NOVO Magazine’s Fresh Student Voice

WE ARE CELEBRATING A NEW CHAPTER FOR ONE OF RGS NEWCASTLE'S MOST TREASURED PUBLICATIONS, AS STUDENTS LEAD THE EXCITING RELAUNCH OF NOVO, OUR SCHOOL'S HISTORIC MAGAZINE. NOW, WITH A REFRESHED APPROACH AND A BOLD NEW EDITORIAL VISION, NOVO IS ONCE AGAIN PROVIDING A VIBRANT PLATFORM FOR STUDENT VOICE, CREATIVITY AND CURIOSITY.

This much-loved publication, first established in 1885, has documented school life at RGS for over 140 years.  

Led by Chief Editor Hannah K (Y12), alongside Staff Editor, Mr Moore, Teacher of Computing & Digital Schoolhouse Lead, the magazine’s relaunch has focused on putting student interests firmly at its heart. 

“It feels honestly incredible,” said Hannah. “Knowing that you can hold a piece of history is just mind-blowing. This is going to be on record for years to come – everyone involved will, in a way, live on through NOVO.” 

The new edition reflects this ambition, opening up opportunities for students across the school to contribute in ways never seen before. Articles range from thoughtful explorations of social issues to light-hearted reflections on everyday life, demonstrating the breadth of student perspective and creativity. 
 

NOVO Contributors  

One of the most exciting developments is the expansion of contributors across all year groups. Whereas NOVO traditionally featured writing from older students, the new edition welcomes voices from over 40 students in Year 7 to Year 13.  

Jamaima Q, a Year 8 contributor, added: "I’ve always been really interested in robotics, so it was great to be able to write about something I genuinely enjoy and share that with others. 

"Holding the physical copy is really special. When I found out my article was included, I told my parents, and they were so proud – it made it feel even more real.” 

Chief Editor, Hannah K (Y12), added: “I really like that younger students can now share their experiences. Everything is new to them – even something like getting the Metro each day can be exciting. They see things through a completely fresh lens.”
 

NOVO Dress 

To celebrate 140 years of NOVO, the editorial team set out to create something distinctive to mark the anniversary and take pride of place on the cover of the newly launched magazine.  

Staff Editor, Mr Moore, added “We really wanted to take the opportunity to celebrate the rich history of what has gone before while setting a new standard of excellence for this next chapter of NOVO.” 

The result is a striking dress whose design incorporates more than 50 NOVO covers spanning the decades. Art student Sofia W (Y13), who specialises in textiles, took on the challenge of constructing the dress. Ms Etherington, RGS Swimming Instructor, a former seamstress before joining RGS, generously shared her expertise to refine the final finishing touches.  
 
The dress was modelled by Sixth Form student Elena B, with photography by ONA Magazine editor Mrs Briggs. Beyond featuring on the NOVO cover, visitors to the school’s Main Reception can view the dress which represents our students’ creativity.  

Press Society  

Beyond the page, NOVO continues to offer valuable opportunities for collaboration, creativity and personal development through the PRESS Society. With PRESS, students can now take an active role in producing NOVO and developing skills in not only journalism but also photography, editing, design and media production. 

“It’s such a wonderful opportunity,” Hannah added. “You meet new people, you try something different, and you have fun along the way. I’d say to anyone thinking about getting involved – just do it. You won’t regret it.” 

As NOVO begins this exciting new chapter, it remains rooted in its proud heritage while looking boldly to the future – a true reflection of the RGS spirit. Click here to read the latest edition of NOVO.