporating one of the recipes that they had made throughout the year. The pupils put their original ideas on paper and chose one of them to scale-up to apron size. They practised on fabric with a variety of wax and felt tip crayons and they set the dye by ironing under fabric. Some of the pupils had not used an iron before and were surprised at how easy they found the task.

When they came to apply their designs to white cotton aprons they had experimented with various ideas and chosen the most suitable. Cup cakes featured quite prominently on many of the aprons with milk shakes also being quite popular. A few pupils were brave enough to draw eggs, chickens, vegetables and burgers; all of which were featured throughout the year. The girls decided that they would like to wear their aprons all day!

Cardiff

2012-04-25T00:00:00

We set off early for Cardiff which is a brilliant city. It doesn’t seem huge when you are walking around but there are some Amazing shops. We were looking for presents to take home to our family and we found a Jo Malone shop which was great, but expensive. We then went next door to the Kath Kidston which was amazing. There was an arcade with a delicatessen and a shop called Rossiters which had some really unusual gifts.

The main area is traffic free so we were able to enjoy listening to the street musicians and eat our lunch sitting in the fresh air. We would like to have stayed longer as the day went so quickly but we enjoyed the journey home as there were many sights to see on the way back.

Boarder

The Principal's Science Puzzle

2012-04-23T00:00:00

Question 1

You will need

1) A chair
2) Yourself or a friend

What to do

Sit on the chair and lift your leg off the floor.

Rotate your leg in a clockwise direction, so that you outline an imaginary circle with your toes.

Using your left hand, try tracing out an imaginary number 6 in the air. What happens to your leg?

Question 2

Why does eating hot chillies cause discomfort?

National Science and Engineering Week

2012-03-22T00:00:00

Stover Pupils join the annual South West Inter-Schools Egg Race

10 Pupils from Year 9 at Stover School joined other schools from Devon and Cornwall to try and prove they were free range egg-heads when they took part in the South West Inter Schools Great Egg Race. They donned their Stover competition T-shirts and set off on Wednesday morning for Plymouth University.

The Great Egg Race, part of the National Science and Engineering Week, is designed to show pupils how interesting science and technology can be.

Eighteen teams from 15 schools across the region took part, and they only discovered this year’s theme and challenge requirements when they were briefed in the morning. The task was to build a self-powered vehicle to transport an egg as fast as possible from a standing start across a multi terrain course.

Each school was allowed 3 attempts to get their fastest time and prizes were awarded for the fastest 3 vehicles in ascending order.

The prizes – engraved cups and salvers – were then presented by Steve Edmonds, Deputy Technical Manager, School of Marine Science and Engineering, who organised the day.

Stover’s team 1 pupils came 5th with their vehicle travelling just short of the water on the course. The team 2 pupils went well on the first run but the lack of wheels meant that the second run had to be missed. A good team effort all round!

Nursery Cup Cake Party

2012-03-21T00:00:00

Stover Nursery Pupils host Cup-Cake Party

Pupils at Stover School’s First Steps Nursery hosted a Cup Cake Party this week. Pupils between the ages of 3 and 4 years invited family and friends to join them for an afternoon party of drinks and home-made cup-cakes. Tables where laid within the Nursery and decorated with beautiful flowers, for pupils and family to enjoy the party.

‘We like to invite parents and carers into nursery every term because it helps to foster extended links with our families and ensures that each child feels their family is valued at our nursery. The children entertained their parents with songs accompanied by the guitar and presented their mothers with wonderful Mother's Day gifts they had made. Jill Cross, Nursery Co-ordinator.’

Stover becomes Olympic 'GetSet' School

2012-03-21T00:00:00

Stover School welcomed to London 2012’s Get Set network

Pupils and teachers at Stover School are celebrating after being officially welcomed in to London 2012’s Get Set network, in recognition of their commitment to the Olympic and Paralympic Values.

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) awarded Stover School a plaque and certificate to acknowledge their involvement in the London 2012 education programme. They now join schools and colleges across the UK as members of the special London 2012 community – the Get Set network - and will receive access to exclusive competitions and 2012 Games related opportunities over the coming years.

Sue Bradley, Principal of Stover School said: ‘We are delighted to have been accepted as an Official School of the GetSet network. Pupils here at Stover School are excellent examples of how London 2012 is helping to spark young people’s imagination and inspiring them to get involved and make a difference. They have clearly demonstrated that London 2012’s education programme extends far beyond PE and sport and I hope they will motivate other young people to join their journey. I would like to thank our Director of ICT, Elaine Machin for putting Stover forward and for all the hard work she has dedicated to this network”

Stover School pupil Connor Bainbridge and British Windsurfing competitor, aged 18, had a fantastic start to the season in the European Men’s RS:X Windsurfing Championship in Madeira. Bainbridge consistently held his first British sailor position, posting some impressive results. In an Olympic year, when all the sailors have a lot to prove, it was a great performance. He finished the week as top British sailor, fourth among the under 21s and 21st overall - a position he was thrilled with. As well as competing, Bainbridge is trying to complete his A levels here at Stover School, and we wish him every success for the World Championship in Cadiz, Spain.

Sebastian Coe, chairman of LOCOG, said: “When London won the right to host the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, we made a clear promise to use the power of the 2012 Games to inspire young people. I am proud to welcome Stover School in to the Get Set network for their exciting work around the Olympic Values of friendship, excellence and respect and the Paralympic Values of inspiration, courage, determination and equality.”

To earn the right to use the new education logo, and become a member of the new Get Set network, schools and colleges need to register with Get Set, showcase their student-led work around the Values via the dedicated ‘Get Set’ blog, and complete a short application form. They will receive the right to use the London 2012 education logo on their headed paper, website and school sign.

The education logo was designed by Reiss Evans (18), a design student from Canterbury College, who won a national competition in September 2009 to create an education-themed infill for the London 2012 Olympic logo.

Welcome

2012-02-07T00:00:00

Welcome to Stover School's brand new website. We hope you enjoy looking around our site and it gives you a flavour of our life here at Stover School.