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BOUDICCA BULLETIN PAGE 12
PAGE 12 YOUR SHOUTS
YOUR SHOUTS Voices of Roedean
School Calendar: Upcoming events • 30/11/08: Festive gala concert
• 03/12/08: Junior Christmas play “Arabian Nights”
• 05/12/08: X’mas holiday commences
• 05/01/09: Lessons begin
• 16/01/09: L4 Geography trip
• 16/01/09: Southern School’s book awards
• 21/01/09: Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award Training meeting
• 07/02/09: Valentine Social for U4
By Jasmine Gordon-Brown
The renowned President Bush of the United States of America once stated: “I
just want you to know that, when we talk about war, we're really talking about
peace”. If we all take a moment out of our hectic lives to consider this bizarre
phrase it seems to create a conflict within itself. Ever since the events of
September 11th 2001, questions about President Bush’s policy on terrorism have
been met with the same response. What does he want from them? What does the
name ‘war on terror’ have to do with anything? To me, the word “war” can have
only negative connotations, so how can this cause be portrayed by Bush as such
a positive thing? Indeed, it seems that the ultimate elimination of terrorist
groups has become the top priority of the USA and as a result a sort of hit and
run wild goose chase, only to be resolved when the last building of any
importance has come cascading down into rubble. After all, the widespread
speculation of the purpose of American and British soldiers alike in Iraq and
Afghanistan is not without reason. Is the USA trying to scare potential terrorists
into submission? Or is terror itself meant to flee from the frenzied machine guns
of an army of American citizens? What does Bush want? That is a question that
only Bush can even attempt to answer…you should probably sit down, have a
cup of tea and memorise π in the meantime.
War on Terror The BIG Question
We all pondered deeply about the vague
answer (simply, ‘vegetarian’) we were given as we
asked this question each day, until the recent
addition of the neat little blackboard menus that we
love so much. So for this issue’s featured question, a
selection of people were asked to reveal their inner
workings as to what ‘vegetarian’ meant to them.
One of life’s greatest questions was:
“what exactly is in the vegetarian option?”
Last Thoughts:
Would you feel worse being the first blood shed or being the last
one standing? But does that even matter to any soldier who has seen
the war ravaged fields before they were masked by poppies?
I think it's a concoction to slowly poison off all the adventurers and animal friendly people amongst us.
Anonymous
It's annoying when that happens. It's like when you ask what type of fish it is, they tell you that it's fish. They just don't know what
they're serving us.
Grace
Burke, L5
Well it's just an assortment of all the vegetables they could find, and possibly deep fried, isn't it?
Jazz
Baharie, 61
It often means it’s seen better days. Anonymous
It means they lack the knowledge
of what’s inside, which makes me
feel cautious and uncomfortable.
Sharon
Jacobs, U5
Made from the corpse of a hungry
vegetarian.
Mr. Back
PROMOTING
WORLD
PEACE?
Boudicca is victorious in burning down a
Roman town, but what is next?
Can we take over
the world now? Patience, we’ll
pave through
conformity one
step at a time.
Illustrated by Serena Esiri-Bloom
Roedean School Newspaper
“Honor the wordy”
Volume 1, Issue 1 November 2008 Roedean School, Roedean Way, Brighton, BN2 5RQ
THE BOUDICCA BULLETIN
By Joy Crane
Within recent months freshly uprooted
turmoil has been roused within the everlasting
debate of compulsory chapel. In addition to the
three week-day services, under the new hierarchy
of the school it is now imperative for boarders to
attend weekly Sunday chapel, a bold move which
has ignited both positive and negative reactions
from students. Reasons for this controversy range
from those of pure laziness to alternative religious
affiliations, and have provoked resentment is some
students whilst providing a wholly good religious
output for others.
The revival of the school’s Anglican roots
came as a shock to many, and served as a grave
contrast to the ‘multi-cultural’ ambience that the
school had previously prided itself upon. Khadija
Mahmood, L5, too has noted this change. “This
school is a multi-cultural community. I’m a
Muslim, and I don’t think that if the school would
have advertised itself as religious that I would be
here.” Many view the recent Christian leanings to
be contrary to the very foundations of the school.
The handbook states “Because we value very
much that Roedean is a truly international school,
our approach in chapel aims to be very inclusive.”
The school’s aim for pluralism is highly publicised
externally as a unique incentive for new pupils.
More on Page 2 News…
When An A’s Not Good Enough The introduction of the new ‘starred A’ raises
the bar for upcoming A-level candidates.
By Astrid Ainley
In September an A* grade was
introduced into A-levels. This will be
awarded to students who get 90% or
more in two or more of their A2 units.
Universities were finding it
increasingly difficult to distinguish
between the best applicants with 26
000 students achieving three A’s or
more at A Level last year. So an A*
has been introduced to make life easier
for the universities to choose between
them.
There is already a rift between
results achieved in private schools and
those achieved in state schools and
there is speculation that an A* grade
might increase this gap causing
students from state education even
more problems when it comes to
university entry, an already stressful
and difficult experience.
Olivia Burke, a new A-level
Roedean student says ‘The A* at A-
level is not the best idea because it may
make it harder to achieve a higher
grade. An A may not be enough!
Parents and teachers will expect an
even higher, more unattainable grade
which adds even more pressure on us
over our final two years of school
education.
Overall some positives can be
taken from an A* grade, fewer students
will be achieving the best, so the elite
universities in the country will have an
easier job choosing their candidates.
But what about the students who don’t
achieve A*’s? Will their entry to the
elite universities be hopeless because
they only managed three A’s at A-
level? We can only wait and see.
