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Flourishing artists of Ranby House School showcased their magnificent pieces at the Art and Design Exhibition last week. Hosted at the school’s Performing Arts Centre from 10th to 11th May, the event featured work produced by pupils from nursery to year 8.
Highlights of the event included “Fish by Nursery”, a series of foil decorated canvases of different types of fish. “Butterflies by Reception” showing 3D paper butterflies embossed with pearls. Speakers by year 8 and moving 3D scenes by year 7 which featured a Hula competition between Lady Gaga and Miranda Hart.
Paintings were on sale for £5 per piece with proceedings donated to charity.
To view photos of the exhibition, please click here.
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A former world war engineer visited Year 3 at Ranby House on 4th May 2012.
Mary Hickes, who is the relation of Dominic Crawford in 3J joined WAAF in the war and was responsible for mending radar systems. Showing them artefacts and published stories, she talked to the children about her training at RAF Wilmslow and her posting in Little Snoring in Norfolk.
The children then gave her a tour of the school towards the end of her visit.
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On Friday 4th May the Nursery went on a visit to Hodsock Priory. They were greeted by Mr and Mrs Buchanan who were helped by Lawrence- a pupil in the Nursery.
They viewed a beautiful outfit worn at Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee and an antique three hundred year old box which Mr Buchanan used to keep his Lego in. They also saw a slice of cake sent from the Queen, from William and Kate's wedding that was carefully wrapped and displayed in a decorated tin.
A fantastic walk around the grounds allowed the children to explore the woodland, climbing across log bridges and looking at the wildlife. The bluebells were magnificent and led to some beautiful artwork being produced back in the classroom.
The children had a lovely time and we are very grateful to Mr and Mrs Buchanan for making us so welcome.
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Year 7 pupils visited Yorkshire Sculpture Park on Thursday 3rd May 2012. Accompanied by teachers, they explored the magnificent sculptures of Sophie Ryder, Antony Gormley and Barbera Hepworth.
The children made sketches of the work and discussed the materials used. With the help of YSP artist Natalie, they worked on interpreting the meanings behind the sculptures. They were then put into groups and created their own sculptures based on given titles, using a mixture of manmade and natural materials.
They all enjoyed the visit and are looking forward to their next inspirational art trip!
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Year 6 pupils expressed their artistic side with a visit to the Lowry Gallery in Salford on Monday 23rd April 2012.
Having studied the gallery in their art lessons at school, they examined various pieces of Lowry paintings during their visit. They were able to create their own versions of the paintings using mixed media and various pencil techniques.
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In the week after the start of the Summer Term Ranby House School once again completed a successful exchange visit with a school in Aurillac- Bassetlaw’s twin town in France, for the nineteenth time!
On Sunday 22nd April a party of 27 pupils and 4 staff from Collège La Jordanne in Aurillac arrived at Ranby House and were welcomed by families of pupils at the school. The group spent six days in Bassetlaw. As well as spending time in school and discovering the differences between education in England and France, the party made a number of visits. Sherwood Forest, the Jorvik Centre in York, Wakefield’s Mining museum and Lincoln were all explored. The party also spent time shopping in Meadowhall.
The groups are pictured together in the Chapel at Ranby House before the Aurillac party departed on their homeward journey.
This is a very strong link between the two towns and we look forward to many more years! House and were welcomed by families of pupils at the schooland
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Staff and pupils, as well as families and friends of both, from Worksop College and Ranby House School, joined together on Sunday for a superbly organised trip to London to see The Lion King. Although it was a long day, especially for the oldest and the youngest members of the group, much fun was had by all and the show itself was magnificent. The realisation that the date of the trip coincided with London being full of marathon runners and spectators could have hindered things, but not at all. Mr Halsall and Mr Ward must be congratulated on their organisational skills and it begs the question “What shall we go and see next?”!
All future purchases of new school uniform for Ranby House School will now be made at the Worksop College site following the expansion of the present Worksop College School Shop. A new room has been especially fitted out to house the Ranby House stock and an additional new part-time member of staff has been employed to assist.
The shop opening times can be found on the website but we suggest that parents avoid break times and lunchtimes when the shop is busy with College pupils.
The Headmaster of Ranby House School, David Sibson, today visited the new premises for its official opening with the School Shop Manageress, Mrs. Cheryl Heath. The shop staff are looking forward to building a relationship with parents that will continue through Ranby House and on to Worksop College.
The Ranby House Second-Hand Uniform Shop will continue to stock good quality second-hand uniform and will remain at Ranby House School.
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The Board of Woodard Schools (Nottinghamshire) Limited is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Christian Pritchard as the next Headmaster of Ranby House School, the Prep School to Worksop College, from September 2012. He will be taking up his position when Mr David Sibson leaves Ranby House School after 14 successful years, both as Deputy Head and latterly as Headmaster. Mr Pritchard will join Ranby House School from The British School of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where he is Headteacher of the Lower Junior/Infant School.
Mr Pritchard was educated at Queen Elizabeth High School, Northumberland and then the University College of Ripon and York St John, where he gained a BA (Honours). He then went on to Oxford Brookes University to gain a Masters in Education with a leadership focus. He has considerable experience in the education sector, having worked in the Netherlands, United Arab Emirates and Taiwan as well as in the state sector in the East Riding of Yorkshire.
Mr Pritchard is a keen musician, playing the piano, keyboard and drums. He also enjoys web design, photography, reading, travelling and magic.
Mr Pritchard is married to Zoe and they have two daughters, aged 4 and 7, both of whom will become pupils at the school.
