This half term, our Year 7 students have been stepping back in time to explore the exciting world of William Shakespeare. For many students, The Tempest introduced them to magical islands, shipwrecks, mischievous spirits and unforgettable characters and they certainly rose to the challenge of bringing the play to life!
As part of their home learning project, students were given a range of creative tasks to choose from. Some budding architects carefully reconstructed Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, while aspiring fashion designers created stunning costumes for the play’s characters. Others imagined what The Tempest would look like in the modern world, developing imaginative adaptations and creative reinterpretations of Shakespeare’s famous story.
We have been blown away by the quality of the work produced. From detailed models and colourful designs to innovative presentations and thoughtful modern-day versions of the play, the creativity on display has been incredible. The effort, enthusiasm and imagination shown by our Year 7 students have been a pleasure to see.
Studying Shakespeare can seem daunting at first, but this project has shown just how engaging, relevant and enjoyable his work can be. It has been wonderful to see students embracing the challenge, thinking creatively and developing a deeper understanding of the play in such unique ways.
A huge well done to all of our Year 7 students for their fantastic contributions. Who knows? Among our classes, we may have discovered some future actors, theatre designers, directors and playwrights!
All the world’s a stage and Year 7 have certainly stolen the show!
How do we know what is real in a world shaped by artificial intelligence, social media and endless information? This was the question our students explored as part of this year’s Litmus Creative Writing Project, delivered in partnership with Trinity College, University of Cambridge.
Responding to the thought-provoking theme, “Are You For Real?”, our students produced a range of creative and insightful pieces that challenged readers to think differently about the world around them.
Drawing inspiration from texts and films such as Black Mirror, The Truman Show and Pixar’s WALL-E, students explored topics including the rise of artificial intelligence, unrealistic beauty standards on social media, and world events that have shocked and influenced their generation. These ideas acted as a springboard for even more imaginative responses, with students taking the theme in a variety of original and unexpected directions.
We are delighted that a number of our students have had their work published on the Litmus website. To have their writing recognised through a project linked to Trinity College, Cambridge is a fantastic achievement and highlights the creativity, talent and thoughtfulness of our young writers.
Congratulations to all students who took part, and a special well done to those whose work has been published. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and the way they have used their voices to engage with such an important and relevant theme.
Reading Cloud is a library platform used by thousands of schools and after scanning in all our existing fiction books, we’re delighted to finally open it up to students.
The system allows for careful record‑keeping and smooth management of the library. Not only does it help us monitor borrowing and returns, it also gives students the ability to renew and reserve books, write reviews, explore the library online and discover what others are reading.
Only 12% of secondary school students read outside of school. While girls are more likely to continue reading for pleasure, there is still a sharp drop from KS3 to KS4. A lack of exposure to words and ideas can leave some young people struggling to access the world around them. Beyond academic success, reading offers calm, reflective moments and new perspectives — real benefits that enrich our lives.
The launch of Reading Cloud is a fantastic opportunity to encourage students to read more for the pleasure of it, not just because teachers or parents tell them to. We want to see more students picking up books during quiet moments in the day — in form time, at breaks and at lunch — whatever they choose to read.
Our team of librarians is on hand to help students navigate the new system, support library use and champion reading across the school. The library cards issued to students, while not necessary to borrow books, is a nice way for them to feel included in the library space, offering a reward for frequent borrowing and hopefully a transition into using library services in the local area.
With the new build providing a dedicated library space, there are even more exciting developments on the horizon. For those who still feel reluctant to read, we firmly believe it’s just a matter of finding the right book.
Some of our Year 7 students recently stepped into the magical and mischievous world of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and had an enchanting time!
Inspired by the character Puck and the famous love-in-idleness flower—a wild violet struck by Cupid’s arrow—students explored the ideas of love, chaos, and magic. In the play, the flower’s magical properties cause anyone who is touched by it while asleep to fall instantly in love with the first creature they see upon waking, often with hilarious consequences!
Taking this wonderfully whimsical idea, students were challenged to invent their own love potions. Their creativity truly sparkled as they dreamed up magical ingredients such as stardust, fairy wings, bottled moonshine, crushed rose petals and even whispered wishes caught in jars. Each student carefully crafted and wrote their own potion recipes, considering not only the ingredients but also the spellbinding effects their mixtures might have.
Room 6 was filled with imagination, laughter and a touch of Shakespearean mischief, as students embraced both the language and themes of the play. Through this activity, they developed their writing skills while engaging their imaginations.
Who knows? If Puck himself had fluttered through our classroom, he might have picked up a few new tricks!
Last week, our department was buzzing with excitement as the Scholastic Book Fair arrived, bringing with it a fantastic selection of books for pupils of all ages. From colourful picture books to gripping adventures and fascinating fact books, there was something to capture everyone’s interest.
The Book Fair proved to be a huge success, with pupils eagerly visiting throughout the week to browse the shelves and discover new titles. There was a wonderful atmosphere of enthusiasm around reading, and it was great to see so many children discussing books with friends, sharing recommendations, and excitedly choosing stories to take home.
Thanks to the incredible support from families, a large number of purchases were made during the week. Every purchase helps to raise rewards for the school, allowing us to continue investing in new books and resources for our classrooms and library. We would like to thank all parents, carers and staff who supported the event and helped make it such a success.
The timing of the Book Fair was especially significant as this year marks the National Year of Reading, a nationwide initiative that highlights the importance of reading and encourages people of all ages to develop a lifelong love of books. Events such as our Scholastic Book Fair play an important role in supporting this goal by giving children access to a wide variety of exciting reading materials.
Promoting Reading for Pleasure remains a key focus within our school. Research shows that children who enjoy reading regularly are more likely to become confident learners and successful readers. The Book Fair helped to foster this enjoyment by allowing pupils to choose books that match their own interests and passions, helping them to see reading as a rewarding and enjoyable activity.
