Newsletters

Science - Biology

The UK Biology Challenge saw Year 10 students participate in a series of online quizzes to test their knowledge of biology both academically and in the media. The challenge is supported by the Royal Society of Biology and the University of Warwick and is the first step in working towards the International Biology Olympiad. The Challenge saw over 45,400 entrants from schools across the country and our students performed particularly well, receiving 2 Gold certificates: Megan Thomas and Robyn Sharp, 15 Silver certificates, 12 Bronze and 20 Highly Commended.

This is a fantastic achievement. Congratulations to all Year 10 who took part in the challenge. 

English

In June, forty Year 9 and 10 students visited Lady Margaret Hall at University of Oxford with the English Department and had a very interesting day. They were given a tour of the college, spoke about life at Oxford with current students, and finally took part in a lecture regarding Intercultural Adaptations of Shakespeare. 

Psychology

National Psychology Competition, Royal Holloway University of London
By Katie, Liana and Zainab 

On Wednesday the 19th of June, we travelled to the Royal Holloway University of London to enter their national Psychology competition. We had spent the last few months preparing a video essay, answering the question ‘How can psychologists/psychology promote healthier working environments in schools?’ We explored ideas surrounding learning and cognitive psychology, and classroom environments, with a focus on Biophilic design – incorporating natural elements such as plants into classrooms. Being able to work closely as a team and watch our ideas come to life through filming and editing was very rewarding! After submitting our video, we compiled our ideas into a poster which we took with us to the competition. Our poster was displayed in a marketplace set up amongst other schools’ entries, with judges asking us questions about our research.  Although we were nervous beforehand, we collectively enjoyed enthusing about the contents of our poster, and the opportunity to improve our communication skills and confidence was very valuable. Although we didn’t win this time, we left with a sense of pride, having enjoyed the day immensely. We encourage enthusiastic year 12 psychology students to enter this competition next year, as it was overall an amazing day and opportunity!

Computer Science & Mathematics

In June, a small group of Year 9 students—Sienna, Molly, Annie, and Yunique—went to GCHQ as part of the celebrations for International Women in Engineering Day. They met some inspirational women engineers with various roles at GCHQ. The engineers gave presentations explaining how GCHQ welcomes diversity, including a mix of cultural backgrounds, nationalities, women, and neuro-diverse individuals (such as those with dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, and autism). They emphasised that GCHQ needs people with a variety of skills and approaches to problem-solving.

The engineers also discussed new emerging cyber technologies, such as bio-neuromorphic and quantum computers. During lunch, the students had the opportunity to speak more informally with the female engineers. Anne Keast-Butler, the Head of GCHQ, had heard that Ribston students had to earn their place on the trip by writing a short letter, as though it was written to her. She took time out of her busy schedule to meet the girls and chat with them, making for an amazing encounter.

To complete the day’s activities, students were allowed to control robots by coding on iPads.

Future Cyber Experts: Ribston Students Visit UWE

In June, a small group of Year 9 and Year 8 students had an amazing day at the University of West England, participating in hands-on activities related to cybersecurity. These activities were designed and run by industry experts, including an alumnus of Ribston.

The students engaged in various activities such as stripping a network cable and intercepting data, a forensic crime scene activity, and a Capture the Flag competition.

The day was immensely enjoyable for all the students. One student remarked that she is now even more excited about choosing Computer Science as an option.

Real-World Digital Logic Design Club

Over the last two months, we have been fortunate to have an industry expert (and parent) lead a Digital Logic Design club on Wednesday afternoons for our sixth formers. Students engaged with graduate-level knowledge, learning how to design, create, and program a software version of a silicon chip. This process required them to combine their Maths, Physics, and Computing knowledge.

This method is used in the industry as it allows for rapid turnaround of designs to meet immediate needs. The students loved the sessions. One student commented, “I enjoyed finding out real-life applications and creating something that actually physically worked.” Another said, “I enjoyed the Physics; learning how it’s applicable to my subject.”

Careers

In July, we were visited by former Ribston student Beth. Staff and students alike were excited to hear all about Beth’s journey so far into the world of forensic science. Since acing her A levels at Ribston sixth form gaining A*AA in Psychology, Chemistry and Biology, she was accepted onto her first-choice degree at Nottingham University and hasn’t looked back.  

Beth told us about some of the modules she’s enjoyed learning about including, forensic biology and chemistry, crime scene photography, suspicious death investigation, forensic imaging, microbiology, cold cases and many more.  Beth was also accepted onto an intern placement year with Nottingham Police digital forensic team. She has been able to work across multiple departments including DFU – Digital Forensics Unit, ICE-T – Internet Child Exploitation Team, MOSOVO – Management of Sexual or Violent Offenders, County Lines Investigation CSI – Crime Scene Investigation, Cybercrime team to name a few.   

She’s enthusiastic going into her final year of study and focusing on her dissertation into cold cases and use of DNA, with a long-term goal to be a detective.  Beth’s talk inspired some of our current year 12’s who are now considering this degree as an interesting option they hadn’t previously considered. We wish her all the best for the future and hope she returns to tell us about her progress. #ribstonfamily  

Ribstons Green Makeover day

The Eco Committee welcomed teachers, students and their families for a Green Makeover Day earlier this month. 

Wheelbarrow after wheelbarrow of soil was transferred from huge bags to the planters, taking 2 hours to fill every planter. Then came the fun part of planting the shrubs, which were picked so that there will be flowers in every season. The main block and 6^th form area has been transformed, and we couldn't be happier.

