Latest News
Infants splash to raise cash - 11 Mar 2010
Boys and Girls in the Early Years department put their swimming skills to good use today, when they all took part in a "Splashathon" in the school swimming pool, raising money for the charity Tommy's, which funds scientific research to help ensure more babies are born healthy.
Thank you lunch for Garstang Room chair sponsors - 05 Mar 2010
The Garstang Room has always played an important function in the life of the school; from dining room to library, to music room. It is now the school's prestigious meeting room for special occasions and today a lunch was held to thank those Old Blackburnians and friends of the school who have kindly sponsored one of the splendid new chairs, designed and created by former pupil Paul Case, now a master craftsman based in the Ribble Valley.
First Years win Rotary poetry competition - 04 Mar 2010
Three First Year pupils today collected prizes as winners of the Young Writer competition organised by the Rotary Club of Blackburn West.
Club President Roger Parker came in to an assembly this afternoon to congratulate Alexander Corns, Cara Murray and James Parkinson, whose poems were judged the best entries in the competition, which had the theme of "The Environment". Three other entries were highly commended and all the pupils who entered the competition will receive a certificate.
Book Week celebrated - 04 Mar 2010
A variety of special events have been held in school this week to mark World Book Day - so much so that Mrs Dewhurst, the School Librarian, expanded them into a Book Week!
Thomas talks about the Berlin Wall - 03 Mar 2010
Fifth Year and Sixth Form pupils, together with a number of staff, welcomed Herr Thomas Laemmer to Queen Elizabeth's this evening for a seminar on life in Germany before, during and after the Berlin Wall.
Herr Laemmer was a border guard in East Berlin at the time that the wall finally came down in 1989 and his talk was of interest to those studying History, as well as Modern Foreign Languages. He spoke openly and frankly about his feelings and experiences as an East German and provided a wealth of interesting and thoughtful insights into life behind the Iron Curtain. He also talked about the changes that people from both West and East Germany had experienced since unification.
Duke of Edinburgh's Awards presented - 26 Feb 2010
Boys and girls from Queen Elizabeth's have received silver and bronze awards under the Duke of Edinburgh's scheme, at a special ceremony held yesterday at St Wilfrid's High School in Blackburn.
Teacher Mr Mark Sirkett, who has led the groups through the various stages of their awards, was present to see six QEGS students receive silver awards and another dozen be handed their bronze awards.
University admissions - a different view - 19 Feb 2010
Parents and students may have read a lead article in the Daily Telegraph last Saturday (13 February), which claimed that students from independent schools are being discriminated against by top universities. The HMC, of which the Headmaster of Queen Elizabeth's is a member, was consulted and its Secretary stated to the journalists concerned that “we have no systematic evidence of discrimination, one way or the other, in admissions this year”. This statement is backed by the findings of the Independent School Council's own survey - however, none of this was reported.
As a consequence HMC has made a formal complaint to the Daily Telegraph and the HMC Chairman was one of a number of Heads who wrote a letter to the paper following publication of the article.
Grandparents go back to school - 11 Feb 2010
Grannies and Granddads have been taking a trip back in time – to recall their own schooldays. The special Grandparents’ Afternoon, attended by 70 grannies and granddads, took place in the Junior School today.
Author David Ambrose revisits his old school - 10 Feb 2010
We were delighted to welcome back former QEGS Head Boy David Ambrose (OB 1951-62), when he visited the school for the first time in many years today. David is now a popular author of sci-fi and psychological thrillers, though he originally made his name in the literary world writing screenplays for film and television.
Science scintillates in the Junior School - 05 Feb 2010
Mums and Dads went back to school last night – to try their hand at science experiments! The parents were invited to join their children, the boys and girls in the Junior School here at Queen Elizabeth's, for an evening of ‘Scintillating Science’.
The family science challenge set parents and pupils the task of taking part in a variety of fun experiments ranging from making ‘spinning helicopters’ to observing “disco raisins” placed in different types of liquid. In one experiment, they even attempted to insert a skewer through an inflated balloon!
Pupils tackle tough linguistics challenge - 03 Feb 2010
A number of senior pupils have today been testing their knowledge of how languages work, when Queen Elizabeth's was one of the first schools in the country to participate in the inaugural UK Linguistics Olympiad.
NSPCC says thank you - 02 Feb 2010
The proceeds of the 1509 Challenge, undertaken by boys and girls from the Second Year of senior school, were today handed over to the NSPCC. Well over £1,000 was raised by the pupils who ran up the 60 steps on Brantfell Road in the annual fundraising challenge just before the Christmas break.
Physics awards for Chris and Callum - 01 Feb 2010
Chris Burt and Callum Jones, who sat their A levels at Queen Elizabeth’s last summer, have each been awarded a £50 book token prize by the Lancashire and Cumbria branch of the Institute of Physics.
The award is made annually to the scholars who record the highest points on the two specifications of the AQA A Level Physics paper and Chris and Callum were equal top scorers within the Lancashire and Cumbria area for specification B . They will receive their prizes at a special presentation at Lancaster University in April.
Oxbridge success for Katherine and Henry - 20 Jan 2010
Two of our Sixth Form students, Katherine Midgley and Henry Berwick, have been offered Oxbridge places following interviews last month.
Katherine, who is the current Head of School, has been accepted at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, where she will study Fine Art, while Henry has been offered a place at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, to read Mathematics.
Junior pupils research the Bard - 20 Jan 2010
Junior School pupils have been gaining their own insight into the life of Shakespeare.
Boys and girls in Year Six have been delving into the past to compile their Shakespeare projects. “I have been amazed at the quality of Shakespeare projects that the Year 6 pupils have been working on” says their teacher Ms Kirsten Lawrence. “It is clear that many of the pupils spent their spare time during last term working extremely hard on these.”
Sporting honours for QEGS pupils - 12 Jan 2010
Congratulations to Emily Whiteside on her selection for the England Under-17 netball squad this year. The squad is currently preparing for the European Championships that will take place in Belfast in March.
Congratulations, Julian - 31 Dec 2009
Former QEGS Horncliffe (Junior School) pupil Julian Wilde has been awarded the MBE in the New Year’s Honours list for voluntary services to young people.
1509 Challenge completes quincentenary year - 16 Dec 2009
The final event of the year that has seen Queen Elizabeth's celebrate its 500th birthday was styled "The 1509 Challenge", as boys and girls from the Second Year of the senior school each ascended 1,509 steps on Brantfell Road, adjacent to Corporation Park.
The money raised from sponsorship, expected to be in the region of £2,000, will be donated to the NSPCC and will bring the total from charitable fundraising activities at the school during the quincentenary year to well over £10,000.
Junior School Carol Concert - 15 Dec 2009
The boys and girls in the Junior School presented their own interpretations of the meaning of Christmas in the Carol Concert held in the Main Hall at school this evening. The Junior Choir, guided by Mrs Blakemore, was in splendid form and the audience of parents, grandparents and friends were well entertained both by the music and by the sketches presented by each form - although some of the jokes suggested that one or two people might have been pulling their Christmas crackers rather early this year!