In addition, from September 2012, in line with the ‘one school status of Ranby House School and Worksop College, the name of Ranby House School will change to Worksop College Preparatory School at Ranby House.
Mr Pritchard said, “I am delighted to be joining the Ranby and Worksop Leadership team at this exciting time in the school's history. It is both a pleasure and a privilege to be the next Headmaster of Worksop College Preparatory School at Ranby House.
“As we build on the strong, child-centred, spiritual ethos that is central to the school's philosophy, I am looking forward to working with the children, staff, parents and wider community to continue the school's success as an outstanding place of learning and opportunity for all.
“The school has a vibrant, dynamic, exciting future ahead and my family and I are looking forward to being part of it."
Mr Pritchard joins the school at a time of strength, as reported by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in December, who judged that nine out of the ten areas under assessment were considered ‘excellent’ , the tenth area was considered ‘good’ with the addition that ‘much was excellent’.
The Governors are extremely confident that in Mr Pritchard they have a committed, forward thinking and inspirational leader who, together with Mr Gavin Horgan, the next Headmaster of Worksop College, will lead Worksop College and its Prep School to even greater success and achievement.
Please click here for the letter the Custos sent to parents.
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Many congratulations to the following pupils who join our other pupils who have gained Scholarships, Awards and Exhibitions to their senior school:-
Charles Blackmore Worksop College Sports Award
Oliver Dane Worksop College Sports Award
George Finlay Worksop College Sports Award
Ellie Jackson Worksop College Sports Award
Phoebe Leach Worksop College Sports Award
Alex Morris Worksop College Sports Award
Congratulations to Eleanor Cooley in Year 7 on receiving a CB Fry Exhibition for entry to Repton School in September 2013.
The Year 7 pupils put on an amazing and colourful production of ‘Arabian Nights’ on two consecutive nights of the last week of term.
Many congratulations to them all, and to the staff involved, for such splendid performances.
Photographs of the production are available for viewing on our website photo gallery.
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As part of Ranby House School's Olympic Book Week celebrations, pupils were lucky enough to have training sessions with Rugby coaches from Leeds Carnegie
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and also from cricketer Brett Hutton, England U19, Nottinghamshire CCC and Old Worksopian.
Many congratulations to the following Year 8 pupils on
being offered awards to their Senior Schools:
Alice Exley - Art Exhibition to Worksop College
Charlotte Docherty - Art Exhibition to Worksop College
Philippa Wilson – Sports Exhibition to Repton School
Tom Wilkinson – Sports Exhibition to Repton School
Madeleine Foulds – Academic Scholarship to Worksop College
William Hayman - Academic Scholarship to Worksop College
A wonderful final took place recently for the recent 15th Individual Music Festival.
Congratulations to all the pupils who took part in this year’s Individual usic Festival. Preliminary rounds, held in the period leading up to the finals, were adjudicated by members of the teaching staff. A representative number of pupils were chosen to go forward to the three finals, held on the afternoon of Thursday 23rd February. These finals were adjudicated
by Mr. Colin Walker, Director of Music at Abbots Bromley School for Girls and organiser of the Woodard Schools Young Musician of the Year. The finals provided plenty of entertainment and competition. The results are as follows:
Junior Final winners:
Charlotte Burnett (Guitar); Abbie Willgoose (Flute); Connie Farr (Year 3 Piano); Douglas Barnes (Year 4 Piano); Hattie Jackson (Year 3 Voice); Sophie Holehouse (Year 4 Voice); Abbey Hubbard (Instrumental); Abbey Hubbard and Rosie-May Marriott (Ensemble).
The overall shield winner was Douglas Barnes.
Intermediate Final winners:
Dominic Leach (Strings); Anishka Sooriah (Woodwind); Cameron Ho (Year 5 Piano); James Recaldin (Year 6 Piano - Boys); Emily Baxter (Year 6 Piano – Girls); Dominic Leach (Year 5 Voice); Anishka Sooriah (Year 6 Girls’ Voice); Alice McShane (Flute); Alexander Daubney (Percussion); Imogen Bennett
(Guitar); Blaise Durham and Eleanor Smith (Ensemble).
The overall shield winner was Cameron Ho.
Senior Final Winners:
Huw Brown (Guitar); Eleanor Cooley (Strings); Alice Exley (Flute); Phoebe Leach (Piano); James Tarbatt (Percussion); George Finlay (Boys’ Voice); Eleanor Cooley (Year 7 Girls’ Voice); Sophie Williams (Year 8
Girls’ Voice); Patrick Gallagher (Saxophone); Mia Main (Brass); Eleanor Cooley, Olivia Stocks and Imogen Hunt; Emily May, Charlotte Willis, Sophie Williams, Phoebe Leach and June Winter (Joint Winners - Vocal Ensemble); James Tarbatt, Rhys Connor, Alexander McGregor-Riley and George Finlay (Instrumental Ensemble); Emily Naylor and Charlotte Willis (Piano Duet).
The overall shield winner was James Tarbatt (pictured).
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The Governing Body of Woodard Schools (Nottinghamshire) Ltd has pledged to invest in the development of modern classrooms on the Ranby House site to replace the current Prep School classroom block.
Therefore we are delighted to announce that, following a great deal of preliminary work last term, plans are well-advanced for the conversion of the Adler Block (the former Girls’ Boarding House) into a suite of state-of-the-art classrooms. Four spacious, well-lit and well-resourced teaching areas will be created within the existing building to accommodate subject specific teaching for senior pupils.
Building work will start after the Easter holidays and the new classrooms should be ready for the start of the Autumn Term in September 2012. The project also includes the demolition of one leg of the existing classroom block.