Chapel Controversies
Jr. Drama Production:
On the 3rd of December
at 7pm, the U3s and L4s
are performing their
version of 'Arabian
Nights', directed by drama
teacher Melanie Bloor-
Black. 'Arabian Nights' is
based on the classic
tale 'One thousand and
one nights', a tale within a
tale which depicts love,
tragedy, and an adventure. When asked how she was enjoying rehearsals, L4's
Daisy Alden-Templeman said "It's a great experience working on 'Arabian
Nights'. I like the story, and I think the audience will like it too."
What’s Inside
A Taster of Boudicca’s Lair
• Speech Day: Page 2
• A Community’s Forgotten Voice: Page 3
• Le Café de la Vie: Page 3
• Page Four Model — Mr. Back: Page 5
• Team Plays: Page 6
• Turner Prize: Page 7
• Netball Tournament: Page 8
• Individuality in a Uniform: Page 9
• When the chewing gets rough: Page 10
• Defining art: Page 11
• War on terror: Page 12
“An A may not be enough”
BOUDICCA BULLETIN PAGE 2
PAGE 2 NEWS
NEWS
Continued from front page…
… “The change in policies is misguiding to those who came here
because they believed the school to be a multi-cultural and inclusive
community,” states Sharon Jacobs, U5.
The heart of the controversy derives from the introduction of
a compulsory chapel service with communion for boarders once
each term. Although a communion service has always been available
at Roedean, this previously optional service has transformed into a
compulsory service, initiated in 2008-2009 school year. “Personally,
I’m Christian, so I’m not directly offended by the dug up Christian
roots of the school, but it (Chapel Service 19/10/08) made me feel
uncomfortable on behalf of the non-Christians, my peers and friends,
in the school,” reiterates Jacobs. “We weren’t told it would be an
entire hour and it would be Christian focused,” stated Mahmood,
“For me, it was a waste of time. It should be optional for everyone
who is not Christian.” Conversely, some students found the return to
the school’s Christian foundations redeeming and long overdue.
“First of all, people should expect this (a Christian service), because
this is a Christian school,” said Ayomide Fagboyegun, U5, an avid
believer in the school’s redeemed Anglican roots. “I found the
experience enriching and positive. I wanted a service about
Christianity, not just peace or greetings,” stated Fagboyegun.
Many students feel that due to the school’s Anglican
foundations, the facility for a communion service should not be
denied from the school, but rather made optional for students whom
would benefit from it. “I came out bored and resentful as I could’ve
been doing my prep. It was even worse because I don’t even believe
in Christianity,” stated Mahmood. As an alternative to these
services most students, even those supportive of an Anglican-based
service, feel that an alternative setting would prohibit students with
different religious affiliation from feeling isolated. “I thought there
was a non-religious group option already. That surprises me there
isn’t,” states Fagboygun in response to the prospect of no religious
alternative.
Roedean students and staff alike pride themselves upon the
21st century diversity and culturally-accepting environment that the
school upholds. Simultaneously, many feel proud of the strong
Christian tradition of the school, and the combination of which
enriches this great tapestry of a school. The student body looks
forward to seeing as to how the new senior management will
maintain this delicate balance between internationalism and
tradition.
By Megan Matthews
On Saturday the 8th of November Speech Day was upon us
again, a day when the prize winners experience a mixture of pride
and fear . The internal dialogue of the successful students was
etched upon their faces: “Oh God, what if I fall over my hemline
just as I am presented with my prize”. But, above all Speech Day
was a wonderful day in which the entire Roedean Community
united as a community to commemorate and celebrate Roedean’s
numerous achievements.
The day commenced with an address from the Chairman of
the Council who welcomed all guests and the new Head and Deputy
Head to the school. This swiftly led onto the Head’s address in
which Mrs King enlightened the audience about her own life and
informed them about her recent international trip.
The Head girl, Natalie Nzeyimana, and the Deputy Head girl,
Sinead O’Dwyer, talked to the audience about Roedean. The
highlights of this included a reminder of last year’s team plays and
the ‘Roedean’s Got Talent’ afternoon, with a particular shout out to
Roedean’s very own staff band the ‘Roedents’. Then the Choir and
Orchestra, as ever, delivered a faultless performance.
The highlight of the event in the view of many was that of
Susan Digby’s OBE, address. The speaker’s expansive
achievements include the creation of the Voices Foundation, being
a judge on the ‘Last Choir Standing’, teaching music at Cheltenham
Ladies College and mothering two children. A first was made in
Speech Day History when parents and staff began bopping up
Speech Day Achievements, celebrations, and more achievements
and down to the sound of Digby’s voice. They had to stand up every
time they heard a word beginning with B in a bid to be the last male
or female standing. Many felt that the interactive nature of the
speech enhanced the mood of the entire event; with Georgina
Wheatley (61) remarking that it ‘gave Speech Day a little lift I felt
and made us all more relaxed before crossing the stage.’
Speech Day’s main purpose was to congratulate all the prize
winners. Although Roedean is renowned for its academic excellence
one thing became apparent throughout the day - Roedean is a
community focused on personal development, not merely exam
results. Pupils achieved excellence in drama, music, dance, Duke of
Edinburgh awards to name a few. Susan Digby in her address
borrowed Obama’s famous line ‘Yes you can.’ This was the main
message for Speech Day.
Susan Digby later remarked that ‘On my gravestone is going
to be ‘sweet are the uses of adversity’ by Shakespeare’ -this is a
philosophy that she adopts, she uses misfortune to her advantage.
Achieving things or getting to the place where you want to be is not
always straight forward. Obama did not just wake up one day as
President of the United States of America - he had to persevere in
order to achieve his dream and now here he stands as President elect.
Speech Day was an example of this. The road to achieving the
prizes or the university places was not always a straight one but, the
recipients persevered and arrived. Speech day commemorates all the
hard work that the pupils and the school have done throughout the
year, students, staff, and relatives alike left the auditorium in awe of
the girls achievements, knowing in their hearts that ‘Roedean girls
can do it.’
