21 Dec 2003 - Bryngwyn Matters 30 (December 2003)
Best Results Ever!
Bryngwyn celebrated a summer of success when the GSCE results arrived in August. The Year 11 pupils produced the best ever set of results for the school with 55% achieving 5 A*-C grades or above. This outshines both the Welsh and County average. In fact, over 25% achieved 10 A*-C grades or better with some truly outstanding individual performances. Carly Rees achieved 12 A* grades, Rebecca Baul 11 A* and 2 A grades, Sophie Davies 9A* and 1 A grade, Sophie Nurse 8A* and 4 A grades and Ryan Ellis 8A* and 2 A grades. Sustaining such high levels of achievement across a diverse curriculum is a real tribute to the hard work of all pupils and the talent, support and commitment of staff at both Bryngwyn and their Primary Schools. This year, in particular, has justifiably been a cause for celebration.
Prize Evening
The annual Prixe Evening in October provided the opportuntiy for hte school to celebrate its success in a number of fields, ranging from the academic to sporting, cultural and community linked achievements. Ms Helen Mary Jones, our guest speaker, delivered a rousing and entertaining address which encouraged and congratulated our prize winners. This, together with the convivial atmosphere created by our 'Class of 2003' pupils, made it an occasion to remember for all those present.
Croeso Cynnes Iawn
A warm welcome is extended to the seven new members of staff who joined us in September. Mrs Deborah Cooze joined the English department, Mr Adrian Davies, the Technology department, Mr Tudor Parry-Jones, the Science department and Miss Rebecca Neal the Maths department. Mrs Ellen Evans took charge of the Music department and Mr Paul Jones and Mrs Karen Holland joined the senior management team as Deputy Headteachers. We hope they all have a very happy and rewarding time at the school.
The Pod Experience
Over forty Year 10 pupils travelled to Swansea in September to enjoy the Welsh Development Agency Entrepreneurs Roadshow. The event, held in a futuristic inflatable triple air-filled 'pod' was exciting and high tech.
This roadshow was designed to encourage young people to establish their own businesses in future years.
As usual it was a case of the more you put into an experience the more you get out of it - and time will tell how many successful business people Bryngwyn will produce.
Getting Better By Degrees
Twelve talented Year 11 pupils were fortunate enough to enjoy the 'Oxford Experience' when they visited Lady Margaret Hall College. The visit opened the eyes of the visiting pupils to what was on offer at this world famous university. The day began with an introduction to university life, a discussion about study skills then a lesson in the Natural History Museum - which is actually a classroom!
After lunch in the oak-panelled refectory a guided tour of Keeble, Exeter, Jesus and St John's Colleges really convinced several pupils that they would make a determined effort in two short years to prove themselves good enough for Oxford University entrance.
Delegates Debate Dilemma
The World Water Crisis and international Debt were the two hot topics for delegates to debate in this year's Council for Education in World Citizenship (CEWC) conference.
Presenting views of Ireland were Bronwen Ellis, Liam Ellis and Nathan Mullock, whilst the Italian perspective was in the hands of Christopher Cottingham Hannah Davies and Emma Williams.
This was a 'caring' conference, splendidly chaired by Mr Malcolm Harper who was sympathetic in an excellent opening speech outlining the plight of India. Ultimately, a motion was carried endorsing the need for the developed world to assist people everywhere gain reasonable access to adequate supplies of clean water.
The school's delegates were soon in action in the second session, speaking candidly about the debt burden of less economically developed countries. This time the resolution carried favoured a fair approach to debt repayment and an emphasis on grant aid by the richer developed nations. A good outcome to a great day.
Drama Trips
This term the drama department have included visits for the GCSE groups to brisol to see 'Blood Brothers' and Shakespeare's home town of Stratford to see 'Beauty and the Beast'.
Visions of the Future
A marquee set in the splendid surroundings of the National Botanic Gardens was the setting for this high profile county conference.
Emma Williams has already achieved high office by being elected secretary of this young people's version of the full Carmarthenshire County Council.
