After eight years of outstanding leadership at GSAL, Sue Woodroofe has announced her decision to retire. According to Sue, being the Principal of GSAL 鈥渉as been the best job in the world鈥�, and she said that running the school has been 鈥渢he joy and privilege of my life.鈥�

Sue鈥檚 career in education spans nearly four decades, six schools and both the state and independent sectors in the UK and in Europe.聽 Since taking up her post as Principal at GSAL in April 2016, Sue has pushed academic standards and aspirations even higher. Under Sue鈥檚 tenure she has created a strong ethos and culture that celebrates intellectual pursuit and puts the development of the whole child at its core. She has also overseen the creation of the new primary school at Alwoodley Gates, refurbished the whole school, including the renovation of the historic Lawson Library, developed outstanding facilities for sport and the performing arts and has led a significant investment in child-centred health and wellbeing as well as developments in technology. The impact of Sue鈥檚 leadership is evidenced by numerous accolades such as three Sunday Times awards including School of the Decade, three highly successful inspections and her election as Chair of the聽Heads鈥� Conference (HMC).

Angus Martin(OL77), chair of GSAL鈥檚 governing body, said, 鈥淲e can all see the benefits of the developments that Sue has led; under her tenure, the school has gone from strength to strength. She said that she wanted to polish the GSAL trophy when she arrived – and she has done so.鈥� Sue will continue to take the school forwards over the next 18 months, which will see amongst many other things the completion of the school鈥檚 new Performing Arts Centre.

The search for GSAL鈥檚 next Principal will begin immediately to ensure a smooth transition to the next stage of GSAL鈥檚 journey in September 2025 and according to Sue 鈥淭hey will be the luckiest person in education to get this job.鈥�

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Thirteen students from 最新麻豆视频 have been offered places at Oxford and Cambridge universities across thirteen different subjects.

Nine pupils received offers to study at the University of Cambridge and four at the University of Oxford. The students, each taking three or four A-levels and an extended project qualification have undergone admissions tests and interviews to secure their offers against a highly competitive backdrop.

Sue Woodroofe, Principal at 最新麻豆视频 said, 鈥淚鈥檓 extremely proud of the students who have received offers from the universities of Oxford and Cambridge and also of their peers who are receiving a multitude of offers from some of the most prestigious higher education providers in the UK and overseas. This is a moment for hard work, of course, but also of great excitement as they consider the next chapter in their lives.鈥�

Current year 13 students, Emily, Anika, Ava, Eve, Anushree, Anna, Ria and Olivia received offers from the University of Cambridge to study history, economics, geography, linguistics, medicine, law, music, and English respectively. Bhavyaa, a student from last year鈥檚 sixth form has also been offered a place to study engineering at Cambridge this September.

Henry, Alexandra, Vishnu and Theo received offers to read French and beginners鈥� Russian, biology, philosophy, politics and economics (PPE) and classics and English respectively from the University of Oxford.

鈥淚 was absolutely delighted to receive my offer and so were my parents. My teachers, subject mentors and the higher education team have also been so supportive throughout the application process. Now I just need to continue the hard work and get my grades!鈥� said Olivia who has secured an offer to study English at Clare College, Cambridge.

So far, over 90% of the 208 students in year 13 have received at least one offer after submitting their UCAS application forms.

In 2023, 94% of GSAL students continued to higher education with 83% being accepted by a higher tariff provider, typically Russell Group universities or Guardian top 30 university. The top four universities by destination for GSAL leavers in 2023 were Newcastle, Liverpool, Durham and Warwick.

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We are delighted to share some very exciting news: GSAL has been named the Sunday Times鈥� North Independent School of the Year 2024!

The award was announced today, Friday 1 December, as part of the Parent Power guide – widely considered the most authoritative account of the UK鈥檚 top schools – which will be published in this weekend鈥檚 Sunday Times.

The accolade marks the third time GSAL has been recognised by the Sunday Times in the last four years; having been chosen as North Independent Secondary School of the Year in 2020 and awarded the North Independent Secondary School of the Decade award in 2021.

The Sunday Times noted GSAL was one of the biggest risers in the UK, up by 53 places on last year to rank 106 overall in the national independent school rankings. It also praised the school鈥檚 generous bursary programme: GSAL spends more than 拢1 million providing at least 100 means-tested bursaries a year, with almost half of bursary students not paying any fees. In the article, Sue Woodroofe, GSAL Principal, admitted she had 鈥渂urst into tears of joy鈥� on hearing of the award, and added: 鈥淲e are a very grounded school. Our motto – 鈥楤e inspired鈥� – sums us up very well.鈥�

Mrs Woodroofe also released a special video to parents, staff and pupils to announce the news, saying 鈥淲e are absolutely thrilled. Well done to our pupils and our staff – it鈥檚 their hard work and dedication that鈥檚 enabled this school to be what it is – and not just now, but over so many centuries.鈥�

She also acknowledged the political, economic and international pressures impacting the lives of some GSAL families, and thanked parents, alumni and the wider GSAL community for their continued support.