(Please visit the English department intranet site if you wish to view
the transcript of the interview with Susan Digby)
BOUDICCA BULLETIN OPINIONS & EDITORIALS
PAGE 11 OPINIONS & EDITORIALS
PAGE 11
By Aviva Lipmanowicz
Define art.
With a task like that,
the first place you
would head for is the
good old, trustworthy
dictionary wouldn't
you? You would seek
words. But how can
we define a word
which is used so
broadly today?
Perhaps art is a
beautiful Monet painting or a carefully crafted sculpture to you, this is just one of
the many paths to take on art. Art is what you want it to be, when you look at art it
is the personal experience and journey you embark that sticks with you, not what
you actually looked at. Why try and assess what it is you are looking at when a
pickled cow in a tank is called art? I
think trying to put words to what
you see with your own two eyes is
limiting the experience, sometimes
there is not even a word to express
what you felt when looking at it. At the end of the day, art is an intimate adventure
so brace yourselves!
Defining Art
By Claire Ng
“You were not born a winner, and you were not born a loser.
You are what you make yourself to be.” This anonymous quotation
applies perfectly well to everyone. You are not alone, many people
fear to face their responsibilities and gradually, ‘hiding’ and ‘giving
up’ become commonplace reactions to their lives. Then one day they
might realise they can no longer run from themselves.
The last one left in the JPR? Procrastination is not a beautiful
thing, for you are sure to encounter problems along the way and time
won’t lend a helping hand. So going the length and scheduling time
for work instead of play could work wonders.
Scared of handling those reins? Taking the responsibility is
not easy because the consequences could be disastrous, but facing
the issue with dignity and diligence solves that problem.
Misbehaving is simple while being righteous requires courage, yet it
feels really good when you realise the right decision was made.
Good work and excellence is nothing to be embarrassed of and
should not be mocked either.
Hit rock bottom? There is no way everyone can be on the top
of the world but everyone definitely has a reason to be there.
Confidence is the signpost that points to the right path to the summit.
Yet living on the peak alone seems selfish and pathetic, life can be
much more meaningful if you can live also for those who love you,
those who need you and even those who dislike you. This may
sound impossible only because of the comfort of the present
situation, but the world is constantly changing, and so one must
adapt and change for the better in order to thrive. Who knows, a
better self could emerge.
However pushing yourself too harshly is unhealthy, so resting
is just as important as working. Just remind yourself of tasks using
post-its and as soon as you’re in the mood to work, do the job until
you have to stop. Notice that different people function more
efficiently at different parts of the day, so plan accordingly.
Life is not easy at all, and the difficult tasks come one after
another. However these difficulties are what make you a better
person. Don’t worry if you fail to conquer them the first time
because they will always come back. ‘You’re never a loser until you
quit trying’ was said by Mike Ditka, an American Football Player in
1939. Learn this by heart, and remember, with perseverance, nothing
is impossible.
You’re Not the Only Sour Cherry on the Fruit Stand A few wise words from the resident wise elder, Claire Ng, of The Boudicca Bulletin’s extended family.
“Then one day they might realise they can no longer
run from themselves.”
“Art is what you want it to be.”
Volume I Issue I
The Boudicca Bulletin; Roedean School Newspaper
Roedean School, Roedean Way, Brighton, BN2 5RQ
Editor-In-Chief Joy Crane
News Editor Megan Matthews
Features Editors Anouska Wise & Grace Matthews
Opinions & Editorial Editor Victoria Woo
Sports Editors Nkem Ike-Nwabuoko & Alex Colombo-Sansom
Fashion Editor Hannah Redwood
Entertainment Editors Grace Allwood & Felicity Paterson
Business and Advertising Manager Natalie Wong
Graphics/Layout Design & Photography Manager
Sheena Cheung and Esme Brand
Faculty Advisor Mr. Back
Special thank you to Sophie Watson for the entry to the Boudicca
Bulletin icon design competition. Congratulations Sophie.
Thanks for all contributing authors and photographers as well.
Oluwafunmbi Adeagbo
Astrid Ainley
Phuong Dinh
Naomi Falcone
Jasmine Gordon-Brown
Joy Ip
Sharon Jacobs
Rebecca Johnson
Julia Kisray
Aviva Lipmanowicz
Camilla Longman
Johanna Lorenz-Mayer
Indira Mandel
Nneka Mbadugha
Claire Ng
Sinead O'Dwyer
Anna Reid
Barbara Roberto
Aimee Taylor
Serena Erisi-Bloom
BOUDICCA BULLETIN PAGE 10
PAGE 10 OPINIONS & EDITORIALS
OPINIONS & EDITORIALS
By Joy Crane
How strange it is to think that a mere three months ago the
print you are currently reading was just a folly, a productive
summer pastime to counteract the notorious humdrum that is my
hometown, Oshkosh Wisconsin. Now, one diligent summer and a
hectic first term later, the scheme formerly confined to E1, the
headquarters of the editorial board, has finally touched the light of
day, you. You, the Roedean student, the flair of the future and the
essence of the now, are the key players in this community. You are
the educated, the educators, the workers, the residents, the
innovators, the protestors, and ultimately the Boudiccas of this tribe.
