APS News 19

6 January 2019 Abingdon Prep Other Half This year, we have two science clubs, and plenty of excited boys to do some fun science with! Up and Atom is for Years 3 and 4, and the boys have launched astromice, made snowman bath bombs, and the optical illusion to put the goldfish in the bowl, amongst many activities. In Eureka for Years 5 and 6, one experiment was erupting fizz which gives a lava lamp effect (top). A longer project looked at flight - from hoop gliders to paper planes to building balsa ones. ‘Up and Atom’ and ‘Eureka’ Archery Another popular new club this term is Archery, offering two sessions for different age groups. Pupils are taught archery by a qualified archery coach. It aims to build coordination, strength and concentration. Suitable for all abilities, the sessions consist of target shooting, games and competitions with an emphasis on enjoyment. Spooky Art! At Halloween, with support from the Year 8 Art Leaders, the Year 5 and 6 Art Club became spooky felines, creating drawings of cats’ eyes using compressed chalk pastels. Working on jet black landscape pastel card, the boys used enlarged photographs to observe the colours and shapes accurately to create a spookily composed image! Practical Life Skills Boys in Year 8 who have chosen this new club as one of their Other Half activities, have been working hard developing some basic life skills. Lots of laughs have been had and the race against the clock in some activities, has been well contested. They have learnt to put on a single duvet cover, clean shoes and chop carrots and onions. Next, folding clothes properly! Concert Platform The termly concert platforms offer an informal opportunity for boys to perform to a small audience of parents and peers. From Pre- Prep to Year 8, from ukelele to bassoon, not forgetting singing, these concerts always offer a varied repertoire, showcasing the boys’ musical talent. It’s always lovely to see the boys accepting their applause with pride.