Cathedral Carol Service heralds Christmas - 14 Dec 2009
The school's annual Carol Service was held in Blackburn Cathedral this evening, heralding the impending arrival of the Christmas season.
Good news for Sports Hall development - 13 Dec 2009
The school wishes to congratulate Blackburn Community Sports Club which, we understand, has been awarded a Football Foundation grant to facilitate development of the Sports Hall at the Harrison Playing Fields at Lammack. The Club's bid to the Football Foundation was made in partnership with Queen Elizabeth's and it is hoped that work will start in Spring 2010 to enable six purpose-built changing rooms and a viewing platform to be constructed at Lammack.
The new development is planned to include facilities for disabled, as well as able-bodied, children and adults.
Cross-country and swimming stars - 07 Dec 2009
There was an excellent turnout of runners representing Queen Elizabeth's in last Saturday's town Cross-Country Championships at Witton Park. Special congratulations are due to the Year 10 and 11 Boys' squad and the Senior Boys' squads, both of whom won their race, and to Luke Penswick, individual winner of the Year 8 and 9 boys' race - an even more notable achievement as Luke is himself still in Year 8.
2010 calendars help to fund Sixth Form trip - 03 Dec 2009
If you haven't yet obtained a wall calendar for 2010, you can get one from the main reception at school - and by doing so help to fund a Sixth Form trip next summer to help disadvantaged children in Uganda. The calendars have been designed by Sixth Form students and feature scenes from school life during the past year.
Christingle service for Early Years boys and girls - 03 Dec 2009
The Early Years children today went to St Silas Church in Blackburn for the annual Christingle service, led by former QEGS pupil Canon Arthur Ranson, the parish priest. Canon Ranson explained the significance of the different parts of the Christingle candle and the children sang beautifully their Christingle song,"There's a light", and also a Christmas carol.
Magic Show helps Children's Hospital - 03 Dec 2009
Mr Lead and Mr Heald today handed over the proceeds of the Magic Show, held in Big School last month as part of the school's 500th anniversary celebrations. A total of £875 was raised from the tickets sales and raffle proceeds and Katie Crinnion from the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, said she was very grateful indeed to all those who had arranged the event, given their services, bought tickets and been entertained on the night. She had a special word of thanks to the members of the school's Conjuring Club, under the guiding wand of Mr Lead, for supporting the Hospital and said the money raised would be a great help in providing support and care for the sick children there, and their families.
Charitable children help with Christmas shoe boxes - 02 Dec 2009
Second Year pupils today handed over the Christmas shoe boxes they had kindly filled to the charity Operation Christmas Child. Sixth Form students helped them to load the collection van with the specially-wrapped shoe boxes that will be sent to underprivileged children in Eastern Europe.
Free books for First Year pupils - 02 Dec 2009
Boys and girls in the First Year of the Senior School are enjoying free books they have received under a national programme run by the independent charity, Booked Up. Booked Up is supported by the Department for Children, Schools and Families and its goal is to encourage and support reading for pleasure by providing each Year 7/First Year pupil in England with a free book from a list of 12 specially selected titles.
Jack Straw talks to Sixth Formers - 27 Nov 2009
Blackburn MP Jack Straw, the Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, visited Queen Elizabeth's today and talked to all the Sixth Form students in the Assembly Hall.
Midsummer Night's Dream gives midwinter evening enchantment - 27 Nov 2009
"Our play is a dream, a collective dream experienced by a group of men, women and children who during the course of one night become a duke, an Amazon queen, actors, fairies and lovers. One of them even dreams that he gets himself transformed into a donkey".
So wrote Mr David Westworth, director of the school's production of the popular Shakespeare comedy "A Midsummer Night's Dream", in his programme notes. The decision to put on this particular play was in part influenced by the fact that some sources claim that it was written for the wedding of William Stanley, 6th Earl of Derby and Elizabeth Vere - since it was the 2nd Earl of Derby who founded the grammar school in Blackburn in 1509.
Junior choir features on charity CD - 26 Nov 2009
The Queen Elizabeth's Junior School choir, along with choirs from other local schools, is featured on a newly-released CD that will help raise money for the East Lancashire Hospice in Blackburn, as part of its 25th anniversary appeal.
Our pupils went to a recording session earlier this month and sang the James Taylor classic "You've Got a Friend" and Mrs Blakemore was delighted with the way they performed and behaved, advising the Headmaster that their excellent conduct had been commented upon by several parents of children at other schools.
Maths team wins Team Maths - 25 Nov 2009
The school's team of four Mathematics students today won the Blackburn with Darwen Team Maths Challenge held in the Library Annexe at West Park Road. They overcame teams of students aged 14 to 16 from other secondary schools in the Borough in a series of challenges designed to test their mathematical skills and abilities, with the team from St Bede's RC High School being declared second overall.
Magic in the air at latest 500th anniversary event - 21 Nov 2009
There really was magic in the air in Big School last night, when the latest event in the 500th anniversary calendar saw a range of talent, including a former pupil and a current pupil of Queen Elizabeth's, put on a wonderful Magic Show, hosted by current QEGS teacher and Inner Magic Circle member, Mr Brian Lead.
Over 120 people packed the oak-panelled dining hall for the evening and helped raise money for the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital in the process.
Allan returns to help current Drama students - 20 Nov 2009
Former pupil Allan Dodgeon made a welcome return to West Park Road today, taking time out from his busy career working in the media industry in London. Allan, who was at Queen Elizabeth’s from 1986 to 1993, has his own production company and film consultancy, among other business interests in the capital. He spent time with the cast preparing for next week’s production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, and also with A level Drama students, teaching them techniques of voice control and breathing to help them when on the stage.
Cake sale helps Children in Need - 20 Nov 2009
Hartley House was a veritable hive of activity when pupils staged a sale of cakes today during break, with the proceeds going to the BBC's Children in Need appeal. Everything, from chocolate brownies, to mince pies, to iced buns, disappeared and Mr Heald said he was delighted with the response - though doubtful that anyone would have room to manage lunch as well!
Music Department shows its strength - 13 Nov 2009
Last night's Autumn Recital in the Main Hall showed clearly that music is gaining in strength and popularity throughout the school. A wide-ranging programme was enjoyed by an appreciative audience of well over 100 people, with instrumentalists and vocalists all in fine form.
First Years learn about safer cycling - 13 Nov 2009
One of the new extra-curricular activities on offer at Queen Elizabeth's this term is cycling. During their weekly Games lessons at Lammack, First Year pupils in the senior school have been able to benefit from advice and guidance from experienced tutors on enjoying the healthy exercise and freedom of cycling, how to look after their bikes and, most importantly, how to stay safe on the road.
School minibus keys handed over - 12 Nov 2009
The school was delighted to take delivery of a 15-seater Ford Transit minibus this week, thanks to the hard work and good offices of The Elizabethan Association, which represents parents and staff at the school.