Boudicca, the first person to demonstrate true resistance to the
Roman Empire in 61 AD, a firm believer in her cause, and a
woman, represents the power and influence that the Roedean
student voice is capable of. Yet, despite your valiant roles, up until
this point a gaping vacancy has stood in place of your
representation. Student Council, petitions, and persuasive posters
are undeniably grand strides, but without the presence of a student
forum many voices went unheard. When a band of Upper Threes
saw injustice in the unbalanced uniform regulation, who heard their
voice? When a sixth former embarked on an incredible journey to
Indonesia for a summer, who heard their story? When controversy
arose in regards to compulsory chapel with communion, where was
the debate officially represented? Intellectual curiosity, a dictum
inscribed into the Roedean Founders’ aims, can not be truly present
Welcome to the Newspaper
When the Chewing Gets Tough By Camilla Longman and Victoria Woo
We’ve been taken on a roller coaster ride of flavours, textures and
condiments these past years at the Roedean Dining Hall. Over time, definite
improvements have been made but the basics of great food need to be
reinforced.
One thing we all agree on is
that freshness is fundamental. At the
beginning of the culinary week when
supplies are restocked, the salad bar
seems to radiate freshness, but as
week drags on, the lettuce leaves start
to wilt and the cucumber starts to
taste of refrigerator chemicals. The
solution is simple yet seems almost
revolutionary, restocking more frequently in smaller quantities, which
would also help with the environmental issues of food wastage.
Secondly, recipes need not to be complicated to taste great.
Sometimes we queue up to find trays of ambitious questionable content.
The adventurer within urges me to try new things but then we the taste is as
questionable as its content, you know it’s time for some readjustments.
Who remembers the heyday of the fajita? Such a simple concoction
of a stir fried meat or assorted vegetable wrap is a no-brainer crowd pleaser.
Another important issue that needs to be addressed is
the health aspect. Joy Ip, U5, has rightly pointed out that “for
the school to be healthy, you must start with the food”, with
increasing numbers of students not flocking to the tuck shop
for their meals, and Aimee Taylor, U5, stating that “the
cheesecake is nutritious” because “they’ve got orange
segments on top”, there is no better time for change. Exhibit
A: the veggie sausage, delightfully tasting but after breakfast,
a mouth full of oil is not pleasant. We would like to see some
more healthy options for all of our meals. For example, the
poached salmon is one of the most nutritious options on the
menu and from recent surveys; it seems to be a school
favourite.
Starting with the much celebrated return of the
ketchup, one new entertaining aspect of the Dining Hall is the
constant introductions of new condiments, from little sachets
of both French and English mustard to the new Thai chilli
sauce; we want to know what the next thing we can slather
onto our food when tastes are unfamiliar is.
One final question that we hope to find the answer to
soon is the plans of Mrs. King after her visit to the Dining
Hall. Maybe we will soon see some changes.
without the facility to ask-and-answer
questions like these. The Boudicca Bulle-
tin, like the historic woman it’s titled af-
ter, seeks to passionately proclaim its
main cause, to inform of all school issues
in a balanced manner, with the same ex-
traordinary perseverance, honour, and
valiance.
Now my fellow Roedeanians, with this paper in your hand
and knowledge at your finger tips, it’s your turn to take lead of
Boudicca’s chariot. Question your surroundings, establish your
viewpoints, externalize your perspective, and enjoy the first issue of
the Boudicca Bulletin.
BOUDICCA BULLETIN NEWS
PAGE 3 NEWS
PAGE 3
By Sinead O’Dwyer
On Wednesday 12th November a group of sixth
form history students welcomed CL Henson, a speaker
who came to talk about Native American history and a
bonus feature on the US elections. CL Henson, a
Cherokee and ‘fabulous golfer’, as he introduced
himself, has visited the school before and his talks are
always worth attending. Students heard about daily life
on the Plains, and the erosion of this traditional lifestyle
as American settlers migrated westwards, populating
hunting lands and driving the buffalo, the staple of
Native American tribal life, almost to extinction.
Relevant for both the AS topic of Westward Expansion
and A2 Civil Rights, it was especially interesting to hear
about the history of Native Americans from an inside
perspective.
The students were also presented with an analysis
of the recent US elections, and all four key figures plus
Hilary Clinton (Mr Henson predicts we have not seen the
last of her) along with photographs, not all of them
flattering! The talk particularly focused on the
implications for Native Americans that the result of the
election will have, an aspect which the group were left to
consider. Mr Henson’s visit was as ever, a great success
and ‘extremely fascinating and informative’ according to
one student. Roedean looks forward to welcoming him
back in future years.
Poetry Day – Once again Roedean poets picked up their
pens in celebration of National Poetry Month, the winners
this year were: Joy Crane’s - Deaf Inquiries, Annie Daniel’s
- Toxic Times and Georgia Winch’s - I Want To Be
Environmental Committee – A committee set up to
create awareness of environmental issues and attempt to
make ‘Roedean go green.’ Their blog is at:
http://giveusagreenroedean.blogspot.com
Custard Building – A Lime wash Treatment returned the
school to its original ‘chalk’ colour.
Founders Day – A Commemorative service which took
place in the chapel; old Roedeanians were invited to join the
service in which we celebrated the work of the Lawrence
Sisters – the founders of Roedean.
German Exchange Visitors – Roedean once again
strengthened their German connection when a group of
German students came to stay at Roedean for a week, with
the L5 German students looking after them.
“Turn your fat to fuel” – a Chemistry workshop for 61’s
run by the University of Bradford, in which many students
were amazed to realize that ‘potato can be used to make
plastic.’(Carol Lee).
By Oluwafunmbi Adeagbo
Longer than anyone
can remember, there has sat
a small hut on the side of a
hill. Its atmosphere as serene
as the sea on a good
summer’s day. The Roedean
tuck shop has brought joy to
generations of young girls
and the occasional adult.
However, those days may be
drawing to an unexpected end. The reason, “In the best interest of students.”
There have been speculations that the tuck shop maybe upgraded to ‘le café
de la vie.’
This idea, part of the never-ending battle between parents and
children, might be finally gaining some ground. Ever since the health food
revolution of the recent years, the youth, especially young girls, are
constantly bombarded with guidelines on what, when, where and how they
should eat. It is true that eating a well balanced diet and avoiding excess has
huge benefits on ones body and eventually on learning aptitude.