Finally, she urged everyone to buy a copy of the Sunday Times and join the school in celebrating this weekend!

The award comes in a year when 70% of GCSEs at GSAL were awarded top 7/8/9 grades, and over 50% of A-levels were awarded A* or A. Plans for a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre are also fully underway, with completion in 2024-25.

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To slightly misquote Simon Mainwaring CEO of We First 鈥淐reating a better world requires teamwork, partnerships, and collaboration, as we need an entire army of organisations to work together to build a better world within the next few decades.鈥� This philosophy of teamwork and collaboration underpins 最新麻豆视频鈥檚 (GSAL) approach to partnerships.

At GSAL we aim to bring children and young people together on a range of projects to provide enrichment opportunities and aim to improve education outcomes for everyone involved. GSAL has over 25 partnerships with various regional organisations who share our values and purpose.

From Ilkley Literature Festival, LEEDS2023, and MathsCity, to the annual Teaching and Learning Conference and events with primary schools across Leeds, GSAL鈥檚 partnerships are mutually beneficial and often initiated and led by our partners. For example, our established partnership with Parklands Primary School raises the literacy and numeracy skills of young people and provides our sixth form students with inspiring volunteering opportunities whilst developing valuable skills.

The future is brighter for everyone when our region thrives.

Otley Science Festival always goes off with a bang. Family Fair Organiser Janet Love, said the 鈥淕SAL鈥檚 science teachers and students run fantastic activities for our visitors at the festival. They鈥檙e so enthusiastic and committed to putting across the value of being interested in science!鈥� Hundreds of children – and adults 鈥� were 鈥渇ascinated by the live locusts at the GSAL stand,鈥� said Zara, teacher of biology at GSAL. 鈥淭he highlight for the children was getting creative, constructing their own insects out of pom poms and pipe cleaners!鈥� In sharing resources and time, both GSAL staff and student leaders hope to inspire the next generation of entomologists through their passion for biology.

GSAL also hosts workshops and events for over 50 primary schools such as author visits by Cressida Cowell and Katherine Rundell. By livestreaming these events into classrooms across Yorkshire over two thousand pupils can take part and ask questions. There is no cost to the schools and the teaching day is not disrupted.

Sharing resources and opportunities and inspiration: this is the purpose of GSAL鈥檚 partnerships, which remains at the core of our contribution to the local community. Sue Woodroofe, Principal at GSAL is proud of the school鈥檚 commitment 鈥渢o having a positive impact on young people鈥檚 lives in Leeds beyond our school gates.鈥� At the 2022 GSAL Future鈥檚 Conference, pupils from Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School attended to hear first-hand advice from GSAL鈥檚 alumni about careers from a wide variety of sectors.

Mount St Mary鈥檚 staff, including the head teacher, Mark Cooper, give up their Saturdays to run GCSE revision workshops for their students. Mark has said 鈥渢hrough the creative use of GSAL study spaces for these revision sessions at the weekend, our students flourish in the comfortable and inspiring GSAL setting. Our students rise above their perceived and very real disadvantage and being afforded time to enter the GSAL community for a range of experiences and exposure, is priceless in seeing their own worth and potential.鈥� Together, the schools share experiences and aspirations. For a number of years, we have been building and strengthening our partnership, which has also led to a number of Mount St Mary鈥檚 students being offered a bursary place in GSAL鈥檚 Sixth Form. Mount St Mary鈥檚 alumni have been part of the GSAL student leadership team, including Head Boy. This partnership has helped raise their students鈥� aspirations, enhancing academic and life chances; we look forward to continuing our invaluable partnership.

GSAL鈥檚 partnership with Leeds City Museum (LCM) began almost 10 years ago and has continued to grow.聽Natalie Haigh, Learning and Access Officer at LCM, puts the success of their family fun days down to the alignment of values and goals, stating 鈥渂oth GSAL and LCM want to offer free learning activities and events for families together, in a friendly and welcoming space. With GSAL, we have been able to offer a range of high-quality events and engaging activities for families in Leeds.鈥�

Our joint PhD project with Leeds Beckett University aims to better understand the transition of juniors to senior school and how best to continue their athletic development. Professor Kevin Till, Co-Director of the Centre for Child and Adolescent Physical Literacy at Leeds Beckett University said “our partnership with the Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is a great example of our commitment to working together to co-produce research that make a positive difference to people, communities, and organisations.” Sam Gregory, GSAL sport teacher and embedded PhD researcher, brings the joint project to life, and sees this research as pivotal to adapting the sporting curriculum to engage young people in sport, as well as to “improve motor competence, motivation and engagement in physical education.” From a researcher perspective, working at GSAL allows Sam to embed himself into the school and generate rich data whilst building strong rapports with practitioners at GSAL. In relation to the PhD work, this will all help with the transformative approach practitioners are taking towards Physical Education. Professor Kevin Till and Professor Dave Morley have recently been involved with the development of the physical literacy consensus statement for the UK, as well as launching the only centre for physical literacy within the UK. Sam has said 鈥淟eeds Beckett is a great institution and is at the forefront for driving change within this area, putting GSAL in a very exciting position in relation to developing an innovative PE program.鈥� Professor Kevin Till believes the joint PhD helps to “co-create better experiences and opportunities for all children and adolescents and those who support them.”

As ambassadors for the Child Friendly Leeds initiative we are committed to making the city the best in the UK for children and young people. Our parents association donates hundreds of items of school uniform to the Zero Waste initiative, which provides much needed uniform to children across the city whilst saving tonnes of clothing from going to landfill. With the support of our partners we provide enrichment opportunities for looked after children and their carers. We organise gift collections at Christmas and Easter which sees the hundreds of items donated. Emma Southam, Engagement and Participation officer for Child Friendly Leeds said 鈥渢he GSAL community are always generous and supportive鈥� and 鈥渨e greatly appreciate your hard-work in organising these collections which makes such a difference to hundreds of families.鈥�

We can trace our roots in Leeds back to 1552, and as one of the oldest institutions in the city we take our civic responsibilities seriously. We have benefited from the generosity of philanthropists for over four hundred years, and we want to ensure that as many children and young people as possible benefit from their altruism. Our facilities are used by hundreds of schools, charities and community groups, every day of the week and every week of the year. Our partnerships and the sharing of our facilities are just some of the ways that according to research by the Independent Schools Council (ISC) that we contribute over 拢20m to the local economy and support 470 jobs.

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Congratulations to Duncan (Y12) who has been awarded the prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship sponsored by the Royal Air Force. Out of 1391 applications, 622 reached final panel interview stages, and Duncan was one of the 320 successful candidates.

With the educational charity The Smallpiece Trust, the Arkwright Scholarships programme identifies future leaders in engineering and technical design, as well as helping them progress in their career. The rigorous interview process includes a written application, a problem solving exam and a panel interview.

Duncan proudly discussed the success of his multi-functional birdfeeder he designed and made for his Design and Technology NEA at GCSE, 鈥淚 was able to apply maths and physics to the real world. Seeing my designs work really spurred my interest in engineering!鈥� Duncan used this project in his application for the scholarship, as the complexity and adaptability of the product displayed his talent and promise as an engineer.

Partnered with the RAF, Duncan will have a mentor who will support and advise him on his aerospace engineering career. In addition to the national recognition of the scholarship certification, Duncan will also receive money to support his further engineering studies.

Duncan has now set up an engineering club at school during lunchtime to inspire and instil his passion in pupils lower down in the school.

Find out more about the

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Students at 最新麻豆视频 (GSAL) are celebrating after being accredited with a Green Flag distinction award.

The Eco-Schools Green Flag recognises a school鈥檚 outstanding efforts to reduce its impact on the planet.

Supported by Tim Street, teacher and Environmental Sustainability Leader, GSAL鈥檚 eco-enthusiasts have worked tirelessly after school to improve the sustainability 140-acre site at Alwoodley Gates.

Tim Street praised the Eco Committee – staff and students – for their dedication to bettering GSAL鈥檚 green spaces through eco campaigns including:

• A school allotment behind the Sports Dome
• Hosting a school-wide Eco Week
• A building management system to control timings and temperatures of heating and lighting around the school.

GSAL is also aiming to have 100% LED lighting by summer 2024. GSAL鈥檚 external lighting 鈥� including the astroturf and tennis courts 鈥� is already completely LED and managed by sensors for increased efficiency.

Izzie, a sixth form Eco Committee member, said: 鈥淚 am so proud of the significant progress the staff and students have made on improving the site鈥檚 sustainability. I really enjoyed the Alwoodley 2023 Climate Action Hub Conference, where we shared ideas for becoming more eco-friendly.鈥�

Going forward, the Eco Committee wants to encourage more litter picking on the school premises and improve and progress their allotment.

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Stuart Lawrence, the younger brother of Stephen Lawrence, has visited 最新麻豆视频 (GSAL) to spread a revolutionary message of hope among young people ahead of Black History Month in October.

Thirty years after Stephen鈥檚 murder, which led to changes in legislation, police practice and a profound cultural shift in attitudes towards racism, Lawrence spoke to primary and senior students at GSAL about the power of an individual to change the world.

