2011 School Magazine

At hene At hene has seen yet another year of verbal sparring, universal ponderings and intellectual enlightenment. Despite having a reputation as something of a 'secret cult', At hene is actually one of the oldest combined Grammar School Clubs. Every meeting several Year 125 presented well researched, controversy-courting papers which then formed the basis of a discussion forum Topics ranged from political dilemmas, including anti-terror laws, women In politics to social issues such as the integration of disabled children into the education system and 'designer' babies. Sadly, no conclusive decision was reached on the difference between cupcakes and muffins, though papers on the value of religion and cultural relativism versus universal absolutes added a philosophical dimension to the debate Antithetical points of view were frequently voiced during discussion, which, with mutual respect for members' opinions, allowed At henians to cultivate a more balanced frame of mind and a capacity to tolerate difference and ambiguity. Although on rare occasions debate hinted at At hena's warrior nature, it was nothing some supper and interschool socialisation between papers couldn't fix. Heated discussions often outlasted the forum, continuing over tea and biscuits and in classrooms in succeeding school days

BioTrech During the Easter holidays, four Grammar girls and seven Grammar boys travelled to Seattle to participate In the BIOQuest Academy at the Seattle Biomedical Research Institute. This programme allows students to delve deeply into global health and infectious disease research. it consisted of four days of one- on-one introduction to molecular biology using biotechnology, and demonstrated pathways to scientific careers. There were visits to research laboratories and other institutes to see how the research carried out at Seattle Biomed 15 put into practice

I Eliza WedeT (120) President I

Seattle is a beautiful city with spring flowers everywhere while we were there, so we made the most of our time away from the lab by visiting the Space Needle by day and night, seeing the Pacific Science Museum, the EMP (Experience Music Project), Seattle Museum of Fight, a harbour cruise, Pike Street Markets, travelling on the monorail, and some shopping. On the way home, we stopped at Los Angeles for three days of sightseeing, staying in the heart of Hollywood. Here we toured the city, visited Disneyland and Universal Studios. We found the trip exciting, interesting and worthwhile. it opened our eyes to many possibilities. We are really grateful to have had this opportunity and thank the teachers who accompanied us

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I Zoe Macourt (110) and Emily Mallon (110) I

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Chess Club The Chess Club has had an eventful year The club has grown significantly thanks to an eager influx of Year 8 students. Mr Treschman is the club co-ordinator and at the beginning of every Thursday lunchtime meeting, he outlines scenarios for those who want to improve their strategies. We have also just recently been trying a new website called Chess Tempo, designed to increase strategic thinking and situational response. Combined afternoons with BGS occur twice a year and have been enjoyed by those who attended to test our skills while sharing pizza. Open Day

was also a great opportunity to interact with the wider community by playing chess games. The club exists as more a social organisation than a serious one and it provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. As everyone has a different approach, we try to encourage all our members to play this "sport for the mind" to the best of their ability, whether the result is from years of experience or a few weeks of heartening support

; I Mirei Okada (110) and lessica Nash (110) I;