The first of the scholarships have taken place and we are delighted to congratulate the following Year 8 pupils on being offered awards to their Senior Schools:
Phoebe Leach - Music Scholarship to Worksop College
Charlotte Willis - Music Scholarship to Worksop College
Alice Exley - Music Exhibition to Worksop College
Martha Dowding – Academic Scholarship to Lincoln Minster School
Ranby House School Cross Country runners turned in some fine performances at the recent County Finals Cross Country meeting held at Berry Hill Mansfield.
Oliver Dane came 4th in the Year 8/9 boys’ race and has qualified to represent Nottinghamshire at the English Schools Championships to be held in Somerset next month. Oliver is the first Ranby boy to be selected for the county team a year young.
George Finlay was 10th in the same race and is a reserve for the County Team. Tom Wilkinson also ran in this race and was placed 29th.
Philippa Wilson was placed 10th in the Year 8/9 girls’ race and is also a reserve for the County Team.
In the Year 7 race William Cressey was 14th, Ryan Wright 16th, Charlie Furniss 35th, Alan Brown 49th and Joshua Davison 56th. Our first three runners home in this race are eligible to run in the same race next year.
Amelia Biddulph, Mia Main and Olivia Stocks competed in the Year 7 girls’ race.
Great performances by all those who took part.
National award-winning kitchen and furniture manufacturer, Chiselwood is the new sponsor of Ranby House School’s 1st XI Football Kit and Girls’ Netball Bibs.
Director of Sport at Ranby House, Mark Pymm, commented: “We are thrilled that Chiselwood’s kind support has now enabled us to provide our pupils with a striking new first team football kit and new netball bibs.
Lincoln based Chiselwood is nationally acclaimed for the quality and design of its kitchens and furniture and as the school is very proud of its strong sporting reputation, competing well at local, regional and national levels, we look forward to building on our relationship with Chiselwood in the future.”
Mel Holliday, MD of Chiselwood, added: “We work with many clients in the Retford area and are delighted to support Ranby House School, (a school for boys and girls, day and boarding, ages 3 – 13), at a time when the School is being recognised, like ourselves, for its high standards and commitment to quality.”
At Ranby House we are delighted that our Under 13 Boys’ Hockey Team is now the Nottinghamshire Under 13 Mini Hockey Champions.
The team beat Samworth Church Academy and Grosvenor School on Wednesday 1st February at a tournament held at Beeston Hockey Club to become the County Champions. They have now qualified to represent Nottinghamshire in the Midlands Finals at Cannock on Thursday 22nd March. A fantastic achievement.
Congratulations to our U11A, U11B and U13B Chess teams who were successful in winning their competitions in the Worksop College Prep Schools’ Competition. The U13A team also played very well against strong competition.
The children played with great focus and determination and were a credit to the school.
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On two consecutive cold January days the Group Cross Country for Years 3 & 4, Years 5 & 8 and Years 7 & 8 took place. All the children ran extremely well and tried their hardest which was fantastic and congratulations to them all.
However, the individual winners were Philippa Wilson (Yrs 7 & 8), Oliver Dane (Yrs 7 & 8), Ryan Wright (Yrs 5 & 6), Harriet Brown (Yrs 5 & 6) Phoebe Emmans (Yrs 3 & 4) and Sebastian Price (Yrs 3 & 4).
The Group winners were as follows:-
Senior Boys Senior Girls Junior Results
1st - St Dunstan 1st – St Columba 1st – St Benedict
2nd - St Columba 2nd – St Benedict 2nd – St Dunstan
3rd - St Alban 3rd – St Dunstan 3rd – St Columba
4th - St Benedict 4th – St Alban 4th – St Alban
Intermediate Boys Intermediate Girls
1st - St Benedict 1st - St Benedict
2nd - St Alban 2nd - St Alban
3rd - St Columba 3rd - St Columba
4th St Dunstan 3rd - St Dunstan
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Pupils in Year 7 have recently begun a study of the powerful World War Two story, ‘The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas’. To enhance their interaction with the historical period, we discussed the ‘Kindertransport’ programme, which resulted in over 10,000 Jewish children from across occupied Europe, travelling to relative safety in Britain.
I challenged my pupils to ‘imagine you are a Jewish child, going on the next Kindertransport train.’ The first group, consisting of six pupils, were sent home with a suitcase to ‘pack’ for the journey. The focus was to consider their practical, personal and emotional needs. I asked parents to participate, putting themselves in the position of parents back in1939. The pupils involved were encouraged to invite their parents in to take part in the lesson, watch the presentations and share their children’s learning experience. It proved to be a very moving experience for all of us.
To read what our parents had to say, please click here.
To see photographs of the experience, please click here.
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Mrs Wilkinson writes:-
Isn’t it incredible what a great book can do! Following their study of the powerful story ‘Stone Cold,’ by Robert Swindells, pupils in Year 8 set 2 were so concerned about the issue of homelessness in Britain, that I encouraged them to write to the Prime Minister, David Cameron. We received a reply this week, which has caused great excitement in the classroom. The pupils whose letters were sent to 10 Downing Street, will all receive a personal response. Who knows, we may have a future Member of Parliament in our midst.
The stationary suppliers ESPO organised a nationwide Christmas Card Competition which children from schools all over the country were able to enter. Some of our children at Ranby House entered the competition and many congratulations must go to Imogen Bennett who won second prize in the age 7 - 11 category and to Alice Exley who also came second in the age 11 - 14 category.
In addition a number of our children entered into the Harley Art Gallery Exhibition. They had to create a piece of Art work based on something beginning with the letter 'H'. Everyone who entered will have their work exhibited in the gallery from early January until the 5th February.