In his speech to senior school students, Stuart recalled a neighbour calling to say that Stephen had been in a fight at the bus stop. 鈥淪tephen wasn鈥檛 the kind of person to get involved in a fight,鈥� said Stuart. 鈥淚 shared a bedroom with him from the age of five; I knew him.鈥� Two hours later, his parents Doreen and Neville returned from the hospital with the news that Stephen had died. 鈥淚 went from the middle child to the eldest overnight – my mindset changed completely.鈥�

Stuart – an educator, author and activist (鈥渂ut father, husband and human being first鈥�) – presented a special extended assembly to the whole of senior school. His topics ranged from microaggressions to his passion for futsal, and he encouraged students to join an 鈥渆xclusive 1% club鈥� by picking up a book and reading every day. To close, he asked staff and pupils to join him in a rousing chant of 鈥淚 am a revolutionary!鈥�

Afterwards, Stuart headed over to primary school to speak to years 4, 5 and 6. He told the children about the importance of being givers not takers and having empathy for others. He then set students a challenge: to limit their time on electronic devices to pursue greater things. 鈥淗ard work beats talent when talent doesn鈥檛 work hard,鈥� he told pupils. 鈥淲hile you鈥檙e at home playing computer games, someone else is out there practicing their skills and working at something you want to be great at.鈥� Stuart also signed and donated some of his books Silence Is Not An Option to the school鈥檚 libraries.

Stuart, who is a patron for , was delighted to see a decolonialised historical timeline on the walls in GSAL Primary and even more thrilled to see a picture of his greatest inspiration: Nelson Mandela. Stuart recalled how his family met Nelson Mandela two weeks after Stephen鈥檚 murder, and how the high-profile meeting encouraged the police to take the investigation more seriously.

Jo Haynes-Boyd, EDI lead at GSAL, praised Stuart鈥檚 inspiring talks and students鈥� high engagement. 鈥淭hey clearly felt safe and comfortable, and asked so many questions,鈥� said Jo. 鈥淭his is an incredible start to Black History Month for GSAL. We can鈥檛 wait to have Stuart back to work with specific year groups – this work is so important to us.鈥�

滨尘补驳别:听Rt Hon Stuart Lawrence with students

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It鈥檚 been a year of excellent results for 最新麻豆视频 (GSAL), with 70% of all GCSEs awarded the top grades of 7, 8 or 9 (A/A*). 51% of entries were awarded grade 8 or above, and almost a third given grade 9.

GSAL鈥檚 GCSE Class of 23 included five sets of twins, two Bradford City academy footballers, two City of Leeds Youth Orchestra members, an Olympic swim team hopeful, an England U17 cricketer, a Junior GB tennis player and a rising golf star. Six students had particular cause for celebration after receiving 9s – the highest possible grade – across the board in 10 subjects, and 43 students achieved 10 grade 8s and 9s.

Sue Woodroofe, Principal at GSAL, said: 鈥淭he preceding years haven鈥檛 been easy for this year鈥檚 GCSE cohort, and their outstanding achievement is thanks to their hard work, determination and resilience – and, of course, that of their family and teachers. I鈥檓 so proud of everything our students have achieved, both academically and personally.鈥�

Image: GSAL students celebrating their GCSE results at school.

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The Class of 2023 have done incredibly well despite this being their first experience of public examinations, said Sue Woodroofe, Principal of 最新麻豆视频 (GSAL), as results were announced today (Thursday, August 17).

鈥淥ur Year 13 students were caught up in the exam disruption caused by the pandemic, and so missed the opportunity to sit their GCSEs in the normal way. Understandably, many were nervous about their A-levels – but they showed real determination and tenacity, with great support from staff and their families,鈥� Mrs Woodroofe added.

More than 60 students (36%) at GSAL achieved top grades of three As or more, and six achieved at least three A*s.

Headline achievements included:

鈼� 14 percent of grades were at A*
鈼� 52 percent of grades were at A*and A
鈼� 81 percent of grades were at A*-B

Mrs Woodroofe concluded: 鈥淚鈥檓 extremely proud of our students who, like so many of their generation, have had to contend with learning through lockdowns. These outstanding results are testimony to their resilience and hard work. They should feel incredibly proud of their achievements and excited about the next chapter in their lives.鈥�

Image: GSAL students celebrate their A-level results.

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Twenty five students from 最新麻豆视频 (GSAL) received the much-coveted Gold聽聽(DofE) this year, alongside three former students who earned the top accolade.

Current pupils receiving their Gold awards this year are: Daniel, Oliver, Amelia, Risha, Danya, Molly, Kian, Amelie, Michael, Annabella, Shriyaa, Alexander, Eve, Oluwaseyitan, Olivia, Lewis, Jason, Theodore, Amara, Ella, Mona, Maria, Charlotte, Eshaan and Neve.

