THORNLEIGH SALESIAN COLLEGE SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025
2 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 HEADTEACHER’S MESSAGE Dear Thornleigh Salesian College Community, As we approach this Easter season, I wish to reflect on the incredible journey we have embarked upon together over the past few weeks. Our school community has been vibrant and engaged, demonstrating the spirit of hope and connection that lies at the heart of our Catholic Salesian ethos. During Mission Week, our theme of ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ resonated deeply as the whole school celebrated with various activities celebrating faith, hope and community, culminating in a celebration of Don Bosco Day at the Trafford Centre. This event fostered a meaningful connection between our faith and the call to embark on our own journeys of hope. It was inspiring to witness our pupils embracing this theme and reflecting on their personal journeys. Several of our students had the opportunity to attend the FLAME festival at Wembley, where the theme was ‘Fanning the Flame of Hope.’ This event allowed them to engage with their faith in a dynamic and uplifting environment, further igniting their passion for spiritual growth. I am immensely proud of our student leaders, who presented their thoughts and ideas to our governors. They successfully launched the student bulletin and noticeboards, showcasing their creativity and leadership skills. Additionally, the school talent competition was a resounding success, with all funds raised going to charity, demonstrating our commitment to service and community. Our inaugural Literacy Week was a highlight, featuring workshops by Manchester poet Mike Gary. His performance inspired our pupils and encouraged them to explore the power of words and storytelling. The Rock and Pop Night was a fantastic showcase of our students’ musical talents. It was heart-warming to see so many of our pupils shine on stage, sharing their skills and passion for music. In 6th Form, our Performing Arts Musical Showcase also highlighted the exceptional talent within our school, with students delivering impressive performances that captivated the audience. A successful trip to Rome for our Year 9 students was a memorable experience, enriching their understanding of our faith and history. We were fortunate to have fine artist Ian Murray work with our students, providing them with invaluable insights and inspiration in their artistic pursuits. Finally, as we celebrate these achievements, we also take a moment to remember our beloved maths teacher, Mr. Davis, whose passing has deeply affected us all. We held Mass services in his memory, reflecting on the impact he had on our school community and the lives he touched. In this season of renewal and hope, let us continue to support one another, fostering a community where everyone feels valued, loved, and cherished. May this Easter bring you peace, joy, and the promise of new beginnings. Wishing you all a blessed Easter. M Fitzsimons Headteacher
3 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 CONTENTS Page 2 Headteacher’s Message Page 3 Contents Page 4 - 5 Mission Week Page 6 - 7 Religious Education Page 8 Chaplaincy Page 9 FLAME 2025 Page 10 Curriculum for Life Page 11 Student Leadership Page 12 - 13 Literacy Week 2025 Page 14 - 15 English Page 15 Maths Page 15 Tribute to Dr Declan Davis Page 16 - 19 Physical Education Page 20 Ian Murphy Visits Thornleigh Page 21 Design Technology Page 22 - 24 MFL Page 25 Computer Science Page 25 History Page 26 - 27 Music Page 28 - 32 Year Team News Page 33 BAE Systems Roadshow Page 33 Options Evening Page 34 - 35 Sixth Form
4 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 MISSIONWEEK2025 Mission Week 2025: A Celebration of “HOPE” at Thornleigh Salesian College From 27th to 31st January 2025, Thornleigh Salesian College marked Mission Week 2025, centred on the theme “Onward with Hope”, inspired by Pope Francis’ Jubilee Year call to be “Pilgrims of Hope”. This week-long event was a vibrant celebration of faith, hope and community, animated by various groups and activities. The week commenced with an inspiring opening assembly led by One Hope Project, featuring heartfelt testimonies and uplifting worship music. The day concluded with a moment of deep reflection through Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction. On Tuesday the students participated in sessions on Catholic Social Teaching, delivered by various charities, highlighting the practical application of faith in action. Meanwhile, Rise Theatre captivated all year groups with thematic performances. The KS4 students explored “The Room” theme, while Sixth Formers delved into “The Masterpiece”.
5 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 MISSIONWEEK2025 The week concluded with a celebratory Don Bosco Day. Students enjoyed a trip to the Trafford Centre, featuring activities such as Sea Life, bowling, mini-golf, Legoland, and the cinema. For those remaining at school, the day was equally vibrant, with activities including circus skills, the Bright Leaders Programme, movie time and fun-filled group events. Mission Week 2025 was a meaningful and memorable experience for the Thornleigh Salesian College community, fostering a deeper connection to faith and the call to journey onward with hope. Wednesday brought further opportunities for reflection and inspiration. The KS3 students engaged with Rise Theatre’s “Happiness Show”, promoting joy and positivity. Meanwhile, Sixth Formers joined the JJ Effect team, addressing critical issues such as knife crime and the impact of social media sessions. The highlight of Thursday was a whole-school Mass celebrating the feast of Saint John Bosco, the college’s patron saint, honouring his legacy of hope and dedication to young people.
