St John’s launches Marlborough Literature Festival

Congratulations to St John’s Marlborough students for eloquently launching the 2023 Marlborough Literature Festival in the Town Hall, taking part in a lively debate focused on the novel “The Great Gatsby”, debating the theme:

“Can male writers ever really write accurately about women in love?”

The school was also delighted to welcome author Chris Vick as part of the Literature Festival’s Big School Read. Chris spoke to the whole of Year 7 about his novel Girl Boy Sea (described as a ‘thrilling and magical book’, which was shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal. Students had been encouraged to read the book, leading to a number of thought-provoking questions.

European Day of Languages baking competition

Well done to the St Johns’ team of bakers who took part in the competition to celebrate European Day of Languages on 26th September by creating and decorating cakes in a European theme. Entries were judged by one of the school’s Food Technology teachers who gave much praise for their efforts.

Student production of Matilda – a heartfelt tribute to student’s father

Congratulations to St John’s Sixth Form Student Renee Hawkins who produced and directed a St John’s student performance of Matilda Jr on 16th & 17th October in the St John’s ‘Theatre on the Hill’.

The show was Year 13 student Renee’s Extended Project Qualification submission, which she completed in addition to her A Levels, but also as a fundraiser for the Brain Tumour Charity, registered charity 1150054. An impressive 300 tickets were sold.

Renee comments: “My production of Matilda Jr is a dream come true production for my Extended Project Qualification and serves as heartfelt tribute to my Dad, who tragically lost his battle with brain cancer recently”.