Yes, there is no doubt about it having a place where you can indulge in
all sorts of confectionery without any external censors, well apart from the
depth of your pocket, can be a great temptation to even the most virtuous of
individuals. But is it really necessary to take the tuck shop away and replace
it with a healthy café?
A few of the older schoolgirls when interviewed were not in complete
objection to the idea of changing the tuck shop into something similar to a
café. One explicitly stated, “If they sold fresh salads and sandwiches, I
would be up for it!” Her reason largely rooted in what she felt was a failure
on the catering department’s side to provide healthy and appealing meals.
Speaking from the knowledge of further investigation, the myth that
says, having the tuck shop so readily available promotes girls to consume
excess sweets, has been put under scrutiny. A good proportion of girls tend to
visit the tuck shop less and less as time progresses until they find that they
really only go there really just for the basics. One member of staff described
the tuck shop as a novelty. “Most new girls get really excited when they see
the tuck shop it’s something they never really had in their last school.”
One must not forget that the tuck shop in its current format serves not
only as a sweet parlour but also as the girls very own fashion boutique. There
the unfortunate Katharine can quickly nip down to find the solution to her
ripped trousers before being spotted by the ever-vigilant P.E department.
If parents know their children are prone to excess then simply limiting
their expenditure would be good enough. The introduction of some healthier
choices is good but changing the tuck shop all together I fear will have a huge
negative effect on school life.
With so many students far from home, having a small place where the
girls can relax from the hassles of school work, even if it is for 15 minutes at
break, is essential in any child’s development. What the Roedean students
need is not deprivation, but for parents and teachers to educate them on when
to draw the line between what is rational and what is plain folly.
Le Café de la Vie Life on the Plains
News in Brief
BOUDICCA BULLETIN PAGE 4
PAGE 4 FEATURES
FEATURES
By Sharon Jacobs
On the weekend of the 15th of November, the English
department’s annual Stratford rip rose to new heights, leaving girls
speechless and flabbergasted by the stunning performances of all the
actors in both ‘Hamlet’ and ‘Love’s Labour’s Lost’. There was a
bonus feature this year with David Tennant starring in both
productions. His brilliant performances converted some cynics into
die-hard fans. The performances were not the only thing that created
a general sense of excitement among the Roedean girls that
weekend; the elegance of the town excited many, creating a general
feeling of enthusiasm for the play-wright’s home town.
Saturday morning was a challenging one for most students,
waking up at seven o’clock seemed less than appealing and the
length of the journey soured that thought as everyone dragged
themselves out of bed to embark on a weekend few expected. Two
hours into the seemingly endless coach ride, with many slumped in
their chairs listening to IPods, everyone was surprised to find the
coach had arrived at a service stop for a much needed toilet break.
After this everyone felt reenergized and ready for two more hours of
IPods.
When the group finally arrived at Stratford the weather was
surprisingly kind with just a light breeze. The early arrival gave
many eager girls a chance to roam around the town centre and
indulge in their favourite stores, Top Shop and H&M appearing the
most popular. At twelve forty five exactly, with shopping bags in
hand, all the
Roedean girls
stood patiently
outside The
Courtyard Theatre,
awaiting their first
sight of David
Tennant and the
brilliant
performance that
was to come.
Everyone
entered the theatre
to find two men lazily lounging on a few pillows, on a black tiled
stage with nothing but a big tree for a set. This peculiar beginning
intrigued many and what followed exceeded most people’s
expectations. The comedic scenes with an awkward Spaniard and his
young cheeky companion aroused much laughter from the audience,
as did many of the scenes which featured David Tennant. The young
Berowne (Tennant) who, with his friends, signed an oath to study
fast and deprive themselves of contact with women finds himself in
love with Rosaline. Berowne then faces the dilemma of whether to
break his oath for her or not, but is soon pleasantly surprised to find
that all of his friends have also fallen victim to love. They then
persuade themselves to break their oaths. The play was witty, fast
paced and eventful, a truly impressive lighthearted production for all
to enjoy.
The second play, though not nearly as joyful, provoked the
same positive reaction from the audience. With the great David
Tennant playing another starring role, many members of the
audience were so blown away by this performance that a few people
threw flowers on the stage in appreciation at the end.
Stratford Trip A personal anecdote of a weekend well-spent.
“[David Tennant’s] brilliant performances have converted some cynics into die-hard fans.”
Courtyard Theatre
Shakespeare’s House
David Tennant in ‘Hamlet’
By Aimee Taylor and illustration by Claire Ng
If the Autumn/Winter 2008 collections have kept you on your
toes then you will be fully aware of how black, in all its beauty, is
most definitely back. Big time!
Gone are the days of quietly slipping on
a black cardigan or black ballet flats and
wearing brown, so-dark-it-looks-black nail
varnish, to embrace this seasons must-have look
there should be one word playing in your mind
– dramatic.
Obviously, we don’t all want to look
like Morticia Addams on Halloween, but if
you have a flick through Vouge or Elle, you
will see how black has dominated the
fashion runways of the likes of YSL,
classic Chanel and Givenchy. Even
Lanvin, which is noted for being prim,
dipped a toe into the realms of the
gothic.
If you don’t want to go full on
Amy Lee, then why not layer a black dress
over a black t-shirt, and add a waistcoat? Miss
Selfridge does some fantastic romanticised
black pieces. If you haven’t worn much
black before, paint your nails (weekends
only!) and grab a black beaded necklace.
Black skinnies are in absolutely no way, a
supplement for this daring look, but if you
simply cannot be parted from them, belt
a top or dress with a chunky black belt
and add heaps of black jewellery with
them. Include bows and cute pattern
into your look as this breaks the outfit
up. Fishnets might be a little too racy
for school, but there’s no reason to not
wear opaque black tights (warm and flattering) with floaty black
skirts. Try Topshop for these.
