Last Wednesday, a party of Lower Sixth Physics pupils, David Clark, Kim Hawkins, Rachel Phillips, Adam Pickersgill, Michael Richards, Craig Stranger, Jonathan Williams, Mark Upton, Simon Donovan and Joshua Evans, visited the Radiology and Opthalmology departments at Withybush Hospital. Part of the Salters-Horners Physics course involves 'The Visit' where it is intended for students to come into contact with 'real-life' examples of Physics in use. The students are assessed on their ability to identify and explain the principles in use, to recognise the purpose for which they are being used and on their presentation of the information in a clear and logical manner. The tour was thoroughly enjoyed by all and the party would like to convey their thanks and appreciation to Mr. Peter Davies, and colleagues who gave up their time so willingly and expanded in great detail on the Physics applications involved in the many instruments and demonstrations which made complicated processes very easy to understand. Many thanks also to Physics teacher Phil Davies for organising the visit and Mrs. Sue Lawrence, the personnel officer at the hospital.

'UN CONFERENCE

Last Friday, a group of nine students from Years 11 and 12 attended a day conference as delegates of the UK, Brazil and the Philippines in a meeting that emulated an actual gathering of the UN. The Model United Nations Security Council meeting for Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire Schools was held at County Hall, Council Chambers, Aberaeron, and organised by CEWC - Cymru. A large amount of preparation was required in order to understand the two main issues under discussion: the current situation in Sudan (am) the current situation in Afghanistan (pm). The council chamber provided an impressive setting for the debate and negotiations that took place all day. Our students contributed confidently, perseceptively and maturely to the ongoing debate and participated fully throughout the day. We all left having gained an interesting insight into the workings of the UN and the state of the global community today.

Engineering competition

Year nine pupils from Dyffryn Taf School had an interesting and successful day when they visited Trinity College, Carmarthen, last week. They were formed into teams with pupils from a number of other local schools and set the difficult task of designing a model wind turbine. As if working against the clock was not challenging enough, they also had to answer some tough questions posed by the Atkins Engineering Company, who were the sponsors of the competition. Dyffryn Taf pupils James Stephenson, Catrin John and James Couzens were members of the teams who came first, second and third in the competition. Congratulations to them all.

YEAR 11 Progress evening

There is a scheduled progress evening for Year 11 students of Dyffryn Taf secondary school to be held next Thursday, November 25. All parents are invited to attend, where they will have the opportunity to discuss their child's progress with the members of staff. It is vital that parents attend when possible and take this opportunity. Year 11 is a critical year for all involved and we would appreciate your support. The evening will be held from 4 to 7 pm.

Year 12 progress evening feedback

Dyffryn Taf would wish to express gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the parents evening for Year 12 students last week. Those who attended found it a rewarding experience and we are sure that the students and their parents took all comments into consideration. All teachers attended the parents evening, providing students with advice and ideas on how to progress from this point onwards.

CAREERS FAIR

Last Thursday, Year 11 pupils from Dyffryn Taf visited the 'Opportunities 2005' careers fair at Withybush Showground, Haverfordwest. A large number of representatives from local and national employers, colleges and universities were present, giving information on opportunities available to future employees. Much work had gone in to organising the event and the thanks of all pupils goes to the organisers. Feedback from the pupils was very positive, with a number of them now able to set goals for future career paths. As part of the career programme at Dyffryn Taf, every pupil in Year 11 had to go through a rigorous interview with representatives of local organisations. This worthwhile visit ensures that all pupils understand the expectations of employers and the high standards expected of them. Following on from their experience, pupils were given a feedback of strength and weaknesses which will further assist in their own personal development and preparation for the world of work.