Since starting Newlands in Year 7, I’ve discovered a love for languages and had many different opportunities both academically and socially. One such instance was a trip to The Houses of Parliament where I got the chance, along with a few others, to speak to Members of Parliament about the importance of STEM careers. Another trip I thoroughly enjoyed was to Brasenose College in Oxford University; activities about time management and how important it is to balance work with fun helped reinforce good study habits for me. It also motivated me for my GCSEs and future goals after Sixth Form. 

It was a cold and windy morning in January 2019 when I first visited Newlands Girls’ School. I was excited, because it was my first day of school in a new country. Almost a year on and I have a number of very dear friends, teachers I love and respect, and a school I enjoy being in every day. Teachers encourage us by asking questions, which makes learning very engaging. Having a library with various collections of interesting and intellectual books makes me an avid reader. I have been given the opportunity to become a part of an Aspire Higher programme as a cygnet, and this has boosted my confidence. My vision is to learn, encourage others to play an active part in the school community, and be a role model for others.  I love my school.

Here at Newlands you are able to venture into new opportunities and enjoy being out of your comfort zone, both in and out of school. The extra curricular activities span a range of topics and are very broad, so there’s something for everyone. 

Examples include; music: There are junior, senior, madrigal and a performing arts choirs. There is also an orchestra, many instrument bands and steel pans! Last year, the school held a production of Cats which I was very pleased to be part of. It was lots of fun and many people from around the school were involved... e.g. the Technology department and the Art department for the brilliant costumes, makeup, backdrop and scenery! 

There are a wide extent of sports clubs to participate in and a gym and dance show which I really enjoy.

Each week everyone in the school has an assembly about thoughts of the week including how we can improve our lifestyles and environments and sometimes we get special visits from many inspirational people. For example, a few weeks ago we heard an assembly from a professional athlete! She was a synchronised swimmer. We also hear assemblies from groups around the school such as eco committee, school council and the emotional well-being champions, which I am proud to be part of.

Trips and clubs at Newlands can give us a bigger understanding of our favourite subjects and hobbies e.g. science club, gardening club, film club and many more.

Newlands provides so many opportunities for so many of us and I am grateful to be able to benefit from these.

I started at Newlands Girls​' School in September. I had come from my primary school by myself. A couple of months on, I have made lots of wonderful friends and feel really settled. The beginning of the school year is really structured to help and support Year 7s in settling in to life at Newlands. The teachers are really supportive of my learning and of me as a person. There are so many opportunities to throw yourself in to school life. I have had the opportunity to take part in extra-curricular clubs, such as drama and I will be participating in the Gym and Dance Show. I have really enjoyed the inter-form competitions. I have also had the opportunity to strengthen my public speaking skills by running for School Council. I am so pleased I chose this school.

I am now in my fifth year at Newlands and I cannot believe how quickly the time has gone. During my time here, I have been given many opportunities. For example, I was encouraged to study Latin which has been a great benefit to the other languages I am taking for GCSE. Last year, I was fortunate enough to join a trip to Brasenose College, Oxford. Visiting this renowned seat of learning has inspired me to work extra hard this year.

As a dancer, the highlight of my year is the gym and dance show. Being a part of this huge event brings the whole school together whilst showcasing the amazing talent within the Newlands community. At Newlands I am constantly being challenged and stretched by my teachers in an engaging way. This has helped give me the confidence to strive for excellence and be the best I can in all I do.