education
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education
School news
LOCAL SCHOOLS AND STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
St Swithun ' s manages use of smartphones
St Swithun ’ s School is responding to evidence about the negative impact of smartphones on young people ’ s mental health with a system that prevents their use during the school day .
The Yondr system uses a pouch that stores and secures a phone . Day students in years 7 to 11 keep possession of their pouches but are unable to use the phones until the pouches are opened at the end of the day at unlocking stations .
Headmistress Jane Gandee said , “ When used in the right way smartphones have great utility – but there is increasing evidence of links to poor mental health and self-esteem , especially in girls . We also feel strongly that time spent on smartphones is time not spent interacting with peers and developing vital social skills .”
01962 835700 www . stswithuns . com
Paralympic inspiration
Paralympic champion Karen Darke MBE inspired Princeʼs Mead pupils at Speech Day with her personal story of resilience , determination and triumph over adversity .
After a climbing accident at 21 left her paralysed from the chest down she went on to win a Paralympic silver in London 2012 and gold in Rio 2016 in handcycling .
LAMDA success at Pilgrims '
Pupils at The Pilgrims ’ School have achieved outstanding results in the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art ( LAMDA ) exams , with a high percentage of the 46 boys from Year 2 to Year 7 being awarded distinctions .
The exams include categories in speaking verse and prose as well as acting . Fiona Walker , LAMDA and Forest School teacher at Pilgrims ’ said , “ These results are a testament to the boys ’ hard work and passion . Their accomplishments highlight the dedication of both the students and their teachers , who have supported them every step of the way . ˮ
01962 854189 www . thepilgrims-school . co . uk
Headmaster Adam King said , “ We were incredibly honoured to welcome Karen to our Speech Day . Her achievements and outlook on life are truly inspirational .
Our pupils greatly benefited from hearing her speak about overcoming challenges and striving for excellence in all areas of life .”
01962 888000 www . princesmeadschool . org . uk
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