Year 5 pupil, Dominic Leach has won a prize for his creation and has been invited to the winners' party to be presented with it on the 5th February. In addition, Jamie Davison, who is also in year 5, has been awarded the Tom Bell prize. Tom Bell is a children's book illustrator and writer who has an exhibition of his oil paintings from his book 'Where the Lost Things Go' displayed in the Harley Gallery at this time. Jamie will be awarded a signed copy of Tom's book at the prize winners' party by Tom himself.
On Friday 13th January it was with huge excitement and anticipation that twenty six, Year 6 children, and four staff headed off for a short sports tour kindly hosted by St John’s on the Hill School, Chepstow.
On arrival, the majority of Ranby House pupils were taken by their host families for an enjoyable evening, whilst the remaining pupils had a good night being accommodated in the boarding houses at the school.
The following morning the pupils visited the Millenium Stadium and then returned to St John’s for their matches. The girls enjoyed a lively netball match and the boys had an exciting football match.
After delicious match teas and fond farewells, the Ranby House group headed for home and some well earned sleep.
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Thirty three pupils from Years 7 and 8 and six staff travelled to Pila in Italy straight after the end of last term for our biennial ski trip. The entire party had a wonderful holiday with mixed weather, but plenty of snow. For additional photographs, please click here.
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Ranby House School cross country runners turned in some fine performances at the recent Bassetlaw Area Cross Country meeting held at Retford Rugby Club. The Year 7 boys and the year 7 girls won their respective competitions. Whilst the Year 8 Boys’ Team came second, only two points behind the winners. A most commendable achievement because this was a year 8 / 9 race and all our runners were only year 8.
The school also had three individual race winners with Mia Main winning the Year 7 Girls’ Race, Philippa Wilson winning the Year 8/9 Girls’ Race and Oliver Dane winning the year 8/9 Boys Race.
Twelve of our pupils have qualified to represent Bassetlaw in the County Cross Country Finals to be held at Berry Hill in early February.
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The Ranby House School “Mummers Group” celebrated its twenty-fourth year of operation by performing "St. George and the Dragon" – a traditional Mummers’ Play - a total of seven times in support of Help for Heroes. The charity was chosen by the performers; performances were held at a number of private houses as well as the school.
The total raised was £1420 (a new highest figure for this event!). The picture shows the children showing off their cheque as it was presented to Mrs J. Harris, one of the local representatives of Help for Heroes. The money will go to support the most local project of the charity, the Personal Recovery Centre currently being developed at Catterick Garrison.
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The Chess Club at Ranby House School continued to offer busy and exciting lunchtimes as about 100 pupils battled through the knockout stages to compete for the cup for their Year Group.
Many, many congratulations to the eventual winners who were:
YEAR 8: FREDDIE INNES
YEAR 7: PATRICK GALLAGHER
YEAR 6: RUDRA MUTALIK
YEAR 5: CAMERON HO
YEAR 4: LEWIS NAYLOR
YEAR 3: ANGUS MCCALLION
Well done everyone on a fiercely-fought competition.
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Five inspectors visited on two separate occasions in October and November 2011 to assess the school in ten particular areas of provision: quality of pupils' achievements; quality of the curriculum and extra-curricular activities; contribution of teaching; the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils; arrangements for welfare, health and safety; quality of boarding education; quality of governance; quality of leadership and management; quality of links with parents; and the effectiveness of Early Years provision.
As part of the scrutiny, the inspectors examined pupils' work, observed lessons, conducted interviews with pupils and staff, and assessed the responses of pupil and parent questionnaires.
The report speaks for itself:
‘The quality of pupils’ achievement is excellent.’
‘The contribution of curricular and extra-curricular provision is excellent.’
‘The contribution of teaching is good … In around 80 per cent of the lessons observed, teaching was at least good and much was excellent.’
‘Pupils’ personal development is excellent and has been strengthened since the previous inspection.’
‘The excellent spiritual development of pupils of all ages flourishes in the supportive atmosphere that permeates the school.’
‘The quality of welfare, health and safety is excellent and has strengthened since the previous inspection.’
‘The quality of the pupils’ boarding experience is excellent, marking an improvement since the previous inspection.’
‘Governance is excellent. Enabling the school to meet its aims, maintain standards and plan for improvement.’
‘Leadership is strong. Its clear vision and the commitment of an enthusiastic, hard-working and vibrant senior leadership team are instrumental in encouraging and supporting pupils to reach their potential, in line with the values and ethos of the school.’
‘The quality of links with parents is outstanding.’
And finally regarding the Early Years Foundation Stage (Nursery and Reception):
‘The overall effectiveness of the setting is outstanding.’
‘The quality of the provision is outstanding.’
All quotations © ISI 2011.
The Headmaster, David Sibson, commented: “We are all delighted with the feedback we have received in this exceptional report. The extremely positive comments made by the inspection team affirm the high standards that we strive to achieve and the outstanding breadth of opportunity and excellence at Ranby House. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff, the pupils and their families for all their hard work, dedication and support.”
Term ended at Ranby House School with a wonderful and very beautiful Carol Service. The whole Prep School, including Years 1 & 2 of the Pre-Prep joined together with Staff, Parents and Friends to sing carols, listen to traditional readings, read by pupils, and also to hear each year group sing a festive song.
At the final assembly of term, the school said farewell to Miss Raich our Gap Student who is returning to Australia, Mrs White who is taking up a new position at Wakefield High School and last of all to Mr Burkwood who is retiring after 37 years teaching at Ranby House School.