The hard-working group attended the gold award ceremony at Buckingham Palace with their parents in May this year. Also in attendance were GSAL alumni Molly Gray (GSAL22), George Foster (GSAL19) and Teddy Hope (GSAL22) also receiving their gold awards. Attendees had the chance to hear from famous DofE Award holders, sporting legends and international adventurers, as well as gaining invaluable career advice from actors, presenters, authors and entrepreneurs also in attendance.

The Duke of Edinburgh was also present to congratulate attendees at what was his first Award celebrations as the charity鈥檚 Patron. In a speech from the Palace鈥檚 West Terrace, The Duke congratulated attendees and later, met with them to hear all about their achievements and positive impact the D of E award has had on them.

Year 13 student Lewis shared his thoughts:

鈥淒 of E has been a reward in itself; making new friends, pushing myself to limits I never thought I had and discovering new skills and places.鈥�

To achieve a Gold award, students must complete five sections that involve helping the community/environment, becoming fitter, developing new skills, planning, training for and completing an expedition and, for Gold only, working with a team on a residential activity.

(pictured above) Y13 students L-R: Olivia, Lewis, Kian, Alexander and Michael with their parents

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Long-serving and dedicated Scout leader Alan Naylor, who lives in Ilkley, has been awarded the honour of Medallist of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) in the King鈥檚 first Birthday Honours List in recognition for his service to young people.

The award acknowledges Alan鈥檚 exceptional service and selfless commitment to the 10^th North Leeds Scout Group at 最新麻豆视频 (GSAL) spanning five decades.

He said: 鈥淚 am absolutely delighted and feel very proud of what I have achieved, but you don鈥檛 do these things on your own. There have been many young people and leaders who have worked with me over the years.鈥�

Alan has been involved in Scouting at the school since he was a pupil at Leeds Grammar School. He left the school in 1972 and then returned as a geography teacher from 1977-2009 and was the head of outdoor education from 2009 until he retired in 2014. As well as GSAL Group Scout Leader, he has served as the Explorer Scout Leader since 2009.

He said: 鈥淪couting is about skills for life. It helps children gain self-confidence, the ability to work with others in teams and leadership responsibilities. It teaches them social skills and they develop friendships for life.鈥�

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During their time in sixth form, 52 year 13 students at 最新麻豆视频 have been awarded full colours, the highest accolade for achievement and service and synonymous with the distinctive and highly-coveted purple striped blazer.

Full colours are awarded to students in recognition of outstanding achievement, commitment, use of initiative and setting an excellent example to younger pupils. This year鈥檚 cohort have been awarded for sport, debating, music, drama, arts and events and service to school, EDI, CCF and Explorer Scouts, with six students receiving full colours in more than one activity.

We congratulate them all on their achievements and thank them for their service and commitment to the school.

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最新麻豆视频’ School Edition of 鈥楲es Mis茅rables鈥� was a roaring three-night success late last month. Year 13 student Daniella shares her review:

GSAL students from years 8-13 ended the spring term in a storm, leaving everything out on stage for a three-night run of shows of the school edition of 鈥楲es Mis茅rables鈥�. The talented cast performed to crowds packed with families, friends, staff, alumni and pupils each night, and I was fortunate enough to attend the sold-out closing night. These students demonstrated dedication and passion to their craft, successfully transporting the audience back to early 19^th century France; the culmination of six months preparation and rehearsals.

The musical 鈥楲es Mis茅rables鈥� by Alain Boubil and Claude-Michel Schonberg, based on Victor Hugo鈥檚 1862 novel, follows the story of Jean Valjean who was a former convict and spends a lifetime seeking redemption. Performances included some of the play鈥檚 most well-known songs such as 鈥淚 Dreamed a Dream鈥�, 鈥淒o You Hear the People Sing?鈥� and 鈥淏ring Him Home鈥�.

The experience begins before the audience has even taken their seats.聽Beggars traversing the school鈥檚 corridor interacted with the audience as they made their way to the theatre where on arrival they see the spectacular set and the room filled with ominous smoke.

The musical begins with the live orchestra performing the prologue song which leaves the audience in anticipation of what is to come. As the chain gang begin trudging down the stage we are introduced to the main protagonist, Jean Valjean, played by William. As Jean Valjean is released on parole by the prison guard Javert (Landon), he has the opportunity to become an honest man when the bishop (David) gives him a second chance. We later meet the character Fantine (Talia) where Valjean cares for her during the birth of her daughter up until her death.

Throughout the performance, I was amazed at how talented the students are. One of my most memorable and favourite moments was watching the enjoyment emanate from the performers 鈥� and the audience – during 鈥淢aster of the House鈥�. The characters Monsieur and Madame Th茅nardier, played by Ben and Sofia, injected a sense of humour on stage to juxtapose the sombre mood of other key moments in the musical.