6 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 RELIGIOUSEDUCATION KS4 This half term has been extremely busy for our Year 11 students who have been completing their PPE exams. Our students have shown resilience and commitment to their revision by attending lunch time and after school interventions as well as making use of the RE Walk, Talk, Mocks as well as their revision packs. As we move into the summer and closer to the GCSE exams we are encouraging all students to keep up the hard work they have put in so far and continue with the great start they have made this term. We continue to offer after school revision in room 37 on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday to support students with their revision and everyone is welcome. In Year 10 our students have had the opportunity to explore the features of a church. We are very privileged to have our Salesian Chapel on site and whilst studying Catholic Christianity Forms of Expression our students have explored the features of our chapel. As well as this students have had the opportunity to speak to Fr Chris Gorton about the importance of artwork especially as someone who creates religious art himself. KS3 Since January, students across Key Stage 3 have been engaging deeply with the Galilee to Jerusalem theme, a key focus from the Religious Education Directory 2024, which shapes our curriculum and ensures a rich exploration of faith, discipleship, and Christian mission. This theme traces the journey of Jesus from his early ministry in Galilee to his final stages in Jerusalem - encouraging students to reflect on what it means to follow Christ in today’s world. Year 7 - Servant Leadership and the Trinity Our Year 7 students have been exploring the foundational Christian belief in the Trinity, with a particular focus on Jesus as the Servant King. Through Scripture and reflection, students have examined how Jesus’ leadership was one of humility and service, inspiring his followers to lead through acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness. This has led to meaningful discussions on how they, too, can embody servant leadership in their daily lives, whether at school, home, or in their communities. Year 8 - The Power of Parables Year 8 students have delved into Jesus’ parables, discovering how he used storytelling to reveal profound truths about God’s Kingdom. They explored why Jesus chose relatable, everyday experiences to communicate divine wisdom and challenge his listeners to live with faith and justice. To deepen their understanding, students completed a creative project, reinterpreting one of Jesus’ parables in a modern-day context - bringing the timeless messages of love, mercy, and forgiveness into contemporary settings. This project encouraged them to think critically about how the teachings of Jesus still speak powerfully to our world today.
7 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 RELIGIOUSEDUCATION Follow us @tsc_re Year 9 - The Call to Discipleship In Year 9, students have been reflecting on the call to discipleship, examining how Jesus invited his followers to leave everything behind to serve God’s mission. They have considered what this means for Christians today, discussing modern examples of individuals and communities who dedicate their lives to loving and serving others. Through this exploration, students have been challenged to think about their own role in carrying out Jesus’ mission and how they might live lives of faith, courage, and service in response to God’s call. As we continue through the academic year, students will build on these themes, developing a deeper understanding of how faith shapes personal identity and action. We encourage parents and carers to ask their children about their learning and support them in reflecting on how these lessons apply to their own lives. Reconciliation As we mark the season of Lent, Key Stage 3 students have the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In RE classes students prepared for the sacrament by completing their examination of conscience and exploring the importance of forgiveness. Salesian clergy and local parish priests came into school to celebrate the sacrament with us - a wonderful way for us to mark this Jubilee Year of Hope together as a community. Interview with a Priest As part of the Year 9 scheme of learning, to understand more about the call of God in a person’s life, students had the opportunity to meet a priest. Fr Michael and Fr Tony from the Salesian community and Fr Chris from one of our local parishes, visited all Year 9 classes to be interviewed. The questions from students range from ‘’why did you become a priest?’’ to ‘’what is your favourite football team?’’ Students enjoyed these visits and got to know more about the daily life and service of priests in our community. Animal Garden Our St Francis Animal Garden continues to provide opportunity for our students to be stewards of the earth. Many of our students now take on leadership roles of caring for our animals and are even attempting to grow their own vegetables! Rome Year 9 Students embark on a special Pilgrimage to Rome during the Jubilee Year. During the first weekend of the half term break, a group of Year 9 students had the incredible opportunity to visit Rome on a deeply meaningful pilgrimage, made even more special as it took place during the Jubilee Year. This Holy Year, a time of renewal and grace in the Catholic Church, added great spiritual significance to our journey as we explored some of the most sacred sites in the Eternal City. Our adventure began with a visit to the Colosseum, where we reflected on the early Christian martyrs who stood firm in their faith. One of the most moving moments of the trip was our visit to Vatican City, where we had the rare privilege of passing through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica. Walking through this door, open only during a Jubilee Year, symbolized our desire for spiritual renewal and God’s boundless mercy. We also spent time in prayer at this magnificent basilica, the heart of the Catholic Church. The group explored more of Rome’s treasures, from the breathtaking Trevi Fountain, where we cast coins and wished for our return, to the Spanish Steps, where we admired the stunning city views. Our pilgrimage reached a profound spiritual high point when Fr Steven celebrated Sunday Mass at the Salesian Basilica, taking time to reflect on our journey and deepen our faith. Finally we journeyed underground into the Catacombs of St. Callistus, where the first Christians worshipped in secret and where many of the early popes were laid to rest. This trip was more than just an educational experience; it was a powerful spiritual journey that connected us to the roots of our faith. As we return home, we carry with us the blessings of the Jubilee Year and the unforgettable memories of our time in Rome.