After nearly fourteen years at Ranby House School, the last four as Headmaster, David Sibson has announced that he will be leaving the school at the end of the Summer Term 2012.
Commenting on his long association with the school, Mr Sibson said:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and know that I will always look back and remember the school fondly: its atmosphere, the staff and the pupils make the whole offering very special and I feel privileged to be part of such a wonderful community.
“Over the last twelve months we have brought Ranby House and Worksop College closer together so that we can offer continuous excellence in education from the age of three to 18. This not only benefits the pupils in terms of academic achievement and facilities, but it has also secured the long term future of Ranby House.
“I have recently led the school through a very successful inspection and now feel, with the coming together of both Ranby House and Worksop College, that the time is right to move on to new challenges and opportunities.”
Throughout his time at Ranby House, Mr Sibson has worked with the senior leadership team to maintain Ranby House as one of the leading preparatory schools in the region.
Colin Anderson, the Chairman of Governors, added:
“It is important that organisations do not stand still and David has appreciated this and been instrumental in moving Ranby House School closer to Worksop College as one school with all the benefits this brings.
“He has made a significant contribution to the life of Ranby House School and helped to secure its future. We are all thankful for his hard work and we wish him, his wife Claire and their family well as they embark on a new phase in their lives.”
Ranby House Pre-Prep children recently presented their Nativity play 'It's a Party' in the school Theatre and they are photographed here using their new outdoor classroom as a stable. The outdoor classroom was very kindly funded by the Ranby Parents Group and is a wonderful facility for drama, music and environmental studies. The outdoor classroom is a circular shape and therefore it lends itself to Circle Time which is part of the PSHEE programme and on sunny days it creates a beautiful shady spot for story telling. It is much appreciated by all the children, who are gaining an enormous amount from this exciting new educational facility.
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Pupils, staff, parents and friends recently joined the boarders, choir and Chaplain for a very special and moving Christingle Service in St Augustine’s Chapel.
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The Pre-Prep children recently performed a fantastic Christmas production of their nativity play, ‘It’s a Party’. All the children from Nursery to Year 2 took part and were attired in stunning and colourful costumes. Those that had speaking parts were word perfect and all sang their hearts out to a packed audience of proud parents, grandparents, friends and staff who thoroughly enjoyed the sparkling and heart warming production.
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In the last week of term, the school hosted the annual Christmas Tea Party for Local Retired Residents and were delighted that so many friends were able to join us.
The Christmas celebration started in the school’s Theatre, our guests were entertained by watching various excerpts from recent school productions, together with musical interludes.
The visitors then enjoyed a spectacularly delicious tea in the Old Library whilst being serenaded by the Chapel Choir singing a medally of Carols.
Also, the first performance of the season of the Ranby House School Mummers Group’s traditional production of “St George and the Dragon” took place after tea. This year the Mummers Group are raising funds for Help for Heroes, and the generosity of the visitors ensured that over £100 was raised during the afternoon, which was a fantastic start to their season.
Prior to departure our guests were offered sherry and mince pies which all added to the festive spirit of the afternoon.
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On a cold blustery afternoon, well fought and highly competitive group hockey matches took place. All the girls tried incredibly hard under harsh conditions and great credit must go to them all with a special mention to all the goalkeepers who did a fantastic job. The final outcome was that St Columba narrowly beat St Benedict to become the winners of the Group Hockey 2011. Congratulations to all the girls who took part in this important sporting event.
Although held on a bitterly cold day, the spirits were high when the four House Groups took part in the annual Year 7 & 8 Group Rugby contest. It had to be cancelled last year due the inclement weather. After a well fought contest, St Alban emerged as winners winning all three of their matches. However it was very close and only one score in the match against St Columbia separated the two sides.
The Shakespeare Cup (given to the school in memory of a former parent, Mrs Kathryn Shakespeare, who sadly died of Breast Cancer when her son Joe was in Year 7) was presented to Harry Riddle, St Alban's Captain, by Joe Shakespeare.
Congratulations to all those who took part and showed the true Ranby spirit in the extremely chilly wind.
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Almost 100 pupils recently took part in a magnificent musical extravaganza. From the start of the concert when all the Year 3 pupils played their violin pieces with great poise and accomplishment to the incredible standard of the groups and ensembles, to the finale of the school orchestra playing and the combined choirs singing a moving rendition of “Walking in The Air” the audience were captivated and mesmerised.
To a completely “Full House” in the Theatre of parents, grandparents, pupils, staff and friends the audience enjoyed a superbly Christmassy evening with fantastically high standards of musicianship.
Many congratulations to all who took part.
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Recently Year 4 children performed an entertaining Christmas production of ‘It’s a Cracker’ in front of an enthusiastic audience of parents and friends. This included many lively songs in which Year 4 were admirably supported by Year 3.
The play brought into focus the traditional nativity story set against a modern Christmas.
To view the many photographs of the production please visit the Gallery through the school website.
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Year 6 recently put on a superb production of the Wizard of Oz. The two performances, held on two consecutive nights to full houses were greatly appreciated by pupils, family, friends and staff.
The year 6 pupils took the audience on a journey created by that most feared of meteorological extremes, a Kansas Twister to the Magical Land of Oz, apparently ruled over by the Wonderful Wizard, but which was actually more closely regulated by the Witches.
All the children put on superb performances and the costumes, make-up, lighting and scenery were fantastically colourful and added to the magic of the story.
Congratulations to all Year 6 pupils and to Mr Mingham and his “crew” of helpers.