As time jumps forward, we are further introduced to more principal characters: Marius (Marcus), Enjolras (Chris), Cosette (Hannah), Eponine (Anna) and Gavroche (Zack). Throughout the entire performance, the lighting, sound and the set design of the barricade really captures the audience’s attention, as well as the perfectly choreographed fight scene that carried the spirit of the student revolution. As Jean Valjean grows old and is comforted by the past spirits, the performance ends with the faces of the revolution and the ensemble coming together for the finale 鈥淒o You Hear the People Sing?鈥� leaving the entire audience on their feet in a standing ovation.

The final night left the cast emotional as they all thoroughly enjoyed their time together rehearsing, performing and building friendships along the way. A special mention was given to the year 13 students who were involved in their final school production and for their dedication to the drama and music departments throughout their time at GSAL.

A massive heartfelt thank you was offered to Mrs Sidwell (musical director) and Miss R Bendelow, Miss E Binks and Mr S Reynolds (creative directors) for making this musical possible. Thanks were also given to Ms Nutt (set Construction and lighting design), costume and makeup design, production crew and to all the musicians involved in the live orchestra. Finally, I would like to thank the entire cast and ensemble who should be tremendously proud; you have left the audience touched by a show they will never forget.

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GSAL hosted its annual Futures Conference recently, inspiring students with engaging presentations, panel discussions and hands-on workshops from the school鈥檚 alumni in fields ranging from medicine to marketing.

Students made four choices from a programme of sector-specific and skills-based presentations, all intended to broaden their horizons and give them real-world insights into the world of work. Speakers, who were all from the school鈥檚 alumni and parent communities, included Deputy Chief Executive and Second Permanent Secretary of HMRC, Angela MacDonald (OG88), barrister Pankaj Madan (OL92), Deputy Medical Director at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, Dr Sarah Sherliker (OG96) and artistic director William Galinsky (OL90). Some students even had the chance to get involved in a high-stakes and hands-on trading game organised by Paul Anderson (OL91), Global Head, Listed Derivatives and Clearing at Deutsche Bank.

The highlight of the day for many came from Simon Gillis (OL00), COO of Academy Award, Emmy and BAFTA-winning television and film production house, See Saw Films. Simon, who trained as a solicitor and previously worked as a senior lawyer for Disney, gripped students with the tale of his 鈥渟quiggle rather than a straight line鈥� career and the inspirational careers that await them in the film and television sector. Faisal Galaria (OL92), former CEO of Blippar, provided further encouragement, telling students 鈥渋t doesn鈥檛 matter where you鈥檙e coming from, it鈥檚 where you鈥檙e going鈥� and urged the young people in attendance to 鈥渓eave everything on the track鈥� – an analogy referring back to his days as a successful schoolboy runner.

Students from one of GSAL鈥檚 partner schools, Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School joined the event in-person, and content was recorded to share with GSAL鈥檚 partner schools across the city.

鈥淲e鈥檙e committed to having a positive impact on young people鈥檚 lives in Leeds beyond our school gates and sharing the first-hand experiences of our alumni. We鈥檙e delighted that students from Cardinal Heenan were able to be with us鈥� said Sue Woodroofe, Principal at GSAL. 鈥淲e know that many more will benefit from the wisdom and advice shared via the recordings for some time to come.鈥�

Kieran Gaffey, careers coordinator at Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School, Leeds, said 鈥淥ur students fully enjoyed the event at GSAL learning about potential future careers from inspirational speakers. Many thanks for the invite and warm welcome from GSAL.鈥�

Students were also effusive in their feedback. 鈥淚 found the sessions really eye-opening and interesting and finding out about careers that were completely new to me,鈥� said Ellie, year 12 student.

After this dose of inspiration, one thing is certain: a bright future awaits!

Images
Students in years 10 and 12 at GSAL attend the annual Futures Conference
Simon Gillis (OL00), COO, See Saw Films

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An all-star cast of primary and secondary teachers put on a purrrrfect performance of Dick Whittington in January, kicking off GSAL鈥檚 very own Year of Culture 2023.

Performing arts are always in the spotlight at GSAL but, as one of the official supporters of Leeds 2023 Year of Culture, we鈥檙e determined to make even more of a scene about music, theatre and performance. And what better way to begin than with a hilarious and, err, unique interpretation of one of Pantoland鈥檚 finest shows?

An appreciative crowd of GSAL students and families, former staff and alumni packed out the assembly hall for three nights, laughing, cheering and booing in all the right places. Highlights included Dick (Katie Harpin-Lawrence) and Alice鈥檚 (Anna Rusbatch) romantic rendition of Frozen鈥檚 鈥楲ove is an Open Door鈥�, plus standout performances by Paul Rushworth and Gwen Veitch as the shop owner Aldy-Man and a stylish cat with attitude respectively.