Heavy black eyeliner optional.
By Phuong Dinh
Every private school has its own uniform,
and Roedean is not an exception. While Upper
Fives and under moan from day to day about how
dull and boring it is, why not funk it up and
personalize your uniform like how the characters
on our favorite series ‘Gossip Girl’ do?
First of all, we have Serena Van der
Woodsen. She and her some-times best friends
Blair Waldorf never wear the correct uniform.
Serena is always effortlessly fabulous, with cool
boots –which of course, is against our black shoes
policy, and oversized bags –just what we need for
all those heavy folders. If you want to look more
like her, a slouchy boho bag and some layered
necklaces [shh, hide ‘em] will instantly give your
look a quick fix.
Completely opposing to Serena’s I-just-
randomly-threw-it-on style is Blair’s polished
looks. The Queen Bee knows how to use
accessories to stand out from the crowd. Her
trademark item is a hair band, which is like a
crown she proudly wears. In addition, cutesy
pendants and rings add the final touch to anything
she wears. You could do just like Blair by adding
an elegant hair band to those shiny locks, or a
structured, classic bag. Also, a little ring wouldn’t
do any harm.
But you can be cheap and chic, as Jenny
Humphrey effectively demonstrates. Jenny adds
bright colours like yellow and purple to really
make her uniform pop. Since navy or black tights
are a must, try statement bags and a solid-colour
hair accessory.
So, choose the style that’s right for you,
and start spicing up those uniforms, within the
school rules of course!
BOUDICCA BULLETIN FASHION
PAGE 9 FASHION
PAGE 9
By Naomi Falcone
Denim in general is back on the fashion
radar. Ranges of dresses are showing the
all-blue looks such as Karl Lagerfeld, Peter
Jensen even Emilio Pucci but especially
heavily on the catwalks at Mulberry and
Chanel. These runway and celebrity styles
are easy to translate into real life looks and
there are endless styles to select from.
You can’t talk about the denim dress
without talking of the ex-model, television presenter Alexa
Chung who owns several frocks in the medium-blue hues.
Best friend fashion obsessed Agyness Deyn joins her
companion with a Chanel dress while in the above picture
Alexa is seen leaving Radio 1 wearing what we tracked to be
the denim button front from ASOS with her signature knee
socks and D&G's studded bag.
Julia wears… A denim dress with a high collar,
ribbon and button-up placket to neck, three-quarter length
blouson sleeves, semi-opaque black tights, thick cardigan,
and a belt as an alternative of a pendant.
Black is Back Individua
lity in a Uniform
The Chosen One
BOUDICCA BULLETIN PAGE 8
PAGE 8 SPORT
SPORT
By Nneka Mbadugha
Roedean started the U16 National Tournament with a
bang, scoring the first goal in the match against Hurst
College. During the match, there were some brilliant
interceptions from Nkem Ike-Nwabuoku who carried this on
throughout the game. In addition, there was exceptional
marking from Caitlin Boyland. Edwina Wilson helped with
this game with her stupendous shooting, despite having the
advantage of her extraordinary long arms which kept the ball
high above and away the defenders. Although we had great
players, it was a tight and competitive game with a close
score of 8 goals from Roedean and 6 from Hurst. After a short
break the players soon began their second match against
Imberhorne. Roedean were so eager to get through to the
finals that they got their first goal in 15 seconds! This match
proved to be tough as by the second half Roedean tied with
Imberhorne with a final score of 6-6. Roedean strived to win
this match but landed with the score of 9-9. Their next match
was against St. Bede’s who started off strongly and managed to get
the first goal in. That didn’t bring the Roedean players down though
as there was a beautiful interception from Ope Salau which, I
believe, shook the rival players. By half time Roedean was winning
by 7 goals to1. St. Bede’s was obviously no match for the warriors
of Roedean and they won by 15 goals to 4. The second-to-last match
(before they announced what schools would be playing head to
head) was against Bishop Luffer with Nkem Ike-Nwabuoku yet
again making outstanding interceptions; she blatantly did not want to
lose. Roedean started the game with the first shot and from there
won the game with a whopping 14 goals to none! The last match
against
Mayfield was very intense and by half time Roedean was winning 5
goals to 2. Mayfield gave us a great game and proved that they were
somewhat difficult to defeat but nothing stopped Roedean from
being the champions: winning by 10 goals to 3.
Roedean U16 team made it to the final where they played
against Brighton College. By half time, Brighton College was
winning with a surprising score of 5 goals to 3. The Roedean players
were determined not to loose and they put a lot of effort into this
match but, unfortunately, lost by 11 goals to 8. But, it was obvious
to the Roedean spectators that, if the time was extended by a mere
30 seconds, we would have come out on top. Well done to all the
Roedean players!
By Astrid Ainley
The four colours, green, yellow, blue and red, were out in force
again for Roedean’s annual out of excel inter team netball tournament.
The four teams, scraped, hit, scored and defended their way to some
stunning games. First up was Team One and Team Two in a nail biter,
with Team Two eventually coming out victorious. Then, Team Three
versus Four was a close game in which both teams left the court panting
and aching. Team Four probably were the happier of the two, holding
Team Three to a seven-five goal victory!
After an hour and a half of endless netball, Team Four emerged
victoriously winning all of their games. Team Three were in second place,
Team Two were in third place and Team One were in fourth place.
However Team Four were not the only winners, I want to say a big well
done to all those girls who came out to represent their team even though
they don’t play much netball normally, but who stepped up and filled in
when they were needed. But, being a completely biased Team Four
member, well done, you were fabulous!