8 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 CHAPLAINCY Christian Leadership Formation Programme Joseph P shares his experience of being part of the Christian Leadership Formation Programme: “The Christian Leadership Formation Programme is a fantastic opportunity to connect with young people your age and of similar age groups who all share the same Christian beliefs as you in their morals and ways of life. With team building opportunities and the chance to get deeper insights into modern politics and ethical issues, CLF is a once in a lifetime opportunity to develop your faith, to strengthen your beliefs and to uphold your opinions in debates and ethical dilemmas. From my experience, the course consisted of reflection and deeper prayer which allowed for personal reflection and time to connect with God in beautiful scenes of nature around Stonyhurst and retreats in Pinner and within times of communal prayer both at the start of the day and before bed. We had lectures from professors who demonstrated their expertise in economic and ethical sectors of life ranging from the ethics of taxation to the preservation of life in issues such as abortion and assisted dying which gave us an understanding of how complex and deep the ethics of Christianity can go in issues never before associated with ethical dilemmas. Even if your faith is not as strong as others or you aren’t a practising Christian, there is room for personal reflections which don’t consistently force beliefs but with which can help you to partake in the peace of mind that prayer and silent adoration can achieve. If you wish to expand your friend circle and create life time worthy memories with an amazing group of people, please take time to consider this course. The opportunities are amazing and the experience is one to remember. The course also doesn’t restrict itself to consistent lectures and worship however. There is a plentiful supply of opportunities to enjoy sports and other group activities with those around you and for you to create special moments between one another in evenings and breaks throughout the day where your time spent is up to you. CLF is an amazing opportunity and I am ever grateful to the course and those who spent time to organise and run it. Take time to consider it and try to be open minded to the experience you will undergo should you wish to go in the summer and next year in 3 different modules.” Written by Joseph P www.christianleadershipformation.com CAFOD Young Leaders - Lead Assemblies in Support of Those in Need The recent CAFOD Assembly led by our CAFOD Young Leaders was a remarkable event that resonated deeply with our school community. Focusing on critical global issues such as poverty, hunger, and injustice, the assembly served as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to support those in need. Through dynamic presentations and insightful discussions, the Young Leaders emphasised the vital role of CAFOD and encouraged each of us to contribute to a more just world. They inspired us to take practical actions - whether through prayer, fundraising or making conscious daily choices - that align with our values of justice and fairness. We extend our gratitude to the CAFOD Young Leaders for their passion and leadership. Ash Wednesday The entire school community at Thornleigh Salesian College gathered in the main yard for a meaningful Ash Wednesday service. During the service, ashes were distributed as part of the tradition marking the beginning of Lent. The ceremony was enhanced by the presence of the Salesian community, local deanery priests, and staff members who assisted in the imposition of ashes. The short yet significant service provided an opportunity for reflection, bringing the school together as they began the Lenten journey in faith and unity.
9 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 FLAME2025 Thornleigh Salesian College at Flame 2025: Fanning the Flame of Hope On Saturday 15th March 2025, nearly 80 students and staff from Thornleigh Salesian College had the incredible opportunity to attend Flame 2025 at the OVO Arena Wembley. This inspiring event, based on the theme ‘Unstoppable: Fan the Flame of Hope’, brought together thousands of young Catholics from across the UK and beyond. Among those attending were Confirmation candidates as well as students from various year groups, all eager to engage with the uplifting messages and faith-filled experiences the event had to offer. Flame 2025 featured an impressive lineup of speakers and performers who shared their journeys of faith and hope. These included world-renowned adventurer Bear Grylls OBE, who spoke about resilience and courage, Bryan Enriquez from the Hallow App, and Ashley and Brian from CAFOD’s project in Kenya. The event also showcased the talents of the World Youth Dance Crew and musicians such as Guvna B, Adenike Adewale, Lily Jo, and One Hope Project. Attendees were further inspired by the testimonies of Brother Chris Patino and Isaac Harvey MBE, each offering a unique perspective on perseverance and faith. A deeply moving highlight of the day was the time dedicated to prayer, reflection and concluding with Eucharistic Adoration and silence led by Cardinal Vincent Nichols. These moments of worship provided a profound spiritual experience for all present. The Flame Event, which first began in 2012, has grown significantly over the years, and this year’s event was a resounding success for CYMFED (Catholic Youth Ministry Federation), gathering nearly 11,000 young Catholics from across the country and beyond. It was a truly memorable experience, reinforcing the call to be ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ in this Jubilee Year. Thornleigh Salesian College students returned home inspired and encouraged to continue fanning the flame of hope in their own lives and communities - being unstoppable.