Tom Platt spoke on health and well being; Nathan Mullock examined safer communities; Rebecca Davis had a lot to say about regeneration; Anthony Austin contributed to life long learning and Alex Griffiths tackled the environment.
Recommendations from these workshops were forwarded for later discussion and are destined to be considered as part of future strategic planning by the county council.
Sports Digest
Young Sports Person of the Year 2003
Amy Westcott, Year 9, won this prestigious award at the annual Bryn Isaac Award Ceremony. After her many successes this year at duathlon, aquathlon and triathlon it was nice to see her achievements recognised by the local awarding body.
Welsh Vest
Daniel Thomas, Year 9, has been selected to represent Wales in the British Cross Country Championships in Nottingham in the new year. After an excellent perfomance in the Welsh U' 15 trial in Swansea, Daniel will be running against the cream of the other home nations.
British Champion
Sally Davies our Rhythmic gymnast has achieved 'gold' once again. At the British Championships held in Burton on Trent earlier this month Sally won a gold medal in the U'14 rope competition.
Dyfed Team
Lia Roberts, Year 9, received county recognition when she was selected to play for the Dyfed U'14 netball team against Glamorgan and the valeys earlier this month. Despite losing by the odd goal the selectors have kept the same team to face Cardiff and the Vales in the new year.
Swimming
At the local Urdd swimming gala held at the Llanelli Leisure Centre in November there were wins for rhys Jones, Year 8, in the 100m Freestle and backstroke events and brother Carwyn, Year 9, also in the 100m Freestyle. Together with Tom Simms, Year 9, who won the 100m Breaststroke they will compete in the National finals in Swansea on the 31 January 2004.
Year 6 taster Day
Bryngwyn opened its doors to over 250 pupils from our partner primary schools at the end of October. The day allowed the pupils to get a feel for the school as well as sampling some lessons which will be on their timetables next year. Quotes from the eager participants included: "The lessons were fun"; "The teachers were really friendly" and "I can't wait until next September".
Carol Service
The term finished in festive mood with the annual Christmas Carol Service. this year Felinfoel church hosted the event and accompanying the traditional nine lessons and congregational carols were items from the school choir and orchestra.
and finally:
Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.
Bryngwyn celebrated a summer of success when the GSCE results arrived in August. The Year 11 pupils produced the best ever set of results for the school with 55% achieving 5 A*-C grades or above. This outshines both the Welsh and County average. In fact, over 25% achieved 10 A*-C grades or better with some truly outstanding individual performances. Carly Rees achieved 12 A* grades, Rebecca Baul 11 A* and 2 A grades, Sophie Davies 9A* and 1 A grade, Sophie Nurse 8A* and 4 A grades and Ryan Ellis 8A* and 2 A grades. Sustaining such high levels of achievement across a diverse curriculum is a real tribute to the hard work of all pupils and the talent, support and commitment of staff at both Bryngwyn and their Primary Schools. This year, in particular, has justifiably been a cause for celebration.
Prize Evening
The annual Prixe Evening in October provided the opportuntiy for hte school to celebrate its success in a number of fields, ranging from the academic to sporting, cultural and community linked achievements. Ms Helen Mary Jones, our guest speaker, delivered a rousing and entertaining address which encouraged and congratulated our prize winners. This, together with the convivial atmosphere created by our 'Class of 2003' pupils, made it an occasion to remember for all those present.
Croeso Cynnes Iawn
A warm welcome is extended to the seven new members of staff who joined us in September. Mrs Deborah Cooze joined the English department, Mr Adrian Davies, the Technology department, Mr Tudor Parry-Jones, the Science department and Miss Rebecca Neal the Maths department. Mrs Ellen Evans took charge of the Music department and Mr Paul Jones and Mrs Karen Holland joined the senior management team as Deputy Headteachers. We hope they all have a very happy and rewarding time at the school.
The Pod Experience
Over forty Year 10 pupils travelled to Swansea in September to enjoy the Welsh Development Agency Entrepreneurs Roadshow. The event, held in a futuristic inflatable triple air-filled 'pod' was exciting and high tech.
This roadshow was designed to encourage young people to establish their own businesses in future years.