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A great day was enjoyed by children in the Nursery and Reception recently as they were visited by 'Bob the Builder' or sometimes known as Mrs Bowden's dad, Ian. He bravely remained outside throughout the day helping the children to build bird boxes using real tools. The children also had the chance to try bricklaying, hammering and sawing sticks to make perches.
In the afternoon suitable trees were found to secure the bird homes amidst great excitement. The day was to raise money for homeless people and it seemed appropriate to create homes for wildlife here at Ranby House. The pupils are now waiting to see if any residents move in to the homes they have made!
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Worksop College recently put on an awesome and moving production of The Mystery Plays, directed by Mrs Wendy Bain, with many of the lead roles taken by ex-Ranbians. Below is an account by ex-Ranbian David McShane of this stunning production.
‘The Mystery Plays, in celebration of the Chapel’s Centenary, were an apt production to question the foundations of the foundations of this school. The most fantastic aspect was the use of the school; the silent library a scene of distress, the usual calm of the chapel torn by a crucifixion. There was a particularly disquieting moment as the light died upon the crucified body of Jesus (Ciaran Quinlan) and the audience was left in darkness in the place where this death was celebrated in the morning light every Friday.
The integration of actors and audience never let you escape from the distress, particularly the literally omnipresent God (Bethany Peterson). The darkness at the heart of the Bible and religion as a whole was exposed for all to see. The fall of Lucifer (Evan Tilly), the suicide of Judas (Oliver Leach), the fratricide by Cain (Leo Graves): they’re easy to read about, contemplate and take morals from, but to see them, experience the pain, invest in them as human beings, made for challenging, but engaging watching.
The first half in particular was not all doom and gloom. There were numerous comical moments, such as the renditions of Noah (Michael Hogg) and stolen sheep (Will Clothier) to name but a few, which made for a brilliant contrast as the play developed. The music also added an extra poignancy, heightening the humour and emotion which was augmented by the simple use of light to change the tone of a scene in an instant. The vernacular language made the production particularly accessible as, whilst updated, it remained true to its roots of bringing the Bible to a greater audience, which made this production successful on multiple levels.
Whatever your religion or theatrical penchant, the Mystery Plays are undeniably intrinsic to the growth of English Theatre and understanding the Bible beyond the page. All involved did a wonderful job bringing this eclectic play to life and there were some stunningly moving performances from the lead characters aforementioned that brought a real pathos - to the point where you were not sure that it was just Mary weeping in the audience . . . I’m not sure anyone who ‘watches’ it will ever see the Chapel in the same light again.’
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As the final event of a year of celebrations for the bicentenary of the birth of Nathaniel Woodard, the founder of Worksop College and ten other schools, a special service of thanksgiving recently took place at Westminster Abbey.
Today Woodard Schools is a group of forty-six schools and academies in both independent and maintained sectors and it is a leading educational charity in the UK. Each school was represented by staff and pupils at the service and it is believed that it was the largest ever gathering of Woodard schools and members.
Worksop College travelled to London with 35 pupils and four staff, together with the Headmaster and his wife and the school Chaplain. 14 of those pupils attending sang at the Abbey in the combined choirs of Woodard Schools and the Head Boy carried the Chapel Banner during the procession of banners in the Abbey. All year groups (except Year 10) were represented including many whose family have had a long-standing connection with the school.
Ranby House School, the Prep School to Worksop College, took 36 children and six members of staff including the Headmaster. All Year 7 pupils attended, together with the Head Boy & Head Girl, who processed with the Chapel Banner, the Deputy Head Boy and Deputy Head Girl, the Head of Chapel, and the Heads of Choir all Year 8 pupils. The members of the school choir who were attending joined the Junior Choir for the celebration in the Abbey.
After the inspiring and beautiful service, led by the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, the Worksop College pupils and staff visited the London Eye and the Ranby House pupils and staff visited the Science Museum before they all returned home on the same train.
The service was a fantastic and memorable celebration and a wonderful joining together in hymn and prayer of all the Woodard Schools.
The photograph below shows the Ranby House School pupils with their Chapel Banner outside Westminster Abbey after the service.
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Congratulations to the Pupil School Council who organised a “Mufti Day” and Fun Run/Walk for Children in Need. The pupils came to school wearing non-uniform clothes and for this pleasure they all made a donation to Children in Need. During the afternoon all the pupils took part in a Fun Run/Walk around the school grounds and were allowed to dress-up in fun and colourful attire which ensured a wonderful sense of fun and enjoyment.
The children all had a fantastic day and the Pupil School Council were able to raise in excess of £250 for Children in Need
Mr Chris Ward, Deputy Head Master, said that the “day had been great fun and the children had enjoyed themselves whilst raising money for a fantastically worthwhile cause”.
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On the evening of Wednesday 16th November a number of parents and staff took the opportunity to display their skills on the 5-a-side football pitch in the Sports Hall.
Some great skills were shown and on this occasion the parents clinched the win after a hard fought evening of football.
As usual, there was great spirit displayed on and off the pitch, with the evening concluding at the Chequers Pub for some well earned refreshments.
Keep your eye out for the date next term for the staff v parent football match and also the staff v parent netball match fixture.
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No Christmas preparations at Ranby House School would be complete without the annual Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoe Box Appeal. With the generosity of our parents and pupils, as well as the staff, Ranby House School is delighted to have been able to send 151 Christmas Shoe Boxes to the appeal this year (42 from the Pre-Prep and 109 from the Prep School).
The shoeboxes had been thoughtfully filled with toys, accessories, toiletries and sweets for boys and girls in areas of the world where there is great poverty and hardship and for whom a shoebox brings a little ray of hope, laughter and fun.
Over the weeks since half term the mound of shoeboxes in the school Chapel steadily grew to dizzying heights as children brought in their brightly wrapped boxes!