There were laidback Mancunian puns from the King of Salford (John Bagshaw), villainous rats played with perfect comic timing by Paul Morris and Lewis Butcher (King Rats) and Chris Dodd and Chloe Griggs (Boris and Liz – any resemblance to real life persons is purely coincidental鈥�) – all topped off with a rousing S Club 7 dance finale.

The biggest laughs this year went to Dame Sally (Jon Tyndall), nor forgetting his three sporting (and long-suffering) foils in the audience. We suspect Mr Tyndall鈥檚 Maths lessons may never be the same again鈥�

Special thanks are due to writer, director and Master of Slapstick, Simon Knowles, who delighted the audience with his performance as Idle Jack – oh yes he did! Mr Knowles has been involved in every staff panto since his debut in Jack and the Beanstalk in 1995, which featured Headmaster Bryan Collins alongside Peter Jolly as the Dame. This year, Simon鈥檚 enthusiastic cast included a number of former Leeds Grammar School teachers: Paul Morris, Paul Rushworth, Suzy Rounce, Kerry Kurczj, Leanne Sutheran and Rachel Purcell.

GSAL鈥檚 talented student band, the camel, choreographer Donna Woodman, technical director Tina Nutt and her backstage team also deserve plenty of praise and thanks. Without everyone鈥檚 efforts, we simply couldn鈥檛 have raised the 拢5000 we did for chosen charities 聽 and .

And if Dick Whittington has got you shouting for an encore, keep your eyes peeled for more cultural and arts events this year: next up, the senior school production of Les Miserables School Edition on 26-28 March!

Pictured: Jon Tyndall, Simon Knowles, Paul Morris, Paul Rushworth and Anna Rusbatch

Pictured: The cast of the GSAL Staff Panto 2023

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Recently at 最新麻豆视频 you may have noticed a newly unveiled sun dial on a plinth on the walkway from the visitors鈥� car park to the main reception – but you may find there is more to it than meets the eye.

The sundial was commissioned by the school in memory of Derek Fry, a much-loved physics and astronomy teacher who taught at Leeds Grammar School and 最新麻豆视频 for over 30 years. Otto Stowe (GSAL21) was tasked with creating a plinth for the sun dial as part of his A-level design technology project.

Mr Fry sadly passed away in聽2018, two months before Otto, one of his astronomy students, sat their GCSEs.

Otto鈥檚 design for the plinth was inspired by maths, physics and astronomical references and made from steel. The three-part construction reflected trigonometry and Otto incorporated an armillary sphere at its centre. Take a closer look above the sphere and you will see Mr Fry鈥檚 profile.

Dr Michelle D鈥橵ali, teacher of physics and astronomy co-ordinator at GSAL, worked with Otto on the project.

鈥淭his is such a wonderful teaching and learning tool for the current and future GCSE astronomy students and Otto鈥檚 plinth is absolutely stunning 鈥� the care, effort and attention to detail he has put in to this commission is a wonderful tribute to Mr Fry.鈥�

Otto who gained a grade A* in A-level DT, is now studying mechanical engineering at the University of Sheffield.

Dr D鈥橵ali added, 鈥淭he sundial will be to put to practical use too by GSAL鈥檚 GCSE astronomy students as part of their studies. The fact that this is not just a memorial but an invaluable learning tool would have been particularly important to Mr Fry.鈥�

The sundial itself is made of brass with a patinated and filigree finish which Otto incorporated into the plinth design.

Otto is keen that passers-by see something different every time they look at the sun dial and its plinth. Next time you pass take a closer look. It is positioned on the school鈥檚 exact co-ordinates, 53聽52N, 131, W.

And finally in the words of Mr Fry, 鈥淚f you scratch off an astronomer, you get a physicist and if you scratch off a physicist, you get a mathematician鈥�. Mr Fry, Otto and all his former astronomy students were certainly proud to be all three.

Pictured: Otto with the sun dial on its plinth and the sun dial.

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Saturday 3 December saw the 41^st English Schools Athletic Association (ESAA) Cross Country National Cup Final hosted at 最新麻豆视频. Over 100 schools came from all over the country to compete, with thousands of spectators cheering on the young athletes.

The runners rose to the challenge of an undulating course that weaved around the school鈥檚 playing fields and woodland paths.

Guests of honour included former ESAA chairperson and Leeds Girls鈥� High School alumna, Jill Wright (OG55) and Olympic triathlon gold medallist Jess Learmonth, who awarded prizes to the winners and had inspirational messages for every competitor.