Sixth Formers win science awards - 11 Nov 2009
Two Sixth Form students from Queen Elizabeth’s were today presented with CREST Gold Awards for science research projects they carried out during the summer, at a special ceremony at the University of Salford.
Year 2 pupils build Lego City - 06 Nov 2009
The Early Years boys and girls in Year 2 enjoyed constructing a whole city out of Lego bricks this morning. Under the watchful eye of "Lego Man", they build houses, apartments, gardens, trains and trucks, and then learned about electonics as they illuminated the buildings and powered the vehicles using special batteries.
Sixth Form students return from Arran - 03 Nov 2009
The Sixth Form Geography and Geology students have now returned from their half-term field study visit to the Isle of Arran, off the west coast of Scotland. Despite the vagaries of the weather, which included hail, rain, wind and fog - and some sunshine too - the trip appears to have been a successful one, with the students having the chance to carry out a range of experiments in and take samples of the varied topography of the island which, due to a geological fault that splits the island, has been described as "Scotland in miniature".
Pupils see stars - and planets - 17 Oct 2009
The school’s Astronomy Club enjoyed ideal weather (at the third attempt) for its Telescope Evening on Black Hill near Sabden last night. Armed with Dr Steel’s powerful Skywatcher telescope and knowledge of the sky at night, the boys (three from the First Year of senior school and one from the Fifth Year) were able to get a clear view of Jupiter and its four Galilean satellites: Io, Ganymede, Europa and Callisto.
Juniors' Harvest helps local charity - 15 Oct 2009
The Junior School pupils' Harvest celebration assembly today conveyed a number of important messages, as well as thanking parents for the donations of food, which will be distributed by the local branch of the Salvation Army.
Charity cheques presented - 15 Oct 2009
The proceeds of the July "Walk in the Park" by pupils from Queen Elizabeth's have been handed over to the two charities who will benefit from the generosity of the QEGS community. Teacher Mrs Paula Wild, who organised the event as part of the school's 500th birthday celebrations, was delighted at the total sum raised, just over £6,000.
"Much favourable comment" at Open events - 10 Oct 2009
Headmaster Mr Simon Corns was pleased to report that there had been "a great deal of favourable comment", as well as a very good turnout of prospective parents and children, at the two Open events this weekend.
Bethany children inspire - 07 Oct 2009
Children from the Bethany Project in Tanzania spent the day in school today, experiencing a number of different aspects of school life at Queen Elizabeth's, and also telling our pupils something of what life is like for them at home, on the shores of Lake Victoria.
Royal Visit photos available - 05 Oct 2009
Following the visit to the school by HRH Princess Alexandra last month, an album containing 80 photographs taken during the visit is now available in the school Reception area. Parents, staff or pupils wishing to obtain prints of any of the photos should make a note of the reference number of the photos required on the forms provided and then take their order to Wilkinsons Cameras on Northgate, Blackburn (01254 581272), who have a disk bearing identical reference numbers from which prints of the required size can be made.
Geoff receives medal - after 65 years! - 02 Oct 2009
It took just over 10 seconds for the young Geoffrey Sullivan to win the 100 yards race at the QEGS Sports Day - and just over 65 years for him to receive his medal for doing so! It was only today that Geoff, now a retired consultant radiologist, was presented with a specially-engraved medal by Headmaster Simon Corns.
Another cricket honour for Alex - 28 Sep 2009
15-year old Alex Davies has received the Cedric Rhoades Player of the Season Award for 2009 at the Lancashire Cricket Board's Development of Excellence Presentation Evening.
European Day a great success - 25 Sep 2009
Second Year pupils in the Senior School have today been enjoying a Friday "with a difference", as their day's timetable has been devoted to a European Day, organised by the Modern Languages Department.
Pupils' art on display in the park - 24 Sep 2009
A new display in Corporation Park, Blackburn, features work done by pupils who were in last year's Year 6 in the Junior School at Queen Elizabeth's. The pupils worked with artist Alastair Nicholson to create images of individual figures playing football, oneo of the ways in which people enjoy the park.
Early ISFA exit - 23 Sep 2009
The school's 1st XI knew it had been handed a very tough draw in the 1st Round of this season's Boodles ISFA Cup, being drawn away to Repton School, and so it proved as the team were defeated 5-0 in Derbyshire this afternoon.
Early Years children learn about Guide Dogs - 21 Sep 2009
Year 2 pupils in the Early Years today welcomed two special visitors to their classroom. John McMillan from Guide Dogs for the Blind brought in retired guide dog Logan, to show the children the work of a guide dog and the training that is required to enable them to lead a blind person.
True meritocracy celebrated at Prize Giving - 17 Sep 2009
Guests at the school's annual Prize Giving ceremony this evening at King George's Hall heard the school described as "a mirror of what a true meritocracy should be". Chief Guest Michael Gove MP, the Shadow Minister for Children, Schools and Families, said he was impressed that children from a wide variety of backgrounds could come together at Queen Elizabeth's and achieve the range of success and achievement that was being celebrated.
Royal visit by HRH Princess Alexandra - 16 Sep 2009
It was a great pleasure to welcome HRH Princess Alexandra the Hon Lady Ogilvy KG GCVO to school today, to mark the year of the school’s 500th anniversary. The Princess visited some of the refurbished science and mathematics facilities, which were opened last year, before meeting guests in Big School and unveiling a plaque to mark her visit.
Open event dates confirmed - 04 Sep 2009
The first Open event of the new school year will be a Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday 24th September, starting at 7pm. Details of the scholarships on offer for those wishing to study Physics, and also for Modern Languages, will be among the information available to those visiting. Phone 01254 686307 to reserve a place at this event.
Cathedral service begins new school year - 03 Sep 2009
The traditional Beginning of Year service, which this year had the theme of "Learning to Serve", took place today at Blackburn Cathedral. The Dean, the Very Reverend Christopher Armstrong, conducted the service and the preacher was the Right Reverend John William Goddard, the Suffragan Bishop of Burnley.
Good improvement in GCSE results - 27 Aug 2009
Fifteen pupils at Queen Elizabeth’s achieved Grade A* or A in all the subjects they sat in this year’s GCSE examinations. Eleven other pupils were awarded eight or nine subjects at the top two grades.
97% of QEGS pupils gained a minimum of five subjects at grades A* to C, higher than in recent years.
100% A* to C grades were achieved in seven subjects; Art, Design Technology, Drama, German, Geography, Music and Spanish.
A level results bring good news - 20 Aug 2009
Subjects perceived as “hard” or “difficult” are no barrier to achieving high grades and places at top universities. That is the message being sent out by the school, where the A level results obtained by our students this year again proved conclusively the success of girls and boys being taught together.
In Physics, Geography, Economics and Art, at least 90% of QEGS students achieved Grade A or B, and in Further Mathematics and Latin the A/B pass rate was 100%.