10 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 CURRICULUMFORLIFE During Mission Week’s theme of ‘Onward with Hope’, our Year 12 students had the privilege of attending a powerful presentation by the award-winning organisation The JJ Effect. This hard-hitting anti-knife crime talk was delivered in memory of Jon-Jo, who tragically lost his life to knife crime in 2014. The session was deeply impactful, and student feedback highlighted its profound effect. One student shared: “The most memorable part was hearing the story from both Jon-Jo’s and his mother’s perspectives, especially the unexpected twist at the end.” Another reflected: “It really opened my eyes to how knife crime affects real people - it’s not just something you hear about on the news.” Many students expressed how the talk changed their perspective, with comments such as: “I hadn’t realised how dangerous even small knife wounds can be” and “It made me understand that knife crime doesn’t just happen to people involved in wrongdoing; it can affect anyone. Young people need to be aware of this.” Given its powerful impact, we look forward to welcoming The JJ Effect back to speak to more year groups in the near future. The Personal Development Student Team has also been active this term, delivering thoughtprovoking assemblies. In celebration of The International Day of Education, they explored this year’s theme: “Education for All: Ensuring Equal Opportunities for Every Student.” Additionally, for Women’s History Month, students presented on inspirational figures such as Harriet Tubman - a nurse during the American Civil War, a political advisor, and the first woman to lead an armed assault in the war; Noor Inayat Khan - a British spy during WWII who, despite being a pacifist, joined the war effort to demonstrate the bravery of Indian women; Caroline Criado Perez - a researcher and journalist who challenged the ‘data gap’ affecting women’s representation in society. Furthermore, Ms. Rushton delivered an insightful session to Year 11 on effective revision strategies, equipping students with techniques to optimise their performance in assessments and GCSEs. As part of our commitment to holistic education, we continue to follow the Catholic programme for Relationships and Sex Education (RSE), as advised by Salford Diocese. This will be delivered to Years 7, 8, and 9 during the summer term. Parents can access resources through the online Life to the Full parent portal, which provides: • An overview of the programme • Guidance on lesson content • Activities to support learning at home To access the portal visit www.tentenresources.co.uk/parent-portal/ Username: thornleigh-bl1 Password: young-whistle We are grateful for the continued engagement of our students, staff, and parents in fostering a culture of personal growth and awareness at our school. Thank you for your support in shaping well-rounded, informed, and conscientious young people.
11 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 STUDENTLEADERSHIP Don Bosco Day From 27th to 31st January 2025, Thornleigh Salesian College marked Mission Week 2025, centred on the theme ‘Onward with Hope’, inspired by Pope Francis’ Jubilee Year call to be ‘Pilgrims of Hope’. This week-long event was a vibrant celebration of faith, hope and community, animated by various groups and activities. Mission Week 2025 at Thornleigh Salesian College began with an inspiring assembly by One Hope Project, followed by Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction. Our students participated in Catholic Social Teaching sessions and enjoyed performances by Rise Theatre. Throughout the week Rise Theatre’s ‘Happiness Show’ was featured and a session on knife crime and social media with the JJ Effect team for Sixth Formers. All members of the community had the chance to attend a mass celebrating Saint John Bosco, the school’s patron saint. The week concluded with Don Bosco Day, including a trip to the Trafford Centre with activities such as Sea Life, bowling, and mini-golf, while those at school enjoyed circus skills, movies, and group activities. Governors Meeting Recently, our Student Council had the opportunity to meet with the school governing body to discuss potential changes aimed at improving our school community. During the meeting, student leaders presented well-researched and thoughtful cases based on feedback and concerns raised by the student body, ensuring that the voices of students were heard and valued in the decisionmaking process. Among the key issues addressed were uniform policies, the structure of the school day, behaviour expectations, and the overall school environment. These topics were carefully discussed, with students offering constructive suggestions on how to create a more positive, inclusive, and supportive environment for everyone. The Student Council is pleased with how the governors took the time to listen to each point raised and engage in meaningful dialogue. Their openness and attentiveness have left us feeling encouraged and hopeful that these discussions will lead to positive changes in our school. As we move forward, we are excited to see how this meeting may help shape the future of our school community and contribute to an even better learning environment for all students. Charity As always, our students across all year groups have come together to raise funds for charity. Their collective efforts reflect the strong sense of community and compassion that defines our school. Through various fundraising initiatives, students have demonstrated their commitment to making a positive impact and supporting those in need. Their dedication and teamwork continue to inspire and strengthen the spirit of giving within our school community. In Year 9, the upcoming Easter Hamper Raffle will feature hampers filled with delicious treats and goodies. Students will have the chance to purchase tickets for a chance to win, and excitement is already building as the raffle draws near. It promises to be a fun and engaging way to raise funds for charity while bringing the school community together. In addition, the Talent Competition showcased the incredible skills of our Year 11 students, from singing to comedy. The competition was a huge hit, with each performance impressing the crowd and displaying the diverse talents of our school community. All funds raised from ticket sales for both events went directly to charity, making it a meaningful way for students and staff to give back. Bulletin / Notice Board On January 22nd, the Student Council proudly launched the Student Bulletin and Notice Boards around the school, aiming to enhance communication and ensure that everyone stays up to date with what’s happening. This new bulletin includes exciting features like Student of the Week, Song of the Week, and other essential updates or announcements that students need to know. The goal is to make school news more accessible, celebrate individual achievements, and keep everyone informed in a fun, engaging, and dynamic way.