Congratulations to all the competitors and winners who performed spectacularly across the six races:

Junior Girls 2400m winner: Kitty of Guildford High (Surrey): 8m19s

Junior Boys 3000m winner: Tom of Silverdale School (Sheffield): 8m07s

Inter Girls 3000m winner: Katie of Guildford High (Surrey): 8m44s

Inter Boys 4500m winner: Jake of St George鈥檚 Weybridge (Surrey): 13m55s

Senior Girls 3500m winner: Jemima of Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School (Buckinghamshire): 10m52s

Senior Boys 5100m winner: Harry of Bourne Grammar School (Lincolnshire): 16m18s

The event was filmed throughout the day by Vinco Sport who have uploaded the livestream and highlights from the day .

Thank you to everyone in the GSAL community who helped organise the event, volunteered on the day and gave our visitors a warm Yorkshire welcome.

Image: Matthew Quine/Vinco

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Cadet Colour Sergeant Flossie, a member of GSAL鈥檚 Combined Cadet Force, recently received one of the highest honours any cadet can achieve, having been appointed as one of only three Lord-Lieutenant Cadets for West Yorkshire.

Each of the cadets represent their respective section of the armed forces, with Flossie taking the role for the Combined Cadet Force (CCF).

Sixth former, Flossie, joined the cadets when she was 13 and has taken part in a number of exciting activities and opportunities, including kayaking in Scotland, rock-climbing in Wales, and is soon to head off to Germany skiing.

Lord Lieutenant cadets are amongst the best in their county and will have completed most of their training syllabus, as well as taking part in The Duke of Edinburgh鈥檚 award scheme. During her role, Flossie will be given the chance to assist the Lord Lieutenant at civic and military occasions, including the chance to attend Royal Visits.

She said: 鈥淭he cadets have given me a lifetime worth of adventures and I hope all these experiences will help me throughout the rest of my cadet and adult career.鈥�

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Tracey Neville, former netball international and head coach of England, put over 100 Leeds youngsters through their paces at 最新麻豆视频 recently.

Tracey visited the school to open the sports dome, a new, covered sports facility at 最新麻豆视频 (GSAL). She ran a netball training session with the U15 and U16 GSAL netball teams. This was followed by skills workshop for pupils from eight local primary schools where they practiced shooting, passing, moving and defending under the watchful gaze of the former national coach.

After the training sessions, Tracey cut the ribbon to officially open the dome. The ceremony was also attended by Bob Bowman, CEO of Leeds Rhinos Foundation, the official charity of Leeds Rhinos rugby and netball.

Bob said: 鈥淭he partnership between GSAL and Leeds Rhinos coupled with this excellent facility will provide opportunities for the Superleague franchise to integrate themselves with the wider community. The facility will also help showcase the sport of netball in Leeds and the wider region.鈥�

Netball is going from strength to strength at the school with Paige Reed, a Rhinos and England Roses player also taking up the role of Head Netball Coach.

Lorcan O鈥橞rien, Whole School Director of Sport at GSAL said: 鈥淚 am delighted that Tracey Neville joined us to open this great new sports facility at GSAL, and it was fantastic to see girls and boys from local primary pupils having fun and enjoying this great sport. The dome certainly lays a firm foundation to grow our partnerships with the local sports community and in the wider community of Leeds.鈥�

The schools who took part in the skills sessions were Kerr Mackie Primary, Roundhay St John Primary, Highfield Primary, Moortown Primary, Weetwood Primary, Holy Name Catholic Primary, Immaculate Heart of Mary RC Primary, Parklands Primary and 最新麻豆视频.

The dome, which has the backing of Sport England and England Netball, contains four tennis courts and three netball courts. It is available to the local community in the evenings, weekends and during the school holidays. Further information on hiring this facility can be found here.

Image: Former England head coach, Tracey Neville with GSAL pupils (credit: Simon Dewhurst)

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A student from 最新麻豆视频 (GSAL) who won a prestigious European climbing competition in Austria this summer, is now looking forward to moving up to new 聽challenges.

Representing Team GB, climber Dayan Akhtar (GSAL22), 18, from Alwoodley, came first at the European Youth Bouldering Championship in Graz, Austria on 6 August. His gold medal followed him finishing 11^th in the European Youth Lead Climbing Championship in Augsburg, Germany earlier in the summer.

Just recently, Dayan moved onto the world stage representing GB in both the bouldering and lead climbing disciplines in Dallas at the Youth World Championships on 22-31 August and finishing an impressive 6^th overall.

After his spectacular summer of climbing, Dayan, also achieved a strong set of A-level results and he will be taking up a place at Leeds Beckett University to study sports and exercise science.

Dayan said: 鈥淚鈥檝e had a very busy but exciting summer. I flew to the European Championships just two days after sitting my last A-level exam and received my results just as I boarded the plane for the World Championships in Dallas! Balancing my studies with training and competitions has been tough but my teachers have been amazing and helped me a great deal.鈥�

We wish Dayan well in his studies, his imminent move from youth to senior climbing competitions and his preparation for selection for the Olympics in Paris 2024 and Los Angeles in 2028.

Image credit: Achim Reinbacher

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