Sixth Form
All Year 12 and 13 students enjoyed a varied and interesting Enrichment Day on October 14th. All pupils and students in the school had their normal timetable suspended for the day and followed a rich and diverse programme of activities. One of the key aims of the Enrichment programme is to educate the whole person both in and outside the classroom setting. In this way Handsworth Grammar School students will be empowered to become tolerant, understanding and compassionate, knowledgeable and well-rounded learners who will be a force for good in the wider community.
Year 12 students attended a number of thought-provoking presentations which were designed to educate, inform and challenge them:
- Jane Scott from the Institute of Chartered Accountants SPOKE about the opportunities for employment in this field after university.
- Former HGS student Karamveer Saini spoke about the opportunities with Deloitte, one of “The Big Four” accountancy firms in the world, and about his decision not to go to university but to join Deloittes “Brightstart” programme instead.
- Fire Fighter Ian Sturmey presented on the dangers of young drivers, and the consequences of their sometimes reckless driving, and the impact that this can have on young peoples’ lives and families.
- Another former HGS student, Keshav Bhatt from “Revolution Hive” worked with students to challenge their perceptions about broad gender issues.
- WPC Tracey Robbins presented on the dangers in this country from radical extremists who can influence idealistic young people.
Year 13 students listened to the wisdom of Professor Simon Gates from Warwick University who talked about his fascinating career and the journey which he has made from studying Zoology, to now being the Professor of Clinical Trials at one of the country’s leading universities.
David Maxwell from Aberystwyth University, presented on “What Admissions Tutors look for” which gave some clear insights into the UCAS application process.
Finally, year 13 students were able to choose a recreational activity from Pottery, Yoga, Jewellery Making, Cooking on a Budget, or Bouldering and Climbing.
A great day much enjoyed by all students and staff.
Year 7 to 11
Year 7 to 11 students also had a rich and varied programme of activities on Enrichment Day as follows:
- Year 7 Media Day
- Year 8 Enterprise Day
- Year 9 House Competition
- Year 10 Visit to The National Memorial Arboretum
- Year 11 House Football Tournament
The above programme saw the students exploring the role of the Media, the variety of forms of Media and the potential impact it can have upon individuals and society as a whole. The Enterprise activity saw the students design and create a product and then sell it to a panel of judges. House activities played a part for the first time in many years and saw the students competing at table tennis, basketball, badminton and football as well as Debating the rights and wrongs of a School Uniform! Finally the trip to the National Memorial Arboretum enabled the students and staff to reflect upon and remember the large number of people who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their community and country in the line of duty and service.