As usual it was a case of the more you put into an experience the more you get out of it - and time will tell how many successful business people Bryngwyn will produce.
Getting Better By Degrees
Twelve talented Year 11 pupils were fortunate enough to enjoy the 'Oxford Experience' when they visited Lady Margaret Hall College. The visit opened the eyes of the visiting pupils to what was on offer at this world famous university. The day began with an introduction to university life, a discussion about study skills then a lesson in the Natural History Museum - which is actually a classroom!
After lunch in the oak-panelled refectory a guided tour of Keeble, Exeter, Jesus and St John's Colleges really convinced several pupils that they would make a determined effort in two short years to prove themselves good enough for Oxford University entrance.
Delegates Debate Dilemma
The World Water Crisis and international Debt were the two hot topics for delegates to debate in this year's Council for Education in World Citizenship (CEWC) conference.
Presenting views of Ireland were Bronwen Ellis, Liam Ellis and Nathan Mullock, whilst the Italian perspective was in the hands of Christopher Cottingham Hannah Davies and Emma Williams.
This was a 'caring' conference, splendidly chaired by Mr Malcolm Harper who was sympathetic in an excellent opening speech outlining the plight of India. Ultimately, a motion was carried endorsing the need for the developed world to assist people everywhere gain reasonable access to adequate supplies of clean water.
The school's delegates were soon in action in the second session, speaking candidly about the debt burden of less economically developed countries. This time the resolution carried favoured a fair approach to debt repayment and an emphasis on grant aid by the richer developed nations. A good outcome to a great day.
Drama Trips
This term the drama department have included visits for the GCSE groups to brisol to see 'Blood Brothers' and Shakespeare's home town of Stratford to see 'Beauty and the Beast'.
Visions of the Future
A marquee set in the splendid surroundings of the National Botanic Gardens was the setting for this high profile county conference.
Emma Williams has already achieved high office by being elected secretary of this young people's version of the full Carmarthenshire County Council.
Tom Platt spoke on health and well being; Nathan Mullock examined safer communities; Rebecca Davis had a lot to say about regeneration; Anthony Austin contributed to life long learning and Alex Griffiths tackled the environment.
Recommendations from these workshops were forwarded for later discussion and are destined to be considered as part of future strategic planning by the county council.
Sports Digest
Young Sports Person of the Year 2003
Amy Westcott, Year 9, won this prestigious award at the annual Bryn Isaac Award Ceremony. After her many successes this year at duathlon, aquathlon and triathlon it was nice to see her achievements recognised by the local awarding body.
Welsh Vest
Daniel Thomas, Year 9, has been selected to represent Wales in the British Cross Country Championships in Nottingham in the new year. After an excellent perfomance in the Welsh U' 15 trial in Swansea, Daniel will be running against the cream of the other home nations.
British Champion
Sally Davies our Rhythmic gymnast has achieved 'gold' once again. At the British Championships held in Burton on Trent earlier this month Sally won a gold medal in the U'14 rope competition.
Dyfed Team
Lia Roberts, Year 9, received county recognition when she was selected to play for the Dyfed U'14 netball team against Glamorgan and the valeys earlier this month. Despite losing by the odd goal the selectors have kept the same team to face Cardiff and the Vales in the new year.
Swimming
At the local Urdd swimming gala held at the Llanelli Leisure Centre in November there were wins for rhys Jones, Year 8, in the 100m Freestle and backstroke events and brother Carwyn, Year 9, also in the 100m Freestyle. Together with Tom Simms, Year 9, who won the 100m Breaststroke they will compete in the National finals in Swansea on the 31 January 2004.
Year 6 taster Day
Bryngwyn opened its doors to over 250 pupils from our partner primary schools at the end of October. The day allowed the pupils to get a feel for the school as well as sampling some lessons which will be on their timetables next year. Quotes from the eager participants included: "The lessons were fun"; "The teachers were really friendly" and "I can't wait until next September".
Carol Service
The term finished in festive mood with the annual Christmas Carol Service. this year Felinfoel church hosted the event and accompanying the traditional nine lessons and congregational carols were items from the school choir and orchestra.
and finally:
Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.