A Memorable Trip to Homerton College, Cambridge

Our school trip to Homerton College, part of the University of Cambridge, was an eye-opening and exciting experience. The day began with a series of talks about the prestigious university and what it takes to get there. We learnt about the importance of enrichment activities and the specific A levels required for different career paths, which was both informative and inspiring for everyone.

Afterward, we were treated to a tour of the beautiful Homerton College grounds. It was amazing to walk around such a historic institution and imagine what it would be like to study there one day. To top it off, we got to eat in the college’s canteen, which felt more like fine dining than a typical cafeteria. The food was delicious, and it really gave us a glimpse into student life at Cambridge.

Next, we participated in an exciting series of complex puzzles. These weren’t just any puzzles! They could be solved in multiple ways, and each solution would produce a card. Once we had the card, we exchanged it for a clue, which helped us work on a larger mystery that was waiting to be solved. It was a lot of fun seeing everyone work together, and one of the groups from Heston Community School was the only one to solve the big mystery! The sense of accomplishment was incredible, and we couldn’t help but feel proud of our school.

To finish off the day, we took a stroll around Cambridge’s city centre, where we could explore the local shops and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on everything we had experienced at Homerton College.

The trip was not only a day of fun, but also an inspiring glimpse into the world of higher education and the possibilities that lie ahead.

Anneka Chumber [10B]

An unforgettable trip to Cambridge University.

Visiting Homerton College at Cambridge University was an eye-opening and informative experience which provided me with a glimpse of the life of a student at Cambridge. It began with a brief, engaging introduction from four students who attend Cambridge. I found this particularly helpful as it provided us with the opportunity to ask any questions and queries we had, ranging from life as a student at university, the courses to choose from and adjusting from school to university. We were told about the application process and the difference between extracurricular and super-curricular and how they affect your personal statement. The responses were very honest and helpful. 

We were then kindly escorted by our guide, Amy, who is a student at Cambridge. We saw The Great Hall, which is where formal dinners are held by candlelight. It looked like something straight out of Harry Potter! Everything about Cambridge seemed so grand and regal, from the vibrant, green grass and the historical aspects of the buildings. Lunch in the dining hall was incredible, the food was lovely, and everyone had amazing table manners. 

After lunch, we were then guided to the auditorium where we were greeted with an array of different puzzles that we had to solve.  We then split into groups where we had to use our logical thinking skills to solve the escape games under a time limit, which was both rewarding and extremely stressful. The time pressure was very motivating and the satisfaction we felt after solving every puzzle was immense. We were then provided with a series of different clues to try and solve a murder mystery. This was extremely challenging, but out of all twelve teams across three schools, one of Heston’s teams won! 

A short coach journey later, we arrived in the City Centre, where Amy showed us many of the 31 colleges at Cambridge University. This was a great opportunity again to ask any remaining questions. We saw a matriculation ceremony, which is a formal process to show the new enrolment of a student at a college. The Centre was bustling with cyclists and students. Amongst them, there were punting tours which are a fabulous way to view the riverside and the City Centre. 

Overall, I had a fantastic experience at Homerton and hope to be able to attend myself in the future. It exposed me to the type of work ethic and atmosphere that I would be surrounded by in pursuing higher education. 

Thank you to Mr Ghataura as well, who organised this trip and made this experience possible. 

Diya Khosla [10Y]

Remembrance Day, also known as Armistice Day, is observed on 11 November to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in wars, especially in the World Wars. This day marks the end of World War I, when, on the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month" in 1918, an armistice ended the fighting. Each year on 11 November, people pause in a moment of silence, wearing poppies as a tribute to those who fought and to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

One enduring symbol of Remembrance Day is the red poppy. During World War I, red poppies bloomed on the battlefields of Flanders, standing out amid the destruction. These flowers are symbols of life and resilience amongst the graves of fallen soldiers. The red poppy came to symbolise both the beauty of resilience and the blood that had been spilt on the battlefields. It represented remembrance, hope, and a promise that those who had died would not be forgotten. In many countries, wearing a red poppy has become a way to pay tribute and remember the soldiers who gave their lives for peace, and the civilians who lost their lives in the crossfire. 

Remembrance Day/Armistice Day is important because it ensures that the lessons of the past are not forgotten. By showing respect to the memories of those who served, we remind ourselves of the devastation that war brings and the preciousness of peace. This day reminds us to honour the past and work toward a more compassionate world.

Our school plays a vital role in recognising and commemorating Armistice Day, helping students understand its significance and bravery of those who served. On 11 November, staff and students observe 2 minutes of silence to commemorate the fallen soldiers. During November, art projects done by students line the walls; portraits of poppies and symbols of peace are hung to remind students that only in the darkest times do the stars shine. By involving students in these activities, our school ensures that we will always remember the sacrifices made, the legacy of Armistice Day and to appreciate the value of peace.