Introducing Our Carnegie Medal Shadow Judging Panel
As we come to the end of a lively and enriching spring term at Penwortham Girls’ High School, we are delighted to share news of a brand‑new literary initiative that has already sparked great excitement across the school community.
This term, we launched our first ever Carnegie Medal Shadow Judging Panel. The Carnegie Medal—one of the UK’s most prestigious awards for children’s literature—celebrates outstanding writing for young people. Inspired by this tradition of excellence, a group of enthusiastic students have volunteered to form a shadow panel, giving them the opportunity to experience the judging process for themselves.
Over the coming weeks, students will read their way through a selection of titles from this year’s longlist, exploring stories that challenge, inspire and ignite discussion. Our panel will meet regularly to share their thoughts, debate themes, review writing styles and consider what makes a truly exceptional book. These meetings promise to be filled with lively conversation, thoughtful reflection and plenty of passion for reading.
As we move into the summer term, our shadow judges will continue refining their opinions in preparation for the official Carnegie Medal winner announcement in June. When the results are revealed, we will compare the national winner with our own panel’s choice—discovering whether our collective winner matches the official decision!
This project not only encourages wider reading but also gives students a voice, a platform for critical thinking, and a wonderful chance to celebrate literature together. We are incredibly proud of everyone who has signed up, and we can’t wait to see which book earns the title of Penwortham Girls’ High School Shadow Winner.
We look forward to sharing our panel’s journey—and their chosen champion—next term!
If you enjoy twisty murder mysteries with a clever literary twist, Beth Is Dead might be your next favourite read. This modern‑day reimagining of Louisa May Alcott’s classic Little Women takes a bold turn right from the first page: Beth—gentle, kind and beloved —is found dead under gruesome and mysterious circumstances.
From that moment on, the story grips you tightly. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that everyone is hiding something, and everyone is a suspect. Sisters Jo, Meg and Amy must confront secrets, strained relationships and the darker side of the people they thought they knew. Familiar characters are given fresh, contemporary voices and their updated dynamics add tension and emotional depth to the story.
What makes Beth Is Dead especially engaging is how it balances homage with originality. Fans of Little Women will appreciate the nods to the original novel, while newcomers will be swept up by the fast pace, sharp dialogue and steadily growing suspense. Each chapter ends with just enough intrigue to keep you guessing—and reading “just one more.”
With its blend of classic inspiration, modern drama and a satisfyingly twisty murder plot, this book is perfect for readers who love mystery, sisterhood stories, or both.
Mrs Snowdon’s Verdict:
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
A gripping, clever ‘whodunit’ that keeps you turning pages right to the final reveal. If you love murder mysteries, you’ll love this.
Available to borrow from Mrs Snowdon’s bookshelf – just ask!
Recommended Read: In the Sea there are Crocodiles.
Suitable for ages 12+
In the Sea There Are Crocodiles is a profoundly moving and eye‑opening novel that tells the true story of Enaiatollah Akbari, a young Afghan boy forced to flee his home after the Taliban threaten his life. Written by Fabio Geda and based on Enaiatollah’s real experiences, the book follows his extraordinary journey across multiple countries in search of safety, belonging and a future.
What makes this story so powerful is the simplicity of its voice. The novel is told through conversations between Geda and Enaiatollah, and this conversational style allows readers to feel close to the narrator – his courage, resilience, humour, and quiet strength shine through on every page. Despite the harsh realities he faces – dangerous border crossings, exploitation, uncertainty, and long stretches of loneliness – the story never feels hopeless. Instead, it highlights the remarkable resilience of young people forced into impossible situations.
This book is particularly valuable for students because it encourages empathy and global awareness. It opens up meaningful conversations about migration, human rights and the real experiences of refugees today. It also invites reflection on themes such as perseverance, identity and the human instinct to survive and protect those we love.
Beautifully written, thought‑provoking and deeply human, In the Sea There Are Crocodiles is a text that stays with you long after you finish reading. I highly recommend it to students, parents and staff alike.
Mrs Hope’s Verdict:
★★★★☆
A powerful and heartfelt read that balances hope with harsh reality. I give it four stars for its honesty, emotional impact and the important conversations it sparks.
Available to borrow from Mrs Snowdon’s bookshelf in room 1 😊
As we quickly approach the summer exam season, please be aware of the revision support that the English department have on offer for your daughter. These sessions are open to all Year 11 students.In addition to these sessions, Room 50 is open for quiet revision every lunch time. Mrs Hope (English specialist) supervises this room every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and therefore is always on hand to answer any English related questions or offer guidance with revision.
Year 9 have just finished an exciting new scheme of work all about how the media uses rhetoric to influence us. They have explored a wide range of real examples, including women in sport campaigns, Taylor Swift and gender representation, Malala’s appearance in Vogue, and luxury Patek Philippe watch adverts. Looking at persuasion through things they recognise from their own world has made a huge difference to their engagement and understanding and it has been brilliant to see how confidently they can now spot persuasive techniques in everyday media. To bring all of this learning together, Year 9 created their own perfume adverts. They thought carefully about how to use persuasive language, how to build a brand identity and how to appeal to a specific audience. The results have been incredibly creative and full of personality. The students have really enjoyed getting hands‑on with the world of media persuasion, and their perfume adverts show just how effectively they can apply what they have learned.
Year 7 have been getting wonderfully creative in their Gothic unit this term. For homework, they were asked to make their own Gothic mood boards, and they absolutely rose to the challenge. From spooky castles to eerie colour palettes, the students really captured the atmosphere of the genre. The mood boards have been fantastic to look through, and it’s clear how much effort and imagination went into them. Well done, Year 7!
