A TEAM of Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College students have reached the final stages of a national cyber security competition.

The foursome are through to the final 10 teams of the UK’s cyber security event, run by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

Marina, Caitlin, Jasmin and Aeryn were entered into the competition by their teacher Sabrina Ford, who said: “The girls have been super determined and have committed a significant amount of their time to completing this challenge, we’re very proud of them”.

The competition started with an initial field of 6,500 girls from 600 UK schools across the UK.

In the semi-finals the girls completed cyber security puzzles covering cryptography, logic, programming and networking.

Marina, Cailin, Jasmin and Aeryn will now compete in the grand final on April 26.

The final will see the girls completing more cyber security tasks using the skills they have developed throughout the competition.

Each team will get a so-called drop crate, containing tech equipment and physical changes, to help them.

Headmaster Greg McClarey said: “We’re very proud of the girls and their achievements which showcase the excellence of our computing department here at Blessed Edward’s.”

TOUGH ACT TO FOLLOW: Last year’s winner Grace Rogers with her trophy and cheque

TOUGH ACT TO FOLLOW: Last year’s winner Grace Rogers with her trophy and cheque

Droitwich Spa High School has launched of this year’s Karen Moore Award for Creative Writing. 

The award, backed by the Droitwich Arts Network, was established in 2019 following the retirement of Karen Moore who had for many years been the deputy head at the school. 

Mrs Moore said: “Creative writing has always been close to my heart and after I retired I really wanted to give something to the school that was for all of the students so that they show off their skills, creativity and imagination.

“I am looking forward to reading this year’s entries that I am sure will be at least as good, if not better than last year.”

This year, students have been given the title, The Beautiful Game, which they can interpret as they see fit.

Entry is open to every student in the school and the deadline for sub,missions is May 28.

First round judges will be Helen Karakashian, from the Droitwich Arts Network, and Karen Moore herself who will decide on the two finalists.

Those entries will be sent to Anna Fern, a former pupil of Droitwich Spa High School who is now working as a script development editor at ITV in London.

Helen Karakashian, the chair of DAN, said: “Droitwich Arts Network is delighted to be supporting this creative writing competition.

“It is always a joy to judge the high quality writing of the students.”

Charlotte Showell has joined the Brook Nursery at The River School

Charlotte Showell has joined the Brook Nursery at The River School

Charlotte Showell has joined as a nursery teacher at The River School as its nursery numbers have hit a record high.

Mrs Showell, who is originally from Cornwall, has a Level 3 in Childcare, a Certificate in Higher Education in Primary Teaching; most recently graduated with a BSc in psychology.

She said: “I am inspired by the values of The River School and excited about the prospect of being part of a school which wants the absolute best for each and every child, not just academically but holistically too.

“It is a real honour to be part of such a wonderful school.

“My aim is to be a teacher who makes learning fun and engaging, providing opportunities that will spark children’s interests, allowing them to learn and grow. The school is a real breath of fresh air and I am excited to be part of its continued success.”

Headteacher Adrian Parsonage said: “We are delighted to welcome Mrs Showell to our nursery staff as we continue to expand and provide high quality provision in our Brook Nursery.

“Staff are excited by our record numbers and seeing the children enjoy our amazing grounds and facilities and know that Mrs Showell will be a tremendous asset to the children.”