Tenay Chak [13D]

Our annual Careers Fair is our flagship event, which invites a wide range of employers, universities, colleges and apprenticeship providers, to join us here at Heston Community School. We invite students and their parents/carers from all year groups, to access information to support at all key transition stages. The purpose of the evening is to provide the opportunity to gather information relating to possible routes into different careers or study from a range of providers.

We had several talks that took place during the evening, which were well attended.  Students and their parents/carers had the opportunity to engage in valuable conversations with the exhibitors and take away resources to help them to continue to explore options. Feedback was very positive and we look forward to holding this again in the future.

Ms A Laing [Careers Advisor]

The Careers Fair helped me widen my opportunities and helped me look at different career paths for the future. I experienced different pathways for careers. It also helped me look at different options for post 16 and post 18. It helped me gather information for my decision for A-levels. It was a very fun and interesting experience.

Manmeet Sidhu [110]

The Career Fair really helped me get input from different colleges. I had an interest in West London college beforehand but the Careers Fair helped me venture into different post-16 options and subjects. I believe that the Careers Fair helps younger years such as years 7 to 9 and inspires them to explore different jobs and prospects.

Magdalena Budai [11Y]

The Careers Fair helped me to realise the massive number of opportunities I have with my subjects and how I can further advance my skills in order to apply them to my further studies in Sixth Form. It has also helped me find my passion in a career and different A-Levels.

Kabeer Khan [11B]

The Careers Fair was very insightful! We had the opportunity to speak with universities, apprenticeship providers, and former students. I especially enjoyed my conversation with Iman, a former student who is currently completing a Level 4/5 apprenticeship. He shared some websites and resources he used to prepare for interviews. Since then, I have taken the initiative to attend a university taster day and arranged a one-day work experience.

Bob Ryatt [12D]

The "Getting into Medicine" talk gave me the chance to ask questions about admission tests and the best ways to prepare for the UCAT exams. The talk reinforced my ambition to study medicine in the future. The speaker's determination and passion for the profession was inspiring, and I hope that one day, I’ll be able to come back as a speaker myself.

Neda Noorzai [12D]

Celebrations evening was a divine way to manifest the School’s recognition of the remarkable work-ethic of its students, congregate the community in spirit and propagate aspirations for the future. Upon entering, I was greeted by a wealth of smiles from the dedicated Senior Team members welcoming attendees into the school, and a jovial atmosphere as they were served a multitude of appetisers.

Subsequently, everyone became seated in the Hall as Mr Berdesha commenced the presentation, followed by current Year 13 student speeches. Students straddling across Years 8-11 were nominated for their varied achievements in each academic discipline.  In turn, each student’s name was called, they euphorically ascended the stage and received their certificate from the Leader of the Council, Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, who was our guest speaker this year.

Celebration Evening itself deserves a celebration for its success!

Alisha Rizwan [13A]

In the LRC, we met the author of The Bike shed Bully Hunter series, Nathanial Thomlinson. During this remarkable experience, we got to learn about this amazing author, what inspired him and asked questions related to reading and writing. We created a scenery from our own imagination, as the setting is one of the most important parts of a book, and transformed it into a short story. Mine was about the four elemental nations working together until the fire nation attacked. We discussed our favourite genres too. Mine was the Gothic genre. I enjoyed learning how a setting from your own imagination can create a beautiful image in your mind and that writing needs to flow and link together. I have to admit, I also really enjoyed the snacks too. These factors can support me in my studies because now I will be able to more easily do creative writing and will freely use my imagination. With a variety of genres, I will be able to use different perspectives for each piece of writing. Thanks to Mr Thomlinson, I have fixed one of the things that was missing in my writing. 

Tanek Madan [7W]

Start of my story 

Mako stared at the ceiling of his hut, it was snowing outside, again. He wished he belonged to any of the other nations, life was so monotonous in the water tribe. Wake up, eat breakfast, have a nap, stare at his ceiling, sleep, eat and then repeat. There was no action. Mako wanted to boast his awesome water bending.  

"Lunch is ready!" his mother said loudly. It wasn't a shout, more like the sweet call of a mother. He already knew what was for lunch; squid stew, again. Mako took a step outside and his feet instantly sunk into the snow. But that's not what got his attention. The snow was black? All of the tribe's people froze and there was absolute silence. 

Brentford FC: Amazon and Taylor Wessing Law Insight Day 24 October

I recently participated in the Amazon and Taylor Wessing Insight Law event at the Brentford FC Community Hub, and it was a fantastic experience. I met a varied group of professionals who work in different fields from Amazon and Taylor Wessing.  We took part in different activities that enhanced my skills in communication, debate, problem-solving, and teamwork. Engaging in discussions, tasks, and presentations allowed us to learn extensively while being part of a lively and cooperative atmosphere. Overall, we found the event immensely enjoyable, insightful, and inspiring. Thank you to Mr. Green and Mr. Naqvi for giving us the opportunity to have such a wonderful experience! 

Jaidev Chahal [12C]