England place for Alex - 31 Jul 2009
Congratulations to Alex Davies, who has been selected to play for the English Schools Cricket Association's Under-15 team.
Katherine is new Head of School - 13 Jul 2009
Katherine Midgley has been appointed the new Head of School for the 2009-10 academic year. Katherine will be assisted in her role leading the school's prefect body by two Deputy Heads of School, Zara Heaven and Robert Khan.
Commenting on the appointments, Headmaster Simon Corns said: "Katherine is an extremely talented young lady who gained A* in all her GCSEs and personifies the sort of all-round qualities which we value so highly at Queen Elizabeth’s, being a talented musician and one of the three QEGS candidates to gain top marks in her GCSE Art examination last year.
Wizard show by Juniors - 10 Jul 2009
Last night's performance of "The Wizard of Oz" by the pupils of the Junior School was a real high point on which to end the school year. With colourful costumes, an attractive set and very good music, sound effects and lighting so that all the boys and girls played their part, the show thoroughly entertained a sizeable audience of parents, grandparents and friends in the Assembly Hall.
The Challenge of Management - 09 Jul 2009
Lower Sixth Form students joined with their counterparts from St Wilfrid's High School in Blackburn for the annual Challenge of Management event. You can download a full report of the event by clicking on the link below.
David wins Arkwright Scholarship - 09 Jul 2009
David Pickles, who has just completed his GCSEs at Queen Elizabeth’s, has been awarded an Arkwright Scholarship. Some of the award monies go directly to David to help him purchase materials and books, with some also going to the school's Design Technology Department.
Whole school charity walk - 06 Jul 2009
The conditions have been good for today's charity walk by the whole school in Corporation Park. The pupils are raising money for two charities, Leukaemia Research and Children with Leukaemia.
Festival of Sport - 04 Jul 2009
The Quincentenary Reunion would have been incomplete without the Festival of Sport organised by the school's PE Department and held today at the Harrison Playing Fields at Lammack.
Reunion Day - 04 Jul 2009
The school's 500th birthday was marked today by a well-attended reunion at West Park Road, including a special Reunion Lunch in Big School. Visitors were able to have a sample lesson in Mandarin Chinese in the language laboratory, visit the exhibition of students' GCSE and A level artwork, and peruse a large display of memorabilia in the Assembly Hall.
University - as it really is - 03 Jul 2009
Twenty-nine former QEGS pupils now (or recently) at university accepted Mr Northin's invitation to come back and give the benefit of their experience of university to those currently in the Lower Sixth.
Founders' Day Service - 03 Jul 2009
The school's annual Founders' Day Service and Commemoration of Benefactors was held this afternoon in a packed Blackburn Cathedral. The service was led by the Dean, the Very Reverend Christopher Armstrong, with the address being given by the Lord Bishop of Wakefield, the Right Reverend Stephen Platten.
Junior School PrizeGiving - 02 Jul 2009
The Dean of Blackburn, the Very Reverend Christopher Armstrong, presented the prizes this afternoon at the Junior School Prizegiving ceremony held in the Assembly Hall.
Old Boys in cricket win - 02 Jul 2009
The school's Festival of Sport to mark the quincentenary opened in splendid weather with a Twenty20 cricket match at Alexandra Meadows, won by the Brian Woodhead XI of former pupils.
Art and DT exhibition - 02 Jul 2009
The Art and Design Technology Departments showcased their pupils' work done for GCSE, AS and A level examinations, in a special exhibition in the Brooklands building this evening.
Maths Activity weekend - 29 Jun 2009
A dozen boys and girls took part in the latest Maths Activity Weekend at Anderton, near Chorley, over the past couple of days.
Quincentenary Dinner in Oxford - 28 Jun 2009
Governors, staff and former pupils of the school attended a special dinner last night at Brasenose College, Oxford.
County selection for athletes - 26 Jun 2009
Luke Evans and Christopher Matthews have both been selected to represent Lancashire Schools in the English Schools' Athletic Association Track and Field Championships at Sheffield in July.
Shadowers celebrate Carnegie award - 26 Jun 2009
Children's author Siobhan Dowd has been posthumously awarded the 2009 CILIP Carnegie Medal for her fourth and final novel, "Bog Child" (David Fickling Books). The award, which is selected by librarians, was announced at a presentation at BAFTA in Piccadilly, central London, yesterday.
After shadowing the seven shortlisted titles for over eight cycles, QEGS pupils took great delight in discovering the news of the winning book. Pupils were eager to celebrate during their lunchtime with school librarian Mrs Dewhurst, organiser of the Carnegie Book Club. Pupils now look forward to next year's Carnegie Medal which will be our school's fourth time to shadow.
Cycling for 1st Years - 23 Jun 2009
Senior School pupils in the First Year of senior school (Year 7) will be able to enjoy cycling lessons from September, as part of the timetabled Games periods at the school's Harrison Playing Fields, Lammack.
Early Years Sports Day - 19 Jun 2009
Despite gathering clouds, the Early Years Sports Day went ahead as planned today at the East Lancashire Club's Alexandra Meadows, next door to school. The children competed in sprints, egg and spoon races, sack races, obstacle races and throwing the cricket ball (which produced some very impressive throws).
Young Writer Nick - 18 Jun 2009
First Year pupil Nicholas Cooper was delighted to learn that his review of "Hank Zipzer and the World’s Greatest Underachiever", by Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver has been selected by Young Writer magazine and published on its website,
The School Library is part of the Young Writer Book Review Panel, which reviews books online, and Nick's published review (which you can read below) was submitted after he took part in the Review Panel in April.
Nick will receive a free copy of the next issue of Young Writer to go along with the congratulations of Mrs Dewhurst, the School Librarian, and Mrs Perkins, Head of English.
Junior sports honours shared - 17 Jun 2009
The Junior School Sports Day went ahead despite inclement weather this afternoon, with the action switched indoors to the Sports Hall, where the Horncliffe Cup was shared by Hawkins and Frobisher, following some excellent competition. Headmaster Simon Corns presented the trophy to the winning captains.
Sun shines on Fun Day - 14 Jun 2009
The weather was, thankfully, very good and an excellent number of parents and children came along to the school's Playing Fields at Lammack for today's Fun Day, organised by the school's parents' body, The Elizabethan Association.
Junior pupils visit QEGS (part two) - 12 Jun 2009
All this week, we have been welcoming Year 5 pupils from a number of local primary schools for an "Arts, Science & Technology Morning". Today's visitors were from St Gabriel's School in Blackburn and St Peter's School in Darwen, while yesterday we were visited by pupils from Balderstone St Leonard's Primary School (who are pictured below) and from Salesbury Primary School (right).
Junior pupils visit QEGS - 10 Jun 2009
All this week, we are welcoming Year 5 pupils from a number of local primary schools for an "Arts, Science & Technology Morning". Today's visitors were from Ashleigh Primary School in Darwen, and from Turton & Edgworth Primary School, (the Edgworth pupils are pictured below, right).