412 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 LITERACYWEEK2025 Thornleigh held their first ever literacy week last week and everyone had the chance to join in with the fun. Throughout the week, students across all year groups had the chance to get involved in an array of literacy activities. Some students attended live and virtual workshops, which included children’s author, Elizabeth Green, who ran creative writing sessions with Year 7 and 8 students. All students in Year 7, 9, 10 and Sixth Form got to meet Mancunian poet, Mike Garry, who delivered talks, followed by poetry workshops. As well as workshops and talks, forms were able to come together to join in, quite competitively, with different tasks such as guessing the tannoy readers, going on a literary scavenger hunt around the school and completing our annual World Book Day big quiz. As well as the form competitions, form tutors also shared the daily challenges which students could complete independently. Challenges included reading in the most bizarre place, designing your own book cover and even baking a book! Prizes for winning forms and individual students will be awarded over the next week.
13 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 We ended our week with ‘Pages and PJs’ which involved KS3 students bringing their favourite book to the library, after school, on World Book Day. As students shared extracts from their favourite books, we were transported into worlds which made us laugh, ponder or had us on the edge of our seats! It was a wonderful way to end the week by remembering the core aim of literacy week: to foster a love of reading. Don Bosco once said that “school was not the end; it was rather the instrumental means for improving the way of life.” Likewise, at Thornleigh, our vision for reading is based on the same values that Don Bosco held about school. We believe that “the books are not the end; they are the instrumental means for improving the way of life for our students.” So, as we move beyond literacy week, we remain dedicated in fostering a love of reading in all students at our school. Our KS3 students continue to accept the reading quests, battling with other forms in their year group to be the best reading form! In addition to this, they also have their form reading book which their form tutor reads to them each week. At KS4, we continue to promote independent reading, directing students to recommended lists on our school website, as well as Dua Lipa’s ‘Service 95’. This is a fantastic website which includes the singer’s own book club, podcasts, author interviews and reading lists. LITERACYWEEK2025
4814 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 ENGLISH An Inspector Calls Performance Pupils in Year 10 were in for the performance of a lifetime on Wednesday 18th December. They were transported back to 1912 Edwardian England on the eve of an upper-class family’s celebration. The annual English Department’s production of An Inspector Calls was full of drama, tension and spectacular performances! Mr Pierce’s take on The Inspector was nothing short of formidable, whilst Mr Woods and his ad lib’s brought unexpected humour to such a serious play. Each character was brought to life by the English department in a performance the Year 10s will not forget any time soon! Rotary Club On the 5th February, a group of Thornleigh students competed in the Rotary Youth Speaks competition 2025 at Sharples School. Our intermediate team consisted of Perpetua E, Elsiar E and Ciara S, who spoke eloquently on the topic of ‘Education: is it really what we need?’ whilst our senior team was made up of Iman B, Alessandro O and Olivia K who spoke loquaciously on the topic of ‘The Great Outdoors’. The teams did extremely well against their competitors, both successfully coming first in their heats. The next round of the competition takes place on the 16th March and we wish them all the best of luck!
1 59 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 ENGLISH Follow us @Thornleigh_Eng MATHS On Tuesday 4th March four students took part in the Advanced Mathematics Support Programme ‘Maths Feast Challenge’ held at St Patricks RC High School in Eccles. The students took part in a series of group problem solving Mathematical tasks competing against twelve other schools from all over the Greater Manchester Area. The students performed really well in a series of practical Mathematics tasks using GCSE Higher skills in practical contexts and represented the school excellently. Unfortunately the Thornleigh team did not finish in the top 3 schools however we were awarded a certificate for being the highest scoring team on a particular round. All students enjoyed taking part in the challenge and all intend to use the skills with their continued study of Mathematics Spring into Reading! Whilst it still might be a little cold and dark, this is the perfect time to snuggle up with a good book. There have been many opportunities for students to get involved with reading this term. Students have been battling it out against other forms by completing reading quests after finishing reading a book! Some students showed exceptional efforts with their reading quest tasks and were rewarded for their efforts. Ten students went to Waterstones and were given a £20 gift voucher to spend there, plus a drink in the café afterwards. In the spring term, a letter and Google form went out to parents about ‘Bolton Book Awards’. The response was fantastic, and we have around 30 students who are reading the three shortlist books, ready for their trip to Bolton School to meet the authors and vote for the best book. Currently, the students are meeting up on a weekly basis to discuss their book and complete reflective activities around their book. The teachers involved have been blown away by the effort, enthusiasm, and, in some cases, the speed at which these children are devouring the books! Well done BBA team! Literacy Quiz Year 7 forms took part in a Literacy quiz before Christmas. The rounds included face morph and Guess the Christmas Tree, amongst others. Here are the winners, 7 Beta, with their prize. Follow us @ThornleighMaths