Not only has it increased the biodiversity in school, but it should have an impact on Student and staff wellbeing, who can now enjoy their outdoor spaces more.

Thank you very much to all involved. We couldn't have done it without you.

Food & Nutrition

Last month, the Food & Nutrition department took 24 students from Year 9 & 10 with a passion and interest in food to Sorrento, Italy. Over the four-day trip students were offered the opportunity to learn about the processes involved in the production of traditional Italian mozzarella, pasta & gelato! As part of the trip students visited the archeological site of Pompeii for a glimpse of Roman urban life during the Pax Romana. Students thoroughly enjoyed the trip:

"I loved going around Sorrento and soaking up the atmosphere. Thanks so much for an amazing trip” - Eve Yr9

“I loved the trip because you get delicious food, loads of experiences!  Thanks for running the trip, I really enjoyed it and will always remember it!” - Isla Yr10

“I really loved this trip. We had such a range of activities, and I enjoyed them all. All the food was delicious, and I made so great memories” - Izzy Yr9

Another Remarkable Year for Olivia with Aston Villa
Olivia in Year 9 has had another fantastic year with Aston Villa. At the beginning of the season, her team won a UK tournament, triumphing over Arsenal in the final.

The girls' teams compete in a boys' JPL league, facing some really tough games throughout the season but always playing well. Olivia had an excellent tour in Madrid, where she played against Atlético Madrid and other top teams. Although they didn't win any medals this time, it was a fantastic experience.

To end the season, Olivia was invited to an England Talent Event. She attended this event and hopes to have more opportunities next season as they decide on a U15 team to represent England. Olivia was also invited to trials for the England Schools U15 team (the only Gloucestershire U14 to attend). Although she didn't make the team on this occasion, she did make the reserves list, which is fantastic!

We were thrilled and very proud to hear that Olivia has been offered a new two-year contract with Villa to be retained in their U16 Professional Game Academy (PGA).

Lottie and Izzy Shine at the Swim England Combo Cup"

Lottie (Year 9) and Izzy (Year 11) had a successful weekend competing in the Swim England Artistic Swimming Combo Cup at Sheffield’s Ponds Forge Centre, featuring over 1,000 swimmers from across England. Lottie’s team, representing Cheltenham, secured second place in a highly competitive category, while Izzy also excelled, winning silver with her team after an outstanding performance.

Year 8 Student Battle Through in Regional Pentathlon

Last month, Bethan in Year 8 competed in the South West Schools Combined Events competition, representing the Gloucestershire team. The pentathlon includes the 75m sprint hurdles, shot put, high jump, long jump, and 800m.

Despite battling a bug in the lead-up to the event, Bethan performed incredibly well. In the sprint hurdles, she was leading her heat at the beginning of the race and finished in 14.52 seconds, just a whisker away from her personal best (PB). She threw 8.40 meters in the shot put and cleared 1.32 meters in the high jump, which was close to her 1.35m PB. In the long jump, she managed a solid 3.91 meters. She then ran the 800m in 2 minutes and 59 seconds. Given the circumstances, Bethan showed remarkable determination to keep going.

Her next big competition is the England Athletics Hexathlon Championships in Windsor in August. This event includes the same five events plus the javelin and spans over two days. Good luck, Bethan!

Show Jumping Success
Earlier this term Isabella in Yr 9, competed on her pony Echo and was successful in qualifying for the British Show Jumping National Championships, which will be held in August. 

In June, Isabella represented Ledbury pony club at the Annual Area Nine Showjumping competition. The team was successful in winning the 90 cm competition, and were the only team to finish with a zero faults score to qualify for the National championships in August. Isabella was also individual sixth place following 3 clear rounds, the final one against the clock to decide the final standings in a strong entry of 72 starters. 

Good luck in August Isabella! 

The house system creates smaller communities within our larger school environment, helping students feel a stronger sense of belonging and identity. Our House competitions and events contribute to a vibrant school spirit and collective identity. Students also achieve House points individually, as praise for academic excellence and effort. 

The below totals reflect the hard work and commitment to Ribston life:
Keep up the great work!

Support Éire's Journey to the Winter Olympics

We are excited to spotlight one of our remarkable alumni, Éire, a 21-year-old recent graduate and Irish Skeleton athlete.

After beginning her Skeleton career in November 2023, Éire has quickly made a name for herself. She finished the season with an impressive overall North American Cup standing of 10th out of 41 athletes and a World Ranking of 56th, just one place away from a World Cup spot! She is the first female Irish Bobsleigh/Skeleton athlete in over a decade and currently holds four national records.

Unfortunatly, Skeleton is an unfunded sport. Éire must balance part-time work and sponsorship efforts alongside her rigorous training to pursue her dream. She is seeking support to fund her next season (2024/2025), during which she aims to compete in a full Europa Cup (EC) circuit and represent Ireland in the Junior European and World Championships.

With sufficient ice time, Éire has the potential to qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics, which would make her the first female to represent Ireland in Skeleton at the Olympics. Additionally, she hopes to make history in the new mixed team event (1 male and 1 female athlete per nation), debuting at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Any donations, big or small, would greatly help Éire in her journey. 

Fundraiser by Éire Rowland-Evans : Help fund Ireland's no.1 female Skeleton athlete- Éire (gofundme.com)

https://www.irishskeleton.com/