Junior pupils help to brighten Hospice garden - 09 Jun 2009
Pupils from the Junior School donned their gardening gloves and armed themselves with forks and trowels, when they visited the East Lancashire Hospice in Blackburn today, to plant summer bedding plants in the Hospice's herbaceous borders.
Second Whittaker Lecture at the Cathedral - 07 Jun 2009
The second in a series of five annual "Whittaker Lectures" at Blackburn Cathedral was delivered today by Phil Lloyd, the school's Development Director.
New school ties now in stock! - 03 Jun 2009
Supplies of the new design of school tie, mentioned in the Headmaster's letter to parents at the start of this term, have now arrived and are in stock at the school's uniform suppliers, Grays of Blackburn.
Success on court for Imran - 01 Jun 2009
Third Year pupil Imran Aswat continues to make a name for himself as a promising young tennis player and has recorded two notable tournament victories in recent weeks.
Richard wins new travel award - 21 May 2009
Sixth Former Richard Shuttleworth is the first winner of the Frank Singleton Travel Award. The award, the brainchild of Old Blackburnian Howard Singleton, will fund Richard's plans for a gap year after his A levels this summer.
Well done, Seb - 20 May 2009
Sixth Form student Sebastian Bradley is delighted to have secured a sponsorship from Bovis Lend Lease to assist him through his degree in Construction Engineering at Loughborough University.
Alex helps charity through 10k run - 19 May 2009
First year pupil Alex Graham took part in last weekend’s Bupa Great Manchester Run and raised money for Bolton Lads and Girls Club in the process.
Two in two as school defeats the MCC - again! - 14 May 2009
For the second time in consecutive years, the school's cricketers were able to record a victory against the MCC in the annual fixture played today at Alexandra Meadows, home of East Lancs CC,
Cyclists help Ambulance - 13 May 2009
The school today handed over to Mrs Thirza Ainsworth of the North West Air Ambulance charity the sponsorship money raised from the cycle ride in late March from QEGS Blackburn to QEGS Wakefield.
Jack receives John Law Scholarship - 06 May 2009
Jack Entwistle is this year's winner of the John Law Scholarship. Headmaster Simon Corns went to Jack's school today to congratulate him and his parents and family on his success.
QEGS windows display on show in Blackburn Museum - 06 May 2009
Visitors to the Skill and Work Gallery at Blackburn Museum are currently able to see a new display featuring images of the stained-glass windows at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Blackburn. The display includes information on the prominent Elizabethans depicted in the windows and a free explanatory leaflet is also available.
Judge Peter Murphy visits his former school - 01 May 2009
Old Blackburnian Judge Peter Murphy was a very welcome visitor to West Park Road today. Judge Murphy attended the school from 1959 to 1963 and during today's visit he addressed an audience of Upper Sixth Formers on the role of a judge within the context of the UK legal system.
School honoured by Borough Council - 30 Apr 2009
A civic reception was held this evening by the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Mohammed Khan OBE, to congratulate the school on its 500th anniversary this year.
More sporting successes - 27 Apr 2009
Three members of the school's 1st XI football team represented England yesterday, when they helped the Independent Schools FA national team to a 3-0 victory against Scotland at Aldershot Town FC in the annual challenge match for the a2om Cup.
"Fantastic season" for netball girls - 24 Apr 2009
The school's under-15 netball team's season saw yet more excellent performances. After being crowned county champions in the Lancashire Schools competition and having won the Blackburn with Darwen Schools' competition, the girls were runners-up in the HMC North-West event, losing narrowly to St Bede's Manchester in the Final.
Poet Laureate visits school - 23 Apr 2009
We were delighted last night to welcome the Poet Laureate, Andrew Motion, to Queen Elizabeth's as one of the events to mark the 500th anniversary of the founding of the school. A report of the evening can be found by clicking the link below.
Lloyd Initiative Awards won by QEGS students - 22 Apr 2009
Two students in our Lower Sixth Form, Adam Fenton and Katherine Midgley, were delighted to discover that they are joint recipients of one of this year's Lloyd Initiative Awards from the Rotary Club of Darwen.
Charitable children on Bug Hunt - 21 Apr 2009
Boys and girls in the Early Years classes took part today in a Bug Hunt in the school's adventure playground, finding the special "bugs" hidden around the playground by Mrs Tighe.
Well done, boys! - 17 Apr 2009
Congratulations to Second Year pupil Harry Campbell, who has been selected for the national ISFA Under-14 squad following trials over the Easter holidays. In fact, Harry was named as "Player of the Tournament" by the teachers in charge of the north-west squad in the trials, held at Repton School.
Success in Rotary Young Writer competition - 07 Apr 2009
Our Year 7 pupils produced some splendid examples of creative writing on the theme of "Make Dream Real" for the Young Writer competition organised by the Rotary movement.
"Tour de QEGS" helps NW Air Ambulance - 29 Mar 2009
In one of the more unusual events scheduled to mark the school's 500th anniversary, the Headmaster led a team of nine current and former pupils, parents and staff today for a cycle ride that covered the 54 miles between QEGS Blackburn and QEGS Wakefield.
Mixed results in rugby finals - 26 Mar 2009
Our Under 14 and Under 15 rugby teams, who have both enjoyed excellent seasons and reached the Finals of the Lancashire Emerging Schools competitions, enjoyed mixed fortunes at Liverpool St Helens ground yesterday.
Students learn about the role of statistics - 25 Mar 2009
The school was very privilieged today to host The Royal Statistical Society Schools Lecture, delivered in the Main Hall by Phil Woodward from Pfizer Global Research and Development
"Musical of Musicals" a great success - 23 Mar 2009
The special musical production to mark the school's Quincentenary was thoroughly enjoyed by sizeable audiences in the Main Hall at two performances over the past weekend.
Juniors celebrate with an "Elizabethan Day" - 20 Mar 2009
Boys and girls in the Junior School are today helping to mark the school's 500th birthday by stepping back to Tudor times.
Pies make prizes in Maths pi competition - 18 Mar 2009
The Mathematics department organised a Maths Quiz last week to mark "National Pi Day", which celebrates the role that Maths plays in the world and the importance of the mathematical constant, known as "pi".
Childline charity cheque changes hands - 16 Mar 2009
The "Tea with Gervase Phinn" event in February, arranged as part of the school's quincentenary celebrations, raised the excellent total of £1,112 for the charity, Childline.
Early Years children help Comic Relief - 13 Mar 2009
Boys and girls in the Early Years classes showed their support for Comic Relief today by wearing something unusual on their heads.
Battle of the Bands raises £800 for charity - 13 Mar 2009
The Annual "Battle of the Bands" competition in Singleton House this evening drew another bumper crowd of enthusiastic young people - all to help two good causes.
Rugby successes for QEGS boys - 10 Mar 2009
Some notable successes have been recorded by QEGS pupils playing rugby. Tom Samuels has been selected for Lancashire at Under-15 level, while eight QEGS boys were in the Blackburn RUFC team that has reached the semi-final or the Lancashire Under-16 Cup competition.