Two volunteers, from Samaritans Purse, came to the school to collect the shoeboxes and with the children they made a human chain to transport the boxes from the Chapel to the collection vehicle. The volunteers expressed great gratitude and thanks, particularly to Mrs Quinlan who organised the collection in the Prep School and to Mrs Connor for her organisation in the Pre-Prep.
For further photos please visit our photo gallery.
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Rabbi Perez from the Nottingham Synagogue visited school on Monday 7th November.
He gave a fascinating talk to Year 8 about the Torah and Kosher food and kindly answered the many questions raised by the children about the Jewish Faith.
He demonstrated playing the Ram's Horn which is used in the synagogue to welcome the new year and showed the children the holy book the Torah.
He also showed the children the Menorah which is used in the home and at Hanukkah.
For each child he wrote their name in Hebrew and presented it to them and then explained how the Hebrew letters and sounds are formed.
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On Tuesday 18th October Ranby House School welcomed Year 6 pupils from ten different schools in the locality to their Year 6 Schools’ Science Day.
With over 240 children taking part, the school was buzzing with excitement and anticipation.
The children were enthralled by three different sessions, one session was with the famous Martin Rapley and his Big Bug Show which was a fascinating insight into the lives of giant insects and all things creepy crawly! Another session was led by the Head of Science, Mr Sault, who delivered a fascinating talk on “Speed” commandeering volunteers to help him along the way. The third session was led by the Head of Chemistry at Worksop College, Mr Matthew Gillard, who discussed and explained “Rocketry” and gave the children and staff a demonstration of rocket launching (although unfortunately, due to the windy weather he was unable to launch his more powerful rockets).
The children who took part enjoyed a superb day of science which supported the National Curriculum and gave them an insight into the exciting world of science.
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The British Schools Score Championship took place on the Beaulieu Estate on 8th October. Ranby House entered a boys and girls team in the Prep School category.
The whole adventure started the day before with the team travelling together down to Hampshire, with a late night pizza in Romsey. The team stayed overnight at a local hotel and travelled the short distance into the New Forest on the morning of the event. The event attracted over 300 competitors from all over Britain from over 60 different schools.
The girls team (Eleanor Cooley, Abi Nicholson, Jodie Wright, Mia Main and Amy Johnson) finished second and the boys team (Ryan Wright, Oliver Wilson, James Recaldin and Callum Wright) fifth. In the individual event Ranby had four top ten finishers. (Eleanor Cooley was 4th, Ryan Wright was 6th and a pairing of Mia Main and Amy Johnson finished 7th). Special congratulations should go to Callum Wright who had not previously competed, and whose partner was unfortunately unwell, competed against boys a year older and came home in a very creditable 14th.
The closing ceremony included presentations to the teams followed by the long journey home (with a stop for a well earned McDonalds!).
Match report and photos kindly supplied by Mr Cooley.
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Ranby House School U13A XV Rugby team have been treated to a very smart new set of Rugby shirts, thanks to the extremely kind sponsorship of Mr Cawkwell-Stansfield, Managing Director of CS Surveying and Architectural Design Limited.
On being presented with their new shirts, on Saturday 8th October, the boys certainly gained inspiration for their game against Denstone College U13A, where they won 17 -7, wearing their sponsored strip.
To date, the Ranby House U13A XV have had an excellent start to their season, winning five out of the six matches played, scoring 198 points and conceding 40.
The photograph shows the Captain of the U13 XV Rugby Team being presented with the new shirts from Mr Cawkwell-Stansfield.
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Our U13A VII Girls’ Hockey team recently travelled to Oakham for a Mini Hockey Tournament.
The girls treated their spectators to an exciting afternoon of hockey. Throughout, they skilfully negotiated each match, listened to and acted upon coaching advice, displayed sportsmanship and were totally committed to winning the Tournament 'as a team'. A fantastic achievement to be joint runners up of the tournament (with Denstone College) and the girls were great ambassadors for Ranby House School.
Round 1
v Oakham B WON 3 - 0
v Wellow House LOST 2 - 5 (but never gave up!)
v Old Buckenham Hall WON 2 - 1
Round 2
v Denstone DREW 0 - 0
v Oakham A WON 1 - 0
FINAL PLACING: TOURNAMENT RUNNERS UP (shared with Denstone College)
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On Friday 7th October the Pre-Prep children at Ranby House School held a wonderful and very special Harvest Festival Service of thanksgiving to which parents, grandparents and friends were invited.
The service was conducted by the School Chaplain, The Rev Paul Finlinson, and he was joined by the children who not only led the meaningful prayers, but played out the reading too.
Many of the children had dressed up for their part and they had all brought amazing offerings of food and vegetables which will now be distributed to elderly local residents and The Well Church to be distributed to those in need.
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Two of our pupils recently presented a cheque to representatives of Retford Young Person’s Housing Scheme for £100. This money had been raised at the RPG Tennis Tournament during the summer term.
Retford Young Person’s Housing Scheme is a supported housing project for young people aged 16 – 25 who are homeless, at risk of homelessness or living somewhere that is not safe for them.
The scheme also try to raise enough money for their young people to have fun, to do what other young people their age take for granted, to take time out from worrying about where they will sleep, how they will pay their bills and to be a teenager.
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Worksop College swing band, Bert's Big Band directed by Julia Mills, recently visited Ranby House School to give a concert to pupils and their parents, friends and staff.
The evening was exciting and the standard of music superb and Mr Tim Uglow, Director of Music, pointed out that all those playing in the band were in fact ex-Ranbians - a real tribute to the musical experience gained whilst at Ranby House.