Internal statistics:
Hockey: Roedean Ladies 1st Team’s are currently first
place in Sussex ladies league table with 24 points! The
current top three scorers are Sofie Cawley, Naomi Falcone
and Jess Parfit. Keep up the good work girls!
Netball: 1st team netball girls currently have a 100%
undefeated record this season. 2nd team has won 66% of
their matches, the U16, 60%, and the U15 at 66%. Our U13
is also currently undefeated. Well done so far!
External statistics:
Team Netball
Netball Tournament
Top 5 Football teams in the League Table 2008-2009
Team Points
Chelsea 32
Liverpool 32
24 Manchester United
Arsenal 23
Aston Villa 23
BOUDICCA BULLETIN FEATURES
PAGE 5 FEATURES
PAGE 5
By Indira Mandel
For the first edition of the Roedean newspaper, our page four model was
the one, the only, Mr. Back!! The interview was full of weird questions in the
middle of the Bahamas; we flew there by private jet… NOT we were In E…
hmmm… whatever room Mr. Back teaches in... Fun…
Indie Mandel: “What is your favourite Ben and Jerry’s Ice-cream?”
Mr. Back: “Mmmmm... Chunky monkey...no err... Cookie Dough Dynamo!”
IM: “If you could be one word in the English dictionary, what would it be?”
MB: “Obtuse, I just love it…”
IM: “The dog food industry is continuously improving the taste of dog food.
Would you consider trying some?”
MB: “No way! I’m vegetarian — why would you even want to do such a
thing?”
IM: “If you could have one super hero power, what would it be?”
MB: “To fly — wouldn’t that be great?!”
IM: “Where would you fly to?”
MB: “Hmmmm I don’t know…”
IM: “Do you by any chance like dressing up? Something like little red riding
hood with maybe a pink twist...?”
MB: “No I hate it, but I know it’s coming!”
Now there were a lot more of these interesting questions and answers but
these had to be the ones mentioned because if we mentioned any of the others he
said he would get the sack! So for the safety of his job we had to leave them out.
Page Five Model Back to the basics
The dark story of ‘Hamlet’ was clearly represented,
with Tennant convincingly acting a mad man, driven
to insanity by his father’s murder and possessed by
his desire to avenge it. He is determined to bring
justice to the murderer, the new king, his uncle.
Preoccupied by this uncontrollable obsession,
Hamlet neglects his love, Ophelia, and leaves her to
a horrible fate. The dramatic scenes were so
sensitively executed that it created such an authentic
feel for the audience, allowing them to fully
immerse themselves in the play. The Saturday ended
on an amazing high, with many walking back to
their B&B’s still amazed by both performances.
Sunday brought with it more free time to
roam around the town and absorb its mature culture.
A few wandered around the town, searching for
Shakespeare’s grave and birthplace, absorbing much
of the intimate town. Others sat in a park nearby
admiring the swans and ducks that were enjoying
the brief sunshine or further explored the various
shops around the town. By twelve most were ready
to leave the magic of Stratford behind and return to
reality. The four-hour journey that followed was
used mostly to sleep and prepare ourselves for the
beginning of a new week at Roedean, patiently
waiting for the next Stratford trip.
“what followed simply exceeded
all of our expectations”
David Tennant in ‘Love’s Labour’s Lost’
BOUDICCA BULLETIN PAGE 6
PAGE 6 ENTERTAINMENT
ENTERTAINMENT
By Julia Kisray and Aviva
Lipamnowicz
Did you go and watch Juno
simply because of the music featured
in it? Well, you could’ve just bought
the soundtrack – duh. If you just can’t
get enough of artists such as Kimya
Dawson, The Moldy Peaches and Cat
Power, this article is for you. We’ve
put our heads together and hand-picked
a few little musical gems, with our own
love and
care.
Starting
with
Lovvers;
this British
band is just
a little bit
too cool,
with their very experimental song
called Human Hair. Brilliant if you
prefer the rock sound of Juno rather
than the acoustic. Another beauty is the
cutie from LDN town, James
Carrington – if you want some soulful
lyrics and a little bit of that a cappella
sound. A more unusual mixture of
homemade sound effects and push-me
pull-you lyrics, Peggy Sue is just the
right combination of both. These two
girls from Brighton take some getting
used to but you’ll soon be digging your
hands straight in there, plastic
xylophone at the ready. Last but not
least, we have Josephine Oniyama. A
proper Manchester girl with a country
approach, more upbeat which is
different but nice for the ears and good
for the soul. Enjoy.
By Sinead O’Dwyer
Around the middle of October every year, a collective sigh
permeates through the corridors of Roedean as exasperated teachers
are asked for yet another prep extension. Yes, it was Team Play
time again. This year the theme ‘time’ was chosen, although not
always closely adhered to.
The festival began with ‘Can’t Speak French’, a classic
Team Four comedy. The talented directors Astrid and Chi-Chi
certainly did not disappoint armed with a great character driven
script. Belinda Onoja was fantastic as Pierre and was a worthy
winner of the Best Actress Award. The ending was perhaps an
overly riotous affair, but it worked well because of the entertaining
range of characters.
Team Two’s ‘In Control’ set a completely different mood.
Mikaya was convincing and all the cast used pauses effectively.
Beyond Juno
Team Four Triumphs Again Indie Mandal’s hilarious cameo as Mrs Chandler changed the pace of
the play at the crucial moment, getting the biggest cheer of the night,
to the embarrassed delight of the real Mrs Chandler. The ending was
the most effective of all the plays, a chilling conclusion to a great
production.
‘Payback Time’, the supernatural revenge tale by Team Three
was yet another change of atmosphere. The set and costume for this
play were impressive, with hairspray usage to rival that of Russell
Brand. At times the pace dragged but Joy Crane’s lisping dictionary
fanatic kept the audience entertained.