Pirates in Early Years on World Book Day - 06 Mar 2009
The whole of the Early Years Department took to the high seas yesterday and dressed as pirates as part of the celebrations of World Book Day.
Dr Lance talks teeth - 05 Mar 2009
Former pupil Dr Lance Knight returned to school today to give a very interactive and entertaining talk to students about his career in dentistry. He spoke in depth about NHS dentistry, sports dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.
Junior pupils get the red carpet treatment - 05 Mar 2009
Boys and girls in the Junior School experienced the glamour of the red carpet as they made their way to the "Boscars" ceremony this afternoon.
QEGS interest on both sides in youth football final - 03 Mar 2009
The school had "a foot in both camps" when the Final of the Lancashire FA Under-18s Cup competition took place last night.
Representative sporting honours for QEGS pupils - 02 Mar 2009
The school has had two footballers selected for the regional squad of the Independent Schools FA at Under-13 level.
Duke of Edinburgh Awards for 15 QEGS pupils - 13 Feb 2009
Fifteen boys from the school last night received silver or bronze awards at a special presentation event for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme, held at St Bede's High School in Blackburn.
Old Blackburnian talks about forensics - 04 Feb 2009
Former QEGS Sixth Form student Dr Craig Chatterton returned to school today to talk to current pupils about his career in the field of forensic science.
Cambridge calls for Chloe and Chris - 04 Feb 2009
Two Sixth Formers from QEGS are delighted after being each offered a place to study at Cambridge University this autumn. Chloe Bentham has been accepted to read Medicine at Fitzwilliam College while Chris Burt will read Mathematics at Queens' College.
Third Year pupils mark Holocaust Memorial Day - 27 Jan 2009
Today is National Holocaust Memorial Day and the History Department led the boys and girls in Year 9 through a special timetable of presentations, footage and activities during the morning lessons.
Towering achievement helps NSPCC - 26 Jan 2009
Second Year pupils who completed the Eiffel Tower Challenge charity "fun run" just before Christmas today handed over the proceeds of their efforts to the NSPCC. The cheque was for over £2,150 and that amount will be further augmented by Gift Aid on some of the donations.
School buses promote quincentenary - 24 Jan 2009
Holmeswood Coaches, which provides the buses for the school's transport, is helping QEGS to promote 2009 by adding a "500 years" logo to some if its fleet. Already one bus displays the new logo on its rear panel, to make the link between Holmeswood (which includes Aspden's Coaches) and QEGS and more vehicles will be similarly badged soon.
New school blazer design - update - 23 Jan 2009
In the Headmaster's letter to parents dated 14 January 2009, he makes reference to a new design for the school blazer, a sample of which would be made available to see in the school Reception area and also via this website. We now expect that this will happen after Lent half-term, probably in March, and a message will be added to the "News" section of this website as soon as the new design is available.
The Elizabethan Singers open the 2009 programme - 21 Jan 2009
The first event of the school's Quincentenary programme took place this evening, with an excellent concert in Big School given by The Elizabethan Singers.
Books for Schools - 20 Jan 2009
From January 11th a new promotion from The Times/Sunday Times newspapers commences - ‘Books for Schools’. The school library has registered and will be collecting tokens daily. Tokens will appear every day in The Times and The Sunday Times. We can exchange these tokens for free books of our choice from a catalogue of more than 170 great titles.
Former pupil launches new Languages Scholarship - 16 Jan 2009
Former QEGS pupil Steven Blakey returned to the school today to launch a new scholarship that bears his name. The Blakey Sixth Form Languages Scholarship was introduced today at a special lunch at the school which he attended in the 1970s.
Links to the past - 15 Jan 2009
As part of the school's Quincentenary celebrations, some smart new cufflinks have been designed bearing the "QEGS 500" logo.
QEGS people prominent in directory of the famous - 09 Jan 2009
The school's connections with Blackburn Rovers Football Club have been reinforced by the new edition of the directory of the famous, Who's Who. Out of seven entrants who list watching the Rovers as one of their leisure interests, no fewer than five are former QEGS pupils.
Quincentenary plans announced - 02 Jan 2009
2009 promises to be a very special year indeed at Queen Elizabeth's, as the school will be celebrating the 500th anniversary of its founding, by the Second Earl of Derby, in 1509.
Limited Edition Fine Art Prints for the Quincentenary - 18 Dec 2008
To celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Foundation of Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School we are proud to present two limited edition fine art prints of the school by Brian Healey BA., Dip ID
Magnifique as Second Years tackle Eiffel Tower Challenge - 18 Dec 2008
Earlier today the entire Second Year group responded splendidly to the challenge set by Mrs Taberner and Mr Smith and attempted 28 ascents of the "Sixty Steps" of Brantfell Road, next to Corporation Park.
ISFA Cup exit for school First XI - 16 Dec 2008
Despite plenty of possession and creating a number of good chances, the school's 1st XI football team went out of the Boodles ISFA Cup at the quarter-final stage today, losing 1-3 at home to Manchester Grammar School.
Annual School Carol Service - 15 Dec 2008
The school's annual Carol Service took place this evening in Blackburn Cathedral.
Carols at the Mill - 12 Dec 2008
Shoppers at Boundary Mill in Colne were entertained last evening by a choir and musicians from the school who sang and played a selection of Christmas carols and other favourites in the foyer of the store.
Newfield School pupils visit QEGS - 12 Dec 2008
The school was delighted today to welcome visitors from Newfield School in Blackburn, which caters for children with complex learning difficulties and additional physical, sensory and emotional difficulties.
Rose the Reindeer rides to the rescue - 11 Dec 2008
The Early Years Department put on a splendid Nativity production on Wednesday evening and Thursday afternoon this week.
Good showing by cross-country runners - 08 Dec 2008
Boys and girls from the school performed very well in last Saturday's town cross-country championships at Witton Park.
Jason visits his former teacher - 03 Dec 2008
Squadron Leader Jason Davenhill was a welcome visitor to school today, where he talked to Sixth Form students and other pupils about his life in the RAF, including his experiences as a pilot of a Chinook helicopter in various parts of the world.
Unlucky debaters - 01 Dec 2008
Despite excellent performances from all four of our debaters, QEGS was adjudged runner-up in the first round of the Institute of Ideas "Debating Matters" competition this evening.
Crucible burns bright - 28 Nov 2008
The school's Drama Department presented two powerful performances of Arthur Miller's evocative play, "The Crucible" in the Assembly Hall this week.
Science awards for Sixth Form students - 27 Nov 2008
Two Sixth Form students, Tom Bamford and Chris Burt, today received certificates and a BA Crest Gold Award for science projects they carried out during the past summer.
Juniors build "Lego City" - 26 Nov 2008
Boys and girls from the Early Years and Junior School had great fun today - and plenty of educational benefit - when they were challenged to build a city out of Lego bricks and then, using their knowledge of electronic circuits, to illuminate the "city".