The audience were regaled with many favourite and popular numbers culminating with a fantastic rendition of "Fame". A superb evening, that was thoroughly enjoyed by all those attending.
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Each year Ranby House School Parents Group organise an annual invitation Ladies Tennis Tournament in June and as part of the proceeds this year a cheque for £400 was presented to Macmillan Cancer relief this week.
Macmillan County Chair, for Nottinghamshire, Mr Richard Bond, is seen here taking receipt of the cheque, which was presented by two members of the Pre-Prep at Ranby House School, James Petherbridge and Rosie Murch both of whose parents are on the RPG Committee.
During the tennis tournament the lady competitors enjoyed competitive play to win court trophies and the day culminated in a luncheon organised by the RPG, which welcomed players and non players, and was held at Ranby House School. An exciting and strenuous, but fun-filled, day was enjoyed by all, mainly due to Mrs Sue Furniss who had tirelessly organised the tournament.
Mr Bond expressed his sincere gratitude, on behalf of Macmillan, that Ranby House School Parents Group thought fit, to once again, donate such a significant amount to Macmillan. He also very kindly gave an envelope of wild flower seeds for the Pre-Prep children to plant in their garden as a memento.
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Year 4 visited the Harley Gallery on Friday the 30th September to attend a workshop looking at waste from Art. The day started by looking at an exhibition in the gallery.
The children looked at works of art created by 18 artists who recycle a diverse range of 'rubbish' which include computer parts, waste paper, bits of furniture and drink cans. The pieces were looked at in detail then discussed; there were some very interesting viewpoints.
Next the group went to one of the studios run by the artist Louise Presley. She has created her own label 'Hope and Elvis' and uses discarded materials to create one off pieces for her range of quilts, clothes, bags and more. The children had the opportunity rummage through boxes of buttons, fabric and wool to make and decorate their own quirky picture frame from card.
Our Year 4 pupils had great fun creating some excellent pieces of work and were totally involved in their work.
It was an excellent educational trip thanks to Rachel Dawes (Education Officer) and Louise Presley.
Report kindly provided by Miss Khan.
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With all the Prep school children participating and with a Rugby World Cup theme, the four groups of the Prep School competed in the Group Singing Competition. Congratulations to St Alban who won the Group Singing Competition with a rousing rendition of Ireland’s Call.
All the Houses had practised hard during the previous week and the group spirit and musicality were fantastic.
An event that was enjoyed by all who took part together with the spectators.
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Years 5 and 6 boys and girls turned in some fine performances at the Bassetlaw Area Primary Schools Cross Country meeting at Kings Park Retford.
The Year 5/6 boys' team won their event. Oliver Craig came 10th, William Cressey 7th, Charlie Furniss 5th and Ryan Wright was 3rd. Next month the team will represent Bassetlaw at the County finals. The other team members were Harvey Riggott and Joe McCallion.
In the girls’ race, Helen Baddiley was 11th, Harriet Brown 15th, Emily Baxter 19th and Zara Pickles 21st. The other team members were Freya Webster and Jade Davis.
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As part of the History curriculum our Year 5 children recently visited the battlefield visitors centre at Bosworth.
They had the opportunity to learn about heraldry and had to discover which Knight was really a spy!
During a session about arms and armour they took part in a drilling activity using billhooks and pikes.
Finally, they undertook a guided walk of the site and saw the location where King Richard III died and according to legend the well he drank from before his death.
The children returned to school full of enthusiasm for their history topic.
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Years 1 and 2 paid a visit to Wetlands Animal Park recently, where they met up with Phil the falconer who gave a talk and demonstration on some of the birds of prey they have at the Park.
The focus of the visit was particularly to learn about owls and the children were very interested in Barney, a three year old barn owl and Chunky an eagle owl. Much to the astonishment of the children Barney and Chunky both demonstrated their ability to swallow their prey whole! The children were also able to see a variety of other animals and our outing proved to be an exciting and memorable visit.
For further photographs of our visit, please view our gallery.
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Our Year 4 children recently travelled to York for a day at Holgate Saxon Village. They had a fantastic time dressing up and experiencing life as a Saxon.
The children were shown how the Saxons made ceramic pots and then made their own. They ground flour on a quern and then made bread using traditional Saxon utensils and their methods of cooking.
The pupils defended the village from Viking attackers and were taught farming methods used in Saxon times and undertook the farming methods using the traditional tools.
Finally, the children enjoyed a Saxon Banquet in a traditional village hut.
A superbly interesting and informative day that the children thoroughly enjoyed and from which they gained an enormous amount.
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Many, many congratulations to the following pupils on their appointments of responsibility.
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Head Boy |
Freddie Innes |
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Head Girl |
Philippa Wilson |
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Deputy Head Boy |
William Hayman |
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Deputy Head Girl |
Madeleine Foulds |
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Head of Chapel |
Emily Naylor |
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Heads of Choir |
Charlotte Willis Phoebe Leach |
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Head Librarian |
Toby Smith |
The following have been appointed Group Captains or Heads of Dorm for this term:
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St Alban |
Harry Riddle Martha Dowding |
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St Benedict |
Samuel Ratcliffe Grace Easterbrook |
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St Columba |
Alex Morris Josephine Gregory |
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St Dunstan |
Oliver Dane Claudia Bowring |
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Head of Dorm (Boys) |
Freddie Haith |
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Head of Dorm (Girls) |
Charlotte Docherty |
This term’s sports captains are as follows:
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Captain of |
Charlie Blackmore |
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Captain of Hockey |
Ellie Jackson |
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