Year 8 Showcase

Mr Joel Baker:
The art room was packed on Friday evening with pupils and their parents viewing a broad selection of bold and expressive Year 8 artwork.

It was wonderful to showcase the creative talents of this year group, with all pupils having original pieces on display. This year, pupils have developed their skills using a diverse range of media. They have expanded their visual language through different approaches to drawing, printmaking, collage, and sculpture — all culminating in unique and often highly accomplished outcomes.

The very talented group of art scholars had their portfolios displayed, with some of their most eye-catching pieces presented on the main wall and on easels. This particular group of pupils have worked tirelessly on their art since the start of Year 7, and it was fantastic to celebrate their achievements with this exhibition.

Year 8 pupils of all abilities should be proud of their progress in art over the past year. They can feel well-equipped with creative skills and knowledge as they embark on their senior school years. Well done, Year 8!

Mr Paul Curran:

Friday evening saw the Year 8 pupils display their DT work as part of the Creative Showcase. Examples of current and past Year 8 projects included the hardwood/softwood Keepsake Box, the Nodding Dog message taker, graphics design packaging, and the all-new HZG Reading Lamp. Also on display were examples of DT Scholarship folios.

Mrs N Sclater:
Year 8 musicians truly stepped up on Friday evening, performing with superb poise and confidence in front of their parents, teachers, and peers. I am always heartened by how bowled over the friends of our musicians are on these occasions — with several hearing their contemporaries sing and play for the very first time.

We were all hugely impressed by the standard of individual pieces, which beautifully highlighted many years of hard work and determination. All musicians displayed a sense of maturity that is bound to attract the attention of their senior schools.

In true Year 8 Showcase style, ensembles — supported by music staff but organised by the pupils themselves — brought a real sense of community. Our trio of singers, our multi-instrument girls’ ensemble, and the newly formed Hazle Nuts thoroughly enjoyed their moment in the spotlight.

The evening was brought to a close by the whole of Year 8, who sang their hearts out to Better Place from Trolls 3. What a wonderful way to end a very busy start to their final term and launch what is certain to be an extremely exciting final few weeks. Well done, all!