Christmas Fair: music, magic and mince pies! - 22 Nov 2008
The school's Christmas Fair, organised by The Elizabethan Association, took place in the Main Hall today. As well as the array of stalls and games on offer, there was music by three of our talented pupils, a magic show courtesy of our resident magician Mr Lead, and refreshments including some very tasty mince pies.
Recital showcases musical talent - 21 Nov 2008
A range of talented musicians from throughout the senior school played and sang for an appreciative audience in the Main Hall last night.
Two selected for ISFA North-West team - 20 Nov 2008
Two Second Year boys, Harry Campbell and Alistair Law, have been selected for the regional Independent Schools Football Association squad at Under 13 level, following trials last month.
Maths partnership pupils in video conference link-up - 19 Nov 2008
Ten Year 7 pupils from QEGS took part in a video conference yesterday, exchanging presentations and questions and answers about the Babylonians' mathematical system with schools in Helsby in Cheshire, Maidstone in Kent, and Karachi, Pakistan.
School flies the flag - 17 Nov 2008
A new flag was flown on West Park Road today, in honour of two notable anniversaries.
QEGS through to ISFA Cup last eight - 12 Nov 2008
The school progressed to the quarter-finals of this year's Boodles Independent Schools FA Cup today with a 2-0 home victory against Forest School from East London.
School lays wreath at Remembrance Day service - 09 Nov 2008
The school was honoured to be chosen to lay the wreath on behalf of Blackburn with Darwen schools at today's Remembrance Day service in Corporation Park, Blackburn.
Books galore for Early Years children - 06 Nov 2008
The school's brand new computerised Library in Early Years is helping our very young boys and girls learn to love books.
Mark receives award - 04 Nov 2008
Dr Mark Butler, the school's Head of PE and Games, has received a Special Recognition Award for services to local sport.
Juniors keep fit at playtime - 13 Oct 2008
Our younger pupils are using their playtime to keep fit - thanks to a new adventure playground.
Open events very well received - 11 Oct 2008
The school's Open Evening and Open Morning attracted good numbers of visitors keen to see what QEGS can offer their children and grandchildren. The Headmaster was delighted to report "a real buzz and an extremely positive atmosphere" around the school site.
First XI through to ISFA Cup Third Round - 07 Oct 2008
The school's 1st XI recorded a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Eton College at Lammack this afternoon, to progress through to the Third Round of this year's Boodles ISFA Cup. The draw has paired them with Forest School, with the match now scheduled to take place at Lammack on Wednesday 12 November, kick off 2.15pm,
Jack Straw speaks to Sixth Form - 03 Oct 2008
Blackburn MP, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice Jack Straw was a welcome visitor to the school this afternoon.
European Day a great success - 26 Sep 2008
The Modern Languages Department staged a European Day for the second year (Year 8) pupils, with the chief guest being MEP Den Dover.
Bob and Emmy get a good Reception - 23 Sep 2008
Reception Class pupils at QEGS have been learning about the work of a guide dog who acts as the eyes for her master.
Successful corporate golf day at Pleasington - 22 Sep 2008
The school staged another successful Corporate Golf Day last Friday at Pleasington Golf Club, with the proceeds of the day going towards the school's Bursary Appeal.
First team make ISFA Cup progress - 17 Sep 2008
The school's 1st XI overcame Colfe's School from south-east London yesterday, to progress through to the Second Round of this year's Boodles Independent Schools FA Cup.
Rob wins RAF scholarship - 16 Sep 2008
Upper Sixth Form student Robert Scothern has won a prestigious RAF scholarship to help his A level studies at QEGS.
Three in top ten in Art GCSE - 15 Sep 2008
The school has just been advised that three of its students finished in the top ten achieving the highest overall marks in this year's GCSE Fine Art examination set by Edexcel, the UK's largest awarding body.
Harry awarded university scholarship - 13 Sep 2008
Harry Eakins, who took his A levels at QEGS this summer, has been awarded a Science Scholarship by the Ogden Trust to help fund his university studies at Imperial College in London.
Beginning of Year service - 03 Sep 2008
The Senior School marked the beginning of the academic year today in the traditional way with a service at Blackburn Cathedral. There was a poignant minute's silence to mark the tragic death last week of QEGS pupil Alex Raynes.
Farzana is a scholar - 02 Sep 2008
One of the new Sixth Form students joining us this week is Farzana Khanom, whom we are delighted to welcome as a recipient of an Ogden Trust Sixth Form Science Scholarship.
Alexander Raynes (QEGS 2003 - 2008) - 28 Aug 2008
The school was shocked to hear this week of the tragic death of current pupil Alex Raynes, who had just achieved excellent results in his GCSE examinations.
"Pleasing" GCSE results for boys and girls - 21 Aug 2008
Three QEGS pupils, Adam Fenton, Zara Heaven and Katherine Midgley, received the top grade, A*, in all ten GCSE subjects they took when the public exam results were declared today.
Girls shine in encouraging A levels results - 14 Aug 2008
Headmaster Simon Corns said that the A level results, issued today, were "a ringing endorsement of co-education". The first group of girls to go through to A levels since the school went fully co-educational seven years ago recorded a very encouraging set of results, achhieving the top two grades, A or B, in 75% of the subjects they studied.
Harry brings back a Bronze - 31 Jul 2008
Harry Eakins, who was a member of the five-strong UK team that competed in the International Physics Olympiad, has returned from Hanoi with a bronze medal for his performance there.
New Heads of School announced - 04 Jul 2008
The Headmaster has appointed Neena Singh and Scott Sunderland as joint Heads of School for the 2008-09 academic year. Three Deputy Heads of School have also been named: Rebecca Connearn, Jennifer Heyes and Robert Scothern.
Art and Design exhibition a great success - 04 Jul 2008
The annual exhibition of students' Art and Design Technology projects was hailed a great success this evening by the school's Head of Art, Mr Tim Birtwistle.
Junior School Prize Giving - 01 Jul 2008
Governor Andy Hinchliffe was the chief guest and presented the prizes at the Junior School's Prize Giving ceremony this afternoon.
Inaugural Founder's Day service - 27 Jun 2008
This afternoon at Blackburn Cathedral, the school held its first-ever Founder’s Day service. Parents, pupils, staff and governors were in attendance, as were a number of significant benefactors, former staff and other friends of QEGS. The Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Mohammed Khan, was also a welcome guest, recognising the school’s origins as the Blackburn Grammar School.
Congratulations, Mr Howard - 19 Jun 2008
The North-West Finals of the Teaching Awards 2008 were held today and QEGS Modern Languages teacher Mr Paul Howard was awarded third place and a Commendation in the "Enterprising Teacher of the Year" category.
Hooray for Howard House - 12 Jun 2008
Howard was declared the champion House at this afternoon's Junior School Sports Day at Lammack. Captain Zak Dardouri was presented with the trophy by Headmaster, Mr Corns.
