After the recent success of hosting our own Midsummer Night’s Dream, it was the turn of KWS favourite, Anthony Glenn. Anthony delivered his one man show version of the play which we are currently studying, with the enthusiastic assistance of some very willing Year 7s. Thank you to parents for contributing to making this possible.
Last week, the Computing department was delighted to host Emma and Emily from Cisco Systems who led a programming workshop for year 7 students.
Students were challenged to code their own Rock-Paper-Scissors game using Python. They discussed their role at Cisco and what the company does. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to see how important Computing is and what a difference technology makes. We are grateful to Emma and Emily for taking the time out to run the workshop.
Axiom Maths (formerly MESME) is now a very much established programme in its 5th year of running at Katherine Warington School. The hour long sessions take place weekly during period 7 and are by invite only to the most exceptional Mathematicians in years 7 and 8.
The Axiom Maths programme is a structured mathematics enrichment curriculum designed to develop deep understanding, reasoning and confidence. Axiom Maths is not a standard National Curriculum scheme; instead, it is a carefully sequenced programme that revisits and connects mathematical ideas over time, helping students strengthen core concepts rather than accelerating them prematurely.
“Axiom Maths focuses on understanding the structure behind mathematics, not just practising procedures.”
The Axiom Maths curriculum is taught through regular sessions that emphasise mathematical structure, patterns and logical thinking. Students engage with rich problems drawn from areas such as number, algebra, geometry, combinatorics and mathematical reasoning. These topics are selected to promote fluency and insight, enabling students to see mathematics as a connected discipline rather than a series of isolated techniques.
“Students are encouraged to explore ideas, explain their reasoning and tackle challenging problems with confidence.”
Learning through Axiom Maths places a strong emphasis on discussion, exploration and problem solving. Students are supported to test ideas, learn from mistakes and develop resilience when working through unfamiliar challenges. The programme complements classroom learning by deepening understanding of the concepts that underpin success across the wider maths curriculum.
“The programme builds confidence, curiosity and enjoyment in mathematics.”
On Wednesday this week, Chen from Hertfordshire Police Cyber Fraud team visited KWS to deliver some important messages to year 7 regarding Cyber choices and online safety. Students learnt that thousands of pounds were lost as a result of reported fraud in Hertfordshire. There were reminders for students on how to protect themselves against cyber threats. Students were shown the importance of having secure login credentials, they were given some examples of legal and illegal hacking and legislations relating to the misuse of computers. If students are interested in finding out more about a career in cyber security they can speak to Miss Fatima. Look out for our parental support offer for online safety coming soon.
Every year we take part in the Year 7 and 8 Team Maths Challenges run by Herts for Learning for schools across Hertfordshire. Various heats take place online and then the top scoring teams are invited to attend an in-person final. This year, two members of our Year 7 team are here to tell you about the competition, and their journey to coming an amazing Joint 2nd overall.
“I absolutely loved being a part of the maths challenge and thought it was a great experience. There were four or five heats and 140 teams that took part overall. First of all we won our heat, which then meant we got into the final; in the final, there were 21 schools which were competing. When we thought that we would come last, we came second which we were super pleased with. Overall I thought it was an amazing experience.” Abigail W
“I’m amazed we came 2nd out of 240 teams! I really enjoyed being part of the maths challenge and I would definitely do it again. Out of all the rounds (general maths, estimation, memory and harder general maths), my favourite by far was the harder general maths. If I get the chance to do it again, I would 100% take it.” Luke C
We are very proud of our team of four – Abigail W, Luke C, Emily C and Fraser G; together they displayed excellent teamwork skills and fantastic mathematical knowledge and problem solving skills to pull off this fantastic result. Mrs Coomber & Mr Webster
On Monday 2nd December, Chen and Alan from Hertfordshire Police Cyber Fraud team visited KWS to deliver some important messages to year 7 regarding Cyber choices and online safety. Students learnt that Action Fraud reported that £30,000,000 was lost as a result of fraud in Hertfordshire. (This figure may be much higher as this is based on the cases that were reported.) There were reminders for students on how to protect themselves against cyber threats. Students were shown the importance of having secure login credentials, and they were given some examples of legal and illegal hacking and legislation relating to the misuse of computers. If students are interested in finding out more about a career in cyber security they can speak to Miss Fatima, who can direct them to resources.
The Year 7 students had an exciting, adventure-filled trip to Manor Adventure, where they had the chance to build new friendships and learn new skills in an outdoor setting. Over three days, they participated in a range of team-building and individual challenges, including rock climbing, archery, axe throwing, low ropes and kayaking/ canoeing.
The group worked together in team-based activities, which fostered collaboration and communication among classmates, helping them to bond outside the classroom. Evenings were filled with fun group activities and discussions about the day’s adventures. Students were able to begin developing confidence and resilience, pushing themselves beyond their comfort zones and supporting each other through each challenge.
Overall, the trip was a memorable experience, filled with laughter, learning, and a sense of accomplishment, with students and teachers alike looking forward to future adventures!
Well done to eight of our KWS mathematicians who competed in the Herts for Learning Team Maths Challenge last week (28th February). There were over 30 teams competing and we placed a respectable 22nd and 26th. Congratulations to the following students for all of your effort and enthusiasm; Lucy H, Corin N, Emma M, Matilda S, Elliott G, Lucas W, Finn J & Harrison S.
Harpenden Secondary Education Trust
Company Number: 09238779
Registered in England and Wales
Registered Address: Katherine Warington School, Lower Luton Road, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 5FH
Chair Of Trustees: Jenny Howarth, j.howarth@kwschool.co.uk
Katherine Warington School,
Lower Luton Road,
Harpenden,
Hertfordshire,
AL5 5FH
Telephone: 01582 314777
admin@kwschool.co.uk