4816 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 PHYSICALEDUCATION Badminton We have enjoyed another badminton season in which the sport continues to be popular amongst our students. From October half-term until February half-term we have had a scheduled practice on Tuesday after-school, available to students from all year groups to attend in order to start to learn the sport and improve their skills, practice to be competitive and represent school, or, simply just play socially with friends. Our sessions have been well attended, as always, and have attracted both boys and girls from across all 5 year groups. We competed in the league structure, playing competitive fixtures against Bolton Boys, Bolton Girls, Canon Slade and Rivington, with some strong performances from our team players and a a few wins along the way. A huge well done to the strong group of Year 11 students that have represented school all the way through their journey at Thornleigh - you will be missed! We also organised a KS3 badminton festival to introduce the sport to our younger students and to expose them to competitive badminton. Our students loved this competition and we look forward to many of them representing the team again next year. Cross Country We were fortunate enough to have some of our students represent Bolton at the Greater Manchester Cross Country Championships on Saturday 1st February at Heaton Park. This was following on from the individual success they had by finishing in the top 20 at the Bolton Schools’ Cross Country Championships back in November. The conditions on the day were extremely tough and our students were competing against the strongest runners from across the other 9 boroughs in Greater Manchester but each one of them made us proud on the day. Well done to Aine B, Daniel T, George P and Cassius N in Year 7, Elise H and Daniel A in Year 9, and Freddie B and Nathaniel K in Year 11. A special well done to Nathaniel Knowles again as he built on his success from winning the Bolton Championships, to finish in 8th place in a super competitive race. A superb achievement which means that he qualified to represent Greater Manchester in the National Championships in Sussex in March. Girls Cricket In January we entered our U13 and U15 girls cricket teams into the Bolton indoor cricket competition where they played competitive games against Bolton School and Turton. Our U13 were less experienced than their U15 counterparts yet they enjoyed a great day of cricket and showed some real potential. Our U15 team, all club cricket players outside of school had high expectations going into the competition, and, after a shaky start, managed to qualify for the Greater Manchester round in February. The girls arrived at this competition with lots of confidence and they demonstrated great skill, togetherness and determination to end up as group winners against tough opposition from schools travelling from Oldham, Trafford and Manchester. This culminated in a very tight ‘winner takes all’ deciding match against Crompton House in which our girls faced a very talented opposition, where they kept their nerve with a big team effort witnessing valuable contributions from all players. The U15 team will now move on to represent Thornleigh in the Lancashire Country Finals on Wednesday 26th March.
1759 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 PHYSICALEDUCATION Girls Football Our girls football fixtures have continued to take place this term, with plenty of playing opportunities for all year groups. We came across Bolton School at the start of the year who were tough opponents for all our teams, however the Year 7 team and Year 10 and 11 teams bounced back with wins in very close games against Little Lever. Our teams finished their season away at St. Catherine’s, with the Year 7s playing some brilliant football, possibly their best performance of the year to come away with a 4-0 win. The Year 8 and 9 team had a commanding start to their match however, St. Catherine’s came back in the second half, making it an extremely close game which unfortunately ended in St. Catherine’s favour. Each team also entered the Bolton Schools 7 a-side tournament, where our Year 7s came 2nd in their group, just missing out on a place in the final. We entered two teams into the Year 8 and 9 tournament, which saw some brilliant team performances. Both teams came 2nd in their respective groups, which meant they both just lost out on a place in the semi-finals. A big thank you to Miss Morris and Mr Jones for your help and support over the last two terms to give our students the best possible experience! Girls Football Leaders 12 of our Year 8 and Year 9 students attended a training day held at Bolton Arena, aimed at giving our students the skills and tools to be able to encourage more girls into football. All students represented the school with pride, getting experience of officiating matches and designing a plan of how they can increase participation in girls football at Thornleigh. They were able to put their skills into practice at a primary schools football tournament, where they refereed and led by example. Well done girls, we are excited to see your plans come to life! Hockey Our Year 7 team had their tournament rained off before Christmas, so they had their first taste of a hockey tournament this term. The team had a mix of experience but an abundance of motivation to finally get to play in the tournament. The girls put on a brilliant display, coming away with 2 losses, 2 draws and 1 win, a fantastic achievement for them in their first hockey tournament. Well done, we can’t wait to build on this next year! Girls Rugby We have had the pleasure of having a Sale Sharks coach in to teach our girls rugby lessons in PE since Christmas, which has resulted in a buzz across all year groups when it comes to rugby! It has been brilliant to see everyone getting stuck in to learning the basics of rugby and getting to put some tackling into game situations. This enjoyment has meant that we have had over 20 students at girls rugby practice each week. We are hoping to get some playing experience for as many students as possible over the next half term to ensure the high level most of these girls are playing at can continue for next year!
14018 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 PHYSICALEDUCATION Swimming In January, we took our swim team to Bolton One for the Bolton Schools Swimming Championships which are held every year. This is an opportunity for those students at school who swim regularly for their club, to represent school and compete against the best swimmers from schools across the borough. The standard in many of the races is very high with multiple regional standard swimmers as well as a few national standard swimmers. We always find this challenging as we do not have the option of offering swimming on our PE curriculum but our students always rise to the challenge and this year was no exception when they competed well in their respective races, with some individual winners. Basketball The winter term always brings basketball to the sports hall and our students continue to thrive when given the opportunity to attend weekly practices and compete in half-termly tournaments against other schools across the borough. This year we were able to run two sessions each week to offer students to play with students from their age groups, helping to hone their skills and tactics for use in competition. We had a much improved season in comparison to the previous couple of years, with all three teams accruing more points and more wins as we progressed through the tournaments. Well done all and we look forward to building on the good work next year.