Team One rounded off the performances with ‘Lil Whitey and
the Seven Vertically Challenged Men’. Olivia Davis played the King
perfectly, winning the Best Interpretation Of A Male Role. ‘Lil’
Whitey’ was a modern comedy, full of humorous characters and great
one-liners, a favourite being Nicky Thompson’s “Let’s get sloshed!”.
The smaller characters made this play- the French Ninja, the uptight
Health and Safety Officer and Aviva’s fantastically camp mirror.
Team Four were declared overall winners of the Team Play
Festival 2008, to ecstatic celebrations which continued in that other
time-honoured tradition of Team Plays, ‘Cheap Discos’, a somewhat
aptly named but
nevertheless
enjoyable end to a
great weekend!
Roedean References By Anna Reid
Every once in a while, a writer (wisely)
chooses to add a Roedean educated character to their
work. The most recent of these is ‘Scarlett Papava’
in Sebastian Faulk’s new James Bond novel ‘Devil
May Care’, released earlier this year. By far the best
thing about this is the fast paced, twisting plotline
which shows Faulks to be capable of writing almost
as well as Fleming himself and this book is well
worth a read over Christmas. Another recent
Roedeanian in fiction is Cecilia Tallis from Ian
McEwan’s novel ‘Atonement’. This doomed love
story’s plot and dense writing will both engage and
excite the reader and immediately immerse them in
the heady summer environment of, at least the early,
novel. Thus it is no wonder it has quickly become a
modern classic and was recently made into an award
winning film with a role in it played by one
Catherine Philps, who is, of course, an old
Roedeanian.
BOUDICCA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT
PAGE 7 ENTERTAINMENT
PAGE 7
By Rebecca Johnson
The image of the Turner Prize as an “edgy” showcase of
modern art has finally been shattered this year when the exhibition has
finally been placed where it belongs, the basement of the Tate. The
finalists Runa Islam, Mark Leckey, Goshka Macuga and Cathy Wilkes
argued over the order in which their masterpieces should be placed,
sadly the debate did not pay off for Cathy Wilkes whose installation
looked small and pitiable in the large white box in which it was
positioned. The nude shop dummies, check out tills, nurses’ hats and
flaccid balloons that were draped about the room in a surrealist
manner did not strike a chord with me as I walked amid the carnage of
what looked like a rather oversized GCSE mistake.
According to one of the judges the piece was about the
destruction of an “idealised idea of what women might be”... I could
only hope this was the case. The barrier-like sculptures of steel and
glass in the first room, by Goshka Macuga, should have served as a
suitable warning not to proceed through the exhibition, however I
continued past her photo montages to be engulfed in darkness.
Confronted by the cartoons and light hearted film works of Mark
Fairytale of New York – The Pogues
Linus and Lucy from A Charlie Brown Christmas
Plain Jane – Bobby Darin
New Soul - Yael Naim
Thirteen – Big Star
Christmas in Prison – Emmy The Great
Oh Mandy – The Spinto Band
Les Champs-Elysee – Joe Dassin
See You On The Moon! – Great Lake Swimmers
Bag of Hammers – Thao with the Get Down Stay Down
Phantom Limb – The Shins
You Are My Sunshine – Norman Blake
Five Years Time – Noah & The Whale
If I Knew You Were Coming – Eileen Barton
Baby, It’s Cold Outside – Leo Redbone & Zooey Deschanel
By Sue Denim
Following the feast of
film that 2008 offered us, the
spring of 2009 is a promising
start to an equally bountiful year
for cinema. February will see
the release ‘He’s Just Not That
Into You’, produced by Drew
Barrymore. This American
comedy starring Scarlett
Johansson and Ben Affleck
explores the difficulties of
forming romantic attachments in
the modern world. Worth
watching if you liked last year’s
‘Sex and The City’ film.
Also out in February, for
those who prefer a more artistic
approach to film, the hugely
anticipated ‘New York I Love
You’ is bound to satisfy. The
likes of Park-Chan Wook of
‘Old Boy’ fame, the brilliant
Natalie Portman and talented
Mira Nair come together to
create this patchwork of short
films. This film focuses on the
people of the five boroughs of
New York; their lives, loves and
entanglements. Let’s hope it
combines the same eclecticism
and thoughtfulness that its sister
film ‘Paris Je T’aime’
embodied.
The film ‘Coraline’,
promises to be as chilling as
February itself. Henry Selick
and Mike Cachuela direct this
animated stop-motion fantasy
film about a young girl’s
horrifying fall into an alternate
world. Aesthetically imaginative
and aurally menacing,
‘Coraline’ will be enjoyed by
Tim Burton fans everywhere.
NATIONAL THEATRE OFFERNATIONAL THEATRE OFFERNATIONAL THEATRE OFFERNATIONAL THEATRE OFFER
Between the ages of 15 and 19? Ever been at a loose end during
the holidays? If so, go to www.nationaltheatre.org.uk and fill in
the ‘Entry Pass’ form in order to get £5 Theatre for all of The
National Theatre’s productions.
In particular, we suggest the heartbreaking ‘War House’ by
Michael Morpurgo. This majestic production tells the tale of a
boy cruelly separated from his horse by war and cleverly
examines the nature of good and evil.
February Flicks
The Turner at the Tate
Leckey who was a favourite with students due to his snappy
approach to film, still not blown away I continued to Runa Islam’s
more theoretical approach to film; with her meticulous editing,
cutting and repetitions showing rickshaws in the wind and the
smashing of china on plinths. Well all I can say is I was happy to
reach the light and scribble my thoughts on a piece of paper with
many other opinions not dissimilar to mine, it just happened that I
pinned my note next to a sketch of male genitalia and two words
which summed up my experience “Epic Fail”.
“… looked like a rather oversized GCSE mistake.”
