Marcus Child returns to Dame Allan’s Schools to inspire pupils with lessons in resilience and high performance
Internationally renowned speaker Marcus Child is set to return to Dame Allan’s Schools to continue the third year of The Lectures series, sharing insights from a distinguished career that has spanned 36 countries and earned him more than 40 awards.
Year 7 Acro Dancer to represent England in Dance World Cup
12-year-old Jess Gorton has secured a prestigious place in the Dance World Cup, which will be taking place in Burgos, Spain in July 2025.
Dame Allan’s and Natural History Society of Northumbria partner on new Young Naturalist Award Scheme
Dame Allan’s Schools Outdoor Education (OLED) team and the Natural History Society of Northumbria have partnered to create a scheme for pupils to get them involved in nature and local conservation.
Former Pupil Chris Wilkie returns as Head of English
Above: Mr Chris Wilkie, Head of English at Dame Allan’s Schools
Sixth Form Volunteers celebrate International Volunteer Day
Above: Dame Allan’s Schools Student Volunteers celebrate International Volunteer Day, L-R Charlotte Hunter, Charlotte Townsend, Amy Wright
On International Volunteer Day (5 December) the efforts of Sixth Form students at Dame Allan’s Schools in Newcastle are being celebrated. From working in charity shops to supporting a women’s centre, these young volunteers showcase the power of giving back through their co-curricular activities.
Samia Choudhury: second chances at Café 16
Aspiring lawyer Samia chose a unique volunteering opportunity at Café 16 in Newcastle Cathedral. The café provides work experience for those with criminal records seeking to reintegrate into society via The Oswin Project, which offers second chances to people through mentoring, training and employment. This is a mission that resonates with Year 12 student Samia. “It wasn’t just about serving food – it was about giving people a second chance,” she explains.
Samia serves customers, maintains the café’s welcoming atmosphere and has mastered the skill of making ‘proper’ coffee, albeit with latte art she admits ‘does not belong in a gallery!’
Working at Café 16 has shifted Samia’s perspective. “I wasn’t sure people could change but seeing everyone here work together and support each other has really changed my mind,” she says. “It’s made me see people differently, and I try to carry that optimism into my own life now.”
With aspirations to work in law after completing A Levels in English literature, psychology and politics, Samia values the insight she’s gained into the justice system. “Meeting people who’ve been affected by it has been eye-opening,” she adds. “Volunteering is one of the best things you can do in your free time. Making a difference, whether it’s big or small, is very fulfilling and worthwhile.”
Sixth Former Lucy to represent England in European Badminton Championships after ‘World-class’ Award Win
Above: Dame Allan’s Schools Student and Badminton Champion, Lucy Dodd
Allanians and local organisations explore the power of apprenticeships at Dame Allan’s Careers Event
Above: Allanian Anna Gillespie, UNW
Embracing a growth mindset: Journalist Matthew Syed inspires Dame Allan’s pupils to fail well and learn
Above: Matthew Syed and Principal Will Scott at Dame Allan’s Schools
Annual OLED Awards celebrate pupil triumphs in the great outdoors
Above: Celebrating Dame Allan’s Schools’ OLED success at Wylam Brewery
Year 7 pupil Max fights his way to European Karate Championship in Poland
Above: Max is excited about showcasing his karate skills in front of a live audience