19 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 Dance Students have been working hard in preparation for our Albert Hall’s Secondary and Primary Dance Showcases. Students from Years 9 to 12 represented Thornleigh in our Secondary Showcase in January this year. Our Upper School Dance Club performed an upbeat Commercial Jazz routine, our Year 11 BTEC Dance Students demonstrated their knowledge of Bob Fosse’s Chicago within their performance, and our very own Soloist Lyla performed a stunning piece of choreography in front of our audience. All the students were fantastic! Our KS3 Dance Club are now in preparation for the Primary Dance Showcase which is at the end of March. Not forgetting our Dance Showcase ‘Rhythm is a Dancer’. Students have been in and out of rehearsals in preparation for the upcoming shows. We hope to see many of you there supporting our students! Football We have continued with our programme of football fixtures throughout the winter and spring terms, taking part in multiple friendly matches, tournaments, league games and cup competitions. We have had varied success and at the time of writing, we have the Year 8 boys in the QF of the Bolton Plate, the Year 9 Boys in the SF of the Bolton Cup, the Year 10 boys in the SF of the Bolton Cup, and the Year 11 boys in the final of the Bolton Cup, their fourth final in as many years. In addition to this, we have also had the opportunity to play in some boys football festivals, aimed at providing opportunities for students who have not yet represented school, to allow them to play in some competitive games. These were organised and hosted by Canon Slade and it was brilliant to have so many students enjoy this event. PHYSICALEDUCATION Follow us @tsc_pedance
120 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 IANMURPHYVISITSTHORNLEIGH Fine Art students were given the opportunity to work with Fine Artist Ian Murphy Ian brought in a large selection of his impressive landscape and architectural inspired pieces to share with the students. He talked about his process, ideas and demonstrated the techniques he uses in his study and en plein air, to create his work. After these introductions the students were then challenged to create 4 art pieces using these techniques, incorporating collage to create texture in the background of their ink, acrylic and graphite drawings. It was such a privilege to have Ian working with us for the day, we were all so inspired. Follow us @tsc_art
21 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 DESIGNTECHNOLOGY Real-World Design: Students Tackle Inclusive Innovation for Kristien This week, our GCSE Design Technology students took on their most meaningful challenge yet - designing for a real client with real needs. Kristien, who survived a devastating hit-and-run accident at just 11 years old, visited our classroom to share his incredible story. Doctors once told him he would never walk, talk, or even make new memories again due to the severity of his brain injury. But Kristien has defied every expectation - he can now walk, talk, and form new memories, though all remain a daily struggle, and he will require physiotherapy for life. With their upcoming NEA in mind, students listened intently as Kristien described the obstacles he navigates daily. From difficulties with two-handed tasks like hoovering and using cling film to struggles with remembering where he put his wallet, he gave them a first-hand insight into the barriers that thoughtful design can help break down. Armed with sketchbooks, ideas, and a passion for problem-solving, students jumped straight into brainstorming and concept development. They presented initial design ideas - some practical, some highly inventive - all aimed at making Kristien’s life easier. Seeing their work met with real feedback from a real client was an invaluable experience, pushing them to think more deeply about user needs, functionality, and real-world impact. Kristien’s visit was more than just an opportunity to test ideas - it was a reminder of the power of resilience and the impact that good design can have. As the project moves forward, students will refine their concepts, develop prototypes, and bring their ideas to life, proving that great design isn’t just about creativity - it’s about changing lives.
422 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 MFL Global Schools Climate Assembly On Tuesday 4th March, 10 Year 7 students represented Thornleigh Salesian College at the Great Schools’ Climate Assembly at the Shakespeare North Theatre in Prescott. The Year 7 students are some of the members of the Green Team and part of the Global Leaders. Since September, the students in these 2 groups in Year 7 and 11 have been involved in workshops working on a textile waste project alongside the Liverpool World Centre. The students chose the issue of textile waste and researched facts and information about how the production and the waste of clothing affects the environment. They have worked extremely hard both individually and as a group collating their ideas and they created a PowerPoint presentation for the Assembly. Once the students had presented their findings to 4 other schools, a group of professionals in the field of climate change and representatives from the Liverpool World Centre and Manchester University, they then worked together on an action plan for their project. During the day, the students also worked with and interviewed key figures in the field of textiles such as Robertsons Recycling and local councillors, on planning their next steps. The students want to create awareness throughout the school on how more than 2 million tonnes, 85% of all textiles end up in landfill every year and some take more than 200 years to decompose. In preparation for this event they have also interviewed local councillor Hillary Fairclough - you can read this on page 23. The Global Leaders and the Green Team are planning a sustainable pre-loved fashion event at the end of the year with support from Manchester Metropolitan University and Manchester Fashion Institute, so look out for more information coming your way soon. If you think you can support the event then please contact Mrs Lyon on elyon@thornleigh.bolton.sch.uk
