HALE Journal Summer 2026
We are delighted to launch the latest edition of our HALE Journal which highlights the exceptional talent, intellectual curiosity and creativity of our Humanities, Arts, Languages, and English students.
This edition of the journal brings together an impressive range of essays, reflections and original work around the theme of ‘hope’. It includes discussions on environmental politics and international regulation to art criticism and classical literature. The publication offers students the opportunity to explore ideas beyond the classroom and engage with complex issues in a thoughtful and ambitious way.
Among the standout contributions are a series of articles tackling some of today’s most pressing global challenges. One student examines whether climate change has become an “unsolvable collective action problem”, exploring the political and social barriers that continue to hinder global co-operation. Another investigates the growing plastic waste crisis, arguing that meaningful progress will require a fundamental transformation in the international regulation of how plastics are produced, used and disposed of.
The journal also showcases the creativity and individuality of students studying Art History. In a collection of lively and personal responses, students discuss the artworks they most admire, and those they find more challenging, offering insightful commentary on pieces including Jean-Honoré Fragonard’s The Swing and Banksy’s iconic Girl with a Balloon. Their writing demonstrates not only strong analytical skills, but also the confidence to engage critically with art and culture.
Adding to the breadth of the publication is an especially impressive contribution from Year 8 pupil Amna, whose original translation from Aeneid Book II has drawn praise for its sophistication, precision and maturity.
The launch of the HALE Journal reflects LEH’s commitment to fostering academic enrichment and independent thinking across all year groups. Above all, the publication celebrates students’ willingness to ask difficult questions, challenge ideas and share their voices with confidence and originality.
The HALE Hangout
Along with our quarterly journal, our HALE Sixth Form enthusiasts have launched The Hale Hangout, a brand-new podcast designed to celebrate and share the many facets of HALE covering Humanities, Art, Literature and English. The podcast offers thoughtful conversations, student perspectives, and a genuine love of learning. Through interviews and discussions, The Hale Hangout aims to shine a light on the subjects that inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking across the school.
Episodes
Episode 1: Our Sixth Form hosts sit down with one of our English teachers to talk all things literature. From favourite texts to the power of storytelling, the conversation explores why literature continues to matter, how it shapes our understanding of the world, and what makes the study of English so engaging for students and teachers alike.
Episode 2: Our Sixth Form classicists explore what draws them to Classics and how the ancient past can teach us lessons that still shape our future.
Episode 3: We hear from French A Level students who have a conversation at beginner level, perfect for anyone practicing for their exams! Subjects range from music to cinema and even the ‘verlan’ slang. It is short and snappy, very digestible for beginner or intermediate French speakers, or anyone interested in learning more about French culture. Profitez-en bien!
Episode 4: HALE coordinator and history teacher Mrs Allison and A level student Maryam, discussing a variety of topics surrounding bias in the study of history, how it applies to our world today and the importance of looking to the past to understand our future. Topics range from the Holocaust to Henry VIII and the British Empire.