Primary pupils sample lessons at QEGS - 11 Jun 2008
This young visitor, a Year 5 pupil at Ashleigh Primary School in Darwen, found a sample Physics lesson at QEGS something of a hair-raising experience today!
Sophie bakes for charity coffers - 06 Jun 2008
First-year pupil Sophie Cooper organised a sale of cakes to her school friends today to raise money for the charity "Help a Local Child"
Sportsmans Dinner proceeds announced - 04 Jun 2008
The school's Physical Education Department has announced that it raised £3,000 from the Sportman's Dinner held at Ewood Park in May.
Mandarin Chinese Club proves a big hit - 20 May 2008
The school's weekly Modern Languages Club enabling pupils to learn Mandarin Chinese has already proved very popular among senior school pupils.
QEGS backs Lammack Juniors bid - 19 May 2008
The school has committed itself to helping the Lammack Juniors Football Club in its bid to secure funding to provide disabled changing facilities at the school's Harrison Playing Fields on Lammack Road.
School beats MCC - 16 May 2008
The school recorded a famous victory yesterday in the annual cricket match against an MCC XI at Alexandra Meadows. In reply to an MCC score of 183 for 6, the school reached the target with seven wickets in hand.
Young engineers receive their reward - 13 May 2008
Five Sixth Formers from the school have received certificates and a CREST Gold Award for their work on a project under the Engineering in Education Scheme.
Sporting successes - 12 May 2008
Congratulations to Rachel Atkinson, and to the pairing of Sebastian Bradley and Duncan Burns, for their excellent sporting performances in the past week.
Governor at the Palace - 08 May 2008
QEGS Governor Mr David Peat was invited to Buckingham Palace this week to receive the OBE he was awarded in the New Year's Honours List.
Debating Dinner in Big School - 05 May 2008
The school's Debating Society held a successful Debating Dinner in Big School last Friday evening.
John Law Scholarship winner - 01 May 2008
Luke Penswick is this year's winner of the John Law Scholarship. Headmaster Simon Corns went to Luke's school today to congratulate him and his parents on his success.
New school history charts 500 years at QEGS - 25 Apr 2008
"The School on the Hill", which looks at the history of Queen Elizabeth's since its founding in 1509, has been published this week.
QEGS boys help England to 5-0 win - 24 Apr 2008
Sixth Formers Alex Brees and Adam Whiteside played their part in a 5-0 victory of the English Independent Schools FA over their Scottish counterparts last weekend.
County champions - 22 Apr 2008
Our under-14 netball team won the Lancashire Schools netball championship on the last day of the Lent term, to notch up yet another success to extend their impressive playing record.
Testing time in India for Jordan - 16 Apr 2008
Sixth Former Jordan Clarke spent Easter in India after being selected to represent MCC Schools in the "Spirit of Cricket" Festival in Chandigarh.
Heads of School commemorated - 03 Apr 2008
A new honours board to commemorate those pupils appointed as “Head of School” at Queen Elizabeth’s was formally unveiled last night.
Physicist Harry is off to Vietnam - 03 Apr 2008
Sixth Former Harry Eakins will be spending part of his summer holidays in Vietnam this year, after winning selection onto the five-strong team that will represent the UK at the 39th International Physics Olympiad in Hanoi in July.
Ogden Trust sponsors - 31 Mar 2008
We were delighted to host a special lunch today for students who are or have been at QEGS as recipients of an Ogden Trust Sixth Form Science Scholarship, together with representatives of the organisations who have kindly co-sponsored their place here.
Great performance by Sixth Form girls - 30 Mar 2008
Our team of three Sixth Form girls, Mubeen Hameed, Neena Singh and Catherine Wooldridge, competed as north-west champions in the national final of the BPW Public Speaking competition on Saturday.
As easy as pi(e) - 19 Mar 2008
Maths students at QEGS have developed a taste for pi – that’s the mathematical constant which abbreviates to 3.14, of course.
Netball girls do the school proud - 17 Mar 2008
Our netball team, playing against teams a year older than themselves, performed splendidly to reach the final of the HMC North West U15 netball competition today.
Sixth Form Quiz for Sport Relief - 14 Mar 2008
Sixth Formers raised over £100 for Sport Relief today by taking part in an entertaining quiz based on their sporting and general knowledge, held in the Singleton House Common Room.
High quality debating at Oxford - 10 Mar 2008
Two QEGS teams took part in the Finals Day of the Oxford Union Schools Debating competition, held last Saturday in the Oxford Union.
Battle of the Bands - 07 Mar 2008
Singleton House rocked this evening to the music of QEGS students, as the annual Battle of the Bands contest reverberated around the Sixth Form Centre.
Design comp success for Sixth Formers - 07 Mar 2008
There was good news to end the week as our team of Sixth Formers returned victorious from the BEA Systems Design Technology competition, held at Hollins College of Technology in Accrington today.
My Fair Lady next on stage - 05 Mar 2008
The popular musical "My Fair Lady" is coming soon to the stage at Queen Elizabeth's, with three performances in mid-March. Click on "School Events" on the menu on the left of this page for details of performance times and ticket prices.
Public speaking success for Sixth Form girls - 04 Feb 2008
Our team of three Sixth Form girls became North West regional champions last Saturday in the BPW Public Speaking competition.
NSPCC benefits from pupils - 02 Feb 2008
Head of Year Mrs Taberner says she is delighted to report that £1664 was collected from the fun run undertaken by Second Year pupils in the senior school just before the Christmas break. When the extra money for those donations for which Gift Aid can be claimed is added, the grand total handed over to the NSPCC now stands at £1,849, a fantastic achievement.
School wins two sports awards - 01 Feb 2008
The school picked up two awards at the Blackburn with Darwen Schools Sports Awards ceremony, held at Blakey's Cafe Bar on Northgate earlier this week.
Memories of former pupil, Sir Harold Derbyshire - 26 Jan 2008
Headmaster Simon Corns was delighted recently to receive a photograph and other memorabilia relating to one of the school's most distinguished former pupils, Sir Harold Derbyshire, who attended the Grammar School from 1900 to 1905.
Charity cheque presentation - 25 Jan 2008
Second Year pupils today handed over a cheque for nearly £1650 to the NSPCC, the proceeds of the "fun run" they undertook before the Christmas break.
More debating success for QEGS Sixth Formers - 24 Jan 2008
Our debating team of Jenny Heyes and James McArdle won through to the national Finals Day of the Oxford Union Schools Debating Competition last night.
New Blackburn Chemicals sponsorship announced - 15 Jan 2008
Mr Steven Lamb, Managing Director of Blackburn Chemicals Limited, has confirmed that his company will generously act as co-sponsors with The Ogden Trust of Sixth Form science student Chris Burt.
Pupils pledge to support Reading Year - 14 Jan 2008
QEGS pupils have been quick off the mark to pledge their support to the National Year of Reading, launched by the Prime Minister last week.
