VALETE
Studying DT has given me a greater depth to my understanding of materials and
Matt Chappell
how products are made through in-depth discussions in class with Mr Chappell. I enjoyed this very much as it gave me an opportunity to expand my thinking beyond the knowledge required for the exam. I have thoroughly enjoyed my lessons with Mr Chappell as a result of the freedom granted in the workshop, which allowed me to take on a project I was particularly interested in and Mr Chappell impacted the outcome of it positively. I took far more care when manufacturing my product because I was intent on keeping it for the future and not converting it to firewood. The fact that I could come to Mr Chappell and ask for advice on projects or work I was doing outside of school was extremely helpful; though conversations somehow managed to drift off topic and were often centred on“ how great the British navy is” and how“ Ark Royal is seemingly indestructible”, nevertheless, with a quick reminder my question was soon answered in great detail. I would like to thank Mr Chappell for all the DT lessons since year 9 and the shenanigans that took place in them. I wish him and his wife the best as they leave for Sweden. By Declan Brunner
Nicky joined Hillcrest Secondary School in September 2013 to provide English as an Additional Language to students from non-English speaking schools. Before she could even complete one academic year, Nicola noticed that many students were struggling and overwhelmed with studies and had no clue on how to gain and retain knowledge. She came up with the,“ Mind Map” study strategy that went viral with many students and parents; she did mind maps for almost all subjects including IGCSE Mathematics. What a skill!
Nicola Chappell
Coming from an administrative background, Nicola was quick to spot the administrative hitches within the Learning Support Department where she proposed a way forward. She became the LS organizer and Planner- Special Education Coordinator( SENCO), a role she not only enjoyed, but excelled in. Nicky has always been passionate about what she does. Her emotional connection with both staff and students is commendable. The Learning Support Department and the staff as a whole will miss her tables, her charts, her
mind maps and her sketches but more importantly, we will miss her!
By Josephat Otondi
Jude McCarthy
Seldom will one come across someone who has mastered the art of Literature as Mrs McCarthy has, being as attentive and appreciative of every detail pouring from the words of every author, be it Shakespeare or unknown authors. Mrs. McCarthy is always giving her students constructive criticism and is relentless in her consistency in writing comments equivalent to the length of one’ s essay! At first, this is very intimidating for the student, who cowers to glance at the returned paper. Yet this has been one of our major privileges as students of Mrs McCarthy; she reads and analyses every word that you present to her, so that we may feel the burning of scrutiny as heavily as we would in a final exam. She doesn’ t hasten the process of getting work done; she values the quality of work reflecting true effort not quantity of work achieved through panic. Mrs McCarthy speaks in metaphors and this brings her voice to life, making everything she says a vivid image. Her fascination and sensitive evaluation allows every student to appreciate the syllabus rather than be intimidated by it. Mrs McCarthy is always smiling and making light jokes with us, which shows how humble she is, never using her own excellence to undermine her students’ work. Thank you Mrs McCarthy from all your literature students! By Momina Tarar
Abdul Kareem Sow
Mr Sow joined Hillcrest to take on the role of Head of Chemistry as well as Careers, responsibilities that he has performed effectively and with a smile. He has supported his students to go for the very best, with some of them achieving top in Kenya awards in Chemistry and going on to study top courses in medicine and Engineering. Mr Sow’ s confidence and ambition to be successful easily rub off on anyone who is lucky to interact with him. He soon became head of boys’ boarding in which capacity he supported many students during preps to improve in Chemistry and science in general. One thing that I will always remember about Mr Sow is that he loves to express his opinion about matters. As head of Odin House, he was very particular about debating and was quite upset when Thor beat Odin in this year’ s finals, interrupting Odin’ s unbroken run for two years in a row. Under his guidance, Odin thrived and became unbeatable in nearly all inter-house events! We will all miss Mr Sow.
By Eunice Muthama
www. hillcrest. ac. ke 49