23 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 Interview with Councillor Hilary Fairclough led by our Year 11 Global Leaders - John, Iman, Vicky, Rebecca, Mikalina What initiatives are the council taking to improve overall recycling rates in our area? a. We constantly review the levels and type of waste presented for collection. b. It’s worth noting that Bolton and GM in general are excellent recyclers and are well above the National Average, perhaps reference this tool: Waste Management - Local Authority Data Explorer. c. The National Average recycling rate for the UK is circa 44%. d. We provide a collection service for all major material types, glass, plastics (hard and soft), cans, paper and cardboard, food and garden waste and then general waste. e. We have invested heavily in our processing facilities and circa 1% of everything we collect goes to landfill. f. We have a comms plan and an enforcement policy that challenges behaviours that are not in line with our values. How does the council ensure proper disposal and processing of hazardous or electronic waste? We have a contract with Suez for the disposal of electrical goods, where goods presented at the recycling facilities are collected and disposed of as per the regulations. How does the council work with local businesses or charities to manage textile waste? a. We do not collect textiles as a collection authority from the doorstep. b. Charities have a free tip to the recycling facilities and textiles are collected in textile banks for processing and recycling. c. Part of the comms plan looks at the impact of disposable fashion and the impact clothes designed for a short life has on the environment. What happens to textiles collected for recycling? Are they reused, re purposed, or processed into new materials? a. We do not collect textiles from the doorstep, but provision is made available at the household waste recycling centres. b. Perhaps reference this: Textiles | Recycle for Greater Manchester. c. Material collected is processed and then sold back into industries that use the material. d. The material is used for flocking, rags or made into other products. Is the council considering policies to reduce fast fashion’s impact on textile waste? a. The Council undertakes a waste compositional analysis to see what makes up the circa 98k tonnes of waste collected in Bolton per annum. b. This analysis tells us what is making up the material that is being thrown away that isn’t being captured in the recycling. c. This is what is targeted when designing collection systems. d. Whilst quick fashion is a challenge the provision at the Household Waste Recycling facilities is currently seen as sufficient for the level of demand this material places on the Council and GM. Are there plans to introduce stricter regulations or penalties for improper disposal of textiles? No, we do not have any plans for stricter regulation or penalties for the disposal of textiles. The Council prefers to work with service users to address the issues it faces, rather than using sanctions as the primary approach. Are there any educational programs in place to raise awareness about textile recycling among residents? a. Yes - see the link above from Recycle for Greater Manchester. b. This also forms part of the comms plan for GM. c. It should be noted that the issue of quick fashion originates from the demand for the items. If the demand was stopped, the waste items would stop. Service users and consumers play a key role in the reduction of the waste material. What role does the council play in supporting sustainable fashion or textile workshops? a. We do not have any workshops planned but would welcome an invitation to collaborate with groups. b. GM via the GMCA have previously held fashion shows that highlight sustainable fashion and the challenges fast fashion create. Are there any upcoming initiatives to adopt innovative recycling technology? a. Suez and the GMCA, who are the contractors for waste disposal embrace modern technology and have invested millions, and continue to do so, to ensure all recyclable material is identified and processed correctly. b. It might be worth seeing if this group want to visits a facility to see how this works the tech behind it. c. GM has an ebay page for recyclable bulky items, including white goods, furniture etc, which also go in and out of fashion, but have a life left in them. d. Perhaps reference this page: Renew Hub | Recycle for Greater Manchester. MFL
24 SPRING NEWSLETTER 2025 Follow us @tsc_mfl_dep Thornleigh Spanish students from Years 10 and 11 got the chance to shine at a film study day in Manchester. Forty GCSE students visited the screening of a Columbian film at HOME, where they took part in a workshop on the film “La Suprema.” The film tells the story of a town called La Suprema where electricity has not yet arrived, and Laureana, an Afro-Colombian teenager who dreams of becoming a boxer. When she learns her uncle will box for the world title and it will be broadcast live on TV, she and the community will do everything to watch the fight. The event was led by Dr Carmen Herrero, from Manchester Metropolitan University, and featured a screening of the film, as well as an analysis of the themes of youth, precarity, solidarity, resilience and hope, community spirit, Afro Colombian identity, family and music. Thornleigh Students made some valuable contributions to the group discussion and their behaviour was exemplary. Hilary is keen to meet up to discuss her questions with the students What the Global Leaders are doing as individuals to reduce textile waste; do they restyle older clothes? buy second hand? How often do they buy cheap clothes from online sites and maybe only wear them once or twice, does the school have a facility for people to bring in their unwanted items and have an “exchange day” of course the list goes on… Good luck with your project. MFL International Schools Update Another term and another range of activities are underway in preparation for the re-accreditation of our International Schools Award in June. The staff Global Dimension Team will be discussing how we can incorporate even more cross curricular international activities. Turing Scheme Following our 4th successive year of Turing Scheme funding, Mrs Lyon is about to embark on a culture capital visit to Barcelona with 20 Year 9 and 10 students from 2nd - 7th April. During the trip, we will be spending time at 2 Salesian schools as well as visiting historical and cultural sights in the city. Whether the students have opted to study Spanish at GCSE, they will be taking part in a language lesson, embracing a new culture and learning a new life experience. Tub2Pub Campaign The Green Team collected plastic sweet tubs after Christmas in association with the Green King Tub2pub campaign supporting Macmillan Cancer Research.
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